Miami International Agriculture and Cattle Show draws people from far and away

MIAMI-DADE

HORSES AND CATTLE AND BEER. OH, MY. MIAMI-DADE'S THIRD ANNUAL AGRICULTURAL SHOW WAS AN EVENT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY


BY RODOLFO ROMAN
SPECIAL TO THE MIAMI HERALD
As a young boy, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Javier D. Souto remembers exhibiting a cow and a horse at a cattle show in his native Cuba.
``These events are held all over the world,'' said Souto, whose parents were involved in the farm industry.
Three years ago, Souto spearheaded a movement to bring an agricultural and cattle show to Miami-Dade with ay eye toward toward boosting the county's economy. He called the effort ``a different form of tourism,'' adding: ``People come from other counties and different parts of the country.''
Last weekend, Souto welcomed residents, visitors and public officials to the third annual Miami International Agriculture and Cattle Show at Ronald Reagan's Equestrian Center in Tropical Park, 7900 SW 40th St.
``This puts us on the map,'' Souto said.
Participants watched competition among breeders, horse shows, cattle herding and cutting exhibitions, tractors and equipment, petting zoos and a mechanical bull. There was also an auction for Brangus cattle, livestock and genetic material. Agriculture is the second largest industry in the county, bringing in $2.7 billion.
Wearing a cowboy hat, Pierre Triksson traveled from Broward with his daughter Evelina, 4, to attend their first cattle show.
``We came to see the horse riders,'' said Triksson, who is from Sweden. ``She is happy to pet them and to see her happy makes me happy.''
Aside from farm animals, the show featured demonstrations and showcased more than 40 vendors selling fruits, vegetables, tropical fish, western wear, arts and crafts and plants, such as orchids. The two-day affair attracted potential buyers from different parts of the nation and world -- including breeders from Texas, Louisiana and all over Florida.
Fabio Romero Martinez flew in from Colombia for the show to learn about the industry.
``This is an opportunity for Colombia to get informed of advances in the United States cattle industry,'' he said. ``This could better the cattle industry in Latin America..''
Martinez said it is a great way to present his country's cattle industry to Floridians, as well.
``We are also promoting the technology that's advancing in Colombia and Brazil and other countries that the United States could use,'' he said.
For Debbie Rivers of JR Farms in Glen St. Mary, located about 30 miles east of Jacksonville, the event is important. ``It helps promote your business,'' said Rivers, who brushed one of 12 animals on exhibit. ``You can pass out your business card and then they can call you up for business.''
It was her second trip to the show.
The event also served as a fundraiser for the nonprofit South Florida Autism Charter School, which recently helped build a school providing tuition-free specialized education for children with autism in Hialeah.
``This helps give kids life, learning and behavioral skills they didn't have,'' said Robert Cambo, a founding member.
The organization hoped to raise $100,000. A collection was held throughout the event. Proceeds of some beverages also went to the nonprofit.
At the event, there was plenty of entertainment for families, such as live music, fair games, and the fan-favorite Andalusian horse dance and equestrian ballet.
Hialeah resident Jonathan Delgado stood next to the bleachers as he watched a horse show at the equestrian center.
``Not a lot of people get to see this stuff in Miami,'' said Delgado.
As for Souto, the event is not only an economic boon for the area, but a gathering of the community.
``For family it's a tremendous event,'' he said.

Winterfest in Hialeah benefits needy kids

HIALEAH
Winterfest in Hialeah benefits needy kids
In Hialeah, a community dances and eats to benefit the nonprofit Niños Cristianos en Accion, which is raising money to help needy children.




BY RODOLFO ROMAN
SPECIAL TO THE MIAMI HERALD
Merengue singer Humberto Yepez gets teary-eyed every time he turns on the tube and encounters a commercial for children in need.
``Kids are the men of tomorrow but you need to work with them starting now,'' said Yepez, who is a father.
``It is important to help children.''
Along with his band Mostaza, which translates to mustard, Yepez hit the stage at the inaugural Winterfest to benefit the nonprofit Niños Cristianos en Accion, which is raising money to help needy children. The benefit concert was held March 18th through the 21st at Hialeah Park, at 2200 E. Fourth Ave.
Yepez was one of hundreds of volunteers who came out to support the effort at the four-day event.
Proceeds from the festival will go toward ongoing efforts to help those less fortunate in the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
More than a thousand showed up to donate and enjoy several musical acts on stage, including the Christian rock band Cristilyn con el Ministerio del Nuevo Cantico and the Hialeah High Jazz Band.
The festival also featured more than 40 vendors selling everything from cigars to piña coladas and Hispanic foods. Vendors paid $350 to rent a booth, which will go to aid the nonprofit. Children also had an opportunity to get some thrills on carnival rides. And VOK Clown entertained and painted the faces of youngsters.
The event was spearheaded by Zoe Prieto, president of Niños Cristianos en Accion. Twenty-two years ago, she was diagnosed with lung cancer and has been determined to lend a hand ever since.
``I have dedicated my life to serving the children,'' she said. ``I have a lot of faith and God has saved me.''
The nonprofit was started in 1995 by local reverend Evelio Valdes after vacationing in the Dominican Republic, where he was moved by the country's grinding poverty. Since then, the organization has held small fundraisers and has been recognized by the Caribbean island's government. The Winterfest is the largest event, by far.
Currently, the organization is constructing a building for the church Uncion y Poder located near the Dominican Republic's capital of Santo Domingo. The church provides entertainment and food and helps children in the neighborhood. Money also goes to God's Littlest Angel, a Haitian non-denominational ministry founded to care for premature, malnourished and abandoned children.
Miami Lakes resident Luis Collazo stopped by to donate $100 to the effort.
``Anything I can do to give to the less-fortunate is a blessing,'' said Collazo, who handed the cash to Prieto. State Rep. Eddy Gonzalez also contributed.
``Our mission is kids,'' said Gonzalez, who is Prieto's brother.
``At the end of the day, it is not much but when you start adding, it helps.''
Gonzalez donated about $3,000 last year. He hopes to do the same in 2010.
Cristianos en Accion received an outpouring of contributions. Olivia Cigars sold products at the event with all proceeds going to the organization. The company that runs Hialeah Park, Bal Bay Management, donated the space, along with the $3 parking fee.
Yepez said it is hard to watch a child struggle.
``When you see your kids suffer your heart breaks,'' said Yepez, who is from the Dominican Republic .
For information call 305-403-0859

Teenagers get to know history of Miami

The Historical Museum of Southern Florida will offer paid internships to teenagers to learn about past generations and create an exhibit.

Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/03/25/1544359/teenagers-get-to-know-history.html#ixzz0jBr0s0RC


By RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
Thomas Sanz wants to grow up to be the next Steven Spielberg.

But before he gets to reach his goal of becoming a film director, the 14-year-old South Miami resident wants to know the history of the area where he was born in hopes of one day directing a documentary on Miami.

``I want to learn about my city,'' said Thomas, an eighth-grader at South Miami K-8 Charter School.

To do so, Thomas and other South Florida students will be applying for the Teen Miami Program at the Historical Museum of Southern Florida. It's a three-year paid internship in which students will help produce a museum exhibit.

``I think it will be cool to show people in other countries about what we are about,'' said Thomas, who is awaiting acceptance into the program. ``It's a great idea to show people what it is to live in Miami.''

The museum, at 101 W. Flagler St. in downtown Miami, is looking for 20 creative teenagers interested in social and cultural history. To qualify, students must be entering their freshmen or sophomore year of high school in September 2010.

Members of the museum's advisory committee will review applicants. Possible teen participants may apply by completing an application at www.hmsf.org/teenmiami . The deadline is April 15.

Throughout the internship, participants will explore teen culture in the nation in general and Miami in particular. They also will be interning in the museum's exhibitions, education and external relations department. In the end, the youngsters will create an exhibit devoted to teen life in Miami.

Ransom Everglades Upper School English teacher Melissa Ross said the internship is a learning tool for students.

``Through historical analysis they will also learn about their own teen culture and those of generations past in Miami-Dade County,'' Ross wrote in an e-mail. ``The participants will also blog about their experiences.''

Similar projects have been held at the Chicago History Museum and the Boston Art Museum.

The students chosen will intern at the museum for five weeks for three summers and eight hours a month during the school year, said the museum's chief curator, Joanne Hyppolite. The project will require teens to intern in different departments, develop exhibition content through an oral history, and create programs that will take place while the exhibition is on display, Hyppolite said.

The program also will educate the community, she said.

``This project and this exhibition will allow us (the teen participants, the visitors, the oral history interviewees, the museum staff) to look at the teen experience across generations provides us with an opportunity to learn about each other and to connect,'' Hyppolite wrote in an e-mail. ``After all, we were all teens once.''

Thomas' mother Joyce Sanz said the program will help her son gain responsibility. ``Anything that has to do with media or the arts will teach him how to be responsible; it is a job and people depend on what he is doing,'' she said. ``I want him to feel proud of where he is from.''

Once completed, the Teen Miami exhibit will be on display at the museum from September 2012 through January 2013. Photographs and artifacts of teen life from 1900 to present day will be displayed. Interns will then lead a tour of the exhibition and evaluate the success of the project with staff.

The museum will be hosting a Teen Miami information night at 101 W. Flagler St. from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday.

For information, visit www.hmsf.org/teenmiami.



Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/03/25/1544359/teenagers-get-to-know-history.html#ixzz0jBqxIEFU

Volunteers enjoy performing good deeds

Good deeds take center stage at Temple Beth Sholom's mitzvah weekend.

BY RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
Miami Country Day school student Sandy Aronson shared his 18th birthday celebration with those in need.

``This is a gift,'' said Aronson, who celebrated his birthday March 14. ``I like helping out people. It makes me feel good.''

Aronson was just one of hundreds of volunteers who came out to lend a hand for the less fortunate at the annual Mitzvah Day at Temple Beth Sholom, 4144 Chase Ave.

Around 800 temple members and nonmembers volunteered in more than 40 community service projects, including decorating food baskets for the elderly to feeding the homeless across Miami-Dade County.

Joined by seven other young temple members, Aronson hand-delivered brown lunch bags filled with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, raisins, goldfish snacks and a napkin near Camillus House in downtown Miami.

``It is a good cause; they need it,'' he said. ``Maybe with that sandwich they will survive another day and it can help them get energy to help them find a job''

The group of youngsters and volunteers helped put together more than 1,200 lunch bags, which were distributed at Camillus House, Douglas Park, Salvation Army and the Community Partnership for the homeless. The teens also gave out sports hats.

``I am grateful that there's someone out there that cares about us,'' said Mathew Smith, who is homeless, as he looked for a hat inside a bag carried by Aronson.

Volunteers gathered at the temple for registration, breakfast and an opening ceremony.

From there, groups of helpers headed to their project destinations, like Shadowlawn Elementary, 149 NW 49th St.

Miami Beach resident Allison Feldman assisted her father, Michael Rosenberg, a retired orthodontist who gave 100 children a free dental exam.

``Watching their smiles, it is something you wear for the rest of your life,'' she said. ``It's amazing.''

After patients got their exam, Feldman handed out goodie bags filled of tooth paste and tooth brushes.

Caryn Lubetsky, co-chair of mitzvah weekend, said the effort was gratifying.

``It's about making a difference in lives,'' she said.

At the temple, teenagers held a car wash to help raise funds for Camp Jenny, a four-day camp run by Jewish youth from across the Southeastern United States held over Memorial Day weekend.

After completing their projects, helpers enjoyed a family fun day.

Participants enjoyed games, yoga, free massages, a healthy snack demonstration and tasting. A blood drive took place at the welcome center.

A barbecue also helped raise funds to provide help for Victims Response, a nonprofit organization that serves victims of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault.

Florida State University student Ashley Jonas, 22, contributed by handing out lunches for the homeless during her spring break.

``It's a good effort,'' said Jonas, who plans to replicate the effort in Tallahassee.

``It's important that everyone has food in their stomach.''

South Florida native returns home for `Miss Saigon' show

Hometown actor Dominique Scott made a professional career out of a childhood dream. He now returns to South Florida to perform in front of a hometown crowd.

