PLT February 0214 by Our City Media

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All-Around State Champions at TAG USA Gymnastics see story pg. 18

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Happy Valentine’s Day

hile it seems like just yesterday we were

ringing in the New Year, now we turn our attention to the ones we love with Valentine’s Day just weeks

away. The stores are stocked with sweets and treats for our sweethearts. While we contemplate which gift we should purchase or which restaurant we shall visit for that romantic night out, we need to remember that the monetary value of a gift is a secondary notion. The most important point is that the gift comes from the heart -- and there is no better gift than spending valuable time with the ones we love. This Valentine’s Day, give from your heart and enjoy each other’s company. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Publisher/Owner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SVEN BUDZISCH Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Julie Levin sales manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nancy Koval Account Representatives . . . . . . . . . . Garry Isabelle, Joyce Bak,

Vanessa da Rocha, Kim Mills, Mariem Garcia, Ada Rivera Office manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gabriela Moscoso Graphic Design & photographY . . . . . . . Barry Stock, Grace Umlauf Web Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Grace Umlauf

Visit us online: www.plantationtowntimes.com 1960 N Commerce Parkway, Suite 3, Weston, FL 33326

Sincerely,

Ph: 954-306-1007 • Fax 954-306-1008 editor@plantationtowntimes.com • graphics@ourcityweston.com

Sven Budzisch Publisher/Owner

Total circulation is 20,000. Quantum International Corporation, DBA (OCW), is published and direct mailed monthly to prestigious homes in the city of Weston verifiable by US Postal statements. Additional free copies are available at locations throughout the city of Weston and upon request by contacting this newspaper. Opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Quantum International Corporation, DBA OCW reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. OCW is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers. Entire contents copyrighted 2010 by OCW, Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

Contents

14 Orchid Society Hoping to Spread Roots in the Community 16 Plantation Well-Represented at Major Art Fair

inspiring individual

calendar 8

17 Plantation Woman Honored for Efforts to Stop Drunk Driving

February 2014

feature

Community News

10 Experience Sights and Sounds of the Everglades Through Unique Exhibit 10 Artists, Collectors and Crafters Wanted for Upcoming Festival 12 Let Your Appetite Travel the World at International Taste Fest 12 Weekend Antique Festival Returns to Plantation

18 TAG USA Gymnastics Celebrates Another Successful Season

can do kid

20 Mom’s Cancer Fight Prompts Plantation Youngster To Co-Author Book

SCHOOL NEWS

22 Plantation Middle School Hosts Successful Toy Drive 22 Help Needed to Build “Homes” For School’s Animal Science Program

Photo of the month 32 The World’s Favorite Newspaper™

ask the expert

20 4

24 Is a Credit Union Right for You? 30 Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle

pet of the month

Legally Speaking

it’s their business

25 Most Common Mistakes by Homeowners Attempting to Obtain a Loan Modification

Health & wellness 28 Sculpting a New You in 2014

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33 “Butter Bee”

34 Slender Fit U Makes Dieting Easy

Seen On Scene 36 Community Snapshots

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calendar February 2014

9th On Your Mark, Get Set, Go! – Join the edit author 9th Annual Run Through Central Park 5k and Fitness Walk, a 5K Run through the tree-lined streets of Plantation and finishing on the track in Central Park. 7 a.m. Central Park. 600 Central Park Drive, Plantation.

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

11th Yoga Shalom – Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El invites the public to Yoga Shalom, a unique experience combining two powerful disciplines of Jewish prayer and yoga practice. It will be hosted by Cantor Lisa Levine, a guest cantor from Temple Shalom in Maryland. Yoga Shalom will be open to the entire community. Registration will start at 6:30 p.m. Yoga Shalom will begin at 7 p.m. 8200 Peters Road, Plantation, FL 33324. http://tkae.org/ for more information.

15th-16th

20 21 22 23 24

26 27 Antique Weekend – The GFWC Plantation Woman’s Club will host their 31st Annual Antique Show, featuring 30 antique and collectible vendors. Antique collectibles, jewelry, glass, silver, furniture, books and more. The show will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $5.00 at the door

org/programs/2012-12-31-02-21-23/ general-information

15th-17th Goal – The Weston Cup & Showcase will kick-off Presidents’ Day Weekend on fields across South Florida, including Plantation’s Central Park and Pine Island Park. In 2013, the Weston Cup had 495 teams from throughout Florida, multiple states, and international teams from Haiti and Denmark that competed at four facilities which included over 30 playing fields. www.westonsoccer.net

17th Annual Florida College Night 2014 – Meet recruitment representatives from Florida colleges, universities and technical schools. Learn about Broward County Library’s college and financial aid search resources. Sponsored by the Friends of West Regional Library. 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. West Regional Library, located at 8601 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation. Call Youth Services at 954-357-1560 ext. 4 for more information.

Re-Imagine Your Future – Workshop designed to help baby boomers review their personal histories, interests and skills to better prepare for their encore years. Free to Boomers, $10 for others. 10:45 a.m. West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Boulevard, Plantation. Call Sue Pollock 954-484-7117 to register or email encore@impactbroward. org. For additional information, visit http://www.impactbroward.

February 2014 | plantation town times

multi-family Garage Sale. Anyone interested in participating can register at Volunteer Park. The fee for each 8’ x 16’ space is $30. Tables are not supplied. Space is limited. 7:00 a.m.noon. Volunteer Park, 12050 W. Sunrise Boulevard. For more information call 954-452-2558.

