Palmetto Bay News 1.18.2011

JANUARY 18 - 24, 2011

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‘SunPass only’ starts Feb. 19 on Turnpike

–––––––––––––––––––– See SUNPASS, page 4

BY RICHARD YAGER

KK endall motorists usingFlorida’s Turnpike shouldmark Feb. 19 as “SunPassDay” on the calendar. That

is when the entire 46.4-mile length ofFlorida’s Turnpike Extension goes fromcash collections to all-electronic tollingbetween US 1 in Florida City and theBroward County line.

Turnpike officials are promoting thedate as a beginning of “The LessStressway” to travel without stoppingfrom Mile Marker 0 in Florida City toMarker 47 in northeast Miami-Dade.

Two projects needed to upgrade fourmain line toll plazas and convert the 33ramp plazas to ORT (Open RoadTolling) combined cost an estimated$57.8 million.

More than 20 temporary lane closuresbetween the northern and southern ends ofthe Turnpike Extension were announced

BY GARY ALAN RUSE

TT he very first monthlyPalmetto Bay Councilmeeting conducted inthe new Village Hall

Council Chambers took place onMonday, Jan. 11, and all 84 of thechamber’s seats were filled with resi-dents and special guests.

Coming after the holidays and fol-lowing the big move into the new facil-ity at 9705 E. Hibiscus St., the meetingwas short, with only the approval ofminutes for the November andDecember meetings and two items onthe consent agenda as official business.The rest of the evening was given overto welcomes and special comments,the cutting of a large cake in the lobby

Council conducts first meeting in new Village Hall

The Palmetto Bay Council is in session in its chambers at the new Village Hall.

BY GARY ALAN RUSE

TT he family owned law firm ofLudovici & Ludovici is aninstitution in Palmetto Bay. Itwas founded in November of

1959 by family patriarch Philip F. Ludovici,who with his son and others has maintainedan office in essentially the same location formore than half a century.

Ludovici recently was reflecting on thelong-term success of the firm he started aftergraduating law school and passing the barexam, and he is excited about the next gener-ation to come.

“We have just celebrated our 51st year andare working on our 52nd,” the seniorLudovici said. “I got some great news thispast month that my grandson, Stephen E.

Ludovici, has been accepted to the Universityof Florida School of Law and says he wants tojoin the family firm upon graduation. I am soproud that we will have another generation ofLudovici lawyers serving the South Dadecommunity.”

Philip Ludovici has been practicing lawand been involved with real estate on his own,as well as with his son Edward, who now runsthe firm. Edward’s wife Susan Ludovici alsois a practicing attorney with the firm. Theirson Stephen, now attending classes at theUniversity of Florida in Gainesville, willgraduate in spring and then begin law school.

“I look forward to carrying on a tradition ofexcellence in the practice of law,” Stephen said.

Ludovici & Ludovici: Law firm still going, growing

PHILIP F. LUDOVICI, ESQ. ––––––––––––––––––––– See LUDOVICI, page 4

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January 18 - 25, 2011 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

during January as ramp work, signage andSunPass installations were under construc-tion by the Turnpike Enterprise.

The new system eliminates cash pay-ments at four toll plazas north of FloridaCity and the last exit, which at last countrequired $3.75 to travel. Deductions bySunPass equipment now will charge $2.75for the same one-way trip.

Major projects have included removalof existing tollbooths and structures, tollplaza building modifications, roadwayimprovements, grading, drainage andpavement markings.

In addition, the Turnpike Enterprisebegan extensive improvements to theSnapper Creek service plaza in Novemberto include a new 1,500-square-foot rest-room facility, new canopies over gasolineservice areas, LED site lighting, automat-ic windshield sprayers and a fenced petwalk area, with water availability on bothsides of the plaza.

Without a prepaid SunPass account,“Toll-by-Plate” cameras mounted on over-head gantries photograph non-SunPassuser license plates, charging registeredvehicle owners any tolls due plus a $2.50service charge for billing by mail.

Most drivers opt to purchase a permanent-

ly mounted “SunPass Mini” transponder for$4.99, credited forward for tolls andattached to the inner car windshield. Driversthen purchase additional mileage by regulardeposits to their SunPass account.

To provide greater flexibility, SunPassalso offers a portable unit at $25 that canbe switched between cars. The price alsois credited against future tolls.

Promoted extensively by turnpike offi-cials as the “safer, more efficient andseamless” way to drive, it also will meana non-stop journey from just south ofBroward County through western Miami-Dade to near the Monroe County line.

Construction for SunPass conversionfrom US 1 to SR 836 (DolphinExpressway) began in November 2009.Work on the northern tier of the Extensionfrom SR 836 to the County Line Road inter-change began in February 2010.

Construction of the HomesteadExtension was completed in 1974. Termedby turnpike officials as “the most heavilytraveled segment of Florida’s Turnpike,”average daily traffic exceeds 178,000 vehi-cles at its busiest location, between the SWEighth Street (Exit 25) and State Road 836(Exit 26) interchanges.

For details on purchasing SunPassequipment and turnpike information, visitonline at <www.FloridasTurnpike.com>;SunPass at <www.SunPass.com> or call1-800-749-7453.

PALMETTO BAYJUMPS

SUNPASS, from page 1 –––––––––––

Former Vice MayorLinda Robinson

(left) and formerMayor Eugene P.

Flinn Jr. attend thehistoric village

council meeting.

“As a father and a businessman, nothingmakes me prouder than having my sonStephen go to law school and join the familybusiness,” Edward Ludovici said. “Threegenerations all working together, that is sim-ply amazing”

Both Philip and Edward, in addition tohandling business concerns for their clients,also were involved in the formation of thevillage. Philip was a plaintiff in a federallawsuit to lift the moratorium the county hadimposed on incorporation, and Edward wasinstrumental in drawing up the original char-

ter for Palmetto Bay.Recognizing their important contribution

to the history of Palmetto Bay, the villagecouncil named the property where the com-munity library is located Ludovici Park.

Also a former judge, Philip Ludovici is proudthat Edward and his other son, Joseph, bothbecame lawyers and married women who alsoare lawyers. Philip Ludovici has five grandchil-dren ranging in age from 9 to 20 years.

The law offices of Ludovici & Ludoviciare located at 17415 S. Dixie Hwy. For moreinformation call 305-235-2161.

Susan M. Ludovici, Esq.–––––––––––––––

Stephen E. Ludovici–––––––––––––––

LUDOVICI, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Edward P. Ludovici, Esq.–––––––––––––––

COUNCIL, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

for everyone, and just getting settled.Village Mayor Shelley Stanczyk clear-

ly was pleased with the new facility andthe turnout for the special first councilmeeting.

“The effort that it took to move here wasmonumental, but the benefits for our resi-dents will be great,” Stanczyk said. “Youmay come here to conduct needed busi-ness, see our staff and hold meetings in ourspecial rooms. We’ll be here for you.”

District 3 Councilmember Joan Lindsayalso was impressed and praised the effortsof village manager Ron Williams and hisstaff.

“I want to thank everyone for being heretonight,” Lindsay said. “I also want tothank the manager and everyone for doinga great job in making the move here fromthe old location.”

District 2 Councilmember Howard J.Tendrich echoed those comments, as didDistrict 1 Councilmember Patrick Fioreand Vice Mayor Brian W. Pariser, whopraised the prompt way things were

unpacked and the moving crates removed.Among the special invited guests were

former Mayor Eugene P. Flinn Jr., formerVice Mayor Linda Robinson, former coun-cil members Ed Feller with his wife,Arlene, and Paul Neidhart with his wife,Lois.

The consent agenda items involvedapproving attorney’s fees and costs for thevillage’s legal firm, Figueredo and Boutsis,in the amount of $21,626.40, and approvinga contract with Metro ParkingCorps/Parksafe Systems for valet parkingservices at Thalatta Estate and other villageparks as needed for special events for aninitial three-year term. Both were approved.

There also a was test of a new comput-erized system of recording council mem-bers’ votes on resolutions and a chance tosee the chamber’s video cameras and twolarge display screens in action. Flyerswere distributed inviting everyone to theformal Grand Opening Ceremony for thenew municipal complex, which will takeplace on Tuesday, Feb. 22, at 4 p.m.


Palmetto Bay News6769 S.W. 62 Avenue, South Miami, FL 33143 • Phone (305) 669-7355, Fax (305) 662-6980

www.communitynewspapers.comPUBLISHER ..................................................................................................................................Grant Miller

EXECUTIVE EDITOR .....................................................................................................................Michael Miller

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F rom what we hear, last week’s historicfirst council meeting in the super newcouncil chambers of the new village hallwas a great event that was memorable andfull of excitement for the members of thevillage council, some recently elected forthe first time as well, and the residents whoturned out to be there for the occasion andto see the “new digs.” And although it wentwell and promises to be a great setting foryears of meetings to come, there were alsoa few amusing moments that serve toremind us that we are just human and thatnobody (and no thing) is perfect.

