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CN publisher’s page

Getting into the Holiday Spirit

Contents

I

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 community news

t is hard to believe, but winter is at our door. While we gener-

ally do not get the snow flakes or the frosty winter temperatures, we do get the holiday season. While the upcoming holidays may have different meanings for many of our readers due to their diverse cultural backgrounds and religious beliefs, for all of us it should be a time to reflect on the year gone by.

It’s the season to gauge our own conduct. Have we made enough time for our children? Have we reached out to our neighbors to lend a helping hand to those in need? Have we spent time with our parents, our family and our friends?

This is the time to mend minor disagreements with family, friends and neighbors; to forgive and forget.

This is also the time to remember those less fortunate, to teach our children to share our good fortune with our loved ones, as well as those in need. There are families right here in our communities who need our assistance. Help make the season brighter for them by giving generously.

And consider giving your children gifts they will cherish for a lifetime; the gift of love and the gift of giving. The holidays are the perfect time to teach your children to be thankful for what they have and to help others. For that is truly what the holidays are about.

Volunteer Week Encourages Residents to Lend a Hand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 ‘Tis the Season! Miramar to Celebrate with Tree Lighting and Holiday Show . . . . 13 A Winter Wonderland Comes to Miramar for Three-Day Festival . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Community Rallies to Help Caribbean Victims of “Sandy” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 New Park Will Bring Guests Closer to Nature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Mind Your Manners! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Honoring Those Who Serve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Cities Join Forces for Northeast Storm Relief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 A Bewitching Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 A Peek Back at the Market Pumpkin Patch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

can do kids Record-Setting Runners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

school news Spaghetti Dinner & Teacher Talent Show Highlights School Celebration . . . . . . 26

ask the expert What is a Cataract? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

real estate Looking back at 2012 and into 2013… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

legally speaking Why Do Young Families Need A Revocable Trust? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Wipe Out Second Mortgages, Avoid Foreclosure and Stay in Your Home . . . . . . 34

business spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 pet of the month “Florence” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

photo contest The World’s Favorite Newspaper™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Have a great holiday season!

it’s their business

Sincerely,

mayor’s message

Palm View Animal Hospital Offers State-of-the-Art Care for Pets . . . . . . . . . . 36

Sven Budzisch

Message From The Mayor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

seen on scene. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Publisher/Owner

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

Vanessa da Rocha, Kim Mills, Mariem Garcia Office manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gabriela Moscoso Art Direction, Design & Production . . . . Barry Stock, Grace Umlauf staff photographer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Barry Stock

Visit us online: www.miramartowntimes.com

1960 N Commerce Parkway, Suite 3, Weston, FL 33326

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

Total circulation is 20,000. Quantum International Corporation, DBA Miramar Town Times (MTT), is published and direct mailed monthly to prestigious homes in Miramar verifiable by US Postal statements. Additional free copies are available at locations throughout Miramar 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 MTT reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. MTT 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 2012 by MTT, Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

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Calendar

6th

25th

Fairway Park Tree Lighting and Extravaganza–Fairway Park, 3700 Largo Drive, Miramar. 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Merry Christmas!

7th thru 9th Winter Wonderland Festival–This family fun winter wonderland festival will have over 20 rides for all ages, arts & crafts vendors, and food. Miramar residents are able to purchase their wrist bands as early as one week in advance for unlimited rides at a reduced cost. Proof of residency will be required. Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway. December 7, 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m., December 8, noon – 11:00 p.m., December 9, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

8th An Evening with Shirley Caesar– The Miramar Cultural Center I ArtsPark features multi-Grammy Award-winning gospel singer Shirley Caesar. Known as the “first lady of gospel,” Caesar has won 11 Grammy Awards and released more than 40 albums. Her hits include “Rejoice,” “Sailin’ on the Sea of Your Love,” “He’s Working it Out for You,” “You Can Make it” and more. Tickets are $35, $40 and $45.

For show tickets and information, call 954-602-4500 or select your seat online at http://www.miramarculturalcenter.org.

Ongoing

Lighting of the Town Center–Join Miramar’s Mayor and Commissioners as they light up the Miramar Town Center and the City’s 26’ holiday tree. Holiday songs will be performed by the City’s very own Pre-School Program and local schools. Town Center Plaza, 2300 Civic Center Place. 5:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Free.

15th & 16th

Historic Miramar Holiday Lighting– The City’s holiday celebration culminates at Shirley Branca Park, located at 69th Way & Miramar Parkway. This fun, free event will feature local talent, inflatable

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15th

Annual Holiday Show – This year’s show will be “A Mouse’s Holiday” an Book Club–Friends of the Miramar interactive theater experience put on by Library Book Club. This month’s book: the Curtain Call Playhouse. The free show “Fifty Shades of Grey”-book 2. 2:00-3:00 p.m. will be fun for all ages, as both children and Miramar Branch Library and Education adults alike will get to join in on the singing Center, 2050 Civic Center Place. For more and dancing. The evening festivities will information or to reserve a book, call 954end with a Winter Wonderland Parade 437-1806 ext. 225. with holiday characters followed by a very special guest from the North Pole. There will also be photo opportunities with Santa after the show. The show will take place in Miramar Regional Park, located at 16801 The Nutcracker–Ballet Etudes of Miramar Parkway from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.

South Florida proudly presents its 38th Christmas Puppet Show – The anniversary performance of The Nutcracker.

Polar Express- Join the Teen Advisory With international guest stars and a cast Board for a holiday classic. All ages, 1:00 of more than 100 dancers, the magical p.m. Miramar Branch Library, 2050 Civic production features lavish sets and scenery, colorful costuming, exquisite lighting, Center Place, Miramar. superb choreography, and delightful Happy Chanukah–First Night of theatrical effects. Ballet Etudes’ Nutcracker Chanukah production is under the direction of Artistic Director Susana Prieto. Ticket prices for all performances are $42 and $52. Each performance will be followed by a meet and greet with the stars. For show tickets and information, call 954-602-4500 or select your seat online at http://www. miramarculturalcenter.org.

14th

8

rides, and face painters. The evening will end with Historic Miramar holiday lights glowing and children visiting with Santa.

6:30 p.m. for more information about all of Miramar’s Holiday events, please call 954-602-3319

Farmers Market–The City of Miramar and Memorial Hospital Miramar host a weekly Farmers Market. The market will run from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. every Sunday through May. The market will feature more than 50 vendors offering locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh baked artisan breads; hot brewed organic coffee, chilly fruit smoothies and more.

