PLT September 2013

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Your LocaL communitY news magazine! september 2013

NOT A GYM 6 STUDIOS UNDER

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Cii September 2013 | plantation town timeS

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ContentScalendar

8 September 2013

community news10 Runners and Walkers Needed for New 5K Event

10 Adoption Event in Plantation Finds New Homes for Abandoned Dogs

12 Art Competition Draws Out Creative Talent

12 Food Lovers Search out the Perfect Bite at Hot Dog Fest

14 Donated Scooter Helps Teen Get Around14 Garden Club Looking to Grow

with New Volunteers15 Plantation Residents and Business Benefit

From Power Company Upgrades17 Plantation Firefighters Model

in National Spotlight

legally speaking16 New Loan Modification Program

for Homeowners

feature story18 Ellen’s Ultimate Workout…Six Studios Under One Roof

inspiring individual20 Local Cantor Hits a High Note with National Group

school news21 New Paladins Learn at Camp Everglades

camp round up22 Plantation Tennis Camp Serves Up Fun for Military Families

ask the expert24 How to Earn Higher Interest Rates on

Credit Union Checking Accounts28 Gait Disturbances in Children

photo contest26 The World’s Favorite Newspaper™

pet of the month28 Your Pet Could Be Our Pet of the Month!

seen on scene30, 32 Community Snapshots

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

Office Manager Gabriela Moscoso

art directiOn, design & PrOductiOn Barry Stock, Grace Umlauf

staff PhOtOgraPher Barry Stock

Visit us online: www.plantationtowntimes.com1960 N Commerce Parkway, Suite 3, Weston, FL 33326

Ph: 954-306-1007 • Fax [email protected] • [email protected]

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

publisher's page

While the heat and humidity are still with us, summer vacations are quickly fading into mem-ory and the kids are settling back into their school

routines. With the football season kicking into high gear, our life is slowly returning to ‘normal’.

Before we get too busy with after school activities, sports and music lessons, let’s not forget that the fall season in Florida has plenty to offer for fun in the sun. The ocean waters

are warm and beautiful and with the summer vacationers gone, the beaches are less crowded.

Turn the TVs and game consoles off for a bit, put down the phone for a while, and get out there to enjoy the surf, go shelling, visit the Florida Keys, take a tour through the Everglades, visit St. Augustine (the oldest town in North America), get out on a boat and catch some fish, or visit the theme parks of Orlando and Tampa.

Whichever activity you choose, make sure you do it together with family and friends. Our hectic lives force us to spend time sepa-rated from loved ones for most of the day to attend school and work, so make sure you take the opportunity to enjoy each other’s company whenever possible.

Sincerely, Sven BudzischPublisher/Owner

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10thlifelong learning lecture – Step into the mysterious world of ancient Egypt at this month’s Nova Southeastern University Lifelong Learning Institute lecture, “Egypt: The Mystery of the Pyramids, The Enigma of Hieroglyphics.” Covenant Village of Florida and the Nova Southeastern University Lifelong Learning Institute offer monthly lectures on a variety of topics, including art, music, literature, philosophy, history, politics, current events, science and healthcare. The lectures are free and open to the community, but reservations are required. 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. Town Center at Covenant Village of Florida, 9215 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation. For more information, call 954-472-3007.

thru 15thWhere the Wild things are: maurice sendak in his own Words and pictures – Where the Wild Things Are is an engaging exhibition and interactive exploration of iconic images and characters from some author Maurice Sendak’s most beloved books. Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121st Ave, Davie, FL 33325. 954-424-0085.

18thalzheimer’s caregivers support group – The group is sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association for those who care for patients with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Covenant Village of Florida, 9215 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation. 954-916-6463.

21stindoor rummage sale – 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Volunteer Park, 12050 W. Sunrise Boulevard. Call the Plantation Historical Museum at 954-797-2722 for information.

25th anniversary celebration – Come celebrate Plantation Midtown KindeCare’s 25th Anniversary celebration. Families past and current and the community are all welcome. Enjoy City of Plantation police and fire exhibitions, child safety mini-seminars, bounce houses, food trucks, games and hot dogs. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., 8301 West Federated Way, Plantation. 954-474-5855.

24thmother-daughter book club – 7 p.m. Helen B. Hoffman Library, 501 N. Fig Tree Lane. 954-797-2140.

10/4 & 5friends of the library used book sale- Helen B. Hoffman Library. 501 N. Fig Tree Lane. For more information, call 954-797-2140.

thru 10/112013 art search – A visual arts competition for students in grades K-12, sponsored by the City of Plantation Parks & Recreation Department and the Plantation Junior Woman’s Club. Any medium may be used with the exception of sculptures. All entries should relate to the 2013 theme, “Home is Where the Art Is.” Art work must be 12” X 18” (mounted size), must be labeled on the back side with the entrant’s name and phone number and must be submitted with an entry form. Only one entry per person. Entry forms will be available through Friday, October 11 at Plantation Central Park, Community Centers and Plantation schools. For more information, call 954-452-2510.

10/24-27saint david fall carnival – Saint David Church kicks off the school year with their semi-annual Carnival. Food, rides, entertainment and shopping galore round out the fun. Call the office for discount ticket information and how your business can benefit. 3900 South University Drive (University Drive just North of Griffin Rd). 954-475-8046. www.saintdavid.org/

thru 10/26

florida: 500 years of history 1513-2013 – Featuring artwork, displays & other exhibits highlighting Florida’s rich history. Plantation Historical Museum, 551 N. Fig Tree Lane. For more information, call 954-797-2722 or visit Plantation.org.

ongoingkids storytime – Wednesdays and Thursdays 10:30 a.m., ages 2-4. Wednesdays and Thursdays 4:00 p.m., ages 5 and up. Helen B. Hoffman Library. 501 N. Fig Tree Lane. For more information, call 954-797-2140.

