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publisher's page

A Time to be Thankful!

A

s hard as it is to believe , another year is

quickly drawing to a close. Summer vacation is now a mere memory. We’ve crashed from the Halloween sugar rush. With cooler nights ahead, we can enjoy the beauty of South Florida’s fall season.

As the month of November takes hold, we begin to look forward to the coming holiday season. While families everywhere are busy making preparations for a delicious Thanksgiving feast, our Jewish friends will simultaneously celebrate Hanukkah as well, making this year a truly joyous time of togetherness.

While we sit down this holiday season with our loved ones from near and far to indulge in a fancy feast, let’s give thanks for all the little blessings we have received throughout the year. In the blink of an eye, another year will have passed.

Another year of family, friends and togetherness, of being there for each other and enjoying each other’s companionship.

Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Hanukkah!

Sincerely,

Sven Budzisch Sven Budzisch Publisher/Owner

Contents calendar 8

November 2013

Community News

10 Fall Art Show Returns for 47th Year 10 Emmy-Award Winning Comedy Writer To Provide Laughs for Camp Fundraiser 12 Community Knits Support Through Unique Project

12

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

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

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

Ph: 954-306-1007 • Fax 954-306-1008 editor@plantationtowntimes.com • graphics@ourcityweston.com Total circulation is 20,000. Quantum International Corporation, DBA (OCW), is published and direct mailed monthly to prestigious homes in the city of Weston verifiable by US Postal statements. Additional free copies are available at locations throughout the city of Weston and upon request by contacting this newspaper. Opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Quantum International Corporation, DBA OCW reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. OCW is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers. Entire contents copyrighted 2010 by OCW, Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

14 Residents Get First Look at Newly Renovated Deicke Auditorium 15 Volunteer Firefighter, Contest Winners Honored During Fire Prevention Month

Legally Speaking

20

16 Homeowners Beware of Foreclosure Rescue and Short Sale Scams

Inspiring Individual

17 Seventeen Magazine Features “Pretty Amazing” Plantation Teen

Feature Story

18 Footprints Boutique Combines Unique Apparel and Accessories with Exceptional Customer Service

Can Do kid

20 Debate Students to Dress for Success Thanks to Plantation Teen

School News

21 Local Harvest Drive To Help a Growing Number of Families

Ask the Expert 22 24 26 28

Don’t Ignore Your Back Pain Understanding Home Equity Loans The Importance of Regular Gynecologic Exams Choosing the Right Specialist for ACL Rupture in the Young Athlete

photo of the month 25 The World’s Favorite Newspaper™

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November 2013 | plantation town times

pet of the month 29 “Rambo”

it’s their business

30 A Shade Above Makes It Easy to Select Window Coverings

seen on scene 32 Community Snapshots

pAaRt Ty On! ! y a d h t r Bi

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Funding for this project is provided in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council.

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. Funding for this event is provided in part by the Broward County Board of County Commissioners as recommended by the Broward Cultural Council and Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau.

plantation town times | November 2013

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November 2013 | plantation town times

Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El

Invites All Families and Friends to Celebrate With Us! The

Festivalof

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8200 Peters Road • Plantation, FL 33324

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

calendar November 2013

3rd

9th

Plantation Volunteer Firefighters edit author Association’s 56th Annual Barbecue – Come join one of the City’s best loved traditions. Chicken & ribs with the Secret Veltri Sauce, bounce houses and carnival games, demonstrations, live music, raffles and prizes. Residents should watch for the ticket purchase letter in the mail or call the fire department at 954-797-2150.

Noon – 5:00 p.m. at Pine Island Park, 320 S. Pine Island Road.

Fashion Forward – The GFWC Plantation Woman’s Club will host its 4th Annual Fashion Show. Club models will be modeling clothes and accessories, presented by Chico’s at 833 Las Olas Boulevard. A catered buffet lunch will be provided

by Kristof’s Kafe of Davie. Raffle items will include a $500 Chico’s gift card and tickets may be purchased at the door (cash only). $25 per person. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Proceeds will be used to fund Plantation community service projects. Deicke Auditorium, 5701 Cypress Road, Plantation 33317. For more information, call 954-915-8660 or email Lireland@mindspring.com.

7th

9th & 10th

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Lauderdale West Health Expo – Free health screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, bone density, dental, eyes and flu shots.

Representatives from the health care and financial service industry will also be on hand. Free admission.

Complimentary food, giveaways, raffles and entertainment. 9:30 a.m.2:30 p.m. Lauderdale West Clubhouse, 1141 N.W. Lauderdale West Drive, Plantation. 754-366-5505.

47th Annual Art in the Park – Come enjoy two fun-filled days of fine artists, entertainment, special events and hands-on art projects for children. This year’s theme is “Home is Where the Art Is!” Sponsored by the Plantation Junior Woman’s Club. Free admission. Rae Carole Armstrong Liberty Tree Park, 7421 N.W. 5th Street. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. both days. For more information, call 954-797-9762 or 954-452-2510.

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

8

A 40th Anniversary Celebration – The Plantation Art Guild’s “Members Art Show” and 40th Anniversary gala will feature a champagne and chocolate salute to all of the member artists throughout the years.

There will be a raffle of donated art, merchandise and services, as well as door prizes. Founded in 1973, the Plantation Art Guild is the oldest art organization in Plantation. Free and open to the public. Proceeds from the event will be used for the PAG scholarship fund. 7 p.m.- 9 p.m. at Deicke Auditorium, 5701 Cypress Rd., Plantation. For more information, call 954-475-1406 or visit www. plantationartguild.org.

Veterans Day Service – Elected state and local officials and local veteran organizations join together to honor our American veterans.

Sponsored by the City of Plantation and the Plantation/Sunrise Chapter 138 Disabled American Veterans.

Plantation Veterans Park, 1776 Lauderdale West Drive. 9:30 a.m. For more information, call 954-452-2510.

16th

November 2013 | plantation town times

26th Mother-Daughter Book Club – Enjoy a shared reading experience with your daughter. Helen B. Hoffman Library, 501 N. Fig Tree Lane. 7 p.m.

954-797-2140.

30th Secret Holiday Shop – Just for kids!

Teen Volunteers at West Regional Library will help you pick out a special present for Mom, Dad, Grandparents, Brother or Sister. (No Parents Allowed)!

Items priced at $1 or $2 and gift wrapping is free. Ages 4-12, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sponsored by the Friends of West Regional Library. For more information, call 954-357-1560, ext. 4

Dec. 7th 23rd

Food Drive and Open House – Stop

by ChiropracticUSA for food, music, raffles and giveaways as they give back to those less fortunate. Admission is one bag of non-perishable items

30

18th

11th

8th Golf that Glows – Alternative Education Foundation will hold its Sixth Annual Glow-In-The-Dark Charity Golf Tournament & Party at the Fort Lauderdale Country Club.

