Kendall Gazette 4.16.2013

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One of Miami’s Community Newspapers –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Connecting local businesses.

ENDALL GAZETT E K A

305-669-7355

communitynewspapers.com

APRIL 16 - 29, 2013

Veterans, families aided by Farm Share program BY RICHARD YAGER

total of 595 veterans and their families packed away cartons of produce and foodstuffs, thanks to a Farm Share program hosted in Kendall on Apr. 6 by State Rep. Frank Artiles. A strong legislative advocate for the program, it was the fifth in a series that the Rep. Artiles has sponsored during early spring months in Miami-Dade County. “Following the restoration of $750,000 for the 2011 program, we’re now going to seek a new budget of $1.1 million in fiscal 2013,” Artiles stated as a continuing line of veterans and family members were helped to a variety of nutritional foods by a corps of volunteers from nearby schools and organizations, including a large group of Keiser

Beatriz Lopez and Rep. Frank Artiles are pictured at Farm Share trailer unloading. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

––––––––––– See

VETERANS, page 4

New homes for homeless mark Tropical Park mega-pet event

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KFHA schedules meeting to discuss school issues

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BY RICHARD YAGER

BY RICHARD YAGER

undreds of dogowners and new pet adopters turned out at Tropical Park during a “Mega Pet Adoption Event” on Apr. 6. “Couldn’t resist him,” admitted Hely Ferrigny, a 16-year-old Kendall student holding his newly acquired 7-week-old Labrador Retriever. “Reese is my first dog, named after another favorite, those peanut butter cups,” he explained. Amid a display of older adoptable dogs, a lineup of owners also sought new puppies as well as information from a collection of tents and cages, sponsored by the Humane Society of Greater Miami (ASPCA) with Miami-Dade Animal Services and The Cat Network. Meanwhile, dozens of volunteers like Brittany Marson, 15, were helping at least 200 new owners become accustomed to pet care. “I volunteer just because I Hely Ferrigny shows his newly adopted pet “Reese.” want to help,” said Brittany who drove from Broward County to assist in the effort. from its shelter) and 87 from the Humane She held “Charlie,” a 4-year-old brown Society now have new homes, said “terrier mix” according to an ID tag attached spokesperson Xiomara Mordcovich. to his temporary cage. “I hope someone “Together with those from The Cat takes him home,” she said. “If not, I might Network, we’ll have over 200 pets adopted,” have to.” she estimated. While cat adoption numbers were not Next event: “Adopt-a-Mania” scheduled immediately available, 105 dogs from June 2 at Marlins Park when the New York Miami-Dade Animal Services (including 19 Mets meet the Marlins at 1:10 p.m.

special town meeting of the Kendall Federation of Homeowner Associations (KFHA), free and open to the public on Monday, Apr. 22, will air current school issues. Miami-Dade School Board members Carlos Curbelo (District 7) and Dr. Larry Feldman (District 9) will appear to answer questions about school matters, including a review of the recently approved school bond referendum, according to KFHA vice president Libby Perez. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in the Civic Pavilion in Kendall Village Center, 8625 SW 124 Ave. The next open KFHA meeting has been scheduled for Thursday, May 2, when U.S. Rep. Joe Garcia (House District 26) will report the status of a county appeal of the Bureau of Indian Affairs designation of the Miccosukee Golf and Country Club in Kendale Lakes as a part of the Miccosukee Tribal Trust. A special task force of Kendale Lakes and nearby residents met Apr. 2 with KFHA’s Aster Mohamed and former KFHA president Miles Moss to form committees to analyze both the effect of the Bureau’s decision on neighboring properties and legal procedures to protest the action.


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April 16 - 29, 2013


April 16 - 29, 2013

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Celebrate being local and ‘green’ at W. Kendall Earth Day Festival BY ROBERT HAMILTON

photos with Tinkerbell, Pocahontas, Peter Pan and more. Celebrate Earth Day in West Kendall — Main event sponsors are Jackson South “Be Local & Live Green” — on Sunday, Community Hospital, Miami Children’s Apr. 21, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Gold Hospital West Kendall, Peacock Embroidery, Coast Railroad Museum, 12450 SW 152 Chick and a Mouse, and Plan Ahead Events St., adjacent to Zoo Miami. Earth Day Greater Miami. Additional sponsors include serves to educate and Catholic Health Services, inspire the local communiCBT College, Prestige T h i s f re e f a m i l y - f r i e n dty to grow more conscious Insurance Group, Sergio’s of daily habits for a better Printing, MM Premium l y e v e n t w i l l f e a t u re common future. Events, SnapHappy l i v e e n t e rt a i n m e n t ; This free family-friendPhotos, Believe ly event will feature live Community, Inc, Bike f re e b i k e v a l e t s e r v i c e ; entertainment; free bike Masters, Sprinkles valet service; children’s Magazine and Natural c h i l d r e n ’s b o u n c e bounce house and activiAwakenings Magazine. house and activities; ties; food, products and Learn more about this services, and local organievent at <www.relylof o o d , p ro d u c t s a n d zations that educate on cal.com/wests e rv i c e s , a n d l o c a l how to reduce, reuse and kendall/earthday>. Want recycle. Tour the museum to be an exhibitor or volo rg a n i z a t i o n s t h a t and enjoy train rides. unteer? Call 786-759Activities include: 1249 or send email educate on how to • Free Entertainment <westkendall@relylor e d u c e , re u s e a n d • Opening ceremony cal.com>. and award to Ron Magil as RelyLocal West r e c y c l e . To u r t h e Kendall is a buy local 2013 Environmental Hero; museum and enjoy campaign that offers • Live music by Week’s people who live, work or End, a local alternative train rides. visit West Kendall, an punk-rock high school online directory of local band, and Danilo Parra, Spanish singer-song writer with a unique businesses, local coupons, local jobs, and local events within the community. Latin-pop style, and • Live performances by Alouettes Dance RelyLocal strengthens the local economy Academy and Belly 2 Abs Performance by educating and creating awareness in the West Kendall community about buy local Group. • Free Children’s Zone that includes campaign, “Locals Love You More!,” activities such as a Bounce House, Mini- while increasing traffic and sales in local Golf & Sandbox; Arts N’Craft: Build A participating businesses. Learn more at <www.relylocal.com/westHomemade Bird Feeder, coloring and painting; Game: Sorting Out Recyclables kendall>. For more information, contact with Fairies; Storytime; model trains and Claudia Lascano at 786-759-1249 or send Thomas The Tank Engine Play Area; take email to <claudialascano@relylocal.com>.

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VETERANS, from page 1

April 16 - 29, 2013

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Volunteer Monica Michel hands out bottled orange juice. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

University students. Altogether, Artiles said that some 4,000 veteran families will have received contributed foods during the five Food Share programs at different locations in early 2013. Latest in the distribution events was on grounds adjoining the Gold Coast Railroad Museum, site of the new South Florida Military Museum and Vets Memorial near Zoo Miami. The new museum is being completed for a scheduled opening by May 30 when a Memorial Day program is planned for Miami-Dade veterans. A continuing line of veterans received a variety of fresh produce, including cantaloupes, orange peppers, yellow squash, eggplant, cucumbers, tomatoes, malanga and yucca, said Food Share staffer Mia Devane. “In addition, each received a large bottle of orange juice, a box containing a dozen seasoned pork patties, and bagful of shelfstable food that included rice, beans, beef stew, fruit mix, canned carrots and spinach.”

Farm Share recovers surplus fresh fruits and vegetables bulk-loaded from South Dade farms and several supermarket chains that would otherwise discard unsold produce that is still fully fresh and nutritional, administered through a USDA commodity program in Dade and Broward counties. “As a veteran myself, I’m completely aware of some of the difficulties our servicemen and women and their families experience in their lives,” said Rep. Artiles who served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1998 to 2006, including service in March 2002 in Iraq. “Luckily, Farm Share and the VA are able to provide much needed support to them.” Veterans Administration representatives and uniformed vets were on hand in a separate tented area to provide updated benefit information, claims for compensation and home loan guaranty details.