Thru 6/30 21st Senior Expo 2014– Professionals will be on hand to answer medical, financial, retirement, recreational questions and more! Participants can enjoy free entertainment & seminars. Free refreshments and lunch will be available as long as supplies last. Sponsored by the City of Plantation. There is no charge to attend. 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Deicke Auditorium, 5701 Cypress Road, Plantation. For more information, call: 954-452-2503 or 954-452-2510.

March 1st

19th

and are good for both days. Volunteer Park, located at 12050 West Sunrise Boulevard in Plantation. Parking is free. For more information, call 954-915-8660.

Puppet Show – 10:30 a.m. Helen B. Hoffman Library, 501 N. Fig Tree Lane. 954-797-2140.

The Wonders of the Everglades– Come and explore the Plantation Historical Museum’s exciting new Everglades Panorama, which showcase the many ecosystems found in the subtropical wetland. The threedimensional exhibit incorporates many of the unique features of our national treasure. Lights flood the panoramic sky, taking patrons from early morning to high noon to sunset. The calls of birds and sounds of the wild round out the experience. Free admission. 511 N Fig Tree Lane, Plantation. For more information, call 954-797-2722.

Ongoing Kid’s Storytime – Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. 3–4 years and 4:00 p.m. 5 & up. Thursdays 10:30 a.m. 2–4 years and 4:00 p.m. 5 & up. Helen B. Hoffman Library, 501 N. Fig Tree Lane. 954-797-2140.

March 5th Wednesday Lecture Series – Winter Series Topic: Professor Patrick Grim, The Philosopher’s Toolkit: How To Be The Most Rational Person In Any Room. The topic for March 5 is “Flow of Argument; Simple Heuristics That Make Us Smart .” 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Helen B. Hoffman Library, 501 N. Fig Tree Lane. 7 p.m. 954-797-2140.

March 8th

Clean out your Garage – Registration is now underway for the City-wide,

Help with Homework – Free homework help will be offered on Mondays and Tuesdays from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Access to laptops with learning software and books available at no charge for grades kindergarten thru up to the second year of college. West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation, FL 33324 For more info contact: Alicia Gaskin at 954-765-1560 ext. 1605 or algaskin@ browardlibrary.org

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Community News

Experience Sights and Sounds of the Everglades Through Unique Exhibit By Julie Levin

n eagerly awaited exhibit that highlights the eco - highlights

of the Florida Everglades is opening this month, and along with it comes a chance to interactively enjoy the treasured tropical wetlands. The exhibit, called “The Wonders of the Everglades” is the newest exhibit at the Plantation Historical Museum and organizers say it will give guests a better understanding of the unique environment around them. “We want everyone to come out and see what Florida looked like before we were here, how it has changed and what it is like today in the Everglades,” said John Feeney, the museum’s new Curator.

“The Wonders of the Everglades” will open February 6 and be on display through June 30. A key part of the exhibit is a three-dimensional, 23-foot Everglades diorama which showcases the many ecosystems found in the subtropical wetland. The diorama incorporates plants, trees, fish, reptiles, birds and animals, as well as sound effects that mimic the calls of birds and sounds of the wild. Lights will flood the panoramic sky for an added visual effect. “You’ll be able to see the Everglades go from dawn, sunlight, to dusk through different lighting effects,” Feeney said. The diorama, which will become a permanent part of the museum’s main room, will also have interpretative reader rails to explain the content. The project comes courtesy of the Plantation Historical Society, whose members have worked for years through fundraisers and events to fund the project. “They wanted to have a special exhibit that brought about the history of what Florida, and especially this area, was like and what it is like today,” said Feeney. Surrounding the diorama will be “The Wonders of the Everglades” exhibit, which showcases a look back at the efforts to drain the Everglades to help create what is now Plantation, as well as the nature, parks and recreational areas that visitors enjoy today. The exhibit also highlights the many endangered, rare, and exotic wildlife that inhabit the area, and movies and books that have been made about the Everglades, including Marjory Stoneman Douglas’s “The Everglades: River of Grass”. “The Wonders of the Everglades” exhibit will open to the public February 6 and be on display through June 30. The Everglades Diorama will remain a permanent part of the museum display. The Plantation Historical Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. They are closed Sunday and Monday. The museum is located at 511 N Fig Tree Lane in Plantation. For more information, please call 954-797-2722.

Artists, Collectors and Crafters Wanted for Upcoming Festival By Julie Levin

re you an artist, crafter , hobbyist or collector? I f so, the

Plantation Junior Woman’s Club has an ideal way for you to show off your creations. The group’s 6th Annual Festival of Treasures will be setting up shop at Volunteer Park March 1 and 2 and organizer Barbara Clair Kettler says you never know what you’ll uncover at the event. “ We have many new crafters joining us this year through word of mouth and our Art in the Park event, and we are always looking for local talent to join us,” said Kettler, the founder of the event. The festival will include vendors selling everything from arts and crafts, to handmade jewelry, collectibles, and other one-of-a kind items at affordable prices. Held both indoors and outdoors at the park, the festival is held rain or shine so the little ones can also enjoy the nearby playground and performances. “This is really a family fun event,” said Kettler. “We have a DJ playing music on the outside patio, with a young talent showcase, and playing musical games. Last year, the Plantation Police K-9 team came out and we are expecting them again this year.” Volunteer Park can accommodate up to 40 exhibits inside the building, as well as an unlimited number on the winding pathways outside. Kettler said there is space available in both areas, and said it is a great way to let hobbies turn The 6th Annual Festival of Treasures will be held into business ventures. “Most indoors and outdoors at Volunteer Park

