Our City Plantation: May 2023

A CULTURE OF CARING

To celebrate National Nurses Week, Wellpath honors the healthcare heroes in the Broward County Jails.

FEATURED ON PAGE 14

WESTON

2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scan here. Luxury Living for Seniors

You’ll be surprised!

You’ll be surprised!

At The Palace, we have the antidote to corporate-run senior livings — owners you can talk to any time. 16025

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

Innovative care for every neurological condition.

At Cleveland Clinic Florida, our team of renowned neurologists and neurosurgeons specialize in comprehensive care for every neurological condition. From stroke recovery and advanced epilepsy treatments to specialized spine care and brain tumor surgery – our experts take care of it all.

Expert neurological care is in your community.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PUBLISHERS

Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Christy Jaillet

ART DIRECTOR

Tom Rowe

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Alana Brodie

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Nancy Koval nancy@ourcitymedia.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jon Duka, Terry Jaillet, Dr. Robert Donoway, Dr. Micheal Cohen, Andrea L. Jakob, Mayor Nick Sortal 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

SUMMER FUN at Camp Nova

Camp Programs

Guppy Camp (18 months – 4 years old)

Minnow Camp (Kindergarten – 1st Grade)

Shark Camp (Grades 2 – 8)

Teen Camp (Grades 8 – 11)

Specialty Camps

Animation Camp

Baseball

Basketball

Become a YouTuber

Budding Entrepreneurs

Builders Club

Business of Fashion

C.I.T. (Counselors-in-Training)

Flag Football

Golf

Junior CEO

Learning to Fly with Drones

Little Inventors

Marine Science Camp

Summer Scholars

(ages vary)

Mini Meds

Movie Making with Minecraft

My First Food Truck

My First Lemonade Stand

My First Passport

My First Piggy Bank

Next Level Roblox Development

Science Palooza

Speech and Debate Camp

Soccer

Under the Sea

V.I.B.E.

Volleyball

WOW Lab

This program gives students ages 5 and up the opportunity to enrich their summer with learning experiences in Reading, Mathematics, Foreign Language, Writing, and Language Arts.

CAMP DATES JUNE 12 – AUGUST 4

Two-Week Sessions Available I Post Camp Sessions run from August 7–11

Camp hours are: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (before-care is available)

Welcome to the Age of Artificial Intelligence

In the mid-15th century, German inventor Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press. Over the next two centuries, his invention replaced the church’s near-monopoly on the written word. It led to an ever-increasing spread of knowledge, information, and understanding of history.

Similarly, the development of the steam engine kick-started the Industrial Revolution, changing how people lived forever. Economic growth accelerated, people migrated to cities, and goods became less expensive and standardized.

These breakthroughs were followed by the invention of the telephone in the late 19th century and air travel in the early 20th century. More recently, the development of the micro-computer, the Internet, and modern mobile phones have impacted every aspect of human life.

Each of these breakthroughs profoundly impacted the world and led to a democratization of sorts. The printing press allowed for the spread of information to the masses; The Industrial Revolution allowed people to choose vocations rather than inheriting them; And the telephone and air travel enabled people to communicate and meet with people anywhere in the world.

Artificial Intelligence is a similar watershed technology development that will reshape the world. Large language models like ChatGPT and Google’s Bard will soon be omnipresent. How they impact our world is exciting and daunting.

AI is already everywhere in our society. Students use it to “help” write term papers; forecasters use AI to predict hurricane tracks; software engineers use it to create websites; AI is used in healthcare to diagnose illnesses; and finance is used to detect fraud. Soon, any ask that utilizes a computer will likely be completed, at least in part, by communicating with an AI.

Each of the advancements in technology came with accompanying challenges. For example, there were sweatshops across London during the Industrial Revolution, airplanes were quickly turned into weapons of war, and the Internet was used to target people for nefarious purposes. However, each of these innovations has led to incredible growth in human prosperity, creativity, living conditions, and knowledge. We are confident that AI will do the same.

Say hello to your friendly chatbot for us!

Christy & Terry Jaillet

MAY 3

Hump Day Food Trucks

Skip the cooking on Wednesday evenings and instead pick up delicious food at our Drive-Thru Food Truck Event!

From 5PM - 9PM every Wednesday you can stop by Volunteer Park and order food from a variety of food trucks. Volunteer Park, 12050 W Sunrise Blvd. For more info call 954-797-2140.

