south miami news 2.8.2011

FEBRUARY 8 - 14, 2011

RSMA School Committee aids some local schools

Rezoning for Eight-Storyaffortable housing failsBY KIMBERLY PORTER

CCarlisle DevelopmentGroup’s first step torezone a city ownedpiece of property for aneight-story residential

building failed approval by a 5-3 CityCommission vote February 2.

Item 24 on the agenda proposed rezon-ing the property located at 5890 SW 69thStreet after Carlisle’s recent meetingwith the planning board to fine tune theproposal.

Re-zoning would allow an eight-storyaffordable housing building with 90 unitsdesigned for seniors (aged 55 and over,earning up to $30,000 per year).

The rezoning ordinance read at themeeting was not accompanied by a siteplan, leading to a commission rejection,even though the Carlisle Group would notnecessarily win a bid to create a plan forthe new structure.

“We’re here to help facilitate the rezon-ing,” explained Melissa Harrison, repre-senting Carlisle. “We believe that in termsof rezoning it opens the doors to moreopportunities for the city. It is somethingthat can be done in a way that maintainsthe character of the city.”

Some residents voiced concerns with theheight and density of the building thatwould create the tallest in South Miami.“Remember that citizens didn’t like overdevelopment,” stated Bob Welch during apublic response. “We need an elder carefacility that is not that big,” he added.

“I have conflicting feelings on this,” saidresident Beth Schwartz. “ If you are to votefor up-zoning it, which would make theproperty more valuable, I don’t want to seeit go out of control with density.”

Somerset kids at GameTime–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

–––––––––––––––––––– See REZONING, page 7

BY VIVIAN CONTERIO

TT he Red Sunset MerchantsSchool Committee recentlycame to the aide of somelocal schools. The

Committee tries to match-up memberswith schools who are in need of their serv-ices, providing them with the help theyneed. It’s a win, win for both!

Tuesday, January 18th, Cool de sac andGameTime hosted Somerset SoMiAcademy students to a day of play andlunch as a reward for raising the mostmoney for the School’s ACT Fund. ACT

or Assistants for Classroom Teachers is avoluntary program that allows for assis-tants to be hired for individual class-rooms. The parents’ goal to raise enoughmoney to cover one assistant per class-room is a huge undertaking. They need toraise over $100,000 for this year alone.

They have been raising voluntary fundsthrough parent donations, bake sales, andother fundraising ideas. The classroomwith the highest percentage of fundsreceived the prizes donated by Cool de Sac

BY NANCY EAGLETON

Customers, city officials and businessowners welcomed South MiamiPharmacy to the neighborhood at thegrand opening of its new, highly antici-pated location on South Dixie Highwayin South Miami. The event, held onSaturday, January 29, included food,music, children’s activities, raffles, healthscreenings and tours of the pharmacy’sstate-of-the-art compounding lab.

“This has been three years in themaking,” said owner Dr. Armando

South MiamiPharmacy opens

in grand style

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See PHARMACY, page 3

Friday, February 11, 20116 - 9 p.m. –––––––– See FREE TAX HELP, page 7

South Miami Pharmacy owner Dr. ArmandoBardisa, his wife Dr. Roselind Bardisa and theirthree beautiful daughters cut the ribbon at thepharmacy’s grand opening.

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Commercial, 4,581 sq ft.mixeduse warehouse, great locationon 72 Ave, retail/office spaceplus rear loadingw/2 bay doors,10 reserved parking spaces.

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COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM February 8 - 14 , 2011

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South Miami

Bardisa. “This is my dream pharmacy andit’s so exciting to be open.”

In conjunction with the grand openingribbon-cutting ceremony, Bardisa had ahair-cutting ceremony for all of his staff andguests to witness. Bardisa recalled how hevowed some time ago to let his hair growuntil the pharmacy opened. At the time, hethought his new location would be openwithin three months. The pharmacy opened14 months later, but it was worth the wait.While children bounced and climbed at thegrand opening carnival, adults toured themodern, two-story facility that Bardisa andhis team painstakingly designed.

“I wanted to build the very best pharmacyand compounding lab possible,” saidBardisa. “The compounding lab is open soeveryone can see how we custom make theirmedications. We want to show our customerswhat makes us stand out from the rest.”

At South Miami Pharmacy, when itcomes to medication, one size does not fitall. Compounding allows the pharmacists towork with the physician and patient to cus-tomize a medication that contains the prop-er strength of drugs, thereby maximizingthe desired results. Medications can bedesigned to reduce side effects, such as

stomach irritation or drug interactions, andcan be provided in flavors and dosage formsthat make them easier to take.

“We can take you through all the stagesof your life,” said Bardisa. “With com-pounding, there is no reason for parents tofight with their children to take medication.We can flavor it so it tastes good and canformulate many medicines into lollipops orgummy treats.”

Compounded medications provide thesame benefits to the elderly. South MiamiPharmacy specializes in long-term elderlycare, providing patients with specially sealed,color-coded and dated blister packaging.

“This makes it easy for people who takemany medications to verify that they havetaken all of their medications each day,”said Yvette Romanach, South MiamiPharmacy marketing director. “This specialpackaging is a wonderful service for theelderly and their caregivers.”

South Miami Pharmacy specializes incompounded medications for pain, hormonereplacement, fertility, diabetes, HIV, anti-aging, men’s health, dentistry, veterinaryand pediatric, just to name a few.

“Our pharmacists have attended theadvanced compounding training program atthe top-of-the-line training center inHouston, Texas,” said Bardisa. “They’re notonly qualified to provide patients with thebest medication, they’re dedicated to provid-

ing the best, personalized customer service.”With thousands of customers visiting the two

South Miami Pharmacy locations, Bardisa isproud to say that he knows most of them by name.

Bardisa and his team can assist with thesales, service and rental of medical equip-ment such as lift chairs, scooters, hospitalbeds, wheelchairs and walkers. The phar-macy also carries hard to find items includ-ing compression hosiery, braces, woundcare items and anti-aging supplements.

South Miami Pharmacy makes it easy totransfer existing prescriptions. Prescriptionrefills can be processed automatically or onlineand your medications can be mailed or deliv-ered to you, “from Homestead to Hialeah.”

Stop by the new South Miami Pharmacylocation at 6050 S. Dixie Highway or call305-740-9696. Or, visit the original locationat 6233 Sunset Drive or call 305-668-6150.

For more information, visit <www.south-miamipharmacy.com.>

PHARMACY from page 1 ––––––––––––––

Bounce houses and a rock climbing wall kept kids busy at South Miami Pharmacy’s grand opening. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

February 8 - 14, 2011 COMMUNITYNEWSPAPERS.COM

South Miami Hospital’s 51st AnnualMercury Ball will be themed “ParaisoBasileiro, A Celebration of Color Music andJoy,” at Doral Golf Resort & Spa, Saturday,March 5. Presented by Total Bank, the event ishosted by South Miami Hospital Associates,business and community leaders who serve asthe hospital’s goodwill ambassadors andfundraisers for the hospital. The black-tie affairstarts at 7 p.m. with a reception and silent auc-tion followed by dinner and musical entertain-ment by Marty K’s Music Makers.

