Police have substation in Bal Harbour Shops

Bal Harbour police set up shop at the mall.

By RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
A former high-fashion clothing store is now a new police station for Bal Harbour's men and women in uniform.

On Wednesday, the village hosted a dedication ceremony for the new 2,554-square-foot police station on the second floor of the The Bal Harbour Shops at 9700 Collins Ave.

The site was formerly home to an Escada store. Last year, the Bal Harbour council agreed to a seven-year lease with the mall to house the substation. Equipped with face-recognition cameras and flat-screen televisions, the second-floor substation is also protected in case of hurricanes or flooding -- making it easier for police officers to respond to emergencies, said Police Chief Thomas Hunker.

``If a hurricane hits we are totally surrounded by concrete,'' said Hunker. ``Communications won't be affected because of the altitude.''

The two-floor station will become a defacto headquarters for 22 uniformed officers, a secretary, four dispatchers and two public-service aides. The department moved its communications equipment, a locker, and property room there as well. Funds from confiscated criminal proceeds were used to purchase new equipment.

The old station, 655 96th St., had leaks and mold problems, said Hunker. However, the administrative and investigative functions of the police department -- including the`If a hurricane hits we are totally surrounded by concrete.'

BAL HARBOUR POLICE CHIEF

THOMAS HUNKER, about new police

substation in the The Bal Harbour Shops

chief's office, two captains and four detectives -- will remain at the current station next to village hall.

Officer Jeffery Hatcher said the new station will make it easier to combat crime. ``When you have more space and you are not congested you can perform work duties a whole lot better,'' he said.

Residents can make police reports at both facilities. The Shops will offer free parking to people visiting the substation.

The village will make 84 monthly payments to cover the cost of renovating the interior of the mall space. The cost will be capped at $400,000, according to the village's agreement.

Bal Harbour also will be charged an interest rate by the Shops, which cannot exceed 6 percent. The monthly payments will come from the village's general fund.

For more information on the Bal Harbour substation, call 305-866-4633.

Student artists show off the Cuba in their mind

STUDENT ARTISTS ACROSS THE COUNTY GOT A CHANCE DISPLAY THEIR APPRECIATION OF CUBA AND ITS CULTURE


BY RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
With a Sharpie pen in hand, Carlos J. Finlay Elementary fourth-grader Thaylí Gómez felt like a star as she autographed dozens of posters she drew to honor her birthplace of Cuba.

``It makes me feel excited that a lot of people like my drawing'' said Thaylí, 10, who painted a colorful house in Cuba with a palm tree, a smiling sun and a flowery garden.

Thaylí, who came to the United States when she was 1, shared the spotlight with other youngsters who entered drawings for an art contest sponsored by the nonprofit group Cuban Cultural Heritage.

The contest asked kids to artistically explain the theme, How I see Cuba.

On May 22, more than 240 entries were showcased at the Miami-Dade County Fair & Expo Center as part of the 12th annual CubaNostalgia, a weekend festival that celebrates the Cuba of yesteryear. Children of many nationalities from more than 30 Miami-Dade schools participated.

Three judges with art experience chose the winners, who were recognized in an awards ceremony.

Thaylí's drawing was picked as the official painting of the contest.

A replica of her work was sold at the event, with proceeds going to the nonprofit organization.

She credits her dad for helping her create the masterpiece.

``I tried to make it colorful,'' she said. ``I didn't want it to be all plain and boring.''

Parents snapped pictures as winning contestants claimed prizes like gift cards to Best Buy and Books & Books, art supplies and DVD movies like Up and Monsters Inc. The competition was divided into four categories: pre-K, kindergarten through second grade, third through fifth grade, and sixth through eighth grade.

In the exhibit, visitors got a chance to see children's drawings of Cuba's countryside and beaches -- as well as images that commented on political issues faced by those on the island, such as a picture depicting stick figures in chains.

Nicolas Porras, 11, who was born in Colombia, drew Havana's El Malecón in colored pencils. The Eugenia B. Thomas student was inspired by his Cuban friend to color the Caribbean island's landmark.

``When our Spanish teacher told me to draw something of Cuba, I remembered the pictures he showed me,'' said Porras. ``Then I prepared it my way.''

Porras won honorable mention.

Nicolas' mother, Alcira Arevalo, said it is important for children to learn about other cultures.

``We live in Miami, where there are people of different countries,'' said Arevalo as she watched her son accept an award.

The Coral Gables-based Cuban Cultural Heritage organization is dedicated to preserving the cultural values and history of Cuba for current and future generations.

Tania Mastrapa, vice president, said the contest was not only an artistic lesson, but an educational one.

