OCW February 0214 by Our City Media

w Vi w si w. t ou us rc o it y n we lin st e on a .cot m

Nourish Your Mind, Body, and Soul at

See StorY pg. 44

Your LocaL coMMuNitY NewS MagaziNe!

FeBruarY 2014

Phone: 954-358-6010 robert@robertcoalla.com

24-Hour recorded Information for Price & address

call (800) 214-2138 Enter Four-Digit Code

Windmill ReseRve

Spectacular Custom Built 2010 House In Exclusive Windmill Reserve! Over $350,000 In Upgrades. 7 Bedrooms + Office With 8.5 Baths *One Of A Kind Floor Plan.

For More Information & Price Dial 1-800-214-2138 Enter Code 2722

Bal HaRBoR luxuRy condo

Spectacular Apartment With Beautiful Bay & City Views! One Of The Best Lines Of The Building. All Bedrooms Have A View. For More Information & Price Dial 1-800-214-2138 Enter Code 2772

PRovence ciRcle

victoRia Pointe ciRcle

BeRmuda sPRings dRive

908 cRestvieW ciRcle Excellent Home With Many Upgrades...4Th

Elegant Residence...Nestled on a Fabulous Lake-Front Homesite in Provence...One of Weston Hills Premier Neighborhoods…this one has it all. For More Information & Price Dial 1-800-214-2138 Enter Code 2502

Spacious And Beautifully Maintained 3 Bedroom House In The Great Gated Community Of Bermuda Springs. New Roof And Beatiful View To The Park!!! For More Information & Price Dial 1-800-214-2138 Enter Code 2542

Perfect Family Home. Features 4 Spacious Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths Plus Den/ Office And Loft Area.There Is Something For All The Members Of The Family. For More Information & Price Dial 1-800-214-2138 Enter Code 2762

Bedroom Currently Used As An Office W/ Fine All-Wood Custom Cabinets & Desks...Home Shows Owners Pride In Finishes And Conditions. For More Information & Price Dial 1-800-214-2138 Enter Code 2582

“Call Robert & Maria for Customized Listing Packages That Fit Your Needs & Save You Money! Dial 1-800-214-2138 Enter Code 3062” www.Martinez-Coalla.com

Dental Specialists of Weston 2575 Glades Circle Suite #3, Weston, FL 33327

954.349.4993

www.DentalSpecialistsOfWeston.com

All Your Dental Needs In One Location… · Root Canal Therapy with the use of Microscope · Wisdom Teeth Extractions · Dental Implants · Cosmetic Periodontal Tissue Procedures · Gum Surgeries w/Bone grafting · Pediatric Dentistry · Oral Sedation/ Nitrous Sedation (Laughing Gas) · Sports Guard

Valentine’s Day Special

Dr. Francisco L. Oliver, Periodontist

Dr. Glorimar Llavona, Endodontist

200 OFF

Zoom

Teeth Whitening exp. 02/28/14

0114

Se Habla Español

Free

Botox & Juvederm Consultation

New Patient Implant Consultation

Free ($300 Value)

exp. 02/28/14

0114

Skin and CanCer aSSoCiateS State of the art dermatology

Schedule your FREE Consultation with

Dr. Shani Studnik

Lift

n E w in

that’s instant and long lasting

w Es to n

Adds volume to the cheek area Helps enhance contour and create a more youthful profile for up to 2 years

17170 Royal Palm Blvd. Weston, FL 33326 2

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

954-349-derM (3376)

Celebrating 7 Years

photos bY Marianella Melillo / barrY stock

OCW

1651 Bonaventure Blvd. | Weston, FL 33326

Per adult meal - Dinners Only, Mon-Thurs

(next to Walgreens)

954.389.5188

www.pocbuffet.com Now Offering Catering & Party Trays

FREE

1 Kid Meal (12 & under) One Coupon per table. Must Present Coupon. Holidays Not Included. Can’t be combined with any other offer. Exp. 02/28/14

OCW

$10 OFF

Towards your check of $50 or more.

Dinners Only, Mon-Thurs, Valid at Weston location only. Before Tax. One Coupon per table. Must Present Coupon. Holidays Not Included. Can’t be combined with any other offer. Exp. 02/28/14

Valentine’s Saturday Hours Available

Ph: 954-217-1121 2863 Executive Park Drive, Suite 101 Weston, Florida 33331

$95

New Patient Special

Includes: • Exam 0150 • X-Rays 0272 • Cleaning 1120 Non-Insurance Patients • Fluoride Treatment 1203

Complimentary Baby Well Exams

16676 Saddle Club Road Weston, FL 33326 954.774.1269 4

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Samira Alempour, DMD

Certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

www.westonkidsdentistry.com

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

SW RANCHES

YOUR OWN PRIVATE GARDEN OF EDEN! Unbelievable value in this private gated, 5,900 sq ft 6 bedroom, 5 full bath home situated on 3 manicured acres plus 1700 sq ft guest house/barn. Offered at $ 1,695,000 Call Jean Kachik - 954-646-0777

BOCA RATON

Beautiful luxury 5 bedroom home in Boca Raton. Custom pool and luxurious spa. Massive master bedroom on bottom floor with separate his and hers bathrooms. On a cul-de-sac and lake. A must see. Offered at $ 1,449,000 Call Paul Tremblay - 954-243-8894

e SaL ng i D pen

WESTON

Stunning custom 5 bedroom 4 ½ bath golf course estate located in the premier neighborhood of Poinciana in Weston Hills Country Club. Home boasts over 5000 sq ft. Resort style pool and spa. Offered at $ 1,550,000 Call Annette Lewandowski – 954-275-9204

WESTON

Absolutely stunning home! Recently remodeled. Lots of upgrades! Offered at $ 1,099,000 Call Lisa Meyers- Archer - 954-732-3775

ale rt S Sho

WESTON

Gorgeous 5 bedroom home in Savanna. Complex has a mini golf club, Water Park, Olympic pool, club house, barbecue area, hockey arena & soccer field. Offered at $ 988,000 Call Claudia Georgiopoulos – 954-802-1103

LIGHTHOUSE POINT

This is a gem in Lighthouse Point. Beautiful luxury home with 5 Bedrooms 5 ½ baths, magnificent custom pool with raised spa and 90 feet of deep water dockage. A must see!! Offered at $ 1,020,000 Call Indra Ragbir - 954-818-1475

WESTON

Elegant custom built home, located in Windmill Lake Estates. Built in bar and entertainment center. Large inviting pool and Jacuzzi over looks serene lake. Offered at $ 1,499,999 Call Minerva Strum - 754-366-3072

WESTON

4 bedroom, plus library/office with over 4700 sq ft of living space. Home sits on 1 acre + lot. Marble flooring in social areas and bamboo wood floors in all bedrooms. Huge 3000 sq ft pool deck. Accordion shutters. Offered at $ 1,195,498 Call Stan Rosen - 305-510-8032

e SaL ng i D pen

DAVIE- LONG LAKE RANCHES

Breathtaking Mediterranean style Luxury home situated on 1 1/2 lushly landscaped acres. Magnificent Resort Style pool with built-in bar and Tiki Hut. Outdoor basketball court , great for entertaining! A MUST SEE! Offered at $ 925,000 Call Kathy Kaufman – 954-444-9789

DAVIE

Intimate (27 homes) gated Crystal Grove Estates community. Beautifully landscaped with mature trees and lush plantings. Huge Covered Patio and Pool for active outdoor living. Offered at $ 749,000 Call Courtney Silverman - 954-315-6925

WESTON

Magnificent 4 bed 3 bath Completely remodeled with beautiful upgrades. Wonderful water and golf views. Accordion shutters through out. A MUST SEE! This will not last! Offered at - $ 665,000 Call Stanley Rosen – 305-510-8032

WESTON

Looking to upgrade to a wonderful home? This is it! Stunning custom home in Savanna has amazing water views, 6 large bedrooms and 4 full baths, large backyard with manicured landscape, the best views in Savanna. Offered at $ 721,000 Call Angie Guerrero - 954-815-0671

WESTON

Elegant 5 bedroom, waterfront pool home. Close to shopping and A- rated schools. Offered at $ 578,000 Call Priscilla Gonsalves - 305-343-3191

Charming 5 bedroom, 4 bath home in the desirable area of “Isle of Weston.” Spacious backyard, A+ rated schools. Offered at $ 549,000 Call Minerva Strum - 754-366-3072

D SOL

WESTON

DON’T MISS THIS GREAT HOUSE! Beautiful 5 bedroom pool home in The Lakes. Lots of upgrades! Offered at - $ 558,333 Call Mara Gisch - 954-815-5151

WESTON

Beautiful home in pristine condition. Updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances granite counter top. Huge master bedroom with sitting area. French doors lead you to a beautiful private back yard... Offered at – $ 698,888 Call Stanley Rosen – 305-510-8032

D SOL

WESTON

Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in highly sought out “The Ridges”. Home features tiled floors throughout living areas and carpet in bedrooms. Guard gated community with pool, playgrounds and basketball courts. Home is well kept and ready to move in. Sold for $ 320,000 Call Mirtha West- 305-773-0308

  ·  ·   · 

DAVIE

Great 4 bedroom, 2 bath in Shenandoah, 1 story, remodeled home. Wood laminate floors and updated bathrooms and kitchen, with large yard. . Sold for $ 335,000 Call Thamara Pichardo - 305-244-1584

THE KEYES COMPANY 1535 Three Village Rd, Weston, FL 33326

954-389-3459 www.Keyes.com

Contents

Real Estate

publisher's page

Legislative Look

30 Curb Appeal

32 Proposed Legislation to Protect Florida Consumers

12 Happy Valentine’s Day

Can Do Kid

calendar

34 Teen Advocates for Food Allergy Awareness

14 February 2014

School News 36 38 38 42

50 52 54 55 56

Community News

16 Celebrate the Arts 17 Weston Symphony Series Returns with Celebrating Romance: A Concert 18 10th Annual Free Concert in the Park Features Southern Rock Legends 20 B’nai Aviv Brings Back “Rhythm & Jews” Music Festival 22 Anne Frank’s Stepsister to Speak at Chabad of Weston 23 80’s Night to Benefit Suicide Prevention Agency 23 Daniel’s Dash is Step Forward for Concussion Awareness 24 Heart Health Includes CPR Training 25 Weston U Students Study Community Services 26 Weston Receives Top Ratings for Building Code Effectiveness 28 75 Express Will Make Commuting Faster for Weston Drivers 29 Free Family Fun Here in Your Hometown 29 Saturday Night Stargazing 33 Weston Artist’s Work on Exhibit at Airport

58 61 63

Manatee Bay Fifth Graders Meet the President Banner Year for Cypress Bay College Acceptances Another “A” for Cypress Bay Cypress Bay Junior Nominated for Statewide STEM Program Sagemont Continues to Expand Successful Music Program Hour of Code Campaign Exposes Students to Computer Programming Skills Imagine Charter Third Graders Exchange Emails and Cultural Experiences with Global ePals Gator Run Third Graders Learn Japanese Teacher/Author Shares Writing Secrets with Tequesta Trace Students Country Isles Students Show Support for American Troops The Show Must Go On for Everglades Elementary Fifth Graders Explorers Program Teaches Police Procedures

Health and Wellness 41 74 84 78

Hormones and Marriage Sciatica Love Your Eyes Is Your Marriage a Diamond in the Rough?

feature story

44 Escape to Bella Vida Mediterranean Spa

ask the expert 48 62 69 76 86

Are You Considering A New Look? Sorting our Way Through the “Menopause Maze.” Timing of Tooth Eruption Couples Plastic Surgery Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle

Pet Care

82 The Overweight Pet

chamber news

87 Weston Area Chamber Networks at HealthSource of Weston

Rotary News

88 Winners All Around when Playing for Scholarships

it’s their business

90 Beautiful Smiles Start at Zombek Orthodontics 92 Brow Boutique Specializes In the Beauty of Eyebrows

photo of the month 93 The World’s Favorite Newspaper™

snapshots from school 94, 96, 97 Class Acts!

seen on scene 98 Community Snapshots

2014 best of weston 99 Vote Form

Legally Speaking

64 Most Common Mistakes by Homeowners Attempting to Obtain a Loan Modification 70 Alimony and Supportive Relationships

Tee to green

65 What To Do When Faced With Playing Difficult Lies

Tax Talk

66 Tax Impact for High Income Taxpayers

Positive Parenting

61 8

68 Mending a Broken Heart

pet of the Month 80 “Fitzie”

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

February is children’s dental health month,

come for your first visit! Our practice is committed to providing you and your family with safe, gentle, high quality dental care. We understand that your child may feel anxious about visiting the dentist. We are sensitive to children’s needs, and it is our goal to make you feel comfortable visiting our practice while providing you with the best care possible. Your first visit is all about your child – their comfort, happiness, and health. During your child’s first visit, we will: • Review dental and medical history forms • Take X-rays of the teeth and mouth • Clean and polish your child’s teeth, checking teeth and gums for any cavities or early signs of tooth decay or gingivitis

Love your teeth! Give us a call today! NEW PATIENT SPECIAL $99.00 (Regular Value $250)

• Oral Exam (0150) • X-Rays (0272) • Cleaning (0112) • Orthodontic Exam (8660)

Pediatric Dentistry Services • Preventive Care: cleaning, exams, sealants • Nitrous Oxide (“laughing gas”), oral sedation, and I.V. sedation available • We cater to those with special needs • Use digital x-rays: lowest radiation exposure

Orthodontic Services • Braces for children, teens, and adults • Cosmetic braces • Invisalign® clear orthodontic aligners

4401 S Flamingo Rd, Suite 109 • Davie, FL 33330 • Tel: 954-236-3434 • www.grosmandental.com

Weston Medical Clinic C O S M E T I C

Happy Valentine’s Day!

C E N T E R

Phanor Calle M.D

February Discounts up to 20% for injectables 15% for skin care Products

BOARD CERTIFIED IN AESTHETIC MEDICINE INTERNATIONAL SPEAKER IN COSMETICS PHYSICIAN TRAINER IN COSMETICS

LEAVE YOUR AESTHETIC TREATMENTS IN THE HANDS OF A BOARD-CERTIFIED AESTHETIC MEDICINE PHYSICIAN.

SAVE $50 on Dysport® treatment

Schedule your appointment today.

▶Board Certified Aesthetic Medicine ▶Assistant Physician Trainer American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine ▶ Aesthetic Physician Trainer Cosmofrance ▶ Aesthetic Physician Trainer Thermirf ▶ National & International Aesthetic Speaker

Featured as an expert in

Phanor Calle, MD

Board Certified In Aesthetic Medicine

Se Habla Español

(The medical aesthetic consult is free.) Doctor on site at all times.

954.385.9711

17120 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 4 · Weston FL 33326 fax 954.385.9366

www.doctorcalle.com

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

publisher's page

Happy Valentine’s Day

hile it seems like just yesterday we were

ringing in the New Year, now we turn our attention to the ones we love with Valentine’s Day just weeks

away. The stores are stocked with sweets and treats for our sweethearts. While we contemplate which gift we should purchase or which restaurant we shall visit for that romantic night out, we need to remember that the monetary value of a gift is a secondary notion. The most important point is that the gift comes from the heart -- and there is no better gift than spending valuable time with the ones we love. It is also time to vote for your favorite restaurant, doctor’s office, gym, cleaning service, dentist, service provider, etc. The Best of Weston annual awards issue will be published late next month, so please be sure to send in your vote sheet to recognize the businesses you frequent the most. Vote forms are included in this issue of Our City Weston magazine – or vote online at www. ourcityweston.com. This Valentine’s Day, give from your heart, enjoy each other’s company, and don’t forget to cast your vote for the Best of Weston. Happy Valentine’s Day! Sincerely, Sven Budzisch Publisher/Owner

Committed to giving your child

Publisher/Owner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SVEN BUDZISCH Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stacey Bomser sales manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nancy Koval Account Representatives . . . . . . . . . . Garry Isabelle, Joyce Bak,

Vanessa da Rocha, Kim Mills, Mariem Garcia, Ada Rivera Office manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gabriela Moscoso Graphic Design & photographY . . . . . . . Barry Stock, Grace Umlauf Web Designer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Grace Umlauf

Visit us online: www.ourcityweston.com 1960 N Commerce Parkway, Suite 3, Weston, FL 33326

Ph: 954-306-1007 • Fax 954-306-1008 editor@ourcityweston.com • graphics@ourcityweston.com Total circulation is 20,000. Quantum International Corporation, DBA (OCW), is published and direct mailed monthly to prestigious homes in the city of Weston verifiable by US Postal statements. Additional free copies are available at locations throughout the city of Weston and upon request by contacting this newspaper. Opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Quantum International Corporation, DBA OCW reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. OCW 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 2010 by OCW, Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

a Higher level of Care & Education

Infants thru Pre-K • Low student to teacher ratio

• One of a kind 1,200 sq ft indoor play area

• Full-time & part-time bilingual curriculum offered

• Latest in high security & surveillance

• Latest in computers and iPads®

• 4 outdoor playground areas

• Tuition includes 100% organic lunches & snacks

• 13,000 sq ft building on 2.5 acres

• Introduction to moral & family values

• Convenient drop off service available

• Nurse & clinic on premises

• Kids Cafeteria

Enrichments:

Computers, Sports, Arts & Crafts, Spanish, Dance, Cooking, Music & more!

Featured on Television

New Private Preschool • Now Open & Enrolling! Tree of Life Christian Academy Preschool 1250 SW 160th Ave. • Weston, FL 33326 www.treeoflifeacademy.com 954.440.0174

- Currently Seeking Full-Time Teachers 12

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

FREE Registration & Uniforms! (when transferring from another school)

—

CuttingEdgeTechnology— With Compassion and Care

Specialty in ObStetricS and GynecOlOGy SIMON WEISS, MD LLC

Robotic Surgery Breast Pap Test In-office Sterilization Menopause Management Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Contemporary Gynecological Surgery ▸ Infertility ▸ ▸ ▸ ▸ ▸ ▸

High Risk Obstetrics Gynecological Surgery Urinary Incontinence New Treatment For Incontinence, Non Surgical ▸ PMS ▸ Endometriosis ▸ Chronic Pelvic Pain ▸ ▸ ▸ ▸

Seven physicians, working as a team, fun, caring & professional… Simon Weiss, MD

Helen Spalding, MD

Heather Christie, MD

Jose Rivas, MD

Lina Echavarria, MD

Marion Lacombe, MD Jesica B. Shienbaum, MD

1951 SW 172nd Avenue Suite 405 · Miramar, FL 33029

(954) 538-1300 •

4100 Hollywood Blvd.

2nd Floor · Hollywood, FL 33021

(954) 518-4100

Happy Valentine’s Day!

www.obgdoctor.com

calendar February 2014

1 2

2nd

Hazardous Waste & Electronics Collection – Drop off your household hazardous waste and electronics items at the Weston Public Works Services Center, 2599 South Post Road, between 8am and 3pm. There is no fee for Broward County residents. This is the safe way to dispose of paint, pesticides, pool chemicals, tires, batteries, computers and televisions. For more information contact the Weston Public Works Service Department at (954) 385-2600 or visit www.westonfl.org.

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

8th

“Celebrating Romance” Symphony Concert – The Weston Philharmonic Society and the City of Weston present this concert featuring the romantic sounds of Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto #2 and Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E minor. It will be performed by the Symphony of the Americas accompanied by piano and cello soloists. The performance takes place at 7:30pm in the Cypress Bay Theater. Tickets may be purchased at the Weston Community Center and Community Bank of Broward. For more information call (954) 389-4321.

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

before World War 1. Showtimes are at 5pm and 7:15pm at Weston 8 Cinema. Tickets are $7. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www. artscouncilweston.com or call (954) 389-4321. Health Care Reform Seminar – The Weston YMCA is hosting a free, educational seminar at 6:30pm to answer questions about health care reform and insurance. It is presented and sponsored by Humana. For more information call (954) 424-9622.

13th Weston Friends Club Book Markers – This book club will meet a 1pm in a member’s home to discuss Once We Were Brothers by Ronald Balson. For more information on Book Markers or other Weston Friends Club activities, contact President Claire Jargiello at (954) 384-2722.

14th Lit and the Law – After viewing the Law and Order episode “Haven,” attorney Andy Kassier will lead a discussion on affirmative action. The program begins at 12:30pm at the Bonaventure Town Center. The cost is $7, payable at the door. For more information call (954) 384-9428.

20th

19 20 21 22

9th

Celebrate the Arts – Join your friends and family from noon to 5pm at Weston Town Center. Celebrate the Arts will feature hands-on activities by Young At Art, a musical playing patch with instruments to try, a graffiti wall, and continuous entertainment by the Cypress Bay and Sagemont drama, band and choral departments. For more information call (954) 389-4321.

24 25 26 27 28

Hot Topics – Join this lively discussion on issues of importance in the world today. It takes place at 7:30pm at the Bonaventure Town Center. It is free for Bonaventure residents and $1 for non-residents. Please RSVP to Larry Rothman at rothmla@yahoo.com.

24th Weston Art Guild Meeting – This month’s meeting will feature Josh and Juiliana Roslin of Ready2HangArt presenting Glicee printing as well as acrylic “plexi” mount and metal “dibond” mount methods to reproduce artwork and take it to another level. The meeting is free and open to the public. It is at 7pm at Rick Case Hyundai. Call Barbara Burk at (954) 382-6397 for more information.

26th Weston Friends Club Canasta – This group meets in a member’s home at 1pm to play Simply 5-Deck Canasta. For more information on this or other Weston Friends Club activities contact VP Membership Judy Good at (954) 349-1578.

March 1st

The Three Little Pigs – Stages Productions presents this musical version of the classic children’s tale.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

March 7th Kids In Distress Auxiliary Comedy Night – Join the Weston-based Kids In Distress Auxiliary for a night of laughs. The fundraiser features cocktails, silent auction and raffles, followed by a delicious dinner and sidesplitting laughs watching Laffing Matterz’ “With a Vengeance” at the Broward Center for Performing Arts. To purchase tickets or for more information go to www.kidaux.org.

March 8th

International Women’s Day Celebration – The American Association of University Women – Weston Branch and Mujeres Latinas IML present this free conference celebrating the accomplishments of women in our community. It takes place from 2-4pm at Broward Health Weston. For more information contact aauwweston@gmail.com.

March 9th Pops Concert – Enjoy a free, outdoor twilight concert of pops and light classics performed by the full Symphony of the Americas orchestra under the baton of Maestro James Brooks-Bruzzese. The concert takes place from 6-7:30pm at Weston Town Center; limited seating is available. It is presented by the City of Weston, the Arts Council of Greater Weston and the Weston Town Center, in partnership with the Weston Philharmonic Society.

22nd

10th “The Well-Diggers Daughter” – The Weston Foreign Film Series presents this romantic tale of love, family and honor, set in the Provençal countryside

It features plenty of singing, dancing, audience participation and even a rapping Big Bad Wolf. This show is part of the Professional Theater for Children Series. Showtime is at 10:30am at the Cypress Bay Theater. Tickets are $5 in advance and $10 at the door. Presale tickets can be purchased at the Weston Community Center. For more information call (954) 389-4321.

Free Concert in the Park – The City of Weston and the Rotary Club of Weston present the legendary Charlie Daniels Band with special guest Wet Willie. The concert begins at 7pm at the Event Stage in Weston Regional Park. Guests should bring their own blankets and lawn chairs. For more information call (954) 389-4321 or visit www.westonfl. org.

Whats NEW at TAG USA Gymnastics?

TAG USA Foundation was founded by Marissa Zoldan to support families affected by cancer by providing food, clothing and other necessities. TAG USA parents and the foundation donated over 250 toys for the 2013-14 Holiday Toy fundraiser for Kids in Distress. The TAG USA Foundation has several major fundraisers throughout the year for donated items of school supplies, canned foods, winter clothing, and holiday toy drive. A big THANK YOU for all the donations.

Cheechee, from Disneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Teen Beach Movie, visited TAG USA on January 2nd. While the character of Cheechee is a tough-chick who hangs out with Butchy and the rest of The Rodents of the highly successful Disney movie, actress Chrissie Fit danced and signed autographs with TAG USAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s campers and team athletes.

This Year ...

LearN To

FLY! Un Nuevo Increible Gimnasio para toda la familia

www.TagGymnastics.com

New Members & Transfers

Get Special Discounts

with registration

1951 N. Commerce Pkwy, Weston

954.384.9393 Register by Phone

Community News

Young At Art Museum will demonstrate pottery making.

Children can make music at the playing zoo.

The popular graffiti wall will be back this year at Celebrate the Arts.

Commissioner Angel Gomez leaves his “mark” on the graffiti wall.

The Cypress Bay cast of Legally Blonde performed last year.