February 2014 | plantation town times

quilters, jewelry crafters and ceramics hobbyists start out pursuing these interests to fill free time. As their inventory increases, they need a venue to move them out and this show was created for them. However, most of the participants have become quite sophisticated in their wares so this show is a good way for newcomers to learn how to move into this level at a very Dozens of vendors will be on hand offering inexpensive cost,” Kettler a variety of handmade crafts. said. Proceeds from the festival will be used to help support many of the beautification projects the club runs, including the planting of trees and the Arbor Day event at city schools, where the students get to see a tree being planted and get to take home seedling of their own to grow. The 6th Annual Festival of Treasures will be held March 1 and 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Volunteer Park, 12050 W. Sunrise Boulevard. Admission and parking are free. Food is available for purchase. Artists, crafters, hobbyists and collectors interested in taking part should call 954-797-9762 for reservations or email PJWCfestival@aol.com. For more information on the Plantation Junior Woman’s Club, visit www. plantationjuniorwomansclub.org

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Community News

Let Your Appetite Travel the World at International Taste Fest

Weekend Antique Festival Returns to Plantation

By Julie Levin

nyone who knows

South Florida, knows it is an area rich in diverse culture with a population comprised of people from around the world. This month, anyone who stops by the West Regional Library on February 15, will be able to get a taste of some of those cultures, and their cuisines. The library’s Teen Advisory Board is putting together its 19th Annual “Taste of the World International Festival”, their yearly celebration of food tasting, crafts and entertainment. Organizers say guests of all ages are welcome for the free event. “We want to provide a learning opportunity and a leadership opportunity for our teens, but also let them showcase their national origins,” said Shari Woolf, with the Youth Services division of the library. 75 teens will help run the event, which will have 30 tables representing different countries. The tables will be labeled with signs, a flag of the particular country, and will be hosted by teens whose origins are from the country. They’ll be asked to prepare a food dish representing their culture, and to wear traditional clothing. Each year, the celebration focuses on different cultures. “We have such a wide variety of teens who volunteer from cultures around the world, so the booths vary from year to year,” said Woolf. Close to 600 people showed for last year’s festival, which also includes international arts and crafts projects, and entertainment. Performers set to take the stage this year include “Positively Africa” which performs African drumming, the Plantation High School Salsa Club, and a teen volunteer who will perform a Caribbean dance. Woolf said the celebration has grown each year, and now fills the library’s multi-purpose room and its lobby. The celebration is co-sponsored by Friends of West Regional Library, which provides funding for the entertainment and supplies. Woolf says the Friends Group, along with the Youth Services Department, also prepare dishes for under-represented countries. “It is just a great way to introduce the community to dishes and cultures that they never been exposed to,” she said. The 19th Annual “Taste of the World” International Festival will be held from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at the West Regional Library, located at 8601 W. Broward Boulevard, Plantation. The event is free and all ages are welcome. For more information, call 954-765-1560.

Got News?

email editor@plantationtowntimes.com 12

February 2014 | plantation town times

Guests will be able to browse the displays of 30 vendors

f you love to search for antique treasures , or simply want a

fun way to spend the weekend, make plans to visit one of Plantation’s longest running yearly events. The GFWC Plantation Woman’s Club will host their 31st Annual Antique Show this month continuing a decades old tradition. “It’s a great show in our community because it is a nice time of year and people are looking for things to do that are a little bit different,” said Lou Ireland, the Chairwoman of this year’s show. The show will be held February 15 and 16 at Volunteer Park and will feature 30 antique and collectible vendors from throughout Florida and the nation, several of whom will be making their first-ever appearance at the Plantation show. Each year, the two-day event draws as many as 3,000 shoppers eager to browse the displays of antique collectibles, jewelry, glass, silver, furniture, books and more. Organizers make it a point to provide a variety of items to keep things interesting. “We will have a broad spectrum of items that will be available for purchase,” said Ireland. Created in 1949, the GFWC Plantation Woman’s Club is the oldest civic organization in Plantation and works to foster a spirit of goodwill among the women of the city by forwarding charitable, educational and civic iniatives. The antique show was created 30 years ago and was originally held at both the City’s community center and Deicke Auditorium, but was moved west to Volunteer Park several years ago to accommodate a growing number of visitors. The proceeds from the show are used for community improvements in the City, as well Members of the Plantation Woman’s as the club’s many scholarship funds. Club traditionally wear vintage clothing The show will also feature vintage for the show, including last year’s attire from Gloria Merritt and Helen Ackerman clothing worn by many club members, and food for purchase. There will also be a raffle for a $100 Publix gift card. “Everyone should come out because it is a local show and convenient for the whole community,” Ireland said. The 31st Annual Antique Show and Sale will be held February 15 and 16 at Volunteer Park, located at 12050 West Sunrise Boulevard in Plantation. The show will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $5.00 at the door and are good for both days. Parking is free. For more information about the show, call 954-915-8660.