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

Join the parade! – Do you want your group or business to be in the City of Plantation Holiday Parade November 23? The Greater Plantation Chamber of Commerce is looking for parade participants for “It’s a Wonderful Life in Plantation.” Applications are now being accepted. For more information or for an application, contact the Greater Plantation Chamber of Commerce at 954-587-1410 or visit Plantationchamber.org.

plantation farmers market – Fresh produce, fruit and much more. Saturdays at Volunteer Park, 12050 W. Sunrise Boulevard from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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Thanks to an event in Plantation, a few four-legged friends went home with new families recently after being saved from a very uncer-tain future. The dogs were adopted through an event held by the non-profit

group, 100+ Abandoned Dogs of Everglades Florida, which works to save the hundreds of helpless abandoned dogs in the Florida Everglades, and raise aware-ness about their plight. In operation since 2011, the rescue group has had their hands full. “We’ve taken in, in less than two years, over 900 dogs and more than 40 cats,” said Amy Roman, President and Founder of 100+ Abandoned Dogs of Everglades Florida.

On July 21, the effort was to find homes for some of their rescues. They set up an adoption event at One Plantation, located at 1650 SW 78th Street, which agreed to waive the standard $500 pet deposit fee for any new resident that adopted a dog from the Everglades group. The effort paid off, as at least two dogs and several pup-pies found new loving homes.

“We were thrilled to have the opportunity to show all of our wonderful dogs, in hopes that some may take up permanent residence at One Plantation. We are so thankful to One

Plantation for waiving the pet deposit fee and encouraging their residents to adopt one of our dogs,” said Roman.

Each month, Roman’s volunteers trek out to areas in far Southwest Dade in search of abandoned dogs and pets. The need is so great, Roman says during a recent trip in June they found nearly two dozen abandoned dogs, all of them emaciated and in need of water and medical care. Every dog they save is taken to a local Veterinarian for treatment and care, so the animals can be nursed back to health and readied for adoption. Roman and her volunteers name each dog, and post daily updates on their Facebook page, which has drawn 20,000 supporters worldwide. “We have found homes for all of them, except for the maybe 50 we have look-ing for homes right now,” she said.

100+ Abandoned Dogs of Everglades Florida is always looking for volunteers and donations to help with their efforts. For more about the rescue group, visit them on Facebook at 100+ Abandoned Dogs of Everglades Florida.

By JUlie levin

adoption event in plantation finds new homes for abandoned dogs

Close to 1,000 PeoPle are expected to gather together next month to help put their best foot

forward to help families who are raising a child with a developmental disability. Runners and walkers will take part in the first ever “In My Sneakers 5K Run/Walk” at the BB&T Center in Sunrise. The event, which is set for October 20th, is being organized by JAFCO or Jewish Adoption and Foster Care Options to help families living with the daily challenges of raising a child with special needs. “It is all about bringing funding to help with the cause of what JAFCO does, and of bringing awareness to the community that they would not have had before,” said Craig Konhauzer, who is co-chairing the event with Sharon Wender of Plantation.

The event will include a certified 5k run and a family walk, as well as a resource fair and fun activities for the entire family. The proceeds will benefit not only JAFCO’s current programming, but also the new JAFCO Respite and Family Resource Center for Children with Developmental Disabilities, which is scheduled to open early next year. According to Sharon Wender, the event stands to benefit every family in the tri-county area. “There is not one of us who cannot say they don’t know someone who is affected by an intellectual disability, or don’t have someone who has a child that is affected by an intellectual disability. It is everybody’s responsibility to reach out and help these families to preserve and support,” said Wender, the President of the Davie,

Plantation, Cooper City JAFCO chapter. Jewish Adoption and Foster Care Options

is a non-profit organization established in 1992 to provide services to abused and neglected children in South Florida. In 2009, JAFCO extended their mission to include services and support for families who are raising a child with a developmental dis-ability. Noting a rapid increase in the number of children who have been diagnosed with some sort of developmental disability, with autism being the most common affecting one in 88 children, JAFCO began working towards creating the JAFCO Respite and Family Resource Center for Children with Developmental Disabilities. Once completed, the center will provide onsite respite care for children with developmental disabilities allowing parents to have a much-needed

break from the often overwhelming stress of caring for a child with special needs. The center will be the first of its kind in the country to provide training, therapy, socialization, recreation and extended respite care – filling a vital unmet need.

JAFCO will host the “In My Sneakers 5K Run/Walk” on October 20 at the BB&T Center in Sunrise. The certified 5K run will start at 8:00 a.m. followed by the walk at 9:30 a.m. For more information and to Register visit www.JafcoInMySneakers.org. Anyone interested in learning more about the JAFCO Respite and Family Resource Center for Children with Developmental Disabilities or to make a donation should contact Gail Marlow, JAFCO Director of Development, at 954-749-7230, ext. 137.

By JUlie levin

runners and walkers needed for new 5k event

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community newS

art competition draws out creative talent By JUlie levin

Each year, the city’s finest youngest artists come forward to show their creative talents, and this year is no exception. The City of Plantation Parks & Recreation Department and the Plantation Junior

Woman’s Club is once again launching its annual art competition to help fos-ter a love of arts in the community. 2013 Art Search is a visual arts competition designed to be a showcase for local students with an eye for artistic beauty. It’s open to students in grades K-12.