BY RODOLFO ROMAN
SPECIAL TO THE MIAMI HERALD
At 4 years old, Dominique Scott remembers creating tickets for his family, inviting them to special acts at home during birthday parties and other gatherings.
But what was once a childhood fantasy is now a reality. Scott is hitting the big stage professionally.
``I didn't pick theater, theater picked me,'' said Scott, before a recent show. ``I need to be up on stage or do some sort of performance.''
Born and raised near Coral Park High School in West Miami-Dade, Scott returns to his roots to join the ensemble cast on the main stage production of the international Broadway musical Miss Saigon at Actors' Playhouse, 280 Miracle Mile.
``We are helping to support the story,'' said Scott, 22, who dances in several supporting roles in the play. ``I am flipping across the stage. There is a great dance in the show.
Miss Saigon is a romantic tale of a Vietnamese woman abandoned by her American lover.
Scott, a recent Syracuse music theater graduate, has a close tie to the Actor's Playhouse, as it served as his launching pad to success.
Growing up, Scott and his family attended children's shows almost every weekend at the Actors' Playhouse, which was once located in Kendall. Eventually, he enrolled at the theater's summer camp where he began to polish his acting skills.
Earl Maulding, director of the Playhouse's Theater for Young Audiences, remembers Scott for his willingness to welcome challenges.
``He is not afraid to take risks,'' Maulding said. ``He is always ready for a challenge.''
Scott landed his first role at the theaters production of Narnia when he was in middle school. The actor credits Maulding for his accomplishments.
``Earl was like a second father to me,'' he said.
But his introduction to the arts started at home when his father, Jean-Claude Stasiulis, introduced him to a piano when he was 9.
``I taught him John Lennon's Imagine, '' said Stasiulis, a former lead guitarist in a French rock band, in a phone interview.
Stasiulis said his son was unlike other teenagers.
``He didn't go to the mall like other kids,'' he said. ``He would be home practicing.''
Later in his teenage years, Scott auditioned for the New World School of the Arts to help pursue his life long dream. At the same time, he continued a strong relationship with the Actor's Playhouse, where he performed in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Secret Garden to name a few. He also helped in the summer camp as a musical director.
In 2006, he attended Syracuse University and starred at Syracuse stage in several productions including Fiddler on the Roof and Little Women. Scott also founded a theater company in partnership with the university called Starving Artists, which was designed to provide avenues for any type of performing art.
Stasiulis said he is proud of his son's effort.
``He will have a chance one day to prove himself,'' said Stasiulis, who works with his son writing songs. ``He does what he loves and I support him.''
Scott said there is no feeling like returning home for a performance.
``Just smelling the air in this building brings back memories,'' said Scott, while a crew helped set up the stage inside Actors' Playhouse. ``This is the place I grew up in.''
Aside from acting, Scott will also work with a rock band in New York, where he plans to move soon.
Miss Saigon is running until April 4 at the Actors' Playhouse at the Miracle Theater, 280 Miracle Mile. Performances will be held Wednesday through Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets for week nights and matinees are $42 and on Friday and Saturday evenings $50. For information, call 305-444-9293.

Street festival to celebrate MiMo style

MiMo Madness will bring food and fun to a historic Miami neighborhood.



BY RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to the Miami Herald


One of South Florida's historic neighborhoods will transform into a major street party this weekend.

The third annual MiMo Madness street festival will celebrate the historical Miami Modern architecture on Biscayne Boulevard from Northeast 67th to Northeast 75th Street from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday. The free festival is sponsored by a volunteer community organization, the MiMo Biscayne Association.

Formally held in May and called the Cinco de MiMo, the event will showcase the history of the area in fun fashion.

``We want to bring awareness to this area,'' said Fran Rollason, president of MiMo Biscayne association. ``This area has changed.''

The party will bring the area alive as it will feature about 80 vendors selling antiques and crafts. Revelers will also enjoy street performers, historic tours, comic characters and free face-painting for children. Party-goers will get a chance to see stilt walkers and can also grab a bite at one of the local restaurants. Taste of MiMo restaurants will serve tasty bites from $2-$5 starting at noon.

Karaoke lovers will have something to sing about when the Upper Eastside's ``King & Queen of Karaoke,'' Chrisy and A-Rod -- no connection with the baseball player -- will hit the stage for a performance. This year, Rollason said, the festival will focus on music. A stage will be set up on 71st Street, where a diversity of musical bands will jam everything from jazz and blues. There will be a special performance from the Miami Beach High School Rock Ensemble.

Rollason said the event is more than just entertainment.

``For people who haven't been here should come, because if it's the first-time experience they would want to come back,'' Rollason said.

Aside from the celebration, history will be made when the New Yorker Motel, at 6500 Biscayne Blvd., will open its doors. The structure is the first motel to be restored with rooms decorated in MiMo style.

Music and art aren't the only elements of fun. Barbershop Chop Shop, at 7283 Biscayne Blvd., will be displaying the latest and hippest automobiles at a car show.

There will be free parking for cars and bikes at 75th Street and Biscayne Boulevard. The event starts with a kickoff party at Moonchine Asian Bistro, at 7100 Biscayne Blvd., at 5 p.m. Friday.

Bal Harbour council considering redrawing districts

Bal Harbour will discuss potential new district maps at Tuesday's council meeting.

BY RODOLFO ROMAN
SPECIAL TO THE MIAMI HERALD
Bal Harbour is considering redrawing its map of five village council districts.
Ronald Schultz, a Florida Atlantic University Geosciences Department professor emeritus hired as a consultant to Bal Harbour, will address the council with a report and present two alternatives on redistricting plans at its next meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday in Village Hall, 655 96th St.
Changing district boundaries would help balance population across the districts, Schultz wrote in an e-mail.
``The geographic size of some districts will get bigger and some will become smaller,'' Schultz wrote. ``The territorial size will depend on how many residents are in that area.''
Currently, the population of District 1 is 1,047 compared to the least populous District 5, which has 487 residents, according to Schultz. The village's total population is 3,414.
District 1 is represented by Mayor Jean Rosenfield, while Assistant Mayor Joni D. Blachar sits in the District 5 seat.
The village council authorized a contract with Schultz for consulting services in October. Community outreach director Jay Smith said the contract calls for an hourly rate, with the total not to exceed $8,000. The consultant's fees will be paid from general tax funds.
No stranger to configuring new districts, Schultz recently helped redistrict North Lauderdale and Coconut Creek.
Schultz met with village residents and council members at a workshop last month, where he brought forward the results of his study on population.
Redistricting has been discussed at council meetings for years. Rosenfield said considering redistricting makes sense -- noting the recent completion of large residential projects and the upcoming elections in April 2011. Now ``is a good time to look at redistricting given that we have some time before our next election, and the recent completion of several large building projects,'' she said.