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plantation town times | February 2014

Community News

Orchid Society Hoping to Spread Roots in the Community By Julie Levin

With over 26,000 species worldwide, orchids are loved for their beauty and variety.

ike so many others , Angela P uca is

intrigued by the ever-changing variety and color of orchids. It’s why she started with just a handful of orchids on her patio years ago, and now looks after several dozen. “They are just beautiful and there are so many different orchids,” said Puca,

the Public Relations Director of the Plantation Orchid Society. Puca is not alone in her passion for growing orchids. Each month, close to 100 members of the Plantation Orchid Society meet at Deicke Auditorium to share growing tips, stories and ideas about the colorful hobby. Founded in 1968 and an affiliate of the American Orchid Society, the club is designed to educate members on the growing and culture of orchids, stimulate interest and to share in the love of their unique hobby. “It is really a very nice and fun group of people,” Puca said. According to the group, orchids are one of the largest flowering plant families on earth with about 26,000 species worldwide and over 150,000 registered hybrids. With so many different types, orchids vary tremendously in their appearance tand care. Each month, the club brings in a speaker who gives an educational lecture on orchids. Puca says sometimes even the experts differ in their recommendations. “It’s interesting to see the different information that we pick up from our experts, many of whom are growers,” said Puca. “One grower from another

Auctioneer Helene Albee, orchid expert John Budree and Phyllis Durst work the Plantation Orchid Society’s recent annual orchid auction

will differ in his or her feeling about what should be used as fertilizer, insecticides and general care.” In addition to their monthly meetings, the group also hosts an annual auction, anniversary events and displays their goods at local garden shows. The Plantation Orchid Society meets the first Tuesday of the month at Deicke Auditorium, 5701 Cypress Road in Plantation, beginning at 7:00 pm. Each month, there is a guest speaker, raffles and refreshments. The meetings are open to the public and new members are always welcome. If you would like more information on Plantation Orchid Society, call Angela Puca at 954-791-1874 or visit them online at www. Plantationorchidsociety.com

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community news

Plantation Well-Represented at Major Art Fair By Julie Levin

Robert Stein of Plantation, who displayed his photography and digital art

Ilea Haber of Plantation paints on canvases of various sizes,

t least three artists from Plantation recently had a

great opportunity to make a name for themselves among thousands of art enthusiasts. The three were among the hundreds of artists from around the nation chosen to display their works at the recent 26th Annual Las Olas Art Fair, believed to be one of the nation’s premier juried art events. The works of artists Robert Stein, Ilea Haber and George Rhodes were all on exhibit for the fair, which was held January 4 and 5 between between Southeast Sixth and 11th avenues along Las Olas Boulevard.

Thousands of people packed the two-day festival which draws artists from across the nation

George Rhodes of Plantation showing off his fine art photography

The three Plantation artists were among 150 artists exhibiting paintings, sculptures, handmade jewelry, photography and other types of art. Throughout the two-day event, art lovers stopped by the booths to speak with the artists and learn more about the inspiration behind their art. Also in attendance, art lovers from Plantation who came to the event to look at the art, and also shop at the boutiques and cafes lining Las Olas Boulevard. “We come to this event every year,” said Plantation resident Myra Leon. “We don’t always buy something but it is just a great day to come and browse and see all of this beautiful art.”

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Plantation Woman Honored for Efforts to Stop Drunk Driving By Julie Levin

or a few minutes during a recent Florida Panthers hockey

“For 15,000 fans to hear that right before Christmas and New Years, where there is very high problem of drinking and driving, I think did so much to raise awareness,” game, the cheers were not for the players, but for a Plantation woman who said Geronemus. is making a difference in our community. For her efforts to put an end to Geronemus said the presentation may prove to be a “tipping point” in her misdrunk driving, Heather Geronemus was honored as a community hero by the sion. Since the presentation, she’s fielded even more calls from people who have team as part of their “Heroes Among Us” program presented by Rick Case.“ I lost loved ones through drunken driving, and want to get behind her effort. “We am still overwhelmed for receiving such a great honor for something that I do have people’s attention and I think we can really make a huge impact,” she said. because I have no other choice,” said Geronemus. “The chance to turn a tragThe Heroes Among Us program, created at the start of the 2013-2014 season, edy for my family into something positive for the community is what motivates gives special recognition to heroes in the community who go above and beyond to me every day.” Geronemus was selected for her tireless work with the Mothers serve and inspire others, exhibit dedication and Against Drunk Driving organization in South selflessness in the community, or make a speFlorida. Spurred on by the death of her father, cial and significant impact. The team selected Dr. Robert Geronemus, at the hands of a drunk 41 heroes for the season, and honor each one driver five years ago, Geronemus has made it during a home game. Geronemus was nomiher mission to end drunk and drugged driving nated by colleague Jarret Streiner in Broward County. As the chairwoman for the This year’s Walk Like MADD and MADD Walk Like MADD and MADD Dash annual event Dash will take place May 4 at Huizenga Park in Fort Lauderdale, Geronemus has helped in Fort Lauderdale. This year’ event goal is MADD Broward raise more than $200,000 in $95,000 with the proceeds going toward the the fight against drunk driving. Last year’s 5k MADD organization. To register, visit walklikeat Huizenga Park in Fort Lauderdale brought in madd.org/fortlauderdale. record numbers. The honor was delivered December 13 at the BB&T Center in Sunrise before more than 15,000 Anyone interested in nominating deserving Heroes can fans. After a jersey presentation, the team submit their stories to Florida Panthers Foundation Executive showed a video presentation highlighting her Director Andria Nolan at nolana@floridapanthers.com or fill efforts in the community and the heartbreaking Michael Yormark, Panthers President & CEO, Plantation resident Heather out the online “Heroes Among Us” form at: floridapanthers. Geronemus and Ryan Case on the big screen at the Dec. 13 Panthers game tale of drinking and driving that inspired her. com/HeroesAmongUs. for the Heroes Among Us presentation. (photo courtesy Jarret Streiner)w

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plantation town times | February 2014

Plantation Town Times · feature

TAG USA Gymnastics Celebrates Another Successful Season

made a stopover here at TAG on route to Sochi, Russia. This month our gymnasts will watch with excitement as that torch lights the Olympic flame to start the 2014 Winter Olympics.

