celebratingour 2 0 thyear - The Parklander Magazine

C E L E B R A T I N G O U R 2 0 T H Y E A R !

MONTHLY CONTRIBUTORSPublishersSharon and Jack KornreichEditorJoyce MoedArt DirectorDani DorseyGraphic DesignersKelli AldridgeLigia Maria Vital MeiraDiana StrikerPublishers’ AssistantMattie HowardAccount ExecutivesSue DiPetrilloBonnie JudsonLisa KirschenbaumAdrienne KriegelJulie MarleyFern WeissmanInternsShaina KonznyBriana RitterspornAdditional ContributingWriters and PhotographersRobin Best, Dr. David J. Blyweiss, Mayor ScottBrook, Karen Burks, Nicole Cook, Helen Downey,Ron Elkman, Mitch Feinglas, Robyne Friedland,Bill Johnson, Shaina Konzny, Jamie Lober, AnaLabosky, Charles Marcanetti, Dr. Jerry Pico,Dr. Efrain Salgado, Dr. Gerald Sussman, MayorMichael UdineServing: Parkland • Coral SpringsMargate • Coconut CreekBoca Raton • PompanoDeerfield Beach • Tamarac9381 W. Sample Road, Suite 203 CoralSprings, FL 33065Phone: 954-755-9800Fax: 954-755-2082E-mail: publisher@theparklander.comJack Bloomfield is the co-founder andexecutive director of One Planet United,a non-profit humanitarian organizationthat promotes unity and understandingamong all people.Sheila & Bennet Bodenstein havebeen married for 45 years and havebeen writing about wine for 25 ofthose years.Jan Engoren is a freelance writer living inBoca Raton. She is currently working ona future best-seller and in her spare timeenjoys tennis, her two cats and a gooddirty martini.George Faragi is Senior Pastor ofCornerstone Christian Center in BocaRaton.Helene Foster is a freelance writer living inParkland with her husband Michael and twosons, Evan and Jacob. Her articles onentertainment, theater, travel and familyhave appeared in numerous local, regionaland national publicationsCecil Hayes is an internationally renowneddesigner to the stars and a bestsellingauthor. Named an Architectural Digest to100 designer, her award-winning décor hasalso graced the pages of The New YorkTimes, The Washington Post and SouthernLiving. She lives in Parkland with her family.www.cecilhayes.comDr. Renae Lapin, LMFT is a LicensedMarriage, Family Therapist and author providingfree counseling services to children andfamilies with the Broward County SchoolBoard’s Family Counseling Program. Dr. Lapinalso offers private counseling as well as consultationservices to mediators and attorneys.Robert Loewendick is an award-winningfreelance outdoor/sports writer.Todd McFliker, a published author andaward-winning photographer, writes aboutentertainment, films, venues, local artistsand national concerts.Lisa Minns is a native of South Floridaand a graduate of Florida Atlantic University.She is a diehard Miami Dolphins fan, afreelance writer, single and has a bit of ashoe habit.Cheryl Pangborn is a Parkland resident andthe mother of two elementary age children,one with special needs. She is a freelancewriter, who also works part time in herhusband’s medical practice.Janet Lynn Roseman Ph.D. is a dancecritic, writer and scholar. She is theauthor of seven books, among them:“Dance Masters: Interviews with Legendsof the Dance”, and “Dance Was HerReligion; the Sacred Choreography ofIsadora Duncan, Ruth St. Denis andMartha Graham.”Copyright 2010 by Calliope Enterprises Corp. All rightsreserved by Calliope Enterprises Corp. All submissionsand published materials are the property of CalliopeEnterprises Corp. This publication may not be reproducedin whole or in part without express writtenconsent from Calliope Enterprises Corp. The publishersreserve the right to edit all submissions and to reject anyadvertising or copy they regard as harmful to the publication’sgood or deemed to be libelous. The publishers arenot responsible for typographical errors, omissions orcopy or photos misrepresented by the advertiser. Liabilityshall not exceed the cost of the portion of space occupiedby such error or advertising items or information.The Parklander is a monthly publicationwith mailed delivery to 17,551 homesand businesses.ON THE COVER:One of ourengagedcouples forMay. Manythanks toWildflowers ofParkland forproviding thelocation for ourcover shot.Tim Heitz is a graduate of the Culinary ArtsInstitute of Louisiana and the owner andExecutive Chef of Chef 2 Go, a businessdesigned for those who want private dinnerparties in their homes.Dr. Judith E. Horowitz is a licensedpsychologist in private practice, specializingin reproductive health. Should you wishto submit a question for her column, pleasecontact jhorowitzphd01@aol.com.Victoria Landis is a freelance writer andartist living in West Boca.Joy Rothberg was born in Brooklyn, NYand graduated from the CUNY College ofStaten Island. She has lived in Florida forfive years.Dr. Yvette Sencer is an art historian, writerand lecturer. A former Professor, Art HistoryDepartment Chair and Dean of GraduatePrograms at State University of New York’sFashion Institute of Technology, Yvette nowreviews regional art exhibitions and travels theworld, speaking about arts and antiquities.Ron Elkman’s images have been publishednationally and are on display in the CoralSprings Museum of Art gift shop. Pleasevisit Ron’s photography website at:www.ronelkman.com.You can contact any of our writers by sending your messages to editor@theparklander.com.COVER PHOTO BY RON ELKMAN FINE PHOTOGRAPHY4 MAY 2010

MAY 2010CONTENTSVolume 20, No. 2 • May 2010FEATURES24 LOVE IS IN THE AIREngaged couples share their journeys from first dates to proposals.52 MOTHER’S DAY GIFT IDEASTake a hint from this list of great gifts for your mom.2456 THE JOFFREY BALLET AT THE KRAVIS CENTEROne of the premiere ballet companies in the U.S. visits South Florida.58 ELVIS AT 21 - PHOTOGRAPHS BY ALFRED WERTHHEIMERA fabulous exhibit, now at the Boca Raton Museum of Art.IN EVERY ISSUE8 Editor’s Letter9 Parkland’s Mayor11 Coral Springs’ Mayor14 Community News80 School News90 Parkland Library Events105 Cornerstone ChristianDEPARTMENTSLocal Interest/People/Ideas12 Ofer Bavly Speaks at Kol Tikvah30 Is Your Swimming Pool Main Drain a Death Trap?44 My Date With a Soldier53 Remember the Soldiers Who Protect Our Freedom54 One Planet United66 Like Mother, Like DaughterFashion/Wedding/Home/Family20 Getting Your Skin Wedding Day Ready35 Decorating Room by Room: The Living Room40 Mom Report42 Chinese Drywall: A Category Six Hurricane50 Abundant Showers Make Me CowerArt & Entertainment/Travel60 Ancient Petra: An Art Gallery Carved in Stone62 A Maine Vacation64 A Woman of Mystery68 Kick Back and Enjoy a Mother’s Day FilmFood72 Wine Review: Napa Cellars74 Restaurant Review: U.S. Steakhouse76 All About Cinco de MayoSchool/Medical/Health82 Ask Dr. Renae84 A Special Teacher86 Do You Know Someone That Stutters?92 The Obstetrician/Gynecologist: A Woman’s Partner in Good Health96 Can the Corn98 Ask the Expert: What You Need to Know About Stroke102 Making Your Teen’s Transition From High School Less StressfulPets/Outdoors/Garden/Sports106 Improve Your Angling Chances107 The Joy of Car Trips With Cats108 Malachi AcresFinance109 Commercial Loan Modifications and Cost Segregation52 56586 MAY 2010

EDITOR’S NOTEI’m very excited about this May issue of the Parklander.With Mother’s Day right around the corner, this month we are featuring alocal mother-daughter business, sharing their story of mother and daughterworking together. Also for those last-minute shoppers, we have aMother’s Day gift guide, with ideas for the perfect gift for your mother.And for those mothers who love watching movies, this month’s issue ofthe Parklander also features a list of great DVDs all revolving around thetheme of “moms,” comprised of comedies, dramas, and even a couple ofaction flicks.We also can’t forget that Memorial Day takes place this month. One ofour regular writers shares her story of catching up with an old friend fromschool, who now serves this country by serving in the Army.This is a greattime to honor those who dedicate their lives to serving our country.This issue of the Parklander also shares the sweet stories of five recentlyengaged local couples. I personally love reading the stories of how thesecouples met, the journey that led their love to blossom, the details of theproposal, and the wedding and honeymoon planned. I hope you enjoyreading their stories as much as we enjoy sharing them with you. For thosebrides looking forward to their own wedding, be sure to read the articlethis month about how to have the perfect skin for your big day.National Women’s Health Week falls from May 9 to 15. This weeklongobservance is coordinated by the U.S. Department of Health and Humanservices to empower women to make their health a priority. In honor ofthis, the Parklander shares some advice from some local gynecologists inan article about the importance of getting an annual exam.Coral Springs and Parkland have a lot going on right now. Be sure to checkout what the mayor of each city has to share with their communities. Ifyour club or organization has events they would like to share with the community,please be sure to send them my way to editor@theparklander.comor Editor, the Parklander, 9381 W. Sample Road, Suite 203, CoralSprings, FL 33065.Thanks for reading this month’s edition of the Parklander. I hope you findit both informative and entertaining.8 MAY 2010Congratulations to our March giveaway winner! Dolores Mesa of CoralSprings won a full-size Eye Silk cream and a full-size Skin Revitalizercream from the brand “relastin.” Enjoy!Our May giveaway is a full-size box of 60 GliSODin Skin NutrientsAdvanced Skin Brightening Formula softgel supplements, designed topromote even skin tone, protect the skin against photo aging and promotethe restorative properties of facial aesthetic treatments. Look forthe bottle that looks like this hidden somewhere other than this page.Write to editor@theparklander.com with your name, address, phonenumber and e-mail address, plus the exact page and location of the bottle.One winner will be chosen at random. Good luck!

COMMUNITY NEWSTop Five Reasons To FillOut Your Census FormBy Parkland’s Mayor Michael UdineNow that most people in Parkland have receivedtheir 2010 Census form in the mail, it is time tofill it out and send it back. As of April 1, 2010 (Census Day), the City ofParkland had one of the highest participation rates in Broward County.However, according to a survey by the Pew Research Center, 10 percent ofU.S. residents said they weren’t sure if they would fill out their census form.According to the poll, the main reason respondents gave for not returning theform was that they saw little personal gain from answering the questionnaire.They also expressed uncertainty as to whether the government was asking formore information than it really needed, and many said they weren’t confidentthat census information would be kept confidential. Others simply said theydid not have the time to fill it out.There are some myths floating around that the census is inconvenient orunsafe, but the opposite is true.The census is completely confidential and takesjust 10 minutes to fill out 10 basic questions. The information obtained fromthe census forms is vital because governments use the data to determine whereto allocate hundreds of billions of dollars in funding. According to a recentBrookings Institution study, an accurate census count can increase the flow offederal money to states and localities from more than 200 governmentprograms, including healthcare for the poor, highways, public safety,transportation and schools.It is especially significant this year because the various economic stimulusprograms will pump even more money into states and communities based oncensus results, boosting the total to be distributed from $400 billion to morethan $500 billion. It will be important that Parkland gets its share.The loss in funding for government services for just one uncounted person inBroward County was estimated at $1,300 by the 2000 Census MonitoringBoard. Almost 20,000 Broward County residents were uncounted in 2000,resulting in an estimated loss in funding of $26 million.To help dispel some myths surrounding the census, here are five reasons whyeveryone should participate:1) It’s safe. By law, the Census Bureau cannot share respondents’ answerswith anyone, including the IRS, FBI, CIA, INS or any other governmentagency. All Census Bureau employees are sworn for life to protect theconfidentiality of the data. The penalty for unlawful disclosure is a fine of upto $250,000 and/or five years in prison.2) It’s easy. The mail-in census form has only 10 questions and should takeabout 10 minutes to answer. Those who don’t return the form will be visitedby a census taker. Avoid the hassle and fill out the form.3) It helps you and your community. The information the census collectshelps determine how more than $500 billion dollars of annual federalfunding will be spent on services that benefit the public including hospitals,job training centers, schools, bridges and roads.4) It saves tax money. For every 1 percent increase in mail response, thegovernment, and ultimately taxpayers, save $80 to $90 million. In the longrun, that could amount to $1.5 billion.5) It helps your voice be heard. Census data are also used to determinerepresentation in the federal and state legislatures. Under-counting leads tounder-representation.As always, I value your questions or comments. Reach out and “friend me”if you want to follow me on Facebook or look me up on Twitter(www.twitter.com/michaeludine) if you want to follow my updates. As always, ifyou have any questions or concerns, e-mail me at MUdine@cityofparkland.org.the PARKLANDER9

Options for Local TeensBy Coral Springs’ Mayor Scott BrookCOMMUNITY NEWSBy the time you receive this the Commissionwill have made two very important, temporaryappointments. I am committed that your Commission remainsteadfast in our pursuit of excellence and that our entire organizationmove forward in a positive way to continue to deliver excellent results.I am writing this just prior to the Coral Springs’ Relay for Life forAmerican Cancer Society, for which my wife is the advocacy chair. It wasquite ironic that this time last year I welcomed survivors and their familiesto the event within 48 hours of Brenda and I learning of her diagnosis.Thankfully, Brenda is also a survivor! She was positive throughout anddiligent in her recovery. I want to thank everyone who helped the local relayand all of our friends and family who came to support Brenda’s team.Summer is almost here! Can you believe it? I can’t believe my 11-year oldwill be going to middle school next year! This summer, there are plenty ofevents and happenings right in Coral Springs that you won’t want to miss.The Coral Springs Center for the Arts is hosting an array of Broadwayshows, many for less than $40. The Center for the Arts prides itself onbeing a hometown theater, and it definitely delivers family friendlyentertainment. Coral Springs Comedy Club kicked off its secondseason with nationally known acts coming right to your neighborhoodtheater. With only 100 seats, there is no bad spot in the house. The$25-ticket price also includes a full buffet from Doris’ Italian Market.There is a two-item purchase minimum, and tables are assigned on afirst-come, first-served basis. Attendees must be 18 or older to attend. Formore information, visit CoralSpringsComedyClub.com.Also, inside the Center for the Arts is the award-winning Museum of Art,which offers rotating exhibits and community classes throughout the year.On Wednesdays, the museum offers free admission so the entire family canenjoy this hidden Coral Springs treasure. To find out more on the currentexhibits, visit csmart.org. I am personally planning to register my 9-year olddaughter into the Museum’s superb Art Camp! Please take advantage ofany or all of these offerings.The City is also creating a Teen Task Force with the primary goal to help ourteens make healthy choices. We have experienced too many heart-breakingstories locally for the city not to take a leadership role. I am thankful to myfellow commissioners for a 5-0 vote and great discussion recently as we beginto unfold this new committee. If you are interested in learning more, contactme directly at 954-494-9872 or by e-mail at SBrook@coralsprings.org. I wouldlike to thank my mayoral interns, Sameer Chagani and Courtney Librizzi, forworking with me to help our community and focus on teen needs andchallenges. I also want to thank my former mayoral intern, Robby Holroyd,for doing an outstanding job in his one year of service to me and the city.When was the last time you watched or visited a commission meeting? If ithas been a while, come or at least watch on Channel 25 or streamed onthe Web. You will find our meetings informative, productive and eveninspirational, especially when we recognize extraordinary contributionsfrom local citizens to our community. We meet the first and third Tuesdayof every month at City Hall at 6:30 p.m. We also invite any member of thepublic to be heard on any matter for up to three minutes at 7:30 p.m. (orearlier) at every regular City Commission meeting.Visit www.coralsprings.org for city news, and visit our event calendar to viewthe mayor’s and commission’s scheduled office hours. If you haven’t alreadychecked us out on Facebook, do so at www.Facebook.com/CoralSprings.Contact the City Help Desk at 954-344-1001 or CoralSprings.org/help.Contact the Mayor by e-mailing sbrooke@coralsprings.org.thePARKLANDER11

LOCAL INTERESTOfer Bavly, The Consul General of Israel to Floridaand Puerto Rico Speaks at Congregation Kol TikvahBy Dr. Gerald Sussman and Karen BurksThe Modern Israel Seminar Series of Congregation Kol Tikvahpresented “Israel: Myths and Facts” in March by Ofer Bavly,the Consul General of Israel to Florida and Puerto Rico.Co-sponsored by Rabbi Bradd Boxman, who is building a strongIsrael program at Kol Tikvah, and assisted by Dr. Gerald Sussman, MA,LLB, PhD, the moderator for the series, this proved to be the highlight ofthe year. Parkland mayor Michael Udine and Coral Springs deputy mayorClaudette Bruck welcomed Bavly and almost 400 people to the talk. Bavlyprovided a frank assessment of his country, its achievements andshortcomings, and his views on some of the critical issues of the day.Among the points that he made were that despite the recent criticism ofIsrael, it remains the only true democracy in the Middle East, and the UnitedStates’ staunchest ally in the region. Because it is seen as the most powerfulcountry in the region, people often have the misconception that Israel issome huge country with a large population. In fact, it is about the same size asNew Jersey with a population of approximately 7 million people. Part ofIsrael’s problem, he noted, was the press’ tendency to report stories in black orwhite, rather than in shades of gray, glossing over the many complexities thatsurround the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He was particularly disturbed bythe use of the term “apartheid” when referring to Israel, which he felt wasboth incorrect and disparaging. Bavly pointed out that Israel provides fullrights to its Israeli Arab citizens, some of whom serve in the Knesset andoften are critical of the government. He also pointed out that the Arabs havemore rights than those living in the Arab countries. Another disturbingAbove: Claudette Bruck, deputy mayor of Coral Springs; Dr. Gerald Sussman,moderator of the Modern Israel Seminar Series; Michael Udine, Parkland mayor;and Consul General of Israel to Florida and Puerto Rico, Ofer Bavly.Below: Rabbi Bradd Boxman of Congregation Kol Tikvah; Dr. Gerald Sussman,moderator of the Modern Israel Seminar Series, Congregation Kol Tikvah; HedySussman; Consul General of Israel to Florida and Puerto Rico, Ofer Bavly; Karen Burks;Mike Masarek; Betsy Masarek; teaching and support staff of the Modern Israel SeminarSeries; and Sarah Warshawsky, public affairs officer of the Consulate of Israel.Rabbi Bradd Boxman of Congregation Kol Tikvah; ConsulGeneral of Israel to Florida and Puerto Rico, Ofer Bavly; and Dr. Gerald Sussman,moderator of the Modern Israel Seminar Series, Congregation Kol Tikvah.trend in the media is that it does not often report Israel’s efforts to assist thePalestinians in the West Bank both economically and medically. Even withregard to Gaza and the Hamas, its humanitarian efforts and provision ofmedical care have often been sabotaged by the very people Israel is trying tohelp, often by its own leaders in the Hamas, Bavly said.Another misconception that people often have about Israel is that it is unsafe,Bavly said. Statistically one has a 40 percent greater chance of dying in a caraccident in Florida than in a terrorist attack in Israel. Also, it is not a thirdworldcountry, although it is often perceived as such in the west. Bavly saidthat Israel’s economy is as strong as the European economies, it spends moredollars on research per capita than any other country in the world, has morestocks on the NASDAQ exchange than any other country other than theU.S., and has more scientists per capita than any other country in the world.Bavly also feels that Israel has done more for the peace process than any othercountry, including giving back large tracks of land won in costly wars with itsaggressive Arab neighbors, and unilaterally evacuating Gaza whichresponded by constant shelling of Israeli towns near the border. Analyzingthe Middle East situation and terrorism, he felt its cause is the hatred ofmodern civilization, not the Israeli/Palestinian problem.This can be seen, hesaid, by the existence of Muslim radicalism before the state of Israel wasestablished and in the acts of terrorism that different Arab sects committoward each other. Regarding the Palestinian issue specifically, Israel hasmade many offers to the Palestinians, which they have constantly refused.Bavly said the question is always,“What can Israel do to promote peace withthe Palestinians?” not “What can the Palestinians do to promote peace?”There is a much greater threat from terrorism, not only to Israel butalso to the West, in the form of a nuclear-armed Iran, he said. Iran hasgone from 5 percent uranium enrichment to 20 percent. Ninety-two to94-percent enrichment is needed for a bomb and they seemed determinedto try to reach it. Bavly cited Iran’s disdain for human life as evidenced bysending its youth into harm’s way to clear land mines for their troops in itswar with Iraq. Even if it did not use nuclear weapons directly, its threatcould destabilize the Middle East.12 MAY 2010Ending on a more positive note, Bavly pointed to its many humanitarianefforts, including being the first country to put a field hospital into use inHaiti. During the time there, it helped 1,000 patients and delivered 16 babies.This same hospital was set up outside of Gaza during the recent conflict totreat Palestinians as well as Israelis who needed care. This was done since theHamas took over the hospitals in Gaza and used them to launch rockets intoIsrael. In doing so, wounded Palestinian civilians had nowhere to go for care.Yet, Israel responded to this need despite fighting against the Hamas.

