south miami news 1.18.2011

JAN. 18 - 24, 2011

BY AMY LIVERGOOD DONNER

Today, January 18th,is Winnie the PoohDay. As a Pooh afi-cionado, when I ranacross this bit of triviaI began casting the RedSunset MerchantsAssociation characters as the inhabi-tants of A.A. Milne’s Hundred AcreWood.

If you know Hans Huseby atFootwork’s, you will agree with me thathe is indeed our very own ChristopherRobin. Like Christopher Robin, heknows the entire woods because he hasbeen here 25 years. Like ChristopherRobin, Hans shows up everyday readyto make the best of it with all the char-acters.

So at the Red Sunset MerchantsAssociation, we count on his wisdomand knowledge of the woods and itscharacters to make things work.

It’s a pity, but about one-third of themerchants in our community couldaudition for the role of Eeyore. Theyare endearing and wonderful, but dolots of complaining. They fire off a fewemails about one thing or another, thengo back to their thistle bushes to searchfor their tails.

Pooh once said, and ChristopherRobin agreed, “You can’t stay in yourcorner of the Forest waiting for othersto come to you. You have to go to themsometimes.” But Eeyore rarely listens.

The Hundred Acre Wood is full ofbees and they keep Pooh away from thehoney. In South Miami, I think themeter maids are like bees. They keepcustomers away from our stores, whichbring in the money, I mean the honey.

–––––– See AMY ON SUNSET, page 7

Amy on Sunset

Ivan wins the 42” TV

Planning Board postponesrezoning for senior projectBY KIMBERLY PORTER

AAdecision to rezone a facity owned piece of prop-erty to construct an eight-story residential buildingwas deferred January 11

by the South Miami Planning Board toJanuary 25.

Carlisle Development Group is seeking achange from current LI-4 zoning for the for-mer auto inspection station at 5890 SW 69th

Street to allow construction of an eight-storybuilding with a maximum height of 100 feet.

Rezoning to MU-5 was jointly requestedby City Commissioners and CarlisleDevelopment Group to meet a city need foraffordable housing by allowing a fixed-rentapartment complex for active seniors to bebuilt on the site. Previously both an inspec-tion station and storage building, it has beenvacant since 2004.

As late as November 2010, planning offi-cials heard a proposal to convert the proper-ty into a community garden. The latest effortto change zoning is caused by Carlisle’sdesire to apply for housing tax credits from

Ivan Mladenovic (center) is the proud

winner of the CommunityNewspapers “Fitness

Together/All Canes” contest, seen with Scott

Baumann (left) of FitnessTogether and Harry

Rothwell (right) of All Canes.

Simply by registering atcommunitynewspapers.com,Ivan was randomly chosento win a 42-inch JVC HDTV.

Congratulations, Ivan!

–––––––––––––––––––– See REZONING, page 3

BY LEE STEPHENS

OO n Saturday, March 5th, SouthMiami Hospital will celebrateits 51st annual Mercury Ball,“Paraiso Brasileiro – A

Celebration of Color Music and Joy,” at theDoral Golf Resort & Spa. Hosted by the SouthMiami Hospital Associates, business and com-munity leaders who serve as goodwill ambassa-dors and fundraisers for the hospital, the black-

tie affair starts at 7 p.m. with a reception andsilent auction, followed by dinner and musicalentertainment by Marty K’s Music Makers.

Chairing this year’s ball is Jim Brennan,along with Sylvia Sanchez Vegas and StevenKang, M.D., as co-chairs.

Proceeds from the Mercury Ball will be usedto renovate and expand South Miami Hospital’semergency center, operating suites and imaging

SSMMHH ttoo cceelleebbrraattee 5511sstt AAnnnnuuaall MMeerrccuurryy BBaallll wwiitthh BBrraazziilliiaann FFllaaiirr

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See MERCURY, page 7

Winnie the Pooh Day

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM January 18 - 25, 2011

South Miaminews

Miller Publishing • Community Newspapers6796 SW 62 Avenue • South Miami, FL 33143

305-669-7355www.communitynewspapers.com

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––PUBLISHER

Grant [email protected]

EXECUTIVE EDITORMichael Miller

[email protected]

CONTRIBUTING EDITORSDavid Berkowitz, Richard Yager

WRITERSRon Beasley, Linda Bernfeld-Rodriguez, Kenneth Bluh,Nancy Eagleton, Robert Hamilton, Yelany Rodriguez,

Gary Alan Ruse, Richard Yager, Lee Stephens

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVESAlbie Barnes, Roberta Bergman, Beatriz Brandfon, Celia Canabate,

Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Amy Donner,Cecile Fanfani, Dianne Maddox, Denzel Miles,

Miller Myers, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Diane Sedona Schiller,Lori Schwadron, Karina Soave, Georgia Tait, Walter White

PROOF DEPARTMENTIsabel Vavrek

GRAPHIC ARTISTSIsabel Ortega, Catalina Roca, Vera Salom, Sergio Yanes

PUBLISHER EMERITUSRon Miller

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––We will not return solicited or unsolicited material including stories, columns and/or photo-

graphs. If you send us anything, please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material.Every issue of the South Miami News is fully copyrighted, and all property rights, including

advertisements, produced by Community Newspapers and Miller Publishing. Using artwork and /ortypography furnished or arranged for/by us is the property of Community Newspapers.

MILLER PUBLISHING AND COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERSare proud to publish the following newspapers:

Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Coral Gables News, Cutler Bay News,Doral Tribune, Homestead News, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach News,

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

Due to the property’s proximity to masstransit, medical centers, food markets andschools, it would be an extremely viable can-didate to win funding, noted Chris Peterson,senior development manager for Carlisle

While concerns were expressed about asudden need to rezone the property, plan-ning and zoning consultant, SanfordYoukilis recommended approval of theapplication “with the condition of a trafficanalysis” by the developer.

Initially, application for state fundingrequired new zoning to be in place and a siteplan approved by the beginning of February,he explained. However, that deadline has nowbeen reset to April 2011, the board learned.

“That really blows me away,” interjectedSharon McCain. “As a South Miami resi-dent, why do I care that they’re going to gettax credits?”

Jorge Cruz, a member of the PlanningBoard, moved to defer voting on the amend-ment until the next planning board meetingJanuary 25, reflecting members’ desire formore time to have specific questionsanswered. The motion passed 5-2.

REZONING, from page 1 ––––––––––

January 18 - 25, 2011 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

Beaux Arts Festival of Art blessed withpicture-perfect weather attracted thousandsof art lovers for organization’s 60th annualevent on University of Miami campus,chaired by Allison Holly and AbbyZananini. That made up for the terribleweather conditions last year as festival-goersenjoyed great art, entertainment and anincredible selection of food. Of several non-profits on hand to raise funds for charity:both the Rotary Club of Coral Gables, sellingBruce Kerestes’ famous chicken wings, andthe Coral Gables Grilling Kiwanians, hawk-ing hamburgers and hot dogs.

