PMTT DECEMBER 2010

Your Local Community News Magazine! December, 2010

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M ost of us had the fortune to spend a won-derful Thanksgiving Holiday surrounded by family members and friends, enjoyed a

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december4thDance from the Heart – Glorious Being Center, in collaboration with Meg Segreto’s Dance Centre, presents “Dancing from the Heart.” The young dancers take to the stage to perform original choreographed pieces to Holiday favorites including The Nutcracker, Polar Express, Rockettes and many more. All of the proceeds from this fundraiser will go to build a permanent home for the children of the WORCSA Orphanage in Ghana, Africa. The show starts at 7 p.m., at the Miramar Cultural Center/ArtsPark, 2400 Civic Center Place. For information, call 954- 602-4500.

5thAn Enchanted Christmas – The Ballet Ouvert presents An Enchanted Christmas. The show takes place Christmastime at the Andersons. It starts at 7 p.m., at the Miramar Cultural Center/ArtsPark, 2400 Civic Center Place. For information, call 954- 602-4500.

8thLetters to Santa – Santa is waiting to hear from all the boys and girls in Pembroke Pines. Drop off letters to Santa by Dec. 8 and he will send back a response. Drop off letters in Santa’s Express Mailbox at City Hall or mail them to: THE NORTH POLE; C/O City of Pembroke Pines Parks and Recreation; 10100 Pines Blvd.; Pembroke Pines, FL 33029. There is no charge.

11thSnow Fest – The weatherman is predicting snow today, from 2 to 6 p.m., in the City of Pembroke Pines. Bundle up and play in 45 tons of freshly fallen snow. The event features

a snow area (ticket required), musical entertainment, rides and thousands of twinkling lights on display at City Hall. Pembroke Pines will also welcome Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. Listen to holiday music, provided by a local school chorus, play in Santa’s yard and enjoy refreshments. Bring donations of canned goods or a new unwrapped toy to the lighting Ceremony and the Parks and Recreation

Department will deliver your donation to needy families locally. Cost for snow area is $4 for Pembroke Pines residents/$6 for non-residents. For information, call 954-435-6525.

12thAcademy of Arts – The Academy of Arts will have you smiling with an evening filled with music, singing, and dance suitable for all ages. It will include excerpts from the Nutcracker, ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and musical theatre numbers. The show starts at 5 p.m., at the Miramar Cultural Center/ArtsPark, 2400 Civic Center Place. For more information, call 954-602-4500.

17thLighting Ceremony – Santa will arrive on Dec. 17, at 6 p.m. and stay until 8:30 p.m. Thousands of twinkling lights will be on display at City Hall, 10100 Pines Boulevard. Children’s holiday activities include visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, musical entertainment, arts and crafts and Santa’s Play Yard.

Nutcracker – Ballet Etudes of South Florida proudly presents its 36th anniversary performance of “The Nutcracker,” starring English National Ballet Principal Arionel Vargas, Brazilian ballerina Michelle Saramago, Ballet Etudes Principal Dancer Dagmar Moradillos, and a cast of over 100 dancers. The magical production from Ballet Etudes Company features lavish sets and scenery, colorful costuming, exquisite lighting, superb choreography, and delightful theatrical effects. Ballet Etudes’ Nutcracker production is under the direction of Artistic Director Susana Prieto. Shows are at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the Miramar Cultural Center/ArtsPark, 2400 Civic Center Place. For information, call 954- 602-4500.

18thSundaes with Santa – Join Santa and a few of his friends at the SW Focal Point for whimsical time during Sundaes with Santa, from 2 to 4 p.m. Cost is $5 per person for Pembroke Pines residents/ $7 non-resident. Space is limited. For information, call 954-435-6525.

19thJazz Concert – Join the City of Pembroke Pines for a relaxing afternoon at William B. Armstrong Dream Park, 1700 Dykes Road (NW 160 Avenue). The Jazz Concert is free and will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. For information, call 954-435-6525.

21stChildren’s Holiday in the Pines – The Glass Gallery Opening Reception for “Children’s Holiday in the Pines” will be held at Pembroke Pines City Hall, 10100 Pines Blvd. from 7:00-9:00pm. For information, call 954-986-5027.

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seen on scene

Over 100 vendors participated in the Two Day “Flea Market and Craft Show” benefiting Senior Programs at the City of Pembroke Pines Southwest Focal Point Senior Center. The treasure hunt extravaganza offered some of the best bargains in town.

Pembroke Pines Commissioner Carl Shechter and his wife Anita hosted the 7th Annual Swing for the Green Charity Golf Tournament at the Hollybrook Golf and Tennis Club in Pembroke Pines. The event benefited the Southwest Focal Point Senior Center. Swing for the Green has raised over $100,000.

The City of Pembroke Pines Citizen Police Academy volunteers A.K.A. The PUMPKIN PATROL hit the streets with Halloween treats. They handed out treats from their “Pumpkin Carriages.” “The Pumpkin Patrol volunteers always enjoy this event,” said Valerie Davis of the Pembroke Pines Community Affairs Department. “They patrol the City streets as an extra pair of eyes and ears to help keep everyone safe and serve as a visual deterrent to anyone thinking about disrupting the fun of Halloween.”

The Pembroke Pines Fire Department wore pink for three days to help raise awareness in the fight against cancer. The standard blue or white shirts worn daily by person-nel were replaced by the pink shirts from the firefighters on the street all the way up to the Fire Chief. (l to r) Driver Engineer Larry Williamson, Firefighter Richard Detata, Firefighter Paramedic Charles Young, Firefighter Paramedic Gonzalo Carrasquillo, Mayor Frank C. Ortis, Lieutenant George Lindor, Captain Toby Young, and Battalion Chief James Sammarco. Photo is courtesy of Pembroke Pines Firefighter John Mullin.

The City of Miramar held its annual Health and Wellness Expo at the Miramar Multi-Service Complex.


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Botox 101

B otox® is the brand name of a medication that is used to treat dynamic wrinkles in the face. This medicine is a form of a purified Botulinum toxin that is produced from a bacterium named Clostridium Botulinum. These bacteria are normally

found in contaminated products and can cause a serious illness called Botulism. The Botulinum protein acts as a neurotoxin and, when ingested from contaminated food or entered the body from a wound infection, this toxin produces muscular paraly-sis. Basically, the Botulinum toxin blocks the signals that would normally tell your muscles to contract.

The use of Botulinum toxin type A as a therapeutic agent started in the early 1980s to treat certain ophthalmological conditions. The side effects were rare and treatable. The use of Botox® for cosmetic purposes started in the late 1990s. It received FDA approval in 2002 after formal trials for the temporary treatment of frown lines (glabel-lar muscles). The interest in Botox® for cosmetic purposes has increased dramatically over the last five years.

For cosmetics purposes, tiny quantities of Botulinum toxin are injected into the intended muscles. The muscles then become paralyzed, eliminating the wrinkle and improving the facial appearance. The effects of Botox® are temporary because the toxin wears off over time. The treatment generally lasts three to five months. It must be repeated to, once again, achieve the desired effect.

The amount of toxin used is very small and is injected directly into certain muscles or groups of muscles. The risk of spreading to other areas of the body is very low. Other complications are uncommon, but occasionally occur. Bruising at the injection site is possible, but also temporary. Botulinum toxin injections should be given only by a trained medical professional, even when used for cosmetic purposes.

Every patient’s cosmetic concerns and facial features are unique. The practitioner analyzes your facial anatomy and then gives the dose of Botox® that he/she believes will give you the best cosmetic enhancement. A very tiny needle is used for the procedure. The injection is almost painless. It takes about 15 minutes to complete the treatment.

Botox® is a great alternative to surgery. Botox® is cheaper, quicker and less invasive than a face lift, and no recovery time is needed.

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community news

Hundreds to Volunteer at Susan B. Anthony recovery centerBy deBBy TeicH

O n Dec. 12, hundreds will gather to lend a helping hand to the Susan B. Anthony Recovery Center. The Pembroke Pines facility, located at 1633 Poinciana Dr., helps address the needs of mothers who suffer from substance abuse. It

provides help, hope and healing for the mothers and their children so they can live responsible, drug-free lives. The volunteers will spend the afternoon cleaning, garden-ing and painting to help improve the facility.

The effort is all part of the Jewish Federation of Broward County’s 6th annual Tikkun Olam Day. Tikkun Olam, which means “repair the world,” is a fundamental principal of Jewish tradition, and the day is an annual tradition for the Jewish Federation and participating synagogues. In the past, they have provided assistance to Women in Distress, the Salvation Army Transitional Housing, Archways Mental Health facility and the Sexual Assault Treatment Center. Adults and children from more than 20 Broward County synagogues are expected to join this year’s effort at the Susan B. Anthony Recovery Center. “It is a wonderful opportunity for people from all over the county to come together for one meaningful day of work,” said Pepe Dunay, vice president of community relations for the Jewish Federation.

The volunteers will landscape, adding trees and shrubbery. They will paint picnic tables and pave a dirt pathway, making it easier for residents to push strollers. They will fix up some of the common areas inside. They will also create a store for the residents where they can purchase children’s toys and clothing using points they accumulate. The facility currently only has a store for adults. The residents will be gone while the work is being completed, but will return in time for a group ice cream social. “We are so pleased to help the Susan B. Anthony Recovery Center which provides critical support to mothers with substance addiction,” said Eric B. Stillman, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Broward County. “The dedicated people who work there give so much to struggling mothers to help them keep their family together, and it will be an honor to help the facility on Tikkun Olam Day.”