There will also be fresh herbs and flowers, gourmet sauces, hand-made organic soy candles, soaps and essential oils; vegetarian and gluten free products, wellness classes and demonstrations and more. Memorial Hospital Miramar, 1901 SW 172nd Avenue, Miramar.

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Resume Writing and Interview Skills–Sign up for this weekly class which is designed to give job applicants the skills they need to have competitive resumes and interview skills. 4 p.m. - 5 p.m. Fairway Park 3700 Largo Drive. For more information, call 954-889-2722.

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community news

Volunteer Week Encourages Residents to Lend a Hand

By Julie Levin

T

he City of Miramar put out a call for volunteers recently,

and parents of children at Miramar’s Early Childhood Centers heard their appeal. Several dozen families pitched in at four of the centers on October 23rd as part of the City’s “Play in VPK” event. “This is great because I like to see how my son is doing in his class,” said first-time volunteer Silvia Barbosa, whose enjoyed spending the day with son Alexander. Organizers had asked parents to come out and volunteer their time with the kids, so that they could get a first-hand look at exactly what went into running a childcare program. “They spent the entire preschool day here,” said Karen Lewis, the City of Miramar Early Childhood Program Childcare Superintendent.

Suyen Young was a first time volunteer and enjoyed watching daughter Anya, 4, play and learn. “More volunteers should be involved in the schools. You get to see what they are learning, and how they are progressing in class. I am happy to be here, “ said Young, who along with the other volunteers pitched in with art projects, story time, circle time, snack and meal time, playground and dismissal. “I am working with them and learning how they work on a daily basis. It’s awesome,” said Mary Santana, whose son Jan Carlos, 4 attends the VPK program.

While an eye-opener for parents and helpful for the staff, the volunteer effort was also part of a larger “million volunteer hours” initiative that Miramar is a part of . From October 21-27, City leaders put together a week of volunteer activities, as part of a county-

wide volunteer week. The activities were celebrated around the theme, “Together We Serve” , which is an initiative developed by Broward League of Cities President Bobby DuBose, a Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner. The ultimate goal of “Together We Serve” is to have citizens throughout the county log one million (1,000,000) hours of volunteer time through May. To kick-off the initiative in Miramar, City leaders scheduled volunteer times through the Citizens on Patrol program through the Miramar Community Center, the Dream Big Mentoring Program at the Youth Enrichment Center, Kids and the Power of Working (KAPOW) at Silver Lakes Elementary, as well as the Early Childhood Centers. Because city government is the government closest to most citizens, local officials want to foster the promotion of volunteerism to help strengthen the community. “We believe that through this event, the City of Miramar has a wonderful opportunity to help others in our community and to benefit organizations that have provided charitable support and services to our citizens,» said Mayor Lori C. Moseley.

The City has set a goal of 55,000 volunteer hours, and will be leading the charge by partnering with the Miramar Optimist Club, the Police Athletic League, and the Moose Lodge to benefit the community through various volunteering activities.

Citizens will be able to log their time at the following site: http://www.browardleague. org/volunteerchallenge. For more information, you can call 954-889-2722.

Suyen Young and daughter Anya, 4.

Silvia Barbosa and son Alexander, 4.

A parent volunteer reads to students at the Sunset Lakes Early Childhood Center Desiree Codrington and daughter Aniyah, 5 and Magaly Tate Kayla, 4.

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community news

“Don’t Diet… try it!”

‘Tis the Season! Miramar to Celebrate with Tree Lighting and Holiday Show

I

By Julie Levin

n hopes of getting residents in the holiday spirit, the City of

Miramar will kick-off the season with a number of outdoor, family friendly events this month. On December 8th, they’ll pay homage to one of the most enduring symbols of the holiday season; a brightly lit and festive holiday tree.

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Miramar’s holiday tree from a previous celebration

The Mayor and Commissioners will join thousands of people to take part in an annual tradition; the lighting of the City’s 26’ foot holiday tree at Miramar Town Center, which previously had been part of the Holiday Illuminations Event in Miramar. “It’s always a great event. We are anticipating anywhere from 3,000- 4,000 people,” said Lolita Dunn, the Special Events Coordinator for the City of Miramar.

In addition to lighting up the Town Center and the tree, there will also be a performance of holiday songs performed by students from Miramar’s Pre-School program, as well as chorus’s from other local schools.

From there, City leaders are hoping parents will take their children to the annual holiday show in Miramar Regional Park. This year’s show will be “A Mouse’s Holiday” an interactive theater experience put on by the Curtain Call Playhouse. The free show will be fun for all ages, as both children and adults alike will get to join in on the singing and dancing. “People like to be involved,” Dunn said. “I think they’ll love it.”

The evening festivities will end with a Winter Wonderland Parade with holiday characters followed by a very special guest from the North Pole. There will also be photo opportunities with Santa after the show.

The show will take place in Miramar Regional Park, located at 16801 Miramar Parkway from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. There is a $3 park admission fee for each car.

The Lighting at Miramar Town Center is free and will take place December 8 at Town Center Plaza, located at 2300 Civic Center Place. It will run from 5:30 - 6:00 p.m.

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community news

A Winter Wonderland Comes to Miramar for Three-Day Festival

By Julie Levin

I

There will also be live entertainment every night. Friday, the music will begin at 7 p.m. with the Friday Night Blues and Country Showdown, featuring Bobby Stringer (The Blues Man) and Band & South Florida’s own “Shane Dunkin” the Country Superstar, hosted by a WKIS onair personality. .Saturday Night will be an interactive performance of the show “A Mouse’s Holiday”, also beginning at 7 p.m.

Sunday evening, enjoy Motown Old Skool Holiday Festival featuring The Legendary Mr. Timmy Thomas, L.O.S. The Ladies of Soul and “OSG” Old Skool Gang, hosted

by MC Rodney Baltimore from WHQT Hot 105. It will begin at 4 p.m.

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carnival rides and games, make plans to attend a brand new event being hosted by the City of Miramar. For the first time, the city is hosting a three-day Winter Wonderland Festival at Miramar Regional Park. Organizers say it will give residents a chance to have fun close to home. “Instead of going to Santa’s Enchanted Forest, or one of those places, Miramar is going to be offering the same thing,” said Lolita Dunn, the Special Events Coordinator for the City of Miramar.