The contest opens September 3 and runs until October 11 so that the winning entries can be displayed at the Plantation Junior Woman’s Club’s annual Art in the Park event November 9 and 10 at Liberty Tree Park, located at 7421 N.W. 5th Street. As an added bonus, the winning pieces of art are also displayed at Plantation Central Park for a full year.

The contest, which was created in 1993, has generated as many as 1,300 entries in years past. Each year, the PJWC select an overall theme for the Art Search competition. This year’s theme is “Home is Where the Art Is.” The judges, including competition co-chairs Barbara Clair Kettler and Lisa Charland, will be looking for works in all mediums, with the exception of sculptures, that best portray their theme. The club then selects several members each year to serve as judges, who look for a combination of artistic talent and how well the art repre-sents the theme. Entries have included everything from elaborate pieces to pen and ink drawings, watercolors, collages, photographs and pencil drawings.

At a formal awards ceremony, first, second and third place winners will be presented with award ribbons and gift cards in each grade level. Honors will also be presented for “Best in Show” and “Most Promising Artist”. As they have for the past few years, Markson Chiropractic will return as a sponsor of Art Search.

All entries should relate to the 2013 theme, “Home is Where the Art Is.” Art work must be 12” x 18” (mounted size), must be labeled on the back side with the entrant’s name, phone number and must be submitted with an entry form. Only one entry per person. (The City of Plantation is not responsible for lost or damaged artwork). Entry forms will be available Tuesday, September 3 through Friday, October 11 at Plantation Central Park, Community Centers and Plantation schools. All entries must be received at Plantation Central Park by 5:00 p.m. Friday, October 11. For more information, call 954-452-2510.

More than 3,000 PeoPle descended on Plantation’s heritage Park recently with empty stomachs and a big appetite to search out the perfect dog. They found plenty to keep them satisfied at the 2nd Annual

Hot Dog Fest, a yearly event that has rapidly grown in its short history. Organizers say that’s because hot dogs are a big part of the national culinary landscape.

“It’s National Hot Dog Month and Hot Dogs are the quintessential summer comfort food. It made sense to have a festival revolving around it. By the turnout at the events, it looks like we were right,” said Sef Gonzalez, who writes a blog about comfort foods in South Florida called The Burger Beast.

In its debut event last year, the hot dog fest was held in Hollywood. But this year, organizers saw the appetite for more locations and made it a tri-county event. In addition to the Plantation event July 28, there were also Hot Dog Fests in Miami on July 13 and Jupiter on July 21st.

All were designed to let hot dog lovers sample everything from tra-ditional ball park dogs, to corn dogs and specialty sausages. Working with Steve Simon, who organizes food truck events under the name Food Truck Invasion, the event featured 25 food

trucks, all of whom had their regular menu as well as specialty hot dogs for the day.

The highlight of the event was the Hot Dog Eating contest. The time limit at all three events was 10 minutes or whoever ate 10 hot dogs first. Mitchell Manresa was declared the winner after downing 10 dogs in 2 minutes and 11 seconds, the fastest of all of the eating contests.

By JUlie levin

food lovers search out the perfect Bite at hot dog fest

Above: Contestants prepare for the Hot Dog Eating Contest

Bottom right: Top Dog! Hot Dog Eating Contest winner Mitchell Manresa with National Deli’s Nat Deliman

A sample of some of the hot dog creations: Ms Cheezious Mac n’ Wiener(photos courtesy of Burgerbeast com)

Close to 3,000 turned out at Plantation’s Heritage Park for the 2nd Annual Hot Dog FestThe first place winners from last year’s Art Search Competition pose with Plantation Mayor Diane Veltri Bendekovic


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community newS

As an intern at arc Broward, it is Celexia Dixon’s responsibility to get to work on time. In a wheelchair and hav-

ing to ride the bus, it isn’t always easy for the 18-year old to make it to her job on time. But now, thanks to a donation from a local company, her commute recently got a little easier. Celexia was the recipient of a brand new mobility scooter, courtesy of The Special Needs Group, led by Plantation resident Andrew J. Garnett.

“When we heard about Celexia’s situation, we knew that we were the perfect organization to help her,” said Garnett, the group’s president and CEO. “Our mission is to deliver an acces-sible world, and that includes helping those right in our own area.”

The organization donated the $2,500 scooter to Dixon July 31 at ARC Broward, a nationally accredited, not-for-profit organization that provides services to children and adults with autism, Down Syndrome, and other intellectual disabilities, as well as those with various life challenges. The donation was the first of ten scooters that the Special Needs Group, which is a provider of special needs equipment rentals, plans to donate to residents throughout South Florida. “Everyone deserves to have the mobility

to explore their surroundings, and it’s one of our top priorities at Special Needs Group to make a differ-ence. We’re proud to give back to the community by donating 10 mobility scooters to those in need in Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade Counties,” Garnett said.

The new scooter is bound to make a difference for Celexia, who is who is interning as a reception-ist during the summer at ARC Broward through the Workforce One program. Before she had the scooter, she used a wheelchair and had to take multiple buses to get to and from ARC Broward every day. Her super-visors say she took it all in stride. “Celexia is a very dedicated, hard-working intern who never complains about her disability,” said Jessica Kersey, director of development for ARC Broward. “This donation will make a great difference in her life.”

Celexia said she sees nothing but new possibilities thanks to her new scooter.

“Receiving my new scooter from Special Needs Group was a blessing for me. It’s not easy being in a wheelchair and it’s not easy finding a job, but it won’t stop me from doing anything I put my mind to,” she said.