Funds raised at the event will support research and programs that help children diagnosed with ADHD, Autism and other social and communication deficits develop the cognitive, social, physical and academic skills necessary to live constructively in society. 5 p.m. Fort Lauderdale Country Club, 415 E. Country Club Drive, Plantation, FL 33317. To register, call 954-327-4377 or visit aefgolf.org.

or a $10 donation. All proceeds will be donated to WECARE Food Pantry.

Complimentary massages. 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 300 N.W. 70th Avenue, Plantation.

RSVP 954-581-1999.

Catch the Parade – Take to the streets for an annual city tradition.

“It’s a Wonderful Life in Plantation!”

Holiday Parade will begin at 9:00 a.m. and head westbound at the intersection of Broward Boulevard and 441/State Road 7. It turns north on N.W. 69th Avenue, then west on 4th Street to City Hall. The Holiday Parade is sponsored by the Plantation Chamber of Commerce. For more information, contact the Chamber at 954-587-1410 or visit them on the web at Plantationchamber.org.

13th Annual Forrest Gump Table Tennis Tournament – Double elimination format. Trophies will be awarded for 1st and 2nd place, winners in all divisions. Rated Players/ Open Championship Division: Class A Division (2000 & Under); Class B Division (1745 & Under); Class C Division (1455 & Under). Non-rated players: Class D Strong Above Average Only; Class E Recreational Beginners Only; Kids 12 & Under.

Registration begins Friday, November 15 and the deadline to register is Friday, November 29. Central Park Gymnasium, 9151 N.W. 2nd Street 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Entry fee is $20 per person. For more information, call 954452-2510 or 954-585-2344.

Ongoing Kid’s Storytime – Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. 3 – 4 years and 4:00 p.m.

5 & up. Thursdays 10:30 a.m. 2 – 4 years and 4:00 p.m. 5 & up. Helen B. Hoffman Library, 501 N. Fig Tree Lane.

954-797-2140.

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plantation town times | November 2013

9

Community News

Fall Art Show Returns for 47th Year

By Julie Levin

I

f you are an art lover , or just looking to spend a beautiful

carried over to the City’s recent “Art Search” student contest, where students autumn weekend outdoors, make plans to attend one of Plantation’s best-known were encouraged to submit original art work expressing their interpretation of the theme. The winning works from the events. Art in the Park returns contest will be on display for all to to Liberty Tree Park in Plantation enjoy.

November 9 and 10th for its 47th Young artists will also be able year and organizers are inviting to get hands-on with activities in everyone to come out and enjoy the Kids Korner. There will also be a weekend of fine art, entertainentertainment provided by local ment and hands-on art projects. dance and performing groups. Art “Art in the Park is a wonderful in the Park will also feature live tradition in the Plantation commumusic, yoga, craft beer, food vennity,” said Danielle Durham, with dors and wine tasting. the Plantation Junior Woman’s Funds raised through Art in the Club Foundation and spokesperPark are returned to the community son for the event.”This event is through a variety of local projnot only fun and exciting, but it The 47th Annual Art in the Park Festival is set for November 9 & 10 at Liberty Tree Park ects According to the Plantation is also a work of the heart. The Junior Woman’s Club Foundation, Plantation Junior Woman’s Club proceeds have gone to local organizations such as Plantation High School Art uses the proceeds to help benefit Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Plantation Club, the Helen B. Hoffman Library, Young at Art Children’s Museum (benefiting community.” low-income Plantation children), and 4Kids of South Florida, whose crisis facility is Art in the Park has been a mainstay in Plantation for more than four decades, having been postponed only once due to Hurricane Wilma in 2005. It is run entirely located in Plantation. The festival also helps the club fund scholarships for graduating Plantation high school seniors. by volunteers from the Plantation Junior Woman’s Club, which was founded in 1962 to serve the community.

Art in the Park is a juried fine arts and fine crafts show and this year’s theme The 47th Annual Art in the Park Festival is set for November 9 & 10 at Liberty Tree Park, located at 7421 will be “Home is Where the Art Is.” Guests will get a chance to sample the work N.W. 5th Street in Plantation. Admission and parking are free. The event runs from 10 a.m. 5 p.m. both of dozens of vendors, displaying art in a variety of media including photography, days. For additional information, contact Danielle Durham at d627ils@aol.com or call 954-797-9762 or sculpture, painting, fine jewelry, pottery, wood work and crafts. The theme also 954-452-2510.

Emmy-Award Winning Comedy Writer To Provide Laughs for Camp Fundraiser

By Julie Levin

T

hanks to the effects of a still slow economy, summer camp is

falling off of the radar for many South Florida parents. To help stem that trend, a new effort is getting underway this month to keep kids going to camp. Thanks to the efforts of seven reform temples in Broward County, a firstof-its kind fundraiser is set for Plantation, and organizers are promising plenty of laughs thanks to an impressive line-up of performers. “It is going to be a great show,” said Jaimee Boettcher, Development Director with URJ Camp Coleman. “We are anticipating a big crowd.”

As many as 500 people are expected to turn out for Camp Coleman Presents The Daily Show, an evening of comedy and song that will be held November 16 at Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El in Plantation. The headline act for the adults only show--- Adam Lowitt, a four-time Emmy Award winner with the Daily Show who is a Camp Coleman alum. Also set to perform, fellow alum Patti Linsky, a recording artist and songwriter who will perform excerpts from one woman show “Alter EGO” and Jewish singer/songwriter Beth Schafer, who works at the camp during the summer.

Adam Lowitt, four-time Emmy Award winner and Proceeds from the show will support the new stand-up comedian will Broward Coleman Scholarship Fund. Headed by be one of the performers event co-chairs Rabbi Bradd Boxman of Kol Tikvah in Parkland and Jay Gellman of Temple Beth Orr in Coral Springs, the fund was created to help families throughout the county who can’t afford to provide the experience for their children. Though the camp has its own scholarship fund, those proceeds are split among temples in the entire Southeast region, and growing demand has meant increasingly limited funds.

10

November 2013 | plantation town times

For more than 50 years, the Reform Jewish summer camp in Georgia has played an important role in shaping the Jewish identities of many Broward County children, and in some cases has proven to be the only link to Judaism they get.”The odds are if they go to Jewish summer camp, they are going to have a Jewish home, and be involved in Jewish life. it is overwhelming over and above everything else that they do, from Sunday school to temple, to anything else,” she said.

The event will take place November 16 at Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El, located at 8200 Peters Road in Plantation. The show will begin at 8 p.m. and is for those 18 and up only. For ticket information, visit www. campcoleman.org

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11

Community News

Community Knits Support Through Unique Project

By Julie Levin

A

midst a sea of

pink decor, several dozen people came together recently for several hours to knit, crochet and share details of their day.

The pink symbolized Breast Cancer awareness month, so the volunteers decided to use their handiwork as a way of literally providing comfort to cancer survivors in the community. Using a soft blend of material, they began creating knitted or crocheted prosthesis for Several dozen volunteers came together October 6 breast cancer survivors. for the four-hour knitting and crocheting event.