Celebrate the Arts By Stacey Bomser

elebrate the Arts recognizes the

tremendous talent in our community and encourages everyone to discover their inner artist. The second annual Celebrate the Arts will take place on Sunday, February 9th. That’s when the streets of Weston Town Center will be transformed into a temporary art fair, studio, theater and music hall. Sponsored by the City of Weston and Arts Council of Greater Weston, this year’s program promises new exhibits to enjoy, performances to watch, and handson activities to try. “It’s such a delight to build on the success of our first Celebrate the Arts event, to welcome new and returning partners, and to invite all of Weston to come enjoy this day,” states Joy Rodenberg, President of the Arts Council of Greater Weston. Members of Mujeres Latinas Impulsando Mujeres Latinas will exhibit this year. These wonderfully talented ladies will present their art, jewelry and crafts. Items will be available for sale. Music Tech Studios of Pembroke Pines is pleased to present the hands-on “playing zoo.” Weston residents Dean and Diane Schafer will provide a variety

of string, brass, woodwind and percussion instruments for children of all ages to try. “The addition of these new partners point to our commitment as the Arts Council of Greater Weston to bring the arts to Weston and West Broward,” states Rodenberg. Young At Art Museum will return with its open air studio. Children are encouraged to experience the joy, delight and freedom they get from the art process. It will feature a variety of activities such as sculpting on a pottery wheel, painting a still life on canvas, and other arts and crafts. Jami Rahn, event co-director and Arts Council vice president, promises the popular graffiti wall will be back. This was one of the most popular features of last year’s Celebrate the Arts. Almost every attendee left his or her mark. Volunteers Juan Carlos Topete and Hussein Abadlia will once again help Rahn build the giant graffiti wall. The plywood structure stretches 24 feet long and is seven feet tall providing plenty of space for everyone to express themselves and discover their inner artist. “There is a lot of creative talent in and around

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Weston,” explains Rahn. “This event is an opportunity to showcase that while giving everyone, young and old, an opportunity to explore their own talents. Celebrate the Arts also celebrates the talent of Weston students. The Cypress Bay band and choral departments will provide previews of the various group presentations it is sending to state competitions. The drama department will perform excerpts from its upcoming shows Les Miserables and Seussical. The Sagemont School’s visual and performing arts department will entertain with a variety of short skits and musical solos and duets. In addition, the school’s new rock band, Sagemont Synergy, will make its Weston debut at Celebrate the Arts. This year, Celebrate the Arts will welcome a popular element from last year’s Celebrate Dance program. There will be hip hop dancing classes for children throughout the afternoon. Although geared for kids, all ages are welcome to get up and get their groove on. Celebrate the Arts takes place on Sunday, February 9th from noon to 5pm at Weston Town Center. For more information call (954) 389-4321 or visit www.westonfl.org.

Community News

Weston Symphony Series Returns with Celebrating Romance: A Concert By Stacey Bomser

hat better way to

get in the mood for Valentine’s Day than enjoying a romantic concert with your special someone. The Weston Symphony Series returns on Saturday, February 8th with Celebrating Romance: A Concert. Performed by the Symphony of the Americas under the baton of Maestro James BrooksBruzzese, this concert features the romantic sounds of Russian Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto #2 and the exquisite lines of Englishman Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E minor. The lush Piano soloist Ciro Fodere. soaring melodies promise to capture your soul and fill your heart with beauty and romance. Accompanying the Symphony of the Americas will be renowned pianist Ciro Fodere and cellist Iris van Eck. “Ciro Fodere has been described as masterful, electric, fiery and lyrical,” states Victoria Jolson, co-president of the Weston Philharmonic Society. “The Miami Herald calls his performance ‘edge of the seat thrilling.’” Co-president Roger Lander adds, “Presenting piano and cello concert performances with the Symphony of the Americas will provide a thoroughly romantic and enjoyable evening in our Weston hometown.”

The performance, presented by the City of Weston and the Weston Philharmonic Society, will be held at 7:30pm on Saturday, February 8th at the Cypress Bay Theater. Cypress Bay High School is located at 18600 Vista Park Boulevard. Parking is free. Concert ticket prices are $20 in advance or $30 at the door. Student tickets are available for $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Tickets may be purchased at the Weston Community Center (20200 Saddle Club Road) or the Community Bank of Broward Cello soloist Iris van Eck. (1504 Weston Road). The Weston Symphony Series concludes on Sunday, March 9th with a free outdoor Pops Concert at Weston Town Center. The full Symphony of Americas orchestra, under the baton of Maestro James Brooks-Bruzzese, will perform favorites from Broadway, the movies and more. This concert is presented by the City of Weston, Weston Town Center and the Weston Philharmonic Society in partnership with the Arts Council of Greater Weston. For more information on Celebrating Romance: A Concert or the Weston Symphony Series, visit www. westonfl.org or www.westonphilharmonic.com or call (954) 389-4321.

our city weston | February 2014

Community News

10th Annual Free Concert in the Park Features Southern Rock Legends By Stacey Bomser

e at ls Band will headlin The Charlie Danie ncert in the Park. Co e Fre r’s this yea

Southern Rockers Wet Willie will also

he legendary Charlie Daniels

Band will take center stage for the 10th annual Free Concert in the Park on Saturday, March 1st. Presented by the City of Weston and the Rotary Club of Weston, this year’s concert promises to be the biggest and best to date. “Each year the bar seems to be raised a bit higher and yet we rise to the occasion with each concert,” states Rotarian and Concert Chair Tom Kallman, who started this free concert back in 2005. “I can’t believe it has been ten years since I started this event with a dream of bringing live national acts to our own backyard.” Free Concert in the Park He has certainly accomplished that. co-chairs Tom and Alison Kallman. Last year’s concert starred Starship featuring Mickey Thomas along with Christopher Cross. The year before, Weston welcomed classic rock artists Blue Oyster Cult and the Outlaws. The annual Free Concert in the Park draws a crowd of well over 10,000 guests and is one of Broward County’s largest free musical events. Kallman credits the concert’s growing success to the “wonderful marriage that exists between the Rotary Club of Weston and the City of Weston,” along with the blood, sweat and tears of all the volunteers who make this event possible each year. Don Decker, Weston’s Director of Parks and Recreation, wholeheartedly agrees. “The Concert in the Park is a great example of a community partnership that benefits everyone. I encourage everyone to bring friends and family for a night of great music under the stars.” “Each year we strive to find acts that represent different genres in order to keep the show fresh and exciting,” explains concert co-chair Alison Kallman, who has been working alongside her father to plan this year’s concert. “We felt it was fitting to celebrate the 10th anniversary of this event by landing a superstar like Charlie Daniels.” The Charlie Daniels Band will headline this year’s concert. Few artists have left a more indelible mark on America’s musical landscape than this country music legend. Charlie Daniels is a Grammy winner, Country Music Association winner, as well as Grand Ole Opry and Musicians Hall of Fame inductee. He has a star on the Music City Walk of Fame and has been presented the Pioneer Award by the

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

perform.

Academy of Country Music. Probably best known for his song The Devil Went Down to Georgia which spent 14 weeks on the Hot Country Singles chart in 1979, Charlie Daniels’ other hits include The South’s Gonna Do It Again, Uneasy Rider, In America, and (What This World Needs Is) A Few More Rednecks. Opening for the Charlie Daniels Band will be special guest Wet Willie. These Southern Rock icons continue to thrill fans with their potent blend of high energy R&B, down home soul, blues rock and gospel harmonies. Their hits include Keep on Smiling, Same Old Moon, Country Side of Life, and Street Corner Serenade. The annual Concert in the Park is one of the most highly anticipated events of the year in Weston. The free, family-friendly concert draws all ages and big crowds so guests are encouraged to come early and make an evening of it. Many families bring along a picnic dinner and games to entertain the kids while they wait for the concert to start. Supervised children may also play on the nearby playground or soccer fields, as well as the bounce houses. Concert attendees should bring their own lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Food concessions will be available. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages; alcohol is not permitted. While the concert is totally free, the Young Rotarians of Weston (YROW) will be accepting donations (cash or check) to benefit the American Cancer Society. The 10th annual Free Concert in the Park starring the Charlie Daniels Band with special guest Wet Willie begins at 7pm on Saturday, March 1st at Weston Regional Park. The Event Stage is located next to the Weston Community Center. For more information call (954) 389-4321 or visit www.westonfl.org.

The free, family-friendly concert draws big crowds so guests are encouraged to come early and make an evening of it.

Transform yourself

Reshape Your Life

Cellulaze™ Laser Cellulite Removal • FDA approved one-time treatment • Attacks the very structure of cellulite • Minimally invasive • Long-term results

Liposculpture with Smartlipo Triplex™ • Permanently removes fat cells on all areas of body • Body sculpturing and contouring with laser technology

Non-Surgical Laser Necklift • Minimally invasive skin tightening of the neck and lower face • Safe and effective • Quick recovery time

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Photos courtesy of Barry DiBernardo, MD.

Varicose and Spider Vein Treatment • Dr. Goldman is a Board Certified Phlebologist who specializes in varicose and spider veins

CALL NOW FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Photos courtesy of Roger Bassin, MD.

SaNDy R. gOlDMaN DO, FaOCD Board Certified Dermatology Board Certified Phlebology

WESTON COSMETICS & DERMaTOlOgy SkIN & CaNCER aSSOCIaTES 17170 Royal Palm Blvd | Weston, Fl 33326 O: 954.349.3376 | F: 954.385.8572 www.westoncosmeticsanddermatology.com

2 Dozen Donuts $10.99

Plus applicable tax.

Weston 100 Weston Rd.

Davie 4426 Weston Rd.

954.385.0858 954.659.0930 Visit our website for other locations: Visit our website for other locations: www.daniamg.com www.daniamg.com Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Shop must retain coupon. No substitutions allowed. No cash refunds. Void if copied or transferred and where prohibited or restricted by law. Consumer must pay applicable tax. May not be combined with any other coupon, discount, promotion combo or value meal. Coupon may not be reproduced, copied, purchased, traded or sold. Internet distribution strictly prohibited. Cash redemption value: 1/20 of 1 cent. © 2013 DD IP Holder LLC. All rights reserved. Expires: 04/30/2014

GOOD AT

Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Shop must retain coupon. No substitutions allowed. No cash refunds. Void if copied or transferred and where prohibited or restricted by law. Consumer must pay applicable tax. May not be combined with any other coupon, discount, promotion combo or value meal. Coupon may not be reproduced, copied, purchased, traded or sold. Internet distribution strictly prohibited. Cash redemption value: 1/20 of 1 cent. © 2013 DD IP Holder LLC. All rights reserved. Expires: 04/30/2014

PLU # 2749

GOOD AT 4426 Weston Road •100 Weston Road 954.659.0930 4426 Weston Road 100 Weston Road • 954.385.0858

GOOD AT

PLU # 2749

GOOD AT 4426 Weston Road •100 Weston Road 954.659.0930 4426 Weston Road 100 Weston Road • 954.385.0858

GOOD AT

PLU # 2749

GOOD AT 4426 Weston Road •100 Weston Road 954.659.0930 4426 Weston Road 100 Weston Road • 954.385.0858

our city weston | February 2014

Community News

B’nai Aviv Brings Back “Rhythm & Jews” Music Festival By Stacey Bomser

styles and sounds with ’ nai Aviv is excited scriptural inspiration. to host its second annual Also performing will “Rhythm & Jews.” The be The Strand, a rock outdoor music festival features band made up of Jewish a mix of Jewish, folk and Israeli professionals from music, along with some more Broward and Boca; and popular tunes. The event takes The Posnack Band will place on Sunday, February make its return. Between 9th from noon until 3pm on the acts, students of local synagogue’s lawn. music teacher Steve Mills “Rhythm & Jews” was will perform. created by the temple’s Rabbi Adam Watstein (center) with event chairs Guests are encourFundraising Committee, Bob and Debbie Regent at last year’s concert. aged to bring blankets chaired by Debbie Regent. and lawn chairs to enjoy the afternoon’s entertainThe group was looking for an exciting and fun event ment. Kosher food, soft drinks and beer will be geared towards families of all faiths, with songs available for purchase, plus the Zombie Ice food that appeal to all generations. Last year’s inaugural concert was so successful, the synagogue is bringing truck will be selling Icees. “Rhythm & Jews” is a fundraiser for the temple. it back and inviting some local student musicians to Admission tickets are $10 per person or $36 per perform as well. family. Guests can also purchase raffle tickets for Israeli rock singer Oneg Shemesh will headline a chance to win a custom-designed electric guitar. “Rhythm & Jews.” He has shared the stage with countless great Jewish music stars, among them Hassidic reggae star Matisyahu, as well as Soul Farm, and The second annual “Rhythm & Jews” Music Festival takes place the Moshav band. Oneg’s music is described as from noon until 3pm on February 9th at B’nai Aviv, 1410 Indian edgy, combining contemporary musical concepts, Trace. For more information call (954) 384-8265.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Israeli Israeli musician musician Oneg Oneg Shemesh Shemesh will will perform perform at at B’nai B’nai Aviv’s Aviv’s outdoor outdoor music music festival. festival.

Happy Valentine’s Day Buy your a puppy • Cageless Boarding Hotel • Hair Cuts • Flea & tiCk + More

Cat GroominG Available



GroominG Starting at $40

10% off GroominG 15% off SupplieS

Maltese • Yorkies • Frenchie Labrador • Shitzu • Beagle Golden Retriever + more Adorable, strong and healthy puppies with pedigree, veterinary certificates, shots up to date, microchip and genuine warranty.

the only puppy Sto re in WeSton

piCk-up & Delivery

954.226.1020

15932 W. State Rd. 84 Weston, FL 33326

www.maryelislovelypets.com

Under New Management

state-oF-th g laser hair e-art specials reMoVal t e c hnology Elos Plus with new motif HR

Valentine’s L e a v e Th e Sh op pi n g To U s ! • Grocery Shopping and Delivery Service to Your Home! • Purchases Done at Your Local Supermarket • Your Discount Coupons are Accepted for the Next Purchase Order Pricing for Residential & Commercial

in t r o duc in

for fastest and pain free laser hair removal experience.

IntRoductoRy offER:

50% oFF laser hair removal session. Call today to schedule your appointment. Offer expires 2/28/14

Botox/Dysport • Dermal Fillers- Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane eMatrix-Comprehensive skin rejuvenation • Laser hair removal Photo Rejuvenation-Fine lines, Pore, Pigmentation • Vi Peel • Facials, Microdermabrasion, Medical Grade Chemical Peels • Massage Therapy

Faiza khalid, M.d. Doctor on site at all times.

Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri, 9am - 5pm To Place an Order:

954-554-6149 · www.to-your-doorstep.com 18331 Pines Blvd. #274 Pembroke Pines, FL 33029 maria@to-your-doorstep.com

954.659.0199

www.radianceweston.com 4551 Weston Rd. | Weston, FL 33331

our city weston | February 2014

Community News

Anne Frank’s Stepsister to Speak at Chabad of Weston By Stacey Bomser

he Weston J ewish Academy is pleased

to present an evening with holocaust survivor Eva Schloss, Anne Frank’s stepsister. She will share her firsthand account of the horrors of the holocaust as well as tell about the discovery and printing of Anne Frank’s famed diary. This program will take place on Thursday, February 13th at Chabad of Weston. Eva Schloss was born Eva Geiringer. She emigrated from Austria to Belgium and eventually to the Netherlands. During World War 1, both she and her stepsister went into hiding in an attic while the Nazis occupied Holland. They were eventually captured and sent to concentration camps. Eva survived Auschwitz-Birkenau, but Anne died at Bergen-Belsen. Now in her 80’s, Schloss continues to travel the world lecturing about the holocaust. She has co-authored two books about her experiences: The Promise: A Moving Story of a Family in the Holocaust and Eva’s Story. In addition, she is the subject of James Still’s educational play And Then They Came For Me – Remembering The World of Anne Frank. “We hope the entire community will join us for this rare opportunity to hear from a Jewish hero like Eva Schloss,” states Rabbi Yisroel Spalter, director of Chabad of Weston.

During her presentation, Schloss will share the first hand story of her own life and that of her dear friend and stepsister, Anne Frank. Anne kept a diary during the two years her family spent hiding during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Her writings

Compar!e & Save

were later discovered and published as The Diary of a Young Girl. It has been published in more than 60 languages and is considered one of the top books of the 20th century. Rabbi Spalter encourages parents to bring their teenage children to this program. “It is critical to provide opportunities for our young adults and teens to hear firsthand accounts from the Holocaust. As time goes by there are fewer living survivors. We must pay close attention to the voices of the remaining heroes and heroines who so generously share their experiences with us so that we may never forget.” To reach an even greater audience of young people, Rabbi Spalter has teamed up with Broward Public Schools to organize a special event at Cypress Bay High School. Schloss will deliver a special Holocaust education lecture to over 1,000 students and teachers. The public is invited to hear her speak at 8pm on February 13th at Chabad of Weston. Tickets are $15 in advance or $18 at the door. For a $250 donation, guests can attend a private pre-lecture reception with Eva Schloss and receive four VIP tickets to the lecture. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (954) 349-6565 or visit www.chabadofweston.com. Chabad of Weston is located at 18501 Tequesta Trace Park Lane.

DISTInCTIvE CARPET SHOPPES OF ARROwHEAD

2541 S. University Drive, Davie

Open 7 Days

Mon - Thur 10am - 6pm Fri 10am - 8pm sat 10am-5pm sun 12pm - 5pm

(1/2 mile south of 595 just south of nova Drive)

954-473-9300 www.distinctivecarpet.com

All NAme BrANds Family Owned & fiNANciNg AvAilABle Operated Since 1990 introducing free shop at home service · call now 954-473-4392

CARPET SQ. FT.

Reg.

Sale

. .$1.49

Heavy Plush . . . . . . . . $

Designer’s Pattern. . . $

Popcorn Berber . . . . . $

Luxury Twist . . . . . . . $

Includes Pad and Installation

stocked sale Items

wOOD

Engineered Pad 2.89 . . 1.89 3/8 x 3 2.99 . . . 1.99 Rip Up Carpet & Pad 3/8 x 5 3.11 . . 2.09 and Haul Away $2.69 sq. ft. 2.79 . . . 1.79 Move Furniture 2.99 . . . 1.69

Rental Berber . . . . . . . $2.49 . Two-Tone Freize . . . .

FREE UPGRADE

All Offers Expire 2/28/14

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

TILE Porcelain 20 x 20 $1.39 Sq. Ft. wood Look Tile 6 x 24 $1.89 Sq. Ft.

LAMInATE

nine Stock Colors

.99 Sq. Ft.

Bevel Edge

1.39 Sq. Ft.

Biggest Selection Ever!

Community News

80’s Night to Benefit Suicide Prevention Agency By Stacey Bomser

“G

o Back to the 80’ s” to benefit the Florida I nitiative for

honor four people who have supported FISP’s work to prevent suicide through education, support, advocacy and research. Three of the honorees are survivors Suicide Prevention (FISP). The Weston-based organization is hosting its of suicide loss who have taken their loss and used it to help others.” 13th annual dinner dance on Saturday, February 8th. Carol Cooper set up the Peter Cooper Foundation to fund FISP annually. Yoga Everyone is encouraged to dress in 80’s attire. So tease up your hair, turn up instructor Pamela Leal held a yoga-thon at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High your polo shirt collars and get ready to dance the night away to the fabulous Blues School in memory of her daughter Bailey and to raise funds for the school’s HOPE Brothers Soul Band. This year’s event promises to be “like totally awesome!” Club. As sponsoring parent for the club, she has introduced yoga into the club cur“This memorable evening helps support all of FISP’s programs that serve the riculum. Darah Zededon and her family created the Adam Silverman Memorial citizens of Broward County,” says Jackie Rosen, Executive Director/CEO of FISP. Fund in honor of her brother. It helps fund the HOPE Club at Imagine Charter at “Join us and make a difference in helping to save lives.” Weston Middle School where she serves as the parent sponsor. Darah is also Suicide is an urgent health crisis in this country where there is a suicide author of Girl With The Crooked Smile: Stuck In A Moment, which tells about her attempt every 32 seconds and a death by suicide every 13.7 minutes. life struggle with a brain tumor and FISP’s role FISP is working hard to change these statisin preventing suicide. She donates a portion of tics with successful prevention programs includher proceeds to the Adam Silverman Memorial ing Solutions Unlimited Now (SUN) for seniors, Fund. law enforcement officers and the LGBT commuThe final honoree is Howard Cohen, LMHC. nity and Helping Overcome Problems Effectively “Howard has been instrumental in helping FISP (HOPE) Club in eleven middle and high schools. partner with various organizations in the LGBT FISP also offers programs for survivors of suicommunity to provide programs to help reduce cide including support groups and the National the high rate of suicide in this population,” notes Survivors of Suicide Day Conference. Rosen. He is also a SUN facilitator and Survivors These invaluable programs would not be posof Suicide Loss support group facilitator. sible without public support. The annual dinner dance is FISP’s largest fundraiser. The evening will include cocktails, a delicious dinner, and “Go Back to the 80’s” takes place at 7pm on February 8th at dancing. There will also be a $1,000 cash raffle Signature Grand in Davie. Tickets are $125 per person and all and silent auction. proceeds benefit the Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention. The highlight will be the presentation of the Reservations are required; to purchase tickets please call (954) FISP Humanitarian Awards. “This year we will The Blues Brothers Soul Band will perform at the FISP dinner dance. 384-0344 or visit www.fisponline.org.

Daniel’s Dash is Step Forward for Concussion Awareness By Stacey Bomser

oncussions account for almost one

in 10 sports injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even more alarming, research shows that when high school athletes suffer concussions, more than 40% of them return to action prematurely and set themselves up for more severe injuries. Sadly, that was the case with Daniel Brett. His first day as starting linebacker for the Cypress Bay Lightning JV football team was also his last. His dream of one day playing college football was sidelined after he was pulled off the field due to a possible concussion. It turns out that was one of many he had

Many students participate in Daniel’s Dash. Pictured here are Kelsey Lynch from St. Thomas Aquinas, Randi Venditti from Cypress Bay, and Marissa Brett and Brooke Thompson from West Broward. Marissa wore a Cypress Bay shirt in honor of Daniel.

suffered during his young football career. A concussion is a short-lived brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Because there is no outward sign of injury, it often goes unnoticed by players, parents, coaches and trainers. Diana Pilar Brett feels that had she been aware of all of her son’s injuries and how to best treat them she might have been able to save him. Since his passing, she has made it her mission to educate everyone about the very real dangers of concussions. “Concussion awareness is more than just ‘being aware,’ it is the continuation of training and guidelines to educate officials, administrators, athletic coaches, and youth athletes and their parents or guardians of the nature and risk of concussion and head injury,” states Brett. Brett invites the Weston community to join her on Saturday, March 8th at the third annual Daniel’s Dash for Concussion Awareness 5K Run/Walk. In addition to raising awareness, it will also raise funds to again sponsor the Sports Legacy Institute’s Advanced Concussion Training (ACT) multimedia presentation at the two Florida High School Athletic Association Compliance Conferences this summer. This is just one more step to protecting student athletes. Brett considers the passage of Florida’s Concussion Law to be one of the Foundation’s greatest accomplishments. It bars young athletes who endure concussions from returning to practice or play until they have been cleared by a physician trained

Dr. Frank Walters of Broward Health, Broward County School Board Member Laurie Rich Levinson, Dr. Stephen Russo of NSU, and Diana Pilar Brett, founder of The Daniel Brett Foundation.

in the diagnosis, evaluation and management of concussions. Brett also worked with the Broward County School Board to establish a concussion management program for all public high schools. Student athletes must undergo a mandatory baseline neurological test before they can even step foot on the practice field. The third annual Daniel’s Dash for Concussion Awareness 5K Run/ Walk takes place on Saturday, March 8th at 7:30am at Markham Park. The race is sanctioned by Split Second Timing. You can register online at www.DanielsDash.org; the cost is $20.

our city weston | February 2014

Community News

HR Harry Rosen Law

Heart Health Includes CPR Training By Weston Assistant District Chief Bruce Caruso

ince 1963 the month of February has been desig -

nated as American Heart Month by the American Heart Association to help raise awareness of the risk factors of heart disease and also good health habits to help prevent it. In 2004 the “Go Red for Women Campaign” was added to help raise awareness for women. On Friday, February 7th both men and women should plan on wearing red (dress, shirt or tie) to show your commitment and passion for this cause. Each year an estimated 350,000 men and women will suffer a sudden cardiac arrest. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among both men and women.

Some of the risk factors that can lead to heart disease include: ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸

High blood pressure High cholesterol Diabetes Obesity Physical inactivity Tobacco use Family history

Some good health habits to prevent heart disease include:

New Office iN westON

▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸ ▸▸

Daily exercise Eating a balanced diet Maintaining a healthy weight Limiting sodium Avoiding tobacco Moderating alcohol consumption

Personal Injury (Accidents, Slip & Fall) Wrongful Death • Medical Malpractice

www.HarryRosenLaw.com 2645 Executive Park Drive Weston, FL 33331

954.640.0259 | 954.895.7925 Your Legal Eagle Harry M. rosen

Board Certified Trial Lawyer for 30 Years First Mayor of Weston Former Mayor of Miramar

Board Certified Lawyers are:

“Evaluated for Professionalism and Tested for Expertise” 24

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

You can make a difference by taking a few hours out of your day and learning CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). Administering CPR can make the difference between life and death. CPR performed immediately after a cardiac arrest (including drowning) can double or even triple a victim’s chance of survival. Data shows that 88% of cardiac arrests occur in the home. Statistically, if you are ever at a place where CPR is needed, the life you save is likely to be someone you love, not a stranger: your child, spouse, parent or friend. Weston’s Broward Sheriff’s Office Fire Rescue, in partnership with the City of Weston, offers a four hour CPR class to all residents and business owners free of charge. Since this initiative began in August 2012, several hundred residents and business owners have been trained in CPR. These classes are offered on weeknights and weekends as well as on-site training at your facility (with 8 persons or more). If it has been more than two years since you have been trained you need to be recertified. CPR training has changed and you need to recertify every two years. To register for a CPR class or to schedule a class at your location, please contact MaryAnn Caporrino at Fire Station 81 at (954) 389-2015 or email MaryAnn_Caporrino@Sherrif.org. If you have any further questions please contact Assistant District Chief Bruce Caruso at 954-389-2089 or email Bruce_Caruso@ sheriff.org

Community News

Weston U Students Study Community Services By Stacey Bomser

or a high school student, what could be better than

spending the day at the park and getting credit for it? The 21 students enrolled in Weston University did just that during their recent Community Services Day. The students spent the day learning about Weston’s Parks & Recreation, Landscaping and Public Works departments. One of the highlights of this day is always a lesson led by Don Decker, Weston’s Director of Parks and Recreation. After explaining to students all that goes into planning Weston’s extravagant parks and recreational programs, he challenges students to create their own “dream” park. Decker says he is always amazed by the students’ ingenuity and creativeness. The class also toured two Weston parks that are in the process of receiving new equipment, landscaping and general improvements. Peace Mound Park is closed until June as it undergoes a massive renovation including the installation of a new ADA-compliant playground and new walkways, as well as an additional 100 trees to ensure the park always maintains its peaceful and natural ambience. The day also included a field trip to tour Weston’s mitigation areas and to visit one of the four pump stations that regulate the lakes throughout Weston. While taking the students on a tour of the wetlands preserve, Drainage Manager David Dove shared stories of some of the wildlife encounters he has had while on the job, including seeing bobcats, wild boar, osprey and baby alligators. The day concluded with a stop at the Public Works Service Center. This month, students will take a field trip to the offices of Calvin, Giordano & Associates for Development Services Day. Students will learn about planning and zoning as well as engineering issues affecting the City.