COMMUNITY NEWSNorth Broward Preparatory SchoolHosts Ethical Decision Making Workshop“We have seven terminally ill patients who need heart transplants, and wehave one heart. Which patient gets to live? Decide in ten minutes. Go!”This challenge set up the first of several ethical dilemmas that high schoolseniors from North Broward Preparatory School faced at their workshopon ethical decision-making recently. The workshop brought the seniorsinto contact with community leaders from many different sectors of thecommunity: business, public service, the military, the clergy and medicine.As the seconds ticked away, groups worried over the hypotheticalconsequences of this decision.“You have five more minutes. Make your decision, or all of the patientswill die and this donated heart will be wasted.” Students in groups of eightor nine pored over case studies, reviewing the qualifications of imaginarycandidates for a life-saving heart transplant. Table leaders from thecommunity led the group on their decision-making process. During theirdeliberations, these seniors understood a crucial fact: Sometimes even thebest decision will be harmful to others.“Why are decisions difficult?” asked workshop leader Michael Kridel,a former law enforcement officer and current lawyer and forensicaccountant. In the end, many choices force us to select between verydifficult alternatives, he explained. On the other hand, Kridel providedstudents with tools that help students process these hard choices. Eachdiscussion concluded with Kridel reminding the students of the fundamentalaxiom of moral and ethical decision making: “You can choose youractions, but you can’t choose the consequences of those actions.”Top to bottom: Darryl Long presents hisgroup’s solution to his table leader’s dilemmato the seniors. The students were given anethical dilemma that their table leader hadto face during his career and after thestudents reached a consensus, the tableleader revealed what choice he made.As an introduction to the different typesof decisions, Kenny Ahearn and SkylarButters explain why they chose theclothes they wore to the seminar.Daniel Ball outlines the positives andnegatives of each possible decision tohis table leader’s dilemma his groupbrainstormed.Rachel Ossip describes her table leader’sdilemma to the seniors. Having tableleaders with unique experiences indecision making helped the group learnskills that could help them later in life.In small groups, each led by acommunity professional, studentsidentified and reflected on their ownpersonal values, and then appliedthese values to a moral decisionmakingtemplate. Throughout themorning, students engaged in theirown moral and ethical challengesand worked through hypotheticalcases with the support of their table leaders. The event culminated in anexercise where, instead of hyothetical choices, students got to wrestle witha real-life dilemma that their table leaders had faced. They considered themoral and ethical responsibilities involved in firing employees, exposingerrors that had been covered up, owning up to personal mistakes, orconfronting colleagues and friends whose actions violated the interest oftheir organizations.“We learned that you can follow a system for making these decisions,” saidsenior Federica Ricci. “I liked that we were required to come up with asolution as a group. We also found that we could work together with otherstudents and make decisions–even if we did not agree at first.”“Our students were engaging in a higher level thinking process,” saidNorth Broward Preparatory School’s deputy headmaster Dr. Jeanne Korn.“This was a challenging opportunity for students to ponder the kinds ofreal-life issues that they will face as adults. A student told me that thisworkshop gave him a chance to take time to think in a different way.Parents shared that their seniors had come home and discussed the bigideas of the workshop with them. If we’re helping this kind of conversationto happen, we’re fulfilling a big responsibility to give students theopportunity to learn life skills.”Stoneman DouglasAnnual Golf Tournament14Stoneman Douglas High School Gridiron Booster Club is hosting itsAnnual Golf Tournament to benefit the Eagles Football Team.This year’sevent will take place at Deer Creek Golf Club in Deerfield Beach, onSunday, May 23. Golfer check-in starts at noon, with shotgun start at1:30 p.m. For sponsorship details and to sign up your organization,contact the Gridiron Booster Club at 954-444-9942 or 954-755-0555, orvia e-mail to info@douglasgridironclub.com.COMMUNITY NEWS Continues on page 18MAY 2010

COMMUNITY NEWSThe FriendshipCirclecontinued from page 14The Friendship Circle of North Broward & South Palm Beach, is havingits first ‘IWalk4friendship’ on May 2. It will be a morning and afternoonof family fun and community solidarity as they walk hand-in-hand tobenefit an organization that brings joy, cheer and respite to children withspecial needs and to their families.For the past 5 years the Friendship Circle has provided a range ofeducational, social and recreational programs that enrich the lives ofhundreds of children with disabilities and their teen volunteers. It alsooffers support and relief to families facing the many challenges of raisinga child with special needs.The purpose of ‘Iwalk4friendship’ is to help raise awareness of theFriendship Circle and to raise much-needed funds to continue thenecessary programs that the Friendship Circle provides to the SouthFlorida special needs community.There are many ways to get involved in ‘IWalk4friendship’ and showyour support. By visiting www.Iwalk4friendship.com, you can register as awalker and send out e-mails to potential sponsors, sponsor a walker, orjust spread the word to your family and friends. As a walker, you can trackyour personal progress, as well as your team’s progress with the moneyraised and team members recruited. Registration is free and every walkerreceives a ‘Iwalk4friendship’ T-shirt. The walk will start at 10 a.m. inTerramar Park, Parkland, and a variety of family friendly entertainmentand refreshments will follow the walk until 2 p.m.To learn more about The Friendship Circle, visitwww.Floridafriendshipcircle.com. COMMUNITY NEWS continues on page 7818 MAY 2010

thePARKLANDER19

HEALTH & BEAUTYBy Jamie LoberOne of the most memorableoccasions in a woman’s life is herwedding day. When it comes tohaving a smooth and flawlessevent while looking beautiful, proper planning is the key.“It is really about general healthy living.This means keeping yourself awayfrom the sun, eating healthy, getting plenty of rest and paying attention toyour body,” said Ingrid Bowman of the American Cancer Society in BocaRaton. “Everybody in South Florida should be going to a dermatologist.”Every bride-to-be has a vision of her wedding day.“If it was me, I would do a wedding with orange blossoms.There is a historyof brides with orange blossoms and that is very moisturizing for the skin. InChinese culture, to gather orange blossoms means to seek a wife,” said CoralBhabek, esthetician at Natures Symphony Aromatherapy in Boca Raton.One item that is key to maintaining skin health is sunscreen,experts agreed.“Sunscreen with zinc or titaniumshould be used everyday because they provide thegreatest amount of benefit interms of preventing skindamage from the sun,”said Dr. Stefan Weiss,a dermatologist at WestBoca Medical Center.“It is always good to havean annual skin check just asyou would have your annualphysical or gynecologicalexam, just in terms ofensuring that there are noskin cancers present.”Do not be afraid to turn toprofessionals for guidance,but make sure they areboard certified or credible intheir area, Weiss said.“It is important that anyindividual who wants lasertherapy or an injectablegoes to a physician–be ita dermatologist or a plastic surgeon,” Weiss said. “In our area, there are ahandful of places where non-physician providers are administering theinjectables or devices without the requisite knowledge of skin anatomy,and you can get into a lot of trouble.”Five months before your wedding, you should start schedulingappointments with a dermatologist and esthetician.“Begin regular facials and peels to clear skin and reduce the appearance offine lines,” said Jennifer Alpert of GBS the Beauty Store.“A facial includes cleansing, steaming, extractions, hydration, a mask and amassage with a hydrating product,” said Rose Larocca, esthetician at LookGreat European Day Spa in Boca Raton.You should also consider what a treatment is going to do for you.“Laser and light face therapy are the most common for individuals whohave accentuated blood vessels on the face or brown spots that occur fromthe sun. Intense pulse light refreshes one’s appearance and gives you amore youthful look,” Weiss said.Microdermabrasian is another common skin procedure.“It will remove dead cells, but we like to use crystals for a milder peeland better results,” Larocca said. “People with very sensitive skin ordilated capillaries have to be careful. Ninety-nine percent of people haveclogged pores, hyperpigmentation or are not taking good care of the skin.They are using heavy creams that are not for their skin condition,which is why they need to be educated on how to look glowing and havevery nice skin.”Also, remember to allow yourself some time to heal from any treatmentsbefore the photographs begin.The five-month mark is also a good time to experiment with newproducts and decide which ones are keepers.“People can use retinol or retinaldehyde face creams via prescriptions likeRetin-A or even many of the over-the-counter pharmaceuticals that havesome form of a vitamin A derivative which has been shown to reduce signsof aging including fine lines and wrinkles,” Weiss said. “You want to findproducts with youthful active ingredients that have been shown to bebeneficial, like hydrocodone, vitamin C and retinol.”A mask may be another option. Mask preference should depend on skintype, as white clay is good for sensitive skin whereas red clay is intendedfor oily skin.WEDDING SKIN continues on page 2220 MAY 2010

thePARKLANDER21

WEDDING SKIN continued from page 20“You can use all different typesof clay. One of my favorites iscalled mineral clay and it isvery gentle,” Bhabek said.Three months in advance,you may want to try someproducts at home.“Daily use of cleansers andmoisturizers and a weeklyexfoliation will keep your skinclear during this stressfultime. Dermalogica power richcream will keep your skinsuper moist,” Alpert said.When it comes to makeup,airbrushing is popular forweddings.“It is a new way of applying makeup that is much more natural looking,”said Jan Corcoran, owner of Boca Raton Bridal.You may want to get a head start on spray tanning.“Start trying it several months in advance to find the right color andapplication that will not come off,” said Corcoran.This may also be a goodtime to try Botox or fillers. “The newest advance in the injectable marketis Dysport which is a new competitor of Botox,” Weiss said.One day before your big day, try to relax.“Massage to de-stress,” Alpert said.Take the time to meditate, or think about how you will look on yourwedding day.“Make sure you look like yourself, just a more improved version but do notgo completely crazy out of the box. A lot of brides try to go so far outsideof their comfort zone and then realize too late that they just do not looklike themselves,” Corcoran said.On your wedding day, wear some of your favorite products that you havediscovered during the planning phase.“Waterproof mascara by Mavala is the only way to go. Glominerals orPeter Thomas Roth makes foundation that goes on smoothly and stays allday. Finish with Skindinavia cool flash sealer to make sure your makeupdoes not run or streak. Peter Thomas Roth cucumber gel masque will takeaway under eye puffiness. Mavala lip base or Peter Thomas Roth Lipprimer makes lipstick stay put,” Alpert advised.Though you may get caught up in the wedding frenzy, do not underminethe importance of careful planning.“You would not buy a dress the day before so do not start your skinregimen the day before either,” Weiss said.22MAY 2010

thePARKLANDER23

Tá{Äxç UÄt~x Y|á{xÜ &V{tw eâwÇ|v~WEDDING DATE: MAY 30, 2010Hailing from Boca Raton and graduating from University of Florida, Chad is a third-year medical studentat the University of South Florida. A former high school and college wrestling champ, Chad is activein the Hillsborough County Medical Association, serves as the medical student representative forthe American Cancer Society’s Pass the Buck campaign for tobacco tax, and volunteers for the ShrinersChildren's Hospital.He is also 100 percent devoted to his Florida Marlins, and describes the definition of a perfect evening aswatching a Marlins baseball game with Ashley by his side.Hailing from Parkland and a graduate of the University of Central Florida, Ashley is a singer, actress, writer and president of her own productioncompany, Think Pink Entertainment. She has performed and traveled the world to more than 35 countries on six continents, from Dubai toDubrovnik. She has performed with Walt Disney World Entertainment for the past four years as a singer and actress doing various shows acrossthe park. She also does a variety of special events and promo films as an on-camera actress for Walt Disney Event Group. She has also performed herown one-woman show in New York City and on the high seas. She also starred as “Tina” in Tony and Tina’s Wedding in Orlando. Her most recentperforming project was in the high energy Respect, the Musical at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. For her perfect night, see Chad’s, but insertSound of Music in place of a Marlins game!Chad and Ashley met after Chad was shadowing in the office where Ashley’s mother, Mona, works. Chad had lunch with Mona and Ashley’ssister, Melissa. Ashley, who across the ocean in Dubai that day, received two voicemails from her sister saying “Have I Got A Guy For You!” OnceAshley returned to dry land a month later, it was love at first sight, and the rest is history. He proposed on the beach at sunset. Chad and Ashley nowreside in Tampa.Ashley and Chad will get married at Congregation B’nai Israel, in Boca Raton.They will honeymoon in Thailand.eÉuçÇ f|ÄäxÜuxÜz &`tàà{xã [x|àÇxÜWEDDING DATE: July 11, 2010Robyn and Matthew met on Oct. 4, 2008, and then later reconnected on JDate.“Matt and I have lived parallel lives,” Robyn said.“When we were younger we both attended the same sleep awaycamp during the same years and never met. We both attended the University of Central Florida and had thesame group of friends. We met once when I was over his apartment but never seemed to talk. It took JDate tobring the two of us together.”After dating for eight months, Matthew proposed.“On June 5, 2009 we went to dinner on Las Olas,” Robyn said. “After dinner we drove up A1A to Commercial Blvd. He parked and we went to Kilwin’sIce Cream. After getting our ice cream Matt and I walked to a private area on the beach. We were giving each other a hug and I said ‘I love you.’ He said‘I love you more.’ I said ‘no’ and he said ‘yes I do and I will prove it.’ And he got down on one knee and of course I said yes.”Robyn and Matthew enjoy going to movies, dinner, bowling, mini-golf, professional sporting events, and spending time with friends.The couple will marry at Congregation B’nai Israel in Boca Raton, and will honeymoon in Cancun, Mexico.ENGAGED COUPLES continues on page 2624 MAY 2010

thePARKLANDER25

continued from page 24UÜtÇwxx ^|xÜvx &XÜ|v `É{ÜWEDDING DATE: August 21, 2010Brandee and Eric met in 2005, when Brandee had a job interview in Eric’s office.“We became good friends during the next year and worked so well together that patients often asked why weweren’t dating,” Eric said. “When we finally caved in and planned a dinner date, it was crazy how well we kneweach other and yet how nervous we could still be.”While they were dating, Brandee moved to another office, and their relationship progressed. They were engagedabout three years after their first date.“When Eric’s family invited us to visit them for a long weekend out of town, he took the opportunity to surpriseme with a cruise,” Brandee said. “We drove past the airport with our fake itinerary to Charlotte, N.C., and instead boarded our ship to Cozamel.”“I attempted to propose on one knee once we reached our balcony, but she knelt down with me and said yes before I could even ask,” Eric said.Eric and Brandee will marry at St. Coleman Church.Their reception will take place at Bahia Mar Beach Resort.“We want to create a very romantic feel with lots of soft flowers and votive candles,” Eric said. “Pink peonies are Brandee’s inspiration.”The couple will honeymoon in Rome, Italy and Greece.Eric, who is a dentist, and Brandee, a dental assistant, will reside in Fort Lauderdale.^xÜ| `tÜ|ÇxÄÄ| &f{tÇx mtv{tÜxã|véWEDDING DATE: October 10, 2010Keri and Shane met when Keri was just 15 years old.“He was a best friend to my next-door neighbor and practically lived there,” Keri said. “For almost a year, I had acrush on him and loved every time I saw his car parked outside. Naturally, I found every excuse to go next door!When he came to my Sweet 16 party, he gave me a card that said ‘I call dibs on you!’ It was my best gift as Iremember blushing with excitement and got butterflies in my tummy. Since I couldn’t really date until I was 16, hebecame my first boyfriend and first–and-only-love!”Nine years later, after spending time apart while Keri was in college and Shane was in dental school, Shane popped the big question.“Known for his impulsivity and spontaneity, Shane whisked me away on New Year’s Day for an evening alone,” Keri said. “When he pulled the card thathe gave to me on my Sweet 16 our of his bag, he dropped to one knee and said ‘I called dibs on you nine years ago, and now I’d like to make it official. Willyou marry me?’”Keri and Shane, who enjoy playing tennis and golf, going to concerts, dining, and spending time with family and friends, will have their ceremony at thechapel at Saint Andrew’s School in Boca Raton.The reception will take place at Mizner Country Club.The pair will honeymoon in Thailand and Bali.“I was raised in Bangkok for six years, and I couldn’t be more excited to share this important part of my life with Shane,” Keri said.gtÇt VÉÉÄ|wzx &`tÜ~ jÉÜÜxÄÄTana met Mark a little more than three years ago.WEDDING DATE: TBa“My girlfriend met Mark and his friend the night before at a bar,” Tana said. “She didn’t know if they were cute ornot so she brought me with her to meet them. Mark and I hit it off right away.”The pair had a long-distance relationship for about two years, but it didn’t work out. They then got back togetherin September of 2009, and Mark proposed on New Year’s Eve morning.“On the morning of New Year’s Eve we were supposed to wake up at 7 a.m. to drive up to Epcot,” Tana said.“Mark woke up at 6:30 which caused me to wake up. He suggested that since we were awake we might as well godown to the beach and watch the sunrise. We walked up the beach a few steps, he turned toward me and smiled, then got down on one knee and asked meto marry him. Little did I know he had it planned this way the whole time.”Tana and Mark enjoy going to the gym and the beach, and going running together.They will be married sometime in December on the beach.They planto honeymoon in Europe. After they are married, they will reside in Palm Beach Gardens.26 MAY 2010

thePARKLANDER27

28 MAY 2010

SAFETY ISSUESIS YOURSWIMMINGPOOL MAINDRAIN ADEATH TRAP?By Ana T. LaboskyOn June 2002 a little girl named Virginia Graeme Baker, a twin sisterand the youngest of five daughters born to Nancy and James BakerIV, son of former Secretary of State James Baker III, drowned.The five girls had gone with their mother to a friend’s house to agraduation party; Virginia was swimming with her sisters in the spa.Theynoticed that Virginia was nowhere to be found. They started looking forher. The sister found her under the water with her hair trapped to themain drain of the spa. She tried to pull Virginia away but the suction ofthe spa main drain was to powerful for her to pull her out. Two menjumped in the spa, broke the drain and were able to pull her out of thesuction of the drain. Unfortunately, Virginia was submerged under thewater for too long, she was lifeless when they pulled her out. She wasrushed to the hospital but it was too late, she was dead on arrival.There is an annual average of 283 drowning deaths (2003-2005) and2,700 emergency room-treated submersion injuries (2005-2007)involving children younger than 5 in pools and spas. In addition, from1997-2007, there were 74 reported incidents associated with suctionentrapment, including nine deaths and 63 injuries. A new law is aimed atreducing deaths and injuries by making pools safer, and securing theenvironment around them.This law was passed in December 2007 by Congress, named the VirginiaGraeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act. The law mandates that publicswimming pools and spas be equipped with anti-entrapment main draincovers that meet the ASME/ANSI A112.19.8-2007 performance standard(or any successor standard). In addition to the anti-entrapmentmain drain covers, any swimming pool or spa that is constructed with asingle main, other than an approved unblockable drain, must be equippedwith an additional device or system designated to prevent suction entrapment.Thedate for compliance with these regulations was Dec. 19, 2008.Even though the law states that it applies to public swimming pools andspas, as of Dec. 19, 2008, it was against federal law to make, import, or sell asuction outlet fitting and cover that does not comply with ASME/ANSIA112.19.8 -2007. Installation of a noncompliant cover in a customer’s poolor spa would be a violation of that provision. The state of Florida hasinstructed that all residential pools and spas and hot tubs should be built andmaintained in accordance with applicable state and local law andANSI/APSP-7.As swimming pool and spa business owners it is our responsibility toprevent any unnecessary harm due to swimming pool suction-relatedinjuries. Organizations such as Independent Pool and SPA ServiceProfessionals (IPSSA), Florida Pool and SPA Association (FSPA) arecommitted to constantly educating the public on swimming pool and spasafety. These organizations, along with local representatives, cometogether in the legislature and at meetings, such as National DrowningPrevention Alliance’s (NDPA) 8th Annual Symposium, to brainstormways to protect the public from unnecessary damages or deathsaround their swimming pool and spa. For more information onthese organizations visit www.ipssa.com, www.ndpa.org/events/symposium_09_summary.htmand www.fspa.com.30MAY 2010Ana T. Labosky is president of IPSSA Gold Coast Chapter.

