Our City Davie: October 2023

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SENIOR GOOD NEW

Palace owners Helen & Jacob Shaham give every resident & family their personal cellphone number and say: “Call us any time you have an unsolved issue.”

Palace owners Helen & Jacob Shaham give every resident & family their personal cellphone number and say: “Call us any time you have an unsolved issue.”

Even though our managers & staff are incredibly responsive, there are times when a request warrants directly speaking to the ultimate decision makers.

Even though our managers & staff are incredibly responsive, there are times when a request warrants directly speaking to the ultimate decision makers.

Like the time our Mr. Arkin told Jacob he wished The Palace had an Oculus (ask any teenager) he could play with his grandsons when they visit. Jacob tried one out, loved the idea and Mr. Arkin got his wish.

Like the time our Mr. Arkin told Jacob he wished The Palace had an Oculus (ask any teenager) he could play with his grandsons when they visit. Jacob tried one out, loved the idea and Mr. Arkin got his wish.

Or the time our Mrs. Martinez called Helen about the health benefits she enjoys from the hyperbaric chamber she used in a healthcare facility nearby. Helen was so intrigued she tried one herself, and ordered two — one for The Palace at Coral Gables and one for The Palace at Weston.

Or the time our Mrs. Martinez called Helen about the health benefits she enjoys from the hyperbaric chamber she used in a healthcare facility nearby. Helen was so intrigued she tried one herself, and ordered two — one for The Palace at Coral Gables and one for The Palace at Weston.

Senior living isn’t really luxurious if you get bogged down in bureaucracy or if you have to wait for corporate headquarter response.

Senior living isn’t really luxurious if you get bogged down in bureaucracy or if you have to wait for corporate headquarter response.

At The Palace, we have the antidote to corporate-run senior livings — owners you can talk to any time.

At The Palace, we have the antidote to corporate-run senior livings — owners you can talk to any time.

Scan here. Luxury Living for Seniors

You’ll be surprised!

“At The Palace, your request goes right to the top.”

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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, Kenny Rodgers, Silvia Silva

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Jaillet, Jon Duka, Andrea L. Jakob, Esq. Dr. Michael M. Cohen, Alexis Peart Mayor Judy Paul, Dr. Alon Grosman, Rose Sklar, Valentina Valderama

PHOTOGRAPHER

Tom Dean moonwalkphotography.com

ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com

VISIT US ONLINE ourcitymedia.com

954-306-1007

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

Pink October: Honoring Resilience & Care

October heralds the arrival of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Every year, the world witnesses unexpected bursts of pink, from high school footballers donning pink socks in tribute to their mother’s battles to colleagues sporting pink ribbons on their attire. The global movement for Breast Cancer Awareness has not only illuminated the challenges of breast cancer but also fueled immense strides in research funding.

The Our City Media family is no stranger to the shadows of breast cancer. Some of us have watched loved ones grapple with a diagnosis and eventually overcome it, while others have faced the pain of loss. Throughout these experiences, one constant remained: the relentless dedication of healthcare professionals. Their unwavering commitment to ensuring optimum health is truly commendable.

As highlighted by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, nearly 1 million Floridians have chosen the noble path of healthcare. This includes 83,000 doctors, 190,000 nurses, 66,000 EMTs, and Paramedics, alongside hundreds of thousands in support roles.

Over the past three years, these “front line” heroes have faced unparalleled demands, responding with grace and strength. This edition of Our City magazine celebrates some of these “Healthcare Heroes.” Dive into page 28 to discover the stories of individuals who continue to uplift our community. Their steadfast presence reassures us, especially in moments of need.

A heartfelt thank you to all the healthcare warriors from everyone here at Our City Media for guiding us towards healthier and brighter tomorrows!

Christy & Terry Jaillet

OUR

Yul Lopez, APRN Hector Fabregas,

OCTOBER 7

Fall Garage Sale

The city of Cooper City invites you to the biggest garage sale around! The annual event brings sellers and buyers together to find hidden treasures. 7:00 am - 11:00 am at Flamingo West Park, 6201 South Flamingo Road. Fore more info, call 954-434-4300.

OCTOBER 20

Movie in the Park Hotel Transylvania Transformania

The Town of Davie’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department is hosting a free Movie in the Park event series on select Fridays of every month from September to December. To ensure everyone's comfort, seating locations will be allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis. We encourage our guests to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets. The movie features will take place at the Davie Pine Island Park, located at 3801 S. Pine Island Road. 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm. For more info scan the QR code or call 954-767-1181.

OCTOBER 21

Trick or Trot

Hit the road for the seventh annual Halloween-themed 5K and Kids' Dash! Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome, and costumes are encouraged! Participants will receive our coveted Trick or Trot treats: a commemorative medal and a t-shirt. Hosted at Markham Park. Race starts at 7:30 am sharp! Scan the QR code to register! Call 954-747-4600 for more info.