First there was the “something bor-rowed, something blue” moment, and no,we’re not talking about a wedding. Seat 1District Councilman Patrick Fiore leftwork in time to make the meeting but for-

got to grab a coat, which isn’t normally arequirement for the meetings but was need-ed this time so the photographer who washired to record the event for posterity couldtake individual and group photos of thecouncil members. To the rescue was for-mer councilman Paul Neidhart, one of thefew guys there with shoulders big enoughfor his coat to fit Fiore, who loaned him thegarment for the photos. The “somethingblue” was a mystery tint of color thatappeared on the hands of Arlene Feller,wife of former councilman Dr. Ed Feller,just before the meeting. It may have comefrom icing residue on the edge of the boardon which the large ceremonial cake wasplaced, when she helped staffers set thingsup for the post meeting party. It cleaned upokay.

Then there was the spiffy new twin tele-vision monitors which display shots of thecouncil, including close-ups of the individ-ual speaking, which is a nice touch,although the images seemed slightly out ofsynch with the voices.

And the new electronic voting system

which records how the council membersvote on each resolution was tested, andworked fine, except every time the councilvoted, the big monitor screens immediate-ly went to a graphic saying “Thank you forattending—see you next time!” Sort oflike, “Here’s your hat...what’s yourhurry...” No doubt a minor technical glitchthat’s bound to pop up the first time out,and will be worked out for future meetings.

But hey — everything else was great.And it was so nice to finally see the coun-cil meeting take place in a real municipalcouncil chamber instead of a place thatlooked like a borrowed school auditorium.Congrats, Palmetto Bay. You finally have aplace of your own.

Craze for gourmet fare “on the go” hasreached Kendall from Santa Monica,California, where “Truckers Food Court”began. It now has regular stops in this areaat SW 65th Avenue and Bird Road and atthe entrance of Tamiami-KendallExecutive Airport, where anything fromMexican specialties to sushi and wingsmay be purchased. Check Facebook for the

Tamiami Truckers Food Court for details,we’re reliably told. Or you can search theweb for dates and places.

South Miami Farmers’ Market newestto open in this neck of the woods thiscoming Saturday, January 22, from 9a.m. to 2 p.m. in front of the City Hall at6130 Sunset Drive, just a block west ofS. Dixie Highway. Native produce, arti-san crafts, a yoga workshop, and fun forkids promises to make it a fun happeningfor the family. For more info visitwww.southmiamifarmersmarket.com orsend an email to [email protected].

Thought for the Day:When in doubt, tell the truth.

— Mark Twain

Gary Alan Ruse and Richard Yager con-tributed to this column.

Got any tips? Contact me at 305-669-7355, ext. 249, or send emails to<[email protected]>.

First meeting in new village council chambers memorable

AROUND TOWN

Michael MillerEXECUTIVE EDITOR



I, among almost all newspaper columnists,newspaper editors, even sports commentators,have railed against using tourist bed tax dollarsto build sports stadiums or refurbish old stadi-ums such as the old Joe Robbie Stadium cur-rently (this year) known as Sun Life Stadium.

We all have been told that the primary pur-pose of the bed tax dollar was tourist devel-opment. Promoting tourism brings in moretourists whose spending helps employ theresidents of our community.

The question: Does a ballpark or a stadiumattract tourists? Is it a legitimate use of bedtax dollars? The public says “no.” The teamowners say “yes.” The elected officials, in themain, agree with the team owners.

Last week Carl Hiaasen and Fred Grimm,both well-known Miami Herald columnists,joined the rising ground swell of resistanceagainst using tourist bed tax dollars, approxi-mately $225 million, to put a partial roof onSun Life stadium. Where does the ownershipof the Miami Dolphins come up with the idea

to use tourist development tax dollars toimprove their privately owned stadium in thefirst place?

Perhaps it might be a good idea to look intothe collection and distribution of the so-called tourist bed tax dollar and see what itrepresents, where it comes from and what isits authorized use.

We have three taxes basically collected onroom rentals. First, is “Tourist and ConventionDevelopment Tax on Transient Rentals,”referred to as “bed taxes.” This breaks downinto three different collection categories for atotal tax rate of 6 percent. It is collected onhotel room rentals, single-family rentals andother sleeping facilities rented for less then sixmonths. The 6 percent comes from:

(1) The “Convention Development Tax”(CDT) on transient rental (bed taxes) con-tributes 3 percent of the 6 percent. Two-thirdsgoes to Miami-Dade County to “Promote andadvertise tourism, develop existing publiclyowned convention centers, to construct mul-tipurpose convention/coliseum/exhibitioncenters and to acquire, construct, extend,enlarge, remodel, repair, improve, or main-tain one or more convention centers, stadi-ums, exhibition halls, arenas, coliseums, orauditoriums.” (FL 212.0305(4)(b)), and one-third is used to fund the Miami Arena.

(2) The “Tourist Development Tax” (TDT)

on room rentals in hotels/motels contributes 2percent of the 6 percent, which goes to theGreater Miami Convention and VisitorsBureau, the Miami-Dade County Departmentof Cultural Affairs and the City of Miami forcultural purposes.

(3) The “Professional Sports FacilitiesFranchise Tax” on room rentals contributes 1percent of the 6 percent is dedicated for debtservice payments on county debt for profession-al sports facilities. Generally, the revenues maybe used for capital construction of tourist-relatedfacilities, tourist promotion, and beach andshoreline maintenance (F.S. 125.0104(3)(l)).

Secondly, we collect the “TouristDevelopment Surtax” (TDS). A 2 percent foodand beverage tax on sales by restaurants, cof-fee shops, nightclubs and any other food andbeverage facilities in or on the property of ahotel or motel and given to the Greater MiamiConvention and Visitors Bureau.

Lastly, we collect the 1 percent “Homelessand Domestic Violence Tax on Sale of Foodand Beverages.” The 1 percent tax is collectedon sale of food and beverages in hotels/motels,coffee shops, nightclubs, etc. Moneys so col-lected go to the county for their domestic vio-lence centers and homeless facilities.

So, now I know where the baseball and foot-ball team owners are looking for dollars to buildand rebuild their facilities. I don’t agree with the

legislatively decreed distribution of hotel room,food and beverage tax dollars. I think theywould be far better spent actually attractingtourists by advertising in Europe and SouthAmerica. Tourists can quickly forget aboutGreater Miami and go to Atlanta; New York,and Washington, DC. We need to keep our namein front of their eyes. We have much to sell.

How much of the collected revenue shouldbe allocated to privately owned sports facili-ties? How clear is the law on use of publicfunds for private facilities used for publicactivities? Should these laws be amended toput more of the dollars into marketing offshore and up north for tourist visitors toFlorida? Is there any logic to tax dollarsfinancing private sport facilities and then givethem tax breaks that almost run in perpetuity?

We appreciate your opinions on this columnwhether in agreement or disagreement. Pleasesend your comments to (fax number) 305-662-6980 or email to <[email protected]>. The opinions expressed in thiscolumn are not necessarily those of this news-paper, its editors or publisher.

KENNETH’S COMMENTARY

R. Kenneth Bluh VIEWPOINTWhy do we collect tourist bed tax dollars?


Whether it’s doing a better job paying offour bills or filing our taxes a little earlier thisyear, now is the perfect time to make someNew Year’s financial resolutions and startsticking to them.

It’s January, and all the New Years’ cele-brations are long past and the holiday deco-rations are all cleaned up. However, even so,there is still a lot of financial homework thatneeds to be taken care of.

So what’s next? For starters, how aboutgetting ready for all the bills? In fact, 69 per-cent of our New Year’s resolutions includetrying to cut back on family debt. Up next:Improving credit scores, cutting back onusing credit cards, and finally boosting sav-ings according to the National Foundationfor Credit Counseling.

Howard Dvorkin of Consolidated CreditCounseling Services Inc. says, “If you don’tmake a financial plan and set up your goals dur-ing the first part of the year, you run the risk ofhaving more problems further down the year.”

Consumer credit experts agree — the topNew Year’s resolution should be paying offcredit cards.

“The minimum payments are a trap,”Dvorkin warns. “You’ll never get them paidoff. Try to pay them off as soon as possible,at least go for double or triple the minimumpayments.

So how can you keep your New Year’sfinancial resolutions? For starters, set up a fam-ily budget and stick to it. Check out your cred-it report and make sure it has no errors. Paydown your debt and increase savings. Doublecheck your investment blend among cash,stocks and bonds, and consider focusing on

more long-term financial planning. In addition,early January is also a great time to doublecheck the interest rates on all your credit cardsand other loans and try to find cheaper ones.

MAKING MONEY LASTIf you feel your money’s not going as far

at the checkout counters as it used to, you’reprobably right. Big companies are back toshrinking their packages, according to arecent study published in Consumer Reportsmagazine.

Rather than raising prices, the magazinefound some major manufacturers are down-sizing their product sizes. In effect, they areselling you less…but at the same price astheir older, bigger packaging. For example, abottle of Ivory dish detergent has gone from30 ounces to 24 — six ounces less. It’s beendownsized by about 20 percent.

What used to be a pint of Haagen Dazs IceCream has shrunk from 16 to 14 ounces.That’s down about 5 percent. A large con-tainer of Tropicana Orange Juice is downabout a cup after going from 64 to 59 ounces,or about 7.8 percent less.