HOME DESIGNThis living room is large with the sofa placedin the middle of the floor. The two side chairscomplete the conversation grouping. The accessorieson the coffee table are of different heights and textures.The Living RoomBy Cecil HayesPHOTO CREDIT: KIM SEARGENTIN THIS ISSUE andupcoming issues I willaddress decorating oneroom at a time. To focuson one room décor is an excellentconcept to approach the joyof decorating. This concept isbased on four basics: (1) BudgetControl, (2) Stress relief(numerous decisions), (3) Createdecorative flow from room to roomwith style and color, (4) Enjoythe look of a completed room.To understand the WOW of a completely decoratedroom, I like to compare it to a fashion ensemble.Pretend you shopped for the perfect outfit for aspecial occasion. The dress or suit you purchased isa good fit and looks great on you. You planned topurchase a new pair of shoes but your budget didnot allow, so you arrive at the event with bare feet.Get the point?In this issue my room of choice is the living room.Many people think this is wasted space. It becomesthe “Walk By” room; I like to call it the “Hello”room. The living room, in most cases, is the firstvisible space in a home. Because of its location, itmust be impressive. The décor should also create adecorative flow to other rooms in your home.Decorative flow is continuity in selections offurniture style and colors.Seating comprises most of the decorative items inyour living room and requires most of the space. Ithe PARKLANDERstart my concept with a conversation groupingconsisting of sofas and chairs. Sofa style and size ismy first selection because sofas balance the roomand the side chairs. Small- to medium-size livingrooms usually place the sofa against the wall. Largeliving rooms in many cases will accept the sofabeing placed off the wall, floating in the center ofthe space. The location of the sofa and chairs cancarry the room, which can reduce the amount offurniture items that need to be purchased.Before purchasing your sofa you must measure thewall and floor space. When placing the sofa againstthe wall be sure the sofa is three quarters the size ofthe wall. If the sofa is not set against a wall, the sofasize should be one-half the size of the floor space.Modular sofas are great for large spaces.Side chairs must balance the sofa size and shouldbe between one-quarter and one-half the size ofthe sofa. Keep in mind, fully upholstered chairs35

HOME DESIGNIn this smaller living room, to control the usageof space, the sofa is placed against the wall.Small touches of colors have been distributedthrough the use of throw pillows, art and accessories.• All seating in aconversationgrouping shouldsit on top of the area rug.• The legs of the sofa and chairs should not sitany more than 12 to 18 inches from the edge ofthe area rug.Accessories on tabletops work best when used inodd numbers, such as one box, one vase and onebowl. Also, use items of various heights and mix thematerials such as stone, glass and wood.Wall art is an excellent concept to bring color intoyour room. Wall art should always balance the wall inwhich it is hung. Wall art should also balance thefurniture item below it. The size of the art should bebetween one-half and three-quarters of the size of thewall and the furniture below.Art and accessories are not considered functional homeitems because you cannot sit on them, sleep on them, orstore items in these gems. However, the importance ofthem cannot be measured. Art and accessories will giveyour living room class and character.Visit Cecil Hayes at www.cecilhayes.com.carry more weight visually than wooden framed chairs. End tablescome in many styles and size, I call them accent charmers. If morethan one end table is used in a space, I prefer not to have them amatched set–that is the charmer. The only must when selecting endtables is that it be at least half the depth of the seating next to it.Coffee tables and sofas have a partnership; coffee tables should behalf the size of the sofa.In order for your living room conversation grouping to be functionalthere are two basic rules:• The distance from the end of the sofa seat to the edge of thecoffee table should be between 15 and 18 inches.• The maximum distance from the back of the sofa to the backof the side chairs should be no more than 8 feet.The finishing touches for your living room are art and accessories. Ifyour living room has a hard surface floor, an area rug should be yourfirst art selection. Area rugs are considered floor art and it pulls theconversation grouping together.The size of the furniture arrangementwill determine the size of the area rug. Use either of these concepts todetermine the size of your area rug:COLOR IS VERY PERSONAL, it is important that you select thecolors that you love for your living room. Color is not a problemfor most, but the location and usage of color can create a lookyou either love or hate. Below are simple rules for colordistribution and balance that will apply throughout your home.Rule #1:Color should be found throughout a room, not on just one item.Whatever color you use on the right side of the room, place a touch ofit on the left side and the middle of the room. Color can be addedwith throw pillows, art and accessories.Rule #2Use a maximum of three colors per room; this does not apply toshades of a color or neutrals such as beige, black, gray and brown.Rule #3Select one color that can be used throughout several rooms in yourhome. This will pull the entire decorating scheme together. Thereis one rule my mother taught me about color selection for the livingroom, light colors such as white or beige are perfect palettes forthe “hello room”.36 MAY 2010

38 MAY 2010

MOM REPORTWhat The Heck WereYou Thinking, Mom?By Cheryl PangbornWho really knew what they were signing up for when theybecame a mother? I thought I did but, apparently, I waslooking through the proverbial rose-colored glasses.My 9-year-old is at that age where she is all into hearing stories of mychildhood. I was amazed at how many of my funny memories involved mymother. She’s not one I would label with “a good sense of humor,” but theway she does things just winds up being hysterical.I have been intently trying to avoid the “Pitfalls of Non-Coolness” withmy kids but my hot streak recently came to an end. I was walking throughthe school parking lot with my daughter, Katie, a few paces ahead of me.As she jogged ahead of me, I lost my head and screamed in a totally uncoolfashion “Katie watch yourself, don’t run into the street!” She lookedhorrified. Why did I just do that, I cried within my mind, and how can Irectify this? I came up with nothing. I crossed right over into Dorkville.This feature is dedicated to my own mother, who left me with manymemories of “what the heck were you thinking, mom?”Shopping with mom was always the zaniest. If you’ve lived in Florida sincethe 1970s you remember the discount store, the Treasury. It was inTimbuktu as far as I’m concerned. but we caravanned down to it weekly. Ihave three other siblings and I can still see my brother and I standingsalivating at the snack counter wishing for the gooey pizza, hot pretzels, butmostly, the beloved Icee. No matter how much we begged, at the end of theshopping spree we were only allowed to get one small Coke to share. Nowwe quiz my mother on this and ask the burning question, “how much did aCoke cost in 1975? And how much more was the Icee? Would it haveplaced us in financial ruin to have the Icee?” Mom never relented.We were never allowed on the electronic pony ride outsidestores. Our mom told us that kids gotelectrocuted on them. I was under thisfearful impression that hundreds of kidsaround the United States were routinelygetting fried any time they rode one. If Isaw another kid asking their motherfor a ride,I just shook my head thinking, poor sucker. I’m certain she read of oneisolated incidence of this happening in, perhaps, Norway, and used theinformation to keep us good and scared of the shiny little ponies we solonged to ride. I guess we were the real winners, because she saved hernickels and dimes so she could buy us one small Coke.My mom sort of had “two families” because she had my brother and Iclose apart, and then waited six years to have two more children. By thetime my brother and I were in elementary school she was wrapped up ininfant and toddler land. This put us two into the “you’re on your own”category when it came to getting ready for school. I was in charge of thewake up, and one morning got mixed up and woke my brother up at 3 a.m.We got fully dressed, went into the kitchen to turn on the TV to watch“Speed Racer” and realized we were three hours too early for school. Mostmornings we got dressed, ate breakfast and were ready to go and we stillhadn’t seen our mother. My mom is not known for her timeliness and shenever figures in “travel time” so in her mind, if school started at 8 a.m. andwe left the house at 8 a.m., we were good. Unfortunately for us, this placedus firmly on the permanent tardy list.We did have a carpool going at one point. We had one mishap afteranother. Our oh-so-stylish Ford Torino station wagon with the woodpaneledsiding had some kind of door issues. Nowadays all cars are fullyequipped with child locks, and no parent would dare take their child in thecar without a car seat. But back in the day, we were lucky if we didn’t fall outof the car, let alone click it or ticket. If you didn’t slam the doors with theforce of a Mac truck, and mom took a corner too quickly, you were likely toend up on the pavement, as did my brother and another poor carpool rider.Another time we got all the way home and one of the carpoolers wasmissing. We never even noticed. We did wonder if he fell out of the car andwe were unaware. But I digress to the car seat issue. My mom actuallybreastfed while she was driving. Forget about safety restraints, this was the’70s and the car seat thing was apparently optional. My brother recentlyquestioned this as he asked my mother to drive one of the grandchildren tohis house in Tamarac. She was very hesitant and said she didn’t really likedriving all that way with one of the kids in the car. Of course my brother isgasping for air remembering the old Ford with six or seven kids bouncingaround un-tethered, in danger of eating the pavement at any time, with ababy suckling away on mom’s lap. Suddenly, she’s concerned about drivingone child in a five-point harnessed car seat in an automobile with anti-lockbrakes, airbags and child locks?My mother used to make us ice pops with this Tupperware ice pop mold.Guess what our options for flavors were? The ever-popular Instant DietLipton Iced Tea or the tempting water flavor! You did read this correctly,we had iced tea pops or water pops. We were never, ever allowed to haveany fun, sugary cereal. Funny thing is that she definitely softened withthe other two kids. By the time we were teenagers and they wereelementary-school age, my mom had no more fight left in her. You wantFruit Loops for dinner, go ahead. Orange soda for breakfast, have at it!40 MAY 2010

Anyway, it’s weird how everything comes full circle eventually. When Ihad my first child and I went into a super panic, post-partum, can’tbreastfeed, sleep-deprived state, my mother was my rock. Even though shewas a staunch breastfeeding believer, she supported my decision to jumpfrom breast to bottle. She got me through those weeks of “The Baby Blues”and kept me believing I could be a great mother. And then, later on when Isuspected there were issues with my firstborn, she was the one who steppedup to the plate and helped me muddle through all of the what if and what’snext questions. She came with me to evaluations, doctor’s appointments andtherapy visits, and was always just there. She became my chief babysitter andmeans of escape when my husband and I needed to get away from all of theinsanity of dealing with a special-needs child. She still helps me out byshuttling my daughter around and helping her with her homework afterschool several times a week. I know that perhaps my daughter is laughing atme now, but trust, me later on when it really counts, the zany mom is the onewho is there when you need her.We all chuckle when we look back at the stories of our childhood and thecrazy things that we question now as adults. My mother just laughs alongwith us when we tell the stories, but never really divulges all of her secrets.I imagine with four kids you just do what you have to do! There was nopermanent damage to any of us, we all turned out OK. I don’t make icedtea pops for my kids, and I will buy them an Icee at the Target but, Iwouldn’t trade those memories for a whole gallon of Icees. I see how she iswith the grandchildren, and she definitely will pick up a box of FrootLoops in a heartbeat if they ask. So, happy Mother’s Day to a wonderfulmom, grandma and a woman who brought me from childhood tomotherhood with one fun memory after the next.the PARKLANDER41

FOR YOUR INFORMATIONCHINESEDRYWALLA Category Six HurricaneBy Mitch FeinglasAdangerous confluence of events occurred during the five-year periodof 2003 to 2007. The two events–the height of the last buildingboom and a number of unusually active hurricane seasons–createdan extraordinary demand and consequential shortage of drywallproducts. That shortage was filled in part with the importation of drywallmanufactured in China, now referred to as “Chinese drywall.” According toIndoor Environment Connections, a newspaper of the indoor air qualityindustry, more than 600 million pounds of Chinese drywall was used inmore than 100,000 residences nationwide. Seventy-five percent of theseresidences are located in the state of Florida. Those affected could includenew construction or homes that had some remodeling during this period.Just how big is this problem? To put it in context, this is expected to costhomeowners upward of $25 billion. This would rank as the largest naturaldisaster in history by 200 percent.The problem is a many-layered issue. Complaints coming from someresidents of those homes affected include:• A general sulfur “rotten egg” smell• Tarnishing of metal items, including jewelry and silverware• Corrosion and/or discoloring of copper wiring, lighting,plumbing fixtures and evaporator coils• A high level of Freon present in homes resulting from smallpin holes in the air conditioning system’s evaporator coils• Appliances, including air conditioners, televisions, refrigerators,microwaves and computers, breaking down• Failure of lights, smoke detectors and low-voltage wiring• Respiratory problems including sore throats, sinus headaches,nose bleeds, and persistent coughsStrontium was detected at 2,570 ppm and 2,670 ppm in the Chinesedrywall samples. Strontium was detected in the U.S.-manufactureddrywall at 244 ppm to 1,130 ppm.Iron concentrations of 1,390 ppm and 1,630 ppm were detected in theChinese drywall samples and in the range of 841 ppm to 3,210 ppm for theUS-manufactured drywall samples. Additional drywall samples will betested to determine whether the iron is present as oxide, sulfide or sulfate.If the test results are positive, the homeowner now has to decide what todo. A positive result to these exploratory tests answers the question for thehomeowner. Now the problem is what to do.The choices for the homeowner include:• First and foremost is to contact an attorney so you can get adviceon your legal choices• Do nothing, but the long term exposure issues are unknown• Remediate the home.This involves moving out for a numberof months, and among other things completely changing outall the drywall including drywall that has been identified asnon-Chinese because of cross-contaminationIf any of this sound familiar, then a test should be preformed forconfirmation of the presence of Chinese drywall.Experience and advisories recently issued by the U.S. Department ofHousing and Urban Development (HUD) tells us that a processcan confirm or disprove the presence of Chinese drywall. The first isquestioning the occupants for their experiences and complaints. Are theyexperiencing anything from the list above? If so, a physical exam of thehouse should be undertaken.The simplest and most undisputed method is probing the drywall to see ifthere are markings on the rear side of the drywall identifying the productas made in China or by a known Chinese manufacturer. Samples can betaken and tested and compared to the chemical analysis of the drywallmade in China with that of the local/domestic U.S. manufactured drywall.Following is a summary of the test results from that report published bythe United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA):Sulfur was detected at 83 parts per millions (ppm) and 119 ppm inthe Chinese drywall samples. Sulfur was not detected in the fourU.S.-manufactured drywall samples.42 MAY 2010Why remediate now?• Most importantly to limit the exposure to any toxic chemicalspresent• To stop the degrading of your appliances and air conditioning• To certify your home as Chinese drywall free, which shouldimprove property values• To avoid the rushOnce a funding source is available there will be 100,000-250,000 homeowners(plus an unknown number of commercial projects) rushing to remediateand there will not be enough qualified remediators to do the work.Once work begins it could take years to complete all affected properties.At the moment most homeowners have to use their own funds to solvethis problem, which presents a problem for many. One solution is to try to

negotiate with your bank to have a moratorium on your mortgagepayments while you move out and arrange for temporary housing. If fundsare available complete the remediation and move back in.There is action on many fronts to help the affected homeowners. Theseactions may include: class action lawsuits, tax help from governmental agenciesand the waving of building permit fees by some municipalities. A taskforce has been established, and the Consumer Product Safety Commissionhas been established as the lead agency. Other agencies making up this groupinclude the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry,and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, as well asthe Florida Department of Health, the Louisiana Department of Healthand Hospitals, and the Virginia Department of Health, among others.The general public should monitor the federal government’s drywallinvestigation at www.drywallresponse.gov.In the meantime homeowners are urged to maintain proper evidence ofthe presence of Chinese drywall and follow the proper protocol for theremediation process.Do it now and avoid the rush or wait until a settlement comes down. Thechoice is yours.Mitch Feinglas is CEO and founder of Drywall Advisors ,a certified testing,consulting and remediation firm serving the southeastern United States.the PARKLANDER43

FROM THE HEARTBy Lisa MinnsMy DateWith ASOLDIERAs the title implies, I recently had a date with a soldier. Well, itwasn’t originally intended to be a date but by the end of the nightit was clear that it was indeed a date.This wasn’t just any random soldier; this was a friend that I have knownsince the seventh grade. We went to school all the way through collegetogether and he’s always had a special place in my heart. After graduationfrom Florida Atlantic University, he joined the Army. We lost touch but Ihad heard at one point that he had been sent to Iraq.This absolutely brokemy heart. Any time the TV news would have a breaking story about a localsoldier who had been injured or killed overseas I found myself holding mybreath until I heard the name and then experiencing a double emotion ofboth joy when it wasn’t his name that was read and sadness for the familyof the person whose name it was. As I later learned, he went to Iraq notonce, but twice. He’s also been stationed in several other countries aroundthe globe. Some in combat zones and some not.Thankfully, each time he’smade it home safely to his family and friends. On one of his trips back toSouth Florida, he called me up and we had our date. We had 12 years tocatch up on so there was a lot to talk about, and it also turned into a realdate by the end.That’s for another article though.With all that is going on in the world, I felt it was very important to stopand say thank you to all of our troops for putting their lives on the line.Whether they fly helicopters (like my friend does), are medics, cooks oranything in-between, the fact is that we need them. I listened to my friendtell me the stories about the places he’s been, some of the things he’s had toendure, and can only imagine the things he’s seen. While back here athome in South Florida it was a really bad day if I had frizzy hair and theshoes I wanted weren’t available in my size, a bad day for him was if healmost died or if a buddy of his did. He told me that there was a time thathe was going to a funeral once a week and he would just wish for someoneto get married so he’d have a happy reason to wear his dress uniform. Inthe middle of all of this he also had the responsibility of assuring his kidsthe best he could that daddy would be coming home to them no matterwhat. I’ve already made him promise me that when he go overseas againthis summer, he will give me an address so I can send him care packagesbut somehow, that just doesn’t seem like doing enough.commitment and some don’t survive. All of this is done voluntarily so thatwe can have the freedom to say that we disagree with our government orthat we just plain don’t like the current president without fear of beingtortured and killed. Thankfully, technology is much more advanced than itwas during earlier wars so soldiers can do their best to keep in touch withtheir families and friends whenever it is possible. However, nobody everreally knows when this will be. When I was in college I had a roommatewhose fiancé was flying Black Hawk helicopters in Desert Storm. I alwaysdreaded those times when he would get the chance to call and she wasn’thome. She would cry for days knowing that she missed that one call andthe what-ifs would then sink in.This is the reality for someone who loves asoldier. For real love though, it’s a sacrifice worth making because it’s so rareto find someone to really and truly love.We all have our different views on the war in Iraq. Some agree, somedisagree, and some just plain don’t care. No matter what your view isthough, we all need to support the troops. War is a necessary evilsometimes. Like I said before, without it, we wouldn’t have the freedomto say our opinions out loud without repercussions. Our military isvoluntary. Those men and women go in knowing that they may not liveWe have a responsibility to support our troops and not justthe ones who are wearing a uniform when you meet them.Military families lead very different and very difficult lives. Spouses can’t belet in on all of the details of their loved one’s job or sometimes even wherethey are. Families can be moved at any time to a new base. Doesn’t reallymatter if they want to go or not. Schedules are odd and the strains it allbrings on a couple is huge. Some marriages are stronger because of the44 MAY 2010and that it’s largely for people that they have never met. My friend actuallymade the statement to me that he wonders sometimes if he will live to 40.That terrifies me because I don’t want to lose him, and his kids need him.I value my friends and as my friend I love him with all my heart. I wanthim to be safe and I’m thankful that the three times that he went Iraq hehas come back alive and uninjured.There have been thousands so far thatcan’t have the same said about them though. For each person that isinjured or killed, the people who suffer with them grows exponentially.Their families and friends will always miss them and always have anemptiness in their lives without them.We have a responsibility to support our troops and not just the ones whoare wearing a uniform when you meet them. You won’t see my friend’s dogtags when he’s on vacation, he doesn’t walk around in uniform and chancesare good, if you don’t ask him what he does, you may never know.However, give him a shot of tequila and ask him to do the toast and it willbe to The Victorious Dead and he will name his friends that he’s servedwith and lost and you will see the tears in his eyes. There are millions outthere just like him and we all need to thank them. So, Doug, here’s to TheVictorious Dead–they gave their lives for people like me and I’m eternallygrateful. To all of the veterans and active military personnel out there,thank you for protecting us all.

the PARKLANDER45

46 MAY 2010

the PARKLANDER47

48 MAY 2010

thePARKLANDER49

HUMORBy Victoria LandisIremember a cartoon when I was a child about April showers bringingMay flowers. It might have been Little Lulu. She sang a happy songregarding the rain, then the sun appeared, and beautiful masses offlowers sprung up in full bloom. The birds and their nestlings chirpedalong. Maybe a singing cow or horse was in it, too.After decades of adult years (weather seemed inconsequential until I had togo to work in it), I’ve yet to see anyone singing with delight about a deluge inany season. Once in a great while, a soft, gentle rain falls—pattering ahypnotic tune on the roof. But I live in South Florida, a place not known forsubtlety, even when it comes to weather.The majority of our rainfall feels likea giant is standing over your house pouring bucket after bucket on top of you.And he’s laughing with stereotypical fiendish glee—bwa-ha-ha.Rather than produce vibrant displays of colored blooms, when our rain stopsit leaves delicate ornamental plants smashed to smithereens. The weeds,however, explode in an exuberant spectacle. Mosquito larvae spring to life,then soar in a celebratory ritual of sucking blood from anything with sweatglands. I used to keep close to my ex-husband when we stepped outsideduring these times. The mosquitoes loved him, and if he was near, they’dleave me alone. He was also the best at finding stray sewing pins on the floor.No matter what, he’d be the only to step on one and have it pierce his foot. It’sstrange—the things you discover you miss about someone. But I digress.The bumper crop that pops up in my yard after a hard rain is mushrooms.Within hours, the fungi grow at breakneck speeds. I’ve seen broad orangeones spotted with brown. Skinny-stemmed white ones. Pink, yes—pink,ones. Brown ones. Some of them smell so bad the neighbors’ dogswon’t go near.The animals seem to know what will hurt them. I can’t say the same forhumans. More than once, I’ve heard giggling and rustling noises near the’shrooms—young adults searching for “magic” mushrooms after the rain.Tempting as it is to have some fun as the “get off my lawn” shrew, I resist.Instead, I turn on the lights, open the front door, and call for an imaginarycat. It’s usually enough to scare the scavengers into the next yard. The nextday I knock down and smash all the mushrooms I can find. I’m prettycertain that real hallucinogenic fungi need manure to grow. My yard ismostly sand, but why take a chance some whiz-bang lawyer could make acase against me because I didn’t protect his clients, now drooling onthemselves in front of a jury, from my pop-up mushrooms.Back to our crazy heavy rains.This past summer, to prepare for a new typeof sod, I tore out the few remaining clusters of St. Augustine grass and thethick, deep, entrenched weeds in my front lawn leaving a bare expanse ofexposed sand. There was a smattering of black dirt specks visible in themix. Not enough to say I actually had topsoil. One day, it rained fiveinches in under four hours. It was a tumult. When the sky cleared, everyprecious black soil particle had floated to the top of the sand, saileddownhill on the newly formed river of run off, and deposited itself on thefront sidewalk. There were two inches of thick, sticky, dark silt coveringthe concrete for at least 30 feet.I panicked. The only dirt I had to nourish the new sod now looked like adislocated mud bog, the kind where they find mummified remains inEurope. Of course, I’d just paid to have the sidewalk pressure cleaned aweek earlier. That giant with the buckets had to be doubled over withlaughter at what he’d done to me.There was no way I’d pay to haul in moretopsoil for the new grass. The sod stretched my budget as it was. Plus, myfor-the-most-part patient neighbors would complain for sure.So, I had to move the mud. Using a square-front shovel,I scraped up the muck inch-by-inch and flung it asfar as I could back onto the sand. Took me afew hours. Then, no more than an hourafter I’d finished, it rained again. Scrape,rinse, repeat.All in all, I love living in South Florida.I’ve lived in New Jersey, Georgia, Texas,California, the Florida Panhandle andHawaii. This may be the mostentertaining place there is.Between the crazy weatherand the silly humanshenanigans in the dailynews, I may have foundnirvana for humor writers.50 MAY 2010

