http://www.sportsandactivities.com

http://www.sawgrassortho.com

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what’s inside...Letter from the Publisher ..................................................................8

AROUND TOWN ...................11 - 18Letter from Mayor Diane Veltri Bendekociv .......................................12M.A.D.D. Offers a Variety of Programs to Help Save Lives .................14CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS DIRECTORY .......................................16Larry Saffer Explains the Goodman Triangle .....................................17Lab Rescue: For the Love of Dogs ..................................................18

EVENTS .................................19 - 30EVENTS DIRECTORY ...........................................................20 – 21 BIRTHDAYS & SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTORY ...................................22Plantation Gives Back to Our Veterans ............................................23New Hibernians Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day ....................................24Plantation Kids News ..........................................................26 – 27 21 Family Fun Runs .............................................................28 – 29 Puzzle Peace 5K Runs Over Autism ................................................29Adult Softball Leagues Hit a Home Run ...........................................30

DIRECTORY ........................... 31 - 45SPORTS DIRECTORY ...........................................................32 – 38ACTIVITIES DIRECTORY .......................................................38 – 45Plantation Wildcats are Super Bowl Champions ..............................46THANKS COACH .....................................................................48Women’s Soccer League Builds Friendships and Skills .......................50

FAMILY HEALTH ......................51 - 58Dr. Lucas: What You Need to Know about Wisdom Teeth ..................52Kids Helping Kids: Teaching the Importance of Giving Back ...............54HEALTH PROVIDER DIRECTORY ............................................56 – 57 Plantation Relay for Life ................................................................58

SCHOOLS .............................59 - 722015 – 2016 Broward County School Calendar ................................. 60Jodi Cohen: Protecting the Gift, Keeping Our Children Safe .................... 62Tropical Elementary Enters 2016 in Full Swing ...................................... 64Read and Succeed at Central Park Elementary ...................................... 64Plantation High Offers International Baccalaureate & Aerospace Programs ......65Keep Calm and Fight for a Cure with Plantation Park Elementary ............. 66Huntington Learning Center: The Importance of Reading Comprehension ........66Broward Schools Robert Runcie Earns Florida’s Superintendent of the Year .......67South Plantation’s Magnet Program ..................................................... 68Plantation Elementary Welcomes Principal Pitter ..................................... 68Seminole Middle School: Offering Something for Every Student ............... 69Peters Elementary Offers New After School Classes ............................... 69ACADEMIC DIRECTORY .................................................................. 70

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Dear Readers, Happy 2016 to all of you! In my world, this is no ordinary year. 2016 is

the year I celebrate being a half century old! Somehow, it seemed this milestone would never happen to me, yet here I am joining this illustrious group of friends and

family who have already initiated into the 50’s club. I feel mentally, emotionally and physically ready to say, “I’m 50!” and not dread it.

Yes, it’s only a number. Yes, you are only as young as you feel. Yes, the best is yet to come. Yes, yes, yes...I KNOW! But just like every new year brings clarity on resolutions

unresolved, the 50 milestone (much like the 40 milestone) has you really looking at your life through a microscope. You analyze what happened to get you to this exact point on your

timeline and you look at the points you hope are yet to come, thinking about where and who you want to be when that time comes.

I spent the first four decades of my life trying to be what I thought was expected of me and the last decade becoming the me I was always hoping I was strong enough to be. That, in and of itself, has been quite the adventure into self discovery. I let a lot of my life happen to me and that ended when I turned 40 because, upon reflection at that milestone/timeline point, I realized that I truly had no one to blame but myself for not getting the life I wanted to live or becoming the person I wanted to be, a happy one.

Recently, as many avid readers of Sports & Activities Directory know, I have begun setting bucket list goals for my year. Last year, I accomplished 3 of my 5 items and made a good attempt at the last two on the list. Could I have done better? Absolutely! However, had I not written down those 5 things and committed myself to them, the first three likely would not have happened at all, just like in the years passed. I am very happy with my results and the experiences I made happen. I encourage everyone to set and commit a few specific bucket list items to accomplish in 2016 (losing weight is not a bucket list item, but running a half marathon is a perfect one).

As the big 5-0 looms out there in 2016, I want to stand on that point on my timeline with a big smile on my face because I will be doing what I want to do, when I want to do it with the person/people whom I want in my life. I call that mentality “Living Large.” It’s not about money or travel or having things or going places...it’s about living in a state of happiness. A happiness that comes because you get it, finally. One life where tomorrow

isn’t promised, one period of time to make your mark an indelible one, and one choice at a time to get you where you want to be – happy.

Who’s happy? I’m happy. With this letter, I hope you are reminded to do the things you can control in your life to either stay happy or become happy. I hope your next milestone, be it turning 50 or another number, finds you on that point of your timeline saying the same thing.

Carpe Diem,

Margot

NOTE: All information supplied by organizations. Please contact the organization directly for additional information. The Sports & Activities Directory does not endorse the organizations directly. No material published herein may be reproduced in any manner, be it for print or online Web site use, whatsoever without specific prior written authorization from Sports and Activities Directory and Top Spin Publishing, Inc. © Copyright by Top Spin Publishing, Inc. All content is protected under copyright. All Rights Reserved.

MARGOT LYONS PULERIPresident / Publisher(954) 806-9714 DirectMargotPuleri@gmail.com

MELISSA HARLESSManaging Director of Publishing(423) 304-8051 DirectMelissaSports1@aol.com

LINDA LOMBARDITerritory Representative(305) 989-9380 DirectLindaSports1@aol.com

JULIE KASPERTerritory Representative(954) 818-1549 DirectJulieSports1@aol.com

KELLY WILSONTerritory Representative(305) 332-7325 DirectKellyWSports@gmail.com

TINA STRAUSSSchool Liaison(954) 347-3992TinaSports1@aol.com NIKKI READINGArea PublisherDavie/Cooper City/SW Ranches(954) 296-3285 DirectNikkiSports1@aol.com

KIM KADELArea PublisherCoral Springs & Parkland(954) 803-2140CSPDirectory1@gmail.com

CORRIE HOFFMANArea PublisherLakewood Ranch & Suncoast East(941) 685-4466CorinSports1@aol.com

JENNIFER GOWENSCreative Director raskugroup@aol.com

SPECIAL THANKS TO:Contributing Writers:• Debby Teich• Tina Strauss• Kelly Wilson• Julie KasperContributing Photographers• Patrick Green• Tadd Fisher• Linda Lombardi• Sabrina Morell Mittler

TOP SPIN PUBLISHING, INC.Sports & Activities Directory(954) 806-9714 Office2114 N. Flamingo Road, #1269Pembroke Pines, FL 33028Website: www.sportsandactivities.com

Our Team

“A year from now you will wish you had started today.”

~ Karen Lamb

Special thank you to our Issue Sponsor

Lucas Orthodontics

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Dear Plantation Residents, First and foremost, I want to wish everyone a happy and healthy New

Year. It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost five years since I was first elected Mayor, and together, City Councilmembers, Administration and staff,

volunteers – all members of “Team Plantation” – have achieved so much. And as I visit with business owners and speak to residents, they all share one common

thought: they are excited about Plantation’s future. We are experiencing a resurgence in development projects. Look around and

you’ll see exciting new shops and restaurants, state of the art residential development, and real signs of economic recovery throughout the City. Additionally, I am very proud

to say that one of the premier virtual reality development companies, Magic Leap, is relocating their headquarters to Plantation Pointe, at the corner of Sunrise Boulevard and University Drive, on the Motorola campus. With them they bring millions of dollars in capital investment to the City, and hundreds of jobs. They join Motorola Solutions, Sheridan Healthcare and Baptist Health, Walgreens, Starbucks and Chipotle.

Plantation is nationally recognized for its outstanding athletic opportunities. The City is hosting several prestigious tennis tournaments in the coming months at the Frank Veltri Tennis Center. Be sure to take in the Plantation Open, which includes two professional USTA sanctioned men’s championship tournaments in January and February. Just recently, Plantation hosted the prestigious Orange Bowl International Tennis Championship tournament at the Frank Veltri Tennis Center. The USTA moved the tournament to Plantation after over 60 years in Miami-Dade County.

The City of Plantation has once again printed a calendar for its residents to enjoy. This year’s theme is “The Grass is Greener.” This is the tenth year we’ve produced an official calendar, and for our anniversary edition, we wanted to show you all the amazing plants, trees and flowers that can be found within our City. Each species was chosen because when you see it, you can’t help but think of South Florida, and they make up Plantation’s beautiful, sub-tropical landscape. I’m certain you’ll enjoy it. It’s free, and available to pick up at any of our City facilities, while supplies last.

A few upcoming events you’ll want mark on your calendar: Doggie Pallooza is scheduled this year for January 30 at Happy Tails Dog Park. The Senior Expo

is scheduled for February 19 at Deicke Auditorium. The Multifamily Garage Sale is scheduled for March 12 at Volunteer Park. Spring Break Kids’ Day Off will be March 18-25 at several City recreation facilities, and Kids’ Day Off events are also held on many days Broward County Public Schools are closed. Please visit Plantation.org for specific locations, dates and times.

The Helen B. Hoffman Plantation Library is launching its new Wednesday Lecture Series with the American Civil War. The series begins March 2 and runs through June, from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

I hope you are as encouraged by Plantation’s future as I am. It is exciting time to live, work and play in the City of Plantation.

Your Mayor,

Diane Bendekovic

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The statistics are startling – nearly 10,000 people are killed by drunk drivers and another 350,000 are injured in alcohol-related crashes every year. Founded by a mother whose daughter was killed by a drunk driver, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is the nation’s largest nonprofit working to protect families from drunk driving, drugged driving and underage drinking. It offers programs for students, parents, victims and more.

Heather Geronemus understands the effects of drunk driving first hand, as well as how MADD can help. In 2009, her father, Robert Greronemus, was hit and killed by a drunk driver while crossing the street in South Florida. “Nancy, a victim’s advocate for MADD, reached out to me and took care of me when nobody else could,” said Geronemus. “Here was a total stranger who walked into my life to help me and support me through an impossibly difficult time. I wanted more than anything to give back to MADD, but more importantly, I wanted to be part of a world where nobody would need that call from a stranger ever again.”

In 2010, Geronemus was offered the opportunity to chair Walk Like MADD and raise community awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving. This will be her 6th year chairing the Ft. Lauderdale event, which has become the largest and fastest growing MADD 5K in the country. In 2015, approximately 2,000 people attended. They raised $187,000 to provide victim services to those affected by this violent crime, as well as prevention programs for underage drinking throughout Broward County. The 2016 walk will be held on April 24th at 7:30am at Huizenga Plaza.

“Every one of us has the power to stop drunk driving,” said Geronemus. “It’s as simple as deciding to make a choice to always include a safe ride home when your plans include drinking and to have the hard discussions with your children, colleagues, and friends. Every year I have the privilege to see the parents, kids, teachers, businesses, government leaders and law enforcement professionals line up at the start line for Walk Like MADD. Each and every person at that starting line makes a choice to be there – a choice to support and protect their community. And in that moment, it is a choice to save a life. I can’t think of anything more important.”

One of the ways that MADD educates teens on the dangers of underage drinking is through the Power of Youth program offered at public/private schools, as well as churches, synagogues, and community events. Students are often shocked at the statistics and surprised to hear the stories of other families who have been affected by a drunk-driving incident.

“This program educates young teens about making poor decisions that could impact their lives or someone else’s permanently,” said David Pinsker, Florida State Executive Director. “Everyone in middle school and high school needs to hear this life saving message. Everyone thinks it can’t happen to them, but the fact is it can and it does.”

Through Power of Parents, MADD educates parents on how to start a discussion with their teen about the dangers of underage drinking and making good choices. The program is presented at schools, PTA meetings, churches, synagogues, and community events. Typically, parents want to know how kids get access to alcohol, if they should let them drink at home, and what the kids can say when pressured by their peers.

“This program helps to start dialogue between parent and child on a very difficult subject to discuss,” said Pinsker. “Parents tend to think this is just the way it is these days. The reality is that most people don’t have these discussions with their kids until something has already happened and caused damage to someone’s life.”

MADD also provides supportive services to drunk or drugged driving victims to help them cope with the devastating impact of substance impaired driving crashes. It offers court accompaniment, supportive literature, advocating for victims’ rights, the opportunity to meet other victims and more. Victims can meet a MADD advocate in a courtroom or any other place a victim or family member feels comfortable meeting.

“This is the heart of what MADD does as an organization,” said Pinsker. “No one expects to be in this position in their lives and we are there to help guide them through the difficult pieces. We help them legally, as well as through the healing process.”

For more information, visit www.madd.org/local-offices/fl. For registration details for 2016 Walk Like MADD, visit walklikemadd.org/fortlauderdale.

By Debby Teich

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PLANTATION

Clubs & OrganizationsBIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF BROWARD COUNTYHelp children reach their full potential, through professionally supported, and one-to-one relationships with measurable impact. To learn more about becoming a mentor, enrolling your child into the programs, or making a donation, visit their website at bbbsbroward.org info@bbbsbroward.org. 4101 Ravenswood Road, Suite 123, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312. (954) 584-9990.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF BROWARD COUNTYSpecial focus on at-risk youth between ages 7-18 years old, with 12 facilities serving 12,000 registered members. To learn more about becoming involved with the local Boys & Girls Clubs visit their website at www.bgcbc.org - Rick and Rita Case Unit: 7525 N.W. 33 RD ST., Davie, FL 33024. (954) 433-9000.

FRIENDS OF THE HELEN B. HOFFMAN PLANTATION LIBRARY A small group of friends, who shared a common interest in books, formed this club in 1970. Their mission was to: “Promote and foster the use and growth of the Plantation Library.” Meetings are the 2nd Monday of each month. Coffee is served at 9:30AM and the meeting begins at 10:00AM Book Sales: 1st Saturday, 3rd Saturday, and 3rd Friday of each month. 501 N Fig Tree Ln., Plantation, FL 33317. (954) 797-2140.

GFWC PLANTATION WOMAN’S CLUBThe Club, founded in 1949, is proud of its many contributions to residents, city parks, police and fire departments. The Club sponsors students who are Plantation residents at Florida’s public colleges and universities with financial scholarships. They donate to public schools and promote a wide variety of community improvement projects. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month, September through May, at Deicke Auditorium, 5701 Cypress Road, Plantation 33317. For more information contact: President Darlene Vlazny at (954) 295-0754, Membership Chair Pat Hinde at (954) 661-3830, or visit their website at: www.gfwcplantationwomansclub.com.

GIRL SCOUTS OF BROWARD COUNTYThe Girl Scouts of Broward County provides informal educational programs, for girls between ages 5-18. It is a safe, and fun place for girls to discover, connect, and take action. Girl scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. For more information visit their website at www.gssef.org - 4701 NW 33rd Avenue, Oakland Park, FL 33309. (954) 739-7660.

THE GREATER PLANTATION CHAMBER OF COMMERCEThe Chamber serves as a catalyst for the economic success of its members, and the dynamic City of Plantation. Providing opportunities for growth, leadership, community partnership, and a voice for the business community. Meetings: Free Networking Mornings - Leads Groups - Monthly Membership Breakfasts - Special Events. For more information visit their website at www.plantationchamber.org - 7401 NW 4th Street, Plantation, FL 33317. (954) 587-1410.

HEALTHY MOTHERS, HEALTHY BABIES COALITION OF BROWARD COUNTYDedicated to reducing infant deaths by providing resources, education to pregnant women, parents, and their families. A community leader in providing services to pregnant women, teens, and families for more than 20 years. Provides access to prenatal care, education, advocacy, and public awareness for all families in Broward County, especially for those who are unable to afford private care. For more information visit their website at www.hmhbbroward.org, (954) 765-0550.

KIDS IN DISTRESS AUXILIARYKIDS is a local non-profit agency, providing a full continuum of care, dedicated to the treatment and prevention of child abuse. The KID Auxiliary is a warm hearted volunteer group, which supports educational, and social events, while raising public awareness through their ongoing fundraising efforts. For further information on meetings and on how to get involved visit their website at www.kidaux.org - kidaux@yahoo.com, (954) 252-3365.

KIWANIS CLUB OF PLANTATION The KIWANIS Club of Plantation has served the community for more than 58 years. The club provides scholarships to high school students and various items for food banks. They also sponsor KIWANIS youth organizations in elementary, middle and high schools and collages. The Club meets at 12 noon on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 5th Wednesday of every month at Duffy’s Sports Grill, 811 S. University Drive in the Fountains Shopping Center. On the 4th Thursday they meet at the Deicke Auditorium for dinner at 6:30PM. For more information, contact Bill Harber, club secretary, harberlights@hotmail.com or (954) 720-4755.

KNIGHTS OF PYTHIASThe Fraternal Order promotes enhancing the community through service. Meetings are each Wednesday at 7:00pm. The organization is for men and it is non-sectarian, fraternal order. Membership dues are $50 annually and all moneys raised go 100% to charities. To become a member, donate, or contact the Knights, contact Allan Fogelman. (954) 770-3437.

LOPSTER’S KIDS CLUBDo you love animals? Do you want to learn more about taking care of dogs, cats and other pets? Do you want to help the homeless animals? Then join Lopster’s Kids Club at the Humane Society of Broward County. The Club meets once a month, for an hour and a half, after school. Lopster has two clubs: The Lil Pups, ages 6 to 9 years old, and The Big Dogs, ages 10 to 13 years old. To sign up download a registration form at www.humanebroward.com. (954) 989-3977.

MAKE A WISH FOUNDATION OF SOUTH FLORIDA Each wish experience exceeds even the child’s expectations, transporting them from a world of doctors, and hospitals, to a world where anything is possible. The foundation grants wishes to children between the ages of 2-18 with life-threatening health conditions. 4491 South State Road 7, Suite 201, Davie, FL 33314. www.sfla.wish.org. (954) 967-9474.

MOMS CLUB OF PLANTATION A support group designed just for the stay-at-home mother of today! If you want a variety of activities for you and your children, and if you are proud of your choice of stay-at-home mothering, this is the club for you. There’re meetings daily, weekly, and monthly, for various activities. momsclubplantation@yahoo.com.

PLANTATION HISTORICAL SOCIETYThe Plantation Historical Society meets every 4th Thursday of the month, at the Plantation Historical Museum at 511 North Fig Tree Lane, behind the Plantation Library. They coordinate new exhibits, collect historical information, run tours of the museum, and conduct extensive research. Contact them for membership information. (954) 797-2722.

THE PLANTATION JUNIOR WOMAN’S CLUBThe club focuses their efforts toward parks, and recreational facilities. Founded in 1960 to provide cultural interests and community service for the City of Plantation. A non-profit, non-political, and non-sectarian organization of women. All prospective members and their friends who reside in Plantation or nearby communities are invited to attend a New Member Orientation. General meetings are the 3rd Wednesday of the month. For more information visit their website at plantationjuniorwomansclub.org or write to info@pjwcfl.org. Membership information: membershipinfo@plantationjuniorwomansclub.org. (954) 797-9762.

PLANTATION UNIT OF PARLIAMENTARIANSEstablished in 1985, for people interested in parliamentary law, and in learning how to preside over a meeting. They are members of the Florida State Association of Parliamentarians & National Association of Parliamentarians. Meetings are the first Tuesday of each month, from 7:00PM to 9:00PM at the Broward Government Center. Meetings are free to the public. - Broward Government Center: 1 University Drive, Plantation, FL. (954) 791-2156.

ROTARY CLUB OF PLANTATIONAn organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide. Provides humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world. The main objective of Rotary is service in the community, in the workplace, and throughout the world. For more information and to learn more about membership visit their website at www.plantationrotaryclub.org, (954) 261-2113.

SOUTH FLORIDA JUBILEE CHORUSA women’s singing organization that rehearses every Thursday night in Plantation, and performs a cappella four-part harmony around the South Florida Area whenever it gets the chance! South Florida Jubilee Chorus is a local, award winning chapter of Sweet Adelines International (SAI) a worldwide organization of women singers dedicated to preserving the barbershop style. Singing a cappella music, ringing chords, and hearing those close harmonies is a honed skill that our members enjoy, and learn at each rehearsal and at music schools that are provided by the International organization. We are accepting new members, and also are available for bookings. Call (954) 678-4223 or go to www.southfloridajubilee.com for more information.

VOICES FOR CHILDREN OF BROWARD COUNTYNonprofit organization dedicated to raising money for and awareness of the Guardian Ad Litem Program, which provides an advocate for abused and neglected children. Children benefit greatly from the advocacy of a Guardian ad Litem, a trained volunteer from the community, who simply wants to make sure the best interests of the children are served. The Guardian ad Litem program recruits, trains and supervises volunteers who work one on one with these children. To join and support Voices for Children, or to learn more about volunteering as a Guardian Ad Litem, visit their website at www.voicesbroward.org or email info@voicesbroward.org.

MORE ORGANIZATIONS - CITY OF PLANTATION - WWW.PLANTATION.ORG• Plantation Art Guild: (954) 475-1406.• A.F.S. Intercultural Programs: (954) 581-6463.• Broward on Broadway: (954) 805-2192.• ChildNet: (954) 414-6001.• Community Outreach (Crime Prevention Officers Assoc.): (954) 916-5602.• Plantation Elks & Elkettes: (954) 742-8840.• Plantation Orchid Society: (954) 584-4796.• S.P.C.A. Wildlife Care Center: (954) 524-4302.

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For all the benefits that can be accomplished with life insurance, great ideas can be undone by sloppy execution. A recurring error is improper designation of the three parties of interest for every life insurance transaction. When these relationships are incorrectly designated, intended benefits can be needlessly diminished, or undone.

Every life insurance policy has three crucial players. The policy owner is the person or entity that pays the premiums and has the authority to make changes to the policy. The insured is the person whose life is covered by the policy. The beneficiary is the person or the entity designated to receive the insurance benefit when the insured dies. Standard insurance practice says two of the three parties of interest should be the same person or entity. Some examples: In a family insurance scenario, the owner and insured will typically be the same; the insured owns the policy on his/her life, and names the spouse as beneficiary. If a business wants to insure a key employee, the business will usually be both owner and beneficiary. However, if three different persons or entities play the roles of policy owner, insured, and beneficiary, adverse tax consequences may be incurred. This condition is often referred to as a “Goodman Triangle,” in reference to a 1946 court case, Goodman vs. Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service. The main thrust of the Goodman case was that the owner of the policy was making gifts to non-owner beneficiaries upon the death of the insured. The tax logic behind this determination is convoluted, but some examples are instructive.

Example 1: A father owns a life insurance policy on his adult son (the insured), and the son’s wife is the named beneficiary. If the son dies, his wife will receive the insurance proceeds tax free. But the way the IRS sees it, the wife has received a gift from her husband’s father, the owner of the policy. This triggers a gift tax assessment against the father.

Example 2: Three shareholders in a C-corporation have a buy-sell agreement drafted. The corporation, as owner, purchases three insurance policies, naming the other two shareholders as beneficiaries for each insured’s policy. Since the three parties are different, the owner (the corporation) is deemed to have made a taxable gift to the beneficiaries (the surviving shareholders) upon an insured’s death. Instead of assessing a gift tax against the corporation, the IRS considers the insurance proceeds as a distribution from the business to shareholders, on which the recipients now owe income tax.

Example 3: Even a partially incorrect designation can result in a Goodman Triangle. A man obtains a policy on his life, naming his spouse as beneficiary. As his faculties begin to diminish, a decision is made to make the spouse the owner, giving her authority to make changes. So far, so good. But to assist in managing her affairs, the spouse adds the insured’s eldest son as a co-owner. With the addition of the son as co-owner, the owner (spouse and son) is now different than the beneficiary (spouse only).

There may be occasions when the rule of thumb that two of the three parties in a life insurance transaction should be the same doesn’t appear workable. These instances call for professional input, and sometimes, the establishment of a new entity, like a trust, to serve as either owner and/or beneficiary to satisfy the Goodman Triangle rules. Referencing Example 3, problems can arise also when the passage of time results in ownership or beneficiary changes. A Goodman Triangle assessment should be part of every life insurance review.

Great ideas fail because of faulty execution. Make sure you, and your financial professionals, tend to the details.

For further information, please contact Saffer Financial Group at (954) 474-5132, 7860 Peters Road Suite F-105, Plantation, FL 33324, www.safferfinancialgroup.com

Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS), 2 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 1740 Miami, FL 33131. (305) 371-6333 . Securities products/services and advisory services offered through PAS, a registered broker/dealer and

investment advisor. The Saffer Financial Group is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS. PAS is a member of FINRA, SIPC.

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How was Lab Rescue started?Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida is a nonprofit organization comprised

of hardworking volunteers and vets that are committed to placing labs in new permanent homes. We were founded as a grass roots organization and have been working together since 2000 and have rescued over 5000 dogs. LRRoF, Inc. provides foster care and veterinary care (including spaying/neutering and microchips) for the Labradors in our adoption program.

The organization needs foster homes more than anything for the rescued Labs. The number of available foster homes limits the number of dogs that can be rescued. Labs may have to be placed on a waiting list until a foster home is available. Clearly, foster homes play one of the most significant roles in LRROF’s rescue efforts.What is the benefit of adopting through Lab Rescue?

Our goal is to place our Labradors with loving families in safe, permanent homes. Prior to an adoption each Labrador will have been in foster care with one of our dedicated volunteers, where the history, temperament, personality, and energy level of the rescued Labrador is considered. The placement process includes a written application and a home visit of the potential adopter. LRRoF, Inc. is committed to making a lifelong match for all of our adopted Labradors.How to adopt a dog?• STEP 1: Go to http://www.labradorrescue.net/adopt. Applicants must

read and agree to our Adoption Policies.

