Our City Miramar: June 2023

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, Carlos Medina, Kenny Rodgers, Silvia Silva

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Jaillet, Jon Duka, Wayne M. Messam, Todd Delmay, Dr. John Goodner, Patty Archer

Edward Otto Zielke, Mitchell Zahn

PHOTOGRAPHER

Tom Dean moonwalkphotography.com

ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com

VISIT US ONLINE ourcitymedia.com

954-306-1007

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

JUNE 1

Caribbean American Heritage Month Kick-Off Celebration

June is Caribbean American Heritage Month! Join your neighbors at this kickoff event, hosted at Miramar City Hall Plaza. There will be steel drum music, Moko Jumbies, live performances and Caribbean food samples. You will also hear about all of the events planned for a month-long celebration. 10am–noon at Miramar City Hall, 2300 Civic Center Place. For more info, call 954-602-3178.

JUNE 12

Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society

Come listen to T. J. Hartung as he presents "Orchids of Mexico." T. J. is a retired computer systems specialist and systems analyst whose love of orchids began while living in California and started growing Cymbidiums. Retiring to Mexico he began rescuing orchids from downed trees and broken limbs learning from the great outdoors and researching. He is proud to be on the Board of Directors of the Vallarta Botanical Gardens in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Join us to learn and share together. Doors open at 7:00pm, meeting begins at 7:30pm. Hosted at Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd.

JUNE 8

School is Out

Celebrate the last day of school with the kids! Broward County Public Schools

Last Day of the School year starts Summer Break.

JUNE 16

Pembroke Pines

Mayor’s Kids Day

Children ages 15 and younger can join in the fun at the Mayor’s Annual Kids’ Day, from 9am-5pm. They can participate in a citywide scavenger hunt in search of great deals, food samples, and lots of freebies. They can also have lunch with the Mayor, from 12:30pm to 1:30pm, and play City Trivia games for prizes. All participants must pre-register with the Parks and Recreation Department and obtain a wristband. For information, call 954392-2116 or visit www.ppines.com.

JUNE 17

Stonewall Pride Wilton Manors

The Stonewall Pride Parade and Street Festival typically attracts 50,000 spectators and has a direct economic impact of more than $6 million dollars for the City of Wilton Manors, according to an independent study. Stonewall Pride celebrates the historic Stonewall Riots and the start of the LGBTQ+ human rights movement and how it has shaped our community. 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm in Downtown Wilton Manors. Parade starts at 7:00 pm. For info & tickets scan the QR Code.

JUNE 17

Father's Day Fishing, Golf & Beer Cookout

The City of Miramar Parks & Recreation Department Presents Father's Day Fish, Golf and Beer Cookout. This event includes fishing packing (pole & tackle box) barbecue, music, virtual golf, and give-a-ways. $10 per guest, Dads and children under 16 are FREE. Hosted at Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway. For more info, or tickets, scan the QR code.

JUNE 17

Family Film - Encanto

Bring the whole family for FREE select viewings of hit movies throughout the summer. The Susan B. Katz Theater at the River of Grass Arts Park will show Disney’s Encanto. The film is about the Madrigals, an extraordinary family who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia in a charmed place called the Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift -- every child except Mirabel. However, she soon may be the Madrigals last hope when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is now in danger. The film starts at 10:00 am, 17195 Sheridan Street. For more info, call 954-743-1799.

JUNE 19

Juneteenth: Freedom Day

On June 19, 1865, Union Army General Gordon Granger road into Galveston, Texas to enforce Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in the last, most remote known location in the South. Since then, the date has been celebrated as the end of American slavery. It is helpful to reflect on the darkest parts of our history in order for us to look forward. Join together with friends and neighbors to celebrate the freedoms we have and the progress that still needs to come.

JUNE 24

Family Film Fest- Lightyear

‘Bring the whole family for FREE select viewings of hit movies throughout the summer. The Susan B. Katz Theater at the River of Grass Arts Park will show Pixar’s Lightyear. Follow Legendary space ranger Buzz Lightyear embarks on an intergalactic adventure alongside ambitious recruits Izzy, Mo, Darby, and his robot companion, Sox. The film starts at 10:00 am, 17195 Sheridan Street. For more info, call 954-743-1799.

