Our City Pembroke Pines

Pembroke Pines Our City

We Connect Communities | July 2020

P R I C E

• S E R V I C E

•

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The Patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for any other service, examination, or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement or the free, discounted fee or reduced fee, service, examination, or treatment

Welcome Back!

Our award-winning Leasing Center that everyone was talking about before the shutdown, is once again open!

With your health and wellness always our top priority, we look forward to welcoming you back.

Rest assured we have been creating future experiences that will exceed your expectations and we are eager to show you what’s next...

Call us at 954.217.2000 and we will arrange a convenient time for a visit.

Luxury Living for Seniors

The Palace at Weston Leasing Center 15951 S.W. 41st Street, Suite 500, Davie, FL 33331

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CONTENTS

Our City

PUBLISHERS’ PAGE 10 Speaking with Our Kids

COMMUNITY NEWS

PUBLISHERS Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com

12 Healthy Mothers of Broward 15 Students Recognized for Top Academic Accomplishments at The Children’s Harbor Academic Achievement Awards

SCHOOL NEWS 20 Tie-Breaker Question Determines School Duel Championship Winner

15

LEGALLY SPEAKING

29

26 Parenting Plans: What To Do When One Parent Is Not Following The Agreement 27 Estate Planning from the Comfort of Your Own Home

ASK THE EXPERT 28 What is BII?

29 Meet “Nicky Boo”

PHOTO OF THE MONTH 30 Our City Travels to Cuba Home National Merit Scholarships

FEATURE STORY 23 Finding Normalcy in Education

ASK THE EXPERT 24 Pediatric Foot and Ankle Sprains May Be a More Complex Growth Plate Injury

ART DIRECTOR Jacqueline Allard GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Alana Brodie, Tom Rowe ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Nancy Koval nancy@ourcitymedia.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES John Brodie, Denise Caligiuri, Adrienne Collins, Mariem Garcia, Kenny Rodgers,Silvia Silva, Jerry Spielman CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Stacey Bomser Dr. Robert H. Sheinberg Dr. Isabel Suate Wayne M. Messam, Mayor of Miramar Bruce Iden, Esquire Dexter Williams, Miramar Police Chief Robert E. Palmer, Miramar Fire-Rescue Chief

PET OF THE MONTH

22 Broward County Students Bring

MANAGING EDITOR Christy Jaillet

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Emily Harris Photography, Kim Ruoff, Krushot Photography, PhotographyByLuigi.com, Victoria Genova Photography, Weston Photography Studios

PUZZLE PAGE 32 Sudoku & Crossword puzzle 28 Answer Key

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR 31 Let’s Make Everyone Count in Pembroke Pines 31 Miramar Update

20

GOT NEWS? editor@ourcitymedia.com

ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com VISIT US ONLINE OurCityMedia.com

954-306-1007 400 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway Suite 200C • Sunrise, FL 33325

Our City Media of Florida, LLC publishes FREE monthly, local community news magazines throughout South Florida. Our City Media Magazines are mailed monthly to affluent single-family homes, condos and businesses in their respective communities. Monthly mailings are verifiable by USPS postage statements.

Additional free copies are available at selected locations throughout the communities served and upon request by contacting the publisher. Opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher. Our City Media of Florida, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our City Media of Florida, LLC is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers. Entire contents copyrighted 2020 by Our City Media of Florida, LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

8 JULY 2020 | OUR CITY | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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PUBLISHERS’ PAGE

Speaking with Our Kids

R

aising children is, in many ways, the most rewarding thing an adult can do. It is frequently challenging and can even be a harrowing task. The events of the past two months haven’t made things any easier. Parents everywhere went from trying to explain why school was canceled and why you really need to wear a mask, to grappling with how to discuss the death of George Floyd with their kids.

We found that the best thing to do is simply to start a conversation. Kids these days have incredible access to information. They are often better informed on trending topics than adults. What they frequently are missing, is context. Without understanding the past, it is impossible to comprehend why millions of people would take to the streets after the killing of a single man.

We are not the right people to give advice on how to help kids grapple with the subject of systemic racism. Nor will we tell you what political remedies we favor. We will, however, encourage every parent to talk with their kids.

And, to listen to their perspective.

The isolation forced on us by the pandemic has given every parent an opportunity to speak with their kids. We don’t plan on missing it.

Sincerely,

Christy & Terry Jaillet

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DAVIE

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www.healthstonePCP.com 10 JULY 2020 | OUR CITY | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

You’re Paying HOW MUCH to Sell Your Home?

Phone: 954-727-8218 Mobile: 954-470-3444 Brian@HelpUSellBroward.com *Paid at closing. Other Broker / Co-op fee may apply. Fees may vary with luxury properties, condos, land, etc. If your property is listed with another brokerage this is not a solicitation for your listing. Savings are compared to a 6% commission. Commissions are negotiable and are not set by law.

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OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY | JULY 2020 11

COMMUNITY NEWS

Healthy Mothers of Broward

BY TERRY JAILLET

T

here are guardian angels in Broward County. These angels are not the kind with wings. In fact, they are ordinary people like you and me. They are, however, looking out for the most helpless of us all: infants. These angles help disadvantaged pregnant women and new mothers through their pregnancies and the first year of their babies’ lives.