OCTOBER 7-8

Harvest Festival Weekend

Flamingo Gardens celebrates the arrival of fall in South Florida with Harvest Festival Weekends. Each Harvest Festival weekend in October is themed and will feature entertainment, fun activities, and specialty Fall foods. This weekend’s theme is Pirates! Dress up in your best pirate’s garb and enjoy music provided by DJ Digital Anarchy. There will be a Pirate Encampment available from Noon - to 3:00 p.m. 10:30 am - 4:30 pm at Flamingo Gardens. Scan the QR code for more info or tickets.

OCTOBER 21

Step Back in Time Halloween Edition

Step Back in Time to the early 1900s at the Old Davie School House. Learn to write with a dip ink pen, wash laundry on a washboard, squeeze oranges for juice, tour the museum, the packing house and the pioneer village. SPECIAL FUN HALLOWEEN EVENTS! Visit anytime starting at 11am with last entry at 1:15pm. Old Davie School Historical Museum, 6650 Griffin Road. For more info or tickets, scan the QR code.

OCTOBER 25-29

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is the greatest boat show on the seven seas. Located steps from the beach in sunny South Florida, FLIBS spans nearly 90 acres across three million square feet of exhibit space that is connected by an intricate network of water and ground transportation services. The five-day show attracted over 100,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors representing 52 countries with more than 1,300 boats on display in 2021. Products range from sunglasses to superyachts and everything in between. For tickets & more info visit www.flibs. com or scan the QR code.

Advice Matters.

Tatiana Jaramillo, Client Service Associate; John Duford; Mark Bodkins; Carolyn Williams, Senior Registered Associate; Maria Strand, Senior Client Service Associate

OCTOBER 26-29

Saint David’s Carnival

St. David Catholic Church welcomes everyone to the annual fall carnival. Patrons are invited to advertise and attend the 4-day event at 3900 S. University Drive in Davie. Rides, live entertainment, shopping, freshly prepared food, and more. Discount tickets are now on sale. For more info, call 954-475-8046 or visit www.saintdavid.org.

OCTOBER 27

Boo-Per City Halloween Extravaganza

Bring your goblins and ghouls down to Cooper City’s BOO-per City Halloween extravaganza! This event will feature trick-or-treating throughout Cooper City Memorial Park as some of your favorite characters pass out candy. Cooper City’s annual costume contest returns! 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm at Memorial Park, 9000 SW 50th Place. For more info, turn to page 22.

OCTOBER 28

Trick or Treat - Shop to Shop

Trick or Treat at the Countryside shops! Have the kiddos put on their scariest or silliest costumes for this wonderful event. Don't forget your Halloween bags to collect all your candy! The Countryside Shops will have tasty treats for every trick-or-treater! 10:00 am - Noon at 5524 South Flamingo Road. For more info, call 954-434-4300.

OCTOBER 31

Happy Halloween

Trick or Treating will likely be a bit different this year than in years past. Kids will still be dressing up, playing games, and maybe even playing a trick or two on a friend or family member. We remind everyone to have fun and stay safe!

got all the plants that will bring them to your yard. Join us at The Butterfly Garden and we will help you select the best host and nectar plants!

The Official start of the growing season! HUGE selection of pepper plants - including Scorpion, Ghost and Carolina Reaper. An abundance of hit sauces and fiery foods will be in the Farmer’s Market. Plant your veggie garden now!

6-12

Over 100 varieties and sizes of tropical fruit and citrus trees! We’ll show you how easy it is to grow them in your South Florida garden. Enjoy a fresh fruit smoothie and a slice of tropical mango-banana bread.

Ready, Set, Grow!! Now is the time to plant your tomato and vegetable gardens! We’ve got an extensive selection of heirloom, beefsteak, cherry and sauce tomatoes. Take home a sack of vine ripe tomatoes from our farmers market!

Get inspired with a beautiful assortment of herb, succulent, mixed flowers, foliage, fairy gardens and bonsai. Ready-made or do-it-yourself with advice from out staff & Tyler the Bonsai Guy!

Fox Vein & Laser Experts

Varicose Veins & Beyond!

aricose veins are not just a cosmetic problem. They can make your legs ache, burn, throb, itch, and cramp. Untreated varicose veins tend to get worse over time. They can cause leg swelling, phlebitis (vein inflammation), thrombosis (blood clots in the vein), and

Fox Vein & Laser Experts specialize in diagnosing and treating venous disease, including varicose veins, leg pain and swelling, ulcer care, venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and blood clotting

invasive vein procedures: Endovenous laser ablation,

Vascular Interpreter (RPVI) and is certified to read

After completing her Medical Residency and Cleveland, Ohio, she joined the teaching faculty at University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Fox is a Diplomate of the American College of Phlebology and a Fellow of the

She has been featured as a vein expert on multiple news programs in both America and Latin America and has written numerous articles and lectured extensively on varicose veins. She has successfully taught physicians and medical personnel to treat venous disease for over a decade at her vein treatment facility. She is fluent in Spanish and English.