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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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KRMC earns full verification as Level II Trauma Center BY PETER JUDE

ation of 186 jobs. “This full Level II designation Kendall Regional Medical Center allows emergency responders to has announced the verification by get patients to trauma centers the Florida Department of Health within the critical ‘golden hour,’ for its Level II Trauma Center deswhich is the most important time ignation. for a patient to get treatment for “For a year and a half, Kendall their injuries and increases their Regional Medical Center’s talented survival rate dramatically,” said trauma center staff has dedicated Dr. Mark McKenney, Medical themselves to saving more lives and Director for Kendall Regional making a difference in our commuMedical Center South Florida nity.” said Scott Cihak, CEO of Trauma Center. “Research shows Kendall Regional Medical. “Now that a trauma patient has a 25 perthat we have a fully verified Level cent greater chance of survival II trauma center we can continue to when treated in a trauma center fulfill our mission of providing and the Department of Health’s quality, accessible trauma care for verification of Kendall today will certainly lead to more lives Miami-Dade County residents and saved.” our county’s visitors.” Kendall Regional Medical Kendall Regional Medical Center Center is a 412-bed, full-service serves Miami-Dade, Monroe and hospital providing 24-hour comCollier counties, and during its first Helicopter lands at Kendall Regional Medical Center prehensive medical, level II trauyear as a provisional trauma center, –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ma, burn (adult & pediatric), surtreated nearly 2,500 patients, with survivor rates significantly better than state on providing lifesaving trauma care to Regional South Florida Trauma Center, it gical, behavioral health, pediatric and diagand national averages at 96.11 percent as patients in parts of the state where trauma also supports the local economy and devel- nostic services, along with a wide range of compared to 94.66 percent for all trauma care is most needed because existing facili- opment of the community with more than patient and community services. For more information, call 305-222-2200, ties were unavailable or too far away. While $3.9 million in capital expenditures to build centers in Florida. The USF/HCA Trauma Network focuses saving lives is the central mission at Kendall the state-of-the-art trauma center and the cre- or visit online at <www.kendallmed.com>.

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April 16 - 29, 2013

Honoring the Greater Kendall Business Association 2013 Trustees at Bahama Breeze Front row from left to right: Julie Rico - GKBA Chair Elect, Diane Schiller - Community Newspaper, Mary Greene Carriles - Mercantil Commercebank, Tania Tamayo Credomatic of Florida, Barbara Thomas - University Credit Union, Tania Lorenzo - BB&T, Cristina Duran - NOVA University, Dr. Lourdes Oroza - Miami Dade College Kendall Campus, Charles McGinnis - Miami Dade College Kendall Campus, Maggie Rehman - GKBA Administrator, Sergio Hurtado Bahama Breeze Island Grille. Back row from left to right: Peter Jude - Kendall Regional Hospital, Javier Hernandez Lichtl - West Kendall Baptist Hospital, Jimmy Diaz Credomatic of Florida, Carlos Altimari - LuckyStart, Jennie LaFever - Bahama Breeze Island Grille, Bahama Breeze Assistant holding banner, Ricardo Belmar - NOVA University

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April 16 - 29, 2013

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$50,000 recovered in ID thefts; expert warns of debit card use BY RICHARD YAGER

Increased awareness to prevent costly identity thefts was emphasized twice for a West Kendall audience at the Miami-Dade Police Hammocks District Citizens Advisory Committee meeting on Mar. 27. Named Officer of the Month for March, Det. Otto Ablanedo described the meticulous research that eventually caught two ID thieves targeting purses in unlocked cars, parked for morning dropoffs of youngsters at area day care centers and schools. For three months during 2012, Det. Ablanedo tracked a pattern of ID thefts, leading to arrest of the male pair who cashed in credit and debit cards left in unguarded purses and wallets while the driver led a youngster into a day care center or area school. “They were after stealing identities, not money, as their priority,” said Det. Ablanedo who tracked one suspect to a Hialeah motel through a rental car license plate identity, following a vehicle burglary at Kiddie College, 13291 SW 42 St. The two thieves used female companions who sat in their car to help them disguise their appearances at schools and day care establishments. With twin arrests, $50,000 worth of stolen property and a Glock handgun were recov-

Solving ID thefts earns citation from (l-r) CAC chair James Blough, presented to Hammocks District Det. Otto Ablanedo with Lt. Amado Ojeda and Kevin Gilpin. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

ered, ending a series of ID thefts stretching from Broward to West Dade. “Snatch and grab criminals no longer want cash. They’re after your identity on plastic to

access your bank account and make potential hauls in the thousands,” said Kevin D. Gilpin, executive director of the National Crime Stop Program, to Citizens Advisory

Committee members after the presentation to Det. Ablanedo. Warning against “using debit cards,” Gilpin said “once the skimmers have that detail, they can make direct draws on your checking account and even drain saving accounts with inter-related account data, without your knowledge or protection. “Credit card issuers, unlike banks, carry a 60-day protection for you as soon as you report a theft but thieves can easily empty your bank accounts with debit cards in less than a day,” he advised. “The worst time to use a debit card is in a restaurant,” he added. “It only takes seconds to skim a card when a server leaves with your bill and card. When paying a tab, I follow the card to the cash register in person. Never let that debit card out of your sight.” Gilpin, who began funding the Crime Stop program in 1985, conducts workshops and seminars throughout Florida on crime prevention and public safety training. “To best guard against ID theft, use cash for regular purchases or online with a service like PayPal,” he advised. “To pay bills, use your local bank’s automatic pay program that avoids a potential loss from debit card theft. Those payments use the bank’s money — not your account money — to pay a creditor.”


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Children attend inaugural ‘March into Literacy’ event

More than 30 children and parents visited the University of Phoenix South Florida Campus’ Kendall Learning Center on Mar 27, for the university’s inaugural “March Into Literacy” event. Children enjoyed the free literacy-based art activities including painting, story time, making puppets and art collages while parents received information and tips for raising confident readers.

April 16 - 29, 2013

Kendall detective earns honors with arrest of violent suspect

Pictured (l-r) are Miami-Dade Police Kendall District Citizens Advisory Committee acting chair Ryan Devereux, Det. Dennis Cohen and Acting Maj. Gregory Dohring at the Mar. 27 presentation of citation. Det. Cohen’s investigation in a Richmond Heights neighborhood helped solve area shootings with the arrest of a known violent suspect; recovery of three AK-47 assault rifles, one believed used in a homicide, as well as high-capacity ammunition, cocaine, drugs and marijuana. Shootings in the area “have ceased,” according to Maj. Dohring’s commendation read to the Citizens Advisory Committee.


April 16 - 29, 2013

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‘Young Heroes’ select The Palace to do community service event

‘Young Heroes” participate in an inter-generational day at The Palace Suites in Kendall. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY FRANCESCA GUTIERREZ

The Palace Suites and student volunteers from “Young Heroes” recently shared a special afternoon when the community hosted their Saturday project. The students from grades 6-8 joined the seniors who live at The Palace Suites in learning sessions called “Generation to Generation” whereby the seniors could talk about their lives when they were young comparing and contrasting growing up experiences then and now. “Young Heroes” is a community service and leadership development program for middle school students in Miami-Dade County and each Saturday the students meet to work on community services projects. Coming to The Palace Suites and interact-

ing with seniors was an opportunity for both generations to learn from each other. Seniors where able to reminisce to eager listeners while students had an opportunity to engage with older people and learn living history. “The students provided so much energy and enthusiasm that simply was contagious,” said Via Butler, community director of activities. Several of the students commented they met people who were much older than their grandparents and had never had an opportunity to meet seniors. These types of activities are a win-win for everyone and help build a better understanding of aging in our society. For information about The Palace’s communities, call 305-271-2220 or visit online at <www.ThePalace.org>.

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April 16 - 29, 2013

Non-traditional dance studio thrives in warehouse district BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

It is not always easy to find a place for kids who love to dance and move to music, but don’t want to take ballet. There is an alternative to traditional dance studios in The Falls Warehouse District — SimpCity, a non-traditional dance studio owned by Britney Simpson. “Beside the fact that we are non-traditional, we’re also very non-competitive,” Simpson said. “Parents see that when they walk into our studio. We are a familyoriented studio that is family run. My husband is my partner. I am the owner.” The studio opened in October 2008 at 8761 SW 129 St. as a result of repeated requests from local moms. It offers hip hop and cheer classes for children starting at age 2 and going to age 16 in hip hop. The most popular class is the Pop Tarts for 3- to 6-yearolds. “I’m known for being good with little ones,” she said. “That’s where we got our clientele. We have two levels, Pop Tarts One for 3- to 5-year-olds and a Pop Tarts Two for 4- to 6-year-olds.” SimpCity also has a class called Boogie Beez for 2- to 4Britney Simpson poses with some of her older dancers. year-olds. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “They are all hip hop classes,” Simpson said. “Depending on the age, they when I stopped teaching at Hip Hop Kidz. are different in the way we teach them. We One of the moms called me one day, saying, have something called hip hop moves. They we have a gym at our house and we would learn different moves with names. It’s great love if you could dance with our kids.” She began to teach private groups and for helping them memorize. If we call out a more and more people would call asking her name, they know a movement.” Simpson said there are probably 20-30 dif- to teach yet another private group. ferent hip hop moves with names like the Eventually the moms began urging her to funky monkey, the crisscross and the thun- open her own studio. Her husband supported derclap. But by giving the moves kid-friend- her decision to do so. “I must have started off with 60 stuly names, it gets parents involved in helping dents,” she said. “People that I babysat for, the children rehearse a dance. “We send home a piece of paper with the or private lessons or people I did birthday moves,” she said. “Mom and Dad can call parties for.” Now they have 125-150 kids who attend out the moves.” Simpson said she fell into teaching dance classes. She also does summer Munchkin while in high school. She was in Hip Hop Camps for children 3-7. “That’s what I’m really good at, working Kidz, the well-known group directed by Suzy Stone. When one of the instructors with little kids,” Simpson said. But SimpCity is not limited to little kids. needed help, they’d call on Simpson. She went on to become a Florida Marlins cheer- They have the Company dancers, which are leader. In the meantime, she said she became dancers 10 and older. And the Rock-Botz, known as “the blonde who teaches hip hop which are 7- to 11-year-olds who have their own class costumes. For more information, and is a cheerleader.” “I began doing hip hop birthday parties,” call 305-253-9700 or go online to she said. “I wanted to finish college. That’s <www.simpcityinc.com>.


