2 3 Thanks for Everything! Tradition, Tradition! By Shellie Miller We all know the theme of most November publications, but I'd like to be so bold as to The holiday season is officially upon us. Charger mom avoid some of the sappy stuff and add some humor. Guess what? I’m grateful. I hope Chrissi Vadala says "This is the most treasured three you are, too! I’d like to give thanks for things I often forget to say, and will definitely not be mentioning over turkey. Thank God that I didn’t get pulled over when I missed the months for our family… And it goes by so fast!" Traditions stop sign, my make-up wasn't on yet and was only wearing pajamas. Thanks to those for her family begin in mid-October and start with a pump- of you who didn't embarrass me by mentioning the stacks of mail, assortment of shoes kin carving contest between her three children. The antici- (in every size and style...thanks, kids!) and unfolded laundry in our living room. Thanks pation of Thanksgiving has her planning menus, family gath- to my dogs and parrots who are always excited to see me (not always the case with my erings, and always includes a cookie exchange between her teenagers). Thank you to my amazing husband for trudging to the barn in the early and a group of friends. Of course cookie preparation, frosting morning rain to fix fences and a water main (country living at its finest) in a flooded, and packaging includes every member of the family (cue the mucky horse stall. spoon-licking)! More importantly, November is the time for us to be grateful for the brave men and Which memories from your own childhood are you carrying into traditions that will live on in your family and women who are the backbone of our armed forces. Thanks to every person who has extended family? Ours began two generations ago with Scott's Nana. She has a really yummy pumpkin pie put their own life at risk to protect our country, our freedom and our children. Please recipe that everyone in our family takes a turn making every year. With the first one made probably a week acknowledge someone you know who serves or has served in the military on Veterans before Thanksgiving (and devoured in mere moments), we don't get tired of enjoying her pumpkin pie until Day, November 11...or take the time to honor them during the entire month of probably sometime in February. She left us with amazing holiday memories, recipes and traditions that our ™ November. They serve us EVERY day. Let's give them 30 in 2014. Spectator Magazine own sons and daughter look forward to sharing with their future families. 7660 NW 82nd Ter. • Parkland • FL • 33067 God bless your family and each and every one of our troops, Is your favorite tradition making a popcorn garland, roasting a goose, wrapping gifts, an annual family Publisher & Contributing Writers camping trip, or a game of touch football? Is your favorite holiday one that we celebrate in November or Managing Editor Michael Armfield Shellie &Scott December....or is it a different time of year that you are fondly looking forward to? To kick off our Spectator Shellie Miller - Samantha Gaynor tradition of sharing, here it is... ENJOY! Farrugia Dr. Howard Gelb Dr. Gary Goberville Happy Thanksgiving! Creative Director Shellie Miller Scott Farrugia Brett Porter Valerie Robbins Photography Bill Sohl Nana's Pumpkin Pie Scott Farrugia Dr. Clive Woods • Preheat the oven to 425 Cheri Tishman Advertising Sales • Using your favorite homemade recipe or a (954) 753-4300 Web, Social Media refrigerated pie crust, prepare and place it, uncooked, e-mail: & email Marketing [email protected] in a ceramic or glass pie pan. BG Marketing Distributed by Crimp the edges and set aside. Links Media US Mail & In a blender, food processor or mixer, combine: Baron Express 954-297-0731 • 15 oz. can of 100% Pumpkin (not pie mix) •2 eggs • 14 oz. can of Sweetened Condensed Milk Facebook.com/MySpectator (NOT evaporated) Twitter@/MySpectator • 1 tsp. Ground Cinnamon MySpectatorOnline.com • 1/2 tsp. Ground Nutmeg • 1/2 tsp. Ground Ginger The entire contents of this magazine are copyright 2015 Spectator Publishing, Inc. Opinions expressed in The • 1/4 tsp. salt Spectator are those of the respective writers and are not nec- essarily those held by the publisher or staff. All advertising and copy are subject to the approval of the publisher and may be • Blend thoroughly and pour into pie shell. rejected for any reason. Due to last minute changes, technical • Bake for 15 minutes and then reduce oven issues or other problems beyond Spectator Publishing Inc.'s control, Spectator Publishing Inc. cannot be held responsible temperature to 325 for omissions, changes in schedule, misprints or accuracy of said listings or other information. All submission and published • Bake 35 minutes or until a toothpick test in the material are the property of Spectator Publishing, Inc. The publishers reserve the right to edit all submitted copy. All center comes out clean. advertising and features, including art work, layout and design remain the sole property of Spectator Publishing Inc. and may Note - if crust is becoming too dark, shield it with not be reprinted without written permission from the publisher. foil while the pie continues baking On the cover: Coral Springs Christian Academy Students 4 5 My name is Valerie Robbins. I am a senior and the Student Body President at Coral Springs Christian Academy. I have been attending CSCA for the past 13 years, or since Kindergarten, thus deeming me a “lifer.” I am a content, proud “lifer” for several reasons. First, this school is truly centered on Christ. Most would assume this is so automatically from the name, but I men- tion this point specifically because I know of several schools that claim the name of religion, but do not properly represent or present it. My teachers have not only taught me things applicable in the world of academia, but also in my spirituality, truly connecting me with Christ. CSCA pres- ents a biblical worldview, but in a very realistic manner— we are encouraged to think critically. The real world does not readily accept Christianity without skepticism, and CSCA prepares us to face such doubt. Because of the many didactic, pertinent, and priceless lessons I have learned at CSCA, I am certain that I am ready to face the suspicion of modern culture. One of the many valuable les- sons I have learned here is that when I do experience adversity, I am able to turn to God and His Word for guid- ance to overcome it. Overall, my favorite aspect of CSCA is the Christian family ambience of my school. The size definitely contributes to the closer interactions of students and staff school-wide, but does not guarantee a family atmosphere. The family atmosphere is produced by the people in it and their will- ingness to invest their time. Furthermore, the CSCA faculty members truly resemble family. They are sincere in their actions, having the best intentions.