Most shoppers don’t read the labels thatclosely. Consequently, companies knowconsumers may not even realize theirmoney’s not buying as much as it used to. Inaddition, many manufacturers have longargued they’d rather shrink products thanraise prices. That may be because they knowshoppers are usually more interested in whatsomething costs…than how much of itthey’re actually buying.

Product downsizing has been going on foryears. But it may be getting worse as manu-facturers face even more financial pressureto squeeze out profits. That’s why we need todouble check product sizes a little more andcompare them with generics, which are usu-ally better bargains.

Watch Al Sunshine’s “CBS MoneyWatch” reports Monday-Friday beginning atnoon.

CBS MONEY WATCH

Al Sunshine

Now perfect time to make someNew Year’s financial resolutions

During holidays Palmetto Bay

was ‘Village of (Closed) Parks!’

To the Editor:

As an eight-year resident of Palmetto Bay,I have noticed a disturbing trend that seemsto manifest itself every year right around theholiday season, and attendant schoolChristmas vacation, at the village’s gem,Coral Reef Park.

It is this: for some strange reason, over vir-tually the entire holiday break, all of thebaseball fields carry signs indicating thatthey are closed to use. For weeks at a timeand without explanation, we’ve become the“Village of (Closed) Parks!”

Likewise, on a beautiful Christmas Day inSouth Florida, I went to take a couple of mychildren to the playground at Coral ReefPark. I thought we might burn off some ener-gy after a big breakfast and opening of gifts.Not so fast. On arrival, I found all the park-ing lots chained and locked shut! No access!

Cars are parked up and down SW 152ndStreet and people are using the play area, butsomeone within the village administrationapparently decided to keep the parking lotslocked so that the playground wouldn’t beenjoyed on a day when almost everybody isoff work and seeking recreation. How con-venient, our local government certainly mustknow what is best for us, and apparently it’sthat we should not be using the playground atthe park on Christmas Day!

Back to the closed baseball fields and aclue to what might be going on. It seems thatthe end of December is right about the timethat Howard Palmetto baseball teams formand begin to organize and practice for theupcoming season. Because the days are shortthis time of year, (except on weekends) ballfields with lighting are needed for practicesand games. And, since all of the local munic-ipalities now charge “user fees” (to our

youth, to use our own parks) the league mustbe judicious in its payment of fees to keepparticipation affordable. As such, HowardPalmetto plays all of its games at PinecrestPark, Suniland or Chapman Field, all ofwhich are lit. Since there is no lighting atCoral Reef Park, the league doesn’t pay touse any of their facilities, because weekdaygames or practices wouldn’t be possible dueto early darkness.

So, Palmetto Bay, apparently smartingfrom not collecting any user fees from localplayers, preemptively places “Field Closed”signs on all the baseball fields to effectivelyprohibit any of the newly formed youthleague teams from gathering for even aninformal practice at Coral Reef. Victory forthe Village!

Nicely prepared fields get no use; our kidshave to be driven further away to use otherfacilities, and we get signs, certainly discour-aging, if not prohibiting, local residents fromusing their own tax supported park facilities.

I know this is true because around this timelast year I took my three sons to Coral Reef Park,moved one of the “Field Closed” signs to the sideand began to toss a baseball around. I was soonconfronted by a phalanx of park employees ask-ing if I was involved with a “team,” and if Iwould be willing to pay the “fee.”

I told them this was hogwash and that wewere going to enjoy ourselves on public prop-erty that was not reserved for another group’sexclusive use. Obviously, the employees real-ized that the whole “Field Closed” businesswas all nonsense, and they retreated.

While the incorporation of our village hasgenerally been a good thing, the emergenceof “busy-body” employees making decisionsto wantonly restrict access to publicly sup-ported park facilities is something we cer-tainly need less of.

RRoobbeerrtt GG.. OOrrbbaannPPaallmmeettttoo BBaayy

Letter to the EditorLetters to the Editor

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BY JEAN-PAUL RENAUD

The Board of Trustees of the SouthernAssociation of Colleges and Schools (SACS)– Commission on Colleges has approvedFlorida International University’s reaffirma-tion of accreditation.

The decision represents years of planningand documentation for the university’sCompliance Certification Report, QualityEnhancement Plan (QEP) and March 2010site visit.

“The reaffirmation came with no reserva-tions and no follow-up requirements,” saidFIU provost Douglas Wartzok. “It was aclean, complete, unqualified reaffirmation.”

The QEP is a carefully designed plan forenhancing student learning. In order to haveits accreditation reaffirmed, FIU needed todesign a focused QEP addressing a singletopic — one that inspires and pulls togetherthe entire university community to supporthigher levels of student learning andachievement.

FIU’s Global Learning for GlobalCitizenship QEP is the university’s roadmapfor enabling every undergraduate to act as an

engaged global citizen. The implementationof this five-year initiative marks a new era inFIU’s World’s Ahead curriculum reform.

Under the direction of Hilary Landorf,associate professor of education, the QEPalready has gained national recognition forits innovative approach to integrating cur-riculum and co-curriculum for global learn-ing. Nearly every academic, Student Affairsand administrative department has beeninvolved in the development and design ofGlobal Learning for Global Citizenship.

“This strong commitment to the QEP,along with ongoing assessment of studentlearning outcomes of each degree program,contributed to FIU’s successful reaffirma-tion,” Wartzok said.

Florida International University is one ofthe 25 largest universities in the nation, withmore than 42,000 students. Nearly 130,000FIU alumni live and work in South Florida.Its colleges and schools offer more than 200bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programsin fields such as engineering, internationalrelations and law.

For more information about FIU, visitonline at <www.fiu.edu/>.

Florida International U. earns 10-year SACS reaffirmation


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Fun Times atThe Palmetto Bay Business AssociationLuncheon at La Mela January 6, 2011

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MIAMI, January 5, 2011 – U.S. CenturyBank has appointed Roger Obeso vicepresident and manager of its Dadelandbranch located at 8201 South Dixie High-way in MiamiObeso joined U.S. Century Bank is 2007

and was most recently vice president andbranch manager of the Downtown office.Prior to joining U.S. Century, he was branchmanager for BankAtlantic. Under this ca-pacity, he is responsible for the daily branchoperations as well as the sales and growth

of the deposit and loan portfolio of U.S.Century Bank’s Dadeland office.“Roger has extensive experience as

branch manager and was pivotal to thegrowth and success of our Downtown of-fice. We are confident that he will be instru-mental in helping our Dadeland branchachieve its goals for growth and customersatisfaction,” said Octavio Hernandez, U.S.Century Bank president and CEO. “We arelooking forward to continuing to grow ourcustomer base in the Dadeland businesscommunity and to provide our customerswith exceptional service,” he added.Obeso is amember of the Doral Business

Council where he serves as Ambassadorand on theMembership Committee. Estab-lished in 2002, U.S. Century Bank is one ofthe 10 largest community banks headquar-tered in Miami, with assets of $1.9 billion.Through its network of 25 branch locationsand its online banking platform, it offers itscustomers a wide range of financial prod-ucts and services. U.S Century Bank is therecipient of the 2008 Beacon Award in Fi-nancial Services and a 2008 OutstandingMinority Business Award from the GreaterMiami Chamber of Commerce. For more in-formation or to find a U.S. Century branchnear you, call (305) 715-5200 or visitwww.uscentury.com.Editor’s Note: Obeso resides in Kendall.

U.S. Century Bank Names Roger ObesoBranch Manager of Dadeland Branch


The Richard and Janet Yulman Campus • 5950 N. Kendall Drive, Pinecrest, FL 33156 • tbam.org

This program is open to all children in the community.

Temple membership is not required.

For registration or information, contact Joy

Schandler, 305.667.6667ext. 123, or email

[email protected].

An introduction to Judaism for children of unaffiliated families

Children from Kindergarten–8th Grade will discover the treasure of Judaism — from values to vocabulary, stories and holidays, tastes and sounds. Five Saturdays 10:30 am–Noon beginning January 29th


BY LEWIS C. MATUSOW

A variety of issues relating to Israel willbe discussed by Dr. Kenneth Stein, directorof Emory University’s Institute for theStudy of Modern Israel (ISMI), when heserves as Scholar In Residence atCongregation Bet Breira Samu-El OrOlom, 9400 SW 87 Ave., Friday, Feb. 11,to Sunday, Feb. 13.

Among the topics are “AmericanForeign Policy Toward Israel and theMiddle East: Consistent or Not?,”“Precedents, Pitfalls and Prospects inPalestinian-Israeli Negotiations” and “TheIntellectual Assault on Israel: How did ithappen and what do we do about it?”

Dr. Stein, who has taught at Emory since1977 where he founded and developed theISMI and was the first director of theCarter Center, is recognized as an expert inIsrael and Middle East relations.

An author of numerous books, includingMaking Peace Between Arabs and Israelis:Fifty Years of Negotiating Experience andHeroic Diplomacy: Sadat, Kissinger,Carter, Begin and the Quest for Arab-Israeli Peace, Dr. Stein served as an advi-sor to President Jimmy Carter during the1980s and ’90s. In 1997 he founded theISMI to promote teaching, research andlearning that focuses on Israeli culture, for-eign policy, history, society and politics.