Local charity Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Broward County, has been helping up to 4,000 local families at a time for over 20 years. The 501(c)3’s mission is to reduce infant deaths by strengthening families through a comprehensive approach to prenatal care, parenting, education, and support services.

About 1 of every 200 babies born in Broward County don’t make it to their first birthday. For minorities and economically disadvantaged groups, the data are even worse. Black babies are four times more likely to die in their first year of life than white babies. Poor mothers are less likely to seek and have access to prenatal care than wealthier mothers.

Healthy Mothers focuses its work on the five Broward zip codes with the highest infant mortality rate. One of the organization’s signature programs, The Mahogany Project, provides intensive case management services to in-need mothers, including: ▸ Prenatal Support ▸ Childbirth Education ▸ Breastfeeding Education ▸ Nutrition Education ▸ Support Groups ▸ Individual Counseling ▸ Medical Case Management The organization is led by Executive Director, Linda Cichon, who started with the Healthy Mothers 23 years ago. “My involvement in this effort is personal. I had a baby that was stillborn. I stayed connected with a nurse that helped me through that moment in my life and began to volunteer. I guess, I never left.”

Cichon also highlighted one of the group’s most successful programs, its Teen Leadership Council. The Teen Council is comprised of dedicated teen volunteers from many area high schools. The young people lead Healthy Mothers’ Grab N Go Lunch program. They have delivered more than 2,000 meals to in-need families during this unprecedented time. The students truly embrace their mantra of Saving Lives, Guiding Futures and Inspiring Hope.

In addition to meals, mentorship and education, Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies offers pregnant women and new moms classes on how to make healthier meals ,as well as ,supplying healthy produce to the families.

It is a comfort to know that the families most in need are being watched over by guardian angels from Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies.

To learn more or if you would like to volunteer or donate to Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Broward County visit their website at www.hmhbbroward.org.

12 JULY 2020 | OUR CITY | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Students Recognized for Top Academic Accomplishments at The Children’s Harbor Academic Achievement Awards

S

tudents who call Children’s Harbor home were recently recognized during the Annual Children’s Harbor Academic Awards, brought to you by the generous support of the Craig Zinn Automotive Group (CZAG) “As you know, when a child experiences trauma, it significantly impacts their academic performance. It is difficult for our children to do well in school on a “normal” school year...much less during a global pandemic!!! There has never been an end of a school year that deserves more celebration than this one. So, we dug out our pom-poms and our air horns and embarrassed them with our silly cheers as they crossed the stage,” said Tiffani Dhooge, President and CEO of Children’s Harbor.

Established in 1996, Children’s Harbor is a child welfare organization dedicated to very specific priorities.

Protecting children through treatment and supportive services, Children’s Harbor offers a well-integrated system of care, staffed with clinical professionals, to keep children safe, while their families are allowed to heal.

The Academic Achievement Awards celebrated students for their exceptional work during the 20192020 academic year. The event kick-off with a drive-by Community Car Parade while still maintaining social

distancing guidelines set forth by the CDC and Broward County. The Parade was organized and led by the leadership team at the Craig Zinn Automotive Group, who were joined by employees, customers, and community members who came out to show support for the students and their amazing accomplishments.

Following the Parade, students walked on stage in a ceremonial cap and gown procession, where they each received a Completion Award. The students were surprised to learn that they were also receiving a unique gift basket filled with goodies that included a $25 gift card, all compliments of CZAG, and Lexus of Pembroke Pines.

“Our goal in supporting the Annual Children’s Harbor Awards is to encourage educational attainment and academic achievement. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, we must continue supporting organizations like Children’s Harbor who are dedicated to keeping children safe and provide the educational stability students need

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to succeed,” said Craig Zinn, founder, and CEO at the Craig Zinn Automotive group.

To learn more about Children’s Harbor, please visit childrensharbor.org.

About the Craig Zinn Automotive Group The Craig Zinn Automotive Group owns and operates Lexus of Pembroke Pines, Toyota of Hollywood, Subaru of Pembroke Pines, Lexus of North Miami, and Acura of Pembroke Pines. Our mission is to provide all customers with amazing automotive experiences. We offer a vast selection of new and pre-owned vehicles, exceptional service and collision, financing, and much more. For more information on the Craig Zinn Automotive Group, please visit CZGroup.com.

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THE DONOWAY CENTER NEW HOPE FOR PANCREATIC CANCER PATIENTS Patients diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer have few treatment options. However, a new procedure called Irreversible Electroporation or IRE for short has changed that for many patients who are seeing a doubling and tripling of their life expectancies. Dr. Robert Donoway, who has one of the largest International experiences for performing this procedure on the pancreas and liver is a Hollywood based, Sloan Kettering trained Pancreatic Surgical Oncologist, and former medical director of two of the local cancer programs remains among a very small handful of Pancreatic surgeons who perform the procedure which is done in the operating room as an outpatient.

Robert B. Donoway, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.S.S.O. Diplomate American Board of Surgery Diplomate, Society of Surgical Oncology Former Medical Director Memorial Cancer Center Medical Director, Atlas Oncology: Institute for Pancreatic Cancer IRE/NanoKnife Ablation

During the procedure, Dr. Donoway places fine needle probes under direct ultrasound guidance into and around the pancreatic tumor while carefully avoiding critical structures. High voltage current up to 3000 volts is then delivered in 90-microsecond pulses synchronized with the patient’s heart rhythm to avoid any cardiac problems.

