BY BARI AUERBACH J ust a pebble in the water can set the sea in motion - a simple act of kindness can stir the widest ocean…The fifth Anchors Away launch at Oleta River State Park was a mon- umental event as two new boats joined a fleet of 35 others already creating great pos- sibilities for children with physical and intel- lectual disabilities to learn to sail and set a course for success in the marine industry. Anchors Away boats 36 and 37 were christened by Miami-Dade County Public School Supt. Alberto Carvalho: “Anchors Away Foundation” (named for the program itself to commemorate six years of success) and “Sam and Dani”- names of the twin grandchildren of Anchors Away Foundation President, Aventura Comm. Billy Joel and his wife Sandra. Comm. Joel explained, “Sam and Dani often heard us talk lovingly about the Anchors Ser ving Aventura, Bal Harbour , Bay Harbor , Golden Beach, Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Sunn y Isles Beach, Surfside May 4 - 10, 2011 news news Anchors Away Foundation “launches dreams” for disabled students –––––––– Continued on page 10 Aventura Aventura Miami-Dade County Public Schools Supt. Alberto Carvalho joins Anchors Away Foundation Chairman , Aventura Comm. Billy Joel and Dr. Jayne Greenberg, M-DCPS, in showing their enthusiasm for the Anchors Away program (Photos by Andrew Goldstein) Oleta River State Park hosts 5th launch with Supt. Alberto Carvalho
launch at Oleta River State Park was a mon-umental event as two new boats joined afleet of 35 others already creating great pos-sibilities for children with physical and intel-lectual disabilities to learn to sail and set acourse for success in the marine industry.
Anchors Away boats 36 and 37 werechristened by Miami-Dade County PublicSchool Supt. Alberto Carvalho: “AnchorsAway Foundation” (named for the programitself to commemorate six years of success)and “Sam and Dani”- names of the twingrandchildren of Anchors Away FoundationPresident, Aventura Comm. Billy Joel andhis wife Sandra.
Comm. Joel explained, “Sam and Danioften heard us talk lovingly about the Anchors
Serving Aventura, Bal Harbour, Bay Harbor, Golden Beach, Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside May 4 - 10, 2011
newsnews
Anchors Away Foundation “launches dreams” for disabled students
–––––––– Continued on page 10
AventuraAventura
Miami-Dade County Public Schools Supt. Alberto Carvalho joins Anchors Away Foundation Chairman , Aventura Comm. Billy Joel and Dr.Jayne Greenberg, M-DCPS, in showing their enthusiasm for the Anchors Away program (Photos by Andrew Goldstein)
Oleta River State Park hosts 5th launch with Supt. Alberto Carvalho
Page 2 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
–––––––– Continued on page 10 & 11
Students enjoy the freedom of sailing their own specially-equipped access boats at Oleta RiverState Park
Supt. Alberto Carvalho, Miami-Dade County Public Schools
AventuraComm. Billy
Joel andwife Sandra
with their grandchil-dren, Sam
and Dani
FL State Sen. Gwen Margolis
Dr. Jayne Greenberg, Miami-Dade County Public Schools
Ass’t Supt. Enid Weisman, Miami-Dade County PublicSchools
Alan T. Brown, Dir. of Public Impact, Christopher andDana Reeve Foundation
Dr. Martin Karp, SchoolBoard Member
Dr. LawrenceFeldman, SchoolBoard Vice-Chairman
Anchors Away Foundation Vice Chair Cliff Schulman, Weiss Serota Helfman, as EmceeMiami-Dade County Comm. Sally Heyman
Barry Stevens, Park Manager, Oleta River State Park
Anchors Away Foundation “launches dreams” for disabled students
Mona is trying to figure out a slight problem.Here she is at 30 and it seems she has been sad-dled by Wally the Winner. Wally was the guythat her best friend Sally introduced him as aperfect winner for her. She met Wally and onthe first date he was definitely charming. Datesnumber two and three get a bit hairy whenMona realized that Wally had yet tolook at her beyond her chest line.
Date four ended with her in bedwith Wally at a hotel but she couldn’tremember how that happened. Shehad gone to the ladies room for amoment took a sip of her drink felt abit weird and there she was in bedwith him. She wondered if he hadslipped something into her drink, butWally was a winner and winners did-n’t do things like that. When she found out shewas pregnant, he did offer to marry her. Theydecided instead to live with each other for a fewmonths to see how it would work out.
It went well and two months before their sonPaul was born, they got married. Their sex lifeslowed down after Paul’s birth and Wally’sattention began to wander. Stayed out a bit latewith the boys at the office and when he camehome the house would have blown up from thefumes coming out of him. When Mona ques-
tioned him he told her that since the sex lifewas so thin, he had to do something. All herfault.
She tried to make the sex life better but theproblem was getting Wally to stay home. Hewas working overtime and when he camehome he was too tired to do anything but go tosleep. She also noted that on occasion when hecame home he was staggering and walking intothe walls.
One night on one of his overtimenights she decided to visit her friendLila. Imagine!
Her surprise when she sawWally’s car parked outside her home.Knocked on the door and Lilaanswered slightly messed up and herhusband Wally coming out of thebedroom. Fumes out of his mouth,walking into walls, playing aroundwith one of her best friends was
more than enough to head to the divorce court.The judge gave her a measly $4l2 per monthfor child support. When he didn’t pay for fourmonths she went back to court for help. Wallysaid that it was too much for him to pay and hewas so incensed that he quit his job and movedout of the state.
Mona does have some problems just gettingby. She would like to find someone that shecould care for ... but if Wally is a winner whatare the losers like?
A seductively inviting class pairing exquisiteMarieBelle New York chocolates with velvety red winesand world-renowned Camacho cigars infused with hintsof caramel and complex spices will take place at BourbonSteak, a Michael Mina restaurant, at 7 p.m. on Friday,May 13th. During the event, participants will taste fea-tured selections and learn about how all three complementone another and can enhance flavors as well. RobertCaldwell, president of The Hotel Humidor Co., alongwith the restaurant’s Wine Director Justin Hall will leadthe educational class.
The cost to participate is $50 per person and includesa glass of wine, two cigars and a variety of fine choco-lates. Cigar features of the evening will include theCamacho Connecticut and rare Camacho 10thAnniversary.
Spaces are limited and reservations are required bycalling 786-279-6600. Bourbon Steak is located off the
main lobby of the legendary Fairmont Turnberry Isle at 19999 West Country Club Drive in Aventura.
For more information, call 786-279-6600 or visit bourbonsteakmiami.com
On Monday, May 9th, the Michael-Ann RussellJewish Community Center will celebrate the 63rdbirthday of the State of Israel, and the significantachievements it has contributed in the areas of sci-ence, medicine, technology, art, agriculture andmore.
“In recognition of these momentous achieve-ments” says Israel 63 Chair, Evelyn Faigenblat, wewill present thematic activity stations that demon-strate these achievements, and will offer lectures byIsraeli universities that will highlight examples ofthese accomplishments, and how they have impactedthe rest of the world.”
“With 30 different community organizations,agencies, day schools, and synagogues actively par-ticipating, there will be many different attractionsoffering a variety of activities for children and fam-ilies to enjoy,” notes Dror Gershoni, CommunityShaliach and Israel 63 Coordinator.
Drawing upon the theme of 63 years of achieve-ments, this year’s 1.3 mile Solidarity Walk forIsrael, is focused on Israel’s contributions to theworld. The walk will be lead by Consul General ofIsrael, Ofer Bavly, beginning at 5 pm.
Following, there will be a Torch LightingCeremony at 6 pm that transitions from the mourn-ing period of ‘Yom Hazikaron’, Israel Memorial Day- to ‘Yom Ha’atzma’ut’, Israel Independence Day.
This year’s, main attractions will feature twolive concerts by performing groups arriving direct-ly from Israel. The Ethiopian Israeli Scouts willperform an outdoor concert at 7 pm, and AlHabama- the official performing group from thecity of Herzliya, will perform in the Scheck FamilyGymnasium, with doors opening at 8pm.Additionally, an art exhibit featuring local Israeli
artists will be on display inside the MAR-JCC dur-ing the week of the event. An Israeli-style glattkosher food court will be available.
In addition to all the festivities, efforts will bemade to help stamp out hunger in Miami with acanned food drive. “We will put hunger in Miami onthe map, by collecting cans of food and creating amap of Israel with these cans. All donations will bedelivered to the JCS Kosher Food Bank, which helpsfeed hundreds of individuals and families eachmonth in Miami,” Dror explains.