MAY 5-7

Vietnam Wall Memorial

Visitors are invited to view the “The Moving Wall,” a Vietnam Veterans Memorial Traveling Half-Size Replica, while it makes a stop in Coral Springs. The wall, which is a replica of the permanent memorial in Washington D.C. is being sponsored by the Veterans Coalition of Coral Springs. This marks the second time the Moving Wall will make its way to Coral Springs, as it was also here in 2015. The Moving Wall has been touring the country for more than 30 years. It will be open for public viewing at the Tom Messenheimer Field in the Coral Springs Sportsplex, 2575 Sportsplex Dr. For info visit www.themovingwall.org

MAY 6-7

Heritage Horses Show

Celebrate the sense of family and community that is felt amongst the trainers, riders, parents and staff at the show. Heritage is such a popular local show that stalls are sold out weeks in advance for nearly every hunter/jumper show. Divisions are offered for every age and level. The show offers $5,000 in prize money and is a great way to enjoy the timeless sport. For info visit www.heritagehorseshow.com or call 954-448-5492.

MAY 5

National Day of Prayer

Join your neighbors as they gather at Plantation Community Church to pray for our nation. They will pray for those in government, the military and our schools, and also pray for revival in our nation. In case of rain we will meet inside the sanctuary. Plantation Community Church – 6501 W. Broward Blvd. For info, call 954-581-5276

MAY 6

Teddy Bear Picnic

Bring your teddy bear, lunch, Mommy & Daddy, and Grandma & Grandpa, and have a picnic! Brink a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy animated storytelling where kids are a part of the fun! Refreshments are available, and admission is FREE. Hosted at Hoffman Park, 5701 Cypress Road, from 10:30 am till noon. For more info call 954-797-2140.

MAY 7

The SpongeBob Musical

The stakes are higher than ever in this dynamic stage musical, as SpongeBob and all of Bikini Bottom face the total annihilation of their undersea world. Chaos erupts. Lives hang in the balance. And just when all hope seems lost, a most unexpected hero rises up and takes center stage. The power of optimism really can save the world! The SpongeBob Musical is based on the beloved animated series created by Stephen Hillenburg. Hosted at the Sunrise Civic Center. Two shows: 2:00 pm and 5:30 pm. Scan the QR Code for tickets. For more info call 954747-4646.

No two hearts are the same

That’s why we have a team of experts who treat a full range of cardiovascular conditions and provide customized care that fits your individual needs.  Find a physician today, BrowardHealth.org/CardiacCare

Artwork by Ema Shin.

May 2023 Calendar

MAY 8

Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society

Flamingo Garden Orchid Society reaches out to our local orchid growers and suppliers to come and speak at our monthly meetings. In addition, we like to help our members learn by having experienced members talk on common orchid topics and share their growing tips and techniques. Some of the speakers frequently bring plants for sale and/or raffle at the meeting. Doors open at 7:00pm, program begins at 7:30pm.

MAY 13

Plantation Farmers Market

Plantation hosts a Farmers Market featuring fresh, certified Organic and non-Organic produce, locally produced honey, homemade hummus, plants and orchids, fresh cut flowers, breads and Danishes, olive oils, cheeses, dips, spreads and more. It is located at Volunteer Park, from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. For more info call 954-452-2558.

MAY 24

Hump Day Food Trucks

Skip the cooking on Wednesday evenings and instead pick up delicious food at our Drive-Thru Food Truck Event!

From 5PM - 9PM every Wednesday you can stop by Volunteer Park and order food from a variety of food trucks.

Volunteer Park, 12050 W Sunrise Blvd.

MAY 12

Tunes ‘N Trucks Concert Series

Sunrise’s popular outdoor concert series is taking place from October 2022 through June 2023. Each Tunes 'N Trucks event features live music and food trucks. This month’s band is Johnny Wild and the Delights playing ‘50s and ‘60s hits. The trucks start serving at 6:00 p.m., and the band takes the stage at 7:00 p.m. Bring your lawn chair or blanket. Admission is FREE! Hosted at the Sunrise Civic Center Amphitheater, 10610 W Oakland Park Blvd.

MAY 13

Mothers’ Day Celebration

You're in it to win it! Come out and enjoy some fun with mom with exciting and interactive games for all at the Plantation Community Center! Lunch will be provided. The event is for children ages 6 & up and the cost is $12 per person. First-time registrants require birth certificates. Only registered participants are allowed to attend the event. For more info call 954-797-2180. 11:00 am - 1:00 pm at the Plantation Community Center, 5555 Palm Tree Road.

MAY 29

Memorial Day Service

Join the City of Plantation as we pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our country in the United States Armed Forces. 9:30 am - 11:00 am at Veterans Park, 1776 Lauderdale West Drive. For info, call 954-452-2510.

During National Nurses Week, we acknowledge and honor the healthcare heroes who work tirelessly every day to care for the most vulnerable individuals in our society. These exceptional professionals put the needs of their patients and team members first, and they are the backbone of our healthcare system. In Broward County Jails, we have a team of dedicated and passionate nurses who are making a difference in the lives of the underserved, and we celebrate their commitment to excellence.