The pulses destroy the cancer cell membranes which then causes the tumor to die and be absorbed by the body. The average procedure lasts approximately 1-2 hours and the patients may be discharged the following day. A brief recovery means the patient can start chemotherapy and radiation that much sooner.

Dr. Donoway is participating in several clinical studies identifying the best chemotherapy and immunotherapies to be used along with IRE. Dr. Donoway states, “The results so far have been very encouraging and we have begun using it for other select cancers. The longest survivors are now out over 5 years and without evidence of cancer recurrence. In the past, without IRE they would have been likely to have only lived a year and so this technique opens the whole new avenue for treating those eligible patients in a more targeted fashion.”

For more information about Dr. Donoway and the Pancreatic-IRE/NanoKnife Program and clinical trials call 305-682-1995 and visit www.AtlasOncology.com

4000 Hollywood Boulevard • Suite 160 North • Hollywood, Florida 33021 Phone: 954-986-6366, 305-682-1995 • Fax: 954-986-4355 www.AtlasOncology.com 16 JULY 2020 | OUR CITY | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

ATLAS ONCOLOGY Robert B. Donoway, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.S.S.O. Surgical Oncology & Pancreatic Surgical Oncology Practice specializing in Cancer of the Pancreas, Liver, GI Tract, Sarcoma, Adrenal, Thyroid, Parathyroid, and Melanoma. Laparoscopic and Image Guided Cancer Surgery, IRE/NanoKnife for Non-Resectable Pancreatic and Liver Cancer.

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r. Donoway is a board certified Fellowship-trained Surgical Oncologist who received his MD and Surgical training at the University of Pennsylvania. He completed his fellowship in Surgical Oncology at Sloan-Kettering where he was the General Motors Cancer Research Fellow. He has taught on the faculty at Penn, Sloan-Kettering, University of Miami and Nova Southeastern. Dr. Donoway is the former Medical Director of the Memorial Cancer Institute and Chairman of the Cancer Committee for the Memorial Healthcare System as well as Chief of Surgery and Surgical Oncology at Memorial Regional in Hollywood. Dr. Donoway served on the Board of the American Cancer Society & Gildas Club. He has also served as past President of the American Cancer Society Broward County Chapter.

Dr. Donoway is active in the Society of Surgical Oncology and the American Pancreatic Association.

His accomplishments include being the first Surgeon in Florida to perform Radio Frequency Ablation as well as Laparoscopic Liver Resection. Dr. Donoway is a recent recipient of the South Florida Health Award for the use of Micro-Endoscopy for the detection of early stage Breast Cancer. Dr. Donoway is the Medical Director of the Institute of Breast Cancer Prevention and has been repeatedly named to “TOP DOCTORS IN AMERICA” by Castle Connolly. Dr. Donoway is the ONLY surgeon in Florida performing specialized Pancreatic and Liver ablation therapy for non-resectable tumors. Dr. Donoway is the Former Chair of the Aventura Cancer Committee at Aventura Hospital and Medical Center. Dr. Donoway has privileges and operates at Aventura Hospital, Memorial Regional, Memorial South and Memorial West.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Tie-Breaker Question Determines School Duel Championship Winner

B

roward County Public Schools (BCPS) BECON-TV announces its 10th season School Duel Championship winner. After an exciting head-to-head game leading to a tie-breaker question to determine the winner; congratulations to Park Vista High School of the School District of Palm Beach County for winning the 10th season of School Duel. The runner-up team from BCPS is West Broward High School.

The tie-breaker question, which ultimately determined this year’s winner, was: Name the Broadway show, set in the 1950’s at Rydell High School, where Sandy and Danny end up singing “You’re the One That I Want.”

Before the show host could finish the complete question, Park Vista High buzzed in to correctly answer “Grease!”

Park Vista High will receive prizes from sponsors, including a $1,000 check for each team member, courtesy of BrightStar Credit Union and Chick-Fil-A South Florida. West Broward High will receive a $200 check for each team member courtesy of Publix Supermarkets. Both teams will receive championship trophies from EDCO Awards and Specialties and gifts from additional participating sponsors. Congratulations to both teams and their teacher advisors.

If you missed the School Duel Championship game it will air again on BECON-TV at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31.

BECON-TV reaches homes in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties via Xfinity/Comcast Cable HD (channel 488 or 19), DISH Network, DIRECTV and AT&T U-verse (channel 63). It is also available on-demand at schoolduel.tv/.

School Duel is an exciting academic quiz show, designed to reward and highlight intellectual student talent in South Florida’s high schools, and serve as a positive educational tool for students and teachers. The 19-show series featured four-person teams competing in a single-elimination tournament to determine the show’s champion. To participate, 67 high schools in the area competed in an online test and the top 20 schools made it to the televised rounds.

This season, 10 BCPS schools, five schools from Miami-Dade County Public Schools, and five from the School District of Palm Beach County participated in this year’s televised competition. For more information on School Duel, visit schoolduel.tv/.

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20 JULY 2020 | OUR CITY | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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SCHOOL NEWS

Broward County Students Bring Home National Merit Scholarships

T

he National Merit Scholarship Corporation named 17 Broward County seniors recipients of the prestigious National Merit Scholarship. The National Merit Scholarship Program was founded to identify and honor scholastically talented American youth and to encourage them to develop their abilities to the fullest. Only 1% of the 1.6 million entrants are selected as Semifinalists each year. The Semifinalists are students who achieve the highest scores on the PSAT/NMSQT in their respective states.