Overflow parking for Israel 63 will be availableat Hillel Community Day School and Temple Sinaiadjacent to the MAR-JCC on NE 22nd Ave. Formore information about this free event, contactDror Gershoni, at 305-932-4200 x128.
Musical theater’s favorite nuns, dance’s most sensual steps, children lit-erature’s beloved mouse, and science like you never learned it in schoolcan be found at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center this May.
Science comes alive with the Smart Stage Matinee performances ofDoktor Kaboom! sponsored by Atkins, on Fri. May 6th at 10 and 11:30a.m. Doktor Kaboom! takes children on an amazing interactive and educa-tional tour of the modern scientific method, using humor and comedywhile demonstrating spectacular applications of the physical sciences.Tickets are $10 with lap seats available for $3 at all shows for infants 12months and under.
Mazel Musicals, Inc. and the Broward Center for the Performing Artspresents Meshuggah-Nuns, continuing through Sun. May 8th. The fifthNunsense adventure finds the Sisters on an all-expense-paid trip on the“Faiths of All Nations” Cruise that is beset with seasickness among theentertainers leaving the Sisters and the actor who was to portray Tevye inFiddler on the Roof to put on a show resulting in a hilarious celebration ofJewish and Catholic traditions. Showtimes are Wed. through Fri. at 8p.m.; Sat. at 2 and 8 p.m.; and Sun. at 2 and 7 p.m. This is a presentationof the Double Chai Theatrical Series.
Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida presents the International Ballet Concertfeaturing contemporary, folkloric and classical dances with groups fromDenmark, Germany, Poland, Peru, Mexico and the U.S. on Fri. May 13th
at 7:30 p.m. This diverse program directed by ballet master VladimirIssaev includes highly talented dancers performing the famous Pas deDeux and neo-classical pieces. Tickets are $25.
Adapted from E.B. White’s classic story, Stuart Little will take the stageon Sat. May 14th at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. as part of the Family Fun Series.Produced by Theater IV, this musical mixes puppetry with live-action as ittells the story of a noble mouse that jumps headlong into adventures bigenough to match any imagination. Children will enjoy pre-show arts andcrafts presented by Young At Art Museum, complimentary face paintingand a post-show snack provided by Whole Foods Market and Blue Bell IceCream. Tickets are $14 with $3 lap tickets available for infants 12 monthsand under. Tickets are $15 when bought the day of the performance.
Enjoy a tribute to music legends in Icons on Fri. May 20 at 8 p.m. whensinger/pianist David McBride and the Phil Hinton Orchestra performsongs from Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Tony Bennett, Barry Manilowand Michael Bublé. The show also features special guest Jennifer Miller ina tribute to Judy Garland. The performance benefits The Anita Priest“Whispering Angels” Memorial Scholarship Foundation. Tickets are $25,$30 and $35.
Tango Fantasy presents Masters of Tango featuring the music of theGuillermo Petri Grand Orchestra with singer Daniel Bouchet on Sun., May29th at 5 and 8 p.m. Direct from Argentina, Miriam Larici and LeoBarrionuevo, the 2009 winners of NBC’s “Superstars of Dance,” and sixother renowned dance couples will dance the sensual Tango as a 14-pieceband provides the extraordinary soundtrack. Tickets are $35, $45 and $55.
Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 NE 188th Street inAventura. For more information, call 954-462-0222 or visitAventuraCenter.org
Your memory is your ability to retainand recall things. It is who you are. It isyour identity, your sense of self and yourpersonality. Because it is a vital part ofyour life it is very important that you do notlose it. When you lose it you lose yourself.It is a good idea to try and improve,enhance and preserve it.
Currently, there is a lot of research onthe subject which can increase your abilityto be the best you can be, not only now, butas you age. Studies have shown that youneed to challenge your brain. Doing cross-word puzzles if you have always done themis not enough. You need to learn somethingnew like a language. You need to have vari-ety. Make sure you keep learning new anddifferent things.
Physical, aerobic exercise for onehour, three times a week for three months
produces increased blood flow to the brain,more neurogenesis or new cell formation,more protection for the carriers of theAPOE gene, implicated in Alzheimer’s dis-ease. It definitely lowers blood pressure,enhances cognition and improves memory. Social interaction keeps your mind sharpand actually decreases mental decline andmortality age. If possible the interactionsshould foster discussions of some impor-tance not just trivia or gossip. Rememberthe saying, “Small minds talk about people,average minds talk about events and greatminds talk about ideas.”
Memory also refers to the storagecapacity of a computer. In addition to thememory in the computer you can also havean external component that will back up thestored memory. It is a good idea to have anexternal component in your real life that isseparate from your internal memories. Forinstance, you might create a personal timeline on paper for yourself and for your fam-ily. If you should lose your memory youwill have a back- up for everything that hashappened which could be invaluable.
Patricia Frank is a LicensedPsychotherapist. She can be reached at305-788-4864, 212- 308-0309.
TR: It is fairly specialized. I am one ofonly 34 lawyers in Florida who areboard certified by the Florida Bar in avi-ation law. Cases in aviation can benational or even sometimes internation-al, for example if they involve accidents.But my focus tends to be on passengerrights and national security issues, com-bined with litigation for aviation compa-nies. I have represented both carriersand passengers. We do a lot of consultingfor carriers on national security after 9-11. Aviation law with respect to the pur-chase and sale of aircraft is another areawhere I’m active, as well as some regula-tory work. I might represent a pilot whomakes a mistake but wants to save his orher license before the FAA. Space law isan emerging field, too. So it’s really avery broad spectrum.
LLCC:: IIss tthhaatt ssppaaccee llaaww aass iinn oouutteerr ssppaaccee??TR: Yes, it really is. As the space shuttle
retires, private enterprise in space travel isemerging. People are paying a lot to be pri-vate space tourists, and so far there’s not alot of law on that. In 2008, Florida passed alaw saying that if you take someone up intospace, you’ve got to give them notice of thedangers involved and get a written consent,similar to the consent someone has to signon a commercial boat in the Keys.
LLCC:: IInn wwhhaatt ootthheerr aarreeaass ddoo yyoouu pprraaccttiiccee??TR: Really, my practice is about busi-
ness litigation — whether that involvesairplanes or other companies. Businesslitigation means representing companieswhen contracts have been broken or busi-nesses have been wronged financially,through fraud for example. I am also aFlorida Supreme Court Certified CircuitMediator and enjoy trying to mediatecases and save parties the expense of trial.
TR: I am and I think all lawyers are obli-gated to give back to the professional com-munity and the community at large. I wasthe youngest president of Dade County BarAssociation, which is the largest voluntarybar association in Florida. I chaired itsProfessionalism Committee and currentlyserve on its Judicial Campaigns PracticesCommittee, too.
LLCC:: AArree yyoouu ffrroomm tthhee aarreeaa oorriiggiinnaallllyy??TR: I was born in Boston, but I went to
high school and law school in Miami. Iteach aviation law at the University ofMiami School of Law. I’ve lived inAventura for almost a decade now.
Ravich Law Firm, P.A. is located in theMiami Center, 201 S. Biscayne Blvd. Formore information, call 305-913-7670 [email protected]
Page 6 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
Aviation Attorney Tim Ravich alsooffers business litigation, mediation
BY LYNN CARROLL PROVOCATIVE QUESTIONS FOR PROVOCATIVE PEOPLE
Elite BBEEAATT
TIM RAVICH
Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach,South Florida’s ultra-luxury beachfrontretreat, celebrates the joys of motherhoodwith its special Mother’s Day Shop andSpa Package by Acqualina Spa by ESPA.The Mother’s Day Journey offers treat-ments that are sure to bring a sense ofmuch-needed balance to mind, body andsoul. Mothers will end their afternoonfeeling de-stressed, re-energized andcompletely loved.
The Mother’s Day Shop & SpaPackage begins with a Welcoming FootRitual. The ESPA AromatherapyMassage uses a blend of individuallychosen oils to ensure a unique treatmentwith massage techniques to suit your spe-cific body needs. The ESPA Active PeelFacial dramatically smoothes, softensand evens skin tone incorporating steam,deep brush exfoliation and deep brushcleanse to prepare the skin for an applica-tion of the revolutionary ESPAProfessional Enzyme Peel. Mothers willend their afternoon with a delectable
Bento Box Spa Lunch on the pool veranda.The first ten Mother’s Day Shop & Spapackages to be booked will include aleopard print mini notebook and $50Neiman Marcus gift certificate to be usedat the neighboring Bal Harbour Shops.This two-hour Mother’s Day Shop & SpaPackage is valued at $295, with compli-mentary valet parking included.