Patricia Butler, LPN, is a shining example of the kind of nurse who makes a difference every day. With 12 years of experience working at the Main jail, she is a valuable source of knowledge and always welcomes new staff with open arms. She loves her job, focuses on efficiency, and is our culture carrier, planning staff get-togethers during the holidays. Sherri Klimko, RN, is a new charge

nurse who has a passion for teaching her staff and taking every opportunity to show them love and support. Oddeth Mattis, RN, is our sick call nurse, who takes on many roles, including the detox unit and charge nurse. Her warm personality and dedication to her patients make her a pleasure to work with, and the team loves her.

To celebrate National Nurses Week, it is important as a community that we honor the front line Wellpath nurse heroes in the Broward County Jails.

Nurse Strong, our Charge Nurse/Sick Call Nurse, started as an LPN over 10 years ago and is structured and organized, always showing initiative and a focus on completing tasks. She provides excellent care to our patients and endless support to our team. Linda Brown, LPN, has been with us for three years and is flexible and able to work in many different positions. She loves her patients and is always their advocate, while also welcoming new hires and efficiently training them. Nurse Minnis, our charge nurse, started as an LPN over 10 years ago and always has a big smile on her face. She takes charge when necessary and is always available to assist and guide others.

In addition to these outstanding nurses, we must also recognize Nurse C. Babwah, one of our hard-working Infirmary Nurses, who has been with Wellpath for four years. She shows compassion for her patients and team members and takes pride in her work. Maureen Dixon, RN, is a team player extraordinaire who will switch from day charge nurse shift to night charge nurse shift whenever needed. She takes initiative to coordinate coverage and never says no when asked to help others. Carol Mannings and Marianne Scibilia, Clinic LPN Staff, have been with us for almost a year and a half,

treating our patients with kindness and respect and working to keep them seen in a timely manner.

When we asked these nurses why they love what they do, they overwhelmingly shared their passion for making a difference in the lives of the underserved. They feel proud to be part of a mission-driven organization with a peoplefirst culture that supports diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, autonomy in a warm team environment, excellent career growth opportunities, and training.

As we celebrate National Nurses Week, we are reminded of the famous quote, “Save one life, you’re a hero. Save a hundred lives, you’re a nurse.” Every day, our special group of RNs, Charge Nurses, LPNs, Sick Call Nurses, Infirmary Nurses, and more show up with non-judgmental compassion to provide hope and healing to those who need it most. We honor them today for living our mantra to “Always Do The Right Thing.”

“Save one life, you’re a hero. Save a hundred lives, you’re a nurse.”

THE LEXUS

By E.F. Israel

The City of Plantation’s first entry into the Lexus Corporate Run drew a larger-than-expected crowd: 64 employees and their relatives traversed the 5K distance around the FloridaLive Center.

An annual evening 5K (3.1-mile) run gathering companies from across Broward County first began about three decades ago. But March 30 was the first time the City of Plantation organized a team.

“It’s a way to promote health and give employees from across all employers a chance to know each other,” said Mayor Nick Sortal, who said he expected only about 20 signups for the first foray.

The city’s Human Resources Department helped attract participants – about half of whom were walkers – by offering points toward the fitness incentive program.

Glendon Hall, Plantation’s redevelopment administrator, served as team captain.

The event drew about 4,362 participants

RUN

from 186 companies. A similar event was held in Miami, drawing about 20,000. Teams rent tents, provide snacks and display their corporate images in what is billed “Florida’s Largest Office Party.” (The Broward event had been held in downtown Fort Lauderdale until recent construction made having such a large event problematic.)

The run was created in 1985 by FootWorks, a running apparel store in Miami. Proceeds benefit the United Way.

“Helping Heal Through Stories”

Meet Sydney Barfus, a 17-yearold high school senior from Fort Lauderdale, who has been spreading joy and comfort to sick children of all ages at Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami through her amazing project. Sydney's Girl Scout Gold Award Project, titled "Helping Heal Through Stories," involves supplying a storybook cart that provides children with books to keep and follow along with as they listen to Sydney's recorded voice on an audio CD reading the books.

Sydney, a proud member of Troop 10707 in Plantation, was inspired to organize and execute this project because she knows firsthand how comforting it is to have someone read to you when you're feeling scared or stressed. Her goal was to bring this same comfort and joy to children in hospitals. She spent over 140 hours gathering donations from friends and family members, purchasing books, and assembling and decorating the metal locking cart.

The storybook cart includes books in three different languages and corresponding audio CDs. Sydney herself recorded the audio, editing and burning the CDs to ensure that each child can have a personal and interactive experience with the books. Some of the books included are Goodnight Moon in English and Spanish, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, Charlotte's Web, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in English and Spanish, Anwo Ak Anba in Creole and Lotsa Matzah.

