PLT APRIL 2011 by Our City Media

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See Story pg. 24

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April 2011

publisher’s page Welcome Plantation!

Contents

n behalf of our staff I would like to use this opportunity to welcome the residents of Plantation to the readership of our publications. Starting with this month’s issue we will be publishing the Plantation Town Times, which adds to our existing publications, Our City Weston, Davie Town Times and Pines Miramar Town Times magazines. As always our news magazines will arrive in your mailbox free of charge at the beginning of the month. We hope that you enjoy the Plantatio large, glossy-print format Westsid n General Hospital & CelebrateeRegional Medical Ce Anniversa nter and the award-winning ries See Story pg. 24 Yo ur Local Com articles tailored to YOUR munity N ews Mag azine! local community. April 2011 As of this issue, we are mailing our family-oriented magazines to 80,000 homes in SW Broward and have established ourselves as the leading free community paper in the area. In addition, our magazines are available online at www.ourcityweston.com for the world to enjoy. We are looking forward to having our Plantation neighbors included in our readership and hereby welcome you aboard. w

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Sincerely,

SvenSvenBudzisch Budzisch Publisher/Owner

calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 community news Plantation Girls Collects Barbies for the Underprivileged . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Take a Look Back at City of Plantation History through New “Then and Now” Exhibit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Plantation Synagogue Helps Growing Temple in Belarus . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 2011 Humanitarians of the Year Honored . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Plantation Residents Elect New Mayor, Council Members . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Camp Sagemont Gears Up for Another Great Summer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Plantation Resident Selected for Senior Hall Of Fame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 can do kid Plantation Girl Shows Heart Through Record Setting Donation . . . . . . . . . 18 fitness forum Some Interesting Fitness Facts — Fit Boys are Smarter! . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 cover story Plantation General Hospital and Westside Regional Medical Center Celebrate Anniversaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 school news South Plantation High School Dedicates Field to Longtime Athletic Director . 26 Honors for Local School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 legally speaking Making Your Hospital Visit Safer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Written Contracts– Are They Really Necessary Between Family and Friends? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Is There Ever A Right Time To Loan Modify? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 pet of the month “Sebastian” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 It’s their business Local Attorneys Offer a Full Service Law Firm Specializing in Business Law and Commercial Litigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Ask the Expert Innovative Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 seen on scene. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Now Online!

The New www.plantationtowntimes.com

Publisher/Owner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SVEN BUDZISCH Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nina Chieng-Budzisch Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Julie Levin Account Representatives . . . . . . . . . . Garry Isabelle, Nancy Koval Joyce Bak, Gabriela Moscoso, Elaine Christ, Agnes Castillo Art Direction, Design & Production . . . . . Barry Stock, Dan Bastien

Visit us online: www.plantationtowntimes.com 17120 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 1, Weston, FL 33326

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

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

April 2011

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calendar the Plantation Woman’s Club. The event starts at 11a.m. For more information, contact Pat Hinde at 954-661-3830

All Month

17th 9th Earth Day Festival - A free, family-friendly event featuring live music (Big Sky, Johnny Bregar, and Tony Succar y Mixtura), children’s activities, giveaways, a farmers’ market, eco-friendly goods, food trucks, and resources for greener living. The event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Sawgrass Sanctuary, 237 North New River Circle, Sunrise. For more details, call (954) 747-4600 or www.sunrisefl.gov/earthday.html.

Then and Now - The City of Plantation is hosting its newest exhibit “PLANTATION: Then & Now,” through July 2. The exhibit gives visitors a glimpse into Plantation’s past and highlights how the City has changed through Coin and Stamp Show-The Fort Lauderdale Coin the years. Displays include Fred Peters’ plans to create a Club will present its monthly Third Sunday Coin & Dream City, a timeline history of life in Plantation, photos Stamp Show. April 17 at Volunteer Park Community of our past and our present, artifacts from groups, schools, Center, located 12050 W. Sunrise Boulevard in Plantation. businesses and much more. This free exhibit will be held Doors will open at 10am and go until 3 p.m. Free Parking at the Plantation Historical Museum, 511 North Fig Tree & Great Food!! Free admission, children are welcome. Lane. For more information and hours, please call the Lunch is available. The public is invited to bring items Museum at 954-797-2722. and collections to be appraised by over 70 Coin Dealers.

20th Online Help - Learn how to use the internet. The Helen B. Hoffman Library will host a free internet class for adults, April 20 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. The library is located at 501 N. Fig Tree Lane. For more information, call 954-797-2140.

23rd

May 6th & 7th

Books for Sale - The Friends of the Helen B. Hoffman Library will be holding its monthly used book sale May 6 & 7. Stop by Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a look at some of the best “gently read” books around, at great prices. The library is located at 501 North Fig Tree Lane in Plantation. For more information, call them at 954-797-2140.

May 7th

Easter Egg Hunt - Bring your basket or bag and join the city for a fun-filled Easter Royal Egg Hunt! It begins Picnic with your Teddy Bear! Join the Children’s at 10:00 A.M. SHARP and is free to children ages 3-10 Room at the Helen B. Hoffman Library for their annual years old. Children are grouped by age to find and pick up Teddy Bear Picnic. Kids and families of all ages are invited hidden eggs. The fun will take place at Pop Travers Field, to join them May 7, with their favorite teddy bears, for food, located at 6250 S.W. 16th Street. For more information fun, and stories from the Broward County Story Tellers call 954-452-2510. Guild. This long time event will also include a parade with the teddy bears. The event will run from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m and is free. The library is located at 501 North Fig Tree Lane in Plantation. For more information, call them at 954-797-2145. For Plant Lovers - Make sure to check out the Plantation Plant Affair, sponsored by the Plantation Woman’s Club, which will be held Saturday, April 30 and Sunday May 1 at Heritage Park, located at 1000 S. Fig Tree Lane. There will be lots of plants, crafts and accessories to browse. The event will run from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. For more information, contact Pat Hinde at 954-661-3830.

16th Tennis Anyone? Head to the Veltri Tennis Center for a Junior Rookie Tournament April 16. Grand Prix Series consists of nine unranked tournaments in the following categories: Boys & Girls; 10’s, 12’s 14’s & 16’s;and singles with consolation. Please register two days prior to the tournament. There is a $25 registration fee and participants must be a USTA member. For more information call 954-452-2530 or 954-452-2531. Register on-line at www.usatennisflorida.com. Woman of the Year? Who is Plantation’s Woman of the Year? Find out April 16 when the winner is announced at the annual Plantation Woman of the Year Luncheon at the Jacaranda Country Club, sponsored by

28th For History lovers - Learn about Plantation’s history at the next general meeting of the Historical Society. It will be held April 28, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Historical Museum located at 551 North Fig Tree Lane. The guest speaker will be Glenn Firestone, who will discuss Historical Florida paintings. For more information, call 954-797-2722.

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green thumb gardening Spring Festival at Flamingo Road Nursery Noon – 4 p.m.: Special appearance by Herbie the Love Bug. Bring your camera 2 p.m.: Fruit Trees: Free demonstration/talk 3 p.m.: Organic Gardening: Free demonstration/talk

By Jim Dezell

oin your friends and neighbors in a beautiful garden setting to celebrate spring. Throughout the weekends of April 16/17 and April 23/24, Flamingo Road Nursery will be hosting free earth-friendly events and activities for the whole family. There will be informative talks on a variety of garden topics, product demonstrations, plant giveaways, a Caribbean-style barbeque and music. The Farmer’s Market will feature the freshest spring fruits and veggies, along with some delectable prepared foods and sweets. And to top things off, the Easter Bunny will be around both weekends for photo opportunities with the little ones! The fun starts daily at 8 a.m. and continues until 6 p.m.

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8 a.m.: Free butterfly plant to the first 50 children 11 a.m.: Butterfly Gardening: Free demonstration/talk 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.: Come meet the Easter Bunny Noon: Mixed Container Garden Workshop: (Cost is $25 and includes instruction, a container, soil and 7 plants to create a beautiful mixed container) Noon – 2 p.m.: Caribbean-style BBQ at the Farmer’s Market 1 – 4 p.m.: Special appearance by Herbie the Love Bug (Sunday Only). Bring your camera 2 p.m.: Fruit Trees: Free demonstration/talk 3 p.m.: Organic Gardening: Free demonstration/talk Easter Egg Hunt for Savings all day Sunday (Bring your Egg to the cashier with your purchase and win a prize. Grand prize is a $50 gift certificate. One Egg per person) Flamingo Road Nursery is located at 1655 Flamingo Road, just one mile south of I-595 on the west side of Flamingo Road. Open daily 8 am – 6 pm. For information, call 954-476-7878 or visit www.FlamingoRoadNursery.com.