Weston University students pose along the boardwalk at Peace Mound Park. The park is currently closed for renovation. Photos courtesy City of Weston. Students work on blueprints for their “dream” park.

City Drainage Manager David Dove takes students on a tour of the wetlands preserve.

Students clown around pretending to “dive in” at the pump station.

shirley gil, headmaster

educating the child... creating the future! we AccepT mcKAy & sTep up for sTudenT scholArships

K-12

open for school regisTrATion Reg. $900 value;

new sTudenTs only $450

With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Exp. 3/14/2014

summe r progr cAmp summe Am & r scho ol Registrati o Now only n fee $150 this ad. E $75 with xp. 04/1 4/201

4 Only $16 0 a week . Inclu lunch & fi eld trips! des

Hours:

Monday-Friday 7:15 am-4:00pm

dards. mics AcAde nshine State Stan

a Su t on staff eet Florid m s ic specialis m e E d S a E c • A All nually ore... • IEP An • A nd m

r fo Compute

vailable ology Techn ultiple programs a

hild • M r ever y c

ies AcTiviT Tae Kwon Do

sic • eeds Art • Mu n with special n e Sports • r Childr erapy fo more... Yoga Th • Many

954.749.6869

3495 N. Hiatus Rd., Sunrise (NW Corner of Hiatus Rd. & Oakland Park Blvd.)

www.christiacademy.com

our city weston | February 2014

Community News

Weston Receives Top Ratings for Building Code Effectiveness By Stacey Bomser

ood news for Weston residents and business owners .

After an extensive review process, the Insurance Services Office, Inc. (ISO) has given Weston top ratings for Building Code Effectiveness. Weston Building Official Cosmo Tornese was notified that Weston has received a Class 2 rating for commercial and industrial property and Class 3 rating for 1 & 2 family residential property. Classifications range from 1 to 10, with 1 representing the absolute highest class rating possible. “Being reviewed by a nationally recognized independent agency, and earning the high ratings that the City of Weston’s Building Department staff has received, should give Weston’s residents and businesses confidence that the plan reviews, inspections, and record keeping performed by the Building Department staff meet some of the highest standards,” said Weston City Manager John Flint. “By being reviewed periodically and maintaining high standards, Weston’s residents and businesses can be assured that building and fire codes are being properly interpreted and enforced, resulting in compliant and safe work.” Many insurance carriers use the ISO rating system as a basis for providing credits to individual property insurance policies in recognition of community efforts to mitigate property damage due to natural disasters. The ISO program will

apply credits to new construction within the City that has been issued a Certificate of Occupancy in the year 2013 and forward. ISO is a leading source of information about risk. It is an independent statistical, rating, and advisory organization that serves the property/casualty insurance industry. ISO collects information on a community’s building code adoption and enforcement services, analyzes the data, and then assigns a Business Code Effectiveness Classification from 1 to 10. The concept behind the classifications is that municipalities with well-enforced, upto-date codes demonstrate better loss experience, and their citizens’ insurance rates can reflect that. The prospect of minimizing catastrophic-related damage and ultimately lowering insurance costs gives communities an incentive to enforce building codes rigorously. Weston takes pride in having up-to-date building codes and vigilantly enforcing them. This ensures that our community is safe, it mitigates the impact of storms for less destruction, and lowers the cost of insurance. To learn more about Weston’s Building Code Services, visit www.westonfl.org/Departments/ BuildingCodeServices/BuildingCodeServicesHome.aspx.

ONE SOURCE

P E DIAT RIC S P. A .

We Understand the Needs of Children and Adolescents from Birth to 18 Years • Most Insurances and Medicaid Accepted • Healthy Checkups and Vaccines • Back-To-School Physicals • Office Conveniently Located with Easy Access • Same-Day Per Sick Appointments • Ear Piercing • Separate Sick and Well Waiting Areas Carlos O. Barbosa, MD FAAP • Bilingual Doctors and Staff María Isabel Clemente, MD FAAP Angela C. Rodriguez, MD FAAP • Call Today for your Free Prenatal Visit

We Give Quality and Personalized Care to All of Our Patients!

1625 N. Commerce Pkwy. Suite 205 · Weston, FL 33326 26

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

(954) 659-8550 Fax (954) 659-8770

ILLAGE REALTY

The Sign of Experience Over 500 Properties Sold.

INVESTMENTS

Sandra Diaz | Jorge Corredor Real Estate Brokers

954.593.6230 villagerealtyinvestments@yahoo.com

Weston Hills Country Club

Isles at Weston

The Islands

This home features 5 bedrooms and 5 baths on the 10th Fairway of the golf course. Home also features gym, billiard room, office and study.

Spectacular lake front home. This grand Montego model has over 5,000 square feet of living area and features 6 bedrooms, 5 baths.

Waterfront 5 bedroom, 4 bath property located in one of the best communities in Weston. Screened patio with amazing lake view.

Offered at $ 2,295,000

Offered at $989,000

Offered at $698,000

The Islands

Savvana

Country Isles

Gorgeous 4 bedroom, 3 bath home with spacious kitchen and updated cabinets. This home also features tiled floors throughout and has many upgrades.

Exceptional 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home located on an oversized private lot with no back neighbors. Gorgeous updated kitchen with wood cabinets and granite countertops.

Offered at $514,900

Offered at $449,900

This lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bath home located on the cul-de-sac is a must see. Large living area with rock stone wall accent. Master bath is newly updated and kitchen has stainless steel appliances.

2800 Glades Circle | Suite 147 | Weston, FL 33327

English â&#x20AC;˘ Spanish â&#x20AC;˘ French

Offered at $349,000

Community News

75 Express Will Make Commuting Faster for Weston Drivers By Stacey Bomser

etting around will soon be easier and faster for Weston

drivers. The Florida Department of Transportation is adding Express Lanes along I-75 from North Dade to I-595. The entire project should be completed by early 2018. The project will be constructed in four segments to minimize effects to the public. The first phase will directly impact Weston drivers. It encompasses the area from Griffin Road to I-595. During construction, which should be finished by late 2016, four Express Lanes will be added in the existing center median, two northbound and two southbound. There will be entrance and exit access points to the Express Lanes at various locations. In addition, a direct connect bridge to the 595 Express Lanes will be built. The project also calls for sound barrier walls, a new drainage system with ponds, and new signage, lighting and landscaping. In addition, the traffic monitoring cameras will be upgraded, dynamic message signs will be added, and a toll system installed. Officials say the existing I-75 travel lanes should be minimally impacted while the new express lanes are built in the median. However, motorists should expect temporary ramp closures and detours when the direct connect bridge is built from

75 Express to 595 Express. Later this year, construction will begin on the other three 75 Express segments which run from NW 170 Street in Miami to Griffin Road. The entire project should be completed by early 2018 at an estimated overall cost of $567 million. This project is part of FDOT’s implementation of Express Lanes along 28 miles of roadway in South Florida. The managed lanes network will improve mobility, relieve congestion, provide additional travel options, and accommodate future growth in the area. During 75 Express construction, drivers can expect lane closures, detours and increased travel times. Lane closures will be during non-peak hours and signage will guide motorists. Drivers should use caution as there will be heavy equipment and construction crews in and around the area. In addition, there will be increased dust and noise. Motorists are advised to allow extra time to reach their destination. For information on lane closures, detours and project information, log onto the FDOT construction website at www.75-express.com. Drivers can receive updated traffic information by calling 511 or going to www. fl511.com.

22 Fam Yea ily rs Ow Exp ned eri enc e

Why Pay More for Your Dry Cleaning? Weston

954 888 6995 1645 bonaventure blvD., Weston, fl 33326 (next to PoC) Mon-fri 7aM - 7PM; sat 8aM - 6PM

$ave-On

take

5 off

ON A $50 ORDER. EXCLUDES ALTERATIONS. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS EXP. 02/28/14

W/COUPON ONLY W/DRY CLEANINg ORDER LIMIT 5. EXP. 2/28/14

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

all Work Done on PreMises!

$ave-On

$ave-On Men’s business shirts

dry cleaning • area rugs alterations • wedding gowns leather & sueDes

Pants

$2.99 NO LIMIT

SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS EXP. 02/28/14

$ave-On

CoMforters

15 LAUNDERED 1999 DRY CLEANED $

EXCEPT DOWN. w/coupon only • CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS EXP. 02/28/14

Community News

Free Family Fun Here in Your Hometown By Stacey Bomser

f you ’ re looking for something fun to do as a family, why not

take in a movie or show? The City of Weston offers a variety of free, familyfriendly events for all to enjoy. The Free Moonlight Movies in the Park are held on select Saturday nights at Weston Regional Park. Families are invited to bring a blanket or lawn chairs and relax while watching movies under the stars. The selection of recent feature films appeals to all ages. This month’s movie is Turbo, an animated film about a speed-obsessed snail with an unusual dream to become the world’s greatest racer. The ultimate underdog becomes everyone’s hero when he refuses to let his limitations get in the way of his dreams. Turbo will be shown on February 1st at 7:30pm. Next month, the Smurfs are back. In this sequel, the evil wizard Gargamel hopes to harness the all-powerful, magical Smurf-essence by creating mischievous Smurf-like creatures called the Naughties. Smurfs 2 will be shown on March 15th at 7:30pm. The Moonlight Movies in the Park series concludes on April 12th at 8pm with Rise of the Guardians. When an evil spirit attempts to take over the world by inspiring fear in the hearts of children everywhere, a group of our greatest heroes – Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, Sandman, and Jack Frost – must band together to save the planet. The entertainment options include more than movies. Children can also enjoy professional puppet shows. On February 1st the classic children’s story The Frog Prince comes to life. Audiences will enjoy this enchanted story of a handsome prince who is turned into a frog by Wanda the Witch – to break the spell he must be kissed by a beautiful princess. Puppeteers present The Tortoise and the Hare on March 15th. In this updated version of Aesop’s fable, the great race between

the lovable tortoise and the arrogant hare is being televised. The audience learns that perseverance always prevails and the importance of good nutrition and exercise. These puppet shows are best suited for children in pre-K through second grade. Showtimes are at 1:30pm and 3:00pm at the Weston Community Center. For a nominal ticket price, young audiences The classic tale of The Three Little Pigs will be presented next month. will enjoy The Three Little Pigs. This professional theater production combines the charm and comedy of the family classic with plenty of singing, dancing and even a rapping Big Bad Wolf. This show will be presented at 10:30am on February 22nd in the Cypress Bay Theater. Tickets are $5 in advance (available at the Weston Community Center) or $10 at the door. For more information on any of these events call (954) 389-4321 or visit www.westonfl.org and look under the 2013-2014 Performing Arts icon on the center of the homepage.

Saturday Night Stargazing By Stacey Bomser

f you ’ re looking for a fun , family- friendly activity to do on Saturday night, that won’t break the bank, look to the stars. Every Saturday night the Fox Observatory at Markham Park is open for stargazing. Volunteers from the South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association (SFAAA) open the observatory to the public. The non-profit organization, which has been around since 1965, is dedicated to “bringing the universe closer to all South Floridians.” The amateur astronomers are more than happy to share their passion for the stars and educate the public about the night sky. The telescopic equipment available at the observatory include a pair of 16-inch and 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrains, a mounted Brandon Refractor, three Dobson reflectors, and a 12-inch Newtonian. Both of the Schmidt-Cassegrains telescopes are fitted with imagers that offset the effects of light pollution. SFAAA members are available to explain the Fox Observatory equipment and how it operates. In addition, many members are willing to share their own telescopes. It’s not uncommon to find as many as 15 telescopes set up in various locations around the observatory. On a clear night, stargazers can see the moon, various planets, as well as faraway galaxies. The SFAAA offers educational programs on nights when the sky is cloudy. The group also runs special programs for Scouts to earn merit badges. The Fox Observatory is located within Markham Park, at the intersection of Weston Road and State Road 84. It is open every Saturday night from dusk to midnight. Although there is no charge for the Saturday Stargazing program, the park charges a weekend gate admission of $1.50 per person (children five and under are free). For those willing to drive a bit farther, Broward College’s Buehler Planetarium and Observatory offers evening observation hours three days a week: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 8-10pm. The Davie campus observatory’s powerful

telescopes allow guests to see the planets, nebulae and the moon in unparalleled detail. The viewing sessions are free and open to the public. To totally immerse yourself in the cosmos, visit the Buehler Planetarium. The state-of-the-art facility features a 40-foot dome equipped with a Definiti fulldome video system that lets guests see the night sky as it should be seen—without city lights. The planetarium offers a variety of educational and entertainment programs at low cost to the public. For more information on the Fox Observatory visit www.broward.org/parks/markhampark and click on Fox Observatory. For more information on the Buehler Planetarium and Observatory visit http://www. broward.edu/studentlife/planetarium/Pages/default.aspx or call 954-201-6681. To learn more about the South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association visit www.sfaaa.com.

our city weston | February 2014

Who cares about Before? Let’s focus on the after! weight loss that never fails lose up to 28 lbs. in 28 days!

SERIOUS WEIGHT LOSS ONLY A PHYSICIAN CAN DELIVER • Lose up to 3-5 lbs. of fat per week guaranteed • Six unique individualized & flexible weight loss programs available with or without HCG • Medical grade contouring wraps available (Lose 4 to 14 inches in 60 min.) • Increase your energy & burn fat with B12 injections • Lipotropic fat burning injections now available! increase energy and burn fat • Pharmaceutical HCG injections/pellets/drops available NOW • Programs are mdically supervised

Real Estate

Curb Appeal By Stanley Rosen

he first impression is always the best impres -

sion. Not every buyer might notice the tiki torches you used to border the pool, but you can be sure that every one of them will see the front door. At the very least, paint the front door a bright color. If the door is in poor condition, you might even consider investing in a new one. Make sure you buy new door hinges and doorknobs as well. Additionally, you might consider improving or installing a walkway leading up to the front door. Finally, line the walkway with LED solar powered lights for a great effect. One of the most valuable ways you can renovate a home is by adding curb appeal. Curb appeal refers to the attractiveness of the exterior of your property. There are many different ways to improve the curb appeal when you are in the process of selling your own personal property. Utilizing this strategy is incredibly important because the front of the home is the first glimpse of the house that the prospective buyers will get.

954.680.2001

Shoppes at Cinemark Plaza 15661 Sheridan St., Suite #1 Davie/Pembroke Pines

954.978.9111

Peppertree Plaza (Across from JM Lexus) 5400-B West Sample Rd. Margate/Coconut Creek

954.318.0555

252 S. University Drive Plantation, FL 33324 (Across from Broward/Westfield Mall)

561.577.2467

in the Flakowitz Plaza 7410 W. Boynton Beach Blvd., #A2 Boynton Beach

954.510.1234 2127 N. University Drive Coral Springs, FL 33071 Coral Springs

35th Anniversary Special

35% OFF PROGRAM FEES

Exp. 2/28/14 • must present ad • call for details!

www.physiciansweightlossofsouthflorida.com *Required nutritional supplements & medical fees at our regular low prices and mandatory based on a minimum program enrollment of 16 weeks weight loss. The patient and any other person responsible for payment has right to refuse to pay or be reimbursed for payment for anyother service, examination or treatment which is per formed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free discounted fee or reduced fee service, examination or treatment results may vary.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

There’s nothing worse than a house with peeling paint and ugly features. You could also improve the front of the property by adding vinyl siding, painting or installing a trim, painting the porch, garage, and shutters, cleaning the roof, power washing the exterior and porch, cleaning or installing new windows and new gutters, and buying a new set of address numbers. Prospective buyers will see your listing, either online or in a newspaper, and usually, the focal point of the photo will be the exterior of the home. So in a split second, the potential buyer will decide whether or not he or she wants to look into the property further. Therefore, to get the best first impression, make sure you optimize the curb appeal by making sure that your home is pressure cleaned and looks freshly painted, the landscaping is weed free and colorful, and that the driveway is clean of any stains. Just following these initial steps could add significant value when an offer is made by a prospective buyer. It’s the smallest things that make a BIG difference when a property is being sold. Feel free to contact Stanley Rosen of the Keyes Company at 305-510-8032 for a free evaluation on the appearance and home value of your residence. He specializes in residential and commercial real estate as well as land transactions. To learn more about the Stanley Rosen Real Estate Team visit www. BestOfSouthFlorida.net or call the 24-hour Live Operator Concierge at 954-556-1229.

Got News? email editor@ourcityweston.com

Kristi and I have over 31 years experience and remained in the top 1% of Real Estate sales “nationally and have graced EWM Realty International’s Chairman’s Club year after year. “We

Kristi Symanski

love our association with EWM, an Affiliate of Berkshire Hathaway, owned by Mr. Warren Buffett. The local support and tools, as well as the national and international exposure that are afforded our clients, have given us what we need for successful conclusions. We strive for the smoothest and best possible experience for all our clients.

”

Phyllis Scarberry

WESTON HILLS COUNTRy CLUb – “ROyAL PALm” SPECTACULAR GOLf ESTATE HOmE - $2,180,000 EXCEPTIONAL OPPORTUNITY TO OWN IN THE PREMIER NEIGHBORHOOD OF ROYAL PALM! STUNNING GOLF COURSE ESTATE LOCATED ON THE 11TH HOLE OF PLAYERS’ COURSE & ON THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER STREET IN WHCC! CUSTOM MANCHESTER, 6BD/7.5 BA, BILLIARD RM, LIBRARY/OFFICE & LOFT. MAGNIFICENT NEW KITCHEN, WOLF 6 BURNER GAS RANGE, POT FILLER, SUB-ZERO REFRIGERATOR, EXTENSIVE CABINETRY & GRANITE COMPLETE THE LOOK W/SUPERIOR QUALITY MATERIALS & CRAFTSMANSHIP, CROWN MOLDING, SATURNIA MARBLE/WOOD FLOORS, DBL GATED WROUGHT IRON ENTRY DOORS. red

uc e

d so l

WESTON HILLS COUNTRy CLUb - “CyPRESS” - $1,099,000 - PANORAMIC GOLF VIEWS!/4BD/4.5BA/ HUGE POOL & PATIO AREA/MARBLE FLOORS/WET BAR/ACCORDION SHUTTERS

“RIVERSTONE” – DAVIE - $970,000 LP 5BD+OFFICE/4.5BA/LAKE/HTD POOL

The Scarberry Group

WESTON – “LAGUNA SPRINGS II” - $519,000 3BD+LOFT/WATERFRONT/HTD POOL&SPA

WESTON – “OPAL CREEk” - $375,000 4BD/2BA/CUL-DE-SAC/LOW HOA FEES

954.980.3385 | Scarberry.p@ewm.com

www.PhyllisMScarberry.com

WESTON “LAGUNA SPRINGS I - $519,000 3BD/2BA/LAKE/POOL/CUL-DE-SAC

Legislative Look

Proposed Legislation to Protect Florida Consumers By Representative Richard Stark

s I begin my second legislative session , I have

become aware of violations of consumer protections that are not covered by state Statutes. I would like to share two bills that I am introducing that will affect and protect all Floridians against predatory practices. Florida has unfortunately been labeled the “Sinkhole Capital” of the United States. Recently, we have heard of personal losses due to sinkholes. Floridians have suddenly lost property, homes and even their lives due to this unfortunate and unknowing situation. According to floridaswater.com, sinkholes are part of the slow, natural process of erosion in Florida’s limestone terrain that occur over thousands of years. These common geologic phenomena generally occur where the limestone is within a few hundred feet of the land’s surface. Though most are only 10 to 12 feet in diameter, sinkholes have been known to expand to hundreds of feet in diameter. Even though sinkholes usually occur in central and north Florida, and are not a concern here in Weston and South Florida, I am proud to sponsor HB315 which will mandate sinkhole testing prior to the beginning of any land development. If enacted, this law would provide an end to deceptive development on inappropriate land sites. Consumers would receive a certificate of inspection just as they do for other tests such as a termite inspection. I was pleased when Sen. Darren Soto, (D-Orange County), agreed to be our Senate sponsor. Senator Soto has all too often dealt with sinkhole disasters in the area that he represents. The second bill that I am filing is HB349 which deals with Florida Patient’s Bill of Rights and Responsibilities. At present, when Floridians are receiving medical care, whether at a health care facility or doctors’ office, they may be treated by an out-of-network provider without the patient’s knowledge. Floridians are suddenly met with a bill of uncovered expenses due to out-of-network charges. A patient has

the right to know if out-of-network charges are possible and a right to decline outof-network procedures except as otherwise required by law. If passed, the patient would review and sign a form regarding out-of-network services thus protecting the patients’ rights to accept services that they may be responsible for. Sen. Jeremy Ring, (D-Margate), will be my Senate sponsor and together we hope to protect the Rights of Patients in Florida. State Representative Richard Stark (D-Weston) represents House District 104 which includes all of Weston. You can reach Rep. Stark at Richard.stark@myfloridahouse.gov or by calling his legislative office at (954) 217-0287.

Rep. Stark is introducing a bill mandating sinkhole testing before land development.

tamy m. Faierman, md, Pa Plastic And Reconstructive Surgery Refresh your image with a youthful, natural look.

Refer a Friend and save! You can save $100 and your friend can save $75 To show our appreciation for sending your friends and family members to us, we would like to share a special opportunity with you. Each time you send a new patient to us, you will receive a $100 credit toward your next injectable* and the friend you refer will receive $75 off their injectable.* *Not applicable during other specials. Make sure to mention our “Refer a Friend Program” at the time of scheduling. ▶ Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon ▶ 15 Years of training, Including Microsurgery ▶ Specializes in Body Contouring ▶ Speaks English, Spanish, Hebrew and French ▶ Currently the only Female Plastic

surgeon in southwest Broward

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Windmill Professional Campus · 17130 Royal Palm Blvd. Weston Call today & sChedule a ComPlimentaRy Consultation

954.322.2742 www.reshapeyourimage.com

Community News

Weston Artist’s Work on Exhibit at Airport By Stacey Bomser

eston artist

Ruben Ubiera has admirers from all of the world. He is gaining international exposure from his new exhibit Ruben Ubiera: The Land Escape at the Lee Wagener Art Gallery inside the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Airport visitors and Weston artist Ruben passengers had the rare Ubiera paints a mural for the backdrop of his new opportunity to see the exhibition at the Fort artist at work as Ubiera Lauderdale airport. painted a mural on three walls of the gallery before an admiring crowd. The mural, which depicts telephone lines stretching over city streets and small birds perched on tree limbs, serves as a backdrop to his artwork. It also represents the essence of his exhibit. According to Ubiera, the exhibition depicts “silent urban spaces and forgotten places that exist in our everyday surroundings.” Ubiera, who was born in the Dominican Republic, is a neo-figurative artist known for his urban murals,

mixed-media pieces and installations created with reclaimed objects and found artifacts. He paints and draws in a style considered post-surrealism, but he prefers to call it urban-pop since he has lived most of his life in urban, populated areas and most of his inspiration is derived from the interactivity between man and his urban environment. He was educated in drawing, painting and art history by his uncle, a self-taught artist and art teacher. At the age of 15, Ubiera’s family moved to the Bronx, New York, where he was heavily influenced by the graffiti art that surrounded him. That influence can be seen in much of his artwork which often features “skateboard-isms”, paint drips and graffiti in some Artist Ruben Ubiera shape or form. He tends to paint on wood and other found objects. Ubiera likes to mix graphic design on printed pieces with brightly colored paint onto old, worn objects. He says it “makes the final art look antiquated, decayed and very inter-

esting to the eye and to the touch.” Ubiera’s artwork is on display through April 7th in the airport’s Lee Wagener Art Gallery, located in Terminal 2, Departures Level. The gallery is supported by the Broward Cultural Division’s Public Art & Design Program and the Broward County Aviation Department. To learn more about Weston artist Ruben Ubiera visit http://www. urbanpopsoul.com.

Dentistry For Children at Weston P.A. Gently Starting a Lifetime of Perfect Smiles

“Love and Smiles...”

