MIR JUNE 2015 by Our City Media

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editormiramar@ourcitymedia.com • graphics@ourcitymedia.com Our City Media, Inc. publishes FREE monthly, local community news magazines covering Weston, Davie/ SW Ranches/Cooper City, Sunrise, Plantation, Pembroke Pines, Miramar and Hollywood & Hallandale. Total circulation is 20,000+ per edition or a total of 140,000+ copies per month. Our City Magazines are direct mailed monthly to affluent single-family homes, condos and businesses in their respective communities covering all of Southwest Broward County. Monthly mailings are verifiable by USPS statements available at www.OurCityMedia.com. Additional free copies are available at selected locations throughout their

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respective communities and upon request by contacting this news magazine. Opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our City Media, Inc. reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our City Media, Inc. is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by

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Contents

advertisers. Entire contents copyrighted 2014 by Our City Media, Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

inspiring individual

16 “Wheel of Fortune” Contestant from Miramar Proves That Dreams Do Come True

SCHOOL NEWS 18 New Renaissance Middle School Teacher Motivates Students Through Dance 20 Miramar School Receives $50,000 Grant For Arts and Technology Programs 20 Miramar High Recognizes Outstanding Senior Leaders

legally speaking 22 Estate Planning is Life Planning 24 How to Avoid the Next Flood of Foreclosures

eye care 25 UV Awareness Month - Protect Your Eyes

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June 2015

COMMUNITY NEWS 10 Miramar Welcomes Jason Taylor 12 Miramar Library Hosts Reception for Artist Lee Ann Birkenstock 14 Ansin Family Art Gallery Hosts Artists for Conservation Exhibit

JUNE 2015 | OUR CITY MIRAMAR

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR 26 Miramar is the Place to be This Summer

photo of the month 27 The World’s Favorite Newspaper™

pet of the month 28 “Marley”

Real Estate 28 Real Estate Market Headed Toward Normalcy

Business Spotlight 30 A World of Knowledge Offers Accelerated Learning Programs

Scene on scene 32 Community Snapshots

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Many Options Available to Treat Heart Failure Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs, either because one side has gotten too weak or the Viviana Navas, MD heart has become Cleveland Clinic Florida too stiff. Nearly 5 Cardiologist million Americans are diagnosed with heart failure each year. It is the leading cause of hospitalization in people over age 65. Heart failure can have many causes, including coronary artery disease, irregular heartbeats,

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Symptoms of heart failure The most common early symptom of heart failure is that patients feel short of breath after only a little physical activity. Some also feel short of breath when they lay down, and may find it is more comfortable to sleep propped up with several pillows. Swelling in the legs, fatigue, weight gain and gastrointestinal problems can also be early signs of heart failure.

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6th Children’s Summer R.E.A.D.ing Kickoff Party – This year’s theme is “Every Hero Has a Story”. Sign up for a Summer of Reading, Fun Events and Prizes! Free Book with sign up. Cake and punch will be served. 1 p.m. – 2 p.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

10th & 24th Movie Time – A family friendly movie will be shown for all ages. 2 p.m. – 4 p.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

11th Wags-n-Tails – Children can gain confidence in their reading skills by reading to a pet therapy dog. Ages 5-10. 2 p.m. Registration required: 954357-8095. Sponsored by the Humane Society of Broward County. Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place. Adult Summer R.E.A.D.ing Kickoff Party – This year’s theme is “Escape the Ordinary”. Sign up for a Summer of Reading, Fun Events and Prizes! Free book with sign up. First 30 patrons to sign up receive a goodie bag! 2 p.m. – 3 p.m., Miramar Library 2050 Civic Center Place.

Escape into Outer Space – Join Dr. James R. Webb, Professor of Physics at Florida International University, as he presents “Cosmic Connection: Life as an Astronomer” Dr. Webb will discuss his journey through graduate school, his experience helping to build the Southeastern Association for Research in Astronomy consortium, the design and construction of the new Stocker AstroScience Center at FIU, and his new ground-breaking CD of astronomy music. Throughout everything, there has always been a cosmic connection. 1 p.m.- 2 p.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

9th Solar/Lunar Viewing – Four hundred years ago, the telescope was invented and changed the way we look at the world and the space we occupy. Join us as the South Florida Amateur

Astronomers Association brings the universe closer with their high powered telescopes. 6 p.m. – 8 p.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

Friends of the Miramar Library Book Club – Join others who share the joy of reading and discussing a good book. This month’s book: Midwives by Chris Bohjalian 1 p.m.- 3 p.m. Call library to order a copy of the book. 954-357-8090 X8180

13th & 27th “Digi Know?” – Digital Resources at Broward County Library!: Learn how to access eBooks, Magazines, Music, On-line Classes, Language Instruction and more! 10:30a.m.-11:30 a.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