Sydney began working on this project at the end of 2022, and the hospital has already implemented the use of the storybook cart. The positive effects it has had on the children's mindset and enjoyment has been nothing short of amazing. What an inspiring young woman, bringing hope and joy to the children who need it most!

▸ If you would like to contribute to this special project, please contact helpinghealthroughstories@gmail.com

Saving Wildlife in Our Urban Jungle

From time to time, everyone needs someone to look out for them. Even wild animals. The South Florida's Wildlife Center - a non-profit organization that's dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of native wildlife species looks out for our community’s native wildlife on a daily basis. Since 1969, the center has become a cornerstone of the community and an inspiration to animals in distress in Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade counties. They're able to provide their services thanks to the generous donations, grants, and partnerships they receive.

The center's mission is to deliver compassionate care to injured, orphaned, or displaced animals and aim to return them to their natural habitats. With the help of a team of dedicated wildlife professionals and volunteers, the center tirelessly works to provide medical treatment, food, shelter, and a secure environment for the animals. In a year, they treat more than 13,000 animals and have an impressive release rate of 50% for animals brought to the center.

Apart from rehabilitating animals, South Florida's Wildlife Center also plays a crucial

role in education and community outreach. They offer informative programs and tours to schools, community groups, and individuals, with the goal of increasing awareness and appreciation of native wildlife. Their programs cover a range of topics, including conservation, wildlife rehabilitation, and coexistence with wildlife. Plus, they also offer volunteer opportunities for those who wish to make a difference in the lives of animals.

It's worth noting that the center faces some obstacles. The unique environment of South Florida poses several threats to native wildlife, such as habitat loss, pollution, and collisions with cars and buildings. Additionally, they rely solely on donations to operate and provide the best possible care to the animals, which can be challenging at times. Despite these challenges, the team's unwavering dedication and passion for wildlife enable them to overcome the obstacles and continue to make a difference in the lives of animals and the community.

In conclusion, the South Florida's Wildlife Center is an incredible organization that's doing fantastic work in helping to preserve native wildlife species. Their efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and release animals, as well as their educational programs and community outreach, are truly commendable. Kudos to the center and their team for the amazing work they do!

▸ The South Florida Wildlife Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. To support SFWC or learn more, visit southfloridawildlifecenter.org or scan the QR code.

FEELING STRESSED? LONELY? ANXIOUS? IT’S OK TO NOT BE OK!

DIAL 9-8-8

COUNTYWIDE INITIATIVE AIMS TO CREATE DIALOGUE AND PROVIDE RESOURCES TO ANYONE IN NEED

We all have one thing in common now- we’re all living in this new “normal”. Whether you are experiencing stress, loneliness, or anxiety, remember that we’re all in this together. It’s OK to not be OK. It’s essential to CARE for one another with respect; COMMUNICATE and listen without judgment and CONNECT those who need help with support services in our community. If you or someone you know needs help, dial 9 -8-8 today.

Mental health and well-being is different for everybody. When a person is experiencing challenges to their mental health, it is important that they have the help and support necessary to guide them through it. Mental health challenges can affect a person’s moods, behaviors, and even their cognitive functioning. The norm in some cultures may be to avoid talking about problems, feelings, or mental health concerns. While some individuals can have healthy coping mechanisms, many people often struggle to find proactive methods of dealing with emotional turmoil or unresolved trauma. For any stressful situation, this initiative encourages talking about the feelings you have, providing an open dialogue, and promoting the fact that it is ok to talk about feelings of stress, isolation, and anxiety.

United Way of Broward County partnered with the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, and Department of Children and Families to prioritize mental health struggles in its county wide initiative that promotes “It’s OK to not be OK” and the newly created 9-8-8 hotline. The goal is to provide an outlet of support to the community facing challenges with mental health, or any feelings of stress, isolation, and anxiety. Thus, creating a space for dialogue and offering the very much-needed resources during difficult times by providing someone to talk to.

You might notice the “It’s OK to Not be OK” message around the community which directs people to call the 9-8-8 hotline for support. Please help us to share the message. Trained counselors provide callers with guidance and free resources that will help in most situations. United Way of Broward County’s Commission on Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention’s website, drugfreebroward.org, also provides a prevention resource center with tool kits that provide support for mental and behavioral health issues.

Are you feeling stressed, lonely, anxious or depressed? Or do you know someone who is feeling this way? It’s OK to not be OK. Support and Help are available. And, now more than ever, it is essential to come together and CARE for one another with respect; COMMUNICATE and listen without judgment and CONNECT those who need help with support services in our community. If you or someone you know needs help, please dial 988 today. #ItsOKtoNotbeOK

POLICE RECEIVES

The Highest State Award (Again!)