—they are caring, con- siderate, and supportive. Because of the sincerity of the faculty, each student is able to identify a role model within the staff. Each staff member gets to know the students personally as a human being, rather than just as a number on the roster. From my experience, it is not the size of the school that creates a family ambience, but the people in it. For example, I have definitely noticed that no matter when or how someone may leave this school, the person always stays in touch and visits. This is because of the relation- ship built with CSCA and the people here—it is more than an acquaintanceship, and more like a lifelong family rela- tionship. My parents have given me the freedom to choose my path, and CSCA has been the path I have chosen for these wonderful 13 years. As I prepare to go to college, I often look back on my life at this school. When I do so, I am confident that I have made the right decision by contin- uing to attend Coral Springs Christian Academy. 6 Arelis has stars in her eyes when she says with a smile,"18 years ago, we met in The Boings Venezuela, where I'm from. Rob was working there. It was love at first sight!" Married for 17 years, Rob and Arelis have three beautiful children; Maggie 16, Alejandro 13 and Robert 12. All three of the kids attend Coral Springs Charter School. Maggie is a Junior, and thinks science is super cool. She stays involved in extracurricular activities like Drama, Journalism and the Yearbook. She also loves playing the piano and has been taking lessons for 7 years. Alejandro is an 8th grader who also likes science. He loves playing the guitar and participates in drama, but his real passion is being on the field. Robert is in 6th grade and loves math, playing baseball and hanging out with his friends. He also plays the piano. For the past 9 years Arelis has worked as a preschool teacher at Seton Ridge Children's Center. Rob has been work- ing in the telecommunication industry for 20 years, and is purchasing a local landscaping company. Relocating from Houston, Texas 14 years ago, Arelis reflects, "It was hard leaving family and friends behind but at the same time, it was very exciting to be in the Sunshine State. “We've been parishioners of St Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church since we moved to Coral Springs and we found a great community of Faith and friendship there." Their boys are altar servers and Maggie sings in the youth Choir. all of the Boings enjoy helping at the food drive for The St Vincent De Paul Society. In addition to her volunteering for the Church charities and activities, Arelis is also a board member at North Springs Little League. Rob is a member of the St Vincent De Paul Society that provides assistance to local families in need. He is also the President of their HOA and coaches for North Springs Little League and for Coral Springs Winter ball in between seasons. He says, "Coral Springs is a great place to raise a family, with a lot of activities for everyone to enjoy. Here we didn't just find our home, but also great neighbors and friends we call family." The Boing Family isn't complete without their 3 rescued cats, Mia, Onyx and Francis and 1 crazy bird, Noah. This active family likes to play board games and spends time together cooking, watching movies and being at the ballpark where they say they spend must of their time. And Maggie adds, "We like to have fun together. If you see our family cruising around town on a Sunday afternoon, we are usually listening to classic rock with the windows down, singing really loud!"

8 9 When our kids start asking to get involved in a team sport, it's usually one of three for their first squad. A favorite because of the popularity of its Big Brother, the NFL, flag football is often a popular jumping in point for parents and new players. For Mom and Dad, it's a safer alternative than full pads, a helmet and 240 pound linebackers. For their little ones, it's fast action and making the same heroic plays that they watch on the prime time gridiron every week. Parkland resident Michael Zajack told us, "Flag football was my entree to Parkland Sports in 2009. Since then, I've coached multiple teams each year and my three kids and I consider it our favorite town sport. The league is well run and offers a great deal of fun for kids of any skill set or experience level. You can't help but enjoy the excitement and it never gets old playing under the lights on the turf fields." Joining friends and neighbors for practices and competitions is always fun, and the sights and sounds at the field have a unique flavor and rhythm all of their own. Families sport their team colors, cheerleaders perform daring stunts and players put their best efforts into every first, second, third and sometimes fourth down. These boys and girls leave it all on the field, gaining valuable game and team skills, while making new friends in the process. Michael continued, "Just this past season I offered to bring another child along who had never played an organized sport. He is the son of a single mom in our neighborhood who couldn't bring him due to her work schedule. We bring him along to every practice and game and I'm thrilled to see another kid in town enjoy the game as much as we do." The 43 year old league, Coral Springs Flag, will host its famous Super Bowl with games at Mullins Park all day on November 7. Don't miss a moment of the excitement, with Super Bowl rings presented to every winning team on that day! Are your kids ready to pass, run and play hard? Mark your calendars to get signed up for Coral Springs Flag Football beginning in February and Parkland Flag soon after.