JUNE 18

Fathers' Day

Celebrate fathers, fatherhood, paternal bonds, and the influence of fathers in society. Many countries celebrate it on the third Sunday of June, though it is also celebrated widely on other days by many other countries. Happy Father’s Day!

JUNE 22

The World's Largest Swimming Lesson

Enjoy fun-in-the-sun at the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson! The City of Miramar will host this fantastic annual event at the Miramar Aquatic Complex and the Miramar Regional Park Aquatic Complex. This event is a fun way to make the community aware of the importance of swim lessons and the existence of our Aquatic Facilities. 2023 marks the 13th year of this event with participation embraced by tens of thousands from hundreds of communities throughout the world! For more info, call the Miramar Aquatic Center at 954-883-6955.

JUNE 24

Weekley Brothers Davie Pro Rodeo

Watch the cowboys and cowgirls show off their skills! The Bergeron Rodeo Grounds will be prepped and ready for the South’s best bull rides, barrel racers and steer lassoing experts. Tickets can be purchased on site or at www.davieprorodeo.com. The event begins at 7pm. For more info call 754-816-3183.

Unveiling the Origins of the World of Beer Bar & Kitchen A Haven for Beer Enthusiasts with a Twist of Culinary Excellence

In the realm of craft beer, one establishment stands out, capturing the hearts and taste buds of beer enthusiasts worldwide. Welcome to World of Beer Bar & Kitchen, where beer enthusiasts and food connoisseurs gather to savor flavors, embrace tradition, and foster community. Let's delve into the extraordinary founding story of this iconic establishment and discover the diverse offerings that entice both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers.

World of Beer Bar & Kitchen was born in Tampa, Florida in 2007 from two friends' passion and shared vision. Their goal was simple: to create a welcoming space where people could appreciate the art of brewing and explore a world of tantalizing flavors. From its humble beginnings, this dream has grown into an international sensation, with locations spanning the United States and beyond.

At World of Beer, the spirit of adventure is palpable. Immerse yourself in an extensive collection of over 500 craft beers from around the globe, thoughtfully curated to showcase the best offerings from established breweries and emerging stars of the craft beer

scene. From hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing lagers, there's a brew to satisfy every discerning palate. With a rotating tap list and knowledgeable staff, your taste exploration knows no bounds.

But World of Beer doesn't stop at beer. Elevating the culinary experience, their kitchen delights with an innovative menu designed to complement the liquid offerings perfectly. From mouthwatering artisanal burgers and tempting small plates to savory flatbreads and inspired entrées, each dish is meticulously crafted to harmonize with the diverse flavors of the beer selection. Discover the magic in the artful marriage of food and beer with bold pairings that will leave you craving more.

World of Beer is a vibrant community hub. Test your knowledge and share a laugh at Trivia Night, every Tuesday at 7 PM. Mid-week, relax with all-day Happy Hour on Thursdays, offering discounted drinks. Weekends come alive with brunch, pairing great food with even better beer.

Beer lovers of all backgrounds will forge friendships, share stories, and

create memories. Whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or curious about craft brews, World of Beer Bar & Kitchen offers an extraordinary experience. Step through their doors and immerse yourself in a world of flavor, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments. Cheers to the endless possibilities that await at World of Beer!

▸ World of Beer is located in Miramar Park Place, 11225 Miramar Pkwy B295, Miramar, FL 33025. For more information or additional locations, call 954388-0642, scan the QR code, or visit us online at worldofbeer.com/locations/ miramar.

$7.95

SUMMER SAFETY

As the school year ends and summertime reaches its peak, we want to share important tips to help make your summer safe and enjoyable:

Planning to get away this summer?

• Consider signing up for the Miramar Police Department’s FREE Vacation Patrol Program. We check on your home daily to help prevent burglaries and look out for suspicious activity. To sign up visit miramarpd.org and click on Services.

• Set timers on lights and stop mail or other deliveries to help deter burglars. Do not let your house appear as if no one is home.

• Don’t announce travel plans or post vacation photos on social media, until you have returned home.

• Secure valuables in a safe deposit box or hidden out of sight.

• Check doors and windows. It may seem obvious but double-check just to be sure they are all, including garage doors, locked.