The Plantation Police Department received its third consecutive Excelsior Award at the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement State conference in St. Augustine recently.

Chief Howard Harrison accepted the award, which is presented to departments that maintain compliance with 90 state standards and nearly 1,000 national standards. The conference in St. Augustine also brought about the seventh consecutive reaccreditation for the Plantation department.

Only 80 agencies of the more than 300 municipal, county, and state law enforcement agencies achieve Excelsior status.

“The compliance with necessary standards and qualifications can be overwhelming,” Chief Harrison said. Program compliance includes:

• Review of applicable department policies

• Review of training records and compliance

• Property and evidence compliance

• Organizational and community engagement

“Our state and national accreditation programs are an essential part of our

daily operations at the police department,” Harrison said, praising the officers’ and civilian support staff’s “hard work and dedication day-in and day-out.”

Plantation Police Department has 180 sworn officers and 102 civilian support staff, such as Administrative Assistants, Records Assistants, Community Service Aides, Public Safety Dispatchers, Property Assistants, Crime Scene Technicians and Code Enforcement Inspectors.

The Plantation Police Department includes the Patrol, Investigations, Support and General Services divisions, with specialized units including; DUI, SWAT, K-9, Training, and the Community Engagement Unit.

But there also is an emphasis on outreach, so residents can know their officers. Examples include The Fuzz, PPD’s own band performing live at city events; PPD’s Basketball, Softball Teams and the Citizens Police Academy, for residents interested in learning

about police operations.

“The Plantation Police Department is one of our city’s gems,” Mayor Nick Sortal said. “We are a full-service department, meaning we respond to all calls for service.”

Sortal adds that police operations work better when the public is involved as our eyes and ears. He encourages all residents to put 954-797-2100 in their phone and mark it “Plantation Police.”

CFA Vice Chair, Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, Plantation Police Chief W. Howard Harrison, Accreditation Manager Jan Coffindaffer, Plantation Deputy Chief James Dourvetakis and CFA Executive Director Stacy Lehman.

South Florida is Not Always BRIGHT SKIES & BEAUTIFUL BEACHES

South Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and warm weather year-round. However, our home is also no stranger to the devastating effects of hurricanes. Over the years, the region has been hit by numerous storms that have left a lasting impact.

The history of hurricanes in South Florida dates back centuries. Native American tribes who lived here long before European settlers arrived experienced the effects of hurricanes just as we do today. Unfortunately, there is limited information about these storms.

According to Edward N. Rappaport; Jose Fernandez-Partagas & Jack Beven of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the first recorded tropical cyclone to affect the area that is now the state of Florida occurred in 1523, when two ships and their crews were lost along the western coastline. A total 159 hurricanes are known to have affected the state prior to 1900, destroying more than 100 boats and costing thousands of lives.

In 1935, a major hurricane hit South Florida, this time with catastrophic consequences. The storm, known as the Labor Day

Hurricane, had winds of over 185 miles per hour and caused massive storm surges that flooded much of the region. The hurricane caused over 400 deaths and left many communities in ruins.

In the decades that followed, South Florida continued to be hit by hurricanes, although the severity of these storms varied. In 1992, Hurricane Andrew made landfall just south of Miami, causing over $27 billion in damage and leaving over 250,000 residents without power. The storm was a wake-up call for many in the region, who realized that they needed to be better prepared for future storms. Building Codes were changed after the hurricane to ensure future structures would fare better.

In recent years, South Florida has been hit by several major hurricanes, including Hurricane Irma in 2017. The storm caused widespread flooding and left many residents without power for weeks. Although Broward County was largely spared from the worst of the storm, we still felt its effects. In the aftermath of the storm, many residents were left to deal with the damage to their homes and businesses.

Despite the many hurricanes that South Florida has experienced over the years, residents and officials have learned to be better prepared for these storms. Broward County has invested in infrastructure improvements, including flood control measures and stronger buildings, to help minimize the damage caused by hurricanes. The county also has a robust emergency management system in place, which helps to ensure that residents are informed and prepared for potential storms.

In a recent statement, Broward County Mayor Steve Geller emphasized the importance of being prepared for hurricanes. "We know that hurricanes are a part of life here in South Florida," he said. "That's why we need to make sure that we're doing everything we can to prepare for these storms and protect our residents."

South Florida has a long and storied history of hurricanes, with Broward County being no exception. We are now better prepared than ever to manage the impacts these storms can have. It is still incumbent on all of us to be prepared.

Weather the Storm WITH A ‘HURRICANE KIT’

Living in South Florida offers numerous advantages, from unparalleled weather to world-renowned beaches and a vibrant culture. However, along with the good comes the possibility of experiencing hurricanes.