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Sudie Grow, 93, retires after working at fair for 38 years BY ELOISE E. RODRIGUEZ

The 62nd Miami-Dade County Youth Fair and Exposition has come to an end after 18 days filled with fun, rides and entertainment. Many fairgoers will be back next year, but for Ms. Sudie Grow this year marks her last Youth Fair. Grow has decided to retire after working at the fair for the past 38 years. Grow, 93 years young, has been a seasonal employee of the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair and Exposition since 1976, where she has held the position of Front Gate Ticket Taker Supervisor. Her warmth and smile will be missed and her years of service at the Youth Fair never will be forgotten. “Sudie was an iconic member of our team with her friendliness and gentleness towards our guests and her colleagues,” said Bob Hohenstein, president and CEO of the Youth Fair. “I am honored to have met and Bob Hohenstein, president and CEO of the Youth Fair, is pictured with worked with Sudie and she Sudie Grow, 93, who is retiring after 38 years as an employee of the fair. knows she’ll always have a free –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– admission ticket, VIP parking and a front row seat any day she Circus, which she never had seen. wishes to visit us.” The Miami-Dade County Fair and Sudie’s grandson, Alan Grow, worked Exposition, known for generations as The along with her as the assistant supervisor Youth Fair, is a private, not-for-profit of the ticket taking operation. organization that has donated well over “I am definitely going to miss working $10 million in scholarships, awards and with her. She is resilient and outworked cash premiums to Miami-Dade students everybody that was out there,” Alan Grow and is dedicated to supporting education said. and South Florida agriculture. To celebrate her last day with the organFor more information, visit online at ization, the staff hosted a retirement party <www.fairexpo.com> or call 305-223and took her to enjoy the Royal Hanneford 7060.

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April 16 - 29, 2013

SAS student earns full scholarship to Cal Tech BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD

School for Advanced Studies senior David Pena has won a full scholarship to the California Institute of Technology (Cal Tech) from the QuestBridge program. The QuestBridge program matches low income high school students with one of 40 colleges and pays for their education. The value of the scholarship is $200,000 because it not only covers tuition but room and board. Pena said he is going to be an engineering major at Cal Tech, but he is not sure which branch of engineering he will take — his list includes nuclear engineering, electrical or chemical. “[Engineering] is just a basic interest that has always been there for me,” he said. “I’m good at chemistry but I like the aspect of using the chemistry in another field that I’ve learned.” Pena says it wasn’t any more difficult filling out the QuestBridge scholarship form than any other college application. “It’s a common application,” he says. “The finalists are based on need.” The application is sent to the top eight institutions the student ranked from the list of participating schools.

“You present all your achievements and accomplishment,” Pena said. “The full-ride scholarships are for those who wouldn’t be able to afford it otherwise.” When Pena graduates from the School for Advanced Studies, he will have earned not only his high school degree but his AA degree from Miami Dade College as well. He transferred to SAS — which only has juniors and seniors — from Terra Environmental Research Institute. If he had stayed, he would have been in Terra’s first graduating class. But he transferred because of the opportunities and the dual enrollment program. Like all high school students do, Pena did his share of volunteer work. He has done park cleanups at Matheson Hammock and Indian Hammocks parks and cancer walks. He also has volunteered at a day care center. “I wanted to do something that wasn’t common,” he said. “I helped take care of the kids and helped the administrator whenever she was coordinating field trips because it was summer. I mainly helped with a pre-K class.” Pena said the experience helped him learn patience and tolerance and not giving up even though it’s tough. He also interned at the University of

David Pena is one of only three high school seniors to receive a full-ride scholarship to Cal Tech from QuestBridge. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Miami doing Computational Chemistry for two summers through the American Chemical Society SEED I and SEED II programs. “It’s basically modeling, what happened in lab settings,” Pena said. “We worked with molecular dynamics. We were interested in the reactions as much as the movements and positioning of the molecule. We were able to view molecules in a way you wouldn’t be able to do if you’re looking through a microscope.” His chemistry teacher recommended him for the program that is working to develop cures for Alzheimer’s and a disease that causes high levels of insulin in the blood. “It was something completely different

from what I had done since learning organic chemistry and advanced computer topics,” Pena said. “It was hands-on in the sense that you were using the computer to create the models. It was not the usual chemistry where you were mixing the chemicals and waiting for something to happen.” Because of his experience, he wrote a paper that he presented at the Southern Regional Meeting of the American Chemical Society. His love of science and engineering led him to start the Robotics Club at SAS. The club’s first competition was scheduled for late March. For fun, Pena was in the Salsa Club, where he learned how to dance.


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clubX gym offers creative twist to getting in shape BY JESSE SCHECKNER

Former tennis pro Cary Sochin always has been drawn to physical excellence, so when his career came to a close in 1992, he made a near seamless transition into the fitness industry. He found that it fit his drive, personality and athleticism almost perfectly. Today, Sochin finally is combining his passion for corporeal accomplishment with his expertise and years of keen on-site observation, and is opening his own gym — clubX. “While clubX is my first solo venture, I have more than 20 years of fitness industry experience, including joint partnerships like Club BodyTech in Miami Beach and Metamorphecise in Pembroke Pines,” he said. “To me, fitness is a never-ending process and one by which you are continually strengthening and conditioning the body to achieve your personal best.” Sochin intends to make clubX, 1236 S. Dixie Hwy. in Coral Gables, a one-stop vitalization station. Aside from being a full-service center that includes diverse weight and cardio options, clubX is taking a step farther in assuring that when you join their club, it is for the remodeling of your entire lifestyle. “For the most impactful results, we recommend a rigorous training regimen in tan-

Pictured (l-r) are clubX staff members Liza Muravyeva, Giovanni Joseph, Cary Sochin, James Tynan, Janice Muller and Irving David. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

dem with a fresh, all-natural, made-toorder meal plan that offers a balance of protein and carbohydrates to refuel muscles,” Sochin said. “Our on-staff registered dietitian and nutritionist will customize meals based on the dietary needs of our members, alongside their personal fitness coaches, to ensure a 360-degree approach to achieving personal fitness goals.” Sochin wants clubX to be an essential part of members’ lives by fulfilling several

key elements that contribute to a person’s overall wellbeing. Drawing insightfully from the time-tested truism, “healthy body, healthy mind,” clubX aspires to affect members beyond its doors by encouraging them to participate in social events, community-building initiatives and philanthropic, cause-related fitness challenges. “It is an outside-the-box, distinct enterprise, both operationally and functionally, and I am not afraid to push the envelope,”

he said. “My integrated approach to fitness is unique, innovative and creative and it will be the point of difference that marks our continued success.” Any worries existing about overcrowding or lack of attention from clubX’s highly trained and motivated staff can be dismissed. Although he entertains the idea of expanding his enterprise in the future, his focus remains on the current location, which will enforce a cap of 750 members. “This will ensure that we maintain the intimate community feel that exists today while continuing to deliver exceptional service to our members,” he said. Surveying the vast landscape of fitness clubs in South Florida can be quite a daunting task when looking for a gym to join, but Cary Sochin wants to make the choice an easy one for you. In fact, he is so sure that the club will sell itself he is practically giving away services. “Prospective members are offered up to a one-month trial ‘clubXperience’ which includes unlimited personal fitness coaching to facilitate their decision-making process,” he said. For information, go to <www.clubxmiami.com>, call 305-667-3539 or send email to <info@clubxmiami.com>.