``We wanted to know if their culture was being lost and, even for non-Cubans, what their perception was through their parents and friends,'' said Mastrapa, who came up with the concept.

During the ceremony, Cuban-born Angel Enrique Pardo played music from his homeland on a violin while festivalgoers took in the artworks at the Cuban Cultural Heritage booth.

Xiomara Alvarez, a Spanish teacher at Riverside Elementary Community School, encouraged her students to compete in the contest.

``A lot of times, Spanish isn't easy for them, and in this case it intrigues them through painting,'' she said.

Wynwood Graffiti by Bike tour brings cyclists, communities together

A bike tour through Miami's Wynwood neighborhood is being organized to shed light on the culture of graffiti and urban art.

RODOLFO ROMAN
SPECIAL TO THE MIAMI HERALD
South Florida cyclists can take an artistic bike excursion in Wynwood on Saturday.
The second Graffiti by Bike tour will feature a trip around the Wynwood Arts District highlighting homegrown and world-class graffiti. The three-hour tour starts at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Allapattah Metro Station, 3501 NW 12th St. The event is free and open to riders of all ages.
Tour organizer Olga Cano said graffiti is just like any other artwork.
``Graffiti, street art and urban art are all types of art that, unlike other forms of art, is readily available to everyone at no cost and without discrimination. This is what makes it so special,'' Cano wrote in an e-mail.
The 4.1-mile tour route concentrates mainly on the Wynwood Arts District in northeast Miami. Some of the artworks are sanctioned by the property owners; others are not, tour organizers said.
Organizations like the Open Streets Project, an organization aimed at providing access to people-powered traffic by temporarily closing streets, and the community group Emerge Miami, are putting the event together. Cano and Dario Gonzalez will serve as tour guides.
Tourgoers will also learn about the artists' messages and the culture of graffiti and urban art.
The tour will include sites promoted by two urban art groups, Primary Flight and Wynwood Walls. The tour will include 50 works of art.
Because of the location and the industrial zoning of the area, Wynwood has become a popular area for many local graffiti artists, Cano wrote in an e-mail. In 2007, Primary Flight was formed to allow graffiti artists to paint legally. Graffiti has been a feature of the area since the 1970s, she said.
Cano said graffiti signifies Wynwood.
``In the case of Wynwood, the graffiti and urban art that we are being exposed to is serving its purpose by beautifying buildings, which would've otherwise been gray walls, and by making our city an international hub of art showcasing some of the world's best known graffiti, mural and urban artists known,'' she said.
Organizers recommend checking tire pressure, lubrication on chains and breaks on participants' bicycles. Also, sun block and water is suggested.
Aside from promoting health, Cano said the bike tour unites communities.
``It is a simple and effective way to build community engagement and healthy lifestyles,'' she said.
For information, call 305-283-0255.

Cuba Nostalgia offers a slice of old Cuban culture

LOCAL VENDORS OFFER A SLICE OF VINTAGE CHARM AT THE ANNUAL CUBA NOSTALGIA FESTIVAL


BY RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
When Jackie Sarracino first opened her Little Havana clothing shop aimed at the Cuban exile community -- including shirts boasting ``Made in America with Cuban parts'' -- she felt she needed a way to promote her wares.

Lucky for her, she heard about the annual Cuba Nostalgia, then in its infancy.

Now, the yearly festival that celebrates the Cuba of yesteryear has grown -- as has Sarracino's business.

``When they did the first show, there was no space,'' said Sarracino, who has run Maxoly Cuban apparel, located in Little Havana, since 1999.

Sarracino, like many other local vendors, looks forward to showcasing their latest products at Cuba Nostalgia, which is in its 12th year and takes place at the Miami-Dade Dade County Fair-Expo Center, from Friday to Sunday.

For Sarracino, Cuba Nostalgia is her signature event where she presents her new clothing designs.

``I know that what people buy at the show will be what's going to be sold the rest of the year,'' said Sarracino, who has about 40 new designs.

At the event, festival-goers will be able to take a trip to memory lane by visiting recreated historical landmarks of the Caribbean island like the Havana Cathedral and El Malecon. The fair also highlights the country's cuisine, memorabilia and live traditional music like the guaracha and mambo.

Numerous vendors will sell products like cigars, music, guayaberas and cafécito cups. The traditional Cuban drink Mojito, made of mint leaves, lime juice, sugar and rum, will be served.

Leslie Pantin, president of Cuba Nostalgia, said the three-day show introduces Cuban culture to those who aren't familiar with it.

The show focuses on the pre-Castro era, when Havana was a tropical destination known for its fashionable nightlife.