Happy Valentine’s Day! Yedda Gomes—Ruane D.M.D. 1608 Town Center Boulevard Suite B, Weston

954-384-4560 our city weston | February 2014

Can Do Kid

Teen Advocates for Food Allergy Awareness By Stacey Bomser

ody S klar has never been able to enjoy

ing due to cross contamination,” explains Cody. “If an allergen such as a nut is placed in a salad by mistake, a piece of birthday cake at a friend’s party or the entire salad must be redone. You cannot just take out share a pizza with friends after a football game. the nuts with your hands and serve it as if the nuts were Since birth, he has suffered from anaphylactic life not there. This type of cross contamination can cause a threatening food allergies. The Cypress Bay junior is now severe allergic reaction.” a national advocate for food allergy awareness and is This month, Cody will debate his food allergy bill in introducing a bill in Tallahassee requiring food handlers Tallahassee as part of the YMCA Youth in Government to be educated on food allergies and the dangers of program. He is the current President of the YMCA cross contamination. Government Club and Teen Ambassador for YMCA Cody is one of 15 million Americans with food allerBroward County. gies. He has struggled with eight of the top food allergies Cody is also actively involved with FARE (Food Allergy (peanuts, eggs, tree nuts, soy, milk, gluten, shellfish and Research & Education) which raises money and awaresesame) and has outgrown only one of them. ness about this epidemic. He was the top fundraiser at Cody has been hospitalized numerous times for allerthe FARE walk in Miami, collecting $3,600. He was asked gic reactions or other issues resulting from his allergies. to speak as the honorary youth chair at the event. He is not alone. Every three minutes someone goes to the He also attended the FARE Teen Summit in emergency room because of a food allergy. Washington DC where he was asked to join the FARE “People do not understand how real and dangerous National Teen Advisory Board. food allergies can be,” explains Cody, noting that a Cody is using these platforms to make a difference. simple cross contamination can lead to a life threatening He wants to take a stand for others who suffer from food reaction. allergies by raising awareness and research money to That is why he has worked with Representative Cody Sklar worked with Rep. Richard Stark to draft a food allergy bill which will be introduced hopefully one day find a cure. Richard Stark, who represents Weston, and during the spring legislative session. Until then, Cody does not let his food allergies get Representative Victor Torres, from Orlando, to introduce him down. “Life isn’t about the birthday cake you may or may not be able to eat; HB273. It requires all food handlers and servers to be educated on the proper it’s about the breaths you take to blow out your candles and make your wishes handling of food in reference to food allergies and cross contamination. come true.” “Most people do not know that servers need to use separate knives when slic-

Se Habla Español

Dance Clothes & More The Latest in Fashion Dancewear!

8767 Stirling Road, Cooper City (In Stirling Town Center)

954-880-0437 Open Monday - Friday 11am - 7pm Saturday: 11am - 6pm

Accessories • Shoes • Gift Certificates

20% OFF $10 OFF Any One Item.

facebook.com/ werkitgirl

Valid with coupon and in stock items only. Cannot be combined w/ other offers. Exp. 02/28/14 DTT

Any PurchAse OF $50 Or mOre

Valid with coupon and in stock items only. Cannot be combined w/ other DTT offers. Exp. 02/28/14

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Our primary goal is to have a long lasting and comfortable relationship with our patients. We provide 24-hour emergency care. Also, we can assist you in all of the latest techniques in oral hygiene. · Sealants · Bonding - direct or porcelain veneers · Tooth colored fillings · Porcelain crowns and bridges · Dentures and partial dentures · Non-surgical Periodontics (gum treatment) · Cleaning · Extractions · Implant restorations · Children's dentistry · Conscious Sedation · Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) · Night Guards · Bleaching Procedures · Opalescence (Home Kit) · Zoom (In-Office and Home Kit) · Beyond and above all, our gentle touch!

Dental Care For You & Your Family! 2625 Executive Park Dr., Ste. 2 Weston, FL 33331 One Block South of Royal Palm Blvd., formerly Arvida Parkway, off Weston Rd. Behind Pollo Tropical - Lakeside Corp. Park

Azita Moosavi, DMD

Guillermo P. Rodriguez - DDS

954-384-8484

familydentistryinweston.com

Member of Florida Dental Association · American Dental Association · East Coast District Dental Society

School News

Manatee Bay Fifth Graders Meet the President By Stacey Bomser

Meeting President Obama was definitely the highlight of the trip, but another exciting moment came when two Manatee Bay students were selected to lay the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. Ms. Lenhart says Student Council President Isabella Montano and Vice President Gabby Santoro were given the honor of walking with one of the soldiers and laying the wreath. While in Washington D.C., the students also toured the U.S. Capitol, National Archives (to view the Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, and Constitution), Ford’s Theater, Smithsonian Museum of President Obama shakes hands with Juhlien Gonzalez, a Manatee Bay fifth grade student. American History, Smithsonian Air & Space Museum, and viewed all of the major memorials (Lincoln ifth graders at Manatee Bay Memorial, Roosevelt Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Elementary School take an annual trip to Martin Luther King Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Washington D.C. In the past, students have met Vietnam Memorial, and Iwo Jima Memorial). Special with Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz and nighttime activities were planned including a White seen Speaker of the House John Boehner, but this House walk-about to see the National Christmas year’s trip topped all that. While on a tour of the White Tree and Pathway of Peace and ice skating at the House, the Manatee Bay students, teachers and chap- Pentagon Row Outdoor Rink. erones got to meet the President of the United States -Ms. Lenhart says the trip to Washington D.C. fits many even got the chance to shake hands and speak well with the fifth grade social studies curriculum. with President Obama. “Part of our curriculum covers the three branches of

Evening activities included skating at the Pentagon Row outdoor rink.

Students try to stay dry in Colonial Williamsburg

Fifth grade teacher Erin Lenhart, who organized the class trip, says getting to tour the White House was a big deal in and of itself because of the long process of getting approved for the tour. “To get in the White House and be able to meet President Obama, that was the absolute perfect way to end our week in Washington,” shares Ms. Lenhart. The President generally does not meet White House tour guests, but on this particular day talk show host Steve Harvey was filming an interview with the President and suggested they surprise some of the tour guests. The Manatee Bay tour group had perfect timing because they were videotaped greeting the President. One of the most memorable moments was when Juhlien Gonzalez shook the President’s hand. Noticing the striking similarity of their ears, the President told Juhlien “You have ears just like me. They give you some special power.” The President spoke to several of the Manatee Bay students. “President Obama told me to have a Merry Christmas and then I told him he was my inspiration and he replied ‘That’s so sweet. Thank you.’” shares Amanda Schneider.

government, how and why government was created, a constitution and its purpose, and the events surrounding the creation of some of the United States’ most important documents.” To prepare students for the trip, the fifth grade team spends time discussing some of the monuments and memorials students will see while in our nation’s capital. “We have students make travel brochures and do some basic research about the things they will see in Washington DC, so they have a little background knowledge when we get there,” explains Ms. Lenhart. The trip also includes a visit to Colonial Williamsburg, former capitol of the Virginia Colony, and the Jamestown Settlement, the first permanent English settlement. “Taking the fifth graders to Colonial Williamsburg allows them to step back into the 17th century and understand what life was like during colonial times.” This semester students will learn more about colonial times. “We discuss the economic, political and socio-cultural motivation for colonial settlement as well as daily life in the thirteen colonies,” says Ms. Lenhart.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Ms. Lenhart, Gabby Santoro and Isabella Montano at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Photos courtesy David Lenhart.

Students visited the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum.

Chaperones Deputy Mark Skolnick, Marisa Campbell, Erin Lenhart, Shairin Brown, Lisa Leider, Susan Beiner, David Lenhart, Robin McClain, Leonard McClain, Lisa Weingartner, Marie Price-Dumervil, and Boniee Serapiglia.

Chiropractic? Why Not?

“A Doctor’s Confession to West Broward” Dear Friend,

ReIMBuRSeD FOR TReATMenT, WHIcH IS peRFORMeD AS A ReSuLT OF AnD WITHIn 72 HOuRS OF ReSpOnDIng TO THe ADveRTISeMenT FOR DIScOunTeD, OR ReDuceD Fee FOR SeRvIce, eXAMInATIOn, OR TReATMenT.

want to give credit where credit is due. So, perhaps a confession can help clear the air so there’s no misunderstanding.

Before I talk about my confession, though, let me say a few other things first.

Let me start by explaining the photo in this letter. You know, when I meet people in town they usually say, “Oh, yeah, I know you, you’re Dr. Rick. I’ve seen your ad with that picture of you and your family.” Well, I’m the guy in the back. Twenty-five years ago something happened to me that changed my life forever. I was a junior in high school and I started getting migraines. I had suffered from intense headaches since childhood. Over the years, I consulted many medical doctors, and specialists. I went through all kinds of tests, MRIs, and treatments. I tried every drug in the market; our medicine cabinet looked like a hospital’s infirmary. And still, nothing helped. But there’s more…

Several times a day patients thank me for helping them with their health problems. But I can’t really take the credit. My confession is that I’ve never healed anyone of anything. What I do is perform a specific spinal adjustment to remove nerve pressure, and the body responds by healing itself. We get tremendous results. It’s as simple as that!

Forty-five million Americans no longer have A friend of mine convinced me to give a health insurance, and those who do have found chiropractor a try. The chiropractor examined that their benefits have been greatly reduced. me, took X-rays, and then “adjusted” my spine. That’s where chiropractic comes in. I have a The adjustment did not hurt; it actually felt good. significantly lower fee plan so that more people And guess what…I started feeling so much are able to afford the care they need. An entire better! From daily migraines, I went down to week of care in my office costs what you could three a week, and then to once in a great while. pay for one visit elsewhere. Another way to save… That’s when I realized that I wanted to become studies show that chiropractic can double your a chiropractor and help others. That’s how immune capacity, naturally and without drugs. it happened! The immune system fights colds, the flu, and other ailments. So you may not be running off It’s strange how life is, because now people to the doctor as much. Studies show that people come to see me with their migraines. They also actually pay less for their long-term overall health come to me with their chronic pain, neck pain, shoulder/arm pain, whiplash from car accidents, care expenses if they are seeing a chiropractor. backaches, ear infections, asthma, allergies, numbness in limbs, athletic injuries, carpal You Benefit from an Amazing Offer-Look, it tunnel syndrome, just to name a few. shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg to correct your health. You are going to write a check to Here’s what some of my patients had to say: someone for your health care expenses, you “Due to an auto accident, I suffered from severe may as well write one for a lesser amount for neck pain, vertigo and I could not raise my arm chiropractic. When you bring in this article (by to comb my hair. Now I am symptom free with 02/28/14) you will receive my entire new patient no medication and I can do everything I could exam for $45. That’s with x-rays, biomechanical not do before.” exam, history and consultation…the whole ball – E. Heaney, Hollywood, FL of wax. This exam could cost you $250 elsewhere. “Thanks to the DRX 9000 and the doctors, I no The law says that I must tell YOu THAT YOu longer have chronic sciatic pain. It’s been a long OR AnY OTHeR peRSOn ReSpOnSIBLe time since I have taken pain medication.” FOR pAYMenT HAS THe RIgHT TO – J. Walker, Miramar ReFuSe TO pAY, cAnceL pAYMenT, OR Be

great care at a great fee…please, I hope that there’s no misunderstanding about quality of care just because I have a lower exam fee. You’ll get great care at a great fee. My qualifications… I’m a graduate of Life college and have been practicing for over 10 years. I’ve been entrusted to take care of tiny babies to pro athletes that you may know. I am constantly going to seminars and updating my knowledge so I can give my patients the latest information and techniques of my profession. My assistants are Mylene and Johanna – really great people. Our office is both friendly and warm and we try our best to make you feel at home. We have a wonderful service, at an exceptional fee. Our office is called Windmill Health center and it’s at 17160 Royal palm Blvd., Suite 1 in the Windmill professional plaza. Our phone number is 954-217-4881. call Mylene, Johanna or Annie for an appointment. We can help you. Thank you. For more information regarding our services please visit our website www. WindmillHealthcenter.com. If you would like to email us with your questions, you may reach us at WindmillHealth@att.net – Rick Behar, D.C. P.S. I am also offering the second family member for only $37. p.p.S. Your time is as valuable as mine. That’s why I have a no-wait policy. You will be seen within minutes of your appointment.

Valentine’s Massage Special

5500 · 1 Hour

exp. 02/28/14

School news

Banner Year for Cypress Bay College Acceptances By Stacey Bomser

here’ s a certain excitement in the air at C ypress Bay H igh School. With each passing week, more and more seniors are getting admitted to the college of their choice. This has been a banner year for students receiving early acceptance at some of the nation’s top schools. According to Shari Bush, Cypress Bay’s College Advisor, “The excitement throughout our school is palpable right now with all of the students who got acceptances from their first choice or ‘dream school’.” This list includes some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the country: Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Duke (a record number of six students accepted early), Cornell, Princeton, Yale, University of Pennsylvania, Cal Tech, Emory, and many more. Nicolas LozanoLandinez was one of those lucky students. He got his top choice, Stanford. Nicolas is now deciding between Stanford and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Daniela Carrasco says it was a dream come true to receive her Nicholas Lozano-Landinez, Janae Bell, Madison Danoff, Richard Shin, and Daniela Carrasco all received early acceptance at acceptance from their number one school. Photo courtesy Danielle Bush. MIT. Classmate Richard Shin was also accepted at his dream school. He received a binding early decision from Cornell and non-binding early action from the University of Michigan. “Cornell was definitely my number one choice due to its combination of reputation, size and academic programs.” According to Principal Scott Neely, “The diversity and caliber of the schools that Cypress Bay students are accepted to is a direct result of our dedicated team of teachers and administrators as well as a clear representation of the involvement of our parents and community.” Leading this effort is Mrs. Bush and the college counseling department which works hard to help students find their perfect fit. “We want them to find the place that they are going to happily call ‘home’ for the next four years.” Getting to that place is no easy task. It starts back in eighth grade. “I go over to the middle schools and talk to the incoming freshman about coming to high school

and how important each year is and what they should be doing in each successive year,” explains Mrs. Bush. “In my opinion, the freshman year is one of the most important years, because that is your foundation. There is a continuous process of working with students each year and keeping them on ‘track.’” Senior Madison Danoff credits the rigorous classes, including Advanced Placement courses, offered at Cypress Bay for helping her secure early admission to Duke. “I have taken almost all of the science AP classes at my school because I am interested in engineering. I was accepted into the Pratt School of Engineering at Duke.” In addition to helping students create an academic plan, Cypress Bay’s college counseling does a lot to educate students and parents about the college admissions process. It offers College Night, Financial Aid Night, college fairs, college tours, visits by college admissions representatives, Beyond the Bay (small seminars on everything you need to know about transitioning to college), and parent meetings. “It is important to have the many venues for our students to get the information they need to navigate through this process,” states Mrs. Bush. “The exposure to numerous programs and events over the four years makes it much easier for them to understand everything that is expected of them and to know exactly what the colleges are looking for.” To help Cypress Bay students, Mrs. Bush has cultivated relationships with college admissions officers from schools across the country. “Each year we host between 50 and 60 visits from colleges. This year we had Harvard, Yale, MIT, University of Binghamton, and Williams College and everything in between. With such a large and diverse student population, I want to make sure our students are exposed to every option that is out there for them.” In addition, Mrs. Bush also meets individually with Cypress Bay seniors. “I spend the summers at school working with all of the rising seniors and anyone else who wants to come in and get help with deciding which schools they should apply to, how to fill out applications or writing their essays.” Janae Bell credits Mrs. Bush with helping her get into Harvard. “She is absolutely incredible. I don’t know how she does it, but she makes the application process much less stressful and more manageable.” Mrs. Bush says her work doesn’t stop once the seniors finish their applications. “Once the applications are done, we start working on scholarships, grants and other ways to pay for school.” It’s hard work, but highly rewarding. Mrs. Bush says she has the best job in the world. “Working with these students throughout the whole college admissions process and seeing their faces when they realize it all paid off could not be more rewarding.”

Another “A” for Cypress Bay By Stacey Bomser

ypress Bay H igh School continues to score straight A’ s on

the state’s school grading system. The 2013 results were recently released and Cypress Bay was one of only 25 high schools in Broward County to receive an “A” grade from the Florida Department of Education. Broward Schools Superintendent Robert Runcie congratulated students and faculty for this outstanding accomplishment. “We are incredibly proud of our high school grades. I commend our teachers, administrators and students for their hard work and dedication. We will continue to focus on ensuring all students are college and career ready.” Cypress Bay is definitely doing a good job of making sure its students are prepared for the future. Its graduates go on to some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the country including Harvard, Cornell, Columbia, Stanford, Yale, University of Pennsylvania, MIT, and many others, as well as all of the Florida schools. Last year, the school was recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top high schools in the country. Cypress Bay was ranked #180 nationally, out of more than 21,000 public high schools. It ranked #15 of almost 800 high schools in Florida and was the top-ranked high school in Broward County. The magazine’s rankings are based on how students scored on state math and

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

reading tests, as well as college readiness. Performance on Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate exams were used to determine how well schools prepare students for college-level work. Cypress Bay’s 6.2 college readiness score earned the school a Gold Medal Award. According to U.S. News & World Report, this score was calculated based upon Cypress Bay’s 67% AP participation rate and 91% participant passing rate. With the release of the State’s high school scores, all Weston public schools earned an “A” grade in 2013. While the elementary and middle school scores were announced last summer, high school scores were not released until December because they included factors such as end-of-course exam results and graduation rates. Each year, public schools in Florida receive a school grade on an “A” through “F” scale. These grades indicate how well the school is performing based on state standards. School grades were first issued in 1999 under the A+ Plan for Education and the program has evolved over the years. Today, annual testing is required as part of the federal No Child Left Behind Act. For a full report on the 2012- 2013 School Accountability results for Florida, visit http://schoolgrades.fldoe.org/.

silver

gold

w e s t o n ’ s r e a l e s tat e l e a d e r THE LANDINGS

WESTON TQUESTA

NeW LISTINg

WESTON EGRET LANDING $775,000 Lake, PooL, SPa,

RemodeLed Wooden/GRanite kitchen, 5 bedRoom, neW office, PLayRoom/exeRciSe RoomS, 3 cG, SPaciouS PLan.

LISTINg

WESTON TEQUESTA POINTE $575,000

4/3 neWeR Roof, Lake, PooL, RemodeLed Wood/ GRanite/StainLeSS kitchen, tRiPLe SPLit PLan.

SellS WeSton…Fast

WESTON PATIO HOMES

WESTON THE SPRINGS

NeW LISTINg

WESTON COUNTRY ISLES PATIO $315,000

3/2 PLuS RemodeLed huGe famiLy Room. community PooL. WaLk to SchooL, PaRk, toWn centeR and athLetic cLub.

SoLd

WESTON LAGUNA SPRINGS $499,900

5/3 PooL, Lake, bRand neW GRanite/StainLeSS kitchen. uPGRadeS GaLoRe! SOLD! MULTIPLE OFFERS!

WESTON TEQUESTA

SoLd

WESTON TEQUESTA POINTE $799,900 totaLLy RemodeLed, neW Roof, Lake, PooL, modeL PeRfect, GoRGeouS! LAUREN SILvER BROUGhT BUYER AND SELLER! SOLD! hIGhEST SALE PRICE IN TEQUESTA!

• Award-Winning “Top Producer” • Previews Luxury Home Specialist

SoLd

WESTON TEQUESTA POINTE $589,000

Lake, PooL,SPa, neW Roof, neW kitchen and bathRoomS. 5/3 PLuS Loft. SOLD AND CLOSED IN 30 DAYS! MULTIPLE OFFERS!

• Corporate Relocation Certified • #1 Producing Company in Weston

l auren silver

Expertise · Experience · Excellence · Se Habla Español “nobody sells more weston real estate”

(954) 461-4455

www.LaurenSilverWeston.com • silversell@aol.com Coldwell Banker • 2690 Weston Rd, Ste. 101 • Weston, FL 33331

THEPRANALAb gRANd oPENiNg sATuRdAY fEbRuARY 8TH, 2014 7-10Pm

t YogA sTudio* (30 classes each week) *1st class free t cHLdREN’s YogA (2-13 yrs. old) t REiki

• Live Music

t PRANA HEALiNg

• Art GALLery oPENiNg • vendors

t cHAkRA HARmoNiziNg

• rAffLes & GiveAwAys

t AcuToNics souNd HEALiNg

• refreshMents

t THAi bodYwoRk t PiLATEs

t YogA bouTiquE RETuRN bAck To wHERE THE LovE of YogA bEgAN, wiTHiN.

NEw wEsToN LocATioN

16614 Saddle Club Road Weston, FL 33326 (Bonaventure Town Shoppes)

954 · 888 ·9008

www.ThePranaLab.com

IT’S WHAT’S INSIDE THAT COUNTS Get a Lung CT screening for just $99. Lung cancer is still the most common cause of cancer death. If you are a smoker or former smoker, you may be at risk of getting lung cancer. Broward Health is now offering low dose CT screenings for just $99. The screenings are quick, easy and have minimal radiation exposure.

To qualify for the $99 rate, you must meet the following “high risk” criteria: • Between 55-74 years old • Current smoker or have quit within the past 15 years • Smoke at least a pack of cigarettes a day for 30 years

Please call 954.759.7500 to schedule your appointment.

Visit BrowardHealth.org/LungCancer to take the risk assessment and see if you qualify. Criteria based on National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

BrowardHealth.org/LungCancer

Health and Wellness

Hormones and Marriage By Dr. Jean-Claude Nerette

hen you said “I D o,” you never imagined that years later you would lose all interest in a sex life and find your “soul-mate” unattractive and irritating. You find yourself constantly battling fatigue, as everything you do requires so much effort. You don’t even know who you are when you hear yourself talking, as the mood swings consume your whole being. How can you possibly maintain a happy marriage when you’re not even happy with the person you are becoming? Can you control this? Or is this simply a normal progression of married life and you just have to deal with it? I am here to say “NO.” You absolutely don’t need to live this life. There are options. A lot of the symptoms stated above I hear on a daily basis, and many women and men are suffering unnecessarily. I am here to tell you that you can recoup that basic marital foundation – intimacy. You can get rid of the fatigue and mood swings and become the person you were when you first married.

Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Reverse The Signs of Aging

Lose Weight, Decrease Blood Pressure & Improve Health…The Natural Way The solution is simple….it’s all about hormones. As we age our hormones start decreasing and as a result symptoms appear. The most common symptoms are lack of sex drive, fatigue, depression, weight gain in the mid-section, unable to multi-task and think clearly, mood swings, and hot flashes. All these symptoms can not only impact you as an individual, but obviously your relationship. A simple blood test is all that is needed to determine if you are lacking hormones. Once the deficiencies are identified, an individualized plan should be created to maximize your hormone levels. The type of hormone chosen - synthetic versus bio-identical - is imperative. Bio-identical hormones mimic exactly your own body’s molecules versus their synthetic counterparts, with known cancercausing agents within their chemical structure. The methods of bio-identical hormone delivery can include sub-lingual liquids, troches, creams and pellets. More important is that the delivery method must be constant - with no high peaks and lows. All methods of delivery, except the pellet, unfortunately give you an inconsistent absorption of hormones. When you place a cream on the skin in our hot humid climate of South Florida, how much are you exactly absorbing and what is wearing off? When you place the liquid or troche hormone underneath the tongue you have immediate absorption, but what is left to be absorbed the remainder of the day? The absorption rates with these methods are extremely unpredictable, making it really hard to manage the symptoms and regain control of your life. The bio-identical hormone pellet provides a consistent flow of hormone delivery. The pellet, which is less than the size of a tic-tac, is inserted underneath the skin. Therefore, the body has 24 hour access to the hormone, using it as needed. The pellets last up to six months, thus avoiding the hassle of taking daily medications. The absorption is predictable and monitored with lab values. The benefits are seen as quickly as five days. Some of the testimonials I have heard are: “Thank you for giving me my wife back,” “I am more centered as a human being,” and “I haven’t been this intimate with my husband since our honeymoon.” So you decide: Is bio-identical hormone pellet therapy right for you? Can your marriage be improved? Call us to schedule a free consultation 954-384-8989. Dr. Jean-Claude Nerette is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Stephanie Muniz Nerette is Board Certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. They both specialize in Functional Medicine, Bio-Identical Hormone Pellet Therapy and IV Nutrition Therapy. Their practice Bellissimo Medical is located at 2665 Executive Park Drive, Suite #3, in Weston.

Free seminar English @ 11:00 a.m.

February 22nd

En Espanol @ 12:15 p.m. Please RSVP as space is limited.

We Can Help You Optimize Your Health! Acupuncture · Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy • Thyroid Optimization IV Nutritional Therapy • Adrenal Fatigue • Weight Management Preventive Medicine • Nutraceutical Supplements Nutrient & Toxic Elements Testing • Food Allergy Testing Detox Programs • Platelet Rich Plasma • Botox • Radiesse • Juvederm

Se Habla Español

Dr. Jean-Claude Nerette, D.O. & Stephanie Muniz, ARNP

FREE CONSULTATION

954-384-8989 2665 Executive Park Drive, Suite #3, Weston, FL 33331 www.BellissimoMediSpa.com our city weston | February 2014

School News

Cypress Bay Junior Nominated for Statewide STEM Program By Brittany Zeidel, student writer

ypress Bay High School’s Rodmy

Paredes is one of three Broward County Public Schools students nominated for the

Cypress Bay junior Rodmy Paredes has been recognized for his academic achievements in science and math.