The festival will run December 7th -9th and will offer rides for all ages, arts and crafts vendors, food and live entertainment every night. Moms and dads will be able to buy wrist bands for unlimited rides for their kids. The city had hosted its one-day “Holiday Illuminations” event in the past, but this year decided to expand it with a three-day festival. “We are always looking to do something new,” said Dunn. They are expecting thousands of fair-goers from through-out South Florida to pass through their gates. “I want everyone to come and see what Miramar has to offer,” Dunn said.

“Especially our residents, because it is for them.”

Winter Wonderland Festival will be held December 7th from 5 p.m. - 11 p.m., December 8th from noon to 11 p.m. and December 9th from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. at Miramar Regional Park, located at 1601 Miramar Parkway. Park Admission fees will be $3 per car per day and wrist bands for unlimited rides will be available for purchase. Advance tickets will be available for Miramar Residents. For more information, please call 954-602-3319.

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community news CN

Community Rallies to Help Caribbean Victims of “Sandy”

By Julie Levin

R

esidents turning out to vote early in last month’s election

also had a chance to help victims of Hurricane Sandy across the Caribbean.

Miramar Commissioner Alexandra Davis and the international non-profit organization Food for The Poor teamed up November 3 to help storm victims in both Haiti and Jamaica. They held a non-perishable food drive they called “Don’t wait, early vote and donate” at the Miramar Regional Library. The goal was to encourage those waiting to vote at Miramar’s only early voting location a chance to give to those in need.

“Our hearts go out to all the victims of Hurricane Sandy both here in the U.S. as well as those in the Caribbean. Contrary to the first news reports out of Jamaica, the eastern sections of the island were badly damaged and they are in dire need of relief. Haiti, as we know, suffered yet another blow and is also in need,” said Commissioner Davis.

The project came together only a few days before the event, but still brought in close to three full bags of canned food items and close to $1,000 in cash, according to Commissioner Davis. Even residents who hadn’t heard about the canned food drive were willing to open their wallets and pitch in after speaking to representatives from Food for The Poor and learning more about the devastation the storm caused. “I’m so pleased with the response particularly since it was so last minute,” Davis said.

Hurricane Sandy swept through the Caribbean in late October, leaving massive damage before heading on to hit the U.S. east coast. Both Jamaica and Haiti took a hard hit.”Those are two of the countries that we work very closely with,” said Sandra Devoe, the Development Coordinator at Food for The Poor. Founded in 1982, Food for The Poor is a large international relief and development organization that serves the poorest of the poor in 17 countries throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Devoe said she put out a call for help to Dr. Susan Davis, President of the Jamaican Diaspora, who in turn reached out to others in the community, including Commissioner Davis There is an on-going need for help in the storm ravaged areas. If you would like to donate, contact Food for the Poor at 954-427 -2222 or follow the online link at www. foodforthepoor.org/newsroom/news/yb-afraid-foundation-10302012.html

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community news

New Park Will Bring Guests Closer to Nature

By Julie Levin

E

arly into the New Year, resi-

dents should be able to start enjoying a new outdoor, 156-acre recreational area in Miramar. The Miramar Pineland Natural Area, located at 3300 S. University Drive, spreads out across an area that runs along University Drive just north of the Homestead Extension of Florida’s Turnpike. Park planners say the new area will provide a natural area unlike any other in South Broward. “The intent of the park was to add a nature center type experience to the south end of the county. The closest county nature centers are Long Key Nature Center to the west or Anne Kolb Nature Center to the east, although the building at Miramar Pineland will be a bit smaller,” said Carol Morgenstern, a planning and development manager at the Broward County’s Parks and Recreation division.

In contrast to Miramar Regional Park, which is a large active recreational park, the Miramar Pineland Natural Area will contain both passive and active recreation areas. In the open space areas, there will be a large playground with a shade cover, a splash pad, and three picnic

pavilions. For nature lovers, there are also two nature trails. One 1,480 foot long concrete trail goes to and through the wetland. The other trail goes through the pineland, includes an overlook area near the wetland and is 3,240 feet long. In a few years, the plans also call for construction of a small nature center staffed by a naturalist who could lead nature hikes and classes.

According to Morgenstern, the original 98 acres of park property was bought in 1989 with funds from the 1989 Environmentally Sensitive Lands Bond program. In 2001, an additional 58 acres was bought through the 2000 Safe Parks and Land Acquisition Bond Program with funding from the Florida Communities Trust. Since purchasing, the county implemented restoration programs to remove invasive plant species and construct the wetland restoration area.

The park is tentatively set to open in January.

For more information, visit http://www.broward.org/parks.

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Community News

Mind Your Manners!

By Julie Levin

T

for shy students who need a way branch out. The class is fun and interactive, and taught through moms and dads have long bugged their videos and hands-on learning with plenty of children to stand up straight, keep their moving around. “It’s very interactive. They elbows off the table, and be courteous to others. are not sitting down and listening the entire So how’s a youngster really to know if they are time,” Brouwer said. minding their manners correctly? The answers By the end of the program, there is a three could be found at a class in Miramar recently that course tutorial dinner that serves as a bit of revealed the in’s and out’s of proper etiquette. a final exam to see how well the youngsters “The class is about teaching young people good have learned. They also get an introduction manners for everyday,” said Elena Brouwer, the to ballroom dancing, by learning a few steps Director of the International Etiquette Centre, of the waltz, tango and salsa. Etiquette plays who ran the 5-week program. a role there too. The class learned the correct The “Good Manners Class for Young People” way to ask a partner to dance, how to respond was held at the Sunset Lakes Community Center to a dance request, as well paying attention to in late October and early November. A small personal hygiene since they might be cheek to group of youngsters between the ages of 7-17 cheek with a partner on the dance floor. “It is fun,” turned out for the program which provided a basic primer of everyday common courtesies, Youngsters work on their dining manners during a recent etiquette class in Miramar said Brouwer. “Because they are also learning a little of the social graces of going to an event.” including how to introduce themselves properly, maintain eye contact, write “Thank You” notes, table manners, handle the silverware, and proper behavior in and out of the classroom. “We teach them everything that has The next Etiquette Class will be held at Sunset Lakes Community Center in the Spring. to do with social and dining skills,” said Brouwer, whose Hollywood-based company For more information contact Elena Brouwer at 954-921-0565 or 305-332-4527. You can also email her at elena@etiquettecentre.com or visit them online at http://www. provides etiquette, protocol and image consulting programs.

