inWeston Magazine August 2016 by inWeston Magazine

Travel! Ready, Set, EVERYTHING FROM STAYCATION IDEAS TO SAFETY TIPS

Main Event The

A FOOLPROOF PLANNER

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BOTANIKOWESTON.COM T 954.372.8537 SALES GALLERY 200 BONAVENTURE BLVD WESTON, FLORIDA 33326 This project is being developed by Terra Weston Residential, LLC (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Developerâ&#x20AC;?), which has a limited right to use the trademarked names and logos of Terra Group. Any and all statements, disclosures and/or representations shall be deemed made by Developer and not by Terra Group, and you agree to look solely to Developer (and not to Terra Group and/or any of its affiliates) with respect to any and all matters relating to the marketing and/or development of the project and with respect to the sales of residences within the project. Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly

A CONTEMPORARY PARADISE IN WESTON BY A VISIONARY TEAM CHAD OPPENHEIM | RONEY MATEU | VSTARR Botaniko Weston is a private enclave of 125 modern luxury homes situated on 121 graciously landscaped acres in Weston - one of Money Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best places to live.

EXCLUSIVE SALES & MARKETING BY TERRA REALTY, LLC stating the representations of the developer. This is not intended to be an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy real estate to residents of NY, or in any other jurisdiction where prohibited by law, and your eligibility for purchase wil depend upon your state of residency. All images and designs depicted herein are artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conceptual renderings, which are based upon preliminary development plans and are subject to change without notice in the manner provided in the offering documents. All such materials are not to scale and are shown solely for ilustrative purposes.

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How long have you dreamed of living on the water?

right now, riva is building the perfect blend of both. The carefree living of a stylish condominium. Plus the casual leisure of a home on the water. Whether you travel by paddleboard or speedboat. Whether you host dinner parties for 20 on your oceanview terrace, or moonlight cocktail parties on your private rooftop. Whether you relax at the gym and lap pool, or indulge at the spa and sundeck. The elegant lifestyle at riva is everything you expect in luxury waterfront living.

Premier DeveloPers We are pledged to the letter and spirit of the U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin. Oral representation cannot be relied upon as correctly stating representations of the developer. For correct representations make reference to the documents required by section

How long have you dreamed of living in the city?

And whether your home will be an exceptionally large 2 bedroom with sunsets and city lights, a 3 bedroom with a 60 foot terrace over the river, or a two-story penthouse with a private pool, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find it under construction at riva today, for move-in next season. From $700K to over $3 million. Dream no longer. visit our new sales center at 1200 e. las olas Boulevard. 954.233.3288. riva-condo.com

718.503, Florida Statues, to be furnished by a developer to a buyer. Obtain the property report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. All features, dimensions, drawings, graphic material, pictures, conceptual renderings, plans and specifications are not necessarily an accurate depiction and are subject to change without notice, and Developer expressly reserves the right to make modifications.

Model Year-End Sale Elegant Sedans, Sporty Coupes, Breathtaking Convertibles, all with Italian style and race-inspired performance, unlike anything from Germany.

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Introducing the Maserati of SUVs The All-New 2017 Maserati Levante “Maserati’s SUV had to be good. Thankfully for the storied Italian brand, it is.” - Automobile Magazine, July 2016

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ARTIST CONCEPTUAL RENDERING. DEVELOPER MAY CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

ONLY 95 BEACHFRONT RESIDENCES / OVER 80% SOLD / NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION 2 Bedrooms, 3 Bedrooms and 4 Bedrooms Available / 954 769 0611 ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE.

Inside features 52 On the Move At the height of vacation season, we ask savvy travelers to share their wisdom on where to go and how to make the process as stressfree as possible.

70 Heart & Sol

Sol Rodriguez is bringing beauty and spice and everything nice to Devious Maids.

74 Oh, Won’t You Stay? These 3 stellar staycation ideas prove you needn’t leave Florida to get away.

80 Get the Party Started It’s always event season in Florida. Here’s a planning primer to help put you on the road to a successful one.

84 Baby, It’s Hot Outside In South Florida, swimwear is far more than just for swimming— it’s a statement to be made.

On The Cover PHOTOGRAPH BY Eric Hason MODEL: Vanessa Jorge

Brahma red monokini by Kill The Buddha (KTB) swimwear, $169; available at www.ktbswimwear.com. Orbiting Pearl Earrings by Haus of Topper, $120; available at www.hausoftopper.com.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

july-august 2016

inside

Calvin and Conner Rezende are on the ball.

everything else 34 From the Editor 42 Around Weston Openings, events, cool people and fun places you need to have on your radar this month.

48 All Well & Good Katina Taylor shares tips for staying true to your fitness routine even while on vacation.

96 Matters of Style Stock up on these style must-haves for summer.

100 Table Hopping Put Ends Meat in Hollywood on your list of top spots you want to try.

104 Wheel Life Steve Siler pits two Chevy muscle cars against each other. Which will you pick?

108 Out & About A look at who’s celebrating, fundraising and socializing in and around town.

116 Face to Face Contributing writer Helen Fried finds herself in the principal’s office this month—but she’s asking all the questions.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

ELEGANCE, IN MODERN LIVING

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This offering is subject to errors, omissions, prior sale, change of price, or withdrawal without notice, and not intended to solicit currently listed property. This is not an offer to sell or solicitation of offers to buy condominium units in states where such offer or solicitation cannot be made. Prices, plans, and specifications are subject to change without notice. Void in states where prohibited. Additional restrictions may apply. Artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conceptual rendering. ORAL REPRESENTATION CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. Advertising & Interactive by Miami

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PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

Jeff Dinetz

editorial EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lori Capullo CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jennifer Agress, Helen Fried, Linda Marx, Steve Siler, Dr. Mary Jo Almeida Shore, Katina Taylor, Maria Tettamanti CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Eric Hason, Aaron Lurie, Ricardo Mejia GRAPHIC DESIGN

Brandon Kovic WEB DESIGNER

Ivan Gonzalez SOCIAL MEDIA

Carolina Collazos

sales EXECUTIVE ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Stephanie Jimenez, Lindsay Malpica, Rebecca Peters

consumer services inWeston is published 8 times a year and is distributed at select golf courses, marinas, automotive dealerships, retail locations, high-profile social events and parties, hotels, professional buildings and residences throughout Weston, Southwest Ranches, Pembroke Pines and Davie. Advertising information can be obtained by calling 954-315-3460, by emailing sales@larelmedia.com or by visiting our website at www.inwestonmagazine.com.

1792 Bell Tower Lane Weston, FL 33326 954-315-3460 www.larelmedia.com Vol. IV, No. 4 Â© Larel Media. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any graphic or editorial content without permission is prohibited.

MAY/JUNE 2016

from the editor

d n a y a awwego

ing , noth o t d r on, orwa oney ook f l m I g y re m hin leasu is not pend ore p xists here e her s m t a r e e m ces lik uld ives e item enien g l v I wo b an i n t d c g o a o c n a go ta rn rid ng th ar, no h F lo that a mode t c u nothi h e o t ural e o i t r n m i S a in ent for dn gh w bag, g e e u l n d n i h o i o n t o i v h a i t p t o l ns oh ,a ¶L gt hing sfac es be veryt The u ng. N of it. ackin f sati i e . l p m o e s i e , t t e l e v n u e n e a h o n tr wa nd mi wish to t som e lev than very never s the of Lo t can e i i ke th nning s e e o s a l e n l t v r v a o s p e e o i at th Il bu l by he ssle an then trave ore— destin e and rom t f a ha l e d that c g t F m r o n s n y . u u s h u s n A i e c h is o le e ea in. ar-fl mu ion d there n issu ng on an, th n and aga e of f —as i a n e r e d e b f u c n l h b o vacat l n i e a e r T i a g . ch e eri t sp it aga he C alone mixin ot mu but th direc rt exp to vis e of t s it— mes, at’s n ravel 015, y b l i t i l airpo t h 2 p t v a , t e p , c n r a N k y a I s tr lf ac .¶ leisu STO eler be h al En in itse laid-b alone nWE hat’s s I’d t trav n e i t e o n T h o i f c ( e t Glob t n o a u . , a l s p ie t ac eq sia ion sue I’m on of our fr ke a v e savv olyne his is usly, 0 bill t h P f o 5 d t i o 6 n n h v f I $ a e c b o feel li n o e .¶ ly, Fren than es on And ”, as o 10 billion o som d smooth ty of more it to. list go talk t 1 eisure d e e l n $ e d o h b l beau a t t t a “ a t n d y o m s — al o spe ide int afel yet rs to t Italy lone . We turn e dec ing s a u avele l ven’t w n r o e s a t , a y v n abou h c l n a a o a r I o e t s ic r tt ation spots n sea cky, w m on Amer ep ou abou intern And acatio to ke list of e’re lu ss the vice ) v d a . d w t w r n p a c f o e a i e d h k , d m sp n an ch an stic o-wee f sum ork a eas o lobe, ions l, whi dome idst o e a tw the w me id s the g trave ggest m o a h s u s t d c s s e i e n e h , n w a t r n s k lous y st i ha ure busi ack in s, tric ountr s to s nd ju e fabu p m c e pleas e i i s A r t r e e . t h t s r h t s u t i t m l t u u n ing o in so t the ersing ecurity ind le res u feel prese to ge is com ke yo aluab s e trav e also a v d n w i m n , r l a l h which s we know experienc e i it te w ay, w summ hey’ll st l esta mise ler e rea ’re aw u this trave e pro eir va me. T e h o o h t w y t w h t n r e i a n d l o f o h n hi o als rida t ork a cards based afe w ssion ven t th F lo ilities of w sses s ng, e in the profe i e u t r ’ n d o i b n e s S s k i n u a b ib as d by round ling c spons e pon s and and a away trave ily re oss th home s a n t r i r a d c s u h a e t o n h h t io rn rs ” opt from sojou onde a few hat? away the w cation d or s a o e o t ove t l l r i s “stay t a e m ’ h n u n t d o l o n li ten y s wou a mil t dow nligh n jus ong u o i m t a also e a n ti ho a des nd w car. A

Editor-in-chief

JULY/AUGUST 2016

O P E N S E V E N DAY S A W E E K N E W LU N C H M E N U O N S ATU R DAY S

#K UR OHAR D R OCK H OLLYWO O D, FL · S E M IN O L E HA RD RO CK H OLLYWOOD.COM · 954-585-53 3 3

around weston

WHAT’S GOING ON IN TOWN & ITS SURROUNDS…

Get the Edge Undercover Tourist is the absolute must-have app for your family vacation planning this summer.

let’s go SHOPPING Pick up all you need for a stylin’ vacation—or life in general—at Eleganza Boutique.