By JUlie levin

donated scooter helps teen get around

Andrew Garnett, Special Needs Group President & CEO; Celexia Dixon, ARC Broward intern; Jessica Kersey, ARC Broward Director of Development

Plantation’s garden cluB is kick-ing off a new season this month, and they are looking for new volunteers to join

them. Despite the group’s name, Past President Sheryl Melson says a green thumb is not a necessity. “It’s for anybody that has an interest in contributing time and expertise to the com-munity and is looking to have fun with a great group of women who are resourceful and bring different life experiences to the table,” said Melson.

Throughout the year, the Plantation Garden Club’s approximately 40 members meets once a month to plan its community-based projects and outreach events. Recently, they partnered with Covenant Village to host a Traditional High Tea. Community members, residents and high tea aficionados joined together for an afternoon of socializing, entertainment and fund-raising. Their other big fundraiser; the annual Plant and Rummage Sale which had become a fixture at the Kennedy Community Center, but had to be scaled back this year once the center was demolished. “Hopefully next year, we will find another venue that will serve us well and let us bring the event back,” said Melson.

The Plantation Garden Club’s fundraising efforts help them to connect with local schools. They offer two scholarships to deserving students each year and have donated to projects such as the Rocket Club at Plantation High School, the

Solar Car Club at South Plantation High School and Horticulture Clubs at both high schools. Elementary school students have benefitted through the planting of gardens.

The Plantation Garden Club has also estab-lished a Butterfly Garden near the Plantation Library and Historical museum and have helped with a newly formed Hands-On Broward project supporting a local community garden.

The Plantation Garden Club was established in 1963 by a group of transplanted northerners who wanted to learn more about gardening in South Florida’s tropical climate. Originally called the Park Planters Garden Club, meet-ings were held in the homes and gardens of the members. In 1974, the Club joined the Federated Garden Circles of Ft. Lauderdale, Inc. and changed the name to Hibiscus Garden Circle. After another series of changes, the final name Plantation Garden Club was selected in

2007 when the group withdrew from the Federation and went independent.

The Plantation Garden Club meets monthly on the third Wednesday of each month through May. Meetings run from 9 a.m. to noon. Membership is only $20 annually and open to all interested parties, as well as vis-iting guests. Meetings start with fellowship and a delicious potluck brunch, followed by a business meeting and a program with guest speaker. For more information, visit PlantationGardenClub.com. Emails can be sent to [email protected]

By JUlie levin

garden club looking to grow with new volunteers

Flower power: The Plantation Garden Club’s entry for the Plantation Independence Day parade The vehicle was provided by Jo Marie

McBean Other Garden Club members who helped decorate were Sonia Tueros, Cindy Bates, Janet Novak, and Jo Bridges


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By JUlie levin

plantation residents and Business Benefit from power company upgrades

Now that we are in the midst of hurricane season, we should all have our personal storm preparations and supplies in place. As you prepare your home and family, keep in mind that those that help keep our

electricity humming are also preparing to face any potential storms. Since March, FPL has been strengthening local power lines and equipment across South Florida, including Plantation, to make sure they better withstand intense storms.

High on the agenda this year; reinforcing six main power lines serving a number of key com-munity facilities includ-ing the Plantation Water Treatment Plant. The goal is to make the system stronger against powerful winds and help the area return to normal more quickly following storms. Work in Plantation was expected to be completed last month.

The 2013 projects are just the latest in a series of improvements the util-ity company has made since 2005. In Plantation alone, FPL has reinforced main power lines serv-ing Plantation General Hospital, inspected 7,400 poles in Plantation, cleared more than 880 miles of power lines of trees and vegetation in the city and inspected 89 lines using an advanced infrared camera.

The utility’s spokesperson says the improvements will benefit local residents and business owners. “Although FPL delivered its best reliability on record in 2012, we’re always working to make it even better,” said Juliet Roulhac, FPL regional manager of external affairs. “We’re upgrading our systems across Florida that serve critical local facilities – hospitals, police and fire stations and others – as well as major thoroughfares and commercial areas.”

The upgrades began after the last major hurricane season in 2005, which produced a record number of storms and hurricanes including Hurricane Rita and Hurricane Wilma. Since then, the utility company has invested more than $1 billion across its 35-county service area to improve the electric grid. Hurricane season began June 1 and will end November 30. Forecasters have predicted a busy season, with at least 18 named storms and nine of them hurricanes.

FPL Workers inspecting utility poles (photo courtesy FPL)

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New federal guidelines have recently taken effect that may give financially pressed homeowners a fresh opportunity to qualify for a loan modification. “HAMP” stands for the Home Affordable Modification

Program, a government initiative to encourage lenders to allow loan modifica-tions with reduced mortgage payments. Here is a summary of the new loan modification benefits:

lower debt-to-income limits – The new guidelines allow borrowers to lower their monthly mortgage payment to as little as 25 percent of their gross monthly income. Previously, borrowers could not qualify for HAMP unless their total mort-gage payment was more than 31 percent of their gross monthly income.

broader debt guidelines – The new rules also take into account more types of debt in evaluating a borrower’s financial burden, such as such as second mort-gages, medical bills, etc. The old guidelines focused solely on what a borrower was paying for their primary mortgage.

rental properties eligible – One of the biggest changes is that the HAMP program is now open to landlords who are struggling to keep up with mortgage payments on rental properties. Properties need not be occupied to qualify, and a single borrower can qualify to obtain loan modifications on up to three properties under the program.

repeat modifications allowed – It used to be that you only had one shot at a HAMP loan modification. If you couldn’t keep up with your payments, you could not reapply for a new modification. Under the new guidelines, borrowers who defaulted on a permanent or trial HAMP loan modification can apply for a new one, provided they’ve been out of the program for at least 12 months.

minimum 10 percent reduction – Under the new rules, all loan modifications performed under HAMP must reduce a borrower’s monthly mortgage payments by at least 10 percent.

principal reductions encouraged - New incentives are being provided to encourage lenders to allow principal reductions on mortgages where borrowers owe more than the home is worth. We have seen principal reductions up to 50 percent of the amount owed, drastic reductions in the annual interest rate, and even waivers of all past due amounts in certain instances.