GableStage’s new play, the SoutheasternPremiere of “A Round-Heeled Woman,”

received a standing ovation opening nightwith a packed house. Carbonell Award win-ning director, Joe Adler, Producing ArtisticDirector of GableStage, continues to bringquality plays to South Florida and this one isno exception, The play, starring multipleEmmy and Golden Globe winning actress,Sharon Gless (Burn Notice, Queer as Folkand Cagney & Lacey) was hilarious and fear-less in her role. The play which runs throughJanuary 30 highlights Gless as a retiredschool teacher, sexless for 30 years, based ona true story of Jane Juska, written for thestage and directed by Jane Prowse. AsJuska sets about changing her situation, sheplaces a personal ad in the New York Reviewof Books, leading to sexual adventures andemotional entanglements. The great support-ing cast includes Antonio Amadeo, StephenG. Anthony, Howard Elfman, KimOstrenko, and Laura Turnbull.

Performances are Thursday, Friday,Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. and 7p.m. Tickets range from $37.50 to $47.50.Subscriptions offer six plays for $200. For

more information, visit www.GableStage.org.GableStage is located at The Biltmore Hotel,1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables.

Congratulations to the 2010-2011 JuniorOrange Bowl Creative Writing Contest win-ners: Elizabethh Lleonart, St. Timothy ParishSchool, first place; Javier Guerrero, alsofrom St. Timothy, second; and ShoshyCiment, Rabbi Alexander S. Gross HebrewAcademy, third. Contest theme for the 23rdannual contest was “Why Respect For OthersMatters.” The South Florida WritersAssociation is one of several sponsors of thecontest open to all eighth grade middle-schoolstudents in Miami-Dade County. First, sec-ond, and third place student winners read win-ning essays January 8 at Books & Books inCoral Gables. Among many enjoying andhelping with the event were JOBC CreativeWriting Chair Connie Goodman-Milon andthe JOB Queen and Court. Teachers, friends,family and JOBC members were among themany enjoying the program and refreshments,including Ms. Esther Reyes, teacher of thetop winners at St. Timothy Parish School.

Until next time, keep making each daycount.

If you would like to submit information forthis column, please send your news via e-mail to [email protected].

Beaux Arts Festival of Art attracted thousands

GLORIA’S GAB

Gloria Burns Setting up for

Rotary booth at

Beaux Art Festival

are Gables

Rotarians John

Wallace and

Yolanda

Woodbridge with

5th grade volunteer

from Miami

Christian School,

Allison Bean.

Enjoying a chat at GableStage’s party after the Opening

Night performance are actors Sharon Gless and

Stephen Anthony.

From left to right at Junior Orange Bowl Creative Writing event at Books & Books seen here are Chair ConnieGoodman-Milone, Princess Sloane Rice, 2nd Place winner Javier Guerrero, Winning Teacher Esther Reyes, 1stPlace Winner Elizabeth Lleonart, Queen Leia Schwartz, and Princess Valerie Katz. Ms. Reyes is the teacher of both1st and 2nd place winners at St. Timothy Parish School.


NOW OFFERINGPRIMAL RAW.

SINGLE SOURCERAW DIETS AND

TREATS

Open 7 Days a Week

Could you use a Total Body & Image Makeover?

Fitness Together Miami is looking for winners for the

Winners will receive 8 weeks of private personal trainingand nutritional programming at our private training studios

in South Miami and Coconut Grove.

Winners will also receive a Style Makeover,compliments of KR Personal Style,a brand new outfit and accessories

(compliments of Emporium, The Dressing Room and Unika),and a Haircut and Style

(compliments of Jill McAllister at Hair Review).

How about for FREE?

To enter and to learn more, go to:

http://fitnesstogether.com/coconutgrove/resolutionmakeover

2011 RESOLUTION MAKEOVER CONTEST!We will select 2 adults (one male and one female)

and 2 teenagers (one male and one female).

BY DAVID PEARSON

Across the street from the cleanerswhere Raphael and his two sons RaphaelJr. and Marlon are serving neighborhoodcustomers on a busy Saturday morning,behind the historic Doc Thomas house in adense upland forest, you can hear a pine-needle drop.

There, under a chickee of palm fronds ona pinewood floor, Suzen Gerrish, the yogaguide, rhythmically leads us throughancient yoga postures in the tradition ofTantra Hatha Yoga. “It is a form of theancient practice which reflects the humanform and spiritual form as one,” sheexplains.

And indeed this tranquil oasis in themiddle of bustling South Miami is a perfectmetaphor for the way Yoga finds a quietplace inside our busy lives – a place wherewe can be at peace even when our dailypressures are the most intense.

Gerrish, a brunette with a warm smileand a Master’s in Spiritual Psychology,recently brought her Yoga classes toTropical Audubon Society’s home at theDoc Thomas House, on Sunset Road justeast of Red Road. Audubon’s Executive

Director Laura Reynolds was seeking aYoga instructor when she met Gerrish, intu-iting that the outdoor chickee would be the

ideal spot for such a meditative practice.In my case, my physician, Dr. Leonard

Zwerling of South Miami Heart

Specialists, had advised me to take up yogaand meditation as a way of lowering myblood presssure. “You already play tennis,don’t drink or smoke, and eat reasonably,”Zwerling told me, “so other than medica-tion, the logical thing for you is meditationand yoga.”

I read about Gerrish’s new Yoga pro-gram in Tropical Audubon’s monthlymembers’ newsletter. It only took one ses-sion to make a believer of me.

I now go twice a week, my blood pres-sure’s down, and my spirits are up.

My fellow practicioners range fromteenagers to mothers to grandfathers.Gerrish gives her personal attention toeach one of us, and tailors our movesaccordingly.

Classes are held Monday throughSaturday from 9 to 10:30 am, and onTuesday evenings from 6 to 7:30 pm. Costis $1 per session, reservations not necessary.

For more information on this program, visitwww.tropicalaudubon.org/TASYoga.pdf orcontact Suzen at 305.333.4703

David Pearson is a public relations con-sultant and a longtime member of TropicalAudubon.

Tropical Yoga in ‘Downtown’ South Miami

Suzen Gerrish, the yoga guide, rhythmically leads us through ancient yoga postures in the tradition of Tantra

Hatha Yoga.

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



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?

We have served the Miami community for over 28 years,Call us to schedule an appointment, at:

(305) 667-87685609 South West 74th Street, South Miami

For more about this extraordinary family of tailors, visit:

www.johnthetailor.net

CUSTOM SUITS • EXPERT ALTERATIONSCUSTOM SUITS • EXPERT ALTERATIONS



At John the Tailor our mission statement is“to produce high quality men’s custom suits

and shirts that fit as close to perfect the very first time.Also, we know how important alterations are to you,and we offer the best alterations Miami has to offer.”