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Caregiving sparks inspiration for adaptive clothing company BY MARK SELL

In late 2010, John Acosta, a 27-year-old sergeant in the U.S. Air Force, hit upon the idea for his Miami adaptive pajama top company when his family was plunged into the world of end-of-life caregiving. Acosta’s grandfather, William Ronald Biggs, then 78, was losing a 12-year battle with Parkinson’s disease. The family physician made the difficult choice to initiate home hospice care. Not so many years before, Biggs had been an advertising and PR powerhouse in his native Michigan, counting on his company board his lifelong friend and mentor NFL football coach George Allen and esteemed economist Paul McCracken. Biggs was an avid golfer and author of two popular books, dedicating the proceeds to scholarships. Now he was bedridden and helpless. Acosta’s grandmother, Ruth Ann, married to her husband of 57 years, found herself the main caregiver, charged with keeping Acosta’s father clean, dignified and free of bedsores and other afflictions as he faced his final journey. Dressing was, surprisingly, one of the most painful things. Changing a shirt was

John Acosta –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

agony. Never one to complain, Biggs would endure the sharp pain, especially when his family members tried to dress or undress him with his arms stiffened from Parkinson’s.

John helped as he could, and his younger sister worked particularly hard. He was frustrated by the lack of products and resources to make life easier for both the caregiver and the patient. “It struck me that there just had to be a better way,” Acosta said. So Acosta hit upon his idea. Why not create tasteful sleepwear with soft, breatheable cotton that unbuttons in the front with snaps all up and down the sleeves? With an open back, dressing and undressing could become, as it were, a snap. An estimated 1.4 million Americans participate in hospice care every year, and that number is expected to grow. Add to that the number of paraplegics, quadriplegics and others permanently or even temporarily deprived of mobility. With open backs and quick snaps down the sleeves of the garments, caregivers can change clothes without avoidable lifting or removal of intravenous devices or monitoring systems, saving time and injury on hospital floors. Soon thereafter, Acosta gave birth to his company, Comfort Care Clothing Co. (www.comfortcareco.com). Now 29, Acosta has since left the Air Force after eight years service and is embarking on his journey as a Miami entrepreneur, as he and his wife are expecting their first baby. The business is still in its early stages but maturing steadily, with Central American and Asian manufacturers ready to produce the adaptive pajama tops on demand. The garment lists for $35.99 and comes in blue for men and pink for women. Demographics are on Acosta’s side. The population of those 85 and older has grown from just over 100,000 in 1900 to 5.5 million in 2010. The U.S. Census Bureau projects that population will more than triple to 19 million by 2050, when Acosta will be 66 and perhaps getting ready for retirement. By 2030, 20 percent of America will be 65 or

over. By 2050, the American Health Care Association projects that 27 million people will use long-term healthcare services. Acosta is convinced that he is onto something. “As the business grows, I look forward to expanding the offerings,” Acosta said. Comfort Care Clothing Co. investors have provided $150,000 in seed money. Those investors include: Gabor Marquez; Cesar Rodriguez; Mikel Aramburu, and Carlos and Enrique Gill. The group has extensive experience in financing and investing in businesses, which include food factories, art dealerships, broadcasting enterprises and the medical device industry, among other businesses. For critical care nurse Audra Austin of Chicago, the adaptive clothing, particularly with the snap-on sleeves, comes at the right time. “I have seen end-of-life issues both as a caregiver of grandparents and as a critical care nurse,” Ms. Austin said. “As a society, we place so much emphasis on extending and preserving life, but the everyday and very real human concerns are often overlooked. Something as simple as the right kind of garment does more than ease back strain and cut workers’ comp claim for caregivers. It helps preserve the ideals of honor, dignity, and respect to individual patients and families both during their lives and when nearing the end of life.” For Acosta, it’s not just a business, but a mission. “There’s a sandwich generation out there of people in their 40s, 50s and early 60s. They are raising children and caring for parents,” he said. “That trend is only going to continue for the coming decades. And it is a passion of mine to build a company founded on dignity for the patient and ease for the caregiver. As someone about to become a new father, I’d like to create something that does my children and children of parents everywhere proud.”

Is your life controlled by alcohol or drugs? If you answered yes, take the first step to recovery. The healing starts by admitting you have a problem. Pick up the phone and make the most important call of your life. Give your life a new option of hope and happiness. We can help with qualified medical treatment.

New Vision™ Service 305-285-5601 or 1-800-939-2273 SpecialCare Hospital Management Corporation operates this service for the hospital, and has a financial interest in this service. The diagnosis of need for inpatient admission can only be made by a licensed physician.


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Help the Miracle League win simply by voting on Facebook BY LISA MAYS

The Miracle League of Miami-Dade has been selected by the State Farm Youth Advisory Board as a finalist for the 2013 Neighborhood Assist Grant. As a finalist, the Miracle League will compete in a nationwide Facebook voting competition to win the $25,000 grant. This funding will be used towards the construction of a baseball field designed specifically for children with special needs in Miami-Dade County. Facebook voting continues through Apr. 22. To help the Miracle League achieve its goal and win State Farm’s grant, vote the cause at <www.state-assist.com/cause/5154/miamismiracle-league>. Supporters can vote up to 10 times per day for the Miracle League of Miami-Dade and then share the cause through Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin and any other social media avenues. The Miracle League of Miami Dade Field will impact children and their families by providing the proper environment where children can play baseball and know that it was created with their needs in mind. More than 255 Miracle League organizations operate across the United States and

internationally with the goal of empowering children with disabilities to experience the joy of baseball regardless of their ability to play. The Miracle League allows each player to bat, field and score in each inning of the game. Since January 2011 a capital campaign has been under way to raise $1,500,000 to construct this handicapped-accessible facility. The Miracle League park will include a special surfaced baseball field, an accessible playground, accessible parking, an indoor facility with ADA bathrooms and a concession stand and many other community park amenities. Check the Miracle League out on Facebook to see photos from recent games and see upcoming game dates at <www.facebook.com/MiracleLeagueOfMi amiDade>. Go to <www.miracleleagueofmiamidade.org> to learn more and make a contribution. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Baseball Buddy Sam Bolduc (standing) is pictured with player Matthew Rosen.


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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

New exhibit to bring fine art to young children’s eye level Leonel D’cröix (Digital Painting)

BY LEE STEPHENS

More than Meets the Eye,” opening on Friday, Apr. 19, 7-10 p.m., at Prints Giclée Shop, 8747 SW 134 St., presents a fun new twist on art shows — no piece of artwork will be hung or exhibited any higher than three feet off the ground, thus “lowering” the art to young children’s eye level. “The artwork won’t be ‘childish’ — it will be PG-13 — but it will be displayed so children as young as 3 to 5 years old can easily see it,” said show creator, co-curator and Miami artist Christine Lyall. She added that children of all ages are welcome to attend. Also curating are Miami artists Aida Tejada and Gerardo GonzalezQuevedo, who owns and operates Prints Giclée Shop. Lyall said she thought of the show’s concept when she noticed a young boy at an art show straining to see a piece of her work hanging on a wall. The boy’s father could see the piece just fine. The boy could not. “I thought, ‘What if an entire professional art show were designed specifically for children?’ It seems so simple, and yet, I’ve never seen it done before,” Lyall said. “Children have a natural appreciation for and curiosity about art, and they often see things in art that adults, who tend to be more critical, don’t see. And yet, most art shows automatically exclude children as viewers because everything, unless it’s big, is too high for them to see.” With governments cutting back on arts funding and school districts slashing their arts education budgets, “it’s increasingly important to find other ways to cultivate

children’s appreciation for art,” Lyall said. “We hope this art-show concept helps.” More than a dozen South Florida artists representing a diversity of styles and media (so children can see the many ways in which art can be rendered) are participating in “More than Meets the Eye,” including: Aduni Abu Bakar — Sumi Ink Painting Leonel D’cröix — Digital Painting Jose Luis Dias Montero — Mixed Media Jaime Ferreyros — iPhonography Sandra Garcia-Pardo — Sculpture Raciel Gomez — Mixed Media Rigoberto Rosales Jalil — Colored Pencil Painting Marilyn Lemay — Watercolor Adriano Nicot — Painting Jose Luis Dias Montero — Mixed Media Adriano Nicot — Painting Jee Yung Park — Mixed Media Edilberto Pelegrino — Painting Daniel Portnoy — Photography Clara Varas — Mixed Media Katarina Vicenova — Oil Marivi von Feretova — Painting Prints Giclée Shop is an artist-owned and operated, full-service, fine-art digital printing company, offering high-quality giclée printing on archival paper, canvas or acrylic substrates. Open since 2004, Prints Giclée Shop also offers framing services, and it has a gallery where it showcases the work of local, national and international artists. For more information, call Gerardo Gonzalez-Quevedo at 305-282-9154, or visit the Prints Giclée Shop at 8747 SW 134 St. or check out the studio’s website at <www.printsgicleeshop.com>.