10 By Brett Porter

In the last few years, the trend I see over and over again is individuals and businesses buying the cheapest insur- ance policy possible. Most often, these policies do not give you the coverage that you need. As a result of this, problems arise at claim time because you're not properly covered or insured. Now is a good time to take a look at your current Homeowner's and Auto policies. Make sure that you understand the coverages you have purchased. The most common omissions on Homeowner's policies are replacement cost on contents, screen enclosure coverage and law and ordinance coverage. On Auto policies, make sure that you have proper liabili- ty limits to protect your assets. Also, check to see that you have a liability umbrella if you have a high net worth and confirm your uninsured motorist limits, especially if you do not have disability and/or medical insurance. Considering the volatility of the insurance market, now is a great time to shop the premiums. The auto and umbrella availabilities are plentiful and there are many carriers to choose from. You will often find huge differ- ences in rates. The question to ask yourself is, do you have the proper coverage and are you with the right company? To be certain, please call me for a no obligation review of your insurance policies. See ad below

12

Baseball & Tee Ball Driving School Horseback Riding Soccer Private Schools & Camps Volleyball AMERICAN/NATIONAL LITTLE LEAg UE MALACHI ACRES CORAL SPRINg S RECREATIONAL CORAL SPRINg S CHRISTIAN ACADEMy SAND TURTLES VOLLEyBALL CLUB g O DRIVINg INC. For more info www.CSYS.org or call Mimi Milton Beginner sand volleyball training for kids and adults. NOW REGISTERING! For more info. see Learn to drive in the coolest cars on the road, Riding Lessons and Boarding for Ages 5 thru adult Northwest Broward County’s premier private Christian for further info. 954-341-6391. Call Mark Lewkowicz for more info. (954)345-0500. www.csall.com, or call (754) 551-1501. GT Mustangs and SS Camaros! Permit Exams, with beginner thru advanced instruction. college preparatory school. Grades PK3 through 12th grade. Accredited by the SACS, ACSI, FCIS, FKC & www.sandturtlesvolleyball.com See ad on pg 17. instruction 7 days a week, and much more. For more info. call 954-255-7185 or go to CORAL SPRINg S UNITED TRAVEL SOCCER. www.MalachiAcres.com. See ad pg 8. ECFA. For more info. call 954-752-2870 or go to For more info, call (954) 757-7622. See ad pg 3 The Storm & Renegades have officially merged! CHALLENg ER BASEBALL LEAg UE Call Mike Driscoll at 954-439-2851 or see www.csca.us. See ad and story on pgs 6-7. YMCA Leagues Strives to reach disabled kids and their families Ice Skating & Hockey www.coralspringsunited.com at no cost. For more info, call (954) 345-9329. Flag Football & Cheerleading g LADES CHRISTIAN ACADEMy PARKLAND yMCA FAMILy FUN CENTER PANTHERS ICEDEN MEN'S OVER 30 SOCCER All About Introducing Kids to Jesus and His Word! Find out about league offerings and activities. NORTH SPRINg S LITTLE LEAg UE CORAL SPRINg S FLAg FOOTBALL The triple rink known formerly known as Saveology For information, call (954)384-9622 or see & FLAg FOOTBALL CHEERLEADINg Contact Dr. Rami Toueg at (954)341-4500 Kindergarten though 8th grade. For more info, call NOW REGISTERING! For more info go to has programs all year long! www.PanthersDen.com 954.755.6405 or see www.CBGLADES.COM/GCA www.ymcabroward.org www.eteamz.com/northsprings. see ad and For more info, see www.CSFFC.ORG, contact or call (954)341-9956. See ad on page 14. story pgs 20-21. Bruce Weinberg (954)263-5545 yOUTH SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION WINTER BASEBALL Lacrosse OF CORAL SPRINg S (ySACS) SUPER STARS SUMMER DAy CAMP Players from Parkland and Coral Springs are FLAg FOOTBALL CORAL SPRINg S CHIEFS Two seasons run each year, February -May and South Florida’s Premier Summer Day Camp! We get welcome. Games are held August - November. For more info. see www.UltimateFlagFootball.org NOW REGISTERING! For more info see September-November. See the website at your child running, jumping, playing and having a www.cswb.us or call 954-341-0702. www.coralspringslacrosse.com www.coralspringssoftball.com or call blast all summer long. For more info. see Tackle Football Call Anthony LoFurno 954–868–4735 or email (954)344-0171 www.SuperStarsCamp.com or call (954)444-8548. MEN'S CHRISTIAN ATHLETIC ASSOC. [email protected]. See ad below Important Numbers Teams of every denomination from any faith-based & Cheerleading CORAL SPRINg S WOMEN’S SOFTBALL Special Needs Aquatic Complex...... (954)345-2121 organization are welcome to the league. CORAL SPRINg S TACKLE FOOTBALL Players 18 & older can join the slow-pitch teams that PARKLAND BUDDy SPORTS Running play on Sundays and Monday evenings at Forest Hills City Hall in the Mall ...... (954)344-1828 Please call (954) 796-0933 & TACKLE FOOTBALL