This year’s ball planning kicked off with aparty at Shula’s 347 Grill in South Miami onFebruary 1 with Chair Jim Brennan joinedby Co-Chairs Sylvia Sanchez Vegas andSteven Kang, M.D., welcoming a crowd.Among many at the event: Steve Parsons,Wayne Brackin and Lincoln Mendeez andMichael Miller.

Proceeds from the ball will fund renova-tions and the expansion of South MiamiHospital’s emergency center, operatingsuites and imaging center. Noted oncologicalsurgeon Ricardo Estape, M.D., will also behonored as “Person of the Year”, for hismany contributions to the hospital, the com-munity and the healthcare field. For moreinformation, tel. 786-596-6535 or [email protected].

The Junior Orange Bowl Committee(JOBC) and Pitman Photo Supply will show-case the photographs of talented middle andhigh school students during a reception onFriday, February 11, at 7 p.m. in the CoralGables Youth Center Theater. Each studentssubmitted two photographs in each of fourcategories: “People in Motion,” “NightLights,” “Photo Assignment: The

Everglades,” and “Containers for People” aswell as a “Portfolio Review.” JOBCPhotography Contest Chair, Dr. RandyG roh, a partner of Dental Leaders in CoralGables and a scenic and wildlife photogra-pher himself, enlisted the help of someimpressive adjudicators. Among those help-ing him judge the entries: Ron Magill,renowned photographer and GoodwillAmbassador for Zoo Miami; Daniel DeAzoulay, gallery owner and professionalfashion and scenic photographer; and awardwinning photographer and art buyer, KayLevine.

First, second, and third place winners ineach category will be awarded gift certifi-cates to Pitman Photo Supply with three spe-cial awards going to the best Middle Schoolphotographers. In addition, a $200 gift cer-tificate will go to the Portfolio Review stu-dent winner, recognizing the finest overallphotographs with coherent style.

The Photography Contest is just one of 15athletic, artistic, and cultural events making upthe 2010-2011 Junior Orange BowlInternational Youth Festival. After this finalevent, the Committee will hold elections,organize an installation dinner and begin workon the 2011-12 season. This is certainly one ofthe hardest working groups of volunteers any-where. The JOBC receives support from theCity of Coral Gables, Miami Children’sHospital, the Orange Bowl Committee, Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs,Cultural Affairs Council, Miami-Dade CountyTourist Development Council, the Miami-Dade’s Mayor and Board of CountyCommissioners.The JOB Committee is alwayslooking for people of like mind who want togive back to their community. For more infor-mation on how to become involved, call theJOBC office at 305-662-1210 or go online towww.jrorangebowl.org.

The folks at Town Kitchen Management,Inc., well-known for their highly-successfulSmoke’t Southern Kitchen & Tap and TOWNKitchen & Bar, have opened yet another“neighborhood joint”: “sake blue asian kitchen

& bar” located in The Collection building nextto Village of Merrick Park, 225 Altara Avenuein Coral Gables. The place was packed for itsopening weekend January 29 as guests enjoyedthe new restaurant and welcomed well-knownlocal Chef Robert Pagan, new to the TKMteam. For now the restaurant is open for dinneron Sunday and Monday, 5:30 to 10 p.m.;Tuesday thru Saturday, 5:30-11 p.m. with a late

night menu Thursday-Saturday, 11 p.m.to 1:30a.m. (Note: Lunch will be available in March,2011). For reservations, call 305-774-5959.Additional information about sake blue asiankitchen & bar can be found at www.sake-bluemiami.com.

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].

‘Paraiso Basileiro’ theme for South Miami Hospital Ball

GLORIA’S GAB

Gloria Burns

Mercury Ball Chair Jim Brennan and wife at kick offreception at Shula’s 347 Grill in South Miami.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––Enjoying launch of sake blue are John Janette, Dr. JoelyKaufman-Janette, Stella Lurie and Brandon Lurie

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

BY LEE STEPHENS

In an effort to create lasting connectionsamongst parents of the South Miami commu-nity, South Miami’s Weed and Seed Initiativeis hosting a series of workshops called “SoMiParentLINK.” The first of these workshops,titled “Social Media: What you don’t knowcan hurt your kids,” was held Thursday,January 27, 2011 at the Gibson-BethelCommunity Center and featured author andguest speaker Mr. Marvin Dejean..

As children are exposed to more onlinecontent through the growing influence ofsocial media platforms, many parents areunsure whether or how to monitor theirchild’s use of them. Focused on socialmedia such as Facebook and Twitter, theJan. 27 workshop provided parents, grand-parents and others with an overview ofsocial media and resources for learningmore, as well as tips on safeguarding theirchild’s privacy, from how to monitor their

child’s social media footprint and under-stand its implications to how to measuretheir child’s social media reputation online.

The next ParentLINK workshop willtake place at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 10at the Gibson-Bethel Community Center.Featured guest speaker Sabrina Pope of St.Johns Baptist Church in Naranja, FL, willfocus on women’s empowerment and will.The workshop is co-sponsored by the Mt.Olive Missionary Baptist Church Women’sMinistry. SoMi ParentLINK will continueto host these workshops every otherThursday through the end of March. Thisdynamic speaker series for parents is opento the entire community. Whether you’re aparent, grandparent, guardian or caregiver,ParentLINK covers a variety of topics thatcan be applied to any family situation.

For information, contact Weed andSeed Site Coordinator Erin Jenkins at305-804-0249 or [email protected].

SM Weed and Seed hosts SoMiParentLINK workshop series

Women’s Empowerment Program scheduled for Feb. 10

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Our duly elected governor has found a back-door way to amend the state’s constitution.

For years, the only two approaches to anamendment were for the Florida Legislatureto place a proposed amendment on the ballotfor the public’s approval or disapproval. Thesecond procedure is a citizen’s campaign togather sufficient petition signatures to placea proposed amendment on the ballot for thevoter’s “yes” or “no” vote.

Last year, thousands of registered voterstook to the streets of Florida, obtaining suf-ficient petition signatures to place two pro-posed amendments on the ballot that would,simply stated, make the gerrymandering ofthe state’s legislative and congressional dis-tricts illegal.

Gerrymandering, as we have discussedseveral times before, is the redesigning of adistrict’s boundaries to favor whatever polit-ical party is in power, guaranteeing that thevotes within the district would reelect the

controlling political party’s members. Itmade so much sense that the amendmentwas approved overwhelmingly by more than3.1 million Florida voters.

The recently concluded U.S. Census givesFlorida two additional U.S. House seats. It isup to the legislature to create the new dis-tricts that at this time seem to be destined forthe Orlando area where most of the popula-tion increases have taken place.