Marcella Falcone moved to the United States from Italy to open up Eleganza Boutique, where she brings a taste of Italian style—clothing, dresses, accessories and shoes—to Westonites. Falcone’s mission when opening the store was to “provide customers with luxurious and original Italians designs that are affordable at any budget,” she says, adding, “You do not need to purchase big-label clothing in order to have high-quality clothing that is unique in style and design.” For summer, Falcone cites bright, bold colors and “loud” prints as the predominant trends and invites shoppers to come peruse the latest collections from Italy, which arrived in May. Next up for Falcone: channeling her passion for fashion into a men’s clothing store. Stop by at 2213 N Commerce Pkwy., Weston.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

It’s that season—school’s out and the family trips are scheduled and ready to take. And even though everyone is excited, we all know family trips can sometimes be more stressful than enjoyable. Enter the new and innovative Undercover Tourist smartphone travel app, developed to help eliminate the stress and make trip planning enjoyable again. The app updates in real-time allowing families to see anything from current wait times, daily park information, preset trip planners and more. By using it, travelers can save up to four hours per day at multiple parks, including Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld, and get Fast Passes, Magic Bands and a Crowd Calendar. (Fast Passes allow guests to book up to 30 days in advance for ride reservations.) Plans update in real time in the online version, letting guests know when to visit, current wait times, height requirements, duration of the ride and the area where the attraction is located. To get started, log onto www.undercovertourist.com.

around weston

Lofty Goals

Calvin and Conner Rezende add twice the talent to the roster of Miami FC.

Local twins Calvin and Conner Rezende make their professional soccer debut on Miami FC’s inaugural roster.

Although their first soccer stint was at the University of Virginia in 2011, midfielder twins Calvin and Conner Rezende, 23, first hit the field at age 4 when their Brazilian father introduced them to the sport in Davie. “Soccer grew on us and became part of us,” says Calvin. “It’s in our blood. As we got older, we played in Sunrise and Weston in middle school and high school. We knew we had talent; we just needed to realize our potential.” Energized and inspired to excel, it didn’t take long for soccer to become part of their daily lives while growing up in Fort Lauderdale— which eventually led to this year’s debut with the North American Soccer League’s Miami FC, the city’s only professional soccer club. The twins spent most of their college careers near each other in the midfield. After a year in Charlottesville, VA, they got the opportunity to train in Spain with Cadiz FC and in Italy with Crotone FC, where they developed and refined their skills with the pros. “It was our dream to gain experience in Europe,” Calvin says. “We couldn’t get that level of exposure here.” After spending a year in each country, the twins returned to the States and enrolled in Pennsylvania’s St. Francis University. There, Conner received several soccer recognitions, including the second in assists and third for goals scored in the Northeastern Conference. When they joined the Premier Development League’s Michigan Bucks, Calvin led the team in assists and was nominated for MVP. Then came January’s big signing with Miami FC. Already, the brothers have learned more than they expected from head coach Alessandro Nesta, a retired Italian superstar. “Our coach has experience and lived through the life of a player at the highest standards, which is so great,” says Calvin. “He is nice, but tough, and can read our minds. He wants us to be perfect in every way.” Both Rezende brothers, who are too busy for dating, train daily, stretching, swimming laps and playing the game. They are also finishing college online. But their primary focus is soccer. “The Miami FC has been a huge opportunity for us,” says Calvin. “It is a tough transition to pro life, a real challenge, but we are ecstatic!”

JULY/AUGUST 2016

PHOTOGRAPH BY AARON LURIE

By Linda Marx

inWESTON MAGAZINE

all well & good

bon voyage bon appetit Wherever your travels take you this summer, don’t take a vacation from your fitness routine, too—bring it with you. Katina Taylor shares tips on how to stay in shape while enjoying your journey to the fullest.

WORKOUT ON VACATION? WHY NOT? You’re away from life’s many responsibilities and that neverending to-do list, so why not finally put yourself first? The early bird gets the worm and gets to spend the rest of her day with all the benefits that exercise can provide: higher energy, a better mood, improved sleep and a few guiltless treats along the way because, hey—you worked out.

IDEAS:

• Exercise doesn’t have to be a killer to work. Take a 20- to 30-minute jog/walk around your hotel, on the beach, down the country road or in the city park. Embrace your surroundings.

• Hit the hotel gym and do a full-body workout in under 45 minutes. Think of your favorite exercise for each of the following six body parts and in this order: legs, back, biceps, shoulders, chest, triceps. Repeat for a total of 3 circuits. If you want to add a little cardio, do 30 seconds of jumping jacks or burpees in between circuits. • Be adventurous. Use your vacation as an opportunity to try new fun activities, like hiking, biking, paddle boarding, surfing, canoeing or horseback riding, to name a few. • If in a big city, research the latest and greatest group fitness classes indoors or out and get your booty there.

Taylor takes to her cycle while on vacation.

FLY HIGH

And feel as light as air. Here are a few ways to do it: Fill up with premium fuel before boarding your flight. There is nothing worse than heading to the airport hungry. Make time for a hearty, healthy meal that will leave you feeling full and satisfied. The terminal food and in-flight options can weigh you down before you even lift off. Pack healthy snacks that you crave and love. Beware of those ubiquitous grab-n-go “nutrition” bars that are often high in sugar and carbs. You aren’t about to run a marathon. Go for “real food” instead: hummus and veggies, fruit (an apple, banana, berries), nuts (almonds, walnuts), a half sandwich—take the time to prepare and you’ll be happy you did. Hydrate: drink water, water and more water! On most airplanes, the humidity level is kept between a desertlike 12-21 percent compared with a comfortable humidity of 60-70 percent. Can you say dehydration? A good rule of thumb is to drink half of your body weight in ounces of water per day. For example, a person weighing 160 lbs. should drink 80 oz., and while that may sound like a chore, it’s well worth it in the end.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Kompal Gadh, M.D. FACOG

Adriana Luciano, M.D.

Follow Your Maternal Instinct to Advanced OB/GYN Institute

601 N. Flamingo Rd., Suite 307, Pembroke Pines, FL 33028 | (954) 499-4570 | www.obgynpines.com

all well & good

Taylor has been working out for years to maintain good health and a fit physique. Here, her then 3-year-old son, Mason, joins her on the beach in the British Virgin Islands.

FAMILY VACATION with the

hubby and kids in tow? Finding guilt-free “Mommy time” can be a tough exercise in itself. Check out these no-excuse ideas: Sweetly whisper in hubby’s ear that if he wants to have a great day, he needs to let you have 30 to 45 minutes away. Help Mr. Mom by waking yourself up early and getting your sweat on before the kiddies even wake up. Roll out of bed and just do it! Once you’re

enjoying quality alone time with your music rockin’, you’ll knock out that workout in no time and feel your Supermom powers kick in. If you just couldn’t roll out of bed—and I’ve been there myself—try to squeeze in your workout by incorporating your kids.

Bring a football or Frisbee to the park or beach. Get the family active and moving. Plan a family vacation around physical activities that you can enjoy together, whether it’s at a beach, country or mountain destination.

BON APPÉTIT! One of the beautiful things about traveling is trying all of the delicious cuisine. I encourage you to live. Eat. Enjoy. My motto that I live by is balance and moderation. Whether it’s crepes in France, pasta in Italy or Rosè any day, it doesn’t have to sabotage your diet. Eat moderately and find your balance. Here are a few suggestions: Make healthy choices 80 percent of your day and the other 20 percent enjoy your treat. I enjoy a good dinner when I travel, so I make healthy choices for breakfast, lunch and snacks. I don’t skip those meals because then I would be ravenous come dinner. I still try to eat all my meals moderately, slowly and mindfully tasting my food. I like to share and try different dishes, so sometimes I take only a few bites of each and feel satisfied. Make water your beverage of choice for you and your family. The sugary drinks/sodas add up super fast. In my mind, they are a waste, when there are so many other yummy treats to enjoy. I absolutely love to eat and enjoy my wine, so I make sure I get my workout in or I am active all day long. Then I eat guilt-free. Whatever your fitness personality is embrace it or keep pushing at changing it. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff! Perfection is overrated. Be satisfied with being you. Don’t forget to pack confidence, love and happiness, because those always shine bright.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

onTHᄐ move

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Jaime Cosculluela,

These South Floridians are expert—and in some cases, professional—travelers. They’re also a wealth of travel

SENIOR DIRECTOR-INVESTMENTS, OPPENHEIMER & CO. INC.

information, suggestions and tips, and in the thick of vacation season, we asked them to share those with you.