ENDOVENOUS LASER ABLATION (EVLA/EVLT)

Endovenous Laser Ablation is one of the most effective treatments for large varicose veins with a 98–100 percent success rate. It involves inserting a thin laser fiber through the affected vein; there are no incisions and thus leaves no scars. Tiny pulses of laser energy are delivered as the fiber is pulled through the vein, gently heating it and causing it to collapse and seal shut. The insufficient veins become shrunken scars that fade over time. These procedures take less than a 30-minutes with little to no downtime afterward.

VARITHENA®

Varithena® is ideal for smaller, less obtrusive veins. It uses foam sclerotherapy and is a safe and effective vein removal technique. During traditional sclerotherapy, a solution is injected directly into the affected veins. While you may feel a pinch at the injection site, foam sclerotherapy isn’t painful. We perform it under ultrasound guidance and direct the foam into the problematic veins watching everything along the way. The person has no downtime, usually minimal to no pain, and only needs to stay active and wear a compression hose afterward.

AMBULATORY PHLEBECTOMY

Ambulatory Phlebectomy is a surgical approach to removing larger and more troublesome veins. It is often an in-office procedure that requires a local anesthetic. The veins are teased out through the tiny holes without causing any significant scarring. Most people return to normal activities immediately afterward without much recovery time.

SPIDER VEIN REMOVAL

Spider Veins Removal is deemed cosmetic even though they may cause symptoms. There are a couple of treatment options. We can use sclerotherapy, where a solution is injected into the vein with a tiny needle. The vein lining gets irritated and gradually seals shut, closing the vein over several weeks. It may take several sessions for all of the veins to go away. There is also a cutaneous laser option if you prefer. The laser uses light pulses to heat the vein and scar them shut. For the tiny and unsightly facial veins or tiny red veins, we also have a machine called the VeinGogh. It uses energy microbursts to close tiny veins without any downtime or scarring. This procedure seals the small veins over a few days to weeks and can be done in a few sessions with excellent results.

Celebrate the Fall at Flamingo Gardens’ Harvest Festival

Flamingo Gardens celebrates the arrival of fall in South Florida with Harvest Festival Weekends. Each Harvest Festival weekend in October is themed and will feature entertainment, fun activities, and specialty Fall foods; guests are encouraged to dress up to each week’s theme.

Harvest Festival is a time to celebrate the cooling weather and enjoy the wonderful our wonderful environment. There will be hayrides, pony rides, farm animal encounters, costume contests, and much more.

Guests may also enjoy viewing Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bats which will be on display in the Gallery at Flamingo Gardens through January 28, 2024. Often misunderstood as large, blind, squeaky, creatures who suck blood and get tangled in your hair, this exhibit debunks myths and opens your eyes to the wondrous world of Bats.

Harvest Festival Weekend Activities:

October 7 & 8: Pirates Weekend. Music provided by DJ Digital Anarchy Noon – 3pm, live interactive Pirate Encampment with fun family activities all day.

October 14 & 15: Cirque de Flamingo Weekend. Live entertainment provided by the Florida Children’s Theatre Circus Spectacular from Noon – 3pm. Watch thrilling feats of balance and skill and then try your hand as you learn from the performers.

October 21 & 22: Cowboys & Cowgirls Weekend. Live entertainment by the South Florida Cloggers from Noon – 3pm. Learn from the dancers in between their performances. Visit with a real Rodeo Cowgirl and her horse from 10:30am-4:30pm and hear all about rodeo life and the cowboy/ girl lifestyle.

October 28 & 29: Halloween Weekend. Music provided by the Sekond Nature Band

from Noon – 3pm and visit with some of Flamingo Gardens’ own not-too-spooky Animal Ambassadors. Times TBD.

▸ Harvest Festival will be hosted at Flamingo Gardens at 3750 South Flamingo Road and is included with Flamingo Gardens admission. For more info visit www.FlamingoGardens.org or call 954-473-2955.

Baptist Health Cancer

Care at Plantation offers personalized breast health services and cancer care for women.

Medical oncologist Lauren Carcas, M.D., is proud to be part of Baptist Health Cancer Care at Plantation, where a team of medical and surgical experts offers the full spectrum of breast cancer care for Broward residents.

Dr. Carcas focuses on treating breast cancer patients as well as those with an elevated risk of developing breast cancer based on their family history. She also treats cancers of the female reproductive system.

“As a Broward resident myself, I understand the benefits of receiving cancer care close to home,” says Dr. Carcas. She is affiliated with several Broward-area hospitals and coordinates care with other local physicians, ensuring that patients can stay with their preferred surgeon while receiving treatment from Miami Cancer Institute, Florida’s only member of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Alliance.

“Our cancer hub in Plantation places us in the geographic middle of large, well-established hospital systems,” she says. “What sets us apart is our women’s health program, which offers extensive care from screening to treatment, all under one roof. This includes screening mammograms, diagnostic testing, biopsies, MRIs, staging studies, echocardiograms, consultations with oncologists, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and follow-up care.”

Lauren Carcas, M.D.