Not only must the state legislature createtwo additional districts but the legislaturemust redraw the existing districts to conformto the new Florida ConstitutionAmendments 5 and 6 passed by Florida vot-ers, which removed any political party inpower from maneuvering to retain control ofthe house and senate seats in Tallahassee andour representation in Washington.

Federal law requires that any state law, orconstitutional amendment, affecting the elec-tion of members of the U.S. House or Senatemust go before the U.S. Justice Department inWashington, DC, for review and approval.Gov. Charlie Crist, following federal law, sentthe new constitutional amendments to theU.S. Justice Department for review.

Enter our new governor, Rick Scott. He, Imust assume, doesn’t like the new amend-ments as their implementation may favor the

election of Democrats over Republicans infuture balloting. Three days after Gov. Scottwas sworn into office, he had the FloridaDepartment of State pull the amendmentsback from the Justice Department. His goalis, I speculate, to give more time to the law-suit filed by the state to kill the two amend-ments on the grounds that they allegedly willaffect the voting rights for racial and ethnicminorities in Florida.

The governor’s blatant disregard for thewishes of the voters of Florida is abhorrent.Floridians spent precious tens of thousands ofhours and thousands of dollars obtaining peti-tion signatures to make sure that the two pro-posed constitutional amendments made it ontothe ballot. Then they spent time and moneyexplaining the concept to the registered votersof our state. The concept was to stop whateverpolitical party was in power from maneuveringto retain control rather than letting future elec-tions be decided by a vote of the people.

To pull a political maneuver attempting tokill what 63 percent of the voters approved isalmost too hard to believe. What the governor

has said, in affect, is, “I don’t care what thevoters of Florida want, except of course formy [the governor’s] election. I will do what Iwant to protect my political party.”

I remember hearing this same type of con-versation back in the 1960s when theRepublican party first started to grow in athen Democrat-controlled Florida.

Surely the governor realizes that we elect-ed individuals to public office to protect ourinterests in the state, to spend our tax dollarswisely and make our state a better place tolive. We should not protect a particular polit-ical party and grant them secure salaries,elitist privileges and higher than private sec-tor pensions.

We appreciate your opinions on this col-umn whether in agreement or disagreement.Please send your comments to (fax number)305-662-6980 or email to <[email protected]>. The opinionsexpressed in this column are not necessari-ly those of this newspaper, its editors orpublisher.

KENNETH’S COMMENTARY

R. Kenneth Bluh VIEWPOINTGov. Scott finds new way to amend state constitution


Other residents supporting an eld-erly housing project includedRoxanne Scalia who commented: “Ijust had to move my mother in withme (and) was never before aware ofthe plight of our elderly. I hope youvote ‘yes’.”

Commissioner Walter Harris want-ed to see an acceptable site plan alongwith the zoning request while MayorPhilip Stoddard thought “the mixedvote reflects a continuing need forinformation and constructive dialogamong the city residents and commis-sion members.”

BECKMAN BOOTED,RETURNS TO SESSION

Planning board member YvonneBeckman was ordered out of theFebruary 2 City Commission meetingby Mayor Philip Stoddard.

Her ouster occurred whenBeckman interrupted the introduc-tion of a Baptist Hospital represen-tative, Mayor Stoddard immediate-ly ordering Beckman to leave theroom.

Baptist Health in conjunction withSouth Miami Hospital sent the repre-sentative to the meeting to answerresidents’ questions and concernsabout its medical center.

When Beckman protestedStoddard’s action, saying “I will notleave,” Stoddard called on security toescort her from the meeting.

Commissioner Walter Harrismoved that Beckman be allowed toreturn to speak during a publicremarks session which he indicatedwas her reason for being present. Hismotion passed 5-0.

When Beckman returned, she said“Hello…I’m a South Miami citizen,”noting she felt “other entities otherthan the residents in South Miami getthe attention.

“Don’t kick me out again, please,”she continued. “You have yourhumor and I have mine,” adding shewanted to know the “cost benefit” ofthe Murray Pool project.

Resident Sharon McCain stated:“We have waited months to see amaintenance cost [for the pool]. Atthe end of five years, we’re going tobe with a pool we can’t afford tomaintain and that is extremely badplanning.”

REZONING, from page 1 ––––––and GameTime. “The kids had a great time andwill be telling their parents how much fun theyhad. What a great way to help the school andgain additional exposure”, said Irene Guilot,General Manager of Cool de Sac!

Splitsville Luxury Lanes also donated aparty to the higher grades that will be usedlater this year.

The Committee works as a liaison betweenthe schools and the members. If you are aschool or a member and would like to find outmore, contact, Vivian Conterio for more infor-mation at 305-665-9602, or send email [email protected].

RSMA, from page 1 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Somerset SoMi kidsat Cool de Sac withGeneral ManagerIrene Guilot.

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BY ANA POVEDA

Westminster Christian School (WCS) inPalmetto Bay has begun construction of anew science facility that will house twophysics labs, three science labs, and oneclassroom, providing a total of six learningspaces for its middle school and high schoolscience programs.

“We are so excited that Westminster hasdemonstrated its commitment to science edu-cation by bringing us the best possible facil-ities and classroom technology to equip ourstudents to be leaders and innovators,” saidDr. Lynell Martinez, WCS High SchoolScience Department head. “More classroomlab space means that more students will haveaccess to hands-on lab activities.

“New and better lab computers mean thatstudents will be able to analyze their data,rather than just learn from a textbook,: headded. “These improved facilities will helpour highly trained faculty address the needsof every student to foster in them a love andexcitement for science and to achieve theirfullest potential.”

Expected to open in the fall, the newbuilding will provide updated science facili-ties for the physics, biology, chemistry andenvironmental science courses offered as

part of the middle school and high schoolscience curriculum. Located just east of thecurrent high school building, the two build-ings will be adjoined via exterior hallways.

The current Lewis A. Fraser Science

Building, which has served the science cur-riculum well for the past 30 years, will beconverted into art classrooms/studios, nearlydoubling the Art Department’s classroomand storage space. These remodeled spaces

will open up new possibilities in the art cur-riculum and ensure that Westminster’snationally renowned fine arts program hasthe facilities it needs to foster the creativityand talents of its students.

WCS begins construction on new science building

Members of the Westminster Christian School board of directors and faculty participate in the groundbreaking for the school’s new science building.––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––


BY NANCY EAGLETON

It’s Valentine’s Day and love is in the air.A card is nice, but a gift is even better. Theselocal merchants make it easy for you to spoilyour sweetie with a gift from the heart.

They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend.Montica Jewelry in Coral Gables specializesin diamond trends and offers the best styles infashion-forward fine jewelry, including theever-popular Pandora. “Pandora pieces makegreat gifts, allowing you to add on charms onholidays or at any time,” said John O’Rourke,president and CEO. Classic, stylish timepiecesalso make smart gifts. For her, O’Rourke rec-ommends the Michele line of watches. Forhim, the hot seller is TW Steel, which makes abig, bold fashion statement. Visit Montica’schic and comfortable showroom at 75 MiracleMile to select an intimate gift that fits yourbudget or call the store at 305-446-2957.