Chileans in Sweetwater join efforts to help quake victims

SWEETWATER

The Chilean community in South Florida gathered to collect donations and raise money for the victims of the devastating earthquake that hit their nation.


BY RODOLFO R. ROMAN
SPECIAL TO THE MIAMI HERALD
After hearing news that a powerful earthquake struck her native country of Chile, South Miami-Dade resident Veronica Stanham nervously searched for family information on social media networks.
Unfortunately, she found bad news: A message from a relative read that her uncle died of a heart attack shortly after the Feb. 27 natural disaster shook the South American country, killing more than 700 people.
``I was distraught,'' said Stanham, who was born in Concepción, which was at the epicenter of the earthquake.
Last week, an emotional Stanham -- a dancer with the group Agrupación Folklorica Puro Chileno -- clapped and sang to the South American national anthem in memory of her uncle and other earthquake victims at a relief effort at Sweetwater's Sabores Chilenos restaurant, 10760 W. Flagler.
Hundreds listened to music, watched performances and enjoyed traditional Chilean dances like the cueca. People from all over South Florida dropped off cash donations, diapers, water, canned foods, clothes and bed sheets, which will be distributed by the Chilean nonprofits Hogar de Cristo and Amor de papa.
Organizers also asked for donations of winter clothing, noting the winter season is approaching in Chile.
Stanham, who has lived in Miami for 10 years, was joined by her two children.
``I forget about the situation when I hear music I grew up listening to,'' said Stanham, who cried while performing.
Several local businesses and residents donated beverages and food.
Proceeds went to a nonprofit organization led by television personality Don Francisco, legendary host of Sábado Gigante.
About 70 volunteers cooked shish-kabobs and made traditional Chilean drinks like Pisco Sour.
The event, which also included a car wash and raffle, took place in the restaurant's parking lot, where several tents, chairs and tables were set up.
Restaurant owner Ingrid Encina worked on getting the event together a day after the earthquake.
``The power of my country wanting to start all over motivated me to do this event,'' said Encina, who said her family in Chile survived.
The 12-hour relief effort helped collect $22,000. Miami-based shipping company RP Fast Trading donated three 40-foot-high cube containers.
Chilean María Inez Betancourt along with six of her countrymen drove from Boca Raton to drop off boxes of diapers and clothing.
``Our country is suffering,'' she said. ``But the drive is nothing. We needed to do something.''
Even those who weren't in attendance helped with the cause.
Sabores Chileno patron Claudio Valero donated and shipped 120 boxes of diapers to the restaurant.
At the event, folklore dance groups, singers and a guitarist had the crowd dancing on a makeshift wooden stage. A disc jockey also played rock 'n' roll classics.
Performer Cristian Veldivia paid homage to the Chilean flag by leading the cueca dance.
``It's spiritual. We all know that we can recuperate materials,'' said Veldivia, who donated $100. ``But, what we need to recuperate is the Chilean spirit.''
At one point, a large group of Chileans waved a giant Chilean flag shouting, ``Viva Chile!''
Encina said the gathering of the community is gratifying.
``It is satisfying that we are here together for our country,'' Encina said.

Kendale Lakes Elementary teacher leads Zumba craze at school

BY RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
Seven years ago, Kendale Lakes elementary school physical education teacher Gloriangeles Arguello, 47, was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, a disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints.

While watching television, she encountered an advertisement promoting Zumba, a fitness dance class. She decided to purchase the corresponding DVDs in hopes of alleviating her pain.

The result: She was pain free.

Now, Arguello is teaching Zumba in an effort to promote a healthy lifestyle to both students and staff at her school, 8000 SW 142nd Ave.

``I want to make a difference in my students' lives,'' said Arguello, a certified Zumba instructor.

Aside from teaching sports education, she incorporates 30-minutes of Zumba in her rhythm and dance unit for a grade. Arguello, who is from Nicaragua, leads seven Zumba classes a day and trains both staff and students.

Wearing sweat pants and sneakers, Arguello recently led 30 students who danced, clapped, stepped and jumped in a sheltered court to the rhythm of Michael Jackson.

``I want them to learn not only the necessary skills to play sports but also the importance of exercise to maintain a healthy body and mind, both now and in years to come.''

She teaches about 300 students daily. Staff is taught for free in a portable from Monday to Thursday after school.

Fifth grader Nelson Flores, 10, said the fitness program helps him forget about being shy.

``I am a shy dancer but it helps me express myself by dancing,'' he said. ``It's extremely awesome.''

Nelson said not only is the workout beneficial health wise, but it is fun, too.

``Some people do it perfect, some mess up, but we laugh about it,'' he said.

Nancy Miranda, a fifth-grade math teacher, said she prefers Zumba over lifting weights.

``It makes working out fun,'' she said. ``I prefer having music and dancing instead of doing aerobics.''

When Arguello was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at age 40, doctors recommended a combination of medicine and joint-strengthening exercises. She signed up to the gym, but her schedule wasn't compatible. Arguello even built a pool in her backyard to practice swimming. Regardless, she says, she sought and found relief in Zumba.

``I found myself energized, pain free, fit and happy,'' said Arguello, who has been working in the school for 15 years.

Zumba incorporates urban and Latin rhythm styles such as meringue, cumbia, salsa, zamba mambo, pop and reggaeton. It originated in Colombia in the 1990s and was created by Miami-based dancer and choreographer Beto Perez.

A few years ago, Arguello was chosen to work on the School Health Index program, which evaluates ways public schools promote health and fitness to students and staff. Kendale Lakes Elementary is part of the healthy schools program and has partnered with The Alliance for a Healthier Generation and the American Heart Association.

A Texas A&M graduate, Arguello approached administration and suggested Zumba workouts. After conducting a class at a teachers' professional development day, staff requested the class be taught in school.

The program was implemented last year after approval from Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

School Principal Martha Jaureguizar applauds Arguello's efforts. ``They enjoy dancing; it's cultural,'' she said. ``We are a predominantly Hispanic school and we have ties to dancing. Music is something that's at the forefront of all children's lives.''

