High-profile Florida philanthropist Michael Bienes says he never suspected arrested investment guru Bernard Madoff of running an alleged scam. In an interview published Sunday in South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Bienes said he lost more than $10 million and is near bankruptcy because of money given to Madoff, who is accused by federal securities investigators of operating a $50 billion Ponzi scheme. Asked if he ever doubted Madoff, Bienes, 72, responded, "Doubt Bernie Madoff? Doubt Bernie? No.

By Bob Lamendola, South Florida Sun-Sentinel Dec. 8--What an anniversary gift. As Holy Cross Hospital prepared to mark its 50th year in operation, Fort Lauderdale philanthropists Michael and Dianne Bienes stepped up Wednesday with a $4 million donation to the nonprofit institution.