Baptist Health Cancer Care at Plantation also offers a robust clinical trial platform, exposing qualifying patients to groundbreaking, potentially less-toxic medications that could improve their chances of survival and a life free of cancer. The multidisciplinary cancer care team in Plantation also includes breast medical oncologists Dr. Naomi Dempsey and Dr. Reshma Mahtani; radiation oncologist Dr. Ana Botero; breast surgical oncologist Dr. Nadia NoceraZachariah; and Dr. John Diaz, chief of gynecologic oncology at Baptist Health Cancer Care.

“Our Plantation team believes in personalized care, and our focus on women's health and malignancies allows us to provide a comprehensive patient experience, as we are not competing with other disease sites for resources or space,” says Dr. Carcas. “We know our patients by name and tailor our treatment programs to align with their personal priorities, beliefs and support systems.

“Unlike other providers in the area, we offer all aspects of cancer care in one place, including radiation therapy in our APEx-accredited facility. Patients who need proton therapy, gamma knife and other advanced radiation therapies receive expedited treatment at Miami Cancer Institute.”

The Plantation cancer hub also offers on-site surgery, with pathology reviewed by specialists in women's malignancies.

“We believe in treating the whole person, not just the cancer,” says Dr. Carcas. “Our onsite physical therapy, rehabilitation and pain management services address the physical changes that can occur during and after cancer treatment. We offer diet and nutrition counseling as well as an alternative medicine clinic. We also emphasize the importance of mental health through on-site wellness and self-care programs as well as telehealth access to social workers and therapists.”

The Baptist Health women’s cancer experts at Plantation take pride in creating a welcoming environment for patients. The care team warmly greets all patients and guides them through their entire cancer journey. “We approach each patient as a whole person with needs beyond just cancer treatment, and it is our goal to address all of these needs,” says Dr. Carcas.

If you are a woman living in Broward County and have been diagnosed with breast cancer, we invite you to experience the personalized care offered by the Baptist Health Cancer Care team at Plantation.

To get the compassionate cancer care you deserve, schedule your appointment at 954-837-1490 or visit BaptistHealth.net/Plantation.

Celebrate a Spook-tacular Halloween With Events All Month

Halloween is going to be spooky again this year! As Halloween approaches, children are eager to put on their costumes and parents are looking for a safe place for them to “Trick-or-Treat.” There are so many ways to celebrate in the Davie/Cooper City area, not matter if you are young or old.

Some of this month’s events include:

October 13, 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm. Join the paranormal investigations at the Old Davie School for a Paranormal Investigation. Conduct a real investigation with experts from War Party Paranormal. This spooky event is available to people ages 16+. Visit www.olddavieschool.org.

October 16, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm. Step back in time at the Halloweekend at the Old Davie School. Wash laundry in the

Pioneer Village, write with dip-ink pens in the classroom, make orange juice in the packing house and learn about local Halloween traditions. Hosted at the Old Davie School. Visit www.olddavieschool. org or call 954-797-1044 for more info.

October 20, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Get the Spirited History of Old Davie School! This Halloween celebration will include jazz, moonshine, and history. The 21 and over event will be spooky and fun. Advanced tickets are required. Visit www.olddavieschool.org or call 954-797-1044 for more info.

October 27, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm. Bring your goblins and ghouls down to Cooper City’s BOO-per City Halloween extravaganza at Memorial Park! This event will feature trick-or-treating throughout Memorial Park as some of your favorite characters pass out candy. Cooper City’s annual costume

contest returns! Looking to participate in the costume contest? Please arrive at least 20 minutes prior to the start time. Call 954-434-4300 for more info.

October 28, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm. Gather up the kids in the costumes for a not-so-spooky event at the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds. There will be live entertainment and a horse costume contest in addition to the kids/family costume contest. Free admission to all Davie residents!

October 29, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm. Dress your muscle car up for Halloween! The Old Davie School will host Haunted Hot Rods. Any decorated and nondecorated vehicle can enter, from unicycles to hearses to school busses. Prizes will be wayward in many categories. Visit www.olddavieschool.org or call 954-797-1044 for more info.

LIGHTING UP YOUR NIGHTS: Meet Outdoor Lighting Perspectives and Discover the Difference

The impact professionally designed landscape lighting can have on a home can be profound. In fact, all one has to do is drive around in your neighborhood at night to see how much of a difference lighting designs can have on a home. In fact, a study by the American Society of Landscape Architects found that homes with well-designed exterior lighting were more likely to sell within 90 days of listing than other homes. The study also found that homes with exterior lighting received higher offers than homes without exterior lighting.

Outdoor Lighting Perspectives (OLP), the premier provider of lighting designs for architecture, landscapes, gardens, and more, recently opened its South Broward office. OLP has been helping people “light up their nights” for over 25 years. We sat down with owners Johnathan and Adi Gomez to learn more.

Tell us about Outdoor Lighting Perspectives!

We provide residential and commercial outdoor lighting. Anything from uplights to path lights to permanent roofline lighting and more. Whether it is for beauty or security, we

customize lighting to your home or business wants and needs.