Margaret Lee's daughter, Debrah Lee, a fifth grader, has been attending the classes for a month.

``It's another form of physical education,'' the mother said. ``Who doesn't want to dance to Michael Jackson?''

Because of her success with Zumba, Arguello said parents are now requesting classes.

``They are enjoying every minute of their time and most importantly they are learning the importance of fitness and wellness,'' she said. ``This gives me such a great feeling as a teacher.''

Eco-history tours focus on plants, animals

Historical Museum of Southern Florida's eco-history tours recently featured Miami Beach. Next up: Oleta River.

BY RODOLFO R. ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
About twice a week, Pinecrest pilot Peter McCook flies his light small aircraft over South Beach admiring the bird's-eye view of the sand and clear blue water.

``It is stunning,'' he said. ``We have all of this next to our house.''

On a recent Sunday, McCook traded his aircraft for sneakers for a more in-depth look at the area he usually admires from above.

He took an eco-history walking tour of Miami Beach, part of a series of similar tours throughout the tri-county area presented by the Historical Museum of Southern Florida.

The next installment of the series, a boat tour of the Oleta River, takes place Sunday.

McCook joined a group who listened to the museum's eco-history manager, Frank Schena, throughout the 40-block journey on Miami Beach's boardwalk.

Schena spoke about the area's history -- but with an environmental and ecological angle -- on the two-hour tour.

``I want people to know that South Florida has an amazing natural environment,'' he said on the Feb. 28 tour. ``Theyaren't all gone. They still exist.''

The Historical Museum of Southern Florida ecological historical tourseason runs through April.

On the Miami Beach tour, Schena, who is from Massachusetts, walked with the group, pointingat wildlife and plantlife along the way -- like a red-bellied woodpecker on a sabal palm tree.

The group was impressed -- and didn't hesitate to pull out their cameras to take a picture of the loggerhead shrike , a carnivorous bird that paid a visit.

Schena, who has lived in Miami since 1991, also highlighted wildlife that once called Miami Beach home -- like the gopher tortoise, which was a popular dish for early pioneers.

The reptile can now only be found north of Jupiter, he said.

``Miami Beach is more than about beautiful beaches and women,'' he said. ``There is interesting wildlife on this beach.''

The museum's adult program manager, Susan Johnson, said the tours draw locals and tourists.

``It gives people an opportunity to get to know your community,'' she said. ``You can't know your community without knowing something about its history.''

Johnson said tour lovers will discover several familiar South Florida spots.

``You get to come to places you pass by every day, but you didn't know they exist,'' she said.

McCook said the tour is more than an education.

``To learn something beyond your life is interesting and enriching for your experience of life,'' he said.

Aguilar Submits Coolbaugh at ‘Rumble at the Rock 2’

Saturday, March 06, 2010
by Rodolfo Roman (rroman@sherdog.com)


23062
HOLLYWOOD, Fla. -- American Top Team standout Jessica Aguilar won for the second time in three outings, as she submitted Valerie Coolbaugh with a second-round rear-naked choke at Action Fight League “Rumble at the Rock 2” on Friday at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. The finish came 3:28 into round two.

Aguilar opened the striking with a first-round kick. Later, she went for a single-leg takedown, put Coolbaugh on the ground and worked from side control. Coolbaugh eventually escaped and stood, as both fighters exchanged blows. Aguilar nailed the Bellator Fighting Championships veteran with a combination of strikes, leaving Coolbaugh with a bloody nose at the end of the round.

In the second round, Aguilar dominated. She opened with a single-leg takedown and worked for an arm-triangle choke. Coolbaugh escaped, only to surrender her back. Aguilar capitalized, cinched the rear-naked choke and solicited the tapout.

Meanwhile, unbeaten Brazilian jiu-jitsu stylist Vagner Rocha showed off his considerable grappling chops, as he submitted Patrick Mikesz with an armbar 2:10 into the first round. Rocha searched for the submission from the start, as he scored with a double-leg takedown and drove Mikesz to the floor. Rocha went to work from there, as he landed the armbar and left his opponent no other choice but to tap.

The most explosive fight at the event, which was attended by Kevin "Kimbo Slice" Ferguson, pitted heavyweight YouTube sensation Dhafir “Da Da 5000” Harris against Cedric James in his professional mixed martial arts debut. Harris stopped James on strikes 2:34 into the first round.

The bout was an all-out brawl from the beginning, as the two men unleashed on one another. James achieved full mount on Harris and landed heavy shots, but in a decision the fans did not approve, the referee elected to stand to the two heavyweights. Harris knocked down James with a powerful left, followed with two more punches and forced the stoppage.

Other Bouts
Dan Cramer def. Ever Nunez -- Unanimous Decision
Mike Bernhard def. Ariel Gandulla -- Disqualification (Eye Gouge) R1
James Wynn def. Mike Ortiz -- Unanimous Decision
Reynaldo Fuentes def. Kevin Osario -- TKO (Punches) R1
Joe Ray def. Yoandi Inchaustegui -- Submission R2
Ailton Barbosa def. Keith Johnson -- Submission (Triangle Choke) R1
Brian Fuery def. Oscar Encizo -- Submission R1

Hundreds come out for night tour of Vizcaya Museum and Garden

BY RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
Artist Hilton Luciano remembers visiting Vizcaya Museum and Garden, a national historical landmark, about 20 years ago, on a date with his high school sweetheart.

On Wednesday, instead of looking for love, he sought motivation for his next artwork.

``The architecture and garden is inspirational,'' said Luciano, 39, who describes his art work as pop art.

Luciano was just one of many who braved a rare chilly March Miami evening for the Moonlight Garden Tours at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, 3251 S. Miami Ave. The tour will be held again later this month.

``The architecture inspires borders and frames working within and outside of a box,'' said Luciano, who also met with other artists. ``To me, the inspiration comes from how people were able to carve all of these corals.''

Almost 200 people took part in the 45-minute tour Wednesday. Participants enjoyed a moon-lit walk through the 10-acre formal garden along Biscayne Bay, which was designed by Colombian landscape architect Diego Suarez. Vizcaya's volunteer guides were also on hand to answer questions and educate visitors on the home built by American industrialist James Deering in 1916.

Deering lived in Vizcaya only in the winter months from 1916-25. The main house has 34 decorated rooms with 15th through 19th century antique furnishings and art.