CHEERLEADINg NORTHWEST BROWARD ROAD RUNNERS Find out about league offerings and activities. For more info see www.cschargers.com Park.Call Barb Pantazis (954) 344-4449. www.ParklandBuddySports.com Coral Springs g ymnasium ...... (954)345-2107 MEN'S SENIOR OVER 30 BASEBALL A volunteer-based organization with a goal to promote Cypress Park Pool ...... (954)345-2109 For info. call Ron Luzim (954)755-1500 health and wellness through running, provide support PARKLAND RANg ERS TACKLE Pet Sitting CHALLENg ER BASEBALL LEAg UE Cypress Park Tennis ...... (954)345-2100 or Kevin Lydon (954)609-0069. for runners of all ages, levels and abilities. For more Strives to reach disabled kids and their families FOOTBALL & CHEERLEADINg info. go to www.nwbrrc.com or email SAFE AT HOME PETS Mullins Park Pool ...... (954)345-2170 Bonded and insured with more than 30 years experi- at no cost. For more info, call (954) 345-9329. CORAL SPRINg S TEE BALL Football contact: 954-892-4244 or [email protected] Sportsplex Tennis Center ...... (954)344-1840 For more info. call Nick Becker (954)345-2255. [email protected] ence, keep your pet’s routine predictable when you Cheer contact:954-520-2515 or can’t be home. Overnight stays or daily stop-ins. TOMORROW’S DREAMS TODAy Parks and Recreation ...... (954)345-2200 [email protected]. Shooting Range For more info. call 954-415-5425. See ad page 5. Tomorrow's Dreams Today provides programs & facil- Parks Field Conditions ...... (954)344-1187 www.parklandrangers.com g UN WORLD OF SOUTH FLORIDA ities for children and young adults with special needs, yMCA Family Center ...... (954)384-9622 CORAL SPRINg S BASKETBALL State-of-the-art shooting facility. Beginner to expert while creating awareness and sensitivity. Year round play check for sign up dates. welcome. Sales & service, firearms safety course, For more info, call 954-753-9430 or www.CSBCHOOPS.com or call (954) 360-1200 concealed weapons classes. Fully stocked store for www.tomorrowsdreamstoday.org. or Barry Popock (954) 599-6660 all your shooting needs. www.gunworldofsfl.com, call 954-596-0526.

16 17 That Fear is Not Real By Michael Armfield As I look back and reflect on October I am reminded of a powerful truth that plays out in our lives. SUPER STARS SUMMER DAy CAMP Parkland Little League Lacrosse NOW REGISTERING. South Florida’s Premier Summer Halloween is a time that most children love. It’s a time where kids can dress up as their favorite Day Camp! We get your child running, jumping, playing For more info., call (954) 604-2442 or visit PARKLAND REDHAWKS hero or spooky creature. I do not know about you, but my son starts brainstorming about what he www.parklandll.com See www.parklandlacrosse.com or call Barbara and having a blast all summer long. For more info. see Crowley (954) 227-2733. www.SuperStarsCamp.com or call (954)444-8548. will dress up as months prior to Halloween. He typically changes his mind at least three times. He Basketball looks forward to how many houses he can approach to say trick or treat and receive candy from. PARKLAND REC BASKETBALL Soccer Driving School He also talks about the houses that he does not want to visit from the year prior, as there decora- NOW REg ISTERINg ! PARKLAND SOCCER CLUB tions are just too scary for him. See www.parklandbasketball.com or call the For more info, call (954)410-5172 or g O DRIVINg INC. hotline (954) 227-0989. See ad below www.parklandsoccer.net Learn to drive in the coolest cars on the road, GT Mustangs and SS Camaros! Permit Exams, instruction When I remind him that these scary scenes are just make believe, he is still incapable of under- Cheerleading TRAVEL SOCCER 7 days a week, and much more. For more info, call standing that the fear is not real. On the contrary, it is so real to him that he remembers those PARKLAND PREDATORS (954) 757-7622. See ad on pg 3. PARKLAND CHEERLEADINg CLUB For more info. call Robert at spooky displays throughout the rest of the year. Contact Susan Kelton (954)575-9575. 954-802-4721. www.ParklandPredators.net Shooting Range As I thought about this phenomenon I began to ponder the power of fear in our lives. Fear has Tackle Football & Cheerleading Girls Softball g UN WORLD OF SOUTH FLORIDA the ability to paralyze us. It has the ability to influence us in a way that we will actually alter our PARKLAND RANg ERS TACKLE For info. call Michele (954) 798-1204 or see State-of-the-art shooting facility. Beginner to expert lives to avoid it. Here is the funny thing about fear. It typically is not founded in reality. Just like the FOOTBALL & CHEERLEADINg www.parklandgirlssoftball.com welcome. Sales & service, firearms safety course, houses that are to creepy for my son to visit, you and I have things that terrify us so much that we concealed weapons classes. Fully stocked store for Football contact: 954-892-4244 or Special Needs all your shooting needs. www.gunworldofsfl.com, avoid them