TAG USA Gymnastics’ owners Michael and Marissa Zoldan answered questions about the gym’s growing success, while reflecting on some of their greatest accomplishments.

To what do you attribute your competition success? Michael: I believe that TAG USA has

AG USA Gymnastics has earned a reputation as one of the top gymnastics centers in South Florida. This past year, the gym brought home its first National Championship in Double Mini Trampoline. In addition, its girls competitive team has won back-to-back State Championships, for Levels 2, 3 and 4. To celebrate its success, TAG USA welcomed Olympic Gold Medalist Aly Raisman, who visited with young gymnasts and trained with some of the elite athletes. The Olympic spirit continued when the Olympic torch made a stop at TAG USA Gymnastics while on its way to Sochi, Russia, for the 2014 Winter Games which begin on February 7th.

How do you measure a gym’s success?

Michael: A good barometer of our growing success is when we compete against other local gyms. In 2013, TAG USA finished in first place against Park Avenue Gymnastics and West Broward Gymnastics Academy at the Celebrate America meet. We also finished in first place against Park Avenue and Coral Reef Gymnastics at the 2013 Gold Rush Invite.

the absolute best team coaches in the state. In 2013, TAG USA won the Level 2 Girls State Championship. Both of our Level 3 and Level 4 Girls teams have won back-to-back State Championships in 2011 and 2012.

You started a new Xcel program this year. What is it? Marissa: We began a special pre-

team XCel program for young women who want to compete as part of the TAG USA team. Over 40 XCel athletes train with head coach Lauren Cruz and competed at our Invitational. Thirtyfour XCel athletes have already qualified for State Championships.

What’s your most popular program?

Michael: Our fastest growing program is the TAG USA Trampoline & Tumbling team. Coach Laurie Faskowitz trains a team of 35 boys and girls to compete in trampoline and acrobatic events. Our team produced three top ten athletes at the National Championships. TAG USA boasts having the largest gym with the most Tramp &Tumbling equipment in South Florida.

Has having a National Champion attracted attention to the gym? Marissa: It is great

to have a National Champion come out of our gym. Besides our National Champ, we had three athletes finish in the top ten at Nationals which shows the strength of our Trampoline & Tumbling program. TAG USA had local and national news coverage when Aly Raisman came to honor our National Champ.

How do you inspire your gymnasts to strive for excellence? Marissa: Every young gymnast

dreams of competing in the Olympics. This past year we were fortunate to have Olympic Gold Medalist Aly Raisman visit TAG USA and work with many of our gymnasts. Michael: Young athletes from our recreational classes and competitive team had the opportunity to pose with the Olympic torch when it

TAG USA Gymnastics is located at 1951 North Commerce Parkway in Weston. TAG USA offers recreational gymnastics classes for children from ages 12 months and up. Classes are offered in ten-week sessions. TAG USA has championship girls and boys gymnastics and trampoline and tumbling teams, as well as a competitive cheer team. For more information on classes, birthday parties, or summer and school break camps, please call (954) 384-9393 or visit www. TagGymnastics.com.

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Mom’s Cancer Fight Prompts Plantation Youngster To Co-Author Book By Julie Levin

hen C ade Tolchinsky ’ s mother told him she had breast

cancer, the Plantation boy was scared and understandably had plenty of questions. Finding the answers to those questions, which let him better understand his mother’s illness, has now left Cade in the unique position to help other children in the same situation. Along with his mother CA Tolchinsky, the mother & son duo has authored a book designed to help other kids struggling through the same situation. “It makes me feel happy and helpful,” said Cade, a 7th grader at University School of NSU. “When I went to Memorial Breast Cancer Center, I got to meet my mom’s chemo nurses and doctors. They all told me how much a book like ours can help people because they hear stuff all day long like, “What should I tell my kids? It made me really happy to know that I can help someone else through a tough time.” The book, called “Dear Cancer, You Messed with the Wrong Mom” is a labor of love that took the Tolchinskys more than two years to write after CA was diagnosed in late 2010. The 50-page paperback is a factual, yet easy-to-read conversation between mother and son, where Cade asks the questions that were troubling him while giving his mom a chance to respond. Many of the questions are similar to what any nine-year old boy might ask, such as “Can you catch it?” or “Do boys get it?” The idea for the book came about when CA and Cade Tolchinsky

CA, an Assistant Athletic Director of Academic Services and Student Athlete Support at NSU and husband Larry, a local attorney, first broke the news about the illness to Cade, and sister Bryn, now 15. The Plantation couple welcomed questions, but Cade preferred writing his questions down in a journal, because asking them out loud made him uncomfortable. He admits he knew very little about the illness before his mom was diagnosed, but now knows that while many people get breast cancer, many people beat it. He hopes what he learned will let other kids know what to expect, and will encourage them to look at the positive side of things. “Humor helps.” he said. “We laughed a lot while going through this process. My mom even let me color on her bald head with markers.” He says the title they picked is a testament to his mom’s toughness. “Cancer picked the wrong mom because my mom was going to beat it no matter what it would take. She’s tough and doesn’t back down,” Cade said. Cade and CA will be hosting a book signing February 12 at the NSU Arena for men’s and women’s basketball Think Pink night. The signing starts at 5:30 p.m. and will be held at 3301 College Avenue in Fort Lauderdale. Proceeds from the book sales will go to the Memorial Breast Cancer Center. To learn more about the book, go to Amazon.com. You can also visit the website Cade designed for the book at www. MessedWithTheWrongMom.com