13th Wayna – Music of the Andes – Wayna is the Quechua word for “Youth”. Wayna was born out of necessity to keep alive the cultural heritage of its members. Growing up in the U.S. Wayna’s young members embrace their ancestral heritage by playing and sharing the music of the Andes. This show highlights a wide range of traditional instruments from the Andes including guitars, charangos, flutes and panpipes, and percussion instruments. All ages. No registration required. 2 p.m. – 3 p.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

17th BINGO for Kids – Bingo for Kids is a fun program for children ages 6-10 years old. All children must recognize numbers in order to be able to play the game. Registration required: 954-3578095, 11 a.m. – 11:45 a.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

20th Escape into Design and Create Your Own Bracelet – Jewelry Designer Melody Tuli will be here to teach you how to make jewelry. Make a bracelet that you can bring and show off to your friends. Registration is required.

JUNE 2015 | OUR CITY MIRAMAR

954-357-8090. 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

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Neptunia the Sea Goddess – Stories of Sea Heroes by Magician/Storyteller Suzy Hammer! This is a very fun interactive show with a participationdress up play of “Jason and the Argonauts: The Quest for the Golden Fleece”. Ages 3-10. No registration required. 11 am -12 pm, Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

Miss Jamaica Diaspora 2015 – This is the premier pageant in the USA. The winner and the 1st runner-up are automatic finalists in the Miss Universe Jamaica 2015. 6 p.m., Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Place. Visit www.miramarculuralcenter.org for more information and to purchase tickets. Try Your Hand at iPad! iOS 8 – In this course you will learn the basic tricks and techniques for using your iPad including: physical layout of buttons and features, navigating screens and apps, connecting to the Internet, overview of included apps, downloading apps from the Apple Store and the settings you need to know. Please bring your own iPad fully charged. Seating is limited. No Pre-Registration. Pick up a Seat Reservation Ticket at the Reference Desk prior to the start of class. 10:30 am-12:30 pm, Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

Easton Lee Presents Jamaican Stories and Songs – The Miramar Library celebrates Caribbean Heritage Month with a free presentation of Jamaican Folktales and Folksongs by renowned Jamaican folklorist Easton Lee. 1 p.m. – 3 p.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

29th

22nd Business Workshop – So you Want to Start a Business? – This workshop will cover topics such as What it Takes to Start a Business, Advantages and Disadvantages of Being an Entrepreneur, The ART of Success, Keys to Selecting the “Right” Business for You and More. 6 p.m. – 8 p.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

25th Young Adult Summer Book Club – “Uglies” by Scott Westerfeld. “Uglies is set in a future world where everyone undergoes an operation on their 16th birthday that will make them “pretty” – but not everyone wants to be pretty! Copies of “Uglies” will be available for checkout at the Youth Services desk starting June 8th. Ages 13-18 2 pm-3 pm, Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place. Writer’s Club – The Friends of the Miramar Library hosts this Creative Writing Club. Share ideas and feedback with others, observe and get great critique of your writing. Have the opportunity to read aloud and share your writing experiences. Come and join us as we write, read, listen and comment. 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Miramar Library, 205 Civic Center Place.

Yoga – This is Hatha “All Levels” class with breathing, balance, strength and stretching exercises followed by guided relaxation and meditation. Please bring water and a big towel if you do not have a yoga mat and bring any exercise straps or blocks if you have them. Do not eat a heavy meal at least 2-3 hours before the class. 6 p.m. – 7 p.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

30th Out of My Hands – A High Energy Innovative and Interactive Juggling Show Blended with Illusions! The show is built upon the concept that everyone can make a difference. Everyone can be a hero in the life of another person! When we share our talent, skills and abilities, we are the game changers in our homes, schools and community. Cutting-edge light and laser effects will amaze and delight all ages. No registration required. 3 p.m. – 4 p.m., Miramar Library, 2050 Civic Center Place.

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Miramar Welcomes Jason Taylor COMMUNITY NEWS

BY JILL SHARPE

oetry met with pigskin on April 15th at the Miramar Cultural Center as the Miramar Cultural Trust welcomed Miami Dolphins legend Jason Taylor and the Jason Taylor Foundation for their third annual Art Speaks…Join the Conversation event. The football star shared the stage with local student poets to talk about the power of spoken word performance. Members of the audience snapped their fingers in approval of the original performances by students Douglas Goodridge, Amorette Lormil, Peter Lang and Zoharian Williams. The stage had a cozy, informal set up as the panelists took a seat on the couch with Tamara Gant, the event’s Master of Ceremonies. Taylor was joined on stage by the four poets and two of the foundation’s staff members, Director of Poetry Programs Darius Daughtry and Executive Director Seth Levit. Taylor also brought along two signed Miami Dolphins hats and an autographed football to raffle off to the crowd. Earlier that day, the Miramar City Commission proclaimed the week of April 12-18 as Jason Taylor Foundation Week in the city.“We had a great time tonight as the poets had a chance to express themselves and entertain everyone in a relaxed environment,” said Taylor. “Poetry fits in with what we do on the football field, as football is an art form but not nearly as tough as this. The courage of the young people here, and the fact that they are so vulnerable, is amazing.”