Charity Smith-Engelin is an avid knitter and knows only too well the toll the disease can take. “I lost a cousin at the age of 24 to breast cancer,” she said.

The stitchers came together October 6 at A Stitcher’s Haven in Plantation.

Owner Ginny Matheo said she put out a call for volunteers after a friend told her about a program called Knitted Knockers, which since 2007 has provided more than 2,000 comfortable and free knitted prosthetics to women who have undergone mastectomies. “I thought this would be a wonderful community service project,” said Matheo of Plantation. “This is not going to be something we stop. We want to keep going until it is eradicated, until women don’t need it anymore.”

The designs are created in five different sizes and padded with a soft fiber fill.

“These are a lot more comfortable than silicone and also there are some women

who cannot afford silicone,” she said.

The volunteers were sent home with a bag full of yarn donated by vendors, as well as clear bags to wrap the finished products in. Since it is an on-going community service project, Matheo wants to reach out to stitchers who couldn’t make it to the kick-off event. She is encouraging them to visit the project’s online site to find the pattern, and then drop it by her shop once it is completed so she can ship it out.

Banking on the productivity of her volunteer stitchers, Matheo is hoping to be able to ship as many as 500 knitted prosthesis over the next few months.

For more information on the program, call Ginny Matheo at 954-476-3788 or visit KnittedKnockers.info

Below: Charity Smith-Engelin just getting started on her knitted prosthesis Below right: Ginny Matheo shows off a sample of the finished project

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community news

Residents Get First Look at Newly Renovated Deicke Auditorium

By Julie Levin

F

rom the paving of the parking lot, to a total overhaul of the

did a complete kitchen renovation, changed carpet and wall treatments, updated storage rooms and added a fire suppression system throughout the building. “It’s building’s interior, Plantation’s Deicke Auditorium has a new look. The City a completely new look,” added Ezzeddine, who put the project cost at $562,000, the held an open house September 19th to give residents a first-hand look at bulk of which came from a county grant, with the newly renovated City landmark. “This the City matching 20 percent of the cost. is an open house to show the public all of The 8,345 square foot facility is used for the renovations that went on here at Deicke meetings and cultural events year-round.

Auditorium, from the water sprinkler system The facility has a large meeting hall, an to the extension of the lobby and kitchen outdoor gazebo, a separate board room and and more. We totally renovated the builda kitchen area with serving amenities. It is ing,” said Jim Romano, Plantation’s Parks and home to the Plantation Woman’s Club and the Recreation Director.

Plantation Senior’s Club, and is adjacent to a The open house drew dozens of residents small ball field, outdoor basketball court and who wanted to take a peek at the new builda playground area. ing, while enjoying refreshments and remarks Ground was broken on the original auditofrom City leaders. The event marked the rium in 1972, which was named for Plantation reopening of the auditorium, located at 5701 pioneer resident and philanthropist Edwin F. Cypress Road, which had to be shut down Deicke. The building was enlarged over the for three months while the work was being years, and part of the original center is still done. During that time, works crew got busy part of the present structure. City leaders are bringing the building up to current standards, confident residents will check out the new including meeting ADA standards. “We comlook, and consider it for any type of future pletely gutted the core of the building,” said celebration. “We’re anticipating a nice The Deicke Auditorium is reopen after a three-month Danny Ezzeddine, Plantation’s Director of renovation project. The auditorium is used daily for meetings response from the community to rent this Design, Landscape and Construction. by community and civic groups and cultural events. place out,” Romano said.

Residents will undoubtedly notice the changes right when they walk through the door, as the auditorium’s lobby was expanded, and a front office was added. They also created two new bathrooms, The Deicke Auditorium is located at 5701 Cypress Road. For more information, call 954-585-2344.

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Community News

Volunteer Firefighter, Contest Winners Honored During Fire Prevention Month

By Julie Levin Left: Cameron Christie, a third grader from Tropical Elementary proudly displays his trophy and award winning poster with Fire Chief Laney Stearns (l) and Mayor Diane Veltri Bendekovic (r) as the City-Wide poster winner of the Plantation Fire Department’s Fire prevention month poster and essay contest.

I

Right: Timothy Shaw, a fifth grader from Plantation Park Elementary School reads his award winning essay during the Plantation Chamber of Commerce breakfast on October 9th.

n an effort to get the word out about fire prevention , the

Plantation Fire Department issued a challenge to the city’s school children recently. As part of Fire Prevention Month, the kids were asked to create posters and essays detailing ways to prevent kitchen fires, one of the leading causes of home fires. The goal of the contest is to encourage school-aged children to help firefighters keep communities safer by preventing and preparing for fire emergencies. “Fire safety is truly a team effort,” said Plantation Fire Chief Laney Stearns.

“The impact children have on their parents and families, when bringing home the fire safety message, is our strongest tool. Education is one of our most powerful weapons against fire and Fire Prevention Week is the perfect tie-in for our annual competition.”

The winning entries of the 37th Annual Fire Prevention Poster and Essay Contest were honored October 10, first at a Plantation Chamber of Commerce breakfast at the Jacaranda Country Club, then again at that evening at the City Council meeting at City Hall. The first place winner of the “Prevent Kitchen Fires” poster contest was Cameron Christie, a 3rd grader from Tropical Elementary School. The first place winner of the essay contest was Timothy Shaw, a 5th grader from Plantation Park Elementary School.

The Poster and Essay contest have been part of the Plantation Fire Department and the Plantation Volunteer Fire Association’s fire prevention activities, since 1976. The entries were judged by the Friends of the Helen B. Hoffman Library and The Plantation Art Guild and were named in various categories including “City-Wide”, “Best in School“, and “Honorable Mention.”

In addition to honoring the poster and essay contest winners, the department also honored its Firefighter of the Year. Robin Russell is a volunteer firefighter with the Plantation Fire Department, as well as an aerial journalist, covering the news from the South Florida skies for Helicopter’s, Inc. Plantation firefighter Robin Russell (c) with Fire Chief Laney Stearns Robin was honored for her dedication and and Mayor Bendekovic, during the Plantation City Council meeting commitment to the fire department as not on October 10th. Russell was only a firefighter, but as a State certified honored as the Fire Department’s Firefighter of the Year. driver, videographer, and backup PIO.

2013 City-wide winners:

Essay: First Place – Timothy Shaw, Plantation Park Elementary, 5th grade Second Place – Jaedyn Garcia, Plantation Park Elementary, 4th grade Third Place – Blake Andreoni, Central Park Elementary, 4th grade Poster: First Place – Cameron Christie, Tropical Elementary, 3rd Grade Second Place – Miraa Shukla, American Heritage, 3rd grade Third Place – Natalie Block, American Heritage, 3rd grade

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plantation town times | November 2013

15

Legally Speaking

Homeowners Beware of Foreclosure Rescue and Short Sale Scams

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

S

outh Florida homeowners and consumers in foreclosure or

at risk of foreclosure are inundated with television commercials, mailers, and even phone calls from companies claiming they can save their home.