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Top high school chess players ‘All Kids Included Family Arts compete in annual tournament Festival’ scheduled on May 4 BY NICOLLE UGARRIZA

Eighty seven players representing 29 local high schools participate in the ninth annual Dr. Armando J. Bucelo Sr. High School Chess Tournament. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY SUE ARROWSMITH

Concentration and swift moves set the tone at Miami Dade College’s (MDC) Wolfson Campus recently as it hosted the ninth annual Dr. Armando J. Bucelo Sr. High School Chess Tournament, founded by MDC Trustee Dr. Armando J. Bucelo Jr. and his father, Armando Bucelo Sr., a chess master. The recent competition welcomed 87 players representing 29 local high schools, up from last year’s attendance. The top four places in the team competition went to (in

order from first to fourth place) South Dade High School, Miami High School, Southwest Miami High School, and Southridge High School. Trophies and scholarships also were awarded to top players, including David Sassine, Thomas Zerquera, Anthony Otero, Alejandro Acosta, and Jose Machado. Many past winners have gone on to play for MDC’s renowned chess team. To learn more about the annual tournament, visit online at <www.mdc.edu/highschoolchess>.

South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center (SMDCAC) and the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, with funding and support from The Children’s Trust, present the seventh annual free “All Kids Included Family Arts Festival — Magical Me!” for children and families of all abilities on Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at SMDCAC, 10950 SW 211 St., Cutler Bay. “All Kids Included (AKI)” is an innovative, interdisciplinary community arts festival for children with or without disabilities, created with funding from The Children’s Trust and produced in partnership with Arts for Learning and VSA Florida, and with the support of MiamiDade County Public Schools. For information the public can call 786-573-5316 or visit <www.smdcac.org>. Special highlights of the 2013 All Kids Included Festival include: SensoryFriendly main stage performances by Spencers Theatre of Illusion, a spectacular large-scale magic show; and Page Turner Adventures with Riley Roam as the “World Famous Storyologist” and former Ringling Bros. clown Kenny Mikey as her bumbling assistant. The main stage shows will offer accessible accommodations for individuals with Sensory Processing Disorders and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The theater will provide modifications to sound and lighting, noise canceling headsets, a quiet room and a special pre-show guide to preparing new audiences for a live theater experience. Also featured as part of the festival are inclusive art projects from Arts for Learning, and glow in the dark “Zot ArtzArts for All” adaptive painting and print-

making with special guest artist/inventor Dwayne Szot and Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces. Culture Shock Miami, the $5 arts ticket program for ages 13-22, will program a fun outdoor stage with performances by: Nuttin’ Butta Sandwich children’s band; Teen DJs from PATH (Preserving, Archiving, & Teaching Hip Hop Inc.); 21st Century Steel Band; Delou African Dance Ensemble, and local schools and performing arts groups. Other performances during the festival include: JohnPaul Jebian, American Sign Language Storyteller; Miami-Dade County Public Library Storytellers; Greater Miami Youth Symphony; Lucrece Louisdhon-Louinis, Dance-A-Story; The “Amazing Mr. A” Magic Show; Drumming for Wellness with Jeff Dean; Karen Peterson And Dancers; and more. A special exhibition of the All Kids Included festival’s fourth district-wide student art competition winners also will be on display. The festival also will feature: a giveaway of a children’s book titled Only One You by Linda Kranz, fun food, Saber Tooth Slide, rock wall, strolling entertainers, costumed characters, balloon artists and face painters. In addition, many great community resources such as Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces, Miami-Dade County Public Schools Prekindergarten Program for Children with Disabilities, Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System (FDLRS) will be on hand for families offering valuable information, in-person assistance, support and literature. Volunteers for the event are welcome. To volunteers, contact <volunteer@smdcac.org> or 786-573-5301.


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Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden honors volunteers during brunch BY JEANNE A. BECKER

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables conducted its annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch at the Garden on Mar. 20 to recognize the Volunteers of the Year and honors hundreds of volunteers and the hours they devote unselfishly to the Garden every year. Fairchild Garden currently has 1,200 active volunteers who donated 67,000 hours in 2012. Now celebrating the Garden’s 75th anniversary, volunteers have been an integral part of Fairchild Garden since it was founded in 1938. Of the volunteers present at the luncheon, many were honored with 15, 20, 25, 30 and 40-year pins. The three Volunteers of the Year are: Sue Steinberg, a resident of Coral Gables, has volunteered for 35 years. She started the Garden’s first educational program and helped to build the Garden’s Foundation. She also is on the board of trustees. Steve Forman, a resident of South Miami, has volunteered for 10 years in horticulture and conservation. He is one of the most independent volunteers they have

Volunteers are recognized at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch at the Garden on Mar. 20. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

who often takes over when staff members are unavailable. His work ethic and congeniality are legendary at the Garden.

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Jean Hawa, a resident of Pinecrest, has volunteered for six years. A former educator, in her first year as a volunteer, she

signed up for five jobs at the Garden. She is the ultimate “worker bee,” leader and mentor.


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ZSF announces new director Junior Orange Bowl accepting of corporate, individual giving applications for Royal Court BY CINDY CASTELBLANCO

Ivett Iglesias is the new director of corporate and individual giving for the Zoological Society of Florida (ZSF). With five years of experience in development and advancement, Iglesias will manage the development, implementation and operation of fundraising activities that target primarily corporate and individual donors. Iglesias’ primary responsibilities will be to solicit new donations and sponsorships from corporations and individuals in general and specifically for special annual fundraisers including Feast with the Beasts and Monster Masquerade. She also will plan and execute annual mid-year and year-end direct mail appeal campaigns. In addition, Iglesias will be managing programs like Friends of Zoo Miami that encourages members to become generous supporters of the zoo’s efforts while receiving unique benefits and recognition and Wild For Kids, an extension of Zoo Miami’s Adopt-an-Animal program, that connects the zoo’s family of wildlife enthusiasts with organizations that serve the community’s children. “As a native Miamian, I have been a witness to Zoo Miami’s impressionable growth throughout the years,” Iglesias said. “I am both honored and passionate to work towards continuing to ensure that we fulfill our mission of encouraging an appreciation for the world’s wildlife and helping conserve it for future generations.” The Zoological Society of Florida, founded in 1956, is the non-profit support organization for Zoo Miami that encourages an appreciation for the world’s wildlife and helps conserve it for

BY ALEX MARKEL

Ivett Iglesias ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

future generations. Today, it is one of the largest membership organizations in South Florida with more than 16,000 members with activities and programs that include: volunteer services, education programs, special events, and member programs. During its 56-year history, the ZSF has served as the principal private fundraising arm for Zoo Miami and since 1998 as its principal marketer. The ZSF and Zoo Miami currently are planning to build the Florida: Mission Everglades exhibit and a new front entry plaza set to open in 2015-16.

The Junior Orange Bowl is getting ready for a night of glamour, fun and royalty. The search for three young ladies to represent the Junior Orange Bowl as goodwill ambassadors for the 2013-14 Festival Season has begun. The Royal Court Search is much more than a beauty pageant as the queen and princesses are chosen based on personality, poise, and desire to be involved in their community. The queen and princesses also will ride on the Royal Court Float at the most anticipated Junior Orange Bowl Parade on Miracle Mile in downtown Coral Gables. All girls that participate in the search will be invited to “The Queens Ball” at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables. “Our goal is to encourage these young ladies to be future leaders and role models in our community,” said Isa Goenaga, chair of the Royal Court Search. “The Royal Court Search is a wonderful opportunity for all young girls to experience. Not only do they gain self-esteem, confidence, and compassion; they learn the importance of selflessly serving the community. This year, the Junior Orange Bowl is excited to announce the title for “Little Sister,” which will include girls age 11. “This title will give our younger girls the opportunity to gain the experience and confidence that will prepare them to become a queen or princess for the following festival season,” Goenaga said. Registration is open for girls between the ages of 11 and 14. Contestants must participate in a preliminary to be eligible for the final on Saturday, May 18, at the Rebeca Sosa Theater in Miami Springs.