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community news Plantation Girls Collects Barbies for the Underprivileged By Julie Levin

the dolls are donated to, it may be the only toy ots of young girls love to have a they ever receive. collection of Barbie Dolls, which they can The family got the idea from retired flight dress up, accessorize and share with their attendant Mireille Hanna, who began collecting friends. But for some children in underprivileged Barbies for girls in Guatemala seven years ago for parts of the world, even one doll of their own Airline Ambassadors, a charitable group formed might be too much to wish for. That’s why one by members of the different airlines. She later Plantation family has made an effort over the created a non-profit group known as “Global past few years to pass along their good fortune, Legacy”, which helps organizations in Guatemala and share their dolls with those less fortunate. including Mayan Families Foundation and Open “It has really been a great experience for my girls, Windows Foundation, which aims to improve and I know it makes a difference to the girls we the future of the community by offering children send them too,” said Robin Mermelstein, the access to tutoring and educational tools that are mother of Haley, 17, Shelby, 14 and Andie, 9. not available at local schools. In addition to the For the past six years, the Mermelstein’s have dolls, Mermelstein’s oldest daughter,Haley, also been collecting, cleaning and dressing up “gently collected books for their library, which is relatively used” Barbies that are designated for children new, and presented the books in person during in poor areas of Guatemala. Since they began The Mermelstein girls show off just a few of the gently used Barbie Dolls that they a trip to the area. Haley was nominated for a their project, Mermelstein estimates they have collect, clean and ship to underprivileged children in Central America Silver Knight award for the project. collected and sent close to 300 dolls. They began with their own dolls, but quickly Since Mermelstein is a flight attendant for American Airlines, the girls have had began collecting in the community as well through temple projects, school projects the opportunity to travel to the area where they donate the dolls. She says it has been and gatherings at their Plantation home. “We have become known as the family that an incredible experience for them to be able to give back. “The Barbie project is collects the Barbie dolls,” she joked. something we do ongoing. We are always working with groups to collect a many as Once collected, the first order of business is cleaning the dolls, and sorting out the possible,” she said. myriad accessory pieces and clothing that go with it. “Instead of just buying a new one, they take the gently used dolls and make them look great,” Mermelstein said. If you have Barbies you would like to donate, contact Robin Mermelstein at 954 Then they place them in small gift bags. Mermelstein says for some of the children 638-3360, or online at robinstu@bellsouth.net

Take a Look Back at City of Plantation History through New “Then and Now” Exhibit By Julie Levin

fifty years,” he said. ver wonder what the city of Plantation Displays will include Fred Peters’ plans to create looked like back in its early days, long before a Dream City, a timeline history of life in Plantation, mega superstores, thousands of houses and and photos of the past and our present. Among the shopping centers crowded the landscape? For the more interesting artifacts; a training bomb from the next three months, residents will have the chance to 1940’s. Boyce said in the city’s early days, before there take a peak back into the past through the city’s new was much building, both Plantation and Davie were “Then and Now” exhibit, a glimpse into Plantation’s used as bombing practice for Navy fighters flying out past and a look at how the City has changed through of North Perry Airport in Pembroke Pines. There will the years. The exhibit will be on display now through also be a variety of shopping bags and credit cards July 2 at the Plantation Historical museum, and from stores like Burdines and Jordan Marsh that no admission is free. longer exist, matchbooks from old restaurants like The exhibit came about thanks to an annual cal“The Gaslight”, and an original 1961 breakfast and endar of events and programs the city puts together lunch menu from the original Plantation Golf Course, each year. This year, they chose “Then and Now” as which was built by Fred Peters as a way to convince its theme, and then quickly decided to expand on the county to extend Broward Boulevard out west. that theme when they realized all the city has to offer. Guests look over the array of memorabilia and photos That will be displayed with current menus from the “With going though all the photos and artifacts our gathered for Plantation's "Then and Now" Exhibit city-owned Plantation Preserve Golf Course which Historical Museum has, we realized there was a whole wealth of information that we now sits on the same property. should be able to showcase in a broader way,” said Ken Boyce, the Superintendent of Visitors will have an opportunity to test their knowledge of Plantation History with Recreation for the City of Plantation a hands-on, interactive Plantation Knowledge Display, look at how pop culture and Over the past few months, city leaders put out a call to residents, past and present clothing has changed through the years, as well as viewing film’s of Plantation’s early days. to help fill in some of the exhibits gaps in city history. Boyce said they were surprised how well the community responded. The exhibit will run through Saturday, July 2nd. It is free and will be held at The “Former residents from as far away as North Carolina have sent us stuff, and we Plantation Historical Museum, located at 511 North Fig Tree Lane in Plantation. connected with early business owners and even residents who are still living here after For more information and hours, please call the Museum at 954-797-2722.

April 2011

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April 2011

Community News Plantation Synagogue Helps Growing Temple in Belarus By Julie Levin

had suffered through the persecution through the years, but hough separated by geography, language always remained intact despite the fact they have no physical and culture, two Jewish synagogues came together in synagogue, no Torah or full-time Rabbi. When communism a celebration of their faith recently. In late February, collapsed, they started to grow again but lack the financial Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El in Plantation donated one of resources to do much. its Torahs to a Synagogue badly in need and thousands of Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El hired a scribe who went over miles away. The Torah is now headed to Temple Sholom the Torah to make sure it was in perfect shape before being in the small city of Lida, in Belarus. Before the donation, handed over. He made sure all the sections are together, Temple Sholom did not have a Torah, which is the holy attached properly and there were no errant marks or writings scroll containing the first Five Books of the Bible. anywhere. The temple’s Sisterhood donated a cover for the In an emotionally moving ceremony, Sheldon Harr, the Torah and following a fund-raising campaign, the members of senior Rabbi at Kol Ami Emanu-El, presented the Torah Kol Ami Emanu-El were also able to present Rabbi Abramovich to Rabbi Grisha Abramovich, the Rabbi of Lida as well as with a donation to be used as scholarships for thirty children the entire area of Minsk, the capital of Belarus. He stood at Temple Sholom in Lida. “I am proud that even in difficult before the estimated 500 people who turned out for the economic times for our country, which is affecting temples dedication and described the rebirth of Judaism in Belarus, as well, we are able to be generous to others,” said Rabbi Harr. in spite of the Holocaust, years of communist control, and Rabbi Harr said many Jews can trace their origins back to the difficult financial position of the country. “They are areas that were part of the Pale of Settlement, which included going to be wonderful beneficiaries of this Torah,” said much of present-day Lithuania, Belarus, Poland, Moldova, Rabbi Harr. Ukraine, and parts of western Russia. Rabbi Harr said even Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El had an extra Torah to Rabbi Grisha Abramovich, the Rabbi of Lida accepts the Torah from he recently learned his grandfather was born in Minsk. Today Sheldon Harr, the Senior Rabbi at Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El donate after merging with Temple Emanu-El several years Belarus in an independent country, but is struggling to strive. ago. They wanted to find a way to donate it to a community in need that couldn’t “I am thrilled to reach out and see the reemergence of a Jewish community in a place afford one on their own, and learned about Temple Sholom through an organization that was decimated by the holocaust and communism. It gives credence to what we known as the World Union for Progressive Judaism. They learned the congregation say and believe,” Rabbi Harr said.

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April 2011

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community news Pembroke Pines to Honor Veterans with Memorial By Debby Teich

very May, we celebrate Memorial Day to honor and respect the thousands of men and women who have given their lives to defend our country’s freedom. Now, thanks to an effort led by Pembroke Pines Mayor Frank Ortis and the City Commission, residents will have a way to honor veterans throughout the year. “Millions of veterans throughout the history of our great nation have raised their right hands and taken an oath to defend our country against all enemies, both foreign and domestic, at the cost of their lives if required,” said Mayor Ortis. “This Veterans Memorial will ensure our dedicated military veterans are honored every day of every year.” The Pembroke Pines Veterans Memorial Foundation has begun raising funds to construct a Veterans Memorial at the Pembroke Pines City Center, just west of City Hall. “The Veterans Memorial Foundation has been incorporated, a bank account is open and bylaws are in place,” said Chuck Vones, Jr., Assistant Director of Parks & Recreation and Foundation organizer. The site will feature an impressive memorial marker, which will be surrounded by hundreds of beautifully engraved bricks. The 15 ft. black, granite, obelisk four-sided structure will look similar to the Washington Monument, but on a much smaller scale. Lush landscaping is already in place which will provide shade for benches. The Memorial is expected to be fully constructed by August of this year. The estimated cost of the Memorial is $41,000. The City is hoping to sell 5,000 bricks, which should more than cover costs. The Mayor has already agreed to purchase the first brick. “The engraved memorial bricks will honor our family members, friends and neighbors,” said Ortis. Brick Markers USA, a leading supplier in the engraved donor brick industry, will be providing the bricks. The West Palm Beach company

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uses a high power laser system which produces a shiny black engraving that does not fade with time or weather. Each of the memorial bricks will be engraved with the name of a veteran that the purchaser wishes to honor and remember. The cost is $50 for a 4” X 8” brick, with three lines and 20 characters per line. For $95, buyers can upgrade to an 8” X 8” paver that features 6 lines of copy, with 20 characters per line. In addition to the brick permanently laid at the Pembroke Pines Veterans Memorial, buyers also receive a “mini-brick” duplicate that they can keep as a memento. To purchase a brick, download a form by visiting www.ppines.comhttp://ppines. com , then click on “Veterans Memorial Foundation” and scroll down to the order from, or pick one up at any Parks and Recreation offices. For information, call Chuck Vones at 954-443-4829.