Anita Platt, co-chair, has been busy preparing for the event. Her committee has been collecting in-kind donations including native plants, shrubs, playground equip-ment, picnic benches, pavers, mulch, interior paint and storage shelves, as well as toiletries, household items, clothing, toys, food and more. “It is so important to give back to the community,” said Platt. “Tikkun Olam Day is an incredible opportunity to donate your time to make life better for the people who use the services of the Center.”

The Susan B. Anthony Recovery Center, founded by the Junior League of Greater Ft. Lauderdale in 1995, serves over 60 families at a time on a five-acre campus that includes 40 apartments, a child care center and an Administration/Treatment facility. It is the only residential treatment facility in Broward County that allows the children to reside with their mothers. This removes the barriers for women entering treatment and prevents their children from being placed in the over burdened foster care system. The Center provides the moms and children with the skills and services they need to help stop the cycle of addiction.

Tikkun Olam Day volunteers must be age 10 or older and are required to sign up in advance to participate. For more information, send an email to pdunay@jewish-browardorg; call 954-252-6949 or visit www.jewishbroward.org. For information on the Susan B. Anthony Recovery Center, visit www.susanbanthonycenter.org.

Peter Berg and Stan Lebowitz help paint at Women in Distress during last year’s Tikkun Olam Day at Women in Distress.

Volunteers help garden at Women in Distress during last year’s Tikkun Olam Day at Women in Distress.

Lois Rubin, Harlene Zweig and Tami Isenberg show their shirts from last year’s Tikkun Olam Day at Women in Distress.


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community news

By deBBy TeicH Santa’s express Brightens the Holidays for Pembroke Pines youth

L egend has it that Santa arrives on a sleigh pulled by reindeer. Don’t be sur-prised, however, when you see him driving up on a bright red fire truck with flashing lights during the 14th Annual Santa’s Express Children’s Holiday Toy

Delivery Program.The program is for residents of Pembroke Pines, with children ages ten and under.

This year, it will be open to the first 250 applicants to sign up on Dec. 4, at Station 69, located at 9500 Pines Blvd. On registration day, families make a $10 donation per child to the fire department or donate a new, unwrapped toy with a $10 value. These toys will then be given to children in need. Families also provide a wrapped toy for their own children when Santa arrives to their home on the night of the scheduled delivery.

“The children will never forget the moment when they see Santa pulling up to their home on a fire truck with a gift for them,” said Rick Scopa, public relations officer.

“The program also helps make the holidays special for so many needy children.”

Scopa created the program 14 years ago, along with Vinny Garcia, captain. They read about a similar program in California and decided to implement it in their own city. It was an instant success. Scopa spent many years deliv-ering the toys to the children at their Pembroke Pines homes.

He drove the truck and played the role of Santa. Now he oversees the entire program and lets other volunteers experience the joy in the children’s faces.

Scopa coordinates the four fire trucks that will deliver the gifts on Dec. 13, 14 and 15. The volunteers who ride the trucks are fire fighters, as well as others who dedicate their time to the effort. Scopa also coordinates the delivery of more than 1,000 gifts that

are collected for the needy. The gifts are donated to Pembroke Pines families that are identified by the Parks and Recreation department. They are also donated to a variety of local charities, including Children’s Harbor, which provides resi-dential services for foster children in a family-style setting, and community based services for the prevention and intervention of abuse and neglect. “It is incredibly heartwarming to see the faces of the children who thought they would not receive anything for the holidays,” said Scopa, who always participates in the Children’s Harbor delivery. “They get so excited when they see the lights flashing and hear the fire trucks arrive.”

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ask the mayor

Pembroke PinesPeMBroke PineS MAyor FrAnk c. orTiS

I am pleased to inform you that for the second year running, the City of Pembroke Pines has made it to the short list of the Best Places to Raise Kids in America. BusinessWeek describes our

city as popular with retirees and with young families due to our star charter schools as well as our major league athletes and foot-ball celebrities. I am proud to remind you of the other accolades Pembroke Pines has won. Pembroke Pines won the National Civic League’s coveted “All-America City Award” in 2004 and was a

finalist community in 2003. Pembroke Pines also received an “outstanding achieve-ment award” in the “2005 City Livability Awards” Program, sponsored by the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Many of Pembroke Pines schools have received the “Five Star School Award” from the Florida Department of Education for showing evidence of exemplary community involvement. In 2010, two of our charter schools won the National Blue Ribbon Schools Award.

All of these awards were presented because of the cooperation of the residents, schools and employees of the City of Pembroke Pines. It gives me tremendous pleasure everyday when I am out and about in our community, and residents come up to me and say how happy they are to reside in our city. The adverse economic tsunami that has hit this great nation has affected almost all of the municipalities, but it will not last forever. Hopefully we will return to normalcy, with all of us having learned many valuable lessons.

I also want to start a Mayor’s Blog where you can email me to discuss anything that is on your mind. I have been giving this a lot of thought and I am trying to improve the communications with our residents. Let me know what you think and if you have any ideas. As always, please feel free to email me at [email protected] or call my office at 954-435-6505.

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A s heads of the Division of Neurosurgery at Memorial Hospital West, Drs. Alexander Poisik and Joseph Martinez care for and perform surgery on a variety of disorders and injuries of the brain, spine and peripheral nerves.

Both have advanced training and expertise in Complex Neurosurgery of the Spine, which comprises the largest portion of their practices. They are experienced with traditional “open” surgeries and adept at more modern Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery techniques which continue to grow in popularity because of their effective-ness and improved recovery times.What is Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery? Essentially, it is performing spine surgery through small incisions, usually an inch long, which allows for less damage to surrounding supporting tissues, less pain and quicker recovery times. Do I have to stay in the hospital for Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery? For many of the procedures (e.g. discectomies, laminectomies, vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty or foraminotomies), patients can go home the same day as surgery. Other procedures, like interbody fusions or thoracic/lumbar fusions, are better suited to a short stay in the hospital afterward. What kinds of cases can be done with Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery? Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery is effective for many kinds of cases. Some examples include: ▸ Discectomy – Removal of bulging or herniated discs or disc material that are

compressing nerves and causing leg or arm pain (radiculopathy). ▸ Laminectomy – Removal of bone and ligament causing pressure on spinal nerves

(stenosis). ▸ Cervical (neck) foraminotomy – Removal of bone to enlarge the space (inter-

vertebral foramen) where a given nerve root leaves the cervical spinal canal. This alleviates pain by reducing pressure on the nerve root.

▸ Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LIF) – Removal of disc material and replacement with bone graft and, typically, a structural support device made of bone, carbon fiber, a specialized plastic polymer or titanium. This is followed by placement of pedicle screws into the adjacent vertebral bodies via a minimally invasive “percutaneous” (through-the-skin) method then connecting each side together with connecting rods.

▸ Vertebroplasty – This technique treats compression fractures of the spine. This is done by placing into the vertebral body, via x-ray guidance, a needle containing a specialized acrylic bone cement. The cement is then injected into the fractured bone. When it hardens several minutes later the bone is strengthened and stabilized and pain relief is common shortly after the procedure is completed.

▸ Kyphoplasty – This is also used to treat compression fractures of the spine but contains the additional step of first temporarily introducing fluid-filled balloons into the vertebral body. This is intended to restore height to the vertebral body and simultaneously creates a space to be filled by the cement.

▸ Thoracic/Lumbar Fusion – Placement of “percutaneous” pedicle screws via several small (5-7 mm) incisions made on the patient’s back then connecting each side together using connecting rods. These are most typically done for stabilizing traumatic injuries to the spine. After appropriate healing, these screws and rods can be removed if necessary.

Why Choose Memorial Hospital West?Memorial Hospital West is an award winning Top 100 Hospital and provides the

latest in Surgical, Imaging and Integrative services. It offers World Class Physicians and Surgical Capabilities including Brain Surgery, Cyberknife, Interventional Neuroradiology, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery and Spinal Reconstruction. Imaging Services offer Leading Edge Equipment: MRI, Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine and the newest Lower Dose Radiation Ct Scan. The resources of the Fitness & Rehabilitation Center, Inpatient Rehabilitation, Physical, Occupational, Speech Therapy and Support Groups allow for a full range of services to assist patients on their journey back to health and wellness. Exceptional healthcare, right here in our own community!

Memorial Neuroscience Center has offices at Memorial Regional Hospital and Memorial Hospital West. Dr. Alexander Poisik and Dr. Joseph Martinez can be reached at the Memorial Hospital West Office located at 601 N. Flamingo Rd., Suite 206, in Pembroke Pines. For more information, call 954-844-6825 or visit www.mhs.net.

By AlexAnder PoiSik, M.d. And JoSePH MArTinez, M.d.

Neuroscience

World-Class PhysiciansInnovative Technology

Hollywood (954) 265-1490 | Pembroke Pines (954) 844-6825Subscribe to our online Health-e-News at mhs.netDiscover The Memorial Experience at mhs.net

A team of highly skilled and experienced neurosurgeons and neuroradiologists is uniquely qualified to treat a comprehensive variety of disorders and injuries of the brain, spinal cord and nervous system. Among the many areas of specialization are interventional neuroradiology, pediatric neurosurgery, minimally invasive sterotactic surgery, stereotactic radio surgery, brain surgery, and minimally invasive spine surgery and spinal reconstruction.