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plantation town times | February 2014

section NEWS SCHOOL

Edit Plantation Headline Middle School Hosts Successful Toy Drive editJulie By author Levin

wishes for each child. This year, ChildNet organizers asked if the school could sponsor 75 children, providing one this year, many students at Plantation Middle School gift for each child. The school’s response topped that, as put an added focus on spreading the holiday cheer. over 200 gifts poured in. “It was an awesome collection,” The students, staff and faculty at the school, located at Esterline said.”Most of the kids got two gifts.” 6600 W. Sunrise Blvd., rallied together to collect gifts for The generosity was courtesy of nearly the entire school. 75 underprivileged children in our community. “It was The National Junior Honor Society and Mr. Rodriguez’s definitely a school-wide effort,” said Kristi Esterline, an 8th Spanish classes raised enough cash to purchase six bikes Grade Language Arts Teacher and Student Government and helmets for the children. In addition, 7th grader Carly Advisor at the school. “I’m very proud of what we were able Yudell, a student government member, collected items for to do.” eight children alone. To help raise the money to purchase For a second year, the school’s Student Government (l-r) Student Government Officers Justin Georgie, 8th Grade Class Representative; the gifts, Carly held a yard sale where she collected over Association partnered with ChildNet, which manages the Mohammad Alghawi, Parliamentarian; Kyle $200. “She had selected six children to sponsor but had $60 system of foster care Spohn, Treasurer; Carly Yudell, and Emily Namm, 7th Grade Class Representatives left over,” Esterline said. “She came to me and asked if there and related services for were any more kids that weren’t selected.” Broward and Palm Beach Esterline says the project is a valuable learning experience for the students, County’s abused, abandoned and neglected particularly when they realize most the kids they are purchasing gifts for live in a children. Plantation Middle agreed to take part in the non-profit group’s “Adopt-a-Wish” program, ten-mile radius of their school. “It hits home with the kids that which lets a child in their care list three wishes these are their neighbors who he or she would like to receive during the holiday are a lot less fortunate than they season. The Student Government members are. So it is really a great serset up a display in the school’s office listing the vice that the kids do. I’m really children, and their wishes, and everyone in the proud of what they accomplished,” school community was encouraged to sponsor a she said. child. Student Government member Esterline says last year the school sponsored Carly Yudell poses with A portion of the toys collected gifts she purchased from 25 children and was able to purchase all three at Plantation Middle School her yard sale earnings. efore unwrapping their own holiday gifts

Help Needed to Build “Homes” For School’s Animal Science Program By Julie Levin

ith an array

of snakes, exotic birds, possums, mini-horses, pot-bellied pigs, pygmy goats, and turkeys to care for, a typical day for students in South Plantation’s Animal Science Program seems more like a trip to the zoo some days. But with the joy of enjoying the animals, come the responsibility of caring for them. That’s why the school is turning to the (l-r) Hunter Sawyer, Katy Horton, teacher Carl Wallack, community for help in restorBlake Anderson, Hannah Cohen, Anna-louisa Weise ing, and in some cases buildand Emily Markovich ( foreground) and some of the animals in the school’s Animal Science Program ing entirely new enclosures, for their charges. “We can use whatever help we can get,” said Carl Wallack, the longtime Animal Science and Horticulture Instructor at the school. The Animal Science and Horticulture program has been a part of the school for close to 15 years. The program teaches students about taking care of animals, researching about them, and learning about the basics of farming and caregiving. “Many times, they know more than I do about the animals when they are done,” said Wallack. The animals are usually donated to the school either by rescue groups, police or people who can no longer care for them. Recently, the school received a $1200 grant for the project from the Coldwell Banker Cares Foundation to help build new homes for the animals, many of whom

February 2014 | plantation town times

live in wooden structures that are aging and need to be replaced. The push for the grant came from realtor Carol Anderson, a volunteer member with the school’s PTSO whose son Blake is in the program. Wallack says the money from the grant will go a long way towards helping to repair some of the enclosures, but much more is still needed. The feed bill for the program alone each month is $500-$600, money Wallack says they raise in-house. Though sponsors and partners have done what they could over the years, building supplies such as lumber, cement blocks, roofing, as well as cages, blankets, and tarps are in short supply. “All of these things will be put to good use,” Wallack said. Wallack says the program is an invaluable source for both the animals and students alike. “We are finding homes for the homeless as far as animals are concerned that can’t be released into the wild, and our students are learning how to learn about a specific creature and the responsibility of taking care of it,” he said. Since 2003, the Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate CARES foundation has raised more than $3.5 million for a wide array of nonprofit educational, health, welfare, environmental and cultural arts organizations. The Animal Sciences and Horticulture areas are open to visitors most Saturday mornings between 9 a.m. - noon for anyone who wants to visit the animals or purchase plants. The school is located at 1300 Paladin Way, Plantation 33317. If you can help, contact Carl Wallack by email at carl.wallack@ browardschools.com.