The garden has Renaissance Italian and French design. More than 1,000 workers from the Caribbean and Europe were employed to construct the project. Vizcaya is now owned by Miami-Dade County.

During the tour, people didn't hesitate to pull out their cameras and take pictures next to the garden, large statues and European architecture. Visitors also had a chance to mingle inside the courtyard of the main house while sipping on wine and beverage for purchase. Live music entertained the crowd before they headed outside.

The Moonlight tours are one of the few opportunities for the public to see Vizcaya at night. The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Carrying a lantern pointing to the main house, volunteer Graciela Cordeiro has been a tour guide since 1997. The area is special at night, she said.

``The garden is renaissance style meaning very linear and has a lot of water ponds,'' said Cordeiro, who led a group through the garden. ``At night it is special because it's an enchanted place and it's a Garden of Eden.''

Visiting from Oakland, Sarah Shanley was notified of the tour by her uncle. ``The place is stunning,'' she said. ``The view is incredible''

Shanley said the place is also family-oriented. ``Kids would love it because it is like a fairy tale,'' said Shanley, who was with her daughter Althea Hope.

Cordeiro said Vizcaya is unique and silenced those who were in doubt of its creation.

``In the newspaper in 1916, when they were building the area, it said that the people couldn't imagine that in this type of terrain you would turn up a garden,'' she said.

As for Luciano, Vizcaya is more than a romantic venture.

``If someone can form this anything is possible,'' he said.

Northwestern High senior wins `Miss Miami Gardens'

BY RODOLFO R. ROMAN
SPECIAL TO THE MIAMI HERALD
Since the eighth grade, Abigail Williams has dreamed of one goal: to win a beauty pageant.
Last weekend, the Northwestern High senior realized her dream. In front of a large crowd, Williams, 18, won the Miss Miami Gardens scholarship pageant at Florida Memorial University's Lou Rawls Center for Performing Arts, 5800 NW 42nd Ave.
While taking her victory walk on stage, a shocked Williams said she couldn't believe she would leave the night wearing a crown and carrying a bouquet of roses.
``It was so surreal to me,'' said Williams, who cried on stage after her name was announced. ``I didn't even know what was going on.''
Family and friends who came out to support Williams on Feb. 27 watched her come out on top after competing against four other contestants. The five beauties competed in talent, evening gown and lifestyle and fitness categories. They also had to answer an on-stage question vital to the five judges' decision.
Williams won $2,900 in scholarship money. Janey Tate was the first runner up, with $1,000 in scholarships. Angelica Spicer, the second runner up, got $500 in scholarship money.
Not only did Williams win scholarship money but she now can compete for the Miss Florida contest in July.
This is the fourth annual pageant presented by the city of Miami Gardens.
Williams said she plans on promoting the arts during her tenure as Miss Miami Gardens.
``I want to advocate my platform statement which is arts advocacy,'' she said. ``I really want to work hard to push for more performing arts programs because I think that it is what we need in the community.''
She will soon be scheduled to make several appearances at events and will be visiting schools, hospitals -- and even the popular Jazz in the Garden later this month.
Agathine Scotland Williams believed her daughter would win.
``I am proud of her,'' she said. ``She was made for the stage.''
In order to qualify, the ladies needed to live or go to school in Miami Gardens and be between 17 and 24. Only 17-year-olds who are seniors in high school are eligible, however.
The contestants have to raise $100, which will go to the Children's Miracle Network, a nonprofit dedicated to helping children in need. Recruitment started in October.
The event was a concept of councilman Melvin L. Bratton, who brought the idea four years ago to the dais.
``The concept is to stress education, education, education,'' said Bratton, a certified judge for the Miss Florida pageant.
The city works throughout the year to help produce the show. Miami Gardens also relies on sponsors to help pay for the scholarship awards.
City event and media coordinator, Ula Francoise Zucker, said the production cost $40,000.
Miami Gardens paid $35,000, while the rest of the money came from sponsors, she said.
The pageant teaches valuable lessons, Zucker said.
``This system teaches them how to be a lady,'' she said. ``To bring back those lady-like characteristics.''
In the show, the crowd was entertained by several performances, including a country song performed by Miss America 2004, Ericka Dunlap. Diva Arts Academy and the Miss Miami Gardens Sunshine Princesses also wowed the fans with dance performances. Contestants showcased their skills.
Williams danced to Michael Jackson's You Rock My World, while Tate sang Home from the musical The Wiz.
Barry University student Marla Spence came out to root for her best friend, Spicer.
``She was excited and asking me to come out and support,'' said Spence, who brought an air horn to the performing arts center. ``She was talking about the show for two months.''
Reginald Andre said the event is about more than just beauty. Rosie Justilien, Miss Miami Gardens 2009, is his neighbor.
``It puts Miami Gardens out there when the winner goes to Miss Florida,'' he said.
``It brings out Miami gardens.''
The outgoing queen, who plans on continuing her community service, offered some suggestions to Williams before turning in her crown.
``My advice is to take the experience and live it, network, raise awareness about your platform,'' Justilien said with a smile.

