Our City Miramar: February 2023

Stop Letting Missing Teeth or Dentures Affect Your Way Of Life!

Jesus R. Barreto, DDS, PA Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry

Terms and conditions: O er redeemable only when customer purchases a qualifying Generac PWRcell Solar + Battery Storage System from an authorized Generac dealer* and registers the PWRcell Solar + Battery Storage System on Generac.com. O er not available at retail, wholesale, or e-commerce businesses where Generac PWRcell Solar + Battery Storage Systems are sold. Refurbished products are excluded from this o er. PWRcell Solar + Battery Storage System must be installed and activated in order for the customer to be eligible to receive the Ecobee Smart Thermostat. Proof of purchase along with other documentation may be required to be submitted to receive this o er. Individual prices may vary. Generac reserves the right to modify and/or rescind this o er at any time without notice. O er valid only on qualifying purchases made in the United States (excluding American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and Canada. Customer has 60 days from the day of PWRcell Solar + Battery Storage System registration to redeem their o er for an Ecobee Smart Thermostat.

RE-ELECT

WAYNE MESSAM PROMISE KEPT

DID YOU KNOW?

Due to new legislation in 2022 all prior Vote By Mail requests have expired.You must resubmit a new request to Vote By Mail for Wayne in the upcoming March Miramar Election and the 2024 General Election. SCAN

MAYOR WAYNE

MESSAM

HAS DELIVERED ON HIS PROMISE TO MIRAMAR

In 2015 when Wayne was first elected as mayor, Miramar was a growing city without an identity. Wayne promised to make Miramar a nationally recognized city that we all can be proud of. He has delivered on that Promise. Miramar is now an “All-America & Smart50 City” that is ranked best in the nation for the economic well being of African Americans and Hispanic Americans. Wayne has already begun laying the foundation to ensure our city is positioned for success for decades to come. Wayne has represented us with Integrity, Class and Innovation. With your vote, there is even more we can achieve together.

PUBLISHERS

Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Christy Jaillet

ART DIRECTOR

Tom Rowe

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Alana Brodie

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Nancy Koval nancy@ourcitymedia.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Jaillet, Dr. Robert Donoway, Jon Duka, Amelis Lopez, Wayne M. Messam, Dr. Isabel Suate

ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com

VISIT US ONLINE ourcitymedia.com

954-306-1007

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

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

READON LINE

Celebrating Black History

February is Black History Month, also known as African American History Month. It is an annual observance in the United States and Canada that celebrates the achievements and contributions of black individuals. First recognized in February of 1926 when historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History announced the second week of February as "Negro History Week."

Over the years, the celebration expanded to an entire month, and in 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month. "I call upon the public and the press to recognize the important contributions of black history in the history of the United States," he said.

But the history of Black History Month extends even further back. In 1915, black community leaders in Chicago held the first "Negro History Week" to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Organized by a group known as the "Committee of Ten," which included prominent figures such as W.E.B. Du Bois, Mary McLeod Bethune, and Carter G. Woodson.

Since its inception, Black History Month has been a time to recognize and honor the countless black leaders and activists who have made significant contributions to society. "A people without the knowledge of their history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots," said Marcus Garvey, a Jamaican-born black nationalist leader.

As we celebrate Black History Month, it is essential to remember and recognize the struggles and triumphs of the black community. It is also a time to reflect on our progress and the work that still needs to be done toward racial equality.

Sincerely,

Christy & Terry Jaillet

CITY MEDIA PUBLISHERS

Miguel Rodriguez, MW Rolando Morell, MW

Otoniel Jimenez, NP

Jennifer Garcia, NP

Laviniu Anghel, MD

Felicia Bahadue, MD Maria Fernandez, MD Catalina Granada, MD Jonathan Weiser, MD

Anabel Sanabria ,RN

Lissette Porras, Nutrition Lorena Canelon, NP

Jeanette Hernandez, NP

David Guerra, MD

Claire Smart, NP

FEBRUARY 1

Clergy Luncheon & Prayer Service

The City of Miramar Commission invites you to a Black History Month Clergy Luncheon and Prayer Service at the Miramar Cultural Center Banquet Hall. The luncheon will feature local religious leaders from multiple faiths. For more info visit www.MiramarFL.gov/BHM. For info visit www.panthersiceden.com.

FEBRUARY 4

Free Yoga

Yogis of all skill levels are invited to come to Town Center Plaza in Miramar for a community Yoga session. Bring your own mat, a bottle of water and get your mind centered for this wonderful monthly session. 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM at Town Center Plaza, 2300 Civic Center Place. For more info call 954-602-3198 or email elaroche@miramarfl.gov.

FEBRUARY 10

Free SOCA Step

It’s Carnival Season! Get in the groove by joining Miramar Mayor Wayne Messem at this dance-inspired fitness extravaganza. The event will take place from 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Vizcaya Park and will be led by Tailored Fitness. Scan the QR Code to register or call 954886-6800.