• STEP 2: Complete an online application. When your application is received and your $25 application fee is paid, you will be contacted by phone by an Adoption Counselor nearest you. They will ask about your history with animals and your expectations of this dog. If this is your first Labrador, they will give you a good idea of what to expect.

• STEP 3: A home visit will be scheduled. Your adoption counselor will have practical tips and suggestion about how to manage the feeding, airing and exercising of your new Labrador.

• STEP 4: Once approved to adopt, the counselor will tell you a little about the dogs we have available. If you find one that you like your Adoption Counselor with set up a time with the Foster Parent for you to visit the dog.

• STEP 5: When you find the right Lab for you, you will need to purchase your food, crate and supplies. Your Labrador’s homecoming should be as happy and orderly as possible. You will complete a contract transferring ownership of the Lab to you, before your newest family member has arrived.

• STEP 6: Keep in touch. We’d like to hear from you about your experience. Once settled in, be sure to submit your Success Story to us, to appear on our website. Each year, LRROF also publishes a calendar submitted from the best success stories of the year and available for purchase around the holidays. Be sure to also share your experience through word of mouth with others and visit us at community events in your area.

Photos by MaxNorman Pet Photography.

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JANUARYFRIDAY, JANUARY 8 - MONDAY, JANUARY 18RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY®: CIRCUS XTREME SHOWTIMES VARY. Be astonished by UN-XPECTED circus spectacles you’ve never seen before and that can’t be seen anywhere else but at The Greatest Show On Earth®. Get ready for an X-HILARATING adventure with X-TRAORDINARY circus artists and magnificent X-OTIC animals, like our Asian elephants and big cats! It’s time to awaken the spirit of Children Of All Ages and stir the imagination of your family! LIKE us on Facebook.com/AmericanAirlinesArena for the most up-to date information. Tickets on sale now at ticketmaster.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 9WESTON ROCKS - CLASSIC ROCK PARTY7:00PM - 10:00PM. Admission is free! Rock in the New Year enjoying an evening of classic rock and legendary sounds. South Florida’s Premier Classic Rock band, Mr. Nice Guy, will be onstage. FOOD TRUCKS will be on site for your enjoyment. Concert attendees do need to bring their own lawn chairs or blanket for seating. Coolers are welcome; however, alcohol is not permitted in the park. Event Stage inside Weston Regional Park, 20200 Saddle Club Road (next to the Weston Community Center), in Weston. For information, call (954) 389-4321.

THURSDAY – SATURDAY, JANUARY 14 – 16 GARTH BROOKS WORLD TOUR WITH: TRISHA YEARWOOD7:30PM THURSDAY & 7:00pm FRIDAY & SATURDAY SHOWS. Garth Brooks makes his first appearance in South Florida in 19 Years! BB&T Center, Sunrise. ticketmaster.com/garthbrooks.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 15BEST PIZZA IN TOWN10:00AM & 11:20AM SHOWINGS. Based on the book The Great Pizza Contest by actor Riley Roam, this lively and interactive show is chock full of word puns, music and fun. The Great Pizza Contest incorporates conflict resolution, problem solving, story structure, art, history and author’s intent as audience members become the townspeople and help determine who is the best pizza maker in the fictional town of Mozzarella. Held at Amaturo Theater at The Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Ft. Lauderdale. browardcenter.org/events.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, JANUARY 16 & 17SOUTH FLORIDA HORSE EXPO9:00AM – 5:00PM. Peaceful Ridge Rescue introduces the 2016 South Florida Horse Expo, and invite you to join us. As founders of the first horse rescue organization accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries in South Florida, we understand the importance of i nforming our community on the equine rescue mission. Held at the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 4271 Davie Rd, Davie. Tickets: Adults (13+) $15, Youth (Ages 6-12) $10, Children (5 & Under), FREE Children Tickets available online, and at local stores. Please check www.SFLHorse Expo.com for more information.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17WINTER JAM 20166:00PM. Featuring: Matthew West, Crowder*, RED, Sidewalk Prophets, NewSong, KB/Tedashii/Trip Lee*, Lauren Daigle and evangelist Tony Nolan, while the Pre-Jam Party is slated to showcase Stars Go Dim and We Are Messengers. Tickets available at door only, $10.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17ELEPHANTS & PIGGIES: “WE ARE IN A PLAY”11:00AM & 1:00PM SHOWS. Best friends Gerald and Piggie find themselves on an excellent musical escapade, backed by nutty backup singers, in this adaptation of Mo Willems’ award-winning Elephant & Piggie books. You’ll be doing the “Flippy Floppy Floory” dance all night long. Ideal for children 4 and up. Be sure to arrive early as the ticket includes free pre-show face painting, art activities and complimentary post-show snacks. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Ft. Lauderdale. browardcenter.org.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 19MIAMI HEAT VS. MILWAUKEE BUCKS7:30PM. American Airlines Arena, Miami. ticketmaster.com.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 22PEPPA PIG LIVE!6:00PM. Peppa Pig, star of the top-rated TV series airing daily on Nick Jr., is hitting the road for her first-ever U.S. theatrical tour, Peppa Pig’s Big Splash! The perfect theater show for all preschoolers! Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Ft. Lauderdale. browardcenter.com/events.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 23FREE 2016 WESTON WINTER SAFETY EXPO6:00PM – 8:30PM. It will be snowing in Weston in January! Join us at Tequesta Trace Park (600 Indian Trace, Weston) for an entertaining, fun-filled and educational evening which includes: Police, Fire and Rescue Vehicles, Music, Entertainment and Dancing, Kids Games and Activities, Winter Wonderland Photo Area, Hot Chocolate and Cookies, Interactive Booths and Displays . (Concessions will be available for purchase at the event). For information, call (954) 389-4321 or visit Westonfl.org.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 23MOONLIGHT MOVIES IN THE PARK7:30PM. MOVIE TITLE: Minions. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and relax… the movie is on us! The full-length feature film is projected onto a giant inflatable screen behind the event stage located inside Weston Regional Park, 20200 Saddle Club Road, Weston. For information, call (954) 389-4321 or visit WestonFL.org.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, JANUARY 23 & 24MADONNA’S REBEL HEART TOUR8:00PM SHOWTIMES. Live in concert at the American Airlines Arena. ticketmaster.com.

TUESDAY – SUNDAY, JANUARY 26 – FEBRUARY 7THE BOOK OF MORMONSHOWTIMES VARY. The Blockbuster Broadway Smash from South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, and the Oscar-Winning composer of Disney’s Frozen and Avenue Q, Bobby Lopez. This outrageous musical comedy follow the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the good word. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Ft. Lauderdale. browardcenter.org/events.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 30DOGGIE PALOOZA – A DOG EXPO10:00AM – 3:00PM. Happy Trails Dog Park, 6600 SW 16th Street, Plantation. This event provides dog owners with information on products and services local companies have to offer. Well-behaved dogs must be leashed in the vendor area. $2 entry free to benefit a local animal rescue group. For information, call (954) 452-2510.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3199.9 KISS COUNTRY CHILI COOKOFF8:00AM – 6:00PM. This annual event satisfies everyone’s appetite for top-notch country music and great chili. Tickets at ticketmaster.com. C.B. Smith Park, 900 N. Flamingo Rd., Pembroke Pines; (954) 357-5170.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 31MIAMI HEAT VS. ATLANTA HAWKS6:00PM. American Airlines Arena, Miami. ticketmaster.com.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 31CELEBRATE THE ARTS DAY AT WESTON TOWN CENTER12:00PM – 5:00PM. The Arts Council of Greater Weston announces the fourth annual Celebrate the Arts Day to be held at the Weston Town Center. The event will highlight hands-on participation in the visual arts, performance, dancing, and literary art. For more information, please call (954) 389-4321 or visit Westonfl.org. Weston Town Center, 1675 Market Street, Weston.

FEBRUARYWEEKENDS IN FEBRUARY RENAISSANCE FESTIVALALL DAY SATURDAY & SUNDAY. Visitors step back in time for a taste of the Renaissance. Participants are invited to dress in period costume for the event. The festival’s many stages feature live performers such as sword fighters, magicians, and beggars. Merchants and artisans demonstrate and sell their wares, knights in armor joust, and various food items are available. Runs through March 2016. Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Rd., Deerfield Beach; (954) 357-5100.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5PINKALICIOUS10:00AM & 11:30AM SHOWINGS. Based on the popular book, Pinkalicious tells the story of a little girl who can’t stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents. Her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor’s office with “pinkititis,” an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe—a dream come true for this pink-loving enthusiast. But when her hue goes too far, only Pinkalicious can figure out a way to get out of this pink predicament. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Ft. Lauderdale. browardcenter.org/events.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5BARRY MANILOW ONE LAST TIME!TIME TBA. With special guest Dave Koz. BB&T Center, Sunrise. ticketmaster.com.

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FRIDAY & SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 19 & 20IMPROVISED SHAKESPEARE COMPANYSHOWTIMES VARY. Utilizing improvisation and comedy, The Improvised Shakespeare Company has developed a unique and interactive approach to deepen students’ understanding of Shakespeare’s works. A fully improvised show filled with off-the-cuff comedy using the language and themes of William Shakespeare. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Ft. Lauderdale. browardcenter.org.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20PUPPET SHOW: THE TORTOISE AND THE HARE1:30PM & 3:00PM SHOWTIMESAesop’s fable about a great race between a loveable tortoise and an arrogant hare. In addition to the moral that perseverance prevails, good nutrition and exercise are stressed. Shows are best suited for children ages Pre-K to 2nd grade. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Held at Weston Community Center, 20200 Saddle Club Road, Weston. For information, call(954) 389-4321 or stop by the Community Center.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20 MOONLIGHT MOVIES IN THE PARK7:30PM. MOVIE TITLE: Jurassic World, PG-13. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and relax… the movie is on us! The full-length feature film is projected onto a giant inflatable screen behind the event stage located inside Weston Regional Park, 20200 Saddle Club Road, Weston. For information, call (954) 389-4321 or visit WestonFL.org.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 214TH ANNUAL CELEBRATE THE ARTS DAY12:00PM – 5:00PM. The Arts Council of Greater Weston, Weston Town Center and the City of Weston hosts the 4TH annual Celebrate the Arts Day to be held at the Weston Town Center (corner of Bonaventure Blvd. & Royal Palm Blvd). The event will highlight hands-on participation in the visual arts, performance, dancing, and literary art. For information, call (954) 389-4321 or visit Westonfl.org.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21JAZZ CONCERT3:00PM – 5:00PM. FREE! Join the City of Pembroke Pines and Memorial Hospital West for a relaxing afternoon at William B. Armstrong Dream Park, 1700 Dykes Road (NW 160 Avenue), Pembroke Pines. Don’t forget a comfortable chair or blanket. For information, call (954) 435-6525.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26ORANGE BLOSSOM KICK OFF CONCERT6:00PM – 9:00PM. Join us for the Orange Blossom Kick Off Concert at the Old Davie School Historical Museum, 6650 Griffin Road, Davie. Admission is FREE and there will be Arts & Crafts vendors, bounce house, petting farm and food trucks. Food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the evening. So bring your blankets and chairs and enjoy an evening of music.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 27 & 28THE 79TH ANNUAL ORANGE BLOSSOM FESTIVAL, PARADE & RODEOEVENTS ALL DAY - BOTH DAYS. Parade - Open Farmer’s Market & Green Fair - Free Stage Entertainment & Street Dance. Heritage Championship Rodeo. Real cowboys from around the world compete for championship titles. Voted as the best rodeo east of the Mississippi, come watch cowboys and cowgirls challenge 2,000 pound bulls, ride bare back, wrestle cattle,

barrel race and team rope. Saturday at 7:30PM and Sunday at 2:00PM in the covered Bergeron Rodeo Grounds of Davie. Gates open at 6:00PM. Tickets are $18 and $8 (age 3-12) in advance and $20 and $10 (ages 3-12) at gate.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 287TH ANNUAL ANF GROUP TOUR DE BROWARD7:00am-1:00pm. Be one of the thousands that come together to support the services that help children and families at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. This community fundraiser, held at Miramar Regional Park, consists of 50K and 100K bicycle rides, a 5K timed run, 3K walk, and the “Power of Play Kid Zone,” a sports-themed, fun area for children 13 or younger. Participants can register in advance at tourdebroward.com for a discounted fee or visit a registration pavilion the day of. For those unable to be at the park on the 28th, a virtual participation donation can be made online at tourdebroward.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28THE HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS 4:00PM. A star-studded roster will have fans on the edge of their seats to witness the ball handling wizardry, basketball artistry and one-of-a-kind family entertainment that thrills fans of all ages. Celebrating their 90th anniversary world tour. Tickets on sale now at ticketmaster.com.

MARCHWEEKENDS IN MARCH RENAISSANCE FESTIVALALL DAY SATURDAY & SUNDAY. Visitors step back in time for a taste of the Renaissance. Participants are invited to dress in period costume for the event. The festival’s many stages feature live performers such as sword fighters, magicians, and beggars. Merchants and artisans demonstrate and sell their wares, knights in armor joust, and various food items are available. Runs through March 2016. Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Rd., Deerfield Beach; (954) 357-5100.

THURSDAY – SUNDAY, MARCH 3 – 6 & 10 – 13CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S: TORUK – THE FIRST FLIGHTSHOWTIMES VARY. The new Cirque du Soleil touring show inspired by James Cameron’s record-breaking movie AVATAR, will be presented at the BB&T Center in Sunrise 3/3 – 3/6 and at the American Airlines Arena in Miami 3/10 – 3/13. Enjoy a live immersive multimedia spectacle that brings to the stage the breathtaking world of AVATAR like you have never seen it before. Tickets on sale now at ticketmaster.com.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9JANET JACKSON8:00PM. Multiple GRAMMY® Award-winner and multi-platinum selling artist, will bring the “Unbreakable World Tour” to The BB&T Center in Sunrise. ticketmaster.com.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9 & SATURDAY, MARCH 12AUDITIONS FOR TINSEL TOWN CABARETMARCH 9, 4:00PM – 7:00PM. MARCH 12, 9:00AM – 2:00PM. Volunteer Park Community Center, 12050 W. Sunrise Blvd., Plantation. All ages, groups or individuals are welcome. Categories are Music: Vocal, Instrumental,

Combination – Dance: Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Folk, Interpretive – Theatre: Dramatic or Comic Presentation – Open: Any combination of Music, Dance, Theatre. Participants must come completely prepared: props, costumes, etc. Acts should not exceed 3 minutes. A cassette or CD player and piano are available, but no accompanist. Please have all tapes cued. There is no charge for auditions. Selected contestants will perform Friday, May 6th at Volunteer Park. Call (954) 452-2510 or (954) 452-2558.

SATURDAY, MARCH 12PLANTATION CITY WIDE GARAGE SALE7:00AM – 12:00PM. Volunteer Park Community Center, 12050 W. Sunrise Blvd., Plantation. Anyone interested in participating can register at Volunteer Park. The fee for each 8’ x 16’ space is $30. Tables are not supplied. Space is limited. For information, call (954) 452-2558.

SATURDAY, MARCH 12 MOONLIGHT MOVIES IN THE PARK8:00PM. MOVIE TITLE: The Peanuts Movie, Rated G. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and relax… the movie is on us! The full-length feature film is projected onto a giant inflatable screen behind the event stage located inside Weston Regional Park, 20200 Saddle Club Road, Weston. For information, call (954) 389-4321 or visit WestonFL.org.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY, MARCH 12 & 1318TH ANNUAL ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL IN THE PINES 10:00AM – 5:00PM. Held at Academic Village, 17189 Sheridan Street, Pembroke Pines. The Arts and Crafts Festival in the Pines offers a great opportunity for artists and patrons alike to purchase and sell art and fine crafts in a delightful atmosphere. The festival showcases music, a hands-on art children’s area, food trucks and demonstrations by local artists. For information or application, call (954) 986-5027 or visit www.ppines.com.

THURSDAY - SUNDAY, MARCH 23 - 27DISNEY’S FROZEN ON ICESHOWTIMES VARY. The Academy Award® winning tale captures the dynamic between two royal sisters, Anna and Elsa. Anna, a girl with an extraordinary heart, embarks on an epic journey to find her sister, the magical Elsa, who is determined to remain secluded as she finally feels free to test the limits of her powers. BB&T Center, Sunrise. ticketmaster.com.

FRIDAY, MARCH 25CHICAGO AND EARTH, WIND & FIRE – HEART AND SOUL TOUR 2.07:30PM. Held at Perfect Vodka Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach. livenation.com.

SATURDAY, MARCH 26PLANTATION’S ROYAL EASTER EGG HUNT10:00AM SHARP! Pop Travers Field, 6250 SW 16th Street, Plantation. FREE – Bring a basket or bag and join us for our fun-filled Royal Easter Egg Hunt. Kids 3–10 years old will be grouped by age to find and pick up hidden eggs. Prizes and candies given to all participants. For information, call (954) 452-2510.

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BIRTHDAY PARTIES

& SPECIAL EVENTS

TAG USA GYMNASTICS & TRAMPOLINE Private TWO HOUR parties with very large spectacular 1000 sq. feet party rooms and glass viewing areas. TAG’s LARGEST Gym has the most equipment, inflatables, rope swing, tumble floors, foam pits, and trampolines. No extra charges for bounce houses, slide inflatables, indoor basketball / soccer court. Your choice of Mommy & Me, Trampolines & Gymnastics, or Boys Sports parties with structured stations or open gym style. Visit our facility & Compare at www.TagGymnastics.com... You gotta see it to believe it! 1951 North Commerce Parkway, Weston. Call (954) 384-9393 to reserve your party.

FLORIDA TRIPLE THREAT ALL-STARS Competitive Cheer and Dance Facility. Come build a Pyramid for your next Birthday Party! A Human Pyramid, that is. Enjoy a 2-hour private party on a Sunday with all your friends. You can tumble on the spring floor and tumble trak, and bounce on the trampoline. Prices are only $15 per child. (954) 514-7250. www.Fla3threat.com.

BROWARD BASEBALL ACADEMY (BBA)Book your baseball or softball themed party with Broward Baseball Academy (BBA), a year-round baseball and softball training facility, with two lighted fields and 3 covered batting cages and pitching machines. Our birthday party package can include batting cage time; field time and games can also be arranged. Food can be catered or bring your own. Located on the David Posnack JCC Campus, 5850 S. Pine Island Rd. Davie. Director – Wayne Stofsky, Wayne@BrowardBaseballAcademy.com. (954) 683-7747.

DANCE FX PARTYBring your party to our studio. Dance, fun, music and more. Currently in its 17th year, Dance FX has more than 50 dancers on its award winning competition team that travels all over the country, AND we are the home to the ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ runner up, Tiffany Maher 2012 & Alexis Juliano Top 14 2013! Bring your party to our studio. Call for available dates: (954) 742-3114.

SUPER MABLE TUBE PARTIESLooking for something new? Want to be the coolest parents on earth? Have a super party at CB Smith Park. Ride the Super Mable, flying saucer and banana boat. Peg the fun meter and hear ”that was the best day of my life!” Covered pavilion and large play area for yard games. Ages 3 to 84. Reserve today at (954) 292-3953, for pictures and details go to www.browardski.com.

FLORIDA PANTHERSHost your next group outing or party at a Florida Panthers hockey game! Whether you are hosting a birthday party, celebrating a business milestone or another special event, the BB&T Center is the place to be! Specially priced tickets and party spaces are available for groups of 10 or more. Call (954) 835-7825 for more information.

CUSTOM RHINESTONESDesigned by Michael. Let your next special event shine with customized apparel. Perfect for Birthdays, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Bridal Showers, Weddings, Cheer/Dance Groups, Gymnastic Teams, Schools, Sports Teams and even Business Logos. This unique way to express yourself is elegant and affordable. Want to create your own design or need a little help? Michael offers FREE artwork and a FREE sample. We also carry a full line of tops and bottoms ready to embellish with your unique design. If Bling is your Thing, contact Michael at (954) 270-7474, www.DesignedbyMichael.com.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF BROWARD COUNTYParty like an Animal and have your next birthday party at the Humane Society of Broward County. What better way to celebrate your child’s birthday! Not only will your child have fun, but they will also learn about how they can help the homeless animals. Plus, your birthday fee will go directly to the Humane Society of Broward County to help care for the thousands of homeless animals received each year. (954) 266-6848 or www.humanebroward.com.

4KIDSINNEED.ORG “BE A HERO & HIRE A HERO” Movie grade costume characters come to life! Available for your next birthday party, Sweet Sixteen, Quince, Corporate event etc. Offering characters such as Batman, Batgirl, Darth Vader, Obi wan, and even a life size remote control R2D2 robot with lights & sounds. Kids both big and small love R2. It’s more than an appearance, we offer a hero training with a message along with an autograph session with your hero. Working to help “Change the world one child at a time!” Contact us: 4KidsInNeed.Org, (954) 439-1878. Heroes with a mission.

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BIRTHDAY PARTIES

& SPECIAL EVENTS

By Melissa Harless, Managing Director of PublishingGolf Photos courtesy of The First Tee of Broward

The city of Plantation has always been dedicated to not only honoring the men and women who have fought for this county, but also to ensuring there are a multitude of programs and services at their disposal. Both the Frank Veltri Tennis Center and Plantation Preserve Golf Course offer several programs that assist and support veterans, active members of the military and their families. There are also options for veterans dealing with PTSD as well as those who want to help their peers who struggle with the disorder.

Mission United is one such program. First Tee of Broward County, United Way and Plantation Preserve teamed up to create the program. It offers veterans an outlet by learning to play golf, spending time with other veterans and simply having time set aside to spend outside their homes. The inaugural program ran from Saturday, October 3 – Saturday, November 14. Currently, there aren’t any firm future dates scheduled, but there have been recent discussions to run a second program starting after the holidays, however, at the time of press the dates had not been finalized.

Director of Golf, Brian Schuler is willing and hopeful that Plantation Preserve will have the opportunity to host future events and programs such as this. “The feedback I received from the participants of the program was nothing but positive. They expressed how much they appreciated Plantation Preserve for being the host site and thanked us immensely. It is the least we can do after all they have sacrificed in their life for us,” he said. If you would like to get involved by volunteering or signing up to participate as a veteran, you can contact Jack Bloomfield from The First Tee of Broward at (954) 384-4680 or jackbloomfield@thefirstteebroward.org.

Currently, there are two programs for Veterans offered at the Frank Veltri Tennis Center. “The first is the Plantation Adaptive Wheelchair Tennis group, founded by the Plantation Community Tennis CTA in 2012. The program was initiated due to a lack of wheelchair accessible tennis programs in our area both for adults and youth, as well as a lack of equipment at the facility, should a wheelchair disabled individual wish to take up tennis,” says Connor Montana, Executive Board of Directors. The group meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 6:30pm (weather permitting) and offers the chance for both beginners and semi-advanced to advanced players to learn/play tennis free of charge. The night includes tennis instruction and match play. There is no registration required to participate; just come out on the 1st and/or 3rd Thursday night of each month.

The second program, Plantation Military Tennis Day Camp is available to dependent children of Active Duty or Deployed US Military Members who live in Broward county (priority to Plantation residents). It was founded by Bob Cooper, Director of Tennis, in 2011 to fill a need seen in the community and as a way to support our troops and their families. The program operates during school holiday breaks for Summer, Winter and Spring Break and invites the children of service members to attend the day camp at no charge for a 2-week session. Tennis lessons, swimming and game room time are all including during this time. There is a high demand for this program and spaces fill up quickly so sign up early. Registration is required and must be completed on our website, www.pctc.plantationtennis.org under “Departments” then “Programs.”

For more information about programs for Veterans and their families throughout Plantation and for information on how you can volunteer, visit www.plantation.org.

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Support our local Irish Community while enjoying a fun filled day celebrating the legendary life of Saint Patrick!

Born in the fifth century, Saint Patrick was kidnapped from Britain at the young age of sixteen and brought to Ireland as a slave. He is best known for bringing Christianity to Ireland and for explaining the Holy Trinity using a Shamrock or a “Three Leaf Clover” as we refer to it in the United States. He is also credited for driving the snakes from Ireland, which is believed by most to mean that he put an end to the pagan practice of worshipping serpents. Saint Patrick became known as the Patron Saint and National Apostle of Ireland.

Around the ninth or tenth century the Irish began celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day on March 17th, the day of Saint Patrick’s death. Surprisingly, the first St. Patrick’s Day Parade took place, not in Ireland, but in the United States on March 17, 1762 when a group of Irish soldiers enlisted in the English military, marched through New York City honoring the life of Saint Patrick. As a result, Saint Patrick’s Day was born and now more than 100 Saint Patrick’s Day parades occur across the United States annually. One of those parades will be held in Hollywood, Florida.

For the 18th year, Downtown Hollywood will be transformed into a sea of green to celebrate. This year, the festivities will take place on Sunday, March 13th from 12:00pm to 6:00pm. The event features a traditional float parade beginning at 1:00pm. A vast assortment of floats, pipe bands, marching bands and local businesses participate in the parade along with the famous New York Police Department Emerald Society Pipes and Drums. Follow the excitement as the parade makes its way through historic downtown Hollywood beginning at Harrison Street and returning to 21st Avenue. Plan to arrive early for best viewing locations along the parade route.

But don’t worry – the fun doesn’t end there! After the parade, check out two award-winning bands. The headliner will be Emish, a high-powered rock band with Irish Heart. UV, the U2 Tribute Band will also be on hand to liven things up with your favorite U2 songs, old and new. Both performances will take place on the stage at 19th Avenue and Hollywood Boulevard.

