Our City Davie: March 2023

Ghea Adeboyejo, MD & Krista Kant, MD

PUBLISHERS

Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Christy Jaillet

ART DIRECTOR

Tom Rowe

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Alana Brodie

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Nancy Koval nancy@ourcitymedia.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

John Brodie, Denise Caligiuri, Adrienne Collins, Mariem Garcia, Caleb Furlong, Carlos Medina, Kenny Rodgers, Silvia Silva

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Jaillet, Jon Duka, Dr. Robert Donoway, Dr. John Goodner, Amelis Lopez, Mayor Frank C. Ortis, Dr. Isabel Suate

ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com

VISIT US ONLINE ourcitymedia.com

954-306-1007

400 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway Suite 200C • Sunrise, FL 33325

GOT NEWS? EMAIL THE EDITOR! editor@ourcitymedia.com

March Is Women’s History Month

This year, Women's History Month provides us with an opportunity to celebrate once again and honor the women who have made a significant impact on our society.

Over the past decades, we have seen incredible advancements in women's rights and empowerment, and we must continue to strive toward equality and equity for all women.

As we recognize the achievements of women in our community, it is important to also acknowledge the challenges that still exist. Despite the progress we have made, women continue to face barriers in many areas, including pay equity, representation in leadership roles, and access to education and healthcare.

However, the inspiring women who have come before us give us hope and motivation to keep fighting for a better future. Women like Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who broke down gender barriers in the legal field and became an iconic figure for women's rights, serve as a reminder of the power and potential of women.

Women's History Month is not just about celebrating the past, but it is also about inspiring the next generation of women to reach their full potential. Let us continue to uplift, empower, and celebrate women in all their diverse and incredible forms. Here's to another year of honoring the women who have made and continue to make history!

Sincerely,

Christy & Terry Jaillet

OUR CITY MEDIA PUBLISHERS

Yul Lopez,

Hector Fabregas,

MARCH 4

Broward County Waterway Cleanup

Join your neighbors across Broward County’s largest and longest-running environmental events. The annual event brings volunteers together for one today to celebrate our beautiful environment and remove trash from our community and waterways. There are over 30 locations across the county where you can help make a difference. 9:00 am till 1:00 pm. Scan the QR code to register and select a location. Turn to page 22 for more info.

MARCH 13

Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society

Spring forward with Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society! This month FGOS members will present "Orchid Repotting, Dividing and Culture Discussion" followed by a Q & A session. Doors open at 7:00 pm, the program begins at 7:30 pm at Flamingo Gardens, Mary N Porter Learning Center, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie.

MARCH 11

Cooper City Founders Day

A full day of fun is on the horizon as we celebrate Cooper City's 64th annual Founder's Day! Festivities begin bright and early with a one-mile fun run/walk followed by a pancake breakfast served by scouts from Boy Scout Troop #118 at Cooper City High School. Events move to Brian Piccolo County Park at 2:00 pm with a full slate of activities culminating in a fireworks display shortly after dark. Scan the QR code for more details.

MARCH 15

PLA It Forward

PLA, an innovative, one-of-a-kind, fresh, and technology-driven approach to the traditional sports bar, currently operating in Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, proudly announces the launch of their PLA It Forward Foundation. PLA It Forward’s initiative is to honor and reward local heroes in the community, and to give back to other South Florida charitable, cause-driven organizations in meaningful ways. The public is invited to participate in PLA It Forward’s Inaugural event from 6:30pm – 8:30pm. Local officers who have done exceptional work in our community will be honored. Scan the QR code to register or get more info.

MARCH 16-19

St. David Carnival

Bring the whole family to a fantastic carnival. Rides & attractions for all ages. Grab something to eat at the International food court or country store. Free parking. 3900 S. University Dr, Davie. For more info call 954-475-8046 or visit www.saintdavid.org.

MARCH 17

St. Patrick’s Day

Celebrated on the 17th of March every year, St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most popular days of the year to travel to Dublin. For centuries, the Irish have celebrated the day as both a religious and social holiday. South Florida has become one of the go-to locations to celebrate Saint Patricks day in the United States. So, kiss me if you’re Irish!

MARCH 17

"Sounds of the Town" Concert in the Park

The Town of Davie is bringing back its outdoor Sounds of the Town concert series featuring live music from local bands. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets and arrive early to secure their spots and purchase items from the onsite food trucks. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. 6:00 pm till 9:00 pm at Bamford Sports Complex & Pine Island Park, 3801 S Pine Island Rd. For more info call 954-797-1181.