How often do you travel? “I travel monthly and sometimes twice a month for business purposes. For pleasure, I try to take two family vacations each year.” DESTINATIONS ON REPEAT:

“I travel to Puerto Rico the most. That is where most of my clients live and that is where most of my family is. I also have many clients in the Dominican Republic and Venezuela that I visit regularly.” How does travel impact your life? “I have been able to experience many different cultures, political structures, different economies that have helped me when making business decisions, and it has given me a different perspective of how the world works. I have also enjoyed the opportunity to make new friends all over the world.”

Oppenheimer Senior Directors-Investments Luis Rosario and Jaime Cosculluela are set for takeoff.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY RICARDO MEJIA

Where in the world would you love to do business? “We are working on new relationships in Panama, and we look forward to flying more often to the country and to expanding our client base.” Favorite places ever: “My favorite place to visit with my family is Rome. It is a beautiful place full of history. Lots of sightseeing to do and many museums to visit. I also like Argentina; it has the best steaks and wine, the prices are very affordable and there are many many things to do.”

inWESTON MAGAZINE

Happy traveler: Rachelle Lucas in Hong Kong (this page); Cape Town, South Africa (opposite top) and Dubrovnik, Croatia (opposite bottom).

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Rachelle Lucas, PUBLISHER AT THETRAVELBITE.COM

Her travel prerequisites: “Something I always bring with me when flying is a rosewater facial spray I make at home. I use it as a bit of a humidifier, spritzing it on my face several times throughout a flight. It helps keep my sinuses from drying out. When it comes to tickets, I’m loyal to one airline. After accruing quite a few miles with Delta, it pays to be loyal, as they offer frequent upgrades and perks that I just don’t get with other airlines. And for travel apps, TripIt is a must. It keeps my entire itinerary (flights, hotels, etc.) organized in one app.” Destinations on repeat: “There are a few destinations I make it to on at least an annual basis—Great Britain, South Africa and San Francisco. All three offer a good mix of delicious food (yes, Great Britain, too) and great outdoor experiences. Another favorite destination that I’d love to get back to is Croatia. The ancient Roman cities there are probably familiar to Game of Thrones fans. But it offers so much more: amazing coastlines, truly some of the best wines I’ve ever tasted (they don’t make enough to export) and natural wonders like Plitvice Lakes.” What are the aspects of a trip—for you—that make it a truly memorable and positive experience? “What makes a trip truly memorable for me is to be able to get outside, disconnect from digital and experience nature. My husband and I recently did a self-guided bike ride to different vineyards in Yountville, California. Anytime I can put away the email and social media, fill my lungs with fresh air, and taste excellent wine and food too—that’s what is most memorable to me.” On the bucket list: “I’d love to get down to South America! Argentina, Peru and Ecuador are definitely on my list of places to see soon.” Where outside the U.S. would you live if you could? “Because of the tumultuous election this year, my husband and I have actually discussed this. If we could pick up and move anywhere, it would be Canmore, Canada. It’s a small town just outside of Banff. Fresh, true farm-to-table foods and epic hiking trails walking distance from town. Plus, it is close enough to Calgary for when we’d need a city fix.”

inWESTON MAGAZINE

Hayim staying stylish in Greece (this page and opposite top) and Paris (opposite bottom).

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Pachi Hayim, REALTOR, KARMA LUXURY PROPERTIES

How often do you travel? “We travel for business every month and I try to make every trip for pleasure.” On the merits of planning ahead: “I love to book first class in advance, as you can pay $200 instead of $1,200. I am so organized my husband calls me OCD Wife. I book my own plane tickets, hotel rooms, car service, restaurant reservations and shows myself, and I look for the best shops, but the outlets— outlets in Europe are amazing. And flea markets—are you kidding me? They’re the Italian leather paradise—$35 Euro for Italian shoes.” Her absolute must-haves on the move: “I bring my entire closet and my husband has a heart attack, as I travel with two suitcases. You never know what’s going to happen, right? I worked as a fashion designer for years and now I have my own real estate group, so I link fashion and real estate. I can’t travel without my computer, iPad, sunglasses, meditation book and crystals.” Repeat destinations: “Paris, Milan and Mykonos are my routine destinations for business. Paris is my favorite, because it is so romantic. We go to Italy almost every three months, as my husband’s business is the Fort Lauderdale Ferrari dealership, so he has to travel for work, and of course I put myself in his suitcase. New York is our second home. [My husband] Garrett was born there, so his life and friends are in New York.” How to make every trip less stressful: “I’ve learned that I have to lie to my husband about the flight’s departure time, because he is never on time. You need to be organized and have a plan. Your cell phone battery needs to be 100 percent charged. Bring snacks just in case. It’s crazy when we travel as a family, which is a lot of the time. I like to take my kids—ages 12, 4 and 2—on all my adventures.” On the impact of frequent traveling: “I’ve traveled from the day I was born with my mom—those are the best memories of my life. Traveling is a way to cleanse my soul, my spirit, my energies. Because my career is creative, I learn from other countries, cultures, places…I am able to see other markets and fashion trends, meet people, taste other foods. Life is about doing what makes you happy; if not, you are losing your life.”

inWESTON MAGAZINE

Megan Taylor, PUBLICIST

How often do you travel? “In 2015, I took 13 work trips and 12 personal trips. It sounds like a lot, but now I always try to incorporate a personal side trip in a destination en route or on my way home from a business trip. Cuts down on the extra miles!” Are there certain destinations that you visit regularly and if so, what are they? “I am obsessed with Mexico. The people, the atmosphere, the culture, the food, are all right up my alley. I represent resorts in Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit so I’ve visited those locales most often, but this year I want to explore more of the country. What’s also great about Mexico is the value you get for your money. Hotels and restaurants are very reasonable compared to what you get in Miami or the Caribbean.” Bucket list destinations: “I definitely want to spend some time in the Eastern Mediterranean—Greece, Turkey, Croatia, Jordan, Israel, Egypt. My travel bucket list is essentially anywhere I have never been before.” Three go-to last-minute vacations:

»NAPLES. “The west coast of Florida is

so accessible. My husband and I try to get over there several times a year. It’s relaxing and laid-back…the opposite of Miami.”

»RIVIERA MAYA. “Cancun airport is

just 1:30 from Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports and there are no less than six flights per day. As I mentioned, Mexico is a great value compared to what you’d get doing a staycation on Miami Beach or down in the Keys.”

»BAHAMAS. “While I didn’t love Bimini, Megan Taylor visits Monaco.

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I really enjoyed Grand Bahama Island when we went with friends last year. The water was crystal and Port Lucaya Marketplace was such a blast.”

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Jeff Gordon,

TAKE NOTES

FOUNDER & CO-OWNER, THE GORDON GROUP LUXURY CRUISE PLANNERS

Jeff and Karen Gordon on holiday on the French Riviera, just outside of Cap Antibes.

Why cruises? A stockbroker who retired in his 40s in 1992, Jeff Gordon was bored after six weeks and looking for the next thing to do. “I had been on 25 or 30 cruises because I found that as a stockbroker, the only vacation I could take and not call the office 20 times a day was a cruise.” When his wife Karen suggested he open his own agency, he did—and it took off faster than he had ever expected. “My original plan was to sell a few cruises in the morning and play golf in the afternoons,” he says. That didn’t happen—he was quickly booking large groups of 300+ people at a time. “Before I blinked, I talked to my wife, who is also a stockbroker and my partner, and asked her to come help me.” That was 25 years ago; today, he and his wife, along with their son, Josh, own and run the company, which later was rebranded as The Gordon Group Luxury Cruise Planners.

• TAKE A SIDE TRIP. In Paris, head to

Versailles. In Lisbon, make sure to go to Sintra. Merida or Cancun, check out Chichen Itza or Coba. Nice, Monaco (and vice versa). You get the idea. • CONSULT THE EXPERTS (AND NONEXPERTS). When visiting a new destination, check out Tripadvisor for the recommended things to do. Combine these activities with those from articles on the destination in Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Fodor’s and other reputable blogs. Tripadvisor is very subjective so you can’t give it all the clout. GLOBAL ENTRY. Global entry and TSA

Precheck are a necessity for a frequent traveler. For $100 (and a quick personal interview), you can avoid those annoying long lines, taking off your shoes and unpacking your electronics and just breeze through security, passport control and customs.

He knows his game: “I’ve been on 183 cruises—I’ve been to most places in the world and on most cruise lines over and over again.”

• HOPPER. Use this app to determine

On giving clients what they want: “I interview clients to find out what they’re looking for. I have to understand what their life is all about—what kind of hotels they stay in, how important dining or a spa is to them, and basically, their expectations. In the end, it’s all about knowledge, service and relationships.”