Hirni’s Wayside Garden Florist on Red Road will helpyou “say it with flowers.” For more than 50 years, the familyowned and operated business has been delivering smiles onValentine’s Day. Mothers, wives and daughters will be tickledpink with one of Hirni’s fresh, creative flower arrangements.“Of course, we have red and colored roses, but we’ll also bemaking arrangements with beautiful spring and tropical flow-ers,” said Marilyn Mitchell of Hirni’s. “Our orchids also makegreat, lasting gifts.” Valentine’s Day is one of the busiest times

at Hirni’s, so call early to place your order at 305-667-6877. If the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, then

lunch or dinner at Shula’s 347 Grill on Red Road in CoralGables is the perfect gift. Shula’s 347 serves Premium BlackAngus Beef® burgers and steaks, the best beef money canbuy. Along with the regular menu, Shula’s 347 will be offer-ing a special couples dinner menu Valentine’s Day weekend,Friday – Monday, February 11-14. “For $79, couples canenjoy an appetizer, choice of two entrées which include steak,

chicken or fish, sides and a dessert,” said headcoach “JK” Kulhanjian. Reservations are high-ly recommended. To reserve your table, call305-665-9661.

Give a gift that pampers you both: a couple’smassage at Massage Envy Spa South Miami.Owner Lourdes Martinez said that duringValentine’s Day week, couples can enjoy aromantic, one-hour aromatherapy massage for$180. Unwind and sip green tea in theMembers’ Lounge before the massage session.Enter the candle-lit massage room sprinkledwith rose petals and then RELAX… together.Massage Envy is located at 6927 SW 57Avenue in South Miami and is open daily from9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Space is limited. Call 305-662-2622 to make your reservation.

What is Valentine’s Day without chocolate? CaoChocolates in Cutler Bay makes fresh, handmadetruffles using rich, Venezuelan chocolate and hand

delivers them anywhere in Miami-Dade and Broward County. Fora decadent, delight, order the Tower of Love for your sweetie. TheTower includes the special Valentine’s truffle called MidnightCherry and 30 truffles made with milk, dark and white chocolate.Truffle gift baskets, boxes and platters are available for Valentine’sDay and anytime. Spoken like a true chocolate lover, ownerRicardo Trillos said “We don’t need a special occasion to eat choco-late.” To order your sweet treat, call 305-879-0281, [email protected] or visit <www.caochocolates.com.>

Valentine’s Day treats for your sweetsCall Shula’s 347 Grillhead coach “JK”Kulhanjian to reserve a table for two.

• • • • • • •

With more than 25 years in

the jewelry business,John and Marichi

O’Rourke are dedicated to

providing stellar customer service.



BY JOSE BOZA

The National Multiple Sclerosis (MS)Society recently recognized Phillis Oeters,vice president of government and communi-ty relations for Baptist Health South Florida,with the 2011 Hope Award during its annualMS Gala and Fashion Show at the BrowardCounty Convention Center in FortLauderdale.

The MS Hope Award, the most prestigiousdesignation given by the National MultipleSclerosis Society, is presented annually to anindividual who has played a significant rolein improving the quality of life for those liv-ing with multiple sclerosis and bringinghope and help to those facing physical andemotional challenges.

“I am truly honored to receive the presti-gious Hope Award, as it exemplifies the orga-nization’s mission of helping people with MSand their families battle this crippling dis-

ease,” Oeters said. “MS continues to makesignificant advances in research and treat-ment, and this wonderful annual event contin-ues to bring awareness to the excellent workthey are accomplishing on a daily basis.”

In her role as vice president of govern-ment and community relations for BaptistHealth, she is responsible for the interfacewith local government as it relates to permit-ting, zoning and general expansion plans forBaptist Health. She is highly active in thecommunity and serves on many boards,which include the Greater Miami Chamberof Commerce, Beacon Council, United Way,Nat Moore Foundation, Actors’ Playhouseand Orange Bowl. She was 2009-10 chair ofthe Orange Bowl Committee.

Oeters also was board chair, from 2003 to2008, of the Neurologically InjuredCompensation Fund for the State of Florida,a billion dollar fund responsible for caringfor children injured at birth.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society’sannual event honors Phillis Oeters

Pictured (l-r) areKaren Dresbach,president of theNational MS Society,South FloridaChapter; PhillisOeters, vice presi-dent of governmentand communityrelations for BaptistHealth SouthFlorida, andDeborah DelPrete,MS Gala andFashion Show chair.

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BY RICHARD YAGER

The Old Cutler RepublicanWoman’s Club is marking its31st year with a priority pro-gram that includes an Aprilcelebration of its longevityand a new slate of officersheaded by Wendy Dean, aformer Congressional aide.

Former director of theclub’s MembershipCommittee, Dean was man-ager for State Rep. MichaelBileca’s campaign in District117 and a former GOPExecutive Committee vicechair for finance.

Serving with her during thecoming year are: CarlaAscenscio-Savola, vice presi-dent, District 34Committeewoman who served seven yearson the Kendall Community Council;Lorraine Dunlap, treasurer, a GOP ExecutiveCommitteewoman for District 19; KimberlyCruiser, recording secretary, member of theboard of trustees of the Florida House, andMaria Wadsworth, corresponding secretary,District 29 Executive Committeewomanhonored as 2010 GOP “Volunteer of theYear.”

Former Miami-Dade GOP chair RobertRosasco, past president of a Habitat forHumanity program, conducted the swearing-in ceremony and reviewed results of candi-date interviews for upcoming Florida Senateraces.

Joe Celestin, former North Miami Mayor,discussed his upcoming race for the District33 State Senate seat vacated by Congressmember Frederica Wilson. The special elec-tion to fulfill the vacancy will be held Mar. 1.

Among its key programs during 2011, theOld Cutler Club will award a scholarship toa deserving teenager that will include an all-expense paid trip to Washington, DC tospend a day with U.S. Rep. David Rivera.

To celebrate the club’s 31st year, ananniversary celebration will take place inApril, followed by a Fourth of July barbe-cue and a Woman’s Suffrage Award eventin August. The club will meet next on Mar.15 to hear Miami-Dade District 7Commissioner Carlos Gimenez, a possiblemayoral candidate.

Originally chartered on Apr. 14, 1980, theOld Cutler GOP Woman’s Club coversextensive GOP Districts throughout south-west Miami-Dade County that include por-tions of Coral Gables, West Miami, SouthMiami, Tamiami, Westchester, East Kendall,Palmetto Bay, Pinecrest, Dadeland, andRichmond Heights.

New officers celebrate GOP club’s 31st year

Incoming president Wendy Dean (left) receives gavel from Joanne Connolly.–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

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BY LEE STEPHENS

Kendall Regional Medical Center, 11750SW 40 St., will be hosting a Family HeartHealth Fair for the community on Saturday,Feb. 12, 9 a.m.-noon. The free fair willinclude health screenings, seminars andhealthy sweet treats for the public andactivities for the kids.

