Palmetto Bay News 1.25.2011

JANUARY 25 - 31, 2011

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SoBay Festival of the Artsbegins Feb. 4 at Deering

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– See BELL, page 4

–––––––––––––––––––––––– See SOBAY, page 4

BY GARY ALAN RUSE

TThe Deering Estate’s fifthannual SoBay Festival ofthe Arts begins on Feb. 4 atwo-week series of special

events that celebrate the literary, per-forming and visual arts. The festival’spurpose is to raise awareness of culturalresources within the South Biscayne Baycommunity.

That first Friday event is the opening ofthe ArtSoBay Exhibit, which is free to thepublic. A juried fine art exhibit at theDeering Estate at Cutler, it features “con-temporary art in a variety of media thatdepict the soul of artists utilizing basicelements of color, line, form, texture andscale.”

The exhibit is juried by David Castillo,Bernice Steinbaum and other local articons, joined by Rene Morales, associatecurator for the Miami Art Museum, serv-

BY GARY ALAN RUSE

LL ynda Bell, who was electedMiami-Dade County com-missioner for District 8 inthe Nov. 16 runoff elec-

tion, was the guest speaker at the Jan. 18morning meeting of the EconomicDevelopment Council (EDC) of SouthMiami-Dade.

Greeted by a standing room onlyturnout and introduced by EDC chair JoeCorradino, Bell took the opportunity toexpress her views and explain her priori-ties in the coming months.

“It’s a very big and a tough job, but it’sa large task and a great task,” Bell said. “Ibelieve that people don’t realize how hardpeople do work on the Miami-DadeCounty Commission. It doesn’t matter atthe end of the day if you made everybodyhappy as long as you know you’ve donethe right thing.

“As your new county commissioner

Bell: Make government more transparent, less complicated

County Commissioner Lynda Bell speaksto the EDC.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Resident Gerald Grant Jr. earns prestigious AXA Advisors Award

BY LEWIS MATUSOW

PP almetto Bay resi-dent Gerald GrantJr., author of BoldMoves to Creating

Financial Wealth, and branchdirector of financial planning forAXA Advisors in Miami, hasbeen named the winner of thecompany’s 2010 National HonorAssociate Award.

Grant, who holds both bache-lor’s and master’s degrees inBusiness Administration fromFlorida International Universityand has been active in the SouthFlorida community for more than40 years, will receive the presti-gious award during the NationalManagers Meeting, Jan. 31-Feb.3 in Carlsbad, CA.

The award, established nearlyseven decades ago, is granted to afinancial professional each yearwho represents the “total profes-sional” — the one who mostexemplifies esteemed qualitiesand attributes of community serv-ice, loyalty, leadership and respect. Acommittee of his peers chose Grant forthe prestigious honor from among thou-sands of candidates.

The announcement was made by LuisChiappy and Hugo Castro, executive vicepresidents of AXA Advisors’ NationalDivision and manager of its SouthFlorida Branch.

“Gerald is a model for professionalismin our business and is a recognized leader

in civic and community endeavors,”Chiappy said.

Grant, who will begin teaching hisbook, Bold Moves to Creating FinancialWealth (www.GeraldGrantJr.com) atMiami Dade College’s Wolfson Campus,serves on the Foundation Board ofDirectors for FIU and Florida A&MUniversity. He also serves on the adviso-

Gerald Grant Jr. is pictured with his book.–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

––––––––––––––––––––– See AWARD, page 4

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM January 25 - 31, 2011

January 25 - 31, 2011 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

BY ROBERT HAMILTON

Regions Bank, located at 20901 SW 112Ave., in Cutler Bay, was designated therecipient of the Beautification Award forthe month of January by Total Bank and theEconomic Development Council (EDC).Paul Neidhart, EDC executive director, andFrieda Brown, vice president of TotalBank, presented the award on Jan. 18.

Sponsored by Total Bank, this monthlyaward is designed to promote awareness ofbusiness owners’ pride in their establish-ments, as well as to foster a sense of pride inthe aesthetic aspects of the community. Itrecognizes those businesses in SouthMiami-Dade County that help to make thecommunity a more attractive place to liveand work through careful attention to theirphysical facilities and landscaping, excellentmaintenance, and attractive overall design.

The Economic Development CouncilBeautification Award program was

designed to promote awareness of businessowners’ pride in their establishments, aswell as to foster a sense of pride in the aes-thetic aspects of the community.Nominations for this award should be for-warded to Frieda Brown, vice president,Total Bank, 305-964-4365, and to theCommunity Development Committee ofthe Economic Development Council.

Founded in 1992, the EconomicDevelopment Council is a public/privatenot-for-profit Economic DevelopmentCorporation. The council’s overall objec-tive is to implement an economic develop-ment program that will foster a positiveimage for the community, attract new busi-nesses that create quality jobs for our resi-dents, while diversifying and strengtheningour economic base consistent for the futureof South Miami-Dade.

For more information about the counciland how the council may help your busi-ness, call 305-378-9470.

Regions Bank in Cutler Bayearns Beautification Award

Pictured are Frieda Brown, vice president of Total Bank, (left) and Ms. Delgado, Regions Bank.–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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SOBAY, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– BELL, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– I’m going to have the opportunity toimpact your lives in a very different way— as residents, as business owners and ascommunity leaders — and that’s an awe-some task and a very heavy responsibility.I tell people I will not forget who electedme and why I was elected.”

Bell said that one priority is to sponsorlegislation that will make governmentmore transparent in the county as well asless complicated and “maze-like.”Connected with that, she also announcedthat she is moving her district officefrom where it currently is at the SouthDade Government Center in Cutler Bayto an office building on S. DixieHighway near Publix and Starbucks inPalmetto Bay

“Being at the South Dade GovernmentCenter is pretty far south at the tip of thedistrict and I’ve been hearing from myconstituents that it’s hard to get to andparking is tough because it’s shared withthe courthouse,” Bell said. “We’re going toput our boots on the ground and be moreaccessible to you.”

Bell also intends to reform the processesby which businesses in the county are ableto get the licensing and permitting theyneed to operate. She said that she was ableto accomplish that while a mayor in theCity of Homestead and hopes to bring thatexpertise to the county level as well.

She announced that she plans to holdinformal public meetings about the coun-ty’s Department of EnvironmentalResources Management (DERM) createdin 1974 to regulate and manage activitiesaffecting the fragile environment.

“We need a town hall meeting aboutDERM, about everybody that’s been

affected, positively or negatively, byDERM,” Bell said. “We’ll have DERMofficials present.”

Bell is on the county’s Public Safety andEconomic Development committees, andalso on the Budget Committee where shehopes to make a difference by lookingclosely at all expenditures.

“I was humbled to be appointed to it asan incoming freshman,” Bell said.

She reminded everyone that the coun-ty’s “Mom and Pop Grant” applicationsfor small businesses in District 8 areavailable now to Feb. 9. Grants in theamount of either $2,000 or $4,000 willbe given out to selected deserving appli-cants, and there will be a workshop onFeb. 9 prior to submission of completedapplications.

She also discussed other topics rangingfrom Jackson Memorial Hospital to work-ing more closely with the state legislatureto improve things in the county.

Attending the meeting with area businessowners were Palmetto Bay Mayor ShelleyStanczyk and council members JoanLindsay and Patrick Fiore; Cutler BayMayor Ed MacDougall, Vice Mayor ErnieSochin and Councilmember Peggy Bell,and other area leaders including EDC direc-tor Paul Neidhart. Newly elected District117 State Rep. Michael Bileca also waspresent and introduced himself to thegroup.