FEBRUARY 3

Boyz II Men

Relive your childhood with the sounds of the incredible musical trio Boyz II Men. Boyz II Men first rose to fame in the early 1990s with their smooth harmonies and hit songs like "End of the Road" and "I'll Make Love to You." They went on to become one of the most successful R&B groups of all time, selling over 60 million records worldwide and winning four Grammy Awards. Show starts at 8:00 pm. For tickets and info scan the QR code or visit www.MiramarCulturalCenter. org.

FEBRUARY 4

5th Annual Mayor Messam Health & Fitness 5K

Join Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam at Miramar Town Center for the annual race. The starting gun goes off at 7:00 am sharp, and the Health Fair kicks off immediately after the race. This is a great way to engage with the community and focus of fitness. Hosted at Miramar Town Center, 2300 Civic Center Place. Scan the QR code to register. For more info call 954-602-3198 or email elaroche@miramarfl.gov.

FEBRUARY 10

Madame Butterfly

Watch and listen American musicians & chorus under the baton of Metropolitan Opera Conductor Gregory Buchalter. A full-scale opera production with traditional Italian-designed sets and costumes by Giorgio Lalov. This theatrical event will be one-night only at the Miramar Cultural Center. For tickets and info visit www.MiramarCulturalCenter.org

FEBRUARY 14

Valentine’s Day

Happy Valentine’s Day! Celebrate with someone you love! The holiday is named after Saint Valentine, a Christian saint who is believed to have been martyred for secretly marrying couples in ancient Rome during a time when marriage was forbidden. Valentine's Day is now celebrated in many countries around the world, although the way it is celebrated can vary significantly from place to place.

FEBRUARY 17

Michael Carbonaro: Lies On Stage

Best known as the star and executive producer of the hit series, THE CARBONARO EFFECT, Michael Carbonaro has also headlined incredible stage performances. Now he is back with a brand-new show which will continue to showcase his unmatched blend of humor and charisma along with brand new illusions which will amaze audiences of all ages. Hosted at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts. Scan the QR code for info or tickets.

FEBRUARY 20

Presidents’ Day

Presidents Day was originally established in 1885 to recognize the efforts of the United State’s first President, George Washington. It was later broadened to recognize President Abraham Lincoln and now all of our Presidents. The Federal Holiday is a good time to reflect on civic service.

FEBRUARY 25

3rd Annual AFRO-CARIB Festival

The City of Miramar invites you to join them in celebrating African-Caribbean culture. The Miramar Amphitheater will host this festival from 5:00 pm till 11:00 pm. Performances by Jacob Forever, Koffee, and CKay will headline the event. For more info or tickets visit www.afrocaribfestmiramar.com.

FEBRUARY 25

James Taylor & His All-Star Band

James Taylor is the archetypal singer/ songwriter, who helped create the template for the troubadour style that dominated the 1970s. When he brings his blend of folk, pop, rock, and soul influences to the stage, it's Broward it will be like a part of history is unfolding before the crowd, with enough tuneful energy to generate some major goodtime vibes. Hosted at the Au-Rene Theater at The Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Scan the QR code for info & tickets.

FEBRUARY 24-26

86th Annual Orange Blossom Festival, Parade & Rodeo

Hold your horses and come on down! Join your neighbors and help The Town of Davie celebrate the 85th annual Orange Blossom Festival. Events will take place at the Bamford Sports Complex. There will be a parade, concerts, Kiwanis Pancake breakfast and so much more. For more info scan the QR Code.

NAVAL AIR STATION FORT LAUDERDALE MUSEUM Offers A Look Into the Past

Hidden at the western edge of Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport is a hidden gem for history buffs looking to explore the rich military heritage of South Florida. It is the former home of Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale, which was established in 1942, and played a vital role in World War II and the Cold War.

The Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum is open to the public on a daily basis and showcases the history of naval aviation in South Florida. The museum features exhibits on the base's history, including aircraft, uniforms, and other artifacts from World War II and the Cold War. Visitors can also see a replica of a World War II-era control tower and restored barracks.

In 1942, the U.S. Navy selected Merle Fogg Airport in Fort Lauderdale to expand into a naval air station for both pilot and enlisted aircrew training (i.e., gunners, radiomen) in Grumman TBF Avenger torpedo bombers flown by carrier-based US Navy flight crews and by land-based US Marine Corps flight crews ashore. Additional facilities were used to train aircraft maintenance and other ground crew support for the TBF and TBM series aircraft. Among the Avenger pilots who graduated NAS Fort Lauderdale was former President George H. W. Bush, who went on to a distinguished flying career, and of course, a political career as well.