Our ultimate goal is to provide a display that you will marvel at night after night. That sounds great! Tell us how your service works.

First, we initially schedule a consultation so we can learn more about your vision and project. After that meeting, we will craft a design specifically for your property. We then thoroughly review the plan with you and even provide a night-time demonstration of the lighting.

We are the ONLY company that offers a nighttime demonstration to our clients so they can visualize their project before finalizing the plan. That sounds like you really can’t make a mistake then. What else makes OLP different?

We provide only commercial-grade quality products, backed by warranty. We will always show up. We build

relationships with our clients. We do not just come and install the product and leave. We want to make sure your lights shine 365 days a year. We provide warranties and service packages.

When hiring a contractor, you want one that specializes in their field. Johnathan has been in the electrical field for over 15 years. He’s dedicated to making your outdoor space what you envisioned and more!

How can our readers get in touch to schedule a free consultation?

▸ They can contact us by phone at 954-998-0521 or email us at Broward@OutdoorLights.com

ABOUT US

ESTATE PLANNING'S GHOSTLY GOTCHA: WHEN OWNERSHIP HAUNTS YOUR FINAL WISHES

By Andrea L. Jakob, Esq.

You've written your will, created a trust, and you're feeling as secure as a locked crypt. But wait! A phantom hitch might be lurking in the shadows, ready to haunt your family: the alignment between your estate plan and the way you own your assets. Spooky, right?

The Ghost in the Legal Machine

The skeleton key to ensuring your estate plan goes off without a hitch is understanding the importance of asset ownership. A will is like a spell; it only has power over assets that are solely in your name or without designated beneficiaries. Say you co-own a haunted mansion with a friend, complete with survivorship rights. When you journey to the other side, your co-owner inherits the eerie abode, bypassing your will. Basically, if you wanted your will to control the fate of the mansion, you should've held the title differently.

Trusts and Treats

Trust instructions work like a magic circle, but they only protect assets that are within it—those owned by the trust or with the trust designated as the beneficiary. If the asset isn't within the circle, your trust's magic has no power over it.

A Tale from Beyond the Grave

Picture Gomez Addams with a will and a trust naming his beloved Morticia as the beneficiary. He co-owns the family mansion with Uncle Fester and also has a life insurance policy, naming Wednesday and Pugsley as beneficiaries. After Gomez's spectral exit, Uncle Fester becomes the mansion's sole proprietor, and Wednesday and Pugsley divide the life insurance booty. Because of the ownership and beneficiary designation mix-up, Morticia ends up empty-handed, like a kid with a torn trick-or-treat bag.

Trick or Treat Safely

Don't let your estate plan turn into a house of horrors for your loved ones. It's critical to make sure your asset ownership aligns with your estate plan's goals. So if you want your estate plan to be more treat than trick, consult with professionals like us to ensure everything is in order.

When it comes to estate planning, don't get spooked. With the right guidance, you can avoid any ghoulish mishaps.

▸ 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 at www.jakoblegal.com.

Anand Vakharia, MD

Primary Care Physician

Broward Community Medical Center

Dr. Anand Vakharia is a board-certified primary care physician with extensive experience in both inpatient hospitalist medicine, as well as outpatient family practice. He has practiced medicine in Wisconsin, North Carolina, and New York. Most recently, he served as Medical Director at Mount St. Mary’s Hospital in Lewiston NY, where he was also named Regional Medical Director of the Year for all of Western NY.

Dr. Vakharia had always dreamed of returning home to serve the community he grew up in, while working alongside his father. Dr. Vijay Vakharia, a board-certified physician in both internal medicine and cardiology, has practiced medicine in Broward County for over thirty years. Taking care of patients and helping people live their healthiest lives is a family affair. Together their practice strives to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to the local community.

In a world where healthcare can often feel impersonal and rushed, Dr. Anand Vakharia stands as a shining example of a primary care physician who goes above and beyond to deliver personalized care. He strives to address not only the physical aspects of health, but also the emotional and individual needs of each patient. Dr. Vakharia’s patients describe him as more than just a physician - he is a trusted partner, an advocate, and a source of unwavering support on their healthcare journey.

Broward Community Medical Center offers comprehensive primary care, EKG, echocardiogram, ultrasound and laboratory services, as well as same day appointments.

■ To make an appointment with Dr. Anand Vakharia call 954-747-7373 or visit bcmcf/.com to schedule an appointment today.

Breast cancer can strike at any age. In fact, 5% of all breast cancer cases occur in women under 40.

Cleveland Clinic in Florida offers the personalized screenings you deserve, close to home. With traditional and 3D mammograms at convenient locations from South Florida to the Treasure Coast, our breast health experts are here for you. For empowerment. For peace of mind. For every care in the world.