Bell asked attendees to let her knowabout problems so that she can work totake care of them, and said she welcomesideas and comments. Contact her by phoneat 305-375-5218 or by email at either<[email protected]> or<[email protected]>.

ing as this year’s esteemed guest juror.Then on Sunday, Feb. 6, is the

Emergination Piano Concert and Brunchfrom 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost for thisevent is $35 per person with advance pur-chase required. It showcases emergingpianists from the FIU School of MusicPiano Department.

Next on Wednesday Feb. 9, is Icon Of AMoment: A Historical Discussion, from 7to 9 p.m. This is a free event that is open tothe public. The historical discussion cover-ing the period from 1896 to 1922 is mod-erated by Jennifer Tisthammer and led bythe Deering Estate’s own Literary Artists-in-Residence and Education andInterpretive Staff members.

On Friday, Feb. 11, is the South FloridaTheatre League event from 7 to 9 p.m. TheLeague is an alliance of theatrical organi-zations and professionals dedicated to nur-turing the South Florida theater industry.They will present an Evening of Vignette’sat the Deering Estate. Admission is $25 perperson.

Then on Saturday, Feb. 12, is the Artist

Village Tour and Art Take Away Workshop,beginning at 11 a.m. This is free with estateadmission and gives guests a chance to“interact with emerging artists and learnabout their area of expertise as they create,display, and sell original works of art.”

Next is Miami Short Films onSunday, Feb. 13, from 7 to 9 p.m. Costis $15 per person to see the best of shortfilm cinema.

Wrapping up the series on Monday, Feb.14, is the “Moonlight and Music”Valentine’s Day concert featuring VictorEspinola. The concert begins at 8 p.m. withthe gate opening at 7 p.m.

Victor Espinola is a multi-instrumen-talist and singer who is best known forplaying the Paraguayan harp, but hisstyle is influenced by Flamenco, Gypsy,Brazilian, Middle Eastern, African, popand dance music as well. It’s a romantic,outdoor concert under the stars, so guestsare welcome to bring blankets, lawnchairs and picnic baskets. Parking isfree.

For information, call 305-235-1668.

ry board for FIU’s Honors College and is amember of the Orange Bowl Committee,100 Black Men of South Florida and PhiBeta Sigma Fraternity Inc. Theta RhoSigma Chapter and Alpha Rho Boule SigmaPi Phi Fraternity.

“Winning the National Honor AssociateAward is the pinnacle of my professionalcareer,” said Grant, who resides in the vil-lage with his wife, Jennifer, and their twochildren, Jasmin and Gerald III. “I havenever strived to win awards, simply to servemy clients and my community.”

Winner of numerous company and indus-

try awards — including the 2005 RegionalHonor Associate Award — Grant was rec-ognized as a Retirement Planning Specialistby AXA Advisors after receiving aCertificate in Retirement Planning from theWharton School of Business. He also holdsFINRA Series 7, 63, 66 and 24 securitiesRegistrations and is insurance licensed.

The AXA Advisors South Florida Branchis located at 9130 S. Dadeland Blvd., Suite1400, Miami, FL 33156.

For more information about AXAAdvisors, visit online at <www.axa-equi-table.com>.

AWARD, from page 1 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––


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

EDITOR.................................................................................................................................. David Berkowitz

WRITERS, COLUMNISTS..............................................................Ron Beasley, Kenneth Bluh, Robert Hamilton,

Linda Rodriguez-Bernfeld, Gary Alan Ruse, Lee Stephens, Al Sunshine, Richard Yager

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES..........................................................Albie Barnes, Beatriz Brandfon,

Roberta Bergman, Ana Caceres, Celia Canabate, Diane Chasin, Henry Chau,

Sharon Christian, Cecile Fanfani, Diane Maddox, Denzel Miles, Ann Robbins-Udel,

Fara Sax, Lori Schwadron, Diane Sedona Schiller, Walter WhiteLEGAL ADVERTISING ..................................................................................................................... Georgia TaitBOOKKEEPING ............................................................................................................................ Jesus ToledoPROOF DEPARTMENT....................................................................................................................Isabel Vavrek

GRAPHIC ARTISTS ...........................................Catalina Roca, Isabel Ortega, Sergio Yanes, Vera Salom PUBLISHER EMERITUS.......................................................................................................................................... Ron Miller

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERSAventura News, Biscayne Tribune, Coral Gables News-Tribune, Doral Tribune, Kendall Gazette, Cutler Bay News, Palmetto Bay News,

Pinecrest Tribune, South Miami News, Sunny Isles Beach, Miami Beach News, Miami Gardens News, Opa Locka

We will not return solicited or unsolicited editorial material including stories, columns and or photographs. Please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material.

Good news! We hear that the “GoodVibrations” talent contest, which had beenscheduled earlier and postponed due tosome timing conflicts, has been reset forJan. 30, from 2-5 p.m. at the Villageamphitheater at Ludovici Park, 17641 OldCutler Road. The event is sponsored byLudovici & Ludovici and is open to high-school students who will compete for gen-erous cash prizes. For more info call 305-259-1234 or visit the village website atwww.palmettobay-fl.gov/.

Now hear this! District 1 CouncilmanPatrick Fiore will conduct a Town Hall

Meeting on Tuesday February 1 at 6:30p.m. at Coral Reef Park, 7895 SW 152Street. It’s a chance for members of thecommunity to voice concerns and discusspriorities. “Other Village of Palmetto BayCouncil members may be present at themeeting and speak on matters that may beconsidered at this or future meetings.”

Into the arts? If so, don’t forget thatSoBay Festival of the Arts, the DeeringEstate’s 5th annual two-week series cele-brating the literary, performing and visualarts begins on February 4. It’s a great groupof events that showcase the arts and artistswithin the South Biscayne Bay community.For more information please call 305-235-1668 or visit www.deeringestate.com/ andclick on “Featured Events.”

And don’t forget, the next RegularCouncil Meeting will take place on Monday,Feb. 7, at 7 p.m. in the spiffy new VillageHall Chambers, located at 9705 E. Hibiscus.

Seniors, take note: We hear that a newprogram for Palmetto Bay seniors, entitled,“Resources for Seniors and theirCaregivers,” is slated for Feb. 8, from10:30 – 11:30 a.m. It’s a Parks &Recreation program that is presented byBaptist Health South Florida.

Takes place in the Edward and ArleneFeller Community Room, Second floor,Ludovici Park, 17641 Old Cutler Road,Palmetto Bay. Kathy Sarmiento, SHINECounselor, is speaking. For more info callVillage Hall at 305-259-1234.

On another a rt note... The Patricia &Phillip Frost Art Museum is presenting fivenew exhibitions opening during TargetWednesday After Hours on January 26,2011 from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. The muse-um is located at 10975 SW 17th Street.Miami, FL 33199, and admission is free.For more info call 305-348-2890.

Long-time Continental Park resident,Albert Harum-Alvarez, hosts a radio talkshow each week on Monday evenings at 7p.m. Listeners can “telephone in” live at305-541-2350 to join Albert and guests indiscussions of current issues at Listen305on 880AM radio. Recent broadcast high-lighted our veteran columnist R. Kenneth

Bluh of Community Newspapers on thetopic: “Is Our County CommissionHaunted?”

Newly-installedd Commission Chair JoeA. Martinez celebrates a “topping out”ceremony of the Cuban Memorial, provid-ing a permanent home to a monument thathas been part of Miami-Dade for almost adecade. Supporters of the memorial’s con-struction can witness the final assembly ofthe obelisk’s summit, signifying a mile-stone in the structure’s completion. Theevent takes place at Florida InternationalUniversity near the campus’ stadium onSW 114 Avenue, at 6 p.m., Friday,January 28.

Thought for the Day:It’s not what we do once

in a while that shapes our lives. It’s what we do consistently.

— Anthony Robbins

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]>.