all together. [email protected] call 954-596-0526. Cheer contact:954-520-2515 or PARKLAND BUDDy SPORTS While it is comical to think about a child and their fears of imaginary spooks and ghosts, it is not [email protected]. Find out about league offerings and activities. as comical when you as an adult surrender to your fears. www.parklandrangers.com www.ParklandBuddySports.com Think about your life. What are a few things that terrify you? What situations, relationships, or Flag Football Private Schools & Camps challenges render you paralyzed? PARKLAND FLAg FOOTBALL CORAL SPRINg S CHRISTIAN ACADEMy Season is underway. For more info, see Northwest Broward County’s premier private Christian I want to share a example of how fears can destroy. Last month I began working with a young www.parklandflag.com college preparatory school. Grades PK3 through 12th Important Numbers grade. Accredited by the SACS, ACSI, FCIS, FKC & married couple. They have been married for a year and are new to South Florida. On the outside Leisure Services ...... Horseback Riding ECFA. For more info. call 954-752-2870 or go to (954)757-4105 they seem like a normal young family that is making their way in life. On the inside each spouse www.csca.us. See ad and story on pgs 6-7. Field Conditions ...... (954)757-4110 was avoiding some things in their marriage due to a fear. The husband desired to be affirmed for MALACHI ACRES Park Ranger ...... (954)575-1007 Riding Lessons and Boarding for Ages 5 thru adult g LADES CHRISTIAN ACADEMy his hard work but was afraid that if he shared that with his wife she would think he was weak. The with beginner thru advanced instruction. All About Introducing Kids to Jesus and His Word! Youth,Teen, & Senior Programs (954)757-4129 wife on the other hand was afraid to tell her husband that she really did not like south Florida and For more info. call 954-255-7185 or go to Kindergarten though 8th grade. For more info, call City Hall ...... (954)753-5040 missed their hometown. She thought this would devastate him as his new job transferred him to www.MalachiAcres.com. See ad on page 8. 954.755.6405 or see www.CBGLADES.COM/GCA Terramar Tennis ...... (954)757-1910 See ad on page 14. South Florida. YMCA Family Fun Center ...... (954)384-9622 So just like my child on Halloween, they both avoided the subject. The result of them not facing these fears whether realistic or unrealistic was driving them apart. Privately they both really want- ed to be honest with their spouse, but due to some of their let downs in life they could not muster the courage to face this and simply share these topics with each other. As we continued to work together, I was able to help each spouse work through the worst case scenario that could result from sharing these fears with each other. Thankfully they individually realized that the worse case result was not nearly as bad as continuing to suppress how they were feeling. In our next session each of them shared with each other what has been going on in their heart and mind. As the husband shared his desire for a pat on the back, his wife smiled and verbally affirmed how much his hard work meant to her. She then said, “Why did you not just tell me that?” The wife then shared how she was struggling with adjusting to their new community and her husband replied with love and even expressed that he was having that same struggle. The result of each of them facing their fear was powerful. They now understand each other better and have grown closer in their relationship. As you can see this example illustrates how a simple fear of something has the power to alter your life. Going unchecked this couple’s fear had brought them into my office considering a divorce. Today we are working on examining other fears that they have that each of them have been reluctant to share with each other. They are working on building tools for communication and are starting to really move in a stride with each other. My child may still continue to fear certain houses in the neighborhood, but one day he will grow beyond that fear. He is a child and that is normal. You are an adult and some of your fears may be sabotaging everything you want in life. This month I encourage you to examine your life. Think about those things that you are afraid of and are avoiding. Then think about how much time you spend playing out the scenarios in your head. You may surprise yourself as to how much mental energy you have been draining. Life is too short to let our fears dictate our future. If fear has been holding you back in life I challenge you to reach out for some assistance. Change and the life you desire is only one step away. The spooky ghosts and grim reapers are for Halloween, today is the day for you to face these facades and begin living the life you desire. Facing your fears can be scary, and that is why we are here to help you. Should we be talking?