MARCH 18

Courage to Fight Gun Violence

AAUW Weston and Mujeres Latinas empowering women will hold a public meeting on Gabby Giffords’ legacy on “Courage to Fight Gun Violence” from 2 – 4 pm at Weston Community Center, 20200 Saddle Club Road, Weston, 33327. All are welcome to attend. For more information, email westonaauw@gmail.com.

MARCH 25

Community Garage Sale

Whether you are selling or buying, Flamingo West Park will be the place to be on Saturday morning. The massive community-wide garage sale features a plethora of unique and hard to find items. 7:00 am till 11:00 am at Flamingo West Park, 6201 S. Flamingo Road, Cooper City. For more info, call the Cooper City Parks & Recreation Department at 954-434-4300.

A Shade Above Makes Selecting Window Coverings Easy

Shade Above Window Fashions provides a unique experience for consumers shopping for window coverings. Their interactive showroom features more than 100 different shades and blinds. Andrew Abramson, president of A Shade Above Window Fashions, and his family have been in the window covering industry for more than 50 years. He recently answered some questions about his business and what differentiates it from the competition.

Please describe your showroom.

If you’re in the market for shades or blinds, shopping in our showroom is an experience. When my father, Bruce, started A Shade Above in 1984, he had a vision of a showroom-based shades and blinds company where customers could see full size, interactive displays of all the latest products on the market. In 2000, our Davie showroom was selected as the nation’s

first Hunter Douglas Window Fashions Gallery. We’ve treated windows in thousands of Davie homes, and over multiple generations. Some of our newer customers are the children or even grandchildren of our past customers. We offer a variety of indoor and outdoor shades and blinds from top national and international brands. We have products to fit all budgets.

What products do you offer?

We offer many of the top products on the market, including plantation shutters, roller and patio shades, roman shades, horizontal and vertical blinds, drapery, automated awnings and patio screens, Luminette, Silhouette, Pirouette and PowerView and Somfy automation. Most of our products can be motorized and programmed to work with a voice assistant like Alexa. You can even pre-set your shades to open and close at specific times of day.

What products are currently trending in the window covering industry?

Plantation shutters remain one of our most popular products. They are a timeless window treatment that is always in style. If you’re looking for a decorative statement, plantation shutters provide trim work around your window, including a new contemporary frame. Depending on which shutter you choose, they can complement any decor.

What other trends can customers spot in your showrooms?

If you’re looking for a soft, contemporary look, zebra shades are an ideal product that can work in any room. These shades alternate sheer and solid fabric, allowing a single shade to transition from open to close. It’s a perfect shade for those who want a view but also light control and privacy.

Do you carry room darkening products?

We’re always adding to our collection of blackout shades and we have interactive displays that show different degrees of darkness. We offer stylish shades that provide nearly total blackout in bedrooms and media rooms.

Customers love our Duo Shades — during the day a transparent shade gives you a view of the outside while maintaining privacy and keeping out the heat. At night the blackout shade keeps the room private while maintaining darkness when the sun rises. It’s similar to what you’d find in many contemporary hotel rooms.

Andrew Abramson, President

Plantation Shutters

What’s available for patios and other outdoor spaces?

Our patio shades allow you to relax on your patio without melting in the sun. These shades can be operated manually with a cable guide for wind resistance, or the shades can be motorized in a track. We also have retractable patio screens that protect you from bugs on muggy days but allow you to raise the screens when you want open air. For the ultimate in coverage, we have fashionable European style automated awnings that automatically retract on a windy day.

With so many choices, how do you help customers make a decision?

When customers visit our showroom, they receive a tour of the newest shades and blinds available today. We recognize that it can be difficult to make decisions from small samples. That’s why our business model is special. Our full-size displays are available for the customer to view and operate as it will appear in their home. Our employees have decades of experience in the window covering industry, so they can answer personalized questions that will help customers make the best decisions tailored to their needs.

What’s the best way for customers to contact you?

To schedule a showroom consultation, visit our website AShadeAboveFlorida.com or call or text us at 954-434-4774. Our knowledgeable staff will provide a personalized in-depth tour of our many interactive displays. Our full-service package includes professional measuring, installation and an in-home service warranty. We also offer self-service packages for do-it-yourselfers.

▸ A Shade Above’s showroom is located at 5967 South University Drive, on the northwest corner of University Drive and Stirling Road. For more info, call or text 954-434-4774.

Zebra Shades

Outdoor Patio Shade

BROWARD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS HIRES YET ANOTHER INTERIM SUPERINTENDENT

Dr. Earlean Smiley agreed to terms with Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) to serve as the school district’s interim superintendent. The retired school administrator was selected by the school board in a 7-2 vote. She was Superintendent of McCormick County Public School District in South Carolina from 2010 to 2013 and was the Principal of Blanche Ely High School. School Board negotiations were led by Chair Lori Alhadeff. Smiley’s compensation package is said to be valued at approximately $300,000.