FROM THE HEARTMOTHER’S DAY By Joy RothbergGIFT IDEASMother’s Day is the day to celebrate your mom, the woman you love whotook care of you when you could not care for yourself, the woman wholoves you unconditionally and still takes care of you.You are probably saying to yourself “What do I buy my mom, the one person who shapedme into the person I am today?”Throughout the years, I have purchased many things for my mom for Mother’s Day,and I have even made some items as well. Here is a list of some items that arebudget-friendly, and I am sure you will enjoy buying for your mom, and she willenjoy receiving them.One year while trying my best to come up with a great gift for my mom at Barnes &Noble, I decided on a gift of music. You can buy your mom her favorite artists onCDs, and place them in a gift basket with some bubble bath so she can pamperherself on her special day. Whether your mom loves Michael Buble, BarryManilow or Barbara Streisand, it is a gift she will love. You can also surprise herwith tickets to a musical or concert inside the CD as well.Whether your mom lives in a different state or next door, I am sure she will love newpictures of her grandchildren.You can capture all those great moments in your child’s liveson film and place them on a DVD and give them to your mom so she can watch them at homeand share them with her friends.You can also download the pictures into a digital picture frame soshe will always have those special moments nearby.If your mom loves books, go to the bookstore and buy books of poems to tell her howmuch you love and appreciate her. Buy a great teacup or mug with her favorite blend oftea or coffee and place them in a gift basket. If your mom does not love poetry then one ofher favorite authors will also do. Whether she loves books by Danielle Steel, JulieGarwood, or Nora Roberts, I am sure she will love this gift idea.Here is one gift that I bought my mom last year. I was trying my best to come up withsomething that was special and said all the things that I wanted to tell her. So I bought herUnconditional Love. You are probably wondering how that is possible. Well, it is the latestfragrance by Philosophy. You can find it at any major department stores that sell the Philosophyproduct line. What better gift to give mom than your unconditional love in a bottle?If your mom loves flowers or has a favorite type of flower, you can go to the gardencenter and purchase trays of flowers and bulbs and plant them in your mom’s garden.This gift will come back every year for mom to enjoy.If your mom has a favorite show that is no longer on TV, or she just loves movies, thengive the gift of movies. Some of the best shows of past and present are now on DVD andyou can purchase some or all of the seasons of those shows for your mom for Mother’sDay. Whether she loves the Golden Girls or Gilmore Girls you can gift her with thecomplete box set. Also, you can purchase some great movies and have a movie night onher special day—just bring the popcorn and some tissues.No matter what gift you give your mom this Mother’s Day, just remember that you aregiving her the best gift of all, the gift of love, appreciation and most of all yourself. Have agreat Mother’s Day and please remember the best gift any mom can get is a gift that comesfrom her child’s heart.52MAY 2010

Remember The Soldiers Who Protect Our FreedomBy Dani DorseyWhen I was little I was thrilled to find out that my birthday wasa national holiday. I felt very special even though I knew thecelebration really wasn’t for me.According to history.com:Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day because it wasa time set aside to honor the nation’s Civil War dead by decorating theirgraves. It was first widely observed on May 30, 1868, to commemorate thesacrifices of Civil War soldiers, by proclamation of General John A. Loganof the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of former sailors andsoldiers. On May 5, 1868, Logan declared in General Order No. 11 thatthe 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing withflowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died indefense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies nowlie in almost every city, village, and hamlet churchyard in the land.In this observance no form of ceremony is prescribed, but posts andcomrades will in their own way arrange such fitting services andtestimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.I remember when the VFW members sold those red paper poppies toraise money and commemorate Memorial Day. Although you rarely seethem these days, the poppies are still produced by disabled veterans. Themoney raised benefits the VFW in their charity efforts for these veterans.When the holiday was changed to the last Monday in May in order to giveus all a three-day weekend, I have to admit I took it rather personally. Howdare they take my holiday away?While working on the May issue of the Parklander I readthe article by Lisa Minns (Date With a Soldier) page 44which brought home the sad truth.Since September 2001 another generation of young menand women have been asked to standby this country in a call to arms.Theywent without complaint, and somehaven’t come back to their familiesalive. My family was very lucky; in the lastcentury we lost no one in combat, but I know that isnot the case with many families across the nation.Perhaps it would be nice to rethinkwhat you plan to do for the MemorialDay weekend. While you enjoy thetime with family and friends, youcould take a small bit of time and rememberthe people who died to keep us safe and free.thePARKLANDER53

By Jack BloomfieldAll People’s DayWhen it comes to holiday celebrations, the list we currentlyparticipate in is quite extensive. We celebrate St. Patrick’s Dayand Valentine’s Day, and many major religious holidays thatinclude Christmas, Easter, Hanukkah and Ramadan. Wecelebrate a holiday in honor of the birth of the U.S.A on the fourth of Julywith fireworks displays that often take our breath away. In each holidaycelebration, there is one thing missing. Someone is usually left out. Not onpurpose. It’s just because the occasion doesn’t fit.Of course, not everyone is Irish (St. Patrick’s Day) or in a love relationship(Valentine’s Day). Some folks don’t practice a particular religion or are notpatriots or even Americans for that matter. But all people on the planetshare two things in common: that everyone can celebrate and that we areall human beings. What if there was a holiday honoring all people whereno one could be excluded?Well, it’s not official yet, but we are getting closer. Actually, it is official forthose who attended the recent All People’s Day Diversity Festival in DelrayBeach. In attendance were more than 300 people representing all ages, assortedcultures, races and religions.The event was held to provide creative and funavenues of understanding and connections among the many ethnic and issuebased groups in South Florida. Festival exhibitors provided workshops,entertainment, display information, cultural craft making and ethnic foods.The festival is the brainchild of a woman who, a few years ago, beganlobbying for All People’s Day to become a national holiday. Her name isSusan Berkowitz–Schwartz, and she says she won’t quit until she sees herdream come true. Susan created the All People’s Day holiday inspired byher own feelings of being different. While developing the traditionsthrough the creative process, she came to appreciate the universal qualitiesat our core and the differences that help make us individuals. Creativitybridged the gap for Susan. She became a master’s level, board-certified,creative arts therapist and licensed professional counselor helping others touse the arts to connect, discover, and heal. All People’s Day helped her toexpress her values, and it expanded from a personal annual event toembrace many individuals and organizations. She has presented the AllPeople’s Day program in more than 50 towns with a variety of differentcultural mixes. A chapter about Susan’s work was published in the book ArtTherapy & Social Action. Her goal is for the ideals of All People’s Day tospread through a national holiday.I have truly embraced one of Susan’s favorite sayings and I believe the fewsimple words contained in the phrase could help us all come to a higherconsciousness when it comes to interacting with others. She is oftenheard saying, “We are all made from the same stuff.” Let us rememberthese profound words as we continue to help bring Susan’s dream intoreality. Peace out.ParklandChamber of CommerceAt its March meeting, the Parkland Chamber of Commerce presented checks to the Parkland public schoolsrepresenting the proceeds from the annual Taste of Parkland. Throughout the year, the PCC plans numeroussocial and business get-togethers. Its members network in a relaxed environment, and socialize with friends,neighbors and local politicians. Meeting times are the first Thursday of each month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. andthe third Thursday from 7:30-9:00 a.m. The meeting locations vary from month to month, so please visit theChamber’s website: www.parklandchamber.com. If you would like to sponsor a meeting or make use of atable top display, please telephone the Chamber’s Executive Assistant Dana Josephson at 954-340-0005.54 MAY 2010

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENTTheJoffreyBalletat the Kravis CenterBy Janet Lynn RosemanIn 1994, when I was living in San Francisco, I had thepleasure of covering the Joffrey Ballet, and was riveted.Founded in 1956 by Robert Joffrey and guided bychoreographer Gerald Arpino until 2007, the company iscurrently under the artistic direction of Ashley C. Wheater,who I remember as an extraordinary dancer during histenure at the San Francisco Ballet. The Joffrey has along and distinguished history, their dancers neverdisappoint, are considered to be artists of the highest caliberAt that time, 16 years ago, Billboards premiered with music by Prince, andits theme of sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll was not a favorite for the dancepress, although, I must admit, I loved it and the balletomanes whoattended that performance agreed with me and literally screamed withadoration at the end of the program. There wasn’t any vocalese during theJoffrey’s South Florida performance at the end of March, but there shouldhave been. The entire program was revelatory, but one piece in particular,the beautifully crafted Age of Innocence, choreographed by Edwaard Liang,is one of the most moving and beautiful choreographic pieces I have everwitnessed. I believe I was the only person to stand up at the end of thisperformance, and I not sure if it was the timidity of the audience or not,who did not join me, however, when you see true dance invention andsuperb artistry, it has to be validated.Choreographer Edwaard Liang travels all over the world setting newpieces on dance companies and has a lot of time to read on the plane andin his hotel rooms.and the choreographic choices made by the company directorshave always been on the cutting edge.56MAY 2010In an interview posted on the Joffrey Ballet’s Web site, he explained that afterreading Jane Austen’s famous Pride and Prejudice he was so inspired, hebought every one of her books and read them all in two months, which is no

mean feat. He became obsessed with not only that time period, but inparticular, spent a lot of time “imagining what it must have been like forfemales who had no say in choosing their mates and had to submit toarranged marriages whether they wished to participate or not.” The onlytime that women were allowed to contact the person they were going tomarry was when they were in a dance, and even then, they were onlyallowed to touch their respective husbands with their gloves.This pure “innocence” for those women is at the heart of “Age ofInnocence.” Liang wanted to explore “what it would feel like for thesewomen whose inner rage had to be subdued at all costs although theywere required to keep a serene front. I imagined what it would be like forthem, and what it would feel like if they were in love with someone elseand they could do nothing about it; without any support from family,they were on their own.”The piece is in five sections and it would be foolish to try to describe all ofthe interchanges between the female dancers and their men.The costumedesigns by Maria Pinto depicted the times that Austen inhabited and theprovocative and compelling music by Philip Glass and Michael Newmancreated an often stark, yet riveting score for the dancers. The red velvetdrapes, and dancers in white brought the late 18th century and the early19th century ballrooms to life. Although, it was certainly a time ofrepression for women in terms of their autonomy, it was also a time ofvirtue and honor between the sexes when even a small touch on the bodywas considered flirting with danger.The Joffrey has a long anddistinguished history, theirdancers never disappoint...”Liang wanted to capture the stories and the voices of the dances fromthe past and he quickly transports the audience to that time. Theglorious dancers of the Joffrey can do no wrong. Liang said that hewanted to choreograph “the best piece for them because the dancerswere so remarkable and came to the rehearsal studio so present andwith hearts open.” Indeed. Austen’s books are filled with unrequitedlove and societal repression (for women), and yet there was not anyobvious rancor in the dance, and the unhappiness that these womenheld is posited deep inside, but if you pay attention you can see it heldand telegraphed through the body. The piece is intricately crafted tocapture through movement the emotional lives of both female andmale dancers of that time, and that depiction of their inner life is notsomething that very many choreographers are capable of doing.Watching dance that contains that type of soul is quite different thanwatching dance where the dancers simply expose how high they canjump or how many times they can spin.The other offerings on the program included; the Gerald Arpino’s“Reflections,” a neoclassical piece set to Tchaikovsky, “Mobile,” a homageto Alexander Calder’s sculpture’s and “…smile with my heart,”choreographed by Lar Lubovitch with an on-stage piano performed byPaul James Lewis. The audience quickly recognized the timeless musicby Richard Rogers including; “Do I Hear a Waltz?,” “Where or When?,”and “My Funny Valentine.” Space won’t allow for the selection of dancerswho were shining that evening, in fact, I would have to list ALL of thecompany members who danced that night. But, I will include the namesof Elizabeth Hansen, Erin Mcafee and Michael Smith whose bodiesbecame one in “Mobile” as they melded into a movable sculpture defyingwhat we would commonly agree could not be done by the human body.It was an electrifying and sumptuous performance. (Edwaard Liang’sinterview about “The Age of Innocence” can be seen on the JoffreyBallet Web site.) YGMthePARKLANDER“...an electrifying andsumptuous performance.”57

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENTWALKSElvisat21ARTALFRED WERTHEIMER (American, 1929-), Going Home, 1956.Copyright Alfred Wertheimer. All rights reserved.Photographs byAlfred WertheimerPhotography Exhibit featuresimages of young Elvis PresleyBoca Raton Museum of ArtApril 20 through June 13This exhibition presents a candid, intimate look at young Elvis Presley atthe critical moments when he was becoming an international legend.In 1956, when Elvis was just 21 years of age, he was signed by RCAVictor to make recordings. At this time, Alfred Wertheimer was a young,struggling, New York freelance photographer. Wertheimer was fortunateto get an assignment from RCA to make promotional photographs of thenew recording artist, whose name he had never heard before. (Elvis who?)Wertheimer tagged along with young Mr. Presley, and photographed himas he recorded Hound Dog and Don’t Be Cruel, songs that would quicklysoar to the top of the charts, and would make the former unknown into the“King of Rock.”By Yvette Jayson Sencer, Ph.D.Alfred Wertheimer was born in Germany and moved to Brooklyn, N.Y.,while he was still a young boy. He was attracted to the fields of architectureand design, and he graduated from the renowned Cooper Union art schoolin 1951. In 1956, RCA Victor hired him for a series of commercialphotographic assignments, which included the promotional images ofPresley, a young recording artist RCA had recently taken on.Wertheimer did his job, and in the process he became so impressed withElvis that he decided to continue photographing him on his own time,58 MAY 2010ALFRED WERTHEIMER (American, 1929-),Washroom, No Towels, 1956.Copyright Alfred Wertheimer. All rights reserved.

after the RCA jobwas completed.Wertheimer stayedwith Elvis fourmonths. The photojournalistbecame anunobtrusive “fly onthe wall” as hecaptured the singer’sALFRED WERTHEIMER (American, 1929-),private, unguarded Kneeling at the Mosque, 1956. Copyright Alfredmoments in suchWertheimer. All rights reserved.mundane situationsas washing his hands and reading a newspaper.Wertheimer’s photographs are especially significant because theydocument a time when Elvis Presley could move unnoticed in a crowd, andsit alone at a drugstore lunch counter. Neither Presley nor Wertheimercould imagine that, in just a few months, Elvis’ anonymity would bereplaced by a need for police escorts to help him through mobs of fans.The photographs are remarkable because they reveal a very personal,private aspect of a pop legend. They show spontaneous, unrehearsed,candid images of an exciting young man who was right on the verge ofachieving stardom and emerging as an international icon.During the four-month period that he accompanied Elvis Presley,Wertheimer had unrestricted access to the rising star. This is somethingthat would not happen again in Presley’s career. Shortly after thesephotographs were made, Elvis’ manager, “Colonel” Tom Parker,restricted contact, and took total control.These insightful photographs capture the very essence of the 21-yearoldsinger at the crucial moments just before, and during a time whenElvis achieved stardom.This stunning exhibition resulted from collaboration between theSmithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, the Smithsonian’sNational Portrait Gallery, and the Govinda Gallery, and is sponsorednationally by the History channel. After the exhibition at the BocaRaton Museum of Art closes, the show will travel around the UnitedStates through 2013.The exhibition is accompanied by a richly illustratedcatalog, Elvis 1956.“Elvis at 21” presents classic images of an enduring legend before hebecame famous. Included are enigmatic, unguarded views of Elvis backstage,in concert, in the recording studio, at his home in Memphis, andtraveling on the road.These images are sure to fascinate everyone who isinterested in Elvis Presley, and in pop culture and rock ‘n’ roll music.The show will also delight those who follow “straight” photography.That is, photographs made in natural light, without artifice or rehearsal.Alfred Wertheimer’s images delve deeply into the character and thenatural actions of a historic personality as he moved toward internationalcelebrity and became the unparalleled “King of Rock and Roll.”the PARKLANDER59

TRAVEL INFOAncientPetraAn Art GalleryCarved In StoneThe ancient city of Petra, in the desertof southern Jordan, is one of the mostextraordinary survivals of the ancient world.Petra is often called “the red city” becauseof the many shades of red, exposed on thetowering stone cliffs that surround the site.By Yvette Jayson Sencer, Ph.D.Petra’s history dates from the Stone Age and includes periods of earlysettlement by ancient Edomites, and later domination by Romans,Byzantines, Islamics and Crusaders. The city we see today, filled withamazing carved stone surfaces, was the work of industrious NabataeanArabs, who ruled Petra in ancient times. The exact date of Nabataeansettlement cannot be determined, but may be as far back as the 6thcentury B.C.Petra was the Nabataean capital, and famous for its spice trade. TheNabataeans maintained virtual control of the profitable caravanroutes, from Arabia in the south to Damascus in the north. Thecaravan routes linked southern Arabia, China and India with Egypt,Syria, Greece and Rome.The Nabataeans were also renowned for creatinghydraulic engineering systems which divertedwinter waters to avoid flash floods, and alsoincluded systems of dams, cisterns, waterconduits, and water conservation.Petra’s importance declined after a series of severeearthquakes rocked the region, and there was achange in ancient trade routes. No longer a vital commercial center, thecity fell into ruin, and was deserted and forgotten for many centuries.Petra was finally rediscovered in 1812 by the Swiss explorer J.L.Burkhardt, who began excavations there. Despite more than 100 yearsof excavations, only a small part of the city has been investigated.Petra is known today as one of the most spectacular archaeologicalsites in the Middle East. It is filled with outstanding rock hewnarchitectural monuments, many of which have strong classicalcharacteristics that relate to ancient Greek and Roman prototypes.The Roman-style Amphitheater, whose seats could hold 3,000spectators, is a popular attraction.60 MAY 2010

Previous page: A view of the TreasuryAbove: The spectabular entrance to PetraAbove right: The Amphitheatre which holds up to 3,000 peopleRight: The Urn TombPetra’s stunning architectural relics include the Monastery, whichoverlooks the valley and is reached by 800 steps cut into the rock cliffs.The Urn Tomb is one of a great many rock cut tombs and mausoleumssurrounded by mystery. Throughout time, the tomb structuresweakened and opened the way for tomb robbers to flourish. We willnever know what treasures may have been stored within these tombs.To enter the ancient city, one must first pass through a long, narrow,rock-strewn gorge, framed on both sides by towering, rose-coloredcliffs. The gorge narrows to form a slender opening in the cliff walls.As you approach that slit, you see one of Petra’s most spectacular andimpressive sights. The Treasury is the first dramatic image viewed asyou enter the ancient city. Its huge, exquisite, classical façade is carvedout of the natural rock face of the cliff.As you emerge from the narrow canyon passage toward the Treasury,the vast panorama of ancient Petra opens up before you, and is adaunting sight.I first visited Petra years ago, when few travelers sought out suchremote areas, and it was difficult to get there. I had to go to Jordan’scapital Amman to find a hotel, and travel to Petra from there. I hireda car and driver for the long trip to the outskirts of Petra, where Iwas met by friendly Bedouins leading horses for the balance of thejourney. I will never forget that ride on horseback over rough, rockysurfaces, and my views of the high canyon walls surrounding thelong path. Exiting the narrow gorge was a magical experience: theTreasury loomed directly before me, and rosy, rock-cut structuresappeared to be everywhere.Recently, I was on a cruise that made port in Aquaba. I had anopportunity to return to Petra, and discovered that it is very mucheasier to visit the ancient city today.Where, in the past, there was nothing but desert, today a small city hasgrown up adjacent to the archaeological site. All sorts of touristfacilities abound, from luxury hotels to basic pensiones. Eatingestablishments offer gourmet feasts or just plain pizza.Today there arepaved roads, tour buses and bathroom facilities.My first stop was at a modern visitors’ center, where I found interesting,informative and attractive exhibits. From the Visitors’ Center, youcan choose your own way to enter the ancient site. One way is to takethe very long walk over a rocky path through the canyon; or you canhire a donkey cart, or a horse, or camel, with a local guide.No matter how you arrive at the site, there is really nothing that canprepare you for your first glimpse of the ancient rose city. Once seen,ancient Petra will remain in your memory forever.Petra was designated a World Heritage Site in 1985. UNESCOdescribes the city as “…one of the most precious cultural properties ofman’s cultural heritage.”thePARKLANDER61