Kendall Regional Medical Center wantsto show the community how to live longerand be happier by taking care of your heart.

As an added benefit for families withchildren, the Injury Free Coalition for Kidsof Miami will be present to give homesafety tours aboard its mobile unit.Activities will include aerobic dancedemonstrations and sampling healthytreats.

Throughout the morning, free healthscreenings and educational advice will beprovided to attendees. Free tests will begiven for blood pressure, osteoporosis,breast health, cardiac risk assessment, cho-lesterol, blood sugar, pulmonary functionscreenings (first 30 people only) and EKG

(first 30 people only). Appointments arenot necessary for any screening.

To participate in the cholesterol andblood sugar tests, four hours of fasting isrequired prior to the tests. To RSVP or formore information, call 305-222-2200.

The seminar topics are:• “Know Your Numbers” by Lester

Carrodeguas, MD, Family Practice;• “Heart Facts for a Healthy Life” by

Madeline Castro, MD, Family Practice,and Rekha Kini, MD, Family Practice;

• “How To Survive a Heart Attack” byRajesh Dhairyawan, MD, InterventionalCardiology, and Abid Chaudhry, MD,Emergency Medicine;

• “Keeping your Child’s HeartHealthy” by Kim Bango, MD, FamilyMedicine, and Jamie Montes, DO, FamilyMedicine, and

• “Heart Failure A-Z: Risks, Signs,Symptoms and Treatment” by JuliusGasso, MD, Interventional Cardiology;Beethoven Brown, MD, CardiothoracicSurgery, and Jose Martel, MD,Electrophysiology.

Family Heart Health Fair scheduledat Kendall Regional Medical Center


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Breakthrough Miami, a local not-for-profiteducation advancement program, is seekingapplications from fourth and fifth grade stu-dents in underserved and under-resourcedneighborhoods in Miami-Dade County toenroll in its tuition-free Summer InstituteProgram.

In conjunction with this applicationprocess, Breakthrough Miami is hosting aFamily Information Session on Feb. 9, 6-8 p.m., at Ransom Everglades UpperSchool, 3575 Main Hwy. in CoconutGrove.

Applicants are selected by an admissionscommittee made up of Breakthrough Miamialumni and staff. Admissions decisions arebased primarily on motivation, potential,commitment and need.

For information, call 305-460-8869.

MIAMI CITY BALLET TO HOST‘BALLET FOR YOUNG PEOPLE’

Miami City Ballet’s internationally andcritically acclaimed company of 50 dancerswill be joined by Miami City Ballet Schoolstudents to present the second “Ballet forYoung People” program on Feb., 2-3 p.m., atthe Adrienne Arsht Center Ziff Ballet OperaHouse, 1300 Biscayne Blvd.

The school’s students open the programwith Harlequin and Columbine, based on

George Balanchine’s Harlequinade, followedby the company dancers in Balanchine’sScotch Symphony.

Complimentary tickets are available inperson Monday-Friday at Arsht Center boxoffice.

VALENTINE’S DAY CONCERT BRINGSJAZZ TO FAIRCHILD GARDEN, FEB. 14

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901Old Cutler Rd., will host its annualValentine’s Day concert on Feb. 14, thisyear featuring the smooth sounds of jazzsinger Kevin Mahogany and the Universityof Miami’s Frost Concert Jazz Band. Gatesopen at 5:30 p.m. and the concert begins at7 p.m.

Bring a picnic basket (gourmet picnic bas-kets are available from Creative Tastes) and ablanket, and let the dreamy music and thebeauty of Fairchild make this Valentine’s Daya night to remember.

Ticket prices are as followes: Fairchildmembers, $60; non-members, $75; VIP tick-ets, members, $150, and non-members, $175.VIP admission includes reserved seating at atable, buffet dinner and wine. Students withID are $20.

Purchase your tickets online, at The Shopat Fairchild or contact Special Events at 305-667-1651, ext. 3377.

CONCERT TO FEATURE ROMANTICMUSIC MOSTLY FROM SCHUBERT

Keeping with the core romantic nature oftwo-piano music on Feb. 16, the DranoffInternational Two Piano Foundation willpresent an evening of classical music’s mostromantic composer in “Mostly Schubert —All Romance,” 7:30 p.m., at the University ofMiami’s Gusman Hall, 1314 Miller Dr.

In addition to the performance ofSchubert’s great works by this amazingensemble of international pianists, DuoD’Accord will premier a brand new two-piano work. Written for this concert, TheDevil’s Workshop is by Brian DuFord, a con-temporary classical composer from YaleMusic School. His new two-piano piece iscolored by Latin jazz and blues and exempli-fies the dark deals artists must make tobecome virtuoso successes.

Tickets are $35 for general admission, $75for VIP with Artist Reception; students arefree.

For more information, call 305-572-9900or visit online at <www.dranoff2piano.org>.

INTERCONTINENTAL AT DORAL MIAMIEARNS FIVE DISTINCTIONS IN 2010

The InterContinental at Doral Miami, 2505NW 87 Ave., wrapped up 2010 with fiveprestigious awards that recognize the man-agement and staff’s diligent work and dedica-tion in making this a top-notch property.

Awards the InterContinental at DoralMiami received include the FloridaDepartment of Environmental Protection(DEP) Green Lodging designation, ExpediaInsiders’ Select, Gold Club Award, AAA FourDiamond Award, and the International HotelGroup (IHG) Turning Point Award.

For more information, call 305-468-1400.

SAVE DATE FOR CONGREGATION’SFIRST ANNUAL MUSICAL JOURNEY

Temple Beth Tov-Ahavat Shalom. 6438SW Eighth St. in West Miami, welcomes allto the delightful first annual Musical Journeyon Sunday, Feb. 20, 2-4 p.m.

Breakthrough Miami seeks students for 2011-12 school yearCOMMUNITY NEWS BRIEFS

––––––– Continued on next page

Featured will be different styles ofmusic: Ladino, Yiddish, Opera, ClassicalLiturgical, Broadway, Israeli, Instrumentaland Spanish.

Cost is $10 per adult; no charge for chil-dren. For reservations, call Ruth at 305-382-0240 or Babe at 305-274-2450. Mail checksto PO Box 44026, Miami, FL 33144.

LIBRARY TO PRESENT ‘PEDESTRIANS:DOWNTOWN FLAGLER STREET’

The Miami-Dade Public Library System ispresenting “Pedestrians: Downtown FlaglerStreet” by David Spitzer, an exhibition ofphotographs running now through Mar. 9 inthe auditorium of the Main Library, 101 W.Flagler St.

The photographs were taken during thelast half of 1984 and well into 1985 (the yearthe Main Library opened). The project focus-es narrowly on downtown Flagler Streetfrom Biscayne Boulevard west to the oldDade County Courthouse — the historic cen-ter of Downtown Miami.

For more information, call 305-375-5048.