18 North Springs Little League had its best sea- son ever in 2015 with more than 400 players taking to the diamonds. League President Mike Hendrix says, "Our success shows that there are still plenty of families and kids who want to be involved in neighborhood recreational baseball." "We are looking forward to our 2016 season, knowing that we've got the most amazing coaches, volunteers and families that keep things fun and running smoothly," Mike says confidently. A record for the league, four teams went on to the state tournament with two teams making it to the state final. "We're proud of the fact that one of our teams was the only one in South Florida to win a state championship," Mike tells us. "It's a great sign for our league and how well the players are developing and growing." Mike attributes a large part of North Springs' success to the fact that all games are played at what he calls "our park." He is heartened by the fact that siblings grow up and play in the same place together… Playing base- ball, watching each other's games, and being rooted in a common neigh- borhood place where they can model good sportsmanship and encourage each other's skills. He shares that there are so many sports that have become ultra competitive like travel leagues and teams that have to play far away from home. Mike and many other parents associated with the league feel that teams who are from the same area that compete and learn together have the best opportunity for success when it comes to the all-American sport of baseball. Players from age 7 to 18 years old of any skill level are encouraged to come out and join North Springs provided they live within the league's strict boundaries. Mike is also excited about the all-star teams that form every year. As they grow and become older, those young men and women go on to pursue the sport at their local high schools. Having grown three of his sons through the program, Mike says that when his boys come home to visit from college they can't wait to go out to North Springs and see how things are going. "I'm so proud of our recreational program," Mike says. "It's so refreshing to see a neighborhood league that has so much poten- tial and encourages these athletes to pursue a sport they love in a bigger way if that is what their dreams entail." g et in the game! g o to northspringsll.com and register for the 2016 season right away. See ad on opposite page for further details.

20 Knee Injuries: The ACL My Aching Bunions By Dr. Clive C. Woods By Dr. Howard Gelb Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are increasingly common in younger athletes, espe- A bunion is a deformity in which the great toe gradually points toward the second toe. In addition, the joint at the base of the toe cially in female athletes. The ACL is one of four major ligaments that stabilize the knee. Its gradually moves away from the second toe. The medical term for this deformity is called Hallux Valgus. It is believed to occur due to wearing shoes with a tight toe box. It is commonly seen in women due to their tendency to wear tight shoes. Bunions can also be main function is to prevent injury to the knee cartilage (meniscus-cushions and articular sur- familial, or due to problems such as arthritis and various neurogenic conditions. Bunions often cause pain and swelling around the face). Without an ACL, the knee becomes unstable with twisting turning sports. Injury to the joint at the base of the big toe, mainly due to the increase in width of the foot. The overlying skin can become red, warm, and thick- ACL is usually associated with a non-contact twisting injury. ACL tears are usually diagnosed ened. In addition, the deformity can push the second toe up causing a hammertoe. Relieving a bunion doesn’t necessarily mean pur- chasing ugly or out of fashion shoes. It is a good idea to shop for shoes late in the day, when your feet are the largest from swelling. by a combination of history and physical exam. In a majority of the cases, the patient The shoe should have a half-inch between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. It should also be wide enough to wiggle your reports planting the foot while twisting the knee and falling to the ground. Most people recall toes. I would also recommend the heel height to be low with your heel firmly against the back of the shoe. Other treatment such as hearing a pop in the knee at the time of injury. Usually the patient cannot return to the sport bunion pads, which are available at most drugstores, and ice massage, can ease your pain. To help relieve a painful bunion, a plas- the same day as the initial injury and the knee swells within the first 24 hours. The Lachman tic bag of ice should be applied to the area for 5 minutes. You may repeat this 2 to 3 times per day. When these treatments have failed, surgery may be indicated. An x-ray of the foot is taken before surgery in order to evaluate the severity of the deformity, and test is the most important physical exam finding that aids in the diagnosis of a tear. There whether there is existing arthritis in the joint. During standard bunion (hallux valgus) correction, the prominent bone is shaved away. can be associated injuries to other ligaments as well, such as the MCL. An orthopedic sur- The metatarsal bone is cut and repositioned with screws, a plate, or a combination of the two. A soft tissue release is performed on Howard J. Gelb, MD geon trained specifically in sports medicine is usually more experienced and accurate in this the contracted joint capsule and adductor tendon between the first and second toe. The final portion of the procedure entails tighten- ing the capsule over the shaved bunion to help move the great toe away from the second. After this procedure the patient is placed    diagnosis. MRI can be useful to confirm the diagnosis and assess the meniscal cartilage.    in a bunion wrap and a small boot. The first 4 to 6 weeks you are allowed to bear weight on your heel. X-rays are obtained in the  The meniscus is damaged almost 50% of the time in association with an acute ACL tear. office to view the healing of the repositioning of the great toe. The treatment for an arthritic joint differs from a joint without degenera-   Treatment of an ACL tear is patient specific but includes reconstruction of the injured liga- tive changes. Depending on the severity of the arthritic bunion, the treatment may require a fusion of the joint.      ment using one of several arthroscopic surgical techniques. It is essential that the meniscus Dr. Woods completed his foot & ankle fellowship at the esteemed Florida Orthopaedic Institute in Tampa Bay, FL and received his be repaired if possible in the young athletic patient in order to prevent future damage to the medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN where he was a member of Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center knee. Certified in Sports Medicine, Dr. Gelb specializes in the treatment of ACL injuries in Society. (561) 558-8898 both adult and pediatric patients. While completing his internship and residency programs at University of Miami’s Jackson Health System, Dr. Woods provided world See our ad below class treatment for a variety of South Florida patients – including University of Miami Hurricanes athletes.