(l to r) Seth Levit, Darius Daughtry, Tamara Grant, Zoharian Williams, Amorette Lormil, Jason Taylor, Peter Lang and Douglas Goodridge.

Spoken word has become a primary focus for the Jason Taylor Foundation and their Omari Hardwick bluapple Poetry Network. The network is made up of afterschool clubs where students have a platform to write, perform and express themselves about personal issues and social problems. The idea for this student-driven coalition began in Miramar three years ago, and has since spread to include over 500 middle and high school students from more than 50 schools all over South Florida. “Poetry puts students in the story and at the center of their own learning experience,” said Levit.

(l to r) Student poets Douglas Goodridge, Amorette Lormil, Peter Lang and Zoharian Williams.

about the dangers of drinking and driving through her poem “DUI”. “Thanks to the foundation, I know I can make a living with my poetry.” In between poetry performances, Taylor fielded questions about his life, playing football and his interest in education. He was inspired to tackle youth issues by noting that the school dropout rate is a “vicious cycle where your next destination is either the cemetery or incarceration.” Taylor drew from personal experience to empathize with what today’s adolescents are going through. “I didn’t always play for the Dolphins or always live in Weston,” he said. “I grew up in Mayor Wayne Messam presents Jason Taylor with Pittsburgh, in a city a Jason Taylor Foundation Week proclamation. with a racial divide, in a single-parent home with no father around. You grow up and you learn.” Whether audience members were drawn to this event because of their passion for the Miami Dolphins or their love of poetry, everyone agreed that the night

Young poets share the stage with Jason Taylor Foundation staff members at the Miramar Cultural Center

Amorette Lormil performs her poem.

Amorette Lormil was one of the performers who has benefited from being a part of the poetry network. She started writing when she was 11 and started performing about two years ago. “I’m just now getting used to it,” she said. Lormil spoke

JUNE 2015 | OUR CITY MIRAMAR

was a success. “I thought it was awesome, getting an inside look into the minds of the people behind the poetry slam,” said Kimberly Youngblood, a science teacher at New River Middle School who sponsors that school’s poetry club. “Fort Lauderdale students are gifted writers.” The Jason Taylor Foundation began operations in 2004 and works on issues related to the health care, education and quality of life of South Florida’s children. For more information, visit www. jasontaylorfoundation.org.

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Miramar Library Hosts Reception for Artist Lee Ann Birkenstock COMMUNITY NEWS

BY JILL SHARPE

ancient parts of the world. The event consisted of a one hour interview/ discussion led by Linda Winkler, President of the Friends of the Miramar Library, who sponsored the program, followed by a very active question and answer session with the audience. Miramar Library Manager Christ Marhenke said those in attendance really appreciated the opportunity to talk to Birkenstock about her experiences. “It was heartwarming to hear Lee Ann describe the connections she felt with the people she photographed, “ said Library Specialist Kathleen Dodge.

n Saturday, April 11th, the Miramar Library hosted a reception for photographer Lee Ann Birkenstock, photographer of “Artistic Cultures”, an exhibition of historic beauty that was on display in the Miramar Library in March and April. Birkenstock shared her personal story of the exotic places she has visited, customs she has experienced and stories of the “real people” behind the faces she came to know and capture on her photographic journeys across

A champagne reception followed the interview and attendees were entertained by classical guitarist Eric Swanson. Following the reception, Birkenstock led a personal “Tour” of her exhibit. “Everyone had a great time,” Marhenke said.

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OUR CITY MIRAMAR | JUNE 2015

Ansin Family Art Gallery Hosts Artists for Conservation Exhibit SECTION HEAD COMMUNITY NEWS

BY JILL SHARPE Esther Sample with her just completed painting of Pumpkin, an Eastern Screech Owl

Megan Kissinger works on her portrait of Zippy, an Eastern Box Turtle.