Given the potential for storms, it's important to be prepared and think ahead. After a hurricane, you may need to survive on your own for several days, which means having your own food, water, and other supplies. This is where a disaster supplies kit comes in handy.

To create your kit, the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends assembling a collection of basic items that your household may need in case of an emergency. You should store these items in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as plastic bins or large duffel bags, and make sure they are stored inside air-tight plastic bags.

A BASIC EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT SHOULD INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDED ITEMS:

• Water (3 gallons per family member)

• Non-perishable food (3 days worth)

• Battery-powered cell phone charger

• NOAA Weather Radio with extra batteries

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• First Aid Kit

• Whistle

• Package of Surgical Masks (to filter out contaminated air)

• Plastic Sheeting and Duct Tape

• Moist Towelettes

• Garbage Bags

You may also want to consider adding these additional items to your kit:

• Prescription medications and glasses

• Infant formula, food, and diapers

• Pet food and extra water for your pets

• Copies of insurance documents, bank records, etc.

• Cash

• Sleeping bags or blankets

• A complete change of clothes for each family member

• Fire extinguisher

• Matches or a lighter

• Personal hygiene items

• Books, games, puzzles

By being prepared with a disaster supplies kit, you can ensure that you and your family are ready to weather any storm that may come your way.

Weather the Storm WITH A ‘HURRICANE KIT’

Living in South Florida offers numerous advantages, from unparalleled weather to world-renowned beaches and a vibrant culture. However, along with the good comes the possibility of experiencing hurricanes.

Given the potential for storms, it's important to be prepared and think ahead. After a hurricane, you may need to survive on your own for several days, which means having your own food, water, and other supplies. This is where a disaster supplies kit comes in handy.

To create your kit, the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends assembling a collection of basic items that your household may need in case of an emergency. You should store these items in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as plastic bins or large duffel bags, and make sure they are stored inside air-tight plastic bags.

A BASIC EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT SHOULD INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDED ITEMS:

• Water (3 gallons per family member)

• Non-perishable food (3 days worth)

• Battery-powered cell phone charger

• NOAA Weather Radio with extra batteries

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• First Aid Kit

• Whistle

• Package of Surgical Masks (to filter out contaminated air)

• Plastic Sheeting and Duct Tape

• Moist Towelettes

• Garbage Bags

You may also want to consider adding these additional items to your kit:

• Prescription medications and glasses

• Infant formula, food, and diapers

• Pet food and extra water for your pets

• Copies of insurance documents, bank records, etc.

• Cash

• Sleeping bags or blankets

• A complete change of clothes for each family member

• Fire extinguisher

• Matches or a lighter

• Personal hygiene items

• Books, games, puzzles

By being prepared with a disaster supplies kit, you can ensure that you and your family are ready to weather any storm that may come your way.

ENCOURAGING YOUNG CITIZENS TO

In April, Joe Scott, the Supervisor of Elections for Broward County, conducted a month-long voter registration campaign in high schools across the county. Officials from the Elections Office visited each high school and interacted with students in their classrooms, encouraging them to register to vote. During history, government, and civics classes, students were given forms and instructions on how to complete them correctly.

Although many students had already registered via the state of Florida’s driver’s license voter registration program, others took advantage of the opportunity to participate in future elections.

In a video released on Browardvotes.com, Scott said, “Helping young citizens vote for the first time is the most gratifying part of my job. Here in Florida, your sixteenth birthday is a significant milestone, not because you can obtain your driver’s license, but because you can register to vote.” While the students

who registered won't be able to vote until they turn 18, they will be automatically added to the voter register if they participated in the drive. Many of the students received a souvenir water bottle with the @browardvotes emblem.

“I was thrilled,” said Stoneman Douglas

junior Jo. “I can't wait to vote in my first election when I turn 18. Hashtag adulting!”

Scott emphasized that becoming an active voter would have an impact on who our government leaders are at every level, from local to national. "I'll see you at the polls," he said.

SelfView™ is the fast , accurate, and confidential mental wellness assessment that you take privately.

Know Your Body. Know Your

By Alex van Putten

Mind.

Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being. It refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being and influences how we think, feel, and act. Good mental health allows us to lead a happy and fulfilling life, while poor mental health can harm our body, appearance, enjoyment of life, work, and relationships.

Here are some of the personality traits that are associated with good mental health: Positive self-esteem means that you have a positive self-image and high self-esteem. You feel confident about yourself and your abilities and can recognize your strengths and weaknesses.

Emotional resilience allows you to cope with life's challenges and bounce back from setbacks. You can regulate your emotions, manage stress effectively, and maintain a positive outlook.

Healthy relationships are part of your life that lead to healthy and fulfilling relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. You can communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and maintain meaningful connections with others.