KOHL’S CARES SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMNOW ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS

The Kohl’s Department Stores Kohl’s

Cares Scholarship Program will award morethan $415,000 in scholarships and prizes,ranging from $50 Kohl’s gift cards to$10,000 scholarships, honoring young vol-unteers who have made a positive impact ontheir communities.

Nominations for kids ages 6 to 18 willbe accepted now until Mar. 15 atkohlskids.com. Kohl’s enters the 11th yearof its scholarship program during a timewhen 55 percent of bachelor’s degreerecipients at public colleges borrow moneyand are finding education increasingly dif-ficult to afford.

To nominate someone for a Kohl’s Caresscholarship, visit www.kohlskids.com.Nominators must be 21 years or older. Twonominees from each of Kohl’s 1,089 storesnationwide will win a $50 Kohl’s gift card,and more than 200 will win regional scholar-ships worth $1,000 toward post-secondaryeducation. Ten national winners will beawarded a total of $10,000 in scholarshipsfor post-secondary education and Kohl’s willdonate $1,000 to a nonprofit organization oneach national winner’s behalf.

For more information or a list of pastKohl’s Cares Scholarship Program winners,visit online at <www.kohlskids.com>.

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


BY BILL HURST

The Perrine Baseball and SoftballAssociation celebrated its 53rd annualOpening Day Parade and Ceremony at FranjoPark on Saturday, Jan. 29.

With the help of John Ruiz and Mike Tosar,the opening day ceremonies were televised byLa Ley Sports. The tradition of parading allthe league teams through the Town of CutlerBay to Franjo Park has been taking place onthe last weekend of each January since theleague started playing at Franjo Park in 1972.

More than 500 players (52 baseball teamsand three divisions of softball), along withtheir coaches, parents and friends made thetrek this year. The parade was led by a CutlerBay Police car and the Southridge HighSchool Color Guard.

The ceremonies began with the singing ofthe National Anthem by Erika Glass. Thiswas followed by a blessing given by PastorAmber Massengil.

The newly elected Town of Cutler BayMayor Ed MacDougal was introduced andspoke about the new Lakes by the Bay Parkwhich will be operational by January 2012.Mayor MacDougal mentioned how this newpark will help the PBSA expand and doublethe amount of fields available for the league.

Miami-Dade County Commissioner LyndaBell spoke next, and gave PBSA aProclamation of Appreciation for all mem-bers presented to PBSA president Bill Hurst.John Ruiz from La Ley Sports, who gracious-ly provided the television crew, thenaddressed the crowd, and made mention ofseveral exciting projects La Ley Sports isworking on within the South FloridaCommunity.

Also in attendance were several SouthFlorida baseball personalities including:Florida Marlins player Gaby Sanchez,Marlins sales director Mario Signorello, for-mer PBSA player and current OaklandAthletics pitcher Vinnie Chulk, former PBSAplayer and 14-year Major League Baseballplayer Orlando Palmeiro, legendary Miami

Dade College Coach Charlie Greene, severalUniversity of Miami and Barry Universitycoaches and players, Coach Dave Biscegliafrom Coral Reef High School along withsome of his players.

Also participating were several PalmettoHigh School baseball players, as well as formerPBSA president and current Southridge HighSchool freshman coach David “Hooter” Houtz.

Also in attendance, was Southridge Softballcoach Michelle Cerda, who along with herplayers helped judge the team banner contest,which was won by the Tee-ball Pirates and11U Astros. The winning teams received tick-ets for their players and coaches to PBSA Dayat the Florida Marlins game on Apr. 22.

Each year the PBSA awards certain players“Sportsmanship Awards.” These players

earned the awards by demonstrating thatsportsmanship means more to them than hit-ting a home run or striking out a batter. Itmeans playing with a smile through good andbad, encouraging a teammate that just had abad game and always enjoying the experienceof playing youth baseball.

Sportsmanship Awards, presented bySoftball Commissioner Kevin Bender andBaseball Commissioner Sean McCreary,were presented to: Victoria Bouch, AmarisVictoria, Juliana Gambill, Adriana Fiorilo,Taylor Reyno and Hanna Barczak.

Baseball Sportsmanship Award winnerswere: Korbin Cotayo, Ryan Adams,Jonathan Brutti, Richie Benavides, JordanHopwood, Darian Rivera, Rodrigo Alea,Andres Agudelo, Maclyn Black and NickValencia.

Finally, PBSA announced several

awards to current and former volunteer

members, who are the lifeline of this com-

munity park. The Lifetime Achievement

Awards were given to Janet Cintra, the late

Bill McCreary (received by his wife Carol,

son Sean, and grandchildren Jake and

Megan), and to former PBSA president

David “Hooter” Houtz.Visit <www.leaguelineup.com/pbsa> for

more information.

PBSA celebrates its 53rd annual Opening Day Parade, Ceremony

A $1,000 check for funds raised for Austin Haworth, son of slain Police Officer Amanda Haworth, is presented tothe Cutler Bay Police Unit. Pictured (l-r) are Priya Nembhard, Jean Ton Noon, PBSA treasurer Kevin Kaufman, Maj.Julie Miller, PBSA president Bill Hurst, Mercy Hernandez, Bill Meiklejohn, Capt. Laura Wood, Officer JohnMcLaughlin, Officer Debbie Fuentes, and Delores Triane.

(Photo by Bill Meiklejohn.)

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



BY LYNN WILLE FICHMAN

The ‘Soiree in the Garden’ is fast

becoming Pinecrest’s party of the year, a

greatly anticipated annual event and this

year’s fete will take place on Friday, Feb.

25, in Pinecrest Gardens.

Beside the fine food, wine, and top

tier concert featuring Julian Marley, that

will be offered, more than anything else

it is the setting that makes this a truly

outstanding fundraiser hosted by an

organization whose sole purpose is to

beautify the gardens.

Before it was known as Pinecrest

Gardens it was a major South Florida des-

tination, one of the most frequented stops

on the tourist circuit. Many people who

visited Miami between the 1940s and the

late ’90s can recall either sitting in the

Banyan Bowl as trained exotic birds

whizzed past their heads, or posing for

photos with their outstretched arms serv-

ing as parrot stands.

The birds no longer reside there and the

alligators who once sunned themselves in

its small lagoons have long since been

relocated to Watson Island to be a part of

the larger more tourist accessible Jungle

Island. What has been left behind is by far

one of the most unique natural environ-

ments to be found anywhere.

Now that the property is owned by the

Village of Pinecrest it is beginning to earn

the title of a world class treasure. It had

been a victim of neglect and the wrath of

Mother Nature by the time the purchase

of the property was completed in 2000,

but since that time it has been going

through a sweeping transformation.

The Garden Fund, a 501(c)(3) organi-

zation that was formed in 2007, has been

working to assist the village’s government

with that task, and members have been

doing just that with money raised from

private citizens, family foundations,

memberships, sponsors, and through their

annual Soiree in the Garden.