``We extend a warm welcome to all those who wish to celebrate Miami's Cuban heritage. Cuba Nostalgia is a journey back in time for those who remember the island's glamorous times, and for those who never experienced them,'' Pantin said.

Appropriately, Cuba Nostalgia is celebrated around the time of Cuba's Independence Day, May 20.

This year features a tribute to legendary musician Beny Moré.

Cuban art from well-known artists like Wilfredo Lam and Domingo Ramo will be on sale.

Little Havana art gallery Latin Art Core president Israel Moleiro will have about 30 paintings for sale.

``These are art pieces that you will only see in the fair,'' he said. Moleiro said people from all over the country come to see the arts.

As for Sarracino, she is excited to launch her new merchandise, including polo shirts with the vintage Havana baseball logo and a Cuban flag on the sleeve.

Also new this year are T-shirts featuring Santeria deities like Babalú Aye and Changó.

She credits Cuba Nostalgia for her success.

``It turned out to be a business of its own,'' she said.

Icon Art Images helps NBA legends get a lift from collage sales

WYNWOOD

A LOCAL FAN WILL SELL A COLLAGE FEATURING HAND-SIGNED ACTION PHOTOS OF NBA STARS TO RAISE MONEY TO HELP LESSER-KNOWN RETIRED PLAYERS

BY RODOLFO ROMAN
SPECIAL TO THE MIAMI HERALD
While the salaries of NBA stars are famously astronomical, the paychecks of the less famous players haven't always been so impressive -- especially in decades past.
That's why a Miami entrepreneur is trying to raise more than $1 million to help elderly former players experiencing financial distress.
Cash McMahon, owner of Icon Art Images in Wynwood, hopes to raise the money by selling numbered copies of a collage of 60 signed photos of top NBA players.
The collage, Legends of Basketball -- We Made This Game, was produced by Coconut Grove artist Erika King. The NBA-licensed piece features 60 of the greatest living players of the NBA including Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Julius Erving.
Current stars -- like Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Kobe Bryant -- are also part of the artwork.
The paintings will help raise over a million dollars for the Retired Players Association of the NBA. McMahon hopes to sell each numbered art piece for $25,000, with half of his net going to the association.
``These are the guys that made it happen and paved the way,'' McMahon said.
The piece is on display at Icon Art Images, 147 NW 36th St., in Wynwood until the NBA Finals, which start in a few weeks.
Analyzing the collage, NBA fan Sergio Calderon said the work tells a story.
``You look at it and you become inspired by it,'' he said. ``It is finesse in a way. It shows you how the game and players have evolved.''
The project started during the Miami Heat's championship year in 2006.
Former basketball player and broadcaster Rick Barry took notice of one of King's NBA collages, which was on display at AmericanAirlines Arena.
Barry invited McMahon to a meeting of the Retired Players Association of the NBA, where he proposed creating the official legends artwork to the board of directors.
The first piece was unveiled at the 2009 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame induction ceremonies.
``There are several guys in their 60s and 70s and beyond that were pro basketball players for a living but need the medical help and the assistance to live,'' said McMahon, who along with Sam Battistone helped produce the project.
In the early days of the sport, sponsorships, television contracts and pensions weren't offered, McMahon said.
Not a stranger to sports artwork, King, who lives in Coconut Grove, worked on collages of Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino and Miami Heat center Alonzo Mourning. She also creates corporate collages.
King said Legends of Basketball -- We Made This Game is a dream come true.
``I like the action of the photographs,'' said King, who autographs each collage. ``They are running and throwing.''
At a recent gallery night, King and McMahon celebrated the production of the 100th collage. A total of 600 numbered 40-by-60-inch collages on canvass will be produced at Icon Images.
To create the collage, it takes a team effort. McMahon carefully chose the pictures and also decided where the pictures will be glued on the canvass. King paints the background with vibrant colors of the nba team uniforms. She later embellishes the color with a paintbrush to connect the photos and the canvass. Graphic desinger Gia Garcia also assists with the painting
Art collector Bruno Carnesella owns 15 personal King paintings. He said Living Legends -- We Made This Game is one like no other.
``It is dynamic,'' said Carnesella. ``The art makes you happy, and this piece gives you energy.''
King said her work is more than just action: ``I want to give the viewer something to think and learn about,'' said King.
McMahon said the collage is just the start. The legends of the National Football League and Major League Baseball collages are on the horizon.
Living Legends-We Made This Game will be on display along with other sporting art work at Icon Images Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It will be on display till the NBA Finals. For information call 305-576-4266 or visit www.wemadethisgameartwork.com.