2014 Sunshine State Scholars Recognition Program. It recognizes the state’s top 11th grade students in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). This month, Parades and the other student nominees will attend the conference in Orlando. Each student is allowed to invite one teacher to accompany them, along with their parents. Parades said he is bringing his AP/AICE Biology teacher Brandon Boswell, who he said is one of his favorite teachers. To be eligible to be nominated for the Sunshine State Scholars Recognition Program, students must be a high school junior with an interest in pursuing postsecondary educational opportunities in Florida, demonstrate an interest in STEM-related studies, have a weighted grade point average of 3.9 or higher, and be on track for the Florida Academic Scholars Award which is based on current guidelines established for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program. In addition to his exceptional academic achievements, Parades is also involved in Cypress Bay’s math and science clubs. “I was really excited [to get nominated] and it was really nice because of the other people who were almost nominated from the school were some really close friends of mine,” Paredes said. “[AP Chemistry teacher] Ms. Russo told me it took them

MOLD

Assessment • Containment • Filtration • Removal • Repair

a couple of weeks to decide who would be nominated and it took them longer to decide because there was a lot of competition and I can see why because my friends are really smart.” Paredes said although he doesn’t know exactly which path he will take in the future, he is currently happy to be able to do what he loves. “I don’t have a really clear idea yet, I’m just focusing on what I love which is math and science, but I have been looking into biochemistry or maybe nuclear physics, both are really cool subjects, as well as genetic engineering and with all these cool subjects I haven’t decided yet,” he said. Paredes will represent Broward County along with Vivek Miglani from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and Yagna Patel from Coral Glades High School, who is the alternate nominee. Broward Schools Superintendent Robert W. Runcie commends “each of these students for their outstanding academic accomplishments. They are among the best and brightest students in our high schools and we are excited to nominate them for this prestigious program.” Brittany Zeidel is a senior at Cypress Bay High School and is the managing editor for the online newspaper publication, cbhscircuit. com.

2 FREE MUSIC LESSONS In Home Adults – Children

FREE MOLD INSPECTION & ESTIMATE

Moisture Detection · Infrared Leak Detection Video Borescope Be aware that inhaling or touching toxic mold may cause serious HEALTH PROBLEMS

100% Pass Clearance (Receive clearance certificate)

LIC #MRSR1057 | Se HabLa eSpañoL

we work with all insurance companies

WILL BEAT ANY WRITTEN ESTIMATES

954-663-6845 | 866-943-5551 www.restorationxpress.com

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Head Start Piano, violin or ukelele

grouP muSic in Studio Starting at

$40

For 4 classes

Free registration see our website for many instrumental and vocal specials giFt CertiFiCates available www.musiceducationcenter.com

Music education Center 90 indian trace Weston, Fl 33326

954.349.3511

December 2013 sales of Weston single-Family Homes Mollie Light, Realtor

Betty Frongello, Realtor

mollielight@bellsouth.net COMMUNITY / ADDRESS

CORAL HARBOUR

SOLD PRICE

1730 HARBOUR SIDE DR

390,000

bettyfrongello@yahoo.com

BEDS BATHS Sq. FT. GARAGE POOL WATER

2,026

COUNTRY ISLES 2159 BATON ROUGE

295,000

2,036

COUNTRY ISLES GARDEN HOME 1470 GARDEN RD

311,000

2.5

1440 GARDEN RD

215,000

1,849 957

Feature ProPerty 2567 JARDIN DRIVE WESTON,FL $659,000

COMMUNITY / ADDRESS

SAVANNA

SOLD PRICE BEDS BATHS

Sq. FT. GARAGE POOL WATER

815 NANDINA DR

580,000

3,461

891 STILLWATER CT

550,000

4,069

1203 ALEXANDER BEND

420,000

2.5

1,982

937 BLUEWOOD TE

355,000

1,600

713 BALD CYPRESS RD

355,000

1,591

1147 ARECA WAY

354,000

1,704

1169 ALEXANDER BND

310,000

1,390

EMERALD COURTS 385,000

2.5

1,999

1607 ORION LANE THE FALLS

302,000

1,768

239 SW 159TH WY

220,000

1,146

595 CASCADE FALLS DR

500,000

2.5

2,823

203 SW 159TH WY

165,000

1,242

932 SAVANNAH FALLS DR 420,000

2.5

2,182

275,000

1,998

19486 S WHITEWATER AV 435,000

2,172

611 CASCADE FALLS DR THE ISLANDS 1623 ISLAND WAY

765,000

3.5

3,233

1140 GINGER CR THE LAKES

665,000

3.5

3,130

175 BAYRIDGE LN THE MEADOWS

370,000

2.5

2,128

1123 BIRCHWOOD RD THE RIDGES

405,000

2.5

2,325

4401 LAUREL RIDGE CR

445,000

2.5

2,116

4269 MAHOGANY RIDGE DR320,000 WESTON HILLS

1,381

2651 NELSON CT

675,000

2,490

2477 BAY ISLE CT

640,000

3,190

16105 OPAL CREEK DR HAMPTON LAKES

ISLES AT WESTON LAGUNA SPRINGS II 541 SPINNAKER

460,000

2,846

586 SPINNAKER

390,000

2,030

15032 SW 13TH PL

315,000

2,093

15132 SW 13TH PL

275,000

1,804

571 LAKESIDE CR

250,000

1,571

15920 W WIND CR

233,000

1,838

539 CARRINGTON DR

410,000

2.5

2,493

780 FALLING WATER RD

385,000

2.5

2,001

2721 OAKBROOK MNR

620,000

3,563

365,000

2.5

1,984

1832 MARINERS LN

595,000

2,200

2.5

2,490

2648 MILLER CT 587,000 WINDMILL LAKE ESTATES 3615 PARK CT

1,275,000

5,813

NEW RIVER ESTATES

NORTH LAKES

OPAL CREEK 16102 OPAL CREEK DR PALM ISLAND 400 SABAL WY

675,000

3,459

SAN MESSINA 1532 SALERNO CIR

315,000

1,662

3820 WINDMILL LAKE RD 1,225,000 WINDMILL RANCH ESTATES

4.5

4,667

305,000

1,873

3472 DERBY LN

5.5

6,140

SAN REMO 459 TALAVERA RD

1,600,000

Source: Local Multiple Listing System(MLS) and Broward County Tax Records. Information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted. If you should have any questions or would like further information, please contact Mollie Light at (954) 336-9006.

CALL (954) 336-9006 路 PArA EsPA帽oL LLAmE A (954) 695-6904

our city weston · feature story

Escape to Bella Vida Mediterranean Spa By Stacey Bomser

here’s nothing like a day at the spa to relax and unwind. At Bella Vida Mediterranean Spa, clients are transported to another world. Its soothing hues of blue and white and scents of lavender and the ocean evoke images of the magnificent Mediterranean.

Spa owner Vidalina Malaise designed the tranquil day spa to embrace the healing and beautifying gifts of the Mediterranean. She began her aesthetics career more than 20 years ago in Barcelona, Spain. Vidalina wanted to bring the unique feel of this region to Weston at her Bella Vida Mediterranean Spa. The spa will soon be celebrating its second anniversary of providing tranquil treatments and state-of-the-art rejuvenation therapies. Vidalina explains the many services available at Bella Vida Mediterranean Spa.

What distinguishes Bella Vida from other day spas? We strive to ensure every spa experience is exceptional. We want clients to have a wonderful experience from the first moment they arrive until they leave our spa. It is vital for us to provide clients with the balance necessary so they can be healed through our services. We have found that beauty lies within the details and that is what we focus on. This includes our ball and claw-foot tubs, chromo-aroma therapy rain shower and sauna, and therapeutic color lighting in every treatment room. Our specialty baths are a nod to the mineral healing tubs found for centuries throughout the Mediterranean countries. Our energy healing room is a special place where clients find physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

What services do you provide?

Bella Vida Mediterranean Spa is a full-service spa providing facials, massages, aqua therapy, medi-spa treatments, laser hair removal and electrolysis, as well as energy healing. We are also pleased to provide incredible body sculpting results with P.R. Cell 2G.

What is that? The P.R. Cell 2G is a powerful

body remodeling system that uses an effective three-tier sculpting program to treat problems associated with cellulite. The P.R. Cell promotes deep tissue mobilization, producing results that are impossible to achieve with other technolo-

gies. By combining skin fold techniques with modulated suction, the P.R. Cell 2G draws the tissue up between two rollers to lift, fold and roll the skin and subcutaneous tissue. By remodeling the subcutaneous layer, the P.R. Cell 2G reduces the dimpled and ‘orange peel’ appearance of cellulite. Your skin will look smooth and toned. The best part, there is no pain associated with this treatment.

Who is the ideal candidate for P.R. Cell 2G?

These treatments are easily adaptable to different body shapes and can be tailored to treat all problems encountered by the client. It is ideal for treating cellulite, stubborn fat deposits, heavy legs, muscle tension, poor circulation, and postliposuction edema.

Bella Vida is one of the only spas to offer Aqua Therapy. Why is this so beneficial?

Aqua therapies improve your health and beauty by increasing the blood supply, stimulating metabolic activities, relaxing muscles and increasing the body’s natural healing process. Our bodies are mostly made of water; it is our essence and where we can find healing and rejuvenation. Aqua therapy uses the physical properties of water to assist in the client’s healing and exercise performance. Mineral salts, vitamin-enriched mud, and seaweed are three ways to improve the skin, the largest organ in the body. By adding these to your bath, the body absorbs and is instantly improved. When it is time to rinse off, you experience our “wet” room featuring a state-of-the-art chromo-aromotherapy shower consisting of therapeutic color lighting, aromatherapy, extra-large rain showerhead, multiple jets and also a sauna feature to complete the aqua treatment.

What other types of body treatments do you offer? Bella Vida offers treatments embracing the elements of the earth and sea. Our lavender scrub is gentle enough for the most sensitive skin yet still provides the exfoliating and nourishing properties needed to improve skin texture. We can also use volcanic ash or Mediterranean seaweed to create body wraps to detoxify, improve cellulite, elasticity and much more.

What types of facials and skincare services do you offer? Bella Vida Mediterranean

Spa offers a variety of facial services. With our Aromatherapy Facial, clients experience the holistic feeling of connecting with nature through the essential oils that appeal to the senses as well as regenerating, hydrating, balancing, circulation and relaxing your skin. The Microdermabrasion Facial features a gentle polishing of the skin with microcrystals; often referred to as an anti-aging solution. This procedure removes the outermost layer of skin cells, reduces fine lines, repairs sun damage and is effective in treating moderate to severe acne.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

The Acne/Sensitive Skin Facial uses a delicate touch to purify and hydrate the skin. Redness and inflammation are calmed through deep cleansing and toning using specifically blended skin care. Our special Teen Facial cleanses the skin, utilizing gentle extraction and pressure point massage to leave skin with a balanced glow. It helps to control blemishes and prevent acne. In addition, we are pleased to offer a radio frequency treatment for facial rejuvenation as part of our facial services.

You now offer permanent make-up. What is this? Permanent make-up or micropigmenta-

tion is really cosmetic tattooing. Essentially, it’s putting color into the top layer of the skin. Our aesthetician, Adriana Gomez, uses specialized equipment to hand apply the color to the eye brows, lips or as eye liner. Although it is called permanent make-up it will fade over time. It typically lasts three to five years. It is 100% safe and the results are very natural looking.

What types of massage therapy do you offer? Bella Vida spa offers a complete menu

of massage techniques. The Quiro Massage is a therapeutic massage that uses hand techniques to heal the physical and mental pain, giving you an energetic pump. Reflexology applies pressure techniques to corresponding organs allowing energy to flow. The pressure is applied to reflex points on feet, hands and head to boost circulation. Our Mediterranean Stress Relieving Massage uses varied strokes of gliding and kneading to promote circulation and overall health leaving you with a complete state of wellbeing. During the Hot Stone Massage, warmed stones and essential oils are used to glide over skin warming muscle, restoring balance in the body, and inducing a feeling of rejuvenation and relaxation. Bella Vida also offers deep tissue, prenatal and aromatherapy massage. Bella Vida Mediterranean Spa is located at 16612 Saddle Club Road in the Bonaventure Town Center Shoppes. It is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9am until 7pm, Tuesday and Thursday from 9am to 8pm, and Saturday from 10am until 4pm. It is closed on Sunday. To schedule an appointment call (954) 446-6222. To learn more about the spa and its unique treatments visit www.bellavida-spa.com; “friend” Bella Vida Mediterranean Spa on FaceBook or follow Bellavidaspa on Twitter to get all the latest special offers and promotions.

Gift

Cert ifica te

Valentine’s Day at Bella Vida Mediterranean Spa Twin Flame for Two

❤ Aroma Steam Shower ❤ Aroma Therapy Massage ❤ $150

Eternal Bliss for Two

❤ Aroma Steam Shower ❤ Signature Facial ❤ Aroma Therapy Massage ❤ $240

Eternal Journey for Two

❤ Mediterranean Body Scrub ❤ Equilibrium Bath Aroma Therapy Massage ❤ $290

All packages include strawberries with champagne

954 4 46 6222

16612 saddle clu b road, weston , bonaventu re towne shoppes w w w. b ell avida-spa .com

Weston Hills country cluB royal palm – Luxury gated goLf community has custom estate with circuLar drive & porte corcher, marbLe fLoors throughout, 5 bedrooms pLus office, 6 baths, chef’s Kitchen, firepLace, bar, buiLt in’s, spa bath and goLf views! For inFormation and pictures direct to your cell call 1-866-600-6008 and enter code 42670.

Now Is The Time To List and Sell! • Legends society - coldwell banker’s most prestigious award, 2010, 2011, 2012 • ranked #1 coldwell banker agents in broward county, 2011 & 2012

rose & dean sklar real estate Group (954) 298-3626

sklarteam rosesklar @sklarteam user/sklarteam

raNkEd #1 aGENTS IN THE cITy oF WESToN For THE paST 6 coNSEcUTIVE yEarS

Weston

Nobody KNows dING

pEN

JaN

LiKe we do

G Ja

dIN pEN

G Ja

dIN pEN

Windmill rancH estates

tHe lakes

Weston Hills country cluB

acrEaGE pending saLe

VEroNa lakE pending saLe

VIcTorIa poINTE pending saLe

73 : 426

68 : 426

E cod

: 553

E cod

For SalE or For rENT

riVerstone

soutHWest rancH estates

Weston Hills country cluB

daVIE – 4 br+office, 4.5ba, pooL, LaKe, marbLe fLoors

acrEaGE – 4.85 acre gated estate with pooL pond, 5br, 3.5ba, 3 cg

moNTclaIrE 7br, 5ba, pooL, LaKe, guest house

5306

658

00 : 553

E: 5 cod

E: 42 cod

E cod

Weston Hills country cluB

moNTErEy 5br, 3.5ba, pooL, goLf course view

THE laUrElS – 5br, 3ba, pooL, LaKe, marbLe fLoors, haLf acre

HUNTErS poINTE 4br, 3ba, pooL, accordions

: 553

E cod

: 553

E cod

: 553

E cod

For SalE or For rENT

Weston Hills country cluB

tHe islands

JardIN

JardIN – 5br, 3ba, pooL, cuL-de-sac, pLantation shutters

camEllIa ISlaNd 4br, 3ba, pooL

5br, 3.5ba, pooL,LaKe

: 426

: 553

E cod

For SalE or For rENT

: 553

E cod

tHe islands

FairWay coVe

tHe islands

JaSmINE ISlaNd 4br, 3ba, pooL, LaKe, new Kitchen

plaNTaTIoN 3br, 2.5 ba, LaKe views, new Kitchen

orcHId ISlaNd – 5br, 2.5 ba, pooL, accordions, new Kitchen

Visit us at: www.sklarteam.com

Instant Photos & Info Direct to Your Cell Phone

Call

866.600.6008

Enter Property Code

ask the expert Authentic Peruvian Food

Celebrating Our 4th Anniversary ZAGAT RATED

VERy GooD/ExcEllEnT

Happy Valentine’s Day! Friday , February 14th.

VALENTINE’S DAY noche de Boleros y Baladas

Have a Romantic dinner with Live Ballads with Jose terreros and then dance all night.

Friday February 21st.

Are You Considering A New Look? By Charles A. Messa, III, M.D., F.A.C.S.

ave you been thinking about a new look , a

new you? Maybe now is the time to do something for yourself that will give you that much needed boost you’ve been looking for. But what would that be? There are many reasons to want to improve something about your appearance. Maybe you are a mother whose body just isn’t the same after multiple pregnancies. Loose skin, stretch marks and sagging breasts can all be improved with surgery. A “mommy makeover” can include a tummy tuck, which tightens the underlying muscles and removes the redundant excess skin. When liposuction is done along with the abdominoplasty to contour the waist and hips, the end result is the flat stomach you had prior to pregnancy. It can also include a breast lift, with or without an implant, to lift and reshape your breasts to restore a more youthful appearance.

PARRANDA VALLENATA

Live vallenato, Porro and Cumbia with the Colombian singer Carlos Marquez and Daniel Rebolledo ( acordeonero Baru and Kukara Brickell ) http://www.carlosmarquezmusica.com

ReseRvations: 954.217.1075 2406 Weston Road Weston, FL 33326 (Next to Flanigan’s)

www.saborlatinoweston.com With the challenging economic times, more and more individuals are returning to the work place. Are you looking for a new job, or just trying to stay competitive in the job market? You might want to consider having a facelift. A facelift can take years away by improving the appearance of the nasal labial folds and jowls. This rejuvenating procedure will give you a more youthful look that matches how you feel inside. Or maybe you just need an eyelid lift. A blepharoplasty will take away that tired look and leave you looking refreshed and vibrant. Not ready for surgery? Think about a liquid facelift, where Botox and injectable fillers are used to restore volume in the face lost with aging and sun damage and decrease the lines and wrinkles around the cheeks and mouth. Noninvasive fractional laser resurfacing is another way to diminish fine lines, wrinkles, and improve skin pigmentation to make you look and feel your best. Skin tightening can also be achieved through other advanced, non-invasive laser techniques. If these procedures are not in your budget, you can still benefit from advanced techniques and skin rejuvenation through our medically supervised skin care program. At the Weston Cosmetic Surgery Center, our experienced skin care specialists, under my direction, perform superficial chemical peels, facials, and gentle crystal-free microdermabrasion to enhance and rejuvenate your skin. There is minimal downtime with these treatments and you will see an improvement in your skin texture and tone after one or two treatments. We also offer an individualized skin care regimen which you can continue at home including Obagi, TNS SkinMedica and Vivité, to name a few. There is no excuse today to not do something for yourself to improve your appearance. Give yourself a gift of beauty and confidence today. 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, call 954-659-7760.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

A More Beautiful You. vALENTiNE'S DAY SpECiALS: • 20% off Botox® and Dysport® • $500.00 for one syringe of Juvéderm® or Restylane® • Now offering JUvÉDERM vOLUMA™ XC

• Facial Rejuvenation • Brow Lift • Eyes, Nose & Lips • Ultrasonic Liposuction

• Breast Enhancements (Enlarge, Reduce & Lift) • Body Contouring • Tummy Tucks

• Liquid Facelift • Cosmetic Labiaplasty • Laser Hair Removal • BOTOX® Cosmetic

• Dysport® • Facial Laser Rejuvenation

SpECiALizED SkiN CARE Weston Medical & Professional Campus 2823 Executive Park Drive

954.659.7760 www.westoncosmeticsurgery.com Charles A. Messa, III, M.D. Board Certified by The American Board Of Plastic Surgery Financing Available Se Habla Español 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

School News

Sagemont Continues to Expand Successful Music Program By Stacey Bomser

rom classical music to classic

rock, music students at The Sagemont School have the unique opportunity to study all genres. The school enhanced its award-winning music program this year with the addition of Rock Band and AP Music Theory courses. With a state-of-theart Visual & Performing Arts Center set to open in August, there is truly no limit to what the school’s talented young musicians can accomplish. Music teacher Jessica Gronberg says Sagemont is fortunate to have some of the most gifted and recognized musicians not only in the district but in the state. “We had several students last year that were recognized individually for their efforts at District Solo and Ensemble Assessment, with many receiving a Superior (top) rating. Two of these students were recognized at the State Level – a first for Sagemont. In addition, we had several students who were selected for the Broward All-County Honors Band and three students in the last two years who were recognized and selected for the Florida All-State Ensembles.” Gronberg, who teaches band, concert band, jazz band and percussion ensemble, says she is proud of her students’ accomplishments. “My educational philosophy has always been ‘higher expectations foster higher outcomes.’ These students have truly risen and continue to delight their audiences showcasing all of their fine efforts – their diligence, perseverance, dedication and commitment to truly make the music more than the black and white notes that they see on the page.” In order to allow these young musicians to thoroughly pursue their interest and expand their artistry, Sagemont introduced an Advance Placement course in music theory this year. “This course has truly allowed for a select group of students the opportunity to learn more in-depth about elements of music, which in turn, adds to their musicianship and musical understanding as they perform,” explains Gronberg. Recognizing that not every musician is interested in concert or symphonic bands, Sagemont introduced a Rock Band course this year taught by professional musician and educator Matthew Goldberg. He developed his “Rock School” program almost by accident. Goldberg performs with the local band Stirling Road. He says when his students (at another school) learned that he was in a rock band they were excited about it. “I thought to myself, ‘Why can’t the students have their very own rock band too?’” The program grew from there. This is the first year it’s been offered at The Sagemont School. Goldberg says he is thrilled that Sagemont had the vision to add

Top: Serene Shehadeh, Matthew Goldberg, Connor Hatch, Hannah Padron and Kirk Meyers of Sagemont Synergy. Center: Serene Shehadeh, Rachael Kfare, Danella Moncaliano, Alex Wasserman, Jessica Elalouf, Amanda Jimenez, Ilan Timerman, Rebecca Jordan, David Paradela, Jessica Jordan, Connor Hatch and Christie Brezault of Sagemont Synergy Bottom: The Sagemont Concert Band at the Spring Concert.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

his Rock School program to its performing arts curriculum. “There are so many students who love music that don’t have a place in their schools. They are rock ‘n rollers. They excel at piano or guitar. They can sing Def Leppard or The Doors. There should be a place for them too. After all, this is the music we all listen to in our cars, at the gym and to simply relax.” From classic rock to pop, Goldberg introduces his Rock Band students to a wide array of music. “I am rooted in many forms of music including pop, rock, blues, jazz, classical and try to give my students a little bit of everything from Bach to Bon Jovi, Mozart to Maroon 5, and Beethoven to Buddy Guy. You have to remain current and stay in touch with what inspires the students of today. ” Goldberg says he tries to teach his Rock Band students music that is full of positive, anthemic messages such as Journey’s Don’t Stop Believin’, Katy Perry’s Roar and Bon Jovi’s Livin’ On A Prayer. Although it’s only been a few months since the school’s rock band, Sagemont Synergy, was formed, it has already made its public debut. Sagemont Synergy performed before a crowd of over 20,000 people at the Dan Marino Walkabout for Autism event at Sunlife Stadium in January. Goldberg’s hope is that the band will continue to use the power of music to do great things in the community. “Nothing feels better than helping others,” he states. “Once these students see how their passion for music can help or inspire others, they will be changed forever.” Goldberg hopes this Rock Band class will inspire passion in young musicians. “I remember in my early years as a high school musician trying to perfect the Bon Jovi song Wanted Dead or Alive and getting so easily frustrated. Years later, after performing Wanted with the actual band, I could only feel pride in my accomplishment and truly saw my musical quest come full circle. Today, when I see my students’ faces light up after finishing a new song, it’s as good as when I played with Bon Jovi. It’s truly an honor to be part of my students’ musical journey.” Both Goldberg and Gronberg say they look forward to continuing to expand Sagemont’s incredible music program, both in terms of classes and facilities. The new Performing & Visual Arts building will feature classrooms and a performance hall specifically designed to meet the needs of Sagemont’s growing music program. “My goals for the program are to continue progressing, moving forward, not only in numbers, but in what the program has to offer each and every student and their talents – only further demonstrating what The Sagemont School has to offer,” states Gronberg.

2506 Bay Isle Drive Weston Hills Country Club

Av ai la bl e

Under Contract

C lo se d

Available

210 SW 67th Terrace South Broward Ranches

2648 Miller Court Weston Hills Country Club

Sold in 30 Days! guaranteeD!!! Or we will buy your home!