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Community News

Honoring Those Who Serve

By Julie Levin

S

urrounded by dozens of small American

flags blowing sharply in a brisk wind, the City of Miramar took a day to honor its military veterans.

The City, in conjunction with Vitas Hospice Care, held a Veterans’ Day Ceremony November 11 to honor all the men and women who have served our country.

Several dozen people turned out at Veterans Park, located at 64th Avenue and S.W 33 Street, for the ceremony which included a Police Honor Guard, the singing of the National Anthem by 14-year old Vivian Valls and the pledge of Allegiance led by members of the City’s Mentoring program “Dream Big”. Several City leaders were also on hand, including Miramar Vice Mayor Troy Samuels and Mayor Lori Moseley, who spoke about the sacrifices veterans and their families make every day for their country. “Today’s veterans come in all types, young and old, rich and poor, black and white and man and women. What ties them all together is their duty to their country,” the Mayor said.

Guests were also treated to refreshments after the ceremony as well as patriotic music courtesy of Tom Dalton, the Director of Music Therapy for Vitas Hospice Care.

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community news

Cities Join Forces for Northeast Storm Relief

By Julie Levin

W

ith the images coming in almost daily of devastated homes

and families left in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, the cities of Miramar and Pembroke Pines are joining forces to help in the relief effort. Mayor Lori Moseley of Miramar and Mayor Frank C. Ortis of Pembroke Pines held a joint press conference November 13 at Pembroke Pines City Hall to encourage residents to help those in the northeast, which has strong ties to South Florida. “Many of us are from New York or New Jersey and we understand what it is like to go through the aftermath of a hurricane. It is particularly important as time goes on, as many individuals are homeless, facing the cold and without heat, that we come together and help as a community ,” said Mayor Moseley.

Miramar Mayor Lori Moseley and Pembroke Pines Mayor Frank C. Ortis

The cities joined together because both Mayors are on the leadership team of the U.S. Conference of Mayors and both are familiar with the devastation hurricanes can bring, having been through storms like Hurricanes Andrew and Hurricane Wilma.

They encouraged residents to give what they can to the American Red Cross. “The American Red Cross knows how to handle emergencies and get resources into the appropriate areas. Mayor Moseley and I ask our residents of Pembroke Pines and Miramar and neighboring communities to dig into their pockets and donate whatever they can,” said Mayor Ortis.

Patricia Rojas, a Red Cross representative, said her organization has already served over 5 million meals in the devastated areas, with the prospect of a greater need in the months to come. “There are still going to be many weeks to come when people are going to need to stay in shelters,” she said.

Both cities are also turning to the business community for help. The MiramarPembroke Pines Chamber of Commerce has promised to ship any hurricane supplies to the damaged areas that residents donate. President Robert Goltz said they are looking for supplies that most of us should already have in our homes. “We didn’t need them this year, so we are asking you to drop them off at area businesses listed on our website and we will get them up to New Jersey,” said Goltz, the President of the Miramar-Pembroke Pines Chamber of Commerce.

Mayor Moseley also said the City of Miramar has an emergency management team standing by at the request of the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the City of New York Office of Emergency Management. The team consists of Emergency Management Director Joe Cabrera, Fire Chief Fred Kunz, Fire Division Chief Bill Huff, Procurement Director Randy Cross, and UASI Inventory Coordinator/Emergency Planner Josh Green. They had been tentatively scheduled for an 8-day deployment last month to help the Brooklyn Command Logistics Section, but that trip was postponed and they are awaiting a possible new assignment.

To make a donation please contact the American Red Cross at 1-800- Red Cross or find them online at redcross.org. To donate goods, visit the website of the Miramar Pembroke Pines Chamber of Commerce at http://www.miramarpembrokepines.org/

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The club’s Bantam Girls 4x100 Relay Team, made up of 10 year olds Briana Williams, Jada Bell, Myrka Cadet, and Amaya Rose Strange, broke records at both the USATF Junior Olympics and the 2012 AAU Jr. Olympics this past summer. “Our goal for the season wasn’t to win the gold. It was to set a record,” said Chris Bell, the Commissioner of the Track Club.

The reason behind the optimism this year: the team made it to the finals in the 9-10 year old division last year, even though the girls were all just 9-years old. As result, Bell said they knew they had a strong chance to not only win, but set new records this year.

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Their first record breaking run came at the USATF Junior Olympic in Baltimore, where they broke a 7-year old record. They then traveled to Houston for the AAU Jr Olympics where they broke a 12-year old record. At both games, the girls broke the record in the semi-finals and then again in the finals. They all had individual success as well, particularly Briana Williams who took first place in the 100 and 200 meter race at both Olympics. “We’ve got some spectacular athletes on that team,” Bell said.

“Not only do they do well together, but in individual events.”

The Miramar Optimist Track Club is a non-profit youth organization that was established in 2000 and is a member of USA Track and Field and the Amateur Athletic Union. Their athletes have qualified for the AAU and the USATF Junior Olympics in each of the past 5 years. The club serves area youth ranging in ages from 4 to 18 years old and takes anywhere from 130-150 athletes each year.

Early Registration for the 2013 Miramar Optimist Track and Field Club will be held January 6th and 13th at the Ansin Sports Complex, located at 10801 Miramar Boulevard. They will be accepting applications for children ages 5-17. Regular registration and practice will begin on February 11.For more information, visit their website:www.eteamz.com/Miramaroptimist or Facebook page:www.facebook.com/ MiramarTrack. You can also call 954-665-6224 or email Coachtasha@bellsouth.net

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A Bewitching Night

By Julie Levin

Lots of tiny princesses, superheroes, vampires, ghosts and goblins were out in full force in Miramar Halloween night. Thousands of people turned out at the Miramar Town Center October 31 for their annual Halloween Trick or Treating event. Kids, with parents in tow, came in costume to trick-or-treat among dozens of local vendors that were invited to attend. Each vendor had big buckets of candy and other treats for the little ones, while also getting a chance to share their business with moms and dads.

“Instead of going out and knocking on people’s doors that they don’t know, they can come to a safe environment here and go to table to table and have a blast”,” said Lolita Dunn, the Special Events Coordinator for the City of Miramar.

There were also plenty of Halloween-themed backdrops throughout the event so parents could snap photos of their kids in costumes. The City’s Mayor and Commissioners were also on hand to pass out candy, and there were also rides and inflatable’s for the children, food trucks and entertainment for a spooky, yet fun evening.