AROUND TOWN

Michael MillerEXECUTIVE EDITOR

Subscribe to the CN Newsletter... It’s FREE!Go to: www.communitynewspapers.com

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The student talent contest is on again, set for Jan. 30

To the Editor

I started my growing up during theTruman/Eisenhower era. Back then, themajority of this country — not all, but most— were realists and patriots. Back then, theywould say, “I didn’t vote for him, but he’sour president now. Let’s get behind him!”

Well, it seems that kind of patriotism hasgone down history’s drain. And like theAmerican Revolution, the starting point forthat change in attitude begins at the villagelevel — now more so than ever.

This last election in Palmetto Bay hadnastiness that degraded us. It didn’t have tobe, as only issues could have been debated.We have enough mud!

Did the newly elected mayor congratulateall the newly elected council members? Ididn’t see it at the swearing in, and I’ll betthere weren’t any “congratulations, let’sbury the hatchet and do good for the vil-lage,” at the first regular council meeting. Ischildishness and discourtesy what I votedfor? I voted for these people to be workingtogether. At least things could have startedoff on a civil note.

One continual problem is the “professionalpolitician.” They’ve been with us since Greekdemocracy. However here, in the last hundredyears or so, they want to be treated asdemigods — persons above accountability.Some get caught, some don’t.

I’ve ruffled the feathers of more than onestate and federal politician by refusing thema title, and reminding them that they workfor the people — the voters. We the Peopleare their bosses; they are our employees. Iexpect them to behave in a professionalmanner and produce. Money out of mypocket is paying for their salaries, healthcareplans and pensions that I can only dream of.

The only person who deserves an honorif-ic, is the President of the United States. Ourcountry needs that for its prestige, and Iwould willingly address that person as “Mr.President” should I shake his hand.

It seems some our own Palmetto Baypoliticians are heading down that “holierthan thou” road.

Two things “professional politicians” craveis power and gain. Look at our county com-missioners. How could anyone, in this dayand age, want a job that pays $6,000 a year?How? Why? Because they’re getting a hell ofa lot more behind the curtains. They’re gettingthat title pump up of “Mr. Mayor” or “Ms.Commissioner.”

Nothing could be more telling of theirattitudes than wanting the citizens to paythem a living wage, but without term limits.They want the goodies for as long as theycan suck it out of the taxpayers. Luckily, thecitizens of Miami-Dade seem to be smarter

than the county commissioners. Their pro-posal has been voted down time after time.We are not stupid! Not with the county, andnot with our village!

Consider how nervous the recall is mak-ing the county mayor and those particularcommissioners. They’re nervous becausethey could loose they’re power and perksand backdoor incomes — but particularlythe power. Professional politicians cravepower. Our own past mayor just had tomove himself up the political line. Couldn’tgo back to plain old honest work. No powerthere. And he’s likely to be as self-servinghigher than he was lower. These profession-als tend to forget who they work for. Andwhat they find out with a shock, is if youanger your bosses you’re likely to be out thedoor.

They also tend to forget, that when youare conducting government business, you doso honestly, openly, above board and keepevery scrap of information no matter how itis stored.

When someone says, “Let’s see thebooks,” you stack them high and open thecovers. An official of the state or county,even a plain citizen of this village should beable to examine anything in Village Hallthat is not restricted from review by law.

And in that vein, the money spent on thisPalmer Trinity mess with our officials zigzag-ging and dodging has been a total waste. Thecost of just doing right from the beginningwould most likely be one quarter of what it isnow. The money wasted — my money, ourmoney — could have repaired the bridge atCoral Reef Park much sooner, built a third oneover the canal, maybe even spruced up theboat launch area for canal boating. Perhapseven improve the older parks. But where is itnow? Not in the village coffers, but in someelse’s pocket — wasted!

Luckily, the wisdom of the people votedin a person like Patrick Fiore. He didn’t runfor personal gain or title or power; he ran totry to make our village an outstanding placeto live. He ran to stop the waste of our taxmoneys on useless projects and lawsuits.Things that could have been avoided withcommon sense.

He ran to become a buffer between usregular folks and our village bureaucrats andthose becoming “professional politicians.”He ran to show that if you are a public offi-cial, you don’t throw away, delete or “crash”anything if you are honest. Patrick knowsthese things and will be a careful observer ofpropriety.

Only officials with something to hide“lose” things. Remember the Nixon tapes?If records have to be disposed of, it is onlyafter proper procedures, notifications andreviews have been done — not with delays,

trickery and “oops.”Patrick looks, listens, considers, then acts!

Is he going to vote the way everyone wants?No. Is he going to vote the way everyonelikes? No. Is he going to do the very best jobhe can? I think so and believe he will. Hewill consider carefully if the village needssuch things as speed bumps and stop signsevery block, and “traffic calming islands”where there is little traffic.

Moneys spent on such pork could provideconcerts at the gazebo in Coral Reef Parkenriching our citizens. When I was a boy inNorth Carolina, the local high schools put onband concerts at lakes and such in the sum-mer. They played marches, waltzes andmelodies, got good practice in front of audi-ences, and everyone had a grand time withmusic and meeting friends. Why can’t we?Why not more jazz and classical concerts?Why not a permanent area for local artists todisplay and perhaps sell their works anytime,regardless of whether there is a festivalunderway.

We have the facilities and we pay taxes tokeep them nice. Why not use them all yearlong? Let us not be like Pinecrest. Theyhave Pinecrest Gardens where they couldput on spectacular concerts, plays and func-tions — and they don’t. If they do, it sureisn’t much.

We also have the power to make PalmettoBay the most professional, classiest andupscale municipality in the state. All that isrequired is for us to do the proper, polite andcourteous things that the other cities, the other

governments, don’t do. Little things like returning phone calls

and emails promptly. Informing residents ofthe status of things they inquired about orapplied for. Give village residents prefer-ence on village jobs like we already do withveterans. Making sure that who everanswers a phone at Village Hall knows theanswer to your question, or can connect youimmediately to someone who does. Littlethings.

And while we’re at it, how about occa-sionally, the mayor, members of thecouncil, even the city manager anddepartment heads put on their villageID’s, get in their cars, knock on doors,and ask the residents how they see thingsgoing and get their opinions. That wouldmake for unique government. That wouldgive us a class unknown to others. We arenot big. We are small enough for such ahands-on approach. Bet you coffee anddoughnuts Pinecrest and Cutler Bay don’tdo it.

One suggestion is that our mayor, vicemayor and council members read StevenKings Under The Dome. Not only is thestory fascinating, but it can provide excel-lent insight as to how local politicians andgovernments can turn.

“Nuff”said.

Sincerely yours,

Wade L. Marshall Jr.Palmetto Bay

Change in political attitude begins at the village level

Letter to the Editor


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It seems since the start of the new year,wherever we look we’re seeing higher pricesat local checkout counters and when we openour bills in the mail. It seems that rising pro-duction costs and higher gas prices areimpacting everyone’s budgets.

So how can we beat these rising costs?There are several practical ways we can

get a handle on our family finances. Forstarters, look for bulk food bargains and dis-count coupons. Consider better meal plan-ning based on weekly specials. However,don’t buy something on sale that you maynot really use.

All you need to do is check your old gasbills to see fuel prices are rising again.Unleaded regular already is approaching$3.30 a gallon nationally and it is even high-er around South Florida gas stations. You canstretch your gas mileage by taking extraweight out of your car, clean out the trunkand make sure your vehicle is well main-tained and the tires are inflated properly.

Residential electric bills always are aproblem. But over the winter, you can turnoff your air conditioning or turn up the ther-mostat and even open the windows to cutback electric bills. You also can save moneyby lowering the temperature in hot waterheaters. That way they won’t have to use somuch electricity.