• Do not leave spare keys outdoors or in vehicles.

• Let a trusted neighbor know they should call police if they see something suspicious.

Summertime Fun

• Make sure to wear a helmet and other safety gear when biking, skating, skateboarding, and riding scooters. Helmets have shown to significantly reduce the risk of head injury.

• Drowning is preventable.

• NEVER leave a child alone near water and never leave a child with another “older” child. If your child is missing and you live near water, check the water first! Always provide adult supervision of children.

• Prevent unsupervised access to pools with barriers and alarms. Many children who drown in home pools were only out of their parents’ sight for less than five minutes.

• Learn how to perform CPR. Miramar Fire Rescue offers CPR classes on the last Monday of every month. For more information, visit miramarfd.org and click on the Classes tab.

• Enroll your children in swim lessons. Many programs start lessons for babies as early as 6 months of age, continuing through adulthood.

• Install and maintain drain covers that prevent entrapment and entanglement.

• Remember things like water wings, floats, swim boards and pool noodles are toys. Although they can aid you in swimming, you should never rely on them completely.

• Lakes, canals, and the ocean can also be a hazard. Remind your family members to always enjoy water sports by wearing a U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device. Even the best swimmers can become tired and quickly fall victim.

• Never swim alone. Swim with a relative or friend and make sure a lifeguard is within eyesight.

Kids Staying Home While You Work?

• Make sure your child, regardless of age, is mature enough to know what to do in an emergency. If there is a fire, is your child capable of getting out of the house? Can they and will they call police in an emergency?

• Teach children to use social media responsibly. Discuss expectations, usage, boundaries, and overall safety, to

include adults impersonating children, cyberbullying, sextortion, and the dangers of sharing too much personal information.

• Monitor your child’s use of social media.

• Children should understand they should never let anyone know they are home alone, nor take a ride from anyone without first checking with their parents or guardians.

• Make sure your children keep doors locked and do not open doors unless the visit has been pre-approved by parents or guardians.

• Keep your firearms locked and secured.

• Children should always be required to check in with a parent or guardian before leaving the house and when returning home. Teach your children there is safety in numbers and to avoid going alone to places.

• Teach children not to be afraid to say “no” and to get away from any situation that makes them feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused. Make sure your children feel they can trust their feelings and that they can tell a trusted adult of any situation that makes them feel that way.

Curbside Recycling Dos & Don'ts

Living in a tropical paradise has many perks. South Florida’s winter weather is the envy of everyone across the county. The beaches and outdoor activities are second to none. And, the economy and cultural institutions are welcoming to people of all backgrounds. Part of the allure of living in the City of Miramar is the excellent city services, including waste removal. Miramar provides curbside recycling as part of the weekly trash pickup.

Recycling is a simple and effective step that everyone can take to protect the environment, save energy and reduce pollution. Every day we come across hundreds of items that can be recycled. However, not everything can be recycled via the curbside recycling bins.

The demand for recycled materials has declined globally over the past five years. In fact, prices paid for recycled plastics have dropped by 50% during that period. These market forces have put the economic viability of recycling

programs under pressure. One of the best ways you can help the continued success of any recycling program is to know what to recycle and what not to put into the recycling bin.

Plastic bags and food contamination are the two biggest problems impacting recycling efforts. If we all do our part, we can continue to impact our environment without impacting our lifestyle!

Maria Corina Martinez & Robert Coalla

DRAGONS, DELICACIES & DIVERSITY MIRAMAR CELEBRATES ASIAN AMERICANS & PACIFIC ISLANDERS

Miramar celebrated Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month with a wonderful evening at Shirley Branca Park on Saturday, May 6. It was nothing short of Amazing. Delicious and authentic cuisine from across the continent was sampled by patrons. Attendees learned to dance with the dragons and reveled in the delightful, colorful convergence of culture with Miramar’s Asian and Pacific Islander residents.

The free, immersive cultural experience was a hit with everyone in the community.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Month is a commemorative period in the United States that celebrates the contributions and achievements of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the nation's history, culture, and society.

AAPI Month has its roots in a week-long celebration called Asian

Pacific American Heritage Week, which was established in 1978. The week of May 4th was chosen to commemorate the arrival of the first known Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad, largely built by Chinese immigrants, on May 10, 1869. In 1992, the designation was expanded from a week to the entire month of May, officially becoming AAPI Month.