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school news

Spaghetti Dinner & Teacher Talent Show Highlights School Celebration

By Julie Levin

A

local elementary school marking a milestone anniversary

recently threw itself, and its students and families, a congratulatory celebration.

Sunset Lakes Elementary School honored its tenth anniversary in October with an event that drew an estimated 500 people. “We are celebrating ten years of being open and being very successful,” said Denise Lizano, the fourth grade teacher at the school who organized the celebration.

The school, located at 18400 S.W. 25th Street in Miramar, opened in 2002 and now boasts an enrollment of close to 900 students. Many of those students turned out at the school the evening of October 10th for a spaghetti dinner, complete with salad and bread, which was served up by Principal Marc Charpentier and his staff. There was also a teacher talent show and slide show designed to celebrate the school’s decade-long history.

Organizers also honored the nearly two dozen teachers and staffers who have been at the school since opening day. “We have 23 staffers Students and parents line up for the spaghetti dinner. Principal Marc Charpentier (left) helped to serve

who have been here since the beginning,” said Lizano, who joined the school one year later.

Throughout the week, the school also enjoyed visits from former administrators and school dignitaries. The school’s art department encouraged each classroom to decorate their outside bulletin boards with projects related to the school’s history and its impact on a generation of students.

“We left it up to the teachers and they came Each classroom decorated their outside bulletin board in honor of up with some fabulous ideas,” she said. Sunset Lake’s 10th anniversary There was also an opportunity for parents to take part in the school’s “Buy a Brick” program. The bricks will have the family’s name engraved and will be permanently placed in a prominent place outside the school.

The proceeds from that program will go towards new technology for the school. “We are doing it for our kids because maybe they will be the ones to create the next piece of technology,” Lizano said.

Lizano said Sunset Lakes has become very much a community school, with long-term staffers who live in many of the same neighborhoods as their students. It has created a bond between the school and its families.”What sets us apart is the passion that the teachers and administrators have here for the children and all they do, and they want the best for the school,” she said.

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27 11/26/12 11:50 AM

ask the expert

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

www.mirvision.net

What is a Cataract?

C

By Dr. Michael Chesen

ataracts are the leading cause of decreased

vision in adults older than 65. It is the most common surgical procedure for elderly people. You can still get an “age-related” cataract when you are in your 40s or 50s, although most likely it will be small and not rob you of your vision. Only 15 percent of people are affected with cataracts by age 55, but this figure jumps to 50 percent by age 75, and 90 percent by age 85. It is important to note, however, that cataracts worsen over time … so it’s never too late-or early-to try to prevent them and/or treat them.

What is a cataract?

A cataract is an opaque spot on the lens of the eye that you can’t see through. The lens lies behind the iris and the pupil, and works like a camera lens. It focuses light onto the retina at the back of the eye, where an image is recorded. The lens also adjusts the eye’s focus, which allows you to see things clearly, both up close and far away.

The lens is made of mostly water and protein. But as we age, some of the protein may clump together and start to cloud a small area of the lens. This is a cataract.

Over time, the cataract may grow larger and cloud more of the lens, making it harder to see.

The haze can vary in size, density, and location, which means its effect on your vision will also vary. At first, many people experience an overall reduction in their vision.

They may need more light to read by or may have difficulty reading street signs while driving. A cataract can also affect depth perception, which is particularly dangerous for the elderly, who are more prone to falling.

Common symptoms of cataracts include:

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▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸

Cloudy, fuzzy, foggy, or filmy vision Changes in the way you see colors Problems driving at night because headlights seem too bright Problems with glare from lamps or the sun Frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription Double vision Better near vision (temporarily in farsighted people only) Note: These symptoms also can be signs of other eye problems

What causes cataracts?

▸▸ Free radicals - natural by products of metabolism - are highly reactive chemicals that cause oxidation, which in turn causes aging. ▸▸ Toxins, pharmaceutical drugs, and smoking ▸▸ Diabetes (high levels of sugar in the blood contribute to cataract formation, so it’s not surprising that diabetics are 3-4 times more likely to have cataracts) ▸▸ The protein in the lens changes from the wear and tear it takes over the years, and hardens and loses its ability to focus.

Treatment of cataracts

Cataracts can only be treated surgically. This procedure would be performed by an Ophthalmologist, and is often an outpatient procedure. The surgery often involves placement of intraocular lens (IOL), which is used to replace the eyes natural lens, which is removed in the cataract surgery. Glasses may be required for far/near correction following the procedure, depending on the type IOL used and the surgical outcome.

The pre- and post-surgical care of the cataract patient may be and often is provided by an Optometrist. Dr. Chesen can assist patients in finding the appropriate Ophthalmologist for their care, and can be reached at 954-437-9733.

November 2012 | To Advertise in Miramar Town Times, Please call 954-306-1007 | www.miramartowntimes.com 11/26/12 11:50 AM

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11/26/12 11:50 AM

real estate

Looking back at 2012 and into 2013…

T

By Patrick Simm

he year 2012 began with a somewhat optimistic

vision for real estate. Now that we are almost at the end of the year, it is interesting to look back and second guess all the great things that have transpired in real estate.

Very few guessed that the housing market would be this strong and on the way to recovery at this point in time. The available housing inventory, including condominiums and single family homes, shrunk. This caused consistent month to month double digit appreciation in prices in many areas. With the foreclosure inventory of homes on the market for sale shrinking to diminutive levels, the available inventory of homes has buyers in a state of shock!

legally speaking

Why Do Young Families Need A Revocable Trust?

By Alan J. Reinfeld, Esq.

I

n today’s society, it is important to plan for the

future of your family. Every day, tragedy happens, from car accidents to people being diagnosed with cancer. It is important that there are plans to take care of your family in case the unexpected happens. Take me for example: my mother passed away from cancer in about four weeks, but because we had a trust I was able to focus more on her and healing then on the financial matters.

A revocable trust is a legal document that creates a plan of distribution of a person’s assets. A person sets up a revocable trust, i.e., a “living trust,” during his or her lifetime, which becomes irrevocable upon their death. This means that the person has the power to amend or revoke the trust only during his or her lifetime.

During the person’s life, the beneficiaries may include the person him/herself, his or her spouse, children or other close relatives. Once the person passes away, the property that is titled to the trust is distributed pursuant to the terms of the trust.

What are the benefits of having a revocable trust? ▸▸ Quick transfer of assets. A properly drafted revocable trust can help the decedent’s family avoid the time-consuming probate process. The person must re-title his or her assets into the trust; this is called “funding” the trust. If assets are not transferred to the trust prior to the person’s death, the only way to transfer any assets to the trust will be through probate. ▸▸ Avoid Probate. At a minimum, probate administration will take over six months.