If you’re looking for something to keeps the kids entertained, they’ll love Emerald Isle Fantasy Land located inside Anniversary Park. There will be a variety of games and crafts for the little ones, which means plenty of photo ops for parents!

The event is sponsored by the Hibernians, a 501c3 Community Organization that was re-established in 2010 for the purpose of raising funds for downtown Hollywood’s annual cultural event and Irish Festival. Directors Mike Saffron, John Lipca, and Mark Rowe work hard to ensure that this popular festival remains a desirable attraction for residents and non-residents alike. The Hibernians are looking for local businesses that would like to act as sponsors for the event.

Use this opportunity to present your business to the anticipated 12,000+ visitors. Choose from various sponsorships including: Shamrock, Leprechaun, Pot of Gold or the Magic of the Emerald Isle Sponsorship. All sponsorships offer a different level of logo, name recognition and advertisements depending on which one you choose. Prices range from $1,000 to $5,000. For detailed sponsorship information email: hiberniansofhollywood@gmail.com or contact Mike Saffran at (954) 658-3894. To become a sponsor, or to make a donation, please send checks to the Hibernians of Hollywood, 421 S. 21st Avenue, Hollywood, Florida 33020.

So don your craziest Irish attire or brush the dust off that green Leprechaun suit beckoning from your closet, bring the family and come celebrate the legendary life of Saint Patrick with your friends, neighbors and fellow Irishmen!

By Shelley Jukanovich and Melissa Harless

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AQUATICS COMPLEXCentral Park, 9151 NW 2nd Street

954-452-2525

CENTRAL PARK 9151 NW 2nd Street

954-452-2510

PLANTATION WOODS PARK5555 Palm Tree Road

954-452-2510

EQUESTRIAN CENTER 1451 NW 118th Avenue

954-476-4316

VOLUNTEER PARK12050 W. Sunrise Blvd.

954-452-2558

VELTRI TENNIS CENTER Central Park, 9101 NW 2nd Street

954-452-2530

JIM WARD COMMUNITY CENTER 301 NW 46th Avenue

954-585-2346

Plantation Parks & Recreation Facilities

ADDRESS & PHONE NUMBERS

SATURDAY, JANUARY 30DOGGIE PALOOZA – A DOG EXPO10:00AM – 3:00PM. Happy Trails Dog Park, 6600 SW 16th Street, Plantation. This event provides dog owners with information on products and services local companies have to offer. Well-behaved dogs must be leashed in the vendor area. $2 entry free to benefi t a local animal rescue group. For information, call (954) 452-2510.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9 & SATURDAY, MARCH 12AUDITIONS FOR TINSEL TOWN CABARETMARCH 9, 4:00PM – 7:00PM. MARCH 12, 9:00AM – 2:00PM. Volunteer Park Community Center, 12050 W. Sunrise Blvd., Plantation. All ages, groups or individuals are welcome. Categories are Music: Vocal, Instrumental, Combination – Dance: Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Folk, Interpretive – Theatre: Dramatic or Comic Presentation – Open: Any combination of Music, Dance, Theatre. Participants must come completely prepared: props, costumes, etc. Acts should not exceed 3 minutes. A cassette or CD player and piano are available, but no accompanist. Please have all tapes cued. There is no charge for auditions. Selected contestants will perform Friday, May 6th at Volunteer Park. Call (954) 452-2510 or (954) 452-2558.

SATURDAY, MARCH 12PLANTATION CITY WIDE GARAGE SALE7:00AM – 12:00PM. Volunteer Park Community Center, 12050 W. Sunrise Blvd., Plantation. Anyone interested in participating can register at Volunteer Park. The fee for each 8’ x 16’ space is $30. Tables are not supplied. Space is limited. For information, call (954) 452-2558.

SATURDAY, MARCH 26PLANTATION’S ROYAL EASTER EGG HUNT10:00AM SHARP! Pop Travers Field, 6250 SW 16th Street, Plantation. FREE – Bring a basket or bag and join us for our fun-fi lled Royal Easter Egg Hunt. Kids 3–10 years old will be grouped by age to fi nd and pick up hidden eggs. Prizes and candies given to all participants. For information, call (954) 452-2510.

UPCOMING EVENTS

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APRIL• CHEERLEADING (TACKLE & FLAG), Ages 5-15• FOOTBALL (TACKLY & FLAG), Ages 5-15

MAY• TRAVEL SOCCER, Ages 8-17, boys & girls

ONGOING REGISTRATIONSSWIMMING, DIVING, WATER POLO, TENNIS, GOLF, HORSEBACK RIDING.

PLANTATION ATHLETIC

LEAGUE (PAL)UPCOMING SPORTS

REGISTRATIONSFor more information, visit the sports directory of this publication or the PAL website at www.palsports.org.

SPRING BREAK CAMP – CENTRAL PARKAges 5–10. This fun-fi lled 6-day program is held at Central Park. Planned activities include a fi eld trip, a special guest, arts & crafts, supervised games and much more! Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Bring a bag lunch and drink. Extra drinks are available for purchase. For more information, call (954) 452-2510. REGISTRATION: Begins two weeks before Spring Camp programs. March 18 and 21–25. Program hours are 7:30am – 6:00pm. Structured Activities are 9:00am – 4:00pm. $132/Residents, $182/Non-Residents, plus $10 non-refundable registration fee.

SHARE-A-PONY SPRING CAMP – PLANTATION EQUESTRIAN CENTERAges 4–12. No lunch provided. Bring your lunch, drink & snack. March 21–25. 9:00am – 4:30pm. Residents Per Session, $250 plus tax, plus a $5 registration fee. Non-Residents, $70/day, plus tax, plus $5 registration fee.

SPRING BREAK TENNIS CAMP – VELTRI TENNIS CENTERAges 6–16. Tennis camp includes lessons, match play and tennis games. Bring your lunch, drinks and tennis racquet. Call (954) 452-2530 for more information. Registration is available online at PlantationTennis.org. March 21–25 from 10:00am – 3:30pm. Early drop-off: 7:00am – 10:00am. $160/5 days | $42/day | $32/half day. Early drop-off an additional $5/day or $15/week. No aftercare. Child must be picked up by 3:45pm.

SPRING BREAK CAMPS

CITY OF PLANTATION

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JANUARYFRIDAY, JANUARY 1ST 2016 RESOLUTION RUN 5KThe GFLRRC Presents the 15th Annual Resolution 5k. Awards will be given to Top 3 Overall finishers as well as the top 3 in each age group. A variety of food and drink will be available to all participants. Location: TY Park, 3300 N. Park Rd., Hollywood | Time: 5K Run/Walk 9:00am, Kid’s Dash 9:45am, Youth Mile 10:00am | Cost: Individual participant: $10 - $35 | Website: www.gflrrc.com

SATURDAY, JANUARY 9TH FLIPANY FUN RUNThis exciting event will challenge participants of all ages to a 5K or 10K run as well as having access to local health and wellness vendors, free kid’s activities, and a silent auction/raffle. Previous FLIPANY Fun Run events drew crowds of more than 700 people. This is a great opportunity for you, your company, or community group to show support for this important cause while gaining local exposure to potential new clients and supporters. Location: Hollywood North Beach Park, 3601 N. Ocean Dr., Hollywood | Time: 10K 7:30am, 5K 7:45am | Cost: Visit our website for fundraising details | Website: www.flipany.org/fun-run

SUNDAY, JANUARY 10TH VISTA VIEW 360 ULTRAMARATHONThis loop course is a 1.24-mile dirt/mulch trail around Vista View Park. Runners complete as many loops as they can within the 6-hour limit. Put up your tent, bring your lounge chairs and have a fun-filled day with your team. Take turns running the loop course and enjoy a break and a snack while your other teammates take their turn. You may exchange the ‘baton’ as many times as you want - run 1, 2, 3 or more loops at a time... your team’s choice! The runner with the most loops completed in 6 hours or less wins! Location: Vista View Park, 4001 SW 142 Ave., Davie | Time: 6:00am – 12:00pm | Cost: Individual $60, 4-person relay $150 | Website: www.active.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 16TH MIRAMAR–PINES ROTARY RUN 10K & 5KJoin us for the 17th Annual Miramar-Pines 5K/10K Run/Walk and 1-Mile Family Run. Each child receives a cotton t-shirt and finishers medal for completing the Family Run. Post-run food and drinks for all participants. Proceeds benefit Miramar Police Athletic League, Miramar-Pines Rotary Club Foundation Scholarship Fun, Exceptional Theater Company and the Pack-A-Sack Children’s Food Program. Location: Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway, Miramar | Time: Start time 8:00am | Cost: Individuals $15 - $35, Group registration $$100 - $140 | Website: www.active.com

SUNDAY, JANUARY 24TH DAVIE ROAD RACEJoin us for the Davie Road Race Dash 4 Cash 5K Run & Mayor’s Mile Challenge Walk. $1300 in cash prizes, pork sliders and cole slaw provided by Mission BBQ. The Mayor’s Mile Challenge Walk is an event that will benefit schools in our community by giving each school who participates 20% of the proceeds donated back to their school programs. Location: Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 4300 Davie Rd., Davie | Time: 8:00am | Cost: Early registration $15- $35 | Website: www.daviepal.org

SATURDAY, JANUARY 30TH 5K RACE FOR KIDSThe Saint Anthony Knights of Columbus selects one local children’s charity each year as our primary beneficiary to receive 75% of that year’s proceeds of the 5K4Kids, and we donate the remaining 25% to the Saint Anthony Foundation for Education to provide scholarships for children throughout greater Fort Lauderdale. This year the primary beneficiary will be the Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center in Fort Lauderdale. The event is open to all ages and experience levels of runners and walkers. Location: Victoria Park, 901 NE 2nd St., Fort Lauderdale | Time: 7:30am | Cost: 17 & under $4/ - $35, Adult $30 - $40 | Website: www.5k4kids.org SUNDAY, JANUARY 31ST FD NOW 5KJoin us for a 5K run/walk through the surrounding area of Nova Southeastern University Campus to benefit FD Now. FD is an abbreviation for Familial Dysautomonia, a rare, life threatening neurological disease. Those with FD live with swings in blood pressure, erratic heart rates, breathing difficulties and digestive issues. Location: Markham Park, 16001 West State Road 84, Sunrise | Time: 7:30am | Cost: Children under 10 years $15, Students $20, Adults $25 | Website: www.splitsecondtiming.com/fd-now-2016

FEBRUARY FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5TH THE NIGHT RUN 5KThe Night Run (formerly The Hippie Fun Run) is like no other run tour you’ve seen before with occasional color and party zones. We are the Ultimate Party Run, Walk, Experience, from start to finish! Get ready to party like never before! Each registered participant will receive a swag bag with a glow-in-the-dark shirt, glow tattoos, glow batons, and much more! Location: Huizenga Plaza, 32 E. Las Olas Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale | Time: 6:00pm | Cost: Teams of 3+ $25 - $35/pp, Individuals $30 - $40, VIP $40 - $50 | Website: www.hippieglowrun.com/ftlauderdale

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7TH RUN THROUGH CENTRAL PARKJoin us for the 11th Annual Run Through Central Park. Enjoy this flat, fast, out-and-back course around the lake in Central Park and finishing on the track! Long-sleeve tech tees! Finisher medals! Location: Central Park, 9151 NW 2nd St., Plantation | Time: Registration 6:00am | Race Start 7:00am | Cost: 10K Run $40, Kid’s Race $10 | Website: www.active.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13TH FORT LAUDERDALE VALENTINE’S DAY 5KThe Fort Lauderdale 5K will take place in picturesque downtown Fort Lauderdale. The downtown area has become a favorite for many local events over the past few years. This event is walker friendly! Our more seasoned runners can choose to participate in the 5K as a final tune-up before the Marathon & Half Marathon events on Sunday. After the 5K it is a short drive over to the Publix Health & Fitness Expo. Location: Huizenga Plaza, One E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale | Time: 7:30am | Cost: $35 | Website: www.a1amarathon.com

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14TH FORT LAUDERDALE A1A MARATHONOur Marathon course features 26.2 miles of signature South Florida beauty, loaded with miles of unobstructed ocean views. The fast, flat course is ideal for those looking to achieve Boston qualifying times. All Marathon finishers will receive a signature beach themed medal. Post Race Beach Party with loads of food, beverages and live music! Location: 401 SW 2nd St., Fort Lauderdale. Time: Runners in corrals by 5:40am | Marathon & Half Marathon 6:00am | Cost: Marathon $95 | Half Marathon $85 | Website: www.a1amarathon.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20TH FUNKY FUN RUN 5K & ANYTHING GOES STROLLWe’re Raising Money for Youth who’ve aged-out of Foster Care! The Funky Fun Run captures the unique, fun-loving and family-friendly spirit of the 13th Street Corridor in Northeast Fort Lauderdale. Race ribbons and prizes for best costumes will be awarded after the Fun Run. Fundraising for the event benefits HOMES, Inc. Location: 13th Street Cooridor, 690 NE 13th St., Fort Lauderdale | Time: 3:00pm | Cost: $35 - $45 | Website: www.active.com

TO HAVE YOUR RUN/WALK EVENT LISTED HERE FOR FUTURE ISSUES, PLEASE EMAIL MELISSASPORTS1@AOL.COM.

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27TH WOMEN IN DISTRESS SAFEWALK–RUN 5KJoin us for the 17th Annual SafeWalk-Run to be held at NSU Davie Campus. Community members, corporate teams, student organizations, along with individual walkers and runners will take to the pavement to raise awareness about domestic violence and to raise funds for the much needed programs and services which Women In Distress of Broward County, Inc. offers free of charge to victims of domestic violence in our community. This fun event is offi cially timed and awards are given to the top fi nishers. Location: 3301 College Avenue, Davie | Time: Registration begins at 7:30am, Race begins at 9:00am | Cost: Adults (18+): $25, Adult w/dog (on leash): $35, Youth (Ages 6-17): $15, Kids (5 & under): FREE | Website: www.womenindistress.org/events/safewalk-run-5k

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28TH TOUR DE BROWARDFor the past six years on a Sunday morning in February, thousands of people have gathered at Miramar Regional Park, united by one common cause – to support Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital at its annual Tour de Broward event. Tour de Broward 2016 will feature a variety of events for adults, kids, physically challenged athletes and wounded warriors alike, including a 3k Walk & 5k Timed Run, Cycling challenges – 50k & 100k, and The Power of Play Kids Zone. Location: Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Pkwy., Miramar. Time: 7:00am | Cost: Fees range from $10 to $40 | Website: www.tourdebroward.com

MARCHSUNDAY, MARCH 6TH KENDRA’S KISSES MEMORIAL 5KKendra’s Kisses is a charitable organization dedicated to provide assistance in the form of social, emotional and fi nancial support to families and caregivers in need when a child or children of that family is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. Moisture Wick T-shirt, sling bag & lapel pin to fi rst 300 registered. Custom medals for top

3 men and women in nineteen age divisions. All proceeds benefi t local children battling cancer. Location: Markham Park, 16001 W. State Rd. 84, Sunrise | Time: 11:00am | Cost: Adults (Ages 19 & over): $30, Children (Ages 18 & under): $15 (+ $1.50 per person to enter the park) | Website: www.kendraskisses.org

SATURDAY, MARCH 12TH SOUTH FLORIDA OUTRUN HUNGER 5KJoin Feeding South Florida for our 6th Annual Outrun Hunger 5K. Each year, the South Florida community comes together to enjoy a morning of fi tness and fun with all proceeds going to end hunger in South Florida. For every registration, we can provide 150 meals! Location: Charnow Park, 300 Connecticut St., Hollywood | Time: 7:00am | Cost: $30 - $35 | Website: www.feedingsouthfl orida.org

SUNDAY, MARCH 13TH RUN WITH THE RABBI 5KJoin us for the 3rd Annual Purim 5K Run with the Rabbi. Learn more about Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El and its congregants in a fun, family setting. The wearing of costumes is encouraged for all participants. Ribbons will be awarded for the Top 3 Overall Finishers for Men’s and Women’s Divisions, Top 3 Overall Purim Costumes, as well as Top 3 Finishers for multiple Boy’s and Girl’s and Men’s and Women’s Age Divisions. Location: Plantation Central Park, 9151 NW 2nd St., Plantation | 5K Start Time: 8:30am | Registration $30 before 10/31, $40 after 11/1. Website: http://tkae.org/runwithrabbi/

SATURDAY, MARCH 19TH THE COLOR RUN – FT. LAUDERDALEMeet at the start line – we’ll take care of the rest. The Color Run Tropicolor World Tour 2016 is bringing a 5k paradise straight to your city with a sweet Tropicolor Zone on course, all-new Rainbow Beach at the Finish Festival, and a fresh island-style participant kit. Each Color Runner will also receive a limited-edition Tropicolor race shirt, fi nisher’s medal on a fl oral printed ribbon, embroidered headband, and fun temporary tattoos. Location: TBD | Time: TBD | Cost: TBD Website: www.thecolorrun.com/ft-lauderdale

SATURDAY, MARCH 26TH COLOR VIBE 5K – FT. LAUDERDALE Get ready Ft. Lauderdale for the most colorful fun-fi lled day of your life! You’ll have more color on you than your happy levels can handle! So get your friends and family stretched out for this amazing color blast event where you’ll get blasted with color while you run the Color Vibe 5K. Spots are fi lling up fast so sign up today as we have a limited number available. You’ll be blasted at every color station throughout this awesome 5K run. Location: Central Broward Regional Park and Stadium, 3700 NW 11th Pl., Lauderhill, FL. Time: 9:00am | Cost: Solo runner: $29.99, Team Runner: $26.99 | Website: www.thecolorvibe.com/ftlauderdale.php#

SATURDAY, MARCH 26TH EGG HUNT TRIATHLON/DUATHLONMultiRace is proud to present the 7th Annual Egg Hunt Triathlon & Duathlon, held in Pembroke Pines on the Saturday before Easter. All fi nishers will receive a custom designed fi nisher’s medal declaring you as a triathlon or duathlon fi nisher! Location: C.B. Smith Park, 900 N. Flamingo Rd., Pembroke Pines. Time: 7:00am | Cost: Individual $79, Relay $129 | Website: www.multirace.us/events/77

APRILALL MONTH IN APRILRUN OVER AUTISM 5KFinally you’ve found a “race” you can run/walk any place, any time, and at any pace! No training, no paying for parking, or waking up at the crack of dawn involved. To honor Autism Awareness Month, this “DIY” 5k awards a medal to every participant. The event benefi ts Puzzle Peace Now, a South Florida based 501(c)(3) providing special needs summer camp scholarships. Just submit a pic of your fi nish. Medals mailed out the week of May 9th, 2016. Cash prizes for creativity. Location: You choose. Time: Up to you. Cost: $45. Website: www.puzzlepeacenow.com.

RUN OVER AUTISM 5K AND...YOU HAVE A MONTH TO FINISH!

April 1 – 30, 2016

Puzzle Peace Now is proud to announce its 3rd Annual Run Over Autism. This virtual, or “DIY” 5K is like no other. Held throughout the month of April, participants and donors alike compete for cash prizes by reaching 3.1 miles on their own time and terms. Did we mention that every person who participates gets a shiny medal? We can’t think of a better way to come together for Autism Action Month.

Puzzle Peace Now, a 501(c)(3) a charity, was founded in 2009 by local mom Kristi Vannatta. Kristi and her husband are parenting an eleven year-old son who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at age 3. Proceeds from this event will provide summer camp scholarships to local special needs children.

What’s a “DIY” 5K? A “DIY” 5K is a “race” you can run when, where, and how you like: day or night,

on the road, or in the air conditioning (hello treadmill!). Just set your own course and go for it. Sign up now, race any day in April 2016, and submit your time. Expect to be eligible for prizes in yet to be determined random categories.

Our participants have run, walked, roller-skated, skied, trampolined, dog walked, and even trotted (yes, she walked her horse). There’s more than one way to reach 3.1 miles, so there’s no excuse not to take part! Many participants choose to run in groups with others who have registered. The more the merrier.

Here’s How Run Over Autism Works:Step 1. Register or donate at www.puzzlepeacenow.com. Runners run and spectators

get to sit home in the A/C knowing they gave to a worthy cause. Step 2. Join our Facebook event page. Search for “The 3rd Annual Run Over Autism”

within Facebook, or use the link found at www.puzzlepeacenow.com. Here you’ll be able to post any questions you may have, as well as see how others are getting involved. Most importantly, you’ll post your race results here.

Step 3. Runners, map your race and go for it! Take off ANY time between April 1, 2016 and April 30, 2016. Consider creating a herd. Recruit friends, co-workers, family, neighbors, pets… whomever! Make it your own event.

Step 4. Report your race, time, and fun had by posting a picture or collage on our Facebook event page. You can bet on extra points for creativity.

Step 5. LOCAL runners, you’ll be notifi ed via the Facebook event page (The 3rd Annual Run Over Autism) as to when and where to pick up your medal. Not-so-local runners, expect your medal to be shipped on or before the week of May 1, 2016.

Questions? Post them on the Facebook event page or email Kristi Vannatta at info@puzzlepeacenow.com. Feel free to invite friends to join the event page, but keep in mind this event is open to only 200 RUNNERS so register early! YOU MUST REGISTER TO RUN. Joining the Facebook page does not register you. There is no deadline for registration, but spots go fast! Nab yours today. Spectators may donate until the end of time.

Register TODAY at www.puzzlepeacenow.comFor more information about autism diagnosis, treatment, and advocacy visit National

Autism Association or Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) online.

Submitted by Puzzle Peace Now

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By Debby Teich

Many consider baseball to be the all-American

pastime. For years, it has brought families together to

watch and play. The City of Plantation offers adults a

way to continue to play their favorite sport, have fun, stay

fit, and socialize. They can participate in softball leagues

throughout the year at Sunset Park. “Softball gives adults

a chance to come out and enjoy our facilities, keep active

and make new friends,” said Greg Polins, Athletics Site

Manager. “All of the players love the camaraderie.”

Approximately 2,000 adults participate in the City’s

softball leagues, which are structured to provide a

competitive leisure opportunity that promotes fitness

and wellbeing among participants through team and

individual league play. There are 50+ teams in four

leagues that meet Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and

Sunday. The cost is $480/team for early registration and

$500/team for late registration.

The leagues follow ASA softball rules. All teams are

guaranteed 10 games and the top four teams make the

playoffs. The league winner gets a trophy. There are also

individual prizes for the winner and runner up. Although

most of the players are dads or young men that just want

to play ball, several former Major Leaguers have played

throughout the years.

THE SOFTBALL LEAGUES INCLUDE:• Twelve teams currently play in the Monday Night

Coed League, which is held at 7pm, 8:15pm and 9:30pm. Players must enroll as a team. Monday night

is the only time players must follow Coed rules, which require at least three women on the team.

• The Tuesday Night Open League is the most popular. Thirty teams participate in the league, which is held at 7pm, 8:15pm and 9:30pm. It is open to men and women. This league is typically more competitive than the others and often contains tournament teams that travel.

• Approximately 10 teams play in the Thursday Night League. It is an open league for both men and women. It is a good mix of fun and competition.

• The Sunday league is open to both men and women. Approximately eight teams play in the league, which is the least competitive one. It is held at 9am, 10:15am and 11:30am.

In addition to softball, the City of Plantation offers

basketball, soccer, and flag football for adults.

Steve Kreisberg plans to sign up for an upcoming

league. He played baseball in high school and also played

in a league in New Jersey before moving to Plantation.

He is forming a team with some of the people in his

neighborhood. “I miss getting together with friends to

play,” said Kreisberg. “Each week, we used to set aside

some time to unwind and have some fun. I may be a few

years older, but I can still hit and run the bases. I am

looking forward to playing again.”

F o r i n f o r m a t i o n o n a d u l t l e a g u e s , v i s i t

www.plantationadultathletics.com. For information on

youth leagues, visit www.palsports.org.

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BASEBALL & T-BALLBROWARD BASEBALL ACADEMY (BBA)/HAL’S POWER ALLEYNOW REGISTERING FOR SUMMER SHOWCASE TEAMS! BBA, a year-round baseball training facility, specializes in private instruction, small group lessons and team sessions for hitting, fielding & pitching. BBA also runs camps throughout the year, including camp days when schools are closed. We offer facility rentals including two lighted fields and Hal’s Power Alley, our COVERED BATTING CAGES with pitching machines and bullpen mounds. Located on the David Posnack JCC Campus, 5850 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie. Director – Wayne Stofsky, Wayne@BrowardBaseballAcademy.com. (954) 683-7747.

PLANTATION ATHLETIC LEAGUEAffiliated with Little League Baseball. Ages: 5–18. www.palsports.org • PAL RECREATIONAL BASEBALL PROGRAM: Resident $115, Non-Resident $165. Season of Play: February thru June.

Registration: November, Ages 5 thru High School, Saturdays 9:00am – 2:00pm at Plantation Central Park Gym. Participation: Maximum of 3 times per week for all ages.

• PAL PLANTATION STARS TRAVEL BASEBALL PROGRAM: Registration and tryouts: 8th Grade – High School. Resident $175, Non-Resident $225. Season of Play: Year Round Depending on Teams. Registration: November, Saturdays 9:00am – 2:00pm at Plantation Central Park Gym.

BASKETBALLCOMBINE ATHLETICS: BASKETBALL EDITION® CAMPGive your child the summer of a lifetime! Girls and boys, ages 5–13. June 8 through August 7. Register for a day, week, or all summer! We help our campers find their sweet spot by teaching the fundamentals of basketball in an incredibly fun and creative environment. We believe there is a ton of potential at the intersection of sports, innovation and instruction. Our Formula: Top Notch Instruction + Creativity & Fun = Experience of a Lifetime! Each uniquely themed, weeklong camp uses a proprietary curriculum to engage and improve muscle memory for each camper while building confidence on and off the court, and teaching the benefits of working as a team. Have peace of mind knowing that your children are learning from the best and having the time of their lives in a safe, kid-friendly environment. Your child will create memories that he/she will cherish forever. Become a Combiner today and see how we’re building a new kind of sports camp for our community. Contact us today! hello@go-combine.com or call (800) 386-0179 or visit www.go-combine.com.