If you are looking for a completeSouth Florida luxury getaway, treatyour mother to a perfect Mother’s Dayretreat with the Girlfriend’s GetawayPackage which includes a stay at theluxurious and elegant AcqualinaResort & Spa on the Beach, two 50-minute ESPA treatments, complimen-tary Valet Parking daily and one spalunch for two per package. Rates are$525 - $1225 depending on room andsuite accommodations.
For spa appointments and additionalinformation, please call 877-852-9509 orvisit acqualinaresort.com
This Mother’s Day, what do you get for theAventura mom who has everything? Hereare some good suggestions…
MMootthheerr’’ss DDaayy LLuunncchh:: If you want to takeyour mom out to lunch in Aventura to showher how much you love her in a really bigway, the Cheesecake Factory would be agood place to go since one portion size isalmost big enough for the Octomom and allof her kids!
MMootthheerr’’ss DDaayy SShhooppppiinngg SSpprreeee: If you real-ly want to be a “mothers helper,” take her tothe Aventura Mall and let her pick out herown gift so she won’t have to go to the trou-ble of exchanging whatever you get her forsomething that fits (she knows it’s thethought that counts!)
MMootthheerr’’ss DDaayy FFlloowweerrss:: You could spend a
lot to buy mom roses, but since Aventuraalready has such an abundance of beautifullandscaping, probably no one would noticeif you picked some flowers from the medi-ans to make a Mother’s Day bouquet…justadd in a nice card and ask a friend to makethe delivery!
MMootthheerr’’ss DDaayy CChhooccoollaattee:: Calorie consciousmoms who get lots of Godiva chocolatewould especially appreciate a complimen-tary guest pass to an Aventura gym – or afashionable pair of new sneakers for run-ning after all the kids!
MMootthheerr’’ss DDaayy MMaassssaaggee:: For Aventura soc-cer moms, a gift certificate to MassageEnvy would be a great way to expressappreciation for all those pickups and dropoffs…actually a limo driver from AventuraWorldwide Transportation Service wouldbe an even better idea!
MMootthheerr’’ss DDaayy PPhhoottoo:: There’s nothingmoms like more than photos of their kidsand grandkids – but this year, you mightwant to consider giving her a portrait ofmembers of the City Commission – afterall, they’re the ones who help ensure everyday feels like a holiday in Aventura!
LIFE IN THE CITY
Bari Auerbach
‘Mother’s Day the Aventura Way’
Page 8 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
BY BARI AUERBACH
From Italian sausage, mushrooms, Kalamataolives, prosciutto and long hot finger peppers -to anchovies, onions, pepperoni and sweet pep-pers – nothing tops the selection of gourmet top-pings at Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza…Andwhen it comes to building business, top-of-theline events are always planned for AventuraYoung Professionals, who recently enjoyed anetworking luncheon at Anthony’s in theAventura Plaza on Biscayne and 179th Street.
AYP Chair Jeff Levinson of Sabadell UnitedBank joined by Anthony’s general managerShannon Achilarre welcomed a great turnout ofunder-45 “top of the success ladder” guests dis-covering proprietor Anthony Bruno’s recipe forpizza success…Reinvent coal fired pizza ovensfirst used in the early 1900’s; preserve the “oldworld” art of cooking with coal; put a pizza inan 800 degree oven; cook for just four minutes;
and char the thin crust to perfection.During the luncheon, teams from Williams
Island POA, Miami Dolphins, Sun LifeStadium, Residence Inn and IT Doctors com-mended the over the top value of Anthony’slarge Specialty Pies for under $20 - and choiceslike Meatballs & Ricotta; Broccoli Rabe &Sausage; Eggplant Marino; Philly Cheesesteak;and Frittata (peppers, onions & eggs).
Calculating “see you at the top” reasons forAnthony’s continual expansion, colleaguesfrom Melnick, Lilienfeld & Castonguay, CPA’s,Marenas Resort, iBeautiful.com and the Officeof Dr. Frederick Knoll figured out at least 2,000pizzas a day are served at over a dozenAnthony’s locations in South Florida alone.
While business cards were being exchangedby leaders from Berman Chiropractic Center,Allstate Insurance, Wise Matchmaking, FabianRealty and Fishman Dispute Resolutions - sowere pizza trays as everyone tried Anthony’s
top pizza picks including Fresh Mozzarella,Sliced Tomato & Basil; White Pizza with ricot-ta, mozzarella and Romano cheese; Arugulasalad served over traditional pizza; andCalzones with mozzarella and ricotta.
Financial experts from Northern Trust,Reliance Wealth Management, Total Bank andMerrill Lynch especially appreciated the valueof Anthony’s top selling coal oven roastedchicken wings. Attorneys from Jay StevenLevine Law Group also gave rave reviews toAnthony’s - “raising the bar” for coal ovenroasted focaccia sandwiches made with Italiantuna salad and top quality roast beef.
Hungry for more, AYP members fromDynaServ Florida, ASAP Staffing Services,Velocity Processing and The Sweet Tooth creat-ed top of the mind awareness for delicious“Italian Soul Food” dishes big enough for shar-ing like pork ribs with vinegar peppers andbroccoli rabe and sausage.
Colleagues from Dryeco, Chai Lifeline, TheKabbalah Centre, FastCare and Circle ofLifesaving put Anthony’s classic Italian Salad atthe top of their list for “go green” favorites. Andcreative minds from Seoforanyone.com, theOffice of Dr. Richard Galitz, ABM SecurityServices and Footcare Express came up with goodexcuses for indulging in New York style cheese-cake topped off with cappuccinos for dessert!
Before the luncheon was over, the consensuswas the slogan “Our Pizza Is Well Done!” iscertainly apropos for Anthony’s Coal FiredPizza…and everyone had “Job Well Done!” acco-lades for the Aventura Marketing Council - plan-ning events for the Aventura Young Professionalscommittee that are always top notch!
For more information about Anthony’s CoalFired Pizza in Aventura, phone: 305-830-2625.To inquire about upcoming Aventura YoungProfessionals events, phone: 305-932-5334.
Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza hosts ‘can’t top this’ AYP networker
AYP Chairman Jeff Levinson of Sabadell United Bank (far right) joinsAnthony’s Coal Fired Pizza team: Ricky Arena, Amy DiBenedetto, ShaniBengozi (front/center), Nicholas Dorelli and Amanda Bortolin
Luis, Lorie and John Parafinczuk, ASAP StaffingServices flank Shelley Phillips, Fast Care
Craig Rogoff and Suzi Castonguay, Melnick Lilienfeld &Castonguay, CPAs; Jason Katz, Circle Lifesaving / Life Fitness;Casey Lee, Dyna Serv Florida
Chris Huff and Sarah Gattuso, Miami Dolphins; Howard Fabian,Fabian Realty; Mason Mishcon, Merrill Lynch
Paul Haller and Adam Geiger, Northern Trust flank KarlaAumack, Ofc. of Dr. Frederick Knoll, DDS ––––––––––––––––––––––––
Amy Stone,Janette Giddings
and CrisBarbosa,
Williams IslandPOA
Matt Silver, SEO4Anyone; Eric Beck and SteveGoitia, IT Doctors
Lilly Quintana,Ofc. of Dr. RichardGalitz, MD, FACS;Eric Newman, The
Away program and how much it means to us.When it came time for their B’nai Mitzvah,they decided to take the money they receivedin honor of their special occasion and sponsora boat. We extend our deepest gratitude to allof our wonderful boat sponsors on behalf ofthe children who will now know the freedomof sailing their own boats.”
IIff wwee sshhooww aa lliittttllee lloovvee,, hheeaavveenn kknnoowwsswwhhaatt wwee ccoouulldd cchhaannggee -- ssoo tthhrrooww aa ppeebbbbllee iinntthhee wwaatteerr -- mmaakkee aa wwaavvee,, mmaakkee aawwaavvee……This year’s Anchors Away launchwas attended by a dedicated crew of benefac-tors and community leaders uniting in effortsto teach disabled students how to sail on theirown while learning science, math and lifeskills – an innovative concept conceived byDr. Jayne Greenberg, Executive Director ofPhysical Education and Health Literacy forMiami-Dade County Public Schools.