COSTLY CRUNCHIt’s won’t be long until all our holiday

shopping bills start coming due if you wereone of the millions of people who used cred-it cards online or at the malls.

Likewise, there also is the federal income

tax deadline, this year postponed untilMonday, Apr. 18.

So what’s the bottom line to ensure you’reready for it all?

Howard Dvokin of Consolidate CreditCounseling Services says, “Go through andorganize all your financial papers. Start fix-ing your financial problems now or youcould be facing even more problems over thenext year or so.”

Yet, for most of us, better managing ourmoney sounds a lot easier than it actuallymay be.

Here is a quick and easy plan for doublechecking your financial bottom line:

Now is the time to organize your taxrecords to get ready for this year’s Apr. 18tax deadline. At the same time, start updatingyour financial balance sheet to put down, onpaper, how much you earn compared to howmuch you spend and owe.

Next double-check the interest rates ofcredit cards, mortgages and car payments tosee if you can refinance at lower rates.

Then start going over your investments,paying special attention to your blendbetween savings, stocks and 401k retirementaccounts. And don’t forget about double-checking your insurance needs to make sureyou are not over-spending on health, car orhomeowners insurance.

If you rely on just paying minimum creditcard balances, or moving money aroundbetween bank accounts, some financialinsiders say those banking fees are starting torise.

“We’re absolutely going to see highercosts for credit cards, ATM’s or possiblyeven balance calls,” Dvokin warns. “They’regoing to ‘fee’ us to death!”

For more information on home budgeting,go online to <www.fpanet.org/>.

Watch Al Sunshine’s “Money Watch”reports Monday-Friday beginning at noon.You may find Al’s blog at cbsMiami.com.

CBS MONEY WATCH

Al Sunshine

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BY VERONICA C. BUIE

Miami-Dade County CommissionerDennis C. Moss has announced, as inpast years, qualified small business own-ers throughout District 9 will have theopportunity to apply for financial assis-tance provided by the Mom and PopSmall Business Grant Program.

Small businesses that have notreceived a grant award in prior years areeligible to apply and can pick up grantapplications through Feb. 10, from 9 a.m.to 5 p.m., at either of CommissionerMoss’ offices. District North Office islocated in the South Dade GovernmentCenter, 10710 SW 211 St. Suite 206 inCutler Bay, and the District South Office,1634 NW Sixth Ave. in Florida City.

All small businesses applying must belocated in District 9, show proof of hav-ing been in business for at least one year,confirm that the business name on theapplication matches the one on the busi-ness license and meet all other eligibilityrequirements. Grants will be awarded up

to $5,000 and can be used to purchaseequipment, supplies, advertising andmarketing, inventory, building liabilityinsurance, security and to make minorimprovements and renovations.

The Mom and Pop Small BusinessGrant Program was created to providefinancial and technical assistance to qual-ified small businesses that are approvedfor funding.

“In a time of financial uncertaintiesand economic challenges, we, the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners,are pleased to be able to offer assistanceto the real economic engines of thiscountry, our small businesses,”Commissioner Moss said. “I invite andencourage small businesses throughoutDistrict 9 to take full advantage of thisassistance and opportunity.”

For more information onCommissioner Moss’ 2011 Mom and PopSmall Business Grant Program call 305-234-4938 or visit the Miami-DadeCounty website at<www.miamidade.gov>.

Commissioner kicks off annualSmall Business Grant Program

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Read us online:www.communitynewspapers.com

Celebs to learn if they’re smarter than 5th graders

BY GARY ALAN RUSE

Last year’s special event for fun andlearning at Whispering Pines ElementarySchool, 18929 SW 89 Rd. in Cutler Bay,“So you think you’re smarter than a 5thgrader?” is back for a second go-round witha new set of brave celebrity contestants.

Scheduled for the school’s cafetorium onThursday, Jan. 27, at 6 p.m., this year’s castof adults testing their mettle against thekids will be (in alphabetical order):

Horace Cox, Technical Sergeant with theUnited States Air Force; Dr. Lawrence S.Feldman, Miami-Dade County PublicSchools vice chair; Maria Lastre,Whispering Pines Elementary fifth gradeteacher; Tim Meerbott, 2010 mayoral can-didate for the Town of Cutler Bay, andDavid Sutta, CBS 4 News reporter.

Alicia Attong Mendes, Alphabet SoupBooster Club chair and this year’s eventcoordinator, said the school felt compelledto bring the mock game show back again.

“This event was a huge success last year,thanks to the participation of our contest-ants and contributions from local business-

es,” Mendes said. “More importantly, thechildren had a wonderful time and thor-oughly enjoyed meeting local ‘celebrities.’We hope that this year’s event will be assuccessful and fun for everyone.”

Admission for the show is $3, but kidsunder age 5 are free.

Renee Y. Espinosa, an active PTA mem-ber at the school, said that the event beganlast year as an idea for a fundraiser and away of including the community.

“The production was a ‘midnight’ idea,”Espinosa said. “We felt this would be agreat opportunity.”

It worked out well on every level,according to Mendes.

“Last year’s event raised over $1,000and helped three of the school’s studentcommittees,” Mendes said. “Those samecommittees are joining forces again thisyear in hopes of a fun-filled evening forthe whole family.”

Space is limited to 350 people, but tick-ets will be sold at the door at 6 p.m. ifavailable.

For more information call the school at305-238-7382.

Pictured are students during last year’s event.–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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BY LEE STEPHENS

Giant-scale model aerobatic airplanesare expected to take to the skies of SouthMiami-Dade County on of Feb. 19 and 20.As many as 60 pilots from all over Floridaand as far north as Canada are set to com-pete in five different categories ranging incomplexity from Basic to Unlimited.

The event, which is almost free to thepublic (a $2 per carload donation), willtake place at AMP’S flying facilities locat-ed two miles west of Krome Avenue onSW 168th Street (201st Avenue and 168th

Street, the entrance is on the left).The 2011 AMP’S Aerobatic Challenge is

sanctioned by the International MiniatureAerobatics Club (IMAC) and the Academyof Model Aeronautics (AMA). These radio-controlled giant-scale model airplanes com-pete following the same rules and regula-tions as their full-size counterparts.

Pilots are awarded points for preciselyfollowing a series of aerobatic maneuversdesigned by the International MiniatureAerobatics Club (IMAC). The five competi-tion classes range from Basic, where anysize model airplane can be entered, up to the

Unlimited class in which you can see 42percent size exact replicas of modern aero-batic airplanes with wingspans over 10 feetand sometimes exceeding $10,000 in value.

Pilots compete for plaques and prizes,awarded to the first three positions in eachclass, and for points towards the IMACSoutheast Region Championship. In addi-tion, pilots enter into raffles for valuableprizes donated by some of the country’sleading model airplane manufacturers.

The public is invited to attend this eventwhere the whole family can enjoy athrilling day of exiting competition while

relaxing in South Florida’s winter climate.Food and prizes will be available through-out both days.

Competition is scheduled from 9 a.m. to4 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.Sunday. A freestyle competition will beflown at 1 p.m. Sunday with the awardspresentation at 3 p.m.

For additional event information anddirections visit AMP’S website at<http://amps-rc.com>, contact contestcoordinator Tony Fandino at 305-216-8580, or send email to<[email protected]>.

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at the RIVIERA THEATERpresents

BY CRISTINA CRUZ

Christopher Columbus High School stu-dent, Philip Koenig, is no ordinary highschool senior.

Koenig’s main mission is to help ensurethat local youth achieve success in their lives.He formed the non-profit organizationLeading Miami in 2009 through which hehelps children at the middle school level,where he believes they are most impression-able. In just over a year his organization haspartnered with seven schools, held 43 work-shops, and helped more than 150 children.