The observance of AAPI Month serves multiple purposes. It promotes a greater understanding of the rich heritage, history, and contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to the fabric of American society. It also raises awareness about the challenges and issues faced by AAPI communities and encourages dialogue on topics such as immigration, discrimination, and social justice.

Broward School Buses Go Electric

Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) will be the first public school District in South Florida to put electric buses on the road, helping lower carbon emissions as it transports 54,000 students throughout the county every school day. The District showcased the new electric buses last month at the district’s transportation terminal in Pompano Beach.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) awarded the District a grant of more than $14.8 million to purchase 60 zero-emission electric buses that make up the electric bus fleet. The new buses will serve as replacements for older diesel school buses built in or before 2009. To complete the needed infrastructure, Florida Power & Light Company obtained a federal grant and partnered with the BCPS to install charging stations at each of the District’s transportation terminals.

“When these electric buses hit Broward County roads in the 2023/24 school year, our District will be operating the largest fleet of electric buses in the state and, most significantly, taking an important step toward providing a healthier environment for all of us,” said BCPS Interim Superintendent Dr. Earlean Smiley. “This great accomplishment would not have been possible without the support of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and Florida Power & Light Company.”

“As part of FPL EVolution, we are pleased to partner on this endeavor and provide fast-charging infrastructure at six bus depots for all 60 of the electric buses to power up and be ready

to pick up students,” said FPL Vice President of Development for Tim Oliver. “These are the first electric school buses in FPL’s service area and represent the future of transportation that helps to make our communities more sustainable for generations to come. These buses will be charged by one of the cleanest electric grids in the country.”

The District’s Student Transportation and Fleet Services Department includes more than 1,200 buses, with about 950 used to transport students during daily routes. Each electric bus is a standard 72-passenger vehicle that produces no emissions at the tailpipe and is quiet on the road.

To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9. 1 7 39 64 58 2 1 5 4 59 4

6 2 3 24 5 8

BCPS Mandates Clear Backpacks for the 2023/2024 School Year

Effective August 21, 2023, only clear backpacks and bags (purses, duffel bags, fanny packs, lunch boxes, etc.) will be allowed on Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) campuses for students in grades pre-K – 12.

BCPS’s stated purpose of this requirement is to “add an additional layer of safety across the District and provide added safeguards for our students, staff, and faculty. While backpacks are not mandatory, they must be clear, and all contents within the backpack must be visible.”

Clear backpacks have been used as a measure to improve school safety by allowing school officials and security personnel to quickly and easily inspect the contents of students' backpacks. The idea behind clear backpacks is that they can help deter students from bringing weapons or other dangerous items to school, as they know they can be easily seen.

backpacks in improving school safety has never been proven. Some argue that clear backpacks are a superficial solution that doesn't address the root causes of school violence, and that they can create a false sense of security.

Critics also point out that clear backpacks can be stigmatizing and create privacy concerns for students who may feel uncomfortable having their personal belongings on display for others to see at all times. Others argue that transparent backpacks make valuable items like iPads and laptop computers more vulnerable to theft.

In a 2022 article, Dan Semenza, an assistant professor of criminal justice and director of interpersonal violence research at the Rutgers University-based New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center was skeptical of the clear backpack approach. “There is no evidence that clear backpacks do anything to improve student safety,” Semenza said.

The new policy applies to students only and does include several exceptions. These include:

• A small non-transparent pouch for personal hygiene items.

• Thermal food containers carried inside clear lunch boxes.

• School-approved sport-specific carrying case for athletic equipment.

• School-approved instrument-specific carrying case for band equipment.

Pride Month Is for Everyone This Year!

By: Todd Delmay

Each year in June, Pride is celebrated as an anniversary to the seminal events of June, 1969 in New York City. It was that summer that the local LGBTQ+ community fought harassment and discrimination by sparking the Stonewall Riots in response to a raid of the Stonewall Inn. The protests that followed each night empowered a generation to see that if they were to be liberated and enjoy equality, they would not only have to stand up for themselves, but they needed allies too.