Fewer than 8,000 of the Semifinalists go on to win scholarships. The winners are selected on a state-by-state basis and are judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. NMSC winners receive a $2,500 scholarship and the honor of being a Nation Merit Scholar.

Broward’s winners include: ▸ Javier Pratdesaba of Everglades High School ▸ Hannah Quintal of Nova High School ▸ Kam Cheung of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School ▸ Talia Rumsky of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School ▸ Karen Villancio-Wolter of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School ▸ Grant Cooper ofNorth Broward Prep ▸ Ronni Shashoua of NSU University High School ▸ Blake Kravitz, Pine Crest School ▸ Ara L. Johnson, Pembroke Pines Charter High School ▸ Jackson Arnberg of American Heritage School Angela Li

Doug Sandler

Hannah Quintal

Karen Villancio-Wolter

22 JULY 2020 | OUR CITY | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

Michael Sun

Kam Cheung

▸ ▸ ▸ ▸ ▸ ▸ ▸

Carol Jiang of American Heritage School Arnav Kumar of American Heritage School Aamir Lacewala of American Heritage School Valentina Ortega of American Heritage School Kristen Quesada of American Heritage School Flora Ranis of American Heritage School Viviana Wei of American Heritage School In addition, three Cypress Bay High School seniors were named National Merit Corporate-sponsored Scholarship winners: ▸ Angela Li is the recipient of the National Merit Motorola Solutions Scholarship ▸ Douglas Sandler is the recipient of the National Merit W.W. Grainger, Inc. Scholarship ▸ Michael Sun is the recipient of the National Merit Walgreen Co. Scholarship.

Corporate sponsors provide National Merit Scholarships for finalists who are either children of their employees, residents of communities the company serves, or finalists who plan to pursue college majors or careers the sponsor wishes to encourage.

By the conclusion of this year’s competition, about 7,600 academic champions will have won National Merit Scholarships worth more than $30 million.

Congratulations to all the 2020 National Merit Scholarship winners! You make us proud!

Talia Rumsky

Javier Pratdesaba

FEATURE STORY

Finding Normalcy in Education

A

few months ago, no one imagined that the nation, and the world, would be hit by a global pandemic causing massive lockdowns of entire cities, closure of businesses, rising unemployment, and forcing schools to close. As this new reality settled, schools all over the nation had to transition their classrooms to a virtual learning platform. Our Staff and Administration worked arduously to adapt to the “new normal” and successfully switched our Montessori Curriculum into an online format that not only kept the students engaged but also helped them further their education and remain on a positive growth trajectory. For the months that followed the lockdown, Small World Montessori worked hard to live stream class sessions where our certified teachers conducted live Montessori Lesson Periods, as well as arts and crafts, science, and Line Time (circle time). We aimed to give our students normalcy and routine. As the state began to lift the lockdown, we were able to, once again, open our doors.

Following CDC guidelines and recommendations by licensing authorities, we have reopened our campus and continue to work diligently to keep our students and staff safe while providing service to those who were required to return to work. Examples of our onsite protocols, which are strictly kept in place, include but are not limited to, all high touch areas being sanitized and disinfected while continuously, the educational staff is required to wear facial coverings, and students are screened for fever and cold symptoms upon drop off and pick up. Furthermore, to upkeep proper social distancing, classroom ratios are kept very low in each classroom.

America is known for many positive characteristics, none more important than the capacity of its citizens to be resilient. Our Head of School, Mr. Vayani, has often mentioned that “children have been, are and will hopefully remain the key to healing the

world”. Crisis often provides moments of evaluation and reflection.

Maria Montessori stated, “Establishing lasting peace is the work of education all politics can do is keep us out of war”.

Educators around the globe are working tirelessly to bring forth material that keeps students engaged and uplifts their spirit. During this crisis, our intention at Small World Montessori is to give our community a hope of normalcy and support; we are here to serve you, your family, and especially your child. Currently, our Summer Program, “Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? Season 2!” is in full swing! Our students are traveling the world with handmade passports and travel badges as they track down the super sleuth. It is an action-packed, mission filled summer program that will keep our students entertained, all the while incorporating our geography and peace education curriculums. Our Summer Program runs for 10 weeks, offering a wide range of activities and on-site field trips while maintaining the Montessori Curriculum. We are committed to making this summer filled with an epic adventure, wonder, and discovery while instilling the love of learning.

Small World Montessori is also accepting enrollment for the 2020-2021 Academic Year. Due to the strict COVID-19 guidelines, seating is limited. If you are interested in enrolling your child in the Summer Program or our Academic Year Program, please call us at 954-544-2915 or visit our website www.swmontessori.com to schedule a personalized tour!

Montessori School of Miramar 18461 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33029

954-544-2915

ASK THE EXPERT

Pediatric Foot and Ankle Sprains May Be a More Complex Growth Plate Injury

BY DR. CARLO A. MESSINA

X

-rays do not always provide a complete and accurate picture of the diagnosis. Injuries to the growth plate in children may cause damage to the structures at the end of the bone that allow the child’s bone to grow to full adult size. These injuries may be misdiagnosed as a simple sprain of the foot or ankle.

However, a more complex injury may be present.