With the expertise of dedicated specialists and the support of innovative, leading-edge technology, the Neuroscience Center at Memorial Regional Hospital and Memorial Hospital West is a recognized leader in South Florida. To find a Memorial doctor, please call Memorial Physician Referral Service toll-free at (800) 944-DOCS or visit us online at mhs.net. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Happy Holidays to you all! I am sure many of you are busy with holiday shopping and family activities, but I wanted to share with you all something a little different this time of

year. As you know, many cities have embraced the Green Movement and implemented community gardens. But Miramar is pioneering something a little unique in the South Florida region that expands on the community garden concept --- a micro-urban farm.

The 3,100 square foot Miramar Community Garden is a micro-urban farm where people can learn about the sources of fresh produce,

receive vocational training in sustainable agriculture and learn about the importance of environmental stewardship. While community gardens generally provide qualified applicants with a fixed number of plots to harvest individually, the Miramar micro-urban farm provides a communal area where individuals can work together, learn from experts and from each other, and experience how small areas can become engines that drive productive growth.

The vision for the garden was transformed from a simple raised-bed garden into an efficient farming system. The City provided the land, basic materials and guidance. Labor is provided by resident-volunteers and was funded 100% by corporate sponsors. The garden offers great marketing value for their contributions and organizations. Whole Foods Market, Florida Power and Light, Memorial Hospital Miramar, Spirit Airlines, Hampton Inn and Suites, All Service Refuse, and Ana G. Mendez University System all jumped on board to support this worthy project.

Miramar resident volunteers have been actively involved since the garden’s first planting on May 22, 2010. Highlights include: ▸ The garden blossomed successfully and has afforded the opportunity to become a

hands-on laboratory to eager volunteers -- even though it was started in May during the worst time to start a garden in Florida.

▸ This summer the harvest yielded a myriad of herbs, habanero peppers, sweet potatoes, okra, beans, eggplants and watermelon.

▸ The group meets every Thursday at the garden and the meetings have become social events where members outdo each other by incorporating freshly picked crops into specialty dishes. In fact, volunteer member Scott Lewis has been nicknamed “Mr. Besto-Pesto” for his ability to transform freshly cut garden lemon-basil into some-thing the group considers “the best pesto ever!” Other succulent dishes from the garden have included, mint tea, pickled habaneros, callaloo with codfish (a spinach-like vegetable commonly eaten in the Caribbean), rosemary scones with oregano infused butter, and golden brown breaded okra accompanied with a herb dressing.

▸ The group is currently working on the fall season’s planting. They have implemented crop rotation to maximize productivity and are utilizing natural pesticides and fertilizers to keep the plants healthy.

▸ The micro-urban farm is viewed as an outdoor classroom: Educational events such as the panel discussion held in early June, organized by the US Green Building Council and the Localecopia Movement, educated the public on ways to lessen the carbon footprint by supporting local product consumption.

▸ Expert speakers are invited to share specific farming topics such as growing, com-posting, fertilizing, harvesting and more.

▸ The group is currently collaborating with DeVry University to create: · A blueprint for a micro- urban farm; and · Funding for internship opportunities to pair agriculture students with a real

micro- urban farm as a business enterprise ▸ Local restaurants also chose to become founding sponsors, not only for the market-

ing benefits, but also for the right to have first choice of the harvest to include in signature dishes. Ongoing financial sustainability for the garden is currently being coordinated by volunteers and these include offering the harvests at local green markets and other sustainable events.As we head into the holiday season, let us not forget that some of the best gifts

we can give or receive are not found in stores, but in our efforts like this to make the world a little better. For more information about the Miramar Community Garden please visit www.ci.miramar.fl.us/green/garden

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Froggy’s Playhouse Parties Take the cake

H op on over to Froggy’s Playhouse. It’s the perfect place to host your child’s next birthday party. This enormous, indoor play place appeals to kids of all ages, from tiny tots to ‘tweens.

Kids will love all that Froggy’s Playhouse has to offer. The brightly colored, cheer-ful playhouse features four giant inflatables. Throughout the party, children can hop from one to another.

Owner Erika Andrade says these are much more than just basic bounce houses. “Each fun-filled structure features multiple attractions such as slides, obstacle courses and basketball hoops.”

While the kids love all the activities, parents love the party packages at Froggy’s Playhouse. “We take care of every detail from set-up to clean-up. All you need to do is bring a cake and enjoy your child’s special day!” states Erika, who as a mother of three knows first-hand how stressful planning a child’s birthday party can be.

Erika also knows that it can also be quite expensive to entertain guests at a birthday party. That’s why Froggy’s Playhouse offers several party packages – one for every budget, with prices starting at just $175 on weekdays and $225 on weekends.

“The best part is our prices are all-inclusive,” boasts Erika. “All of our party pack-ages include a private party room for two hours, personal party attendant, personalized invitations, decorative plates with matching utensils, plus food!”

Not only that, every birthday child gets a special gift from Froggy’s Playhouse and a picture with Mr. Froggy. This lovable mascot will hop on over to make sure everyone is having a bouncing good time. All party guests will receive a free pass to come back and play another day. Of course, they are welcome to stay and play after the party is over, as long as they are accompanied by a parent.

On Saturday, December 18th some very special visitors will be stopping by Froggy’s Playhouse. One of Santa’s Elves and an adorable Snowman will be among the guests of honor at a holiday party from 3 to 7pm. “They will be posing for pictures, plus we’ll have an arts and crafts table where children can make their own ornaments,” says Erika. “Of course, the gym will be open so kids can enjoy all of our inflatables and other attractions. And there will be special treats for all who attend.” (Regular admission prices apply.)

If you’re looking for fun activities to do with your kids over winter break, then hop on over to Froggy’s Playhouse. It offers open play ever day, from morning until early evening. Children can enjoy all of the indoor inflatables and other attractions for one low price. Open play is $10 per child (ages 3 to 12), $8 for siblings, and $5 per toddler (ages 2 and under). On Thursdays, everyone plays for just $5. And, there is never a charge for adults.

Froggy’s Playhouse is the perfect place to plan a play date. Groups of six or more

children get in for only $8 per child. While the kids play, parents can sit back and relax. There is plenty of seating scattered through-out the play area, in addition to the lounge area that features comfy couches and small seating groups.

All are within easy eyesight of the play area. In addition to the inflatables, older children love the arcade area. They can play a variety of video games and arcade attractions, which operate on a token system. There is also an air hockey table.

Little ones have their own play area. The toddler zone features a pint-sized inflatable, as well as a play kitchen, mini-slide, black board and plenty of toys. It’s all geared for children under the age of three.

Even the menu at the café offers options to appeal to all ages. It serves gourmet cof-fees and pastries to please parents, as well as kid-friendly food for when the little ones work up an appetite. Snack choices include freshly-popped popcorn, pizza, hotdogs, mini chicken burgers, even empanadas. Kids can quench their thirst with bottled water, juice boxes, fountain drinks, or frozen slushees.

At Froggy’s Playhouse, the safety and security of its guests is a priority. As a former nurse, Erika has instituted multiple health and safety standards. All inflatables and play equipment are sanitized every night. There is a gated entrance and exit. And, most importantly, all children receive a wristband that matches their parents, ensuring that no child can leave the premises without their parent.

Froggy’s Playhouse is conveniently located at 10141 Pines Boulevard, on the north-west corner of Pines and Palm behind Applebee’s. Open play hours are from 10am until 7pm Monday through Thursday, 10am until 8pm Friday and Saturday, and 11am until 6pm on Sunday. To book a birthday party or for more information, call (954) 433-7818 or visit www.froggysplayhouse.com. Please be sure to bring socks; shoes are not permitted in the play area.

Froggy’s Playhouse hosts the best birthday parties around. They take care of every detail from set up to clean up and can even arrange for your child’s favorite character to make an appearance.

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By deBBy TeicHSassy and Gidget cheer Up Patients at Memorial Miramar

M illie and Jack Orr volunteer at Memorial Miramar Hospital several times a week. Although the patients are happy to see them, they do not get nearly the same greeting as their

two Malteses - Sassy, 11, and Gidget, 3. The dogs are members of the hospital’s pet therapy program.

It all started five years ago when Millie’s father was hospitalized around the same time that Memorial Miramar opened. When he said he missed being around Sassy, Millie talked to the head of volunteers to find out if it was possible to bring her in to visit. Millie learned that the hospital was getting ready to start pet therapy program and they agreed that Sassy could be the first pet.

Millie took Sassy to be trained at Memorial Manor, a 120-bed facility that provides long-term nursing home care and short-term rehabilitative care as part of the Memorial Healthcare System. During the three hour training, an observer made sure that Sassy had the basic obedience skills to handle unexpected or stressful situations. She grew accustomed to people using wheelchairs and walkers and learned how to behave around the other dogs being trained for therapy. After she graduated, she visited her first patient in ICU – Millie’s father. She is now certified to visit any Memorial hospital. Millie got Gidget two years later and put her through the same training program.

Millie brings the dogs to Memorial Miramar every Tuesday and Thursday. She also goes on other days, when the hospital calls to say a patient could really use a visit. The four-legged volunteers spend time with any patient, family member, doctor or nurse who loves animals. They have an opportunity to experience the unconditional love of the

dogs, which often provide a much-needed diversion and the chance to laugh and play. “Many of the patients are depressed when we get there,” said Millie. “Sassy and Gidget lift their spirits as soon as we arrive. The patients talk to the dogs from a distance or cuddle with them on their beds.”