The administration usually costs a minimum of $500 and many times can cost more based on the complexity. There may be other fees and costs associated with administration.

In more instances than not, buyers are left with no other option than to pay over fair market value for properties that they desire. If one buyer decides not to, another will (albeit to a certain degree). Sounds fairly harsh; nevertheless, it’s that simple. Although many homeowners still exist that have little or no equity in their properties due to the after effects of the real estate bust, there are many sellers that can afford to and are reentering the market at this time. Approximately 50% of the inventory of homes for sale in Southwest Broward County is listed by non-distressed equity sellers. Just over a year ago, this statistic was non-existent. Seller confidence is imminent at this time.

So what’s in store for 2013? I had the opportunity to attend the 2012 Miami Real Estate Congress recently, a gathering of over 300 foreign delegates and realtors. I learned that even though most Americans don’t have faith in our own economy, foreigners do.

In light of this, international investors have targeted South Florida as the gateway of choice and are fueling the real estate market recovery at an astounding rate. There is no sign of the trend letting up anytime soon. Foreign investment accounted for approximately 40% of all real estate purchases this year in Florida. Most of these transactions are all cash purchases. Interestingly, Canadians accounted for 31% of the acquisitions.

If you had the opportunity to hear and see what South Florida had in store for us in regards to its development within the next few years, you would be as excited as I am and bullish on real estate for the years to come. Additionally, let’s not forget what continues to attract people to our great state in the first place, and will continue to attract them – beautiful beaches, fabulous weather and a friendly business climate, with no state income tax. After reading all of the above, how can anyone not be bullish on real estate in South Florida?

Patrick Simm, Managing Director of the Simmsational Group at Keller Williams Realty Partners SW, can be contacted at 954-709-8258 for all your Real Estate related questions and/or inquiries. Visit www.PatrickSimm.com or on Facebook at Faacebook.com/OneCoolRealtor.

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▸▸ Privacy. A revocable trust is a private document that does not require filing with the court. A will, however, is a public document that must be deposited with the court after the decedent’s death. ▸▸ Trust assets are not subject to creditors. Assets properly put into a revocable trust are not subject to most creditors. When a probate administration is opened, creditors may try to claim the money owed to them by filing a claim on the probate assets. ▸▸ Focus on mourning. Avoiding probate and quickly wrapping up the affairs of the deceased helps focus on mourning rather than probate administration. ▸▸ Name a person who will handle your affairs. A revocable trust along with a proper will allows a person to designate who will handle their affairs once they pass away. ▸▸ Reduction of estate taxes. While a trust is not a tax savings tool, there may be some provisions included in the trust that allows you to transfer your wealth by establishing a credit shelter trust in the event of death.

The Law Offices of Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A has offices in both Coral Springs and Plantation. Reinfeld & Cabrera, P.A is a full-service law firm specializing in a variety of fields such as Probate, Estate Planning, Car Accidents, Community Association Law, Divorce, Employment Law, Evictions/Landlord Tenant, Foreclosure Defense, Business Law,Personal Injury, Product Liability, Real Estate, Traffic Tickets, Workers Compensation, and Wrongful Death. Our attorneys and staff seek to provide the upmost service to our clients, while maintaining an effective cost containment strategy.

The firm can be reached at 1-855-LAWS 123 or www.MyPersonalAttorneys.com.

November 2012 | To Advertise in Miramar Town Times, Please call 954-306-1007 | www.miramartowntimes.com 11/26/12 11:50 AM

Happy Holidays!

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31 11/26/12 11:50 AM

business cn spotlight

cn of the month pet

“Florence”

Jencare Day Spa

I

f you are a looking for a respite from the hustle and

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Customers will notice the difference as soon as they walk in.

F

lorence is an 8-month old Pointer/Terrier mix. Her favorite

toy is a sock she stole from her mom’s closet. She loves to snuggle close when her owner’s blow-dry their hair, probably to enjoy the heat that comes out form the dryer. She dislikes when it rains. Her favorite thing to do is to follow birds when she is out in the park. She doesn’t have a favorite person, but is very sociable and playful once she is comfortable with new guests!

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SHOULD YOUR PET BE OUR PET OF THE MONTH? Every month, Miramar Town Times randomly picks a Pet of the Month winner. Enter your pet today!

Email entries to editor@miramartowntimes.com.

Please send a photo with your entry (photo will not be returned).

Tell us a little bit about your pet…

Animal name & breed:_________________________________ Age and gender of animal:______________________________ Favorite person:______________________________________ Favorite toy:_________________________________________ Likes & dislikes:_______________________________________

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Favorite thing to do:___________________________________ Last seen:___________________________________________

November 2012 | To Advertise in Miramar Town Times, Please call 954-306-1007 | www.miramartowntimes.com 11/26/12 11:50 AM

photo contest

We Want Your Photo!

The World’s Favorite Newspaper™

Take your latest copy of Miramar Town Times on the road with you and you could be our lucky winner. Send us your “The World’s Favorite Newspaper™” photo and you could win a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Happy trails!

Email photos to: editor@miramartowntimes.com

Yolando Santos of Miramar took the latest copy of the Miramar Town Times with her during a recent trip to Chicago. Here she is in front of the “Cloud Gate” in Millennium Park.

Please send hi-resolution original digital photos as attachments only. Include name, address, phone number and where photo was taken.

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legally speaking

Wipe Out Second Mortgages, Avoid Foreclosure and Stay in Your Home

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

T

housands of homeowners in our community are more than

50% upside down on their home mortgages and are looking for a way out. Some are frustrated in their attempts to modify their home loans, and others simply choose to give up their home because they are unsure of their rights. Wouldn’t it be much easier to save your home if you only had one mortgage and no other payments?

How about if you were able to eliminate all your mortgage debt through a short sale, and stay in your home through a long term lease?

For homeowners who have taken out a second mortgage on their home and lines of credit, facing our current economic climate can be particularly challenging.

Additional liens on your home beyond your initial mortgage, however, can be wiped out through a Chapter 13 personal bankruptcy filing. When a judge removes mortgage liens from a property during bankruptcy proceedings it is referred to as “stripping” the lien.