The move comes after the departure of controversial Superintendent Dr. Vickie Cartwright. After agreeing to a separation agreement, Cartwright said, “I am confident that the district will continue to thrive under new leadership, and I do wish the district continued success in the future. Thank you for your support and your understanding.”

Smiley’s initial focus will be on improving the culture within the district’s administration.

“I’ve heard many board members talk about toxic culture,” Smiley said, “I want to move out of the culture that we’re in, to a

culture where we can thrive at every level.”

Smiley, who is 71 years old, will fill the role as the School District looks for its fourth leader in just three years.

“She has a no-nonsense personality, and I believe that is what Broward County Public Schools needs right now,” said Broward School Board Chair Lori Alhadeff, “This is how I know that she’s going to be tough but fair and a very strong leader.”

Leadership at BCPS has been a political hotbed since the Tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas. The fact that the school board and Dr. Cartwright were frequently at odds with Governor Ron Desantis during the COVID pandemic made matters only more difficult. Desantis frequently quarreled with Broward County over back-to-school rules and mask requirements.

The rift between Tallahassee and BCPS culminated when Desantis removed four board members last August. He had convened a Grand Jury to investigate the root causes of the Parkland tragedy and used his powers as governor to remove the board members after the grand jury’s findings suggested the

school board was partially at fault.

Desantis’ hand-picked replacement board members were at odds with Cartwright from the moment they took their seats, eventually voting to terminate her during a late-night meeting just days before three of them were to be replaced following the November election. In a twist of fate worthy of a TV melodrama, Cartwright was reinstated by the new board two weeks later, only to be pushed out for good a month later.

Dr. Smiley will remain interim superintendent until the board recruits a new, permanent leader. Finding the best candidate to lead the nation’s sixth-largest school district will likely be a challenge, given the chaotic history of the last three years. Dr. Cartwright was hired after former Superintendent Dr. Robert Runcie was indicted for allegedly lying to a grand jury in 2021.

“We’re not looking to rush it, but we want to make sure that we have Dr. Smiley in place for enough time for us to be able to do the national search for a permanent superintendent,” said Alhadeff.

Experience outweighs uncertainty. Advice Matters.

With recent events, an emphasis on managing risk is even more important as investors look for informed strategies to help them protect their wealth. At Morgan Stanley, we have the experience, knowledge and resources to help you manage risk, to recognize how it could affect your portfolio, and to work toward minimizing its impact.

Meet a Wellpath Healthcare Hero from Broward County

Tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. I have two siblings — a younger brother and an older sister.

Growing up, I lacked confidence. I was very timid and shy. I didn’t like being involved in anything because of my speech impediment.

My mom was my biggest supporter, she pushed me to give my best and to not be concerned about what others think.

Kayla Brantley, RN, BSN

Director of Nursing

Joseph V. Conte Facility

Joined Wellpath in 2019

“I

Today I live in Plantation, Florida with my husband of 10 years (Will), my 3 children (Trey, Zoe, and Greyson) and my dog (Ginger). I love to travel, exercise and spend quality time with family and friends.

Initially, I started working at a nursing facility, but I soon realized there was a greater purpose waiting for me in corrections. It was the best decision I ever made.

What is your Wellpath career path?

My career at Wellpath has been nearly four years in the making. Initially, I started as a part-time night shift charge nurse. That eventually led to a fulltime night shift equivalent. I eventually transitioned to the full-time charge nurse position, which led to my current position as the Director of Nursing. Wellpath has an unparalleled managerial support staff. They foster an environment of personal and

professional growth that creates opportunities for advancement.

What is the best part about your work?

I can proudly say I love my job! I enjoy working with talented professionals who truly care about improving their patient’s health. I’m proud of this institution and look forward to building a better Wellpath in the future. Is it

unsafe to work in a jail?

I understand the apprehension of working in corrections. I, too, thought the opportunity may be unsafe. This is a myth. The truth is Wellpath is fostering a safe and healthy environment which is noticed as soon as you walk in the door. The security staff is great at making sure the nursing staff is able to get their job done safely and effectively.

soon realized there was a greater purpose waiting for me in corrections. It was the best decision I ever made.”

Help Make Broward County Beautiful at the Waterway Cleanup

Boward County Waterway Cleanup will be held on Saturday, March 4th, 2023. The cleanup is open to volunteers of all ages and is a great way for students to earn community service hours. This year’s event will be hosted at more than 30 different locations across the county.