Millie goes to great lengths to pre-pare the dogs for every visit. They have a very extensive wardrobe, including many outfits that she and her mother have sown or embellished. The dogs have gone dressed as Barbie and bal-lerinas and have also worn bikinis and sun dresses. They wore pink for Breast Cancer month and elephant costumes for Halloween. Millie pushes them around the hospital in a dog-gie stroller, which she decorates to match their outfits. Sometimes she brings birthday cards or flowers to help celebrate a special occasion. “It is such a great feeling to see the joy in patients’ faces,” said Millie. “We ease their pain and suffering for the short amount of time we are there.”

Millie Orr, with Sassy and Gidget, who participate in

the Pet Therapy program at Memorial Miramar Hospital.

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M O T O R C Y C L E

T he holiday season is among us. While it is a time for family and joy, most of us will be racing against the clock checking our list and checking it twice. Before you get caught up with unavoidable tasks the holidays are sure to bring, take

time to be reminded of what’s important. Take comfort in the moments you share with loved ones by preparing a hearty and tasty home cooked meal. This Canelones de Carne (Meat Cannelloni) recipe comes compliments of Parrillada el Gaucho Steakhouse. Canelones de Carne offers an enticing alternative to traditional meat loafs or meat pies. Buen Provecho and Happy Holidays from your friendly neighbor-hood steakhouse restaurant.

Ingredients ▸ 1 lb Ground Round ▸ 2 tbsp Oil ▸ ¼ cup Onions, Chopped

▸ 1 tsp Garlic, Chopped ▸ Parsley, Chopped ▸ Parmesan Cheese ▸ Grated Mozzarella ▸ 3 Eggs, Beaten ▸ 2 cups Flour ▸ Salt, Pepper & Nutmeg ▸ Tomato Sauce ▸ Béchamel Sauce (optional)

Homemade Dough Add 2 cups of flour to work surface. Scoop out a well in the center and add 2 eggs, a

pinch of salt and cold water. Knead dough until smooth and firm. Roll out dough until it is dime thin and cut into rectangles. Boil in abundant water with salt until al denté.

Meat FilllingCoat large skillet with oil, add onions and garlic, cook until soft. Add ground meat

and brown. Stir in 3 tbsp of parmesan cheese, chopped parsley and 1 egg. Add salt, pepper and nutmeg to taste. Once cooked through, stuff canelones with meat mixture.

Coat baking dish with tomato sauce and arrange canelones in one layer. Cover with grated mozzarella cheese, béchamel sauce and top with more tomato sauce. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes and serve.

Parrillada El Gaucho offers the BEST Steak in town. Serving an array of typical Uruguayan dishes along with mouthwatering grilled steaks, exquisite pastas, as well as decadent deserts all authentically prepared. Located at 11386 Miramar Parkway on the south side of Miramar Parkway just west of Red Road. Open daily for lunch & dinner. For more information call 954-431-0448 or visit HYPERLINK “http://www.parrilladagaucho.com” www.parrilladagaucho.com.

Meat canelones, from the kitchen of Parrillada el Gaucho

now we’re cooking

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By MyriAM PAyne, inTeriorS By decorATinG den

The Holidays are almost upon us again. Maybe now is the best time to give your space a fresh new lift. Here are a few decorating ideas that I think you should consider.

Liven up a dull floor plan. Try rearranging what you already own. Sometimes moving furniture around a room or transferring pieces from one room to another makes a huge difference.

Find some new angles -- for your furniture, of course. Try moving your furniture into more interesting positions rather than the traditional line of furniture along the walls. Tables, consoles and armoires can help “float” furniture in a room.

Identify your focal point. Is it a fireplace, a beautiful view, a bed or an armoire? Your room arrangement should surround your focal point. Pulling furniture into attractive groups in the center of the room will not only add warmth to your room, but will be inviting to guests as well.

Wake up your room with color! For instant impact, nothing beats adding color to a room. To find the right color for you find something

you adore in a color that makes you happy. The color can be used as the main decorat-ing component of the room or as an accent to liven the area.

Light up your world. If your room seems drab and dull, perhaps your lighting could use a face lift. Consider replacing an old shade, or installing new wall fixtures. Perhaps adding some new lamps or installing a chandelier in the living room or the master bedroom will brighten up your world.

What do you really like? If unsure, then I suggest you review design books and home decorating magazines. When you find a photograph of a room that you really like, spend some time analyzing what it is that you truly like. Start a redecorating notebook. Save pictures of your favorite rooms and favorite things.

Set a realistic project completion timetable. If you have a special upcoming event that’s inspired you to redecorate, then it’s important that the entire process start in enough time to meet your deadline. So, get ready to start a new year with a fresh new look!

Myriam Payne of INTERIORS by Decorating Den works and lives with her family in Weston. For a consultation with Myriam, call her design studio at (954) 659-2017.

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legally speaking

M any mortgage lenders and servicing companies are taking advantage of the public’s sense of desperation and lack of information to strong-arm home-owners into signing one-sided loan modification agreements. Prior to signing

any loan modification agreement or making any other significant decision affecting your home loan, it is critical that every homeowner be fully aware of the following

“myths” that many mortgage lenders want you to believe.

Myth No. 1: If I signed for a bad loan, I have to suffer the consequences of that decision.In reality, federal and state laws impose severe penalties on lenders that engaged

in predatory lending practices. These penalties include cancellation of the entire loan and/or a refund of all payments made by the borrower, including any down payment. More importantly, these penalties and remedies related to the original loan transaction may even be available against the current mortgage company.

Myth No. 2: Once a foreclosure is filed, the bank can immediately seize your bank accounts, garnish your wages and repossess any vehicles you own to satisfy your mortgage debt.

Florida law prevents any lender from seizing any of your assets until after a final judgment of foreclosure, and only after authorization from the Court is obtained to satisfy a “deficiency judgment” (i.e., the difference between the amount owed to the bank and the amount for which the property sold at the foreclosure sale).

Myth No. 3: If you are negotiating a loan modification with your lender, they cannot proceed with a foreclosure of your home.

Actually, lenders can and will use the foreclosure process, especially during a loan modification application, as a means of coercing the homeowner to accept a one-sided loan modification agreement that may even contain a provision where the homeowner gives up all defenses, claims or counter claims he/she may possess against the lender.

Myth No. 4: Your lender is entitled to review all your financial information (assets, tax filings, pay stubs, etc.), even during a foreclosure.

The law in Florida is crystal clear and it states that a party to a lawsuit may not obtain financial information from its opponent at any time prior to a final judgment. Despite this clear principle, most homeowners who are already in foreclosure willingly provide their financial information to their lender under the guise that this information will be considered by the lender as part of a loan modification application. By doing so, the homeowner provides its adversary (the bank) with all the information needed to identify and seize any of the homeowner’s assets if a foreclosure final judgment is obtained.

Myth No. 5: The lender will take into account your best interests and act in good faith to offer you the best terms possible during a loan modification.

In actuality, the lender’s only concern is their “bottom line.” If the deal does not make sense financially to them, they will force you to accept a one-sided loan modification agreement, or attempt to force you out of your home through a foreclosure process.

We hope you are able to use the information in this article as a tool to assist you in any preliminary discussions with your lender about your home loan. However, this information is not meant to substitute proper legal advice.

To find out more about upcoming live consumer seminars offered by the Arcia Law Firm, please visit www.arcialawfirm.com/seminar. When registering, mention you heard about this seminar through this publication to receive two complimentary admission tickets.

The Arcia Law Firm is privileged to successfully represent dozens of homeowners in our community with mortgage fraud and foreclosure defense cases. If you are struggling to make your monthly mortgage payments, or if you just received a fore-closure summons, contact the Arcia Law Firm today at 1-800-770-7102, or visit www.arcialawfirm.com. We may be able to help you achieve a long term solution to your personal mortgage crisis.

Mortgage lender Myths They Want you to BelieveBy oMAr J. ArciA, eSQ., ForecloSUre deFenSe And BAnkrUPTcy ProTecTion ATTorney


B usinessweek’s fourth annual survey of Best Places in the United States of America to raise your Kids recently confirmed what most residents and visitors already know. Pembroke Pines is affordable, safe, and family-friendly. In fact, the survey

ranked the City of Pembroke Pines as the Number One City in the State of Florida for the second time. The first time the City received this recognition was in 2008.

Businessweek teamed up with OnBoard Informatics, a New York-based provider of real estate analysis, to select one town and two runners-up for each of the 50 states. The selections were limited to towns that have at least 45,000 residents and a median income of between $40,000 and $125,000. It evaluated each city based on school performance, number of schools, household expenditures, crime rates, air quality, job growth, family income, muse-ums, parks, theaters, other amenities, and diversity. Affordability, safety and school test scores were given the greatest weight. Businessweek recognizes that the city is popular with retirees, but also has plenty of young families who are attracted to its low crime rate, the Pembroke Lakes Mall, and local schools.

“Our Commission and Staff strive to make Pembroke Pines the Best commu-nity it can possibly be,” said Mayor Frank C. Ortis. “Being ranked Number One by

Businessweek for a second time lets us know we are moving in the right direction for our residents. We will continue on this path for everyone’s benefit.” The City is always looking for innovative ways to serve its residents, which is reflected in its official motto - “Join Us and Progress with Us.”