He already has purchased the websitedomains for “Leading Boston” and “LeadingNew York” because of his future plans of tak-ing the program nationally. He lives andbreathes his organization’s mission and hastaken it on with great zeal, focus and deter-mination.

This passionate and caring 17-year-oldcarries a to-do list in his shirt pocket, visitsmembers of the school’s administration regu-larly to generate ideas, and has been able toinstill his mission in other students who havebecome committed to the organization.Dubbed “Harry Potter” when he first arrivedat Columbus from England due to his Britishaccent and resemblance to the young onscreen wizard, Koenig does seem to haveworked magic in getting such an importantprogram up and running so quickly.

The mission of Leading Miami is toempower middle school students in Miami tobecome leaders in society. The diverse teamaccomplishes its mission by regularly offer-ing workshops for students at their schoolsand also providing hands-on experiences forthem. Koenig created the curriculum for theworkshops himself.

They are focused on five subject areas:• Self-Realization (includes the identifica-

tion of strengths and weaknesses);• Team Leadership;• Social Responsibility and Community

Involvement;• Professional Development (includes

communication skills/professional attire

advice, etc.), and• Igniting Your Passion.In the last workshop students use all the

skills and tools that they learned to createtheir own projects and clubs. Whether theyenjoy running, acting or playing guitar, stu-dents are given the support and fundingnecessary to share their passion with thecommunity.

“As long as our students have an interest inpursuing their passion, Leading Miami willwork vigorously to guide them,” Koenigsaid.

Leading Miami’s first partnership was ini-tiated in 2010 with South Miami MiddleSchool, triggering the team to expand andinvolve more schools such as Ponce de Leon,W.R. Thomas, Glades, West Miami, Riviera,

and Everglades K-8.

Recently the program has branched out

into different areas. Under team member and

Columbus senior Giancarlo Ghinatti,

Leading Miami is working on a middle

school debate league with aims to improve

academic performance and critical thinking

skills. A tournament to take place in March

will include some 100 competitors. Recently,

Koenig learned that Leading Miami was cho-

sen by the Children’s Trust Youth Advisory

Committee to participate in the Combat

Youth Violence Program.

Koenig said that he decided to start

Leading Miami when he learned of the high

dropout rates in some areas of the country.

He thought the problem could be helped if

students were addressed in middle school by

successful high school students to whom

they could relate.

“Philip is a truly exceptional and enterpris-

ingly gifted young man,” said Pedro Garcia-

Casals, Columbus’ assistant principal. “He is

one of those rare individuals who can muster

personal talents and resources in bringing to

fruition the stuff of imagination. In creating

Leading Miami, he saw a need, explored

ways of addressing it, and set to it with pas-

sion. I expect much from Philip.”

Columbus HS senior on quest to empower other students

Philip Koenig (rear center) is pictured with Leading Miami participants from West Miami Middle School.–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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 GARY ALAN RUSE

Palmetto Bay resident David Booherclearly has a winning approach to youthathletics and as coach of the boys swim-ming program at Miami Palmetto HighSchool that has paid off in a big way.

For the second straight year the boysswim team of garnered first place in theClass 3A State Championship. Held onNov. 13 at the Central Florida YMCAAquatic Center in Orlando, the meetbrought teams together from all overFlorida.

“The funny thing was that we also wonthe championship last year on the 13th, onan earlier day of the week,” Coach Boohersaid. “I told the boys that was kind of iron-ic. I’m just overjoyed and ecstatic. I’m veryproud of the boys winning again this time.

“We lost so many good swimmers lastyear to graduation, and they’re all in col-lege now, so for our team to be able tocome back and win it the year after isamazing. All the boys swam really strongthroughout the year, and when it cametime for district, regional and state, andthey really ended up doing well in theirrelays. One of our boys had the fastesttime ever posted.”

There were more than 40 students —

boys and girls — who participated duringthe year, and 11 boys and seven girls thatwere in the state meet.

“The state level is the highest they go,but they publish their times in the nationalmagazines and there’s a ‘mythical’ nation-al champion chosen based on the besttimes of each team, but it’s all done onpaper — they don’t have a real swim-offor anything,” Booher said. “One of ourboys was acknowledged at the nationallevel last year. We’ll have to see how wedo this time.”

Booher is just in his fourth year coachingat Miami Palmetto, so state championshipstwo years in a row seems all the moreimpressive. He had previously been at CoralReef High. He had a special reason for mov-ing to Palmetto and to be extra proud.

“It’s my alma mater, so I really wantedto come over and coach here,” Boohersaid. “The championships are not only afirst for our school, I think it’s the firsttime any Miami team has done it since1967. And we’ve had to do it practicing inborrowed pools. Some of the other teamsaround the state have their own pools oncampus.”

Booher said that he thinks they have agood start on a great team for next year aswell.

Coach Booher leads PHS boysswim team to victory again

Miami Palmetto High School boys swim team members receive their trophy.(Photo courtesy of Bryn-Alan Portraits by Prestige.)

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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The Florida Department of Transportation(FDOT) District Six will conduct a publicmeeting about a roadway project on StateRoad 959 (SW 57th Avenue/Red Road) fromSW Eighth Street to SW 24th Street (CoralWay). The meeting will be on Jan. 27, from 6to 8 p.m., at the City of West MiamiCommunity Center, 901 SW 62 Ave.

The public will have the opportunity to viewthe project plans and the graphic displays from6 to 7 p.m. A PowerPoint presentation will startat 7 p.m. FDOT representatives will be avail-able before and after the presentation to discussthe project and answer questions.

For more information, contact MartaRodriguez, public information specialist, at305-470-5873 or by email at<[email protected]>.

SOUTH FLORIDA HISPANIC CHAMBERTO HOLD MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON

The South Florida Hispanic Chamber ofCommerce is celebrating its first generalmembership luncheon of the year on Jan. 28,beginning at noon, at Casa JuanchoRestaurant, 2436 SW Eighth St.

The guest speaker for the luncheon is MarkSpiegelman, general manager for AT&TAdvertising Solutions. Ticket prices are $45for members and $65 for non-members.

For RSVP information, call 305-534-1903.

MIAMI DADE COLLEGE TO PRESENT‘THE BIRTH OF COFFEE’ EXHIBITION

The renowned Art Gallery System atMiami Dade College (MDC) will present adocumentary photographic exhibition aboutone of the world’s most popular beverageswhen “The Birth of Coffee” exhibition openson Feb. 3. The exhibition will be located atthe Wolfson Campus’ Centre Gallery, 300NE Second Ave., Centre Gallery, Building 1,third floor. The exhibition continues throughApr. 9.

Harvested in more than 50 countries, cof-fee is the world’s second largest commodity.Yet despite its widespread popularity, thecoffee enjoyed by most people today wasplanted on a small, single-family farm, wherecoffee is not as much a drink as a way of life.The exhibition is sponsored by GavinaGourmet Coffee.

The Centre Gallery is open Tuesday-Friday, from noon to 5 p.m.

For more information, contact AGS at 305-237-7700, <[email protected]>. For infor-mation on the artist and author, visit<www.birthofcoffee.com>.

SORENSON TO SPEAK ABOUTHER TIME AS COMMISSIONER

Former Miami-Dade Commissioner KatySorenson will speak on Thursday, Feb. 1,

7:30 p.m., at the Alper JCC Futernick FamilyArt Gallery, located at 11155 SW 112 Ave.

Sorenson will share her impressions onchanges in the community during her 16years on the commission, her greatest tri-umphs and disappointments, and her newrole as a lecturer on excellence and ethics ingovernment at the University of Miami.

Bring your questions, as this is certain tobe a lively and informative evening. Thisprogram is co-sponsored by The IlluminatingU and the Alper JCC. Refreshments are at 7p.m., speaker at 7:30 p.m. General admissionis $5.