PLANTATION ATHLETIC LEAGUE (PAL)Visit www.palsports.org.• PAL YOUTH BASKETBALL – RECREATIONAL: Resident $110,

Non-Resident $160. Registration: April at Plantation Central Park Gym. Season of Play: August thru November. Ages: 6 to 13. Participation: Maximum of 3 times per week for all ages.

• PAL BASKETBALL 10ft. – RECREATIONAL: Ages 13 to 16. Resident $110, Non-Resident $160. Season of Play: February thru May. Registration: November, Saturdays 9:00am – 2:00pm at Plantation Central Park Gym.

ADULT BASKETBALL LEAGUESAges 18 +. Tuesdays (Division 1, 2): $500 per team/10 games & playoffs, $20 late registration fee. Call (954) 452-2508 or visit www.plantationadultathletics.com.

MVP–MENTORING VALUABLE PROTÉGÉS BASKETBALLLearn and develop dribbling, shooting, passing, rebounding, defense and strategies. For more information call (305) 749-6090. Ages 5–8: Boys & Girls Skills Academy, Thursdays 6:00pm – 7:00pm. Ages 9–12: Boys & Girls Skills Academy, Thursdays 7:00pm – 8:00pm. Resident $125/10 weeks, plus $5 registration fee. Non-Resident $135/10 weeks, plus $5 registration fee. • ADVANCED GROUP TRAINING: Ages 13 & up. Enhanced

Basketball IQ with drills for skills training. For more information, call (305) 749-6090. Thursdays 8:00pm – 9:00pm. Residents $200/10 weeks, plus $5 registration fee. Non-resident $210/10 weeks, plus $5 registration fee.

CHEERLEADINGFLORIDA TRIPLE THREAT ALL-STARSCome be a part of the back-to-back National Champions in competitive all star cheerleading! Fully air conditioned building featuring two spring floors, tumble trak, rod floor and trampoline. All Ages, All Skill Levels! Everyone makes a team! Mention this ad and receive a $5 discount on your first tumbling class. (954) 514-7250. www.Fla3threat.com.

FLORIDA SUPERSTARSFlorida Super Stars offer a high-energy combination class with instruction in dance, cheerleading & baton twirling. Over 20 locations, $55 per month for unlimited classes. Year round performances are optional. Feature performances include: Miami Heat, Dolphins, Hurricanes, Disney World, Super Bowl, and Orange Bowl! Summer Dance Jam Camp also offered. (954) 438-2075 or www.floridasuperstars.com.

PLANTATION ATHLETIC LEAGUE (PAL)Visit plantationwildcats.org. • PAL CHEERLEADING TACKLE/TRAVEL: Residents $125, Non-Residents $175. Registration: April at Plantation Central Park

Gym. Practice begins July at the PAL Field. Season of Play: July thru November. Ages 5 thru 15. (954) 804-2926.

• PAL COMPETITIVE “PRIDE” CHEER TEAM: Residents $125, Non-Residents $175. Ages 10–18. Season of Play: November –

March. Registration in December.

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FOOTBALLTACKLE AND FLAGNATIONAL FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUEJoin the Nation’s #1 Flag Football Program for Boys & Girls Ages 4 -14! The safer alternative to tackle football! Seven Broward County locations with one near you! Practices held one hour before games on weekends only. Teams formed by school and grade. No tryouts or drafts. Eight-week sessions. Coaches screened and trained. $125 registration fee* includes NFL Jersey & Flag Belts for all players to keep (*+3.5% processing fee). SPRING SEASON begins April 9th/10th. REGISTRATION DEADLINE MARCH 1, 2016. (954) 248-2090. Register online at www.NationalFlagFootball.com.

MIAMI DOLPHINSYour Miami Dolphins are a member of the American Football Conference (AFC) East division in the NFL. They play their home games at Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens. The stadium has undergone a major renovation for the 2015 season to include a state-of-the-art, open-air canopy to offer dramatically increased shade and protection from the elements, four HD video boards and improved audio, all new seats and new seating experiences, improved food and enhanced concourses in the 100/300 levels, 300 level patio bars with field views beneath all four video boards. Season tickets on sale now. Individual game tickets available. Reserve your spot to be a part of the action! www.miamidolphins.com.

BRUCE ZONE: CROSSFIT FOR FOOTBALLCertified Crossfit Training for amateur to professional football players. Come in for your FREE CLASS today. You will be hooked after just one class. The workouts are intense, and the results speak for themselves. Isaac Bruce, a former NFL Los Angeles Rams wide receiver, has taken football conditioning to the next level building upon his own training and experience with the latest proven and effective training methods. Build muscle & coordination, increase speed & stamina. One-on-one and group classes. Tell us what you want and we’ll help you get it. When you have a goal, We have a plan. Call (954) 605-6969. 3400 Davie Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale. brucezone.com.

PLANTATION ATHLETIC LEAGUE (PAL)Visit www.palsports.org.• PLANTATION WILDCATS TACKLE FOOTBALL: AGES: 5–14 years.

FEES: $200/Plantation Residents, $250/Non-residents. SEASON: July – November. TRYOUTS: July. Registration: April at Plantation Central Park Gym. (954) 895-6549, catayala@aol.com, www.plantationwildcats.org.

• PAL FLAG FOOTBALL - RECREATIONAL: Residents/$110, Non-Residents/$160. Season of Play: August – November. Ages: 5 thru High School (Based on Sept 1st Birth date). REGISTRATION: April at Plantation Central Park Gym. Participation: Maximum of 3 times per week for all ages. www.leaguelineup.com/palflagfootball

CYCLING & BIKINGTEAM MEMORIAL ROAD BIKINGTeam Memorial is a bicycle club founded by Memorial Healthcare System, a non-profit healthcare organization based in Hollywood, Florida, and created to serve the community by promoting the many health benefits of bicycling. Team Memorial’s mission is to encourage everyone to participate in bicycling - whether for recreation, transportation, fitness or competition. Team Memorial hosts rides regularly throughout the South Florida area for participants of intermediate and advanced levels. Ride listings can be viewed on our ride schedule. www.teammemorial.com.

TEAM MEMORIAL MOUNTAIN BIKINGAn offshoot of Memorial Healthcare System’s road biking group, which was founded 23 years ago and includes hundreds of cyclists that participate in rides throughout West Broward. Mountain biking members join through the road biking group and wear the same Team Memorial outfit. Some are motivated by the competition, while others ride for the fun of it. All levels are welcome. Members meet at one of the many parks in the area that offer mountain biking, such as Oleta River State Park, Markham Park, Quiet Waters Park, Virginia Key Beach Park, and Amelia Earhart Park. Most of the parks have extensive trail systems, ranging from 7 to 17 miles, which offer a challenging experience at any level. www.teammemorial.com or email ppasche@mhs.net.

DISC GOLFDISC GOLFWhat do you get when you cross good old-fashioned golf with the sort of flying disc most commonly known as a Frisbee? You get disc golf. Four of disc golf courses are located in Broward County parks. Gamers attempt to traverse an 18-hole course from beginning to end using the fewest disc tosses. The courses are open free to the public, and you have to bring your own gear, although the park offices provide course maps and score cards. • EASTERLIN PARK: 1000 NW 38th Street, Oakland Park.

(954) 357-5190.• MARKHAM PARK: 16001 W. State Road 84, Sunrise. (954) 357-8868.• PLANTATION HERITAGE PARK: 1100 S. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation.

(954) 357-5135. • TRADEWINDS PARK: 3600 W. Sample Road, Coconut Creek.

(954) 357-8870.

DIVING & SPRINGBOARDCENTRAL PARK AQUATIC COMPLEX9151 NW 2nd Street, Plantation, (954) 452-2525.• SPRINGBOARD DIVING LESSONS: Ages 5 & up. Learn

springboard diving techniques. Must be water safe. Classes begin first Tuesday of any month April through September. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:00pm – 5:45pm. $125/month plus tax (8 classes) plus a $20 annual AAU Diving registration.

• SPRINGBOARD DIVING TEAM: Ages 5 & up. The Springboard Diving Team is for divers who have been trained in competitive diving through the Swim & Dive program or through Diving Lessons. Call for more information on how you can become part of the Diving Team. Continuous enrollment. Pool membership required. Team trains Monday – Saturday. Times TBA.

• SWIM & DIVE: Ages 4–9. Learn proper swimming and diving skills with emphasis on safety. Classes begin first Tuesday of the month, April – September. 2:30pm – 3:15pm or 6:00pm – 6:45pm. $125/month plus tax (8 classes) plus a $20 annual AAU Diving registration.

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ADULT FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUEAges 18+. Sunday mornings & Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights: $470 per team/10 games & playoffs, $20 late registration fee. Call (954) 452-2508 or visit www.plantationadultathletics.com.

GOLF PLANTATION PRESERVE GOLF COURSE & CLUB7050 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation, (954) 585-5020. Beginning golfers and seasoned pros will be challenged by the 18-hole championship golf course, approximately 7,000 yards in length playing to a par 72. Every hole has been constructed with 5 sets of tee boxes, allowing players to set their own level of difficulty. At this public facility, everyone will enjoy a country club atmosphere with country club service! Driving Range, Lessons, Memberships, Public Daily Golf. HOURS: Pro Shop Hours - 7 days: 7:00am – 6:00pm; Driving range - 7 days: 7:00am – 5:30pm; Restaurant (breakfast) - M – F: 8:00am – 11:00am: Sat: 7:00am – 11:00am; Restaurant (lunch) - M – Sun: 11:00am – 3:30pm; Limited Menu: M – Sun 3:30pm – closing; Friday Brunch Buffet: 11:00am – 1:30pm; Sunday Brunch Buffet: 9:00am – 1:30pm.

GOLF ACADEMY AT PLANTATION PRESERVEAges 6–15 & ADULTS. PGA professionals Barry Fitzpatrick and Nick Pincket are providing the finest clinics, private instruction and Junior golf programs in South Florida. They will be running camps all season long for your child to advance his or her game. We also offer adult education classes and private video instruction. Call (954) 914-3731 for details. 100 PLUS GOLFAverage Golfer? Love the game? 100 Plus Golf is for you! 100 Plus Golf is a Recreational Organization for Men and Women who love to play golf for the pure enjoyment of the game and shoot about 100. Beginners and seasoned players welcome. 4 Person Team Scramble format. Play some of the finest golf courses in South Florida. Membership: $99.99 includes Logo Polo Shirt, Logo Golf Hat, Logo Tees and Magnetic Hat Clip. Discount Greens Fees and preferred Tee Times. A portion of our proceeds are donated to one of the fine charities we support. For more information, call (954) 540-4966.

GYMNASTICSTAG USA GYMNASTICS & TRAMPOLINENationally known “progressive” gymnastics programs for boys and girls. TAG’s difference: Largest facility, most equipment, class lesson plans, Class Managers, full cleaning staff, fingerprinted coaches. Awarded Programs for: Lil Tumblers (age 10 mo.), Preschool (age 3+), Beginners (age 5+) to Advanced Classes with State - Regional - NATIONAL CHAMPION Competitive teams for Girls & Boys gymnastics and Co-ed Trampoline. Also: Two Hour BIRTHDAY PARTIES / Popular Saturday Night OPEN GYM / Gym & Sports DAY CAMPS. Schedule a visit & compare prices at www.TagGymnastics.com... You gotta see it to believe it! Monthly discounts for New Members or Transfers. 1951 North Commerce Pkwy, Weston. (954) 384-9393.

SMART & FIT KIDS Smart and Fit Kids offers rhythmic gymnastics classes for girls and tumbling for boys and girls from our instructor, who has over 15 years of training & coaching experience in Russia & US! Your children also have the opportunity to enjoy other sports activities such as: karate, ballet and dance in the same facility. Our fun Sports Programs are a great foundation for a healthy and happy child. Programs begin as low as $40/month and are offered between 11:00am to 6:30pm. We invite you to call and schedule a FREE TRIAL class. 9142 State Rd. 84, Davie 33324. (954) 370-0400. www.smartandfitkids.com.

GYMNASTICSAges 3–11. Classes held at Central Park, 9151 NW 2nd Street, Plantation. Children are introduced to vaulting, balance beam, mini trampoline, round mats, incline mats and bars. Everything is modified for beginner to intermediate gymnastics. The cost of a 45-minute class is Residents $90/10 weeks, Non-residents $100/10 weeks, plus $5 insurance fee. The cost of a 55-minute class is Residents, $98/10 week, plus $5 insurance and Non-Residents, $108/10 weeks, plus $5 insurance fee. Classes are offered Tuesdays or Thursdays. (954) 255-7508.

HOCKEYFLORIDA PANTHERSPlaying in the National Hockey League’s (NHL) Eastern Conference, the Florida Panthers are a part of the Atlantic Division. With a roster of promising young players and championship-level veterans, a growing excitement surrounds the Panthers heading into the final 4 months of the season. Don’t miss all of the action at the BB&T Center this season. For tickets call (954) 835-7825 or visit www.floridapanthers.com/ticketcentral.

HORSEBACK RIDING & EQUESTRIANPLANTATION EQUESTRIAN CENTER1451 NW 118th Avenue, Plantation, (954) 476-4316. pec@plantation.org. Facility hours: Thursday – Monday, 8:00am – Dusk, Tuesday & Wednesday, closed. Two stables that house 96 stalls, each with its own wash rack, one lighted main ring and two additional show rings, two practice rings (one lighted), turn-out paddock areas. • SUNDAY SHARE-A-PONY: Plantation Equestrian Center

(954) 476-4316. Ages 4–12. A small group of beginner riders learning the art of horsemanship in a fun confidence-building atmosphere. Children will learn basic skills that will enable them to control a horse in a safe and trusting manner. Sundays, 9:30am – 11:30am. $35/per class, plus $5 registration fee, Non-residents $45/per class, plus $5 registration fee. Package of 4 sessions you may use at anytime, $125/Residents, $135/Non-residents, plus tax and $5 registration fee.

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GOJU KARATECentral Park, 9151 NW 2nd Street, Plantation. Ages 6 & up. USA Goju is a traditional Japanese style of karate consisting of hard style techniques and soft style techniques. USA Goju encompasses the traditional aspects of Japanese martial art while introducing the student to a wide variety of reality self-defense and street-smart technologies. Much emphasis is put into developing our children both mentally and physically. Goju Karate teaches self-discipline, self-confidence, self-control and a competitive spirit that allows the individual to become all they can be. Instructors: Michelle Ratthe, Chantalle Jwied, Sarunas Rackauskas, Laura Frank, (954) 244-8890. Ages 6–12, Mondays & Wednesdays, 6:00pm – 7:00pm, Ages 13 & up, Mondays 6:00pm – 7:00pm and Wednesdays, 7:00pm – 8:00pm. Residents $40/month/2 classes per week, plus $5 registration fee, Non-residents $50/month/2 classes per week, plus $5 registration fee.

MULTI-SPORT TRAINING CLUBSFORT LAUDERDALE TRIATHLETES (FLT) Ready to join a club, but not sure where to begin? Florida, with its ideal weather, is a mecca for triathletes and FLT is one of the newly formed training clubs to meet growing demand. FLT was formed to perpetuate a healthy lifestyle, through the collaboration of Multi-Sport athletes. It is based on a culture of inclusion, support, and fellowship, through training, racing, and social interaction. In only one season, it has grown to 75 athletes strong thanks to support of the membership and its generous sponsors. Fort Lauderdale Triathletes is an official USAT (USA Triathlon) and IRONMANTM TriClub team. Members enjoy regular clinics/socials and “voluncheering” for each other and the tri-community at large. All members receive discounts from the sponsors and on select endurance races. Find out more at www.fltri.com or on Facebook (Fort Lauderdale Triathletes).

PARKOURFLORIDA TRIPLE THREAT PARKOUR We have the most experienced staff and safest program and we were the FIRST in Broward County! Beginner to advanced Parkour, Free Running, Tricking now available at Florida Triple Threat. Ages 8 and up. Friday nights 7:00pm – 9:00pm there is a structured class teaching the skills and the art of Parkour. Newly added obstacles to simulate the outdoors. (954) 514-7250. www.fla3threat.com.

• CHILDREN’S GROUP RIDING LESSONS: Plantation Equestrian Center (954) 476-4316. Ages 6–16. A small group of beginner riders learning the art of horsemanship in a fun confidence-building atmosphere. Children will learn basic skills that will enable them to control a horse in a safe and trusting manner. Hourly sessions Thursdays, 5:00pm & 6:00pm. Monthly Package of 4 lessons $120 plus $5 registration fee, Non-residents $130 plus $5 registration fee.

LACROSSEDAVIE LACROSSEBoys and girls from kindergarten through 9th grade can participate in the recreation program. Practices are 2 nights per week at Bamford/Pine Island Park and games are on Saturdays against other area youth programs. The season runs January through April. No experience necessary-just a willingness to learn and have fun. Loaner gear available for younger players. The program has limited spots available and is expected to fill up so register now! Financial aid is available to qualified Davie residents. Much more information can be found at www.davielacrosse.com. New player training at www.faststartlacrosse.com.

MARTIAL ARTSKUMITE MIXED MARTIAL ARTSClasses for Ages 4 to Adult. Catering from beginner to advanced and teaching a variety of styles of martial arts including kickboxing, wrestling and jiu jitsu. Our skilled instructors are dedicated in teaching our students the fundamentals of self defense in a fun and safe environment while getting a full body workout. From $85/Month. Free trial class. 4150 Peters Road, Plantation 33317. www.kumitemartialarts.com. (954) 321-0029.

AMERICAN TOP TEAMAmerican Top Team is the worldwide leader in mixed martial arts. The Sunrise academy offers the best instruction in all disciplines of mixed martial arts from kids to adults, beginners to professionals. Our award winning kids program builds the physical skills of martial arts but also develops the character traits of respect, confidence, self-discipline, focus and dedication. We have classes for 3 years old and up. Our staff is full of excellent black belt instructors led by Head Instructor Roger Krahl. Sensei Krahl has been teaching in South Florida since 1993 and has trained every level of martial artist from kids to World Champion professional athletes. Come by the school for a free trial class, you will be glad you did! Call us at (954) 742-5753 or visit us on the web at www.attsunrisemma.com TAI CHI FOR SENIORSAges 18 & up. Classes held at Central Park, 9151 N.W. 2nd Street, Plantation. (954) 452-2508. This Tai Chi class is specially designed for older adults. Tai Chi is a gentle form of physical activity ideal for seniors who have uncertain balance and a fear of falling. If you are looking for a way to reduce stress, consider this class. Tai Chi is sometimes described as “meditation in motion” because it promotes serenity through gentle movement, connecting the mind and body. Free to seniors 60+ through the Aging and Disability Resource Center, Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the City of Plantation. Classes are offered Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:30am – 10:30am. Space is limited. Begins in March.

KARATE/MARTIAL ARTSJim Ward Community Center, 301 NW 46th Ave., Ft. Lauderdale. Ages 5 & up. Designed to introduce children to physical fitness and basic principles of self-defense. Karate as self-defense works well for all ages and both genders and teaches development of mind, body and spirit with emphasis on respect and exercising discipline at all times. Advance students attend classes twice weekly. Sensei Keith Lester – Senior Instructor, Sensei Gutemberg (Ken) Demond and Sensei Shona Eiland. Kids Karate (954) 258-2957. Continuous. Beginners Ages 5 & up, Saturday 10:00am – 1:00pm. Beginners Advanced, Saturday 1:00pm – 3:00pm. Resident $35/month* Non-Resident $45/month plus $5 registration fee and $20 paid to instructor at first class for uniform.

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OKAPI WANDERERS RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUBAges 6 to high school. We also have a Men division and Old Boys division. Season begins in October. Competitive Youth, Middle School and Junior Varsity and Varsity teams. No experience necessary. Tequesta Trace Park. For more information and for registration go to www.okapiwanderersrugby.com or email info@okapiwanderersrugby.com. PINES RUGBY CLUB Riptide Rugby is an adult (18+) men’s team. We do not discriminate based on skill, experience or athleticism; however we do suggest you begin a strength and cardiovascular fitness program prior to coming out as our practices are highly physically demanding. We WILL teach you the fundamentals of rugby, and you will get playtime at any matches we hold. Contact: chris.munoz@riptiderugby.com, or visit www.RugbyFL.com. FORT LAUDERDALE MEN’S AND WOMEN’S RUGBYNo experience necessary. All play is at Mills Pond Park. Call (954) 543-6287 (men’s division) or (201) 787-6503 (women’s division) or visit www.ftlrugby.com.

ROLLER DERBYMVP–MENTORING VALUABLE PROTÉGÉS ROLLER DERBYBoys or Girls, CP. Ages 8–17. Learn and develop fundamentals. For more information call (954) 317-7529 or (305) 749-6090. Boys & Girls Skills Academy: Thursdays, 6:00pm – 7:30pm. Resident $95/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee, Non-Residents $105/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee. Ages 12 & up. Become a PADI certified SCUBA diver. Class is comprised of home study (Text, video and self-tests), classroom instruction, 3 sessions at Plantation Aquatic Complex to learn use of equipment and underwater skills and 4 ocean dives at coral reefs with instructors over 2 days, leading to certification. Includes instruction,

student kit, use of rental gear and video, pool use, boat fees and PADI certification card. Student provides mask, fins, snorkel and weights. For more information or to register for class, call or visit Diver’s Cove, 2335 S. University Drive, Davie, (954) 473-1220. $399 and up.

SCUBA DIVINGSCUBA DIVING LESSONSBecome a PADI certified SCUBA diver. Class is comprised of home study (Text, video and self-tests), classroom instruction, 3 sessions at Plantation Aquatic Complex to learn use of equipment and underwater skills and 4 ocean dives at coral reefs with instructors over 2 days, leading to certification. Includes instruction, student kit, use of rental gear and video, pool use, boat fees and PADI certification card. Student provides mask, fins, snorkel and weights. For more information or to register for class, call or visit Diver’s Cove, 2335 S. University Drive, Davie, (954) 473-1220. $399 and up.

SOCCERSOCCER FEVER: AN INDOOR EXPERIENCESOCCER FEVER, West Broward’s newest indoor soccer facility featuring High Performing INDOOR soccer and Futsal courts. Enjoy South Florida’s most popular sport in an air-conditioned and comfortable facility very close from Weston, Davie, Sunrise, Pines, and Plantation.• Court Rentals: State-of the art soccer and futsal courts.

Rent per hour.• Pickup games: Every Wednesday, 8pm – 10pm.

Bring your friends.• Birthday Parties: Exclusive party area.

Packages for 2 and 3 hours.• Soccer Academy: 5–13 years, 2 classes/week.

Register now!• Camps: Summer, Winter and Easter. 5–13 years. 15481 SW 12th Street, Bldg. C, Ste. 304-305, Sunrise, FL 33326 (Weston: Indian Trace, pass over I-75 then left at first light) Facebook: soccerfeverusa, Instagram: soccerfever_usa, Email: soccerfever@gmail.com, Ph: (844) 230-3073.

ADULT SOCCER LEAGUEAges 18+. 6 x 6. Sunday mornings, Friday & Sunday nights. $450 per team/10 games & playoffs, $20 late fee. The City of Plantation Parks & Recreation Department – Athletic Division: (954) 452-2508 or visit www.plantationadultathletics.com.

WOMEN’S OVER 30 RECREATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE$150 Registration Fee for the entire year includes team shirt and socks. Sunday afternoon games. Seasons: September – December and January – May. Beginners are welcome, individuals only. For more information, call (954) 445-8367, send an email to browardrecsoccer@comcast.net or visit browardrecsoccer.com.

WOMEN’S OVER 40 SOCCER LEAGUENow registering for the Spring season, which runs from January – May. Games are played at Bamford Park, 3801 S. Pine Island Road in Davie on Friday evenings. Level of play is recreational and beginners are welcome. Individuals only; no team sign-ups. Cost is $70 per player. Fun and exercise! You’ll love this! For further information, please call Patsy Gibbs at (954) 494-9633.

PLANTATION ATHLETIC LEAGUE (PAL)Visit www.palsports.org.• PAL SOCCER – RECREATIONAL: Residents/$110, Non-

Residents/$160. Registration: August, Saturdays 9:00am – 2:00pm at Plantation Central Park Gym. Season of Play: November thru February. Ages 6 thru 17. Participation: Maximum of 3 times per week for all ages.

• PAL SOCCER CLINIC – RECREATIONAL: Ages: 4 and 5. FEES: Residents/$60, Non-Residents/$110. Registration: August, Saturdays 9:00am – 2:00pm at Plantation Central Park Gym. Season of Play: December thru February. Participation: Saturdays only.

• PAL SOCCER (EAGLES) – TRAVEL: AGES: 8–17. Residents $300 – $700, Non-Residents $350 – $750. Tryouts (boys & girls) begin in May at Central Park. Season: Year Round. Registration: Online in May.

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only when the facility has cancelled a lesson. All courses are taught by American Red Cross certified Water Safety Instructors (WSI). Call for class schedules.