Coral Springs | Weston | West Palm Beach

Schedule your mammogram today. Call 877.463.2010 or visit ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/Mammogram

Lisa Lanza, AuD, CCC-A

Doctor of Audiology

Better Life Hearing

Dr. Lisa Lanza’s role as an audiologist is to identify and treat hearing, balance, tinnitus, and other auditory disorders. She prescribes, fits, programs, and manages hearing aids. Dr. Lanza also helps people with hearing loss to better communicate and connect with the world around them.

Dr. Lanza earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Florida State University and earned her Doctoral Degree in Audiology from Nova Southeastern University and has served the South Florida Community for the past 11 years. Dr. Lanza focuses on Audiology Best Practices, including utilizing real ear measurements through speech mapping for optimal hearing device fitting.

One of the most rewarding parts of Dr. Lanza’s job is her patients first reaction when she programs their hearing devices and “hear” for the first time.

“It is an amazing feeling to see their smile,” said Dr. Lanza, “Hearing is a range of complex steps that transfer sound waves in the air into electrical signals and then carry these signals to the brain. Most of my

patients don’t understand the hearing process and I love to explain it to them, so they have a better idea of their hearing loss and why it’s so important to wear their hearing devices. Another rewarding part of my job is the connections I make with patients.”

Hearing loss can be associated with several other comorbidities. Because of this, Dr. Lanza frequently consults with other medical professionals. “I always ask my patient’s for their PCPs so i can develop treatment plans with their other health care providers. Untreated hearing loss is associated with other health problems such as isolation, loneliness, depression, heart disease, chronic renal failure, diabetes, and cognitive decline. This is why it’s so important to visit these medical professionals to discuss the importance of diagnosing and treating hearing loss.”

■ To make an appointment with Dr. Lanza or learn more about Better Life Hearing, call 754666-8981 or visit www.betterlifehearing.net

2023

Dr. Laura Gonzalez, DMD

Cosmetic Dentist

Best Smile Cosmetic Dentistry

Dr. Gonzalez graduated from the prestigious Facultad de Odontologia de la Universidad Autonoma de Mexico and then completed her studies at the Nova Southeastern University School of Dental Medicine.

With this exceptional training and experience behind her, Dr. Gonzalez opened her practice to provide excellence in dentistry with outstanding aesthetic results. To stay on the leading edge of her profession, Dr. Gonzalez also completed extensive hours of post-graduate training both at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies and the world-renowned Laser Institute.

As soon as you walk through the doors at Best Smile Cosmetic Dentistry, you realize that this practice differs from others you may have been to. The calm, inviting ambiance makes you relaxed. That is a big difference from a typical dentist’s office!

Dr. Laura Gonzalez and her cosmetic dentistry team are passionate about bringing their patients state-ofthe-art dental care and outstanding aesthetic solutions.

We create beautiful, healthy smiles that not only meet the highest standards of beauty but also transform patients’ lives by improving their confidence. All of these services are delivered in an exquisite environment that feels more like a spa than a dental office. Her practice is multidisciplinary and includes an Endodontist, Oral Maxillo-facial surgeon, Orthodontist, Periodontist, and Cosmetic Dentist, ensuring that every patient receives the most advanced and complex solutions for their dental needs.

“We consistently invest in cutting-edge technologies to keep you ahead. This includes intra-oral cameras for detailed images of teeth and gums, digital X-rays, imaging, advanced lasers for diverse dental care, and a TENSing Unit. This unit enhances Neuromuscular care by determining the most comfortable jaw position through gentle facial muscle stimulation.”

■ To make an appointment with Dr. Gonzalez or learn more about Best Smile Cosmetic Dentistry, call 954-248-2601 or visit www.bestsmile.us.

“Changing lives, one smile at a time!”

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.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Use in the Foot & Ankle

ealing after an injury involves a well-orchestrated and complex series of events where proteins in the blood act as messengers to regulate the entire process. Many proteins involved in the healing process are derived from small cell fragments in the blood called platelets.

Platelets are small, colorless, cell fragments present in the blood.

They are formed in the bone mar-row and are freely passing through the bloodstream in a resting state. However, when an injury occurs, the platelets become activated and start to gather at the injury site to release beneficial proteins called growth factors. This is the beginning of the healing process.

For many years, blood components derived from the patient and then delivered to the site of injury have created growing interest for use in orthopedic procedures. New research and technology have expanded the application of this therapy for use in

By Dr. John Goodner

Horthopedic procedures.

What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)? Platelet Rich Plasma is a concentration of platelets and growth factors created from a small amount of your own blood. Increased levels of growth factors have the potential to improve signaling and recruitment of cells. What conditions can it treat? PRP can be used to treat Arthritis (foot or ankle), Ligament Injuries (acute or chronic), Tendon Injuries (acute or chronic), Joint Pain, Chronic Inflammatory Conditions, Achilles Tendonitis, Plantar Fasciitis, Chronic Nerve Irritation (Neuritis), Shin Splints and Heel Spurs. How does the PRP process work? Our doctors will recover a small amount of blood from your arm using a small needle and a specially designed syringe. The blood then goes through a rapid spinning process that separates and concentrates the platelets and other beneficial growth factors from the blood. The entire PRP production process is usually done in less than 20 minutes. What happens after that? The injected area will be anesthetized with a local anesthetic (Lidocaine). The blood with its PRP will be injected into the area directly or with the

aid of ultrasound or x-ray.