For information call 305-217-9000, ext.264, or log on to <www.alperjcc.org>.

LAUREN’S LIGHT TO PRESENTFOLK SINGER ELLEN BUKSTEL

Lauren’s Light, a leading national non-profit organization that serves families withyoung children in which a parent has cancer,invites the community to hear the award-win-ning songwriter and folk singer Ellen Bukstel

on Feb. 3, 7 p.m., at 3390 Mary St. inCoconut Grove.

Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at thedoor. Purchase tickets through <www.lau-renslight.org> or call 305-285-1202.

For more information, call 305-285-1202

MOTHERS AGAINST DRUNK DRIVINGTO HOST FIRST ‘WALK LIKE M.A.D.D.’

Come join MADD members as they hosttheir first annual “Walk Like MADD,” a 5Kwalk or run on Feb. 5, from 4 to 7:30 p.m., atthe Homestead-Miami Speedway, 1Speedway Blvd.

This family event will raise funds to pro-vide the community with alcohol educationprograms for youth and adults, victim advo-cacy and the latest scientifically proven DUIprevention program, “The Power of Parents,It’s Your Influence.”

Enjoy live music, food and much more.

FDOT to conduct public meeting on Red Road project

COMMUNITY NEWS BRIEFS

––––––– Continued on next page



For more information, visit online at<www.walklikemadd.org> or call 305-273-3744.

CELTIC MUSIC HIGHLIGHTS CONCERTON FEB. 6 AT SOUTH DADE HIGH

The Homestead Community Concert’sthird concert of the season will highlightCeltic music that tells stories, including thoseof Joan of Arc and Sir Francis Drake. Theconcert is on Feb. 6, 2:30 p.m., at the newSouth Dade High Auditorium, 28401 SW167 Ave.

Using a sweeping soundscape, CoyoteRun engages its audience members in storyafter story, whisking them away to celebratethe ancient Celtic springtime holiday ofBeltane — May Day; march side by sidewith the Scottish honor guard of Joan of Arc;roll out the guns against Sir Francis Drake;snatch back a faerie abductee or defy the uni-verse with the bold words of Invictus, theUnconquered.

For those who do not have season tickets,the ticket price is $25 for adults and $5 forfull-time students. Tickets will be available atthe box office.

For more information go online to<wwwhomesteadconcerts.com> or call 305-235-8818 or 305-253-6620.

UM DEPARTMENT OF RELIGIOUS STUDIESTO DISCUSS ‘FAITH, POLITICS AND MEDIA’

The University of Miami Department ofReligious Studies presents “A Conversationabout Faith, Politics and the Media” on Feb.7, 7 p.m., in the UM Clarke Recital Hall,5501 San Amaro Dr.

The panel will be moderated by William S.Green, professor of Religious Studies who isUM’s senior vice provost and dean ofUndergraduate Education. Panelists includenationally known figures such as AmySullivan, Dr. Randy Brinson and Eric Sapp.

Free parking is available.For more information visit the website at

<www.as.miami.edu/religion/publiclife> orcall 305)-284-4733.

MOVIE ‘RACE TO NOWHERE’TO BE SCREENED IN GABLES

Sunrise School of Miami ParentAssociation will host a must-see film for par-ents, educators and policy makers in thecommunity, Race to Nowhere, which takesaim at the high-stakes, high pressure culturethat has invaded schools and our children’slives.

The screening will take place on Feb. 15,6:30 p.m., at the Coral GablesCongregational Church, located at 3010 DeSoto Blvd.

Immediately following the screening, apanel with educators, parents and healthcareprofessionals moderated by David Lawrence

Jr., will discuss how we prepare our youth tobecome healthy, bright, contributing andleading citizens.

Ticket prices are $10 if purchased inadvance online at <http://rtnsunris-eschool.eventbrite.com> or $15 at thedoor

For additional information regarding thefilm go to <www.racetonowhere.com>.

OPEN CASTING CALL SETFOR NEW REALITY SHOW

There will be an open casting call for anew reality show, titled Test of Love, on Feb.19, from noon to 6 p.m., at the Coral GablesCountry Club, 997 N. Greenway Dr.

This heart-racing television series willplace 12 engaged couples in a string of rigor-ous challenges for the chance to win the ulti-mate prize, a luxury wedding at the newlyrenovated Coral Gables Country Club.

You may register for the casting call onlineat testoflovetv.com, or you may register inperson at the Coral Gables Country Club.

For more information, call 305-392-0819.

EVENT PLANNERS, COME EXPERIENCE‘SAFARI SNEAK PEAK’ AT ZOOMIAMI

If you’re looking for that unique fun andelegant venue to plan an event for yourclients, look no farther. You can find it atZooMiami, located at 12400 SW 152 St.

On Wednesday, Feb. 23, or Thursday, May12, from 9 to 11 a.m., join the ZooMiamiGroup Sales Team on a complimentary

“Safari Sneak Peek” showcasing exotic eventlocations throughout the zoo. Visit the mostbeautiful and popular areas in which to hostan event with wild animals and lush vegeta-tion as your background.

Pre-registration is required so contactTerry Mallo, special events manager, toreserve your spot by phone at 305-251-0400,ext. 84939, or by email at <[email protected]>.

HEAD START/EARLY HEAD STARTNOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

The Miami-Dade Community ActionAgency’s Head Start/ Early Head Start pro-gram now is accepting applications for the2011-12 program year.

Miami-Dade Community Action Agency’s(CAA) Head Start/Early Head Start Programfor 2011-12 will begin in August.Applications are being accepted until Mar. 18for pregnant women and children ages 2months to 5 years (after Sept. 1). The pro-gram also provides services to families withchildren who are homeless.

Applications are available at all HeadStart/Early Head Start centers and CAACommunity Service Centers throughoutMiami-Dade County. Applications and a listof Head Start Centers may be downloadedfrom the county’s portal at <www.miami-dade.gov/caa/hsrecruitment.asp>.

For additional information or to locate aHead Start Center in your neighborhood, call786-469-4622.

NEWS, from previous page –––––

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Jan.uary 25 - 31, 2011 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

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.

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This winter and spring, BiscayneNational Park and the park’s concession-aire (Biscayne National Underwater ParkInc.) will offer all-day ranger-guidedcanoe trips to some of the park’s mostpristine locations, including Adams Key,Totten Key, Hurricane Creek and JonesLagoon.

The trip will be offered to experiencedpaddlers from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Jan.29, Feb. 26, Mar. 19, Apr. 2 and Apr. 16.The cost of the trip is $35 per person,which includes boat transportation toAdams Key, a shared canoe, paddle anda life jacket. Space is limited; reserva-tions may be made by calling 305-230-7275, ext. 000.

The islands surrounding JonesLagoon have been witness to the activi-ties of pirates, rumrunners and hardysettlers, not the least of whom wereIsrael Lafayette Jones; his wife,

Moiselle, and their two sons, KingArthur and Sir Lancelot. For nearly 100years, members of this pioneeringAfrican-American family survived andthrived in the crystal clear waters thatnow make up the southern part ofBiscayne National Park.

Lancelot Jones is familiar to many parkvisitors because he was the subject of theBiscayne National Park segment on the2009 PBS series The National Parks:America’s Best Idea by filmmaker KenBurns.

Participants are responsible for theirown water, sunblock, insect repellent andlunch. Binoculars, cameras, sunglasses, ahat and other comfort/convenience itemsare encouraged, but all items have thepotential to get wet.

Trips depart from the park’s DanteFascell Visitor Center, located at 9700SW 328 St., nine miles east ofHomestead. Call 305-230-7275, ext. 000,for more information.