South Miami Farmer’s Market

to have grand opening on Jan. 22The Grand Opening of a weekly South Miami Farmer’s Market is scheduled in front

of South Miami City Hall, Saturday, January 22 at 9 a.m.Fresh native produce grown on local family farms, featuring organic and sustainably-

grown tropical fruits and vegetables, will be featured along with prepared foods, productsand practices for sustainable living.

The market will be open for five hours until 2 p.m. at 6130 Sunset Drive, just one blockwest of US1. Music, a yoga workshop, artisan crafts and special entertainment to keepyoungsters busy will add extra spice to the event.

For details, visit www.southmiamifarmersmarket.com or [email protected].

But there is hope. When Pooh needsanswers to the most difficult questions, helooks for Owl. Without a doubt, our Owlis Mayor Stoddard. We have never beenserved by such a smart, straight-forwardleader. Most recently, our Owl broughtnew parking meters to the woods, whichcould keep away some bees, which mightmake getting to the honey a little easier.

For some real organic honey, stop bythe South Miami Farmers Market. It isopen every Saturday in front of CityHall. When you are there say hello toour very own Rabbit, David Harper. Heis serious about turning as many peopleas possible into locavores, which meansnot just eating organic, but local andorganic. Thank you Rabbit for what

you bring to the woods.The Heffalump of the Red Sunset

Merchants Association is our website,www.shopsouthmiami.com. Like aHeffalump you can’t find it, but believeme its coming.

Perhaps you will dust off your copy ofWhen We Were Six and send me TheHundred Acre Woods as you see it.

For now, just remember “You arebraver than you believe, stronger thanyou seem, and smarter than you think.”

— Winnie the Pooh

Amy Livergood Donner is thePresident of The Red Sunset MerchantsAssociation, a 90 member not-for-profitbusiness association with a mission tofoster the economic interest of the areaaround Red Road and Sunset Drive. Amycan be reached at [email protected].

AMY ON SUNSET, from page 1

center. The two-story 84,000 square footclinical expansion project will include anew emergency center with 28 treatmentrooms, one trauma room, and a 12-bedClinical Decision Unit. The second floorwill have 12 state-of-the-art operatingsuites (with room for four more), 36 pre-and post-procedure rooms and a newcentral sterile processing area.

Additionally, the project will includeimaging enhancements such as a new CTscanner and an administrative supportarea for Radiation Oncology.

Noted oncological surgeon RicardoEstape, M.D., will be honored as Personof the Year, for his many contributions tothe hospital, the community and thehealthcare field. The event will hostmore than 500 guests, including top

executives from leading corporationsand community leaders.

Tables of 10 at $4,000, $5,000 and$7,000 are available, in addition to indi-vidual seats at $450. Corporate sponsor-ships and underwriting opportunities arealso available.

South Miami Hospital is part of BaptistHealth, the region’s largest faith-based,not-for-profit healthcare organization.With more than 13,000 employees,Baptist Health is the area’s largest privateemployer. It also includes Baptist, BaptistChildren’s, Doctors, Homestead andMariners Hospitals, as well as BaptistCardiac & Vascular Institute, BaptistOutpatient Services and Baptist HealthEnterprises. Baptist Health Foundation,the organization’s fundraising arm, sup-ports services at all hospitals and facilitiesaffiliated with Baptist Health.

For information, call 786-596-6535 oremail to [email protected].

MERCURY, from page 1 –––––––––––––


SAME DAYDELIVERY AVAILABLEWe’ll help you find the perfect

arrangement or gift.

• Flowers

• Birthdays

• Balloons

• Plants

• Wedding

• Anniversaries

• Gift Baskets• Sympathy

(we deliver to funeral homes & hospitals)

Hirni’s Wayside Gardens Florist9950 SW 57th Avenue • Pinecrest, FL 33156305.661.6266 • www.hirnisflorist.com

Monday thru Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm

q a i

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


“The Sharpest Fleet in Town”WE CAN HANDLE ALL OF YOUR NEEDS

��

(305)-235-8333 • www.onetwotree.com��

Smoking CessationLaser Treatment

25% OFF

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY9420 SW 77 Avenue, Suite 101

Miami, FL 33156Phone: 305.412.0011

Fax: 305.412.3837

Call NOW for your complimentary consultation!

“Break Away from nicotineaddiction Today!”

BROWARD COUNTY12555 Orange Drive, Suite 115

Davie, FL 33330Phone: 305.412.0011

Fax: 305.412.3837

LIMITED TIME OFFER!*Offer expires 01/31/2011.

We have the most advanced kindof Laser Therapy equipment& training available today!

STOP SMOKING AWAY YOUR LIFEREGAIN YOUR HEALTH AND SAVE THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS

*

We provide our clients Laser Treatments that are safe, short, painless and very effective.Besides our Nº 1 Treatment SMOKING CESSATION, we also offer Laser Light Healing Therapies

that reduce pain and stress while promoting general relief and well-being.

for more information, go to: www.miamilasertherapy.com


Professional Pet Sitting ServicesDaily Dog Walking Pet Taxi And More!

Whenn itt comess too thee safetyy andd welll beingg ofyourr pets,, experiencee counts.. Sincee 2002.

All sitters have a back up sitter • Bonded and Insured • References • Since 2002

www.danceswithdogs.com • 305.256.8709

Margot Siegel, 87, still fashioning a busy lifeBY RICHARD YAGER

The holidays this past December werespecial for Margot Siegel.

With family living nearby and Art Baselto visit earlier in the month, life couldhardly be better for this 87-year-old formerMinnesotan, now a fulltime resident at ThePalace in Kendall.

Known for her world-class art collec-tion, she decided to create a mini-gallery ofher own in twin accommodations at thecommunity residence where she has livedduring frigid Twin Cities’ winters the past10 years.

Becoming a Kendall resident the year-around actually began 11 years ago on atrip to visit her daughter, Sandra, wife ofDouglas Gluck, for a family birthday.Suffering a sudden stroke, she was treatedat Baptist Hospital and later took up tem-porary quarters at The Palace beforereturning to her Minneapolis apartment.

Now, a decade later, after splitting sum-mers in Minneapolis and winters inKendall, The Palace has become a year-around home for this lively lady whosecolorful life includes so many facets shethinks, “it’s really become time to write mymemoirs.

“I think a lady in England has beaten meto the kind of book I had in mind about liv-ing in an adult community,” she mused.“But that’s all right, I have some differentideas of my own.”

If so, they might well begin with a life-long fascination — “combining the worldsof fashion and art.” That describes Siegel’spredominant interest as a collector of suchworld-renowned artists as Andy Warholand Robert Rauschenberg whose famedmammoth “pop art” canvas dubbed“Flying Bacon” once decorated a lobbyceiling at Miami International Airport.

Donating much of her fashion col-lection to the famed GoldsteinMuseum of Design at the Universityof Minnesota, she now enjoys show-ing guests favored art pieces shesaved for her Florida home.