TRAVEL INFOLakes and Lighthouses, RollingHills and a Rocky Coast Highlight aMaine VacationPHOTO CREDIT: MAINE OFFICE OF TOURISMPortland HarborMaine Maritime MuseumPortland HeadlightSand Beach, Acadia National ParkWhitewater rafting, The Forks, KennebecBy Bill JohnsonTo escape Florida’s summer heat and humidity,think about Maine, which offers manyvacation options.Rent a cottage on a quiet lake. Experience the thrillof whitewater rafting. Paddle a canoe down agentle river. Hike a mountain trail. Visit a popularnational park. Sightsee or explore museums andhistorical sites.Start by requesting a free travel guidebook fromthe Maine Tourism Association (www.visitmaine.com).And be sure to book hotel rooms early.Demand is high in summer.Because Florida has great beaches, you may notopt for a beach vacation in Maine, where thewater’s icy cold. So Maine beaches won’t befeatured here.To begin a varied vacation, start in Portland, ajewel on Casco Bay. Portland is big enough tooffer rich cultural events, yet small enough tonavigate comfortably and safely. Brick sidewalksand cobblestone streets dot the waterfront area ofshops and restaurants—the Old Port Exchange—where fishing trawlers unload their catch alongsidewaterfront condominiums.Day one: enjoy a great breakfast at a modest priceat Becky’s Diner on the waterfront (CommercialStreet), joining fishermen in yellow slickers amonglawyers, judges and city officials. It seems thateveryone goes to Becky’s.Take a 10-minute drive to Cape Elizabeth’s FortWilliams to see Portland Head Light, perhapsthe most photographed lighthouse in America.Commissioned by George Washington, it’s one ofthe oldest operating lighthouses.Return to Portland’s waterfront to explore the OldPort Exchange. You might take a commuter ferryride to Peaks Island and back, a trolley tour ofhistoric sites, or visit the Portland Museum of Art.Have lunch at one of the many restaurants.Consider the funky J’s Oyster Bar, a kind ofneighborhood tavern and a good place for a beerand some clams or oysters. Small fishing boats maybe tied up at the rear.There may be an afternoon minor league baseballgame at an intimate park with $7 tickets, $4 forchildren and seniors. Because the Sea Dogs areowned by the Boston Redsox, the left field wallduplicates Fenway Park’s famous “green monster.”Portland has many superb restaurants. For dinner,consider Fore Street (on Fore Street). A favorite oflocal folks, it features some unusual menu choicescooked over an open wood fire. In an old cavernouswarehouse, the restaurant can be noisy, but it’sworth it. In the alley-like cobblestone street calledWharf Street, you’ll find Street and Company,which serves thick and delicious fish steaks insizzling skillets placed on your coppertop table.Rooms are small with brick walls and beamedceilings.There, I’ve had the best fish steaks I’ve evereaten–salmon, swordfish, halibut and others. Themost famous restaurant among tourists is DiMillos,a large floating ship. Visitors enjoy its ambience.To enjoy Maine lobster (the real thing) andsteamed clams, you’ll find a good deal at PortWest restaurant at Verrillo’s Convention Centeroff Maine Turnpike Exit 48. Away from thewaterfront, it escapes attention of the tourist crowd.You may find a “Shore Dinner” that includeschowder, salad, a bowl of steamed clams or mussels,a lobster, French fries, an ear of corn and strawberryshortcake for less than $20. Call ahead to check, asit changes from summer to summer. On thewaterfront, a lobster and just a few clams may costmore than $20.62 MAY 2010

Maine is a landscape of mountains, rolling hills,meadows, forestland, hundreds of lakes and arocky coast—so different from Florida’s flat landscapethat most visitors are delighted with a Maine vacation.Acadia National ParkTo cap off the night in Portland, you might catcha symphony orchestra concert, a celebrity’sperformance at the civic center or visit one of theclubs that features entertainment.Day two: I suggest a trip to the mountains. SinceFlorida’s highest peak may be the Sample Roadlandfill, you may be awed by the scenery of theWhite Mountains. From Portland take Route 302to North Conway, N.H., up through CrawfordNotch, south on I-95 to Lincoln, N.H., and theneast on Route 112 back to 302. You may see moosealong the roadside. From Portland to NorthConway is 65 miles and typically takes 90 minutes.The mountain loop is 90 miles and will takemore than two hours. Plan on a full day for thismountain tour.Many visitors to Maine can’t pass up a visit toAcadia National Park near Bar Harbor, perhapsMaine’s most striking scenery. It’s too far fromPortland for a day trip so I suggest the followingfor day three.Day three: Take a leisurely drive up Route Onefrom Portland to Bar Harbor. Stop at the touristinformation center in Yarmouth to pick up mapsand information. A few more miles and you maywant to visit the famous L.L. Bean store inFreeport. Continuing on Route One, you mightturn down Route 27 to have lunch in BoothbayHarbor, a picturesque harbor community. Youmight stop at the Maritime Museum in Bath tolearn Maine’s shipbuilding history or, later, at theFarnsworth Art Museum in Rockland to examinepaintings by Andrew and Jamie Wyeth. Finish theday in Bar Harbor.Day four: Get an early start to Acadia NationalPark. The information center will providesuggestions for your day. For sightseeing, there’s a27-mile road that loops around the island. Thereare also ecological presentations. Return toPortland at the end of your visit.Day five: Consider a gentle canoe ride down theSaco River, starting in Center Conway, N.H.,on Route 302. Get information from SacoBound (www.sacobound.com). For an exhilaratingadventure, consider white water rafting. Getinformation from Three Rivers Whitewater(www.threeriverswhitewater.com or call 1 877UGO-RAFT). To include rafting, you’d want toadjust this schedule to go from Bar Harbor to thewhitewater location without returning to Portland.Maine is a landscape of mountains, rolling hills,meadows, forestland, hundreds of lakes and a rockycoast—so different from Florida’s flat landscapethat most visitors are delighted with a Mainevacation. You will be, too.Bill Johnson conducted guided tours in Maine andtraveled extensively throughout the state.Boothbay HarborBoothbay Harbor, Scenic Harbor ViewthePARKLANDER63

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENTElaine Vietswith her 1986Jaguar(namedBlack Beauty)AWomanofMysteryBy Jan EngorenW“Working 9 to 5 – what a way to make a living ….it’s all takin’ and no givin.’”Dolly Parton in “Nine-to-Five”“Take this job and shove it; I ain’t workin’ here no more”Lyrics by David Allan CoeOr as Fort Lauderdale resident and best-selling mystery book authorElaine Viets says, “Working for a living can be murder.”Viets, a St. Louis native and a former syndicated humor columnist forthe St. Louis Post-Dispatch, knows whereof she speaks. She is theprolific writer and author of the Dead End Job series mystery booksfeaturing Helen Hawthorne, super sleuth, and another series ofbooks, the Mystery Shopper series, featuring Josie Marcus.Viets got the idea for Josie Marcus and the Mystery Shopper series, asher mother was a real-life mystery shopper. Viets draws on real-lifeincidents, locations and actual dead-end jobs to create a sense ofverisimilitude in her novels and characters. In the guiseof research, Viets bravely goes undercover into the pink-collarghetto. She has sold lingerie, books and wedding gowns; worked asa telemarketer, survey taker and in an upscale doggie boutique inFort Lauderdale.After being excised from her position at the St. Louis Post-Dispatchafter 25 years, Viets relocated from Washington, D.C. to Florida (likeher heroine) to remake her life and career. She put her humor andexpertise to work by creating two series of comedic mystery books,both with female gumshoes in the style of what mystery writer TimDorsey calls “Janet Evanovich meets The Fugitive.”Viets has a knack for tapping into a particularly feminine gestalt andpsyche using female touchstones such as fashion, shopping,boyfriends, etc., mixed with a dose of self-deprecating humor as theglue in her mystery book recipe. Her books are not only fast-pacedand fun, but impart a subtle social message as well.“My books are humorous and socially conscious,” Viets said. “Both series have elements that readers, especially women, findentertaining, but there’s a message, as well.”64 MAY 2010She makes wry observations on the particular species knownas ‘Floridians,’ both the native and non-native species and theirbehavior, lifestyle and clothing choices.Most women will get a kick out of her characters, which are plaguedby such mortal considerations as friendship, relationships, sex, deathand money. There are trophy wives, mistresses and single moms,exploits and whodunits in high-end fashion boutiques, weddings, andconsignment shops and assorted adventures with cosmetic surgery,hairstylists, designer purses and pooches as well as the alwaysenjoyable gossiping with girlfriends. Can anyone say chick-lit?Her female protagonist, Helen Hawthorne, flees to South Floridafrom St. Louis, and falls into the ghetto of low-paying menial jobs inorder to work off the books and stay below the legal radar.Like so many others flocking to South Florida, Hawthorne is on thelam, after having discovered her husband and neighbor in flagrantedelicto and indulging in a spot of revenge.Viets’ first book, “Shop Till You Drop,” is set in a high-end salonwhere murder, intrigue and eating disorders reign. “Murder BetweenThe Covers,” the second book in the series, is set in a bookstore fancifullynamed Page Turners. Viets did her actual, hands-on researchat the more mundanely monikered Barnes & Noble Bookstore inHollywood. In her 9th and most recent book in the series, “Half-Price Homicide,” Helen and Phil, Helen’s PI paramour, return totheir hometown of St. Louis to get married.In an example of the fragile line between real life and fictional life, aspart of Viets’ upcoming book tour in May, Viets is hosting a real-lifewedding shower for Helen and Phil at Well-Read Books in FortLauderdale. The shower will be catered by the Eleventh StreetAnnex, the same place Helen and Phil have their engagement lunchin the book.An avid mystery book fan, she loves Michael Connelly, Sue Graftonand Agatha Christie. Viets frequented the Murder on the BeachBookstore in Delray Beach where she met the founder and, at thattime, owner of the bookstore, Joanne Sinchuk. It was Sinchuk who

urged Viets to useher background inhumor writing to createHelen Hawthorneand the “Dead-EndJob” series books.“As a woman and theowner of the bookstore,I see what sells andwhat women want andthey want a characterthey can imagine asthemselves,” Sinchuksaid. “More than 70percent of all bookspurchased are purchasedby women, so it makessense to give womensomething they enjoy and can relate to. Elaine’s first book in theseries, “Shop Till You Drop,” made the Best Seller’s List and herbooks continuously make the Best Seller’s List.”In fact, her new book, “Half-Price Homicide,” received a starredreview from Publisher’s Weekly. She has also won both the AgathaAward (for best mystery in the style of Agatha Christie) for BestShort Story and the Anthony Award for the “Wedding Knife.”Viets, who grew up reading Nancy Drew, typically writes two booksper year.“I like what I do,” she said. “I write each day. I get up by 8 a.m., havebreakfast, write until 11 a.m. when I take a short break, then sit downand write until 3 p.m. I usually have a late lunch and work at least 6 to8 hours each day.”Viets offered advice for first-time writers.“Writing is an art as well as a business,” she said. “If you writechicklit, or thrillers or women’s fiction or science fiction, know yoursubgenre. Know the award winners and the top sellers. Try not towrite because a subject is suddenly selling. Unless you have a trulyfresh and original idea, your book will be a hard sell. Which goesback to the first part — know your subgenre.”It’s apparent that Viets has gathered all the evidence and clues, interrogatedthe witnesses and suspects, deduced all the motives to solvethe mystery that is writing, leaves no stone unturned and knows hergenres and subgenres inside out. Case closed.Elaine Viets’ booksigning for “Half-Price Homicide” is May 10 atMurder on the Beach Bookstore, 273 NE 2nd Ave., Delray Beach. Formore information, call 561-279-7790.Helen’s wedding shower date is Wednesday, May 12, at 7 p.m. atWell-Read Books, 1374 S. 17th St., Ft. Lauderdale. For reservations,call 954-467-8878.the PARKLANDER65

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENTLikeMotherDaughterLikeDuo Creates HappyBusiness PartnershipBy Bill JohnsonMothers and daughters who work together should be as fortunate asMichelle McGrath-Gerlick and her mother, Joni Arlen McGrath.Togetherthey manage the highly successful dance studio, Dance Theatre of Parkland.“My husband says my mother and I share a brain,” Michelle says,explaining why they seldom disagree on business decisions. As a businessmanagement team, mom and daughter share the same vision. “We reallynever fight,” Michelle says. “We have an established system that works.”As managing director, Joni handles the financial aspect of the business andthe front office. As director, Michelle manages the teaching staff–morethan 50 employees at four locations.Michelle learned the business at her mother’s knee and on the dance floor.She started dancing at 3 years old in the studio operated by her parents.Her mother, Joni, has a rich history as a professional dancer in New York.When Michelle took over a business management role in the business in1994, she never thought about changing the business model or practices.One of the values mother and daughter share is a humanitarian sense ofhelping others. Throughout her life, Joni made time to be a foster parentto a number of children who needed a loving home. Today, shechoreographs shows for the Broadway Zeigfield Club to raise money forcharitable causes, including seeing-eye dogs for military veterans, andservices to help retired actors. The cast is made up of retired dancers whopresent several fundraising shows a year.Those values are reflected in the dance theatre operation by providing freelessons to children with special needs.“There are manybenefits to takingdance lessons,”Joni says. “One is that it can build confidence.”When pressed on how they resolve differences in opinion, they say that onsuch rare occasions, they just talk about things and come to agreement.While they see no negative aspects of working together as a mother-anddaughterpartnership, they see some pluses.“The biggest plus is trust,” Michelle says. “When I’m away at one of theother three locations, I know that everything is fine when I’m not here.”Joni and Michelle are aware that all mothers and daughters may not getalong so well in the workplace together.“Some moms and daughters may have a disagreement and not talk to eachother for a week,” Joni says, but she and Michelle never experience that.For more than 15 years, she says, this mother/daughter partnership has beena happy and successful one built on trust and shared vision and values.Pressed about what advice or tips she would give to other moms anddaughters in business together, Joni smiles and shrugs, reluctant to giveadvice. She just knows it works for her and her daughter.Bill Johnson is a freelance writer and partner in Treehouse Studios, agraphic design and communication business in Coconut Creek.66 MAY 2010

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENTKick Back and Enjoy aBy Todd McFliker‘Mother’s Day’ FilmMother’s Day is unique for honoring the special ladies in our lives. So mom, now that you’ve had your brunch, received your flowers, andopened the adorable cards from your kids, it’s time for you to kick back and escape into some cinematic Mother’s Day entertainment.There are some films that explain the beautiful connection that a mom and a child share with each other, while others show just howfrightening some mothers can be. Even though moms come in all shapes and sizes, they all have one thing in common: a passionatedevotion to their kids. Take a look at some of the most special relationships celebrated in the Parklander’s comedic Mother’s Day DVDs.A movie that’ll have you smiling from start to finish is John Hughes’enduring PG film from 1983, “Mr. Mom.” Before he was Bruce Wayne,Michael Keaton was the manly mom around the house caring for threeadorable children. When he gets laid off as a car manufacturer inMotown, his wife returns to work. The adventures begin with droppingoff the kids at school, trekking through a grocery store, giving baths anddrying the baby’s bum in a public restroom. At one point, the washingmachine explodes, the evil vacuum named “Jaws” takes off, the kids set offthe smoke alarm, and the baby eats their concoction of gaseous chili.Topped with fantastic one-liners, Keaton begins acting like a mother bywatching soap operas, and playing poker for coupons with the ladies.Eventually the Super Dad finds his motherly instinct.With no connection to Mr. Mom’s Michael, DianeKeaton is the “Tiger Lady,” a high-powered managementconsultant in “Baby Boom.” In the adorable PG selectionfrom 1987, she’s a workaholic in New York City whoinherits a baby girl from an overseas cousin she hasn’tseen in decades. It’s a hoot watching the business tycooncarrying the child like a football, and popping Valium justto take the kid’s temperature. Mrs. Corleone can run aFortune 500 company but can’t change a diaper. Keaton’sstressful life is left behind when the two relocate toVermont. Away from the Big Apple, Keaton concentrateson being a mother. The big city’s rat race has tosurvive with one less rodent.The same year, Danny DeVito directed and stars in thePG-13 dark comedy “Throw Mamma from the Train.”His childish character is ready to kill his abusive mother.Meanwhile, DeVito’s writing professor, Billy Crystal,wouldn’t mind getting rid of his ex-wife for stealing hisbest-selling novel. A Hitchcock-like scheme, with thetwo characters swapping murders, is worked out. Butwill their alibi stick? “The Goonies’” Anne Ramsey issuperb as DeVito’s verbally abusive mother. As theprofessor explains, “She’s not a woman. She’s theTerminator.”In 1992’s PG-13 comedy, “Stop! Or My Mom WillShoot,” Sylvester Stallone is a detective that gets bossed around by hisintrusive mother, Estelle Getty. Visiting L.A. from Newark, the GoldenGirl instantly gets on her boy’s nerves by cleaning his gun with Clorox,befriending criminals with lentil soup, and interfering with his love life.But after witnessing a drive-by murder, the delightful Getty threatens badguys with spankings, and eventually saves the day.1994’s R-rated “Serial Mom” is a ridiculous satire.Kathleen Turner is a suburban mom who quicklybecomes known as “Baltimore’s first serial killer.” Ifyou’re ready to suspend reality for goofy humor, theflick is pretty funny. Whether she’s prank calling aneighbor, or assaulting her son’s math teacher with astation wagon, this isn’t Beaver Cleaver’s mother. AsSuzanne Summers explains in her cameo, the serialkiller is merely “a normal housewife trapped in a nightmareof circumstantial evidence.”Jumping ahead to 2008, the PG-13 “Baby Mama” issimply hysterical. Tina Fey is a successful executivewho choses her career over a family. While otherwomen got pregnant, she got promotions. Now she’s37, single, and her biological clock is ticking. Onlyshe’s infertile. As a result, Amy Poehler is hired as asurrogate for $100,000. The hilarious relationshipbetween the two ladies is priceless. There are brilliantappearances by Sigourney Weaver, a self-absorbedSteve Martin, and “Weeds’” Romany Malco explaining“You pay the bills, she has the baby. That’s called aBaby Mama.”In the same year’s PG-13 cute romance “My Mom’sNew Boyfriend,” Tom’s son, Colin Hanks, portrays anuptight federal agent. His mother, Meg Ryan, begins todate a suspected art thief, Antonio Banderas. The PG-13 “Motherhood” is 2009’s disappointing story of a lady,Uma Thurman, trying desperately to throw her 6-yearolddaughter an incredible birthday party, while bloggingabout parenthood, and keeping up appearances atthe playground. It’s no “Pulp Fiction.”There are certainly a number of picks from the dramaticside of motherly DVDs. First off, spectators learn of a wicked and abusiveJoan Crawford in 1981’s PG “Mommie Dearest.” Just don’t give FayeDunaway’s memorable character a wire hanger.1983’s PG “Terms of Endearment” stars Shirley MacLaine and DebraWinger battling through various relationships, as well as a terminalillness. Best Supporting Actor winner, Jack Nicholson, is simplymagnificent as a retired astronaut.“Steel Magnolias” is a PG flick from 1989 starring the queens of thebusiness, MacLaine, along with Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Olympia68 MAY 2010

Dukakis, Daryl Hannah and Julia Roberts. The closely tied womeninteract in a Louisiana beauty salon. Roberts returns to tear-jerkers in1998’s PG-13 story of family, divorce and terminal illness, Stepmom.The peaceful French village depicted in 2000’s PG-13 “Chocolat” starsJuliette Binoche as a skeptical single mother. In no time, leading manJohnny Depp learns to savor the woman’s sweetness.Spectators can also catch the not-rated “Mother’s Day” from 1980. Nowconsidered a B-movie classic, it’s the story of three girls rememberingtheir college years at a vacation in the woods where they are hunted by adysfunctional hillbilly family. And released earlier this spring, the remakeof “Mother’s Day” stars “Risky Business’” Rebecca De Mornay as thefilm’s psychotic mother.As seen in Hollywood classics based on motherhood, life is not all roses.But there are some sweet and hysterical moments that will stand anytest of time. A sweet movie can create wonders if it is based onunconditional maternal love. So, enjoy this Mother’s Day watchingexceptional films with your darling mom. As my own madre likes toinform me, “You only have one mother, so you better be nice.”the PARKLANDER69

You Will Learn:• How to design better ads• How to create effective bounce back programs• New techniques for making sales nowGuest Speakers: Marketing Consultant Ron Elkman, who handled the marketingfor Kodak for 15 countries, Bridgestone Sports for the United States and a divisionof General Electric; and Dani Dorsey Art Director for the Parklander MagazineMay 26 from 7-9pm at Strayer University5830 Coral Ridge Drive, Coral SpringsRSVP by May 19. Call 954-755-9800 or email: publisher@theparklander.comPresented byRefreshments provided byKilwin’s Chocolate in The WalkMay Special:BUY ONE DINNER, GET ONE 50% OFFTues, Wed, ThursMUST BRING IN ADCANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER70 MAY 2010

the PARKLANDER71

WINE REVIEWNapa CellarsBy Ben & Sheila BodensteinNAPA CELLARS wines areapproaching our “holy grail,” a winethat costs $5 and tastes like onethat cost $50, and not a $50 winethat tastes like a $5 wine. WhileNapa Cellars have not completelyproduced our grail, they areapproaching it faster than most.What they have done is to producea series of ultra quality wines thatsell in the $25 price range.NAPA Cellars has always been avineyard that has aimed for thehighest quality point that theirgrapes can achieve and havespared no expense to do so. Thereare none of the chemical shortcutstaken or any of the myriads of other modern industrial processes soprevalent in today’s wine industry resulting in cheaper wines ofmediocre quality. They also have not allowed the current economicdownturn to effect their quality or pricing structure. To put it simply,they are producing quality wines with good old-fashionedtender-loving care, and believe us, their wines show it.We recently had the happy occasion to sample a quartet of classic winesfrom Napa Cellars.They were, as we were delighted to find, on their waytoward our “holy grail.”Napa Cellars 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon ($26). This is the cabernetsauvignon that Napa Cellars hangs its hat on. This particular wine isproduced from grapes grown in the Napa Valley, an area that produces thebest cabernet sauvignon grapes in California. Some of the grapes came fromthe famed Rutherford Bench whose grapes impart a dusty, mineral elementto the wine. 2007 was a cool, growing year, which are the best conditions forcabernet sauvignon grapes.The wine displays a berry and black cherry aromaall wrapped in the haunting mineral sensation of the Rutherford Bench.As the aroma opens, one can detect vanilla, oak and spice. The flavorconcentrates on a mineral laced with black cherry, licorice, cocoa and oak.The tannins are restrained and modestly soft, but not too soft. The finish,too, is cherry-based with the signature Rutherford minerals still in evidence.This is a grand wine and truly a treat.72 MAY 2010Napa Cellars 2008 Chardonnay ($24). The cool growing season has alsoendowed this chardonnay with bold and obvious fruit flavors and aromas aswell as a traditional creamy texture. The most obvious aroma is that of Fujiapples, intermingling with Bosc pear and vanilla. The mineral element thatis imparted to grapes grown in the Napa Valley becomes very obvious withthe first sip and helps to amplify and enhance the fruit flavor of the wine.This wine, too, is well-balanced, and very easy to drink.Napa Cellars 2007 Merlot ($22). The cool growing conditions thatproduced such a fine cabernet sauvignon did the same for the merlot. Thismerlot is a blend of grapes grown throughout the Napa Valley, so there is nospecific area signature. Nonetheless, this wine is a standout. The aroma isdominated by ripe cherry and black plum with suggestions of herbs,chocolate and licorice. The flavor is mostly cherry with a hint of vanilla andoak. Some of the grapes must have come from Rutherford because there is abit of the areas signature earthiness to be found. This too is an excellentwine of great character and refinement. It was a pleasure to drink.Napa Cellars 2007 Zinfandel ($22). The classical style of winemakingadopted by Napa Cellars does wonders with the zinfandel grape. This is afull-bodied, subdued zinfandel with the usual pronounced strawberry flavorand aroma held tightly in check.The wine presents a totally new view of thezinfandel. It offers an aroma prominently featuring coffee, chocolate,plums, blackberry, licorice and pepper. The flavor of this wine mirrorsthe aroma with the addition of a berry jam element. The finish, which isexceptionally long, also reflects the cherry and berry flavors. This is azinfandel of a different turn and it definitely deserves your attention. Weenjoyed this wine very much.