The Museum has been instrumental in preserving the memory of Flight 19, one of the great aviation mysteries. Flight 19 flew out of NAS Fort Lauderdale on 5 December 1945, to vanish into the Bermuda Triangle. On exhibit at the museum are the Link Trainer Flight Simulator, original paintings, cartoons, lithographs, drawings and photographs, vintage ship and aircraft models, the John Payne Memorial Library, which contains

1ST

more than 3,000 volumes from military history along with WWII torpedoes, A Grumman TDF Avenger aircraft, WW II anti-aircraft guns and much more. NAS Fort Lauderdale is a hidden gem for history buffs looking to explore the rich military heritage of South Florida. If you get to the airport a little early, be sure to check it out.

HIT THE ROAD AT THE 13TH ANNUAL Tour de Broward

If you’re a cyclist, a runner, or a walker take your passion one step or one mile further by spending your Sunday morning exercising with a community that has the same pastime. For a decade, members of an active community have been benefiting their health, while benefiting the health of the many children and families at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital (JDCH).

The 13th Annual Group Tour de Broward will take place on March 6th at Miramar Regional Park from 7:00 am-1:00 pm. Participants can choose between 50K or 100K bicycle rides, a 5K run or a 3K walk. There will also be the sports-themed “Power of Play Kid Zone” which will provide healthy, fun activities for children ages 13 and younger. Registration fees range from $15-$50 depending upon the event one signs up for and the sign-up date.

This year’s event has already raised more than $500,000 for South Florida’s largest pediatric facility serving Broward, Palm Beach, and northern Miami-Dade counties.

“Philanthropy is an important part of the growth of our hospital and Tour de Broward is a fun way for people of all ages and abilities to help ensure our kids continue to have access to next level pediatric healthcare,” said Scott Wester, MPH, CEO of Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.

Last year more than 7,500 participated in-person and virtually, raising more than

$550,000, positively impacting more than 80,000 kids who required outpatient visits, surgery, admissions, and observation stays during the year. So far, in its twelve-year history, the Tour de Broward has raised more than $5 million for pediatric healthcare in South Florida.

Pre-registration and day-of registration fees range from $15-$50, depending on the event and sign-up date. Participants can register in advance at www.tourdebroward. com or at the park on the day of the event. For riders, there may be an additional fundraising commitment, although some exclusions apply. For those unable to participate on the day of the event, a virtual participation donation can be made online at tourdebroward.com.

▸ Miramar Regional Park is located at 16801 Miramar Parkway, Miramar. To learn more about Tour de Broward visit www.tourdebroward.com. For sponsorship opportunities, call (954) 265-7241. For general information about the event, call (954)905-5633.

LIFE-CHANGING SMILE MAKEOVERS

WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY DENTISTRY AN D PERSONALIZED ATTENTION TO DETA IL

Dr La ura Gonzal ez's practice focuses on cosmetic and re storative treat ments in harmony with relaxing sp a amenities. Step into an environment where your co mfort and safety are of the utm ost imp ort ance and your smile is ca red for with the grace that only Dr. G and her staff can offer.

Dr. Laura Gonzalez, DMD, P.A., purveyor of South Fl orida's top designer smiles

PROBLEM: Worn and discolored teeth Actual patient with a MACVEHEERS SMILE

BEST SMILE OFFERS:

COSMETIC DENTISTRY ADVANCED DENTAL SERVICES

• Zoom Tooth Whitening

• Porcelain Crowns and Bridges

• MacVeneers

• Cosmetic Bonding

• All-on-4 ® (new teeth in a day)

• LANAP ® (advanced laser gum therapy)

• CE REC ® (same day crowns)

• Dental CT-Scan (3D conebeam)

SEDATION DENTISTRY •Microendodontics

• IV Sedation

• Sedation Dentistry (a small pill)

• Nitrous Oxide (tranquilizing air)

OUR MULTI-SPECI ALTY PRACTICE INCLUDES AN ENDODONTIST, PERIODONTIST, ORTHODONTIST AND ORAL SURGEON ON STAFF.

OFFICE HOURS: Open 9am-6pm

BEST

,

954•431•8484

954•248•2601

Broward County Educators Celebrate Increase in Graduation Rates

The Florida Department of Education released graduation data for school systems across the state with positive news state-wide and in Broward County last month. 87.2% of Broward County Public Schools seniors graduated following the 2021-22 school year. This is a 1% increase versus pre-pandemic levels and was in line with the state-wide graduation rate of 87.3%.

“Florida’s graduation rate is a direct result of the determination of our students and the parents, school

counselors, teachers, and district leaders who worked hard to ensure the 2022 Senior Class was ready for their next opportunities in life,” said State Board of Education Member Monesia Brown.

“Today’s increase in graduation rate for Broward County Public Schools is something we are very happy about, very proud of,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr. Vickie Cartright , “this was the result of our staff being laser-focused on our students when they came back to brick and mortar instruction.”