A career woman before the 1970sfeminist movement, she became aneditor and international correspon-dent for Women’s Wear Daily afterWorld War II, and later served as apublic relations director for WalkerArt Center in Minneapolis, next-doorneighbor to her high-rise apartmentwhere she continued writing for theMinneapolis Star-Tribune and as thearts and fashion columnist of SkywayNews, a downtown newspaper.

Her love of fashion includedamassing an eclectic mix of acces-sories and wardrobe items that havebecome period collectibles, from aStephen Sprouse design of a LouisVuitton handbag to an early Warholsketch of a high-heeled shoe.

This priceless treasure trove offashion fascinated curators of theGoldstein Museum when viewingpotential acquisitions from the Siegel col-lection that include a Takashi Murakamidesign with a Vuitton “Cherries” coinpurse.

“Maybe you should take the quartersout,” she quipped to the museum’scurators.

Hardly your typical retiree, Siegelrecently co-lectured on art with aUniversity of Miami professor and vows tocontinue her writing career, if only torecapture historical moments like her nosefor news detected before the 1988 SummerOlympic Games in Seoul.

“I was on freelance assignment at thetime, writing advance pieces at the invita-

tion of the government,” Siegelrecalled. “But the real story that Isaw was the infiltration of NorthKoreans into South Korea. No onewould believe me and that storynever got published inMinneapolis.”

Does being not-your-typicalcareer woman still have appeal?

“Well, I always wanted tomake something of myselfbefore settling down and marry-ing,” she laughed. “I suppose Icould have great-grandchildrenby now but I married late andnever regretted it. However, Ihave two fine grandsons, 16-year-old twins, both of them get-ting ready to go to college.”

Added this not-so-typicalretiree of The Palace in Kendall:“You know, there’s always some-thing to live for.”

–––––––––––––––––––––––––

Margot Siegel is a collectorof fashion and art.


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

FREE "Soft Close" undermount drawers with your kitchen purchase!AAlll ccaabbiinneetts aarre mmaadde iin oouur ffaaccttoorry iin tthhe UUSSAA. These are not foreign

imports. Granite and Quartz counter tops manufactured in House!

We design and install kitchen and bathroomcabinetry.

Call for a free in-home estimate or visitour showroom.

Satisfaction Guaranteed!

Many models, sizes and colors for any decor.

Come visit our showroom!!

We only use environmentally friendly, water-based finishesby Sherwin-Williams.

50 standard colors to choose from, not to mention customcolors and glazes that we make upon request. Hundreds of

door styles to choose from.

Hundreds of decorative options available like island legs,corbels, onlays and appliques.

2323 NW 72nd Avenue - Miami, FL 33122 • 305-716-0077 • www.durablewoodworks.net

It’s Not Fast Food.It’s Healthy Food!

12305 S.W. 137th Ave. (In the London Square Mall)

(305) 235-5335

CAJUN SPICED

BARBECUED

PLEASE CALL 20 MINUTES PRIOR TO PICK-UP

��

January 18 - 25, 2011 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM Page 35


CLEAN AND HEALTHY ENVIRONMENTPROFESSIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY

TO RELEASE YOUR STRESS$38 AND UP*

$5 OFF

GRANDOPENING!!!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK9:30AM TO 11:00PM

HOMES • HOTELS • OFFICES

gives you a different feeling

2281 SW 27TH AVE. • MIAMI, FLA TEL: 786.360.588715801 S. DIXIE HWY. • PALMETTO BAY, FLA TEL: 305.278.0818

10021 SW 40 STREET (BIRD RD) • MIAMI, FLA TEL: 305.225.3297


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.

Under the hood the S60 is powered by a

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’

LET’S TALK CARS

Ron Beasley

2011 Volvo S60 has a slim roofline and a dramatically shaped grille flanked by V-shaped position lights anda large Volvo iron mark.

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


• Prescription Delivery

• 24 Hr Emergency Oxygen

• Breast Pump Rental

any prescription purchasewhen you transfer yourprescriptions to Allen’s Drugs

$20 OFF*

One time with this coupon

You have better things to do than towait in line for your prescriptions.

• We rent, sell and service

Wheelchairs, and Lift Chairs

We accept most insurances including Medicare and Medicaid

ON THE CORNER OF RED & BIRD • (305) 666-8581

Allen’s Drug Store...60 years and STILL

on the cornerof Red and Bird!

1950

Today

Allen’s Drug Store...60 years and STILL

on the cornerof Red and Bird!

UP TO

See us online at:www.communitynewspapers.com

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.

Conchita Espinosa Academy

Applications are now available for the K-4 through 8th grade 2011-2012 academic year.

Bringing out the extraordinary in every child

Fri. Jan. 28th & Sat. Jan. 29th, Sun. Jan. 30th1560 South Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables, FL 33146(305) 666-2078 • www.areastagecompany.com

at the RIVIERA THEATERpresents


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


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

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––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Page 24 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM January 18 - 25, 2011

�� !��"��

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.


Hector Wiltz Jr., M.D.DIPLOMATE, AMERICAN BOARD OF DERMATOLOGY

Eric W. Bussear, MPH, PA-CDERMATOLOGY-DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY

WE OFFER:• GENERAL DERMATOLOGY &

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY

• SKIN CANCER SCREENING & TREATMENT

• CLINICAL RESEARCH

• CHEMICAL PEELS

• RESTYLANE

• BOTOX

• JUVEDERM

• RADIESSE

• SKIN CARE PRODUCTS FROM

LA ROCHE POSAY, AVENE, & NEOCUTIS

BUY FIRSTDERMAL FILLER AT

REGULAR PRICE,RECEIVE ADDITIONAL AT

25% OFFOFFER VALID AT ANY OF OUR LOCATIONS.

EXPIRES 01-30-11.

20% OFFOF ANY

BOTOX PROCEDURE

OFFER VALID AT ANY OF OUR LOCATIONS. EX-PIRES 01-30-11.

BUY $150 IN PRODUCTS

AND RECEIVE A

FREEFACIAL PEEL

OFFER VALID AT ANY OF OUR LOCATIONS. EX-PIRES 01-30-11.

WE ACCEPT MEDICAID, MEDICAREAND MOST INSURANCE PLANS

SE HABLA ESPAÑOL

11760 BIRD RD. | STE 451MIAMI, FL 33175(305) 227-9233

7400 N. KENDALL DR. | STE 411MIAMI, FL 33156T: 305.670.017

151 NW 11 ST. | STE W201HOMESTEAD, FL 33030

T: 305.245.1332


Free-Standing Corall Gables office building withUS-1 frontage!! FOR SALE OR LEASE!706 S Dixie Hwy. 2 Story, 10 parking spaces, over2,700sf, new roof, asking $849,000. Lease Top floor-1,350sf – 4 offices, conference room, receptionarea, Offered at $2,300/mo. Bottom unit – 650sf – 2offices, secretary station, Offered at $1,350/mo.

550 S. Dixie Highway • Coral Gables, FL 33146

CHRISTINE STIPHANY, CRS REALTORESSLINGER WOOTEN MAXWELL, INC.