Contestants must be registered prior to their respective preliminary events. There will be four preliminary dates across South Florida — Apr. 20 in Miami Springs, May 4 in Broward, May 5 in the Keys, and a date to be announced for Miami-Dade. Visit <www.jrorangebowl.org/royal-court-seach> for more information on the preliminary dates and locations and to download the application. The queen and two princesses will be eligible for a sponsorship to compete in the Miss Florida Teen USA Pageant, provided by Tel-Air Interest. Sponsors for the Royal Court Search include: Rebeca Sosa Theater, The City of Miami Springs, The Biltmore Hotel, Snow Jewelers, Tel-Aire Interest, Chi Sigma Sorority, Vera Bradley Designs, Cookies for Jani, GBS Beauty Supply, Miami’s Community Newspapers, Miami Elks Lodge #948, The Giving Tree, Field of Flowers, and Awesome Embroidery. The Junior Orange Bowl Festival is possible with the support of the City of Coral Gables, Miami Children’s Hospital, Orange Bowl Committee, Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, tCultural Affairs Council, Miami-Dade County Tourist Development Council, Miami-Dade County Mayor, and Board of County Commissioners. The Junior Orange Bowl Committee Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that serves the community of South Florida and the youth of the world by providing opportunities for wholesome, competitive and multicultural experiences. For more information on the Junior Orange Bowl, call 305-662-1210 or visit the website at <www.jrorangebowl.org>.


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Paradyme security systems use newest technologies BY RICHARD YAGER

A company homegrown in Miami-Dade County by an expert in security is expanding to reach a broadened base of residential, business, and industrial clients. Whether it is a home video surveillance monitored on a Smartphone, an integrated system to protect multi-million-dollar inventories of high-end car dealerships, or controlled access into the Trump properties in Sunny Isles, Steven Schwartz’s Paradyme has done it all. Such systems now protect CNN/Turner Broadcasting; Trump Grande Ocean Residences and Resort in Sunny Isles; three buildings comprising Miami-Dade County’s Public Defenders offices, and a number of premier condominium and apartment residences, including downtown’s One Miami and Pinnacle Housing Groups’ many properties. The company’s innovation created a customized surveillance network system with two-way voice, remote video monitoring, and perimeter intrusion detection for a Lexus dealer’s multi-million dollar inventory of 250 exposed cars. The inventory was protected when a pair of burglars entered the premises and tripped the perimeter detection system that resulted in immediate police response. This quick response from the police helped capture the suspects and limited damages. Another innovative system was created for Trump Royale in Sunny Isles. At the request of the owner, Schwartz invented a wireless early warning life safety system that was approved and tested rigorously by the Miami-Dade County Fire Rescue Department. The result saved the owner hundreds of thousands of dollars and enabled the general contractor to deliver the building on time and within budget. The company’s reach became international when Schwartz was asked to install perimeter fortification, personal duress,

and intrusion systems for the National Palace of Haiti before the recent earthquake disaster. A diverse list of clientele is only one reason that Paradyme has become a leader in the design of low voltage intrusion, video surveillance, and biometric and fob access control systems. Paradyme also utilizes the most trusted brands in the industry, such as Schlage, Honeywell, DSX, Keyscan, and Milestone. Schwartz honed his security skills while in the U.S. Navy until his retirement as a senior chief petty officer. While enlisted, he conducted port security assessments and surveys. His growing expertise in security led him to start his own company in 2001, where he first targeted small businesses, commercial firms, and a variety of installations for homeowners. After more than a decade, Global Security Products evolved into Paradyme Steven Schwartz monitors Paradyme’s contract services. to better reflect the company’s abilities. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “We wanted to differentiate ourselves homeowners and commercial business from other similarly named businesses in owners in the southwest area who want to the area. In addition, Global Security update an antiquated system,” explained Products made us sound like a distributor Schwartz, from his two-story office and of products rather than a professional inte- warehousing center just off SW 117th gration company,” said the 47-year-old Avenue south of 152nd Street. entrepreneurial president of the company. Schwartz has brought his business to its current position as a leader in the design, installation, and maintenance of security systems and networks. Today, Paradyme’s major focus is applying the mix of fast-advancing technology that customizes a client’s security needs, no matter how big or small. “People who have older systems in their homes may not realize how advances in technology have changed monitoring to increase protective service as well as remotely viewing and managing the homes systems such as cameras, central air conditioning system, and lighting, all from a Smartphone or computer. “It’s one reason why we are seeking both

Paradyme prides itself on organized and professional installations. Once an installation is complete, clients are provided with system documentation that includes equipment listings, warranty information, technical drawings, camera positions, wire labels, and more. “Because every installation is only as good as the team doing the work, we do all installation labor on our own — not through unknown subcontractors or outside installers. We make a personal commitment to take the time to do the right thing by our clients, from design and installation to service and support,” Schwartz emphasized. Schwartz is a CPP (Certified Protective Professional) and member of the American Society for Industrial Security. He also is active in the local community and currently serves as a board member of the Zoological Society of Florida, a non-profit organization in support of Zoo Miami. For free estimates on residential or business and industrial security, including system replacement, Paradyme can be contacted at 305-592-6970 or on its website at <www.Paradyme360.com>.


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‘Picnic in the Park’ Apr. 21 at Deering Estate at Cutler BY CATHY GUERRA

Spend a relaxing day with your family and friends at the Deering Estate at Cutler and enjoy a picnic on the main lawn. The Deering Estate will be open to guests on Sunday, Apr. 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., for a reduced rate of $7 for all ages. There will be a Human Chess Match hosted by Door to the Arts Inc. and St. John Neumann Catholic School at 2 p.m. in the courtyard. Watch as a chess match comes alive. Students dressed in full costume will make their grand entrance and take their positions on the life-size chessboard. Players will call out moves from an adjoining table causing the corresponding live chess pieces to move, and the amazing battle of skill and strategy begins. Chef David Schwadron Catering and Joanna’s Marketplace are the official picnic providers for the Deering Estate at Cutler and can be contacted directly for preordered meals. Preordered meals are available for delivery to the estate or for pick-up. Call 305-238-5881 for Chef David Schwadron Catering and 305-6615777 for Joanna’s Marketplace. Please note that grilling and cooking is not permitted on the estate.

Activities include: • Old fashion lawn games; • Historic House Tours at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.; • Natural Areas Tour at 12:30 p.m.; • Human Chess Match hosted by Door to the Arts Inc. and St. John Neumann Catholic School at 2 p.m. in the courtyard, and • Spring Photography Exhibit featuring Patricia Gonzalez-Osorio, Antonia Wright and Marina Font. For more information, visit <www.deeringestate.org> or call 305-2351668, ext. 233. The Deering Estate at Cutler, a MiamiDade County Park, is located at 16701 SW 72 Ave. This 444-acre natural and archeological preserve and historic site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a center for education, culture and recreation. Historic house tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Natural areas tours are offered daily at 12:30 p.m. (October-May). EcoAdventure Tours also are offered throughout the year for an additional fee. For more information on the Deering Estate’s educational and cultural programs, visit online at <www.deeringestate.org>.

Palmetto High School to host college admissions program BY ROBERT HAMILTON

Miami Palmetto High School will host “Admission 101” on Monday, May 6, at 6:45 p.m. The panel will consist of the following admission directors: Barry Taylor from Florida International University; Janice Finney, Florida State University; Pat Herring, University of Florida, and Ed Gillis, University of Miami. This event is open to families from Miami Palmetto, Coral Reef, Killian and South Dade high schools. Free tickets are available. Contact the

college advisor (CAP) at any of the schools for tickets. Tickets are free but limited to two tickets per family. This will be a small forum so seats are first come, first serve. People attending are expected to be seated by 6:45 p.m. The forum begins promptly at 7 p.m. The panel will discuss a wide variety of topics that include the school’s application procedures, the university’s expectations, and the school’s insights to what makes a strong candidate. There will be time at the end of the program for questions and answers. Contact your CAP advisor with any questions.

www.communitynewspapers.com


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Miami Elks Lodge to present a tribute to Liberace, Apr. 21 BY ROBERT HAMILTON

“Mr. Showmanship!” is an all-live, terrifically entertaining tribute to the 20th Century’s greatest showman, Liberace. Renowned pianist Walter Whipple, backed by a full compliment of skilled musicians, dancers and technicians, performs all of Liberace’s signature pieces, including Malagueña, Beer Barrel Polka, Chopsticks and his sentimental closing number I’ll Be Seeing You. If you fondly remember Liberace, or if you always wanted to see him in person, you won’t want to miss the one show that combines authentic piano virtuosity, fabulous costumes, choreography and comedy to create a dazzling portrayal of the beloved artist the world came to know as “Mr. Showmanship!” The performance takes place on Sunday, Apr. 21, at the Miami Elks Lodge #948, 10301 SW 72 St. There are two shows, the first at 2 p.m. and the other at 7 p.m. Ticket prices are $30 general admission, $25 seniors and $20 Elks Club Members. A buffet dinner also is available between the two

Liberace ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

shows from 4 to 6 p.m. for an additional price of $10 per person. The Miami Elks Lodge #948 will be selling advance tickets, which can be purchased at the office during business hours. For more information and reservations, call The Miami Elks Lodge #948 at 305-270-8184.