• DON’T BE A NERVOUS NELLY. These days

What constitutes a “luxury” cruise? “A lot of factors. In the world of cruising, sometimes it’s the size of the vessel. A typical mass market cruise could be 2,000-6,000 passengers, where a luxury cruise might carry from 150 to about 1,050 passengers. A basic difference is the quality of food, because they’re spending more money on prime versus choice beef. There’s the training [of the staff]; you get the finest service. There’s the wine selections, the china, the room accommodations—on a luxury cruise, a standard room may be 300 square feet and up instead of 180 square feet. Itineraries differ too; smaller vessels can get into places larger vessels can’t. For example, Portofino: you can’t pull in with a 6,000-passenger vessel and you can’t unload that many people into that small town. So you often get a more unique itinerary, and spend longer hours in places His standard operating procedure: “I’ve been asked to speak to organizations in the industry on how to make success happen, and I give this quote: ‘When all is said is done, it’s extremely simple. I take care of people and I work very hard for them.’”

In case you don’t already, follow these tips from our travelers to optimize your travel experience and make it safer, easier and more fun.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

when to book flights. Based on the route, it will tell you whether to book now or wait. we have to deal with terrorism, disease, unrest, etc., but just be a smart traveler. There are too many benefits of traveling to sit in your hotel when you’re in a destination or, worse yet, stay at home. • PLAN IN ADVANCE. There are certain

“things to do” in each destination and you don’t want to miss them—“Travel regret is the worst,” says Taylor—“so I make sure to plan things in a similar location so that we’re not wasting time on back and forth transportation.” • CARRY-ON LUGGAGE ONLY (IF POSSIBLE).

It’s easier to handle, you don’t need to wait for your luggage to de-board, no one is rummaging through it, and you always have what you need. If it’s a trip that’s 7+ days, pack a carry-on with the items necessary for the first few days. Everything else can go in a checked bag.

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vacation preparat It’s more than just making reservations and packing your bags. You have to take steps to protect both your home and yourself while you’re away. Here’s some invaluable advice on how to do both.

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Nothing says “Nobody’s home” like newspapers collecting in the driveway.

Safeguard Your Home

ion

There are unmistakable signals that indicate to criminals you’re away from your home—an open invitation to burglars, since there’s no chance you might walk in after work and catch them in the act. While there are Melissa endless tips for travelers out there on how Miller to stay safe while you’re on vacation, it’s important to take steps at home to protect yours before you leave—so you can relax and enjoy your holiday without worry. Melissa Miller of the Melissa Miller Group at RE/MAX Premier Associates offers the following advice on steps to take before you go. “Summertime is quickly approaching and many are preparing for family vacation getaways,” Miller says. “According to the FBI, the highest percentage of burglaries happen during the summer months. Many of these burglaries are due to unlocked doors and windows. Your home is a place that contains many valuable and sentimental items, so you want to protect them.” • It is important, if no one will be in the home while you are away, that you don’t lay out the welcome mat for a burglar. You want the home to appear occupied as it normally would. So putting a hold on your mail as well as any newspapers will help by avoiding a stuffed mailbox and newspapers littering your lawn—an obvious sign that you are away for an extended time. • Make sure your security company is aware that you are away on vacation and provide them with additional contact numbers for a designated person that is local (maybe a friendly neighbor). Some security companies offer live video monitoring that can be accessed using your smart phone from anywhere in the world. You can consider getting this service that also allows you to turn lights on and off in the home, or, at the very least, get a light timer system. Also, unplug the garage door opener so that it cannot be accessed using a common universal remote. • Finally, limit the number of people that you tell you are going on vacation. Consider waiting until you are back from vacation before posting those beautiful vacation photos on social media. Children should also limit their conversations about your upcoming trip at school and in the blogs. If you come home and see anything out of place, walk outside and do not hesitate to call the police immediately. Summer is a time to get away with family and friends and with some preparation and precautions, you can enjoy your time away with peace of mind. inWESTON MAGAZINE

Don’t travel without a doorstopper alarm.

• Purchase a doorstopper alarm and place it inside your hotel room door. They are inexpensive, very loud and will scare off any intruder immediately. You should never travel without one. Visit the U.S. State Department website to gather information about the country you plan to visit.

Safeguard You & Your Family Ex-CIA Officer and winner of Shark Tank Jason Hanson is the founder of Spy Escape & Evasion (www.spyescape.com), a multi-faceted company that teaches life-saving techniques that help Americans and their families stay safe. Many Americans are already planning their summer travel, whether they’ll be exploring the U.S. or going overseas. In light of the global warnings about terror threats, Hanson, who has traveled the world, provides his 2016 Safety Summer Travel Safety Tips. 2016 TRAVEL SAFETY TIPS • If you’re planning a trip overseas, visit the U.S. State Department website and research the country you’re going to visit. The site alerts you (by country) to any security threats and provides phone numbers of the U.S. embassies and consulates.

• When overseas, always respect the customs of the country you are visiting. For example, don’t wear a brightly colored T-shirt or cowboy boots that indicate where you are from. You don’t want to stand out as an American. • Research current scams and crimes indigenous to the country you are visiting. For example, some airports are known for criminals asking you to watch their luggage and then when they come back, claim you stole it from them and attempt to extort money from you. Or, someone might stop you on a street under the pretense of taking a survey. While you are distracted, their partner pickpockets you. • Only accept a taxi your hotel has arranged for you. Criminals can pose as taxi drivers and then drive you to an isolated location to rob you. Many also try to take a longer route than necessary so they can make more money. Study your route ahead of time and make sure the cab driver follows your instructions. • Never discuss your trip on social media until you arrive back home. If someone follows you on social media and you are talking about how excited you are to see the Mona Lisa, then a criminal will know you are out of the country and may burglarize your home.

Shacke Pocket Vault is one of the best ways to safely carry your valuables.

• Prior to traveling, scan all travel documents onto a secure flash drive (Iron Key Flash Drive) that will self-destruct after 10 incorrect password attempts. Scan your: •

Driver license

•

Passport (also, memorize your passport number)

•

Travel insurance information

•

Hotel reservations

•

Airline reservations

•

Family emergency phone numbers

•

U.S. Embassy address and phone number

•

Carry the flash drive on you at all times in case the paper documents are ever lost or stolen.

Jason Hanson, ex-CIA officer and security expert.

• Carry your money and credit cards in a secure wallet, such as a Shacke Pocket Vault. Do not carry a travel wallet around your neck or purse, as criminals can easily cut or yank them off. Instead, carry a wallet inside your pants or secured to your leg. Another great option is the Escape & Evasion Belt (www.CovertBelt.com), where you can hide money and gear in case of an emergency. • Don’t discuss your travel plans on an airplane, cruise ship or anywhere people can overhear anything you say. • When checking into a hotel, ask for two keys, even if you are alone. Potential criminals watching you check in will assume there is more than one person staying in the room, making you a less attractive target. Additionally, request a room above the third floor of the hotel. Criminals will usually break into rooms on the lower floors of a hotel.

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Iron Key Flash Drive can securely carry your important information.

Selling the Weston Lifestyle PENDING SALE | North Lakes | Carrington Lake Offered for $525,000 | Enter Code 7836

SOLD | Laguna Springs One | 1045 San Luis Rey 3BR | 2.5BA | Sold for $450,000

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954.614.6206 Bob 954.614.6207 Holly info@HollyandBob.net www.HollyandBob.net SOLD | Laguna Springs One | 1102 San Luis Rey 3BR | 2BA | Sold for $430,000

SOLD | The Palms at Weston | Clubhouse 2BR | 2BA | Sold for $275,000

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FAMILY CoMFort FAMILIAR RHYTHM ConvenIent routIne

Life sometimes gets complicated, so when you need to get away, you can always settle in at Residence Inn Weston. Our multi-room suites ensure families that travel together can stay together, too. And with amenities ranging from comfy bedding and fully-equipped kitchens to free hot breakfast, grocery shopping services and an on-site pools, there are plenty of options to help keep you relaxed and energized.

KEEP YOUR FAMILY COMFORTABLE.

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why

stay?

donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t you Here are 3 really good reasons to book a staycation this summer: Sunset Key in Key West, Pelican Grand Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale, and Flagler Club at The Breakers Palm Beach.

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Sunset Key

In case you haven’t heard, there’s a bewitching little island just off the tip of Key West called Sunset Key. Here, no cars are allowed, so the only sounds you’re likely to hear are those of the birds navigating the lush foliage, the water lapping up on the shore, or possibly the plop of fish as they jump up and cut back into the surface of the water. Sunset Key Guest Cottages, now part of Starwood Hotels’ Luxury Collection, is one of those places that is every bit as magical when you’re there as it looks like it will be in photographs. Accessible only by a ten-minute ferry ride from the dock at Mallory Square in Key West, it consists of charming cottages—ranging from one- to four-bedroom, although the four-bedroom models, with their full granite and stainless-steel kitchens, second-floor balconies and private swimming pools, can hardly be considered “cottages”—all bearing the trademark Key West architecture and wrap-around verandas. Every aspect of the accommodations delights, from the fully stocked kitchens to the plush bathrobes in the closet to the fluffy, double pillowtop beds. And we must admit, we always look forward to waking up to find a breakfast basket filled

OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The Conch Cruiser makes its 3 pm ice cream run; a treatment room at the spa; inside the one-story 3-bedroom beachfront cottage. ABOVE: Partial view of the main pool. BELOW: Beachfront chaise longues line the beach; the pier in the distance is where the ferry picks up and drops off guests.