ACCREDITED LUXURY HOME SPECIALISTCHAIRMAN’S CLUB

TEXT “EWMhome” TO 59559 FOR INFO ON ANY HOME!

305.903.8845

Little Gables Gem!....................... 4521 SW 15 Street3/2 Split plan with huge master suite, over 1,700 sq fton 7.500sf lot. Walk to San Jacinto Park! Light andcheery! Move-in condition. Offered at $399,000

9471 SW 97 Street….................................Baptist AreaTennis Acre on Cul-de-sac, Street to street propertywith 5 Bdrms + office and bonus rooms, 3.5 baths, 2 cargarage, over 4,600 SF, remodeled kitchen, heated pool& screened patio. Quality construction! 80% financingavailable! Offered at $997,000 M14181950

143 Morningside Drive………..…………Coral GablesESTATE SALE!! Steps from Coconut Grove!! Great floorplan, 4/3 with 2car garage, screened pool/patio, newroof, 2800sq ft on 10,400sq ft lot. Reduced at $659,000

12929 SW 60 Ave….....................................….PinecrestPinecrest Elementary!! Great Price!! New Roof!!Fireplace, 3/2 with 2car garage, screened patio, over2,300sq ft on builder’s acre, beautiful trees! $675,000.

240 Majorca Ave..................................... Coral Gables“Picture Perfect” 2/2 TH w/two parking spaces, Cornerunit. Totally remodeled…..feels like a home!REDUCED $300,000 M1378565

7272 SW 53 Ave.......................High Pines Charmer3 Bedrooms plus office/studio 2 Bathrooms.. over2300 square feet.. Updated Wood Floors.. HugeFamily room,Gourmet Kitchen.., Beautiful pool inlushly landscaped backyard. $699,000 D1414532

2800 Alhambra Circle.........................…Coral GablesTENANTS DREAM HOME - Gated MediterraneanPalazzo near Biltmore Hotel. 6 Bdrms + Office, 7.5Baths, 2car gar + auto courtyard, elevator, resortstyle pool. Offered at $14,500/mo.

WWW.MIAMISPECIALHOMES.COM • EMAIL: [email protected]

UNDER CONTRACT

9245 SW 78 Ct....Gated PepperwoodNear Dadeland3 Bdrm, 2.5 Baths, 2 car garage, screenedpatio. Community tennis court & pool. Sellerwants offers! Reduced $359,000 M1316676

TARA TOWNHOUSE! 7870 SW 89 Lane...Near DadelandEstate Sale! Soaring ceilings! Over 2,500 sq ft,2 master bdrms, office, 3 full baths, huge wrap arounddeck, 1 car garage. Offered at: $475,000.

NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART 10 ACRE CAMPUS FOR GRADES 6 THROUGH 12RIVIERA DAY SCHOOL 6800 Nervia Street, Coral Gables, FL 33146 I RIVIERA PREPARATORY SCHOOL 9775 SW 87 Avenue, Miami, FL 33176

305.666.1856 I www.rivieraschools.com I Accredited by AISF, SACS, AI, NCPSA

CONTACT US NOW FOR AN ADMISSIONS VISIT(PRESCHOOL TO 12TH GRADE)

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.

THE ORIGINAL LOTS OF LOX• Catering Available • Dine In or Take Out •

14995 South Dixie Hwy.Tel: 305-252-2010 • Fax: 305-232-7560

BREAKFAST SPECIAL$6.45

MON. THRU FRI. 7AM TO 11AM

NEW HOURSOpen Monday thru Friday 7:00 AM - 9:00 PMDinner Specials from 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Saturday and Sunday 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

HOLIDAY CATERING AVAILABLE


THE ORIGINAL LOTS OF LOX• Catering Available • Dine In or Take Out •

14995 South Dixie Hwy.Tel: 305-252-2010 • Fax: 305-232-7560

BREAKFAST SPECIAL$6.45

MON. THRU FRI. 7AM TO 11AM

NEW HOURSOpen Monday thru Friday 7:00 AM - 9:00 PMDinner Specials from 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM

Saturday and Sunday 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM

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–––––––––––––––––––––

• Bankruptcy • Loan Modification •

• Foreclosure Defense • Real Estate Closings •

• Debt Relief Agency •

Se Habla Español305-285-0340

633 N. Krome Avenue • Homestead, FL 33030

0124RB

1231MM

0412RB

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

0214DS

0228DS

0308RB

1215KS

Page 46

H

0RB

0131DKM

0308HP

H

January 18 - 24, 2011

H

0324RB

HH

0331GT

0228SC


013111DKM

0118SC

0118SC

0125SC

Page 47

0224SC

0208AD

0411DS

0202SC

0214RB

SERVICESHELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

TUTORING SERVICESSubject Areas Taught:

SAT Prep (math), ACT Prep (math), GRE Prep(math), Algebra I & II, Geometry, Calculus,

Statistics, Physics, College Physics, Chemistry,Organizational Skill, Memory, Technical Writing

15 Years ExperienceShane Smoleny786-367-6713

S

0125RB

0208RB

Hospitals & InsuranceCompanies Now Hiring

NNoo EExxppeerriieennccee??

Local Job Training!

Placement AssistanceIs Now Available!

1-888-528-5549

MEDICAL BILLINGTRAINEES

NEEDED!

0131GT

0620RB

COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

SERVICES

SERVICES

0208GT

SERVICES

SERVICESSERVICESREAL ESTATEREAL ESTATEREAL ESTATE

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED

Page 41

HELP WANTEDHELP WANTED

SERVICES

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED HELP WANTEDHELP WANTED HELP WANTED

SERVICES

SERVICES

1228DKM

0228DS

January 18 - 24, 2011

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

0222GT

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]

0330GT

0208GT

0208GT 0208GT

0208RB

SERVICES

ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFETWHERE YOU CAN EAT HEALTHY the best & freshest sushi in town!

Fine Japanese & Asian Cuisine, Sushi, Seafood & Hibachi Grill

8800 S.W. 72ND ST. MIAMI, FLORIDA 33173 • TEL: (305) 275-8801 • FAX: (305) 275-1249

PR

ICE

S

$16.95 (Mon-Thur)

$18.95 (Fri-Sun)

$8.95 (Kids 10 & under)

FREE (Kids 3 & under)

DINNER$10.95 (Mon-Fri)

$11.95 (Sat-Sun)

$6.95 (Kids 10 & under)

FREE (Kids 3 & under)

LUNCH

S U S H I , S E A F O O D & G R I L L

Same Elegant Buffet Feast Featuring

F R E S H , J U M B O A L A S K A N S N O W C R A B L E G SLEAVE THE COOKING TO US

COME AND VISIT MAMA LINDA!!!Senior Citizens 60 + $2.00 OFF DINNER

Opening Hour: Lunch 11:30am-3:30pmDinner 5:00pm-10pm (Mon-Thu) 5:00-10:30pm (Fri-Sun)

We offer an independent agency solution representing many leading insurers including but not limited to:

SAME NAME SAME LOCATION

SAME DEDICATED SERVICE

Please contact us at:Phone: 305-446-2271• Fax: 305-448-3127

Toll Free: 1-877-275-1180 • www.Kahn-Carlin.com3350 South Dixie Highway

Auto • Health • Business • Home • Life • Disability

The agency that does more for you... Your Business, Your Family, Your Life... We're here

• Responsive Customer Service • Reliable Professional Staff• Risk Management Services

• Competitive Pricing & Payment Options

www.communitynewspapers.com

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



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.