he colors of “Green, White and Blue” were splashed across the Miramar Cultural Center on April 30th as Artists for Conservation (AFC) held an opening reception to show off the latest exhibit in the Ansin Family Art Gallery. Art lovers and the eco-conscious alike mingled among the fine art that focused on wildlife and conservation topics. The “Green, White and Blue” art collection has been touring across the U.S. and Canada since September with a goal of utilizing a variety of art forms to inspire the public, and especially youth, to help preserve and protect the outdoors. Artists from Florida, Canada, Japan, Tanzania, the United Kingdom and Bulgaria used oil, acrylic, mixed media, pastel, and watercolor styles to feature different animals, birds and their habitats. Among the many guests in attendance were Zippy, an Eastern Box Turtle, and Pumpkin, an Eastern Screech Owl who both sat for live portraits by artists Megan Kissinger and Esther Sample, respectively. The “model” animals were brought over from Flamingo Gardens and the paintings were auctioned off to benefit the Davie-based animal sanctuary. The linking of art and the environment is an essential to how AFC has operated since the group was founded in 1997. “We set a high bar for the quality of the art but also need to have artists show a demonstrated commitment to conservation and wildlife,” said Jeffrey Whiting, AFC President and Founder. “We committed to working with Flamingo Gardens because we

support local conservation efforts and initiatives. Our role is to support artists who are passionate about our own backyards. We connect artists with the scientific community which then helps them with their art and helps them reach more people. Artists can be real spokespeople for conservation. It’s really inspiring and we want to share that inspiration.” All of the artists with works in the exhibit donated at least 25 percent of their piece’s sale price to Artists for Conservation but many also donated an additional percentage to groups like the African Wildlife Foundation, Galapagos Conservancy, Acadia National Park and the Houston Zoo. A television in the gallery showed videos produced by Artists for Conservation focusing on the wildlife that calls the Great Rift Valley in Africa home. This multimedia tour started in AFC’s home of Vancouver, continued through the U.S., including two stops in Florida and will end in Ontario this summer. Miramar rolled out the red carpet for the artists, right down to the chocolate-covered Oreo party favors provided by Hoffman’s Chocolates. The Artists for Conservation exhibit will continue to be shown at the Alvin Sherman Library on the Nova Southeastern University campus, at 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Boulevard in Davie, through June 19th. For more information, please visit www.artistsforconservation. org.

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inspiring individual 16

“Wheel of Fortune” Contestant from Miramar Proves That Dreams Do Come True BY JILL SHARPE

t is said that fortune favors the bold and a recent episode of “Wheel of Fortune” favored the boldness of Miramar’s own Asiah Manning. Manning won big on the April 23rd edition of the game show, despite several setbacks. She landed on the “Bankrupt” and “Lose a Turn” spaces twice before her luck turned around and she won over $13,000 in cash and prizes, including a vacation in Aruba. Manning has lived in South Florida since 2005 and teaches at Miami Carol City Senior High School. She was raised by her great-grandmother and they religiously watched the “Wheel” together. “I didn’t realize it was a tradition, but it was one,” said Manning. “The show was always on in our house, whether we were watching it or just had it on in the background.” Manning auditioned to be a contestant on the “Wheel” in 2005 but when they called her to return for a second audition, she ended up missing that opportunity. “I was devastated. I couldn’t watch the show for two years after that,” she said. Ever the resilient one, she applied again in 2013. “It was six weeks before they would do call-backs and I had marked that date on my calendar. When I didn’t get a letter from the show, I thought, well, I did everything that I could, I guess it just wasn’t meant to be.” However, Manning did eventually get the call she had hoped for and flew out to Los Angeles to make her dreams come true. “They tape from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and I was selected for the last taping of the day,” she said. “It was much harder than playing at home. It’s your turn every time and there’s no chance of landing on Bankrupt. I have a different perspective now. When I see something obvious, but the contestant may not know it, I’m not as hard on them as I used to be.” Despite being a long-time fan of the show, nothing could prepare Manning for the ups and downs of being an actual contestant. “I was going through a range of emotions,” said Manning. “At first, I was

JUNE 2015 | OUR CITY MIRAMAR

very nervous. I mellowed out from watching the games that were being taped before me. But then I got nervous again when I started taping. The show

just moves so fast that you have to keep on moving. If I spent time or energy on the money I initially lost, I wouldn’t have won the next round. I wouldn’t even look in the stands for my husband. You’re only there for 30 minutes and this may be a once in a lifetime

chance, so I had to stay focused. My attitude was to go for it all and have no regrets.” As a teacher, Manning is always looking for an important lesson she can impart to her students. “It was important for me to show my students how to lose graciously,” she said. “They need to understand that not everything is about the trophy or the money. I’m glad my students could see me lose and then come back.” While the money and the prizes are greatly appreciated, the experience of meeting the stars of the show stood out as the highlight of the trip. “I was with my 93 year-old great-grandmother after the taping and they were shutting down the studio,” Manning recalled. “My husband took a picture of her in front of the “Wheel of Fortune” sign. Then, Pat Sajak came out after he had already changed clothes and jumped in the picture with her. He didn’t take any other pictures. That itself was worth the trip. Now my great-grandmother has bragging rights.” Manning’s plans for her winnings remain modest, with her two year-old son’s Florida Prepaid college savings plan being the priority. “We’re reasonable with money and I’ll be paying my tithe since I definitely want to give some money to my church,” she said. “I live by the principle of spend a little, save a little, give a little.” Now that she has become something of a celebrity, Manning uses her time on “Wheel of Fortune” to motivate others to dream big. “Other people often ask me now ‘how did you get on the show?’ and when I tell them, I can see the wheels in their head start to turn,” said Manning. “I want to inspire people to do something different. I’m from Miramar and am just like anyone else. I waited for years in between auditions to get on the show, but it confirmed that if you run after what you want, it may not happen immediately, but you can get it. You have to sacrifice something, but it was an experience that I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”