Am I a candidate for treatment with PRP? Speak with our doctors and ask if PRP is right for you. We will perform an examination to determine if the use of PRP will benefit you. If you are on anti-inflammatory medications or blood thinners, your physician may temporarily discontinue the use of these until your treatment has taken place. What are the risks associated with this treatment? PRP uses your body’s own natural properties to treat your injury. Side effects utilizing PRP systems are very uncommon.

▸ Dr. John Goodner is a Board Certified Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgeon with the Foot, Ankle and Leg Specialists of South Florida and specializes in sports medicine foot and ankle injuries, foot and ankle arthroscopy, lower extremity trauma, and lower extremity deformities in infants, children, teens and adults. The South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine is located at 17842 NW 2nd St Pembroke Pines, FL 33029-2806. You can reach the office at (954) 430-9901. SouthFloridaSportsMedicine.com.

Instagram @SouthFloridaSportsMedicine Twitter @SFLSportsMed.

OFFERING SAME DAY & EARLY MORNING APPOINTMENTS & CONSULTATIONS

Pediatrics: We treat flat feet, high arches, fractures, growing pains, warts, toe walkers, in & out toe, limping, and ingrown nails in children.

OFFERING SAME DAY & EARLY MORNING APPOINTMENTS & CONSULTATIONS

Fractures: We can diagnose all foot, ankle & leg fractures in children & adults.

Cartilage Injuries: Microfractures, cartilage transplants, osteochondral grafting.

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

Reconstructive Surgeries: Flat foot, bunions, hammertoe, Achilles tears, more!

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

Foot & Ankle Arthritis: Total replacement, arthroscopy, fusions, realignment.

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

ORTHOTICS $400 | CASTS $200 | LACERATION REPAIR $550

Sports Medicine: Tendon & ligament injuries, heel pain, shockwave therapy, PRP & stem cell injections, arthroscopy, tendonoscopy, and more!

Foot, Ankle, or Leg Injury Questions? Email the Doctor at DrJohnGoodner@Gmail.com (Don’t Send Protected Health Information)

MEDICARE | BLUE CROSS | DEVOTED-HEALTH NETWORK ONE | UHC | AV MED | AMBETTER | TRICARE | WORKERS COMP | ACCIDENTS/LOPS

SEMINOLE TRIBE | MICOSUKEE | SIMPLY | SUNSHINE | OSCAR

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

When it comes to treatment for all foot, ankle, and leg injuries, trust us to provide

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

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

STEM CELLS $1200 | SHOCKWAVE (5 SESSIONS) $600 | INJECTIONS $100

ORTHOTICS $400 | CASTS $200 | LACERATION REPAIR $550

Dr. Carlo Messina

LEGAL YOUR FATHER'S RIGHTS LAWYERS

others and fathers should not be subject to archaic stereotypes, such as men working and women staying home to raise their children. Children benefit from having both parents fully involved in their lives, and fathers are equally capable caregivers.

Our McKINNON LEGAL father’s rights lawyers believe both parents should play a substantial role in their children’s lives from the beginning. McKINNON LEGAL attorneys are committed to helping fathers seeking to spend time with and parent their children.

Establishing Paternity for Fathers

The first step in creating a relationship between a father and his child is ensuring paternity is established if the parents of the child are not married. Historically, without the mother’s agreement or a formal paternity order, a father technically had no right to timesharing with his child. After July 1, 2023, once the Father signs the birth certificate

By Dr. Christina McKinnon, Esq.

Mor executes a joint stipulation of parentage with the Mother acknowledging paternity, legal paternity is deemed established.

McKINNON LEGAL will work diligently to establish paternity and protect a father’s right to share time with his children and ensure he gets his entitlement to all the joys of child-rearing.

A Father’s Right to Parenting Time

Under Florida Statutes §61.13, every child should have frequent and continuing contact with both parents, and there is now a presumption of equal timesharing, meaning both are capable of caring for their child. As such, parenting plans are based solely on a child’s best interests, not on a parent’s gender. The new provisions signed into law also provide that all the statute’s best interest factors are analyzed when establishing, modifying, or enforcing timesharing arrangements.

Fighting for Fathers’ Decision-Making Rights

A father’s right to be involved in his child’s life does not end with timesharing. He also has the right to make decisions about the child’s life. For example, a father

should have input on where his children attend school and what type of medical care they receive.

Without an active role in deciding what is best for his children, a father may be relegated to a ‘paying visitor’ role—someone who sees their child on a set schedule and pays child support but is not afforded equal status with the mother. An experienced lawyer at McKINNON LEGAL will work tirelessly to ensure a father’s voice is heard in major decisions relating to his child. Our Father’s Rights

Attorneys Are Ready to Help

Changes in Florida law have made it possible for fathers to fight for their parental rights. Our legal team understands that the judicial system has historically favored mothers and could assist you in moving past that bias.