These companies are usually unlicensed and inexperienced. They are looking for a quick profit at the expense of the consumer.

Here are some of the foreclosure rescue scams against which all homeowners must beware: ▸▸ Out of state and local companies guarantee that they can cancel the foreclosure process, and save your home. They often present these promises in official looking documents, which appear government issued or from a bank. At the bottom of the mailer is a tiny disclaimer, which reveals the company is not tied to any bank or federal agency. Since these companies are either non-attorneys, or attorneys unlicensed to practice in the State of Florida, they CANNOT represent you in court. They also CANNOT charge you an upfront fee of any kind to assist you with a loan modification, as it is illegal under Florida law, punishable by civil and criminal penalties. ▸▸ Many realtors have also jumped unto the foreclosure rescue bandwagon, and are pushing short sales which are NOT in the best interests of many South Florida homeowners. I have personally witnessed realtors in court posing as homeowners or counsel before a judge in order to obtain foreclosure sale cancelations and extensions.

We represent various clients whose realtors have even forged their signatures on official court documents and filed last minute bankruptcy petitions to stop foreclosure sales without the knowledge

16

November 2013 | plantation town times

or permission of the homeowner. This process is also illegal and is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Justice for federal prosecution. ▸▸ One other emerging scam is the land trust transfer. The way this unethical scam works is that a company will partner with a less than reputable law firm to prepare a land trust for the property in question, and transfer your title to a land trust over which you have zero control. Then, they file a court action by the land trust to remove the mortgage lien from the property. This process is not a legitimate means of saving your home. You will only lose your money and the title to your home if you fall for this scam.

If you have already fallen prey to one of these scams, demand your money back immediately and go to the appropriate authorities if they refuse to refund you money. There is only one way for homeowners to avoid these unethical and sometimes illegal scams -- hire a reputable and knowledgeable law firm, like the Arcia Law Firm, to represent your interests and obtain the best possible outcome, be it aggressive foreclosure defense, loan modification, short sale or bankruptcy.

More detailed explanations of different options available to homeowners in foreclosure, at risk of foreclosure, or considering bankruptcy are discussed in the 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 visit to discuss your case in detail with a member of our legal team.

To schedule a free consultation, contact the Arcia Law Firm at 954-4379066. You may also visit www.arcialawfirm.com for more information about the Firm, our staff and credentials, detailed articles, informative videos, and to make your appointment online.

Inspiring Individual

Seventeen Magazine Features “Pretty Amazing” Plantation Teen

By Julie Levin

K

ay-Ci B ele is “Pretty Amazing .” To

I wrestle with the boys . . . and win.

“I want people to look at me and think, I can do that, too!”

prove it, Seventeen Magazine, the popular monthly teen publication recently featured the Plantation teen in the pages of its October issue.

The 18-year old Bele hit the national spotlight as one of five finalists selected for the magazine’s coveted “Pretty Amazing” contest. The contest, which looks at the achievements, passion and drive of young women across the country, received 23,000 entries. Even though Bele didn’t get enough online votes to win a cover shoot, she says she was proud she made it in at all. “Seeing myself among the other winners and models, I just thought it was amazing,” she said.

Bele entered the contest to speak up for victims of sexual abuse, a plight she knows only too well. As a child, she was molested by a family member but kept it a secret for many years. Her father had her try new sports as a way of helping to heal, and she became hooked on wrestling. After just two years as the only girl on an all-boys wrestling team, she became a twotime All-American, two-time state champion and is in training for the 2016 Olympics. Bele says she entered to send the message that being the victim of sexual abuse does not have to derail your life. “I want everyone to know that no matter what happened to them,

“That’s what my message was about.

I wanted to empower other women.” you can make the best of your opportunities. You don’t have to be negative and angry,” she said.

Being one of the five finalists meant a trip to New York City in June--her first-- where Seventeen honored Kay-Ci along with the other Pretty Amazing finalists at a luncheon at the Hearst Tower. Guests in attendance included Pretty Amazing contest judges Seventeen Editor in Chief Ann Shoket, pop sensation Carly Rae Jepsen, and Pretty Amazing Mentor, Today Show anchor Natalie Morales. There was also a photo shoot and a chance to meet the other finalists. “We bonded because we were all there for the same cause,” she said.

Bele is now going to school at University of Jamestown in North Dakota where she plans to study elementary education. She says since her feature, she’s gotten countless messages on social media from people thanking her for telling her story. “That’s what my message was about.

I wanted to empower other women. You can do whatever you want to, you don’t have to be limited to what society thinks of you,” she said.

Kay-Ci Bele Courtesy of Seventeen Magazine

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plantation town times | November 2013

17

section Plantation Town Times · feature

Footprints Boutique Combines Unique Apparel and Accessories with Exceptional Customer Service

By Julie Levin

W

hether you are looking for a great

gift this holiday season, or a unique accessory for yourself, make sure you visit one of the best known women’s boutiques in Plantation.

Footprints Boutique offers a great selection of footwear, jewelry, accessories, handbags, belts and so much more. They are a familiar name in Plantation having been in business for nearly four decades. Thanks to their exceptional customer service, you’ll feel like you are shopping with friends at Footprints Boutique. Recently Peggy Jenkins, the general manager, answered a few commonly asked questions about the business.

as well as area schools to help raise money for PTO’s, programs within the schools, churches etc.

What events do you have coming up?

There is always something happening and more being planned. In the store, we are always having fun with different vendors, trunk shows, gift with purchase events, and we are a favorite for the American Express Small Business Saturday. We are a supporter of American Cancer Society- Relay for Life, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, FD Now, Can’t Stomach Cancer-the Foundation of Debbie’s Dream, Autism Speaks, American Diabetes Association and more.

How long have you been in Plantation?

When we opened our front doors in 1974, cows grazed where the Westfield Broward Mall now sits! We remain in the same shopping center which was once considered the most western part of the county, but is now centrally located for everyone in Broward County.

Please tell us a little about the owners and staff of Footprints Boutique. Our staff is a

Adrianne and Cari preparing mannequins for the apparel department.

What is Footprints Boutique? Footprints

Boutique is a “Mom & Pop” business in the heart of Plantation. We always offer unique accessories, gift choices, many jewelry lines and great apparel. It is a store where you can count on exceptional customer service.

What products do you offer? To name just

a few of our favorites- Brighton Accessories, Pandora Jewelry, Kameleon Jewelry, Lauren G Adams Jewelry, Jag Jeans, Silver jeans, Miracle Body Apparel, Fibers by Barbara Lesser, T- Party, D Cline, Yellow Box and Fit Flops, Gems by Gee. We also recently brought in My First Diamond- a new children’s jewelry line.

What’s a shopping experience like at Footprints Boutique? Customers can always count on something new, a friendly associate and a lot of options. We tend to be a hot spot for gift shopping and our team works hard to engage the customer and learn how to meet their needs.