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New Renaissance Middle School Teacher Motivates Students Through Dance

SCHOOL NEWS

BY JILL SHARPE

Aimee Sangster

Principal Janet Morales

here has been a dance renaissance going on at New Renaissance Middle School in Miramar, led by dance teacher Aimee Sangster. Sangster was recently honored by being named the 2015 Dance Arts Teacher of the Year in Broward County. The Broward County Commission also designated April 28, 2015 as “Aimee Sangster Day”. Sangster has been dancing since she was ten years old and continued her love of dancing when she attended Florida International University. She spent five years as a professional dancer before becoming a reading teacher in 2007. “I like to feel the music,” said Sangster. “Perhaps because I’m from Jamaica, it’s just in my blood to always move my feet. I love the challenge of dancing.” New Renaissance held their Spring Dance Showcase on May 6th as a way to wrap up the school year and perform for the students’ families. The show was also a chance for the community to congratulate Sangster on her award. The 375-person auditorium was at capacity as Principal Janet Morales greeted the crowd and publicly lauded Sangster for her accomplishment. Once the dancing started, parents and families cheered enthusiastically for the students and waved bouquets of flowers they had brought for their kids. The audience got to enjoy some classic ballet with music by Tchaikovsky although the evening was heavy on modern hip-hop and R&B musicians like Rihanna, Pitbull, Britney Spears and Beyonce. Sangster purposefully uses contemporary music to pique her student’s interest. “It’s a challenge to teach students who often haven’t had any training,” she said. “Often this is the first dance class that these 12 to 14 year olds will have. Being an urban school, many of the kids don’t favor classical ballet, so I have to teach them the techniques they need to know in a way that they’ll absorb it.” Sangster watched the showcase from behind the scenes with a mixture of great pride and a teacher’s eye always looking out for ways to help her students improve their technique. “Watching the show was a little nerve-wracking,” she admitted. “The girls do what I say when we practice but sometimes when they get on that stage they want to show off and don’t always follow what we’ve practiced.

JUNE 2015 | OUR CITY MIRAMAR

The reaction from the crowd was great, though. Everybody loved the performance.” In the crowd was Miramar resident Susanna James, who was there to cheer on her daughter, Farzana, a sixth grade dance student. “The show was really exceptional,” she said. “Ms. Sangster really deserves the honors she has received as it is not easy to teach kids all those different dance classes. I taught dance in the Caribbean so I understand how difficult it can be.” James said dancing is her daughter’s life. “She dances every second, to hip-hop and Beyonce. She takes after me, of course,” said James, with a laugh. While dancing itself has been a lifelong passion for Sangster, teaching students like Farzana also keeps her motivated every day. “I love mentoring kids,” Sangster said. “The students know they can confide in me. Since these kids love to dance so much, I use it as a way to keep their grades up. I love helping them academically and in other areas of school.” There are about 200 students in the school’s dance program, but Sangster limited the opportunity to dance in the Spring Dance Showcase to only the students that had respectable grades in all of their classes. It is that “tough love” approach that endears Sangster to her students and was a big reason why she has been so highly decorated. “It’s cool to get recognized and being Dance Arts Teacher of the Year has really opened up a lot of doors for me that I wouldn’t have been able to do when I was a reading teacher,” she said. Sangster is not one to rest on her laurels and continues to work tirelessly to ensure that the school’s dance program has the funding it needs. Since the program started three years ago, Sangster has led the effort to raise about $11,000 for equipment, mirrors and costumes. Her goal is to raise enough money for a dance floor, which she estimates will cost around $20,000. Financial contributions to the school’s dance program can be made by emailing Aimee Sangster at aimee.sangster@browardschools.com or by calling the New Renaissance Middle School front office at 754.323.3500.