Navigating through the murky waters of the new HAMP program is frustrating. It is even riskier when there is a pending mortgage foreclosure which could result in the loss of your home prior to completing the loan modification. If you would like more detailed explanations of different options available to homeowners in foreclosure, at risk of foreclosure, or considering bankruptcy are discussed in our new consumer friendly DVD developed by the Arcia Law Firm entitled “Fight for Your Home,” available for purchase on our website, www.fight4yourhome.com. If you mention that you heard about the DVD through this magazine, you will receive a FREE copy during the appointment to discuss your case in detail with a member of our qualified legal team.

If you are struggling to make your mortgage payments, or if you just received a foreclosure summons, contact the Arcia Law Firm today at 954-437-9066 to schedule your free consultation, or visit www.fight4yourhome.com for more information, client success stories and testimonials.

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They race to the scene of emergency calls, helP save lives and devote their lives to protecting the lives of Plantation residents. While they work those daily tasks, occasionally a non-fire related responsibility pops up

for Plantation’s paramedics. Such was the case for two veterans of the Plantation Fire Department who recently spent the day not fighting fires, but posing as mod-els in front of the cameras. “I never imagined myself as much of a model,” said Firefighter/Paramedic Evelyn Gabor, who posed for many of the photos. “It was a lot of fun, but it was a long day and a lot of work.”

Gabor, an 11-year veteran of the Fire Department and firefighter Matt Busa, a three-year veteran, spent more than eight hours recently working with professional photographers to help develop promotional pieces for Motorola’s new line of EMS communications equipment.

The partnership was nothing new. The Plantation Fire Department and Motorola, who maintains a large facility in Plantation, regularly partner on proj-ects including beta testing of new products, a one-day fire academy for Motorola’s engineers and designers, and production of promotional materials. “It’s an ideal public/private partnership,” said Plantation Fire Chief Laney Stearns. “They learn from our experience and we get to use the latest technology.” In addition, several of Motorola’s employees, including Busa, are volunteer firefighters with Plantation.

The fire department employees worked with members of Motorola’s marketing staff displaying their new line of EMS products. Both Gabor and Busa says the shoot was exciting because it gave them the opportunity to get a look at the latest technology in their field . The photos will be part of a nationwide campaign includ-ing promotional literature, trade shows and magazines. Gabor is optimistic her national debut doesn’t bring too much unwanted publicity. “I hope my friends don’t laugh at me,” she said.

The Plantation Fire Department has been serving the citizens of Plantation

since its inception in 1957. Today the Plantation Fire Department is the largest vol-unteer fire department in Florida. It is a multi-faceted community service agency providing a variety of services including fire suppression, emergency medical services, fire prevention, public education, and emergency management.

community newS

By JUlie levin

plantation firefighters model in national spotlight

Ready for her close up: Plantation firefighter/paramedic Evelyn Gabor takes directions from photographers during a promotional photo session for Motorola Gabor was a featured model when the Plantation Fire Department teamed up with Motorola to promote their new line of EMS products

section


Ellen’s ultimate workout slogan is “we are not a gym.” ellen has Been around gyms for 30 years and has seen that they do not work for a lot of people. Either clients do not know what to do or their body changes in the first six weeks and then plateaus. They get frustrated and stop coming. As a result, she created a one-of-a-kind studio six years ago. First, she took the best fat burning, muscle sculpting, de-stressing and flexibility programs and devel-

oped lesson plans that keep changing to prevent plateaus. Next, she created a gorgeous space, with top of the line equipment and the only large group training studio in the area.

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I have been a Pilates’ client at Ellen’s for numerous years and I will never leave! As a pediatric occupational therapist, I appreciate the knowledge that the staff has of the muscles. They understand the importance of

using the correct alignment and form to complete the exercises. During class, the emphasis is not just on completing the repetitions, but completing them with accuracy. Some days after class, I feel like my brain has worked as hard as my body to complete the exercises on the reformer. I know the importance and benefits of exercise and truly love Ellen’s Pilates. Patrice Freeman

Ellen’s is the most fun I’ve ever had while working out. Whether it’s the “Ultimate Workout,” “Tramp O Lean,” Pilates, or Spinning, I know that the instructors will always motivate me and get me to push

my limits. They keep it challenging by constantly changing up the routines. Ellen’s beautiful studio offers such variety that I don’t have to go anywhere else. I get it all here at Ellen’s.

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A Prestigious honor was handed down recently for one of Plantation’s longstanding religious leaders. At their annual convention

in Minnesota, the American Conference of Cantors installed Mark C. Goldman, the Cantor of Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El, as the president of its organiza-tion. Founded in 1953, the American Conference of Cantors is a non-profit organization dedicated to the professional growth and development of cantors in the Reform movement. They currently represent more than 450 cantors around the world. “It is a tremen-dous honor,” said Goldman. “I am looking forward to making a significant difference to the profession of the Cantorate as well as to the Jewish Community and to the community at large.”