Footprints Boutique is a familiar name in Plantation. Is community involvement an integral part of your business? Absolutely!

We feel both honored and fortunate to be a part of this community for nearly 40 years and giving back to those who have supported us is important. Many of us were raised here or are raising our own families here. We work closely with individuals at all of the organizations we support and we work with local churches and temples,

18

her 11th year. Isabelle just celebrated four years along with part-timers Joyce and Kathy. To round out our team, we have Sharon M. and our helpers Lindsay, Carly and Mackenzie and each year, we add to the holiday helpers’ team.

What’s new for the holidays? We are really

excited about all of the gift items we are bringing in for the holiday season. We are thrilled to have Lauren G. Adams jewelry join our selection and we are sure there will be a lot of happy holiday gift recipients. Pandora has some exciting items in store for Black Friday and the holidays and Brighton is always in our heart as new product is constantly arriving. We take part in every Brighton event, like Power of Pink, Brighton Across America and every “gift with purchase” special event.

true family affair. Footprints Boutique is owned

by Joan and Robert Charnow. It began as footwear store and has evolved into a full Why should service women’s customers shop boutique. Peggy at Footprints Jenkins is the genBoutique?

We eral manager and are a shop where keeps Footprints people will find Boutique involved in the Greater great gifts, excelPlantation lent service and a Chamber of smile.

Commerce, local parade and many Anything else charitable orgayou would like to nizations and add? Yes, we offer: schools. Sharin and Mobile Text Service, Cari are Joan and Birthday Club, Beautiful stackable bracelets by Lauren G Adams Bob’s daughters.

Customer Loyalty Gina is Bob’s sister Club, complimenand has been part of the Footprints team for 19 years. Not only is tary gift wrapping and Leaning Tree greeting she one of the most requested sales associates, cards, gift cards/certificates and phone orders. she is also magnificent artisan of gemstones Whatever the need,we truly go that extra mile. and jewels as the creator behind our Gems by Gee line. The rest of the team is also part of the How can customers find Footprints extended Footprints Boutique family. Martine Boutique? We are located opposite the just celebrated her 30th anniversary with Westfield Broward Mall at 240 South University Footprints Boutique and the owners sent her Drive, Plantation, FL 33324. Phone us at 954and her husband on a Caribbean cruise to celebrate. Lori was a customer and shopped with her 475-1520 or email Yourfriends@footprintsltd.net.

Footprintsltd.net is under re-construction now, mother, sister and grandmother when footprints so check back regularly as we are excited about first opened. Adrianne worked for a neighboring maternity store prior to making her leap to new things on the horizon. You can also like us Footprints Boutique and she recently marked on Facebook - Footprints Ltd.

November 2013 | plantation town times

plantation town times窶ポ窶クovember 2013

19

Can Do kid

Debate Students to Dress for Success Thanks to Plantation Teen

By Julie Levin

A

Plantation teen has launched a new com munity service project designed to help underprivileged speech and debate students look their best while competing. Rachel Wallack has created an initiative called “It Suits U” to provide local high school and middle school students with the proper dress --suits, jackets, ties and blouses--required for most speech and debate competitions. “In order for students to succeed, get to that competitive national level, they must present themselves in a way that elicits that success,” said Wallack.

The 17-year old Wallack, a senior at University School of Nova Southeastern University who competes herself, says she put her plan in action after noticing the difference in appearance between her school’s team and those of lower funded schools in the district. She wanted to find a way to level the playing field, since appearance does play a part in the judging. “Through my combined experience of competing and judging novice tournaments, I, along with my mom who provided another judge’s perspective, noticed local students’ lack of proper attire and wanted to help provide them with an opportunity to advance their speech and debate careers,” she said.

So Wallack began putting the word out to friends, par-

Plantation teen Rachel Wallack is helping speech and debate students dress for success

20

November 2013 | plantation town times

ents, students, and teachers and donations of dress clothes began coming in. Wallack is storing the clothes in her house while cataloguing the inventory. Once there is enough variety, Debate Coach Steven Schappaugh will send the list to coaches in areas where students are likely to need help. “I am incredibly proud of Rachel and the work that she is doing,” said Schappaugh. “She sees a need and it directly correlates to one of her passions. I am personally inspired by her generosity and spirit.”

“It Suits U” is looking for gently used, clean men’s, ladies and teens suits, dress shirts, blouses, and dresses with jackets, belts and shoes. Wallack is hoping to make the project an on-going one at the University School and has reached out to fellow competitors at other schools for donations and possibly to start their own chapters. “Dressing for success is one of the most integral aspects of this activity. I feel that having the appropriate dress will elicit high self-esteem and therefore positively impact the students’ performance. From personal experience, I know that when I feel great about myself, I perform to my greatest potential,” she said.

Donations of gently used male and female suits, suit shirts, and dress shoes are needed. If you have items to donate, e-mail Rachel at rlwallack@bellsouth.net.

School News

Local Harvest Drive To Help a Growing Number of Families

By Julie Levin

B

efore they sit down to their own

Thanksgiving dinners, Plantation High School students will once again give of their time to make sure others in the community have a meal to enjoy as well.

The school is once again serving as one of the distribution sites for this year’s Harvest Drive, the annual food drive that takes place at many schools each Thanksgiving. “We are excited to get it going and to serve the families in our community again,” said Shawn Howell, a social worker at Plantation High who oversees the project.

On November 18, Plantation High’s feeder schools that held food drives will begin dropping off their donations of non-perishable food and goods, so that students and volunteers can begin sorting the items. The goal of Harvest Drive is to provide families with a complete Thanksgiving meal and a week’s worth of grocery staples, as well as personal and household necessities during the Thanksgiving season.

Last year, an estimated 2,000 families received supplies from Harvest Drive’s 12 different distribution sites.

At Plantation High, organizers will again convert the cafeteria into a massive grocery store. Students will sort and organize hundreds of cans, bags and boxes of donated food before placing them into shopping bags for each family to bring home on November 21. In addition to non-perishable goods, the families will also be provided with gift cards for perishable items, like turkeys. Plantation High helped 75 families when they first came onboard five

years ago, but the number has steadily grown since then.

Howell says the project draws volunteers from many of the different clubs at the school, providing a true life lesson.

“I think they get a level of awareness of that need that is in the community,” she said. Even local elementary kids pitch in by making cards or napkin rings that are included in the packages. “It kind of personalizes it and we’ve had some nice feedback that the families enjoy that,” Howell added.

Harvest Drive began at Country Isles Elementary School in Weston in 1992. The project, led by organizers Renee Herman, Kim O’Neil and Patti Bradley, helped 35-40 families their first year. Now students from more than 150 public and private schools, churches, temples and neighborhoods have held drives and supplied the Harvest Drive with the non-perishable food that is distributed to the families just before Thanksgiving. The other distribution sites include Western High School, Pompano Beach High School, Cypress Bay High, Stranahan High, McArthur High, South Broward High, Taravella High, Glades Middle, Westglades Middle, Sunrise Middle and the Lanier James Education Center.