Now, at the federal, state and local levels, progress is made in policy and legislation as well as landmark cases in the Supreme Court. And countless Prides across the country and around the globe recognize the progress made and celebrate everyone that helped make it - including allies! So everyone needs to know that Pride includes them too, especially now.

Florida has become a testing ground for passing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that rallies a vocal minority to a dying view -

point. Only 20% now oppose same-sex marriage, and 61% think we should be more tolerant of the LGBTQ+ community. How is it then that Florida passed a number of laws this year that threaten the progress made, and the very Pride events that celebrate it?

Florida has a checkered history when it comes to the LGBTQ+ community. In 1956 the Legislature’s Johns Committee outed employees of the Florida state government, and in 1977 Anita Bryant formed the “Save Our Children” campaign to among other things pass legislation preventing gay people from adopting. But with more allies than ever before we prevailed anyway, and overturned the adoption ban in 2010, and won marriage equality for Florida in 2015 before the Supreme Court made it legal nationwide. It isn’t surprising then that the reaction to progress has been trotting out old slurs and falsehood in hopes of scaring people back to their regressive opinions.

If you are an ally, you understand that we must all speak up when someone is unfairly attacked, otherwise next time it could be you. So I encourage you to

find a Pride celebration somewhere this year, and in South Florida we’re fortunate to have Pride events all year. From My Hollywood Pride in January, to Stonewall Pride in June and others as late as November, there are any number of ways to make Pride your own. Pride comes in many shapes and sizes, but if you think there isn’t a Pride for you because you aren’t LGBTQ+, then you’re missing the point. The rainbow flag is a perfect symbol for how everyone fits under its broad spectrum, and that only by seeing it all do you realize together we are the light that shines with human diversity. Happy Pride!

▸ Todd Delmay is a husband and dad, a businessman and entrepreneur, and an activist for civil rights. Todd and his husband were one of six plaintiff couples that sued for the right to marry in Florida, and were the first to marry when the judge lifted her stay in 2015. Besides 25 years in the travel and hospitality industry, Todd is also President of the Dolphin Democrats, Chair of My Hollywood Pride, President of the Hollywood LGBTQ+ Council, and serves on Hollywood’s Sustainability Advisory Committee. To join Todd and the LGBTQ+ Community in organizing, voter registration and turnout, email todd@lgbtqcouncil.com.

Todd Delmay

THE OUR FUND FOUNDATION: Supporting South Florida’s LGBTQ Community Through Philanthropic Giving

The Our Fund Foundation, South Florida’s only LGBTQ-specific community foundation, is an unparalleled resource and lifeline for many LGBTQ nonprofits and marginalized residents. Its mission is to promote philanthropy, manage enduring investments and conduct impactful grant-making to improve the lives of LGBTQ people in South Florida.

Despite Greater Fort Lauderdale’s recognition as Florida’s LGBTQ capital and home to the largest percentage of samesex couple households in the country, support for organizations focused on uplifting the disenfranchised members of this community was lacking until 2011, when a small group of committed activist philanthropists who recognized that a concentration of LGBTQ wealth existed in South Florida, establishe d Our Fund

Seeking to remedy the deficit of giving to LGBTQ organizations and committed to keeping financial resources within the community, Our Fund has been on an upward trajectory ever since its launch, growing into the third-largest LGBTQ foundation in the nation over the past 13 years.

“By inclusively uniting individuals, institutions, and resources from throughout the region, The Our Fund Foundation inspires responsible giving and works to actively secure the LGBTQ community’s future for generations to come,” said

David Jobin, President & CEO of The Our Fund Foundation

As South Florida’s LGBTQ population grows, so does the corresponding need for targeted support, whether focused on the unmet needs of youth, women, older people, transgender people, or others. Our Fund’s grant programs and philanthropic initiatives address social justice, funding for arts and culture, HIV/AIDS, and other crucial issues in need of support.

“Through our grant programs, philanthropic initiatives, community networking, and educational efforts, we’re able to strengthen community organizations and their leaders, mobilize donors and funders, and strive to make South Florida the most livable community in the country for LGBTQ people,” said Jobin.

How does it work?

The concept is logical: Unite donors with worthy LGBTQ causes they care about, particularly in this worrisome political climate.