Productivity implies that you function effectively in your daily life. You can focus on tasks, make decisions, and be creative and innovative.

Enjoyment of life is associated with a sense of purpose and joy. You can engage in activities that you are fulfilling, pursue

your interests, hobbies, and sports, and feel satisfied with your achievements.

It’s important to note that mental health is not static; everyone has unique mental health needs. It’s common for people to underestimate the impact underlying mental health issues, such as anxiety, can have on their overall well-being. Sometimes, people may not even be aware that they are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges holding them back.

Therefore it’s essential to get a mental health checkup regularly to know the level of your emotional health, just like you get a blood test to understand your physical health. SelfView is accurate and used in top medical centers to support research. We are making it available to you for the first time. SelfView tests 24 aspects of mental health using artificial intelligence to arrive at a diagnostic report in about 10 minutes. It is state of the art; you can take it at home, so know it is private and confidential.

If you are not living your best life, find out if something is holding you back. SelfView is available for only $20 using the coupon code OURCITY with the QR code on this page or by visiting www.bit.ly/3o92Esa.

Alex van Putten is the co-founder of PsycHealth, Inc., the owner of SelfView.

New peace of mind is yours! Use SelfView to help you navigate the challenges of life that everyone faces. It will only take you about 10 minutes to get a detailed, totally confidential report that identifies factors that might be weighing you down or holding you back from the most satisfying life available to you. SelfView has been validated through rigorous clinical testing and is the most advanced mental health assessment available.

Register Now for a Confidential Emotional Health Wellness Checkup

ONLY $20

Use Coupon Code: OURCITY TO GET $5 OFF $25

ONCE YOUR CHILD TURNS 18, THE RULES OF PARENTING CHANGE

By Andrea L. Jakob, Esq.

In honor of May’s flowers, Graduations and Mother’s Day, I’d love to share one of my favorite checklists for parents who have a new graduate in the family!

The rules of parenting change completely once your child turns 18. They may still be financially dependent on you, but suddenly they are legally an adult in the eyes of the law. This can be both exciting and nerve-wracking! The two documents that are part of your toolbox for a new adult are a Durable Power of Attorney, a Health Care Surrogacy, and a HIPAA Release.

A. HIPAA Release Once your child turns 18, it is illegal for a doctor to discuss their medical conditions with you—even during a life-threatening emergency. Even if you’re still paying the bills.

The Federal Law that controls our private medical information is called “HIPAA.” While you want your medical information protected, you may have a disaster on your hands if your child is unable to communicate their medical needs. That’s because in this situation, “protecting” your child’s privacy actually means preventing their doctor from sharing information with you.

B. Health Care Surrogate Designation In Florida, we have a specific document to guarantee that if your newly minted adult is hospitalized, you’ll be able to make important medical decisions regarding what type of treatment should be provided.

C. Durable Power of Attorney A Durable Power of Attorney (“POA” for short) enables parents to access and manage their child’s finances. The Durable POA can be useful in many situations. If bank accounts, a car lease, a rental agreement, or other assets are titled in the name of the student, the POA avoids the expensive and drawn-out court process of having to be appointed guardian by the court for your own child.

The POA can be useful as it allows parents to act on a child’s behalf on all financial matters or set limits for financial circumstances. The POA also helps if your young adult has an overdrawn bank account and isn’t addressing the issue in a responsible manner.

Think of it as a superhero cape for you - you can swoop in and help your new adult with everything they may need help with.

D. Other discussions you may have with your graduate: A conversation about budgeting and financial responsibility. Talk to them about the importance of living within their means and show them how to make a budget.

Discuss the importance of good credit. Talk to your graduate about the dangers of racking up debt, and teach them how to build and maintain a good credit score.

Help protect their online identity. Talk to them about the dangers of sharing personal information online, and teach them how to create strong passwords. Discuss the importance of networking. Encourage your child to meet new people and make connections in their field of interest.

Encourage your graduate to dream big. Talk to them about their long-term goals, and help them figure out what steps they need to take to achieve those goals.

Finally, and most importantly, talk to your new adult about work-life balance. Encourage them to make time for the things they love, as well as working toward their future.

Next month: A checklist for Newlyweds in Honor of June’s weddings

▸ Andrea L. Jakob, PA is located at 12401 Orange Drive, Suite 219 in Davie.

They can be reached at 954-862-1479 or on the web at www.jakoblegal.com.

Ankle Ligament Injuries in Teenagers & Adults

By Dr. John Goodner, D.P.M

The ankle is a complex joint consisting of bones, ligaments, cartilage, tendons and joint lining. The primary motion of the ankle is up and down. It has limited side-to-side motion. When excess motion occurs from side to side, ankle ligament s can tear.