Students tour Marlins Ballpark construction site

LITTLE HAVANA

FUTURE ENGINEERS AND ARCHITECTS TOOK A TOUR OF THE NEW FLORIDA MARLINS BALLPARK IN AN EFFORT TO LEARN ABOUT THE EVOLVING INDUSTRY

BY RODOLFO ROMAN
SPECIAL TO THE MIAMI HERALD
Wearing a hard hat and sunglasses, 17-year-old Kevin Lindgren glanced at his future at the Florida Marlins Little Havana ballpark construction site.
``I took the opportunity to see this big structure being built,'' said Kevin, who plans to study marine engineering at the New Mexico Military Institute.
Last weekend, Kevin joined high school students in the ACE (Architecture, Construction, and Engineering) mentor program for a tour of the Little Havana ballpark construction site. The Marlins along with general contractor Hunt/Moss and Baker Concrete representatives also talked with the kids about the project in a safety trailer.
``It looks expensive and confusing,'' said Kevin, who said he might change his major to civil engineering.
About 40 students from Martin, Palm Beach, Miami-Dade and Broward counties arrived in bus to the site.
Participants from schools like Plantation High, Atlantic High and Carol City High toured the site of the ballpark, which is expected to open in 2012. Visitors took a sneak-peak inside the future home of the Fish by touring the field and concourse level and even got to stand on the future baseball diamond. Workers also answered questions during the tour.
Construction manager Sid Perkins said the event is beneficial for future engineers.
``They are seeing this when they are in the middle of a career decision,'' he said.
With a retractable roof and a capacity of about 37,000, the ballpark will occupy 928,000 square feet on the former Orange Bowl site. The park will be on the parcel of land bordered by Northwest Sixth Street to the north, Fourth Street to the south, 16th Avenue to the west and 14th Avenue to the east.
Organizers discussed the evolution of the architecture and engineering fields, such as the shift from hand drawings to computer-assisted design. Perkins said technology has helped speed up the building process.
``The computer aids you with your drawing,'' said Perkins. ``A drawing that can take you 8 hours by hand will take you a half hour with a computer animated drafting program.''
The Architecture Construction Engineering mentoring program is a national not-for-profit founded in 1994 aimed at educating high school students pursuing careers in the construction industry.
The chairman of ACE in South Florida, Chip Reid, said students gained a major lesson from seeing hands on work.
``This is a once-in-a-lifetime unique experience because the magnitude and coordination it goes in,'' he said.
Not only did students get to see the stadium inside and out, they also received a Marlins goodie bag, a pair of tickets to a game, and a free lunch. Mascot Billy the Marlin also stopped by for a few laughs.
During the presentation, students saw the ballpark's building information model, a three-dimensional picture of the structure.
Sophomore Elena Chorpenning said visiting the site was a breath-taking.
``It is amazing to be here and see all of the different processes going on at the same time and how it is going up,'' she said.
So far, Marlins' officials say the stadium is 30 percent complete.

Teen get lesson in caring and trip to another city

A nonprofit group gives students a chance to connect with mentors, perform community service, and travel to distant locales.


By RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
On his first visit to San Francisco, Braddock Senior High sophomore Mario Guzman did more than just snap pictures of landmarks.

Mario, 16, joined members of the nonprofit Forever Bloom Alumni Association to package rice at the San Francisco Food Bank.

The organization is dedicated to mentoring and educating middle- and high-school students.

``I finished the community work that we did in San Francisco really feeling and knowing that we all made a difference in other people's lives,'' said Mario, who documented the March spring break trip on camera.

``Not a lot of people can say that, which is why I am so proud of the work we did.''

The spring break trip was part of Forever Bloom's ADVENTravel program, which provides members affordable group visits across the U.S. and abroad while doing community service. Adult members served as tour guides and mentors.

In all, the 21 members packaged 30,000 pounds of rice in San Francisco.

Mario said the trip not only taught him to be a good Samaritan, but credits FBAA members for teaching him other important lessons.

``They taught us about responsibility,'' said Mario, who joined the group five months ago and hopes to one day make a movie with the footage he shot.

Paul W. Bell Middle School teacher Anthony Reid founded the not-for-profit in 2007 to help former students keep in contact.

Reid said his former students are inspiring.

``They made me realize what valuable assets they are for helping to mold other young people who would not normally have the benefit of being around successful students,'' Reid wrote in an e-mail.

In South Florida, FBAA members have painted murals and boardwalks for the non-profit Hands on Miami, and taken part in beach clean-ups. At first, the organization was only intended for Bell alumni. But Forever Bloom is now open to anyone.