In a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, second mortgages, lines of credit and association liens against a homestead residence can be eliminated. Many bankruptcy courts follow a rule that makes a second mortgage, line of credit or other secondary lien totally unsecured if the principal amount owed on the first mortgage exceeds the fair market value of the personal residence. Even if you are not current on your first mortgage, you can use a Chapter 13 bankruptcy catch up on the arrearage over an extended period of time, or you can make a proposed modified mortgage payment under your Chapter 13 plan while your loan modification application is being processed without losing your home to foreclosure.

Another effective strategy to remain in your home and wipe out excessive mortgage debt is to negotiate a short sale with an extended term leaseback. Under this strategy, you will be able to wipe out most, if not all your mortgage debt when the short sale is completed. This will allow you to obtain a “fresh start” without filing bankruptcy, and within two years you may be eligible to purchase another home under FHA guidelines. The challenge is to find an investor willing to lease your home back to you, and convincing your lender to authorize the arrangement. The Arcia Law Firm can put you in contact with serious investors who are not interested in “flipping” your home, but instead keeping families in their homes after a short sale through a long term lease.

The Arcia Law Firm will also assist you in negotiating every part of the transaction with your lender right down to the closing itself.

Detailed explanations of all options available to homeowners at risk of foreclosure are discussed in a new instructional 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 FREE copy during your appointment with a member of our qualified legal team.

If you are struggling to make your monthly mortgage payments, 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 for more information about our law firm and services.

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November 2012 | To Advertise in Miramar Town Times, Please call 954-306-1007 | www.miramartowntimes.com 11/26/12 11:51 AM

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35 11/26/12 11:51 AM

it’s their business

Palm View Animal Hospital Offers State-of-the-Art Care for Pets

By Debby Teich

M

iramar’s Palm View Animal Hospital

combines the highest level of veterinary medicine with outstanding client service and a compassionate touch. The full-service veterinary hospital offers a variety of services for dogs and cats. Christie Waldie-Torres, DVM/owner and veterinarian, answered some commonly asked questions about the hospital.

What services do you offer?

We offer general and preventative medicine, soft tissue surgery, dentistry, boarding, bathing, microchipping, radiology and more. We also have an in-house laboratory.

Are you passionate about animals? I have always been

ate and have a deep love for animals. They are also full of smiles and treat all clients and pets with warmth and respect.

How does Palm View differ from other veterinarians? The practice is small, which allows us to have a more personal touch. We are able to spend more time with pet owners, so we can answer all of their questions and offer client education.

We make sure that they have the tools they need to make informed decisions and take care of their pets once they leave the hospital. If they have a question, we are always just a phone call away.

Describe the facility.

Although the facility is small, very passionate about animals. we are still a full-service aniThey are a very big part of the mal hospital. We have brand family and I strive to do all I new state-of-the-art equipcan do to keep them healthy ment, which allows us to do and happy. I have five cats things in an efficient manner (Oliver, Purrcey, Moz, Tyrion that produces quick results. and Ember), one dog (Hadley) The hospital has three examiand two really big goldfish. nation rooms; a pharmacy; Dr. Waldie-Torres treats a patient. treatment area with laboratory; surgical suite; bathing area and isolation What is your background? I am a native South Floridian. In 2002, I graduated from the area. It has digital radiology equipment, so we University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science can read x-rays in less than a minute. It also has in zoology and a DVM. I have been practicing an in-house lab, eliminating the need to send in South Florida since I graduated. My husband out blood work, urine and other samples. In and co-owner, Jessie, and I have been together only a few minutes, results are ready and we since high school. We have two sons, Aidan, 6, can begin recommending a course of treatment. and Drake, 4.

What is special about the staff? There are

only four of us here and we are like family. Ashley and Nicole have at least 10 years of experience in the veterinary field and our newest staff member, Samantha, hopes to go to vet school someday. They are all incredibly compassion-

Where do you perform most surgeries?

We perform most surgeries here in the hospital in our operating room, where the patient is comfortable and familiar. We refer orthopedic surgeries to a specialist in the area.

How often should pets have checkups?

Pets should have checkups at least once a year.

For older pets, twice a year is recommended.

Of course any time a pet is not acting normally, they should be examined.

Why are annual checkups important? It is important to discover issues as early as possible and a checkup often reveals health problems that the owner had not noticed. This protects the pets, as well as owners that can catch certain diseases from their pets. Checkups are also a good time to update vaccinations.

Technician Samantha Navarro feeds a kitten.

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What do you do during a full physical exam?

During a full physical exam, I look over the whole

The staff at Palm View Animal hospital is caring and compassionate. (l to r) technician Nicole Namer, Dr. Waldie-Torres (with Rizzo) and technician Ashley Gorgone.

pet. This includes examining the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth, as well as listening to the heart and lungs, palpating (feeling) the abdomen, looking over the skin, and taking a good history from the owner to determine if any new behaviors indicate that something may be wrong.

Is spaying and neutering important? Spaying

and neutering is very important. If you are not planning on breeding your dog or cat, spaying/ neutering will help with marking and roaming behaviors, prevent unwanted pregnancies, and help with the pet overpopulation problem. There are also many health benefits associated with spaying/neutering your pet. It decreases the risk of some tumors. In addition, female pets that aren’t spayed have a chance of getting a life threatening uterine infection called pyometra.

Do you recommend microchips for pets?

Yes. Many lost pets have been reunited with their owners with the help of microchips. Anytime a pet is found and brought to a vet clinic or shelter, they are scanned. If there is a microchip, they can be reunited with their family. Each microchip has a unique number that is tied to the owner.

It is important to make sure the microchip is registered.

Do you work with any nonprofit organizations? We work with 1 Lucky Dog Rescue

(a local dog rescue organization) and we also have our own kitten rescue. We often take in neonatal kittens and bottle feed them until we find homes for them. As a matter of fact, we have many kittens ranging from 6 weeks to 7 months that need homes!

Palm View is located at 12120 Miramar Parkway, in the Miramar Square Plaza near Kohls, in Miramar. It is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, from 8:30am to 6pm and Tuesday and Saturday, from 8:30am to 1pm. For more information, call 954-443-4888, visit Palm View on Facebook at facebook.com/palmviewvet or send an email to palmviewvet@gmail.com.

November 2012 | To Advertise in Miramar Town Times, Please call 954-306-1007 | www.miramartowntimes.com 11/26/12 11:51 AM

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11/26/12 11:51 AM

mayor’s message

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Happy Holidays to you all! I am sure many of you are busy with holiday shopping and family activities. In fact, some are probably a little better off and are able to buy a little more for the first time in a long time. In light of the economy being a little better for some, it is still a hard time for many. I wanted to share with you something a little different this time of the year. As you all know, many of us have experienced or know someone who is still going through hard times. We all know that the times today are different.