A part of Kol Ami Emanu-El since 1995, Cantor Goldman has also been active in the ACC for many years, serving not only as a member of the ACC execu-tive board, but also as a Vice President. High on his agenda; looking at the changing Jewish community as it experiences challenges in the areas of affiliation, support and engagement, and finding proactive ways to have the Cantorate at the helm of needed change.

“We have an exciting and extraordinary opportunity to be on the cutting edge of contemporary Judaism, Jewish music and Jewish life,” he said.

With his appointment, Goldman also becomes the first openly gay Cantor to lead the ACC. It is a mile-stone he says is indicative of the Reform movement itself, of which the American Conference of Cantors is a part of. “I am fortunate to be part of a movement that has always been very forward thinking and identi-fied itself as being accepting of every member of the Jewish community, and indeed those who are not part of the faith as well,” Goldman said.

A native of London, England, Goldman is a descendant of generations of cantors. He pursued Cantorial studies as well as a B.A. degree in Judaic studies at the London School of Jewish Studies. He is the youngest ever recipient of certification by the Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom. Goldman has served as the ACC representative to the Union for Reform Judaism’s Southeast region since 2001. He established the Florida Association of Cantors & Soloists in 2002. He has served as a member of the ACC’s Placement Advisory Group since 2005, and launched the ACC’s Hadracha-Mentorship program in 2006.

For more information, visit the ACC’s website at www.accantors.org.

By JUlie levin

local cantor hits a high note with national group

Cantor Mark Goldman

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Even Before school officially started, students new to south Plantation High’s Environmental Science and Everglades Restoration Magnet program spent a day getting to know their teachers and classmates.

They gathered for Camp Everglades, the program which has provided the first experience for students with the magnet since its inception 12 years ago.”The greatest thing about magnet camp is that it helps the freshmen get to know the school and make friends before school starts,” said senior Miranda Running-Finger, a counselor. “The first day is less awkward and not as nerve-wracking.”

Counselors who led the campers are upperclassmen, and were selected through an application process. “They know the program inside and out, under-stand how to do the water testing and are active in school activities,” said Camp Director Matthew Zealy. After introductions of faculty and counselors, the 146 freshmen, who come from 24 different middle schools, learned about their class-

mates by participating in two bonding activities. An official camp photograph was taken to document the event. When they are seniors, the photograph is reproduced so they can see what they looked like as freshmen.

Presentations by the cheer-leaders and band helped the campers learn the words to cheers and songs. They learned

about the club and sports offerings. Guidance person-nel explained about high school expectations and graduation requirements. The campers then took part in a scavenger hunt around the school to find various offices/locations they will need throughout the year. They collected a band aid in the clinic, a sports sched-ule in the athletic director’s office and so on before picking up lunch in the cafeteria.

Campers were also introduced to the science curriculum as they took water samples from a nearby canal and analyzed the content. Then they enjoyed a modified-low ropes program focusing on team building activities. After a brief break, students wrote a letter outlining their academic and activity goals for the year. The letters are returned to the students at the end of their freshman year. ”The goal setting activity gives them the kind of mind set they need to become comfort-able with high school,” Running-Finger said. “They must learn to set goals and how to achieve them in order to become successful.”

Parents also attended a dessert reception where they met the teachers and learned how they, as parents, should be involved in their children’s high school including the parent group, F.E.R.M. (Fans of the Everglades Restoration Magnet).

“Magnet Camp involves both the parents and students with practical, useful information over a full day before school starts,” Zealy said, “so the first day I can actually begin teaching the curriculum.” Camp Everglades is supported by the South Florida Water Management District, Broward County Air Quality and Water and Wastewater divisions, and the Family Vending Company.

By JUlie levin

new paladins learn at camp everglades

school newS

Counselor Miranda Running-Finger helps students with water analysis

Team building: Students work together on the low ropes course during Camp Everglades


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By JUlie levin

plantation tennis camp serves up fun for military families

Several dozen youngsters learned how to serve, volley and work on their tennis strokes,

thanks to a Plantation camp that pro-vided a break for kids with parents in the military. For a third year, the Frank Veltri Tennis Center, the Plantation Tennis Tournament Committee and the Broward County Veterans Council once again offered a free Tennis and Pool Camp this past summer as a way of giving back to those that serve and their families. “Our families love the program. They tell us how much they appreciate what we do and how the kids have such a great time,” said Connor Montana, Camp Registration Director & Executive Administrator.

The tennis camp scholarships were offered to children ages 6-16 with a parent or parents on active duty or who are currently deployed and live in Broward County. Each two-week session was filled to capacity, with five families being invited to take part in each session at the center, which is located at 9101 NW 2nd Street.

The camper’s five-hour day began with tennis instruction and drills, followed by pool time, games, lunch and then more tennis in the afternoon. There was no charge to parents for the two week session, and any family that wanted to sign

up for a new session was offered a 50% discount.

The Frank Veltri Tennis Center is a subdivision of the City of Plantation Parks and Recreation Department. Located in Plantation Central Park, it is one of the largest public tennis facili-ties in South Florida with 26 lighted clay courts and 2 hard courts. The center also hosts many large national and international events such as the USTA Men’s $10,000 Futures, the Women’s $25,000 Challenger, the USTA Girls 14 National Clay Court Championships and is also the home of the USTA Orange Bowl International Tennis Championships.

Their Military Camp program began in 2010, thanks in part to club member Mark Morgenstern, who came to ten-nis center officials wanting to know if

there was a way their summer camps could give back to the military. After a long approval process by military officials, the Veltri Tennis Center got the go-ahead to offer the camp to all of Broward County and it has been growing ever since. “The parents are thrilled that this program is available,” said Montana.