BBQ Chicken is more than just barbecue

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.


OFF PERGALLONOF GASWITH ANY CAR WASH!

QUALITY SERVICE

OPEN7 DAYS10AM - 6PM

6TH CARWASH FREEW/PURCHASE OFREGULAR WASH

FREE 7 POINTINSPECTION!• COOLANT• WINDSHIELD WIPER• WINDSHIELD FLUID• TIRE PRESSURE• BRAKE FLUID• BELTS - OIL

20¢LOCATED BEHIND

SUNNILAND CITGO12001 S. DIXIE HWY • MIAMI, FL 33156

& DETAILING


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.

COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTER

Take Control of Your Life!Counseling for Children & AdultsAlcohol & Drug Rehab ProgramsMental Health IssuesOutstanding Professional Clinical StaffTransportation Services Available

��

Our therapists speak English and Spanish.Call to schedule a confidential assessment.

Sunset Center10300 Sunset Drive, Building 200, Suite 207305-412-0138 • morningstar.blinkweb.comMon - Fri: 9am - 8pm • Sat & Sun: 9am-3pm

MORNING STAR

Cost of services are covered by:Medicare, Private Insurance & Self-Payment. Sliding Scale Available.

#593776-9

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

Could you use a Total Body & Image Makeover?

Fitness Together Miami is looking for winners for the

Winners will receive 8 weeks of private personal trainingand nutritional programming at our private training studios

in South Miami and Coconut Grove.

Winners will also receive a Style Makeover,compliments of KR Personal Style,a brand new outfit and accessories

(compliments of Emporium, The Dressing Room and Unika),and a Haircut and Style

(compliments of Jill McAllister at Hair Review).

How about for FREE?

To enter and to learn more, go to:

http://fitnesstogether.com/coconutgrove/resolutionmakeover

2011 RESOLUTION MAKEOVER CONTEST!We will select 2 adults (one male and one female)

and 2 teenagers (one male and one female).

BY DAVID PEARSON

Across the street from the cleanerswhere Raphael and his two sons RaphaelJr. and Marlon are serving neighborhoodcustomers on a busy Saturday morning,behind the historic Doc Thomas house in adense upland forest, you can hear a pine-needle drop.

There, under a chickee of palm fronds ona pinewood floor, Suzen Gerrish, the yogaguide, rhythmically leads us throughancient yoga postures in the tradition ofTantra Hatha Yoga. “It is a form of theancient practice which reflects the humanform and spiritual form as one,” sheexplains.

And indeed this tranquil oasis in themiddle of bustling South Miami is a perfectmetaphor for the way Yoga finds a quietplace inside our busy lives – a place wherewe can be at peace even when our dailypressures are the most intense.

Gerrish, a brunette with a warm smileand a Master’s in Spiritual Psychology,recently brought her Yoga classes toTropical Audubon Society’s home at theDoc Thomas House, on Sunset Road justeast of Red Road. Audubon’s Executive

Director Laura Reynolds was seeking aYoga instructor when she met Gerrish, intu-iting that the outdoor chickee would be the

ideal spot for such a meditative practice.In my case, my physician, Dr. Leonard

Zwerling of South Miami Heart

Specialists, had advised me to take up yogaand meditation as a way of lowering myblood presssure. “You already play tennis,don’t drink or smoke, and eat reasonably,”Zwerling told me, “so other than medica-tion, the logical thing for you is meditationand yoga.”

I read about Gerrish’s new Yoga pro-gram in Tropical Audubon’s monthlymembers’ newsletter. It only took one ses-sion to make a believer of me.

I now go twice a week, my blood pres-sure’s down, and my spirits are up.

My fellow practicioners range fromteenagers to mothers to grandfathers.Gerrish gives her personal attention toeach one of us, and tailors our movesaccordingly.

Classes are held Monday throughSaturday from 9 to 10:30 am, and onTuesday evenings from 6 to 7:30 pm. Costis $1 per session, reservations not necessary.

For more information on this program, visitwww.tropicalaudubon.org/TASYoga.pdf orcontact Suzen at 305.333.4703

David Pearson is a public relations con-sultant and a longtime member of TropicalAudubon.

Tropical Yoga in ‘Downtown’ South Miami

Suzen Gerrish, the yoga guide, rhythmically leads us through ancient yoga postures in the tradition of Tantra

Hatha Yoga.

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


South Miaminews

Miller Publishing • Community Newspapers6796 SW 62 Avenue • South Miami, FL 33143

305-669-7355www.communitynewspapers.com

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––PUBLISHER

Grant [email protected]

EXECUTIVE EDITORMichael Miller

[email protected]

CONTRIBUTING EDITORSDavid Berkowitz, Richard Yager

WRITERSRon Beasley, Linda Bernfeld-Rodriguez, Kenneth Bluh,Nancy Eagleton, Robert Hamilton, Yelany Rodriguez,

Gary Alan Ruse, Richard Yager, Lee Stephens

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVESAlbie Barnes, Roberta Bergman, Beatriz Brandfon, Celia Canabate,

Diane Chasin, Henry Chau, Sharon Christian, Amy Donner,Cecile Fanfani, Dianne Maddox, Denzel Miles,

Miller Myers, Ann Robbins-Udel, Fara Sax, Diane Sedona Schiller,Lori Schwadron, Karina Soave, Georgia Tait, Walter White

PROOF DEPARTMENTIsabel Vavrek

GRAPHIC ARTISTSIsabel Ortega, Catalina Roca, Vera Salom, Sergio Yanes

PUBLISHER EMERITUSRon Miller

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––We will not return solicited or unsolicited material including stories, columns and/or photo-

graphs. If you send us anything, please make sure that you have duplicate copies of the material.Every issue of the South Miami News is fully copyrighted, and all property rights, including

advertisements, produced by Community Newspapers and Miller Publishing. Using artwork and /ortypography furnished or arranged for/by us is the property of Community Newspapers.

MILLER PUBLISHING AND COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERSare proud to publish the following newspapers:

Aventura News, Biscayne Bay Tribune, Coral Gables News, Cutler Bay News,Doral Tribune, Homestead News, Kendall Gazette, Miami Beach News,

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

Due to the property’s proximity to masstransit, medical centers, food markets andschools, it would be an extremely viable can-didate to win funding, noted Chris Peterson,senior development manager for Carlisle

While concerns were expressed about asudden need to rezone the property, plan-ning and zoning consultant, SanfordYoukilis recommended approval of theapplication “with the condition of a trafficanalysis” by the developer.