This is why I am proposing that we all do something a little different this holiday season. Instead of giving presents to each other, why not give something of ourselves. By this I mean, what can we do to make the holidays a little more joyous to those who truly need it? I am speaking of the giving of our time and sharing our good fortune with others. The opportunities to do this abound. Help watch your neighbors’ children to give that working mom a little break, take a buddy to watch a ball game and remind him that you believe in him, support your friend’s husband by passing his resume to companies you know, or even pass along information that can make your neighbors’ lives just a little bit easier.

In addition, you can share your time to help those charities that you have always wanted to get involved with. Take advantage of the “Buy One, Get One Free” promos at supermarkets and donate the extra item to the Miramar Food Pantry. Donate money to a charity in memory of a loved one. Adopt a family. Help out at a food kitchen. Clear out your wardrobe closet and give to donation centers.

As we head into the holiday season, let us not forget that some of the best gifts we can give or receive are not found in stores, but in our efforts to make the world a little better. For more information about the Miramar Food Pantry, please call 954-889-2700.

Together, we can all make this Holiday season something truly special to remember.

I wish you all a safe and happy holiday season.

community news

A Peek Back at the Market Pumpkin Patch

By Julie Levin

T

he pumpkins went fast, but little ghouls and goblins were in

heavy supply at the Market at Memorial Hospital Miramar recently. “Halloween at the Market” was held October 28, and plenty of people came out to take part.

Kids and pets were invited to come in their best spooky attire for treats and prizes.

Superheroes, princesses, little vampires, and even two Vegas Show dogs ruled the day. Michael’s Arts and Crafts also set up a Pumpkin Patch, which provided a great fall-like backdrop for photo-taking opportunities. The first 200 kids also received a free pumpkin for Halloween. The market is held every Sunday on the campus of Memorial Hospital Miramar, located at 1901 SW 172nd Avenue.

The Arcia Family poses for a photo in the Pumpkin Patch

Warmest regards, Lori C. Moseley Mayor

The Rodriguez children, Zyra, 4 and Pearse, 1. Zyra is dressed as “Strawberry Shortcake”

Nicole Patrick, 14, holds “Bella”, a pooch who came dressed as a pumpkin

Got News?

email editor@miramartowntimes.com

Maltese Therapy dogs “Gidget” and “Sassy” came dressed as Vegas Showgirls

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Muscle man: Kenan Lawhorne, 2, does his best “Megatron” impression

November 2012 | To Advertise in Miramar Town Times, Please call 954-306-1007 | www.miramartowntimes.com 11/26/12 11:51 AM

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seen on scene

Non-Profit Expo

Hundreds of Miramar and Southwest Broward residents turned out for the 2012 Non-Profit Expo, coordinated by the Young Professionals 360 group.

The event, held October 25 at the Ana G. Mendez University System, featured non-profit organizations and government agencies that provided information about available opportunities. Young Professionals 360 is a diverse group of professionals, ages 21-45, who are looking to advance their careers and build relationships with local community and business leaders through the Miramar Pembroke Pines Regional Chamber of Commerce.

New CEO

The Memorial Healthcare System recently named Leah A. Carpenter, administrator and chief executive officer of Memorial Hospital Miramar in Miramar. Carpenter is familiar with the South Florida area, most recently having served in the same post at Memorial Hospital Pembroke in Pembroke Pines. A Miramar resident, she has been part of the Memorial Healthcare System for the past eleven years.

Red Carpet Premiere

(l-r): Miramar Commissioner Wayne Messam; filmmaker Sharon La Cruise, director and producer of Daisy Bates: First Lady of Little Rock; filmmaker Tracie Holder, co-producer/director/ writer of Joe Papp in Five Acts; Miramar Mayor Lori Moseley; actor Jeb Berrier, star of Bag It; and Miramar Commissioner Alexandra Davis smile for the camera at the premiere of the First Annual Southern Circuit Independent Film Festival at The Miramar Cultural Center | ArtsPark. The festival featured screenings of six independent films, five of which will be presented a second time throughout the year, including Eating Alabama on Thursday, Feb. 21 at 7:30 p.m.; Daisy Bates: First Lady of Little Rock on Thursday, March 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Follow the Leader on Thursday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m.

Health Care for Kids

Occupational Therapist Carol Monzon and four-year-old Juanjy Caro share a smile during a rehabilitation session at the new Miami Children’s Hospital Miramar Outpatient Center. The center, located at 12246 Miramar Parkway, recently opened for pediatric rehabilitation services (physical, occupational and speech-language therapies), diagnostic imaging and pediatric urgent care for minor injuries and illnesses.

Thanks to Our Veterans

Miramar Mayor Lori Moseley was on hand for the City’s annual Veterans Day ceremony, held in conjunction with Vitas Hospice Care November 11 at Veterans Park. Also in attendance, Tom Dalton, the Director of Music Therapy at Vitas Hospice Care who led the audience in his rendition of patriotic music.

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Embarrassed by Toenail Fungus?

Call Dr. Neal M. Bullock Ask about the new GenesisPlus laser treatment for nail fungus.

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Neal M. Bullock, D.P.M., P.A. Podiatric Medicine & Surgery

17013 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines, FL 33027

954.450.4200

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN BRING THIS AD TO THE SCHOOL AND YOU’LL RECEIVE $150 OFF FIRST MONTH’S TUITION*

Holiday Bazaar Please join us and enjoy a fun day filled with holiday experiences and a visit from Santa!

While you are here, visit our Bazaar with great unique items perfect for the holiday shopping

Saturday, December 8th 2012 From 10:00 am to 3:00 pm For vendor information please contact us at 954.443.6114 KLA School of Pembroke Pines.18055 NW 8th St. Pembroke Pines, Fl 33029 Tel 954.443.6168 www.klaschools.com

Our Programs BABY NIDO: 3 to 12 months. CLASS OF THE 2’s CLASS OF THE 4’s AFTER SCHOOL NIDO: 12 to 24 months.

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For information please call 888 695 3682 I www.klaschools.com I School address. 18055 NW 8th St. Pembroke Pines, FL 33029 I License # 46537

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1960 N. commerce pkwy., Suite 3 Weston, FL 33326

Postmaster please DELIVER in home as soon as possible.

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