For more on the Frank Veltri Tennis Center, www.plantationtennis.org.

(l-r) Taking a swing at Tennis Camp: Milsa and Natalie Pak, Alissa and Victor Berry, Christen and Jaylen Amoa


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Along with your morning coffee, something good is brewing at your local Credit Union. Credit unions are paying higher rates on checking accounts than other

accounts including those from banks. As stated in a recent article by Sally Deneen in the Sun Sentinel on August 4, 2013,“A search of reward checking accounts offered by Florida credit unions, for example, finds that two percent interest is paid on the free i-Net checking account offered by Sunrise-based PriorityONE Credit Union of Florida.” She also wrote “It seems

to be the highest interest currently offered among local credit unions.”

how can credit unions offer such high rates? Credit unions are not-for-profit financial cooperatives, owned and operated by their members. Earnings are returned to the members in the form of lower loan rates, higher dividend rates on deposits and lower fees. They are also governed by a volunteer Board of Directors elected by and from the credit union’s membership.

What are some of the requirements in order to earn the highest interest rate on a checking account? Interest checking accounts that offer the highest rates usually have conditions attached. If those conditions fit your regular banking style, you may be able to take advantage of a 2% Annual Percentage Yield on a free checking account. If the conditions are not a fit for you, ask about their other free interest bearing checking accounts. Those rates are usually still higher than the industry average.

Here are some of the most common requirements:

e-statements. This requirement allows the member to retrieve their statement

electronically and securely. It also allows the credit union to help save trees and save money on paper and postage.

direct deposit. When money is automatically transferred into the account on a regular basis it usually becomes the member’s primary transactional account.

online bill pay. When credit union members pay bills through their credit union’s online channels, they are more likely to consider the credit union their primary financial institution, making them a loyal member who uses many of the products and services offered.

debit card transactions. Many credit unions require a minimum amount of debit card transactions per month because they earn revenue from account activities which can be accomplished through debit card transactions.

Credit Unions have been receiving a lot of positive press because of the great products and high dividend rates they offer their members. Visit www.DepositAccounts.com to compare the interest rates being offered by credit unions, then give them a call or visit their website for details regarding becoming a mem-ber, account requirements and/or restrictions. Remember, at a credit union you are a member owner. Maybe it’s time for you to see what your local credit union can do for you!!

For additional information regarding high interest checking accounts, please contact us at 954-335-5100; www.priorityonefl.org or stop by one of our branches located at 3000 North University Drive; Sunrise, at 1900 West Oakland Park Boulevard; Ft. Lauderdale or 1700 North University Drive; Suite 100.Coral Springs.

how to earn higher interest rates on credit union checking accountsBy nanCy RappapoRt, pReSiDent anD Ceo oF pRioRityone CReDit Union oF FloRiDa

ask the expeRt


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The World’s Favorite Newspaper™

Three generations of the Zelman and Guttman families brought a copy of the Plantation Town

Times with them when they visited Independence Pass, Colorado at the Continental Divide recently. They are all wearing shirts representing Debbie’s

Dream Foundation. The foundation was started by Debbie Zelman, (4th from left) who has stage IV

incurable stomach cancer. Also in the photo, Madelyn Zelman, Danny Zelman, Andrew Guttman, Zachary

Guttman, Rachel Guttman, and Sarah Guttman.

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:

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


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pet oF the month ask the expeRt

Gait disturBances are one of the most com-mon concerns of parents. Children may begin walk-ing with their feet turned in or out, leaving parents

with many questions. The problem may be coming from any level between the foot and hip. Some deformities occur at one level (i.e. foot, leg, knee, or hip), while others are more complex. Some children may “grow out of it”, while others will not. Newborns and infants are born with their legs bowed and the lower leg turned in relative to the upper leg (medial tibial

torsion). This represents the fetal position of the lower limbs. With the beginning of walking the lower limbs start to straighten as normal physiologic development takes place.

CAUSES ▸ Genetic: Rotational problems often run

in families. When parents and siblings have grown out of it, the presenting child usually will as well.

▸ In utero position during pregnancy may cause the foot to turn in.

▸ Sleeping or sitting postures may not cause the problem, but will delay the resolution of them.

▸ Compensating mechanisms for limb deformities.

▸ Tight muscles and ligaments at any level.

▸ Bone deformities in the hip, femur, knee, tibia, or feet.

EXAMINATION OF THE CHILD ▸ Observation of the child at rest, standing, walking and running. ▸ Checking hip range of motion with the hip flexed and extended. ▸ Checking knee structure and the rotation of the tibia on the femur (lower

leg bone relative to upper bone). ▸ Checking the position of the ankle and the leg bone to determine bone

deformities. ▸ Observation of foot posture to check for curvatures and elevation or flatten-

ing of the arch. ▸ Neurological problems must be ruled out.

TREATMENT ▸ To effectively treat rotational problems, the level and severity of the defor-

mity must be determined. ▸ If sleeping and sitting position perpetuate the deformity, they must be

changed. ▸ There may be a need for casting the foot, ankle and leg (every two weeks)

to put tight ligaments and muscles into a continuous stretch. This may be necessary for anywhere between two and eight weeks.

▸ Physical therapy to improve muscle flexibility and to provide gait training to the child.

▸ In-shoe custom molded orthotics or gait plates to help encourage normal walking. This is especially beneficial in the flatfooted child or ones who are intoed.