The City of Pembroke Pines has won numerous awards throughout the years. It won the National Civic League’s coveted “All-America City Award” in 2004 and was a

finalist community in 2003. Pembroke Pines also received an “outstanding achievement award” in the “2005 City Livability Awards” Program, sponsored by the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Many of Pembroke Pines schools have received the “Five Star School Award” from the Florida Department of Education as schools that have shown evidence of exemplary community involvement.

Mercedes Rubio has lived in Pembroke Pines for the past nine years. She is married with three children, ages 2, 4 and 7. “I cannot imagine living anywhere else,” said Rubio.

“It is the perfect place to raise a family. It has amazing restaurants, beautiful parks, excellent schools, cultural activities and lots of shopping. It is even close to beach. I can’t ask for more.”

For information on the City of Pembroke Pines, visit www.ppines.com.

By deBBy TeicHPembroke Pines Wins Survey of Best Places to raise kids

community news

captain kemp Wins 2010 Firefighter of the yearBy deBBy TeicH

M ichael F. Kemp Jr., Captain of the Pembroke Pines Fire Department, was off duty when he observed a child drowning. It did not stop him, however, from trying to save the boy’s life. His exemplary conduct helped him earn the honor of 2010 Firefighter of the

Year. Pembroke Pines Fire Chief John Picarello presented Captain Kemp with the Firefighter of the Year award at a recent City Commission meeting.

Captain Kemp is a 15 year veteran of the Fire Department. He has was hired as a firefighter paramedic in 1996 and since that time he has worked his way up the ranks, serving as a Rescue Preceptor and Rescue Lieutenant. Since 2007, he has served as Rescue Shift Captain oversee-ing rescue incidents and personnel.

In March, Captain Kemp was on vacation with his family at Walt Disney World’s Wilderness Lodge when he noticed that a small child had not resurfaced after sliding into the pool at the resort. Fearing for the child’s safety and well-being, Captain Kemp entered the pool and assisted an on-duty lifeguard in rescuing the five-year-old from the water. A poolside assessment of the child’s condition determined that he was not breathing and did not have a pulse. Captain Kemp initiated CPR that was ultimately successful in returning breathing and circulation to the previously lifeless child. The boy was transported to an Orlando area hospital by the local EMS provider, where he was treated and released three days later. He made a full recovery and did not suffer any lasting effects of the incident.

“I commend Mike’s decision to get involved and truly believe that he undoubtedly had a positive effect on the outcome of this near tragic event,” wrote Division Chief Mike Vincent, of the Pembroke Pines Fire Department’s Rescue Division, in his letter nominating Captain Kemp as Firefighter of the Year.

For more information on the Pembroke Pines Fire Department, visit www.ppines.com/fire.

Captain Michael F. Kemp Jr. won 2010 Firefighter of the Year (l to r) Division Chief Mike Vincent, Captain Michael F. Kemp Jr. and Fire Chief John Picarello.

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T he 13th Annual City of Pembroke Pines Police Athletic League Pasta Dinner held at the Southwest Focal Point Senior Center in Pembroke Pines delivered exactly what it promised – a delicious meal, great entertainment, terrific raffle

prizes and celebrity servicers! Nearly 200 meals were served at the annual event, which benefits the boys and girls who belong to the Pembroke Pines PAL. Diners enjoyed watching the talented members of the Pembroke Pines Police Athletic League display their boxing and tae kwon do skills.

“The Men of Saint Maximilian Kolbe Knights of Columbus have done it again!” said Pembroke Pines Mayor Frank C. Ortis as he addressed the banquet hall full of hungry diners. “These men brought all their spices and talent to create a delicious PAL Pasta dinner … simply the greatest PAL pasta meal to date.” The PAL Pasta Dinner Fundraiser included meatballs, spaghetti, garlic bread, salad, and dessert and raised some dough…$3,500!

The Pembroke Pines Police Athletic League (PAL) is a recreational and educa-

tional oriented juvenile crime prevention program. PAL relies heavily on athletics and educational activities to create better relations between police officers and the youth in the community. It puts youth under the supervision and positive influence of Law Enforcement Officers of the Pembroke Pines Police Department and expands public awareness about the role of a police officer. Although PAL targets at-risk kids, PAL is for every child in the community. Some of its programs include basketball, Tae Kwon Do, wrestling, boxing and more. It also offers a youth leadership program and summer camp.

The Pembroke Pines Police Athletic League is located at 7900 Johnson St. in Pembroke Pines. To register for PAL, you must be a Pembroke Pines resident or attend a school located in Pembroke Pines. For information, call 954-986-5044.

PAL Pasta Dinner celebrity servers included (l to r): Pembroke Pines Assistant Police Chief and PAL Board Member Kenneth Hall, Pembroke Pines Commissioner Carl Shechter, Therese Sullivan, Victim Services at the Police Department, Pembroke Pines Vice Mayor Jack McCluskey, PAL Board Member and Mayor Frank C. Ortis, Commissioner Angelo Castillo, Parks and Recreation Director and PAL Board member Dean Combs, and PAL Board Sergeant Ron Wells.

By deBBy TeicHPAl Pasta dinner raises Some dough

O ver 350 people attended The City of Pembroke Pines Veterans Day Ceremony on November 11, at Donnith H. Fletcher Park, 7900 Johnson St. The annual ceremony honors the service of military Veterans. Pastor

Peter Tokar was the emcee for the program which featured guest speaker Colonel James Vohr from the Southern Command. The Pembroke Pines Charter School’s West Middle School Chorus, under the direction of Band teacher Dana Cole, pro-vided the musical entertainment: American Flourish – a medley of American folk songs, America the Beautiful, Theme from JAG, Armed Forces on Parade, God

Bless the USA and Hymn to the Fallen (from Saving Private Ryan). The Central Campus Middle School Honor Guard, and the City of Pembroke Pines Police and Fire Department Honor Guards presented the colors. Joy Torres, from the Pembroke Pines Theatre of the Performing Arts, sang the National Anthem. Hot dogs and refreshments were served following the ceremony.

Joe Marsh attended the ceremony in memory of his father, who was killed dur-ing the Korean War. “It was a very moving ceremony,” said Marsh. “My father would have been very proud.”

Hundreds Participate in the city of Pembroke Pines Veterans day ceremony

community news

Mayor Frank C. Ortis reads a letter of thanks to the Men of Saint Maximilian Kolbe Knights of Columbus # 11410 who donated and prepared the 13th Annual PAL Pasta Dinner.


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F amilies are flocking to the Yellow Green Farmers Market. With over 300 vendors under one roof, liter-

ally offering everything from soup to nuts, it’s a wholesome way to spend the day.

The Yellow Green Farmers Market opened in October. Owned and oper-ated by the Lalo family, daughter Gany says it was her father’s idea. “This was his vision. He wanted to do something for the community. To offer something not found in South Florida,” explains Gany Lalo, who handles marketing for her family’s Yellow Green Farmers Market. “We come from a European background. My father grew up going to markets where you could buy fresh food and produce and artisan work all at the same place.”

This concept, of the quintessential community marketplace, was the catalyst to open the Yellow Green Farmers Market. The Lalo family wanted to create a place

where people could gather and socialize, while at the same time supporting local merchants. What they created was South Florida’s largest farmers’ market.

“The Yellow Green Farmers Market offers a wide variety of fresh, natural products and goods from local farmers and vendors, as well as artisans and crafts-men,” shares Gany. “Here you can shop for natural and wholesome products, or simply stop by for a snack or lunch.”

The 100,000 square-foot facility offers over 300 vendors in a fresh, open air market. The selection is simply amazing. There are dozens of produce vendors selling fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as several specialty health food items. “Coco Frio sells delicious coconut water and sugar cane juice by the gallon,” says Gany. “Parvati’s sells eggplant and zucchini from India which supposedly aids the digestive system. These vegetables are used in medicinal cooking.”

The market also features several vendors selling organic and natural products, including those that cater to people on vegan diets as well as raw food diets. The Honey Cart sells honey products from local bees which can be beneficial for people suffering from allergies.

Many vendors sell homemade artisanal foods. Mozzarita offers fresh, hand-made mozzarella. The Good Earth sells Amish butters and cheeses, as well as cage-free, free-range eggs. The selection of fresh baked goods is also outstanding. The market offers everything from empanadas to European-style breads.

New Earth Seafood fea-tures the freshest seafood in town. It comes straight

from the boat to the market. These local fishermen offer everything from snapper, yellowtail and tuna to fresh stone crabs, a true Florida delicacy.

Shoppers can sample and snack their way through the market or purchase a lunch from one the food vendors. The Corn Bar features fresh roasted corn, baked potatoes and sweet plantains. Rockin’ Rolls offers a variety of unique rolls, similar to egg rolls, stuffed with everything from pastrami and rye to buf-falo chicken. Or quench their thirst with a fresh fruit smoothie, custom-blended iced tea, or gourmet coffee.

In addition to all the food, the Yellow Green Farmers Market offers a host

of specialty merchants, many of whom are true craftsmen. Baganus features hand-dyed organic t-shirts with Hindu and Buddha designs. Welton Art features handmade knitwear. Artzee Chick features hand-painted glassware. There is even a vendor who makes beautiful jewelry out of palm nuts.

There’s plenty to do besides shop and eat. The Yellow Green Farmers Market will soon offer free morning yoga classes with vendor Guru Jiwan Singh Khalsa, who also offers Skeletal Cymatic Yoga Therapy at this booth. Children can enjoy ceramic painting, balloon art, as well as cotton candy and ice cream treats.