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April 2011

Community News Rabbi Publishes Spiritual Children’s Books for All Faiths By Stacey Bomser

before I was a father, but they underwent major edits after egardless of religious upbringing, we all ponder my children were born and even more edits after they started the existence of a higher power from time to time. Children, asking the tough questions,” notes Rabbi Jacobs. “They are a especially, call into question our beliefs. For most parents, primary source of inspiration as their desire to explore their it’s difficult to discuss something they do not always understand spirituality is strong.” themselves. Rabbi Andrew Jacobs, the vibrant spiritual leader of In addition to serving as editors and illustrators, the rabbi’s Ramat Shalom Synagogue, has written a series of books to help children also inspired the characters. The main character in God families of all faiths explore their spirituality. Looks Like A Hug is named Jonah, after Rabbi Jacob’s son. His “I began writing about eleven years ago. At that time, I was still second book, Who Made Butterflies, introduces Jonah’s sister in rabbinical school, working as a teacher in a synagogue,” shares Abigail, named after the rabbi’s daughter. Rabbi Jacobs. “On a regular basis, parents would approach me Who Made Butterflies, explores God’s role in creating the with spiritual questions posed by their children – questions they world we live in,” says Rabbi Jacobs. “Other books in the series weren’t sure how to answer. The questions that these parents shared will explore a wider range of topics including prayer, loss of life, with me, and their desire to offer their children a meaningful and counting our blessings.” answer, inspired me to begin writing my children’s book series.” Although all spiritual in nature, Rabbi Jacobs says his books His first book, God Looks Like A Hug answers the common are not religious-based. “Obviously as a rabbi, I approach God question: What does God look like? from a Jewish place. But, I believe that my approach, especially in “That is probably the most common spiritual question children the books, is very accessible and understandable no matter what ask,” explains Rabbi Jacobs. “Most of us don’t know what the your religious background. I have received wonderful feedback answer is. So, when a child asks the question, we are caught off Rabbi Andrew Jacobs and his wife, Rabbi Cheryl Jacobs, from Jews, Christians and people with no religious affiliation.” with children Jonah and Abigail, who helped edit guard. My book is an attempt to get parents and grandparents along and co-illustrate his children’s books on spirituality. thinking about the answer.” Rabbi Andrew Jacobs’ books, “God Looks Like A Hug” and God Looks Like A Hug gives many possible answers to the question, but, ulti- “Who Made Butterflies,” can be purchased at Ramat Shalom Synagogue, 11301 West mately, suggests that God looks like something that can really only be felt – a hug. Broward Boulevard in Plantation, or online at www.lulu.com or www.amazon.com. This image is beautifully expressed in illustrations created by Rabbi Jacobs’ children, The cost is $15 for a paperback book or $5.99 for an e-book. Proceeds go to Ramat Jonah and Abigail. Shalom’s educational programs. To learn more about Rabbi Jacobs and his spiritual They played a big role in the production of his books. “I started the books children’s book series, visit www.spiritualchildren.org.

2011 Humanitarians of the Year Honored are collected at all Rick Case Automotive Group locations or their years of philanthropy in the South and then donated to a child in need for the holidays. They are Florida community, Rick and Rita Case will be honored also involved in many other local charities and organizations. as this year’s Humanitarians of the Year at the Soref “Typically we are looking to give out the award to a person or Jewish Community Center in Plantation. The Cases, who those persons in South Florida that have truly shown comoperate the Rick Case Automotive Group in South Florida, munity leadership and show the effort for taking on many will be honored at the May 1 event, which will be held at the charitable activities,” said Graw. Signature Grand in Davie. More than 400 people are expected The 3-hour event will include a cocktail reception and to turn out for the fundraiser, which is now in its 15th year and silent auction with prizes from many businesses in South helps to serve as the JCC’S largest annual fundraiser. Proceeds Florida. From there, guests will move into the main ballroom from the event will support both their WECARE food panfor dinner, where an honor guard from the Broward Sheriff’s try and scholarship program for special needs children that Office will open the ceremony. There will be an on-going attend the JCC’s preschool, after school, and summer camp media presentation honoring the sponsors, and a chance for programs. These programs provide assistance to all regardless the JCC organizers to share what their programs are all about. of race, religion, or ethnicity. “Rick and Rita Case are really the Part of the proceeds will go to their WECARE food pantry, perfect people to honor with this award,” said Donald Graw, which due to the challenging economic times are helping the Executive Director of the Soref Jewish Community Center more and more Broward County residents every day. This Rick and Rita Case own The Rick Case Automotive Group, year alone, WECARE will provide non-perishable food and which was founded in 1962 in Northeast Ohio and grew to fresh produce to prepare over 65,000 meals. serve Atlanta and South Florida in 1986. They have 16 dealer- Rick and Rita Case: The 2011 Humanitarians Silent and live auction items are still needed, along with ships, including Honda Cars & Cycles, Acura, Hyundai and of the Year at the Soref JCC individual and business sponsors. The Soref JCC would love smart car dealerships in South Florida. But in addition to to hear from anyone who can assist to help raise funds for their dealerships, they are also extremely visible community leaders and contribute the WECARE Food Pantry and Children’s Scholarship programs. The Soref JCC is on a philanthropic level. They are tremendous supporters of the Boys and Girls Club located at 6501 W. Sunrise Boulevard in Plantation. For more information on the May of Broward County, and have lent their name and efforts to one of the units in Davie. 1st event, contact Call Helene Behar, Director of Administration at (954) 792-6700 or In 1982, they founded the Rick Case Bikes for Kids Program, which makes it easy e-mail hbehar@sorefjcc.org. You can also visit them at www.sorefjcc.org, where you for the community to get involved and help a needy child. Bikes in good condition can purchase tickets online or learn more about sponsorships. By Julie Levin

April 2011

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can do kid Plantation Girl Shows Heart Through Record Setting Donation By Julie Levin

following year she set her sights even higher, and took in just over Plantation girl who lost her birth mother $2,500, surpassing her goal of $2,000. Mother Jennifer Green says to heart disease when she was just an infant is doing Alexis is passionate to her cause. “I am so incredibly proud of her. I what she can to make sure no other family has to live think it shows incredible character traits, especially for someone through the same tragedy. Alexis Green, 8, has once again hit so young to do something so selfless,” said Jennifer, who has been a new record at her school when it comes to donations for the part of Alexis’s life since she was two. American Heart Association. “I raise money for people in the The family, including younger sister Callie, 2, bikes through the hospital who have sick hearts,” said Alexis, a third grader at neighborhood asking for donations. Whenever someone gives Central Park Elementary School in Plantation her money, whether it is $1 or $100 she thanks them by handing For the past three years, Alexis has taken part in the Jump them one of her pre-written thank you notes she works on each Rope for Heart event at her school. The students are asked to night. She also sends personally written thank you notes to each collect pledges from family, friends and neighbors in exchange and every contributor, thanking them for helping her reach her for the number of times the students can jump rope. Alexis goal and helping people with a sick heart. received pledges from close to 70 people and has raised just Green says Alexis’s efforts also landed her a nomination for the over $3,350 to date, nearly one third of the entire school total. Broward County School’s Kids with Character, a competition that “I am really proud of it, because it makes me feel like I am doing is for every student in Broward County. There is one winner from a good thing,” she said. each city, and Alexis was the recipient of the award for Plantation Alexis takes her fundraising seriously because two weeks Schools. Alexis says she hopes other kids her age will get involved after she was born, her mom was lost to postpartum cardiotoo. “You should help because you feel good inside when you reach myopathy, a condition that affects one in every 2,500 pregnant Record number of Jumps! Alexis Green, 8, the goal you set. When you put your heart to something, you know once again sets a fundraising records at her mothers. Three years ago, when she was in first grade, she elementary school for Jump Rope for Heart. you are going to rock it,” she said. brought paperwork about Jump Rope For Heart home and she asked mother Jennifer Green to explain what it was about. Even at her young age, If you would like to make a donation to the American Heart Association, please visit Alexis made the connection to her birth mother and knew she wanted to help. Alexis’s AHA website at http://honor.americanheart.org/goto/alexisgreen. You can The first year, Alexis raised $1,700 beating a 20-year old record for the school. The also contact her at Alexisheartsaver@gmail.com.