with delicious homemade cakes, muffins and fruit (and a newspaper) outside the door, just about as much as we look forward to the bottled water and bedtime chocolates left on the night tables during turndown service. Since the resort upgraded last year to its spot on the Luxury Collection’s roster, there are some newly added pleasures to savor, such as the Conch Cruiser ice cream cycle, which traverses the grounds delivering complimentary gourmet gelato and sorbet to guests daily at 3 pm. If your idea of a cool treat comes in liquid form, however, you can always lie back on a seaside chaise and let the beach concierge bring you a cocktail. Food is as much a sybaritic pleasure here as anything else, and that includes breakfast (try the Chai Tea French Toast), lunch (the Maine Lobster Salad is fresh, plentiful and addictive) and dinner, which could be anything from a cumin-dusted Yellowtail Snapper to a Grilled Wild Boar with boursin cheese and caramelized onion bonito cake. Servers are affable and attentive—ours remembered us from our prior visit, which had been in September 2014!—and whether you choose to dine at a table outside on the sand among the torches

or inside the intricately designed dining room, you’ll be in the perfect spot. The isolation from the madding crowds of Key West adds to the perfection of this romantic spot, known as a favorite for weddings (we see one every time we go), anniversaries, or even family getaways—and just a favorite in general. Go. You’ll understand why. Sunset Key, A Luxury Collection Resort, 245 Front St., Key West, 305-292-5300; sunsetkeycottages.com

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Pelican Grand Beach Resort

The Pelican Grand Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale is in a league of its own when it comes to Fort Lauderdale hotels. There are plenty of lovely ones, to be sure, but the entire atmosphere changes here once you walk through its lobby doors. Situated on the ocean, with a lounge at one end and a restaurant on the other that both feature outdoor seating (the veranda at the restaurant is perfection), the Pelican Grand evokes a cozy, upscale yet comfortable environment where you can choose to indulge in activities like their Lazy River (the only one of its kind in the city) or zone out in the serenity of the PURE Spa, which is almost indescribably calming and relaxing. When it comes to catering to families, they’ve got it covered, between the pool and the Lazy River and The Emporium, set up like an old-fashioned ice cream parlor and offering up fresh-baked cookies and muffins, coffee, candy, and assorted other items for purchase you may discover you need (like earbuds, which I had left at home). Three categories of guestrooms include standard city or ocean view, suites and two premier suites, the Sky Suite penthouse on the 12th floor and the Pure Suite penthouse on the 11th floor. The Sky Suite is the ultimate in luxury, with its sprawling layout and fantastic views. It features a huge balcony (1,100 square feet) with a bathtub and outdoor shower, a separate dining room, a roomy living room, and an immense bathroom with a state-of-the-art marble shower. If it’s available, grab it. Two things you absolutely need to do whether you stay here or not are book an appointment (or two) at the PURE Spa and

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dine at the restaurant, OCEAN2000. My masseur, George, not only discussed the level of pressure I wanted for my massage; he brought me pineapple-infused coconut water to help allay the symptoms of a mild hangover and took special care to massage my pounding head. All this in a glass-encased room on the roof overlooking the ocean— what more is there to say? The restaurant here, OCEAN2000, ranks among the best in Fort Lauderdale, with a pretty famous Sunday brunch, but also a lovely dinner experience that’s heavily seafoodinspired and an ode to the resort’s location,

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The rooftop couples massage room at PURE Spa, with its breathtaking ocean view; the living area inside the 12th-floor Sky Suite; breakfast setup on the Sky Suite terrace. BELOW: The O2K Lounge lights up at night. OPPOSITE, TOP: Rocking chairs line the beach-facing veranda. OPPOSITE BOTTOM: Inside one of the resort’s inviting guestrooms.

but not forgetting the carnivorous among us with items such as Grilled Hanger Steak, Filet Mignon, Ribeye and Roast Chicken. Whatever you order, make sure to ask for the Seven Sauces—you can pick one, but why?—the chef ’s special concoctions, like Salty Shallot Caramel and Green Curry Aioli. The hotel offers packages that include a Florida Residents Promotion, 4th Night Free and Summer Celebration; you can find the details for all on the website. 2000 N. Ocean Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, 954-568-9431; pelicanbeach.com

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PALM BEACH:

Flagler Club at The Breakers

The Breakers Palm Beach was founded in 1896 by Henry Morrison Flagler, a partner of John D Rockefeller’s in the Standard Oil Co. Originally called The Palm Beach Inn, the hotel was destroyed by fire in 1903 and rebuilt the following year as The Breakers, which was again destroyed by fire in 1925. It reopened the next year following a $7 million renovation. Now in its second century, the hotel has been brilliantly maintained by heirs of the original ownership. In fact, the current management team has recently completed another phase of its $25 million renovation. The result is the Flagler Club, an understatedly elegant 25-room (21 guest rooms and four suites) boutique hotel experience within the resort. Located on the sixth and seventh floors of the main building, The Flagler Club’s private lounge offers guests assorted seating vignettes, flat-screen TVs, beautiful art and plenty of reading material. Guests can take breakfast, light snacks, pre-dinner appetizers and delicately prepared sweets in the lounge or outside on the expansive terrace, where we relaxed often—and it’s simply awesome. The guestrooms are luxurious yet quietly soothing, with PranaSleep adjustable beds dressed in Frette linens, a stocked mini fridge, and luxurious marble bathrooms with spa-like features including rainforest showers and Jo Malone toiletries. A house car service will transport Flagler Club guests by Tesla, and there is always assistance to find customized activities for each family, couple or those traveling solo. (The hotel associates are fluent in 50 languages.) Nothing is left

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to chance because 19 staffers are assigned to dote on guests in the 25 rooms. The brand new, $8 million indooroutdoor spa is another sanctuary of quiet elegance. Try the relaxing body scrub with its organic, marine-based formulations. Afterwards, relax outside overlooking the pool and ocean and enjoy small cupcakes, apples, nuts and teas available from the spa lounge. As for activities on site, they run the gamut, from golf and tennis to a lap pool and water sports of every kind. If you’re bringing the kids, they can enjoy Camp Breakers for children (ages 3-12). About 20 chic beach bungalows and ten grand

cabanas sit on a half mile of pure sandy beach for those who prefer to spend their time just chilling. Be sure to dine at the hotel’s Flagler Steakhouse located across the street, where the food ranks among the best in Palm Beach. The restaurant specializes in U.S.D.A. Prime steak and chops as well as fresh seafood. Leave room for sweet endings, like the freshly baked chocolate chip cookies and Valrhona chocolate layer cake with vanilla ice cream. That might sound too decadent, but you can always—and you should—walk off your meals on the property, an educational and beautiful experience. The hotel gardens are filled with texture, colors and the fragrances of the season. Ask to be shown the Color Garden Walk, Organic Herb & Vegetable Garden and the Palm Courtyard, a quaint arcaded fountain courtyard near the many retail shops. —Linda Marx Flagler Club at The Breakers Palm Beach, 1 County Road, Palm Beach, 561-655-6611 or 888-273-2537; www.thebreakers.com

OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: The relaxing terrace is perfect for cocktails and snacks; one of the cozy guestrooms; a poolside lounging area. THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Another view of the terrace; inside the spa; a couples massage room; the grand entrance to the property.

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JULY/AUGUST 2016

ဨetTHE partƈ started Planning a successful event of any size

requires time, organization and attention to detail. Here, the experts offer valuable tips on the process—from start to finish. By Linda Marx

inWESTON MAGAZINE

“Planners are right up there with enlisted military, firefighter, police officer and airplane pilot. Forbes reported that arranging events of any kind requires organizational and people skills that can raise just about anyone’s blood pressure. I think that says it all.” – Michelle Spencer Young The 100,000-squarefoot Renaissance-style Signature Grand in Davie is a favorite for large upscale events.

ᅈ

HETHER ORGANIZING A LARGE WEDDING in a hotel or country club, or a smaller celebration like a birthday, anniversary or quinceañera in a venue or private home, attention to detail is essential to pulling it all together successfully.. But before you even think about hosting any sort of event, it’s important to organize and arrange for the right people to assist. The best way to begin is by creating a basic outline with a backtracking list so that nothing is left to chance. Compile a detailed list of who will do what and when in the areas of cocktails, appetizers, dinner, speeches, and other organized segments of the event. Be sure and have enough materials and all necessary permits for a large extravaganza. Then assign jobs with specific deadlines. “Year after year, Forbes ranks event planning [as one of] the top five most stressful jobs,” reveals Michelle Spencer Young, Director of Events & Marketing at Weston Hills Country Club. “Planners are right up there with enlisted military, firefighter, police officer and airplane pilot. Forbes reported that arranging events of any kind requires organizational and people skills that can raise just about anyone’s blood pressure. I think that says it all.” For a major event like a wedding or an anniversary party where the guest list is in the hundreds, Young and many other event planners agree that the host should hire a reputable professional and not worry about the cost. (The average wedding costs $27,000 and goes up from there, depending on the size and magnitude of the celebration.) Trying to do something glam and grand without a professional planner or large enough event space is just asking for trouble. No host wants to risk being disappointed—if not devastated—with vendors who do not deliver what they promised or failing to show up at all. “One way to