A trip to the market is truly a treat for the entire family. There is so much to see and do at the Yellow Green Farmers Market. It’s a sensual experi-ence…the sounds, smells and sites are impressive, especially for little ones. Kids love the farm-themed atmosphere, complete with haystacks, fiberglass cows, tractors, and laundry hanging from the rafters to “dry”.

The Yellow Green Farmers Market is a one-of-a-kind attraction. Although only open a short time, it has already become a popular weekend destina-tion. Families, couples and singles all gather to share the experience of a communal shopping center. “Everyone is so friendly and nice. Everyone is talking and sharing. It’s just what my father had in mind,” shares Gany. “Only here can you can meet new and interesting people, sample exotic and specialty foods, and purchase unique items.”

The Yellow Green Farmers Market is open every Saturday and Sunday from 8am until 4pm. It is conveniently located in Hollywood, just off Taft Street and next to I-95. The address is 1940 North 30th Road. Just look for the enormous yellow and green building. There is plenty of parking and security. To learn more about the market visit www.ygfarmersmarket.com or call (954) 513-3990.

it’s their business

By STAcey BoMSerFamilies Flock to yellow Green Farmers Market

The Yellow Green Farmers Market features over 300 vendors in a 100,000 square foot covered building.

Shoppers can pick up artisanal breads and delicious baked goods at the Yellow Green Farmers Market.

You can’t get seafood fresher than this unless you catch it yourself!

The Yellow Green Farmers Market is a family-friendly destination. It hosts a number of special events and contests. On display now are the beautifully decorated chairs, such as this one, created by members of the community in celebration of the market’s grand opening.


community news

Miramar residents Trained to respond in a disaster

N atural disasters and other tragic events are often reminders that we are all vul-nerable. A group of Miramar residents is trained to respond in an emergency to help themselves, as well as their friends, families and neighbors until the

proper help arrives. There are approximately 300 Miramar residents who have completed the Community

Emergency Response Team (CERT) training program since the program started in 2003. If Miramar were to experience a true emergency like a hurricane, communi-cation failures and road blockages might prevent people from accessing emergency services they have come to expect at a moment’s notice through 911. It could take hours or even days for emergency personnel to reach everyone in need. The CERT team would be available to help.

The CERT program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. CERT members use the training learned in the classroom and during exercises to assist others in their neighborhood or workplace. They are able to provide basic care that will help limit further injury to disaster victims and lessen the possibility of further damage to property. The idea for CERT was developed and implemented by the Los Angeles City Fire Department in 1985. The need for the program was reinforced after California’s Whittier Narrows earthquake in 1987. In 1993, FEMA began offering the training nationally.

Miramar CERT members must live or work in the city. They participate in eight 3-hour classes held over a four-week period. The course is offered several times throughout the year. Once certified, member phone numbers are entered into the Code Red system, which sends out a mass message during a disaster. The volunteers assist if they are available. They can use items from the CERT backpack they are given at graduation, which includes triage supplies like masks, gauze, splints, gloves, scissors and other items.

CERT members were part of the City of Miramar’s response team after Hurricane Wilma did a significant amount of damage. They helped distribute ice, water and other supplies. They have also participated in non-emergency citywide events. They have assisted with the Mayor’s community garden project; helped at concerts; provided security at the Para Olympics and more. “CERT members act as the eyes and ears of the City,” said Miguel Hidalgo, M.P.A., FPEM, Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Miramar Office of Emergency Management. “The City of Miramar will be better prepared to deal with the impact and challenges of a large scale disaster with their help.”

All courses take place at the Miramar Fire Rescue Station 84, located at 14801 S.W. 27 St. For information, call 954-602-4842; send an email to [email protected] or visit www.ci.miramar.fl.us/em/cert.html.

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F rom t-shirts and tank tops to totes and towels, Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More does it all, and for a lot less than you would think. The company specializes in one-of-a-kind custom designs. And the beauty of it is – you can print just one.

“At Big Frog, anyone can order a quality custom t-shirt at a very reasonable price with one color or a million colors in any design,” states Nelida Coelho, owner of Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More. “And they can get it done in less than a day.”

That’s because Big Frog is revolutionizing the custom printing industry with its cutting-edge technology called direct-to-garment, or DTG, printing. Basically, DTG printing uses a giant, high resolution ink jet printer to print multi-colored images directly to individual garments or other items.

Unlike traditional screen printing, which essentially just layers paint on top of the fabric, Big Frog’s DTG printing actually imbeds the dye right into the fabric. “Our ink actually becomes part of the fabric,” explains Coelho. “Images and graphics look better and last longer than any other process. Your Big Frog shirts will last through hundreds of washings and still look great.”

Another benefit of DTG printing is that the customer is not limited by color, only their

imagination. Big Frog can print over 16 million colors. “Full color prints are possible with photo quality resolution,” says Coelho. “That’s the beauty of our digital process.”

Because everything is digital, customers can submit their designs electronically or create something special using the store’s in-house design center. Big Frog’s design specialists are always on hand to help customers access its enormous inventory of online images and fonts or incorporate personal photographs and company logos into the design.

According to Coelho, “Customers come to the store with an idea of what they want to print for a family reunion, group 5K run, a cruise trip, sports team, or bowl-ing tournament and with the professional help of our graphic designer we can make their idea a reality.”

In addition to its selection of t-shirts in all sizes and styles, from infant’s onesies to women’s tank-tops, Big Frog also prints aprons, coasters, golf towels, tote bags, puzzles, car flags and mouse pads, although they call those frog pads.

Whether you need one item or one hundred, Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More is always your best value. That’s because Big Frog never charges design or artwork fees, set-up fees or minimums. The store offers 24-hour turnaround, although many items can be printed while you wait.

If those aren’t enough reasons to hop on over to Big Frog, the store is also envi-ronmentally-friendly. The DTG printer uses water-based ink and no harsh chemicals. The store also offers organic cotton t-shirts.

Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More is conveniently located in the University Shoppes at 1633 South University Drive in Plantation, just north of I-595 and next to IHOP. Store hours are Monday through Friday from 9am until 6pm and Saturday from 9am until 1pm. For more information call (954) 530-5670 or visit www.bigfrog.com/plantation.


Hop on over to Big Frog for custom T-Shirts & More! By STAcey BoMSer

Customers can use Big Frog’s design center to create a one-of-a-kind design.

Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More has plenty of products to offer.


photo contest community news

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

Mail or email to:Pines Miramar Town Times

17120 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 1Weston, FL 33326

email: [email protected] Please send hi-resolution original digital photos as attachment only. Include name, address, phone number and where photo was taken.

Sorry, photo cannot be returned.

Fire Fighters Make the Holidays Brighter By Debby Teich

C aption: Carl Shechter, Pembroke Pines City Commissioner; Vincent Garcia, President of the

Pembroke Pines Professional Firefighters of Pembroke Pines Local 2292 and Jay Shechter, Director of Community Services and Housing for the City of Pembroke Pines.

Eighty families in Pembroke Pines have a lot to give thanks for this holiday season. For the second year in a row, The Professional Fire Fighters of Pembroke Pines International Association of Fire Fighters, (IAFF) Local 2292 members have donated $1,000 towards feeding less fortunate families during the Thanksgiving holi-day. “We realize this economy has affected many families in our community,” said Vinny Garcia, President of the Pembroke Pines Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 2292. “Our members are always eager to assist those in our community who are not as fortunate as we are.” Through donations one can at a time, checks both small and large wonderful Thanksgiving baskets were created for those in need. “This financial donation goes a long way to supplement the efforts of our Community Services Department in its annual food collection and distribution of holiday food baskets,” said Jay Shechter Director of Community Services and Housing for the City of Pembroke Pines.

ask the expertThe Time is now

H ave you been thinking about a new look, a new you? Maybe now is the time to do something for yourself that will give you the much needed boost

you’ve been looking for. But what would that be? There are many reasons to want to improve something

about your appearance. Maybe you’re a mother whose body just isn’t the same after multiple pregnancies. Loose skin, stretchmarks, sagging breasts can all be improved with surgery. A “mommy makeover” can include a tummy tuck, which tightens the underlying muscles and removes the redundant excess skin. When liposuction is done along with the abdominoplasty to contour the waist and hips, the end result is the flat stomach you had prior to pregnancy. It can also include a breast lift with or without an implant to lift and reshape your breasts to restore a more youthful appearance.

With the challenging economic times, more and more individuals are returning to the work place. Are you looking for a new job, or just trying to stay competitive in the job market? You might want to consider having a facelift. A facelift can take years away improving the appearance of the nasal labial folds and jowls. This rejuvenating procedure will give you a more youthful look that matches how you feel inside. Or maybe you just need an eyelid lift. A blepharoplasty will take away that tired look and leave you looking refreshed and vibrant.

Not ready for surgery? Think about a liquid facelift where Botox and injectable fillers are used to restore volume in the face lost with aging and sun damage and

decrease the lines and wrinkles around the cheeks and mouth. Noninvasive fractional laser resurfacing is another way to diminish fine lines, wrinkles, and improve skin pigmentation to make you look and feel your best. Skin tightening can also be achieved through other advanced, non-invasive laser techniques.

If these procedures are not in your budget, you can still benefit from advanced techniques and skin rejuvenation through our medically supervised skin care program. At the Weston Cosmetic Surgery Center, our experienced skin care specialists, under the direction of Dr. Charles A. Messa, III, perform chemical peels, facials, and gentle crystal-free microdermabrasion to enhance and rejuve-nate your skin. There is literally no downtime with these treatments and you will see an improvement in your skin texture and tone after one or two treatments.