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Community News Plantation Residents Elect New Mayor, Council Members Council duties, she has served on the Plantation General Hospital Board of Trustees, Westside Regional Hospital Board of Trustees, here is a familiar name at the helm of Plantation politics again. Following in the footsteps of her father, Diane the Broward County Tourist Development Council, and the Broward Veltri Bendekovic, was elected as Plantation’s Mayor on League of Cities Education Committee. She also holds an active March 8. She was sworn in on March 11, officially taking over the membership with the Plantation Chamber of Commerce and memoffice that her father, Frank Veltri, held for nearly a quarter of a berships in many civic organizations: Plantation Art Guild, Helen century. Veltri Bendekovic, who took more than half the vote, beat B. Hoffman Friends of the Library, and The Plantation Historical out two other mayoral candidates, including former Councilman Society. According to the city’s website, she will strive to maintain Jerry Fadgen and R. Warren Meddoff. quality residential services, and to provide first class recreational Veltri Bendekovic, who had to resign her seat on Plantation’s city facilities and programs for the Plantation community, while remaincouncil to run, is no stranger to the city having moved to the area ing fiscally responsible. more than 50-years ago. She grew up in Plantation and went on to Plantation’s mayor acts like a city manager, running the city’s graduate from Florida Atlantic University with a B.A. degree. A day-to-day business. The salary is $117,221, almost four times the retired schoolteacher, Veltri Bendekovic retired from the Broward $29,772 salary for council members. Veltri Bendekovic replaces longCounty School System in 2007 after 34 years of service. During her time mayor Rae Carole Armstrong who decided not to run after 11 tenure, she was honored twice as Teacher of the Year. Her husband, years in the Mayor’s office. The city council will also have a new look. Tom Bendekovic, Jr., is a retired Plantation Police Department Group 1, the seat Fadgen resigned during his run for mayor, went to Captain, and they have two sons, Richard and Ron. They also Mayor Diane Veltri Bendekovic political newcomer Lynn Stoner, who beat out Sheldon Harr and have five grandchildren: Joseph, Andrea Sofia, Colette, and twin Eric Hammond for the post. In group 2, incumbent Sharon Uria kept grandsons, Kevin and Richard. her council seat, defeating political newcomer Jeff Holness. In group 3, Ron Jacobs, a The Veltri name is well-known in Plantation. Her father, Frank Veltri, served as the former council member from December 1993 to March, 2005, returned again to city city’s mayor from 1975 to 1999. He died in 2006 at age 94. Her late mother, Genevieve, hall defeating political newcomer Connie Freund for the spot. Plantation was not the was a founder of the Plantation Historical Society. Veltri Bendekovic, who was in her only city hosting an election March 8. Eight cities, towns and villages in Broward elected third term, resigned the council seat she held since 2001 to run for mayor. She had local leaders, including Dania Beach, Deerfield Beach, Hillsboro Beach, Lighthouse served as Council President and Pro Tem twice during her tenure. In addition to her Point, Miramar, Oakland Park, Plantation and Pompano Beach. By Julie Levin

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pening its doors in April of 2009, Davie Discount Liquors & Wine with the efforts of its owner Shiv Waghray and his various suppliers has amassed a respectable and eclectic wine department. Covering all major wine producing Countries with their respectable brands and varietals, including a kosher wine selection, Shiv strives to bring his customers the best that the wine world has to offer.

One other very important characteristic of this friendly, full service liquor and wine store is, if they don’t have it they will try very hard to get it for you so don’t be afraid to ask. One of the most impressive attributes in Davie Discounts wine department is their Cabernet Sauvignon selection. Cabernet Sauvignon is arguably the most popular red wine grape in the world today. Hailing from its homeland of France, specifically The Bordeaux Medoc/ Graves region, this varietal has also blossomed in Chile, Argentina, Australia, Washington State and Northern California its second home, Napa Valley and Sonoma County in particular. With careful winemaking and barrel ageing, Cabernet Sauvignon can produce some of the longest-living and most intriguing reds of all. Cabernet can be made in a softer style, but all the great Cabernet of the world generally requires some additional bottle-ageing to reach their peak. Big, rich and full-bodied in their youth, the tannins soften with age, usually five to eight years after vintage, although some legendary vintages can age gracefully for decades. Some common aroma and flavor descriptors or this varietal are black currant or cassis, blackberry, cedar, tobacco, mint, chocolate, black olive, black cherry and plum. Food pairing with this varietal includes Strong cheese, game, beef, ham, lamb and hearty salads. For best results Cabernet should be stored in 55 degrees and served between 63 to 68 degrees. Shiv has accumulated over 130 types of American Cabernets with an estimated 80% of those being from California. Whether you’re looking for an everyday wine or a special occasion bottle Davie Discount has wines ranging from $5.99 for a very drinkable budget wine in Rex Goliath Cabernet to the bold and amazing Rubicon Estate Cabernet at $169.00. The 2001 to 2006 California Cabernet vintages have produced high quality, spectacular wines. However, 2007 Cabernets especially from Napa Valley and Sonoma County reached new heights of quality. According to Wine Spectator, “More great Cabernets were made in Napa in 2007 than any other time or place in California history”. In honor of that spectacular vintage Davie Discount has selected some amazing wines from Napa as well as other notable regions for you to purchase, try and enjoy: Napa Cellars Cabernet Napa Valley, 2007 $24.99 BR Cohn Silver Label, Olive Hill North Coast Cabernet 2007, $17.99 Coppola Diamond Collection, California Cabernet 2007, $15.99 Robert Mondavi Private Selection, Napa Valley Cabernet 2007, $21.99 337, Lodi Cabernet 2007, $12.99 Francis Coppola, Directors Cut, Sonoma County Cabernet 2007, $17.99 Estancia, Paso Robles Cabernet 2007, $12.99 Ferrari Carano, Alexander Valley Cabernet 2007, $24.99 Franciscan, Napa Valley Cabernet 2006, $17.99.

Please join Shiv every Friday night from 5 to 8pm for his weekly tasting and don’t forget to join their e-mailing list the next time you visit for tasting schedules as well as wine and spirits Super Specials. Wishing all a great holiday season and I hope to see you soon at Davie Discount Liquors and Wine.

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fitness forum Some Interesting Fitness Facts — Fit Boys are Smarter! Ellen Latham, MS

oys interested in improving report card scores may want to take up running and biking. A study of 1.2 million men born between 1950 and 1976 determined a link between cardiovascular fitness and intelligence. Researchers from the Institute of Medicine at The University of Gothenburg, in Sweden analyzed the physical capacity, brain power and socioeconomic status of men when they reported for military duty at 18. The data which was published in an issue of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that men with greater cardiovascular fitness were likely to be more intelligent and experience greater success. Interestingly, there was no association between muscular fitness and their intelligence. Therefore, regular structured cardiovascular fitness is needed in order to achieve optimal cognitive function and for development to take place. The Kids Ultimate Workout at our studio and the Kids Fitness Program at the Ft. Lauderdale studio offer children 7 to 12 years a fantastic cardio and total body training program. Many parents think their children are fit because they play sports, but that is not true. Your child’s fitness level is specific to the sport he/she plays. Every child needs a lesson planned cardio and strength program two times a week.

Another area to consider is weight loss medications. According to the American Dietetic Association, weight loss medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration may be part of a lifestyle-management weight control program. Meridian works on the brain to suppress appetite, whereas Xenia and Ally work on the gut to inhibit lipase. These work like reading glasses. They work when you are taking them but as soon as you stop (take off the reading glasses) you no longer have the benefit and may regain the weight. You must change your lifestyle for long-term success. There are actually some studies currently being done that look at hormones to see if they can be used as a medication to prevent weight gain and promote weight loss. The Food Coaching Program at Ellen’s Ultimate Studio in Davie deals with the struggle of weight loss very successfully. The two week Quick Start and four week programs are the most popular. These programs assist people by helping them make lifestyle changes. Ellen Latham, MS owner of Ellen’s Ultimate Workout and Pilates Studio, 5173 S. University Drive, Davie, specializes in Pilates on Reformers, Treadmill Fat Blasting Classes, RPM Spinning with front screen video, Yoga-Stretch and Kid’s EquipmentBased Fitness Classes. For information, call 954-472-9440.