“There has never been a time, a place or acommunity that has ever given so much toour children with disabilities,” Greenbergsaid. “Thanks to your collective vision andgenerosity, the boats you see out on the waterengraved with your names will sail foreveracross hearts and all of our waterways. Asyou watch our students today you’ll see thatsomething magical happens when the sunhits their faces and the wind is at their backs.They are free to feel, learn and be independ-ent in an environment that has no barriers,boundaries or limitations.”
TThhee ssiinnggllee cchhooiiccee ttoo ttaakkee aa ssttaanndd aanndd rreeaacchhoouutt yyoouurr hhaanndd ttoo ssoommeeoonnee iinn nneeeedd ttoo hheellpp ssoommeebbooddyy -- yyoouu nneevveerr kknnooww wwhhaatt ccaannggrrooww ffrroomm jjuusstt oonnee sseeeedd……Comm. Joel joinedby Aventura Marketing Council chair CliffSchulman of Weiss, Serota, Helfman, whoserves as Anchors Away Foundation vice presi-dent, helped welcome special guests including:
Superintendent Alberto Carvalho,Miami-Dade County Public Schools;Assistant Superintendent Enid Weisman;School Board Vice Chair Dr. LawrenceFeldman; School Board member Dr. MartinKarp; Miami-Dade Commissioner SallyHeyman (sponsor of two Anchors Awayboats); Florida Sen. Gwen Margolis;Aventura Commissioners Bob Diamond andZev Auerbach; North Miami BeachCouncilwoman Phyllis Smith; North MiamiMayor Andre Pierre; Sunny Isles BeachMayor Norman S. Edelcup and Vice MayorLew Thaler; Alan T. Brown, Christopher andDana Reeve Foundation; and Barry Stevens,Park Manager of Oleta River State Park.
Special appreciation was expressed toevent sponsors including Wachovia, A WellsFargo Company; Williams Island Marina; andPublic Relations by Karen Dennis, O’Connell& Goldberg. Thanks also went out to Miami-Dade Parks and Florida Park Service;Anchors Away instructor David Diamond;
student boat captains; student mentors fromthe Miami Beach Sr. High Jr. ROTC andHialeah Gardens Sr. High; and the Dr.Michael M. Krop Sr. High classical stringorchestra under the direction of Bringle Cidel.
SSoo lleett’’ss sshhooww aa lliittttllee lloovvee,, yyoouu nneevveerrkknnooww wwhhaatt wwee ccaann cchhaannggee -- tthhrrooww aa ppeebbbblleeiinn tthhee wwaatteerr -- mmaakkee aa wwaavvee,, mmaakkee aa wwaavvee!!“Thousands of children from Miami-DadePublic Schools now participate in the MarineAcademy and Anchors Away sailings fromthe home base of Oleta River State Park,Coconut Grove Sailing Club and MiamiYacht Club,” Comm. Joel said.
“We’re proud to say that 100% of everydollar donated to the Anchors AwayFoundation is spent on purchasing the boats,specialized motorized equipment for chil-dren who cannot use their arms, beach accesswheelchairs and other necessary equipmentfor the continuation of this program. Wethank all our sponsors and donors who havegiven our students the freedom on the waterthat they may not have on land.”
Community leaders shared their heartfeltsentiments just before the two newest boatsin the Anchors Away fleet were officiallychristened and mastheads displaying flag-ship sponsor names began propelling stu-dents along their journey to further success.
“You’ve taken a dream from words toactions with this wonderful Anchors AwayFoundation. In the process of participating, weglorify and honor the defenseless and invisible
in our communities. Because of pro-grams like this, literally and figura-tively, they get to be ‘in the sun.’Thank you because YOU take thejourney from the impossible to the possible.”
EEnniidd WWeeiissmmaann,, AAsssstt.. SSuuppeerriinntteennddeenntt“Special thanks to Sam and Dani - not many
kids your age would make this contributionbut you did it because your grandparents set astandard and example that’s hard to match.”
“People have to understand what compas-sion is and you have to model it. What Samand Dani have done makes two statements:There are no excuses - and there is no failure.”
“Christopher was a sailor before and afterhis accident – and when I learned about theAnchors Away program I said, ‘We’re so
happy to be here!’ We helped sponsor someof the wheelchairs providing access to theboats and want to assist in any way we can tokeep children going forward every day.”
“We’re so pleased to be the home base of theAnchors Away program and hopefully it will con-tinue for years to come. We have big plans includ-ing a newly-formed citizens support organizationcalled ‘Friends of Oleta River State Park.’
For more information about AnchorsAway Foundation, contact the AventuraMarketing Council: 305-932-5334.
Continued from page 1 ––––––– Comm. Billy Joel
(right) and wife Sandra(left) with daughter-in-
law Cindy Joel andgrandchildren Jordyn,
Sam, and Dani
Anchors Away Foundation ‘launches
David Diamond and his team help students prepare forthe launch
Anchors Away Foundation Chairman , Aventura Comm. Billy Joel;FL State Sen. Gwen Margolis; Supt. Alberto Carvalho, Dr. JayneGreenberg, School Board Vice Chair Dr. Lawrence Feldman; BoardMember Dr. Martin Karp and son Benjamin
Katherine “StarSailor” in the
Anchors Awayprogram
Students anticipate their boat ride
May 4 - 10, 2011 AVENTURANEWS.COM Page 11
dreams’ for disabled children
Supt. Carvalho with an avid sailor
Jaqui and Fernando Levy Hara, The McKafka Group; Jeffrey Eichner,American Impact Media; Joy Felton, Ben-Gurion University of the NegevGr. Florida Region
Janie withOleta RiverState Park
ManagerBarry
Stevens; FL State.
Sen. GwenMargolis;
LauraKruger,
Oleta RiverState Park
Aventura Comm. Billy Joel; Vice Mayor BobDiamond and grandson Tyler with student sailor
North Miami Beach Sr. High Principal RayFontana with Ass’t Supt. Enid Weisman
Sunny Isles Beach Vice Mayor Lew Thaler withPolice Chief Fred Maas
“It takes avillage” toorganize a
hugelaunch
A great crowd arrived to show their support and well wishes for theAnchors Away fifth launch
(Photos byAndrew
Goldstein)
Eric Mannis, Nature’s Best; Michael Yavner, BNY Mellon WealthManagement; Dimitry Shaposhnikov, DS Xpress; Alan T. Brown,Dir. of Public Impact, Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation;North Miami Beach Councilwoman Phyllis Smith
Krop Sr.HighClassicalStringOrchestraunder direction ofBringle Cidel
Excited students await their turn
Boatsready to setsail on thecalm, crystalwaters ofOleta River
Helping hands launch a boat
Page 12 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
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Say it isn’t so. Could this really be hap-pening? After 25 years of feedingAventurans and those who came from citiesall around to eat there, Chef Allen’s hasclosed its doors.
Some might see at it as sad, but ChefAllen Susser had a great run, probably oneof the most remarkable runs in SouthFlorida’s restaurant history. And truly, it isnot a reflection on him, his restaurant, or hiscuisine. It is more about the state of food.
If you look around not only our neigh-borhood, but the entire…well, world. Whatyou’ll find is more and more fast foodplaces, chain restaurants, franchised healthyeateries coming in in droves.
As a matter of fact, when one restau-rant closes, two more open. Case in pointonly is in the Loehmann’s shopping centeron Biscayne Blvd. in Aventura. WhenEinstein bagels and Ruby Tuesday closed,the spaces were vacant. Residents waitedpatiently for the next great thing to come in.I personally was hoping and praying forsomething healthy – a salad place, aseafood “shack” – something cute and casu-al and owned privately. And then it hap-pened – Chipotle opened.
Now do not get me wrong, I am not a“hater” – I do not mind a good hearty calo-rie burrito every now and then, and my hus-band loves the food – he thinks it is deli-cious. And he’s not wrong, after all thou-sands and thousands of people gobble it up
daily, but we already have one about 40blocks south. Can’t we just get in our carsand drive there?
Okay, so there’s still one space left.Perhaps it will be something good. Thatwas when Pei Wei opened. I do not knowhow they do it! PF Chang’s resides just afew blocks South. Granted, it is jammedevery day and night of the week, so perhapsit will be a relief for those who do not wantto wait. And it is less expensive, too.
I am simply not a big fan. You go,order at a counter, pay, and then they bringthe dish to you so it is a hybrid between acafeteria style and a restaurant. Trying tolose my “snobby” attitude, I decided to giveit a try. The food is just like PF Chang’s. Ido love the hot and sour soup. I am still notentirely sold on the concept.