Golden Passport holders under age 65 must renew by Apr. 30 BY IRENE D. FERRADAZ

If you are a Golden Passport holder under age 65, Miami-Dade Transit (MDT) wants to remind you that you have until Tuesday, Apr. 30, to renew. MDT encourages users to renew their Golden Passport EASY Cards as soon as possible to avoid long lines and wait times and ensure the continued use of their Golden Passport without interruption. To renew your card, present the following documents: • A valid state-issued Florida driver’s license or Florida ID showing a physical Miami-Dade County address; • A current year print-out from the Social Security Administration, verifying continued eligibility, and • Your Golden Passport EASY Card. Golden Passport holders can renew their cards at these locations: The Golden Passport Office at the Transit Service Center located next to the Government Center Metrorail station at

111 NW First St., Second Level, Miami, FL 33128, open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Any 3-1-1 Service Center, open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed for lunch from noon to 1 p.m.) at the following locations: South Dade Justice Center, 10710 SW 211 St. in Cutler Bay, FL 33189, and Miami-Dade Permitting Information Center, 11805 SW 26 St., Miami, FL 33175. To renew by mail, send copies of all required documents to: Miami-Dade Transit-Special Pass Programs, PO Box 01-9005, Miami, FL 33101. To renew by email, scan and email all required documents to: <Specialpass@miamidade.gov>. To renew by fax, fax the required documents to: SPECIAL PASS PROGRAMS — 305-375-1192. If you have any questions about your Golden Passport EASY Card, call 3-1-1 or visit <www.miamidade.gov/transit>.

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Awards presented at Classical S. Florida Leadership Luncheon BY LEE STEPHENS

Dr. Sanford L. and Beatrice Ziff recently joined NĂŠstor Rodriguez, the newly appointed president of Classical South Florida (CSF), to honor some individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the arts in South Florida. Dr. Claire Crawford, a major gifts officer with CSF, and Milton Wallace, Esq., chair, Regional Development and Advisory Council and member of the board of trustees of CSF, welcomed honorees and their guests. The elegant event took place at the historic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables. Distinguished honorees were Trish and Dan Bell, Julia D. and Shelton G. Berg, Alicia Celorio, R. Kirk Landon and John Richard, pesident and CEO of the Adrienne Arsht Center. The Symphony of the Americas was honored in recognition of its 25thAnniversary with Maestro James Brooks-Bruzzese and executive director Renee LaBonte on hand to accept. Shelton G. Berg, dean of the Frost School of Music at the University of

Pictured are (l-r, standing) Dr. Claire Crawford, Shelly and Julia Berg, Maestro James Brooks-Bruzzese, John Richard, NĂŠstor Rodriguez, Jason Hughes, Trish and Dan Bell, Pamela Garrison, R. Kirk Landon and Rob Davis, with (seated) Alicia Celorio, Beatrice and Dr. Sanford L. Ziff, and Renee LaBonte

Miami, delighted guests with piano music of Bach, Chopin, Debussy and Gershwin, playing a Steinway Grand Piano, provided by Steinway Piano Gallery in Coral Gables.

Classical South Florida is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) public radio organization dedicated to broadcasting classical music. Its program service can be heard on WKCP 89.7 FM in the upper Florida Keys, Miami

and Fort Lauderdale. For information on the Leadership Circle, call Dr. Claire Crawford at 1-(954522-8755, or visit <www.classicalsouthflorida.publicradio.org>.


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Boys and Girls Clubs plans exciting summer program for area youth BY DUREE ROSS

E. Cheese’s, swimming field trips for older groups and more. Registration now is taking place for the A free nutritious lunch and afternoon 2013 Summer Program at Boys and Girls snack will be provided daily at no addiClubs of Miami-Dade, which will be held tional cost, or children may bring their at four different locations — Hank Kline own lunch. At each club, awards will be Club, Northwest Club, South Beach Club given to recognize the boys and girls who and Kendall Club. have made a positive The Summer contribution to the During the Summer Program allows chilSummer Program. dren to learn values For more details P ro g r a m , c h i l d re n such as friendship, about area clubs’ p a rt i c i p a t e i n f u n i n d o o r honesty and teamwork Summer Program, by providing a safe a c t i v i t i e s s u c h a s a r t s a n d call the contact and secure environphone number which c r a f t s , c o m p u t e r ro o m , ment in which they can follows: express and develop Hank Kline Club, g a m e ro o m , t a b l e g a m e s , such relationships. 2805 SW 32 Ave., m o v i e ro o m , b a s k e t b a l l Summer Programs Miami, FL 33133, are open to all boys 305-446-2654, eighta n d m u c h m o re . O u t d o o r and girls ages 5-16 week session is $450, a c t i v i t i e s i n c l u d e a l l t y p e s and (Must be entering kindergarten in the fall Kendall Club, o f o r g a n i z e d g r o u p g a m e s , 9475 and cannot turn 17 N. Kendall Dr., before Sept. 1.), and a n d s w i m m i n g a t t h e S o u t h Miami, FL 33176, run Monday–Friday 305-279-3013, two Beach Club. Field trips from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; four-week sessions however, counselors (June 10–July 5 and a l s o a re o ff e re d t o will be available to July 8–Aug. 2) at $325 exciting supervise children each session. beginning at 8 a.m. and To register, parents locations and events such ending at 6 p.m. must come in person as the movies, bowling, The Summer to the specific club Programs at all clubs where the child will be C h u c k E . C h e e s e ’s , are staffed by qualified attending the Summer swimming field trips for full-time and summer Program. Mailed or staff. faxed registration o l d e r g ro u p s a n d m o re . During the Summer cards will not be Program, children paraccepted. Children ticipate in fun indoor activities such as arts will be taken on a first-come, first-served and crafts, computer room, game room, basis until the program is filled. With questable games, movie room, basketball and tions about the Summer Program or for much more. Outdoor activities include all more information, call Boys and Girls types of organized group games, and swim- Clubs of Miami-Dade’s Administrative ming at the South Beach Club. Field trips Office at 305-446-9910. also are offered to exciting locations and For more information, visit online at events such as the movies, bowling, Chuck <www.bgcmia.org>.

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Florida Healthcare Plus’ focus on quality customer service BY DONNA SHELLEY

One topic that is uppermost in the minds of most Americans ages 65 and older is the availability of quality healthcare. Among companies offering managed care in the state the people at Florida Healthcare Plus (FHCP) believe that their focus on quality customer service and cost-effectiveness make them the obvious choice for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. FHCP started out in 2004 as a pre-paid health clinic plan, addressing the needs of lower income families. Today, its is a licensed Florida HMO (health maintenance organization) with branches in Miami, West Palm Beach, Orlando and Tampa. Focused on serving the needs of its members, FHCP’s community-based operations offer Prepaid, Medicare and Medicaid managed care programs. Placing service and concern for each individual member at the forefront of its corporate model, FHCP’s director of marketing, Abram Rodriguez, explained that the company is focused on preventative healthcare methods as a way to cut high medical costs. “We bring a lot of innovative benefits to Medicare, based on our motto that service

Pictured in the Coral Gables office of Florida Healthcare Plus are Abram Rodriguez, director of marketing, (left) and Peter Hernandez, chief operating officer. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

comes first,” Rodriguez said from the company’s Coral Gables office. One such feature is the over-the-counter debit card that is recharged in $100 increments every month. The member can use the card at Walgreens, CVS, Family Dollar and Dollar General to purchase 25,000 health-related products, from aspirin to blood pressure cuffs. Another is FHCP’s unlimited van service for members, offered free of charge for doctor appointments, trips to the gym and even grocery-shopping outings. The company has purchased its own fleet of comfortable Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans, operated by drivers trained and employed by FHCP. Free gym membership is offered to all

members and dieticians are available to accompany members on van-assisted grocery shopping trips to provide guidance for those who need advice on the best food products for their particular health issues. Other plans such as dental and eye health programs are available. FHCP’s coverage is worldwide and accompanies the member wherever he or she goes. By limiting costs and practicing prevention, FHCP, a relatively small company, can invest the savings into benefits instead of rewarding a large group of stockholders, as is done by larger HMOs. The doctors who are providers with FHCP are incentivized to keep people in good health and receive assistance from FHCP to help cover the costs of implementing and maintaining electronic health records of members. FHCP also prides itself on the strength of its Social Services Department. It is ready to courteously and efficiently assist members with any service that is offered by the DCF, such as Medicare and Medicaid information, food stamps and home delivered meals and phone assistance. A hallmark of FHCP’s company is its concern to educate members on the services available to them. New member orientation takes place at local restaurants where benefits are explained in a relaxed, friendly environment, and staff is on hand throughout the year to assist the members and to help them navigate their way through the Medicare and Medicaid systems. Providing a community-based, clientcentric managed care service is at the heart of what FHCP offers. “What I like about my job is seeing people happy. We are sensitive to the needs of our members and our providers. We give true preventative care and pass the savings along in more benefits for our members,” said Peter Hernandez, chief operating officer. To learn more about FHCP, call 305888-2210 or visit the website at <www.floridahealthcareplus>.