• LEVEL I – WATER EXPLORATION: (Age 6 & up) $62/$78• LEVEL II – PRIMARY SKILLS: (Ages 6 & up) $62/$78• LEVEL III – STROKE DEVELOPMENT: (Ages 6 & up) $62/$78• LEVEL IV – STROKE READINESS: (Ages 6 & up) $62/$78• ADULT BEGINNER SWIM LESSONS: (Adults 16 & up). Designed

for adults who want to conquer a fear of water and learn to swim. A total of 6 classes. Seniors welcome. $62/$78

• PRIVATE SWIM LESSONS: Ages 3–Adult. One-on-one swim lessons taught by American Red Cross certified Water Safety Instructors (WSIs). Package consists of (6) lessons. $155/$185

FLSWIMMING SWIM LESSONSPlantation is the number one place for children to learn to swim. The well being and swimming education for your child is priority number one with FLSwimming. The instructors are certified ASCA/USA Registered Swim Coaches. Register in person at the Central Park pool, Monday – Friday, 3:00pm – 5:00pm. For more information, call (954) 393-7269 today! $35 for Broward County residents who meet financial need eligibility requirements.

TENNISVELTRI TENNIS CENTER9101 NW 2nd St., Central Park, Plantation. (954) 452-2530. Featuring 26 lighted Har-Tru tennis courts and 2 lighted hard courts. Courts are reserved on the hour and half hour basis. Winter, Spring & Summer Camps available. HOURS: Monday – Friday 8:00am – 9:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 8:00am – 5:00pm. Call for holiday schedule and for fees/availability.• WOMEN’S BEGINNER TEAM CLINIC: Thursdays 9:00am –

10:30am, $18/class.• 10 UNDER RED: Ages 4–6. Tuesday – Friday, 4:00pm – 5:00pm,

Saturday, 9:00am – 10:00am, $110/10 classes, $200/20 classes, $13/class.

• 10 UNDER ORANGE: Ages 7–9. Tuesday – Friday 5:00pm – 6:00pm and Saturday 10:00am – 11:00am, $110/10 classes, $200/20 classes, $13/class.

• ROOKIE GROUP: Ages 10–14. Tuesday & Thursday 4:30pm – 6:00pm and Saturday 11:00am – 12:30pm. $185/10 classes, $330/20 classes, $20/daily.

• ADULT CLINICS: Ages 17 & up. Monday – Thursday, 7:00pm – 8:30pm, Sunday 8:30am – 10:00am. $330/20 classes, $185/10 classes, $20/class.

• WHEELCHAIR TENNIS: Visit pctc.plantationtennis.org for calendar updates. All ages. 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, Youth, 6:00pm – 7:00pm and Adults, 7:00pm – 9:00pm. FREE.

PLANTATION WOODS TENNIS 5555 Palm Tree Road, Plantation. Hours of Operation: Monday – Thursday, 8:00am – 9:00pm, Friday – Sunday, 8:00am – Dusk.

SOFTBALLBROWARD BASEBALL ACADEMY (BBA)/HAL’S POWER ALLEYNOW REGISTERING FOR ALL CLASSES! BBA, a year-round softball training facility, specializes in private instruction, small group lessons and team sessions for hitting, fielding & pitching. BBA also runs camps throughout the year, including camp days when schools are closed. We offer facility rentals including two lighted fields and Hal’s Power Alley, our COVERED BATTING CAGES with pitching machines and bullpen mounds. Located on the David Posnack JCC Campus, 5850 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie. Director – Wayne Stofsky, Wayne@BrowardBaseballAcademy.com. (954) 683-7747.

PLANTATION ATHLETIC LEAGUE (PAL) • PAL GIRLS RECREATIONAL SOFTBALL: Visit www.palsoftball.com.

AGES: 4–16. SEASON: February – May. Registration: November, Monday – Thursday 8:30am – 8:00pm and Fridays 9:00am – 3:00pm at Plantation Central Park Gym. Register Online at parks.plantation.org/ FEES: Residents/$115, Non-residents/ $165. Participation: Maximum of 3 times per week for all ages.

• PAL PRESSURE GIRLS TRAVEL SOFTBALL: Visit www.plantationpressure.com. Ages 7–18, Year Round. FEES: Vary by team. Teams usually hold tryouts in January and February and again in August, or on as-needed basis.

ADULT SOFTBALL LEAGUESAdults 18+. $480 per team/10 games & playoffs. $20 late registration fee. Monday (Co-Ed), Tuesdays (Divisions 1, 2 & 3), Thursdays (Open), Fridays and Sunday mornings. Call (954) 452-2508 or visit www.plantationadultathletics.com.

SWIMMINGCENTRAL PARK AQUATIC COMPLEX9151 NW 2nd Street, Plantation, (954) 452-2525. www.Plantation.org. Two Olympic size pools, each 50 meters by 25 yards, and a 500 square foot water playground for toddlers.POOL HOURS APRIL 1 – SEPTEMBER 30: Monday – Thursday 9:00am – 9:00pm, Friday 9:00am – 8:00pm, Saturday & Sunday 8:00am – 4:30pm, Holidays 9:00am – 4:00pm. FEES: Memberships Available or Daily Gate Fees Apply. Members may swim as early as 7:30am, Monday – Friday from April 1 – September 30.POOL HOURS OCTOBER 1 – MARCH 31: Monday – Thursday 11:00am – 8:30pm, Friday 11:00am – 5:00pm, Saturday 8:00am – 4:30pm, Sunday 10:00am – 2:00pm, Holidays: 9:00am – 4:00pm. • PLANTATION SWIM TEAM: Known as the Piranhas, the Plantation

Swim Team (PST) is a City-sponsored, year-round U.S. Swimming team offering instruction, fitness and endurance training and competition for all ages and abilities (Age-Group through Masters Swimming). TRYOUTS: Monday – Thursday, 3:30pm & 4:45pm. Child’s swim skills are evaluated for placement in the appropriate group. Child needs bathing suit and towel. Call for fees. (954) 452-2526. www.swimpst.com.

• U.S. MASTERS/TRIATHLON SWIM TEAM: Designed for health, fitness, mental and physical well being, along with swim stroke improvement. Must be able to swim 25 yards. Training for competitive swim meets and training for triathletes, if so desired. Nationally accredited USS Certified Staff Coach. Call (954) 452-2526 for fees and times.

• SWIM BABIES SWIM: Ages 6 months – 6 years. Babies learn to surface and float on their backs, should they accidentally fall into the water. Young children learn to surface and swim to the edge and to breathe by positioning themselves onto their backs, then swimming until they reach safety. Resident $155 and Non-Resident $186. (954) 663-6518.

• WATER AEROBICS: All ages. A high energy, low impact exercise class performed in the water to music. Offers a total body workout to improve muscle strength, flexibility and provide an efficient cardiovascular workout. No swimming skills are needed for these classes. One FREE introductory class. USWFA Certified Instructor. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays 11:00am – 11:50am. Call for prices.

• AMERICAN RED CROSS-LEARN TO SWIM PROGRAM: Swim lesson sessions consist of 6 lessons. Makeup lessons are scheduled

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WILDFIRE VOLLEYBALLWest Broward’s Premier Girl’s Volleyball Club, building volleyball players one skill at a time. Ages 6 and Up. Over 20 years coaching experience at college and high school levels. Recreational, Travel, Elite and College Level training. Ongoing camps and evaluations. Located at Sagemont Upper School, 2585 Glades Circle, Weston 33327. (954) 439-1852. www.wildfirevolleyball.com. Visit website for details.

SOFLO VOLLEYBALL Certified, experienced coaching in a safe environment. Offering Volleyball Camps, Group Clinics, Private 1-on-1 Training, Youth Development Training, Sand&Beach Training and Local&Travel Club Teams. SoFLO Volleyball also is host to AAU local tournaments and participates in USAV & AAU Regional and National tournaments. Learn more at soflovolleyball.org or call (954) 600-9810.•CLUBTEAMS: Regional and National teams. Club Season is

November - April and National Season continues thru June. Beach Season runs June – August. Fall Season runs August – November. Club teams are for athletes Ages 7 – 18.

•DEVELOPMENTPROGRAM: Ages 5 – 15. Beginners who want to learn the fundamental skills with technical training in small group setting. Each session focuses on and builds upon specific skills: passing, serving, ball control, hitting, and court positions. Fridays 4:00pm - 6:00pm. Ongoing August - May.

•BEACHSANDVOLLEYBALL: Beginning to advanced training in sand volleyball, passing, hitting, serving, blocking and strategy. Practice twice a week at local Parks or Ft. Lauderdale Beach. Registration required. Learn more at soflovolleyball.org or call (954) 600-9810.

MVP–MENTORING VALUABLE PROTÉGÉS VOLLEYBALLBoys and Girls, Ages 8–17. Strength and conditioning, plus agility and footwork. Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced in groups together. Skill development in proper skill level groups. Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced. Learn to develop fundamentals. For more information, call (305) 749-6090. Thursdays from 6:00pm – 8:00pm.

WATER POLOPLANTATION PIRANHAS WATER POLO CLUBAges 10 & Up Male & Female. Plantation Aquatic Complex, 9151 NW 2nd Street, Plantation. Come enjoy one of the fastest growing sports in South Florida! Get in shape and meet new friends in a safe and fun environment. For more information or questions, contact (954) 452-2526. $40 annual team registration fee, $70 USA Water Polo registration and monthly fees as shown below.•WATERPOLOINSTRUCTIONALTEAM: No experience

necessary! Learn all the rules, skills and strategies to become a successful water polo player. Youth Team. Monday – Thursday 6:30pm – 8:30pm. $70/month plus $50 team registration fee and annual USA Water Polo registration.

•WATERPOLOCOMPETITIVETEAM: Faster, stronger, better! Improve skills, knowledge and gamesmanship. Train and compete in local, national and international camps and tournaments. Monday – Thursday Dryland Water Polo 6:30pm – 8:30pm, Non-Game day Saturdays, 10:00am – 12 noon. $70/month plus $50 team registration fee and annual USA Water Polo registration.

WATERSKIING & WAKEBOARDINGWATER-SKIING & WAKEBOARDING LESSONSWaterski & Wakeboard lessons and rides at CB Smith Park. Beautiful, private, fresh water lake, Malibu ski boat with tower & training boom. Slalom, Kneeboard tube rides, birthday parties, camp field trips, surfing, etc. All equipment supplied. Open year round. Call Mike for appt. & information at (954) 292-3953, www.browardski.com.

YOGABRUCE ZONE YOGA ACADEMYProspering minds and bodies! Come in for your FREE CLASS today. Tayrn Allen offers yoga classes for all levels and yoga certifications for those looking to teach. Practice and learn from one of the best instructors in town. Safe and healthy practices for beginners through instructor level. Call (954) 605-6969. 3400 Davie Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale. brucezone.com.

ACTIVITIESACTING & DRAMABROADWAY KIDS STUDIO – PERFORMING ARTS CENTER9042 West State Road 84, Davie 33324 (Same Plaza as Kabooms and RoundUp). BKS offers group and private lessons in Acting, Singing, Dancing, & Musical Instruments (Piano, Drums, & Guitar). Additionally, we have an After-School Program, Camps, Dance Competition and performance opportunities (Plays and Musicals). Look out for opportunities to audition for one of our many productions, dance competition team or Star Performers. Contact us at (954) 693-7500 or www.BroadwayKidsStudio.com.

MUSIC EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR CHILDRENHeld at Volunteer Park. Ages 6–10. Music Education consists of listening to music, singing, rhythm through body movements and percussion instruments, basic concepts of counting, music notation and learning how to play the recorder. Students will discover the joy of playing in a small group as well as develop habits of self-motivation, discipline and the value of teamwork. Students need to bring their own recorder. Instructor: Iliana Kalish, (954) 391-3956. Thursday, 4:00pm –5:00pm. Residents $150/8 weeks, Non-Residents, $160/8 weeks, plus a $5 registration fee.

ADULT PROGRAMS SOFLO VOLLEYBALLPlay coed indoor volleyball pick-up games on wood courts with adult players of different ages and skill levels. Everybody plays. Wednesdays 8:00pm – 10:30pm at David Posnack Jewish Community Center, 5850 S. Pine Island Rd, Davie 33328. For more information call or text (954) 600-9810. JCC Members $5 / Community $7 per evening, open to the public, men and women.

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the same beautiful facility. We provide school pick-up for K-5th grade children from local elementary schools. 9142 State Rd. 84, Davie 33324. (954) 370-0400. www.smartandfitkids.com.

AMERICAN TOP TEAMAt American Top Team of Sunrise, it is our goal to provide your child with a safe and nurturing after school enrichment program with an emphasis on martial arts. Our program operates from school dismissal until 6pm, Monday thru Friday on each regular school day. Late pickups are also available upon request. The American Top Team of Sunrise after school program provides transportation via our privately owned vans. There are no additional charges for half days. Please give us a call to find out the schools we pick up from at (954) 742-5753 or visit us on the web at www.attsunrisemma.com.

IMACS – MATH, COMPUTER PROGRAMMING & LOGICAL REASONING ENRICHMENTTake your child’s logical reasoning skills to the next level! IMACS gives students a competitive edge by teaching them how to think critically in a fun environment. Call (954) 791-2333 or visit www.imacs.org to schedule a FREE Placement Class. Weekly after-school/Saturday classes. Grades 1–12. Weston, Plantation, Boca, Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, Delray, and Aventura.

CITY OF PLANTATION DAY OFF CAMPS•KIDS’DAYOFFATCENTRALPARK: AGES 5–11. A wide variety

of activities planned at Central Park for non-school days. Bring a bag lunch and drink. Extra drinks are available for purchase. Call (954) 452-2510 for more information. Pre-registration is required. Registration is held at Plantation Central Park, two weeks prior to actual Kids’ Day Off. Program Hours: 7:00am – 6:00pm. Structured Activities: 9:00am – 4:00pm. Residents $25, Non-residents $38, plus $5 non-refundable registration fee. Next day off: Friday, January 8, 2016.

•SHARE-A-PONYKIDS’DAYOFF: AGES 4–12. Plantation Equestrian Center, 1451 N.W. 118th Avenue, Plantation.

(954) 476-4316, pec@plantation.org. Bring a snack, lunch & drink. Residents, $65 per day, plus tax, plus a $5 registration fee. Non-residents, $75 per day, plus tax, plus a $5 registration fee. Kids’ Day Off Dates: Monday, January 18th and Monday, February 15th from 9:00am – 4:30pm.

AFTERSCHOOL & DAY OFF CAMPSTAG USA GYMNASTICS & TRAMPOLINE •AFTERCARESCHOOLPICKUP: Pick up from all Weston and

Cooper City Public and Charter Schools, directly to gym, or parents drop off. Starting at $210/month includes: Five day pick up, two classes per day, and snack. On site licensed teacher for homework help. Drivers are Background checked, Licensed, & Certified. Spots are limited! Register by phone.

•DAYSOFFSPORTSCAMP: Action packed camp days for kids! For BOYS: Indoor Basketball & Soccer, Trampoline and Flips & Pit. For Girls: Gymnastics, Tumbling, Trampoline, & Cheer. Only $45 per day! Half Day Preschool Camp available! www.TagGymnastics.com 1951 N. Commerce Parkway, Weston. Call and Register over the phone, (954) 384-9191.

BROADWAY KIDS STUDIO – PERFORMING ARTS CENTER9042 West State Road 84, Davie 33324 (Same Plaza as Kabooms and RoundUp). Broadway Kids Studio After-School program has two options. The first includes transportation from select local schools for $285/month or a drop off option for $260/month. The program entitles students to up to 15 classes per week in all aspects of the performing arts. Classes are from 3pm-6pm daily (ages 5-11) or 4pm-7pm (ages 12+). The program allows for homework time and is deeply discounted over the normal group class rate. Private lessons in singing, acting, dancing, and instruments are also available for additional fees. Contact us at (954) 693-7500 or www.BroadwayKidsStudio.com.

BROWARD BASEBALL ACADEMY (BBA)BROWARD BASEBALL ACADEMY (BBA)/HAL’S POWER ALLEYBBA offers an after-school class on Tuesdays from 3:30pm – 4:30pm at its facility on the campus of the David Posnack JCC, located on the corner of Stirling and Pine Island Roads. This program is for beginners between the ages of 5 and 11 years old and will teach the fundamentals of hitting, fielding and throwing. BBA is a year-round baseball and softball training facility, with two lighted fields and Hal’s Power Alley, 3 covered batting cages with pitching machines. Please call (954) 683-7747 for more information and pricing or you can email Wayne@browardbaseballacademy.com. BBA is Located on the David Posnack JCC Campus, 5850 S. Pine Island Rd., Davie, FL 33328. The Director is Wayne Stofsky.

KUMITE MARTIAL ARTSOur one of a kind After School program caters to Ages K–12. Students are transported directly from school to our state of the art facility where they will also participate in a daily martial arts class (for an additional fee) where they will not only get fit, they will learn valuable self defense techniques. Our school has a strong emphasis on building important life skills such as focus, respect, discipline, confidence and teamwork. From $185/Month. 4150 Peters Road, Plantation 33317. www.kumitemartialarts.com. (954) 321-0029.

SMART & FIT KIDS Offering a “Fit To Flip Sports Aftercare Program” which includes a variety of sports activities: tumbling, karate, rhythmic gymnastics, ballet and dance. Our Aftercare Programs offers unique opportunities for your child to not only do homework, make friends and enjoy our new playground, but also sign up for multiple activities in the convenience of

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ART THERAPY: SELF-ESTEEM BUILDING GROUPCentral Park, 9151 N.W. 2nd Street, Plantation. Ages 6–14. Self-Esteem Building Group that is a hands on art making group designed around children that would like to work on self-esteem building through art. All projects are designed to foster success, creativity, growth and autonomy. All sessions are conducted by a master’s level board certified art therapist and certified grief counselor with over 12 years of experience. All projects are age appropriate and use a variety of art materials including: collage, paint, fabric, printmaking, tile making, mask making and more. Saturdays 9:00am – 10:00am for ages 6–9. Resident $250/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee, Non-resident $260/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee plus $25 materials fee paid to instructor during first class. Saturdays 10:00am – 11:30am for ages 10–14. Resident $275/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee, Non-resident $260/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee plus $25 materials fee paid to instructor during first class. Contact: Sonia at (954) 856-3110 or visit Brushstrokesarttherapy.com.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKSSPLASH ADVENTURE WATER PARK AT QUIET WATERS PARKThis interactive children’s water playground features slides, tunnels, turn valves, wheels and levers, water curtains, crawl tunnels, and a huge bucket that fills and empties onto the playground below at regular intervals. The depth of the pool ranges from zero at its edges to 12 inches at its deepest. Lifeguards are on duty whenever the water park is open. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult at least 18 years of age. $5/person per session when sessions are in effect, $5/person per day when sessions are not in effect. Children under 1 year of age are admitted free. The park’s regular gate entrance fee of $1.50/person (children 5 and under free) is also in effect on weekends and holidays. Applicable Florida sales tax will be added to all fees except gate fee. REOPENS LATE MARCH 2016, call for dates & times. SESSION TIMES: Session I – 9:30am – 1:20pm. Session II - 1:30pm – 5:20pm. 401 S. Powerline Road, Deerfield Beach, FL 33442. (954) 357-5100.

THE BB&T CENTERThe BB&T Center is the premier sports and entertainment venue in South Florida. Located in Sunrise, the BB&T Center plays host to more than 200 events annually including Florida Panthers hockey. For further information and a schedule of events please visit www.thebbtcenter.com. The BB&T Center is the Center of it All.

PARADISE COVE WATER PARK AT C.B. SMITH PARKParadise Cove is the Broward County Parks and Recreation Division’s largest aquatics facility, offering family fun for everyone. $9.50+ tax/person for all-day admission and $6.50+tax/person after 3 p.m. Children under 1 year of age are admitted free. The park’s regular gate entrance fee of $1.50/person (children 5 and under free) is also in effect on weekends and holidays. REOPENS LATE MARCH, 2016 call for dates & times. 900 N. Flamingo Road, Pembroke Pines, FL 33028. (954) 357-5161. • Paradise Pipeline: features four five-story-tall waterslides, enabling

riders to experience corkscrew rides exiting into the four-foot-deep plunge pool. The 32-inch wide-open body slides vary in length from 395–430 feet. The 400 gallons of water per minutes move riders down the slides for an incomparable experience. Riders must be 42 inches tall, weigh less than 250 pounds, and be able to swim.

• Sharky’s Lagoon: is the water playground for all ages, featuring an 18-inch-deep pool that includes many interactive play elements, as well as three waterslides that vary in length from 83–125 feet.

• Parrot’s Point: is the water playground for ages 5 and under, featuring a 12-inch-deep pool with two small waterslides and many interactive play elements.

• Crazy Creek: is the 410-foot-long meandering tube ride with interactive elements along the route.

CASTAWAY ISLAND WATER PARK AT T.Y. PARKCastaway Island offers two interactive water playgrounds: one for smaller children, with climbing features and a small slide, and the other with features more suitable for older children, including buckets that regularly fill with water and then dump it out onto the playground below. In 2007, the water park’s original sand-bottom lagoon was replaced with a zero-entry, hard-bottom Swim Lagoon with a waterfall at one end. The recently renovated aquatics complex also includes a marina that provides boat rentals. $8/person for the entire day; $5/person after 3pm. Children 12 months and under are admitted free. An individual season pass (Find It All card) is available for $64 per person, which includes admission to Tropical Splash, Splash Adventure, and Castaway Island water parks. The park’s regular gate entrance fee of $1.50/person (children 5 and under free) is also in effect on weekends and holidays. Applicable Florida sales tax will be added to all fees except gate fee. REOPENS LATE MARCH 2016, call for dates & times. 3300 N. Park Road, Hollywood, FL 33021. (954) 357-8811.

CHESSOPEN CHESSAdults & children, novices & experts. Get in the game! Come with a partner or play with who is here. No formal instruction offered. Fridays 5:00pm – 7:00pm. Helen B. Hoffman Library, 501 N. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation (954) 797-2140.

CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENTBRIGHT & SMART ROBOTICSCentral Park. Ages 7–12. A fun enriched program that offers girls and boys a complete engineering experience that facilitates higher cognitive skills through hands-on robot assembly, computer programming and teamwork. Kids will discover and learn new skills in this interactive approach that fosters problem solving and critical and creative thinking skills. For more information, call (954) 816-3346. Saturdays from 10:00am – 11:30am. Residents $210/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee*, Non-Resident $220/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee**Plus a $30 fee for materials paid to instructor.

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advanced level in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical and acrobatics. And NEW Barre Body classes for adults. Visit our studio – your first class is free! We host birthday parties and silk classes. Boys’ scholarships available. No recital fees. Joan Bartoletti (954) 742-3114.

BROADWAY KIDS STUDIO – PERFORMING ARTS CENTER9042 West State Road 84, Davie 33324 (Same Plaza as Kabooms and RoundUp). BKS offers group and private lessons in Acting, Singing, Dancing, & Musical Instruments (Piano, Drums, & Guitar). Additionally, we have an After-School Program, Camps, Dance Competition and performance opportunities (Plays and Musicals). Look out for opportunities to audition for one of our many productions, dance competition team or Star Performers. Contact us at (954) 693-7500 or www.BroadwayKidsStudio.com.

STELLA’S DANCERS STUDIO Classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, musical theater & acrobatics for ages 2 ½ and up. Beginner through professional. www.stellasdancers.com. Two locations: 9470 Griffin Rd, Cooper City. (954) 434-8401. FLORIDA SUPERSTARSFlorida Super Stars offer a high-energy combination class with instruction in dance, cheerleading & baton twirling for ages 5-12. Over 20 locations, $55 per month for unlimited classes. Year round performances are optional. Feature performances include: Miami Heat, Dolphins, Hurricanes, Disney World, Super Bowl, and Orange Bowl! Summer Dance Jam Camp also offered. (954) 438-2075 or www.floridasuperstars.com. CITY OF PLANTATION DANCE CLASSES Ages 3 & up. Central Park. Classes build strength, flexibility, memory, and confidence. Beginning Dance and Beginning Dance I are for beginners. Level II classes require a minimum of one year in dance in that subject. Tap-Jazz-Ballet & Hip-Hop classes. Class times run late afternoon and early evening. 30 & 45 minute classes, Residents, $75/10 weeks, Non-Residents, $85/10 weeks, Residents, 60 min. classes $85/10 weeks, Non-Residents, $95/10 weeks, plus a $5 registration fee and a $5 insurance fee. Joan Bartoletti (954) 742-3114 or (954) 444-1298.

PLAY 10 ACADEMYMovement Education & Sports Development Program. “Initial Stages” Program for Girls & Boys, Ages 3-5. Coordination, Suppleness, Gross Motor Skills, Fine Motor Skills. Brain Centered Learning and Guided Discovery. Fun activities that encourage problem solving, ownership, and experimentation. Long Term Athlete Development Philosophy (LTAD). “PLAY” – Children in control of the environment. Next Session: January 11, 2016. Tuesdays & Thursdays: 9:00am - 9:45am or 10:00am - 10:45am at Plantation Central Park. Also offering Afterschool / Day Off / Camp Programs and Coaching Clinics. FREE 1 HOUR CLINIC Friday, January 8 for Ages 3-5: 9:00am - 10:00am at Plantation Central Park.Must register by January 6, 2016. Play10Academy.com, play10inc@gmail.com. 407-917-PLAY (7529).

BABY & ME CLASSES AT TEMPLE DOR DORIMTemple Dor Dorim’s Early Childhood Center offers baby & me classes for ages 3 months - 3 years. Open to the Community. 2360 Glades Circle, Weston 33327. (954) 389-1232, www.dordorim.org.• EYES WIDE OPEN (3-6 MONTHS): Fridays, 11:00am - 12:00pm.