Following a Friday night Shabbat din-ner, Dr. Stein will present a sermon,“American Foreign Policy Toward Israeland the Middle East: Consistent or Not?”The Shabbat reservations-only dinnerbegins at 6 p.m., followed by the 7 p.m.service, which is open to the public. Dr.Stein will speak at 8 p.m. Cost for the din-

ner is $25 (before Feb. 4; $30 thereafter).On Saturday at an 8 p.m. dessert recep-

tion at a private home, Dr. Stein will talkabout “Precedents, Pitfalls and Prospectsin Palestinian-Israeli Negotiations.” Thedessert reception costs $18 (prior to Feb. 4;$21 thereafter).

Finally, during a 10 a.m.-noon brunch onSunday at the synagogue, Dr. Stein — con-sidered an outstanding lecturer — willspeak on “The Intellectual Assault onIsrael: How Did It Happen and What DoWe Do About It?” Reservations arerequired for the brunch. Cost is $12, adults;$5 children and students with ID (prior toFeb. 4; $15/$7.50 thereafter).

For advance tickets/reservations or moreinformation, contact Debby Grodnick atBet Breira Samu-El Or Olom, 305-595-1500, ext. 128.

Dr. Kenneth Stein to discussIsraeli issues at synagogue

Dr. Kenneth Stein –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

�� !��"��

8898 SW 129th Terr. • Miami, FL 33176 (Falls Warehouse District)

305.251.0959

Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10-5pm • Sat. 10-2PMSun. - Mon. Closed


BY GARY FERMAN

Entries for the 2011 ING MiamiMarathon and Half-Marathon, which willbe take place through the streets of down-town Miami, Miami Beach and CoconutGrove on Jan. 30, are trending 18 percenthigher than in 2010 and the race could topthe 20,000-runner mark for the first time inits eight-year history.

More than 16,000 run-ners had registered with justunder four weeks to go torace day. The deadline forentries is Jan. 21, but regis-tration will resume on raceweekend at the NissanHealth and Fitness Expopresented by The MiamiHerald and El NuevoHerald, Jan. 28 and 29, atthe Miami BeachConvention Center.

The increase in entries isdue largely to the growth ofthe running communityboth locally and nationallythat is attributed to people’squest to live healthier as well as greater par-ticipation among females.

The Tropical 5K, a great family event con-ducted annually the morning before themarathon, also is experiencing an increase inentries over 2010, with more than 2,100 run-ners expected to run on Jan. 29. The race willstart at Watson Island and end on SouthBeach.

“The 2011 ING Miami Marathon andHalf-Marathon has earned its niche as a pre-mier running event,” said ING MiamiMarathon dace director David Scott.“Through validation by publications such asRunners World and USA Today, and alsothrough word of mouth among runnersthroughout the country, people are sharing

that this is a race that everybody has to run.“You are coming to Miami. People want

to visit our South Florida community. Andthis is one of the more scenic courses, if notthe most scenic, in the country.”

The half-marathon distance continues togrow in popularity. About 75 percent of allentries in the 2011 ING Miami Marathon andHalf-Marathon are for the half-marathon dis-

tance, which is very popu-lar among women entrantsbecause it is a more attain-able distance than themarathon.

“Marathons and halfmarathons around thecountry are seeing a con-tinual climb,” Scott said.“I also think that with somuch attention given tohealth reform that a spinoffto that is that people arelooking to be more activeand healthier.”

Entries typically surgein the final days before therace due to the resolutionsrunners make around the

New Year to complete their training and testthemselves at the marathon or half-marathon distance. Corporations also areencouraging their employees to be moreactive and get in shape and are offeringthem incentives to do so.

“Running is good for people and frankly itmakes them feel better,” Scott said. “Even inthe tough economic times that we have beenexperiencing the past few years, the contin-ued growth of the ING Miami Marathon isproof that running is important in people’slives and has become a part of theirlifestyle.”

For more information call 305-278-8668or visit online at<www.ingmiamimarathon.com>.

ING Miami Marathon entriesmay top 20,000 this year

The increase inentries is due largelyto the growth of therunning community

both locally andnationally that is

attributed to people’squest to live healthier

as well as greaterparticipation among

females.


Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dadeinvite the community to join them asthey kickoff Club Blue Miami on Jan. 20at 6 p.m. in the Crazy About YouRestaurant & Lounge, located at 1155Brickell Bay Dr.

The event will consist of an evening ofnetworking and cocktails. A $25 minimumdonation will include a complimentarydrink and hors d’oeuvres. All proceedsraised by Club Blue Miami will benefitBoys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade.

For more information about Club BlueMiami and its membership opportunities,contact Liudmila Esquerdo, membershipcoordinator, at <[email protected]>.

FAIRCHILD’S INTERNATIONAL CHOCOLATE,COFFEE, TEA FESTIVAL COMING SOON

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden,10901 Old Cutler Rd., will conduct itsInternational Chocolate Festival, featuringCoffee and Tea, on Jan. 21-23.

The International Chocolate Festival isbigger and better than ever and in its fifthyear after a 11,000 attendees flocked toFairchild for last year’s festival.

For three days visitors will be immersedin the wonderful and diverse world ofchocolate, coffee and tea — from chocolate

treats to tree sales, delicious cups of coffeeand soothing cups of tea, cooking demon-strations to fun and educational kid’s activ-ities, and so much more.

So come get a taste of chocolates, coffeeand tea from around the world and join inon the celebration of that divine tropicalplant, Theobroma cacao, the source ofchocolate!

For more information, call PaulaFernández de los Muros at 305-667-1651,ext. 3392.

COCONUT GROVE CHAMBER TO HOSTANNUAL GOLDEN COCONUT AWARDS

The Coconut Grove Chamber ofCommerce invites you to join in on Jan. 21,from noon to 2 p.m., at a luncheon present-ing the 45th Annual Golden CoconutAwards. This event will take place at theMayfair Hotel and Spa, 3000 Florida Ave.

Tickets for chamber members are $35and $38 for non-members. For RSVP infor-mation, call 305-444-7270, send email to<[email protected]>, or visit onlineat <www.coconutgrovechamber.com>.

MR. POTATO HEAD EXHIBITTO DEBUT AT M.C.M., JAN. 22

The call has gone out and families

throughout South Florida won’t want tomiss “The Adventures of Mr. Potato Head,”a new interactive exhibit that will debut onJan. 22 at the Miami Children’s Museum,980 MacArthur Causeway on WatsonIsland in Miami.

Sponsored by the NorthwesternMutual Foundation, the exhibit is sched-uled to run through May 15. The much-loved Mr. Potato Head character willlead young visitors and parents on anumber of fun and educational adven-tures. From trips to outer space to junglesafaris and archeological digs, eachactivity will provide children withengaging learning experiences.

Admission is $15 for adults and children,$12 for Florida residents, and free for chil-dren under 1 year. Admission for membersis complimentary.

For more information contact the muse-um at 305-373-KIDS (5437) or visit onlineat <www.miamichildrensmuseum.org>.

EVENT TO HONOR 4 CHAPLAINSWHO DIED HEROICALLY IN WWII

There will be a Four Chaplains celebra-tion on Jan. 23, 2-4 p.m., at Temple Judea,5500 Granada Blvd. in Coral Gables.

The celebration honors the four chap-lains who selflessly gave their life vests toother troops when the ship they were onwas torpedoed by the Nazis on Feb. 3,1943. The event also honors all others whohave served in the military.

The Singing Miamians will entertain.The ceremony is open to the public at no

charge, but donations will be accepted.

MIAMI-DADE LOCAL ADVISORYCOUNCIL TO HOST CASINO NIGHT

The ASPIRA of FL Inc., Miami-DadeLocal Youth Advisory Council, will host a“Casino Night For a Cause and SilentAuction” on Jan. 27, from 6 to 9 p.m., at the

Boys and Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade launch Club Blue Miami

COMMUNITY NEWS BRIEFS

––––––– Continued on next page

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Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, 50 AlhambraPlaza.

The donation cost is $65. All proceedswill directly benefit the ASPIRA CollegeEducation Scholarship Fund.

AMOR107.5’s Alberto Sardiñas will bethe celebrity emcee for the evening. Theevening will include casino games, a silentauction, cigar rolling, music, food andcocktails by Barcardi USA.

Contact Daisy C. Franklin at<[email protected]> for tickets orsponsorship information.

AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION’SNATIONAL WEAR RED DAY, FEB. 4

Show your support for the AmericanHeart Association’s Go Red For WomenMovement on Feb. 4, National WearRed Day.

By wearing red on this day you’re help-ing raise awareness for the No. 1 killer ofwomen, heart disease. Getting involved iseasy. Start by improving your cardiovascu-lar health and get a My Life Check assess-ment at <www.mylifecheck.heart.org>.

For More Information and sponsorshipopportunities, call Frances Rodriguez, GoRed for Women development director, at305-631-4750.