All of the local public schools had 2021-22 Graduation rates above the county average. Somerset AcademyMiramar led the way with 97.9% of its Seniors graduation. Everglades High School had a graduation rate of 96.5%, Miramar High School saw 93.8% graduate with Charles W. Flanigan High School saw a graduation rate of 89.9%.

▸ Scan the QR Code or visit www.edudata.fldoe.org/AdvancedReprots.html for more information about your school.

2020

2021-22 Graduation Rates

SAMPLE THE BEST FOOD & WINE FROM MIRAMAR & PEMBROKE PINES

The Miramar - Pembroke Pines Chamber of Commerce welcomes all to their annual signature event, A Sip of Wine…A Taste of Heaven on March 18th at 7:00 pm. Last year’s event hosted more than 1,000 guests, and this year’s event is expected to be bigger and better than ever. This year’s event is expected to be bigger and better than ever and will be hosted at a new location: Miramar Regional Amphitheater.

A Sip of Wine…A Taste of Heaven is a chic promotional opportunity that introduces you to hundreds of your most important target markets in one evening - the businesses and residents of Miramar, Pembroke Pines, and Southwest Broward County. Held under the stars, the event features:

• Food samplings from dozens of food and dessert vendors

• A range of wine options plus local beer

• Live entertainment

• A silent auction

• Food Awards judging and prizes, including voting for People's Choice

• Community involvement and much, much more

Dozens of local restaurants are expected to participate with many wine options for the tasting.

Memorial Hospital West is this year’s title sponsor and the City of Miramar is the host sponsor for the 2023 event. This wine and food event is one of the community's highlights of the year. All who attend are in for a fun-filled evening of food and wine tasting, live entertainment, silent auctions, and more. Each year over 30 vendors, including area restaurants, caterers, and food vendors will participate. The evening is filled with entertainment and first-class networking. Awards are given to the Best Food categories of the evening, and you can also vote on People's Choice!

RUNNERS – LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!

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

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

By Dr. Michael M. Cohen, DPM, FACFAS

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

When feeling the prodrome skip a day or two of running, or better yet alternate every other day with cross-training instead. You’ll find that sports-specific cross-training will improve your running technique. This may include stretching your calves and

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

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

SUICIDE PREVENTION & LOSS SUPPORT GROUPS

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 access to trained counselors who can help people experiencing mental health-related distress. That could include thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress. And there is a tremendous need, given:

▸ In 2020, the U.S. had one death by suicide every 11 minutes.

▸ For people ages 10–34, suicide is a leading cause of death.

▸ From April 2020 through April 2021, over 100,000 people died from drug overdoses.

Behind each of these data points, there are people, families and communities who have been impacted. Yet, in the face of these urgent realities, there is hope. The 988 Lifeline helps thousands of struggling people overcome suicidal crisis or mental-health-related distress every day.

The Lifeline’s network of over 200 crisis centers has been proven to be effective. It’s the counselors at these local crisis centers who answer the contacts Lifeline receives every day. Numerous studies have shown that callers feel less suicidal, less depressed, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking with a Lifeline counselor.

People can call or text 988, or chat 988lifeline.org, for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support. 988

serves as a universal entry point so that no matter where you live in the United States, you can reach a trained crisis counselor who can help. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.

Have you lost a loved one by suicide? You’re not alone. There is also support available to help survivors of suicide loss. Loss team support groups are offered in person and

virtually at no cost. Survivors are given

the opportunity to talk about the tragedy and trauma of death by suicide and ask difficult questions about grief and suicide in a supportive environment.

Pet of the Month

Greetings from Your Chamber President!

By Patty Archer

We are energized to see that our community has jumped into 2023 with all the hope and enthusiasm that comes with a fresh start. At the chamber, we have planned a new year of events and opportunities for our businesses to thrive. And we have great news to share!

Our annual A Sip of Wine, A Taste of Heaven event is back! Since our 16th annual signature event was canceled in 2020 due to the pandemic, we have been eagerly waiting for the right time to relaunch this popular food and wine event under the stars. Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 18th when we’ll host it at a new venue at the Miramar Amphitheater and showcase the best restaurants, caterers and bakeries in South Broward. Get your tickets today on Ticketmaster or on our website!

We are also very proud to share that our chamber has been named 2022 Chamber of the Year by our colleagues at the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP). Our Board and Staff are humbled and proud to have our successes recognized as we serve this community to the highest standards.

Both of these milestones are proof positive of the resilience of our local business community in recovering from the impacts of pandemic-related losses and downturns. By making your business our business' we remain engaged in the priorities of our membership, businesses, community, and future generations of professionals and their business needs. For more information and our event calendar, visit www.miramarpembrokepines.org.

Yours in Service,

Patty Archer Chamber President