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Miami Children’s Chorus takes stand against childhood hunger BY LEE STEPHENS

The Miami Children’s Chorus, a Coral Gables non-profit choral music education and performance organization, is taking a stand and making a difference in the lives of hundreds of South Florida children. On Thursday, Mar. 20, MCC artistic administrator Analy Mendez and MCC advanced chorister Gabriela HernandezFumero delivered close to 1,000 cans of non-perishable food, 200 toiletries, kids clothes and baby clothes to the Leadership Learning Center at St. John Bosco — an after school program that provides homework assistance, literacy, social skills, fitness, and creative arts programs to the children of the east Little Havana community. Donated items were collected by all 150plus members of the Miami Children’s Chorus throughout the month of March. MCC began its work with the Leadership Learning Center in January through its “We Will Sing” choral outreach project, through which the organization provides a free six-week choral experience program in low-income/underserved communities. The We Will Sing program helps children find their voices as they explore how

Members of Miami Children’s Chorus pack food for Leadership Learning Center.

to warm-up, read music, and most importantly how to work together to achieve a common goal. We Will Sing also introduces concepts of respect, communication, commitment, leadership, discipline, and

professionalism. In addition, We Will Sing serves as a mentoring program, as MCC choristers volunteer their time to work with the children in rehearsals and serve as positive role models for them.

After working with the children at Leadership Learning Center through the We Will Sing program, MCC advanced chorister, Gabriela Hernandez-Fumero decided she would find a way to make an even bigger impact in the lives of these and other Little Havana children. She started the Be The Change food/toiletires drive. The MCC invites the Miami-Dade County community to Be The Change and help the children in our communities who are most in need. Consider reaching out to children’s organization’s, such as the Leadership Learning Center, which are in need of help to secure the health and growth of South Florida youth. For more information about other South Florida children’s organizations visit <www.thechildrenstrust.org>. To find out more about the Leadership Learning Center at St. John Bosco, call 305-6494730. For more information about the Miami Children’s Chorus — upcoming performance, program offerings, and ways to get involved — call 305-662-7494, visit <www.miamichildrenschorus.org>, or send email to <amendez@miamichildrenschorus.org>.


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2014 Mazda6 gets new ‘SKYACTIV’ technology Ron Beasley AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

LET’S TALK CARS The new 2014 Mazda6 mid-size sedan left me with a new respect for the brand. Not since my first spin in a Miata many years ago have I been this enthused about a Mazda vehicle; it’s just that special. From the front, there’s a touch of Ford Fusion styling, while the rear shares some resemblance to the new Jaguar. But that’s not to say that this third generation Mazda6 is not its own car. With seating for five, it’s not too big and not too small, and it’s fuel efficient, competitively priced, handles with precision, is beautifully styled and fun to drive. As for styling, the Mazda6 has an elongated cab-rearward stance, muscular fenders and sweeping character lines. A pronounced crease starts at the hood and continues along the prominent front fenders then curves across the A-pillar. Another crease blends into the taillights and signature chrome wing on the trunk lid. The sleek shape delivers an impressive coefficient of drag as low as 0.26.

The Mazda6 is the second production vehicle to get the full suite of SKYACTIV technologies (ed. note: SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY is the umbrella term for a host of performance-oriented, fuel-saving engine, transmission, body and chassis components developed by Mazda and introduced in the 2012 Mazda3 compact and incorporated into the 2013 CX-5 compact SUV) and even has Mazda’s latest technology, i-ELOOP, the world’s first capacitor-based brake energy regeneration system to power all the car’s electrical systems. Under the hood, there’s a SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine that produces 184 hp at 5,700 rpm and 185 pounds-feet of torque at 3,250 rpm. This 13:1 race-car-high-compression ratio gasoline engine offers eight percent more horsepower and almost 11 percent more torque than the 2.5-liter gasoline engine it replaces. Standard equipment for all three trim levels — Sport, Touring and Grand Touring — the SKYACTIV-G 2.5L can be paired with a choice of transmissions in the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual or SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic. Available later this year, a SKYACTIV-D 2.2-liter clean diesel engine that will deliver higher torque and cleaner combustion, and weigh 10 percent less than the current MZR 2.2-liter diesel engine sold in other global markets.

Mazda6 has elongated cab-rearward stance, muscular fenders and sweeping character lines. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

The Mazda6 entry-level Sport trim level comes standard with a SKYACTIV-MT transmission and offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 25/37 mpg. Paired with the optional SKYACTIV-Drive automatic, fuel economy increases by almost 24 percent to 26/38 mpg. Touring and Grand Touring models come standard with the SKYACTIV-Drive transmission. The 2014 Mazda6 is built on a long wheelbase at 111.4 inches and is just 72.4 inches in width. It has a sculptured, lean body with an

overall length of 191.5 inches and rides on 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Touring and Grand Touring vehicles get 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The MSRP on the 2014 Mazda6 ranges from $20,880 to $29,495. 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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DREWKERN

OPENING DOORS TO SOUTH FLORIDA REAL ESTATE As a second generation real estate professional, and a Miami native, I have an intimate understanding of our local market. Let me help guide you through the sometimes turbulent waters of buying and selling your most valuable asset. The process should be easy and enjoyable when you have the assistance of the right professional.

7600 SW 135 St Exceptional 3 bdrm/ 3 bath, family home in Pinecrest. Formal living & dining rms, eat in kitchen with lots of counter space. Spacious family room overlooks oversized, 25,700 sq ft lush backyard with covered patio and room for a pool. 2 master suites. 2 car side-entry garage. $699,000

7814 SW 165 St Spacious and well-maintained home on a quiet street in Palmetto Bay. 4 bdrm/ 3 bath, over 2,900 sq ft on a beautifully landscaped 18,000 sq ft lot. Formal dining room, expansive living room and family room. Large kitchen overlooks the pool and patio. Updated master bath.

7240 SW 146 TE The perfect home for entertaining in the Village of Palmetto Bay! 4 bdrm/ 2.5 bath. Formal living & dining rms, remodeled kitchen. Garage converted into spacious game room. Pool & covered patio, lovely landscaping, wooden deck and pergola. Plus a pond with peaceful rock waterfall. $599,000

10740 SW 121 St Lovely 3 bdrm/ 2 bath family home in the Pine Shores community. Bright and spacious kitchen with lots of storage and room for a large eat-in area or den. Formal living & dining rooms. Private fenced backyard with covered patio and pool. 2 car garage. $385,000

$529,000 350 75 ST #210

18003 SW 88 Pl

Wonderful 3 bdrm / 2 bath home in Just two blocks from the beach, near Bal Palmetto Bay. Vaulted ceilings in the Harbour! Light-filled 1 bdrm / 1 bath kitchen and family room. Formal living and condo. Open eat-in kitchen complete with dining rooms. Circular drive. Accordian gas stove, lots of storage. Large living shutters. Fabulous screened pool and patio area. Tile floor throughout. Gated entry with covered porch all surrounded by lush leads you to the nicely landscaped garden. vegetation. Large, fenced 15,125 sq ft lot. Plenty of street parking. $100,000

$339,000

18450 SW 78 Pl Fabulous 5 bdrm/ 3 bath home, built in 1995, in Cutler Bay. Updated kitchen with granite countertops. Formal living room and dining room. 2 car side entry garage. Newer pool and patio with large side yard.

$489,000

If you are interested in listing your home for sale or lease I would love the opportunity to speak to you. Call me for a complimentary analysis of your home. 305.329.7744

Your home here

ESSLINGER WOOTEN MAXWELL, INC., REALTORS 305.329.7744 • KERN.D@EWM.COM • WWW.DREWKERN.COM


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