Give your child the experiences that are necessary for development during those early years of life through touching, feeling, smelling and tasting. Our Baby & Me teacher will provide these opportunities through circle time fun, finger plays, sensory experiences,and motor development activities. (One 8 week session is complimentary to newcomers).

• GET UP & GO (7-14 MONTHS): Mondays, 10:30am - 11:30am. Climbing, jumping and sliding, tunnels and parachute play are just a few ways to help develop those gross motor skills. Music and movement gets them moving!

• PICK A PALETTE (15-30 MONTHS): Mondays 9:00am - 10:00am. Sharpen your child’s developing sense of touch and taste through sensory exploration. Oatmeal, Playdough, finger-painting and bubbling volcanoes will color their world like paints on a palette...we’ll also tickle and awaken your child’s taste palette with some deliciously different recipes.

• SENSORY EXPLORATION (12-36 MONTHS): Fridays, 11:00am - 12:00pm. We will be cooking, making play dough, finger painting, playing instruments, and creating “ooey gooey” concoctions. Oatmeal, shaving cream, Gak, sensory tubes and lava cakes are just a few of the materials we’ll be playing with to get messy and immersed in our world!

KIDOKINETICSCentral Park. Ages 3–10 years. The “Fun Way to Fitness.” Your child will learn a new sport each week and be introduced to the basics of each sport in a fun and non-competitive atmosphere. Activities include soccer, hockey, tennis, basketball, volleyball, football, golf, hula-hoops, obstacle courses, T-ball and more. Led by experienced coaches who provide a fun and safe environment for learning. Kidokinetics focuses on individual achievement to improve the child’s self-confidence. (T-shirt can be purchased for an additional $8) Ages 3–5: Wednesdays, 4:15pm – 5:00pm. Ages 5–10: Wednesdays, 5:00pm – 5:45pm. $40/month, plus $5 registration fee, Non-residents $50/month, plus $5 registration fee.

DANCEDANCE FX10057D Sunset Strip, Sunrise 33323. www.DanceFXSunrise.com. Currently in its 17th year, Dance FX has more than 50 dancers on its award winning competition team that travels all over the country, AND we are the home to the ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ runner up, Tiffany Maher 2012 & Alexis Juliano Top 14 2013! Classes are for ages 2–

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HIP HOP DANCE & BATONVolunteer Park. Ages 6–12. An action packed class that teaches the basics of baton twirling, hip hop dance, Poi spinning flags, light balls and hula hoops. Routines will be choreographed and community performances offered. Batons and props may be purchased from instructor. Wednesdays: 6:15pm – 7:00pm. Residents $70/10 weeks, Non-residents $80/10 weeks, plus a $5 registration fee and a $5 insurance fee paid to instructor. Glynna Deaner (954) 236-4404.

DOG OBEDIENCE TRAININGBASIC DOG OBEDIENCE CLASSDogs 5 months & up. Join Blue Grace Training at the Plantation Equestrian Center for our reward-based training program that is FUN for both the human and canine. Reward based training provides clear and concise communication with your dog and fosters a healthy relationship. We address basic household manners, jumping, leash pulling and other fun exercises to help strengthen that relationship. Dogs must be 5 months of age and you must provide proof of vaccinations before beginning class. Instructor: Christine Goschwill, (954) 326-0798. Call for class schedules. Registration deadline is 3 days before each class. Thursdays 6:00pm – 7:00pm. Resident $145/5 classes, plus $5 registration fee, Non-Resident $155/5 classes, plus $5 registration fee.

DOG PARKSDOG PARKS IN BROWARD COUNTYUsage fees may apply. Please contact the dog park of your choice prior to arriving for more information.• Barkham Park At Markham Park (Broward County Parks), 16001

W. State Rd. 84, Sunrise 33326. (954) 357-8868. Dog Park pass

required. Proof of current vaccinations must be provided. www.broward.org/parks.

• Dog Beach at Hollywood Beach (City of Hollywood), between Pershing St. and Custer St., Hollywood 33019. (954) 921-3404. Friday, Saturday & Sunday only. 3:00pm – 7:00pm. Daily and 6 month passes for purchase. dboh.org.

• Happy Tails Dog Park (City of Plantation): 6500 S.W. 16th St., Plantation 33317. (954) 452-2510. 7:00am - dusk daily. Wednesdays noon – dusk. www.plantation.org/parks-recreation

• Pembroke Pines Dog Park (City of Pembroke Pines): 9751 Johnson Street, Pembroke Pines. (954) 435-6520. 8:00am – dusk. ppines.org.

FAMILY PROGRAMSFAMILY HAYRIDES & CAMPFIRESBroward County Parks & Recreation Department hosts hayrides and campfires at several parks in Broward County during our cooler months. Bring the whole family and enjoy some old fashioned fun. $3.50+ sales tax per person ages 3 and up. Includes one hayride and one bag of fixings for s’mores. Preregistration and prepayment are required (except at T.Y. Park) by calling or visiting the park of your choice. T.Y. Park accepts cash only. • T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) PARK: Fridays, January 22 &

February 19 from 6:00pm – 9:00pm. 3300 N. Park Road, Hollywood. (954) 357-8811.

• TRADEWINDS PARK: Fridays: January 15, January 29 & February 26 from 7:00pm – 9:30pm. 3600 W. Sample Road, Coconut Creek. (954) 357-8870.

• EASTERLIN PARK: Fridays: January 8, February 12 & March 4 from 7:00pm – 9:30pm. 1000 N.W. 38th St., Oakland Park. (954) 357-5190.

FOOD TRUCK NIGHTSThe food-truck phenomenon that has swept the U.S. over the course of the past few years can be traced, according to Smithsonian Magazine, to various food trends in Los Angeles, with the result that, “...food trucks are the new incubators of culinary innovation.” The food trucks have caught on in our parks, three of which now offer regular Food Truck Nights. Contact the park of your choice for additional details.• Brian Piccolo Sports Park & Velodrome: 9501 Sheridan St.,

Cooper City 33024. (954) 357-5150, BrianPiccoloPark@Broward.org. 3rd Wednesday of the Month, 5:00pm – 9:30pm.

• Plantation Heritage Park: 1100 S. Fig Tree Lane, Plantation 33317. (954) 357-5135, HeritagePark@Broward.org. Tuesdays, 5:30pm – 9:30pm.

• Quiet Waters Park: 401 S. Powerline Rd., Deerfield Beach 33442. (954) 357-5100, QuietWatersPark@Broward.org. 1st Thursday of the Month, 5:00pm – 10:00pm.

FISHING & BOATINGSOUTH FLORIDA CAREFREE BOAT CLUBBoating without owning…It’s about time! The South Florida Carefree Boat Club members enjoy the fun and the lifestyle of boating without the hassles of owning. A boat owner maintains, cleans, repairs, and invests hours of time into up-keeping his or her boat. Club members have access to a variety of boats, unlimited use, and a concierge service to go along with it. Own the water, not the boat. This company created a model that makes it stress-free to get out on the water, and membership is a fraction of the cost of owning just one boat. With convenient locations in Ft. Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Miami and 22 other locations, Carefree Boat club members enjoy the best availability and the best variety of boats, at a fraction of the cost of boat ownership. Visit their website at www.carefreeboats.com.

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the largest in the state of Florida with over 500 youth shooters having passed through the program. We start with the basics of gun safety and how to shoot all the way up to competing on a state and national level. All of our instructors are certified NRA Safety Officers and many are also certified at higher levels by the ATA, NSSA, and NSCA. For more information contact: Steve Norris at (754) 264-9584.

SPECIAL POPULATION PROGRAMS: SPORTS AND ACTIVITIESAMERICAN THERAPY HOUSE [ATH] + THERAPIES 4 KIDS [T4K]American Therapy House (ATH) & Therapies 4 Kids (T4K) provides PT/OT/SLP to children with developmental disabilities. Services include direct treatment, patient education, and specialized programs to meet the growing health needs of the community. American Therapy House has become the leader in Pediatric and Adult programs for neurological disorders such as Cerebral Palsy, Autism, & Stroke. Diagnostic testing for Autism & ADHD. Medicaid & Most Insurances accepted. OPEN SATURDAYS. 3 Locations; 10261 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines 33025, 2233 N. Commerce Parkway #1, Weston 33326 & 1750 N. University Drive, Suite 105, Coral Springs 33071. www.americantherapyhouse.com. (954) 356-2878. Private School K-12 now taking applications: www.brightstepsforward.org. NO WAITING LIST. CORAL GABLES COMING SOON!

PAL DYNAMITESPAL Dynamites is a sports program for Broward County persons with special needs, both physical and mental, ages 5–24. For more information, contact league director Luz M. Sementelli at (954) 270-4455. SOCIAL COMMUNICATION STATIONJim Ward Community Center. Grades 4–9. Course for students with a diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome, Social Communication Disorder, High Functioning Autism, ADHD, or other undiagnosed social challenges. We teach our students how to better understand the thoughts and feelings of others and how to improve listening skills. Students also practice conversation skills and learn problem-solving strategies. Our classes integrate group activities with the Social Thinking curriculum. Course instructors are nationally certified speech-language pathologists. www.socialcommunicationstation.com. Grades 4–6: Thursdays 4:30pm – 5:30pm. Grades 8–9: Thursdays 5:30pm – 6:30pm. Resident $300/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee. Non-Resident $310/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee.

KIDS FISHING CLUBWant to learn how to fish? Looking for a great way to reconnect with the kids? Then join The Kids Fishing Club! Our club is family oriented and non-competitive. Both parents and kids will have a great time and learn. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Bring the whole family, parents can fish, too. We teach kids how to cast, tie fishing knots and all about fishing in South Florida. Thanks to Fish Florida, all kids receive a FREE FISHING ROD to keep. Rods, bait, tackle; drinks and snacks are included at every event. The majority of our events are shore based and in the freshwater lakes of West Broward. Special events include the everglades, kayak fishing, pier fishing and deep-sea fishing. Student volunteers are needed, no experience required. Events are once a month, late afternoon on Saturday or Sunday. For more information or to join visit www.kidsfishing.org.

BOAT RENTALS: BROWARD COUNTY PARKSVisit broward.org/parks for details on types of boats available, addresses & costs.• Central Broward Regional Park & Stadium: Paddleboats• Everglades Holiday Park: Johnboats• Plantation Heritage Park: Paddleboats• Tree Tops Park: Paddleboats• T.Y. (Topeekeegee Yugnee) Park: Paddleboats, johnboats,

kayaks, and canoes. Stand-up paddleboard classes available.• Quiet Waters Park: Paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes• West Lake Park: Kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards

MOVIE THEATERS & MOVIESAUTONATION® IMAX 3D THEATER401 SW Second Street, Fort Lauderdale 33312. (954) 467-6637 or (954) 463-IMAX (4629), www.imax.com/movies. The IMAX Experience in 70MM 2D Film Format. SHOWS DAILY. STAR WARS: The Force Awakens (not rated yet): Shows through January 28, 2016.

MUSICBROADWAY KIDS STUDIO - PERFORMING ARTS CENTER9042 West State Road 84, Davie 33324 (Same Plaza as Kabooms and RoundUp). BKS offers group and private lessons in Acting, Singing, Dancing, & Musical Instruments (Piano, Drums, & Guitar). Additionally, we have an After-School Program, Camps, Dance Competition and performance opportunities (Plays and Musicals). Look out for opportunities to audition for one of our many productions, dance competition team or Star Performers. Contact us at (954) 693-7500 or www.BroadwayKidsStudio.com.

LEARN TO PLAY THE PIANOVolunteer Park. Ages 6–13. Allow your children to experience the joy of learning to play the piano! Exposure to music may benefit your child’s IQ, reading ability and stress relief. Availability of a piano or keyboard needed for daily practice. Some additional lesson materials are needed and are available through the Instructor, Iliana Kalish, (954) 391-3956. Lessons are 30 minutes each, once a week. Resident $160/8 weeks, Non-resident $170/8 weeks, Resident $80/4 weeks, Non-Resident $90/4 weeks plus a $5 registration fee. Tuesdays: 3:30pm – 6:00pm, Wednesdays: 3:30pm – 6:00pm.

SKEET & TRAP SHOOTING MARKHAM SKEET & TRAP CLUBMarkham Skeet & Trap Club sponsors a Youth Program offering free trapshooting instruction and gun safety training every Monday night from 6:00pm – 9:00pm at the Markham Park Gun Range (Markham Park is located at the intersection of Weston Road and State Road 84). Ages 10–17 are welcome to join at no cost. The program provides shotguns to those who do not have them. This six-year-old program is

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CITY OF PLANTATION AQUATICS SPECIAL NEEDSFor information about Aquatic classes for children and adults with special needs, including those with physical disabilities, please call (954) 663-6518. • SPECIAL NEEDS RECREATIONAL EXERCISE PROGRAM:

SENIORS WELCOME. This exercise program accommodates individuals unable to be independent in the water and is designed to increase strength, balance, flexibility and movement for disabled children/adults. Pre-registration is required. By appointment only. For more information and appointments, call (954) 663-6518. NOTE: This is not a physical therapy program. Each session consists of six, 30-minute lessons. Residents, $155/session – Non-Residents, $185/session.

• SPECIAL NEEDS PRIVATE SWIM LESSONS: SENIORS WELCOME. Swim lessons accommodate individuals unable to be independent in the water. The lessons are designed to increase swimming skills. Pre-registration is required. By appointment only. Class schedules are set with the instructor. NOTE: This is not a physical therapy program. Residents, $155/session – Non-Resident, $185/session.

TEEN PROGRAMSCIVIL AIR PATROL UNITED STATES AIR FORCE AUXILIARYThe CAP Cadet Program is a year-round program where Cadets ages 13-18 fly, learn to lead, hike, camp, get in shape and push themselves to new limits. Cadets meet 2.5 hours per week and one Saturday per month, on average, and also have opportunities to attend leadership encampments, career academies, and other activities during the summer. If you’re dreaming about a career in aviation, space, or the military, CAP’s Cadet Program is for you. Visit http://FL011.flwg.us or call (954) 594-9185 for more information.

TEENAGE POLICE ACADEMYThe Plantation Police Department is now offering its Teenage Police Academy. 6:00pm – 8:00pm at the Plantation Police Department, 451 NW 70th Terrace, Plantation. This 8-week course is free of charge and open to all young adults, ages 13–18 who live, work or attend school in Plantation. The course includes K-9 demonstrations, firearms instruction, Explorer program info, crime scene investigation, participating in a D.U.I. scenario, viewing a robbery scenario, gang awareness, and much more. Teens who are interested in a career in law enforcement will benefit greatly. The purpose of this course is to create a partnership between teens and the Police department and its operations. (954) 916-5601.

BABYSITTING BASICSTeaches youth ages 11 through 15 skills for preparation to care for infants and children. Class includes CPR demonstration and hands on practice. Creating and managing a babysitting business is discussed. Parent must sign a permission form for the youth to participate and an adult must bring child to class. Class leads to certification as a certified babysitter. Fee: $20 per student. To register for a class parents can email Child’s Name, Child’s Date of Birth, Address, Phone Number & Parent’s Name to family@mhs.net or call (954) 265-4484 to register. Class location: Esther Grossman Women Center: 4320 Sheridan St., Hollywood, FL 33021. Call for dates.

SPRING BREAK CAMPS & SUMMER CAMPS PREVIEW

SPRING BREAK CAMPSTAG USA GYMNASTICS & TRAMPOLINECome to the Award winning “Best Weston Camp” in our 38,000 sq. foot sports facility. Spring / Summer / Winter / School Days Off Camps from 8:30am – 4:30pm. The most gymnastics, trampoline power tumble equipment for boys & girls ages 3 to 14 years old. Camp also includes indoor basketball, soccer, dodgeball, and indoor games. All action, all day! All coaches are background checked and safety certified. Game room freeplay open before 9:00am. Extended care from 7:00am to 6:00pm available. Visit our facility and Compare at www.TagGymnastics.com. 1951 North Commerce Pkwy, Weston. Call (954) 384-9393 to register.

KUMITE MARTIAL ARTSGet up get moving! Come join our camp filled with fun games and activities, also includes daily field trips. Martial Arts training available at an additional cost; your child will learn fitness training and technique drills. Monday – Friday. Our professional staff & instructors will ensure your child will have a positive and rewarding experience with us. Our camp has something for everyone and caters to all skill levels - we are proud to have the BEST camp at the best price! From $120 per week/$30 daily. 4150 Peters Rd., Plantation 33317. www.kumitemartialarts.com. (954) 321-0029.

WILDFIRE VOLLEYBALLWest Broward’s Premier Girl’s Volleyball Club, building volleyball players one skill at a time. Training athletes of all level of play, ages 6 -18. Club Season tryouts October 24th and 25th. Local, State and National Teams Available. Please visit our website for details and information on our upcoming training season, camps and clinics. Professional volleyball coaches dedicated to our athletes! Located at Sagemont Upper School, 2585 Glades Circle, Weston 33327. (954) 439-1852. www.wildfirevolleyball.com.

SPRING BREAK CAMP – CENTRAL PARKAges 5–10. This fun-filled 6-day program is held at Central Park. Planned activities include a field trip, a special guest, arts & crafts, supervised games and much more! Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Bring a bag lunch and drink. Extra drinks are available for purchase. For more information, call (954) 452-2510. REGISTRATION: Begins two weeks before Spring Camp programs. March 18 and 21–25. Program hours are 7:30am – 6:00pm. Structured Activities are 9:00am – 4:00pm. $132/Residents, $182/Non-Residents, plus $10 non-refundable registration fee.

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Ages 4–12. No lunch provided. Bring your lunch, drink & snack. March 21–25. 9:00am – 4:30pm. Residents Per Session, $250 plus tax, plus a $5 registration fee. Non-Residents, $70/day, plus tax, plus $5 registration fee.

BRIGHT & SMART ROBOTICS CAMP – CENTRAL PARKAges 7–14. At Bright and Smart Spring Camp, children will learn hands-on robot assembly and computer programming in a fun-filled experience that fosters teamwork, critical and creative thinking and problem solving skills. Our goal is to teach kids basic engineering skills and facilitate the development of their higher cognitive skills, while giving them the opportunity to discover and develop their natural abilities. For more information, call (954) 816-3346. Program hours are 9:00am – 3:00pm. March 18 (1 day). Residents $70, plus a $5 registration fee, Non-resident $80, plus a $5 registration fee. March 21–25 (5 days). Residents $355, plus a $5 registration fee and a $35 lab fee.

SPRING BREAK TENNIS CAMP – VELTRI TENNIS CENTERAges 6–16. Tennis camp includes lessons, match play and tennis games. Bring your lunch, drinks and tennis racquet. Call (954) 452-2530 for more information. Registration is available online at PlantationTennis.org. March 21–25 from 10:00am – 3:30pm. Early drop-off: 7:00am – 10:00am. $160/5 days | $42/day | $32/half day. Early drop-off an additional $5/day or $15/week. No aftercare. Child must be picked up by 3:45pm.

SUMMER CAMPS PREVIEWCAMP TDD: SUMMER CAMPDon’t miss the fun this summer, join Temple Dor Dorim’s Camp TDD! NAEYC Accredited Staff. Summer Camp for ages 3 months - 10 Years. Infant Program (starting at 3 months). Non travel camp available for Pre-K and K. Travel camp for ages 4-10 includes field trips and swimming. Full and half day programs. Special programming includes water slides, wildlife show coached sports, music, hip hop and more! The Camp TDD campus includes, air conditioned camp rooms, fully shaded and fenced playground, water park, campus security, computer lab, garden center, art room, theater room and seat-belted transportation for travel campers. Organic All Natural Lunches included. Call today to reserve your child’s spot. Hablamos Espanol. Open to the Community. 2360 Glades Circle, Weston 33327. (954) 389-1232, www.dordorim.org.

SOFLO VOLLEYBALLEach week of volleyball camp is held inside air conditioned facility and is designed for athletes of all levels. For boys & girls ages 8 – 18, this is a great way to learn the fundamentals of volleyball or get into shape and sharpen overall volleyball skills. Participants are elementary to elite high school level athletes separated by individual skill level. The days are filled with 6 hours of instruction including: functional fitness training, many volleyball specific drills, open volleyball play and even some yoga to stretch and challenge the athlete’s balance. Learn more at soflovolleyball.org or call (954) 600-9810.

CAMP LINGUACamp Lingua is a unique language immersion program where children enjoy an enriching, fun experience while developing language and critical thinking skills. Our natural, open-ended multi-sensory approach consists of visual, auditory and physical practice in a language immersion environment, which stimulates language acquisition. Our Language Camps is the perfect way to help your child explore a second language while making new friends. They will learn easily by seeing, hearing and putting a language in action. Children will also explore language learning through FUN CAMP ACTIVITIES including, sports, arts & crafts, performing arts, field trips, water fun, lake activities, dance, cultural encounters, science experiments, and much more. VISIT OUR OPEN HOUSES ON 1/23, 2/20 & 3/12 FOR HUGE SAVINGS! CALL: (954) 642-CAMP (2267) – VISIT:www.CampLingua.com - CONTACT: info@camplingua.com

COMBINE ATHLETICS: BASKETBALL EDITION® CAMPGive your child the summer of a lifetime! Girls and boys, ages 5-13. Register for a day, week, or all summer! We help our campers find their sweet spot by teaching the fundamentals of basketball in an incredibly fun and creative environment. We believe there is a ton of potential at the intersection of sports, innovation and instruction. Our Formula: Top Notch Instruction + Creativity & Fun = Experience of a Lifetime! Each uniquely themed, weeklong camp uses a proprietary curriculum to engage and improve muscle memory for each camper while building confidence on and off the court, and teaching the benefits of working as a team. Have peace of mind knowing that your children are learning from the best and having the time of their lives in a safe, kid-friendly environment. Your child will create memories that he/she will cherish forever. Become a Combiner today and see how we’re building a new kind of sports camp for our community. Contact us today! hello@go-combine.com or call (800) 386-0179 or visit www.go-combine.com.

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For over 40 years, the Plantation Wildcats tackle football program has been promoting sportsmanship, team play, discipline and ethical behavior, which will allow for future success in life, as well as in sports. The program has had at least one team take home the Super Bowl Championship for fi ve consecutive years. In 2015, they once again proved they have what it takes to win when the 10U and 11U teams were named Super Bowl champions. The Wildcats are determined to keep the momentum going in 2016.

“Our goals do not change from year to year,” said Jason Corsover, 11U head coach. “We start every season with the goal of winning our league’s Super Bowl. That is our focus and what we strive for. The team works to become better football players, with a greater understanding of the game.”

Three Wildcat teams competed in the 2015 Super Bowl. The 8U team was defeated by Miramar (0-24) and the 10U team shut out the Davie Broncos (30-0) for the championship. The Wildcats 11U team ended the season 12-1, with its only loss to the Pembroke Pines Bengals, making its Super Bowl championship against the Bengals (12-9) an even sweeter victory.

Corsover leads the 11U team with Ken Stephens (offensive coordinator), Jim Turnbull (defensive coordinator), Cecil McNair, Junior Pelissier, Roosevelt Kiser and Tim Bass. The majority of the 11U team has been together for the past three or four years. Five of the players (Josh Corsover, Jaiden Robertson, Jacob and James Turnbull and Websley Etienne) have been together for fi ve years and have won four Super Bowl titles together. While the team has many top players, Corsover says that team’s success is due to all of its players.

“Our team is made up of 35 players, each one making contributions, whether at practice or during games, that made this team great,” said Corsover. “While everyone always looks to the players who score, much of the credit also has to be passed to the other 10 players on the fi eld blocking and leading the way.”

Corsover says that the 2015 season brought some new dynamic players into the program that blended well with the returning core of past champions. The defense led the way, only surrendering fi ve touchdowns throughout the season and the playoffs, and posting seven shut outs. The offense outscored opponents 338-46, while running a complex high-level system.

“Our players understand what it takes to be champions,” said Corsover. “They work hard and are willing to give

every ounce of energy to become better players. Their hearts and desire to succeed is what separates them from others. Everyone works hard, but there are times that it takes more than hard work to become champions. You have to have that little extra something, that willingness to lay it all out on the line, in order to take you over the top. When things don’t go their way, they don’t get down on themselves. They work harder and get better.”

Corsover is quick to point out that there are also many other factors that contribute to a player’s success. “The success of this team and the Plantation program, as a whole, begins at home with great young men,” said Corsover. “The parents and families of these players do a fantastic job of providing us with special kids. They understand the importance of working hard on the fi eld, but more importantly off the fi eld, in school and at home. As coaches, it makes our job a whole lot easier when you see the parents supporting their kids and working to make them into well rounded, hardworking young men. The coaches on this team did a great job working with kids and putting together an excellent team on the fi eld.”

The Plantation Wildcats compete in the American Youth Football League within seven playing divisions: Developmental (Age 5 & 6), Peewee (Age 7 & 8), 9U, 10U, 11U, 12U, and 13U. Practices and home games are held on the Plantation Athletic League fi eld, located at 1000 NW 70th Ave. The program has produced several standout players in past years, including NFL players Josh Robinson and Sam Young, as well as Florida State University’s Tarvarus McFadden.

The Plantation Wildcats will begin registration for the fall season in April. For information, visit www.plantationwildcats.org or www.facebook.com/plantationwildcats.

PLANTATION WILDCATS 10U AND 11U TEAMS ARE

SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONS

Plantation Wildcats 11U

By Debby Teich

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There are few places that the women from the Broward Women’s Sports Program Recreational Soccer League would rather be on a Sunday morning than playing soccer. The women are passionate about their league. For many, it is the only hour in their week when they take time for themselves. They join the league to get in shape and make new friends, as well as to acquire and/or refine their soccer skills.