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Miramar School Receives $50,000 Grant For Arts and Technology Programs SECTION NEWS SCHOOL HEAD

BY JILL SHARPE

nnabel C. Perry K-6 Center in Miramar is one of two elementary schools in South Florida who will soon receive a $50,000 grant from the Leonore Annenberg School Fund for Children, which provides educational resources to underfunded schools. The funds will help Annabel C. Perry acquire technology, books, arts material and educational products designed to improve reading skills and proficiency in math and science. Seven other schools around the country will also receive a share of the more than $500,000 in grants that the Leonore Annenberg School Fund has allocated for 2015. The Council for Educational Change, a statewide nonprofit organization that serves as a catalyst for change and a conduit of resources, successfully nominated Annabel C. Perry for the grant award. “This grant will help the school come up with the resources needed to upgrade educational technology and foster the arts at a time when public funding is dwindling,” said Elaine Liftin, the Council’s President and Executive Director. “We are very excited that the Council was able to help Annabel C. Perry Elementary.” The announcement came at the right time as Annabel C. Perry is expanding to 7th grade in the upcoming school year. The grant money will help the school buy interactive tables, where up to six students at a time can collaborate on projects, as well as buy whiteboards and slates. Principal Catrice Duhart said every seventh grade students will have his or her own individual laptop to work with throughout the day and a Promethean Board will be purchased for all 7th grade classes. Since 2009, Florida has received $1.11 million in Leonore Annenberg School Fund grants to assist in funding STEM literacy initiatives, media centers, science and technology labs and more. The Council’s close ties to the Leonore Annenberg School Fund have facilitated the grant application process for schools across Florida.

“In 1999, the late philanthropist Walter Annenberg and Leonard Miller created the South Florida Annenberg Challenge, a regional initiative designed to improve student achievement and career readiness,” said Gail C. Levin, Director of the Leonore Annenberg Scholarship, Fellowship and School Funds. “Today, the successor organization, the Council of Educational Change (CEC), focuses statewide on school-based reform and educational policy, and members of the Miller family, together with the Leonore Annenberg School Fund for Children, continue the legacy of the founders. The School Fund’s most recent grants to CEC will enable hundreds of students to benefit from the continuing collaboration.” For more information visit www.leonoreannenbergscholarships. org.

Miramar High Recognizes Outstanding Senior Leaders BY JILL SHARPE

our students from Miramar High School (MHS) were recently honored at the Broward County School’s Outstanding Senior Leader Banquet. The program recognizes public high school students who have achieved excellence in the classroom and as student leaders. School board members, parents, teachers, principals and many others attended the banquet. The MHS Outstanding Senior Leaders were: Bianca Alexandra Barnes – Bianca is ranked 57th in her class and has completed 503 service hours. She is Senior Class President and is an active member of Women of Tomorrow and National Honor Society. She Bianca Barnes has also been a member of SAC, DECA, 4-legged Friends, French Club and the Gay Straight Alliance. Her honors include multiple A/B Honor Roll Awards, 21st Century Program Outstanding Leadership Award and Florida International University Elite Award. Bianca plans to study criminology. According to the Student Government Advisor, “Bianca is well-respected by her peers and by administration. The seniors are lucky to have elected a gem as president.” Gabrielle Elizabeth Chin – Gabrielle is ranked eighth in her class and has completed 1024 service hours. She is Student Government President, Spanish Honor Society Event Coordinator, Relay for Life Captain, ICC President, SAC Secretary, Destination Diploma Chairperson and active member of National Honor Society, Indian Student Association, Doctors Without Borders and Debate. Her honors include a Freedom Foundation Leadership Award. Gabrielle plans to study business. According to the Student Government Advisor, “Gabrielle is a superwoman. There is nothing she can’t accomplish.” Robert Nathan Powell – Robert is ranked 6th in his class and has completed

JUNE 2015 | OUR CITY MIRAMAR

Gabrielle Chin

Robert Powell

Josmar Diaz-Martinez

237 service hours. He is National Honor Society President, Science National Honor Society Vice President and active member of Student Government, Spanish Honor Society, Key Club, Indian Student Association and Environmental Club. His honors include American Excellence, Pre-IB English, AP US Government and Politics, AP English Language and Composition, AP Biology and a fourth place win in the Broward County Science Competition Powell is a College Board National AP Scholar and National Merit Scholar. According to the Student Government Advisor, “It’s been a pleasure to see Nathan’s leadership in action. He truly embodies what it means to be a leader.” Josmar Anthony Diaz-Martinez – Josmar is ranked 117th in his class. He is Student Government Treasurer, football team captain and active member of Mentoring Tomorrow’s Leaders. His honors include FHSSA State Championsfootball, MHS Defensive Player of the Week and multiple A/B Honor Roll Awards. Josmar plans to study medicine and marketing. According to the Student Government Advisor, “ Josmar’s leadership was indispensible this year. His influence boosted student involvement and school spirit.”