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save money using a reputable professional is to reserve the event during the off-season, when there are greater opportunities to get a fabulous venue, over-the-top decor and marvelous photographers or musicians for a fraction of the peak season pricing,” advises Young. To avoid problems and be sure the event runs seamlessly, Young and her team at Weston Hills create an event order that the client signs off on weeks before. This checklist allows all members of the team to know want to expect. Then the host can relax and be more of a guest and not worry that something is going to be overlooked. It details the food and beverage selections, setup and service items, decorators, florists, linen colors, music, valet, vendor names and phone numbers, load-in times, break times, and an important run of service or timeline. “The event order is reviewed with all vendors and the culinary and banquet service staff before they start work on the day of the event,” says Young, who makes it all sound fairly simple if the host is organized. To plan a large-scale function of any kind, especially a wedding at an event space like the Signature Grand in Davie, a 100,000-square-foot Renaissance-style mansion, the host or bridal couple can feel confident that every detail will be executed by a well trained staff. As service professionals, they will make sure the event runs perfectly with no detail left undone. Specialists take care of invitations, music,

ABOVE: Weston Hills Country Club. RIGHT: A fish made of flowers hangs from a dragon wood fishing pole, designed by BB of Flowers.

photography, dramatic lighting, ceiling embellishments, room and stage decor, designer linens, flowers, food and all other special furnishings. The venue can host up to 2,400 guests. The event space has new flooring and is appointed with Bernhardt Hospitality Furniture with Kravet fabrics and Schonbek crystal (part of Swarovski crystal) embellishments. Each of the venue ballrooms has three bridal suites, measuring about 495 square feet, and comes furnished with a vanity and couches. There is also a high-tech sound system and high-speed fiberoptics with connectivity for up to 2,000 devices. This enables the bridal couple to utilize worldwide video conferencing for the ceremony if desired. The Beautiful Business of Flowers (BB of Flowers) in Weston, the concept of co-owners Bibiana Perez and Carlos Oropeza, goes a step further than arranging creative presentations that express emotion and feeling through aroma, beauty and color: They have become a one-stop party planning shop. Oropeza, who hails from Venezuela, offers a full-service plan from execution of the event’s concept to creation of the floral arrangements and other decorations. As creative director of his boutique, he brainstorms with his clients to find out the number of guests, the theme and preferred colors. “We take care

of everything from beginning to end,” says Oropeza, who perfected his passion for flower arranging while working in other South Florida flower shops. “We create a presentation the host can visualize. We imagine based on what they are doing at the event and think outside of the box to make it unique.” For a recent Bar Mitzvah, the young man being celebrated was active in sports, so Oropeza created a baseballinspired centerpiece incorporating a bat and baseball into the floral selection. For an anniversary, the wife wanted to give her husband something clever, so when Oropeza learned he was a fisherman, he designed a fish made of freshly cut flowers. For a quinceañera, Oropeza gave new meaning to thinking out of the box. The teenage girl had a penchant for anything from or about the exclusive Tiffany & Co., so Oropeza got to work utilizing the company’s famous trademark Tiffany blue. “I made her centerpieces with Tiffany blue boxes that had flowers coming out of them,” says Oropeza. “I also created Tiffany blue candy and candy boxes with her name in flowers reading, ‘Victoria & Co.’” With such clever and beautiful ideas, it’s no wonder Oropeza loves his work in an environment of harmony, especially his ability to build an entire festivity or funeral around flower arrangements. “I continuously research to keep up with seasons and trends,” he says. “We also give great service and hire extra people to help depending on the size of the function.” If potential hosts learn nothing else about throwing a successful event of any size, they should quickly realize that it takes a village to make these lifelong dreams come true. inWESTON MAGAZINE

baby , IT’S hot utsid But you should still bring your

own heat to the pool in some of the season’s sexiest suits—

and accessorize accordingly.

Photography by Eric Hason / www.erichason.com

JULY/AUGUST 2016

ide

Metallic Narcissus by Sara Cristina, $285; available at www.saracristinaswimwear. com. Symbols Cuff by XR, $195; available at www.xrjewelry.com. Stevie Hand Harness by Haus of Topper, $165; available at www. hausoftopper.com.

inWESTON MAGAZINE

Panna beaded swim necklace gold multi by KTB swimwear, $119; available at www.ktbswimwear. com. Elizabeth Fringe Earrings by Haus of Topper, $165; available at www.hausoftopper.com. Serpent Ring by Qiyada, $80, and Chain Ring by Qiyada, $60; available at www.qiyadajewelry.com. Signature Medusa High-Heel Sandals by Versace, $795.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Geometric Amalfi Top by Poema Swim, $58; available at https://poemaswim.com. Geometric Santorini Bottom by Poema Swim, $58; available at https://poemaswim.com. Link earrings by Harrison Morgan, available upon request at www.harrisonmorgan-nyc.com.

inWESTON MAGAZINE

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Multistrap Triangle Bikini Top by Toxic Safie, $67.95; available at www.yandy.com.

inWESTON MAGAZINE

Bodysuit by TM, $318; available at www.blaiz.co.uk. Symbol Star Ring, $60, Triangulation Ring, $55, and Serpent Ring, $55; all by XR and available at www.xr-jewelry.com.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

TM Bodysuit, $350; available at www.blaiz.co.uk. Arrow Ring by XR, $195; available at www.xr-jewelry.com.

inWESTON MAGAZINE

Metta blue tie-dye bikini top, $99, and bikini bottom $90 (sold separately), by KTB swimwear; available at www.ktbswimwear.com. Bamboo Stick Earrings by Harrison Morgan, $70; available at www.harrisonmorgan-nyc.com.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

Fashion stylist: Ikponmwosa Edorisiagbon /Â Instagram @ikthestylist Makeup and hair: Emi Koizumi using Giella Custom Blend by Flirt Beauty Boutique Model: Vanessa Jorge/ Major Model Management, New York

inWESTON MAGAZINE

Getting to the Bottom of Your Digestive Troubles Anyone who has suffered digestive problems knows that symptoms can range from mild to severe pain and bloating to diarrhea or constipation, none of which Ronnie Pimentel, MD sounds like much fun. But in truth a lot more could actually be going on. It’s important to find out as early as possible, because some issues can lead to more serious, chronic illnesses if left untreated. Your digestive system is a complex and extensive part of the body. It starts at your mouth, down your esophagus to your stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, and ends at your anus. It’s responsible for helping your body absorb essential nutrients and then getting rid of the waste, which are very important functions. So, if you continue to suffer from digestive disturbances, it’s probably time to make an appointment with your doctor. Not only will you be more comfortable once you’ve gotten to the source of the issue, more importantly, early diagnosis and treatment can reduce damage to your esophagus and GI tract. Today, gastroenterologists are using advanced technology that make diagnosis and treatment of digestive disorders much

more palatable. For example, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is an important tool that allows doctors to see your internal organs very clearly. EUS provides very high resolution images, because it does not have to go through barriers such as skin and bone, as compared to surface ultrasound. According to Cleveland Clinic Florida gastroenterologist Ronnie Pimentel, MD, “the EUS procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting, and usually takes close to 45 minutes.” He adds that “patients do not experience discomfort during the procedure, and are able to go home the same day.” EUS is very useful in helping physicians evaluate cancers or other tumors of the stomach, esophagus, pancreas, colon, liver, gall bladder, digestive tract and rectum, as well as to plan the most effective treatment strategies. It can even provide good images of smaller masses that may not be detected using other technology. And, preliminary results are available immediately, allowing for timely staging and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers. In fact, in the past 5 years EUS has become utilized more and more in this capacity. How EUS works EUS is much like a regular endoscopy procedure in that a probe is inserted down the esophagus and into the stomach.

The difference, however, is that the probe’s tip has an ultrasound camera on it that provides a very clear view of the stomach and nearby organs. By getting so close to the organs, EUS allows doctors to take a biopsy through the stomach wall, by removing a small amount of tissue for testing. Getting a biopsy this way is more comfortable for patients than a traditional needle biopsy through the skin, and more critical is the fact that it reduces the risk of “seeding,” or spreading the tumor through the skin or to other parts of the body. Dr. Pimentel states that, “another important use for EUS is to perform nerve blocks for severe pain in cancer patients. We also can insert markers (known as fiducials) to guide future radiation treatments so that they target only the tumor, not the healthy tissue around it.” In addition, EUS is sometimes used to help find answers for patients with abdominal pain that doctors have been unable to explain.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call toll-free 855.324.8153, or visit clevelandclinicflorida.org/cancercare.

A new chapter in cancer care is here. Maroone Cancer Center has the inside story on advanced cancer care.

855.324.8153

clevelandclinicflorida.org/cancercare Cleveland Clinic offers same-day appointments.

matters of style

Straw-Some

The sequin-spangled “Wish You Were Here” message of this Eugenia Kim straw hat says it all. The fact that it protects your mug from the sun’s harmful UV rays is an added bonus. $485; available at www.net-a-porter.com.

Nailing It Coral is the IT color for hands and feet this summer. Deborah Lippman’s nail polish in Beauty School Dropout is not only en vogue, but its gel component lasts weeks without chipping. $17; available at www.deborahlippmann.com.

great

With steadfast sunny days upon us, keep cool this summer with bold-hued swimsuits, statement accessories and more.

Sassy Sandals Ditch the flip-flops and make a grand entrance in these Louis Vuitton wedges. Imprinted in a palm-frond and polka dot print, they’re essential for scorching South Florida summers. $825, visit www.louisvuitton.com.

JULY/AUGUST 2016

hits

SUMMER

By Maria Tettamanti

Skin Savior The latest secret beauty weapon in sunscreen-infused makeup? Look no further than Amore Pacific’s Age Correcting Foundation Cushion with SPF 25. Its lightweight, undetectable formula is non-greasy and will never look chalky like other foundations. The results? Supple and glowy skin. $88; available at Nordstrom stores and at www.amorepacific.com.