The Weston Cosmetic Surgery Center also offers an individualized skin care regimen which you can continue

at home, including Obagi, TNS SkinMedica and Vivite , to name a few. Do something for yourself today to improve your appearance. Give yourself a gift of beauty and confidence today, why wait!

The Weston Cosmetic Surgery Center offers financing and takes all major credit cards. The office is conveniently located just off I-75, at 2823 Executive Park Dr., in Weston. It offers evening appointments every Mon. and Tues. To schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Messa or one of the skin care specialists, call 954-659-7760.

By dr. cHArleS MeSSA


FedUSA Insurance10275 Pines Blvd.. · Pembroke PInes, FL 33026



By deBBy TeicHMemorial Hospital Miramar is committed to excellence


M emorial Hospital Miramar is dedicated to serving patients with a combination of compassionate individualized care, leading-edge treatment techniques and cutting-edge technology. As part of the Memorial Healthcare System,

the fifth-largest public healthcare system in the nation, it is committed to world-class excellence in the areas of safety, quality, customer service and cost-effectiveness.

The 178-bed fully accredited, acute-care facility, which opened in March 2005, is located at 1901 SW 172 Ave., on approximately 124 acres. It features Mediterranean-style architecture and has all private patient rooms. The hospital offers a full array of

emergency, medical, surgical and outpatient services, including the Memorial Robotic Institute, Women’s Services, the Family Birthplace, a Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), a pediatric inpatient unit, adult emergency care, a separate Children’s Emergency Department and much more.

Memorial Hospital Miramar has already won several prestigious awards for its commit-ment to excellence. “The high quality of our care is the secret to our success,” said Aurelio Fernandez, Hospital Administrator and Chief Executive Officer. Rated the “most recom-mended” hospital in South Florida by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Memorial Hospital Miramar has been recognized as one of Thomson Reuters’ 100 Top Hospitals®: National Benchmarks winners for 2009. It was also one of 32 hospitals nationwide and the only one in South Florida to received Press Ganey’s Summit Award for Inpatient Satisfaction for three consecutive years. To qualify, all recipients must rank in the 95th percentile – top 5 percent in the nation – or above for each reporting period for three consecutive years. The 2009 win marks Memorial Hospital Miramar’s third consecutive year of exceptional achievement in quality of care and patient and physician satisfaction.

Memorial Hospital Miramar understands that the birth of a baby is one of life’s most treasured moments, which is why it created The Family Birthplace, where an average of 300 babies are born every month. The specially designed maternity unit features beautiful, fully equipped, private suites with many amenities for patients and their families. It is dedicated to providing the support, education and high-quality services that a patient needs through every step of a pregnancy for a happy and healthy pregnancy, delivery and hospital experience.

When newborns need more specialized care than the Newborn Nursery provides, they are placed in the 10-bed Level II NICU, where families can have privacy while they spending time caring for their baby. The custom design of the NICU was devel-

oped by a multi-disciplinary team of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists and parents. It has the latest technology for patient moni-toring, electronic documentation, infant security, bar code medication administration and communica-tion system. It was the first private room Level II NICU to be built in South Florida and is affiliated with the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital (JDCH).

When young athletes get hurt, they can visit Memorial Hospital Miramar’s [U-18] Sports Medicine program. [U-18] offers a one-stop shop, from diag-nosis through rehabilitation, for injured young athletes who are eager to get back in the game. The $1.2 million, 5,665-square ft. facility consists of examination rooms, state-of-the-art digital X-rays and a large physical therapy gymnasium. The team of experts includes Board-certified pediatric orthopaedic surgeons affiliated with JDCH, certified

orthopaedic physical therapists with sports medicine experience, a nurse practitioner, physician’s assistant and athletic trainers to support care and help patients return to peak performance. “Each of our patients receives our undivided attention during 45 minute one-on-one sessions,” said Fernandez.

“Young athletes don’t have to be MVPs to get the VIP treatment. We consider every patient special, and we develop our treatment plans accordingly, taking into account age, gender, diagnosis and sport-specific concerns.”

Memorial Hospital Miramar offers a leading-edge Pediatric Inpatient 12-bed unit where they provide high-quality care in a safe, family-centered environment. Board-certified pediatricians and pedi-atric hospitalists, together with an array of pediatric subspecialists, provide care to its pediatric patients, which include newborns to children up to 17 years of age. Each patient room is a private suite with a warm, home-like décor that meets the physical, emotional and psychosocial needs of children from infancy through the teen years. The Pediatric Inpatient Unit combines the latest technology with compassionate and individualized care. “We treat your children like our own,” said Fernandez.

The Pediatric Emergency Department can help ease a child’s fears often associ-ated with a trip to the ER. It has separate entrance from the adult ER, as well as a lighthearted atmosphere filled with electric trains, a water-filled bubbling window, TVs, VCRs, games and color murals to help distract kids from the serious work of the pediatric emergency physicians and registered nurses who work around-the-clock, every day of the year. The Emergency Department is affiliated with JDCH.

Memorial Hospital Miramar recognizes that women have many special needs. The Women’s Center provides women with lectures, health and wellness classes and access to a wealth of information. It also offers a variety of screenings and tests aimed at prevention and early detection of many health concerns, including Breast Imaging, a Lactation Center, Preinatal Education and more.

For information on Memorial Miramar Hospital, visit www.mhs.net or call 954-538-5000. For information about [U-18] Sports Medicine, visit www.u18sportsmedicine.com. For more on Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital information, visit www.jdch.com.

Memorial Hospital Miramar has won several prestigious awards for its commitment to excellence.

Aurelio Fernandez, Administrator and Chief Executive Officer, Memorial Hospital Miramar.

The 178-bed hospital features all private rooms.

The [U-18] Sports Medicine program offers a one-stop shop, from diagnosis through rehabilitation, for injured young athletes who are eager to get back in the game.


health & wellness

The Facts About Facials

Facials are one of the treatments most frequently requested in spas. The objec-tive is to clean, exfoliate, nourish and achieve a skin that lights up clearer and hydrated. In some cases, it may be necessary to carry out extractions of certain

impurities. The basic steps performed in a facial treatment include:1. Deep Cleaning – This is done with an adequate product for each type of skin.

This is done to withdraw makeup and to observe clearly the skin the esthetician is going to treat and determine the type of products that are the best for that skin.

2. Exfoliation – This can be either chemical or physical.3. Extraction – If it is required, the extraction of the impurities is a procedure that

must be carried out with a lot of care to not injure the skin. 4. Ampule – Application of a concentrated product to treat and nourish the skin.5. Mask – A face mask specific for each skin type is applied. 6. Moisturizer – A moisturizing lotion is applied.7. Sun block – The final step is to apply a sun block. It should be used daily, even

if you don’t have contact with the sun.

Following the facial, the therapist will give instructions to the client on how main-tain healthy skin, as well as recommending products to use at home and instructing the client on how to properly apply these products.

The frequency which the facials are suggested is from two to four weeks, although this varies according to each client. For example, cases of acne require more frequent deep cleaning, weekly or every other week in some cases.

There are various types of facials available. The name often reflects the objective that particular facial is trying to resolve. For example, an Oxygen Facial emphasizes adding the benefits of pure oxygen to the skin. The main objective of an Anti Acne Facial is to deeply clean the pores, extracting impurities.

Facial treatments can only do so much for your skin. There are various other fac-tors which influence the conservation of healthy skin including diet, rest, health, and mood. It is important to maintain a healthy diet so you do not deprive the skin of its essential nutrients. Hydration is the key to healthy skin. You should drink at least two liters of water daily, independent of juices and broths. Avoid the sedentary lifestyle; perform at least 30 minutes of a daily exercise. Not respecting the hours needed for good rest or sleeping less than eight hours daily can affect your skin, because while we sleep the body restores the cells of the skin. Smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol can negatively affect the skin. Stress weakens the immune system and affects the hormones responsible for the smoothness and brightness of the skin. And finally, be happy. When you are happy your skin reflects it looking radiant.

Silvana Pugliese is an esthetician at Laser Center & Med Spa. It is a full-service medical aesthetic center and day spa offering an extensive menu of treatment options ranging from anti-aging treatments to skin and body rejuvenation, as well as laser hair removal and tanning. Laser Center & Med Spa is located at 1916 Weston Road. Call (954) 888-9525 to schedule a consultation or appointment. For more informa-tion visit www.lasercentermedspa.com.

By SilVAnA PUGlieSe


pet of the month

“Martini”

M artini Velazquez is an amazing Rat Terrier (Type B - Short leg) puppy. She is almost four months old. She is so smart and brings so much joy into her owners’ lives. She loves playing with other dogs; biting toes; playing in the

yard; napping; cuddling and eating treats. She does not like long good-byes or when her owners, Jennifer & Rey, leave for work.

yoUr PeT coUld Be oUr pet of the month!

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

Email entries to [email protected]. Mail entry forms to: Pines Miramar Town Times

17120 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 1, Weston, FL 33326

Please send a high-resolution photo with your entry. (Photo will not be returned.)