If you’d like to help, organizers are requesting either monetary donations for gift cards, or donations of non-perishable items, including paper goods.

Plantation High School is located at 6901 NW 16th St. in Plantation. For drop off information, phone them at 754-322-1850. For more information, visit www.HarvestdriveFlorida.com.

Megan Tayar works the piles of donated food at an earlier Harvest Drive. The Plantation High cafeteria will once again be packed with hundreds of cans, bags and boxes of donated food that students will arrange into grocery bags for each family.

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Ask the Expert

Don’t Ignore Your Back Pain

By Wendy Urso, P.T., C.L.T. and Practice Promotions, LLC.

D

o you feel those aches and pains in your lower back from

time to time? Do you feel stiffness in your back getting out of a chair after sitting for awhile? Four out of every five Americans will suffer from back pain at some time in their lives. Some of the possible causes include: 1. Lumbar or sacral radiculopathy: The result of pressure on a nerve coming from the spine, often caused by a bulging or herniated disc. This is often mistakenly called sciatica which comes from compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle deep in the buttock.

2. Spinal stenosis: This is a narrowing of the bony spinal canal which causes the nerves to be “squeezed.”

3. Facet arthropathy: This is usually due to aging or “arthritis” of the joints in the spine.

4. Lumbar sprain/strain: This is a common cause of low back pain that may be due to injury to multiple structures, such as muscles and tendons. The parallel rows of muscles that run up and down either side of the spinal column are the major muscle group usually involved in lower back injury.

5. Bony fractures: These may be due to trauma, or sometimes occur without any injury in people with osteoporosis.

Most lower back pain sufferers will first try over-the-counter analgesic drugs and bed rest. But for the majority, these self remedies will not provide the relief that they need. In fact, bed rest can often be the wrong thing to do because it can weaken the spinal muscles further. Weakness in the spinal muscles is one of the main reasons for low back pain and puts you at risk for injuring your back with common daily activities such as lifting, bending or squatting. Most of us sit too much and this contributes to severe weakening of the back and torso muscles which are needed for a healthy back.

The sooner they get physical therapy help, the faster they will get relief. This

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Delaying physical therapy could lead to loss of movement, loss of coordination and even loss of independence. Talk to your doctor or give us a call today about getting the proper treatment at Advanced Therapy Concepts.

Wendy Urso, PT, CLT, has been a practicing physical therapist in Broward County since 1995, after graduating from Florida International University, Magna Cum Laude. She began her career in Physical Therapy on a spine team working with injuries of the spine, from simple strains to severe herniated disks and spinal surgeries. Her experience and knowledge in Physical Therapy assures results at Advanced Therapy Concepts. To schedule your free pain consultation at Advanced Therapy Concepts, please call 954-616-1670. For more information please visit www.a-therapyconcepts.com or stop by the office at 2035 N University Drive, Sunrise.

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plantation town times | November 2013

23

ask the expert

Understanding Home Equity Loans

By Nancy Rappaport, President and CEO of PriorityONE Credit Union of Florida

I

t ’ s time to celebrate over a delicious cup of cof -

fee. According to data from Standard and Poor’s, home values in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties jumped 14.8 percent from a year ago. What does that mean to homeowners? Should you sell or fix-up your current home? Many homeowners have elected to use their home equity to upgrade their current home. If you are in the market for a new kitchen, pool or even a debt consolidation loan, ask your local credit union about their affordable home equity loans.

and the current interest rate. The rate is based on an index, such as the Prime Rate, plus a margin and will vary with the index.

What are the benefits?

▸▸ Home equity loans typically have lower interest rate than credit cards ▸▸ Fixed monthly payments with a home equity loan ▸▸ Interest cost on home equity loans may be tax deductible ▸▸ Borrowers may qualify for large loan amounts (based on built-up equity) ▸▸ Funds can be used for any purpose (college tuition, debt consolidation, home remodeling, etc)

What is a Home Equity Loan?

A home equity loan is a second mortgage that is secured by the equity in your home. The lender determines the equity based on the market value of your home minus what you owe.

There are two types of home equity loanswhich one is best for you?

1. Fixed Rate Home Equity Loan 2. This loan provides a single-lump-sum payment to the borrower, which is repaid over a set period of time at an agreed-upon interest rate. It’s important to know that the payment and interest rate remain the same over the life of the loan. A fixed rate equity loan protects the borrower from interest rate increases and payment fluctuations throughout the life of the loan.

3. Home Equity Line of Credit 4. This loan is a line of credit also known as a HELOC. The interest rate is variable and works like a credit card. The borrower is pre-approved for a certain spending limit and can withdraw money when they need it by simply writing a check. This line of credit is repaid based on the amount used

Any downside?

▸▸ Rate is usually higher than the first mortgage ▸▸ Adjustable monthly payments with a HELOC ▸▸ Risk of losing your home if loan is defaulted on ▸▸ Downturn of the housing market could put you owing more than the value Equity loans are not for everyone, but they could be perfect for you! Compare the different types of home equity loans and lenders; borrow only what you need and make sure the monthly payment is easily within your budget.

For more information please contact us at 954-335-5100; www.priorityonefl.org or visit one of our branches located in Sunrise, at3000 North University Drive; in Fort Lauderdale, at 1900 West Oakland Park Boulevard; or Coral Springs at 1700 North University Drive; Suite 100.

Attention First Time Home Buyers!

Ready to make the move to buying your first home? Then don’t miss this Free First Time Home Buyers workshop that will cover everything you need to know about purchasing and financing a home.

Date: December 5, 2013 Time: 10:00am -12:00pm Location: PriorityONE Credit Union 3000 N. University Drive • Sunrise, FL 33322 RSVP: Dianna, 954-335-5131

by November 25th

To get pre-qualified, call, stop by any of our branches or apply online at www.priorityonefl.org today. Act now while rates are still low.

Coral Springs 1700 N. University Drive, Suite 100 (next to Chili’s) Sunrise 3000 N. University Drive Ft. Lauderdale 1900 W. Oakland Park Blvd. (in the Post Office building)

www.priorityonefl.org 954-335-5100 Federally insured by NCUA

24

November 2013 | plantation town times

photo of the month

The World’s Favorite Newspaper™

We Want Your Photo!

Take your latest copy of Plantation 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@plantationtowntimes.com Neil, Jay, Jacob and Linda Green brought the Plantation Town Times with them during a recent trip to Israel. This photo was taken during a visit to a Kibbutz. Jay and Linda live in Plantation.

SAVE ON hOmEOwNEr’S iNSurANcE se habla español

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

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plantation town times | November 2013

25

Ask The Expert

The Importance of Regular Gynecologic Exams

By Dr. Michele Lapayowker

A

lthough B reast C ancer Awareness Month is now behind us, the importance of being aware of breast cancer, early detection , self–examination and general gynecological exams should be on our minds all year long. Every woman, whether she is in her teens, 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, 60’s or 70’s, should be diligent with her own mammogram and pap smear screening and be comfortable performing her own self breast exam. Every woman should have a routine gynecologic exam every 12-24 months depending upon her medical history. Prevention of diseases and early detection of problems are the main reasons why every woman should consider her own gynecologic exam as important as taking her children for their “back to school check up.”