The lighting is in place, the refurbished

Banyan Bowl is ready, and the many

details of putting on this important

fundraiser are coming together with the

precision of a finely tuned orchestra.

The Soiree will begin at 6:30 p.m., and

guests will be greeted with a glass of wine

and Deborah Fleisher’s hypnotic harp as

they stroll through the giant banyan trees

toward the magnificent terrace area that

overlooks Swan Lake. Here the piano

music of Jimmy B will serenade while

everyone peruses the silent auction tables

and enjoys appetizers and drinks. Bidding

is generally fierce and cordially competi-

tive for many coveted bargains that will

be offered for sale.

Later, the call to dinner will be sounded

and a quick walk to the meadow will lead

guests to glowing tables and a delicious

buffet extravaganza presented by Phillip

Gillan of Island Noodles, a catering com-

pany that specializes in fresh and whole-

some fare that is prepared on site.

The legendary desserts will be abun-

dant and decadent, lovingly prepared and

delivered by Garden Fund volunteers.

They are always a tremendous hit.

The concert that is to follow all of this

will no doubt be the crescendo of the

evening. This year the Fund presents

Julian Marley, “Acoustic and Unplugged”

in the Banyan Bowl. This intimate concert

by one of the most notable members of a

royal rock family promises to be a sold

out affair.

All proceeds from the evening will

directly benefit horticulture at the Garden,

and the Fund’s board of directors is grate-

ful for the generous support of its spon-

sors, who include the Village of Pinecrest,

Whole Foods Market of Pinecrest, NCL

and the Corradino Group.

Participation in this rare nighttime event

in the Garden can be had for a fraction of

what is often paid for similar amenities in

far less exotic settings. Tickets for the

entire evening are $100 each, and tables of

10 can be purchased for $900. A limited

number of “concert only” seats are avail-

able for $40 in advance, and $45 at the

door beginning at 9 p.m. Tickets for the

fifth annual Soiree in the Garden can be

obtained online by visiting <www.garden-

fund.org>, or by calling the Fund’s office

at 305-669-1028.

Julian Marley to perform at ‘Soiree in the Garden’

www.communitynewspapers.com


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SPEAKING UP FOR PUBLIC EDUCATIONFROM A TEACHER’S PERSPECTIVE.

United Teachers of DadePresident Karen Aronowitz willpresent, from a teacher’s perspec-tive, the state of public educationin Florida. President Aronowitz, ateacher and advocate for teachersand school support personnel, willcover the topics of public educa-tion funding in Florida, how small-er classes benefit student learningand what research shows on theeffectiveness of the alternatives totraditional public schools.

Where: THE BEACON COUNCIL80 SW 8th Street, Suite 2400,Miami, FlWhen: Thursday, February 24, 2011at 8:30 a.m.RSVP by February 20, 2011 viathe web atwww.beaconcouncil.com/eventsPrice: $25.00 per person

All ACCESS SERIES eventswill also be accessible via webinarwith live internet question andanswer opportunities.

BY MICHELLE PALOMINO

Are you wondering how to make thisValentine’s Day truly memorable? MiamiSeaquarium has a unique answer for coupleswith its “Dine with the Dolphins” offering atthe park’s new Dolphin Harbor facility.

On Monday, Feb. 14, from 8 to 10 p.m.,couples will enjoy a delicious candlelightdinner under the stars overlooking the dol-phins at Dolphin Harbor. In addition, theValentine’s Day package includes twoDolphin Odyssey experience certificates,and two annual passes to the park.

The “Dine with the Dolphins” packagemay be purchased for $398 plus tax percouple. Availability is limited and advancereservations are required. For more infor-mation or to purchase your “Dine with theDolphins,” call 305-365-2501 or visit

online at <www.miamiseaquarium.com>.Dolphin Odyssey is a one-and-a-half-

hour experience, which includes feeding,touching and learning about these magnifi-cent animals plus the opportunity for adeep-water interaction with a dolphin. Thedinner and swim will take place at DolphinHarbor, the newest attraction at MiamiSeaquarium and home to 12 AtlanticBottlenose Dolphins.

Miami Seaquarium, South Florida’smost popular tourist attraction, is a family-oriented marine-life park open to the pub-lic 365 days a year. The park provides vis-itors with a greater understanding andappreciation for marine life through shows,presentations and exhibits.

More information on Miami Seaquariumis available online at <www.miamiseaquar-ium.com>.

Unique Miami Seaquarium promotionoffers sweethearts dinner, dolphins

Valentine’sDay packagealso includesDolphinOdysseyexperiencefor two.

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Spend romantic Valentine’s Dayat Cauley Square Historic Village BY SHERRY MILLER

Valentine’s Day on Monday, Feb. 14,will be especially romantic with themusic of popular performer KimBankston singing nostalgic songs for amemorable evening at the Village ChaletRestaurant in the heart of the CauleySquare Historic Railroad Village from 7to 10 p.m.

Special Valentine’s Day menus will beserved in the Village Chalet Restaurantfrom 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. and in The TeaRoom Restaurant from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Valentine’s Day dining reservationsmay be made by calling direct to theVillage Chalet at 305-258-8900 or to theTea Room at 305-258-0044.

Valentine’s menus in both the VillageChalet and in the Tea Room will includea variety of starters and entrees and arepriced at $34.95 per person (plus tax andtip) and include a complimentary glass

of champagne.While you dine, Bankston will per-

form such favorites as Put Your HeadOn My Shoulder, The Way You LookTonight, Canadian Sunset, Earth Angel,Smoke Gets In Your Eyes and I OnlyHave Eyes For You.

Bankston’s new Forever GoldCollection CD is available at<www.kimbankston.net> and at theVillage Chalet every Saturday for fans toenjoy his classic Jobim Jazz instrumen-tals and new acoustic guitar as well assolo vocals of oldies but goodies songsof the late Nat King Cole, the Plattersand many other favorites.

Cauley Square Historic RailroadVillage is located at 22400 Old DixieHwy. in Goulds (US1 at SW 224thStreet).

For information, call direct to 305-258-3543 or go online to<www.cauleysquare.com>.


Rick Tonkinson and Associates hasbeen recognized as a Top 100 SmallBusiness in South Florida in 2010 byBusiness Leader magazine.

Rick Tonkinson and Associates isonly one of the two financial planningfirms to be selected and the search isbased on all small business south of FortPierce.

Rick Tonkinson and Associates is afamily business specializing in helpingworking-class people and their familiesattain their financial goals. Their “hands-on” money management with daily mon-itoring of performance, exclusively for themiddle class, provides a level of servicethat is normally reserved for the rich andfamous.

Recognized by several prestigiouspublications including Forbes, EmployeeBenefit News, Financial Adviser and Pa-cific View magazine, Rick and his familyhave been major donors to such organi-zations as the University of Miami, MiamiLighthouse for the Blind, Diabetes Re-search Institute, Rotary and the Cleve-land Orchestra.