Two of the estimated 150 animals cared for at South Plantation’s Animal Science Program.

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February 2014 | plantation town times

Legally Speaking

Most Common Mistakes by Homeowners Attempting to Obtain a Loan Modification By Omar J. Arcia, Esq. Foreclosure Defense and Consumer Bankruptcy Protection Attorney

s a result of various nationwide class actions and lawsuits

filed against mortgage companies by private individuals and government agencies, lenders have become more receptive and willing to assist homeowners in modifying their loans. However, lenders have also become more demanding of certain documentation to support loan modification requests. These are the most common mistakes we’ve seen homeowners make when processing a loan modification on their own. Provide Too Much Information. Most Homeowners believe that the more information they provide to their lender about their finances, the more likely their loan modification will be approved. Just the opposite is true. Most lenders are looking for specific information regarding a homeowner’s income and expenses, specific reasons to support a financial hardship for a loan modification, and they require a specific order and timeframe to submit the required documents. Overwhelming your lender with the same unnecessary documents time and time again will only place your file farther back in line for consideration. The Arcia Law Firm has represented homeowners that have been trying to modify their home loan for years, and within less than 30 days after retaining the Firm and submitting the appropriate documents, a loan modification is achieved. Refusing to Seek Legal Assistance. We have counseled hundreds of clients in mortgage related cases through the years, and the most significant mistake that homeowners make is to wait until the last minute to hire a knowledgeable and experienced attorney. Many homeowners think that they can easily defend themselves in a foreclosure proceeding, process their own loan modification, and save their home. However, some of the legal defenses to a foreclosure are highly technical, constantly changing, and require specialized knowledge. The attorneys representing banks and the judges overseeing in these cases are primarily interested in achieving an end result -- obtaining a final judgment of foreclosure, sale of the property at a public auction and closing the case. In more simple terms, this means you are out of your home before you can finish your loan modification negotiations. The key to prevent this end result is for every homeowner either in foreclosure or at risk of foreclosure, to stop playing “Russian Roulette” with their family home, and immediately hire a highly qualified law firm to assist them. The attorneys at the Arcia Law Firm have more than 40 years combined legal experience, and we are privileged to successfully represent hundreds of homeowners in our community with foreclosure defense and bankruptcy cases. If you are struggling to make your monthly mortgage payments, if you are in the middle of a frustrating loan modification process, or if you just received a foreclosure summons, contact the Arcia Law Firm today at 954-437-9066 to schedule a free consultation, or visit www.arcialawfirm.com to schedule your appointment online. Detailed explanations of different options available to homeowners are also discussed in a new DVD developed by the Arcia Law Firm entitled “Fight For Your Home.” If you mention that you heard about the DVD through this magazine, you will receive a complimentary copy during your free consultation to discuss your case in detail with a member of our highly experienced and determined legal team. Contact the Arcia Law Firm at 954-437-9066 to schedule your free consultation. You may also visit www. arcialawfirm.com for more information about the Firm, our staff and credentials, detailed articles, informative videos, and to make your appointment online.

plantation town times | February 2014

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Health & wellness

Sculpting a New You in 2014 By Erin Owoc, ARNP-C, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner

n the past, removing areas of unwanted fat

from the body was quite expensive and required surgery and a downtime. Like most people, maybe you are in decent shape, doing your best to eat right and watch your weight, but you just can’t get rid of the stubborn layer of fat around your waist, love handles, buttocks or legs. At one time, liposuction was considered the only way to remove fat outside of diet and exercise, but that is no longer the case. LipoSonix® is an innovative and effective way for patients to address areas of stubborn fat deposits that are not easily reduced by physical exercise and positive changes in your diet. LipoSonix® is backed by 11 years of research and was cleared by the FDA in 2011 as a way to reduce this unwanted fat. The LipoSonix® device uses ultrasound waves to reduce the fat cells underneath the skin without causing damage to the skin, surrounding area, or organs. It is a quick procedure and patients will see the results over several weeks as the body begins to naturally flush out the fat cells. One treatment of LipoSonix® will never destroy as much fat as a full liposuction treatment. LipoSonix® is a completely different way to achieve similar results. It is done while the patient is awake, and involves an ultrasound device that is administered to the patient’s area of concern. The treatment time lasts approximately one hour. There is no downtime, no risk of severe side effects, and it is much more economical than with surgical liposuction. The destroyed fat is removed through the body’s normal lymphatic system and elimination process, leaving you with a thinner, more contoured waistline. The average waist line reduction we see is 1-2 inches after just one treatment. There is bruising for about a week in the treated area, but patients are able to go back to work the next day with no side effects or pain.

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February 2014 | plantation town times

CoolSculpting® and LipoSonix® are the clear leaders in the non-invasive fat reduction space. The new technologies of CoolSculpting® and LipoSonix® offer permanent fat reduction without surgery and with no risk of the unevenness sometimes caused by liposuction. CoolSculpting® and LipoSonix® are both F.D.A. approved to remove fat, and the costs are similar; but there are very important differences between the two. CoolSculpting® “freezes fat”, which means fat is cooled to the point that the fat cells die. Each section of fat has to placed in a special applicator and left on for a full hour. If you have four areas to treat with a CoolSculpting® machine, you would be in treatment for at least four hours. LipoSonix® uses ultrasound energy to heat up and destroy fat cells. Ultrasound’s ability to pinpoint heat in a very specific area make this technology excellent for fat reduction. Unlike with CoolSculpting®, there is no need to grab the fat (a hand piece delivers the energy to the area treated) so it can be used in more areas than CoolSculpting®. With LipoSonix®, a Medical Practitioner can treat your “love handles” and abdomen area in an hour vs. 4 hours with a CoolSculpting® device. Also, because LipoSonix® uses heat, there are skin tightening benefits as well. So for our practice and patients needs, LipoSonix® provided a better solution. Erin Owoc is an Aesthetic ARNP-C of Ageless Medical, at 10640 Griffin Road, Suite #102 in Cooper City. Erin has been practicing cosmetic dermatology in Florida for the last 12 years. Erin is an Allergan® National Trainer for Botox® & Juvederm® and Voluma®. She can be reached at 954-680-8330 or Erin@AgelessMED.com.