The Broward County Waterway Cleanup, organized by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, is the county’s largest and longest-running environmental event.

The first Waterway Cleanup was held in the late 1970s to help ensure that both the community and the marine industry could enjoy our local waterways.

Last year more than 1,100 volunteers of all ages joined with more than 300 boats/personal watercraft throughout 35 sites across Broward County to remove 25 tons of trash and debris from our inland waterways.

To volunteer for the event, you must first complete the registration form and sign the waiver. When registering, you will be asked to choose one of our more than 30 site locations to clean up at.

Once you have registered, on the day of the event, you will arrive at your site location, and a site coordinator will provide you with additional instructions on cleaning up at that specific location.

Participants are strongly recommended to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes for the event. Each volunteer will receive a Waterway Cleanup T-Shirt. The event is open to all ages. However, kids 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

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MOBILE SCHOOL PANTRY DELIVERS FOR HUNGRY STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES

Mobile School Pantry is a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization established in 2013 to help alleviate hunger through the provision of nutritious food to children and their families at Title 1 Schools in Sout

The Mobile Pantry affords the chance to reach a greater number of schools and families, allowing them to serve those who are unable to access a food pantry in their neighborhoods with little burden for the school.

One in five children in South Florida live in food-insecure households. Mobile School Pantry understands that hunger is a reality facing children and families in our communities and gives families an opportunity to get fresh fruits and vegetables in their neighborhoods with very little burder on schools.

How Mobile School Pantry Works

MSP works with schools to establish a pop up Client Choice pantry on site. Students and their families can access nutritious food items from these pantries with no questions asked. The goal of the school pantry program is to provide not only food but connections to additional services for the family in order to achieve long-term solutions to end hunger and malnutrition.

Children and families are referred to the Pantry by the guidance counselor or social worker at the school. There are two qualifications to participate in the program - Students must be enrolled in a participating school and need a helping hand.

MSP offers a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, bread, and non-perishable food items in a farmer's market-style atmosphere at no charge to families in need of food assistance. The program operates once a month at each school. During this time, they distribute an average of 14,000 pounds of food items and serve 450 to 750 children and families.

How You Can Help

There are a number of ways community members can help MSP end hunger. Financial donations are always welcome. In addition, MSP accepts anything from cases to truckloads of food and non-food items that are dry-stored, frozen, fruits and vegetables, meat products, or surplus; and for any of the following reasons: surplus or seasonally packaged, cos metically damaged or code-dated, unlabeled or mislabeled, discontinued or test-market, private-label brands, or under/ over-weight items.

MSP welcomes volunteers ages 14 and older. On the day of the pickup, fresh produce and other nutritional goods are sourced from several local partners and are delivered to an outdoor packing location. A limited number of volunteers pack all items. The families are then able to select the items they would like, using reusable bags, helping to lower food waste.

▸ Mobile School Pantry's (MSP) mission is to provide nutritious, healthy grocery items to students and families at low-income schools throughout South Florida. If you know a child or a family that may benefit from their program visit www.mobileschoolpantry.com.

THE HIGH KINGS XV

2023 | SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

A BILLY JOEL TRIBUTE 'PIANO MAN' SAT | MAR 18 | 7:30PM THE KINGSTON TRIO FRI | MAR 24 | 7PM

- LIVE

e are looking forward to our March SHEROES presentations where each council member nominates a woman of distinction to be honored during Women’s History Month.

At the Jan. 18 council meeting, we passed a resolution SUPPORTING THE 2023 JCC MACCABI GAMES® & ACCESS WHICH WILL BE HOSTED BY THE DAVID POSNACK JCC AND WILL TAKE PLACE AUGUST 6-11, 2023 AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT BROWARD COUNTY INCLUDING DAVIE PINE ISLAND PARK.

The JCC Maccabi Games are an Olympic-style sporting competition held each summer in North America and is the largest organized sports program for

DAVIE UPDATE

By Mayor Judy Paul

WJewish teenagers throughout the world. This program aims to inspire participants and develop their individuality through a dynamic combination of workshops, exhibitions, and showcase performances. This is a week-long multisport and cultural event and will utilize venues throughout Broward County and feature competitions in various sports.

Key Points

The 2023 JCC Maccabi Games® & Access are hosted by the David Posnack JCC. The 2023 JCC Maccabi Games® & Access will take place August 6-11, 2023, at various Broward County locations including Davie Pine Island Park (Bamford Sports Complex).

This is an Olympic-style sporting competition. The first North American Maccabi Games were held in 1982 with 300 athletes. The Games are co-spon -

A Culture Of Caring

954-982-2323

At Oakmonte Village of Davie, our every effort is dedicated to the safety, comfort, and care of our residents. Our entire staff is continuously practicing infection-control procedures to ensure that both residents and staff stay healthy and happy.