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April 2011

cover story Plantation General Hospital and Westside Regional Medical Center Celebrate Anniversaries By Julie Levin

Plantation General Hospital

fter first opening its doors in 1966 in a much less populated Plantation, a lot has changed at Plantation General Hospital. But Barbara Simmons, the CEO of the hospital, says one thing has always remained the same. “We have always offered high-tech care, but we are also very much a community hospital. You don’t have to travel far to get the care that you need because we have it here,” said Simmons. Plantation Plantation General General is part of HCA (Hospital Corporation of America), the Hospital CEO Barbara J. Simmons, RN nation’s leading provider of healthcare services. Simmons says as Plantation General celebrates its 45th year, the 264-bed hospital continues to add state-of-the-art care to its facility, which offers comprehensive 24/7 care for adults, pediatrics, obstetrics and women’s services. Earlier this year, Plantation General cut the ribbon on a brand new outpatient center which includes two high tech G.I. suites. Also earlier this year, the hospital expanded the number of its pediatric emergency room beds, and continues to run a Pediatric ER staffed by pediatricians, and pediatric emergency nurses around the clock. They doubled the size of the pediatric ER due to community need. “Of the 45,000 emergency room visits last year, almost 15,000 of A look inside the newly expanded pediatric ER at Plantation General Hospital, which them were kids,” is staffed by pediatricians, and pediatric emergency nurses around the clock. said Simmons. Plantation General also has two pediatric intensive care units, pediatric imaging services, and is one of only two hospitals in Broward County that have pediatric orthopedic surgeons available 24/7, according to Simmons. They also have a general pediatric unit, where parents can be with their children when they are needed most. “There is a separate bed in the room so the parent can sleep over and be with their child and be involved with their care,” said Simmons. Plantation General also offers a comprehensive obstetrical department that delivers an estimated 3,000 babies every year. It is supported by a level three, 31-bed, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit that is certified as a Center of Excellence by The Joint Commission – the only one in Florida. Expectant parents can also take comfort in knowing there is a neonatologist in the hospital 24/7, a high risk maternity unit, and a family centered approach. “The baby stays with the mother after delivery. It provides a family-centered experience for the family because the education and training is done right at the bedside with the father and family there,” said Simmons. A unique program that Plantation General also offers, the only one of its kind in the state, is “The Centre” which was created to help substance-addicted, pregnant women. The exclusive unit offers OB care, psychological care, education and training, parenting classes, and help with assistance programs. Plantation General created the niche program to have “healthier moms and babies in our community,” said Simmons. Plantation General provides adult medical and surgical care to the community and offers dozens of educational opportunities each month, including physician lectures, health classes, maternity classes, senior groups, women’s groups and more, all of which are accessible through their website, www.PlantationGeneral.com, and in today’s time crunched society, residents can text “ER” to 23000 to find current wait times in their adult ER, as well as “ERKIDS” at the same number to get the pediatric ER wait time. Wait times are also available on their website. “We are a quality driven, customer focused facility that continues to meet the needs of our community,” said Simmons.

Westside Regional Medical Center

ike Plantation General, Westside Regional Medical Center is celebrating an anniversary. Ten years ago, they opened their Open Heart Program to fill a need in the community and to date, the staff has helped tens of thousands of cardiac patients in the South Florida area. “We look at ourselves Westside Regional as a small hospital, doing big things,” said Mary Lynn Swartz, the Medical Center CEO Mary Lynn Swartz, RN CEO of Westside Regional Medical Center. Founded in 1974, Westside Regional Medical Center has evolved into a 224-bed medical center and healthcare complex that provides comprehensive healthcare to the residents of Broward County. Also a part of HCA, they are continuously expanding and bringing on the latest technology that enables them to provide cutting edge services. Their Cardiovascular Program is comprised of a team of experienced surgeons, cardiologists, anesthesiologists, radiologists, pulmonologists, internists, technicians and nurses who combine their experience to provide patients with the latest scientific advances. Backed by 2 state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization labs and 3 open heart surgery suites, Westside Regional Medical Center offers diagnostic tests such as cardiac catheterization, electrocardiography Westside Regional Medical Center is celebrating the (EKG), cardiac stress testing, radioisotope ten year anniversary of its Open Heart Program heart imaging (nuclear cardiology), echocardiography, electrophysiology, vascular and arterial imaging. Swartz says medical and surgical interventional treatments such as angioplasty, stent implantation and valve replacement have made major advancements in a decade, much to the benefit of the patient. “Even though we are a relatively young program, we have really seen the technology change for the good of the patient and allows the treatment to be specific to every patient and their needs,” she said. In 2009, Westside Regional also opened a state-of-the-art electrophysiology lab where they can evaluate patients with Atrial Fibrillation and the heart’s electrical system and fix any problem with a number of advanced procedures. “Our electrophysiology lab is not something you see in every hospital and is something far more advanced than in most facilities,” said Swartz. Another advancement is that they added a new cardiothoracic surgeon to their open heart surgery team who specializes in minimally invasive mitral valve repair and replacement, which means less discomfort and scarring for the patient. Westside Regional is also a certified Chest Pain Center and certified Heart Failure Center, which provides an interdisciplinary approach to the care and treatment of patients with acute Congestive Heart Failure. “We are the only accredited Heart Failure Center in Broward County currently, and one of only five in Florida,” said Swartz. She added that Westside Regional also beats the standard of care when it comes to getting a patient, who is having a heart attack, into a catheterization lab, to open his or her arteries. “What is extraordinary about Westside’s emergency heart team is that we are doing that on average less than 54 minutes. The standard of care is 90 minutes and we are far surpassing that,” she said. Swartz said Westside Regional Medical Center offers patients quality care, backed by great credentials and staff. “We are providing a great patient experience by providing the patients in this community the opportunity to have state-of-the-art technology delivered by experienced physicians and nurses,” she said. Westside Regional Medical Center is located at 8201 West Broward Boulevard in Plantation. Find them online at www.westsideregional.com. Plantation General Hospital is located at 401 NW 42 Avenue in Plantation. Find them online at www.plantationgeneral.com

April 2011 To Advertise in Plantation Town Times, Please call 954-306-1007

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school news South Plantation High School Dedicates Field to Longtime Athletic Director By Julie Levin

or generations to come, athletes and fans who flock to South Plantation High School’s Athletic Field will get a chance to pay tribute to the woman who helped make the field a reality. On February 19th, school administrators, educators, students and members of the community turned out at the field, located at 1300 SW 54th Avenue in Plantation, to officially rename the field as the Sandra Darr Athletic Field. “I want to thank everyone out there who made this possible, I greatly appreciate it, said Darr, who retired in 2005. The new name was unveiled during an afternoon ceremony that included a performance by the school band and cheerleaders. School board members, city leaders, administrators and friends of Darr all took the microphone to thank Darr for her boundless energy and care in support of the school for 30 years. Sandra Darr started her South Florida educational career first at Parkway Middle and Sandra Darr thanks friends, family and co-workers who helped dedicate the field in her honor. Rogers Middle before finding a home at South Plantation High. She coached the swim, volleyball and softball teams, was an athletic trainer, and in 1983, she became the school’s Athletic Director, helping to oversee the

growth of its many athletic programs. Students remember her as someone who took an interest in each and every player. “She impacted our lives not just as a coach, but personally,” said Dr. Donna Pastore, who played volleyball for Coach Darr in 1975. Before leaving the school, she put into motion plans to have a new, state of the art track and field facility brought to South Plantation, as well as a major stadium renovation. She said her job was made easier by the athletes, their families and her coaches, all of whom felt pride in the South Plantation name. “For all the former coaches out there, you deserve this as much as I do. If it wasn’t for you, I couldn’t have done my job. You did everything I asked, plus more,” She said she still reads the newspaper each morning to check on how South Plantation’s team did the day before, and urged everyone to keep athletics in their lives. “I don’t know how many lives she has touched, but it has to be in the thousands,” said friend and former colleague Richard Woodruff. The field renaming helped to cap a day full of festivities in honor of South Plantation’s 40th anniversary. The day began with tours of the school, followed by a formal ceremony in the auditorium. During the ceremony, the school’s drama students performed and dozens of people were recognized including former students who have become successful in the community. Also honored were 21 longtime staffers and 16 current teachers who actually Sandra Darr's name was officially unveiled at the South Plantation graduated from South Plantation High School. The school field during the ceremony. opened in 1971, at first sharing a building with Plantation High School on a split schedule. They moved to their current building a year later and the first graduating class was in 1973.

Honors for Local School By Julie Levin

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outh Plantation High School was one of four Broward County Public Schools recently named to a prestigious honor. The schools were named National 2011 Magnet Schools of Excellence and Magnet Schools of Distinction. It is the third time South Plantation has been honored in the Environmental Science category by the Magnet Schools of America (MSA), a national organization whose mission is to provide leadership for innovative instructional programs that promote equity, diversity and academic excellence for all students in public school choice programs. Broward County Magnet Schools offer the opportunity for in-depth experiences and study in specific areas of interest. The South Plantation Environmental Science Program offers students the chance to discover the environmental concerns of our community. Students explore the challenges and concerns related to their environment: wild life preservation, ecosystem restoration, preservation of the Everglades and wetlands, recycling, aquatic life protection and energy conservation. The other honored schools included Virginia Shuman Young Elementary, honored in the Montessori category, as a Magnet School of Excellence. Atlantic Technical High School and Stranahan High School were named Magnet Schools of Distinction in the technical and medical sciences categories. The schools will be honored at the Magnet Schools of America Conference in May in Indianapolis, Indiana. For more information, contact the BCPS Innovative Programs at 754-321-2380 or visit www.browardschoolsmagnetprograms.com.