Initially, application for state fundingrequired new zoning to be in place and a siteplan approved by the beginning of February,he explained. However, that deadline has nowbeen reset to April 2011, the board learned.

“That really blows me away,” interjectedSharon McCain. “As a South Miami resi-dent, why do I care that they’re going to gettax credits?”

Jorge Cruz, a member of the PlanningBoard, moved to defer voting on the amend-ment until the next planning board meetingJanuary 25, reflecting members’ desire formore time to have specific questionsanswered. The motion passed 5-2.

REZONING, from page 1 ––––––––––



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?

We have served the Miami community for over 28 years,Call us to schedule an appointment, at:

(305) 667-87685609 South West 74th Street, South Miami



CUSTOM SUITS • EXPERT ALTERATIONSCUSTOM SUITS • EXPERT ALTERATIONS



At John the Tailor our mission statement is“to produce high quality men’s custom suits

and shirts that fit as close to perfect the very first time.Also, we know how important alterations are to you,and we offer the best alterations Miami has to offer.”

South Miami Farmer’s Market

to have grand opening on Jan. 22The Grand Opening of a weekly South Miami Farmer’s Market is scheduled in front

of South Miami City Hall, Saturday, January 22 at 9 a.m.Fresh native produce grown on local family farms, featuring organic and sustainably-

grown tropical fruits and vegetables, will be featured along with prepared foods, productsand practices for sustainable living.

The market will be open for five hours until 2 p.m. at 6130 Sunset Drive, just one blockwest of US1. Music, a yoga workshop, artisan crafts and special entertainment to keepyoungsters busy will add extra spice to the event.

For details, visit www.southmiamifarmersmarket.com or [email protected].

But there is hope. When Pooh needsanswers to the most difficult questions, helooks for Owl. Without a doubt, our Owlis Mayor Stoddard. We have never beenserved by such a smart, straight-forwardleader. Most recently, our Owl broughtnew parking meters to the woods, whichcould keep away some bees, which mightmake getting to the honey a little easier.

For some real organic honey, stop bythe South Miami Farmers Market. It isopen every Saturday in front of CityHall. When you are there say hello toour very own Rabbit, David Harper. Heis serious about turning as many peopleas possible into locavores, which meansnot just eating organic, but local andorganic. Thank you Rabbit for what

you bring to the woods.The Heffalump of the Red Sunset

Merchants Association is our website,www.shopsouthmiami.com. Like aHeffalump you can’t find it, but believeme its coming.

Perhaps you will dust off your copy ofWhen We Were Six and send me TheHundred Acre Woods as you see it.

For now, just remember “You arebraver than you believe, stronger thanyou seem, and smarter than you think.”

— Winnie the Pooh

Amy Livergood Donner is thePresident of The Red Sunset MerchantsAssociation, a 90 member not-for-profitbusiness association with a mission tofoster the economic interest of the areaaround Red Road and Sunset Drive. Amycan be reached at [email protected].

AMY ON SUNSET, from page 1

center. The two-story 84,000 square footclinical expansion project will include anew emergency center with 28 treatmentrooms, one trauma room, and a 12-bedClinical Decision Unit. The second floorwill have 12 state-of-the-art operatingsuites (with room for four more), 36 pre-and post-procedure rooms and a newcentral sterile processing area.

Additionally, the project will includeimaging enhancements such as a new CTscanner and an administrative supportarea for Radiation Oncology.

Noted oncological surgeon RicardoEstape, M.D., will be honored as Personof the Year, for his many contributions tothe hospital, the community and thehealthcare field. The event will hostmore than 500 guests, including top

executives from leading corporationsand community leaders.

Tables of 10 at $4,000, $5,000 and$7,000 are available, in addition to indi-vidual seats at $450. Corporate sponsor-ships and underwriting opportunities arealso available.

South Miami Hospital is part of BaptistHealth, the region’s largest faith-based,not-for-profit healthcare organization.With more than 13,000 employees,Baptist Health is the area’s largest privateemployer. It also includes Baptist, BaptistChildren’s, Doctors, Homestead andMariners Hospitals, as well as BaptistCardiac & Vascular Institute, BaptistOutpatient Services and Baptist HealthEnterprises. Baptist Health Foundation,the organization’s fundraising arm, sup-ports services at all hospitals and facilitiesaffiliated with Baptist Health.

For information, call 786-596-6535 oremail to [email protected].

MERCURY, from page 1 –––––––––––––



Professional Pet Sitting ServicesDaily Dog Walking Pet Taxi And More!

Whenn itt comess too thee safetyy andd welll beingg ofyourr pets,, experiencee counts.. Sincee 2002.

All sitters have a back up sitter • Bonded and Insured • References • Since 2002

www.danceswithdogs.com • 305.256.8709

Margot Siegel, 87, still fashioning a busy lifeBY RICHARD YAGER

The holidays this past December werespecial for Margot Siegel.

With family living nearby and Art Baselto visit earlier in the month, life couldhardly be better for this 87-year-old formerMinnesotan, now a fulltime resident at ThePalace in Kendall.

Known for her world-class art collec-tion, she decided to create a mini-gallery ofher own in twin accommodations at thecommunity residence where she has livedduring frigid Twin Cities’ winters the past10 years.

Becoming a Kendall resident the year-around actually began 11 years ago on atrip to visit her daughter, Sandra, wife ofDouglas Gluck, for a family birthday.Suffering a sudden stroke, she was treatedat Baptist Hospital and later took up tem-porary quarters at The Palace beforereturning to her Minneapolis apartment.

Now, a decade later, after splitting sum-mers in Minneapolis and winters inKendall, The Palace has become a year-around home for this lively lady whosecolorful life includes so many facets shethinks, “it’s really become time to write mymemoirs.

“I think a lady in England has beaten meto the kind of book I had in mind about liv-ing in an adult community,” she mused.“But that’s all right, I have some differentideas of my own.”

If so, they might well begin with a life-long fascination — “combining the worldsof fashion and art.” That describes Siegel’spredominant interest as a collector of suchworld-renowned artists as Andy Warholand Robert Rauschenberg whose famedmammoth “pop art” canvas dubbed“Flying Bacon” once decorated a lobbyceiling at Miami International Airport.

Donating much of her fashion col-lection to the famed GoldsteinMuseum of Design at the Universityof Minnesota, she now enjoys show-ing guests favored art pieces shesaved for her Florida home.

A career woman before the 1970sfeminist movement, she became aneditor and international correspon-dent for Women’s Wear Daily afterWorld War II, and later served as apublic relations director for WalkerArt Center in Minneapolis, next-doorneighbor to her high-rise apartmentwhere she continued writing for theMinneapolis Star-Tribune and as thearts and fashion columnist of SkywayNews, a downtown newspaper.