Oakmonte Village of Davie’s beautiful 199-unit boutique-style Luxury Senior Living Community offers a continuum of care for seniors including Catered Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care. We also offer restaurant-style dining, luxurious accommodations, washers and dryers in each apartment, a wellness center, 80-foot pool, activities & more. If you are ready, your new home awaits! Please call 954-982-2323 or visit us online at www.OakmonteVillageDavie.com.

sored by the Jewish Community Center Association of North America, Maccabi World Union, Maccabi Canada, and Maccabi USA/Sports for Israel. Today, over 7,500 teens, ranging from 12 to 16 years of age, participate in the JCC Maccabi Games® each summer. The JCC Maccabi ACCESS Games is a unique program for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ranging from 12 to 22 years of age.

Various sports will be offered including baseball, basketball, ice hockey, girls volleyball, flag football, boys lacrosse, soccer, table tennis, tennis, star reporter, swimming, dance. Over 1,500 volunteers will assist in carrying out the various roles that are needed for the event.

The Town’s support of the JCC Maccabi Games® & ACCESS includes a fee waiver for the use of sports fields and facilities at Davie Pine Island Park.

We are conveniently located 4 Miles West of the Florida Turnpike in Davie, next to the David Posnack JCC.

REVIEW AND UPDATE YOUR ESTATE PLAN REGULARLY

By Andrea L. Jakob, Esq.

Imagine this scenario: Wendy spent her life creating a nice asset portfolio. The assets are at a bank (let’s call it “Sun-bust”.) She named her husband as her initial beneficiary and her children as the alternate or contingent beneficiaries. Now imagine that Sun-bust is sold to another bank (let’s call it “Tru-not”.) Tru-not has taken over all of Sun-bust’s client accounts. Somehow during the transfer, the beneficiary designations were lost and Tru-not had no record of them. Then Wendy dies. When her family finds out the beneficiary designations weren’t transferred over, what should they do?

Our friend John has a job at Publix. He has a good job, a comfortable salary, and a nice home. However, John has never thought about what would happen if he lost his job or became ill or injured.

One day, John is involved in a car accident and is unable to work for several months. During this time, his expenses continue to mount. He still has a mortgage, car payments, and other bills to pay. However, John has no savings and no disability insurance, so he quickly finds himself struggling to make ends meet.

“Continuity planning” refers to organizing one’s personal finances and lifestyle in the event of job loss, disability, or other unexpected events.

The goal is risk management. To protect your loved ones you must reduce any long-term risk for businesses and family investments. Many of my clients have never heard of an umbrella policy, let alone a business succession or continuity plan. If this sounds like you or your family, keep reading.

When the pandemic hit, many businesses and families were unprepared for an economic downturn or loss of resources.

Here are some ways to reduce your risk of loss and plan for the future:

▸ Obtain an “umbrella policy.” Many car insurers do not offer enough coverage to protect you against liability claims. Unfortunately, a bad accident with multiple injuries can wipe out your savings. An umbrella policy provides extra coverage. Check with your car insurer to see if they offer one to bundle with your auto plan. Also, consider purchasing disability insurance or life insurance to provide financial support in the event of the unexpected.

▸ Figure out your family’s needs and dynamics to plan for short- and long-term scenarios by identifying potential events that could disrupt your finances and lifestyle, such as job loss, illness, or death.

▸ Create contingency plans for both personal assets and your business, such as establishing an emergency plan. Aim to build up a savings account that can cover your expenses for three to six months.

▸ Other asset protection strategies include the transfer of rental property to a business entity.

▸ Trusts can also be used to transfer property to another, minimizing risk and financial loss and at the same time, potentially reducing tax consequences.

By reviewing and updating your plan regularly you can account for changes in your circumstances or goals. In Wendy’s case, she should have reviewed the beneficiary for her accounts annually, such as at tax time, saving her family the hassle of a potential probate estate.

And of course, preparing an Estate Plan with a competent Estate Planning attorney will help you plan for any unexpected events that could disrupt your life, finances, and lifestyle.

▸ Andrea L. Jakob, PA is located at 12401 Orange Drive, suite 219 in Davie. They can be reached at 954-862-1479 or on the web at www.jakoblegal.com.

Sonia “Gaby” Martinez

Chief Operating Officer/Broker/Owner

Xtreme International Realty

About Gaby

Gaby has more than 16 years of experience in the real estate industry, has sold more than $600 million in real estate alongside her team, and has helped hundreds of people realize their real estate dream.