Tell us a little bit about your pet…

Animal name & breed: __________________________________________

Age and gender of animal: _______________________________________

Favorite person: ________________________________________________

Favorite toy: ___________________________________________________

Likes & dislikes: _______________________________________________

Favorite thing to do: ____________________________________________

Last seen: ____________________________________________________

pet care

‘Tis The Season To Be JollyBy dr eric WeMAn

T he holiday season is approaching and we want it to be as joyful and peaceful as possible. We worked hard during the year and we deserve well-earned quality time with our loved

ones. Our pets are also a part of our family and we want to make sure they are safe. We tend to treat them with different things that we like, thinking, “If I like it, Fluffy will definitively love it too!”

It is important to be aware, however, that there are some “treats” that can impose a real danger to our pets. Here are some examples:

Raisins and grapes: Some types of raisins and grapes have been shown to cause kidney failure in dogs when eaten in large amounts; although under study, the mechanism behind this is still unclear so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Any amount can be considered dangerous.

Macadamia nuts: If ingested by dogs, it can cause weakness; depression, vomiting, ataxia (wobbly walking and incoordination) tremors and hyperthermia (high body temperature). This typically occurs within the first 12 hours after ingestion. Again, these signs have only been seen in dogs and the cause of this sensitivity remains unknown.

Chocolate: Everybody knows or at least suspects that chocolate can be danger-ous for dogs. The reason behind that is because chocolate contains different levels of

“cocoa.” Cocoa contains Theobromine and Caffeine (classified as Methylxanthines). These are very potent CNS stimulants, which in the right amount can cause hyper-activity; tachycardia (increased heart rate) tremors and potentially death. As general rule, “the more bitter the chocolate, the higher the concentration of Methylxanthines.” So let’s keep them away from chocolate, no matter how sad their face can look when they stare at you.

In summary, there are still many more examples of foods that can be completely inoffensive to us and still present a great threat to our pets. It is always wise to consult your veterinarian whenever you have any doubt.

Let’s make this holiday season one we can remember because of joy and not because of a visit to the pet emergency room

Have a Happy Holiday!

Everglades Animal Hospital is located at 15731 Sheridan St., in Davie. It offers a full range of veterinary services for dogs and cats. Dr Eric Weman works closely with each patient so that pets get the best quality care. For more information, call 954-680-7730 or send an email to [email protected]


Blood Screen Month Special

ERIC WEMAN, DVM

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By deBBy TeicHPines charter Students Adopt Families for the Holidays

S tudents at Pembroke Pines Charter Elementary’s East Campus will be mak-ing the holidays a little brighter for some other kids their age. The school has

“adopted” Lauderhill’s Paul Turner Elementary, a Title 1 school, as part of Project H.A.L.O. (Helping, Accepting, Loving Others). “The majority of the students at Paul Turner come from families where the ability to meet basic needs are a struggle from day to day,” said April Wyche, school counselor, who started the effort with four other teachers. “Project H.A.L.O. will be a bright light for these families and students who are really struggling in this economy and have other troubling personal circumstances.”

This is the third year that the school has partnered with an elementary school in a low socio-economic area. Many are “D” or “F” schools with little parent support. Each of the Charter School’s 31 classes, in addition to the cafeteria and front office staff and other adult groups, adopted families. The adopted school provides the list, along with the names and ages of each family member, as well as their wishes. Each family provides a short essay about their circumstances and what they like to do. Some of the gift requests include clothing, board games, Barbie dolls, skate boards and more. Last year, the school delivered 51 bicycles.

Each of the Charter students donates at least one item. The school also raises extra funds through pizza sales, raffles, stuffed animal sales, dress down days and other activities. They also get corporate donations, including gift cards from Publix and Winn Dixie. Last year the East Campus raised over $3,000 and collected more than 1,000 gifts for the families of students at Sunland Park Elementary. They are hoping to do the same this year for Paul Turner Elementary. During the last week of the drive, the parent and student volunteers sort, wrap, label and personalize all of the gifts.

On Dec. 9, a group of parents and students will board two busses to deliver the gifts

and meet their adopted families. The Charter School’s cheerleaders will perform. Members of the University of Miami football team will also visit to sign auto-graphs. Paul Turner’s principal, dressed as Santa, will distribute candy canes to the kids. “The project gives the Charter school students an opportunity to expe-rience the joy of giving,” said Wyche. “It truly does take a village to teach a child and we greatly appreciate the support we get to make this project a success. We are all looking forward to delivering a Happy Holiday to our adopted school.”

For information on Pembroke Pines Charter Schools, visit www.pinescharter.net.

school news

Last year, students from Pembroke Pines Charter Elementary fulfilled the wish list of 31 families at Sunland Park Elementary.

▸ Robotic Surgery

▸ Breast Pap Test

▸ New Treatment For Incontinence, Non Surgical

▸ In-offi ce Sterilization

▸ Menopause Management

▸ Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

▸ Contemporary Gynecological Surgery

▸ Infertility

▸ High Risk Obstetrics

▸ Gynecological Surgery

▸ Urinary Incontinence

▸ PMS

▸ Endometriosis

▸ Chronic Pelvic Pain

1951 SW 172nd AvenueSuite 405 · Miramar, FL 33029

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HIGHLAND RANCH | 15875 SW 17 ST, DAVIE | 5 BEDS, 4 BATHS, 3 CAR GARAGEAcre Estate Home on a beautiful 42,000 sq.ft. private corner lot. Exquisite tropical landscapes with Tiki Hut and patio. Heated pool and spa with waterfalls! Spacious kitchen with granite tops and wood cabinets that open to a huge family room. Crown molding throughout. Wood floors in living, dining and master bedroom. Low $700s.

SHORT SALE

RIVERSTONE | 15281 SW 39 ST, DAVIE | 6 BEDS, 4.5 BATHS, 5,287 SQ.FT.One story amazing home in the gated community of Riverstone! 3 car garage. Open and bright floor plan with marble floors, gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, granite, wood cabinetry and more. Amazing lake views. Pool. Cul-de-sac, great for privacy and children to play. Short Sale. Call us for more information. Mid $700s.

W. HILLS | 1977 HARBOR VIEW CIR., WESTON | 4 BEDS, 3 BATHS, 3,021 SQ.FT.This lovely home in Weston Hills Country Club features a great open layout with a split floor plan and a 2 car garage. Tile floors in all living areas. Upgraded kitchen with wood cabinets and granite counter tops. Extremely private lot with no neighbors in the back. High $400s.

juST LISTED

CHAPEL TRAIL | 1000 NW 191 AV, PEMBROkE PINES | 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS,Great starter home! 2 car garage. Open split floor plan, very bright and spacious 1,832 sq.ft. home. Tile throughout living areas, new carpet in bedrooms. Freshly painted. Corner lot. Spacious kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Great community to live in. Great school district. Low $200s.

ESTANCIA | 19251 SW 2 ST, PEMBROkE PINES | 4 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 2,017 SQ.FT.Beautiful home, very well maintained, in sought-out gated community in Pembroke Pines! Split floor plan. 2 car garage. Huge and beautiful backyard with plenty of room for a pool. Pergo wood and tile floors. Granite countertops in kitchen. Pool in the community within walking distance. Low $200s.

EMERALD COuRTS | 16037 EMERALD COVE RD, WESTON | 2 BEDS, 2.5 BATHS,Great 1,370 sq.ft. townhome in beautiful gated community! House is in move-in condition. Tile in all living areas. Nice private patio, fenced in for the children to play or to entertain. Great location with quick access to I-75 and next to restaurants and plaza. Weston A+ schools. Mid $100s.

THE PALMS | 16102 EMERALD ESTATES DR #424, WESTON | 2 BEDS, 2 BATHSResort style living in this 55+ elegant community! Gorgeous views of the pool and the gardens. Everything looks new! Tile throughout living area. Granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Vaulted ceilings. Amazing wide balcony with view to the pool. Amenities include spa, fitness center, theater, pool and more. High $100s.

5100 N OCEAN BLVD., #1513, LAuD-BY-THE-SEA | 2 BEDS, 2 BATHS | 1,700 SQ.FT.Beautiful unit at Sea Ranch Club A, features spectacular panoramic views of the ocean, city and Intracoastal Waterway. Resort-like living in this spacious split bedroom plan. Building is located in quaint Lauderdale-by-the-Sea within walking distance of shops and restaurants. Complex has 3 heated pools, 8 tennis courts, 3 patio bars with BBQs. High $500s.

juST LISTEDjuST LISTED

19900 E COuNTRY CLuB DR., #609, AVENTuRA | 2 BEDS, 2 BATHS | 1,257 SQ.FT.Turnberry Village building withclubhouse, children’s play area, state-of-the-art gym, billiard room, spa, spinning, jacuzzi, BBQ area, massage room and more. Covered parking space + free valet. Marble floors, stainless steel apps, granite counters, custom closets, 10 ft. ceilings, balcony and jacuzzi in master. Located in the Turnberry Golf Course. High $200’s.

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2 BEDROOmS CONDOS IN wEST PEmBROkE PINES & mIRAmARSTARTINg IN ThE mID $60s. CALL US FOR DETAILS!

954.888.9946 | [email protected] | www.korescorp.com2893 Executive Park Drive | Suite 304 | Weston, FL 33331PROGRAMS SUBjECT TO CHANGE. CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS APPLy AND MIGHT NOT BE AVAILABLE AT TIME OF CLOSINGREAL ESTATE & FINANCIAL CONSuLTING GROuP

SHORT SALE

SHORT SALE SHORT SALE

KOR_PMTT_1210-RES.indd 1 11/21/10 11:22 PM

PMTT DECEMBER 2010

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