GABLES GOLD RUSH CASINO NIGHTBENEFITS KID’S FREE DENTAL CLINIC

For a great evening out for an even bet-ter cause, join the crowd for the GFWCCoral Gables Woman’s Club AnnualGables Gold Rush Casino Night, whichbenefits the club’s May Van Sickle “Free”Children’s Dental Clinic.

The event takes place on Feb. 5, 8 p.m.,at 1009 E. Ponce de Leon Blvd.

Event chair Pam Schaefer promisesguests will have an opportunity to bid on avariety of wonderful prizes at the silentauction and also chances to win fabulousprizes for others lucky at the gaming tables.

With the gold rush theme, everyone isinvited to come in costume. You can bet thebest dressed will be awarded a prize.Tickets are only $25 and include gaming,entertainment and food with a cash bar.

For more information or tickets, call 305667-1722.

‘A TASTE OF KEY BISCAYNE’ EVENTTO BENEFIT BORN FREE PET SHELTER

Join the Born Free Pet Shelter for theSeventh Annual ‘A Taste of KeyBiscayne’ benefit on Feb. 5, from 7 to 11p.m., at the Key Biscayne Beach Club,685 Ocean Dr. The night will include a

buffet, silent auction, and music. Ticket prices are $85 and include one

complimentary drink. You must RSVP byJan. 30.

For more information, visit <www.born-free.petfinder.com> or email <[email protected]>.

SIMON GOURMET FOODSOFFERS COOKING CLASSES

Learn how to make sweet and spicy“Miami Heat” cupcakes just in time forValentine’s Day.

Attend the Simon Gourmet Foods cook-ing class on Feb. 10, 7 p.m., as Chef SarahSimon uses her training from Johnson &Wales Baking and Pastry to fill you in onthe secrets of the trade. These mini delightswere first introduced at Cupcake Camp, afundraiser in support of the Make a WishFoundation.

Classes are $30 per person and takeplace at the SGF Kitchen located at 7342NW 35 St.

For details, email Chef Simon at<[email protected]> or call305-735-1486.

‘RACE TO NOWHERE’ SCREENINGCOMING TO LOCAL COMMUNITY

The screening of the film Race toNowhere is taking place on Feb. 15, 6:30p.m., at Coral Gables CongregationalChurch, 3010 De Soto Blvd.

This film has become a grassroots sen-sation across the U.S. It is for every par-ent, teacher and young person concernedabout the cost of our high-achievementculture to our children. The film chal-lenges assumptions on how to best prepareour youth to become healthy, bright andleading citizens.

This screening is sponsored for the SouthFlorida community by the Sunrise Schoolof Miami, a local Waldorf school.

For more information and to buy tick-ets ($10 in advance and $15 at the door)go to <www.racetonowhere.com> orcall 305-772-5039. Also, the screeningwill be followed by discussion with apanel of experts moderated by DavidLawrence Jr.

THE ROTARY CLUB OF CORAL GABLESLUNCHEON TO HOST PANEL DISCUSSION

The Rotary Club of Coral Gables’ regu-larly scheduled Thursday LuncheonProgram on Feb.24 will feature a panel dis-cussion among the 2011 candidates forCoral Gables mayor. The luncheon is at theWestin Colonnade Hotel, 180 AragonAvenue.

The Meeting Agenda will be adjusted toallow for maximum time for the panel.

For information, contact GeneWitherspoon, program chair, by email at<[email protected]> or call305-441-8063.

NEWS, from previous page –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––



By Rick TonkinsonCertified Financial Planner CFP®

After 18 years of being a money man-ager, I have consistently heard howmany people do not feel comfortablewith their investment decisions.

Have you ever second-guessed theinvestment decisions you have made?Do words like foolish, dumb, wrong,confused, guess, uncertain, frustrated,and overwhelmed describe your feel-ings? You are not alone in feelinguncomfortable about decisions youhave made.

Would you like to feel better aboutyour investment decisions? If theanswer is yes, then here are some basicsteps to consider:

Determine if You are a Saver or anInvestor

If you need guaranteed stability, thenyou are a saver. When the stock marketis positive, many people say that theywant to invest and that they are an“investor.” They say that they can toler-ate the volatility of the stock market andthat their investment time horizon islong term (greater than 10 years).

Then 2008 comes along and the stockmarket (S&P 500) drops 34% and the“investors” now are running for safety as“savers”. Their long-term time horizonhas decreased from 10 years to 10 min-utes and the risk tolerance hasdecreased from moderate to minimal.

You need to be honest with yourselfas to what degree you are a saver or aninvestor. This is a personal decision thatin a perfect world should not be influ-enced by your family, friends or cowork-ers.

There are investments for savers andinvestments for investors. Before youselect from the thousand of choices,decide what will make you sleep at

night. Don’t rely on a sales rep to tellyou what your investment profile isbecause the sales rep may adjust yourprofile to fit the suitability of the invest-ment they are trying to sell you.

Focus on the Purpose of YourInvestment

Do you need to put money away for arainy day? Make a “To Do List” of itemsthat you want the money to attain suchas vacation, education or wedding. Giveeach item a specific cost such as$5,000 for a vacation. Determine whichitem motivates you to attain it.Motivation that is ratcheted up is calledpassion. If you find a passion for anitem, that will be your top priority. Howquickly you want to attain the item willhelp determine what investment to con-sider. Again decide on the specific pur-pose of the money and then consideryour options.

Be Realistic with what You have toInvestAs an “investor,” you need to accept thatyou are prepared to lose part or all ofyour investment. If this risk is not com-fortable for you, then you are a saver.There are times when people have bor-rowed on the equity of their home andinvest in the stock market because thepotential gains offset the risk of losingtheir home. People make reckless deci-sions so that they can attain the itemthey want quicker than what is realistic.Plan so that if it takes a year to attain anitem, you give yourself two years toattain it. If you attain the item in oneyear, that’s good but don’t beat yourselfup if you don’t make your deadline. Theimportant thing is to keep workingtoward what you want.

His firm, Rick Tonkinson & Associates,Inc. is a South Florida based companywith offices at 100 Almeria Avenue,Suite 310, Coral Gables, Florida 33134,offers financial planning services tomany in the community with a specialtyin assisting the middle class. For moreinformation, or to schedule an initialmeeting at your business or home, call866-323-8326 or (305)447-6617. Alsovisit the website at HYPERLINK"h t t p : / /www . r i c k t onk i n son . com"www.ricktonkinson.com. Securitiesoffered through Securities America, Inc.,member FINRA/SIPC, Rick Tonkinson,Registered Representatives. Advisoryservices offered through SecuritiesAmerica Advisors, Inc., Rick Tonkinson,Investment Advisor Representatives.Rick Tonkinson & Associates, Inc. andthe Securities America companies arenot affiliated.

How To Feel Comfortable AboutYour Investment Decisions

Pictured are the owners of Lots of Lox (l-r) Steve, Jimmy and Nick Poulos.

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BY JOSE BOZA

Rebecca Fishman Lipsey, executivedirector of Teach ForAmerica in Miami-Dade,recently received a StevieAward in the “BestExecutive – Non-Profit orGovernment” category forinstitutions with fewer than100 employees. The StevieAwards for Women inBusiness is an internationalcompetition that recognizesthe accomplishments of out-standing women executivesand entrepreneurs, and theorganizations they run.

“It was an honor to berecognized with all these suc-cessful business women from various indus-tries,” Fishman Lipsey said. “This award pro-vides additional awareness of Teach ForAmerica’s mission to build the movement toeliminate educational inequity.”

Fishman Lipsey first joined Teach For

America in 2004 as a corps member inNew York City. She taught for two years,during which time she led her students to

dramatic academic growtheach year, and then joinedthe organization’s staff.

As executive directorof the Miami-Dade region,she oversees Teach ForAmerica’s continuedgrowth and expansion inthe Miami-Dade region,where more than 150 corpsmembers are reachingmore than 10,000 studentsthis school year.

Teach For Americabegan placing corps mem-bers in Miami-Dade PublicSchools in 2003 in order to

address disparities in educational achieve-ment between students in the county’s low-income neighborhoods and those inwealthier communities

For more information, visit online at<www.teachforamerica.org>.