As a full-service Realtor®, She works with buyers, sellers, renters and investors in real estate transactions. Gaby is currently ranked in the top 1% of all realtors in Broward County among 42,500 real estate agents.

Gaby is also a former Journalist and Marketing Specialist, so she brings her analytical perspective to assist her clients in their decision-making. She understands one of the most difficult frustrations of consumers is dealing with an unresponsive agent.

What Makes Xtreme International Realty Different

Xtreme International Realty is a family-owned company founded by the dynamic duo of Gaby and Tony Martinez. Tony, a renowned speaker and real estate trainer, brings his wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. The Martinez family strongly believes that helping others is the key to both happiness and success. In times of crisis, such as hurricanes or pandemics, the Xtreme family is quick to mobilize and organize food drives, providing aid to disaster zones. Moreover, the family has partnered with the likes of Leanette Fernandez from Benchmark Mortgage to sponsor a toy drive for less privileged elementary schools in Broward County for the past five years, bringing joy to over 800 children every year during the holiday season. Witnessing the happiness on these children’s faces on delivery day is a truly fulfilling experience, and it is something that the Xtreme family is proud to be a part of.

What Contributed to Gaby’s Success?

Two of Gaby’s most valuable qualities are patience and understanding, and she applies these every day in her business. She is fluent in English and Spanish and also speaks Portuguese. She enjoys mentoring new and seasoned real estate agents to help them achieve success. What sets Gaby apart from other real estate agents is that she makes herself available to her customers and is always just a phone call away. No matter if it’s a holiday or a weekend, you will always have Gaby by your side.

Gaby’s Words to Live By

“Completely immerse yourself in training. You need to know your stuff. Nowadays, customers have access to anything: anyone with a computer or a cellphone can find a property online. If you want to succeed and convince a customer to work with you, you need to be knowledgeable.”

Lisa Faina

Insurance Agent

Allstate Insurance Agency, Cooper City

About Lisa

Lisa Faina has called South Florida home since 1989. Her knowledge and understanding of the people in our community has helped her provide her customers with a level of service that is rarely equaled. Broward County is a perfect place for an “outdoorsy” family. Lisa and my sons love to go fishing in the Everglades, vacation in the Keys, and explore all of the great state of Florida.

In addition to running her successful agency, Lisa gives back as much as possible. She is proud to support the Boy Scouts of America, particularly because both of her sons are Eagle Scouts. She is also actively involved with a wonderful organization- Special Compass. Special Compass helps people with disabilities navigate through life through education, sports, and housing.

Lisa’s agency also supports local Little League teams and various programs in conjunction with the Cooper City Police Department and local schools. Lisa is also proud to be one of the thousands of Allstate volunteers around the country rallying together to support domestic violence programs like Women in Distress of Broward County, which helps survivors break free from abuse.

What Makes Lisa’s Insurance Agency Different

Helping people is a big reason Lisa got into insurance. She gets to help people protect what is most important in their lives, whether it is auto and home insurance or saving for college and retirement. It is incredibly rewarding, and she takes her clients’ confidence in her very seriously.

What Contributed to Lisa’s Success

Lisa’s “all-star” team is a huge part of her agency’s success. Just like Lisa, they take the responsibility of looking out for their clients very seriously. They also know how to have fun. Whether it is celebrating a birthday, a career milestone or the winter holidays, it is clear they are a true team.

Something to Know About Lisa

Lisa was born and raised in Western New York and is a die-hard Buffalo Bills fan.

Ghea Adeboyejo, MD & Krista Kant, MD

Obstetrician Gynecologists

Oasis Obstetrics & Gynecology

About Dr. Adeboyejo and Dr. Kant

Dr. Adeboyejo and Dr. Kant provide women’s health care from adolescence through menopause. By listening and educating, we are able to help women make the best choices for their wellness.

Dr. Adeboyejo is Chair of the Department of Maternal/Child Health at the new HCA University Hospital on Nova University’s campus; she leads a team dedicated to bringing cutting-edge medical excellence to all women in South Florida. With a disposition as calming and positive as Dr. Ghea Adeboyejo’s, it’s no wonder why she has become one of South Florida’s most sought-after OB/GYNs.

Dr. Kant grew up in coastal Alabama. After completing her schooling and training, she was in private practice for ten years as a general OB/GYN in Clearwater. She relocated to the Fort Lauderdale area in 2019 and has been practicing as an OB hospitalist until joining Oasis in February 2022. She loves the personal connection with her patients that private practice provides. Her general interests include well-woman care, contraception, sexual health, low-risk and high-risk obstetrics, gynecologic surgery, abnormal uterine bleeding, postmenopause, and perimenopause.