“With LGBTQ lives and livelihoods under threat in the state of Florida and beyond, The Our Fund Foundation is fervent in its commitment to protect and uplift South Florida’s LGBTQ community,” said Jobin.

The Our Fund Foundation is unmatched in its impact on the lives of LGBTQ people and causes, with annual investments currently of $1.5–$2M in South Florida LGBTQ causes; in the tradition of community foundations across the country, Our Fund promotes legacy giving, enabling

philanthropists to leave lasting legacies for specific causes and agencies through estate planning. It also manages an Annual Fund and Donor Advised Funds, allowing donors to maximize impact and minimize tax burdens. Thanks to the thoughtful planning of its generous Legacy Society members, Our Fund is able to take a strategic, longterm view of resources that will be needed in the future and how they will be deployed.

With the goal of increasing its grantmaking capabilities and continuing to improve the lives of LGBTQ people, Our Fund takes its fiduciary responsibilities very seriously.

“At The Our Fund Foundation, we are committed to being good stewards of every contribution entrusted to us,” said Mark Blaylock, the organization’s CFO. “We firmly believe in financial transparency with our supporters and the community.”

Our Fund has about $25 million in assets, largely thanks to its proactive board of directors and other loyal supporters. With committed Legacy Donors, it is on a trajectory to double its asset base over the next two years.

Given the organization’s impressive accomplishments so far, that seems like an attainable goal.

▸ The Our Fund Foundation is located at 1201 NE 26th Street, Suite 108, in Wilton Manors, FL 33305. Please scan the QR code, visit our-fund.org or call 954-565-1090.

David Jobin, President & CEO The Our Fund Foundation

A SYMPHONY OF CHANGE: Celebrating the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida

In a diverse world, unity is an anthem we all strive to sing. As we observe Pride Month, we celebrate an organization singing this anthem with unmatched enthusiasm - the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida (GMCSF).

With a mission that echoes, “We sing so that LGBTQ+ people can live their truth through quality music experiences that inspire audiences, open minds, change hearts, and affirm our common humanity,” GMCSF has carved a niche for itself in the hearts of many. Over 170 dedicated members representing a rich spectrum of backgrounds comprise this harmonious force, making GMCSF a deep reflection of the LGBTQ+ community ’s strength in diversity.

The group’s Artistic Director, Gabe Salazar, looks forward to presenting Disney PRIDE in Concert live in June at The Parker. “This concert is a unique music program that everyone will relate to. I am most excited about seeing it all come together: our singers and personal stories throughout the concert, the orchestra, the movie projections.”

But GMCSF’s commitment extends beyond creating beautiful harmonies. The members are role models, philanthropists, and catalysts of change. Their tireless efforts reach across Broward, Miami Dade, and Palm Beach counties, impacting the lives of countless individuals and communities. Bill Spinosa, a

By: Edward Otto Zielke

founding member and Vice President of Membership, has seen this organization’s significant impact on our community. “It is wonderful to see that we have opened up hearts, changed minds, and given a voice to the voiceless and hope to the hopeless throughout our community through our music and message. That was our intent from the beginning, and it has expressed itself differently for the past thir teen years.”

The true impact of GMCSF, however, reverberates far beyond their music. By fostering a space of acceptance and respect, GMCSF stands as a fundamental pillar of support in the LGBTQ+ community. Live performances in high-profile venues and community engagements touch the hearts of over 20,000 people annually, making GMCSF one of the most prominent LGBTQ+ nonprofit choruses nationwide.

As we commemorate Pride Month, let’s honor institutions like GMCSF, who work tirelessly toward a future where diversity is celebrated, and unity is a universal anthem. Their vision paints a picture of “A diverse world united.” Yet, through their music and community outreach, they’re not just singing this vision - they’re living it, one harmony at a time. Their voices remind us of the profound truth of the LGBTQ+ community: love is love, diversity is strength, and our collective pride is an unending symphony of progress and acceptance.

▸ To learn more about the Gay Men’s Chorus of South Florida or purchase tickets, visit www.gmcsf.org, or scan the QR code.

SAGE—Celebrating our LGBTQ+ Elder Community with Pride!