Growth plates, which start to close between the ages of 13 and 18, can be damaged in incidents such as simple falls, sports injuries, automobile accidents or other major or minor trauma. If not recognized and treated early, a child’s growth plate injury can lead to shortening of the bone (growth ceases) as the growth plate may close prematurely. Angular deformities of the bone (a curve) may also develop. The severity of these deformities depends on the age at the time of injury, extent of the injury, and the part of the growth plate that has been damaged. Certain portions of the growth plate may be injured affecting its growth while other parts grow more normally thus causing a bowing of the bone.

Symptoms of a growth plate injury may mimic a sprain. These injuries occur more frequently than realized. There will always be pinpoint tenderness on the bone’s growth plate and a degree of swelling that is proportional to the degree of injury to the area. The child will often limp and try to avoid the body part.

Normal treatment for a sprain may involve simple observation and application of an ace bandage or brace. This treatment for a growth plate injury that is severe may be devastating.

X-rays are used to evaluate bone and joint alignment. A growth plate can be injured or even fractured with a normal X-ray. In more moderate to severe cases, x-rays will usually show the fracture. When in doubt, a CT scan may be necessary. Early diagnosis is crucial.

Treatment options include: 1. Immobilization in a below-the-knee cast with or without crutches may be necessary if the growth plate is well aligned. These injuries will heal on their own within six to eight weeks. The younger the child, the faster the injury heals.

2. If the injury has caused misalignment of the growth plate it can sometimes be carefully manipulated back into place and then protected with a cast.

The cast would be necessary for a minimum of six to eight weeks. Nonweightbearing would be mandatory.

3. If the misalignment is more severe and not able to be manipulated back into its normal position, surgery would be necessary to restore the growth plate to its proper position. This may help avoid later problems including malalignment or premature growth plate closure that may cause the extremity to be shortened and crooked.

The most important thing is immediate diagnosis and treatment.

Carlo A. Messina, DPM, is a Board Certified Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Diplomate American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He is a Foot and Ankle Surgeon with the Foot, Ankle and Leg Specialists of South Florida and specializes in treating infants, children, teens and adults. His partners are Dr. Robert Sheinberg, Dr. Al DeSimone, Dr. Fernando Moya, Dr. Alexander Bertot, Dr. David Shenassa, Dr. Michael Cohen and Dr. Franz Jones. The South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine in Weston is located at 1600 Town Center Blvd., Suite C, (954) 389-5900 and in Pembroke Pines at 17842 NW 2nd Street, (954) 430-9901. The practice website is www.

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CARTILAGE INJURIES Microfractures, Cartilage Transplants, Osteochondral Grafting RECONSTRUCTIVE FOOT, ANKLE AND LEG SURGERY Flat Foot, Bunions, Hammertoes, Ligament Repair, Achilles Tendon Tears, Arthritis Surgery SPORTS MEDICINE Tendon and Ligament injuries, Heel Pain, Shockwave Therapy, PRP & Stem Cell Injections, Arthroscopy and Tendoscopy, Shin Splints, Compartment Syndrome

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FOOT AND ANKLE ARTHRITIS Total Joint Replacement, Ankle Replacement, Arthroscopy, Fusions, Joint Realignment

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Make Your Appointment Online at www.SouthFloridaSportsMedicine.com

FOOT, ANKLE & LEG QUESTIONS? EMAIL THE DOCTOR! DrJohnGoodner@gmail.com (Don’t Send Protected Health Information)

IMEs • Personal Injury • Worker’s Compensation Most HMOs/PPOs • All Foot Ankle & Leg Emergencies Same Day Appointments • Saturday Appointments Early Morning & Evening Appointments

SELF PAY RATES (Procedure cost is in addition to office visit.)

New Patient . . . . . . . . . . .$75-$125 Surgery Consult . . . . . . . . . . . $200 Injections . . . . . . . . . .$75 per shot Casts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$175 Follow Up Visit . . . . . . . . $50-$100 Orthotics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $350 Ingrown Nail . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125 X-Rays . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 per area PRP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$600 Shockwave (3 sessions) . . . . $500 Laceration Repair . . . . . . . . . $250 Wound Care . . . . . . . . . . .$75-$125 (FOR CHRONIC HEEL PAIN & TENDONITIS)

SPORTS MEDICINE ASSOCIATES (Self Pay Rates Do Not Apply To This Practice Below)

Dr. Al DeSimone, M.D. Board Certified SHOULDER & KNEE SPECIALIST

Dr. Fernando Moya, M.D. Board Certified SHOULDER & KNEE SPECIALIST

24 JULY 2020 | OUR CITY | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

Dr. David Shenassa, M.D. Board Qualified HAND & WRIST SURGEON

Dr. Alexander Bertot, M.D. Board Certified SPORTS MEDICINE SPECIALIST

Dr. Franz Jones, D.O. Board Certified SPINE SPECIALIST

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LEGALLY SPEAKING

THE TUG OF WAR ENDS WHEN YOU ARE ON THE SAME SIDE

Parenting Plans: What To Do When One Parent Is Not Following The Agreement AWARDED 9 YEARS

Adversaries Litigate. Families Collaborate.