Sweetwater veterinarian has tended to pets for 30 years

BY RODOLFO R. ROMAN
SPECIAL TO THE MIAMI HERALD
Ricardo V. Caballero is turning 84 this summer, but the longtime Sweetwater veterinarian said he has no plans to retire.
``This is the best for my age,'' he said with a smile.
His family-owned clinic has been helping animals since 1980.
``I have always loved animals and they make me feel good,'' Caballero said.
In January, Caballero celebrated the 30th anniversary of his animal clinic at West Flagler Plaza, 10760 W. Flagler St.
``It's always been a dream to open this clinic,'' said Caballero, wearing his white lab coat.
Both of his sons are involved in the veterinary field.
As an 11-year-old, one of his sons -- also named Ricardo -- worked as a kennel assistant at the family's Sweetwater business.
That determined his career path.
``I had all this success with pets, so I chose to become a veterinarian,'' said the younger Caballero, now 44. He opened Sunset Animal Hospital in Miami Gardens after leaving the family practice in 2003.
His brother, Edward Caballero, also got experience at the clinic and now works as a representative for a veterinary medicine company.
Coral Gables resident Monica Cuevas has brought her pets to the senior Caballero for years.
``He is very humane and not commercial,'' said Cuevas, who recently brought five Yorkie puppies for their booster shots. ``I feel safe when I bring my animals to him.''
Caballero's Animal Clinic has become a landmark in Sweetwater. He remembers when the city was sparse.
``When this shopping center inaugurated, there was almost nothing,'' he said. ``I was the only vet in Sweetwater and still am.''
Not only has Caballero treated pets from all over Miami-Dade County, but he also carries the title of official veterinarian for the Sweetwater police department's K-9 division.
Caballero vaccinates and conducts check-ups on the division's three dogs.
Caballero always has been surrounded by animals.
His father was a cattle grower in Cuba. At a young age, he would spend countless hours helping his father take care of large farm animals such as horses and cows in Camaguey.
``Every day, I would go out to work from morning to night,'' he said.
The Universidad de la Havana graduate left Cuba for the United States in the late 1960s.
In Florida, he went from treating large animals to dogs and cats at Palm Beach and Dade county animal control centers, where some of his current clients first met him.
``People from all over the county would come to us,'' he said.
At his clinic, Caballero treats and cures everything from colds to fractures.
He also performs surgeries, spaying and neutering procedures, vaccinations and X-rays. He also has two technicians who help him.
Caballero even gets occasional help from high school students who work for community service hours. Caballero said he sees more than 30 animals, daily but more patients come on the weekends.
Wife Thelma Caballero has been with him since the beginning, taking care of the front desk.
``It's marvelous to work with my husband,'' she said.
The couple has been married for more than 35 years.
``This is all about a family feeling, because all of the generations that have come to the clinic,'' she said.
Caballero's pets include the box terrier Snoopy and cat Flecha.
Doral resident Karena Berrios remembers bringing her dog with her parents as a child to the clinic. Recently, she waited for her family's 2-month old Schnoodle mix to get a check-up.
``You bring your dog here and you know everything is going to be OK,'' Berrios said.

North Miami Library hosts Black History Month celebration

MOVING WORDS, DANCE AND MUSIC TAKE CENTER STAGE AT A CELEBRATION FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH


BY RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
Most Wednesdays, North Miami resident Ducles Vermeil takes both of his children to the library to read about the lives of historic African Americans.

But on a recent Wednesday, during their trip to the North Miami Public library, 835 NE 132nd St., Duclailson Vermeil, 10, and Roselaure Vermeil, 7, did nore than just turn pages.

They were part of 100 people who watched students play African American pioneers at the library's first Black History showcase event on Feb. 24.

Vermeil said seeing students recite and perform meaningful poems and music inspired his kids.

``It will help them motivate themselves and know that they can do stuff that they want to do if they focus in life,'' he said.

At the library's program room, a crowd watched students ranging from fifth to 12th grades pay homage to black pioneers who contributed to the human spirit through dancing, reciting poems and famous speeches and playing musical instruments.

North Miami High School sophomore Maylander Menard, 15, had recited The Negro Mother by poet Langston Hughes.

``When you play the role you get to feel the experience and the motions they went through,'' she said.

Before taking stage, Maylander said she felt nervous but forgot about her butterflies once she recited.

``I could feel the anger by the tone and diction and words he used,'' said Maylander, who is in her school's drama club. ``I felt it.''

In the past, the library has celebrated Black History month by hosting essay and painting contests. This year directorJoyce Pernicone wanted to do more.

``We wanted something that captured all of the spirit of the month to help understand what the children are learning,'' she said.

The library held auditions earlier this month to choose the 18 cast members. The city of North Miami also helped with the effort, providing and helping set up the stage, which had a red, black and green curtain, Pernicone said.

North Miami Mayor Andre D. Pierre said the event is fitting for a diverse city.

``We all are constantly learning from each other,'' he said.

At the event, parents, officials and children snapped their fingers and sang along with Farah Cabe, who sang This Little Light of Mine.

The library also partnered with North Miami High School's dance ensemble.

The group danced to an African American spiritual song I Want To Be Ready.

The show concluded with the entire cast singing a cappella to R&B musicians R. Kelly's I Believe I Can Fly.

Hans Tanis, 10, was another musical performer who played the violin and guitar. Even though he had practiced for about a month, he still had butterflies in his stomach.

``I was nervous in the beginning,'' said Hans, who played Duke Ellington's Preacher Don't Send Me and the Civil Rights anthem We Shall Overcome.

``But when I did the first few notes I told myself I was going to do it right.''

As for Vermeil, he said he will continue reading to his children about famous African American's such as Martin Luther King Jr.

``This will help them learn about their ancestors and their past,'' he said.

Fruit and Spice Park festival offers a journey to Asia

Special to The Miami Herald
A South Florida park will become part of Asia this weekend.

The 20th annual Asian Cultural Festival returns to Fruit and Spice Park, 24801 SW 187th Ave., Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $10. Kids under 12 enter free.

People from all over South Florida drive to the Redland for the festival, said Broward resident Khanya Moolsiri, president of the Thai American Association, which organizes the event.

``It's a great time for the family to enjoy the shows and great Asian food,'' she said.

Founded two decades ago by the Asian American Federation of Florida, the festival attracts more than 10,000 people and features 130 vendors who sell everything from Asian arts and crafts to typical cuisine.

Known for its variety of plant life, the Fruit and Spice Park has hosted the festival, since 1991.

``The park has so many fruit trees from all over the world including from Asia,'' Moolsiri said. ``It has been popular with the Asian people.''

The two-day affair serves as an opportunity for novice vendors.

``It gives an opportunity for Asians to be able to be a business owner,'' she said. Food lovers will have a wide range of dishes to choose from as everything from Chinese to Filipino cuisine will be for purchase. Authentic alcoholic beverages from Asia will also be available like Thai beer Chang.

Homestead resident Hong Thuy Nguyen has attended and participated in the festival for more than 15 years. But last year, she convinced her family to set up a food booth to highlight Vietnamese cuisine. Allowing people to taste the food helps identify the Vietnamese culture she said.

``A lot of people don't know where Vietnam is,'' Nguyen said. ``But our food has become popular.''

Her family will prepare a variety of foods including spring rolls and baby clam-cooked lemongrass with sesame rice crackers.

Revelers will feel like they are in Asia when several dancers and musicians take center stage.