Biscayne National Park announcesJones Lagoon Canoe Adventures


Chiropractic Associates’ patientsare losing weight with hCG DietBY NANCY EAGLETON

Chiropractic Associates,Inc. is helping patients loseweight and keep it off withthe popular hCG Diet pro-gram. Patients who havepartnered with the doctorsat Chiropractic Associateshave had positive results,losing about a pound a dayin their first two weeks onthe plan.

Joseph Gambardella, DC,owner of ChiropracticAssociates, noted that thehCG Diet has become aleader in the weight lossindustry, helping millionsof people achieve theirweight loss goals safely ina short amount of time.

The hCG Diet consists of taking oralhCG daily and adhering to a very low calo-rie diet throughout a 26- or 40-day plan,depending on the patient’s weight lossgoals.

The diet is based on Dr. A.T.W.Simeons’ 1950s research of human chori-onic gonadotropin, (hCG), a hormone pro-duced in pregnancy and found in both menand women. Dr. Simeons’ researchrevealed a significant breakthrough on thebody’s ability to burn fat.

“When the proper amount of hCG hor-mone is delivered daily, it triggers the bodyto release and burn stored fat and deliversthe nutrition the body needs to supplementthe very low calorie diet,” Dr. Gambardellasaid. “In other words, hCG utilizes fatreserves and helps you slim down withoutfeeling hungry all the time.”

The superior support offered by Dr.Gambardella and Dr. Todd Brown, associ-ate doctor and clinic director atChiropractic Associates, is pinnacle to thesuccess of the diet program. The doctorsoffer support meetings and one-on-oneconsults that help patients develop ahealthy eating plan that includes properportions of fruit, vegetables, lean meats,fish and poultry.

Chiropractic Associates patient DianeLevi lost 30 pounds in 40 days on the hCGdiet.

“I’ve been dieting for years and wouldalways hit a wall,” Levi explained. “What’sdifferent about this plan is that I was nothungry all the time. It’s a strict regime, butif you follow the plan, it’s very rewarding.”

Firefighter Denise Paganacci and her

husband, Nelson, went on the hCG diettogether. She lost 14 pounds in 26 days andhe lost 20.

“I was skeptical because I’m not adieter,” Denise Paganacci said. “What’samazing is that not only did I lose weight,but I came off of three medicines I was tak-ing for high blood pressure.”

Patients on the hCG diet also can workwith Dr. Gambardella and Dr. Brown todevelop an exercise plan to help maintaintheir healthy weight and get toned.Chiropractic Associates’ gym area isequipped with free weights, weightmachines, Physio balls and more to buildstrength and muscle.

“We train patients to take an active rolein their well-being by developing a well-rounded fitness plan that provides maxi-mum results,” Dr. Gambardella explained.

Dr. Gambardella has been practicing chi-ropractic medicine for 12 years. He earnedhis bachelor’s degree from VillanovaUniversity before graduating with highhonors from Life University College ofChiropractic in Georgia. Dr. Gambardellais a contributing author of the No. 1 best-seller, The World’s Best Kept Health SecretRevealed, Vol. III.

Dr. Brown earned a bachelor’s degree inInternational Business at Ohio StateUniversity and earned his degree asAssociate Doctor with high honors fromLife University College of Chiropractic.

Chiropractic Associates is located at7170 SW 117 Ave. The center is openMonday through Friday.

For more information, call 305-598-8788 or go online to <www.chiropracticas-sociatesinc.com>.

Dr. Joseph Gambardella (left) and Dr. Todd Brown offer the hCG Diet and acomplete wellness approach at Chiropractic Associates Inc.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Stratiform Fitness-Miami now open near the FallsBY ROBIN WOLFE

Arthur Schlecht, the new owner ofStratiform Fitness-Miami, formerly knownas Flex, is passionate about fitness, nutri-tion and health.

When the former Palmetto Senior Highstudent and commodities broker learnedthat the gym, located at 8815 SW 131 St.,was for sale, he jumped at the opportunityto take this family-friendly fitness place toa new level.

“I know fitness,” Schlecht said. “I’vebeen a member of practically every gymand spa in Miami. Stratiform is like a bigfamily fitness center. It’s like walking intoa coffee shop, everyone is so friendly.There are no airs here.”

Schlecht, a former University of Floridafootball player with a degree in Financefrom FIU, understands that being healthy iskey to living a good life. Always intosports and fitness, a few years ago Schlechtbecame out-of-shape and said he felt “dis-gusted with himself.”

He went to Flex to train with formerfriend, baseball player and personal trainerPete Fonesca. Fonesca knew about the con-nection between healthy eating and properform. Flex became Schlecht’s “home awayfrom home” for the next few years.

When Fonesca learned that the gym wasfor sale, he mentioned it to Schlecht. Thetiming was right. Schlecht, who had soldhis national commodities firm five yearsprior, was ready to clean it up and make itstate-of-the-art.

“I wanted to do something meaningfulwith my life. I have been so blessed andfortunate. I have a wonderful wife and twosons; now I want to make a real differencein other people’s lives,” he said.

Schlecht worked with many gym mem-bers who provided their professionalexpertise to retrofit Stratiform, which isnow ready and open to help people reachtheir 2011 health and fitness goals.

Members old and new will enjoy newlypurchased state-of the-art equipment; newNike Grind rubber floors, video and audiomonitors; a high-tech cardio deck, andremodeled bathrooms with lockers.

“Mo” Soriano, a 14-year personal train-er, said that he has seen families success-fully incorporate “fitness” into their lives.

“I’ve seen three generations of familiesgrow up here,” Soriano said. “Families getto know each other and make working outa family affair. Stratiform offers somethingfor every member of the family.”

Schlecht has personally seen how fitnesscan help people overcome their troubles.

“One member was having trouble withhis teenage son. I told him that they need todo things together, father and son. So theystarted training together. The other day heexpressed his thanks for the advice and

told me that his son is doing much betterhis boy felt so much better about himself.”

“Helping people makes me feel reallygood,” Schlecht said.

The poor state of nutrition and generallack of fitness in the United States irksSchlecht and he hopes to do somethingabout it. In addition to working with kidsfrom local schools and colleges, one ofSchlecht’s goals is to obtain grants that willenable him to create healthy fitness pro-grams for underprivileged kids.

“I want to make a positive difference inpeople’s lives,” he said.

In addition to Wi-Fi, smoothies andhealth foods from Here Comes the Sun,Schlecht said his certified and insuredtrainers will offer complimentary sessionsfor an initial period and there is no rent fortrainers and their clients who are membersof the gym. Stratiform will offer Spinning,Yoga, Pilates, Cross Fit, Boot Camp andspecial classes for seniors.

Yearly gym membership is $325; specialrates are available for families, teachers,military personnel, fire and police. Hoursare Monday-Thursday, 5 a.m.-11 p.m.;Friday, 5 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Freeparking is available.

Call 786-429-1025 for information.

Pictured are gym owner Arthur Schlecht and certified personal trainers Pete Fonesca, Mo Soriano and Chuck Zies.–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––



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Hats off to Hyundai for the new top-of-the-line Equus, a stunningly beautiful and techno-logically excellent automobile.

If you’ve been thinking about buying aMercedes S Class sedan, Lexus LS 460 or aBMW 7 Series, but the price tags have keptyour wallet in your pocket, then take a look atthe Equus with a starting price of under$60,000.

Hyundai has had the Equus on the productionboards for several years as engineers worked tocome up with the company’s initial offering inthe large luxury car segment. With its Europeandesign, comfortable interior and leading edgeautomotive technology, the 2011 Equus isHyundai’s signal to the world that it can engi-neer, design and build world class vehicles.

Equus is offered in two models — Signatureand Ultimate.