I guess when it comes down to it I am“old-school” when it comes to dining. I liketo make dinner an event. I like to feel like Iam being taken care of. I like to know thatmy waiter is on hand if I need him. And thatwas what Chef Allen’s always brought tomind for me. Old-school dining.
While it is a bummer that he is not hereanymore, Chef has so much more going onthat those who need a dose of him can stillget some. He will be working on restaurantdevelopment, consulting, teaching, andplenty of other culinary ventures.
He too, knew when to fold ‘em andmove on to the next. Best of luck Chef –you are a staple in this community and wewill miss you.
Shari Lynn Rothstein has been writingabout food, wine, lifestyles and fashion formore than 20 years, in New York andFlorida. She resides in Aventura. Shari canbe reached at [email protected] forcomments, questions thoughts.
May 4 - 10, 2011 AVENTURANEWS.COM Page 13
www.communitynewspapers.com
EAT THIS... DRINK THAT
Shari LynnRothstein-Kramer
The End of an Era...
Page 14 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
BY BARI AUERBACH
Holding a plate of food instead of a business card?Placing your cell phone on the table? Blowing on yoursoup? Dr. Jodi Stoner of BusinessEtiquette.Biz recentlyshared strategies for “sealing the deal over lunch” and othereffective ways of “cranking up the credibility quotient” at anAventura Marketing Council Business Development meet-ing hosted by Biscayne Cove Condominium.
Business Development Committee Chair Peter Fishel,CPA and Biscayne Cove board president MadelineGiardiello greeted AMC business and community leadersand by popular demand – welcomed back Dr. Stoner for anencore presentation. Stoner focuses on the business of lever-aging greater success - offering BusinessEtiquette.Biz serv-ices including seminars and workshops; lunch and learns;executive/business consultations; professional office proto-col training; and personal /professional development.
Stoner explained, “Etiquette is really about making peoplefeel good and forging relationships. It’s not who you know –but who knows you - and their perception of you.BusinessEtiquette.Biz offers programs that can foster greatpeople relationships and likability.”
Bringing a recipe for even greater success and credibilityto the table, Stoner will be presenting a seminar entitled“Class Act Dining for the Distinguished Professional” onApril 12 from noon to 2 p.m. at The Grill on the Alleyrestaurant in Aventura Mall. “Dining etiquette is so impor-tant to be ‘a cut above,’” Stoner said. “The dining seminarwill cover everything from mingling, sitting down and properuse of silverware - to how to eat certain foods, signal thewaiter, order wine, pay the bill and exit gracefully.”
AMC members took on the challenge of answering an“Are You a Savvy Business Diner” test learning napkinsshould be placed on chairs when going to the restroom; nomore than a small piece of bread should be buttered at atime; dropped knives shouldn’t be picked up; never to blowon soup or hot food; and sushi should always be eaten“whole”. Then Stoner shared more “mind your businessmanners” pointers… She advised avoiding etiquette blun-ders like gum chewing, texting and talking on cell phones,putting makeup on at the table; not making eye contact dur-ing conversations; and portraying an inappropriate businessimage on social networking sites.
She also emphasized the importance of projecting credi-bility by fostering a culture of “do unto others” respect,appearing organized and having a professional appearance.“Always put your business cards in a holder…Appear ‘pol-ished’ - cleavage, short skirts, high heels, too much cologneand baggy suits don’t belong in the workplace. Remember,everything you do is representative of your company - in andout of the office.”
AMC members agreed Biscayne Cove is really presentingan impressive image with new gate security enhancing theproperty – part of great improvements accomplished withoutassessments.
“We’re now a modern gated community with new state-of-the-art security and a guardhouse that’s manned 24/7,”said Biscayne Cove board president Madeline Giardiello,noting the project was made possible by the cooperativeefforts of many people. “At Biscayne Cove, we’ve not onlysecured our safety - but our property values will increase.”
For more information, visit BusinessEtiquette.Biz orphone: 305-389-6854. To contact Biscayne Cove, phone:305-935-4565.
Madeline Giardiello; Arturo Belkind and Sandy Belkind; guest
Biscayne Cove hosts ‘Class Act’ meeting with Dr. Jodi Stoner, BusinessEtiquette.Biz
Jeff Powell, Reliance Wealth Management; Dan Palmer, Aventura News; Dr. Jodi Stoner;Lance Detotto, Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort; Peter Fisher, Woodbury FinancialServices
Madeline Giardiello andVictor Merced of Biscayne
Cove with Dr. Stoner
AMC members gather at Biscayne Cove for BusinessDevelopment
Dr. Jodi Stoner, BusinessEtiquette.biz presents toAMC’s Business Development Committee
May 4 - 10, 2011 AVENTURANEWS.COM Page 15
Page 16 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
The Kia Sportage always has been a nifty lit-tle CUV, but the 2011 version is simply adelight; it’s pleasing to look at and fun to drive.
The all-new Sportage retains the functional-ity and versatility of the previous model, buthas been repackaged into a sleek, modern andbold style, with new proportions and a com-pletely new look. It was recognized as a TopSafety Pick by the Insurance Institute forHighway Safety and received top ratings forfront, side, rollover and rear impact protection.
Beautifully redesigned to be longer, widerand lower, Sportage now has a more flowingsilhouette. It also has increased performanceand efficiency, comfort and convenience, andthe latest automotive technologies.
With a high beltline, sweeping angles andmore pronounced wheel flares, the newSportage has a spearing shoulder line thatvisually connects the headlights and tail-lights. From the side, the pronounced C pillargives the vehicle a sense of solidity and bal-
ance, while the front end has the new face ofKia with the signature grille, sculpted hood,swept back headlights, tabbed grille outlineand distinctive lower fascia.
Sportage exterior design flows seamlesslyinto the interior with an inviting and comfort-able ambience and many technology features,including the signature three-pod instrumentcluster set prominently within the dash.
Available in four trims — Base, LX, EX andSX — pricing for the compact CUV starts at$18,295, with standard convenience featuresincluding air conditioning, power windows,door locks and mirrors, Sirius Satellite Radio,MP3 connectivity and Bluetooth4 wirelesstechnology, along with the options of apanoramic sunroof, navigation, push-buttonstart, rear camera display, LED daytime run-ning lights and an air-cooled driver’s seat.
Under the hood, Sportage has more powerwith a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder 176 hp engineand improved fuel economy (21/28 mpg).
Base has 16-inch alloy wheels matchedwith 215/70R16 low-rolling resistance silicatires, body-color door handles and electrical-ly adjustable side mirrors; and a six-speedmanual transmission ($18,295).
LX has side mirror LED turn signal indica-tors, keyless entry and tinted glass. Comesstandard with air conditioning, power win-dows, 12-volt power outlets in the front and
cargo areas, power side mirrors with integrat-ed LED indicators, tilt-adjustable steeringwheel, keyless entry with panic alarm andmulti-way adjustable front seats. Stylishlycloth seats are comfortable, while rear seatssplit and fold 60/40 for cargo needs($20,295).
EX has a leather-wrapped steering wheeland shift knob, telescopic steering wheel,illuminated vanity mirrors, automatic foldingrear seats, a dual-zone temperature controlair-conditioner with ionized filtration, illumi-nated and cooled glove box, and a power dri-
ver’s seat with lumbar support for additionalcomfort and support. Also adds 18-inch alloywheels, roof rails, a rear spoiler and chromebody trim and door handles ($23,295).
SX is the top-of-the-line and has Kia’s effi-cient and powerful new 2.0-liter turbo GDIengine ($25,795).
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]>.
Redesigned Kia Sportage has more power, technology
LET’S TALK CARS
Ron BeasleyNew Kia
Sportage islonger, wider
and lower; has amore fluid silhouette.
May 4 - 10, 2011 AVENTURANEWS.COM Page 17
BY MOST REV. THOMAS G. WENSKIArchbishop of Miami
The FloridaLegislature’s currentdebate on immigra-tion threatens the eco-nomic stability ofFlorida.
Punitive measuresaimed at undocument-ed workers will createan atmosphere of fear
for them and their families. At the sametime, these same punitive measures willalienate legal residents and foreign touristswho because of their ethnic “profile” couldbe mistaken for undocumented migrants.
While the Church does not advocate forundocumented immigration, the Churchrecognizes the human dignity of the“stranger among us” who, regardless of hisor her legal status, is still the subject ofrights — that are not conferred by the statebut are in fact God given. One cannot for-get the basic humanity of the immigrantwhatever his status.