For the first time, the event will feature dancers from Chandrakasem Rajabhat University in Bangkok, Thailand. The group will be flying directly from the country. Also, an Iranian group will come to the event to showcase folklore dances.

Festival-goers will also witness a Malaysian no-hands volleyball tournament known as Sepak Takraw, Chinese Lion dances, Chinese acrobats, a Dragon boat display and demonstrations of fruit and vegetable carving.

Kids can hear storytelling or see a puppet show. Children can also participate in the Asian passport activity, where they visit different booths and collects stamps on pretend passports. They get a special gift upon completion.

Moolsiri said the event opens doors to the world.

``It's good for locals to have a chance to see our culture and a bigger picture of the world,'' she said.

Rumble at the Rock 2 Weigh in and Press Conference

Hollywood—Weigh-ins and a press conference for Action Fight League’s Rumble at the Rock 2 will take place at 5 p.m. at The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, 1 Seminole Way
Hollywood, Florida 33314, Thursday, March 4.



All fighters are set the hit the scale the day before they enter the cage on March 5 at 7:30 p.m. Press is invited to attend to hear from the best up and coming MMA fighters.



Tickets are available. Tickets cost $250, $125, $50 & $25*; all seats are reserved and available at the Hard Rock Live Box Office, open Monday – Saturday from noon to 7pm and on Sunday – only open on event days at noon. Tickets also are available at all Ticketmaster outlets online at www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Doors open one-hour prior to show start time. *Additional fees may apply.



In the main event, Dhafir Harris better known as Da Da 5000 (0-0) will duke it out with Cedric James (0-2); Jessica Aguilar (6-3) will go toe-to-toe with last year’s best pro female athlete Valerie “Vicious Val” Coolbaugh (3-4); University of Miami football player turned MMA fighter Brian Fuery (1-1) will attempt to give a lesson to Backyard brawler Oscar “Diamond Boy” Encizo (0-0); UFC vet Steve “Hollywood” Bruno (13-5) plans to get on the winning track when he faces on Reggie Pena (8-4); World Brazilian Jiu Jitsu champion Vagner Rocha (2-0) who has yet to taste defeat will take on Patrick Mikesz (7-5); The Ultimate Fighter contender Dan Cramer (2-1) wants to make a stand, but he’ll have to go through Argentinean National Champion Ever Nunez (1-0);



The stacked MMA card also has the following bouts on the card: Frank “ Buffalo ” Carrillo vs. Ray “Combo” Fuentes; Mike “Gringo Diablo” Bernhard vs. Ariel Gandulla; Ailton Barbosa vs. Yoandi Inchaustegui; Mike Ortiz vs. James Wynn and Dr. Tony Crothers vs. Anthony Christodoulou.

In November, Rumble at the Rock was a hot ticket. So, purchase tickets now and don’t miss out on the card of the year.

MEDIA: Media interested in attending the press conference, weigh-in and Rumble at the Rock fight should contact Frank Morejon @ 786-306-1774.

Too cold for 'Julie and Julia' in Bal Harbour

By RODOLFO R. ROMAN
The Miami Herald

Bal Harbour has canceled its Movie on the Beach event featuring “Julia and Julia” on Thursday because of a dip in temperature.

The event, part of the village’s ongoing cultural series, was to have taken place on the beach behind ONE Bal Harbour Resort & Spa, 10295 Collins Ave.

Tourism director Carolyn Travis said “movies on the beach would be canceled due to cold temperatures”. Weather conditions are expected to be in the low 40s Thursday evening.

The series will continue with Opera on the Green featuring opera and Broadway favorites performed by students of Florida International University Opera Theater at 7 p.m. March 11. For more, information call 305-866-4633.

Rumble at the Rock 2

Hollywood--Action Fight League will present the most anticipated female bout at The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino at Rumble when American Top Team’s prodigy Jessica Aguilar (6-3) will go toe-to-toe with last year’s best pro female athlete Valerie “Vicious Val” Coolbaugh (3-4), who is trying to get back on the winning track.
On March 5 at 7:30 p.m., fight fans will also get the best of both worlds, when former University of Miami football player turned MMA fighter Brian Fuery (1-1) will attempt to give a lesson to Backyard brawler Oscar “Diamond Boy” Encizo (0-0) that the cage is a whole different story compared to the streets.

Tickets cost $250, $125, $50 & $25*; all seats are reserved and available at the Hard Rock Live Box Office, open Monday – Saturday from noon to 7pm and on Sunday – only open on event days at noon. Tickets also are available at all Ticketmaster outlets online at www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Doors open one-hour prior to show start time. *Additional fees may apply.

Rumble at the Rock 2 will also feature a world class card consisting of former UFC and WEC elite gladiators.

In the main attraction, homegrown prodigy and backyard brawler Dhafir Harris better known as Da Da 5000 (0-0) will duke it out with Cedric James (0-2), who attempts to jumpstart his MMA career.

A Youtube sensation, Da Da 5000 will make his debut inside the cage and promises to take the MMA world by storm.

“You give me your arm and am taking it home with me,” said Da Da 5000, whose bench press is 675 lbs. “Once I get you in that clinch and hit you with my knee, its nap time.”



There will be lots of experience on this heavy hitting card, UFC vet Steve “Hollywood” Bruno plans to get on the winning track when he faces on Reggie Pena (8-4) who beat his last opponent Dustin Winterholt by submission triangle choke.

The Ultimate Fighter contender Dan Cramer (2-1) wants to make a stand, but he’ll have to go through Argentinean National Champion Ever Nunez (1-0), who is undefeated in his young career, if he wants to continue raising havoc in the sport.

World Brazilian Jiu Jitsu champion Vagner Rocha (2-0) who has yet to taste defeat will take on Patrick Mikesz (7-5).



The stacked MMA card also has the following bouts on the card: Frank “Buffalo” Carrillo vs. Ray “Combo” Fuentes; Mike “Gringo Diablo” Bernhard vs. Ariel Gandulla; Ailton Barbosa vs. Yoandi Inchaustegui; Mike Ortiz vs. James Wynn and Dr. Tony Crothers vs. Anthony Christodoulou.

In November, Rumble at the Rock was a hot ticket. So, purchase tickets now and don’t miss out on the card of the year.

MEDIA: Media interested in attending the press conference, weigh-in and Rumble at the Rock fight should contact Frank Morejon @ 786-306-1774.