Especially For You...Especially For You...Especially For You...Especially For You...Valid in Broward & Palm Beach Counties. Cafes owned and operated by Covelli. Limit one coupon perperson per visit per day. Must present coupon when ordering. Not valid with any other coupon or offer.Void if modified, copied, reproduced, transferred, purchased, traded or sold. Applicable taxes paid bybearer. Cash redemption value 1/20 of one cent. Offer may expire without notice due to error, fraud orother unforeseen circumstances. Offer expires 6/15/10. © 2010 Panera Bread. All rights reserved.Valid in Broward & Palm Beach Counties. Cafes owned and operated by Covelli. Limit one coupon per person per visitper day. Must present coupon when ordering. Not valid with any other coupon or offer. Void if modified, copied, reproduced,transferred, purchased, traded or sold. Applicable taxes paid by bearer. Cash redemption value 1/20 of one cent.Offer may expire without notice due to error, fraud or other unforeseen circumstances. Offer expires 6/15/10.© 2010 Panera Bread. All rights reserved.Valid in Broward & Palm Beach Counties. Cafes owned and operated by Covelli. Limit one coupon per personper visit per day. Must present coupon when ordering. Not valid with any other coupon or offer. Void if modified,copied, reproduced, transferred, purchased, traded or sold. Applicable taxes paid by bearer. Cash redemptionvalue 1/20 of one cent. Offer may expire without notice due to error, fraud or other unforeseen circumstances.Offer expires 6/15/10. © 2010 Panera Bread. All rights reserved.

RESTAURANT REVIEWBy Charles MarcanettiOld Florida! You know. It was the Florida where we wore casual clotheseven on Friday and Saturday nights, a Florida where weddings and officeparties could take place on a beach, where cool evening breezes weremeant to be embraced, not shunned. It was a Florida where therestaurants cared so much about hospitality that no one would dareadvertise steak and seafood dishes that were not exceptional. It was aFlorida where bar drinks were generous, music danceable for adults, andall employees were professionals, not merely folks waiting for somethingelse to come up.Well, my dear readers, guess what I found? I’m not kidding and this isn’t apaid political announcement. The food is fantastic and I’ll give you somehighlights in a minute. But, I must tell you that for the first time in 15years I am reviewing a restaurant/lounge where real grown-ups weredancing as couples.They were actually holding each other: man’s hand onwoman’s waist and woman’s hand on man’s shoulder and each holding theother’s hand; how gentle, how absolutely refreshing.There were some realgood dancers, some, like me, with two left feet and no one–NO ONEcared, because everyone was having fun. From Latin to classic to modernthe band played on and people ate and drank and danced and I driftedback to a time when, in upstate New York, the winter snow was white,where autumn leaves fluttered down to a winter’s rest and people said“Hello,”“good day,”“thank you” and “may I walk you home?”The U.S. Steakhouse Bar and Grill located at 1208 N. Ocean Blvd. inPompano Beach, just north of Atlantic (954-941-6590, ussteakhouse.com)should not have succeeded these eight years. It should have failed withinone year as most new restaurants do. After all, we don’t really dineanymore, we just eat out. We don’t slow dance without getting an “x”rating anymore and we don’t drink moderately and socially anymoreunless it’s snowing in Florida, and we don’t really enjoy each other’scompany unless there’s some deal to be cut. Well, sisters Katt and StaceyDiasynos said to the world that they, if no one else, would create an environmentto defy the norm and embrace customers who remember how toenjoy life, as fully as possible, and still maintain dignity. Joie de vivre (joy oflife) and carpe diem (seize the day) are not exclusive of each other.Let me describe the location: it is ON the beach. It is not near the beachor within walking distance to the beach; it is ON the beach. Outsidethere is a casual dining area with the locally famous Katt’s Tiki Baradjacent. You can sip your pina coladas, marguerites or whatever, whilethe band plays on. Or, you can sit inside in the crisp air conditionedlounge and dance or chat (imagine that–a place where you canactually hear your partner or guest or date or spouse. Wow, whata concept.) And, yet, there is still another choice: you can dinein the (somewhat) more formal dining area. (It’s still casual, but Isaw folks dressed to the nines and khaki-clad men and flowingfrockedladies dancing and dining side-by-side. Hmmm, whathave they started?)OK, so now that you know what it looks like and maybe evenwhat it feels like, let me tell you what it “tastes” like.74MAY 2010I had a giant rib-eye steak, bone in (all beef is Prime BlackAngus). It was medium-rare and crisped. My mouth wateredeven as I ate it, awaiting the next delicious morsel. “Who knowswhat foods these morsels be?” was coined by Marty (Lefty)Herzog, circa 1975, to express just such an experience, and itapplies, once again, at the U.S. Steakhouse.The mashed potatoeswere, in fact, mashed potatoes. They are made fresh daily fromU.S. STEAKHOUSE continues on page 79

Everyone else brought wine.Perfect.Hand-selected 100% Weber blue agave. The world’s finest ultra-premium tequila.simply perfect.simplyperfect.comThe perfect way to enjoy Patrón is responsibly. © 2010 The Patrón Spirits Company, Las Vegas, NV. 40% Alc./Vol.

RECIPESMay 5 is Cinco de Mayo, which means only one thing: Mexican food.The real question is: Do we know why we celebrate this day here in America? Most peoplebelieve that this is the day Mexico declared its independence. This is incorrect. Theofficial Mexican Independence Day is Sept. 16. The history behind Cinco de Mayocommemorates the Mexican army’s unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle ofPuebla on May 5, 1862, under the leadership of Mexican General Ignacio ZaragozaSequin. This was an important battle for two reasons. First, the Mexican militarywas outnumbered severely by seemingly invincible French soldiers that had not beendefeated in more than 50 years. Second, since the Battle of Puebla no country inthe Americas has been invaded by an army from another continent. However, onlythe state of Puebla has some sort of celebration including food, music and dancing.Here you can visit local favorites: La Bamba, Tijuana Taxi, or El Mariachi for Mexicanlmeals. But what if you wanted to host your own Mexican feast? What would you serve for your guests?Here is a sample menu:By Tim HeitzAPPETIZER: Scallop Ceviche- scallops, diced vegetables in a citrus marinadeENTRÉE: Grilled Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos- topped with Queso Fresco cheese, red onions, and salsaDESSERT: Flan-topped with whipped cream and cherriesCOCKTAIL: Jalepeno Margaritas- a classic with a spicy twistSCALLOP CEVICHE RECIPE1 pound bay scallops 8 limes, juiced2 tomatoes, diced 5 green onions, minced2 stalks celery, sliced 1/2 green bell pepper, minced1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley Freshly ground black pepper1 1 /2 tablespoons olive oil 1/8 cup chopped fresh cilantroRinse scallops and place in a medium-sized bowl. Pour limejuice over thescallops. The scallops should be completely immersed in the lime juice. Chillthe lime juice and scallops all day or overnight until scallops are opaque.Empty half of the limejuice from the bowl. Add tomatoes, green onions, celery,green bell pepper, parsley, black pepper, olive oil and cilantro to the scallopmixture. Stir gently. Serve this dish in fancy glasses with a slice of lime hangingover the rim. Yield: 4 to 6 servings.GRILLED MAHI MAHI FISH TACOS1 pound Mahi Mahi 1/4 cup canola oil1 lime, juiced 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder1 jalapeno, coarsely chopped 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves8 flour tortillasPreheat grill to medium-high heat. Place fish in a medium-size dish. Whisk togetherthe oil, lime juice, ancho, jalapeno and cilantro, and pour over the fish. Let marinatefor 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the fish from the marinade, place onto a hot grill,flesh side down. Grill the fish for 4 minutes on the first side and then flip for 30seconds and remove. Let rest for 5 minutes then flake the fish with a fork.Place the tortillas on the grill and grill for 20 seconds. Divide the fish among thetortillas and garnish with any or all of the garnishes. Yield: 6 to 8 servings.GARNISH:Hot sauceSour creamThinly sliced green onionShredded Queso Fresco CheeseShredded white cabbageThinly sliced red onionChopped cilantro leaves76 MAY 2010CINCO DE MAYO RECIPES continues on page 78

FLAN1 1 /2 cups sugar 2 tablespoons water 1/2 lemon, juiced2 cups heavy cream 1 cinnamon stick 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped3 large eggs 2 large egg yolks Pinch saltTo make the caramel: have ready a 2-quart round flan mold and a large roasting pan. Combine 1 cup ofthe sugar and 2 tablespoons of water in a heavy-bottomed pot or pan.Place over medium-high heat and cook until the sugar begins to melt. Swirl the pan over the heat untilthe syrup darkens to a medium amber color, about 10 minutes; don’t stir with a spoon. Remove from theheat and immediately add the lemon juice, swirl the pan again to combine, and then pour into the flanmold. Tilt the dish so that the caramel evenly coats the bottom and a bit up the sides, place in the roastingpan and set aside. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Bring a kettle of water to a boil for the water bathand keep it hot.Combine the cream, cinnamon and vanilla in a small saucepan over medium-low flame. Bring the creamto a brief simmer, stirring occasionally. Take care not to let the cream come to a full boil to prevent it fromspilling over.In a large bowl, cream together the whole eggs and yolks with the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar; add a pinch ofsalt. Whisk until the mixture is pale yellow and thick. Temper the egg mixture by gradually whisking in the hotcream mixture; don’t add it too quickly or the eggs will cook. Pass the mixture through a strainer into a largemeasuring cup to ensure that the flan will be perfectly smooth. Pour the custard into the caramel-coated mold.To create the water bath: pour the hot (not boiling) water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the sideof the mold; be careful not get water into the custard. Carefully transfer to the middle oven rack, and bake for30 to 45 minutes, until the custard is barely set and just jiggles slightly. Let the flan cool in the water bath, thenrefrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.When you are ready to serve, run a knife around the inside of the mold to loosen the flan. Place a dessertplate on top of the flan and invert to pop it out. Yield: 6 servings.JALEPENO MARGARITASMake a big batch of margaritas with a twist. Pulse1 thin slice of jalapeno, a handful of celery leaves,6 ounces fresh lime juice and a spoonful ofconfectioners’ sugar in a blender. Mix with 16ounces tequila and 8 ounces orange liqueur in apitcher; chill. Serve on the rocks in salt-rimmedglasses. Yield: 1 pitcher.No matter what you choose to do this Cinco de Mayo, remember the real reason to celebrate it and have fun with it!Tim Heitz is a graduate of the Culinary Arts Institute of Louisiana and the owner and executive chef of Chef 2 Go, a businessdesigned for those who want private dinner parties in their homes.Milos EstiatorioTHEFRESHESTSEAFOODON DISPLAYLiveLobstersPrimeSteak &Chops3 CourseDinnersfrom$19 .95Private RoomAvailable forBirthdays,Anniversaries andAll Your MostSpecial OccasionsHOURSLunch Hours:Mon - Fri12PM TO 3PMDinner Hours:Mon - Sun5PM TO 10PM1600 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton, Florida 33432Phone: 561-750-6720 • Fax: 561-750-6721Visit Us Online atwww.atmilos.comthe PARKLANDER77

COMMUNITY NEWScontinued from page 18May Wake UpBreakfastThe Coral Springs Chamber of Commerce will have its May Wake UpBreakfast from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on May 18 at the Marriott Heron Bay inCoral Springs.The breakfast is being sponsored by Baptist Health SouthFlorida. RSVP to rsvp@cschamber.com, or call 954-742-4242 or visitwww.cschamber.com. Cost to attend is $15 for current members, and $25for future members.MOMS Club ofSouth Coral Springsand MargateThe MOMS Club of South Coral Springs & Margate is a group thatsupports mothers who choose to stay at home to raise their children.Thegroup’s next meeting will take place at 10:30 a.m. on May 11.Almost-daily activities planned for the MOMS Club include: playdates,crafts, mommy and me classes, and Mom’s Night Out.For more information, call Jessica at 954-830-9776 or e-mailjastiesi@yahoo.com.Parkland SummerRecreation Programfor TeensParkland Teen Camp is a summer recreation program for children ages 12 to 14 (Grades 7-9) and will take place at Westglades Middle School. Childrenmust have completed the sixth grade to be eligible for the program. Field trips aboard air-conditioned motor coach buses are taken four to five days per weekto facilities located in the tri-county area, and to events such as movies, bowling, water parks, arcades, skating, museums, etc. Registration is currently underwayand space is limited.For details, contact GerriAnn Dougherty at gdougherty@cityofparkland.org, 954-757-4129 or visit www.cityofparkland.org.SpecialsROASTED RACKOF LAMB......................$21. 95TWIN MAINELOBSTERS..................$24. 95SURF AND TURFDINNER.........................$24. 9512oz NY Steak 1 /2 Stuffed LobsterSEAFOOD SAMPLERPLATE.............................$24. 951/2 Broiled Lobster/Scallops/ShrimpMother’s Day Dinner ShowMay 8Featuring Alex FoxTribute to Rod StewartStarring George OrrMay 1478 MAY 2010

continued from page 74RESTAURANT REVIEWthe best available potatoes,and the side ofmushrooms was drenchedin a creamy, sweet tosweet/salty sauce thatmade the meat and fishreally pop. We had twolarger than advertised 11/2 pound lobsters whichwere meatier than mostand softly moist, evendelicate (maybe I shouldsay deliKatt.) The grilledsalmon was, and I’mcertain remains, a true specialty because it was sweet, soft, crisp and rich ineach and every bite, and the crab cakes correctly made with Panko (fromJapan and made from bread without crusts, and having a crisper, airiertexture than most types of bread crumbs found in western cuisine) werethis side of incredible.Two last points. Did you ever hear the expression that the apple didn’t fallfar from the tree? Well, these two apples, Katt and Stacey, didn’t fall farfrom their father’s tree. I will not tell you here, because Katt and Staceydid this on their own, but the “tree” I’m referring to is arguably the finestchef in all of South Florida, and one of America’s rare treasures. Heought to be beaming.And, finally, this landmark is located downstairs from the Ocean PointResort. So, guests can attend intimate evenings that can end intimately orguests can imbibe without having to drive home or weddings, etc., canhave rooms for guests who come from longer distances. This great eateryis perfect for locals and visitors. It is ideal for couples, singles and largergroups and while the eating areas seat almost 200 people the layoutremains cozy, relaxed and retreat-like. If I had to find something negativeto say about the U.S. Steakhouse I’d be in trouble. It’s a wonderful place,run by wonderful people whose guests have wonderful visits.U.S. Steakhouse Bar and Grill1208 N. Ocean Blvd. in Pompano Beach,just north of Atlantic Blvd.954-941-6590 • ussteakhouse.comthe PARKLANDER79

SCHOOL NEWSCoral ParkElementaryUpdateBy Robyne FriedlandOn May 1, Coral Park hosted its first SunFestival. Parents and studentsfrom all over the community enjoyed carnival games, Billy the Marlinand the Marlins street team and student performances. We had vendorseducating adults and children about everything from nutrition and sunsafety to dental health and bike safety. We thank our vendors, volunteersand all participants for making SunFestival such a successful event.Our teacher appreciation week was a tremendous success. Parentscouldn’t do enough to show how much CPE teachers and staff areappreciated and loved by the Coral Park community. Thanks again forall your hard work and dedication to our children.If you are a prospective kindergarten parent and looking to join a smaller,but technologically advanced and innovative school then jot downthese dates. Kindergarten Round Up is May 5 at 8:15 a.m. and again at 6p.m. If you can’t make this date the please try to attend on May 12 6 p.m.On May 12 7 p.m. Coral Park PTA will have its last meeting of the yearand the elections for next year’s board. Please come to this meeting soyou can make your voices heard.Coral Park is partnering up once again for a yummy dinner at Buffalo’s.Come on May 20 and be served by your favorite teachers and staff.Buffalo’s gives a portion of the night’s earning back to CPE. Come outand enjoy a great evening.On May 21 Coral Park is having Career Day.This is a great opportunityfor our students to learn about many different types of careers fromour very own parents. If you would like to participate, contact thefront office.On behalf of the teachers, staff and administration we wish the studentsand parents a fun-filled and restful summer. Thanks to all for awonderful 2009-2010 school year. Keep reading all summer and wewish our 5th graders the best of luck next year and to the rest of thestudents, we look forward to seeing you in August.Heron HeightsElementaryBy Helen DowneyUpdateWhere has this year gone? As we move into May and the last few weeksof our inaugural year, please mark your calendar with a few key dates foryour diary.HHE would like to thank the many parent volunteers for their energyand commitment during a Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast at 9:15a.m. on May 12 in the cafeteria. Come join us and celebrate yoursuccess. Following breakfast, all parents are invited to a general PTAmeeting to elect the PTA officers for 2010/2011. Anyone interested inrunning for a PTA board position should contact the nominatingcommittee chair, Julie Fine, at juliesarafine@comcast.net to express aninterest and find out more.HHE’s first parent technology night is on May 12. Learn what thedistrict has to offer students using the BEEP student portal.The final Spirit Day of the year is on May 14. Let’s make this one thebiggest and the best with all students wearing their school T-shirt insupport of a great first year.Now, time to eat great food and raise money! HHE has partnered withScarfones and, on May 4, 11, 18 and 25, a portion of their profits will goto the school.May 26 is the final Waste Free Wednesday. Please pack a waste-freelunch for your children and send in juice pouches emptied and air driedfor recycling.Congratulations to our fifth-grade students! Our first Heron HeightsPromotion Ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, June 9 at 8:30 a.m.Finally, HHE would like to thank the Parkland Chamber of Commercefor its generous donation from the Taste of Parkland event and, onceagain, recognize the effort from Adult Night, which raised thousandsof dollars enabling HHE to purchase new technology for studentK through 5.Park TrailsElementaryUpdateBy Kris DeCheneIt’s hard to believe that the school year is coming to an end. It seems likeyesterday when we were all attending our meet and greets with our teachers!In reflecting about the 2009-2010 school year, we have had a terrific yearwith a lot of fundraisers and events for our students, families and friends.The students had a busy year learning and having fun with all thedifferent events such as, Barnes & Noble Reading Night and PublixMath Night. The PTA brought the scholastic book fair to the schooltwice this year, giving children an opportunity to purchase books. To getour children involved in nutrition and fitness, the Wellness Committeeput together activities, P.A.C.K week to give them a chance to try newfruits and vegetables, as well as the Presidential Fitness testing.Field days gave the children an opportunity to run a variety of relay races.They ran against the different classes in their grade level, participating innumerous activities.The children also enjoyed watching and cheering fortheir teacher when they competed against teachers from other classes.Traci Gaynor headed up another tremendously successful Cultural ArtsNight. Whole Foods of Coral Springs participated by providing asampling station while students and parents were introduced to how musicand art go hand in hand. The children enjoyed seeing their artwork ondisplay throughout the halls thanks to our Meet the Masters volunteers.Park Trails held its annual election for officers on May 5, and we areexcited with the 2010-2011 PTA board. As always, we thank ournumerous volunteers for the hard work that helps organize and facilitateall of the fundraising and school-wide events.School starts on, Monday, Aug. 23. All of our new and returning students,along with their families can look forward to our annual “Meet and Greet”on Friday, Aug. 20. Meeting your children’s new teachers, purchasing schoolsupplies, pre-paying for lunches, getting bus information are all part of theevent. Each grade will have its own time slots for families to meet teachers.Have a safe and happy summer!80 MAY 2010