The Catholic Church has long minis-tered to immigrants and refugees in theUnited States, including those without per-manent legal status. These immigrants, farfrom being a threat to our nation, are seek-ing to meet the basic needs of their familiesby working, often at jobs that Americansthemselves eschew.
The regulation of immigration is clearlythe purview of the federal and not state orlocal government; it is at the federal levelthe current immigration crisis needs to beresolved — but in a way that is just and ina way that addresses adequately presentand future labor needs of our country and
helps reunify and not divide families.The recent Ninth Circuit Court opinion
pointed out the unconstitutionality of por-tions of the Arizona law, including someprovisions which are now in the proposedFlorida bills. Passage of these statutesinevitably will result in costly court chal-lenges, diverting already scarce resourcesthat could be used to implement policiesbetter suited to bolster Florida’s economy.
In this global society, fraught with eco-nomic instability and natural disasters,workers oftentimes are forced to leavetheir home country in search of a means tosupport their families. Present immigrationlaw leaves few lawful avenues for them toregularize their status even though theycontribute to our economy by their labor.Without a path to legal status, they remainvulnerable to wage theft, exploitation orhuman trafficking.
The failure of Congress to enact com-prehensive immigration reform leaves uswith a status quo that all parties of theimmigration debate find unacceptable.However, draconian measures such asthose proposed in the Florida Legislatureand the demonization of irregularmigrants only exacerbates the problemwithout providing any long term and justsolution.
Enforcement of federal immigration lawis a function of the federal government. IfFloridians want to contribute positively toaddressing the problems caused by illegalmigration, then they should join forceswith those pressing Congress for a federalsolution — one that honors the rule of lawbut, at the same time, affords our migrantbrothers and sisters the respect and dignitythat is theirs as human beings made in theimage and likeness of God.
Legislature’s immigration debatethreatens stability of economy
Page 18 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
Pictured after receiving their Bronze Medal of Valor are (l-r) Firefighter Mike Perez, Capt. Roman Bas and FirefighterJuan Ceballos. The three were among 150 firefighters honored by the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department duringits 10th annual Medal Day ceremonies on Apr. 9. More than 400 family members, elected officials, local police andfire chiefs from the entire South Florida area were in attendance to witness this award ceremony.
Firefighters receive recognitionat annual Medal Day ceremony
Are you dreading the idea of going to the beach or wearing a bathing suit in front of your friends? Tired of covering up and wearing that boring one-piece? Wishing you could confidently wear a bikini again?
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LUXURY ON A CURVELiving at Artech means living luxury without end. Exercise your tennis stroke, do laps at the infinity edge pool, take your boat out from the expansive marina or simply saunter along the lushly landscapedwaterfront boardwalk. This is more than a home. It’s an experience for the most adventurous and sophisticated lifestyles in Aventura.
Visit our sales center and model residences2950 NE 188th Street, Aventura, FL 33180305.466.2600
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Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating representations of the developer. For correct representations, make reference to the documents required by section 718.503, Florida Statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a purchaser or lessee. Units in this condominium are subject to timeshare estates. The features and amenities depicted herein are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change without notice.
Page 20 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
May 4 - 10, 2011 AVENTURANEWS.COM Page 21
Page 22 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
May 4 - 10, 2011 AVENTURANEWS.COM Page 23
BY ANDY NEWMAN
In January 1912, the first OverseaRailway train rolled from the Florida main-land through the Florida Keys to Key West,forever changing the face of many of thepreviously isolated islands by connectingthem with the mainland and each other.
A celebration to honor the historic rail-road, lauded as the most unique railway inthe world upon its completion, has begun inthe Keys. Events are to culminate Jan. 22,2012, the 100th anniversaryof the inaugural train’s arrival.
Conceived by Standard Oiltycoon Henry Flagler, con-struction on the rail linebegan in 1905, motivated byan announcement that thePanama Canal would bebuilt. Flagler thought KeyWest had the potential to bean important port and traderoute with Cuba and LatinAmerica, as well as a vitalsupply stop for ships enteringor exiting the Panama Canal.
The railroad’s trackstretched more than 100
miles out into open water, requiring trail-blazing construction techniques andHerculean efforts. At several points in theconstruction process, more than 4,000 men
were working on the project.Flagler gambled nearly all ofhis wealth on the venture,which was so daunting andunproven that many out-siders called it “Flagler’sFolly.”
Officially named theFlorida East Coast Railway’sKey West Extension, the linebecame known as theOversea Railway and wassometimes referred to as “theeighth wonder of the world.”The bridges and viaductsconnecting the Keys, includ-ing the landmark Seven Mile
Bridge at Marathon, were regarded as anengineering marvel.
For more than two decades after the rail-road’s 1912 completion, it carried passen-gers to the Keys and Key West, affordingthem a breathtaking sense of steamingacross the open ocean.
The Oversea Railway’s heyday abruptlyended when a portion of the line wasdestroyed in a 1935 hurricane. Less thanthree years later, a narrow highway forautomobiles replaced the tracks.
Today, many of the original railroadbridges still can be seen alongside thebridges that support the modern OverseasHighway, the contemporary connectionfrom mainland Florida through the Keys.
Other reminders of the historic railroadinclude Pigeon Key, a five-acre island thatlies beneath the Old Seven Mile Bridge atMarathon. A base camp for workers duringconstruction of the original railroad bridge,the tiny island now features carefullyrestored structures and a museum dedicatedto the railway and its builders.
Celebrations commemorating theOversea Railway’s centennial year arebeing organized throughout the Keys.
Planned elements include history toursshowcasing Flagler sites, bicycling expedi-tions, educational presentations and explo-rations of Pigeon Key — all leading up tothe 100th anniversary of the first train’sarrival in Key West.
Celebration highlights include “Flagler’sSpeedway to Sunshine,” an exhibition andspecial event series that already has begun atthe Key West Museum of Art & History atthe Custom House in Old Town Key West.
The exhibition includes a re-createdFlorida East Coast railcar, a scale replica ofa section of the Seven Mile Bridge, vintagefootage of the journey from Pigeon Key toKey West, a film recounting Flagler’s storyand the arrival of the first train, rare arti-facts including a conductor’s uniform andrailroad worker’s tool chest, and memora-bilia that brings alive the fascinating storyof the railroad that went to sea.
A comprehensive website focused on theOversea Railway centennial, featuring adetailed schedule of events, is being estab-lished at <www.FlaglerKeys100.com>.
For more information about the FloridaKeys & Key West, visit <www.fla-keys.com>.
Railroad that ‘went to sea’ to mark 100th anniversary
Trains traveled from the Florida mainland to Key West on the Overseas Railway.(Historical images provided by Monroe County Library)
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BY ROSA QUIROZ
The Biltmore Hotel has announced apartnership with the Greater MiamiConvention and Visitors Bureau in a dreamwedding contest, “Marry Me in Miami,”giving away a Miami wedding valued atnearly $150,000.
As one of the most renowned historiclandmark hotels, the Biltmore offers a vari-ety of extravagant ballrooms, completewith stunning views and European archi-tectural influences — making it Miami’spremier site for extraordinary weddings.
Starting May 10, couples from across theU.S. may enter the contest and submit theirlove story by logging on to<www.MarryMeInMiami.com>. In June,five finalist couples will be selected ran-domly to visit Miami to compete for thegrand prize in a “Wedding Day Challenge”obstacle course that will take place on June22 on Miracle Mile in Coral Gables. Thecouple that wins the challenge will receivea wedding ceremony and reception for 125guests on Oct. 9 at the Biltmore.
The Biltmore will join forces with pre-mier wedding partners to plan and design awedding set for true platinum status,including: celebrity wedding plannerJackie Ohh; wedding décor by ParrishDesigns, Nuage Designs, Hitched Eventsand Uplyte; wedding cake by ElegantTemptations; entertainment by MichaelSarz; wedding photos by Rodrigo Varela;wedding video by Dream VideoProduction; transportation by MajesticLimousines; bridal dress by Daisy Tarsi;bridesmaids dresses by J. Del Olmo, andmen’s tux by Bolado Clothiers.
In addition, the Biltmore will offer hotelaccommodations for the wedding party, aswell as spa and golf services for the brideand groom. The wedding celebration willculminate with a farewell champagne
brunch at the Biltmore.“This momentous wedding event is a
new chapter in the Biltmore’s 85 years ofhistory,” said Gene Prescott, president ofthe Biltmore Hotel. “The Biltmore sets thestandard for Miami destination weddingsand we are thrilled to host the winning cou-ple at our resort for their special day.”