Av ai la bl e

Av ai la bl e n ew

n ew

Lis tin g

Available

New Listing

Under Contract

2575 Jardin Drive Weston Hills Country Club

216 LaCosta Circle Bonaventure

2473 Bay Isle Court

2706 Edgewater Court Weston Hills Country Club

We urgentLY neeD LIStIngS tO SeLL nOW! We HaVe BuYerS WaItIng! PLeaSe CaLL Or eMaIL tODaY

Available

Closed

C Un on d tra er ct

Av ai la bl e

2427 Deer Creek Road Weston Hills Country Club

3847 Crestwood Circle New Listing

David & Dorothy Eiglarsh Realtors

The Eiglarsh Team 954.453.2020

2625 Weston Road, Weston, FL 33331 • info@eiglarsh.com • www.CityOfWeston.com

School News

Hour of Code Campaign Exposes Students to Computer Programming Skills By Stacey Bomser

everal Weston elementary schools were among the thou -

sands of schools nationwide that took part in Hour of Code. The aim of the weeklong program was to have 10 million students experience one hour of computer science in school in order to increase students’ interest in computer science and code writing as future career paths. Computer science is a top paying college degree and computer programming jobs are growing at two-times the national average. According to the Bureau of

Gator Run Students Collaborate for Coding

Gator Run Elementary School embraced Hour of Code with every classroom from kindergarten through fifth grade participating, and additional time devoted during Technology and Science specials. “We believe every student should receive computer science instruction and learn basic programming in elementary school,” states Assistant Principal Cyndi Felton. “When students learn to code they are also expanding critical thinking skills.” The school utilized tutorials provided by Code.org. These tutorials included online activities, apps and even some “unplugged” coding activities. Ms. Felton says some of the students downloaded the coding apps to their own personal devices or participated online from home. “Students learned how to Nicole Tomc, Valeria Guerra, and Angelica sequence commands, identify Chacin from Ms. Clabby’s kindergarten class at Gator Run are all smiles after patterns, use procedures and completing an Hour of Code activity. utilize loops,” explains Ms. Felton. “Many of these activities included ‘drag and drop’ programming which allowed students to create a list of directions and then watch it play out on the screen. When their lines of code did not execute the expected actions, students worked collaboratively to revise their sequence of commands. It was amazing to see the enthusiasm and the problem solving that took place in the classrooms.” Principal Keith Peters says he was particularly pleased to see the students working together to solve problems. “Students learned the importance of collaborating and the need for resilience as you make attempts on the path to true learning.” Allison Rivera, Jin Kwon and Sophia Rivera Of course for the from Lynn Mitchel’s fourth grade class at Gator Run work together on a coding activity. students, Hour of Code was just plain fun. Third grader Jenna Rule says it was awesome, while classmate Nicolas Soto said he found it fun and complicated at the same time. Fourth grader Alex Daniels found it somewhat challenging. “I had a great time because coding wasn’t like a video game, it was a thinking game where I had to actually use my brain to figure out the answers. First grader Angela Gais says she liked learning how to control the computer. “Watching the Fuzzy do what I said was neat!” Ms. Felton says Hour of Code was so popular and successful, many Gator Run classrooms have continued beyond the international week of coding. “We hope this leads to coding becoming an embedded part of our curriculum.”

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Labor Statistics and National Science Foundation, by 2020 there will be one million more jobs than students entering the field. More than 200 schools in Broward County took part in a variety of “coding” lessons. “We must prepare our students to succeed in college and careers,” states Superintendent Robert Runcie. “By exposing our students to computer science and coding, students are more informed about the many options they have for their future.”

Indian Trace Students Get Creative with Coding

Students at Indian Trace Elementary also took part in Hour of Code. They gained an understanding of what computer programming is, they created codes for completing a task, and worked collaboratively to create code. “In this digital time, it is as important for students to learn to write code as it is to learn to write stories,” explains Principal Amy Winder. “There are so many future programming jobs that will be unfilled if our children don’t learn this important skill.” Principal Winder says students took part in a variety of plugged (using laptops, promethean boards and personal handheld devices) and unplugged (non-electronic) activities. Throughout the many activities, students learned how to convert real world Indian Trace third grade students activities into instrucstrategize as they write code. tions, gained practice coding instructions with symbols, and gained an understanding for the need for precision coding. One of the most popular activities had students work in small groups to create stacked cup formations. They then had to write code to program “robots” (other students, or in one case Principal Winder) to re-create the cup formation. Using an image of the stacked cups, the students wrote an algorithm for how the robot should build the selected stack. The robots followed the arrows to complete the task. “The hour of code exposed students to a new form of problem-solving,” explains fifth grade teacher Stacey Strawder, who served as Indian Trace first graders take turns with a coding leader training the “plugged” tutorial on the promethean board. other teachers. “It was amazing to hear and see the students adapt the language and plan at simple and complex levels. I believe that coding will give curious minds opportunities to develop and extend thinking.” The students definitely enjoyed learning to use computer code creatively. Fifth grader Kamelya Atesnak liked being able to move objects and make real models, while classmate Joshua Wicklein said “Coding lets me create and build things on my own and the way that I want it.” Principal Winder says many teachers are continuing the coding lessons and activities. “We are also kicking off coding clubs for students after school and are planning a family Hour of Code for an evening this spring.”

TDD Travel Camp – Ages 4-10 Years Camp TDD – Ages 14 mos (walking) - 3 years

We’ve Got the Ball Rolling for Camp TDD Refer w ne a friendp and to cam a $50 receive Credit! Camp

Early Bird Camp Registration 1/17-2/28, 2014! Register now and Save $$$!

New NON T !!! RA Progra VEL m for Pre-K and cabins K

Sports * Water Park * Field Trips For All Travelers * In-House Field Trips * Weekly Shows * Reading * Math * Science Labs * Computer * Hip Hop * Arts N’ Crafts * And More! Temple Dor Dorim

2360 Glades Circle · Weston, FL 33327 · 954-389-1232 · www.dordorim.org Rabbi Norman Lipson · Jodi Cohen, Director · Sheila Woldenberg, Asst. Camp Director

Temple Dor Dorim Early Childhood Center National Award Winning

Now Enrolling for School 2014-2015

New families to our school receive up to $1000 credit voucher

st e h g i H e h t f o One en Kindergarta s e t R s s e n i d Rea in the County

v For children ages 12 months to 5 years old. v Mommy & Me and Transition Classes Available v Beforecare & Aftercare v Summer Camp program to age 10 v Afterschool Enrichment Classes up to Age 8 v Complimentary Temple Membership For ECC Families v Curriculum Includes Spanish, Music and Sports v Hablamos Español

2360 Glades Circle · Weston, FL 33327 · 954-389-1232

www.dordorim.org We Are A Vpk provider

open to the community our city weston | February 2014

School News

Imagine Charter Third Graders Exchange Emails and Cultural Experiences with Global ePals By Stacey Bomser

he internet has opened

up the world to today’s students. With the click of a mouse, students have access to unprecedented volumes of information and teachers are channeling these resources for 21st century learning. Using the epals.com website, students in Linda Gordon’s third grade class at Imagine Charter School at Weston are collaborating and corresponding with students in classrooms around the world. Students are exchanging emails as they learn about their cultural similarities and differences. “I wanted to find a way to introduce my students to the concept that people all over the world have similarities to us and that we all have cultures and lives worth sharing and exploring on equal footing,” explains Mrs. Gordon, who says the idea sparked from a lesson in the Foundations of Global Education course she was taking at FAU. Using the ePals.com website, she connected with teachers at schools in Spain, South Korea and Russia. Her students have been exchanging emails with the students in Barcelona and South Korea, but are Top left: Elliana Gordon and Justin Jackson write letters to their epals in Spain and South Korea. Top right: Eliana Gordon holds a letter and using traditional handwritten letters picture of her ePal from Russia. Bottom Left: Valeria Clamens and Enrique Lanz with their letters from Russia. Bottom right: Sara Suresh and her letter from Russia to correspond with the students in excitement when the package from Russia arrived was fantastic. We had been Tver, Russia, because that school does not have steady access to computers. waiting for almost three weeks for that one in the regular mail.” “All three schools are interested in trading information on culture and tradiIn addition to enhancing the school curriculum, Mrs. Gordon sees the global tions so we are trying to focus our letters on topics that make sense. For example, ePals project as a way of getting students to recognize children in other countries we sent letters about our Thanksgiving holiday to the school in Russia and they as peers and friends. “I hope that I can show students that people are people focused their letters back on their winter holiday season,” explains Mrs. Gordon. wherever they live, whatever their language or culture. I also want to offer them She encourages her students to share information about life in Weston with the perspective that people in other places are strong, capable, interesting, and their international penpals. “Both my students and the students in the other counworthy partners and friends rather than somehow always desperately in need.” tries love to tell about their lives, especially the things they like and dislike about As a teacher, Mrs. Gordon believes one of her greatest responsibilities is teachfood and music and sports,” notes Mrs. Gordon. ing students to be good global citizens. “Certainly being a global citizen does In addition to sharing details about their families and hobbies, the students mean having empathy to those in need and taking whatever steps are possible to write about their schools. “The class in Barcelona used a few phrases that were alleviate suffering which is why I head our Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF drive every unique, so I sent a set of questions to their teacher to inquire about their school year, but that should not be the only worldwide view we offer the students. Global experience along with information about our own school. She liked the idea and is citizens need to have a respect and appreciation for different cultures and people having her class create a PowerPoint to answer my questions.” from the stance of being equals, not superiors.” Mrs. Gordon says the beauty of this project is that in addition to creating It appears her students have learned that lesson. Valentina says having three cultural awareness, it also enhances students’ computer literacy and writing skills. ePals is special “because I get to learn their culture and we all live in the same “As my students prepare to write a letter, we discuss the organization of that letter world and I’m happy for that.” Classmate Justin J. says he’s enjoyed making as well as whatever grammar topic we are covering at that time. When I go to do new friends. “I’ve been writing lots of letters to people in different countries and the final edit of their letter, I have an opportunity to do some one-on-one coaching I’ve been learning people’s likes and dislikes.” Valeria has enjoyed the cultural on each child’s writing level.” exchange as well. “I met kids in Russia, South Korea and Spain. They’re really She says this project fits into the Common Core State Standards for technology cool and love things that I like too.” use and keyboarding. It also reinforces social studies lessons. “In third grade we Mrs. Gordon says the response to the global ePals project has been phenomdo quite a bit of map skills and this has certainly been a place to practice those enal. A few of her colleagues have expressed interest in doing it next year. “I really skills,” adds Mrs. Gordon. have not begun to tap the potential for this project. The site permits collaborative The students in Spain, South Korea and Russia also benefit from this global projects on Wiki pages to be developed between classrooms.” ePals project. According to Mrs. Gordon, the students in the other countries are In addition to the numerous educational opportunities available with ePals, all English Language Learners and are using the letter writing process to develop Mrs. Gordon says she picked this particular website because of its security their English skills and vocabulary, as well as for the cultural exchange. features. All correspondence between students is filtered by both teachers. “I feel Mrs. Gordon says it’s thrilling to see her students so engaged in learning and confident that my students are safely interacting online.” excited to receive their emails. “The hardest part is the waiting for new mail. The

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

School News

Gator Run Third Graders Learn Japanese By Stacey Bomser

Gabriel teaches his “book buddy” how to write in Japanese.

Aerin and Diego greet Superintendent Runcie and School Board Member Laurie Rich Levinson in Japanese.

tudents in Stacey Mahoney ’ s

third grade class at Gator Run Elementary School look forward to Friday. Not because it’s the start of the weekend, but because that’s Tomodachi day. Tomodachi is the Japanese word for friends. Ms. Mahoney’s class is taking part in a distance learning course by the same name. Once a week for one hour, the students learn about Japanese language and culture. The class is taught by a highly experienced and innovative Japanese teacher. Ms. Mahoney says Tomodachi appealed to her because she wanted to expose her students to various forms of learning through the use of technology. The students watch the lessons on a video monitor then complete the exercises in her classroom. So far they have learned where Japan is located, Japanese customs and traditions, Japanese selfintroductions, Japanese greetings, Japanese stories and songs, and Japanese numbers. Not only are Ms. Mahoney’s students learning Japanese, they are now sharing their knowledge with other Gator Run students. “Our class taught a kindergarten class how to bow and to say Japanese greetings during our ‘Book Buddy’ session,” shares Ms. Mahoney, noting that Broward Schools

Superintendent Robert Runcie happened to be at Gator Run that day and was able to see firsthand the exchange of knowledge among students and was highly impressed. As impressive as it is for third graders to be studying Japanese, for these students Tomodachi is simply fun. “My students love the class,” states Ms. Mahoney. “They especially think it is exciting that they can talk to and see another teacher and students from other schools.” Here’s a sampling of what some of her students had to say about the program: ▸▸ “Tomodachi is fun! I learned how to count to 100, describe myself, say my name and my favorite color.” ▸▸ “Ms. Fisher teaches us a lot about Japan and we do fun activities. She teaches us to write and speak Students created Japanese paper Japanese.” dolls and described themselves ▸▸ “I love coming to school on Friday using Japanese language. knowing that I am going to learn something new in Japanese.” ▸▸ “One day I will go to Japan!” Ms. Mahoney is the only teacher at Gator Run enrolled in the Tomodachi pilot program. She says it is nice complement to the regular third grade curriculum. “This program connects to our curriculum and standards through writing, reading, listening/speaking, and connections/comparisons to other cultures.”

February is Dental Health Month!

ating Celebrears 25 Y In n Westo

See what our patients say about us on our website www.WestonPediatricDentist.com

• Infant Dental Evaluations • Preventive Sealants • Digital X-Rays • thE wanD® (Computer assisted local anesthesia)

1040 Weston Rd., Suite 300 Weston, FL 33326

954-384-8888

our city weston | February 2014

School News

Teacher/Author Shares Writing Secrets with Tequesta Trace Students By Stacey Bomser

equesta Trace M iddle School teacher

J. Todd Wilson has a secret life. In addition to teaching eighth grade language arts for almost 20 years, he is also a published author. He used the

release of his latest novel, Spooky, to inspire creativity in middle school students and encourage their interest in writing. During a three-day period, Mr. Wilson held a series of Writer-In-Residence workshops, meeting with the entire student body. “I showed them how I used each step of the writing process to develop my novel and how the steps of the writing process aren’t just for writing an essay – they can be applied to much larger and sometimes even more creative projects.” He’s confident this program will enhance the students’ writing. “So many young people I meet aren’t that excited to write essays,” explains Mr. Wilson. “But showing them for a moment that it doesn’t always have to be so antiquated and boring. I think that greatly helped to inspire them.” Recognizing the importance of strong writing skills for academic success, Mr. Wilson says he tries to incorporate writing into his curriculum through every lesson he teaches. “In essence, there is some form of writing in class every day, from freewriting, brainstorming, making lists, planning, drafting, revising, proofreading, or even analyzing the style of other writers, both published and amateur. The process of writing is always there whether the students in my class realize it or not.”

Many of the students did not realize Mr. Wilson was an author, and not just an English teacher. “The students were generally very excited about meeting me as an author. Some even addressed and approached me as if I was some hot shot writer on the best seller list, like I had accumulated all this power and was rubbing elbows with J.K. Rowling.” During the Writer-In-Residence workshops students were encouraged to ask Mr. Wilson questions about his book and writing process. “Most wanted to know where I got my idea for the book, how long it took me to write it, how I got started, and how many copies I have sold so far.” Spooky is Mr. Wilson’s tenth published book and one of his first in the young adult genre. This book should appeal to teenage readers because the storyline is somewhat similar to that of the popular Hunger Games and Divergent series about a young person defying the odds to survive in a highly disturbed society. In Spooky, a young man wakes up inside a cage, naked and covered in flies, without any memory of how he got there. He slowly pieces together that he is trapped in a warped place run by a wicked regime that captures and annihilates anyone who is considered different.

Spooky is available at http://www.blurb.com/b/4783032-spooky.

When you are ready to start your test preparation College Experts is ready to help. Analytical skills help students succeed in every day classes

Our results speak for themselves!

• Patio Furniture • Gates & Fencing • Automobile Parts • Bikes • Marine Parts

for the perfect finish

www.bullseyepowdercoat.com • bullseyebroward@hotmail.com

call (954) 399-8796

2848 Stirling Rd. · Bay a, Hollywood Fl 33020 56

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

- Talented Instructors - SAT-specific curriculum - Daily Workshops - Practice Tests

Increase your scores by up to 400 points

I want to extend my thanks to you and the entire College Experts staff for helping me achieve what I could have only dreamed of before starting your SAT classes. …. I am proud to report that not only have I achieved my goal, I passed it by more that 150 points, ending with a 2270….with this score, my outlook for colleges is much broader than it was before I took the test. – Gabe C. 5400 S. University Drive #203 ·Davie, FL 33328 954.434.6464 www.collegeexperts.net *SAT is a registered trademark of The College Board, which was not involved in the production of, and does not endorse, this product. PSAT is a registered trademark of The College Board and The National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which were not involved in the production of, and do not endorse, this product. ACT ® is the registered trademark of ACT, Inc. College Experts has no affiliation with ACT, Inc. and College Experts is not approved or endorsed by ACT, Inc.

w Vi s w. i su t u nr s ise o to nl wn i n time a es t .co m

Community News Delivered to 20,000 Homes in Sunrise, FL Your LocaL communitY news magazine!

march 2014

School News

Country Isles Students Show Support for American Troops By Stacey Bomser

everal classes at Country I sles

Elementary sent a little bit of “home” to the brave men and women serving in Afghanistan over the holidays. The school supported the AdoptaPlatoon Soldier Support Effort. This non-profit organization encourages support to deployed soldiers through letters, care packages, pen pal campaigns, and monetary donations. The AdoptaPlatoon idea was suggested during the December School Advisory Council meeting. Michele Knipp, whose son is in third grade, says she was hoping to get one or two classes involved. She was thrilled when eight Country Isles classes decided to participate in the program, with many more families choosing to donate items on their own. Students in the participating classrooms drew pictures and wrote letters to the servicemen and women. Students at Indian Ridge Middle School, where Knipp’s daughter attends school, also wrote letters to the troops. In addition, Country Isles’ families were asked to donate travel-sized shampoos and body soaps, protein bars, candy, playing cards, word search books and other items they felt would be appreciated by the troops. Lisette Diaz’s second grade class participated in the AdoptaPlatoon project. She says she was amazed by her students’ thoughtfulness. “My students understand how difficult it is to be away from family and they wanted to make sure our troops knew we were thinking about them.”

Top Left: Second graders Sydney Sayavong, Samuel Smith, Ana Sofia Chavez and Isabella Crespo. Top right: Soldiers in Afghanistan holding up the stockings they received from AdoptaPlatoon. Bottom left: Students in Lisette Diaz’s 2nd grade class show off the beautiful pictures they made for the troops.

The donations, along with the letters and drawings, were placed into holiday stockings for the soldiers. A corporate sponsor boxed the 178 stockings and shipped them to Afghanistan. The soldiers were thrilled to receive their holiday gifts and posted Instagram photos. “To see these stockings in the hands of men and women so far away was the best gift ever,” shares Knipp. “I hope next year we can find a way to make this effort even bigger.” To learn how you can help support the AdoptaPlatoon Soldier Support Effort visit www.adoptaplatoon.org.

MAth trOubLE? FCAt FCAT

SAt SAT ACt ACT EOC EOC K-COLLEGE K-COLLEGE

MATH TuToring ProfessionAls

CALL 954.275.5355 tutOrinG

OnE-On-OnE

SESSiOnS 58

Specializing in K - college courSeS & all TeST prep.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

•6 w 5 Yeeeks t ars o • Af terc are • Fl K-8 e th Houxible S r c s h d e e 7 am dul • Degre - 6p es Bilingual ers m h c

Spring Break & Summer Camp

Visit our webpage for specials

Tea Certified ecured • Safe / S ff • Gym Drop O na B ounce sium / dent to tu s w House o L • • Med tio ia / Li teacher ra Comp brary / uters

Accreditation

www.PreschoolWeston.com 16098 W. State Road 84, Weston, FL 954.384.4884

Don’t let bladder problems disrupt your life. Find solutions at the Bladder Health Program of South Florida Millions of women experience urinary incontinence without ever seeking medical help. Today, with comprehensive treatments, bladder problems don’t have to disrupt a woman’s life. Many bladder, kidney and pelvic conditions can be successfully managed and even cured. Our specialists draw from innovative procedures and sophisticated technologies that include:

• Minimally invasive robotic laparoscopic surgeries

Simon Weiss, MD • Obstetrics/Gynecology

To learn more, visit Bladder-Health.com or call us US 27

toll-free at 1-855-MHS-4URO (647-4876). Scan to learn more

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL WEST

PINES BOULEVARD

MEMORIAL MANOR

UNIVERSITY DRIVE

• Interstim® and electrical nerve-stimulation therapies

DOUGLAS ROAD

• Biofeedback

• Botox® for overactive bladder relief

FLAMINGO ROAD

• Bladder retraining

I-75

• Prescription medications

• Bulking agent injections for incontinence prevention

SW 160TH AVENUE

• Pelvic floor strengthening and repair

• Sling and transvaginal tape procedures

OUR BOARD-CERTIFIED PHYSICIANS Angelo Gousse, MD, Medical Director • Urology Dwight Benjamin, MD • Obstetrics/Gynecology Ladynez Espinal, MD • Obstetrics/Gynecology Maury Jayson, MD • Urology Eliecer Kurzer, MD • Urology Hoa Nguyen, MD • Gynecologic Oncology Jorge Martin, MD • Obstetrics/Gynecology Miguel Martinez, MD • Obstetrics/Gynecology Jonathan Masel, MD • Urology Karen Nishida, MD • Gynecologic Oncology Jose Rivas, MD • Obstetrics/Gynecology Emery Salom, MD • Gynecologic Oncology Michael Simon, MD • Urology Jacob Tangir, MD • Gynecologic Oncology

SW 172ND AVENUE

• Physical therapies

at Memorial Hospital Miramar

PEMBROKE ROAD MIRAMAR PARKWAY IVES DAIRY ROAD

1901 Southwest 172 Avenue, Miramar, Florida 33029 | MemorialMiramar.com

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL MIRAMAR

MIAMI GARDENS DRIVE

1/14

Health & Wellness

BY KENNETH N. WOLINER, M.D., A.B.F.M.

Could you have a slow metabolism? “I was always skinny

but … now I don’t even recognize myself.” Jennifer pulled out some old college pictures from her purse. “See! This is what I used to look like!” I nodded empathetically, realizing that Jennifer couldn’t believe what happened to her body, and she worried that no one else would believe it either. “You looked pretty athletic. Let me guess, tennis?” “I was varsity at Radcliffe. I still play six days a week.” Jennifer continued, “Anyhow, you wouldn’t know it from looking at me. Ever since I had David eleven years ago, I’ve been gaining almost ten pounds every year.” “Hmmm, your symptoms sound a lot like POSTPARTUM HASHIMOTO’S THYROIDITIS, where something related to pregnancy causes women to need more thyroid hormones than they can make on their own [1]”. “They actually tested me for that. My doctors always told me my tests were normal.” “There is a difference in having labs ‘in the reference range’ and having an ‘optimal thyroid state’. Dr. Leslie DeGroot, of Brown’s Alpert Medical School, described the ‘Dangerous Dogmas in Medicine’ as they relate to treatment of thyroid disorders [2]. Unfortunately, there are quite a few doctors out there that rely highly upon the gospel they were taught twenty years ago, without paying enough attention to new data, or their patient’s clinical symptoms.” I continued taking my history. “So what have you tried to lose weight?” “My diet was always pretty clean, so even when I tried going ‘low-carb’ or ‘low-fat’, it didn’t seem to make any difference. One health spa in Brazil cut me down to 300 Calories a day and had me exercise all day. I didn’t lose a pound!” Jennifer blushed a bit, “I’m ashamed to admit it, but I fall for whatever the latest diet fad that promises ’30 pounds in 30 days!’ [3]” “I’m glad you’ve realized that these bogus diet clinics should really say, ‘I lost $350 in two weeks! Ask me how!’ [4]” “It was worse than that. One diet clinic sold me ‘vitamin supplements’ from their office pharmacy, but they really contained amphetamines, diuretics, laxatives, and other stuff I still don’t know what was in them. I had the worst palpitations, headaches and I couldn’t sleep through the night [5]. My primary had to put me on anti-depressants for six months to handle the withdrawal symptoms after I stopped them.” “I’m glad you survived that ordeal, but honestly, you got off lucky. Crash diets are known to cause hair loss (sometimes permanent), muscle weakness, and potentially fatal heart arrhythmias [6]. The latest diet craze, the ‘HCG Diet’, is nothing new; it was debunked back in the 1970’s as a fraudulent scheme by doctors to exploit their patients for financial gain [7]. Just last October, the Texas Attorney General forced hCG clinics in that state to stop defrauding patients with their unethical marketing tactics [8].” “Well, I’ve finally decided to make my health a priority. I checked you out on www. vitals.com, so I know you are board-certified and legit. So what are you going to do for me?” “I scheduled 80-minutes with you today, so I have plenty of time to do a complete

history and physical exam. There are some tests I would like done to pin down exactly what is going on with your metabolism. Untreated thyroid disorders can lead to prediabetes, and that can also lead to weight gain [9].” Jennifer did test positive for hypothyroidism and insulin resistance, as well as a low metabolic rate measured by indirect calorimetry [10]. After being put on a regimen of behavior changes, diet, exercise, OTC supplements, and prescription medications, steadily, but surely, her weight decreased an average of two pounds per week until she lost the 60 pounds she put on over the last ten years. “Dr. Woliner, ever since you fixed my metabolism, I’m not hungry anymore. Really, I don’t even feel like I’m on a diet. I just eat normally.” REFERENCES: 1. Galofré JC, et al. Increased postpartum thyroxine replacement in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Thyroid. 2010 Aug;20(8):901-8. 2. De Groot LJ. Dangerous dogmas in medicine: the nonthyroidal illness syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1999 Jan;84(1):151-64. 3. I’m confused by the numbers of fad diets available that tout great weight loss. Are there any basic, simple weight loss strategies I can follow? Duke Med Health News. 2011 Jul;17(7):8. 4. Federal Trade Commission. “Red Flag Bogus Weight Loss Claims” Washington DC. 2003. http://www.ahpa.org/Portals/0/pdfs/03_FTC_Media%20Guide_redflag.pdf 5. Smith BR, Cohen PA. Dependence on the Brazilian diet pill: a case report. Am J Addict. 2010 May-Jun;19(3):291-2. 6. Goette DK, Odom RB. Alopecia in crash dieters. JAMA. 1976 Jun 14;235(24):2622-3. 7. Robb-Nicholson C. By the way, doctor. I’ve been trying to lose weight for a long time and nothing seems to work. What do you know about the HCG diet? Harv Womens Health Watch. 2010 May;17(9):8. 8. Texas Attorney General. Multiple Texas Weight-Loss Clinics Agree To Stop Marketing Prescription Drugs Improperly. October 27, 2011. https://www.oag.state.tx.us/ oagnews/release.php?id=3883 9. Liu C, Scherbaum WA, Schott M, Schinner S. Subclinical hypothyroidism and the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome. Horm Metab Res. 2011 Jun;43(6):417-21. 10. Perseghin G. Pathogenesis of obesity and diabetes mellitus: insights provided by indirect calorimetry in humans. Acta Diabetol. 2001;38(1):7-21.