Suit Up True story: The only way to tolerate the dog days of summer is to reach for the beach. This graphic Eres bikini for the ladies and vibrant Vilebrequin swim trunks for the gents are the hottest suits for keeping your cool. Eres bikini, $450; available at www.eres.com. Vilebrequin X Massimo Vitali Merise trunks, $295; available at Vilebrequin Bal Harbour Shops boutique or www.vilebrequin.com.

Good Timing Rose gold is still experiencing a fashion moment—making this Bulgari timepiece unequivocally classic and on trend. Replete with the diamonds, the pink sapphire crown boasts dazzling detail. Available at www.bulgari.com.

Beachy Keen Hit the pool or high seas with this Kayu St. Tropez seagrass tote. Embellished with playful pompoms, it’s also roomy enough to fit all your essentials for a day by the ocean. $115; available at www.net-a-porter.com.

inWESTON MAGAZINE

LEFT: The cozy interiors of Ends Meat Eatery. ABOVE: Kevin Dreifuss has reason to smile.

comfort awaits Hollywood Boulevard sizzles where Ends Meat.

By Jennifer Agress

hen it comes to comfort food, there’s little that compares to a hearty meal, paired with the perfect glass of red wine, from your neighborhood “mom-and-pop” spot. And here in South Florida, there’s no better example of that than the latest addition to the Hollywood food scene: Ends Meat Eatery. Helmed by husband-and-wife chef and owners Kevin and Georgianna Dreifuss, along with chef and partner Kennole Wong, Ends Meat is the current end of one chef ’s 22-year journey through the culinary world. “I started in the restaurant industry over

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20 years ago and have never done anything else,” says Kevin Dreifuss. “I started at the bottom, washing dishes and bussing tables, and worked my way up to prepping food and eventually cooking. I moved from Tennessee to Boston to California, where I lived for ten years. When I was there, I tried to talk my way into an executive chef job and completely bombed it, so I decided to go to culinary school to fill in the gaps in my training.” And, as with most things in life, it was that decision that brought him to where he is today. Graduating at the top of his class, Kevin went on to intern at a restaurant at the Caneel Bay Resort in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where he helped prepare dishes for A-list

clients, learned about global cuisine and met Georgianna. From there, they moved to Seattle and Arizona, where he opened Sushi Roku at the W Scottsdale. After putting in crazy days and long hours, he met Chef Robert McGrath, the host of the show Check, Please! Arizona, winner of the James Beard “Best Chef in America: Southwest” Award, and the man who would change Kevin’s career forever. Working as McGrath’s sous chef, Kevin gained the confidence and validation he needed to go out on his own. And the rest is history. “I hate being stagnant, and I hate not learning, changing, growing, improving, testing, failing and trying all over again,” he says. “Georgianna and I were starting a family, and I knew if I didn’t open a restaurant then, it wasn’t going to happen. My wife introduced me to food trucks, and while I hated the idea at first, I soon saw people making gamechanging food, experimenting, learning and trying new things, all without the extreme overhead of a restaurant. I was sold.” So the couple packed their bags, headed south to Miami and opened a food truck, the famous “Pescados Unidos” known for its Latin-Caribbean seafood. The duo came up with a menu culled from their favorite destinations: ceviche, a nod to Kevin’s best friend, who’s Peruvian; fish tacos from California; lump crab taquitos reminiscent of the sort of Mexican fare they loved in Arizona; and his

PHOTOGRAPHS BY RICARDO MEJIA

table hopping

ABOVE: King Trumpet mushroom “scallops.” BELOW: The Mitch HedBurger.

own special creation, the one that landed him on the Travel Channel and Food Network: mahi mahi, mango and habañero sausage. As their success grew, so did their dreams, and they eventually sold the truck and bought a restaurant space on Hollywood Boulevard, right next door to their favorite club, Ginger Bay. “We slaved and labored over a name, but I thought back to my days in Arizona when I thought about opening a charcuterie spot called Ends Meat. Hollywood wasn’t ready for a charcuterie place, but I still loved the name. Making ends meet, Hollywood’s young circle, ends meeting… it was perfect. That was that.” Having just opened in March 2016, Kevin’s dream come alive is inspired by cuisine from both California and South Florida. With just enough space for 30 tables, the restaurant offers lunch and dinner options like ceviche, smoked prawn appetizers, and East or West Coast oysters doused in Kevin’s own apple mignonette and housemade smoked red pepper cocktail sauce. From Pescados Unidos, guests can order Kevin’s famous fish sausage; a pork casing of fresh-ground mahi mahi fillet, stuffed in a potato roll and served with mango mustard and a green papaya and jalapeño slaw. Another favorite is the Reuben egg roll a crispy egg roll shell stuffed with slow-

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cooked corned beef, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut, dipped in a Thousand Island-mustard dressing. Of course, a place named Ends Meat pretty much requires some tantalizing beef dishes, like The Mitch HedBurger—after comedian Mitch Hedberg—comprised of a hanger steak, short rib and sirloin burger topped with arugula, house-cured bacon, horseradish cheddar cheese, onion jam and housemade aioli. And after savory dishes like these, you’ll need a divine dessert to tie it all together. Georgianna, who’s known for her knack with pastry, makes a must-try Key lime pie, the silky pale yellow custard of which strikes the

perfect balance between tangy and sweet. “We’re making great food and people are happy. It’s not pretentious, it’s not anything it’s not. It’s just a great meal with great folks, great music and a great vibe. It’s us. It’s nice enough for a date, but you can also bring your kids and let them distract themselves with chalkboard drawings so you can have a glass of wine,” Kevin says. “It’s easy and it’s simple, just like we all wish life could be.” Ends Meat Eatery, 1910 Hollywood Blvd., Suite B, Hollywood, 305-951-1194; www.endsmeat.com.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY RICARDO MEJIA

table hopping

wheel life

2016 Chevrolette CORVETTE

CAMARO SS

See the U.S.A. …in a blur.

By Steve Siler

mericans of a certain age may remember Dinah Shore singing Chevrolet’s famous “See the U.S.A. in your Chevrolet” song, but even if you don’t, that slogan surely rings a bell. Well, never have you been able to see the U.S.A. in a Chevrolet more quickly than now, with this very fast and sexy duo sitting in Chevy showrooms now. The new-for-2016 Camaro SS is a muscle car that’s as refined as it is fast, while the Corvette is more extreme and exotic than ever. Both are incredibly charismatic chariots in which you can turn this fine American landscape into a bona fide blur.

2016 CHEVROLET CORVETTE STINGRAY: AMERICA’S SPORTS CAR SWEETHEART

The Chevrolet Corvette is a car that needs no introduction, really. The Corvette has long been considered “America’s Sweetheart,” and as such, no sports car has carried on such a lasting and torrid love affair

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with American drivers as the Corvette. The current seventh-generation model—dubbed “C7” in Corvettespeak—is the sweetest and swiftest Corvette ever. At no point since its 1953 introduction has it ever looked so aggressive, its characteristic wedge shape now punctuated by scoops and strakes and vents galore (all functional, by the way). Whereas some of its competitors err on the side of elegant—the Jaguar F-Type comes to mind—the Corvette is more polarizing and extreme than ever. Indeed, the C7 is just as much about making a statement as slicing through the air at 180-plus miles per hour, and it’s a statement that says its driver is unafraid to cause a stir. That’s a good thing, because a stir is exactly what the 455-hp V-8 will cause as soon as it fires up. It’s loud, lightweight and prodigiously fast, with 0-60 taking just 3.7 seconds, while the available magnetic shocks enable the firm suspension to keep the rear tires glued to the asphalt

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Here, image really is everything. It could save your life. Diagnostic Imaging Center At the Broward Health Weston Outpatient Imaging Center and Women’s Center, we use only the most advanced technology. It’s accredited by the American College of Radiology and provides the most detailed and accurate information about the state of your health. All in a welcoming, comfortable environment. Services include general diagnostic imaging, 128 multi-slice CT scan, 1.5 tesla MRI, digital mammography, digital ultrasound x-ray, digital bone densitometry and fluoroscopy. Results are often available in 24 hours. Here, diagnostic imaging is part of doing whatever it takes to keep you in the best of health.

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To learn more call 954.217.3305 or visit BrowardHealth.org/Weston

wheel life American beauties: both the two-seat Corvette and the 4-passenger Camaro are fast, fun and ready to run.

2016 Chevrolet Corvette

Camaro SS Convertible

• Extreme styling • Incredibly fast • Impressive cabin • Huge trunk

• Muscle car charisma • Usable back seat • Stunningly refined interior • Deliciously antisocial exhaust note

(BASE PRICE: $56,395, COUPE; $60,395, CONVERTIBLE)

(BASE PRICE: $49,295)

without punishing your spleen on the highway. Incidentally, the Corvette Stingray actually offers two ways to get sun on the noggin: the convertible’s soft top fully retracts under a clean tonneau cover behind the passengers, complete with a sexy body-color “waterfall” panel between the seatbacks. But the coupe’s removable center roof panel also comes off and stores under the rear window glass “targa”-style, as has been the case since the 1980s. Both cars have enormous trunks, an unexpected but appreciable asset in the sports car world.