What Makes Their Practice Unique

Both Dr. Kant and Dr. Adeboyejo have spent years practicing obstetrics and gynecology, serving the women of Florida. They are intimately aware of what has worked well in women’s healthcare and what has not. They know what it feels like to be uncomfortable in a doctor’s office and set out to design a healthcare experience to put women at ease. They offer the same level of up-to-date care, comfort, and accessibility that they expect for themselves, family, and their neighbors to every patient.

What Contributed to Their Success?

Both doctors contribute a significant amount of their success to their extensive clinical experience, approachability, and willingness to think outside the way things have always been done helps

to set us apart. In 2022 they launched Oasis Obstetrics and Gynecology. They operate their business with the mindset that: “empowered women empower women.” When you authentically love what you do, it shines through. They are changing the way women experience and expect health care.

Something to know about Dr. Adeboyejo and Dr. Kant

When they met four years ago, they instantly clicked because they had the same love for what they do and shared a vision to take women’s care to the next level. They love being part of the community and seeing patients through every phase of their wellness journey. The team of healthcare professionals at Oasis OB/GYN share the same passion and integrity.

RUNNERS – LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!

njuries often have a prodromal period. That means a part (or parts) of your body will send you signals that things aren't quite right. Your sore foot, Achilles, hamstrings, or shins may not necessarily become quickly evident at first. You may notice it in the morning when you arise or at the beginning of your run, but it fades and disappears as you continue. Granted there is a distinction between ‘good pains’ and ‘bad pains’. For instance, delayed onset muscle soreness is a good type of pain that is proportional to the intensity of training. The deep muscle pain appears within a day or two of your longer runs and wanes with light exercise and anti-inflammatories. Bad types of pain present differently. They are almost always there whether running or not and should not be run through. This type of pain may be accompanied by certain visual changes such as swelling, redness, or painful lumps, auditory changes such as pops, grinding or snapping, or sudden weakness of the ankle or foot. These acute signals may need the evaluation of the sports physician. Heed the warning signals carefully as a failure to do so may cause benign problems to develop into a frank injury, ultimately ruining your ability to enjoy healthy workouts and race. Attempts to push the envelope too far in an effort to prepare for an event often results in injury that can ruin the entire racing season. I have seen too many runners suffering from torn fascia, tendons, and fractures because of exuberant training techniques. Some of this is maybe self-inflicted by the athletes themselves, their enthusiastic coaches, or parents relying too much on the Internet for information and treatment. Too many injuries are sustained by runners trying to cram in more miles and speedwork right before a race. Unlike a final exam, you can’t cram for a race or event. Your body is not conditioned to withstand a sudden increase in volume or intensity without breaking down. Follow the time tested10% rule by increasing your total running mileage by 10% a week. This will allow your bones, muscles, and joints to adapt safely.

Warm-up by walking at least 1/4 mile before stretching. Attend early signals (prodromes) by adjusting your speed and mileage accordingly. Alter your running form, as in the case of a sore Achilles

By Dr. Michael M. Cohen, DPM, FACFAS

Ior hamstring by shortening your stride, staying away from inclines and hills, and learning to roll over the ankle rather than emphasizing the push-off. Try to land in the middle of the foot rather than running on your toes. Check to make sure your running gear is appropriate for you. Your running shoe should be appropriate for the distance, and type of foot you have. Running shoes should be discarded after 400 miles of running or walking, especially in Florida where the EVA (the white stuff in the outsole of the running shoe) collapses quickly in the summer heat. EVA is constructed from blown rubber which provides cushioning during the run. After a run, the air cells in the rubber collapse and require 24-48 hours to re-expand. So, consider purchasing two pairs of the same shoe and alternate daily to allow for maximum shock absorption. Try to stay away from flats (light flexible racing shoes) during the prodrome period or when recovering from an injury. Make sure to ice after running and use anti-inflammatories judiciously, you do not want to mask important signals. When feeling the prodrome skip a day or two of running, or better yet alternate every other day with cross-training instead. You’ll find that sports-specific cross-training will improve your running technique. This may include stretching your calves and

hamstrings, aqua-jogging, and strength training. Do your best to avoid running back-to-back ‘hard’ days, especially if you are over forty. Rest is an extremely important part of training; it’s virtually impossible to improve without a proper recovery. When resuming your runs after injury or a period of convalescence make sure to return cautiously. Be patient, don't let feelings of guilt send you back to the war zone before you've recovered. Remember that training and recovery are Siamese twins who cannot exist without each other.