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legally speaking

Estate Planning is Life Planning

Are You Ready? Do you have a thoughtful and comprehensive estate plan which includes:

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state planning is not just a process undertaken to plan for the orderly and efficient transfer of assets at death. Estate planning is also life planning. Do you have minor children? If so, your planning should address the support of yourself, your spouse, and your children in the event that you become disabled. It should provide a source of funds for your children’s education, daycare, and medical expenses, as well as for the regular expenses of running your household. In addition, estate planning encompasses retirement planning and creditor protection planning. It has been estimated that more than half of all American adults have no estate plan in place. The distribution of their property, the care and custody of their minor children, and the identification of who directs the administration of their estate is left to the state of Florida. More surprisingly is the fact that those people who have invested in an estate plan generally fail to revise or update their plan for up to 20 years. Imagine if you had done your estate plan 20 years ago and never updated it? How different are your financial and personal circumstances now compared with 20 years ago? Would the choices you made, people you identified, and concerns you addressed still be appropriate today? Probably not.

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A proper estate plan should allow you to control your property while you are alive and well. It should provide for you and your family if you become disabled. And it should allow you to give what you have to whom you want, when you want and in the way you want, all while minimizing the taxes, professional fees, and costs to be borne by you and your loved ones. Estate planning can bring peace of mind in knowing that after you are gone, your spouse, children and even grandchildren can enjoy the property you leave to them, free from the claims of their creditors. You may rest easier knowing that a surviving spouse’s subsequent remarriage, a child’s marriage or divorce, or even an untimely lawsuit or bankruptcy, will not disrupt your loved one’s ability to use and enjoy their inheritance. Your estate plan should be reviewed every two to four years. If you do not have an estate plan, or if you do but it is overdue for a review, it would be wise to meet with a qualified estate planning attorney without delay. Estate planning is a deliberate, premeditated act of love. Life can change in an instant. What are you waiting for? Bruce Iden earned his J.D. from George Washington University National Law Center and his L.L.M. in taxation from the University of Miami School of Law. He has been practicing in the area of estate planning and probate and trust administration for over 30 years. For more information, or to schedule a complimentary estate-planning consultation with Mr. Iden, please contact Iden Law Offices at (954)885-0085.

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Legally Speaking

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By Omar J. Arcia, Esq., Foreclosure Defense and Bankruptcy Protection Attorney

illions of Americans will soon see monthly bills shoot up on their home equity lines of credit (HELOC) taken out during the housing boom from 2005-2008, because they will convert from interest-only (no principal) to principal and interest payments at the loan’s ten year mark. HELOCS are a type of second mortgage that homeowners used to tap into the equity built up in their home. A recent analysis by Realty Trac shows that 3.3 million homes in the U.S. carry HELOCS from the 2005-08 era, and that 56% of these homes are “seriously underwater.” When these HELOCS change from interest-only to principal and interest, the monthly payments will more than double. This change will force many homeowners to default on their HELOC payments, which will lead to foreclosure of their homes. However, there are several ways to avoid this next flood of foreclosures, and to save your home. First, you should have a qualified real estate attorney, like the attorneys at the Arcia Law Firm, closely review your HELOC for any deficiencies which prevent the lender from enforcing its terms through a foreclosure proceeding. For example, was the HELOC security agreement signed by BOTH husband and wife, and was it properly recorded in the county where the property is located?

Second, if the HELOC already “matured,” and more than five (5) years have passed without making payment, Florida law will permit you to eliminate that lien from your property through a quiet title action. This means you can wipe out the loan in its entirety due to your lender “sleeping” on their rights. Third, if you are unable to pay the increased monthly payment on your HELOC, you may be eligible to negotiate a significant reduction in the amount you owe your lender. Especially for homeowners who owe more than your home is worth, HELOC companies will not likely to recover the amount they are owed in a foreclosure. These companies prefer to negotiate a reduced payoff balance of the HELOC with the homeowner of anywhere between 10-30% of the amount actually owed. We have negotiated dozens of these reduced payoffs for clients with the balance paid within three months to three years. Lastly, if you owe more on your first mortgage than the market value of your home, you will be able to completely wipe out your HELOC, and the lien against your home by filing a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. In that bankruptcy proceeding, you will also be able to eliminate credit card debt, medical debt, reduce or eliminate IRS debt, and even modify your first mortgage through an innovative new program available in South Florida Bankruptcy Courts. More detailed explanations of different options available to homeowners in foreclosure, at risk of foreclosure, or considering bankruptcy are discussed in a new consumer bankruptcy seminar offered by the Arcia Law Firm in our area. Admission is free if you mention that you heard about the seminar through this magazine. Please contact the Arcia Law Firm at 954-437-9066 to make a reservation for the next seminar or to schedule your free office consultation with attorney Omar Arcia, who will personally review your case. You may also visit www.arcialawfirm.com for more information about the Firm, our staff and credentials, detailed articles, informative videos & testimonials, and to make your appointment online.