Gayle Smitter and Patsy Gibbs co-founded the league 1995. It is open to all recreational-level players age 30 and over and includes players as old as 70. Some played soccer competitively in high school or college, while others are beginners. They are teachers, businesswomen, lawyers and housewives and more, all from a variety of countries, such as the United States, Columbia, Mexico and many others.

“Some of these women are single moms, work two jobs, have special needs children, work or take care of their families,” said Kelly-Anne Cozzati, league commissioner. “The league gives them a chance to spend time with other women and get exercise, while playing a sport they love. It is their ‘me’ time.”

There are currently six teams full of “soccer moms” with 15 players on each. Games are played on Sunday afternoons at Chapel Trail Park, located at 19531 Taft St. The league plays from September to December and from January to April, with the annual family picnic in May. There are no games during the summer months. Players join the league as individuals and are assigned to a team. They are rated and each team is balanced to include a range of experience levels. Players are re-assigned to different teams each season, so that they can meet more people and make new friends. Their teammate one season might be their opponent during the next one.

Some of the more traditional soccer rules have been altered to make the league more beginner-friendly. For example, there is no “off sides” rule, no restrictions on throw-ins, and the on-the-fly substitution rule applies so that players can enter and exit the game more easily. In addition, a goalie “safety area” in front of the net protects the goalies by prohibiting the attacking team from touching the ball while in the safety area. The games are family friendly, offering husbands and children a chance to cheer for their favorite players.

The season ends with a Soccer Bowl, which includes all teams in the league. It follows a single elimination format, with a slight twist. The teams in last place are given the advantage, so the best teams are usually eliminated in the beginning. Losing a game in the Soccer Bowl is not such a bad thing, since each eliminated team gets pizza.

Every year, the league forms a Goodwill traveling team with a double mission of creating goodwill and promoting women’s soccer throughout the world. Team members work at the BB&T Center concession stand during Florida Panther hockey games to raise money and build camaraderie before the trip. The team has already been to places like Venezuela, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Argentina, Scotland, France, Sweden, Peru and Spain and more. They have brought shirts, soccer balls, cleats and shin guards to some of the poorer countries.

Fo r i n fo rma t i on , ca l l (954) 445-8367 , s end an ema i l t o browardrecsoccer@comcast.net, visit www.browardrecsoccer.com or join the group page on Facebook.

By Debby Teich

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At any given time, ask half a dozen adults around you about their wisdom teeth and there is a good chance you will find that most have had them removed. This is common, considering what they are and some of the risks that they may pose. Many people have them removed during their younger years, for valid reasons, making it a good idea to be familiar with the ins and outs of these teeth, so that you will be better able to deal with them for you and your family.

What Are Wisdom Teeth and Why Are They Removed?

Wisdom teeth, also referred to as your third molars, are the larger teeth at the very back of the mouth. They are the last teeth to come in, usually somewhere between the ages of 15 and 25, which is considered to be the “age of wisdom,” hence their name. While some people have no problems with their wisdom teeth erupting, many others find that they present a challenge and can be risky to the health of your other teeth. About the time that this third set of molars begins erupting, some common problems also emerge as a result. Some of the problems associated with erupting wisdom teeth include:

Impaction: According to the National Institutes of Health, wisdom teeth are the most common teeth to become impacted. When a tooth is impacted, it means that the tooth has failed to emerge through the surface of the gum, or that only a portion of it has emerged.

Caries: An impacted third molar leads to a high probability of creating dental caries, or cavities, both in that tooth and in the one next to it, as well. This is because they often trap plaque in the area, which is difficult to reach and to clean.

Cysts: When wisdom teeth are impacted, it can cause cysts and tumors to form around the area. This can lead to additional problems because it can affect the bone and even damage the jaw. Risks with this involve infections, as well as tooth abscesses.

Misalignment: The emerging wisdom teeth may not be coming in straight and, even if they do, can cause problems with the other teeth. As they emerge, they often push the other teeth out of alignment.

Discomfort: The vast majority of people who have dealt with emerging or impacted wisdom teeth know just how uncomfortable the experience can be. From headaches to toothaches, pain, swelling, and feeling ill, the discomfort associated with wisdom teeth can make you miserable.

When to Remove Wisdom Teeth?

The best time to have your third set of molars removed really depends on the tooth’s development. A good professional rule of thumb is to have them removed when two-thirds of the root has formed. Ideally, it’s recommended that people have them removed by the time they turn 24 years old. This is because it will help to prevent all of the problems listed above and because the ability to re-grow bone in that area of the jaw is reduced as time goes on. Also, the third set of molars is usually easier to remove when you are younger and the recovery period is also shorter during that time.

The presence of your third set of molars is usually associated with an increased risk of periodontitis, which is an inflammation of the gums and bone, which can lead to tooth loss, abscesses, infections, and tooth shifting. It is important to note, as well, that an absence of symptoms does not mean that there is no problem or disease.

Additionally, research regarding people who did not have their wisdom teeth removed demonstrates that, the older they got, the more common it was for them to have cavities in those teeth, as well as in the adjacent ones, due to the difficulties of keeping them properly cleaned. In fact, a 2011 study published in the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery reported that, of the nearly 7,000 older adults they studied who had at least one third molar, most of those

people had caries or periodontal pathology involving those teeth, and that few had visible molars that were free of disease.

Additional Concerns: There is some controversy regarding whether those who wear a retainer or have had braces in the past need to continue wearing their retainer once the wisdom teeth have been removed. Because there is a risk of relapse if the retainer is not worn, it is recommended that patients continue wearing theirs, as recommended by their orthodontist. Doing so will help to eliminate the risks associated with shifting teeth.

If you are experiencing the emergence of your wisdom teeth, or someone in your family is, be sure you know the facts, risks, and options that are currently available. Having wisdom teeth removed is a common procedure today, one that most people recover from without issue. Removing third molars can be an important step to take if you are having problems now, or as a preventive measure to avoid issues that can arise later.

Addressing the Issue: Either way, it is important to speak with your doctor to learn more about your specific third molar development, risks, and options. When you are dealing with your third molars, it may seem as if they steal the show, due to the discomfort they can cause. But it doesn’t have to be like that since this is an issue that can usually be addressed without difficulty.

Wisdom teeth really are an issue that is better dealt with sooner, rather than later, in order to avoid a lot of discomfort, as well as the risk of an array of complications. Besides, when you address this issue head on, rather than putting it off and prolonging it, you will find that you gain the wisdom, without all the worry!

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Lisa Lerner has always taught her children, Aaron, 16, and Rachel, 14, that is important to help make the world a better place. Nine years ago, she started Kids Helping Kids to encourage other families to teach their children the same valuable lesson. “Children need to understand that one person can make a difference and that it is their responsibility to volunteer and give back to their community,” said Lerner. “If we can instill the importance of this at an early age, they will see how good it feels to give back and it will become a part of who they are. We all live in this world together and we need to make it a better, kinder place - one person at a time.”

Lerner came up with the idea for the group after she brought her children to help her pack food and deliver it to indigent seniors. When she told her friends what they had done, many of them were eager to do something similar. The organization has grown rapidly through word of mouth and now includes scouting troops, camps and other groups in the community. “It is difficult to find places that younger kids can volunteer,” said Lerner. “Kids Helping Kids is very hands-on. The volunteers actually get to see where their items are being donated, so they have a better understanding of the impact of their efforts.”

For the past nine years, Kids Helping Kids has provided Royal Palm Elementary, an underprivileged school in Lauderhill, with backpacks and supplies for their students. Most of the students cannot afford to purchase their own supplies and budget cuts have limited classroom resources. The families from Kids Helping Kids shop for supplies and visit the school to present the teacher with their purchases. The principal, assistant principal and teachers personally thank each of the volunteers. Last year alone, Kids Helping Kids donated over 500 backpacks, as well as basic items like crayons, pencils, composition books, markers, folders, and more.

“The kids are ecstatic when they get to school on the first day and walk into their

classroom to find new backpacks filled with school supplies,” said Lerner. “This means so much to them. They realize that someone truly cares. It is such a positive way for them to start the school year. Our volunteers also feel great, because they have visited the school and truly understand who they are helping.”

Kids Helping Kids has also been working with Chris Evert Children’s Hospital. The group brings Hanukkah gifts and snacks for the children who have to celebrate the holiday in the hospital. The group has teamed up with the Harvest Drive, which provides less fortunate families in Broward County with a complete Thanksgiving meal and a week’s worth of groceries, as well as personal and household necessities during Thanksgiving season. For the past five years, Lerner’s son has organized a team for the Dan Marino Autism walk. He sells t-shirts to raise more money and all of his friends join him in his efforts.

Karen Nir’s children have participated with Kids Helping Kids since 2007. Tali, 19, and Eli, 16, have collected backpacks and delivered them to Royal Palm Elementary. “Kids Helping Kids creates a bond with the population served and increases social responsibility,” said Karen Nir. “It has helped teach my kids about empathy and gratitude.”

Lerner brought a modified version of Kids Helping Kids to Temple Dor Dorim. As Social Action Chair for the past five years, she has encouraged and arranged a variety of community projects for the congregation, including building homes for Habitat for Humanity, making and delivering sandwiches for the homeless, painting at Children’s Harbor and more. One of her largest annual projects is Mitzvah Day, when over 200 congregants participate in community service projects on the same day both on and off site. In 2013, Lerner was recognized for her efforts when she was awarded the Community Service Star Award from the American Association of University Women.

For more information or to volunteer, send an email to llerner42@gmail.com.

By Debby Teich

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HEALTH PROVIDER DIRECTORY

DENTISTRY, ORAL SURGERY & ORTHODONTICSSAWGRASS ORTHODONTICSBRACES and INVISALIGN treatment for children, teens and adults. We are moms ourselves, and we emphasize making each patient’s experience a pleasant one. We pride ourselves in treating each patient as if they were our own children. We offer COMPETITIVE PRICING and FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PLANS. More importantly, we are very DETAIL-ORIENTED. Our EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE and beautiful state-of-the-art facility sets us apart from other offices. INTEREST-FREE in-house FINANCING available. Most INSURANCES accepted. Evening appointments available. Visit us at www.SawgrassOrtho.com. Call now for your FREE CONSULTATION with mention of this ad. (954) 514-2111. Located in front of IKEA at 175 NW 136th Ave, Sunrise 33325. Se habla Espanol.

SAGE DENTALSage Dental is the leading provider of dental health services in South Florida. Sage Dental provides cosmetic dentistry services, preventive dental treatments, general, reconstructive and specialty dentistry. With the motto, “All Dentistry…One Place”, the Sage Dental team is equipped to serve all of your dental needs under one roof. Whether you’re looking for a general dentist or a cosmetic dentistry specialist such as an orthodontist, oral surgeon, endodontist, periodontist or a pediatric dentist, we do it all. We have 29 convenient locations in South Florida including Sage Dental of Plantation, 8440 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation, FL 33324. Call (855) 375-1926 to schedule an appointment.

LUCAS ORTHODONTICSDr. Albert Lucas and his talented orthodontic teamwork hard to create beautiful, healthy smiles that last a lifetime. Offering the latest in orthodontic treatment options available today including: Leading edge metal braces that reduce treatment time and discomfort; Clear ceramic braces to improve aesthetics during treatment; Invisalign and Invisalign Teen for teens and adults. Dr. Lucas has designed over 15,000 spectacular Lucas smiles designed since 1994! All patients are treated in semi-private suites and take comfort in the Lucas Smile Satisfaction Guarantee. Call for your complimentary Lucas Smile Analysis. Two convenient locations: Plantation (954) 475-1177 and Pembroke Pines (954) 432-7223. www.lucasorthodontics.com.

BRACES BY DR.COHEN-SASSONYourOrthodontist – Dr. Kenneth Cohen-Sasson, DMD, specializes in Invisalign, Braces, growth guidance & development. With state-of-the-art technology, we strive to treat every patient like family. During your COMPLIMENTARY consultation, you’ll receive digital impressions and simulation outcomes, with our iTero scanner. Immediate results show your potential new and beautiful smile. Dr. Cohen-Sasson and his staff encourage patient/parent participation and are always available to answer any questions about treatment. Flexible payment options are available with 0% interest in house financing and ALL Insurances are accepted. Day, Evening and Saturday appointments are available at both of our convenient locations: 7500 NW 5th Street, Suite 107, Plantation, FL 33317 and 8311 N Pine Island Road, Tamarac, FL 33321. Please call (954) 682-8000 or visit our website www.your-orthodontist.com to schedule your FREE consultation today

FITNESS & WEIGHT LOSS FACILITIES & PROGRAMSBRUCE ZONECome in for your FREE CLASS today. You will be hooked after just one class. The workouts are intense, and the results speak for themselves. We have constructed a facility where everyone will feel welcome — from the Elite level Athlete to the novice who wants to exercise for the first time. At Bruce Zone we believe that getting fit should be fun, challenging, and affordable. Our certified instructors take time to understand you, analyze your needs, and develop a personalized fitness program that will help you reach your goals. If you like classes, Bruce Zone offers the most exciting classes in town: Crossfit, Crossfit for Football, Zumba, yoga, boot camp, and so much more! Tell us what you want and we’ll help you get it. When you have a goal, we have a plan. Call (954) 605-6969. 3400 Davie Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale. brucezone.com.

PLANTATION ADULT FITNESS CLASSES • PILATES: Adults. Participants must provide own mat one inch

thick. (954) 236-4404. SENIORS WELCOME. Mondays: 7:00pm – 7:45pm at Jim Ward. Tuesdays: 5:30pm – 6:15pm at Central Park. Wednesdays: 7:15pm – 8:00pm at Volunteer Park. Resident $70/10 weeks, Non-resident $80/10 weeks. All participants add $5 registration fee and $5 insurance fee.

• YOGA: Adults, seniors welcome. Classes held at Central Park and Volunteer Park, morning and evening classes. Call for schedule. Instructor: Beth Budnick (954) 255-7508. Resident $68/8 weeks/Non-Resident $78/8 weeks. Resident $78/10 weeks / Non-Resident $88/10 weeks. Plus $5 registration fee and $5 insurance fee.

• ZUMBA: Ages 9 & up. Come join us at Central Park for this awesome and fun class that combines Latin dance moves and aerobics. We will be dancing to the rhythms. Instructor: Zee Steele. Saturdays, 11:30am – 12:15pm. Resident $30/10 weeks, plus $5 registration fee, Non-Resident $40/10 weeks, plus $5 registration fee.

• SENIOR FUNCTIONAL FITNESS: Jim Ward Community Center. Ages 62 & up. A more advanced program to tone and strengthen your entire body. (954) 585-2344. Continuous. Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9:00am – 10:00am. FREE for Plantation residents only. Proof of residency is required.

• SENIOR GENTLE AEROBICS: Jim Ward Community Center. Ages 62 & up. A complete overall gentle aerobics class using both steps and light weights. (954) 585-2344. Continuous. Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:00am – 10:00am. FREE for Plantation residents only. Proof of residency is required.

• ZUMBA: Ages 18 & up. Easy to follow Latin dance moves combined with aerobic movements, creates a fun cardio workout that will make you burn off tons of calories while having a blast. Space is limited. Instructor: Mayra Villalona (954) 512-3237. Tuesday & Thursday, 7:00pm – 8:00pm, Central Park. Friday, 9:15am – 10:15am, Central Park. Resident $60/10 weeks/2 classes per week. Non-Resident $70/10 weeks/2 classes per week. Resident $30/10 weeks/1 class per week. Plus $5 registration fee.

• SENIOR AEROBICS BREAKFAST CLUB: Central Park. (954) 452-2510. Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 9:00am. Daily fee: Resident $6.50, Non-Resident $8. Senior (8 Visits): Resident $17, Non-Resident $29.

HEALTH & SAFETY CERTIFICATION TRAININGLIFEGUARD CLASSESAges 15 & Older. March 1–19, T/Th, 6:00pm – 9:00pm and March 21–25 (Spring Break), M–F, 8:00am – 5:00pm. Residents, $221, Non-Residents, $226, plus a $5 registration fee. Plantation Central Park Aquatics Complex, 9151 NW 2nd Street, Plantation. (954) 452-2525.

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LIFEGUARD TRAININGPlantation Central Park Aquatics Complex, 9151 NW 2nd Street, Plantation. (954) 452-2525. AMERICAN RED CROSS LIFEGUARD TRAINING COURSE: Ages 15 & up. Learn to master water safety skills that can be useful in recreational swimming and employment in the Lifeguarding field. Course includes Automated External Defibrillation (AED) training, certification in CPR for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid skills also necessary for employment. Must be able to swim 300 yards to enter class. Minimum enrollment is 6. Certification is valid for 2 years. Registration at pool office. This class meets 3 days a week. Taught by Certified Lifeguard Training staff instructor. Classes: Tuesdays & Thursdays 6:00pm – 9:00pm & Saturdays 9:00am – 12:00pm. Residents $221, Non-residents $226.

JUNIOR LIFEGUARD TRAININGAges 11–14. March 21–25, Spring Break. Plantation Central Park Aquatics Complex, 9151 NW 2nd Street, Plantation. (954) 452-2525. AMERICAN RED CROSS JUNIOR LIFEGUARD TRAINING COURSE: Experience what it takes to be a lifeguard. Dive into your future as a lifeguard in the Junior Lifeguard Program. Meet new friends and enjoy the pool. The course will introduce you to these essential American Red Cross lifeguarding skills: Prevention of aquatic accidents, Fitness and swimming skills, Response in an emergency, Leadership skills, Professionalism of a lifeguard. Monday – Friday | 11:00am – 1:00pm. Resident $105, plus a $5 registration fee, Non-residents $130, plus a $5 registration fee.

A MATTER OF BALANCEJim Ward Community Center, Ages 60 & up. Many adults experience concerns about falling and resist their activities. A MATTER OF BALANCE is an award winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. You will learn to view falls as controllable, set goals for increasing activities, make changes to reduce fall risks at home and exercise to increase strength and balance. This class is free to seniors 60+ through the support of the Aging and Disability Resource Center, Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the City of Plantation. Tuesday, 2:00pm – 4:00pm. Free for seniors 60 & up. Space is limited.

MASSAGE THERAPYINTUITIVE TOUCH LOMI MASSAGEFrom the Islands of Hawaii, Lomi Lomi is a sacred healing art, utilizing rhythmic strokes which integrate the use of forearms and elbows for a profoundly unique, therapeutic experience to meet individual needs. All massage treatments include aromatherapy, revitalizing scalp massage, hot stones, reflexology and steamy hot towels. Serving Broward County, please book in advance. Seven days a week, daytime and early evening hours. Call Lori at (754) 234-3466. Learn more at IntuitiveTouchLomiMassage.com. Licensed Massage Therapist.

NUTRITIONBRUCE ZONEIsaac Bruce is proud to be an AdvoCare and Youngevity distributor! Since 1993, AdvoCare® has been a world-class nutrition company specializing in health and wellness, weight management, vibrant energy and sports performance. Products are formulated by an elite Scientific and Medical Advisory Board with over 200 years combined experience in pharmacology, toxicology, nutrition, sports performance and pediatrics. Product endorsers include professional athletes, champion amateur athletes, and acclaimed entertainers. Youngevity has been a public company for over 17 years with cutting edge products for life enhancing products including beauty & skin care, health & wellness, food & beverage and more. Call (954) 605-6969. 3400 Davie Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale. brucezone.com.

OBSTETRICS - GYNECOLOGY - MATERNITYSIMON WEISS, MD – SPECIALTY OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGYOur group of physicians treats patients as individuals. Every patient is impacted by her medical problem in a unique way. To treat our patients correctly, we have to understand not only the medical condition, but also her perspective on the problem, her obligations and concerns about her family and work, and her goals for life. Only at this time are we ready to offer her the options that best suit her. Communicating all this and helping the patient make the best decision is the true art of medicine. Locations in Miramar (954) 538-1300 & Hollywood (954) 518-4100. www.obgdoctor.com.

SPEECH, PHYSICAL & OCCUPATIONAL THERAPYAMERICAN THERAPY HOUSE [ATH] + THERAPIES 4 KIDS [T4K]American Therapy House (ATH) & Therapies 4 Kids (T4K) provides PT/OT/SLP to children with developmental disabilities. Services include direct treatment, patient education, and specialized programs to meet the growing health needs of the community. American Therapy House has become the leader in Pediatric and Adult programs for neurological disorders such as Cerebral Palsy, Autism, & Stroke. Diagnostic testing for Autism & ADHD. Medicaid & Most Insurances accepted. OPEN SATURDAYS. 3 Locations; 10261 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines 33025, 1750 N. University Drive, Suite 105, Coral Springs 33071 & 2233 N. Commerce Park #1, Weston 33326. www.americantherapyhouse.com. (954) 356-2878. Private School K-12 now taking applications: www.brightstepsforward.org. NO WAITING LIST. CORAL GABLES COMING SOON!

SUPPORT GROUPSART THERAPY SELF ESTEEM BUILDING GROUP – CENTRAL PARKCentral Park. Self-Esteem Building Group is a hands-on art-making group designed around children that would like to work on self-esteem building through art. All projects are designed to foster success, creativity, growth and autonomy. All sessions are conducted by a master’s level board certified art therapist and certified grief counselor. Saturday 9:00am – 10:00am. Ages 6–9. Resident $250/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee, Non-resident $260/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee plus $25 materials fee. Saturday 10:00am – 11:30am, Ages 10 – 14. Resident $275/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee, Non-resident $285/8 weeks, plus $5 registration fee plus $25 materials fee. (954) 856-3110, BrushStrokesArtTherapy.com, SoniaThomas@BrushStrokesArtTherapy.com.

CAMP ERIN Camp Erin is a weekend bereavement camp for children who have experienced the death of a loved one. The Camp is free of charge and provides children a safe place to tell their story, express their feelings and learn healthy coping strategies for their grief journey. Camp Erin provides a safe setting to assist children dealing with their grief through activities such as music therapy, pet therapy, art therapy, sports and memorial service including a bonfire and s’mores. All activities are designed and facilitated by a staff of professional clinicians. For more information, contact Ann Mclemore at (305) 351-7026 or email Amclemore@catholichospice.org.

CODEPENDENTS ANONYMOUSDo you wish for a more balanced, loving and healthy relationship with yourself and others? If so, please join us on Fridays 11:00am – 12:15pm. Come share or just listen. Dunkin Donuts meeting room (9170 W. R 84 in Davie). For other meetings and to learn more about codependency, please see www.coda.org.

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PLANTATION RELAY FOR LIFEFRIDAY & SATURDAY, APRIL 15 & 16, 2016 • 6:00PM - 9:00AM

PLANTATION CENTRAL PARK • 9151 NW 2ND STREET, PLANTATION, FL 33324

WHAT IS RELAY FOR LIFE?• Organized, overnight community fundraising walk• Teams of people camp out around a track• Members of each team take turns walking around the track• Food, games and activities provide entertainment and build

camaraderie• Family-friendly environment for the entire community

Because it’s a team event, individual participants are not required to be there the entire time. But it’s so much fun, you’ll find it hard to leave!

WHAT MAKES A RELAY EVENT SPECIAL?Many moments create the unique Relay experience. Event details

vary by location, but all events have key moments in common:• SURVIVORS LAP: During the Survivors Lap, all cancer survivors at

the event take the first lap around the track, celebrating their victory over cancer while cheered on by the other participants who line the track. Relay For Life events also recognize and celebrate caregivers, who give time, love, and support to their friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers facing cancer.

• LUMINARIA CEREMONY: The Luminaria Ceremony takes place after dark; so we can remember people we have lost to cancer, honor people who have fought cancer in the past and support those whose fight continues. Candles are lit inside of personalized bags and are placed around the Relay track as glowing tributes to those who’ve been affected by cancer.

• FIGHT BACK CEREMONY: This emotionally powerful ceremony inspires Relay participants to take action. The Fight Back Ceremony symbolizes the emotional commitment each of us can make in the fight against cancer. The action taken represents what we are willing to do for ourselves, for our loved ones, and for our community to fight cancer year-round and to commit to saving lives.

WHY WE FUNDRAISEWhile the American Cancer Society is making progress toward a

world without cancer, only with your dedication and fundraising efforts can we finish the fight against the disease. With your help, we aren’t just fighting one type of cancer; we’re fighting for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. Each person who shares the Relay For Life experience can take pride in knowing that they are working to create a world where this disease will no longer threaten our loved ones or rob anyone of another birthday. Make sure your team members and donors understand how important their contributions are by sharing how their support is making a difference:

• Research: For more than 65 years, the American Cancer Society has been finding answers that save lives – from changes in lifestyle to new approaches in therapies to improving cancer patients’ quality of life. No single nongovernmental, not-for-profit organization in the US has invested more to find the causes and cures of cancer.

• Hope Lodge®: Where to stay and how to afford accommodations are immediate concerns for cancer patients who must travel away from home for the best treatment. American Cancer Society Hope Lodge facilities provide a free and comfortable place for patients and their caregivers to stay, so they can focus on getting well.

• Road To Recovery®: Cancer patients frequently cite transportation to and from treatment as one of their most critical needs. The American Cancer Society Road To Recovery program matches cancer patients with specially trained volunteer drivers.

• Look Good…Feel Better®: This free service teaches women battling cancer beauty techniques to help them improve their appearance and self-image during chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Volunteer beauty professionals demonstrate makeup techniques; nail care, skin care, and options related to hair loss.

• Reach To Recovery®: Our Reach To Recovery support program matches specially trained breast cancer survivors with people who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and want to talk to someone who has been there. These dedicated volunteers offer understanding, support, and hope.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP?Go to relay.ascevents.org to sign up for an event, donate or

dedicate a luminaria.• SIGN UP OR VOLUNTEER: Find an event in your community and

get involved! You can form a team, raise money, join the planning committee, or volunteer. One in 100 people participate or volunteer in Relay For Life events in the U.S. Join us and fight back against cancer! See your event location and date above.