By: Mitchell Zahn, Program Coordinator SAGE South Florida Friendly Visitor Program

The city of Wilton Manors will be celebrating Stonewall Pride this year on June 17. Pride celebrations allow us to embrace and celebrate the breadth and diversity of our LGBTQ+ community. Despite their contributions to the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, our older community members are often forgotten in our celebrations. These pioneers fought for the rights that we enjoy today and remind us to be vigilant in the presence of forces actively trying to set the clock back to a time when our community was forced to b e invisible and live on the fringes of society.

By 2030, studies project the population of LGBTQ+ people over 50 to reach 7 million. Our elders have unique needs compared to the general population, and because of discrimination and marginalization in their earlier lives, which have created a wide variety of challenges to endure today.

Many age without proper community support, are in poor health and are more likely to be financially insecure. One-third of LGBTQ+ adults live at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Many experience mental health challenges and experience higher levels of disability compared to heterosexual older people, as well as delaying necessary medical care due to fears of discrimination or mistreatment by healthcare staff. And most LGBTQ+ elders do not have children, often relying on friends and neighbors for needed help, many of whom have similar needs.

Fighting for LGBTQ+ Elders

Since 1978

For 40-plus years, SAGE has worked tirelessly for LGBTQ+ older people. Building off the momentum of the Stonewall uprising and the emerging LGBTQ+ civil rights movement, a group of activists came together to ensure that LGBTQ+ older people could

age with respect and dignity. SAGE formed a support network for LGBTQ+ elders that is still growing today. SAGE is more than just an organization. It’s a movement of loving, caring activists dedicated to providing advocacy, services, and support to older members of the LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ+ elders fought— and still fight—for our rights. And we will never stop fighting for theirs.

Friendly Visitor Program in For t Lauderdale

SAGE in Florida offers a Friendly Visitor program in Broward County to provide social support to older adults. The program assists individuals like a 60-year-old woman with gardening and a dyslexic 78-year-old man who receives help reading his mail. In Miami-Dade County, SAGE supports at-risk LGBTQ+ elders with care management, emergency financial assistance, and aid for medical bills, rent, and food.

Older LGBTQ+ individuals are more prone to social isolation, twice as likely to live alone and be single, and significantly less likely to have children than their non-LGBTQ+ peers. SAGE addresses these challenges by offering the Friendly Visitor program in Fort Lauderdale, inspired by its successful program in New York City. Volunteers visit and call homebound elders weekly, providing social support from Sunshine Cathedral, an LGBTQ+ affirming Metropolitan Community Church.

Friendly Visitor volunteers undergo careful screening and training and commit to at least a year of involvement. They attend regular meetings, visit for an hour or two

once a week, and make additional calls. When someone seeks SAGE ’s help, a Program Coordinator conducts an initial assessment and, with the client’s consent, refers them to a suitable, Friendly Visitor for ongoing support.

Happy Pride!

As we honor our diverse community, we also recognize the journey we’ve traversed since the days of the Stonewall uprising. Our LGBTQ+ elders have set a robust foundation for our rights, a battle they continue to fight today. We must remember this history and stay alert to preserve these hard-earned rights. We are responsible for keeping their legacy alive by continuing their fight and creating a safer and more accepting world. Remember, every step forward in this journey is a step towards equality and acceptance for all. Let’s keep moving forward together!

▸ If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or a participant of the program, email Program Manager Mitchell Zahn at mzahn@sageusa. org or call 646-568-9354. Scan the QR code to learn more abour SAGE or visit the www.sageusa.org.

Mitchell Zahn, Program Coordinator SAGE South Florida Friendly Visitor Program

Bunions

By Dr. John Goodner, D.P.M.

unions are readily apparent and are not only are they painful, but for many people they are unsightly. The faulty mechanical structure of the foot along with certain foot types will predispose one to this common foot deformity. The bunion deformity is not just a big bump on the side of the big toe, but a change in the bony framework of the first metatarsal phalangeal joint that creates a change to the biomechanics of the forefoot. This deformity is progressive in nature and early treatment is very important because chronic deformities require surgical fixation. Nonsurgical treatment will range from changes in shoe gear, padding, orthotics, and medication all guided by a podiatric

Bphysician. Surgical treatment with cutting-edge technology in minimally-invasive bunion repair is unlike any traditional surgical bunion repair. The new minimally-invasive surgical (MIS) bunion repair requires less trauma to the big toe joint, utilizes a tiny incision that is 2 to 4 times smaller than the traditional surgical repair and allows patients to have a faster post-operative rehabilitation therapy. Depending on age, level of activity, quality of bone, and overall health, the foot and ankle surgeon will discuss the most appropriate method for maintaining correction through the minimally invasive procedure. This new minimally invasive surgical repair can help those who suffer from this deformity return to day-to-day activities faster with a more cosmetically pleas ing outcome.