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The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

26 JULY 2020 | OUR CITY | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

BY: FERNANDA PEDROSO arenting Plans are the agreement that parents enter into either during a dissolution of marriage involving minor children or during a paternity action where the parents share a child or children in common. The goal of this agreement is to provide both parents and more importantly—the child—clarity as to when the child will be spending time with each parent. In order for a Parenting Plan to truly assist families with their co-parenting, this document should be very specific and address all children-related topics with as much detail as possible. Ambiguities can and often do lead to issues and disagreement between parents, resulting in the need to submit the matter to court.

However, sometimes even if these documents are properly drafted and specific, one parent may still fail to comply with his or her responsibilities as stated within the parenting plan. One example of this non-compliance is related to the timesharing and/or holiday schedule—wherein one parent is not exercising the time he/she agreed to exercise; or alternatively, one parent is taking more time than they are entitled to.

If you find yourself in the situation where one parent is not fulfilling their portion of the timesharing schedule, this would constitute, a substantial change in circumstances, since the time of the entry of the Final Judgment thereby entitling you to seek a modification in order for the agreement to illustrate the timesharing schedule actually being exercised by both parents.

The filing of a modification will open the door for other child-related issues to be re-addressed, if necessary. Therefore, it is important you consider whether you truly want to proceed down this route. Consequently, a modification in timesharing may also impact the child support obligation as that obligation is, in part, impacted by the percentage of timesharing each parent is exercising.

If on the other hand, you are in a situation where one parent is constantly interfering with your timesharing such as keeping the minor child extra time or failing to execute drop-offs on time, you are entitled to seek an enforcement of your agreement. This is done by filing a Motion for Contempt and Enforcement. You may also request that the non-compliant parent be responsible for your attorney’s fees and costs related to the filing of this motion, since absent their actions, there would likely be no need to address this matter in court.

Ultimately, it is always best that parents attempt to remain civil and respect one another and the agreement they have entered. This is always beneficial for children as it limits their exposure to the negative effects and dynamics of litigation. However, when the non-compliance is such that it begins to disrupt the minor child and results in a willful disregard for the Parenting Plan established in the family case, it becomes necessary to address.

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n The law firm of Evan H. Baron and Associates is located at 1655 North Commerce Parkway, Suite 201, in Weston. If you have any questions concerning this issue or any other family law matter, call the office at 954-385-9160.

LEGALLY SPEAKING

Estate Planning from the Comfort of Your Own Home

BY BRUCE IDEN, ESQUIRE

A

s an attorney who has practiced in the area of estate planning for many years, one of the biggest challenges has always been getting potential clients to accept the importance of completing their estate plans now, rather than adding it to the list of things they might eventually need to take care of. It’s human nature to believe that creating a will or trust is not something you might need. After all, you’re not old, or sick, so there’s plenty of time to take care of these things later. Seriously, who wants to think about what may happen after you die? Or that you may die.

But proper estate planning is much more than a plan to distribute assets after you pass away. It includes planning for incapacity or extended illness. It should designate and empower someone to make financial and health care decisions for you, should you not be able to. It should designate who will care for and support your children, or continue your business after you are gone.

For me, nothing will ever replace the energy I derive by meeting clients in person. But our current normal requires that attorneys take a new approach. So I, like other attorneys, have had had to adapt. I have been able to continue to provide estate planning advice and counsel via Zoom meetings. And although businesses are beginning to “open,” many clients are not yet comfortable meeting in person. Nor are we. So we are taking things slowly.

While Zoom has allowed me to continue initial consultations, have planning meetings and present final documents, properly executing documents has remained a challenge. A testamentary document such as a will or trust must be executed in person before two witnesses and a notary. To accomplish this, our mobile notary has traveled to clients’ homes, maintaining proper social distancing and when requested to do so, witnessed document signings by looking through a window. But the legal requirement for executing these documents in person is changing.

Effective July 1st, Florida wills and trusts can be signed, witnessed and notarized virtually. Notaries who are certified to perform RON (remote online notarization) can facilitate the virtual execution of testamentary documents from the comfort of your home. The notary can even provide the necessary witnesses.

So, if you have do not have an estate plan or have one in need of updating, reach out to your attorney now. If you don’t have an attorney, find one. There are many qualified estate planning attorneys in the area and most offer complimentary initial consultations. Look for someone who has experience, competence, and compassion. And be sure they offer the option of virtual notarizations.

The pandemic has changed our world and once again reminds us of the fragility of life. No matter what your age or health situation, now is the time to create an estate plan.

Life can change in an instant. What are you waiting for?

Bruce Iden earned his J.D. from George Washington University National Law Center and his L.L.M in taxation from the University of Miami School of Law. He has been practicing in the areas of estate planning, real estate and business law for over 30 years. For more information, or to schedule a consultation with Mr. Iden, contact Iden Law Offices at 954-885-0085.

OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY | JULY 2020 27

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28 JULY 2020 | OUR CITY | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

What is BII?

BY CHARLES A. MESSA, III, M.D., F.A.C.S.

B

reast Implant Illness (BII) is a term used by women who have breast implants and who self- identify and describe a variety of symptoms including autoimmune issues, muscle aches, joint pain, fatigue, hair loss, headaches, photosensitivity, chronic pain, rash, anxiety, brain fog, sleep disturbance, depression, neurologic issues and hormonal issues that they feel are directly connected to their saline or silicone breast implants.