Rebecca Fishman Lipsey earns prestigious award

Rebecca Fishman Lipsey–––––––––––––––––––––


BY NANCY EAGLETON

Car Boutique has been helping cus-tomers improve the appearance and per-formance of their vehicles since 1979. Thefamily-owned company, which was origi-nally located on Le Jeune Road and SouthDixie Highway in Coral Gables, has evolvedover the past three decades and now pro-vides auto enthusiasts expanded servicesin its location in the FallsWarehouse district.Car Boutique offers customers a wide va-

riety of custom wheels, high performancetires, racing seats, lighting packages, win-dow tinting and fine-tuned suspension op-tions. The highly experienced Car Boutiqueteam now provides professional installationservices and wheel balancing and align-ments in its 10,000 square foot facility, uti-lizing state-of-the-art equipment.“When Car Boutique was located in Coral

Gables, we were not able to provide full in-stallation services to our customers,” saidJuanMorales of Car Boutique. “We still offerthe highest quality products and are nowable to take our service level one step fur-ther with expert installation in our top-of-the-line facility.”When Car Boutique originally opened in

1979, it was one of the first companies tosell after-market auto performance acces-sories and quickly built the reputation forbeing the first to offer the latest trends andstyles from Europe and around the world.When market trends changed in 2002, sodid Car Boutique. The company moved itsfacility to the Falls Warehouse district andbegan servicing customers nationwide withits online site, CBwheels.com.In 2009, the Car Boutique team decided

that it was time to offer customers a level ofservice beyond what they could offer on theinternet and added a retail showroom, serv-ice and installation center and customerwaiting area to its facility, located on SW 85Avenue Road. Since then, Morales said thatmany customers have remembered thebusiness fondly.“We’ve had clients recognize us and ask

if we were the same company as the origi-nal Car Boutique,” said Morales. “We’rehappy to have these customers come backto us.”Although the business has changed and

evolved over the years, the company’s ded-ication to its clients remains the same. Theknowledgeable Car Boutique team hasmore than 75 combined years of experi-ence.“Our team is committed to providing ex-

cellent products and service,” addedMorales. “They work with the customers tochoose products that best compliment theircar brand and their personality.”Car Boutique offers a wide variety of

after-market wheels. Popular truck brandsinclude KMC XD, Moto Metal and ATX.High-end wheels include such brands asVertini and Asanti. A few sport wheel op-

tions are Ruff Racing, Axis andMRRDesignand custom wheels for compacts includeRota, Traklite and Drag.Customers looking for high performance

tires will find Continental, Pirelli, Falken,Kumho, Hancook, Sumitomo, Michelin andmore. Car Boutique also offers a tire nitro-gen-fill station, which enhances tire per-formance and improves gas mileage.Popular auto racing seat options availableinclude Momo, Sparco and DAD.“Wheels, performance tires, suspension,

racing seats…they all make a big differencein the appearance and performance of a ve-hicle,” said Morales.Present this story and Car Boutique will

provide you with a complimentary tire rota-tion. Business hours are Monday throughFriday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, 10a.m. “until the last customer is serviced.”The shop is located in the Falls WarehouseDistrict at 13100 SW 85 Avenue Road andthe phone number is 305-256-9995.

For more information, go online to<www.cbwheels.com.>

Car Boutique…30 Years of Auto Excellence

The Car Boutique team from left to right includes Jose Borges, Bill Hofmann,Juan Morales, Karim Changai and Thatiana Rodriguez.

BY ROBERT HAMILTON

The Bet Shira Congregation 20th annualTu B’Shevat Concert, featuring international-ly famous superstar of Jewish music CraigTaubman, will take place on Sunday after-noon, Jan. 23, 4 p.m., at Bet ShiraCongregation, located at 7500 SW 120 St. inPinecrest.

Craig Taubman’s dynamic music and mov-ing performance style have inspired theJewish community for three decades. Hismagical and enchanting music brings to lifethe joy and spirit of the Jewish heritage,appealing to all ages captivating audienceseverywhere.

Taubman’s songs bridge traditional Jewishthemes and ancient teachings with passagesand experiences of contemporary Jewish life.He speaks a language that is comfortable andacceptable. His recordings weave song andspirit into the fabric of Jewish life.Taubman’s performances of Friday NightLive and One Shabbat Morning have reinvig-orated Shabbat services across the nation.

Taubman enjoys a successful career in tel-evision and film composing as well. He hascomposed and directed the music for the Foxchildren’s series Rimba’s Island, and the crit-ically acclaimed HBO animated series

Happily Ever After. His music has been fea-tured at the Coca Cola Olympic Pavilion inAtlanta as well as in the Paramount Picturesfeature film Andre, New Line Cinema’sPinocchio, and Disney’s animated short filmRecycle Rex.

Such respected artists as Chita Rivera andJennifer Holliday have recorded his songs.Taubman’s sell-out concerts draw thousands

of fans at respected venues as Ravinia inChicago, Valley Forge in Pennsylvania,Westbury Music Fair in New York, the GreekTheater in Los Angeles and three special per-formances at The White House.

This is Taubman’s only South Florida con-cert scheduled this year. There are still someseats available for the event, so contact BetShira to reserve your tickets at 305-238-2601or online at <www.betshira.org>. Studentsand seniors’ tickets are $9; general admissionis $18; reserved seating is $36; Patrons are$180 and above; sponsors are $1,800 andabove. Sponsors and patrons will join CraigTaubman for a wine and cheese party follow-ing the concert.

Other supporters of Bet Shira’s 20thAnnual Tu B’Shevat Concert include BetBreira Samu-El Or Olom, Beth DavidCongregation, Beth Or, Dave and Mary AlperJCC, Greenfield Day School, Temple BethAm, and Temple Judea.

Tu B’Shevat, the 15th day of the Hebrewmonth Shevat, is the “New Year for Trees.”Most know this day to be Jewish Earth Day.Based in Jewish literature for over 2,000years, the lesson is clear to love this earth asa great gift from God. Judaism dictates theawareness of nature as a blessing that bringscomfort and inspiration.

“Bet Shira Congregation has marked thepast 20 years of Tu B’Shevat sacredness withsong,” said its Cantor Mark H. Kula. “Thesynagogue has celebrated with music con-certs including local and international artists,instrumental and vocal mediums, and classi-cal to rock styles. Jewish culture remains oneof the strongest promoters of Jewish identityand community connection. Jewish Music,the language of our souls, secures our Jewishbonds.”

Rabbi Brian Schuldenfrei is excited tobe at Bet Shira during his first year as thecongregation’s spiritual leader and in help-ing to provide high level programs andconcerts.

“Craig’s passion fills the room and reachesout to everyone present,” Rabbi Schuldenfreisaid. “This is what we are trying to accom-plish as a synagogue — reaching out to thecommunity. We feel blessed to have Craigkick off a year filled with new and innovativeprogramming.”

Call Bet Shira Congregation Synagogueoffice at 305-238-2601 or visit <www.betshi-ra.org> for more information or to reserveyour tickets. Various other sponsorships areavailable. Proceeds are used to benefit thecommunity programs offered at Bet ShiraCongregation.

Bet Shira Congregation to present 20th annual Tu B’Shevat Concert

Craig Taubman––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––



BY NANCY EAGLETON

At BBQ Chicken, it’s not “barbecue”chicken; it’s the “best of the best qualitychicken.” The first BBQ Chicken franchisein South Florida opened in October inLondon Square shopping center, offeringcustomers “the world’s healthiest and tasti-est chicken.”

The signature Olive Original Chicken isenjoyed in more than 37 countries at morethan 3,500 locations worldwide. BBQChicken regional developer Sang Chul Leesaid that the quality of the meat and theway that it is cooked is what makes it goodfor you and taste delicious, too.

“The chicken is cooked in 100 percentextra virgin olive oil,” Lee said. “Our meatis delivered daily, so it is always fresh,never frozen.”

The popular Olive Original Chicken ismarinated for 24 hours, battered and bread-ed with more than 30 ingredients. Thisprocess gives the chicken great flavor,crispy skin and tender meat. Anotherfavorite, the Cajun Spiced Chicken is sea-soned with more than 20 different herbsand spices, and grilled to perfection.

These and other popular chicken choic-es, including Barbecue Chicken andGrilled Garlic Chicken, are available as afamily meal that includes a whole chicken,two sides and four biscuits.

BBQ Chicken also offers 10 differentflavors of wings, including Crispy Wings,Wings of Fire and Garlic Wings.Sandwiches such as California ChickenMelt and Crispy Chicken Club, and saladssuch as Crispy Chicken Caesar and GrilledChicken Cobb make great lunch choices.

For the best value on a complete meal,Lee recommends the platter combos thatinclude your choice of wings, a sandwichor chicken option, partnered with a side,salad and drink.

Although the food is cooked quickly,Lee said that it is not made ahead of timelike “fast food.”

“The cooking process begins when theorder is placed,” Lee said. “It takes about10 to 13 minutes to cook the order, so weencourage customers to call ahead so wecan have their order waiting for them whenthey arrive. It’s not fast food, but healthyfood.”

Customers also can call to order partypacks of the delicious wings or other chick-en options to serve at business luncheons,parties and events.

BBQ Chicken, located at 12305 SW137 Ave., is open Monday throughThursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Fridayand Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For moreinformation, go online to<www.bbqchickenmiami.com> or call305-235-5335.

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BBQ Chicken regional developer Sang Chul Lee is pictured in the London Square location.–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––


BY MARIA M. FLORES

Alumni traveled from as far away asCalifornia to honor Gerri Houlihan duringthe Florida Dance Festival’s Winterfest onDec. 30, 2010, at the New World DanceTheater.

Ms. Houlihan was the first full-time facul-ty member employed at New World Schoolof the Arts Dance Division. She taught andchoreographed at New World from 1988 to1999. During that time she formed a compa-ny, Houlihan and Dancers, using studentsand local dancers. She presently is dean ofthe American Dance Festival and teaches atFlorida State University.