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

www.SouthFloridaSportsMedicine.com. Instagram @SouthFloridaSportsMedicine Twitter @SFLSportsMed

OFFERING SAME DAY & EARLY MORNING APPOINTMENTS & CONSULTATIONS

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

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

$800 INJECTIONS

$550

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

ORTHOTICS $400

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

SIMPLY | SUNSHINE | OSCAR | MEMORIAL PHO

Dr. Carlo Messina | Dr. John Goodner | Dr. Michael Cohen Serving

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

SIMPLY | SUNSHINE | OSCAR | MEMORIAL PHO

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

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

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

ORTHOTICS $400 | CASTS $200 | LACERATION REPAIR

n March 14, 2023, I was elected for my third term as the Mayor of the great city of Miramar. With over 90% of the vote, my victory was not only decisive but also a clear indication of the trust and confidence that the residents of Miramar have in me. I am humbled and honored by the immense support and your faith in me motivates me to work harder, to do more, and to continue making Miramar a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

As I embark on this third term, my focus remains on driving innovation and growth in the city. One of my top priorities is the Miramar Innovation and Technology Activity Center (MITAC). The project is set to transform a section of Historic Miramar into a cutting-edge, world-class tech hub, creating jobs, opportunities, and economic growth for

MIRAMAR UPDATE

By Mayor Wayne M. Messam

Othe city. In addition, MITAC will provide high quality housing, public safety complex and mixed use opportunities. I believe that the Miramar Innovation and Technology Activity Center will be a game-changer for our city, our region, and the state as a whole. As technology continues to evolve, our city needs to remain at the forefront. This project will put Miramar on the map in terms of innovation, entrepreneurship, workforce and economic development.

Another initiative that I am passionate about is the establishment of transformative electronic vehicle infrastructure citywide. As a proponent of clean energy and sustainability, I aim to make Miramar the most EV-friendly city in South Florida by building charging stations and facilitating EV adoption. We need to transition to a clean energy future, and electric vehicles are a key part of that. By promoting EVs, we can reduce our carbon footprint, cut down on air pollu-

tion, and improve the quality of life for our residents.

Lastly, I plan to continue attracting and growing companies in Miramar to create high-paying job opportunities and a vibrant business community. Miramar continues to be the home of more Fortune 500 companies with either a headquarter or regional operations office in the city. Miramar has a lot to offer - a fantastic location, a talented workforce, and a supportive business environment. By working together, we can continue to attract and retain companies that will bring prosperity and growth to our city.

As I begin my third term, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Miramar and am committed to building a brighter, better future for all residents.

Pet of the Month

■ CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Greetings From Your Chamber President!

By Patty Archer

Miramar and Pembroke Pines continue to grow at an impressive rate, making our area the second most populous area in Broward County. We’re also seeing a lot of new businesses opening up in the area, and our Events Calendar is quickly filling up with ribbon-cutting celebrations.

Ribbon Cuttings are a great opportunity to meet local business leaders, as well as elected officials and other community leaders. Showing support for the business community is integral to fostering a sense of overall community pride and encouraging businesses to support each other.

Ribbon Cutting events are also great opportunities to gain insight into new businesses, products or services, and industries. The general public is always welcome to attend Ribbon Cuttings for any new business - the more the merrier to get the word out!

Remember that small businesses are the backbone of a local economy, and more of each dollar spent locally stays in the community when it's spent at a small business. Supporting local small businesses can also be in the form of following and liking them on social media or leaving them an online review to help encourage others to try out a new business in town.

Now and in the future, the Chamber is dedicated to being a Convener of Leaders, a Catalyst for positive change, and a Champion for a strong business community. For more info and our event calendar, visit www.miramarpembrokepines.org.

Yours in Service,

Patty Archer Chamber President