JUNE 2015 | OUR CITY MIRAMAR

UV Awareness Month Protect Your Eyes By Michael Chesen, OD

MiraMar The Fountains of Miramar (Next to El Fogon) Dr. Michael Chesen 2909 Dykes Rd., Miramar, FL • 954-437-9733

www.mirvision.net

eye care

he majority of Americans are aware of the dangers of Ultraviolet (UV) rays to your skin, (including sunburn and skin cancer) and the importance of applying UV blocking sunscreen and using other forms of sun protection when spending time in the sun. But how many are aware that ultraviolet rays and other harmful types of radiation from the sun are also a risk to your eyes? If you are thinking of leaving the house without proper eye protection, think about this: Extended exposure to harmful UV rays has been seen to be a cause of eye damage.

UV Eye Damage

Exposure to large quantities of ultraviolet radiation over a short amount of time can cause a ‘’sunburn of the eye’’, which results in pain, blurred vision or even temporary blindness. Long-term ultraviolet exposure can result in more serious eye diseases such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and others, all of which can cause vision loss. Just like the real sun, tanning beds pose a serious risk of overexposure to UV.

Summer SpecialS

UV Eye Protection

To shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, sunglasses should block 100 percent of UV light. Look for sunglasses labeled ‘’UV 400’’, which indicates that they block all light rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers (which includes both UVA and UVB rays, both known to enter the atmosphere). You also want to choose sunglasses with full eye coverage. Sunglasses with side protection can block dangerous UV rays from coming in through the rear of the sunglasses. You don’t have to empty your pockets to have proper UV defense, but it’s essential to be certain the sunglasses give full UV defense. Many lessexclusive brands do offer proper UV coverage. Further, as well as keeping your eyes protected from the sun’s harmful rays, trendy sunglasses are at the height of fashion. Pick up a pair (or two) and let the sun shine down!

Got News?

email editormiramar@ourcitymedia.com

Pearle Vision Miramar • 954-437-9733

See store for details. With this coupon. Valid only with Dr. Chesen. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Offer expires 06/30/15.

49 Eye Exam

Pearle Vision Miramar • 954-437-9733

See store for details. With this coupon. Valid only with Dr. Chesen. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Offer expires 06/30/15. SW 29th St. SE 160th Ave.

For more information on UV protection, call Dr. Chesen’s Miramar optometric office at 954-437-9733.

off

Single Pair of Glasses

Please ask about our free in-store insurance plans. Miramar Parkway

We accept most major insurance plans including United HealthCare®, Cigna®, EyeMed, BC/BS and Aetna®.

THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.

We Carry A Large Assortment Of The Latest Designer Eyewear OUR CITY MIRAMAR | JUNE 2015

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

Residential

Commercial

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Miramar is the Place to be This Summer BY WAYNE MESSAM, MAYOR

s we enter into the month of June, our schedules will be changing. Our thoughts turn to children being out of school, vacation vs. staycation, friends and family gatherings, visitors from out of town and more. Our great City of Miramar has much to offer as you decide what to do over the next few months. Summer camps will be in full-force and there are many to choose from that are run by our excellent City staff. From East to West and all areas in between, you can choose to place your child in sports, theater, swimming or day camp, which provide a variety of activities. For information, please log on to the City’s website at www.miramarfl.gov This is also a wonderful time to take advantage of the outdoors by visiting any one of the numerous parks in our community. One of the largest is Miramar Regional Park at 168th Avenue and Miramar Parkway. Filled with baseball fields, basketball courts, an aquatic complex, soccer fields, cricket grounds and pavilions, it is one of the best locations to have a family or corporate outing. This is also the location where the July 4th celebration is held. The Ansin Sports Complex at Miramar Boulevard and Hiatus is a spectacular facility that features a state-of-the-art track field. Residents looking to jumpstart a physical fitness program can walk or run the field. No matter where you go in the City, there is a park nearby that will suit your needs.

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We nOW dO embrOidery!

JUNE 2015 | OUR CITY MIRAMAR

If you enjoy art, stop by the Ansin Family Art Gallery where the current exhibition recognizes Caribbean Heritage Month from June 4th through June 28th. Caribbean Colorful Diversity features a plethora of artwork showcasing artists from Haiti, Cuba and Aruba. In addition, the City of Miramar will host an event on Saturday, June 20th at Shirley Branca Park in honor of our Caribbean residents. Planned events include live entertainment, inflatables and games for kids and teens, food and novelty vendors. Join us as we celebrate with our friends. It is a blessing that so many have chosen to make the great City of Miramar their home. When you reflect on the fact that we and our neighbors could have chosen anywhere in the world to live, we decided that Miramar provided us with the lifestyle we wanted for our families. Let us take this time to wish our residents of Caribbean descent the best during this celebratory month. We are #ONEMiramar. Yours Truly and In Service, Wayne Messam City of Miramar, Mayor

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