Equus Signature has a starting price of$58,000 and comes with leather seating sur-faces; Alcantara suede headliner; dual automat-

ic temperature control with air quality system;a 608-watt, 17-speaker Lexicon stereo system;heated and cooled front seats; heated steeringwheel trimmed in wood and leather; illuminat-ed scuff plates; illuminated door handles anddoor armrest, and all the bells and whistles youfind in similar luxury sedans.

Equus Ultimate, with a base price of $64,500,has everything that the Signature has and more,including separate rear seats that have elaboratemassage technology, power headrests andfootrests, separate entertainment controls andeven a small refrigerated cooler in the centerconsole. A forward-view camera allows for bet-ter visibility and a power trunk lid is standard.

Equus is powered by Hyundai’s vaunted 4.6-liter Tau V-8 engine with variable valve timingand mated to the six-speed ZF automatic trans-mission with a manual shift mode. The combi-nation is amazingly quick, quiet and smoothand the handling is precise.

The Equus is designed on what Hyundaicalls its “Fluidic Sculpture” principle.

Up front, the grille is taken from theHyundai Genesis and it has been neatly inte-grated with the headlights, which wrap aroundand blend into the fenders. The shortened frontoverhang allows the auto-cornering HID head-lights to swivel effectively as the car turns.

Along the side the car has a fast roofline anda contour crease across the top of the front

fender, arcing through the doors and over therear door handle to the taillights. Large 19-inchwheels and tires fill the wheelwells.

On the inside, there is huge space, lots oflegroom and headroom and abundant luxurycomplemented by plush leather and inlaidwood trim.

Both models come with abundant interiorequipment, including a heated wood-and-leathersteering wheel with power tilt-and-telescopicadjustment, heated and cooled front seats, a 12-

way power-adjustable driver’s seat with mas-sage, dual automatic climate control with sepa-rate adjustment, 60/40 power-reclining rearseats, power rear and side sunshades and an autodefogging system with rain-sensing wipers.

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]>.

Equus is Hyundai’s entry in large luxury car segment

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Jan.uary 25 - 31, 2011 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM


BY DAISY CABRERA

The Miami Science Museum (MiaSci)recently was awarded a $75,000 grant byChase to implement the Girls SPICE(Science Program Inspiring CreativeExhibits) project.

The grant will allow the museum to workwith Charles R. Drew Middle School’sVisual and Performing Arts Magnet Programto implement an after school and summerprogram targeted to female students ingrades 7-8. The Girls SPICE project address-es the need to cultivate diversity in preparingthe next generation of female scientists.

“Our nation’s need for a world-class sci-ence and technology workforce has neverbeen greater, requiring that all members ofour population have the opportunity and theresources to pursue successful science andtechnology-related studies and careers,” saidJudy Brown, EdD, senior vice president ofeducation, Miami Science Museum.

“The Girls SPICE project addresses thisneed and will create a model for engagingmiddle school girls in science by utilizing

their interest in art to design and build muse-um exhibits related to science topics of inter-est to them,” she said.

“We are honored to provide the MiamiScience Museum with a grant of financialsupport to make science a part of the learningexperience for young girls,” said GuillermoG. Castillo, president of Chase CommercialBanking in South Florida. “Engaging femalestudents in science education is very muchnecessary if we want to provide the bestopportunities for our work force to competein a global market, and we look forward toseeing more female scientists in the future.”

In 2010, JPMorgan Chase Foundationdonated $4 million to Florida-based charities.

Miami Science Museum is located at 3280S. Miami Ave. The museum is open everyday from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Admission isfree for MiaSci members and children under3; students (with valid ID), seniors (62 andolder) and children 3-12, $10.95; adults are$14.95. Parking is free.

For more information about the museumvisit online at <www.miasci.org/blog> orcall 305-646-4200.

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Cauley Square Historic Railroad Village inSouth Miami-Dade County is providing anextraordinarily exciting show every Fridaynight through Feb. 25 with “Viva” ClassicRock and Roll.

“Viva” performances are from 8:30 to11:30 p.m. in the village’s main courtyardproviding ample seating for the audience’slistening enjoyment as well as dancing. Thereis no cover charge for the “Viva” show.

Cash Bar and buffet will be available andreservations to attend must be made by callingdirect to the Village Chalet Restaurant at 305-258-8900.

For aficionados of rock and roll, “Viva” is oneof the few groups in the country that performslive music from the 1950s, ’60s, ’70s and ’80s.

“We’re really looking forward to beingable to showcase our group’s talents forSouth Florida audiences,” said “Viva” man-ager and keyboardist Paul Saca. “We feel weare the ‘heart and soul’ of classic rock.”

Joining Saca in the “Viva” performinggroup are Kookie Gee, “The Professor,” onbass guitar and lead vocals; Heppi Pettit onlead guitar and vocals, and “Juli” del Valle

on drums and vocals.Known nationally for their outstanding four-

part harmonies with an emphasis on musicfrom the ’50s and ’60s, “Viva” has the distinc-tion of being recognized as the No. 1 classicrock ‘n’ roll band in Florida.

The group has appeared as the opening actfor many national recording stars such as TheLittle River Band, Three Dog Night, America,Lou Gramm of Foreigner, Mike Pinera and theClassic All Stars, Gim Blossom, BadCompany and The Village People.

For more information on the group go onlineto <www.vivarockband.com>.

For reservations and information on theCauley Square Friday Show Nights with“Viva” Classic Rock and Roll call direct to305-258-3543 or The Village Chalet restau-rant at 305-258-8900. Reservations must bemade for the “Viva.”

Cauley Square Historic Railroad Village islocated at 22400 Old Dixie Hwy. (just off US1 at 224th Street). Cauley Square is opendaily seven days a week, however the vil-lage’s shops are closed on Mondays. Entryand parking is free.

For more information, visit online at<www.cauleysquare.com>.

‘Viva’ Classic Rock and RollFridays at Cauley Square



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The non-for-profit organization NeatStuff Inc. is ready to host its first CasinoNight fundraising event on Jan. 29, from 7to 11 p.m., at the newly renovated CoralGables Country Club.

The Casino Night is planned to be a fab-ulous night filled with “Las Vegas” stylefun intended to help raise funds for anorganization that aids South Florida youth.

Neat Stuff was founded in 1995 with themission to provide free new clothing andschool uniforms to abused, neglected,abandoned and other at-risk children. NeatStuff was created by local communitychild advocate Phyllis Krug who identifieda critical need for children involved in thesocial services system.

Today, under the leadership of executivedirector Franklin Monjarrez, the organiza-tion is the only agency of its kind in SouthFlorida serving an average of 8,000 at-riskchildren and distributing over $700,000worth of new clothes, school uniforms andaccessories annually.

The Neat Stuff Casino Night is plannedto be a spectacular affair. Fittingly theupscale, newly renovated Coral GablesCountry Club was chosen for this event.Guests will experience a red carpet wel-come complete with Las Vegas style show-girls, which are sure to set the mood for a“Sin City” inspired event.

After ticketing, guests will receive their“play money” and enter the Coral GrandBallroom and be transported to Las Vegas forone night. If the tables aren’t their

fancy or just taking a break between betsguests are encouraged to take part in the fab-ulous silent and live auction. Music will fillthe air and palates will be pleased as guestssavor delicious hors d’oeuvres throughoutthe evening.

The Neat Stuff Casino Night is sure to be aspectacular event but more importantly it is anevent to bring people together for the welfareof less fortunate children in our community.

Pre-paid tickets to the Neat Stuff CasinoNight are $75 and $100 at the door. Formore information on tickets send email to<[email protected]>.

Neat Stuff setting the stage for fabulous Casino Night

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Palmetto Bay News 1.25.2011

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Transcript of Palmetto Bay News 1.25.2011