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legally speaking Making Your Hospital Visit Safer By Howard Citron

lmost 100,000 people in the United States die each year because of medical errors in the hospital. To stay safe while in the hospital: ▸▸ Be sure an advocate — an assertive friend or family member — is with you 24 hours a day. When checking into the hospital, be sure to ask for and sign paperwork that gives your advocate(s) legal permission to know all the details about your treatment and to discuss it with your doctors and nurses. ▸▸ If you have a choice of hospital, choose one where your procedure or surgery is done often, not just the closest hospital. ▸▸ When checking into a hospital, make sure you tell them about all the medications you are taking — including herbal remedies, vitamins, and dietary supplements — as well as any medication reactions you’ve had in the past and any pre-existing conditions.

▸▸ Each time a nurse brings you medication, ask the following: What is it for? Who prescribed it? When am I supposed to take it? How am I supposed to take it (how often/how long)? What side effects are likely and what do I do if they occur? What should I avoid (foods, drinks, activities) while on the medication? Don’t be shy, and don’t worry about bothering the nurse with too many questions. ▸▸ Be sure anyone drawing blood, giving you a test, or administering a medication checks your wristband first. ▸▸ Make sure the hospital staff keeps things clean around you. That is absolutely critical to avoid infections. Hospital-acquired infections are a major source of hospital deaths. If anything falls on the floor, just leave it there for the hospital personnel to pick up. Be sure that nobody gives it to you — or puts it on your body. ▸▸ Insist that everyone who treats you or handles your food washes their hands thoroughly. Even if you don’t have a sink in your room, don’t be afraid to ask everyone coming into your room to wash their hands. You aren’t being nit-picky; you are being safe! ▸▸ Schedule inpatient surgical procedures for early in the morning, and try to do it on Wednesday or Thursday, if possible. Mondays often get backlogged, and Friday surgeries mean you will have the weekend staff caring for you. ▸▸ Avoid wrong site surgery. Prior to surgery, surgeons are required to sign their initials directly on the part of your body to be operated on. That’s called site verification. Make sure your advocate is there to make the surgeon do this.

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April 2011

Community News Camp Sagemont Gears Up for Another Great Summer By Stacey Bomser

about crime scene investigation techniques as amp Sagemont is celebrating its they would see on CSI.” 15th season this summer and it promises These programs complement Camp to be bigger and better than ever! Most Sagemont’s already expansive menu of camp noticeable will be the new programs geared speprograms. “Here, campers are not bound to cifically for older campers, including an exciting participate in just one specific type of camp travel camp with overnight adventures. program, but rather they have the choice to pick Camp Sagemont is not your typical day camp. and choose programs of interest,” explains Cruz. Sure it offers a traditional day camp program “As the adage goes, variety is the spice of life.” for PreK through 3rd graders, but where the Athletic-types can pick from either Camp camp has really earned a name for itself is with Sagemont’s Sports Camp or the All American its programming for older campers. It offers a Basketball School, which focuses exclusively unique selection of specialty camp programs. on honing basketball skills and techniques and “We want to go beyond the traditional day improving overall performance. camp and offer programs that appeal to specific The Art Camp appeals to creative-types. “I tastes and that get campers excited and motivated Camp Sagemont’s Adventure Camp campers have a blast on a water boat ride. love Camp Sagemont Art Camp because we get about trying new things,” shares Camp Director to experiment with all kinds of techniques and Edwin Cruz. That’s why Camp Sagemont offers options such as Adventure Camp, the field trips are really interesting,” shares fifth grader Breanna Blake. Art Camp, Sports Camp, Science Camp, and more. “Experimenting with new camp Even the younger campers participating in the traditional day camp experience offerings has been a very positive and rewarding venture.” will enjoy new programs this summer, including the addition of Hip Hop Kidz. Cruz Last summer, Camp Sagemont piloted its Adventure Camp. The response was phesays that is just one of the many new activities being offered this summer, the rest he nomenal. “What appealed to campers were the adventurous field trips that were planned. is keeping a secret. “We want to give campers that ‘wow factor.’” The trips challenged campers, taught them how to enjoy outdoor activities and encourCamp Sagemont has instituted some changes this season that will appeal to parents aged them to try new things that may have been intimidating at first,” explains Cruz, as well. Namely, the option of single week sessions in some of the camp programs. noting that camp- “With summer family vacations and getaways, some families do not have the ability ers experienced to commit to an entire four week session,” explains Cruz. “By offering weekly seseverything from sions, this allows for flexibility so that families can better coordinate their vacations mountain biking and camp needs.” and rock climbing Parents will also appreciate the convenience of Camp Sagemont’s new interactive website (www.campsagemont.com). Camp registration can now be completed online, making it even easier to take advantage of the Early Bird discount available through April 1st. The new website also includes a photo gallery, slideshow, and frequently asked questions section and much more. Plus, Camp Sagemont has its own Facebook page where it will post weekly updates and camp photos during the camp season. In addition to summer camp programs, Camp Sagemont offers a Summer School/ Children of all ages love spending their summer at Camp Sagemont which offers a Camp Combination and ESL program. Some traditional day camp program as well as a variety of specialty camp programs. students do not retain what they have learned to go-karting and cable water skiing. “At the end of each throughout the school year and lose their activity, campers had a sense of accomplishment, improved reading, writing, math, and language skills self-confidence and self-esteem, and a stronger group bond.” during the summer break. According to Cruz, Fifth grader Gabriel Garrison especially loved the snor- Color War is always one of the favorite camp experiences. “Parents prefer to keep these valuable skills fresh keling trip he took with Adventure Camp. “We had such an amazing time each week. in their children’s minds so they appreciate that we offer an educational component I couldn’t wait to see what we were going to do next!” to our summer camp.” In the half day summer school program, campers review and This summer, Camp Sagemont is expanding its Adventure Camp with a special practice the skills they have learned and learn some new skills to prepare them for weeklong Road Trip Adventure Camp, which will be offered during the ninth week the next school year. They spend the rest of the day enjoying traditional summer of summer. “Campers will enjoy the road trip of a lifetime!” promises Cruz. “We will camp activities. Camp Sagemont’s ESL component is offered to assist students with make stops in five Florida attractions at venues on the west coast, central Florida the reinforcement of retaining and practicing English-speaking skills so that they and the east coast while traveling on a coach bus with overnight lodgings and meal do not lose their ability to communicate effectively. packages.” Also new this summer will be Glee Camp and CSI Camp. According to Cruz, Camp Sagemont will host a Camp Reunion and Open House on Sunday, March 27th “With the popularity of television programs such as Glee and CSI, we wanted to from 1 to 4pm. Families are invited to stop by and see the campus, pool and athletpush the envelope and offer these programs so that campers have the opportunity ics dome, plus meet the counselors and staff, and enjoy a sno-cone or two. To learn to sing and dance like the characters they see on Glee and be detectives and learn more about Camp Sagemont visit www.campsagemont.com or call (954) 384-1894.

April 2011 To Advertise in Plantation Town Times, Please call 954-306-1007

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Your Pet Could Be Our pet of the month! Every month Pines Miramar Town Times randomly picks a pet of the month winner. Enter your pet today! Email entries to Editor@PinesMiramarTownTimes.com. Mail entry forms to: Pines Miramar Town Times 17120 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 1, Weston, FL 33326 Please send a high-resolution 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:___________________________________________________ Favorite thing to do:_______________________________________________ Last seen:________________________________________________________

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Legally Speaking Written Contracts– Are They Really Necessary Between Family and Friends? By Kraig Weiss, Esq., Silverberg & Weiss, PA

o, it’s now a few months since the holidays. The holidays were such a good time, weren’t they? Fun, food, family - perhaps after eating a large helping of turkey, or an extra spoonful of mashed potatoes, you decided to start a short term venture with your mother’s long-lost brother Jeff, or purchase an investment home with your Aunt Susan who promised to split the profits upon sale. Both these agreements were oral, without written contract. It’s family and friends you said, who needs to put these things in writing? Well, now it’s April and Aunt Susan won’t pay up and your mother’s long-lost brother is lost once again. So what do you do? You may be forced to litigate by actually filing a lawsuit in either county or circuit court in order to enforce your rights. Small Claims Court is appropriate in any action when the dollar amount sought is $5,000.00 or less. County Court is generally appropriate in claims between $5,001 and under $15,000.00, while Circuit Court is available for actions when the dollar amount sought is over $15,000.00. Courts also act in equity where, despite the absence of a legal solution, the court may act in fairness and reasonableness. So, can you enforce the oral agreements? Generally, yes. In most instances, contracts do not require a writing to be enforceable. However, in Florida, a specific statute commonly known as the “Statute of Frauds” does require a writing when (1) the sale of

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goods is priced at $500 or more; (2) there is an agreement involving an interest in land or real estate; or (3) any agreement which cannot be completed within one (1) year. So, depending on the time frame of the short-term venture with your mother’s lost sibling, you may be able to litigate to enforce the oral agreement. But what about your Aunt Susan who doesn’t want to sell your investment and secure your big pay day? Since you didn’t have a written agreement regarding the divvying up of the profits, you may have to sue for “specific performance,” which is an equitable remedy where a court is requested to order one party to perform on a promise. You may also have to file an action in partition. This type of action requests that a court force a sale of a property and divide the proceeds. As a commercial litigator with over 13 years of experience, I see numerous clients who have entered into these types of agreements without a written contract, or literally, have had agreements hand-written on a napkin or scrap of paper. Regardless of the causes of action which are available to potential litigants, it is always easier, and in most circumstances cheaper, to have a well-drafted contract which clearly defines of all of the parties’ rights and obligations. Kraig S. Weiss heads the litigation department at Silverberg & Weiss, P.A. as the firm practices both Business Law (transactional) and Commercial Litigation. To contact Mr. Weiss, call (954) 384-0998, e-mail to kweiss@pkslegal.com or visit the firm website at www.pkslegal.com.