The sold out performance was attended bymany friends and alumni of the New WorldSchool of the Arts dance program andHoulihan and Dancers.

Houlihan began her professional trainingat the Juilliard School in New York studyingwith Antony Tudor, Alfredo Corvino andmembers of the Martha Graham and JoseLimon dance companies.

She performed with the MetropolitanOpera Ballet and the Paul Sanasardo DanceCompany, and spent five years as a soloistwith the Lar Lubovitch Dance Company,touring extensively in the United States andEurope. Since 1977, Houlihan has taught and

choreographed for such institutions asConnecticut College, New York’s HighSchool for the Performing Arts, AmericanDance Festival, Bates Dance Festival,Harvard Summer Dance Center, Companhiade Lisboa in Portugal, Meredith College, andFlorida State University.

From 1984 to 1987, she directed her ownschool and company — the Boston DanceProject. She was one of five finalists in theBoston Ballet’s First InternationalChoreography Competition.

From 1988 to 1999, Houlihan was on thefaculty of the New World School of the Arts.During that time, she also was the artisticdirector of Houlihan and Dancers. She hasreceived two Florida Individual ArtistFellowships in Dance/Choreography.

Houlihan began teaching for the AmericanDance Festival in 1981. As an internationalrepresentative for the festival, she has taughtin Korea, Poland, Paraguay, Brazil, Chile,Estonia, the Philippines, Russia, and mostrecently China. She currently directs theFour Week Young Dancers Program at ADF,and is teaching as guest artist in residence atthe University of North Carolina inGreensboro.

For more information about New WorldSchool of the Arts, call 305-237-3559 or visitonline at <nwsa.mdc.edu>.

NWSA dance alumni honorGerri Houlihan at Winterfest

Pictured from a performance of Between Angels (1992), choreographed by Gerri Houlihan are: RoxanaBarba, Stephanie Bastos, Liza Carmona, Asha Darbeau, Afua Hall, Jennifer Knepper, Donald Laney, Tiffany Mellard,Heather Maloney, Makgotso Makiti, Jennifer Nugent, Kristin O’Neal, Sandra Portal-Andreu, Josh Reaver, NikkiRollason and Mary Spring.


BY YANEISY BLANCO

The Girl Scout Council of Tropical

Florida’s annual sale of Girl Scout

Cookies, which started on Jan. 13, contin-

ues through Feb. 10.

Since 2008, the organization has partici-

pated in the Cookies from the Heart pro-

gram, which allows individuals to support

the organization by purchasing cookies and

donating them to our men and women serv-

ing in the military both here and overseas.

With the support of the community, the

Girl Scout Council of Tropical Florida has

already sent more than 20,000 boxes of

Girl Scout Cookies to military personnel

serving our country in military bases in

Iraq and Afghanistan as well as within the

United States and to the Wounded Warriors

Hospital in Fort Sam Houston, TX.

This is a wonderful opportunity for indi-

viduals and corporations to say “thank

you” to the military men and women serv-

ing our country, while also showing sup-

port of the organization and giving back to

the community.

The organization just partnered with

Forgotten Soldiers Outreach Inc. to send

the Cookies from the Heart products to

active military personnel serving overseas

in Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan, Japan and

Germany. Forgotten Soldiers Outreach will

send care packages to soldiers that have

signed up or have had a family member

sign up for them. This year, cookies donat-

ed for the Cookies from the Heart program

will be sent to Wounded Warriors Hospital

in Fort Sam Houston and Forgotten

Soldiers Outreach.

“The Cookies from the Heart program is

a wonderful way to show support to our sol-

diers while helping the Girls Scouts during

our most important fundraising effort of the

year,” said Maria D. Tejera, CEO of the Girl

Scout Council of Tropical Florida Inc.

More than 450 troops across Miami-

Dade and Monroe counties are selling Girl

Scout Cookies to friends, neighbors and

community members at booths and going

door-to-door. The cookies are sold for $4 a

box and include such popular flavors as

Thin Mints, Samoas and Trefoils and

Thank U Berry Munch Girl Scout Cookies.

For more information about how to par-

ticipate or sponsor the Girl Scout Cookies

from the Heart Program, visit online at

<www.girlscoutsfl.org> or call 305-253-

4841. Corporate sponsorships range from

$500 to $2,500. To locate the nearest loca-

tion to purchase cookies, visit the Cookie

Locator at <http://cookielocator.little-

brownie.com>, which helps you find loca-

tions by zip code.

Girl Scouts send over 20,000boxes of cookies to military

This is a wonderful opportunity for individualsand corporations to say“thank you” to the militarymen and women servingour country, while alsoshowing support of theorganization and givingback to the community.

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BY ANALY MENDEZ

During a half-day workshop to be led bymusic director Timothy A. Sharp, MiamiChildren’s Chorus (MCC) alumni, currentMCC boys, the UM men’s chorus and boysfrom around South Florida join togetherand explore the lifelong possibilities ofmaking music through choral singing.

Since 2002 the boys of the MiamiChildren’s Chorus have partnered withUniversity of Miami Men’s Chorus,Maelstrom, to excite boys about the joys ofsinging. This year, “Bring on the Boys,”will take place on Saturday, Jan. 29, from 9a.m. to noon, at the University of Miami’sFrost School of Music Victor E. ClarkeRecital Hall.

It is a singing workshop for boys with

unchanged voices; boys from communitiesin Miami-Dade County are invited to par-take in this joyous event. Pre-registration isrequired at a fee of $20 per student, whichincludes a Bring on the Boys T-shirt, all themusic for the workshop, a snack and primeseating for the musical presentation byFrost Maelstrom — the Frost Men’sChorus at the University of Miami. Theperformance begins at 11:30 a.m. and par-ents are invited to the performance.

Bring on the Boys is presented with thesupport of the Frost School of Music at theUniversity of Miami and the Department ofChoral Studies.

For more information regarding theMiami Children’s Chorus, and its concertschedule visit online at <www.miamichil-drenschorus.org> or call 305-662-7494.

Workshop designed to encourageboys to take part in choral singing



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Anonymous donor gives $5,000 to Florida Pioneer Museum Assn.BY ROBERT HAMILTON

A long-time South Miami-Dade leaderrecently made an anonymous $5,000 gift tothe Florida Pioneer Museum Association afterhis first visit to the museum in late December.His goal is to ensure that no collection oppor-tunities are missed for lack of funds.

Discussed were pre-1920 postcards,photos, artifacts, souvenirs and any othersignificant items for preservation and shar-ing with the public. He was aware of somerecent loses of early images recorded onpre-1920 postcards which sold at very highprices and which are perhaps one-of-a-kindnow. Private collectors all over the coun-try compete with the museum for acquisi-tions through the Internet.

The donor has put out a challengethrough the Museum Association to otherfolks who have the capacity to do some-thing similar to what he did, perhaps at thesame or a lesser scale, but eventuallytogether matching his generous gift. Hisand the Pioneer Museum Association’sgoals are to ensure that anything really sig-nificant to local history is not lost becauseof lack of funding.

For more information contact any muse-um board member or president Bob Jensenat <[email protected]> or 305-248-0976.Telephone messages also can be left at themuseum’s number, 305-246-9531. TheMuseum Association’s mailing address is:Florida Pioneer Museum Assn., PO Box343312, Florida City, FL 33034.

New K-4 and K-5 Learning Center. Call for a private visit.Visit our website and apply online www.conchitaespinosa.com or call 305.227.1149.

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Female conductor to take podiumfor FGO’s The Tales of HoffmannBY ADRIENNE SMITH

Each season, Florida Grand Opera (FGO)strives to create great spectacles of voice andstage, always looking to offer something newand engaging to its patrons.

FGO is starting the year offby bringing Miami a true rari-ty — a performance led by aHispanic female conductor.The Tales of Hoffmann willopen on Jan. 22 with CubanAmerican conductor LucyArner at the podium.

“We are extremelypleased to have Lucy Arnermake her FGO debut con-ducting The Tales ofHoffmann this season,” saidRobert M. Heuer, FGO gen-eral director and CEO.“There are very few femaleconductors in the world and even a smallernumber of Cuban American conductors andwe are proud to be able to have a wonderfulconductor who is both female and CubanAmerican.”

Known as a true “singer’s conductor” forher ability to guide and understand perform-ers, Arner has served on the staff of some ofthe greatest opera houses in the world, fromthe Gran Teatre del Liceu in Barcelona to theMetropolitan Opera in New York City. Herwell-earned acclaim has come after years ofdedication, contributing to breaking theopera world’s “glass ceiling” as one of ahandful of existing female opera conductorsand breaking ground for Hispanic women inthis role.

Born in Santiago, Cuba, Arner and herfamily decided to leave for Miami around thetime of the Cuban Missile Crisis. They soonrelocated to the Mid-West, where money wasoften tight as her father, an established doc-tor in Cuba, worked to become re-certified.

This left no funds for music lessons, whichArner anxiously waited for until age 12. Shequickly acquired an affinity for the piano,receiving degrees in music from Baldwin-Wallace College and Indiana University.