Let’s look at the busy mom or professional woman.

Both are juggling work in or out of the home, spouses, children, parents and many other responsibilities. These women can easily neglect their annual gynecological exam and screenings. It is imperative for a woman to take the time to take care of her own health and learn about preventive measures at any age. Every woman deserves her own moment to discuss her own personal issues as well concerning, premenstrual syndrome, sexually transmitted infections, birth control and hor-

monal changes.

Today our teens are maturing faster and are being exposed in their daily lives to many difficult situations regarding relationships and personal health issues.

A teen should be informed about how her body functions, her menstrual cycles, the importance of safe sex behaviors and the risks of teen pregnancy. The more knowledge a young woman has, the more likely she will be able to make safe and responsible choices and take care of her own health.

Women must take charge of their own health. We are fortunate today to have many new technologies and testing modalities. The new 3D mammography, Tomosynthesis, is now being offered at many centers and can detect up to 15% more breast cancers than traditional screening. We have the ability with our pap smears now to detect abnormal or pre cancerous cells, viruses and bacterial infections with just two swabs in one visit.

Dr. Michele Lapayowker is a Board certified Gynecologist serving women in Broward since 1995. She cares for each patient individually and has a gentle approach to women of all ages. Her Plantation Office is in the Bennett Medical Plaza at 201 NW 82nd Ave, Suite 104, Plantation, Fl., 33324. For more information or to make an appointment, you can phone her office at 954-472-2201 or visit them online at www.

LovelyladyGyn.com.

• New Location • I am pleased to announce the opening of my new office in

Plantation to care for you!

• Well Woman Exams, including pap smears & breast exams • Adolescent Counseling and “First” Exams • Contraception Planning including Skyla, Mirena, Paraguard & Nexplanon • Menstrual Problems and Management • Perimenopause, Menopause and Hormone Evaluation & Management • Basic Nutrition and Lifestyle Counseling

Dr. Michele J. Lapayowker Board Certified GyneColGy

26

November 2013 | plantation town times

Bennett Medical Plaza

201 NW 82nd Avenue | Suite 104 | Plantation, FL 33324 954.472.2201 | www.LovelyLadyGyn.com

TAG USA Gymnastics

Q&A with Michael & Marissa

1. What makes the gymnastics programs at TAG USA different?

In the four years that we have owned the gym, TAG USA has transformed into a very popular and successful gym. Class Directors Elizabeth Geraci and Coach Luis Lopez have our classes very well organized with lesson plans and quality mature coaches.

Our competitive teams are competing head to head against other local gyms and have great success. At the October competitions at Celebrate America and Gold Rush, TAG USA finished in First Place in Levels 2, 3, and 4 versus most of the other local gyms. The success of our teams comes directly from our quality recreational classes.

2. Tell us about the amazing past year for TAG USA! Everyone knows about our back to back state championships in 2012 and 2013 and our girls and boys regional champs.

In 2013, TAG USA had our first Boys National Champion Qualifier and the gym’s first NATIONAL CHAMPION. This summer Olympic Gold medallist Aly Raisman worked out our team girls and visited our classes and summer camp kids. Other famous visitors included Olympian Scott Johnson, Olympic Coach Miles Avery, and US National Team Coach Luminita Garcy.

3. How does having the largest gym benefit a young athlete?

All gyms in this area, even ones with large programs, are in a small facility. TAG USA has a large and popular gym, which allows us to have much more space with more equipment. Our class groups get more training time and repetitions because they do not share equipment like in other gyms.

What also makes us different is that all parents have front row seats to watch their children and our class schedules run concurrently for the convenience of families with multiple children.

4. How has TAG USA’s unique programs changed gymnastics in the area?

Other gyms have tried to copy our success, but TAG USA invests in quality coaches and has a one-of-a-kind facility.

Our unique ideas have included presenting every athlete with a medal at the end of their class session, having free newborn and mommy classes, which are open to the community, and having the lowest prices for classes and teams. TAG USA has always been a USAG gym and we are happy to see other gyms change to a USAG program.

Besides having the best facility, we are different because we actually train our coaches properly, use lesson plans to evaluate skills, and have managers that monitor every class.

5. What do you recommend for parents who are searching for a recreational program?

I tell parents to visit all of the local gyms and compare the cleanliness and safety of the facility, the organization of class programs, success in teams, and our special prices.

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Ask the Expert

Choosing the Right Specialist for ACL Rupture in the Young Athlete

By Dr. Al DeSimone

A

nterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) ruptures

remain one of the most devastating injuries to the young competitive athlete. The ACL is the major supporting ligament within the knee joint providing stability to the knee during running, cutting and twisting sports. Though a traumatic collision with another athlete can cause a rupture to the ACL, a sudden alteration in speed and/or change in direction can also predispose an athlete to this injury.

The athlete will often describe a loud popping sensation within the knee joint and experience severe pain, swelling and weakness combined with an inability to ambulate. Diagnosis is usually made by obtaining a proper history of injury and by performing a thorough clinical examination of the involved knee. X-rays and MRIs are extremely beneficial during this evaluation and will often help rule-out concomitant injuries to the adjacent ligaments, menisci and/or cartilage.

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November 2013 | plantation town times

The goal of treatment is to return the athlete back to his or her prior level of activity, including competitive sports. Rarely, one may consider conservative/nonoperative treatment for those patients that are extremely sedentary and inactive in athletics. In this incidence, treatment may include rehabilitation, bracing and restriction to certain activities. For those individuals who are competitive athletes and participate in high-demand twisting sports, surgical ACL reconstruction is the treatment of choice.

Over the last several years, I have seen numerous patients with surgical failures from prior ACL reconstructions that have been referred to my office for further consultation and revision surgery. Having performed over 1,700 Anterior Cruciate Ligament reconstructions and over 200 revision surgical procedures, I remain convinced that this procedure is extremely technical and should be treated with state-of-the-art surgical technique and attention to detail. Though re-injury may be a common cause of failure subsequent to ACL reconstruction, technique related failures are commonly seen and can often occur from improper graft selection, tunnel placement, graft tensioning, and/or methods of fixation.

Timing of surgery and proper postoperative instructions, including return to athletics, also play a significant role in prevention of re-injury. In concordance with the literature barring any anatomical or growth related considerations, I prefer to utilize bone-patella tendon-bone autograft for the young, high-demand athlete.

Treatment of an Anterior Cruciate Ligament rupture continues to be a challenging problem for the high school, collegiate and community athletes. It is imperative that young individuals (and parents) understand the importance of pursuing treatment by an experienced surgeon, preferably with a subspecialty interest in knee ligament reconstruction. Failure to do so may predispose an athlete to additional surgery and prevent return to sports in a timely manner.