Dr. Kenneth Woliner is a board-certified family medicine physician In private practice in Boca Raton. He can be reached at: Holistic Family Medicine; 9325 Glades Road, #104, Boca Raton, FL 33434; 561-314-0950; knw6@cornell.edu; www.holisticfamilymed.com

Specializing in “Difficult-to-treat” Conditions • • • • • • 44

February 2014

Hypothyroidism Fibromyalgia Menopause Chronic Fatigue Depression / Anxiety Weight Gain

Kenneth N. Woliner, M.D. 561-314-0950 www.holisticfamilymed.com 9325 Glades Road Suite #104 Boca Raton, Florida 33434

To Advertise in Coral Springs and Parkland City News, Please call 954-255-5226

www.CoralSpringsCityNews.com

School News

The Show Must Go On for Everglades Elementary Fifth Graders By Stacey Bomser

The Cratchit family shares a song together.

97 fifth graders took part in Everglades Elementary Drama Workshop’s production of Scrooge’s Winter Adventure.

round of applause for all the fifth graders who partici -

pated in Everglades Elementary School’s production of Scrooge’s Winter Adventure. Each year Music Teacher Becky Berry invites those students interested in the performing arts to join the Drama Workshop. This year there are 97 members who commit to weekly rehearsals to present a winter and spring musical. “Drama Workshop is not an afterschool club, but rather a musical extension of the students’ day,” explains Mrs. Berry. “These students volunteer their time and talents to be part of a very dedicated cast. They get to experience the dramatic musical arts through fun-filled stage performances. Using music, drama, costumes, choreography, and scenery, students feel the excitement of being part of a live staged musical presentation.” Everglades Elementary also has a unique opportunity for students to work as part of a supportive technical team behind the scenes. These students ensure performances run smoothly using enhanced lighting, audio technology, and assisting

The Ghost of Jacob Marley appears at the home of Ebenezer Scrooge.

with props and scenery. According to Mrs. Berry, “Our Stage Crew is a rotating team of eleven fifth grade students who assist with performances at all grade levels during the school year. Six students on the team helped with technical production of Scrooge’s Winter Adventure.” This elaborate production required seven scene and set changes. Mrs. Berry credits parent volunteers for helping with the detailed sets and colorful costumes. When selecting shows she says she looks for musicals that offer a wide range of roles. “As many students as possible are awarded speaking, singing, dancing and card carrier roles, depending upon the need in each musical play we perform. I often create additional parts in order to afford more students opportunities to perform.” The Drama Workshop will soon begin rehearsals for its spring production, which will be presented in May. The title has not yet been announced. The Weston community is welcome to attend the performance.

Humberto’s

Shoe & Luggage Repair All Types of RepAiRs

shoes · Bags · purses · saddles leather Goods · shoe Dyeing All sneaker Brands Jackets · Golf Bags professional fine Bags Repaired

CloThinG AlTeRATions While you WAiT (when possible)

We are not just a simple alteration shop. humberto’s is a very professional alteration shop. our seamstress staff has over 50 years experience on all types of clothing Men, Women, Children, Wedding Gowns, etc. 5 TAiloRs on DuTy, no AppoinTMenT neCessARy.

suiT AlTeRATion is ouR expeRTise Men • WoMen • Kids

954.430.2253 15963 Pines Blvd. Pembroke Pines, FL 33027

(corner of Pines & Dykes Rd., near Regal Cinema)

Open Mon-Fri 8am - 7pm Sat 9am - 4pm

Confidence

is the ultimate

school supply. 1 free Knife sharpened

(no service required)

20% off incoming orders No Exceptions. When You Prepay. No Limit. Not valid with other offers. With this coupon. Exp. 02/28/14. OCW

Whether your child is at the head of the class or needs a little help, Kumon provides the perfect foundation for the coming school year.

Schedule your free placement test now at Kumon Math & Reading of Weston - Saddle Club Road 16662 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, FL 33326

954.217.0480 • kumon.com/weston

We noW Do eMBRoiDeRy!

Let Us Personalize Your Clothing & Items.

YoU Name It We do It!

kumon.com 1-800-ABC-MATH

our city weston | February 2014

Mr. Wireman Your local electrician. On time. Everytime.

ask the expert

Sorting our Way Through the “Menopause Maze.” By Dr. Michele Lapayowker D.O., FACOOG

Mr. Wireman

Yourlocal localelectrician. electrician. Your

On time. Everytime.

www.mrwireman.com

Limited Time Only

• $99 for $199 of electrical work • $99 Electrical Home Inspection • $50 OFF Whole House Surge Protector

For all your electrical needs... Over 30 years experience...

Highest Quality Work!

954-765-6685 www.mrwireman.com

orties and Fabulous! We are all starting to

experience the wonders of the infamous “change of life”. What is menopause vs. post menopause vs. peri menopause? I am asked this question several times a day. Women begin to have changes in their menstrual cycle as early as in their late 30’s through their mid fifties. It is important to remember that this is different for every woman, and most importantly, a natural process. Women will frequently experience changes in their menstruation pattern, skipping cycles, bleeding more frequently, heavier or longer, and “hot flashes” or some type of temperature change. I often hear complaints of difficulty sleeping, maintaining their weight, an increase in premenstrual irritability and bloating. Many women also have questions regarding a decreased libido or desire for sex despite being in a loving and stable relationship. They complain of vaginal dryness, dry skin and thinning hair. The good news is, there are many options for women to regain their balance and improve these symptoms. While we cannot always reverse all of these symptoms, many of them can be improved and truly benefit a changing woman’s quality of life. The terms used to describe this period of change that women go through are defined generally as the transition or the menopause. The definition of menopause is a label used for a woman who has had no cycles for 12 months barring other medical issues. The average age of the menopausal woman is 51 years old. The term perimenopause refers to the 10 years prior to this point when a woman experiences many signs and symptoms. The most important part of my conversation with a woman who falls into this category is to reassure them that this is both a normal and natural process and they are likely not exaggerating their complaints. Every woman experiences this period of their lives differently. Some women may feel extreme symptoms and others may breeze through this time without noticing much change. Our ovaries are simply not producing the same levels of hormone that they did in our twenties and thirties. At the same time, women must understand that many but not all symptoms can be improved or eliminated and it takes time to see if the interventions will be effective. Believe it or not, adopting a healthy lifestyle with good nutrition, exercise and stress management is truly the first line for every woman’s defense. We then discuss proper supplementation, and the topic of hormone replacement therapy. Hormone Replacement Therapy refers to giving a synthetically or bio-identical version of the hormones that our body is no longer producing regularly. HRT deserves a formal conversation with the details of all the risks and benefits. The first step every woman should take is to have her full annual exam including a detailed medical history, physical exam, pap screening, mammogram and if indicated, a bone density exam. I then recommend baseline hormone screening with any other pertinent lab work and a visit to review all. We can then address each patient’s concerns and together create a plan to make our way through the “ menopause maze.” Dr. Michele Lapayowker is a Board certified Gynecologist serving women in Broward since 1995. Her Plantation Office is in the Bennett Medical Plaza at 201 NW 82nd Ave, Suite 104, Plantation, Fl., 33324. For more information or to make an appointment, you can phone her office at 954-472-2201 or visit them online at www.LovelyladyGyn.com

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

School News

Explorers Program Teaches Police Procedures By Stacey Bomser

eston ’ s L aw E nforcement E xplorers Program is ideal for

students interesting in exploring a possible career in law enforcement. Post 44 is one of seven Broward Sheriff’s Office Explorers posts. It meets at Tequesta Trace Middle School every Thursday night under the guidance of Deputy Kevin Maccagli, the school’s resource officer. Although it is a student-run program, Deputy Maccagli advises and guides the students while teaching them basic skills of law enforcement, trying to keep the lessons in line with what police officers deal with on a day to day basis. “Basically, they learn the skills to serve the community and its citizens in a positive manner.” Explorers receive a wide variety of training including patrol procedures, traffic stops, report writing, Florida law and arrest procedures, and self-defense. Many of these lessons are taught through practice scenarios. This also happens to be how Explorers are tested on their skills. During competition teams are given a scenario and have to work through it. To prepare, Deputy Maccagli teaches his Explorers that every situation is different. “You need to take in the totality of the situation and go from there. You also need to know which laws apply.” Post 44, which is only two years old, won 2nd place in the “In Progress” burglary scenario at the 6th Annual Learning for Life Regional Competition a few months ago. It was the post’s first Deputy Maccagli and some of the BSO Explorers volunteer at competition. the Weston Bike Rodeo.

Deputy Maccagli says he was impressed by his team’s performance. “We went into the competition with no expectations for awards. I just wanted them to have fun, learn something new and make new friends.” In addition to laws and police procedures, Explorers learn the role law enforcement plays in the community. Post 44 volunteers at many Weston events including the annual Rotary Run For Tomorrow, Relay For Life, and YMCA Family Fun Day. Members also help the Broward Sheriff’s Office with community outreach, including participation in the annual Winter Safety Expo. The BSO Law Enforcement Explorers program works with teens and young adults (ages 14-21), allowExplorers are trained in law ing them to interact with law enforcement and other enforcement techniques, but community advisors in a serious, regimented atmodo not use real weapons. sphere under the guidance of certified BSO deputies. For students interested in a career in fire rescue and emergency services, BSO offers a Fire Rescue Explorers program. This program features training in fire suppression, first aid and CPR, apparatus use, emergency medical response, mitigation of hazardous materials and other areas. Fire Rescue Explorers can experience the responsibilities of first responders through the Ride-Along program as they accompany fire fighters and paramedics on actual emergency calls. For detailed information on the BSO Law Enforcement Explorers program or to download an application visit www.sheriff.org/about_bso/dle/explorers/index.cfm.

• New Location • I am pleased to announce the opening of my new office in

Plantation to care for you!

• Well Woman Exams, including pap smears & breast exams • Adolescent Counseling and “First” Exams • Contraception Planning including Skyla, Mirena, Paraguard & Nexplanon • Menstrual Problems and Management • Perimenopause, Menopause and Hormone Evaluation & Management • Basic Nutrition and Lifestyle Counseling

Dr. Michele J. Lapayowker Board Certified GyneColGy

Bennett Medical Plaza

201 NW 82nd Avenue | Suite 104 | Plantation, FL 33324 954.472.2201 | www.LovelyLadyGyn.com our city weston | February 2014

Legally Speaking

Most Common Mistakes by Homeowners Attempting to Obtain a Loan Modification By Omar J. Arcia, Esq. Foreclosure Defense and Consumer Bankruptcy Protection Attorney

s a result of various nationwide class actions and lawsuits

filed against mortgage companies by private individuals and government agencies, lenders have become more receptive and willing to assist homeowners in modifying their loans. However, lenders have also become more demanding of certain documentation to support loan modification requests. These are the most common mistakes we’ve seen homeowners make when processing a loan modification on their own. Provide Too Much Information. Most Homeowners believe that the more information they provide to their lender about their finances, the more likely their loan modification will be approved. Just the opposite is true. Most lenders are looking for specific information regarding a homeowner’s income and expenses, specific reasons to support a financial hardship for a loan modification, and they require a specific order and timeframe to submit the required documents. Overwhelming your lender with the same unnecessary documents time and time again will only place your file farther back in line for consideration. The Arcia Law Firm has represented homeowners that have been trying to modify their home loan for years, and within less than 30 days after retaining the Firm and submitting the appropriate documents, a loan modification is achieved. Refusing to Seek Legal Assistance. We have counseled hundreds of clients in mortgage related cases through the years, and the most significant mistake that homeowners make is to wait until the last minute to hire a knowledgeable and experienced attorney. Many homeowners think that they can easily defend themselves in a foreclosure proceeding, process their own loan modification, and save their home. However, some of the legal defenses to a foreclosure are highly technical, constantly changing, and require specialized knowledge. The attorneys representing banks and the judges overseeing in these cases are primarily interested in achieving an end result -- obtaining a final judgment of foreclosure, sale of the property at a public auction and closing the case. In more simple terms, this means you are out of your home before you can finish your loan modification negotiations. The key to prevent this end result is for every homeowner either in foreclosure or at risk of foreclosure, to stop playing “Russian Roulette” with their family home, and immediately hire a highly qualified law firm to assist them. The attorneys at the Arcia Law Firm have more than 40 years combined legal experience, and we are privileged to successfully represent hundreds of homeowners in our community with foreclosure defense and bankruptcy cases. If you are struggling to make your monthly mortgage payments, if you are in the middle of a frustrating loan modification process, or if you just received a foreclosure summons, contact the Arcia Law Firm today at 954-437-9066 to schedule a free consultation, or visit www.arcialawfirm.com to schedule your appointment online. Detailed explanations of different options available to homeowners are also discussed in a new DVD developed by the Arcia Law Firm entitled “Fight For Your Home.” If you mention that you heard about the DVD through this magazine, you will receive a complimentary copy during your free consultation to discuss your case in detail with a member of our highly experienced and determined legal team. Contact the Arcia Law Firm at 954-437-9066 to schedule your free consultation. You may also visit www. arcialawfirm.com for more information about the Firm, our staff and credentials, detailed articles, informative videos, and to make your appointment online.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Tee to green

What To Do When Faced With Playing Difficult Lies

Restore the Beauty of Your Wood Floors • without sanding •

Dust FRee and Done in 1 Day!

By Dean Sklar, PGA Professional

an uneven lie has always been one of the most difficult shots to learn. The reason it is difficult is because you need to change the angle of your shoulders to match the angle of the ground you are hitting from. There are four types of uneven lies: uphill, downhill, and two sidehill lies. The easiest of the four shots is the uphill lie. Let’s start here. Most people usually swing the club too vertical and hit the shot fat. To keep this from happening, follow these steps: 1. When you have an uphill lie, the ball flight will be higher and thus the ball will not go as far. Use a less lofted club to compensate. 2. The ball will naturally hook slightly to the left. Aim a little to the right of your target. 3. Your shoulder alignment should be parallel to the ground. Your back shoulder should be lower than your front. Swinging on the same plain as the ground will help you avoid hitting the shot fat. 4. Make sure your follow-through finishes high. A high follow-through will help complete the swing. The downhill lie is one of the more difficult shots. Most people have a tendency to struggle with this shot, and usually top the ball. To help fix this problem, follow these steps: 1. The ball will naturally fly lower; take a more lofted club to help the ball go higher. 2. The ball will have a tendency to move to the right; aim slightly to the left of your target. 3. Make sure your shoulders are tilted down the slope, parallel with the ground. This will help the club swing down to the ball. If you swing flat, you will top the ball. 4. Play the ball slightly behind the center of your stance. 5. Follow through low to the ground after impact. The sidehill lie (ball above your feet) is one of the easier shots, however some people have a tendency to hit the ball fat. To help fix this problem, follow these steps: 1. Make sure you are standing a little more upright than you are used to. 2. The ball will naturally tend to fly to the left; aim a little to the right of your target line. 3. Since you are standing more upright, the club will want to swing around you more. That is exactly what you want. Now for the last and most difficult shot – the sidehill lie (ball below your feet). Most people will top the ball and push it to the right. Some people will outright miss the ball. Here is how you fix this shot: 1. Make sure your knees are bent a little more to compensate for the difference in ground elevation. 2. The ball will naturally tend to fly to the right; aim a little to the left of your target line. 3. Since your knees are flexed more, the club will want to swing upright. That is exactly what you want. If you swing the club normally you will miss the ball. Hopefully with these tips you will go out and enjoy your next round of golf, no matter what type of lie you are hitting from. PGA Professional Dean Sklar is a member of the Quarter Century Club of the PGA of America, an elite group of members who have served the PGA with honor and pride for 25 years. If you would like to talk to Dean about your golf game, contact him at Dean.Sklar@FloridaMoves.com or at the Rose and Dean Sklar Real Estate Group at Coldwell Banker, 1760 Bell Tower Lane in Weston, (954) 389-6197 or on Dean’s cell at (954) 298-3616. Visit him online at www.WestonFloridaUSA.com.

Got News?

FRe

itting the ball off

e eS

tiM

ate

Concrete, Staining & Coatings

Wood Floors

$50 OFF

Give us a call and enjoy the strength, durability, easy maintenance and beauty that our products provide.

Standard floor renewal package. With this flyer only. Offer expires February 28, 2014

Se Habla español

Retail • Residential • Commercial

Movaro Group Services, LLC. 15970 West State Road 84, Sunrise, FL 33326

954.882.6205 www.floorhero.com

* For more than 750 Sq. ft. Regular price $1.29 Sq. ft.

eal R e

LunCh SPeCIALS FROm

Dine-In

Take-Out

$6.95

Delivery

954.385.3688

www.SushiTomWeston.com Indian Trace Shopping Plaza 1396 SW 160 Avenue, Suite 4, Weston Gift Certificates | Catering | Party Room Available

10% OFF Your Entire Order

Your Order Over $30.00

$5.00 OFF

Not valid with other offers. Exp. 02/28/14

(Excluding Tax & Gratuity)

email editor@ourcityweston.com

our city weston | February 2014

Tax Talk

Financing Available

For more information: www.GotHairFL.com

Tax Impact for High Income Taxpayers By Jacqueline F. Rodriguez, CPA

Re-grow lost hair the natural way

no slit, no scaRs, no pain. Female Frontal Hair Restoration Before

After

Male Frontal Hair Restoration Before

After

Dr. Nerette specializes in an approved technique, which is minimally invasive, eliminating the use of scalpels and anesthesia. He simply harvests individual hair follicles from the back of the head where hair growth is dominant and carefully re-implants it into the balding or thinning targeted areas, providing a natural redistribution.

954.384.8989 Free CoNsultatioNs Dr. Jean Claude Nerette, D.o.

Board Certified www.GotHairFl.com

2665 Executive Park Drive, Suite 3 Weston, FL 33331 66

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

here are several changes for the 2013 income

tax rules that will impact high income taxpayers. Here is an overview of what you need to know. Additional 39.6% tax bracket (higher) for ordinary income, short-term capital gains and non-qualifying dividends. The new rate begins when taxable income exceeds $225,000 for MFS (Married Filing Separate) filers, $400,000 for single filers, $425,000 for HOH (Head of Household) filers, and $450,000 for MFJ (Married Filing Jointly) filers. Higher tax bracket, 20% for long term capital gains and qualifying dividends. The new rate begins when taxable income exceeds $225,000 for MFS (Married Filing Separate) filers, $400,000 for single filers, $425,000 for HOH (Head of Household) filers, and $450,000 for MFJ (Married Filing Jointly) filers. Additional 3.8% net investment income tax (NIIT) on Net Investment Income (NII). The tax applies if MAGI (Adjusted Gross Income adjusted upward for foreign earned income excluded) exceeds $125,000 for MFS filers, $200,000 for single and HOH filers, and $250,000 for MFJ and Qualifying Widow(er) filers. These thresholds are not adjusted for inflation. The tax (IRC Sec. 1411[a]) is calculated as 3.8% times the lesser of: Net Investment Income or MAGI in excess of the above thresholds. NII includes net gain from property held for investment (stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate, etc.), capital gain distributions from mutual funds, and gross income from dividends, interest, rents, royalties, annuities, and gross income and gains from passive business activities. Additional .9% Medicare tax on earned income (employee’s salary and self-employment income) in excess of the same MAGI thresholds as the 3.8% Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) discussed above. Earned income in excess of these thresholds is subject to the additional .9% (IRC Sec. 1401(b)(2)). Loss of Deductions due to phase-out of exemptions and itemized deductions. The phase-out begins when AGI (Adjusted Gross Income) reaches $150,000 for MFS filers, $250,000 for single filers, $275,000 for HOH filers and $300,000 for MFJ filers. Personal exemptions are reduced by 2% of the amount exceeding the above thresholds and can be totally eliminated. Itemized deductions are reduced 3% of the amount exceeding the above thresholds. The reduction is limited to 80%. Thus, taxpayers can always receive 20% of the deduction. (ATRA of 2012) Even with these changes, there is still room for planning to reduce the above tax impact to high income taxpayers. Jacqueline Rodriguez, CPA, holds a Masters Degree in Science of Taxation and is a member of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants - Weston Chapter. She has more than ten years of experience and concentrates on International Taxation. Her office is located at 2225 N. Commerce Parkway, Suite 4. For more information call (954) 356-2905 or visit www.afsb.net/jfrcpa.

INTRODUCING

ADISPOSE TISSUE REDISTRIBUTION TO GET A LEANER AND TONER SEXY CURVE PHYSIQUE !!

* SPECIAL GIFT FOR HER or HIM 50% OFF

IN ALL bODY CONTOURING PACKAGES Exp. 3/1/14

Skin resurfacing & Tightening * LED Rejuvenation Therapy * RF (Radio Frequency) * Laser Photo Rejuvenation Tightening * RD (Radio Frequency) * Vibration Plates * bariatric Chamber

Lift & Tone * Endermologie * bariatric Chamber

Slimming and Tightening * Ultra Sonic Cavitations * RF (Radio Frequency) * bariatric Chamber

Be Mine

Special $99 Reg. $250 • LED Rejuvination Facial • Aroma Therapy back Massage • Hand & Feet Mask Treatment • Champagne & Strawberries

Couples Retreat Special $300 Reg. $570

• Stone Massage for two • LED Rejuvenation Facial for two • Manicure & Pedicure for two • Champagne & Strawberries

Free E-filing

Tax Planning

U.S. Individual Income Tax Returns

Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification number

Business Income Tax Returns Nonprofit Organizations Tax Returns US Nonresident Alien Income Tax Returns

*A GIFT FOR bOTH Be My Valentine

Special $250 Reg. $400 • Red Rose Petals Body Polish for two • Aroma Therapy Massage for two • Champagne & Strawberries

Together Forever

Special $180 Reg. $250 • Stone Massage for two • Hand & Feet Mask Treatment for two • Champagne & Strawberries

Jacqueline F Rodriguez, CPA JR & Associates Tel. 954 356 2905 Fax 954 337 8346 Email: jfr@cpasweston.com

Application for withholding Certificate for Dispositions by foreign Person of US Real Property Interest

2225 N. Commerce Pkwy Suite 4 Weston, FL 33326 www.afsb.net/jfrcpa

These materials and information should not be considered as, or a substitute for, accounting, tax or financial advice. You should refrain in taking any action based upon the information provided here until you have received proper counsel.

our city weston | February 2014

Let Us Save You Money on Your Homeowners Insurance

Homeowner Premiums as low as

$1750* per year

For Over $300,000 In Coverage Let us also quote your auto

It’s Worth A CALL

954-345-2600 Home • Condo • Flood • Auto Motorcycle • Boat • RV Personal & Business Liability

*Subject to inspections and other discounts.

Positive Parenting

Mending a Broken Heart By Jodi Kurry Cohen, MS.Ed Director of Early Childhood Programs, Temple Dor Dorim

hen I injured myself a few years ago in an

accident, I suffered trauma to my neck and shoulder which I attempted to rehabilitate through avoidance of use, epidural shots and physical therapy. Painstakingly, time passed and when I could no longer bear the suffering, I finally gave in and had surgery. Today, many years later, even though I still have some periodic aches and pains to remind me, I can now look at my faded scars and see how much better I am today then I was yesterday. What I’ve come to learn over time is that a broken heart is much like a chronic ache. Sometimes it’s a dull pain that comes and goes, and other times it’s a scar that whispers to us now and then as if to remind us of the pain we had once endured. This analogy is what helped me to explain heart ache to my child recently when he caught me crying. When I shared with him that I was crying because I missed my grandfather he said he couldn’t understand...why now? My grandfather had been gone for years; I had actually been in high school when he passed away. Something had reminded me of my grandfather and when I used this analogy to explain the ache I was feeling, it allowed my son to make sense of my current state.

Coral Financial Insurance 954-345-2600 9764 W. Sample Road Coral Springs, FL 33065 (East of Runyon’s Restaurant)

I seized the moment as the perfect opportunity to explain to my teenage son that when we suffer the pain that comes with a broken heart, that even though it may seem unbearable at the time, it does eventually get better. This is an important concept for children to understand. Our children, especially teenagers, often have a difficult time seeing beyond the emotions of the moment they are caught in and many times feel that they’ll never get over their heart ache, the pain or that they’ll eventually feel better. For children, heart ache can come in many forms….the loss of a friendship, loss of a relationship or the death of a loved one. Although these are all different types of heart ache they all strike to the core and children can feel like there could be no greater pain and that they could bear no greater suffering. As parents we want to fix heart ache for our children but unfortunately we can’t. What we can do however, is give them the tools to help mend heart ache by discussing emotions with them and taking opportunities to explain the process of healing and how things do eventually get better. Letting your child know how you have experienced pain before like they are feeling, puts it in perspective for them. We can’t go back and change the past and the emotional aches and pains that have had a profound effect on our lives. What we can do is learn to accept them as just that, life changing, and know that the gift of time and human determination will help us move forward to all the other happiness that awaits us in our lives. Jodi Cohen has a Masters Degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education as well as a Bachelors degree in Psychology. Jodi has led many workshops on parenting, behavior modification techniques, curriculum development, special needs training and crisis management. She has been the Director of Temple Dor Dorim’s Early Childhood Center in Weston for the past 15 years. For more information, please contact Ms. Cohen at the Early Childhood Center at (954)389-1232.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Ask the Expert

Timing of Tooth Eruption By Dr. Maria Grosman

ne of the most common anxieties parents

share with us concerns the timing of the eruption of teeth. We are often asked: “When are the first teeth scheduled to enter the mouth?” or “Which is ‘better,’ late vs. early erupting teeth?” The truth of the matter is that although there are published milestones, there is still a normal variation/range that teeth may be expected to erupt. In terms of which is better, there is no real benefit for early or late eruption. However, extreme deviations may cause a practical challenge, as we will discuss. Let’s start with the primary (or “baby”) teeth. The first primary tooth to erupt is usually the lower central incisor between 5-8 months of age. The teeth will then follow the “rule of twos,” which is that two additional teeth will erupt every two months until around 2-2.5 yrs old. There are a total of 20 primary teeth equally divided between upper and lower arches. After the eruption of the lower central incisors, we will see the eruption of the upper central incisors, the lower lateral incisors (as the name suggests, next to the central incisors), followed by the upper lateral incisors. The pattern will continue from the center laterally, with the lower erupting earlier than the upper counterparts.