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plantation town times | February 2014

ask the expert

Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle By Robert H. Sheinberg, D.P.M., D.A.B.P.S., F.A.C.F.A.S.

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February 2014 | plantation town times

rthritis is a common ailment, especially as

people age. Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about arthritis: ▸▸ What is arthritis? Arthritis is a degenerative process that may take place in any joint in the body. Cartilage which allows the joint to move smoothly starts to wear down. Bone spurring and bone cysts may occur as the joint wears abnormally. The joint starts to move out of its normal position creating pain with movement. A loss of joint movement also follows the arthritic process. ▸▸ What causes arthritis? Most often arthritis is caused from an injury to the joint. The injury may occur as a child and it may manifest itself later in life. A bad injury to a bone or joint (fracture) may start the development of arthritis almost immediately after the injury. Arthritis is very common when a bone fractures into the joint. Malpositioning of the joint will cause abnormal wear and tear. It may also be seen in people who are excessively flatfooted, knock-kneed or bowlegged. It is also very common in people with bunions. ▸▸ Will the arthritis get worse over time? In almost all cases arthritis in any joint will worsen. The joint will wear abnormally causing pain, limited motion of the joint, bone spurring and swelling around the joint. The joint will become excessively stiff causing pain with many activities. Difficulty with certain shoes may also be present. ▸▸ Will medication help to lessen the pain and joint deformity? Oral medication will help to diminish some discomfort, but it will not change the degenerative process, which takes place slowly over time. ▸▸ Will physical therapy be of any benefit? Physical therapy will help retain some movement in the joint and keep swelling to a minimum. It may also help to improve muscle strength. Over the long term it will be of limited benefit as the degenerative process will continue to take place. ▸▸ Can surgery be of benefit if the arthritis is found early? Many procedures can be performed to assist in treating the degenerative process if found early. After a thorough history and physical examination, x-rays are taken to assess the degree of joint damage. Occasionally, if the damage is mild, an arthroscopic or small open procedure may be necessary to remove abnormal bone and soft tissue. Cartilage that is lifted away from the bone is removed to allow the joint to function more normally. If a joint is out of position removing bone spurs and soft tissue may be of limited benefit. In this case, the bones may need to be repositioned to allow more normal joint alignment. ▸▸ Can anything be done if the arthritis is severe? In some cases the arthritis is severe and joint replacement or joint fusions may be necessary. Joint replacements are an excellent option and may be necessary in older, more sedentary patients. Fusing the joint that is arthritic and not allowing it to move any longer is also an excellent approach to the treatment of arthritis. This eliminates any painful movement allowing a return to work and activities of daily living with minimal modifications. Some joints can be fused and still allow an athlete to resume professional sports. ▸▸ Will fusing the joint cause any long-term problems? Joints that are fused will be pain free. Other joints adjacent to the fused joint will need to work a little bit harder and in most cases remain asymptomatic, especially if they are healthy at the time of the surgery. ▸▸ Will orthotics be of any benefit? Orthotics will assist in maintaining normal joint position. Support of the foot and placement of the foot in better anatomical position may redistribute stress more evenly in the foot and ankle region. This may help to lessen pain and possibly delay the need for surgery. They provide great benefits in people with big toe joint (turf toe, bunions) problems. Orthotics are also very useful in patients who are flatfooted, knock-kneed, bowlegged and in those with lower back pain. Robert Sheinberg, DPM, is a Board Certified Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Fellow American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Diplomat American Board of Podiatric Surgery. He is a partner in Foot, Ankle and Leg Specialists of South Florida and specializes in treating infants, children, teens and adults. His partners are Dr. Al DeSimone, Dr. Fernando Moya, Dr. Alexander Bertot, Dr. Mark Fishman, Dr. Carlo Messina, Dr. David Shenassa, Dr. Nathan Vela and Dr. Michael Cohen. The South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine in Weston is located at 1600 Town Center Blvd., Suite C, (954) 389-5900 and in Pembroke Pines at 17842 NW 2nd Street, (954) 430-9901.

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Email photos to: Susan Keane of Plantation took the Plantation Town Times to famed Lambeau Field in Wisconsin, home of the Green Bay Packers. Keane loves to bring her grandkids to the park, which is also a year-round destination with restaurants, a Pro Shop, and Packer Hall of Fame.

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pet of the month

“Butter Bee”

Butter Bee is a two-year old, full-breed Yorkie. His favorite toy is his chewed-up Garfield stuffed animal. He likes water bottles, people and ice cubes. He dislikes hair dryers, getting sprayed with doggie cologne, and being alone. His favorite thing to do is to stick his head out of the car window and riding on a paddle board. Butter Bee was last seen chewing on his mom’s sock.