▸ Night braces or splinting to encourage and maintain correction. ▸ In rare cases, surgery may be necessary if the problems persist and walk-

ing becomes difficult or if the child continues to fall or trip. ▸ In most cases, continued observation of the child may be all that is

necessary.

Robert Sheinberg, DPM, is a Board Certified Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Fellow American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Diplomat American Board of Podiatric Surgery. He is a partner in Foot, Ankle and Leg Specialists of South Florida and specializes in treating infants, children, teens and adults. His partners are Dr. Al DeSimone, Dr. Fernando Moya, Dr. Alexander Bertot, Dr. Mark Fishman, Dr. Carlo Messina, Dr. David Shenassa, and Dr. Nathan Vela. The South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine in Weston is located at 1600 Town Center Blvd., Suite C, (954) 389-5900 and in Pembroke Pines at 17842 NW 2nd Street, (954) 430-9901.

By RoBeRt h. SheinBeRg, D.p.m., D.a.B.p.S., F.a.C.F.a.S.

gait disturbances in children

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 [email protected].

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: _______________________________________________

Dexter is a male F1 Bengal whose Favorite toy is a stuffed penguin now missing a nose. His favorite person is whoever is holding a bag of groceries. He also likes stalking his big brother

Bauer, raw food, helping mom bake in the kitchen by walking all over the crescent dough. Dexter dislikes getting a bath or cuddling outside of his terms, being alone, and not being able to eat his brother’s food after he finishes his own. Dexter was last seen being scolded for getting into the litter box after a shower and trailing cat litter all over the apartment.


We are just down the road…with the expertise and experience you trust. There’s only one healthcare system in South Florida exclusively for children, Miami Children’s Hospital. And now we bring you the best in pediatric care through our expanding network of conveniently located outpatient and urgent care centers. A world leader in pediatric care, right in your own backyard. www.mch.com/outpatientcenters

Miami Children’s Hospital is the only hospital in Florida with programs listed in all 10 subspecialty categories nationally ranked by U.S.News & World Report in its 2013-14 “Best Children’s Hospitals” rankings.

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PediatriC reHabilitation, diagnostiCs and sUbsPeCialtY serViCes

to schedule an appointment, please call 786.624.2778 (aPPt) or toll free 888.624.2778.

To learn more about this center or other Miami Children’s Outpatient locations, please visit www.mch.com/outpatientcenters

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seen on SCene

As they do every summer, the City of Plantation hosted two special theme nights for residents

On August 2, cowboys hats and boots were the order of the day for the yearly Mother – Son Hoedown at Volunteer Park Moms and their sons, ages 6-10, were invited to mosey

on over for an evening of two-steppin’ tunes, cowboy rodeo games, pizza and more

(photos provided by the City of Plantation)

Earlier in the summer, Dads and daughters had their night together with some 50’s-style fun The annual Daddy – Daughter Sock Hop was held July 12 at Volunteer Park There were plenty of leather jackets for the guys and poodle skirts and high ponytails for the girls, as well as tunes from the 50s, pizza, punch, a twist contest, hula hoop contest, bubble gum contest and more


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The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

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school supply driveChildNet Director of Community Relations Elizabeth Wynter, Brinkley Morgan Associate Quentin Morgan and ChildNet Vice President of Network Development Neiko Shea show off a handful of the school supplies collected by the law firm of Brinkley Morgan The staff at the firm collected more than 20 boxes of school supplies for ChildNet, the Plantation-based lead child welfare agency in Broward and Palm Beach counties

bake saleLexi Cohen, Donald Durham, store manager of Winn-Dixie in Plantation and Sydney Cohen stand in front of some tasty treats during a summer bake sale at the store The Cohen twins baked for hours before selling nearly $200 00 worth of baked goods to benefit Broward County Animal Care and Adoption

friends of the library luncheonMarlene Lee, President of Friends of West Regional Library in Plantation poses with Broward County Library Director Skye Patrick at the Friends of Broward County Library, Inc , 9th Annual Awards Luncheon The luncheon, held June 20 in Plantation, drew more than 250 people and several guest authors to help recognize the accomplishments of the 32 Friends chapters in Broward County

neW head nursePlantation General Hospital is welcoming Debbie Anglemyer, RN, MSM as the new Chief Nursing Officer A nurse since 1985, Debbie received her nursing degree from Research-Rockhurst College of Nursing in Kansas City, Missouri and her management master degree from Baker University School of Professional and Graduate Studies in Overland Park, Kansas

super laWyerA Plantation man is among two local attorney’s recently named a Florida “Super Lawyer ” Alan Schwartzseid, an associate with Kaye Bender Rembaum, was recently honored by the Florida Super Lawyers rating service in the real estate practice area The Florida Super Lawyers rating service recognizes outstanding lawyers throughout the state who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement Schwartzseid was named to the 2013 Rising Stars list of up-and-coming attorneys Jeffrey Rembaum was also named a Florida Super Lawyer for 2013

shopping With the ‘finsDiane Philbin (below) kept her eye on the ball when it came to back-to-school shopping for some local students Philbin and members

of the Miami Dolphins Women’s Organization (MDWO) shopped in Plantation recently with 20 disadvantaged girls from Miami Dade County Each student had $300 to spend for back to school clothes courtesy of the Miami Dolphins Foundation and Sears

seen on SCene

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

poStmaSter pLeaSe DeLiVer iN home aS SooN aS poSSibLe. prSrt StDuS poStaGe

PAIDmiami, FL

permit #2438

www.plantationtowntimes.com1960 n. commerce pkwy., suite. 3, Weston, fl 33326

954.306.1007

Documents

PLT September 2013