The recent increase in patients reporting Breast Implant Illness (BII) symptoms appears to be related to increased awareness based on social media and presence of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). There is one Facebook group alone with more than 50,000 members, all of whom report Breast Implant Illness (BII) symptoms. This is not to say that social media is the cause of Breast Implant Illness (BII) however, it may account for the rapid increases in patient reporting. BII is not an official medical diagnosis.

There is no diagnostic testing specifically for Breast Implant Illness (BII). This is one of the current areas of focus for the Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation, the research arm of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. There are tests for autoimmune diseases that can be performed to evaluate for potential causes of a patient’s symptoms. There are patients who have symptoms they attribute to Breast Implant Illness (BII) with positive immune testing and others with all laboratory tests which show no abnormalities.

In 1999, The Institute of Medicine Committee on the Safety of Silicone conducted an extensive review of the available literature and concluded there was no demonstrated clear link between silicone implants and any systemic illness. There have been studies of many different sizes and design to look at the safety of breast implants themselves. These have looked at specific autoimmune disorders and diseases. These studies show little to no links between breast implants and any disease. Studies of patients who have symptoms that they have related to their breast implants have not shown consistent laboratory abnormalities to define a distinct syndrome. To date, there has been very little in the way of research into this entity that has been labelled Breast Implant Illness (BII) by women with breast implants.

Does implant removal improve the patient’s symptoms or cure a patient who has a medically diagnosed disease entity like an autoimmune disease?

Various studies show different degrees of improvement in patient symptoms after removal of their breast implants, some of which are temporary, and some showing permanent resolution of symptoms. There are no studies which specifically show which symptoms may or may not improve with implant removal with or without capsulectomy.

There is no current definitive epidemiological evidence to support a direct link between breast implants and any specific disease process. There are many factors that can affect the interaction between a patient and her breast implants. Further study is required to determine the best way to potentially screen patients prior to breast implant surgery and to determine which of the multitude of reported symptoms might improve with implant and capsule removal.

A lack of a direct, proven scientific link does not mean that the symptoms experienced by these patients are not real. Some patients have legitimate concerns about a potential link between breast implants and symptoms. For individuals who have breast implants and complains of Breast Implant Illness (BII) symptoms options can include: further medical workup with or without the consultation of a rheumatologist, observation without medical workup, implant removal without capsulectomy, exchange with or without capsulectomy, removal with total capsulectomy, or removal with en bloc capsulectomy.

As there is no definitive link between the often subjective and divergent list of symptoms, and no means for testing, there is no ‘known’ risk. Many of the symptoms described by breast implant patients are experienced by the general public on a regular basis with or without implants.

There are many medical inaccuracies perpetuated by the internet. BII patients tend to believe that a total capsulectomy is necessary to remove all causative agents and they prefer it en bloc, oftentimes without having a full understanding of what size incision is necessary for en bloc.

If a patient wishes to undergo capsulectomy, it is important to explain that it is not always possible to remove all of the capsule. Sometimes a portion of the capsule must be left behind or is disintegrated with the use of electrocautery to prevent significant damage to muscle, rib or lung. If a patient had an axillary approach or periareolar approach for breast implant placement, an en bloc capsulectomy cannot be performed through those incisions.

It is recommended to reinforce that there are increased surgical risks associated with en bloc capsulectomy which requires a complete dissection of all the tissues surrounding the breast implant and, that we do not have enough collective data to guarantee any improvement in their symptoms they have labelled Breast Implant Illness (BII).

Dr. Messa is board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, an active member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is a recognized expert in cosmetic plastic surgery and has achieved Allergan’s Black Diamond Award as one of the top 1% of plastic surgery practices in the country by volume. Dr. Messa has also achieved Chairman status with Medicis and Mentor Corporation.

This award honors distinguished leaders in cosmetic surgery for demonstrating expertise and excellence through a high volume of aesthetic product procedures. The certification is awarded to leaders in the field of medical aesthetics and demonstrates their commitment to innovation, excellence, and the highest level of patient care. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Messa, please call our office at (954) 659-7760.

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OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY | JULY 2020 29

THE WORLD’S FAVORITE MAGAZINE™

We Want Your Take your latest copy of OUR CITY on the road with you and you could be our lucky winner. Send us your “The World’s Favorite Magazine™” photo and you could win a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Happy trails!

EMAIL PHOTOS TO: editorpines@ourcitymedia.com Mary Stephens took her copy of Our City Pembroke Pines to while on a walking tour of old Havana in Cuba. She sailed to the island nation on a Norwegian Cruise Line Ship and learned a great deal about their culture.

Please send hi-resolution original digital photos as attachments only. Include name, address, phone number and where photo was taken.

N O O PE W N NOW OPEN

o.com 30 JULY 2020 | OUR CITY | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR: PEMBROKE PINES

Let’s Make Everyone Count in Pembroke Pines

BY FRANK C. ORTIS, MAYOR OF PEMBROKE PINES ear Residents Although the US Census Bureau has extended the self-response timeline for the 2020 US Census due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we still urge you to please complete your form as soon as possible. It’s incredibly important to do so, is safe and confidential. When you fill out your Census form, you may notice Hollywood or Fort Lauderdale in the address line instead of Pembroke Pines. This is because the Census uses preferred mail addresses on Census forms, but your home address has been specially coded to fall within the Pembroke Pines boundary. Your Census form and data directly benefits the City of Pembroke Pines and will impact our community for the next 10 years. So please complete your forms. Please take a moment now and complete your Census today online by visiting: https://2020census.gov/ or via the phone at 844-330-2020 using the code you received in the mail -- the letters were sent to RESIDENT. Everyone Counts in Pembroke Pines!