22 23 How Do Vitamins Affect Your Vision? By Dr. Gary Goberville

The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) is a major clinical trial sponsored by the National Eye Institute, one of the federal government's National Institutes of Health. The AREDS was designed to learn more about the natural history and risk factors of age- related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataract and to evaluate the effect of high doses of vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene and zinc on the progression of AMD and cataract. Results from the AREDS showed that high levels of antioxidants and zinc significantly reduce the risk of advanced AMD and its associated vision loss. These same nutrients had no significant effect on the development or progression of cataract. In May 2013, the NEI completed the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2, which tested sev- eral changes to the formulation. They tried adding omega-3 fatty acids, as well as the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which are in the same family of nutrients as beta- carotene. The researchers also tried substituting lutein and zeaxanthin for beta-carotene, which prior studies had associated with an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers. The study found that while omega-3 fatty acids had no effect on the formulation, lutein and Dr. Gary Goberville, zeaxanthin together appeared to be a safe and effective alternative to beta-carotene. Optometric Physician Studies now show how well certain anti oxidants and nutrients certainly help to limit the progression of macular Degeneration. It is important for those who have early changes in the retina to start taking the right eye vitamins with the correct formula. The question now Eye Site Vision Center is how early should we start to take them to possibly prevent macular degeneration. 2344 N. University Dr. For any further questions about supplements and eye health feel free to contact Coral Springs Dr Goberville at eyesite vision center. 954-344-3937 By Samantha Gaynor a senior at Coral Glades High School. Photos by Samantha and Cheri Tishman Come by, stay healthy and have your annual eye exam. Performed in an almost theater, Coral Glades High magical realism is when they say something you think School’s production of Almost, Maine took the audience that can’t really happen, but it's a metaphor.” by (snow) storm for three nights in October. The produc- The versatile play made the audience laugh, jump and tion was directed by new drama teacher Ms. Sarah also cry. Amann’s scene filled the more sentimental Amengual. category while junior Elijah Miller and senior Katie “[Almost, Maine] is especially appropriate for young, bur- Soldano’s story rounded off the show with comedic geoning actors,” Amengual said. "The content is sweet moments. Soldano said, “People were crying from the and filled with the innocence of new love previous scene [The Story of Hope] and mine without ever touching saccharinity. So made them laugh a lot more. My character often, in high school, the temptation is to has no idea that Elijah likes her and she’s go for the ‘bold,’ the ‘daring,’ the ‘cutting oblivious to the fact of love. He blatantly edge,’ but this play reminds us that we says he likes me and she's like, ‘we’re just do not need to rely on shock factor.” friends.’ In the end we strip and every- body gets a good chuckle.” The show is arranged into a series of nine vignettes set in a winter wonder- Theatre-less Coral Glades High School land town called Almost, Maine— must get creative when it comes to named so because the residents never constructing a performance space. The got around to organizing themselves original plan was to set up the stage in into a geographical location. Almost, the school’s courtyard but due to bad Maine was written in the style of magical weather, it had to be relocated inside to realism, meaning that all of the figurative the cafeteria. Stage manager senior Kristen references in the show are taken literally. For example, West said.,“I’m kind of disappointed that we didn’t get Glory (junior Cassidy Zafonte) carries around broken to do it outside at least once because it would have pieces of her heart in a bag and repairman East (junior looked really cool, but I think overall doing it inside Noland Creary) “fixes” it for her when they fall in love. was easier.” In The Story of Hope, Haley Amann plays an ambitious With opening and closing nights completely sold out, and quirky girl named Hope who goes off to college with- Coral Glades High School’s performance of Almost, out giving her boyfriend an answer to his marriage pro- Maine drew in a large crowd to see a multifaceted story posal the night before. “Since my name is Hope, [the of almost love. Their next production is the musical scene] is talking about losing ‘hope’ and how that person Smile to be performed at JP Taravella High School lost me had lost hope,” Amann said. “The concept of March 4-6, 2016.to get fit and run together! 24 25 Deciding it was time to have a dog- friendly community event that focused on families with canine pets, Coral Springs Commissioner Dan Daley and his two chocolate labs created Bark in the Park at Dr. Paul's Dog Park, 2915 Sportsplex Drive. Designed to draw the community together to interact with each other and let their dogs all play, more than 250 people and their pets came out to meet pet vendors and enjoy food trucks, beer and wine in an opportunity to meet their friends and neighbors in a place that doesn't get as much traffic as it should. "I think there might be a lot of people who aren't aware that this beautiful dog park is back here," Commissioner Daley said. And so dogs of every shape and size, together with their families enjoyed a great time meeting each other and find- ing this beautiful place where they can continue to gather for exercise and fun from here on. Proceeds from the event went to the Community Chest. Commissioner Daley looks forward to making this an annual event that will continue to bring the community and their beloved pets together for a great, social cause.