Al DeSimone, MD, is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon. He is Sports Medicine Fellowship Trained in Shoulder and Knee Ligament Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. DeSimone is a partner in the Sports Medicine Associates of South Florida P.A. He practices at the South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine at 1600 Town Center Blvd., Suite C. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (954) 389-5900.

pet of the month

“Rambo” Just in time for Halloween, Rambo--a sevenyear old Egyptian Pharaoh Basset Hound-- dressed up in a baron pilot costume.

Rambo’s favorite person is Zoltan, aka daddy, who is the only person that knows how to prepare his foods and cover him when it’s raining. His favorite toy is his three- year old flea and he loves iguana, ducks, squirrels and orchids. His favorite pastime is helping daddy in the garden but gets in trouble when he chews on his orchids. Rambo hates the pool and disappears when anyone takes a dip. He was last seen bringing daddy his little bone while he cooked so he felt like he was contributing to the meal.

Sponsored By:

954.306.1007

www.plantationtowntimes.com 1960 N. Commerce Pkwy., Suite. 3, Weston, FL 33326

Your Pet Could Be Our Pet of the Month!

Every month Plantation Town Times randomly picks a pet of the month winner. Enter your pet today!

Email entries to Editor@PlantationTownTimes.com.

Please send a high-resolution photo with your entry.

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:________________________________________________

plantation town times | November 2013

29

it’s their business

A Shade Above Makes It Easy to Select Window Coverings

By Debby Teich

How do you help customers make decisions? We

do everything we can to guide our customers through the process and help them make good decisions. We help them choose the products that will fit their needs by asking the right questions.

Describe your staff.

Bruce Abramson, Sales Consultant/President and Elliott Goldenberg, Sales Consultant/Store Manager

F

or nearly 30 years, A Shade Above in

Davie has helped thousands of customers select the right window coverings for their homes, condominiums and offices. The store offers a large selection of the newest and most innovative shades, interior shutters, blinds, draperies and top treatments to fit within any budget. The attentive and knowledgeable staff helps facilitate any window fashions’ project – no matter how big or small.

Customers can count on our The store is located in the University Creek Plaza in Davie. knowledgeable and friendly window fashion professionhome service warranty. If anything happens durals to coordinate their decorating ing that period, there is no charge for someone project from start to finish. Our to visit the home to fix it. staff has received extensive training on Hunter Douglas window Describe your selection. We pride ourselves fashions and more - including in offering ALL of the latest in window shades design, measuring, installation and and blinds, including motorization on most trouble shooting. We know how to products. help customers choose the best What are some of the newest products? window covering look and appliMany of our customers are looking for alternacation for their needs. Our installtive products to vertical blinds for their sliding ers are Certified Hunter Douglas installers. glass doors. Panel track gliding window panWho are your customers? We offer both fullels are the fastest growing window covering service and self-service. Some of our customers category in South Florida. We offer a choice of want to do it themselves, while others want to four different vendors in the product category, be pampered with full service. including Hunter Douglas’s Skyline product.

What are some of the other brands you sell? We offer a

variety of products from Hunter Douglas owned subsidiaries, such as Comfortex, and Kathy Ireland Home by Alta.

Bruce Abramson, Sales Consultant/ President, who has been in the window covering industry for more than 30 years, answered some commonly asked questions about A Shade Above.

How long have you been in business? We have been in business since 1984.

Why is it beneficial to buy from a local retailer? From the

The store has over 100 displays in the 2,500 sq. ft. showroom.

moment customers contact us, they will see why it makes sense to shop local when it comes to buying custom-made window fashions and other interior design solutions. We are dedicated to providing our customers with personal attention, excellent service and professional installation. Our product and service offerings are selected with the needs and tastes of the local community in mind.

Describe your showroom. We recognize that

it can be very difficult to make decisions from small samples. We have over 100 displays in the 2,500 sq. ft. showroom. This gives customers an opportunity to operate the window coverings and envision how they will look in their own homes.

30

Describe the self-service option. Many of our customers are very handy or on a tight budget.

They can save 20 percent by measuring and installing themselves. We give them a form to fill out with clear directions on how to measure.

Self-service is available on all products, except Plantation shutters.

Describe the full-service option. Most cus-

tomers choose the full-service option. A representative from A Shade Above visits the home to measure the windows using laser technology to ensure accuracy. If the windows are bare, we supply a temporary shade. All window coverings are installed by our Hunter Douglas Certified technicians. Customers receive a three-year in-

November 2013 | plantation town times

Panel track gliding window panels are the fastest growing window covering category in South Florida.

What areas do you service? We are located in Davie and service all of Fort Lauderdale. We go as far north as South Palm Beach County and as far south as North Miami Dade County.

A Shade Above is located at 5967 South University Drive, on the NW corner of Sterling Rd. and University Dr., in the University Creek Plaza. It is open Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 6pm. Evenings and Sundays by appointment. For information, call 954-434-4774 or visit www.asawf.com.

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Where everyday is a Homeshow!

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plantation town times | November 2013

31

seen on scene

Green Apple Day

Students in the Environmental Science and Everglades Restoration magnet program at South Plantation High celebrated National Public Lands Day, also known as the Green Apple Day of Service. More than two dozen volunteers got to work October 4 maintaining the hardwood hammock at Jack Carter Harmony Park in Plantation. Volunteers also removed weeds and added mulch to the wildflower garden that skirts the parent drop-off road at the school. Other students prepared the school vegetable gardens for a winter planting. (Photo credit: Alyce Culpepper)

Go Wildcats!

The Plantation Wildcats run onto the field at the recent Dolphins Blitz at Bamford Sports Complex. The event featured activities by the Miami Dolphins, such as a Junior Training Camp and appearances from Dolphins alumni. The Wildcats played against the Davie Broncos.

(Photo credit: Miami Dolphins)

Pumpkin Project

Members of the Jacaranda Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry team pose with many of the decorated pumpkins collected during the recent 6th Annual Pumpkin Run. Employees from 20 local medical offices met at the Plantation office October 17 to drop off almost 80 decorated pumpkins, which were delivered to children at Miami Children’s Hospital Dan Marino Outpatient Center and Plantation General Hospital.

They’ve Got Spirit

Students from Mrs. Sessa’s 6th grade class at American Heritage Lower School hold the award-winning banner that took the top spot during a school-wide banner contest recently. A panel of cheerleaders and football players awarded the win, as well as the Spirit Trophy.

32

November 2013 | plantation town times

Geraldo Rivera Broadcasts from Plantation

Close to 1,000 South Floridians turned out for a day-long career fair recently at the Sheraton Plantation. As part of the event, national radio host Geraldo Rivera broadcast live from the fair.

Geraldo’s show is carried by 850-AM WFTL, which hosted the September 11 event to connect potential employers with local residents, military veterans, and former law enforcement.

Happy Thanksgiving

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