A special note for those who may need help during this pandemic, the City of Pembroke Pines has announced there will be funding for Temporary Emergency Rental Assistance and Utilities payments (water, electricity).

Temporary Emergency payment of renters’ late installment(s) and late fee(s) are included. These funds will be used by the City of Pembroke Pines for extremely low, very low, and low-income households. Residents, who have lost income due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, may qualify for temporary assistance.

The applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served, first qualified basis for the SHIP COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Program until funds are exhausted. For more information regarding program qualifications and requirements, please feel free to contact: Community Redevelopment Associates of Florida, Inc. (CRA) at 954- 431-7866 or by visiting their website: https://crafla.com. Applicants may also find related information on the City’s website at www.ppines.com.

As always be safe and stay healthy. Please visit www.ppines.com to get up to date information on all that is happening in the City of Pembroke Pines, as well as following the city on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Residents can also turn their television to Pines Media TV which creates programming for all ages and covers city meetings. Pines Media TV can be seen locally on Comcast Channel 78, and on AT&T U-verse by finding Channel 99 and clicking on Pembroke Pines Media.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office at 954-450-1020, or by email at fortis@ppines.com

D

From your Mayor Frank C. Ortis City of Pembroke Pines

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR: MIRAMAR

Miramar Update

BY WAYNE M. MESSAM, MAYOR OF MIRAMAR y Fellow Miramarians, The past few months have really been challenging. Our lives have been upended due to the COVID-19 pandemic and recent protests and riots due to recent police involved shootings dominate the news cycle. These moments of our time are real and we as Miramarians cannot escape this reality. As mayor of our city, I too am concerned and disturbed. However, I see this moment as an opportunity for Miramar to lead in protecting our residents from COVID-19 and to lead in building public trust with our police department.

To help keep you and your family safe, Miramar has in place some of the strictest Emergency Orders that require the use of facial coverings in public with specific guidelines for businesses. These measures are stricter than Broward County and the State’s orders. In addition, I worked very closely with Governor DeSantis’ office to ensure Miramar received a COVID-19 site. The walk-up site is located at the Vernon E. Hargray Youth Enrichment Center, 7000 Miramar Parkway, Miramar 33025, and is free to the public. No appointment is needed. It is also one of a few sites that provides testing for children and I am also making a request to the Governor for this site to offer antibody testing. With the cooperation from each of you in wearing facial coverings and getting tested if you suspect you have been exposed to COVID-19, Miramar will be in a great position as the state continues to expand re-opening.

The other issue that gives me concern is the perception of law enforcement nationwide which can unfairly spill over to our Miramar Police Department.

Disturbing images from Minneapolis and Atlanta have sparked many questions regarding the MPD use of force policies. In an effort to help bridge the gap between our residents who have questions and concerns regarding our policies, I have accepted former President Obama’s “Mayor’s Pledge” to review our police department’s Use of Force Policies. This effort calls on mayors nationally to 1. Review, 2. Engage, 3. Report, 4. Reform. To execute this charge, I have created a Public Safety Council made up of Residents, Clergy, Law Enforcement and Diversity Professionals. The collective effort of these community stakeholders will produce recommendations for our city. This inclusive process will help strengthen public trust between our police department and our community.

The Professional Standard expected by our officers can be seen every day but no agency is perfect and reform will be made where needed.

I am convinced now more than ever, that Miramar is in an amazing position to be a beacon. Our diverse community has so much to offer and working together not only will we survive the threat of COVID-19, we will also make public trust a priority and strengthen any weak policies that may exist and inform the community of the progress our police department has made over the last 5 years.

Please take note of the announcements below: I invite you to join my bi-weekly “Conversations with Mayor Wayne Messam” series that is now virtual and interactive. The series has been quite successful as in the past when I would go into the community to meet and speak with residents. Past topics discussed include Business, Education, and Healthcare where I hosted with Superintendent of Broward Schools, the President of Broward College, Memorial Healthcare System Physicians, City of Miramar Staff, and Business leaders to discuss valuable information. This Facebook LIVE event is a free webinar provided as a resource of helpful credible knowledge during this crucial time.

Please visit https://bit.ly/ConvoswithMessamFB for more information and tips.

To expose our high-schoolers to STEM development, I am continuing my summer Technology Bootcamp with the Florida Vocational Institute. This year, the camp will be a virtual experience taking place June 29th - July 10th. This virtual program is open to incoming 10th through 12th grade students from Miramar High School, Somerset High School, and Everglades High School. Please visit www. fvi.edu/summerbootcamp/ to register.

Yours in Service, Mayor Wayne M. Messam, CGC, LEED AP, BD+C

M

OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY | JULY 2020 31

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Our City Media 7/20 Crossword Across

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7 Inventor Whitney 8 Cameos, e.g.

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Our Emergency Department and Express Care Walk-In Clinics are open for you.

You don’t plan for emergencies to happen, but we do.

At Cleveland Clinic Florida, your safety is our top priority, which is why our Emergency Department in Weston and Express Care Walk-In Clinics throughout South Florida are open, sanitized and safe. We’re always ready for your most urgent medical needs.

Get the care you need from a team you can trust.

ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/Emergency

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