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legally speaking Is There Ever A Right Time To Loan Modify? By Omar J. Arcia, Esq., Foreclosure Defense and Bankruptcy Protection Attorney

n previous articles, we have outlined the pitfalls and disadvantages of most residential home loan modifications. Some of these include higher principal balances, the length of time required to complete the loan modification process, the temporary nature of a loan modification, and the high rate of default after a modification. However, there is a very limited set of circumstances under which a loan modification can work in favor of the homeowner:

▸▸ The Property is the Borrower’s Principal Residence - Most lenders will only consider a loan modification of a borrower’s principal residence. The rationale behind this is that a borrower is more likely to make all payments under a loan modification agreement in their family home, as opposed to an investment property. Indeed, the underlying purpose of the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) enacted in February 2009 was to help homeowners stay in their principal home. If you are struggling to loan modify an investment property or second home, you need to consider other more viable options. ▸▸ The Borrower Has Positive Equity or At Least Owes What the Property is Worth - As most borrowers are painfully aware, most loan modifications will not include a reduction of the amount you owe your lender, but may actually increase the amount owed. Agreeing to a loan modification with a higher principal balance may place the homeowner so deep in debt that he/she may never “break even” or realize any profit from the sale of the home. For this reason, it is critical that a homeowner have some equity in the property they are seeking a loan modification, or at least owe what the property is worth. ▸▸ The Mortgage Loan Does Not Contain Elements of Fraud or other Violations of Law - Discovering that a loan contains elements of mortgage fraud or violations of law could be critical in obtaining the best possible outcome for any homeowner. However, most loan modification agreements contain a provision where the homeowner releases the lender from liability for any wrongdoing in connection with the loan. A homeowner should never sign a loan modification agreement without at least investigating whether the loan contains elements of mortgage fraud or violations of law. In order to rule out the possibility of mortgage fraud, a homeowner should conduct a forensic audit of their home loan. Homeowners should stay away from online sites that sell inexpensive forensic audits, and even from law firms that offer to perform the audit themselves. The Arcia Law Firm has worked with several qualified and professional loan auditing firms to whom we refer our clients. If any of these three circumstances do not apply to your current situation, you need to stop the loan modification process and consider other options. If you would like an attorney from the Arcia Law Firm to review your case in detail, please call today 1-800-770-7102 or visit us online at www.arcialawfirm.com to schedule your free initial consultation. The Arcia Law Firm is privileged to represent hundreds of homeowners in our community in foreclosure defense and bankruptcy protection matters. We welcome the opportunity to meet with you, and together determine the best possible direction to resolve your mortgage crisis. www.plantationtowntimes.com

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April 2011

It’s their business Local Attorneys Offer a Full Service Law Firm Specializing in Business Law and Commercial Litigation By Julie Levin

f you are looking for a legal team with the expertise and experience in today’s global and local economy, check out the team at Silverberg and Weiss, PA. The law firm has serving South Florida for the past 12 years. Silverberg and Weiss offers clients a professional team that offers much more than just top-notch legal advice. “We are successful because we understand business, not just law,” said Paul Silverberg, who founded the firm in 2000. Silverberg and Weiss is a full service law firm that specializes in business law and commercial litigation, for clients seeking counsel with contracts, employee issues, litigation, business expansion, dispute resolution and much more. Both Silverberg and partner Kraig Weiss have strong backgrounds in business, finance, marketing, lending and international economics, meaning clients get the benefit of a more comprehensive, multi-layered legal approach. Working with a firm like Silverberg and Weiss can often dramatically lower a business’ legal expenses while increasing opportunity. “We don’t only come with legal perspective; we come with a business perspective. We understand many of the hurdles and strategies of the business world and we incorporate them in what we can provide our clients,” said Silverberg. Each representation is personalized to the client’s needs and circumstance. Understanding that trust and experience are some of the greatest assets clients require when hiring a law firm, the attorneys at Silverberg and Weiss take great pride in getting to know not just their clients, but all aspects of their businesses as well. “It is not just purely a single representation where we just address one issue. We take time to learn about their business,” Silverberg said. The 5-lawyer firm represents clients locally, nationally and on an international basis, including clients in Europe, Asia and South and Central America. Their clients range from individuals and start-ups Attorney's Paul Silverberg and Kraig Weiss offer a full service law firm that specializes in business law and commercial litigation. in the local community, to businesses operating on an international level. Backed by his business experience, Silverberg has handled professional services Reengineering, Strategic Planning and Negotiation. for Fortune 100 companies, multi-million dollar companies, and strategic growth The firm was founded by Silverberg, based strongly on his legal training at Holland companies. A major part of their business is helping clients who are learning how to do & Knight, one of the largest international law firms. He also served a judicial clerk business in the U.S. “We also have clients that do business nationally or internationally internship for a federal judge, professional business consulting and vital roles as Vice and they have issues across the country and we can handle that with a local perspective,” President of Corporate Affairs, Director of Finance and General Counsel. Silverberg he said. The firm has handled administrative and civil cases in front of most governreceived his Juris Doctor (J.D.), cum laude, and his business education (B.S.B.A.) in mental agencies including the SEC, FDA, Finance and International Economics. USDA and FCC. Five years ago, Silverberg was joined by partner Kraig Weiss, who previously At Silverberg & Weiss, the goal is client served as J.P. Morgan Chase’s lead litigation counsel for South Florida region and as satisfaction that leads to long-term relationan Assistant Vice President. J.P. Morgan Chase is the second largest U.S. bank with ships. Silverberg is quick to point out the vast over $1.1 trillion in assets. Prior to his executive stint with J.P. Morgan Chase, Weiss majority of their clients come from business spent more than eight years in private practice, where he practiced a broad scope of to business referrals, and that is something commercial litigation, family law, probate, estate litigation, civil and business litigation they are extremely proud of. They also and real estate litigation in both Federal and State Courts. Weiss received his Juris responded to their client’s requests several Doctor (J.D.) in 1995, where he served as an Articles Editor for the Nova Law Review, years ago to also offer legal representation and received his undergraduate degree in Political Science and minor in Business Firm founder Paul Partner Kraig Weiss in family law, probate and estate law and Administration from the University of Florida. Silverberg litigation. The clients wanted the opportunity to keep all of their legal needs with one firm. “Many times these personal matters also have a business spin.” Silverberg said. Silverberg & Weiss has received on multiple honors as the Best of Weston for commerSilverberg says in today’s uncertain economy, business owners are now in greater cial litigation and business law. In 2001, Mr. Silverberg was need of expert legal planning and protection. Making sure an investment is protected honored by Who’s Who Historic Society as International takes on an added priority as the global economy continues to struggle. “As things Who’s Who of Professionals. The attorneys of Silverberg change economically, people look to renegotiate their deals and if they don’t have and Weiss welcome discussing a relationship with your anything protecting themselves, they are subject to whoever is stronger at that minute,” business. They are located at 1290 Weston Road, Suite 218 he said. They are capable of assisting businesses with non-traditional legal services in Weston, or visit them online at www.pkslegal.com. To such as Business Plan Development, Corporate Structuring and Creation, Purchasing, schedule a FREE consultation, phone them at (954) 384Business Mergers and Acquisitions, Business Mediation, Agent Representation, Business 0998 or e-mail at info@pkslegal.com.