27 28 Fall Fiesta - Saturday, November 7 Enjoy the FREE to visit our pet vendors! If you miss this Farmer's fun at this exciting community event from 2-7 PM at Market/Craft Show date then you can attend the December 6th event (which is our final Market date where Craft vendors Necessity is often the mother of invention. Adam and Jennifer Siegel have been in Royal Palm Christian Church, 9600 Royal Palm our area for more than 20 years and have been busy raising their three children, Ryan, 12, Blvd., Coral Springs. Each fall we celebrate the season will be present). 954-757-4120. See ad on page 18. Elise, 9 and Drew, 8. While running a successful restaurant in Fort Lauderdale for 17 years, they realized that there was with an epic festival packed with food, fun, and enter- Boca Raton Wine & Food Festival - Friday - Sunday something missing in our neighborhood. Adam says, "When it comes to dining out, we have lots of pizza places and tainment for all ages! This year's highlights include Live chains to go to for dinner… A lot of the same old same old. Some nights you want something different. One night we Music, a Bounce House, Raffle Items, Games, Silent November 20, 21 & 22 You don’t want to miss this annual event! Your Passport to A Culinary Affair! Hosted on the were hungry and thought of some fun stuff and talked about what we wanted to eat... something different....and we came Auction, Dunk Tank, Face Painting, Crafts and Much up with Between the Sweets!" More! For more info, visit Florida Atlantic University Boca Raton Campus. South Florida top chefs & world class wines & spirits, craft & arti- www.RoyalPalmChristianChurch.org or call Jen says, "I like to take my kids out, but it's expensive and hard to find something to do, so we thought having a place 954-753-2383. sanal cheese village, specialty food village and live entertain- ment. Spectator readers receive 50% Off tickets! Go to where you could bring the family, have just dessert or dinner or both while interacting with each other was a terrific South Florida Gold Military Appreciation Night - www.BRWFF.com/Flyer. For more info please call idea." The menu varies and ranges from things like homemade cookies all the way to yummy dinners of Macaroni & Friday, November 13 The South Florida Gold, a pro- 561.338.7594 - See ad on page 26. Cheese with Short Ribs and a huge variety in between. Waffles, from sweet to savory, are also a big menu highlight. fessional basketball team that plays in the American Adam & Jen's children are just like everybody's kids; their tastes vary greatly. Ryan's favorite is chicken and waffles while Basketball Association, will be hosting a Military Coral Springs Family Concert at the Park - Saturday, Elise favors the Montecristo because, she says, "It has great Appreciation Night at their basketball game at 7 p.m. at November 21 Come sit under the stars and enjoy music texture!" And little sister Drew always chooses the peanut the Coral Springs Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs with your family and friends at the City's free Family Concert butter and jelly sandwich. Series. This Monty's featured group is Iko Iko, who will be Drive. All Military past and present will be admitted FREE with an ID. The South Florida Gold have selected performing blues. It all begins at 7 p.m. at Betti Straddling Focused on families and their health conscious concerns, Park, 10301 Wiles Road, Coral Springs. Parking and admis- The Forgotten Soldiers Outreach Program as its fea- many items on the menu are available gluten-free and there tured charity that evening and will be collecting dona- sion is free. Blankets, lawn chairs and coolers are welcome, are several choices for breads and buns. Meatballs (ham- tions for the program. Tickets can be purchased and refreshments will be available for purchase. Please burgers) do not include any fillers or ingredients containing at www.sflgold.com. refrain from bringing glass containers, alcohol and pets. For gluten. All of the dessert items are made here. Adam says, more info, please call 954-345-2200. "The only things we put in our homemade ice creams are

Parkland Farmers Market and Craft Show Parkland Eats n' Beats - Saturday, November 21 sugar, cream, milk and eggs. Whatever flavor that's in it is all - Sunday, November 15 Come join us for our Farmer's From 5:30 - 9:30 PM, spend your Saturday night with us and real stuff. Strawberry is made with strawberries." Market and Craft Show held at the Equestrian Center at your favorite food trucks! Held at the Parkland Temple Park, 8350 Ranch Road. Customers will be Amphitheater, 10561 Trails End, entertainment will showcase The focus at Between the Sweets is to have a fun, family able to purchase their usual Farmer's Market items as local artists while you enjoy a very yummy dinner. Be sure to and friendly atmosphere. A favorite for many guests is grabbing a board game as they wait for their meal to arrive. well as some specialty handcrafted items from our craft bring lawn chairs and blankets.... you won't want to miss this event!! For more info, call 954-757-4105. Adam says he really enjoys watching people interact with vendors. Our market is also dog friendly so don't forget their friends and family, and sometimes even engage with people at a nearby table. Laughter is a big part of the vibe in this warm, inviting place. "It's like family night here. We like people to interact with each other ....play with your kids play with your friends. It's getting too common to see people on their smart phones and checking their emails, surf- ing the web and not really conversing with each other. Come here to have fun!"

Open 7 days a week, Between The Sweets is located at 1840 N. University Dr. in Coral Springs. 754-702-5140.

30