Her love of fashion includedamassing an eclectic mix of acces-sories and wardrobe items that havebecome period collectibles, from aStephen Sprouse design of a LouisVuitton handbag to an early Warholsketch of a high-heeled shoe.

This priceless treasure trove offashion fascinated curators of theGoldstein Museum when viewingpotential acquisitions from the Siegel col-lection that include a Takashi Murakamidesign with a Vuitton “Cherries” coinpurse.

“Maybe you should take the quartersout,” she quipped to the museum’scurators.

Hardly your typical retiree, Siegelrecently co-lectured on art with aUniversity of Miami professor and vows tocontinue her writing career, if only torecapture historical moments like her nosefor news detected before the 1988 SummerOlympic Games in Seoul.

“I was on freelance assignment at thetime, writing advance pieces at the invita-

tion of the government,” Siegelrecalled. “But the real story that Isaw was the infiltration of NorthKoreans into South Korea. No onewould believe me and that storynever got published inMinneapolis.”

Does being not-your-typicalcareer woman still have appeal?

“Well, I always wanted tomake something of myselfbefore settling down and marry-ing,” she laughed. “I suppose Icould have great-grandchildrenby now but I married late andnever regretted it. However, Ihave two fine grandsons, 16-year-old twins, both of them get-ting ready to go to college.”

Added this not-so-typicalretiree of The Palace in Kendall:“You know, there’s always some-thing to live for.”

–––––––––––––––––––––––––

Margot Siegel is a collectorof fashion and art.

Beaux Arts Festival of Art blessed withpicture-perfect weather attracted thousandsof art lovers for organization’s 60th annualevent on University of Miami campus,chaired by Allison Holly and AbbyZananini. That made up for the terribleweather conditions last year as festival-goersenjoyed great art, entertainment and anincredible selection of food. Of several non-profits on hand to raise funds for charity:both the Rotary Club of Coral Gables, sellingBruce Kerestes’ famous chicken wings, andthe Coral Gables Grilling Kiwanians, hawk-ing hamburgers and hot dogs.

GableStage’s new play, the SoutheasternPremiere of “A Round-Heeled Woman,”

received a standing ovation opening nightwith a packed house. Carbonell Award win-ning director, Joe Adler, Producing ArtisticDirector of GableStage, continues to bringquality plays to South Florida and this one isno exception, The play, starring multipleEmmy and Golden Globe winning actress,Sharon Gless (Burn Notice, Queer as Folkand Cagney & Lacey) was hilarious and fear-less in her role. The play which runs throughJanuary 30 highlights Gless as a retiredschool teacher, sexless for 30 years, based ona true story of Jane Juska, written for thestage and directed by Jane Prowse. AsJuska sets about changing her situation, sheplaces a personal ad in the New York Reviewof Books, leading to sexual adventures andemotional entanglements. The great support-ing cast includes Antonio Amadeo, StephenG. Anthony, Howard Elfman, KimOstrenko, and Laura Turnbull.

Performances are Thursday, Friday,Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. and 7p.m. Tickets range from $37.50 to $47.50.Subscriptions offer six plays for $200. For

more information, visit www.GableStage.org.GableStage is located at The Biltmore Hotel,1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables.

Congratulations to the 2010-2011 JuniorOrange Bowl Creative Writing Contest win-ners: Elizabethh Lleonart, St. Timothy ParishSchool, first place; Javier Guerrero, alsofrom St. Timothy, second; and ShoshyCiment, Rabbi Alexander S. Gross HebrewAcademy, third. Contest theme for the 23rdannual contest was “Why Respect For OthersMatters.” The South Florida WritersAssociation is one of several sponsors of thecontest open to all eighth grade middle-schoolstudents in Miami-Dade County. First, sec-ond, and third place student winners read win-ning essays January 8 at Books & Books inCoral Gables. Among many enjoying andhelping with the event were JOBC CreativeWriting Chair Connie Goodman-Milon andthe JOB Queen and Court. Teachers, friends,family and JOBC members were among themany enjoying the program and refreshments,including Ms. Esther Reyes, teacher of thetop winners at St. Timothy Parish School.

Until next time, keep making each daycount.

If you would like to submit information forthis column, please send your news via e-mail to [email protected].

Beaux Arts Festival of Art attracted thousands

GLORIA’S GAB

Gloria Burns Setting up for

Rotary booth at

Beaux Art Festival

are Gables

Rotarians John

Wallace and

Yolanda

Woodbridge with

5th grade volunteer

from Miami

Christian School,

Allison Bean.

Enjoying a chat at GableStage’s party after the Opening

Night performance are actors Sharon Gless and

Stephen Anthony.

From left to right at Junior Orange Bowl Creative Writing event at Books & Books seen here are Chair ConnieGoodman-Milone, Princess Sloane Rice, 2nd Place winner Javier Guerrero, Winning Teacher Esther Reyes, 1stPlace Winner Elizabeth Lleonart, Queen Leia Schwartz, and Princess Valerie Katz. Ms. Reyes is the teacher of both1st and 2nd place winners at St. Timothy Parish School.


NOW OFFERINGPRIMAL RAW.

SINGLE SOURCERAW DIETS AND

TREATS

Open 7 Days a Week

SAME DAYDELIVERY AVAILABLEWe’ll help you find the perfect

arrangement or gift.

• Flowers

• Birthdays

• Balloons

• Plants

• Wedding

• Anniversaries

• Gift Baskets• Sympathy

(we deliver to funeral homes & hospitals)

Hirni’s Wayside Gardens Florist9950 SW 57th Avenue • Pinecrest, FL 33156305.661.6266 • www.hirnisflorist.com

Monday thru Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm

q a i

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


“The Sharpest Fleet in Town”WE CAN HANDLE ALL OF YOUR NEEDS

��

(305)-235-8333 • www.onetwotree.com��

Smoking CessationLaser Treatment

25% OFF

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY9420 SW 77 Avenue, Suite 101

Miami, FL 33156Phone: 305.412.0011

Fax: 305.412.3837

Call NOW for your complimentary consultation!

“Break Away from nicotineaddiction Today!”

BROWARD COUNTY12555 Orange Drive, Suite 115

Davie, FL 33330Phone: 305.412.0011

Fax: 305.412.3837

LIMITED TIME OFFER!*Offer expires 01/31/2011.

We have the most advanced kindof Laser Therapy equipment& training available today!

STOP SMOKING AWAY YOUR LIFEREGAIN YOUR HEALTH AND SAVE THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS

*

We provide our clients Laser Treatments that are safe, short, painless and very effective.Besides our Nº 1 Treatment SMOKING CESSATION, we also offer Laser Light Healing Therapies

that reduce pain and stress while promoting general relief and well-being.

for more information, go to: www.miamilasertherapy.com

south miami news 1.18.2011

Documents

southmiami hospital

amy livergood donner

carlisledevelopment

foraffordable housing

entire woods

community couldaudition

community garden

role of eeyore