FROM THE EXPERTSBy Dr. Rene LapinDear Frustrated:There are some reasons that are out of your control that feed the flames ofparents’ fears. Parents of teens did not grow up with technology to text ande-mail; conversations were in person, over the phone or by written letter.Your mother and parents of her generation did not even have cell phones!We are the first generation of parents to have children communicatingwith their peers in a way that is so dramatically different than a previousgeneration. It is confusing for parents to not have a protocol to follow inorder to provide the right amount of responsible monitoring withoutcompletely invading their teens’ privacy.Dear Dr. Renae,I am a 16-year-old girl who does well in school and doesn’t get intotrouble. My mother insists on reading my texts and e-mails. She claimsthat it is her responsibility as a parent to make sure I am safe. I can takecare of myself and want my privacy! Do you think teenagers deserve tohave private conversations with their friends?Frustrated and AngryDear Frustrated,Understanding you’re mother’s point of view in this situation is essential inorder to solve the problem. Looking underneath the surface, it may seemthe reason behind it is she uses the information gained by reading yourtexts/emails as a safety blanket to truly believe that you are safe. However,I do agree with you in discontinuing the practice of parents reading theirchildren’s text messages/e-mails. My advice to help improve your situationwould be to simply put aside time everyday and talk to your mother aboutyour daily endeavors so she can be reassured that you are safe and nolonger has the curiosity to go through your messages.A friend, 16-year-old high school sophomoreDear Frustrated,Yes, teens should be allowed to have private conversations with theirfriends, but it is a hard question because it depends on which way you arelooking at it. From the kid’s perspective, they don’t want parents to haveanything to do with their social life, but from the parent’s perspective theywant their kids to be safe, do the right thing and not get into trouble. Ithink I am responsible enough to not have my mom monitor my texts butdoes my mom think I am responsible enough? So, it depends on how theparent sees the kid’s ability to make good decisions.A guy’s opinion, 18-year-old high school juniorDear Frustrated,I don’t believe that my parents should be reading my conversations withmy friends. I don’t go through my parent’s e-mails or texts. I give themtheir privacy, and they should respect me and give me my privacy, too.Now it’s understandable if my mom wants to know who I am talkingto, because as a parent, they should be aware of who their children arespeaking to, how they know them, how old they are, etc. If I want to sharethe conversation then that would be fine, but they don’t have the right toread them without my consent.On your side, 16-year-old high school sophomoreMany parents today are terrified by the highly publicized local and nationalevents which cite teen violence, especially since it has been frequentlyreported that the parents did not have any idea of what was happening intheir teens’ lives. In addition, teens often do not have enough life experienceto accurately gauge signs of danger. Adults have become more aware andmore vigilant of their surroundings than teens simply because of theirnumber of years of experience and number of situations they have beenexposed to. Has your mother heard you say: “Oh, don’t worry, that won’thappen to me?” If so, she might be feeling that you are unrealistic and cluelessabout the dangers in our society. Fear for your safety and pressure fromsociety may be the driving force of your mother’s monitoring.I agree with “a friend” that you may be able to reduce her fear by takingthe time each day to share some of the events of your daily interactionsbetween friends. Make sure to share your opinions of poor decisionsmade by your peers (you do not have to name them.) For example, letyour mom know what you think of kids using drugs, sexting and skippingschool. It is also helpful for your mom to get to know your friends andtheir parents. This will develop more trust and ease her fears. The moreknowledge your mom has about your life, feelings and opinions, the lessfear your mom will be experiencing and the less pressure she will befeeling to monitor your e-mail and texts.A safe practice to follow is to not e-mail or text anything that wouldincrease those fears. This is a good standard to follow for another reason:Anything you e-mail or text has an electronic footprint and can be viewedby others you would not intend to read them. At the very least, you couldsuffer embarrassment. More serious consequences have been reported byteens whose e-mails and texts have inadvertently been forwarded or readby the wrong people.While you might not be able to change your mom’s mind about readingyour texts and emails at this time, you may be able to feel less angry andfrustrated by discussing the comments in this column with your mother.Ask your mother to contribute substitute ideas, instead of reading yourtexts/e-mails that would reassure her that you are using safe practices withyour electronic communication. Good luck!Dr. RenaeCalling all Teens – Middle and High SchoolDo you have a question or problem on which you would like to receive advicefrom teen counselors? Curious as to how someone else has handled asimilar problem? Concerned about your home, school or social life? Writeto: ASK DR RENAE for a confidential response to your question printed inthe Parklander! No names or identifying information will be published. Pleasegive your age and/or grade level in school and let us know if you are a guy ora girl. All inquiries should be directed to: askdrrenae@att.net. Make sure toinclude: ASK DR RENAE in the subject line.82 MAY 2010

ImagineCharter School UpdateBy Helene FosterSCHOOL NEWSThe Fourth Annual Imagine Schools National Character Essay Contestwas created to help young people practice the critical thinking andwriting skills necessary for academic achievement, while highlightingvalues that are important to leading productive and satisfying lives.Congratulations to the following ICSAB students for being chosen torepresent our school on the national level: Evan Foster, third grade; BrettEllenbogen, fourth grade; Victoria Hosack, fourth grade; MichaelSommer, fourth grade; Taylor Lucas, fifth grade; Kristy Restrepo, fifthgrade; and Christopher DeMaio, fifth grade. We wish them the best ofluck in the national competition!Recently, Imagine Charter School at Broward had its very own OlympicGames. Just like the real Olympics, the school was divided into “countries.”Each team created its own flag and T-shirts, and took part in relay racesand a variety of athletic events.Thanks to Coach Stephen Warrington andvolunteers, the students had a great time. Principal Kevin Sawyer was agood sport when he was covered in green slime during Field Day as areward for the students for reaching fundraising goals for a successful JumpRope for Heart.We are wrapping up our final session of the Meet the Masters Programfor the year. This fantastic program exposes our children to thestimulating world of fine art. Special thanks to our terrific parentvolunteers for bringing this program to the students.For more information about Imagine Charter School at Broward, call954-255-0020 or visit www.imaginebroward.org.RivergladesElementary UpdateBy Nicole CookRiverglades Elementary had a banner year that was full of activities,events and service to the community and RE’s sister school in DeerfieldBeach. Among the many highlights throughout the past few monthswere the spring carnival and cultural arts night. All of the educationaland engaging programs are made possible due to the dedication of themany volunteers who work closely with Riverglades Elementary facultyand staff, and support them each day.These volunteers will be recognizedMay 14 at 9 a.m. during a Volunteer Recognition Breakfast.Also on the calendar in May is the last Outreach program for theschool year. The Outreach Committee has partnered with a localnonprofit organization, In Jacob’s Shoes, to provide new and gentlyused backpacks and school supplies to RE’s sister school in DeerfieldBeach. In Jacob’s Shoes was formed in honor of a former RE student,Jacob Zweig. The mission of In Jacob’s Shoes is to provide new andgently used shoes, school supplies and athletic shoes and equipment toeconomically disadvantaged youth. Scholarships are also awarded tochildren and teens for camp, athletic, education, travel, after school careand extra-curricular programs.As always, remember to check the Riverglades Web sitewww.RivergladesElementaryPTA.org for more information on all of ourscheduled events.thePARKLANDER83

A SpecialTeacherBy Shaina Konzny, internAdviser of the largest Business Professionals of America (BPA)chapter in Florida, Catherine Farina, certainly stands out at CoralSprings High School.It has almost been 20 years since Farina first began her career in education.Today, she is approaching her fifth year at Coral Springs High School,and her fifth year advising BPA. (BPA is a national organization that isoffered to students in 23 states who seek careers in business. Membersrange from high school to college levels.) This year, with Farina’s guidance,20 members of BPA have qualified for the National Competition, whichwill take place in Anaheim, California, in May.The categories in which the members will perform include: accounting,Web design, spreadsheet application and presentation management.“Students are prepared,” Farina said. “They’re studying and practicing.That’s really all they can do.”Farina is also active in Relay for Life, an American Cancer Society event.BPA has raised more than $20,000 for this organization to help raisecancer awareness. In addition, Farina teaches an accounting class at CoralSprings High School.Farina has also recently paired up with PNC Bank, hoping to open a bankbranch right in Coral Springs High School. Savings accounts would bethe first kind offered to the students. Farina plans to have what willbecome known as a banking day, which will be once a week. The branchwould be run by students from her accounting class, who will go to PNCbank and be trained to maintain the accounts.With the success of BPA, participation in Relay for Life, and the PNCBank project, Farina is one of many teachers that dedicate themselves fullyto expanding the opportunities presented to students.“She is very organized and helpful with the students. She definitelykeeps the club running efficiently,” said accounting student and BPAmember Susan Lee.84 MAY 2010

thePARKLANDER85

FROM THE EXPERTSDo you know someone that stutters?By Robin Best, M.A., C.C.C., P.A.Part of my practicum graduate training as a speech language pathologistwas to go to three separate places and stutter on purpose to see how otherpeople responded and how it made me feel. Well, of all the assignmentsI’ve ever had in my school career this was a lesson learned andremembered for more than 25 years. The general public can be impatient,condescending, perplexed and even mean when it comes to dealing with aperson who stutters. I encountered these attitudes and it caused me to feelinadequate, self-conscious, and out of place.Whenever I work with a client/patient I try to remember how I felt whenI posed as someone with a speech impediment. I remind myself that this istheir everyday life. Communication is one of the most essential parts ofour existence as human beings other than the bodily functions that keep usalive and productive.People who stutter are predominately male at a ratio of 5 to 1. They areusually high achievers, perfectionists, with average to above-averageintelligence. Rather than continuing to profile these people into a specificset of criteria, suffice it to say … they are in good company with otherpeople that stutter such as: Winston Churchill, Bruce Willis, Carly Simon,James Earl Jones, John Stossel and Tiger Woods. I believe that the statisticthat one of every 100 people has some level of dysfluency is accurate.If stuttering is so prevalent why don’t we know more about it? Goodquestion. My response to that is we need to make the effort to learn moreabout those who stutter, why people stutter and what the listener can do sowe can be helpful to a very important segment of our population that isoften misunderstood and often harassed, teased and taunted.First and foremost we need to define stuttering. In the book Terminology ofCommunication Disorders, Speech Language Hearing, authors LucilleNicolosi, Elizabeth Harryman and Janet Kresheck define stuttering as,“Disturbance in the normal fluency and time patterning of speechcharacterized by one or more of the following: (a) audible or silent blocking;(b) sound and syllable repetitions; (c) sound prolongations; (d) interjections;(e) broken words; (f) circumlocutions; or (g) words produced with an excessof tension.” These are the primary characteristics of stuttering. Secondarycharacteristics often accompany the primary symptoms such as: loss of eyecontact, body position and posture, hand banging, kicking or tapping,avoidance behavior–just to name a few.Stuttering usually begins between ages of 2 and 6. These same ages arealso indicative of a normal developmental dysfluency that a youngster willgrow out of naturally. It is important to differentiate the two and maybe advisable to seek professional help to discern the difference. It is notpossible to explain all the characteristics of stuttering in an article such asthis. But I’m sure that if you have any concerns at all for yourself or yourloved ones you should learn more on your own.When speaking to a person that stutters try to follow these guidelines.• Let them finish what they are saying with patience.• Model a slower easier pattern of speech to help pace them.• Do not tell them to stop or relax or slow down while they are speaking.• Maintain eye contact with them.• Do not finish their thought.In conclusion, if you or someone you know stutters, educate yourself withresources such as the Stuttering Foundation of America, and books andarticles found at the library and universities. Call a professional forhelp. Recovery for fluency therapy can be as high as 80 percent. Earlyintervention is the key to avoiding negative social interaction andencouraging better self-esteem.86 MAY 2010Robin Best, M.A., C.C.C., P.A., is a speech language pathologist.

ADVERTORIAL

Parkland Library Events for May 2010Saturday, May 1, 10:30 a.m. - Social Networking Computer ClassCurrent trends in social networking, will be discussed in a hands-on class,including Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin. Participants will create a facebookprofile or enhance their existing one, friend the other class participants,and more. The class will be conducted with help from Parkland’s TeenAdvisory Group. Come and learn from “social networking experts” - ourlocal teens! Register: library@cityofparkland.org or 954-757-4200.Monday, May 3, 4 p.m. - Creative Kids: Stories, Craft and CookiesMother’s Day is almost here! Come to the library and make a great giftfor your mom or grandma and hear a story, too! Registration required.Ages 8 and older. 954-757-4200.Wednesday, May 5, and May 9, 4:15 p.m. - Chess ClubParkland Library Chess Club is for children, ages 8 and older. Beginnerscan learn to play and players meet your match! You must be a ParklandLibrary cardholder to join. Children must be 8 years or older.Registration required. 954-757-4200.Saturday, May 8, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Used Book SaleA used book sale will be in the library’s lobby. Sponsored by the Friendsof the Library.Monday, May 10, 10:30 a.m. - Beginning KnittingWant to learn how to knit? Here’s your pass to knitting class! Join othersat the Parkland Library as we learn the basics of knitting! You will needto bring two size 8 knitting needles and yarn. Registration required.954-757-4200.Tuesday, May 11, 3:30 p.m. - “Max” Visits the Parkland LibraryCelebrate Children’s Book Week at the Parkland Library! MeetRosemary Well’s famous storybook character and star of the TV show“Max and Ruby.” Children will hear some of his fun stories and hoparound with him, too. Don’t forget to bring your camera. Registrationrequired, 954-757-4200.Saturday, May 15, 1 p.m. - Film Viewing and Discussion:“O Jerusalem” (In Honor of Jewish Heritage Month)On the streets of New York City in 1946, Jewish-American BobbyGoldman becomes best friends with Arab-Muslim Saïd Chahine. Butwhen British-controlled Palestine erupts in war, these two intelligent andcompassionate men will find themselves fighting on opposite sides of thehistoric battle for Jerusalem. Registration required. 954-757-4200.Tuesday, May 18, 6:30 p.m. - Reader’s Ring Book GroupJoin us for our bi-monthly book chat for fifth- and sixth-graders. Thismonth, read a book of your choice and be ready to review it with otherkids. We will talk about the books and eat a snack. You must read a bookto attend. Registration required. 954-757-4200.Thursday, May 20, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. - Music & MunchiesFor an afterschool treat or an early happy hour, stop by the ParklandLibrary for a snack from the Friends of the Library Coffee Bar andlisten to jazz played by Markus Howell, a ninth-grade saxophonist.Saturday, May 22 at 10:30 a.m.All Booked Up: “The Help,” by Katheryn StockettWhat perfect timing for this optimistic, uplifting debut novel set duringthe nascent civil rights movement in Jackson, Miss., where black womenwere trusted to raise white children but not to polish the household silver.The budding social activist begins to collect the stories of the blackwomen on whom the country club sets relies and mistrusts, enlisting thehelp of Aibileen, a maid who’s raised 17 children, and Aibileen’s bestfriend, Minny, who’s found herself unemployed more than a few timesafter mouthing off to her white employers. Registration 954-757-4200.May 24 to 26 - Summer Storytime RegistrationDuring this three-day period you may register your child’s name on ournumbered storytime class lottery list. There will be a separate list for eachclass.You may register each child’s name only once per class. Numbers willbe drawn and all selected participants will be notified by June 2. You mustbe a Parkland Library cardholder to register. Please bring your library cardor provide us with your card number. Register in person or call the libraryat 954-757-4200. Storytime classes will begin Tuesday, June 21.90 MAY 2010

thePARKLANDER91

HEALTH & WELLNESSThe Obstetrician/Gynecologist:aWoman’sPartner in Good HealthBy Jamie LoberIt is important to establish a relationship with an obstetrician/gynecologist that you feel comfortable with and trust.“We always recommend finding a good medical home. For a woman, it isthe obstetrician/gynecologist who can keep a good record of how you aredoing and your overall health, check blood pressure and remind you aboutgood nutrition,” says Tim O’Connor, spokesman for Palm Beach CountyHealth Department in West Palm Beach.“It is common for us to get patients as teens and deal with sexuallytransmitted diseases and birth control,” said Dr. Tim Puckett,obstetrician/gynecologist with Royal Palm OB/GYN in Coral Springs.“Wemay later see them having children and take care of them when they maywant a tubal ligation. Later on, they may have problems with their periodsor fibroids and occasionally may need more invasive surgeries such as ahysterectomy.Then we transition them into menopause, so we are involvedwith all of the aspects of women’s healthcare.“We give teens information on birth control, sexually transmitted diseases,abusive relationships and vaccines for the HPV virus.”Obstetricians/gynecologists promote smart choices to teens, such asabstinence or using a condom. Often times, there is misinformation ormiscommunication among peers so it is important for them to visit amedical expert. The gynecologist can also help deal with general healthissues that come up.The right obstetrician/gynecologistwill become a patient’s doctorthroughout her life.“Most things young women go through like colds and bladder infectionscan be managed by their gynecologist. We also make sure everybodyis caught up on their vaccines,” said Dr. Phyllis Toon, obstetrician/gynecologist at Toon and Bataskov, MD, PA, in Boca Raton.Any woman who is sexually active and/or 21 and older should see agynecologist annually.“People say they are going to their gynecologist for a pap smear,” Toon said.“That is something that people can relate to, but that is only one of the thingswe do. On every patient, I listen to their heart, lungs, do a breast exam, examinetheir neck for thyroid problems, examine their abdomen, do a pelvic examand a pap smear snuck in there. In older patients, I do a rectal exam routinely.”Preconception counseling is advised in order to prevent birth defects.“Fetal alcohol syndrome, or the mother is drinking during pregnancy, isassociated with the most birth defects.That can be completely eliminated,”Puckett said. “There has been a huge decrease in spina bifida by increasinga woman’s intake of folic acid.”During pregnancy, it is advised to visit the doctor during the first six toeight weeks.“At the first prenatal visit, we take a detailed history of past medical history,genetic history of both partners and try to identify significant testing thatneeds to be performed to make sure the baby is OK,” says Dr. DavidLubetkin, obstetrician/gynecologist at West Boca Medical Center. Anultrasound is done to document the pregnancy and to match it with thedate of your last period.During and after menopause, the gynecologist tries to make things easierfor patients.“We see issues related to vaginal dryness, postmenopausal bleeding andbladder infections,” Lubetkin said.“It is an established fact that when patients get older, their risk for diseasesincreases,” said Dr. Marsh McEachrane, obstetrician/gynecologist atComprehensive Ob-Gyn in Coral Springs.If problems are caught early, they are often treatable.“If we identify someone with a fibroid uterus when the fibroids are smaller,sometimes we can do less invasive treatment such as arrange for a uterinefibroid embolization or some Lupron Depot that will help shrink thefibroids,” Puckett said.“Many of the gynecologic diseases do not have any symptoms, which iswhy it is important to be screened,” Lubetkin said.When it comes to improving the health of women, science and technologyare on women’s side.“The DaVinci robot allows us to do minimally-invasive surgery,”Puckett said.Even hysterectomies and oophorectomies can be done in a way thatallows the patient to go home in 24 hours, and be back to work soon.“We are switching some from the pap smear to HPV testing, so the papsmear is evolving and may not be the standard of care in the future. Some ofthese other modalities may end up replacing it eventually,” Puckett said.92 MAY 2010

Obstetricians/gynecologists ask you to do something for yourhealth today.“Routine exercise could not be more important for the mind and body,”Toon said.“If you maintain a good, healthy weight you will avoid problemslike diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and kidney disease.”Women should also perform monthly self-breast exams.“Look for any changes in the skin or appearance of the breasts, anysignificant new lumps, bumps or masses and bring them to the attentionof the physician,” Lubetkin said.“Elimination of smoking and carcinogens is essential for our well being,”McEachrane said.Regardless of your age or state of wellness, there is no reason to miss anannual exam.“Most health insurance plans allow for one gynecological visit, even ifyou have seen your primary care doctor,” Puckett said.Local women’s health providers ask that you schedule a visit if you havenot been evaluated this year.“As an obstetrician/gynecologist, you cannot help but stress theimportance of an annual exam for everyone,” McEachrane said.thePARKLANDER93

94 MAY 2010

FROM THE EXPERTSCan the CornBy David J. Blyweiss, M.D.When you think of sugar you probably think of sugar cane, or maybebeets. But a field of corn—probably not. But most of the sugar inthe foods we eat and the beverages we drink today comes fromcorn. In fact, you can find high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) injelly, juice, sodas, whole-grain breads, cereals, ketchup, crackers, yogurt, sweetpickles, applesauce, salad dressing, ice cream, cough syrup and lots more.And that’s not a good thing.Proponents of HFCS say its natural, but “natural” is a relative term. Cornsyrup is a glucose-heavy syrup made from cornstarch. There’s no fructose incorn syrup—not naturally, at least. But in 1957, researchers discovered anenzyme that could turn the glucose in corn syrup into fructose. This processwas modified and improved upon in the 1970s, making it possible tomass-produce HFCS. With restrictions on importing sugar and continuingsubsidies for domestic corn, it is markedly cheaper for the food conglomeratesto use HFCS to sweeten everything our national sweet tooth craves.The entire process involves several steps and three different enzymes, buteventually a syrup with around 90 percent fructose content is created, and thisis blended down with untreated syrup (containing only glucose) into a mix ofeither 42 percent or 55 percent fructose.The rest is glucose. It’s also importantto know that two of the enzymes used, alpha-amylase and glucose-isomerase,are genetically modified tomake them more stable.I don’t know about you, but none ofthis sounds particularly natural to me.And then there is HFCS’s impact on health. A groundbreaking study inthe Journal of Clinical Investigation recently linked HFCS to obesity. Theresearchers recruited volunteers to drink a glass of Kool-Aid with everymeal for 10 weeks; half took their soft drinks sweetened with fructose, theother half with glucose. By the end of the study, both groups had put onweight, but the subjects getting fructose had more visceral fat—the kindthat surrounds our organs and is associated with a heightened risk for atherosclerosis,cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The fructose groupalso showed higher levels of LDL cholesterol and lower insulin sensitivity.At the end of the 19th century our yearly intakeof sugar was less than 10 pounds year, at thebeginning of the 21st century we’re closing inon the 150 pound/year mark.But wait—there’s more. A diet high in fructose also increases the risk ofdeveloping high blood pressure (hypertension), according to a paperpresented at the American Society of Nephrology’s 42nd Annual Meetingand Scientific Exposition in San Diego, California. The findings suggestthat cutting back on processed foods and beverages that contain HFCSmay help prevent hypertension.The researchers, who are all part of the University of Colorado DenverHealth Sciences Center, examined 4,528 adults—none of them had ahistory of high blood pressure when the study began. All of the participantskept a food diary. It turns out that the people who ate or drank more than74 grams per day of fructose (2.5 sugary soft drinks per day) increased theirrisk of developing hypertension. Specifically, a diet of more than 74 gramsper day of fructose led to a 28 percent, 36 percent and 87 percent higherrisk for blood pressure levels of 135/85, 140/90, and 160/100 mmHg,respectively. (A normal blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mmHg.)These two studies simply confirm what we already know. HFCS isincredibly bad for you. Even the new commercials touting HFCS haveadded the line: “when used in moderation”…and we haven’t even begun todiscuss the fact that our corn itself is genetically modified or that it’s onlybeen in our diet for a few hundred years. Remember the Pilgrims firstThanksgiving didn’t include HFCS or GMO corn. But if you thinkrefined white sugar or artificial sweeteners are healthier options, thinkagain. For those times when you need to add a little sweetness to your life,choose agave. Agave nectar has the lowest value on the glycemic index.That means it won’t rapidly increase blood sugar. It’s a perfect way tosweeten coffee or tea and you can even use it in baking. It looks and pourslike honey and tastes like sugar. Personally, I can’t think of a sweeter waythan agave to blunt the ill effects of the “Frankenfood,” HFCS.96 MAY 2010David J. Blyweiss, M.D., practices at Sanctuary Medical Aesthetic Center,in Boca Raton.