▸ If you are a father whose rights to your children are threatened in any way, call our law firm today. A father’s rights lawyer could help you protect your relationship with your children.

Prenatal Oral Care and Your Child

What does your personal oral care have to do with your newborn? More than you think.

Unaware of its importance, many women avoid regular dental care during and immediately after pregnancy. In addition, uneducated dentists may not stress its importance and may even be less willing to provide certain services during pregnancy. This is very unfortunate for there are definite implications of poor oral health in pregnant women, their pregnancies, as well as their children.

Multiple studies have shown links between periodontal disease (infection of the gums and bones supporting the teeth) and adverse outcomes in pregnancy including preterm deliveries, low birth weight babies, and preeclampsia. Children born to mothers with poor oral hygiene and high levels of certain oral bacteria have a significantly higher risk of developing cavities at an early

By Dr. Maria Grosman

age. This may be one of the causative factors in a child’s development of a condition called early childhood caries or ECC. ECC is a complicated situation in which cavities occur rampantly at an age in which needed care may be difficult to deliver. Fortunately, most of the causes of both cavities and ECC are preventable.

Cavities are caused in large part by having high levels of certain oral bacteria. Although children are not born with these cavity causing bacteria, they are eventually transferred by caregivers to children. This can occur, for example, by blowing on a hot spoon of cereal. It is not natural, or possible, to forever eliminate these bacteria. However, the longer it takes to transfer, the decreased risk of cavities in general and ECC specifically. The way of accomplishing this would be to eliminate cavities in the mouths of mothers (and all caregivers for that matter) and reduce the amount of plaque through regular dental checkups, cleaning and application of topical fluoride (in toothpaste and rinse).

It would be easiest to complete all dental work prior to pregnancy. However, it is important to keep in mind that most dental procedures can be accomplished during pregnancy. The safest and most comfortable time to accomplish dental work during pregnancy is the second trimester. We recommend using this time not only to receive services, but also to obtain tips for oral care for mother and baby. There are many special circumstances during pregnancy. For example, nausea and vomiting can create some difficulty in controlling the acid levels in the mouth, which can increase the risks of both enamel erosion as well as cavities in mother. You would be surprised at the creative strategies which can be used to overcome many of these challenges.

▸ 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.

Best Personal Trainer

The Exercise Coach

5609 S. University Drive

www.exercisecoach.com/davie

754-732-1818

Revolutionizing the realm of fitness, The Exercise Coach presents a compelling departure from conventional approaches in Personal Training. With certified coaches leading the charge, this sanctuary offers a guided pathway brimming with direction, confidence, and unwavering motivation, propelling you towards your desired results. The core of their methodology revolves around customized 20-minute sessions, meticulously tailored to suit each client’s unique aspirations. It is Personal Training at its very best!

In the compact span of just 20 minutes, The Exercise Coach programs unfurl their magic, fostering weight loss, amplifying strength, and cultivating a state of robust health. The relentless pursuit of these objectives remains their hallmark, carried out with a precision that makes every moment count.

For those fatigued by the traditional gym scene’s cacophony, crowds, and intimidation, The Exercise Coach emerges as a sanctuary of solace. Here, the atmosphere is primed to elevate your sense of well-being, becoming the optimal platform for you to attain the pinnacle of vitality. It is no wonder that The Exercise Coach was voted Best Personal Trainer for in Davie.

Soroptimist of Davie Youth Leadership Award Applications are Now Open!

Driven young women, aged 14-18, currently attending a Broward County high school are invited to apply for the Soroptimist of Davie Youth Leadership Award. The award honors students who view challenges as opportunities and excel through volunteering and leadership.

This prestigious award, accompanied by a one-time cash prize, celebrates young women who actively make our community and world brighter. From combating drugs, crime, and violence to championing environmental causes, or advocating against discrimination and poverty — if your efforts particularly uplift women or girls, we want to hear about it!

The Soroptimist community is a global sisterhood of women, many of whom are dedicated volunteers confronting the same challenges you're addressing. While the joy of volunteering is rewarding in itself, it's essential to celebrate and recognize outstanding contributions. That's where the Soroptimist of Davie Youth Leadership Award comes in.

An esteemed panel of judges will select the award's recipient, with the winner and her chosen charity being celebrated at our Annual Awards Ceremony in March 2024.

Think you're the change-maker we're searching for? Fill out the application, share your story of leadership and volunteering, and send it to the Soroptimist Club address provided on the form. Remember, all applications and supporting documents need to be with us by December 15, 2023.

Here's your chance to shine, inspire, and potentially be recognized for the incredible work you do!

The Soroptimist clubs help women and girls live their dreams. It is a global volunteer organization that provides women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. For more info about the Leadership Award contact MaryAnna Giordano at maryannagiordano@gmail.com or call 954-649-0566.

“Scan QR code to apply”