For more information, contact RickTonkinson &Associate at (305)447-6617,100Almeria Ave, Ste. 310, Coral Gables,FL 33134.

Securities offered through Securities America Incmember of FINRA/SIPC.RickTonkinson Registered Rep-resentative. Advisory Services offered through SecuritiesAmerica Advisors, Inc.RickTonkinson Investment AdvisorRepresentative. Rick Tonkinson and Associates, Inc. &Securities America companies are not affiliated.

Rick Tonkinson and Associates Recognized as

a Top 100 Small Business in South Florida


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BY ROBERT HAMILTON

The DuMond Conservancy will host afestival to celebrate Golden Lion Tamarinson Saturday, Feb. 12, in a unique lush out-door environment at Monkey Jungle,14805 SW 216 St.

Golden Lion Tamarins are beautiful,highly endangered monkeys from thecoastal forests of Brazil whose existence isthreatened by habitat destruction. MonkeyJungle was one of the first places in theworld to successfully breed these monkeys.The Golden Lion Tamarin was on the brinkof extinction but thanks to the remarkableenergy and tenacity of one women scientist,Dr. Devra Kleiman, who established breed-ing programs (with Monkey Jungle as aparticipant) and a reintroduction program,the numbers of Golden Lion Tamarins areslowly increasing in the forests of Brazil.

Dr. Kleiman died in 2010 but sheremains an inspiration to young womenaspiring to be scientists. Speakers willinspire the audience with the uplifting storyof Dr. Kleiman’s life, and the current con-servation efforts in Brazil to guarantee thesurvival of this wonderful species. CarolineLewis, founder of the Fairchild Challenge,will discuss the importance of empoweringyoung people as solution-oriented stewardsof the environment.

Interspersed in the program will be exhil-arating performances by Brazilian dancers

and drummers which will invite audienceparticipation, Capoeria (Afro-Brazilian rit-ualized fighting) and a drama written anddirected by Southwood Middle Schooldrama student, Kaithleen Conecopan,Trouble in the Family, based on the occa-sional traumas faced by the usually peace-ful living Golden Lion Tamarin families.Family activities will include storytellingand face painting.

Photographs of Tamarins by local pho-tographers will be on display along with aninternational exhibition of children’s art-work. Scientific displays will include dra-matic photographs of Brazilian biodiversi-ty and an exhibit on the visualization ofscience.

The DuMond Conservancy for Primatesand Tropical Forests Inc. was founded in1990 and is a not-for profit scientific organ-ization located on the grounds of MonkeyJungle in South Miami-Dade County. Thescientific mission of the DuMondConservancy is concerned with the welfareof nonhuman primates and tropical forestecosystems.

The festival will run between the hoursof 2 and 5 p.m. Admission to the festival is$10 for adults, $5 for children (5-18) andstudents, and free for children under 5 yearsof age. Family tickets (two adults and up tothree children) are $25. Tickets can be pur-chased at the door or via email at<[email protected]>.

DuMond Conservancy celebratesGolden Lion Tamarins, Feb. 12


Free sports injury preventionworkshops for kids, teensBY TARNELL CARROLL

With the frequency and severity of youthsports injuries climbing dramatically inrecent years, Miami Dade College (MDC)School of Community Education andMiami Children’s Hospital have partneredto offer the community free workshops tohelp prevent sports injuries among youngchildren and teenagers.

The first sports injury prevention work-shop is recommended for middle schoolathletes and their parents, and will takeplace on Thursday, Feb. 10, 6:30-9 p.m., atMiami Children’s Hospital West KendallCenter, 13400 SW 120 St., Suites 100 and200.

Organizers from both MDC and the hos-pital believe that with sufficient informa-tion, sports injuries among children may bepreventable. Two other workshopsdesigned for high school athletes andcoaches and trainers will be held in March

and April. All three workshops will betaught by Miami Children’s Hospital phys-ical therapists that specialize in adolescentand youth sports injuries. Parents areencouraged to bring their young athletes tothe workshops.

The workshops are free and open to thepublic but prompt registration is requiredas seating is limited. For registration andinformation, call 305-237-2612 or sendemail to <[email protected]>.

Additional workshops scheduledinclude: Preventing Sports Injuries forHigh School Athletes, Thursday, Mar. 10,6:30 to 9 p.m., and Young Athlete SportsInjury Prevention for Coaches and Trainers(recommended for high school coaches,sport-specific and competitive sportscoaches as well as athletic trainers),Thursday, Apr. 14, 6:30 to 9 p.m. All work-shops will take place at Miami Children’sHospital West Kendall Center, 13400 SW120 St., Suites 100 and 200.


The Nissan LEAF is the future for auto-mobiles, and the future is now.

I recently finished three days behind thewheel of the amazing little four-door hatch-back and I am even more impressed withthis car now than when I first drove it at thepress preview in Tennessee last fall. It sim-ply is astounding how good the technologyis in Nissan’s initial effort at building anall-electric powered automobile.

The LEAF is an amazing car to drive.Push a button on the dash and the motorstarts without a sound. Only the dash lightsflashing on tells you that the car is opera-tional. An oversize toggle switch shifter onthe center console allows you to put the carin drive or reverse. Once on the road, thecar moves in soundless wonder. There’s noengine noise or exhaust rumble and nowhine from the transmission because theLEAF doesn’t have an engine or transmis-

sion. The silence is almost eerie.At a starting price of $33,630, the LEAF

is the least expensive battery-electric pro-duction car on the market today. With its 24kilowatt-hour battery, it qualifies for a$7,500 federal tax credit, bringing the pricedown to $26,130. However, the initial 2011model production run of 20,000 vehiclesalready has been sold (though delivery isstill pending on most of them). Nissanpromises a larger production in 2012.

The LEAF essentially is a commutervehicle. It will take you to work and backand allow you to run all of your errands, allon a single battery charge. With a fullycharged battery, it has a range of 100 miles(we got 117 miles in a recent test). You canplug the LEAF into a standard 110-volthousehold circuit to recharge the batteries,though you have to use the charger andheavy-duty cable that comes with the car,neatly stashed in zippered canvas bag in thetrunk and it’ll take about eight hours for afull recharge.

Meantime, Nissan is leading the way indeveloping a public charging infrastructurein cities around the country and at rest stopsalong the interstate highway system, thelack of places to re-charge being the biggestproblem for electric car owners. Obviously,

if trips are within 100 miles or if you canre-charge at your destination, then theabsence of public charging stations is not aproblem. Nissan says a network of fast-charging stations will be in place within thenext year.

LEAF owners can buy a Quick ChargePort for $700, which will enable the use ofa direct current fast-charger to bring theLEAF batteries back to 80 percent of

capacity within 30 minutes. Nissan alsooffers a 220-volt home charging unit($2,200 installed) that recharges the batter-ies in four hours.

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

Nissan LEAF: The future is now for automobiles

LET’S TALK CARS

Ron BeasleyAUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

Nissan LEAF is an all-electric four-door hatchback commuter vehicle.

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