HealtHy Meal Discover The Benefits of Good Nutrition • Health & Nutrition • Control Your Weight (Lose, Gain, Maintain)

• Enhance Your Energy • Certified Personal Trainer • Positive Results

Health Evaluation

Janai Hernandez

Herbalife Independent Distributor

305.776.0658 | Hablamos español Serving the areas of Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Davie and Surrounding

Italian Restaurant

WESton’S AuthEntic itALiAn REStAuR Ant

Specials: Premature eruption of primary teeth occurs in 1:2000. This can occur in two ways. “Natal” teeth are present at birth and “prenatal” teeth erupt in the first 30 days of life. When teeth erupt prematurely, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider (pediatrician or pediatric dentist), as strategies for feeding will need to be addressed, especially if breastfeeding is planned. There are also structures which are present at birth and resemble premature teeth, but are actually not the primary teeth. One of the most common examples of this is “Epstein pearls.” They are visible cysts located in the upper arch in the front close to where the primary teeth are expected to be positioned. There is no treatment recommended for this, as long as there is no interference with feeding and no observed discomfort for the child. As with all published milestones, it is important to acknowledge the fact that these are just averages and that “normal” has a range. We find variation in gender, with females being ahead of males. It is also important to note that deviations in one area may have no bearing on others. For example, there are many children who are either “ahead” or “behind” in dental development, but are at the opposite ends of the spectrum in skeletal growth. They do, however, give us an idea of what to plan for and some guidance on timing of interventional treatment, whether dental or orthodontic, when indicated. Drs. Maria and Alon Grosman are Board Certified Pediatric Dentist and Orthodontist. Their office is located at 4401 S Flamingo Rd on the NW corner of Griffin and Flamingo Rd. For more information or to schedule an appointment call 954-236-3434.

Wit this ahd.

Monday to Friday Lunch Specials

11:30 - 4:30 only $9.95 Eat-in, take out or delivery

• Catch of the Day • Lasagna Lirios • Chicken Parmagiana Francais • Chicken Giardiniera • Chicken Asiago • Eggplant Parmagiana • Orechiette Pasta

coMpLE tE c AtERing FoR EVERY occ A Sion

954.217.1910

189 Weston Rd. · Weston 33326 www.LiriosRestaurant.com our city weston | February 2014

Legally Speaking

Alimony and Supportive Relationships By Evan Baron

Continuing to Serve the Weston & Davie area with over 25 years of Experience. President of Weston Bar Association

Family law Divorce • Relocation • Custody Child Support • Domestic Violence

criminal law All Felonies • All Misdemeanors • All Courts

Free consultation

he issue of Alimony R eform will once again be

addressed by the Florida Legislature in 2014. Both the Florida House and Senate passed sweeping changes last year, only to have Governor Scott veto the bill at the 11th hour. The primary focus of the new law was to end what we now call permanent alimony. This classification of alimony can be required in long term marriages, which are defined as marriages 17 years or greater. Permanent alimony will terminate upon the death of either party, or the remarriage of the receiving spouse. In addition, it can be modified (increased or reduced) if there a substantial change of circumstance occurs. A substantial change of circumstance usually refers to a change in the finances of either party. If either spouse loses his or her job and a new job results in a lower income; that would be considered a substantial change of circumstance. The change, however, cannot be voluntary in nature. A person cannot quit his/ her job and then ask the court for some relief due to this intentional act. Permanent Alimony can also be terminated or modified if a “supportive relationship” exists. The question is, “what exactly is a supportive relationship?” Florida Statutes does in fact define such a relationship, but it is certainly open to interpretation. It exists when a couple, who is not legally married, do in essence hold themselves out as a married couple. Many individuals who receive permanent alimony will avoid re-marriage, since it will end alimony by operation of law. The Supportive Relationship Statute was enacted to deal with couples who are in essence married, but not by operation of law. The Courts are to consider the following in determining whether a supportive relationship exists: ▸▸ The extent which the couple has held themselves out as a married couple or otherwise conducted themselves in a manner that evidences a permanent supportive relationship. ▸▸ The amount of time the parties have lived together. ▸▸ Have the parties pooled their income or assets or otherwise exhibited financial interdependence? ▸▸ The extent that either party has supported the other. ▸▸ The extent of which either party has performed valuable services for the other party.

1655 N. Commerce Pkwy, Ste. 201, Weston, FL 33326 email: Law@DivorceBroward.com

954-385-9160 After Hours: 954-850-3357

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.

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

▸▸ Whether the parties have jointly contributed to the purchase of real property. ▸▸ Whether the parties have an express or implied agreement concerning support or property sharing. The above criteria clearly show that there is much room for interpretation by a judge. It is believed that the Florida legislature will in fact address this statute in an attempt to clarify the intent. If you are someone who is either receiving or paying alimony, it would be a good idea to keep up with news from Tallahassee, once the legislature is back in session. The law firm of Evan H. Baron and Associates is located at 1655 North Commerce Parkway, Suite 201, in Weston. For information or a free consultation, call 954-385-9160.

In need of heart care? We’re your best choice for a great outcome. A name ranked number one in the nation* for heart care brings a team of world class experts close to you. Cleveland Clinic Florida provides individualized treatment plans for excellent outcomes of cardiovascular problems, ranging from the most common to the most complex – even in cases considered untreatable by others. You’ll receive comprehensive care that’s unique to you – with outstanding results.

800.639.DOCTOR clevelandclinicflorida.org/heart Weston • Parkland West Palm Beach • Palm Beach Gardens

Same-day appointments available.

*U.S. News & World Report, 2013-2014.

When “Leaky” Valves Are at the Heart of the Problem Your heart has four valves. They open during a heartbeat so that the blood can flow from one chamber to another and close to make sure that blood can’t leak back out. Mitral regurgitation occurs when the valve between the upper and lower chambers on the left side of the heart does not close properly. Mitral regurgitation can be caused by progressive structural changes in the leaflets of the mitral valve, certain infectious diseases and some heart attacks. Mitral valve prolapse is a structural abnormality of the valve where the leaflets have extra tissue and are displaced from their normal position (too far backward). A small percentage of patients with mitral valve prolapse will eventually develop regurgitation. “Symptoms of mitral regurgitation include shortness of breath or difficulty catching your breath (especially with exertion), palpitations that feel like rapid or irregular heartbeats, and swelling of the feet and ankles, said Edward Savage, MD, cardiothoracic surgeon at Cleveland Clinic Florida. “Other symptoms are weakness or dizziness, and increasing fatigue.”

Edward Savage, MD Cleveland Clinic Florida Cardiothoracic Surgeon

An important part of the diagnosis is recent medical history. During a physical examination, your doctor may look for fluid in the lungs, an enlarged heart, or a heart murmur, which is the sound made when blood moves through a stiff or leaky valve. Your doctor may suggest further testing for evaluation. The test to diagnose mitral regurgitation is an echocardiogram. Sound waves are aimed at the heart allowing a detailed picture of the structure of the valves, which aides in the assessment of leaks. The strength of the heart muscle can also be assessed. Sometimes a higher resolution echocardiogram is needed to accurately assess the mitral valve. This is performed by passing a sound-generating transducer into the esophagus. This study is a TEE or transesophageal echocardiogram. Not all leaky valves require surgery. If the leak is mild or moderate, it is usually treated with medication and close follow-up. However, if the leak is severe, even if there are no clear symptoms, surgery is often needed. Sometimes patients who believe they have no symptoms actually do, but have adapted to their limitations. The only treatment currently available for severe mitral regurgitation is surgery. It is important to treat the problem before the heart has lost significant functional capacity. In most cases the valve can be repaired (>80%). Studies show that mitral valve repair results in better long-term survival, more preservation of heart function and lower risk of complications. If the valve can be repaired, no long-term use of blood thinners (anticoagulants) is required. Some valves cannot be repaired and require replacement. Whether repaired or replaced, most patients experience dramatic improvement in symptoms and functional status. Nearly all isolated mitral valve repairs or replacements can be performed using a minimally invasive approach through a 2-3-inch incision on the right side of the chest. Cleveland Clinic Florida specialists are experts with extensive experience. They specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with all levels of heart disease, from the most simple to the very complex.

800.639.DOCTOR clevelandclinicflorida.org/heart

Same-day appointments available.

Cabanas Law Firm Problems with Debt?

Foreclosure Defense u Loan Modification u Debt Settlement u Collections Defense u

Bankruptcy Protection

Consumer Protection

Landlord-Tenant Law

954-447-2580 www.CabanasLawFirm.com 18503 Pines Blvd., Suite 301 Pembroke Pines, FL 33029 Hablamos Español • Falamos Português

www.AbogadoCabanas.com

Sergio M. Cabanas, Esq. Managing Partner

855-55-DEUDA Free Consultation

Sergio Cabanas, Esq. • Mitchell Jacobs, Esq. Anuj Naidu, Esq. • Stephanie Cabanas, CPA Terri LeBlanc, CPA

students participate in cutting-edge science research program prepare for college by learning at one

University School students participate in graduate-level research through the Research Study Program, the only one of its kind in the state! Students work collaboratively with University School research instructors and college research professors to identify universal issues and apply specific research strategies that, ultimately, affects change in local and global communities.

Call (954) 262-4506 for more information about our PreK – Grade 12 college preparatory curriculum

Located on the campus of Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Florida.

www.uschool.nova.edu

Neha Narang, grade 10, focuses on “Fluorescence Imaging of Silica Nanoparticle Uptake in Cancerous Cells Under Normal and Hyperthermia Conditions”

our city weston | February 2014

Health & Wellness

Sciatica By Dr. Behar and Dr. Browner

ost of us have heard

of it. For some, sciatica may be so familiar the mere sound of the word sends reminder pains down the leg! Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve -- the longest and largest in the body -- becomes irritated and inflamed. The sciatic nerve is made up of five nerves that leave the spinal cord from the lower spinal column, join in the pelvic area, and travel down the leg. It is not surprising, then, that sciatica sufferers may experience pain at several locations along the sciatic nerve path, from the back of the thigh to the ankle, foot or toes. The pain of sciatica is often a deep ache which, upon movement, can become very sharp and may range from occasional to constant. Often accompanying sciatic pain are other sensations such as numbness, pins and needles, tingling, irritability or tenderness. Sciatica has a wide variety of causes: strain or sprains of the lower back, disc problems, arthritic problems of the lower back or hips, poor posture, obesity, bone diseases, or internal diseases such as diabetes. One of the primary causes of sciatic nerve irritation is abnormal position and motion of the vertebrae in the lower back.

Proper treatment for any symptom, including leg and back pain, must begin with a correct diagnosis. Your chiropractic doctor is specifically trained to diagnose the cause of your symptoms, and to recommend appropriate treatment. Research has found chiropractic care to be very effective for the relief of most forms of sciatica and back pain. The chiropractic profession emphasizes the importance of restoring and maintaining proper structural integrity (correct alignment and biomechanics) of the spine. A healthy spine involves, among other things, normal positioning and mobility of all joints of the back and pelvis. Many causes of sciatic pain irritate the sciatic nerve by adversely altering the normal positioning and mobility of the spine. Through gentle spinal adjustments and other procedures, your chiropractor can help to restore normal position and optimum mobility to the spine and pelvis. Correct spinal biomechanics allow normal nerve function to return. Relief from sciatica pain may be as simple as a call to your chiropractor. For a consultation or more information you can reach Dr. Behar and Dr. Browner at Windmill Health Center in Weston at 954-217-4881. They also have two additional locations to serve you in Pembroke Pines and Plantation. Contact the Weston location for more information.

Beautiful, Elegant, Classic With choices in hardwood, vinyl and composite we have a PLANTATION SHUTTER to complement any decor. Available in a variety of stains and colors, as well as

Bruce Elliott President/SalesConsultant Manager/Sales Consultant

Emilio Installation Technician

Vinny Installation chnician Te

VISIT - VIEW - OPERATE Over 100 displays of window treatments Go To Davieshadesandblinds.com View Our 3 minute video tour

Click Informative YouTube videos - Informational product blogs Hunter Douglas Gallery Website Click Our Facebook logo to view product photos and recent projects. Like us and we'll keep you updated.

specialty window and door applications, A Shade Above's shutter collections will provide a distinctive look that combines timeless beauty with superb craftsmanship.

Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm In Business Since 1984

5967 S. University Drive (NW corner of University Dr. & Stirling Rd.)

Davie, Florida 33328

954.434.8701 WHERE EVERY DAY IS A HOME SHOW PRODUCTS & BRANDS FOR EVERYONE’S BUDGET 74

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Azzurri Salon & Spa Affordable Salon Care Now in Weston! · Haircuts · Colors · Keratin · Extensions · Skin Care

· Manicures · Pedicures · Massage · Waxing

10% OFF Any Service Limited time only.

2398 Weston Road | Weston, FL 33326 Next to Flannigan’s

954.659.7755

AzzurriSalon.com

our city weston | February 2014

ask the expert

I’m Somebody Special at...

A Children’s Carousel

Couples Plastic Surgery

Weston’s Premier Developmental Preschool, and Summer Camp!

ed Locatston e in W er 20 for ovars! Ye

By Jorge A. Perez, M.D., F.A.C.S.

alentine’ s month is appropriate to discuss

plastic surgery for couples. Pair’s plastic surgery is more common than might be expected. Patients often find themselves coordinating procedures with their significant others. Advantages can include mutual support during the recovery period. Here are a few procedures commonly performed for both men and women.

Refresh the Eyelids

Multicultural, Developmentally Appropriate Early Childhood Education: toddler through preschool. · Warm Nurturing Environment with Bird, · Degreed, Certified Teachers average tenure Bunnies and Fish. of seven yrs. · Music, Art, Spanish, Cooking, American Sign · Indoor Carousel City and Shaded Outdoor Language. Music Garden. · Mapping & Computer Lab with Specialist · Accredited Preschool leading the state in included. curriculum development and implementation. · Play Ball, Happy Feet & Kindermusik · State funded VPK offered. Enrichments.

Award winning Pre-Kindergarten program! Our proprietary phonics program produces high caliber readers; 95% of our graduates read at or above first grade level prior to entering Kindergarten!

1051 Shotgun Road

954-424-1898

www.achildrenscarousel.com

Men and women both begin to first notice aging changes around the eyes. The tired, heavy look is a combination of extra upper eyelid skin and lower eyelid bags. The lower lid bags are mainly small fat pockets that can be removed for a fresher, more rested appearance. Other factors, such as high blood pressure, salt intake and certain diseases can also contribute to puffy eyes. Upper eyelid skin can cause hooding that adds to the tired look. The correction is performed by removing the extra skin and a small amount of fat. The combination of upper and lower eyelid tuck can create a dramatic difference in the overall facial youthfulness.

Neck Lift

Another area that commonly concerns men and women is the laxity of skin, fat and muscle under the jawline. Men often come for consultation pinching the waddle under the chin. Although women often opt for full face and neck rejuvenation, men sometimes prefer the less invasive necklift procedure. We favor the use of ultrasound with neck tightening procedures. Combined with eyelid surgery, the procedure often produces dramatic results and can reduce the aging appearance by decades.

License # 46081

Outdoor Comfort On Demand

Body Sculpting

Retractable Awnings & Screens For Your Home Or Business • Outdoor comfort when you need it, retractable when you don’t. • Shielding you from: Sun, Rain, Cold, & Bugs • Custom sizes & hundreds of fabrics. • Most products professionally installed in 2 weeks or less. Lic# 77-76AE

SINCE 1949

• Call for a FREE estimate.

954-764-1711 www.HooverCanvas.com

Broward’s Oldest - Since 1949 76

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Men are usually more discrete about their desire for body contouring procedures but are nonetheless eager and willing participants. Ultrasonic body sculpting typically produces less pain and a rapid recovery, which makes it ideal for men. The main difference between men and women is in the areas for liposculpting. Men want improvement in the belly and love handles, while women often target the thighs as well. In addition, a unique body sculpting area for men is the breast for a condition called gynecomastia. Ultrasonic is especially useful for this purpose. Valentine’s reminds us that pair’s plastic surgery can be a unique experience for couples to share. Advantages can even include togetherness during recovery. As always, consultation with a plastic surgeon experienced in the full range of procedures is important. Happy Valentine’s. Dr. Perez has been selected among Castle Connolly/U.S. News and World Report’s America’s Top Doctors. He has lectured internationally on facial rejuvenation and body contouring topics and has been featured as a plastic surgery expert for major news outlets. He was recently featured in an article on couples’ plastic surgery in the South Florida Sun Sentinel. Dr. Perez was an original investigator for U.S. F.D.A. Ultrasonic Liposuction studies. For more information call (954) 351-2200 or visit www. PerezPlasticSurgery.com.

Thinking About Plastic Surgery? Choose the Plastic Surgeon chosen by other Doctors*

It’s your Face and your Body… don’t compromIse! *Since 1998 Dr. Perez has been selected among Castle Connolly’s Americas Top Doctors or Best Physicians in the U.S. Castle Connolly IUS News & World Report conducts an

Academy The Aesthetic l Facial “Best Surgica and “Best Enhancement” ds Shaping” Awar Surgical Body

Serving Weston residents for over 20 years

954.351.2200

Independent survey of doctors and medical leaders to identify the top 1% of doctors in each specialty Doctors do not, and cannot pay, to be selected as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor

www.PerezPlasticSurgery.com 2421 N.E. 65th Street, Suite 105, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

“Surgery is performed at the Surgery Center of Weston, a State-of-the-Art Ambulatory facility located at Broward Health Weston, staffed by physician anesthesiologists. We’re dedicated to your safety and comfort. It’s your face and your body, don’t compromise.”

Jorge A. Perez, MD , F.A.C.S.

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery El Doctór Habla Español

www.JorgePerez.com

Visit our website Blog to learn about “The Dirty Little Secrets of Plastic Surgery”

GUIDANCE & COUNSEL CONSIDER US THE BRIDGE TO YOUR BUSINESS & PERSONAL SUCCESS

· · · ·

Corporate Law & Business Development Real Estate Business Litigation & Appellate Practice Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning

· · · ·

200 E Las Olas Blvd, 19th Floor Fort Lauderdale 33301

(954) 522-2200

Marital & Family Law Local Government Law & Relations Administrative Law & Practice Immigration & Naturalization

· · · ·

Income, Estate & Gift Tax Employment Law Probate Litigation Bankruptcy & Creditors’ Rights

2255 Glades Road, Suite 340W Boca Raton, FL 33431

www.brinkleymorgan.com

(561) 241-3113

our city weston | February 2014

Health & Wellness

Is Your Marriage a Diamond in the Rough? By Alina Gastesi-de Armas, MA, MEd, LMHC

Por Fin en Broward aPrenda

Producción de cine y TV?

TENEMOS BECAS DE $4000 DOLARES CADA UNA SIN RESTRICCIONES DE IDIOMA O STATUS!! √ Clases una vez por semana de 6pm-10pm o Sabados en la mañana. √ Obtenga su diploma en TAN SOLO UN AñO aprobado por el Departamento de Educación. √ Talleres de actuación para niños y adultos con clases entre semana de 4pm - 6pm y participación en programas en la televisión real cada semana. (Buscamos Talento) √ Clases en español e inglés.

$100 oFF

cio e s pa

POR MATRICULARSE CON ESTE AD.

a Do L i M iT

ExP.02/28/14

954.699.0585

Alina Gastesi-de Armas, MA, MEd, LMHC Licensed Mental Health Counselor Florida Supreme Court Mediator, Parent Coordinator

As seen on & heard on

“Hablemos Claro”

Call for a free

30 min Phone Consultation ($100 value)

Individual, Couple, Family Counseling, Mediation & Parent Coordination

years serving South West Broward 1625 N. Commerce Parkway, Suite 210, Weston, FL 33326

954-384-9373

www.APlaceforGrowth.com 78

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

ccording to the G emological I nstitute of

America, diamonds are graded by four characteristics: cut, carat (weight), clarity, and color. All four of these properties determine how much a diamond is worth. As a credentialed marriage professional I have developed my own 4C grading system for marriages. See how your marriage measures up to these standards: ▸▸ Commitment – Commitment is initially declared as “I want to marry you,” then promised, “I promise to stay married to you till death do us part,” and finally put into practice through daily words, deeds and choices. Too many people believe that after they have taken the necessary steps to secure a marriage commitment, they can relax in the comfort that their work is done. Unfortunately, when problems occur the commitment is tested and the promises are questioned, broken, and eventually taken back. The measure of the quality of that commitment is in the shared objective and responsibility between spouses (through the good, the bad and the ugly) to assist and invest in their own as well as their partner’s personal growth, development, and happiness. You see, it does not count to only be committed to the relationship when things are going well or your way. Commitment is often tested and the strength of the promise is revealed by the outcome of that test. ▸▸ Communication – using the power of language to speak and listen with the full intent and desire to understand and be understood. In the initial stages of the relationship communication seems “flawless” yet with time, neglect and misunderstandings, what was once quite clear becomes “clouded.” Quality communication takes practice and determination; its results are priceless. ▸▸ Compromise – Although it occurs in the daily lives of all couples, it is one of the most difficult tasks to master. Compromise involves allowing things to get in the way of your ideal for the sake of your relationship. Each person has their own ideas of their perfect scenario. The sparkle and brilliance of a marriage will be felt as each individual consciously focuses on compromise as the ultimate outcome of most disagreements. Remember every time the individual wins the couple loses, however, every time the couple comes up with a compromise the marriage wins. ▸▸ Compassion – a deep awareness of and sympathy for another’s suffering. Your spouse will fall short of your expectations, may break their promises, and may sometimes make, what seems to be, an unforgivable mistake. Once your spouse, the person who has wronged you apologizes, attempts to make amends and is contrite in doing so, the practice of your promise of commitment will be demonstrated in your ability to forgive them. During the search for forgiveness each will need empathy for the other’s suffering; whether they were the victim or the perpetrator. When compassion is strong, there is a natural desire for what is best for the other person, wanting at least to understand their suffering and ultimately wishing to alleviate it. The qualities of healthy marriages as with diamonds are not always visible to the naked eye. In fact, a diamond is initially found as a rough stone that requires specialized knowledge, tools, equipment, and techniques to reveal its brilliance. If your marriage needs some polishing be sure to call Alina Gastesi-de Armas, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, at A Place for Growth, 954-384-9373, or visit her website www.APlaceforGrowth.com.

FebruAry is Dental Month Time is running out. Call early to schedule an appointment for your pet.

Weston AnimAl HospitAl A.b. Christopher Deane, DVM

Dr. Deane & Dr. Lopez personally take eMerGeNCy CALLS: up to 12 Midnight eVery DAy!

954-802-0595

✓ Full Service Animal Hospital ✓ Medical Surgical Dental Care ✓ Laser Therapy

✓ Prescription Diets ✓ Grooming & boarding ✓ Vaccine Packages ✓ Now have Pet Portals Check out our new website:

$275 Full Dental services Includes a pre-surgical exam, bloodwork, pain & antibiotic injections, IV fluids during procedure and a follow-up exam.

There might be additional charges if your pet has a pre-existing condition which requires extra monitoring.

Please present coupon. Expires: February 28, 2014

954.389.5689

www.WestonAnimalHosp.com our city weston | February 2014

pet of the Month

“Fitzie”

EMERALD ESTATES DR.

Free oFFice Visit

I-75

WESTON RD.

N W

RICK CASE WAY

for new clients

GRIFFIN RD.

Voted “Best Full-serVice AnimAl clinic” in Weston We accept pet insurances and Care Credit

Dr. Eduardo Bernal, D.V.M. 4476 Weston rd., davie, fl 33331

954.659.9913 Hablamos Español reGister at

WWW.allfriendsanimalclinic.com

Free

GroominG

Check our website for coupons & details on how to get a free grooming for your pet.

Free

boardinG (Cats only first night with the purchase of 2 additonal consecutive nights). New & Returning clients. Must present coupon at check-in. Proof of vaccination required. Exp. 03/15/14

Free

nail clippinG for your pet Must present coupon at check-in. Proof of vaccination required. Exp. 03/15/14

$25 Off

Dental Cleaning or Surgical Procedure Must present coupon at check-in. Proof of vaccination required. Exp. 03/15/14

February 2014 | OUR CITY WESTON

Meet Fitzie, a 13-year-old mutt who was found abandoned at a gas station in Massachusetts. He is very protective of his “human” siblings. Fitzie dislikes thunder and balloons. He likes to eat table food. His favorite thing to do is bark at other dogs. Fitzie was last seen lying down under the kitchen table.