Named after Bloom's Taxonomy -- an educational method created by educational psychologist Benjamin Bloom -- the organization has 253 members.

Interim Vice President Jerica Duverge, 22, said she relished her role.

``It would have been nice to have alumni mentor me while I was in secondary school,'' said Duverge, 22, who recently graduated from Florida International University with a degree in nursing.

``So being able to offer any guidance and wisdom to other alumni or current students is a rewarding feeling.''

For information, go to www.foreverbloom.org.

KRAZY HORSE, HUNGRY FOR TITLE

(PRESS RELEASE) -- Known for taunting opponents and charismatic gestures in and outside the cage, Charles Daniel “Krazy Horse” Bennett (40-16-2) wants the mixed martial arts world to realize he is more than entertainment. The Florida born fighter characterized for punishing his foes promises to bring his hard hitting game against Luis Baboon Palomino (12-5) for the ISKA World Lightweight title at Action Fight League’s Rumble-n-Rock 3 at the Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino at 7:30 p.m. Friday June 4.

“I’ve made history,” he said. “I’ve put the sport where it is right now and I’ve done my share in it.”

It’s the first time in more than five years, since Bennett battled in his home state. This time, the powerhouse will face Palomino, who recently upset Bellator veteran Jorge Masvidal. Bennett said he is hungry for the belt.

“Winning the ISKA World Lightweight Title belt will be a highlight of my career,” he said. “We want the belt for me and my team.”

The Elite XC veteran, Bennett holds respectable victories over former EliteXC lightweight champion Karl James Noons and former featherweight King of Pancrase Yoshiro Maeda. He is coming off a first-round knockout defeat by Bobby Green at King of the Cage “Fight 4 Hope” in California, so expect Bennett to bring the heat. Bennett has already been scouted by the top elite Mixed Martial Arts organization.

On his way to becoming the best pound-for-pound MMA fighter in the world, Bennett vanished from the sport. One of the most feared and naturally gifted talents, his disappearance had been shrouded in controversy and mystery. However, Bennett has emerged to continue his quest. Despite being asked to fight in other organizations, Bennett said he will put an exciting performance at Rock-n-Rumble 3.

“Everyone turned their back on me after the last incident,” said Bennett referring to personal battles. “But I stayed in there and kept my head on my shoulders.”

“I am not a quitter, “he added.

His resilience has proven as he has been preparing for his upcoming bout with top skilled Brazilian Jiu Jitsu trainers part of the Elite Mixed Fighters in South Florida. His new regiment has helped him polish his ground game, which promises MMA fans a more skilled Bennett.

“Training with Brazilians, I must admit is the best feeling in the world, said Bennett. “They add a lot to my art.”

A confident Bennett warns his opponent of his versatile fighting skills. There is no telling what performance Bennett will showcase.

“If a guy is willing to stand up expect a knockout, but if he wants to take it to the ground then am a punish him on the floor,” he said.

Also on the card, for the first time anywhere in MMA, “Rock-n-Rumble 3” will debut the most feared world-class grappler Pablo Popovitch. Popovitch’s unbelievable Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) record includes overwhelming victories over MMA greats as Jake Shields, Marcelo Garcia, Reno Gracie, Hermes Franca, Diego Sanchez, Kenny Florian to name a brief few. He’s personally trained champions George Saint Pierre and BJ Penn. The NAGA Grappling Hall of Famer is ready to display his third degree black belt skills and a unique style never seen before in professional MMA.

If that weren’t enough, next-generation gamebred MMA star Yuri Villefort (5-0) will do battle inside the cage. Trained by the top fighting Brazilian families, the Villaforts and Gracies, Villefort will give fight fans an electrifying bout.

Rock-n-Rumble 3 will showcase a stacked 11 main card fight including top female mixed martial artist Jessica Aguillar (7-3). Aguillar, another next-generation star will be looking for her third consecutive victory; Ailton Barbosa (5-2), Effrain Ruiz (12-5), Caleb Archer (3-0), Rafael Dias (12-7-1), Hayder Hassan (3-1), James Winn (2-10), Crafton Wallace (19-4-1) and more.

Don’t be left out watching the future stars of Mixed Martial Arts.

Tickets cost $125, $50 & $30.* All seats are reserved and available at the Hard Rock Live Box Office, open Tuesday – Saturday from noon to 7 p.m. and on Sunday & Monday – 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.

About Hard Rock Live
Hard Rock Live, a spectacular state-of-the-art facility has quickly emerged as the entertainment capital of South Florida. Attracting music, comedy and sports fans, this 5,500-seat indoor arena further expands the ultimate entertainment experience at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. For more information please visit www.hardrocklivehollywoodfl.com or www.facebook.com/seminolehardrockhollywood.

About Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino invites you to PLAYHARD! Play, stay, dine, and shop at South Florida’s ultimate entertainment destination. Eighty-nine tables offer Blackjack, Baccarat, Mini-Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker, Three Card Poker, Texas Hold’em Bonus Poker and Let it Ride on a nearly three-acre casino floor. Play one of the more than 2,500 Vegas-style slots including the Native-American Casino linked Multi-Area Progressive Jackpots and Mega Jackpots. Separate high-limit rooms for table games and slots, in addition to a non-smoking room are available for guests to enjoy. Loyal Player’s Club members may enjoy an exclusive VIP Plum Lounge and VIP Chef’s Table show kitchen. Convene in The Poker Room at Seminole Paradise for Texas Hold ‘em, limit Texas Hold ’em, Seven Card Stud and two dollar and four dollar limit Omaha Hi Lo games. Located inside the casino is Hard Rock Cafe -Hollywood, part of Hard Rock’s 130 globally recognized rock ‘n roll themed restaurants. The Green Lodging Certified by the State of Florida, AAA, Four Diamond rated resort showcases 500 luxurious guest rooms, 18 restaurants and lounges, 40,000-square-feet of meeting room space, a European-style spa, auto salon, 25 boutique shops, 12 nightclubs, Paradise Live, and Hard Rock Live, a 5,500- seat concert arena. Located on State Road 7 (U.S. 441) in Hollywood, Florida. Take I-95, exit Stirling Rd. and travel west to 1 Seminole Way. For more information, call (954) 327-ROCK, 1 800-937-0010 or visit us online at www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com or www.facebook.com/seminolehardrockhollywood.

WORLD’S NUMBER ONE GRAPPLER READY TO ROCK THE CAGE

Hollywood, FL---Number one grappler in the world Pablo Popovitch is trading the mat for the cage to display an unstoppable force of excellence in the world of mixed marital arts. The NAGA Grappling hall of famer will make his MMA professional debut against Judo expert Jeff Savoy for the Action Fight League belt at Rumble-n-the Rock 3 at the Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino at 7:00 p.m. Friday June 4.
Popovitch, who is the number one grappler in the 170lbs. category, is counting on his submission artillery to defeat his foe, a Kudon Black belt Judo and Jiu Jitsu red belt.
“My game is to take the guy down only to ground and pound him, then land a submission,” said Popovitch, who runs the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Center in Fort Lauderdale, Fl..
Squaring off against a future opponent in the cage will be second nature for the Rio de Janeiro born gladiator. An unparalleled submission artist, Popovitch holds magnificent victorious over Ultimate Fighting Championship veterans Hermes Franca and Kenny Florian in grappling. He also defeated Strikeforce welterweight champion Jake Shields along with Marcelo Garcia and Reno Gracie. A respected master in the mma world for his third degree mastery in BJJ, UFC champions Georges Saint Pierre and BJ Penn have sought training lessons from the living legend.
For Popovitch, it was only a matter of time to make the transition of grappling to MMA.
“I won a lot of grappling tournaments,” a confident Popovitch said. “I wanted to try something new with new challenges.”
Popovitch was born to compete as he became involved in BJJ at 4 years-old. He trained at Barra Gracie School and was taught by the Machado brothers, Rigan, Carlos and Jean Jaques. At age 15, he moved to Florida and continued to study the martial art under Carlson Gracie along with members of the legendary Carlson Gracie Team and Brazilian top team. In high school, he excelled in collegiate-style wrestling and was offered college opportunities, but he opted to master BJJ.
He will compete at Rumble n the Rock 3 triumphant having won a BJJ world cup victory at Abu Dubai in September. In April, Popovitch also defeated all of his opponents in a Paris grappling tournament in April.
“I have the edge on the ground. I am a best the submission wrestling in 170libs,” he echoed.
To prepare for his debut, Popovitch trained with UFC contender John Hathaway in Europe.