It was at IndianaUniversity where her love ofopera and vocal music grewthrough the encouragementof Hungarian pianist BalintVazsonyi, whom she stillrecalls as the most influentialin her development as amusician. Ever the student,Arner continued to study lan-guages, vocal repertoire andopera history, pursuing doc-toral studies in piano at theUniversity of Miami.

Despite her musicalprowess, she found encour-agement to be lacking when

it came to the idea of women as conductors.Although the idea of women leading choirswas acceptable, they were not generallytaken seriously at the head of an orchestra.Nonetheless, Arner saw a change in thewinds and decided to take on the challenge.

After her 1996 professional debut atTeatro Mancinelli in Orvieto, Italy, Arnertruly crafted an illustrious career that has ledher to work all over the world (Mexico,Italty, Spain, Peru, Japan, China, etc.) withinternational stars, such as Placido Domingo,Alfredo Kraus, Sherrill Milnes, MirellaFreni, Jaime Aragall, and more. Currently,Arner coaches privately in New York City aswell as manages a busy touring schedule topodiums worldwide.

Miami performances are at the Sanfordand Dolores Ziff Ballet Opera House at theAdrienne Arsht Center for the PerformingArts of Miami-Dade County, 1300 BiscayneBlvd.; Ticket Office, 1-800-741-1010. Visitonline at <www.fgo.org>.

Lucy Arner


Miami-based law firm Podhurst Orseck got into the Christmas spirit on Dec. 14 by hosting its annual “Gifts for Kids”event, which welcomes special needs children, like George (pictured) from the pre-kindergarten special education class(ages 3-5) at Air Base Elementary in Homestead. Upon arrival in the firm’s downtown Miami offices, the 16 childrenwere greeted by Santa Claus (as played by partner Robert C. Josefsberg) and treated to coloring books, crayons, andlunch. The day ended with the opening of presents, which were donated by the firm’s employees.

Law firm brings holidayspirit to youngsters

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The all-new S60 T6 AWD is the sportiestVolvo ever produced. It’s rocket fast anddelivers very crisp driving dynamics, alongwith a lot of innovative technology and safe-ty advancements.

The S60 has been called “a Volvo with anattitude” because of its sleek design andcoupe looks. It has a slim roofline accompa-nied by a distinctive contour on the lowerbody shoulders for a “double wave” thatstretches from the headlights to the taillights.From the front, the S60 has a dramaticallyshaped grille flanked by V-shaped positionlights and a large Volvo iron mark.

On the inside, sport front and rear seatingis standard on the S60, along with a sportleather steering wheel, leather seating sur-faces and Shimmer Graphite aluminuminlays. Optional veneer inlays are made fromreal wood that has been dyed and layeredtogether.

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standard 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinderengine that delivers 300 hp and 325 pounds-feet of torque. Maximum torque is achievedfrom just 2,100 rpm and remains throughoutthe rev range, the same torque output as the4.4-liter V-8 in other Volvo models. On thehighway, response is instantaneous andimpressive.

The turbo engine is mated to a standardsix-speed “Geartronic” transmission thatoffers completely automatic shifts or allowsmanual shifting. Also standard is Volvo’selectronically controlled All-Wheel Drivewith Instant Traction for improved grip onwet, slippery and even dry roads.

Driving dynamics have been fine-tuned onthe S60 with a choice of three designs. Thestandard Dynamic Chassis focuses on opti-mizing control and agility without dilutingthe comfortable ride. Touring Chassis placesthe greatest emphasis on comfort and hasbeen tuned to provide a smoother ride onpoor road surfaces. Volvo’s optional FOUR-C (Continuously Controlled ChassisConcept) active chassis has been modifiedfor improved control and comfort. The sys-tem employs sensors that continuously mon-itor the car’s behavior and adjusts thedampers in fractions of a second to suit thecurrent driving situation. The driver canselect from three different settings: Comfort,

Sport and Advanced.Among the other driver assistance systems

offered on the S60 is the debut of PedestrianDetection with Full Auto Brake. This world-first technology actively helps the driveravoid accidents. Volvo’s radar- and camera-based system can detect pedestrians in frontof the car, warn the driver if anyone walksinto its path, then automatically activate theS60’s full braking power if the driver fails to

respond in time. The system can avoid a col-lision at speeds up to 22 mph. At higherspeeds, the focus is on reducing the car’sspeed as much as possible prior to the impact.

Ron Beasley is the automotive editor forMiami’s Community Newspapers. He may becontacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261,or by addressing email correspondence to<[email protected]>.

All new 2011 S60 is ‘Volvo with an attitude’

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Ron Beasley

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SERVICES

SERVICESSERVICESREAL ESTATEREAL ESTATEREAL ESTATE

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

HELP WANTEDHELP WANTED

SERVICES

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED HELP WANTEDHELP WANTED HELP WANTED

SERVICES

SERVICES

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Start the NEW YEAR with a NEW CAREER!If you're happy and you know it, have 15-25 hours a week and enjoy talking with people,then this might just be for you. Miami's Community Newspapers, is looking forsomeone that is confident, has sales experience and knows how to sell newspaperadvertising. You can make lots of money, have a good time, and make a difference.

Want to know more about us? Go on a tour www.communitynewspapers.com

For more information about this salaried plus commission position,call Michael Miller 305-669-7030

6796 SW 62nd Avenue • South Miami, FL 33143 • Phone (305) 669-7355 Fax: (305) 662-6980

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OPERATIONS RESEARCH ANALYSTPERIODICOS ASOCIADOS LATINOAMERICANOS PAL,

INC Miami, FL Master's degree in Finances + 1 yr exp. market-ing & sales of Latin American Newspapers; Responsible of regional & corporative sales among the largest newspapers in Latin America; Represent

the Company in South America and the US Hispanic market; develop business & marketing plan; cost reduction and pro-duction optimization; email Re-

sume: [email protected]

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SERVICES


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January 18 - 24, 2011

METAL • TILE • SHINGLES • FLAT ROOFS

• Wood Replacement/Repair

• Roof Inspection and Consultation

• Insurance Carrier Dispute Resolution

• Insurance Mitigation Inspection

CCC0

5248

0•

CGC1

5152

99

“Free Estimates and Consultation”

Residential & Commercial

Steve Nagy Enterprises

305-216-4717Para asistencia en Español llamar

786-399-9284EXPERT REPAIRS & COMPLETE ROOFING BYFully Insured Florida State Certified Roofing & General Contractor

ROOFING

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Are you 62 or older?Do you usually owe

income tax when you file?CPA PREPARED INCOME TAX PREPARATION

$79.95This is not cheap tax preparation.This is excellent quality tax preparation for less.

Mats TyloskogCertified Financial Planner

Call for FREE tax interview

786-497-7050

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WE FIXWATER305.235.3508

Water Wells • Pumps • TanksFilters • Softeners • Reverse Osmosis

THE WATER WIZARD, CO.

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MIAMI (MIA) FT. LAUDERDALE (FLL) WEST PALM BEACH(PBI)MIAMI (MIA) FT. LAUDERDALE (FLL) WEST PALM BEACH(PBI)MIAMI (MIA) FT. LAUDERDALE (FLL) WEST PALM BEACH(PBI)MIAMI (MIA) FT. LAUDERDALE (FLL) WEST PALM BEACH(PBI)

Providing Clients with the most Reliable andSecure Delivery on Demand with Consistent

On-Time Performance since 1981

We’ll be there for your business.All Day. Every day. Rain or Shine

24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year

Baron Messenger Service, Inc.386 N.E. 191 Street, Miami, FL 33179

800.227.6648

www.barondelivers.com

DELIVERY ON DEMANDDELIVERY ON DEMANDDELIVERY ON DEMAND

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“Call Us”We’d like to get to “MOW” you!T R E E • L A N D S C A P I N G

“We Do TREE-RRIFIC Work”

FULL TREE SERVICE• Selective Pruning •

• Stump Grinding • Trimming •

Licensed & Insured • Residential & Commercial SpecialistMembers of the International

Society of ArboricultureFREE ESTIMATES

Prompt & Courteous Since 1982305-253-7374

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Cleaners & Shirt LaundryExpert Alterations and

Tailoring, All Work Performedon Premises, Professional DryCleaners & Shirts Laundry

The Falls8751 SW 131th Street

305.232.0399

Coral Gables1704 SW 57th Avenue

305.262.9224

FREE DRY CLEANINGBring in 4 items &get the 5th FREEEqual or lesser value

$1.19 Per Shirtwith coupon only cannot becombined with other offer.

Business Shirts Only.

$8 OFFwith the purchase of

$40 or more

Same Day Service Available(The Falls Store Only)

Mon - Fri 7:30AM to 6:30PMSat 8AM to 5PM

H

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305 896 4846FREE ESTIMATES LIC.CCC1326276

RE-ROOF ROOF REPAIR

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January 18 - 24, 2011

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• Bankruptcy • Loan Modification •

• Foreclosure Defense • Real Estate Closings •

• Debt Relief Agency •

Se Habla Español305-285-0340

633 N. Krome Avenue • Homestead, FL 33030

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Palmetto Bay News 1.18.2011

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Transcript of Palmetto Bay News 1.18.2011