▸ Dr. Michael Cohen is a former triathlete and marathon runner who achieved a personal marathon record of 2:37 at age 21, 2:50 at age 39, and at 50 was a Top 3 age group finisher in both the ING Miami and Disney Half Marathons. In 1997 he placed third place overall in the Florida Gatorade duathlon series. He is a Board-Certified Foot and Ankle Surgeon and Diplomate of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He is a Fellow of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and Board Certified and Diplomat of the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. He practices with the Foot, Ankle and Leg Specialists of South Florida specializing in lower leg injuries and reconstructive surgery of the foot and ankle. The South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine in Weston is located at 1600 Town Center Blvd., Suite C, (954) 3895900 and in Pembroke Pines at 17842 NW 2nd Street, (954) 430-9901. The practice website is www.SOUTHFLORIDASPORTSMEDICINE.org.

OFFERING SAME DAY & EARLY MORNING APPOINTMENTS & CONSULTATIONS

NEW PATIENT $300 | FOLLOW UP (WITHOUT X-RAY) $100

$800

SURGERY CONSULT $350 | X-RAYS $50 PER AREA | PRP $800

$550

STEM CELLS $1200 | SHOCKWAVE (5 SESSIONS) $600 | INJECTIONS

ORTHOTICS $400 | CASTS $200 | LACERATION REPAIR $550 Dr. Carlo Messina

MEDICARE | BLUE CROSS | BRIGHT | UHC | CIGNA | AETNA | AMBETTER | TRICARE | WORKERS COMP | ACCIDENTS/LOPS

SIMPLY | SUNSHINE | OSCAR | MEMORIAL PHO

MEDICARE | BLUE CROSS | BRIGHT | UHC | CIGNA | AETNA | AV MED AMBETTER | TRICARE | WORKERS COMP | ACCIDENTS/LOPS SIMPLY | SUNSHINE | OSCAR | MEMORIAL PHO

NEW PATIENT $300 | FOLLOW UP (WITHOUT X-RAY) $100

SURGERY CONSULT $350 | X-RAYS $50 PER AREA | PRP

STEM CELLS $1200 | SHOCKWAVE (5 SESSIONS) $600 |

ORTHOTICS $400 | CASTS $200 | LACERATION REPAIR

PICK YOUR POISON: THUMB SUCKING OR PACIFIER USE

By Dr. Alon Grosman

Along with many other parents, you may be concerned with your child’s finger sucking, thumb sucking or pacifier use. The majority of children will have one of these oral habits until two years of age. The shadows of prenatal thumb sucking have been seen on sonograms for years. Newer 3-D imaging technology allows for vivid evidence of prenatal thumb sucking. Sucking is a natural reflex that helps to soothe infants and provides a sense of security.

Problems arise when these habits are carried on beyond the age of two. This may result in a negative affect on development of the upper and lower jaws as well as the eventual alignment of the teeth. The amount of facial/dental changes will depend upon the duration and force of the habit. One common affect of a sucking habit is the formation of an “open bite.” This is a “malocclusion” (bite problem) characterized by a vertical space between the upper and lower front teeth.

Another resulting bite problem is a cross-bite. This is seen as a backwards relation of the back teeth. The upper teeth will be positioned closer to the tongue than the lower teeth. Others may simply notice a “buck” appearance of the upper front teeth. Such conditions may possibly lead to self conscious feelings, social ridicule by peers and may result in speech problems or functional disorders later in life.

We are commonly asked whether one habit is better than another. Pacifier use seems to be the lesser of the “evils.” We notice less constriction of the palate with pacifier use and it is the habit more easily broken. Put another way, we cannot simply throw out a thumb or a finger as may be done with a pacifier. In either case, it is of utmost importance that an oral habit is broken long before the eruption of permanent teeth, which usually occurs between the ages of 6-7.

Most children stop oral habits on their own or with the help of their parents’ positive “big boy/big girl” reinforcement. We recommend that parents remember to praise your child for not sucking their thumb/ finger instead of scolding them when they are. Try to alleviate anxiety and insecurities that may be causing the necessity to soothe this way. Peer pressure of school aged children also helps the older thumb/ finger suckers to stop. Home remedies include covering the hand with a sock, use of long sleeve night shirt with sleeves sewn closed, or rubbing aloe on the culprit thumb/finger. If attempts at habit correction fail or you begin to notice the dental/skeletal effects of these habits, it is advisable to consult with your local pediatric dentist or orthodontist. Prevention is the key! .

▸ The office of Dr. Maria Maranzini-Grosman (Board Certified Pediatric Dentist) and Dr. Alon Grosman (Specialist in Orthodontics) is located at South Flamingo Road on the NW corner of Griffin and Flamingo Road. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 954-236-3434.