Not only is he dominant with his wrestling and grappling, but he depends on his striking as he has boxed for several years.
“If the guy keeps backing away and doesn’t engage, I’ll strike,” he said.
Will Popovitch be fit for the cage? One thing is for sure: “I go in there knowing that I am going to win,” he said.
If that were not enough, Rock-n-Rumble 3 will also feature the ISKA World Lightweight Title Match of Charles Daniel "Krazy Horse" Bennett (40-16-2) v.s. Luis Baboon Palomino.
With 40 top fights under his belt, Bennett is an ultimate force and plans on annihilating his opponent. An Elite XC veteran, Bennett holds audacious victories over former CBS/Showtime Networks lightweight champion Karl James Noons, and former featherweight King of Pancrase Yoshiro Maeda. He is coming off a first-round knockout defeat by Bobby Green at King of the Cage Fight 4 Hope in California, so expect Bennett to bring the heat.
Added to line-up is next-generation MMA star Yuri Villefort (5-0), who was trained by the top fighting Brazilian families, the Villaforts and Gracies.
Rock-n-Rumble 3 will display an 11 stellar card showcasing top female mixed martial artist Jessica Aguillar (7-3). Jessica, a star in the making, will be looking for her third consecutive victory; Ailton Barbosa (5-2), Effrain Ruiz (12-5), Caleb Archer (3-0), Rafael Dias (12-7-1), Hayder Hassan (3-1), James Winn (2-10), Crafton Wallace (19-4-1) and more, including a possible world-class surprise.
Make sure not to miss a night of great MMA action.

The Rock-n-Rumble (Formerly Rumble at the Rock) series have been major South Florida MMA mega events, bringing sell-out and near sell-out crowds and unprecedented action and excitement. The Seminole Hard rock Hotel and Casino, already a South Florida landmark, has become the premiere MMA venue and are expecting this to be a quick sell-out. Don’t be left out of the action and purchase your tickets now.

Tickets are priced for families at $30, $50 and VIP tickets at $125. Seats go on sale April 23rd at the Hard Rock Live Box Office, open Monday Saturday from noon to 7pm. 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

About Hard Rock Live
Hard Rock Live, a spectacular state-of-the-art facility has quickly emerged as the entertainment capital of South Florida. Attracting music, comedy and sports fans, this 5,500-seat indoor arena further expands the ultimate entertainment experience at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. For more information please visit www.hardrocklivehollywoodfl.com.

About Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino provides quality guest experiences where South Floridians can play, stay, dine, and shop. Eighty-nine tables offer Blackjack, Baccarat, Mini-Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker, Three Card Poker, Texas Holdem Bonus Poker and Let it Ride on a nearly three-acre casino floor. Play one of the more than 2,500 Vegas-style slots including the Native-American casino linked Multi-Area Progressive Jackpots and Mega Jackpots. Separate high-limit rooms for table games and slots, in addition to a non-smoking room are available for guests to enjoy. Loyal Players Club members experience an exclusive VIP Plum Lounge and celebrity show kitchen. Convene in The Poker Room at Seminole Paradise for Texas Hold em, limit Texas Hold em, Seven Card Stud and two dollar and four dollar limit Omaha Hi Lo games. Located inside the casino is Hard Rock Café-Hollywood, part of Hard Rocks 127 globally recognized rock n roll themed restaurants.
The Green Lodging Certified by the State of Florida, AAA, Four Diamond rated resort showcases 500 luxurious guest rooms, 16 restaurants and lounges, 40,000-square-feet of meeting room space, a European-style spa, auto salon, 22 retail shops, 14 nightclubs, Paradise Live, and Hard Rock Live. Located on State Road 7 ( U.S. 441) in Hollywood , Florida . Take I-95, exit Stirling Rd. and travel west to 1 Seminole Way . For more information, call (954) 327-ROCK, 1 800-937-0010 or visit us online at www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com.

Coral Gables celebrates 85th Anniversary

Clinton Global Initiative

Ponce Middle reaches out to Haiti

El Portal seawall reinforcement project to start soon, affect homes

El Portal is getting ready to start construction on a long-stalled project aimed at helping to alleviate flooding and erosion issues.


BY RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
El Portal is ready to hire a construction company to replace a seawall along the Little River.

The project is aimed at reducing flooding and soil erosion. The city will seek bids from contractors within the next few weeks, said Village Manager Jason Walker.

Construction could start by summer, he added.

The first phase of the seawall restoration project includes the western part of the village, roughly from Interstate 95 to Northwest Third Avenue, where the flooding has been the worst, Walker said.

Work will be conducted on 20 homes, and letters have been sent to property owners alerting them.

``In some areas, there are people who just don't have a wall,'' Walker said.

Fiber-reinforced plastic material underneath the water, with coral rock above, will be added, along with each home receiving 6-foot-wide step-downs.

El Portal Mayor Joyce Davis said the project is significant.

``The importance level is heightened because of the loss of property where resident property abuts the Little River,'' Davis said.

The installation of the wall has been in the works since 2002, but finances and permits have slowed the process.

In 2005, El Portal was awarded $975,000 in state funding through the South Florida Water Management District and Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

Work is expected to begin in the summer. For information on the project, call 305-795-7880.