“Marry Me in Miami” is an initiative of theMiami Romance Month program embarkingin June by the Greater Miami Convention andVisitors Bureau. The program seeks to cele-brate and promote Miami as the ideal city fordestination weddings, commitment cere-monies, wedding shopping trips, bachelor/etteparties, proposals and honeymoons.
For details on the “Marry Me in Miami”contest rules and the grand prize, visitonline at <www.MarryMeInMiami.com>.
ABOUT THE BILTMORE HOTELThe Biltmore is a National Historic
Landmark located in the Coral Gables area.The 273-room hotel resembles classicItalian, Moorish, and Spanish architecturalinfluences spread over 150-acres of tropi-cal landscape. A favorite of world leadersand notables since its opening in 1926, thehotel offers a restored Donald Ross 18-hole, 71 par championship golf course, ten-nis, the largest hotel pool in the country,private cabanas, a European spa, and anaward-winning fitness center.
The hotel’s dining destinations include theacclaimed Palme d’Or, which Zagat calls oneof the best restaurants in the country;Fontana, an Italian restaurant surrounding theBiltmore fountain, and the poolside Cascade.
For more information or to makereservations, visit online at<www.BiltmoreHotel.com> or call 1-800-727-1926.
Biltmore Hotel announces Dream Wedding giveaway
The BiltmoreHotel in CoralGables providesthe ideal backdrop forthat special day.
(Photo credit:AmbrosioPhotography)
May 4 - 10, 2011 AVENTURANEWS.COM Page 25
Page 26 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
I love finding small, but tremendouslyimportant news items that appear buried deepinside the newspaper. Just such an articleappeared in the Apr. 3 issue of the MiamiHerald, headlined: “OHIO – Opponentsbegin push to repeal union law.”
The article tells how opponents of an Ohiolaw, signed by Republican Gov. John Kasichlast month limiting public workers’ collectivebargaining rights, have started gathering sig-natures to get a referendum on the ballot tocancel the law.
The law, similar to that passed inWisconsin, bans public worker strikes, elimi-nates binding arbitration and restricts bar-gaining for 350,000 public workers who arenow covered by a union. The existence of theunions would not be affected — just theirability to represent their members. TheHerald article goes on to say that the petitiondrive will need more than 230,000 valid sig-natures by June 30 to put a referendum on theNovember ballot.
The group seeking signatures, a bipartisanorganization called “We Are Ohio,” statesthat its has 10,000 men and women ready totake to the streets seeking petition signatures.They are quoted as saying, “We want to makesure that the people [of Ohio] have a chanceto veto this legislation. This is going to be anall-out campaign.”
Dennis Willard, a spokesman for We AreOhio said, “Voters are asking us not ‘wheredo I sign,’ but ‘how do I circulate [petitionsfor signature].’”
Interesting? This week the Herald carriedan updated article headlined: “OHIO – Foesof union law cleared to continue.” The articletells that the state’s attorney general and sec-retary of state certified the petition drive overfiled objections.
The question is why did the elected offi-cials pass a bill that appears to be in directopposition to the general feelings of the vot-ers who put them in office? I could answerthat question if this were taking place inFlorida.
In Florida we have more registeredDemocrats than Republicans. However, dueto gerrymandering of voting districts, theRepublicans are able to hold a majority of thestate’s elected positions while being a minor-ity in the state. Result is a Democrat-spon-sored petition drive could amend the state
constitution passing it over solid objectionfrom the Republicans.
Pew Research reports that 37 percent ofregistered voters in Ohio claim to favor theDemocratic Party while 25 percent favor theRepublican agenda. Ohio requires 230,000valid signatures on a petition drive to get onthe ballot. There are 350,000 public workersin Ohio, most represented by a union. Do thearithmetic. If a little over 66 percent of thepublic workers sign the petition it will be onthe ballot in November and they will morethan likely override the law written by theRepublican-controlled legislature.
Interesting? The same can happen inFlorida. So our Republican-controlledFlorida House, Senate and Governor’s Officeshould take note. Running the risk of beingso repetitive, I must say that if the legislaturewere controlled by Democrats and they ger-rymandered the voting districts in their favor,you could take the above story and replacethe word Republican with Democrat andDemocrat with the word Republican. Such isthe way of politics.
That said, I would strongly suggest thatour state legislature and governor’s officewatch their step. Pass a law that is so repul-sive to the mood of the voters and you mightwell find yourselves on the outside lookingin! Only the governor of Florida, aRepublican, is safe from removal. He wouldhave to be impeached by the Florida Houseand tried by the Florida Senate. There is nochance of this happening in a Republican-controlled legislature.
A final word on recalls: We shouldn’trecall an elected official just because wedon’t like how they execute their office. Werecall an elected official for malfeasance,nonfeasance, or misfeasance of office.
We appreciate your opinions on this col-umn whether in agreement or disagree-ment. Please send your comments to (faxnumber) 305-662-6980 or email to <[email protected]>. Theopinions expressed in this column are notnecessarily those of this newspaper, its edi-tors or publisher.
KENNETH’S COMMENTARY
R. Kenneth Bluh VIEWPOINTOhioans take to streets to overturn law killing union rights
May 4 - 10, 2011 AVENTURANEWS.COM Page 27
BY REBECCA STANIER-SHULMAN
Miami native Russell Thomas returns to
the concert stage in a recital accompanied
by Orchestra Miami’s artistic director
Elaine Rinaldi at the piano.
In his first appearance in Miami since
his triumphant win at the Francisco Viñas
Competition in Barcelona, Spain, Thomas
and Rinaldi will present a program of
music by Beethoven, Griffes, Verdi,
Donaudy, Tosti, Britten and Vaughan
Williams.
“I first met Russell when he was a
student at the New World School for the
Arts,” Rinaldi said. “I have taken great
pleasure in watching Russell grow as an
artist, and I’m thrilled to be able to
bring him home to perform for the
Miami public.”
The recital will be on Saturday, May 14,
8 p.m., at the First Presbyterian Church of
Miami, 609 Brickell Ave. Tickets are
priced at $40 for priority seating, $30 for
general admission seating, $20 for seniors
and $10 for students. A special reception
with the artists will be held immediately
following the recital in the Fellowship
Hall, proceeds of which ($20 per person)
go to the benefit of Orchestra Miami.
Tickets for the recital and reception can be
purchased online through Orchestra Miami’s
website (www.OrchestraMiami.org) or by
calling 305-274-2103. This recital is one of
the events celebrating 115 years of service
from the First Presbyterian Church of Miami
(www.fpcmiami.org).
A native of Miami, Thomas quickly is
establishing himself as one of the most
exciting vocal and dramatic talents on
the international opera and concert
scene, most recently as the First-Prize
winner of the prestigious “Viñas
Competition” in Barcelona (First Prize,
Audience Favorite and Best Tenor) and
at the “Competizione dell’Opera” in
Dresden. He has sung at many of the
world’s most important opera houses,
including the Metropolitan Opera
(Tamino in Magic Flute; Steuerman in
Der Fliegende Hollander; Forresto in
Attila; Andres in Wozzeck), Oper
Frankfurt (Faust in Berlioz’s Damnation
of Faust), Welsh National Opera
(Pinkerton in Madame Butterfly;
Tamino in Magic Flute).
Conductor Rinaldi is fast making her
mark among the ranks of rising young
American conductors. Critics have called
her performances “brilliant” and her inter-
pretative work “impeccable.” As founder
and artistic director of Orchestra Miami,
Rinaldi has brought a new level of profes-
sionalism and quality to the local arts
scene. In addition to her work with
Orchestra Miami, Rinaldi is much in
demand as a recitalist and vocal coach.
Founded in 2006 by Rinaldi, Orchestra
Miami quickly has established itself as an
important part of Miami’s vibrant cultural
community. In its brief history, Orchestra
Miami has presented the finest in classical
symphonic, Latin jazz and opera, with
some of the most important and recognized
names in the world of music.
For more information about this recital
and the orchestra, visit the website at
<www.OrchestraMiami.org>.