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April 2011

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COMMUNITY NEWS Plantation Resident Selected for Senior Hall Of Fame By Julie Levin

our community. We should be looking at them as our elders, and people with so much knowledge. I always learn so much from them,” he said. In addition to running Senior Volunteer Services, Gargotta has held a variety of volunteer positions, including Past President of Broward Coalition on Aging, Past President of the Council of Nonprofit Executives, former Board Member of the United Way of Broward County, and as Past Chair of Triad of Broward. He currently serves as Chairman of the Broward Aging Alliance, as well as a Board Member of the Planned Giving Council. The Senior Hall of Fame induction coincides with Older Americans Month, which is in May, and is designed to honor the accomplishments of senior citizens, 60 years of age or older, who donate their time to benefit the community. It was created in 1977 to help dispel the myth that seniors only came to Florida to retire. “Too many people thought that seniors came down to Florida to spend time in the sun, play cards, call the children and the grandchildren, and go out for early bird dinners, but we found that wasn’t necessarily the case,” said Edith Lederberg, the Executive Director of the Aging & Disability Resource Center of Broward County, which runs the Hall of Fame. The 2011 nominees also include: Joel S. Fass, Esq. of Weston, Bea Hedigan of Cooper City, Maria Thereza Mayo of Pembroke Pines, Kenneth S. Rubin, Esq. of Coral Springs, Mayor Emma Shoaff of Pembroke Park, Esmie Straw of Margate, Lora Thomson of Lauderhill, Belle Trebuck of Sunrise, Dr. Steven Weisberg of Hollywood and Commissioner Lois Wexler of Weston. To select the nominees, The Aging and Disability Resource Center asked for nominations from people in the community who knew of seniors going above and beyond the call of duty. There are more than 345,064 yearround seniors in the county and this year, 37 nomination were received. The winners were chosen by a committee that is headed by the head of the Broward County Commission, former inductees, board members, and community members. The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Broward is a “One-Stop Shop” for finding information regarding services in Broward County available for The Committee Members who elected the 2011 Broward Senior Hall of Famers: (standing, l-r): Senior Hall of Famer Jean Johnson, Parliamentarian, Areawide Council on Aging; Advisory Council Member Brad Teachey, seniors, persons with severe and Social Security Administration; George Fossett, Jr., Community Liaison for Representative Matt Hudson; Stephen persistent mental illness, ages Popiel, Assistant to County Mayor; D. J. Kanapa, Screening Supervisor, ADRC; and Gail Weisberg, Executive Director, Daniel D. Cantor Senior Center, and Dr. Anurag Agarwal, Radiation Oncologist, Broward Health. 18 and over, their families, and

ongtime Plantation resident John Gargotta will soon be honored for his work helping to improve the lives of senior residents. Come May 13, Gargotta will be one of 11 nominees inducted into the Dr. Nan S. Hutchison Senior Hall of Fame, which is made up of 335 outstanding seniors who made their mark by selflessly volunteering five or more years in Broward County. “It is a privilege and an honor because there are so many great people I am associated with,” said Gargotta, the President/CEO of Senior Volunteer Services. For the past 10 years, Gargotta, 66, has played a major role in coordinating over 1,000 senior volunteers in the community through his organization, which serves older adults who want to remain active, healthy and involved in their communities. ``We recruit older adults to volunteer to meet a need in the community,’’ said Gargotta, who has lived in Plantation since 1976. The nonprofit organization was founded 45 years ago and was one of the first to be awarded a Foster Grandparent Program. Foster Grandparents must commit to volunteer at least 15 hours every week to help tutor and mentor youngsters of all ages in local schools. Gargotta said the benefits far outweigh the imposition of time. ``There are so many positive physical and health benefits to volunteering,’’ Gargotta said. ``They are less depressed, live longer, better quality of life.’’ In addition to Foster Grandparents, Senior Volunteer Services also links its volunteers through its Retired Senior Volunteer Program, or RSVP, Senior Companion Care, Help for Caregivers, Dropout Prevention and Nonprofit Consultant Services, which offers the services and advice of retired professionals and executives. He estimates his volunteers have donated 3,400 hours of their time in service to the community, a number all too few are aware of. “Too many people in the community look at seniors in negative terms, but there are such an asset to

John Gargotta of Plantation.

caregivers. As the prime advocate for local Older Americans, the ADRC contracts with administering organizations for the following programs: senior centers; senior day care; site meals; home delivered meals; Alzheimer’s inhome and facility respite; minor in-home repair; legal; transportation; homemaker; personal care; respite; emergency response; and case management and more. The new Hall of Famers will be honored at the 28th Annual Dr. Nan S. Hutchison Broward Senior Hall of Fame Breakfast May 13. The event will begin at 9 a.m. at Diamante’s Banquet Center, 6501 W. Commercial Boulevard in Tamarac. County Mayor, Sue Gunzburger, will welcome the guests. The cost to attend, is $30 per person, or $300 for a table of 10. Sponsorship is $500 which includes one seat at a reserved table; publicity prior to, during, and after the event; and the ability to place handouts at each seat. For reservations, please call Cheryl Morrow, Executive Secretary, at (954) 745-9567, extension 206. For more information on the Aging and Disability Resource Center, You can phone them at 954-745-9779 or stop by their offices at 5300 Hiatus Road in Sunrise. Their information and referral services are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can also visit them online at www.adrcbroward.org. For more information on Senior Volunteer Services, visit them at www.seniorvolunteerservices.org or call 954-484-7117.

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April 2011

Ask the Expert Innovative Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids By Rodolfo J. Blandon, MD, Cleveland Clinic Interventional Radiologist

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lose to 75 percent of American women have uterine fibroids, according to the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. And nearly one-third of those women experience the severe and debilitating symptoms. Unfortunately, many women don’t know that they have fibroids and accept painful symptoms as a normal part of life. Cleveland Clinic interventional radiologist, Rodolfo J. Blandon, MD, answers some important questions about uterine fibroids and discusses innovative treatments. Q: What are fibroids and whom do they affect? A: Fibroids are benign growths in the uterus. They range from a few millimeters to many centimeters in size. African-American women and those with a family history are more likely to develop fibroids. Q: What are the symptoms of fibroids? A: Fibroids generally occur without symptoms. In most cases, they are discovered in routine pelvic exams. When symptoms are present, they may include: ▸▸ Heavy, prolonged monthly periods, sometimes with clots ▸▸ Anemia and fatigue ▸▸ Pain or pressure in the pelvis ▸▸ Painful intercourse ▸▸ Frequent urge to urinate ▸▸ Constipation or bloating ▸▸ Enlarged stomach area Q: What are the treatment options? A: Medical treatments include birth control pills and hormone treatments. Medications can cause menopause-like side effects and are prescribed to alleviate symptoms. Surgical options include hysterectomy, which is the removal of the uterus, and myomectomy, the removal of just the fibroids. While these options are generally effective, they require general anesthesia and a longer recovery period. Surgeries also carry risk of complications. A new option is uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive procedure that preserves the uterus and greatly reduces recovery times compared to traditional surgical procedures. Q: What is UFE and how is it performed? A: UFE is a minimally invasive procedure that blocks the blood supply to fibroids. The procedure requires only a small nick in the skin and lasts less than an hour. An interventional radiologist inserts a catheter (thin tube) into an artery in the groin and then uses X-ray imaging to guide the catheter to the uterine artery. Tiny round particles are injected into the arteries that supply the fibroids. They block blood flow, which decreases bleeding and causes the fibroids to shrink. The particles remain permanently at the fibroid site. The process is repeated in your other uterine artery for complete blockage of blood to the fibroids. UFE is clinically proven to reduce the major symptoms of fibroids, including pain, excessive and prolonged bleeding, and frequent urination. If you are experiencing symptoms related to uterine fibroids, your doctor can investigate further with imaging studies, such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Cleveland Clinic utilizes the most advanced technology available in the diagnosis and treatment of uterine fibroids. To schedule an appointment with a Cleveland Clinic physician specializing in uterine fibroids, call 1-800-639-DOCTOR.

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seen on scene Tinsel Auditions (1) Janett Elizabeth Alvarez belts out a song during an audition for the 2011 Tinsel Town Cabaret at the Volunteer Park Community Center February 26. (2) Tinsel Town Cabaret Producers Jack Takacs and Wes Lockhard were among those listening closely while selecting the performers for the show, which was held April 1.

ANTIQUE SHOW (1) The ladies of the Plantation Woman's Club organized their annual antique show at the Volunteer Park Community Center February 18-20. Among the members that helped run the show; (l-r) Janet Graham, Sue Kuchenreuther, Gloria Merritt and Martha Gregory. (2)Dealer Joseph Klein of Plantation was just one of the dozens of dealers that turned out.

Polish for Preemies Alexandria and Sydney Cohen show off the nail polish sets they helped create to help raise money for children born prematurely. Each set contains “twin” bottles of polish; one glow-in-the-dark light pink polish with sparkles, and one bottle of light purple nail polish. The Plantation girls are hoping to sell the gift boxes to raise as much as $5,000 for the Sydney & Alexandria Cohen Foundation Inc, a non-profit foundation focused on raising money to purchase advanced incubators for local hospitals. The polish is available at Pink and Blues in Plantation.

Green Expo (1) Dot Bates, Treasurer of the Plantation Garden Club, peeks out from behind the plants at the Green Day Expo held at Liberty Tree Park February 26. (2) Posters ringed the park, all boasting environmentally smart ideas, from students at Plantation’s elementary schools.

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