CHEVROLET CAMARO SS: THE FOUR-SEAT CORVETTE

If the Corvette sounds savory but, alas, remains two seats shy of your ideal carriage, the all-new 2016 Camaro SS may be exactly what you’re looking for. Sharing not just its Chevrolet lineage but also its monstrous, 455-hp V-8, 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmissions and innovative magnetic shocks with its sports car sibling, the Camaro SS has become, in essence, a four-seat Corvette. It wasn’t always this way. Camaros are pony cars, after all, and as such, have historically been best suited to stoplight drag races with Mustangs and Challengers. Corvettes, on the other hand, are sports cars, tailor-made for the racetrack to rub fenders with Porsches, Ferraris and Aston Martins. Camaros could get away with being quick yet unruly and not very premium inside, while Corvettes also have to carve twisty roads like a scalpel and, considering their premium pricing, must offer reasonably nice accommodations, too. I wouldn’t have believed the newfound parity between the Corvette and the Camaro SS if the Camaro SS convertible I tested for this story

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didn’t absolutely blow me away with its raw power, responsiveness and ability to stay glued to the road in corners. While it’s a bit heavier than the ‘Vette, it still hits 60 in a stunning four seconds flat. And like any good muscle car, it can drift around corners with the tail out when you turn off the stability control (with an experienced driver, of course), yet this car’s steering and chassis are so communicative that such hooliganism is eminently more controllable, less terrifying, and hence, much more fun. And we would be remiss not to mention the gloriously loud, optional dual-mode exhaust ($800), a characteristic as appealing to some as it is repellent to others. And that’s okay—anyone who might get turned off by an exhaust note this spectacular is probably nobody we would want to be friends with anyway. But performance is not the only way the new Camaro blew me away. It also has—what’s this?—class. Like a bodybuilder with perfect table manners, the Camaro SS has a wonderfully high-quality feel inside and out that utterly belies its plebian roots. Styling is evocative of Camaros from the 1960s, only rendered in anime. The interior also pays homage to the original, only with a state-of-the-art infotainment system, nifty customizable LED accent lighting, and supportive bucket seats. Our only complaint involves poor outward vision. That’s a problem the Camaro convertible can solve, however, in 17 seconds by simply putting the top down—a one-touch operation that can be performed at up to 30 mph. Never has the Camaro ever been so close in performance to the Corvette, and never has it been so close to luxury brands in terms of comfort and refinement. These are words I never thought I would write about the Camaro in any form, but the Camaro SS earns every bit of this praise. All that’s missing are the crossed flags on the nose.

out&about Joe Rogers, Lauren Book and Emilio Benitez.

Steve Light, Sigrid McCawley, Lauren Book and Joey Epstein.

ChildNet Honors Activist Lauren Book

ChildNet hosted its Broward Care for Kids Luncheon presented by Boies, Schiller & Flexner, LLP, on May 13th at the Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six in Fort Lauderdale. Proceeds from the luncheon will help to support Broward County’s children in foster care. During the luncheon, ChildNet honored Founder and CEO of Lauren’s Kids, Lauren Book. Broward County Mayor Marty Kiar proclaimed May 13th Lauren Book Day in Broward County for her work as an activist for childhood sexual abuse prevention. Guests also heard from Milena, a compelling foster youth who shared how she has personally benefited from ChildNet’s efforts to place her with a loving foster family and how it has helped prepare her to reach her goals.

Eleanor Sobel, Sarah Thomas and Dr. Brenda Snipes.

Eric Yutzy and Kenneth Brighton.

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Michael LaMarca, Dan McCawley, State Rep George Moraitis and Todd Billings.

out&about

Henri Crockett, Bobby Bowden and Zack Crockett.

Eileen and Chip LaMarca.

Derby Days at Sport of Kings

On Saturday, May 21st, the Crockett Foundation hosted its 4th Annual Derby Days Preakness Party at Sport of Kings Theater located at Gulfstream Park. More than 300 guests, including celebrities, local notables and dignitaries attended the event, which raised a total of $83,500 to benefit the Crockett Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youth mentoring and tutorial programs.

Adriana and Marvin Minnis.

Kip Hunter, Jeff Dinetz, Coach Mark Richt and Bobby Bowden.

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Angela Messam and Mayor Wayne Messam.

out&about

Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Angelo-Macallan Pairing

Angelo Elia, Marco Gaviria, and Tony Sassi.

Twan Russell and Angel William.

Mitch Weinberg, David Holbert, Justin Hoisington and Tommy Justice.

Kaylee Bachmann and Courtney Cook.

Laurie Jennings and Director of Development Lisa Egozi.

BCAA 29th Annual Scholar/Athlete Banquet

Healthy Mothers

Scott Neely, Sasha DeSimone, Bill Caruso and Charity for Championsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Dr. Al DeSimone.

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David Kubiliun, Cari Canino, Florida First Lady Ann Scott and Norma Smoker.

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face to face

man A plan WITH

Cypress Bay principal lets inWeston pick his brain—and provides insight into running one of the most successful high schools in the nation.

oday, contributing writer Helen Fried found herself back in the principal’s office. With the startling blare of a school bell and what felt like the pull of an ocean’s undertow, a sea of Cypress Bay students made their way to their next class as Helen settled in to meet with Principal Scott Neely, aka “the Big Kahuna.” But in this face-to-face, it was Helen asking all the questions.

As principal of one the largest high schools in the country, with a staggering student body of over 4,600, how are you able to maintain an A+ rating and keep it all under control? The key is to bring in great leaders—my staff— who have the same philosophy as I do. My philosophy is all about treating my students with total respect and giving them a lot of freedom. And with a lot of freedom comes great responsibility. My students know if you challenge the respect and freedom I give, you will lose it all. I’ll give, but if you mess with me, I’ll take it away.

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What percentage of your students graduate and go on to higher education? We have a 98 percent graduation rate, with 97 percent going to college. I attribute much of that to our excellent leaders—our teachers—and to our Weston parents who are committed to their children’s education.

they can come use my private bathroom in my office. I’m a believer that if you don’t allow freedom, you’re going to have problems.

A big topic of conversation today is the transgender community and bathrooms. Have you had to deal with this issue at Cypress Bay? That’s a non-issue at my school. We have a very large organization for the gay, lesbian, bi and transgender community. It’s actually the biggest in the nation. I have a very open and nonjudgmental relationship with all my students. I’ve let my students know if they have any issues or feel uncomfortable using the bathroom here at the Bay,

Talk about the PRIDE organization at Cypress Bay. With 70 percent of our student body being Hispanic, we are a Majority Minority school; everybody comes from somewhere and our student body formed the group PRIDE so all cultures and nationalities could have a place to express their pride and promote their heritage. The clubs here at Cypress Bay are more than just a football team and cheerleading squad. We are what I like to call “the whole enchilada.”

JULY/AUGUST 2016

PHOTOGRAPHS BY RICARDO MEJIA

How long have you been in education and when did you start at Cypress Bay? I’ve been in education for 43 years. I began my career in Hollywood Hills, and from there I started the first elementary and middle school magnet programs. I then became principal of an elementary school in Cooper City, later moving on to principal of Tequesta Trace in Weston. In 2002, I was asked to consider the position as principal of Cypress Bay High School. Back then there was nothing here but vacant land. I literally watched this place grow before my eyes, and 14 years later I am still here as proud papa.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY RICARDO MEJIA

face to face

students…. And well, let’s just say that was the first and last time anything like that ever happened.

You’re known around town as the Big Kahuna. Where did that nickname come from? When I started at The Bay—that’s what the cool kids call Cypress Bay—a few of the students who knew of my love for surfing gave me the nickname Big Kahuna. The Big Kahuna is known in the surfing culture as someone who has been there and done that… an expert in one’s profession who teaches and guides others. It’s a name I wear with honor. Are there any big changes coming to the Bay next year? Next year we will be going to a block schedule, that being four classes at 90 minutes each. I think it’s a great schedule for the kids. Our teachers will have more time to teach, debate and explain in depth the subject at hand. What would you consider to be one of the most difficult situations you’ve had to deal with as principal of Cypress Bay? Some years back when I was off campus attending a meeting downtown, 1,200 of my students decided to have a food fight. Water bottles and food were thrown about and the lunch room was in full force pure havoc; and I am witnessing this all on video. Between the media and everything going viral, I am watching in real time! When I finally returned to campus, I said a few choice words to my

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JULY/AUGUST 2016

After 43 years of working with kids, do you plan on retiring anytime soon? No, not yet. A funny story though: ten years ago I was planning to surf my way into retirement at my place in Costa Rica, when the kids petitioned for me to come back. So, I’ve basically been retired for ten years. The joke around here is that I’m going to be a real life Weekend at Bernie’s. When you’re not acting as the Big Kahuna, how do you enjoy your private time? I love to eat and drink great wine. I also enjoy traveling every year with my buddies that I’ve grown up with. I’ve traveled all over the world enjoying my passion for the ocean, surfing and getting to experience new cultures and traditions. What advice would you have for your younger self ? Sometimes hold back; don’t always jump into things full force. It’s a fine line between pulling the trigger and getting it done. Is there anything else you would like to add before we say goodbye? I’d like to say over the 16+ years I have been here in Weston, I have seen this town of 65,000 grow and flourish into a cohesive community of love and commitment to our children’s education and to the acceptance of others’ cultures and beliefs. I think it’s the diversity that makes Weston so special, and I am grateful to be a part of it.

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