Manager, police chief to meet residents

El Portal will hold a `meet and greet' to promote networking between residents and village officials.


By RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
El Portal residents can meet with village police and other officials later this month to talk about issues in the community.

Village manager Jason Walker and Police Chief Eugene Morales will host a meet-and-greet event at 6 p.m. on May 19 at the intersection of Northeast 90th Street and Third Avenue. Police officers will close off the street.

All residents are welcome. Free snacks and refreshments will be available.

Residents will have an opportunity to discuss village issues.

``There is always a need for people to know who their manager and chief are in case they have questions or concerns,'' Walker said.

The effort will serve as an encouragement to unite El Portal, which has about 2,500 people according to the most recent census data.

``We want to try to build a network where people get to know each other and exchange cellphone numbers,'' Walker said.

Topics for discussion will include Crime Watch, how to secure homes against crime, and anything else participants want to discuss.

Walker said he might make the gathering a monthly event: ``Our goal is to reach every part of the village in a year. If we make it on their block, all people have to do is walk outside.''

Good communication between residents and authorities also can help fight crime. Walker said a burglary was stopped last month when a neighbor reported the crime in progress.

Police were able to arrest a suspect thanks to the neighbor's phone call.

For more information, call Village Hall at 305-795-7880.



Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/05/04/1613638/manager-police-chief-to-meet-residents.html#ixzz0nFMkGuHJ

Village of El Portal hosting run/walk for Armed Forces Day

The village of El Portal will honor U.S. troops and veterans on Armed Forces Day with a one-mile walk.

BY RODOLFO ROMAN
SPECIAL TO THE MIAMI HERALD
El Portal will be showing support for U.S. troops serving abroad and at home by hitting the asphalt.
The second annual El Portal one-mile run/walk in honor of Armed Forces Day will take place at Village Hall, 500 NE 87th St., at 8:30 a.m. on May 15.
The walk will start at Village Hall with a stroll through El Portal during the Armed Forces Day fitness initiative, which was started last year by village council member Claudia V. Cubillos. The event is open to families, walkers, runners and, of course, veterans.
The event is free, but participants are encouraged to donate refreshments like water bottles, sports drinks, coffee and baked goods. Drinks can be dropped off at Village Hall before the walk. Local veterans will be kicking off the event.
For Cubillos, the event hits close to home because family members and her husband, Noel Christian Pace, have served overseas.
``As a military spouse, I now know firsthand the sacrifices our troops and their families makein defending our country andour freedoms, and it is something to be honored,'' Cubillos said.
Armed Forces Day was first celebrated in 1949 and was created by the late Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson.
Aside from paying homage to the troops, Cubillos said the event brings the community together.
``These Run/Walks are the El Portal citizen's way of building some solidarity with the troops by exerting a little sweat in honor of the hard work the troops do for all of us,'' she said.
For information visit www.elportalvillage.com.

Mail workers to pick up donated food for Stamp Out Hunger Day

Special delivery: Donate food for the hungry by leaving non-perishable items by your mailbox on May 8.


BY RODOLFO ROMAN
Special to The Miami Herald
Letter carriers will have an extra assignment in May: Collect non-perishable food to benefit those in need.
People across the country are encouraged to place a bag of non-perishable food by their mailboxes on May 8 for the 18th annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive.
Letter carriers will be picking up the donated food during regular mail delivery on that day.
The National Association of Letter Carriers, along with the United States Postal Service, has teamed up with the nonprofit Feeding South Florida for the food drive.
``This service by the postal carriers provides hundreds of thousands of meals for those in need in our community, and we are thrilled to distribute this food on behalf of the carriers,'' said Judith Gatti, executive director of Feeding South Florida.
South Florida won't be the only area taking part. More than 10,000 cities in the country participate.
According to Feeding South Florida, the organization serves 800 not-for-profits in four counties and demand for food services has increased by 39 percent since the economy took a hit.
Last year, letter carriers collected approximately 850,000 pounds of food for Feeding South Florida.
Formerly known as the Daily Bread Food Bank, the nonprofit recently moved to a new 112,000-square-foot facility in Pembroke Park.
The collected food will be distributed to food pantries, shelters and soup kitchens in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties.
Canned foods such as tuna, beans, fruits and vegetables are accepted. Unopened containers of peanut butter and jelly can also be donated.
``It's such a simple gesture that, collectively, will truly help our neighbors in need,'' said Laurie Miale, vice president of the National Association of Letter Carriers Branch 1071 in Miami.
For information on how to volunteer with the food distribution, e-mail jwescott@feedingsouthflorida.org.