Ligaments connect bones together. Once the ligaments are torn instability can develop. On the outside of the ankle there are three ligaments. The inside of the ankle has five and connecting the tibia and fibula are three more.

Ankle ligament injuries can occur from stepping off of a step and rolling the ankle, to playing sports and coming down and landing on somebody’s foot. It is also very common in women who wear heels and roll their ankle to the outside, causing damage to the ligament structure of the ankle.

When ligament injuries occur, it is most often

associated with a feeling of a crack or a pop, and is associated with pain, swelling, occasionally discoloration and inability to weightbear.

It is always best to evaluate these ankle injuries as soon as possible. A thorough history and physical will allow the doctor to identify the ligaments that have been injured and the extent of the injury. X-rays are taken and occasionally MRIs if the suspected damage is significant.

Treatment is then aimed at reducing the damage to the ligaments and giving the ligaments an opportunity to heal primarily. Treatment for these injuries could be as simple as RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation). For a very simple stretching injury to the ankle ligaments, an ankle brace is used most often. When the ligaments are torn, then immobilization is absolutely necessary. A boot or a cast is applied for two to six weeks. Patients are allowed to immediately weightbear. Cross training is completely allowed. Avoid any type of anti-inflammatory. This will help to reduce the inflammation but at the cost of allowing those ligaments to heal because inflammation is a critical part of the healing process. Physical

therapy may be necessary after cast removal. A return to sports could take four to eight weeks. Chronic instability may develop if treatment has not been initiated immediately. This may be corrected with a ligament tightening procedure. Long-term prognosis is almost always excellent.

▸ 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 Tel: (954) 430-9901 The practice website is SouthFloridaSportsMedicine.com. Instagram @SouthFloridaSportsMedicine and Twitter @SFLSportsMed

OFFERING SAME DAY & EARLY MORNING APPOINTMENTS & CONSULTATIONS

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

$800

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

INJECTIONS

$550

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

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

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

SIMPLY | SUNSHINE | OSCAR | MEMORIAL PHO

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

NEW PATIENT $300

Dr. Carlo Messina

Pet of the Month

“Sydney”

By Nick Sortal

We had hoped to take measures to compel Seritage to begin cleaning up their mess at the north end of Broward Mall, but they now have some legal cover.

Gov. Ron DeSantis extended an executive order he issued on November 7, 2022, after Hurricane Nicole. The order protects unfinished construction projects from being subject to city penalties.

The executive order was set to expire on March 16, 2023. This would’ve allowed us to start a 90-day deadline clock for the former Sears property. Should Seritage not comply with appropriate cleanup, we could consider action for an abandoned structure. The earliest we can start the 90-day clock is May 3.

Seritage, a real estate offshoot of Sears, purchased about 250 properties nationwide for development. They have since sold off about 150, and our Plantation site, that had been planned as an entertainment hub, is also on the market. We have continually asked Seritage officials for at least a canvas wrap to hide the exposed pipes and air conditioners. Still, no luck. Please know that an array of options is on the table as soon as we can act.

Plate Readers Installed

The Plantation Police Department’s latest crime-fighting tool is something you’d rarely notice: We are in the process of installing 39 automated license plate readers throughout the Gateway District. This technology detects stolen vehicles and wanted criminals and sends real time alerts to police officers in the area. (Surprisingly, once a car is stolen, the thieves often use it to commit more crimes.) It can also help find missing or kidnapped persons.

The police have a methodology for placing the plate readers. This first step is to cover the State Road 7/U.S. 441 area. Plans for the Midtown District and the rest of the city are already under way. This project is expected to continue throughout the rest of the year due to engineering and permitting requirements with Broward County Traffic Engineering and Florida Department of Transportation.

Market on University Tenant

Burton’s Grill and Bar is the new future occupant at Market on University. The restaurant will have 188 seats for indoor dining and 60 for outdoor. There are 18 Burton’s in eight states listed on the company’s web page. The closest one to us is in Boca Raton.

As most of you know, an explosion in 2019 destroyed much of the property at the plaza, including the Carrabba’s Italian Grill on the easternmost end, 1003 S. University Dr. where Burton’s will be located. I did a quick scan at BurtonsGrill.com and don’t have a quick description, other than it seems like a good place. Lobster Shrimp Pasta, bowls, Crème Brulee and Mediterranean Chicken Risotto stick out.

No Styrofoam on City Property

One of the core values of our City is sustainability. As responsible stewards of the environment, the City has adopted an administrative policy banning the use of polystyrene (Styrofoam) products at events taking place on City property or in City facilities. This prohibition will be incorporated into City contracts and agreements going forward. The City also prohibits intentional release of helium filled balloons on City property.

▸ Questions? Reach me at Mayor@Plantation.org