Tenor Russell Thomas returnsto Miami in recital on May 14
A STATE INCOME TAX FORTEACHERS AND OTHER MUSINGSBY KAREN ARONOWITZ,President, United Teachers of Dade
Apparently, Senator Anitere Floresand Representatives Eric Freson andCarlos Lopez Cantera believe that ourteachers are directly responsible for therecession in Florida. And so, in order tobalance the budget, they have decidedthat those responsible for creating therecession because of their astronomi-cal salaries (us?) should get Floridaout of the recession by paying a stateincome tax (us again, along with otherpesky public servants like sanitationworkers, bus drivers, police officers,firefighters, and the other primarilyfemale workforce (underpaid for overtwo centuries!) public hospital nurses.
This state income tax is being cre-ated by taking money from our pay-checks and making us fund one of thefew benefits that allows teachers tocontinue on a modest wage (now van-ished under the Son of Senate Bill 6,SB 736) and contribute 5% of our payinto the Florida Retirement System.Except that our 5% pay cut will notactually go into the Florida RetirementSystem but into the general revenuepot to pay for a less draconian cut toeducation. So the people who earnthe least will pay a state income tax tofund what the legislature has the pri-mary responsibility to fund under ourstate constitution.
Now, the best part of this wholemess is that when discussion of themultiplier was brought out in the budg-et committee (teachers, again, at thebottom of the pile with a 1.6% multipli-er) those whose earnings were at the
higher rate of 3%, or 3.1% remained atthat multiplier, including our LEGIS-LATORS! You gotta hand it to Anitere!If there’s a teacher she can kick withinkicking distance, she’ll kick! But keepyour hands off her retirement! Becauseshe makes a difference for the studentsand teachers of Miami-Dade County bycontinuing to cut funding to our publicschools!
This sure makes a girl wanna go towork with a smile on her face!
Speaking of the private sector,send some of those goodies over here.Where’s my golden parachute worthmillions received by executives andCEOs for crashing their companies intothe ground? Where’s a teacher’s thou-sands in bonus bucks that middle man-agers got while their companies werepulled from the quicksand with tax dol-lars? If we’re talking private sector,send some of our state tax dollars intoa teacher’s pocket instead of a rela-tive’s charter school management com-pany (a million in rent for you, a man-agement fee for you, and an unwork-able evaluation system for our teach-ers!) It’s good to have relatives in theed business, isn’t it, Eric?
Well, folks, all of this will makegood reading in a Carl Hiassen novel inthe future. I’d be laughing, too, at thegreed and corruption masquerading aseducation reform in our state if only thestakes weren’t so high for our kids. Butpublic schools are on the auction blockfor sale to the highest bidder andFlorida legislators are taking awayevery aspect of teaching and learn-ing that prepares our students fortheir futures, including vocationalcourses that lead so many students tohigh paying jobs. Florida’s children facea grim future when every course is cutout from under them, because it isn’t onthe FCAT.
BTW, FCAT is now in session. Getready for tears and tummy aches fromchildren ages seven through seven-teen. It’s what passes for educationhere in the sunshine state.
The United Teachers of Dade repre-sents 32,000 teachers and school sup-port personnel in MDCPS. The unionis committed to being a leader in cre-ating public school reform, fostering aquality public education for all stu-dents and elevating the professionalstatus of teachers, paraprofessionals,office employees, and all school sup-port personnel.
Page 28 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
May 4 - 10, 2011 AVENTURANEWS.COM Page 29
Page 30 AVENTURANEWS.COM May 4 - 10, 2011
BY LINDA RODRIGUEZ BERNFELD
Each morning, four young men from theLearning Experience School go to the trackat Tropical Park to practice the 100-meterdash and the 4 x 100 relay.
The practices begin with stretching andleg exercises and then they begin to race,practicing handoffs for the relay and finish-ing with the 100-meter dash.
The team is coached by Daniel Cartaya,the school’s assistant development director,who hopes to have them ready in time forthe Penn Relays on Apr. 28-30.
Albert Johnson (A.J.), David Rams,Robbie Bertran and Joseph Paz will be mak-ing the trip to Philadelphia, and it all startedbecause Cartaya was trying to get Ramsonto the Special Olympics Team USA.
“I was calling around to and I got intouch with Nancy Sawyer who is vice pres-ident of Special Olympics Florida. Wewere going around all sorts of possibili-ties,” he said.
He learned that it was too late to getRams on Team USA, but loved the sugges-tion they try entering the Special Olympicscomponent of the Penn Relays.
The Penn Relays are a place for the elitetrack and field athletes to compete.Established in 1895, it is one of the eliteevents in the track and field world.According to the Penn Relays website,more athletes compete at the event thancompete at the Olympics.
When he contacted the Penn Relays,Cartaya realized he actually had two ath-letes that could enter for the 100-meterdash — Johnson is faster than Rams in thatevent. Since there also were slots availablefor the 4 x 100 relay, they submitted a teamfor that event as well.
“They have to qualify,” said CristinaCartaya, the school’s executive director.“Based on times, two of our students qual-ified in the 100. Those two and another twoqualified in the 4 x 100 relays.”
Johnson has the fastest times.Unofficially, in practice, he’s run the 100 in12.51. His fastest Special Olympics time is12.7 seconds.
Rams, the Miami-Dade SpecialOlympics Athlete of the Year, has a prac-tice time of 12.82. His fastest SpecialOlympics time is 13 seconds, but his coachsaid he actually slipped in the race.
Paz’s fastest time is 15.12 and Bertran’sis 14.2. They qualified for the relay.
“The fastest time at the Penn Relays is12 seconds flat,” Daniel Cartaya said.“We’ll see. With the crowd and the compe-tition, they may run faster.”
What’s amazing is that this is only thethird year of the track and field program atthe school.
“We started the first year with four stu-dents going to the track and field competi-tions in Orlando,” Cristina Cartaya said.“Last year we took 23 medals.”
The team recently competed in the coun-ty’s Special Olympics and will be going tothe statewide Special Olympics Games inOrlando.
Also amazing is that the boys don’t focusonly on track and field, they have basket-ball first and then begin training for trackand field after basketball season.
Fundraising has started to help send the teamto the Penn Relays. AFirst Giving page is beingset up for donations. Links can be found at<www.TheLearningExperienceSchool.org>and the Learning Experience School’sFacebook page. At the school, there will bebake sales and car washes to raise funds.
Learning Experience Schoolstudents competing in meet
Heading off tothe Penn Relayslater this monthare (l-r) RobbieBertran, DavidRams, CoachDaniel Cartaya,Albert Johnsonand Joseph Paz
May 4 - 10, 2011 AVENTURANEWS.COM Page 31
BY PÍA CRUZALEGUI
Miami Dade College has announced thesigning to a national letter of intent for sixMiami-Dade County players and four fromCentral Florida. The 10 new high school play-ers will be part of the new 2012 softball team.
The powerful squad includes: CarolineOtero of Gulliver Preparatory, Alli Schnaidarof Florida Christian, Ellen Morgan of MiamiSouthridge, Ericka Acevedo of DoralAcademy, Kayla Ogle and Megan Lee ofSouth Dade, and Carmen Nadal and NicoleOsterman of Osceola High School andHashel Figueroa of University High Schoolin Orlando, as well as Paris Prusak of BishopVerot High School in Lee County.
The new 2011-12 team will bring a power-ful offense and defense to Miami DadeCollege’s Lady Sharks as these new playerspresently lead their high schools softball pro-grams. On 2010, Otero was Second Team AllDade selection, Schnaider was First Team AllDade County, Morgan earned All DadeSecond Team selection, Nadal and Ostermanearned First Team All County selection, andParis Prusak was First Team All Lee County.
Acevedo earned an All Dade First Team selec-tion in 2009 and 2010, and Third Team All Statein 2010. Lee received Second Team All DadeCounty Honors in 2010. Ogle is a 2010 All DadeFirst Team selection and Figueroa played in thePuerto Rico Junior National Team.
Since 2006, 15 players received theNJCAA-NFCA All American Honors and fiveplayers received the Academic All AmericanHonors. In 2009 the MDC Lady Sharks wereranked sixth in the National Fastpitch CoachesAssociation “Girls Got Game” academicachievement with a GPA of 3.537. In 2010 theywere No. 23 in the same category.
As a result many Miami Dade Collegesoftball players continued their college edu-cation with softball scholarships at universi-ties across the country including Universityof Tennessee at Chattanooga, Fresno State inCalifornia, Nova Southeastern Universityand Marshall University, among others.
MDC’s athletic teams have earned a totalof 33 NJCAA titles, including 13 in women’ssports. Most recently, the college’s softballteam became national champions and wonthe 2010 national ladies fast-pitch softballchampionship.
MDC signs 10 softball playersto scholarships for 2011-12
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