ADVERTORIAL

HEALTH & WELLNESSAsk the Expert: What YouNeed To Know About StrokeBy Efrain Salgado, M.D.Stroke is the third-leading cause of death following heart disease andcancer. Every year, more than 795,000 Americans suffer from a new orrecurrent stroke episode. That means that a stroke occurs every 40seconds. Americans will pay about $70 billion in stroke-related medicalcosts in this year alone.Q. What is a stroke?A. A stroke or “brain attack” is damage to the brain when blood supplyto part of the brain is reduced or completely stopped. Brain cellsdeprived of blood die and can no longer function because they stopgetting oxygen and nutrients they need to function.Q. What are signs or symptoms of a stroke?A. Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or legs; suddenconfusion, trouble speaking or understanding; sudden trouble seeingin one or both eyes; trouble walking; dizziness; loss of balance orcoordination; and sudden, severe headaches with no known cause.Q. What You Can Do To Prevent a Stroke?A. A healthier lifestyle plays a big part in decreasing the chance ofdisability and death from stroke: stop or don’t smoke, exercise regularly,control high blood pressure, maintain ideal body weight, limit alcoholintake, control cholesterol, improve eating habits, take medication asdirected, control diabetes, and have regular check-ups.Q. What stroke treatments are available at the Cleveland ClinicStroke Center?A. Physical and neurological exams are performed immediately todetermine brain damage and the cause of stroke. The physician mayalso have a CT scan of the head to further investigate the type ofstroke. If a blood clot is the cause of stroke, as it most often is, a clotbusting medication called Tissue Plasminogen Activator (TPA) canbe used for treatment, but must be administered within four and ahalf hours of the onset of symptoms.98 MAY 2010Efrain Salgado, M.D.If you or someone with you has one or more of the above symptoms ofstroke, don’t delay, call 911 immediately.

100 MAY 2010

the PARKLANDER101

FROM THE EXPERTSMaking Your Teen’s Transition from High School Less StressfulBy Judith E. Horowitz,PhDDear Dr. Judith,My daughter currently is a senior in high school, and has been accepted to the University of Florida. When my husband and Iattended UF, it was mandatory to live in the dormitories in one’s freshman year. Although this is no longer required, we thinkshe should live in the dorms. However, Shaynyka wants to live in an apartment with three of her friends. I would appreciateyour weighing in on this. – Carynolyn, Coral SpringsDear Carynolyn,If Shaynyka did not know any other students who are attending school inGainesville, I would agree with you that it might be advantageous for her tolive on campus, as it may be easier to make friends when living in adormitory. But, as she already has friends going to UF, there may be otherfactors to consider.Some apartment complexes may be more conducive to studying because theymay be quieter, offering Shaynyka her own room, which may present fewerdistractions. Conversely, apartment living may present her with moreopportunities to party, even during the week. If Shaynyka is disciplined andhas already demonstrated her maturity, she might have her priorities in order,and be able to study regardless of the environment. Additionally, apartmentliving means she will have to factor in time to grocery shop (vs. being onan on-campus food plan), cook, clean her apartment, etc. If she is notparticularly responsible, this may overwhelm her and be a recipe for disaster.Choosing an apartment complex close to campus may help prevent Shaynykafrom becoming isolated. However, apartments may be the more expensiveoption. You will be required to pay her first and last month’s rent, securitydeposit, and quite possibly need to furnish her with more household itemsthan if she resided in the dorms. The good news is Gainesville has manyapartment complexes offering a “lockout” option, which I highly recommend.When I attended UF, if a roommate unexpectedly moved out, theremaining roommates were responsible for that person’s share of the rent orwould need to quickly find someone to sublet. With the lockout option,each student is only responsible for her portion and if someone leaves, themanagement merely locks the door to the room that has been vacated.Should Shaynyka rent an apartment, it is important she understands whichservices are to be provided by the landlord, and those for which she and herroommates will be responsible. Additionally, they should get the terms forterminating and renewing their lease in writing.Living off campus may seem attractive, as Shaynyka won’t have to abide bythe rules of conduct promulgated by UF. However, she will be under thejurisdiction of the Gainesville police, who may be less forgiving of astudent’s (mis)behavior.Irrespective of where you, your husband, and she decide would be the bestliving accommodations, there are several things you can do beforehand tohelp her transition to Gainesville. You both can help your daughter planher move, offering to drive an additional car to UF so you can help moveher things. Verbalize your willingness to help, but don’t interfere too muchor hover. Part of the college experience is giving her the opportunity tolearn from her failures and build confidence as an independent youngadult. Reassure Shaynyka her room at home will remain unchanged andtell her she will always have her home as her touchstone. Impress upon hershe will always be a wanted and cherished part of your lives.Phone Shaynyka infrequently once she has settled in to her living quarters,but emphasize to her that you welcome her phone calls as frequently as shewishes to place them.Tell your daughter she may call you any hour of the dayor night in an emergency. However, college students tend to sleep late andregister for classes that begin after 11 a.m., whenever possible.Therefore, shemay be awake until 2 a.m. or later. Instruct Shaynyka to be respectful of you,and not to call in non-emergent situations after whatever time you and yourhusband like to turn in for the night.Help her purchase and pack items she will need in Gainesville. You can shoptogether for school supplies, personal items, toiletries, small appliances (suchas an iron, hair dryer, popcorn popper, etc.), linens, shower curtains, laundrybaskets, etc., as they are things she may need, but probably has no experiencepurchasing. Remind her to pack enough medications to last her for a while,and determine who will be responsible for obtaining these while she resides atschool. UF may provide you with a checklist of recommended items topurchase. If not, go to http://parentingingteens.about.com/od/collegeinfo/-a/dormroomneeds.htm for an extensive and detailed list appropriate for boththe dorm and apartment living.Help her establish a checking account with a debit/ATM card. Mostcolleges have ATMs placed throughout campus. Teach her how to writechecks and reconcile her bank account. Many students have never beencalled upon to do this. You may wish to get a joint account with her. With ajoint checking account, you may make deposits without her having to waitfor your check to clear at the bank. I don’t know any parents whodidn’t get at least one frantic call from their freshman age child pleadingwith them to make an “emergency” deposit.Before leaving to drive home, you may wish to leave your daughter a littlepresent in her dorm room or apartment to let her know you love her and arethinking of her. Send cute cards in the mail and write e-mails that won’trequire a response.Don’t forget to take care of you. Although your nest may be not be totallyempty, you may miss her more than you ever could have anticipated.Planning some fun activities for you and your husband may help you makea successful transition, as well.Some apartment complexes may be moreconducive to studying because theymay be quieter, offering Shaynyka her own room.Conversely, apartment living may present herwith more opportunities to party, evenduring the week.102 MAY 2010

the PARKLANDER103

104 MAY 2010

Selling Our SoulsBy Rev. George Faragi, Sr. PastorIn the Gospel of St. Matthew, chapter 16, verse 26, ourLord asks His disciples the question, “What will a mangive in exchange for his soul?” Some might think that sellingone’s soul, as Faust offered his to the devil in Goethe’sDr. Faustus, is just another figment of literary fiction. Medieval as itseems however, several cases of soul selling have occurred.There was a report in Wired magazine that a 29-year old universityinstructor succeeded in selling his immortal soul for $1,325. Hemade the statement, “In America, you can metaphorically andliterally sell your soul and be rewarded for it.” What is baffling to meis how the purchaser was going to collect the soul.I don’t really believe we can literally sell our souls, but I do believewe can lose our souls to gain something else in this life. We reallyneed to ponder the question of Jesus, “What will a man give inexchange for his soul?”More than likely our answers today would differ only in specificsfrom the responses of Jesus’ day: the world, the flesh, and the devil.There is no doubt in my mind that the lusts that captivate peopleand the thirst for unbridled pleasure, success, revenge,or material things have indeed taken on far more importance thanany considerations of eternity.It is my prayer that people learn that nothing compares to the giftsof God’s love and forgiveness. I would challenge everyone to thinktwice before allowing the pleasures of this world to prevent themfrom trusting Jesus Christ, because it is not worth the cost of youreternal soul.Often I tell people that God created us all with this void in our soulsand that it is always thirsty to be filled with whatever we believe willsatisfy it. I believe God created it that way for a reason and thatreason is to understand that only God can fill it with His presence.Jesus is the only fountain in the entire universe that can satisfy thethirsty soul of man.Try Him today and try to remember that He is a good God, wholoves you and wants to bless you – ALL THE TIME!the PARKLANDER105

OUTDOORSImprove Your Angling ChancesBy Robert LoewendickMost anglers hold a favorite species in a higher preference thanothers. This fact provides numerous enjoyable and memorabledays afield. The element of favoritism also creates some limitsor unconscious boundaries creating additional but missedopportunities on the water.Traveling around the country, and being involved in many conversations withfellow anglers, the subject of missed opportunities are many. Some crappieanglers have tunnel vision toward the spring season as much as some largemouthbass devotees are blinded until the bass action slows. With the favoredtime of the annual fishing season approaching, springtime on the water is atthe top of discussions around the outdoor community. Is your favorite gamefish season about to begin, or are the autumn waters your time to wet a line?Writing reviews of the latest and greatest fishing lures is also the norm thistime of year for me. Each new lure that I find in my mailbox for a trial castreveals some new insight into and about a game fish species I may rarely tryfor. Before I decide to actually tie the lure on a line (or simply return it–thereare some crazy lures being developed out there), I make a few notes on my calendarto at least consider a shot at the species more than the prior year. Doingso develops more opportunities for not only being around or on the water, butalso adds excitement to the routine angling schedule during slower times.Going after a game fish species more, or for the first time, is easily done andrewards await those who apply the effort. For most anglers, what leads tohaving a favorite game species is the good luck they have had with thatspecies. Think back to your younger years and what species you had mostluck with. It’s likely still one of your favorites. My cousin, an avid bassangler, tried his angling skills at musky fishing a few years ago. Granted,the musky is a species that demands an angler to spend many hours on thewater before being likely to land one. My cousin caught two muskies beforehe gave up the quest to be a musky regular, although he did learn muchabout the musky and how to fish it. If the bass aren’t biting, he doesn’thesitate to grab a large perch imitating crankbait and go musky hunting.As the instructor of a “basics of fishing” course offered by the local communitycollege, it’s my responsibility to introduce students (both young and old) tothe sport of angling. Before the one-day course is finished, each studentshows interest in one species more than another. Since the course is taught onthe water as well as the classroom, whatever species takes the student’s firstbait offering becomes their favorite fish. What they catch most they want tocatch more of. That’sOK. They are fishingand that’s the point—get outside and enjoy.An advantage of multispeciesangling is thereare opportunities yearround instead of shortwindows of action.106 MAY 2010The outdoors providesplenty of adventures,and partaking in a newConsider some new lures and learn afew techniques and then pursue a new gamefish species to expand your angling opportunities.adventure is always exciting. Exploring new areas or waters may turn upmore than new fishing action, but also places for additional outdoorpursuits such as hiking or camping. Affordable trips have become moreimportant during the last couple years, and an abundance of angling varietyawaits within an hour or two, or less, from your home base.Have a favorite water body with lots of action and little desire to wander?No problem. Old waters reviewed with a new outlook can reveal some newaction. Once an alternate game fish is considered, and a bit of research isgained, that familiar water may now have another attraction.Learning a new species is easily accomplished by reading or watchingoutdoor media, joining friends or relatives who are experienced with thetarget species, talking with anglers at shows and bait shops, or purchasingsome species-related lures and start casting. The more known about thespecies the more successful you will be. And catching more fish year roundis always a favorite result of any angler.

THE JOY OFCar Trips withCATSPET TALKBy Dr. Jerry PicoAnyone that has had the experience of taking their lovable kitty caton a car trip to the veterinary clinic will surely have interesting stories.Just bringing out the crate will probably cause noticeable reactionin your cat. Traveling with your cat on a long road trip is theultimate testament of love for your cat.Your cat’s temperament is a major factor in how the experience will turnout. Some cats do fine, even sunning themselves in the back window,while others “freak out” to the point of soiling themselves. My cat is inthe latter group. He knows something is up as soon as the crate is broughtout. He hides, the difficulty continues as we attempted to place a spreadeaglecat into the crate. He used to howl and pant all the way to ourdestination. I am glad to say that he eventually learned to accept theyearly routine with peaceful resignation.It is highly recommended to always transport your cat in a carrier. A loosecat in the car may jump on your lap or even between car pedals and pose adriving hazard. In addition, there are many stories about cats darting out anopen window or door, never to be found. The carrier must be comfortableand adequate for the size of your cat. Place a clothing item inside with yourscent or a home-scented blanket to help decrease the anxiety level. Lightsedatives are available from your veterinarian. Although not always effective,it is worth a try. Never give your pet human medication without firstconsulting with your veterinarian since some human drugs may be toxic.The best method to place a reluctant cat in a carrier is bottom-first. Werecommend placing the carrier on its back end so that the door faces up.Then hold your cat gently in your arms and place him hind feet first intothe carrier. This procedure might not work with some savvy cats. Youmay also try wrapping your cat loosely in a blanket, burrito-style, beforeplacing in the carrier.It is unlikely your cat will eat, drink, or use the litter box while the car is inmotion. We find that a light meal the night before an early morning tripis sufficient until the next stop in order to prevent car sickness. Offerwater and present the litter box at pit stops, but preferably feed uponarriving at your first overnight stop. Arriving at a hotel or motel mayprove to be a calming experience for your cat. Just be sure your cat doesnot wander under the bed or other hiding place that you might havedifficulty to pull it out of before check-out.Remember to pack patience. Your cat does not understand what ishappening; its safety and comfort area has changed. Constant reassurancewith a soft voice and touch might help. Take short car rides with your catweeks before the trip, then reward with treats upon returning home. Withlove and patience, your cat will realize that home is where ever you are.Dr. Jerry Pico is a graduate of Iowa State University School of VeterinaryMedicine, and is the owner and sole veterinarian of Abacus AnimalHospital in Coral Springs.Pack all necessary pet supplies when planning a long trip. Food, bottledwater, bowls, litter box and litter, paper towels, extra blankets for the carrier,prescribed medication and medical records should all be packed whentraveling with your pet. It is a good idea for your pet to be up to date withvaccines in the event you might need to board your pet during the trip.The best method to place a reluctant cat in a carrier is bottomfirst…holdyour cat gently in your arms and place him hindfeet first into the carrier. This procedure might not work withsome savvy cats. You may also try wrapping your cat loosely ina blanket, burrito-style, before placing in the carrier.the PARKLANDER107

could just love and enjoy pleasure riding; it isobvious they were meant to be together.Everyone at the barn is so happy for her!Steve and MacchiatoT4-H News…The 4-H club had the pleasure of Lauren Friedland exhibiting differentleg wrap demonstrations on her horse, Dante. It was very informative forall and was very much appreciated. Everyone was able to give it asuccessful try.Thanks to Lauren for her wonderful preparations.Around the Barn…Congratulations to Lisa Williams Briskie who is the new owner of abeautiful, elegant mare, Honey. TheyAlexis and Bo are a perfect match and this gracefulpair should enjoy many years of happinesstogether. Her prayers were quicklyanswered when Honey became available.Lisa was looking for a horse sheThe Spring Break campers had a greattime preparing their horses for the annualspringtime parade.The horses were all decoratedin pastels and obviously were adorable.Steve Muccio, the owner of Malachi Acres,adopted one of the horses that the ScottFamily Foundation fostered from the SouthFlorida SPCA. He has had a blast riding hisnew Paso Fino, Macchiato, around townwith Chris and his Andalusian stallion,Spaniard, as well as trail riding in some ofthe equestrian parks. What a loving gestureCayla Scott and her family are providing forthese horses to find loving homes. There isone registered Paso Fino mare, Rosie, who isalmost ready for adoption. Contact our barnfor more information at 954-255-7185.Lauren’s leg wrappingdemonstrationLisa and HoneyThe 4-Her’s enjoying the legwrapping demonstration108 MAY 2010

FINANCIAL INFOBy Helene FosterLoan modifications and cost segregations are on the rise, both on theresidential and commercial fronts. With our country in the midst of arecession, many are defaulting on their mortgage loans. Lenders havetrouble keeping up with the large number of defaulted loans and seekways to cut their losses. Many lenders are finding creative ways to avoidforeclosures and work with their clients to reduce payments and principalowed. According to Bill Lawler, vice president of business developmentoperations for Mercantil Commerce Bank, these problems with loanswere bound to happen....“It was a matter of time,” he says.“Lenders were giving out loans for100 percent or even 125 percent ofproperty value...“It was a matter of time,” he says. “Lenders were giving out loans for 100percent or even 125 percent of property value, so now we need loan modificationto fix the situation.These sub-prime rates finally caught up with us.”Property values have been in a steady decline throughout the past fewyears, making these loans impossible to afford. This is where commercialloan modification firms come in to play. The firms seek to analyze thebusiness or residence owner’s financial situation, the amount of decline onthe property value and how much can be afforded each month.What is a loan modification?According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, a“loan modification is a permanent change in one or more of the terms of amortgagor’s loan, allows the loan to be reinstated, and results in a paymentthe mortgagor can afford.”“The reason The Mod Class was created because people can do it on theirown,” he explains. “All that is needed is an education about the loanmodification process. Before, lenders were able to tell someone they weredenied for a loan, but not assist them to change their budget in order to getapproved. Lenders were giving the runaround, and in the end not helpingthe people, but only helping themselves.”What is Cost Segregation?“Cost segregation has nothing to do with loans or financing. It is a way toenjoy tax sheltered cash flow by accelerating the overall depreciation on animproved investment property,” says Timothy D. Cross, president ofSyndicon Properties Inc., in Coral Springs since 1973.A cost segregation study allows corporations and investors to reduce theirtaxable income with accelerated depreciation, resulting in increasedafter-tax cash flows. It classifies the investment made in a building orfacility between structural and non-structural property. This is becomingmore popular in the local business economy as businesses are looking forways to save money and remain open during this financial crisis.Cross adds, “The market has been very negatively impacted by what hashappened in the economy. It has absolutely impacted our local markets in anegative way. Sales and leases are off significantly as are the prices.”People can opt to seek help to do a loan modification via a lawyer or amodification firm or professional. Hiring a professional or attorney to dothis can be costly, according to Robert Marley, Parkland resident andinstructor for The Mod Class (www.themodclass.com). There are evenways that individuals can write their own loan modification. His companyoffers an education to “do it yourself.”“The Mod Class provides the knowledge, examples and worksheets tohelp anyone do their own modification for a lot less,” he shares. Whetherone decides to hire a firm or “go it alone,” knowledge is key.the PARKLANDER109

We’re under construction!Check out the new look we’re working on.wwwtheparklander.comLOCAL MARKETPLACEVisit us for information on contestsand articles in upcoming issues.110 MAY 2010

LOCAL MARKETPLACEthePARKLANDER111