• DONATE: When you donate, you can assign your gift to a specific participant, team, or event. Cancer is an issue that affects us all, and your tax-deductible donation supports the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving mission.

• DEDICATE A LUMINARIA: One of the most inspiring moments during a Relay For Life event is the Luminaria Ceremony. Honor or remember someone you love that has been touched by cancer through the dedication of a luminaria.

Reprinted from the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life website: relay.ascevents.org. Please visit the website to learn more and get involved in the fight against cancer.

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CALENDAR 2015–2016

Broward County Public School Calendar*

Changes may be made. Visit www.browardschools.com for updates.

SECOND QUARTER Thursday, January 7 ..........................Early Release DayFriday, January 8 ..............................Employee Planning - No School

THIRD QUARTERMonday, January 11 ..........................Start of 3rd QuarterMonday, January 18 ..........................Holiday - No SchoolThursday, January 28 ........................Report Cards IssuedThursday, February 11 .......................Interim Reports IssuedMonday, February 15 ........................Holiday - No SchoolThursday, February 25 .......................Early Release DayThursday, March 17 ...........................Early Release DayFriday, March 18 ...............................Employee Planning - No SchoolMonday - Friday, March 21 - 25 .........Spring Break - No School

FOURTH QUARTERMonday, March 28 .............................Start of 4th QuarterThursday, April 14 .............................Report Cards IssuedThursday, April 28 .............................Interim Reports IssuedFriday, May 27 ..................................Employee Planning - No SchoolMonday, May 30 ...............................Holiday - No SchoolThursday, June 9 ...............................Early Release & Last Day of School

* Year-Round Schools Follow Different Calendars.

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Keeping our chi ldren safe needs to be a priority in our lives. As parents, it is our responsibility to make sure we provide children with the skills to act smart, think responsibly and problem solve

effectively. By teaching them these skills, we provide our children with the necessary tools that create

independent and safe thinkers. These “essentials” are a gift parents can give their children and it is a gift that will keep giving throughout a lifetime.

We cannot be with our children every second through their lives. There comes a time when they need to leave the protection of “the nest.” We are neurotic the first time we leave them with a babysitter. The first time they go to a friend’s house without us we’re a little hesitant. The first time they ride their bike alone to a friend’s, we stretch our necks around the corner to watch them as they go and ask them to call when they get there. It continues as they grow, get their licenses and start to drive, attend parties and proms and go off to college. It doesn’t end there, as they buy their first homes, travel, have children of their own and the cycle continues. A parent’s work is never done and the worrying never ends.

How do we teach the skills that are necessary to keep our children safe so that we aren’t in a constant state of anxiety? It begins with understanding that just as parenting doesn’t come with an instruction

manual; children are limited in the skills they are born with that enable them to protect themselves. We don’t wait for children to burn themselves to learn that the stove is hot. We don’t allow them to be hit by a car before teaching them they must look both ways before crossing the street. We are given the responsibility as parents to teach our children the skills to keep them safe. Taking it for granted that children “just know” means not following through on our responsibility as parents.

There are several ways to teach your children these critical skills. Instead of telling your child “No, because I said so,” give them an explanation as to why something is a “no!” Tell them why you need them to check in when they get to their friend’s house. Tell them why they can’t run across the street to get the ball. Explain to them why they need to go with a “buddy” to use the bathroom when they are at the park. When children have the “why” it makes sense to them and they accept the “no” much easier.

Role playing, giving “what if” scenarios and having your children provide the solution, and reading stories together, are additional ways to teach kids how to keep themselves safe. Whatever method your family chooses, it is imperative to follow through on this responsibility. We aren’t given many chances, if any at all. Accidents happen and so we need to improve the chances of our children staying safe by being proactive. Enable your children, so that even though you cannot be there protecting them every second, you can breath a sigh of relief because you know what you have taught them.

For more info on Keeping Your Children Safe, go to www.kidsafefoundation.org

PROTECTING THE GIFT…KEEPING OUR CHILDREN SAFE

By Jodi Kurry Cohen, MS.Ed, Director of Early Childhood Programs, Temple Dor Dorim

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The 2015-2016 school year brought many new and exciting challenges to our students and staff. Since the beginning of the year, our wonderful teachers have worked diligently with the students on achieving the Florida Standards, which are based on the Common Core.

In addition to our academic rigor, throughout the year Tropical students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of extracurricular clubs and specials classes that are a part of their daily schedule. In October, our students and families attended a Specials Night, where all the special area teachers showcased Art, Science, Music, Math and

Reading is an important key to making learning gains for your child. Learning how to read is essential and helps with every aspect of your student’s education. Long before your child enters Kindergarten they begin the process of reading.

Before your child enters elementary school you can work on reading. Some skills are: knowing how to hold a book properly, reading from left to right, and understanding that sentences stop when there is a period, question mark, or exclamation mark. There are other skills your child would benefit from knowing before they enter kindergarten also: they can practice knowing their first and last name, recognizing the letter names and sounds in their first name and writing their first name. These are a couple of websites that can help young students familiarize themselves with handwriting paper: www.first-school.ws/INDEX.HTM and www.handwritingworksheets.com

Once your child begins school you can help the reading process by talking with them about

P.E. Incorporating different styles of learning into our students’ lives makes for well-rounded students. In addition to activities within the school, Tropical participated in Art in the Park in November. The holiday time saw more giving spirit from Tropical’s students and staff. We sponsored many families over Thanksgiving, and made donations to families in need during the Winter break.

As we begin 2016, Tropical Elementary will also start preparing for the upcoming school year. We invite you to go to our website for more information about our school at www.tropicalelementary.net.

each book they read. You can also ask your child to read a book aloud to you, a sibling or a grandparent. Also, a trip to the library shows that you value reading. Pick a quiet area and you can read a book or magazine while your child reads a book of their choice.

Central Park fifth graders were asked to participate in an optional 30 Book Challenge, where they were asked to read 30 books during this school year. The books can be their choice and of different genres. Each child that chose to participate was given a form to sign and return pledging that they and their parents are aware of the plan to read all 30 books. The students can write a book review, prepare a book talk presentation or write a letter to the teacher about why they liked or didn’t like each book, to verify they read each book. Mid-year, students will participate in a celebratory breakfast to commend the number of books they have read to date and encourage them to continue reading. At the end of the year, the 5th graders that complete the challenge will be invited to a pizza party.

Tropical Elementary Enters 2016 in Full Swing!

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PLANTATION HIGH OFFERS INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE AND AEROSPACE PROGRAMS

The mission of Plantation High School is to meet the needs of all its students by providing an education balanced by academic excellence, career pathways, community service and extracurricular activities. The most rigorous diploma option offered is the International Baccalaureate Programme, a two-year pre-university course of study.

Highly motivated enrolled students are prepared for success in higher education and life. The reputation for this rigorous internationally recognized curriculum and assessment standards provides students with solid preparation for academic success at the world’s leading universities. The program will also develop their ability to actively participate in a rapidly evolving and increasingly global society.

Plantation IB students recently came back from their 2nd annual IB college tour. Last year, students toured universities in Boston and this year they had the experience of touring schools in Washington, DC, such as George Washington, Georgetown, American, and Howard University.

Plantation High also offers an Aerospace Technology and

Design program, which is a unique progression of courses including Computer Aided Drafting (CAD), Coding, and Aerospace Engineering. This nationally awarded program exposes high school students to hands on learning experiences with rockets, electronics and microprocessors, 3D printing, and coding projects that teach essential management skills and technical writing in preparation for college and careers in STEM fields.

Plantation Aerospace students have been awarded 18 NASA Student Launch contracts and won multiple national top ten awards in the Team America Rocketry Challenge. They also work with underwater remotely operated vehicles and programmable flying quadcopters. The Aerospace students actively promote STEM education through mentorships with local elementary and middle schools. Many graduates of the program have moved on to major in engineering, working with Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and NASA.

For more information or for a tour of the IB or Aerospace programs at Plantation High School please contact the magnet coordinator, Ms. Jennifer Noufer at (754) 322-1903.

By Julie Kasper

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Plantation Park Elementary “Gave Cancer the Boot!” Each year the school participates in the American Cancer Society Relay for Life event held each spring in the city of Plantation. During the school year, the teachers and staff hold different fundraisers to help raise money for their team goal. The first event was held in the fall when the entire student body and staff were asked to “wear pink and boots” and pledge at least one dollar to help fight cancer. The small school of 540 students raised $650 in one day. There are several other events scheduled up until the actual relay event, which is being help April 15-16, 2016: New Year’s BINGO, and Make, Bake, and Grow event.

Nicole Fimiano, an ESE Specialist at Plantation Park Elementary, is the team captain for her school and has been involved in Relay for Life for several years.

The school wants to teach the students how important it is to get involved at a young age and have them think beyond themselves. Almost everyone has been in one way or another touched by cancer. “It really is so important that we let kids know that cancer is just not for one person,” Principal Julie Gittelman said. “It can happen to anyone, or any one family member, so you just teach the kids so they’re aware, to be sensitive, to care for others, not just themselves.” Gittelman added, “Our school has been personally affected by cancer, it’s always effortless to get people to help. We seem to always exceed our team goal.”

Plantation Park Elementary is a school where the students, parents, staff, and the community work together because we “give a HOOT” about children!” If you have any questions, please feel free to call the school 754-323-7150.

Reading comprehension is one of the most important aptitudes a student needs to succeed. Put simply, this skill allows your child to understand what he or she reads and analyze its meaning. This active process doesn’t

always come naturally—comprehension instruction at home and in the classroom can

help significantly. Here are few tips to help your child hone this skill and become a better student:

Encourage your child to set a goal before beginning. Previewing a text before reading helps readers develop goals for their reading session. For example, if your child needs to answer a series of questions about a passage or textbook chapter, encourage him or her to look at its organization to note where the most relevant information might be based on what he or she needs or wants to learn. Because textbooks are dense with information, this process will help your child navigate content more effectively and retain what he or she reads in class and as homework.

“Check in” after every page. Self-monitoring is essential to comprehension, so encourage your child to pause after each page (or more frequently if needed) to make sure he or she understood what it says. It can be helpful to jot down important notes on notecards (or sticky notes to place within the book’s pages). If reading together, ask your child periodically what a passage said and if it made sense.

Use the text to answer questions. Part of effective comprehension

monitoring is knowing when to seek further information. If a text references an unfamiliar topic, encourage your child to flip through the chapter to see if it will be discussed later.

Take notes or map it out. Visual aids can be very helpful as students attempt to follow a plot of a story, organize ideas and make connections. Talk with your child’s teacher about visual tools that might aid your child’s comprehension as he or she reads. Also, remind your child not to gloss over graphics within a textbook. These are meant to summarize information and make complicated information more digestible.

Summarize at the end of a section. After each section, encourage your child to take a moment to confirm his or her understanding of the main takeaway, supporting information, extraneous information and anything unexpected that he or she learned.

Take time to reflect. After reading a textbook chapter, your child should refer back to the notecards or sticky notes where he or she wrote important points. Also, encourage your child to consider doing additional research on lingering questions.

If your continued efforts to build your child’s reading comprehension do not seem to yield positive results, there might be something else going on. If your child is struggling with reading in general, call Huntington. We can help get to the root of the problem and help your child become a more capable, confident reader.

Huntington Learning Center offers these tips based on its experience with reading instruction and also drew from suggestions provided by Reading Rockets, a national organization that offers research-based strategies and resources for raising strong readers.

Teaching a Child to Read for Maximum ComprehensionBy Dr. Raymond J. Huntington

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Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) congratulates Superintendent Robert W. Runcie for being selected as Florida’s 2016 Superintendent of the Year by the Florida Association of District School Superintendents (FADSS). Superintendent Runcie received the honor Wednesday, December 2, 2015, during a joint meeting of FADSS and the Florida School Boards Association in Tampa.

Runcie was appointed BCPS Superintendent in October 2011, and is now entering his fifth year leading the sixth largest public school system in the nation and the second largest in the state of Florida.

During his tenure as BCPS Superintendent, Runcie was instrumental in spearheading community support for an $800 million General Obligation Bond in November 2014, which passed with 74 percent voter approval. This additional revenue source provides BCPS with needed funding for safety and modernization of schools, as well as updated technology, as part of its SMART (Safety, Music & Art, Athletics, Renovation and Technology) initiative.

Additional BCPS education initiatives under Runcie’s leadership include:• Becoming a national model for rethinking school discipline

through its intervention strategy called PROMISE, which is creating positive outcomes for BCPS students and the community.

• Implementing innovative programs and engaging learning opportunities for all students including scholastic chess for all 2nd and 3rd grade students; the largest debate program in the

nation – in all high schools and expanding in middles schools; computer science courses in all high schools; and expanding dual language programs and investing in music and the arts.

• Continuously improving management of BCPS business operations to deliver significant savings for reinvestment in BCPS students, teachers and schools.“Bob Runcie is an outstanding superintendent with a single

focus and commitment to student success,” states FADSS President and Orange County Superintendent Barbara Jenkins. “His instructional and operational expertise provide purposeful direction to one of the nation’s largest urban school districts. Highly respected by his colleagues, Bob well represents the educational leaders of Florida,” adds Jenkins.

“Bob is not only an exceptional superintendent with a proven track record of success; he is a true servant leader committed to educational excellence,” states FADSS Chief Executive Officer and Florida Senator Bill Montford. “He is an asset to the association and his leadership is valued by his colleagues throughout the state, in large part due to his ability to recognize the significant challenges statewide regardless of district size,” adds Montford.

The process for electing Florida’s Superintendent of the Year was established by the American Association of School Administrators (AASA), a national organization of school superintendents and other educational leaders. In February 2016, Runcie will represent all Florida superintendents at the AASA’s National Education Conference in Phoenix, Arizona where he will be recognized and honored for his public education service in Florida.

Submitted by Broward County Schools

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Plantation Elementary, a Title I, Sprouting STEM Museum Magnet School recently welcomed two new administrators, Judith E. Pitter, principal and Dr. Deborah Brown, assistant principal. Both hail from two Broward county public schools. Ms. Pitter was the former assistant principal at Palmview Elementary, a Global Environmental Science Magnet, and Dr. Brown was the assistant principal at Coconut Creek Elementary. Having them join the Plantation Elementary family is an educational treat, as they bring in new ideas and strategies that will help to increase student achievement.

This year the school will host four Sprouting STEM Museum Magnet showcase events that will allow the students to exhibit their learning efforts for each quarter.

The first showcase, titled “Night at the Museum - Super Engineers in Action” occurred on October 22, and focused on the integration of the Engineering is Elementary (EiE) curriculum with the required Florida State Standards. The second showcase was held in December.

The EiE curriculum is part of the many Sprouting STEM grant initiatives that have been implemented in the past two years.

In the next two showcases, scheduled for March 17, and May 26, the exhibits will not only focus on EiE, but also the integration of other grant initiatives. These initiatives include technology usage, hands-on science inquiry lessons and project-based learning activities, inclusive of gardening and nutrition. The exhibition nights are from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and are open to the public.

Please contact Darlene DeRusha, the STEM Magnet Coordinator, for more details about the Sprouting STEM Museum Magnet program or any other information regarding activities at Plantation Elementary.

South Plantation High School is now open to students to register for the 2016-17 school year. You can apply online for our magnet program. The Environmental Science and Everglades Restoration Magnet Program will expose your child to the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) areas of study and provide the rigor to apply to the top colleges in the United States, as well as the top universities in the state of Florida. Our program is ONE of a kind. There is NO other Everglades Restoration program in the world…it is unique to Florida, Broward County Schools and to South Plantation High School.

“One magnet student just earned a score of 34 on his ACT test, and is hoping to attend MIT,” said Guidance Director Eric Knight. “Last year, one of our students who scored a 34 is now enrolled at Yale University!”

To register for the Magnet Program parents should log into BrowardSchools.com and on the right click ‘School Choice Apply Now’. You will receive an email from Broward County Schools if your child is accepted into our program.

“I love the magnet program! I am studying Marine Science and hope to work in that field in the future,” said a senior Magnet Student.

The Magnet Program allows the students to attend field trips each year to learn about the unique Everglades in the state of Florida. The students have the opportunity to work year round with the animals in our ‘On Campus Zoo’. Throughout the year, babies are born to pigs, goats, bunnies, sheep and even cats. Our students learn how to care for these animals and even how to nurse them back to health if they are ill.

There is something for EVERY student at South Plantation High School. Come and check out our amazing Drama Program, compete with our cheerleading squad, tryout for a sports team, learn to cook like a chef in our restaurant style kitchen, earn certifications in technology classes, or join one of our clubs. Please call us to set up an appointment to tour our school. 754-323-1950. Students will select their courses in March for next year.

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Seminole Middle is gearing up for an educational Spring. Each year as our students earn high school credits, they are also exposed to our diverse DECAL program. Call to find out more about our program or schedule a tour to learn what Seminole Middle School can offer your child for 6th, 7th and 8th grade. We have several parent and family nights coming up and we would love for you to be a part of them.

Students who are currently enrolled will begin thinking about high school and beyond. The 8th graders will receive course selection cards for high school in the early Spring. Some 8th graders will graduate from Seminole with as

many as 10 high school credits! This is something we are very proud of. The opportunities to learn for the very high achieving students can be matched to the best schools in our state. Right now there are several hundred students taking a high school course at Seminole.

Seminole has something for every child. For those who want to try high school courses, we have them. For those who love Drama or Photography or music, we have it. If your child is passionate about sports, we have teams for boys and girls. Our goal is to reach every learner, and develop their passions and see growth in their academic endeavors.

SEMINOLE MIDDLE SCHOOLOFFERING SOMETHING FOR

EVERY STUDENT

Peters Elementary students are excited about the upcoming after school classes that are being offered. Classes include robotics, keyboarding, theater and tap dancing. Students who are registered will attend classes in their area of interest beginning in January. Our own talented teachers will teach these classes! Students will attend classes once a week for an hour to actively participate in their chosen area of interest. These classes give students an opportunity to apply the English Language Arts and Math skills they learn during the school day to real world experiences! We

can’t wait to see what they accomplish by the end of the 8-week session. Coming in February is the Panda Prowl, an event sponsored by our

fabulous PTA! Our panda is getting ready by sporting a whole new outfit for the occasion! Family and friends will pledge to make a donation if the students participate in the Panda Prowl. Each student will have the opportunity to walk around a designated area for a specific amount of time. All proceeds will be utilized to support learning activities at Peters Elementary!

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ACADEMICDIRECTORY

ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT & CONTINUING EDUCATION BRIGHT & SMART - ROBOTICS & CODING PROGRAMSNOW OFFERING ON-SITE FIELD TRIPS TO SCHOOLS, AFTERSCHOOL & CAMP PROVIDERS! Tailored to meet the STEM curriculum and Common Core objectives, children will learn hands-on robot assembly and coding in a fun-filled experience that fosters teamwork, critical and creative thinking, and problem solving skills. Robotics Afterschool & Saturday Programs and Spring/Winter/Summer Camps also offered for girls and boys, 7 - 14 years old, at various locations. Afterschool Programs are held in 8-week sessions. Tuition includes 90 minutes per week of instruction, materials, and lab fees. Register for an Introductory Trial Class today! (954) 816-3346, Info@BrightAndSmart.com, www.BrightAndSmart.com, or visit our page at www.facebook.com/BrightAndSmart.

IMACS – MATH, COMPUTER PROGRAMMING & LOGICAL REASONING ENRICHMENTTake your child’s logical reasoning skills to the next level! IMACS gives students a competitive edge by teaching them how to think critically in a fun environment. Call (954) 791-2333 or visit www.imacs.org to schedule a FREE Placement Class. Weekly after-school/Saturday classes. Grades 1–12. Weston, Plantation, Boca, Fort Lauderdale, Pembroke Pines, Delray, and Aventura.

HIGH SCHOOL & GRADUATION SERVICESHERFF JONES BROWARD COUNTY / CHUCK PULERI & ASSOCIATES(954) 693-0006. 8230 West State Road 84, Davie 33324. High School Rings, Championship Rings, Caps, Gowns, Tassels, Cords, Graduation Announcements, Graduate Name Cards, Thank You Notes, Class Year Merchandise, Diploma Plaques and more. Conveniently located in the heart of Broward County on State Road 84 between Pines Island Rd. & University Dr. Online shopping available via our website www.HJBroward.com.

LANGUAGE SCHOOLS & PROGRAMSESOL – ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGESThis class is for bilingual members of our community to become proficient in English. Enrollment and classes are continuous. Held at Jim Ward Community Center, Monday – Friday from 9:00am – 2:00pm. Call the Plantation Community School for more information (754) 322-1953.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS & PRESCHOOLSTHE SAGEMONT SCHOOLThe Sagemont School promotes academic excellence from preschool through 12th grade. Our college prep curriculum includes quality opportunities in athletics, the arts, extra-curricular activities and community service. Middle and High School students receive valuable individualized college entrance guidance. Accredited by SACS, AISF & NCPSA. Lower School Campus (PreK3–Grade 5): Call (954) 384-5454 Ext. 2502, located at 1570 Sagemont Way, Weston 33326. Upper School Campus (Grades 6–12): Call (954) 389-2454 Ext. 366, located at 2585 Glades Circle, Weston 33327. We give campus tours daily. www.sagemont.com.

SUMMIT-QUESTA MONTESSORI SCHOOLJudy Dempsey – Head of School. Nationally Certified Montessori Teachers, Preschool – Grade 8. Beautiful 10-acre Campus, Butterfly and Organic Gardens, Gymnasium and Pools, Strong Leadership Program. American Montessori Society Full Member; Accredited Montessori Teacher Training Center; Accredited by AISF, Advanced/SACS, MSA, Ai, NCPSA and Recipient of Gold Seal Award of Excellence. 5451 SW 64 Avenue, Davie 33314. www.summit-questa.com, info@summitquesta.com. (954) 584-3466.

TEMPLE DOR DORIMBeginning Your Child’s Journey Through Excellence in Education. A NATIONAL AWARD WINNING EARLY CHILDHOOD Center, NAEYC Accredited and VPK program provider with scores among the highest in the state. Ages 3 months–5 years. Now offering full time infant care. Mommy & Me and Transition Classes Available. Before & Aftercare and Enrichment classes to age 8. Summer Camp, travel and nontravel camp program for 3 months through 4th grade. Complimentary Temple Membership for ECC Families. Discounts for new families! Hablamos Espanol. Open to the Community. 2360 Glades Circle, Weston 33327. (954) 389-1232, www.dordorim.org.

WESTLAKE PREPARATORY SCHOOL & ACADEMYK–12th Grade. Now Enrolling for the 2016 - 2017 school year. Offering academic excellence for over 20 years, Westlake Prep has relocated to a 10-acre campus in the heart of Cooper City. Highly qualified, certified teachers and administrators welcome all students seeking smaller class sizes, individualized instruction, college preparatory curriculum and a selection of three distinct academic pathways. Serving high achievers, average students and special needs. Full athletic program. Chapel and religious studies available. No bullying zone policy. Accredited by SACS & FCIS. Members of the FHSAA. Title 1 approved. MCKAY and SUFS accepted. Speech and OT therapy are offered on campus. Call us today to schedule a tour. See for yourself if Westlake is the right school for your student. 8950 Stirling Road, Cooper City. (954) 236-2300.

BRIGHT STEPS FORWARDBright Steps Forward is a private school (K-12) for special needs children focusing on Spectrum Disorders & children with Cerebral Palsy. We are enrolling students for the 2015-2016 year & accepting McKay and Step Up Scholarships. Our program focuses on developing motivation and an ability to share experiences with others, flexible creative thinking, problem solving, communicating feelings and meaning. Instructional and related services are provided based upon goals and objectives written in IEPs. In addition to regular progress reports, our staff logs progress daily, and weekly to record goal progress, demeanor, behavior, and social interactions. 10261 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines 33025, 2233 N. Commerce Parkway #1, Weston 33326 & 1750 N. University Drive, Suite 105, Coral Springs 33071. CORAL GABLES COMING SOON!

SMART & FIT KIDS Smart & Fit Kids preschool offers full day and half day preschool programs for ages 1 to 5, including VPK. Facility includes a new covered outdoor playground and a new state-of-the-art indoor gym that provides the convenience of having our enrolled students participate in gymnastics classes without having to drive them to another location. It is the perfect setting for children to develop intellectually, socially, emotionally and physically. All meals are provided. 9142 State Rd. 84, Davie 33324. (954) 370-0400. www.smartandfitkids.com.

READINGSTORY TIME AT HELEN B. HOFFMAN LIBRARY501 N Fig Tree Ln., Plantation 33317, (954) 797-2140, mknapp@plantation.org. Summer Story times through July 29, 2015. Wednesdays: 10:30am for ages 2–4, 4:00pm for all ages and Thursdays: 10:30am for ages 2–4, 4:00pm for all ages. Baby lap time: Wednesdays at 10:00am for ages 3 months - 11 months. Read Aloud with a Therapy Dog by appointment. Call (954) 797-2145 to schedule. *No story times during Winter and Spring School Breaks.

TUTORING SERVICESHUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTERGrades K–12. Huntington will pinpoint your child’s academic strengths and weaknesses and tailor a program just for your child. Reading, Math, Writing, Phonics, Study Skills, Florida Statewide Assessment, HS Entrance Exam Prep, Tutoring in any subject. College SAT/ACT Prep. Locations: Pembroke Pines East (954) 436-3330; Pembroke Pines West (954) 431-4443; Plantation (954) 474-4144.

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