Our City Weston: February 2023

Providing a World-Class Education

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POSITIVE PARENTING

48 I Am Not Ready FROM TEE TO GREEN

55 Hitting the Ball Into The Wind or Hitting the Ball Downwind

ANIMAL HEALTH

56 Gum Disease in Dogs FROM THE STATEHOUSE

58 Property Insurance Reform

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59 Fulfilling Our Promise

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60 Meet “Thor”

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62 Learn CPR-It’s a Life Savers

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64 Crossword & Sudoku

60 Answer Key WESTON CHAMBER

63 Greetings from Your Chamber President!

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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.

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Tiny Planet Preschool Providing a World-Class Education

importance of kindness, empathy, manners, and love, among other important areas we feel are necessary to provide a well-rounded education.

What differentiates

Tiny Planet from other preschools?

At Tiny Planet, we offer our students and parents a variety of different enrichment programs such as swimming classes, Spanish, yoga, and many more sports enrichment classes. Our facility includes a swimming pool and full-functioning gymnasium.

Our school is also equipped with iMac’s, Apple Smart TV, as well as iPads in the classrooms which teachers use as educational tools and homework help for our afterschool program.

As a parent, you want the best for your child. That starts with selecting an early education program that will nurture your child while allowing him/her to explore, play and create in their first step to a lifetime love of learning. Tiny Planet Preschool is committed to providing the best educational experience possible for preschool students in a loving and caring environment. Its award-winning bilingual curriculum and culturally diverse enrollment prepares students for the future.

Tiny Planet General Manager Ivis Mateos answered some commonly asked questions about the preschool and daycare facility.

Describe the Tiny Planet

Preschool.

Tiny Planet Preschool is a part of Graven International Group, Inc., an educational company with more than 33 years of experience and a winner of numerous International Awards of Excellence in education. Tiny Planet was established in the United States as an extension of the organization whose priority

is to continue to spread its philosophy of modern education with traditional values.

What is Tiny Planet’s educational philosophy?

Tiny Planet believes in a multi-disciplinary approach to learning to promote a child who has strengths in all disciplines. Our bilingual curriculum enforces the importance of dual language education, and we are proud of being the Best of Weston winner (2016 through 2020) for Best Bilingual Preschool and Best Preschool overall in 2021.

Please explain your curriculum.

Our teachers and students benefit from the use of a creative curriculum inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy. This allows the children to make their own inferences and the ability to explore their own outcomes.

Along with our cognitive Creative Curriculum, we have included our own HEART AND MIND section which focuses on teaching our children the

What is special about your staff?

Tiny Planet teachers are dedicated, passionate and, most importantly, focused on stimulating the strengths of each student. They are all bilingual professional educators that meet or exceed the criteria set by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). Every teacher is CPR and First Aid Certified with background checks cleared on both a local and national level.

What are the ages of the children you serve?

Our preschool serves children from six weeks to

five years of age. We offer an aftercare program for children ages six to eight years.

Please tell us more about your aftercare program.

Tiny Planet provides transportation from local elementary schools, along with tutoring and homework help. Students in our aftercare program follow a curriculum filled with fun activities. They can also use the computers and iPads for homework and to access educational sites necessary for success in school.

Why should a parent consider Tiny Planet?

Since you entrust your most precious gifts to us, which are your children, we commit to molding them into happy, well-rounded boys and girls.

▸ Tiny Planet Preschool is located at 16098 W. State Road 84. It is open from 7am to 6pm. For more information visit www.tinyplanet.edu or call 954-384-4884.

FEBRUARY 1

All-Star Hockey Festival

The NHL All-Star Weekend returns to South Florida! Residents are invited for a day of activities at the Panthers IceDen in Coral Springs. Outdoor activities open to the public: music, food trucks, games, street hockey, bounce houses and more. Learn to skate (register in advanced)

4:45 - 5:45 pm. Public skating 6:00 pm till 9:00 pm. Hosted at the Florida Panthers Ice Den, 3299 Sportsplex Drive. For info visit www.panthersiceden.com.

FEBRUARY 4

BSP Operation Medicine Cabinet & Shred-a-thon

Join the Broward Sheriff's Office to help prevent prescription drug abuse and identity theft. Shred away identity theft by safely disposing of information-sensitive documents. Also, bring your unused, unwanted or expired medications for safe disposal and receive a $5 gift card while supplies last. No needles or sharps will be collected. Gift cards will only be given when turning in prescription medication. Drive-thru event will take place at the BSO Weston District Office, 17300 Royal Palm Blvd. 10:00 am1:00 pm. For info, call 954-831-8902.

FEBRUARY 1

STOMP

STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered an armful of awards and rave reviews, and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. Hosted at the Coral Springs Center For The Arts. Scan the QR code for tickets or more info.

FEBRUARY 10

Moonlight Movie in the Park

Enjoy a full-length feature film projected on a giant inflatable screen with family and friends. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Coolers are welcome (no alcohol permitted). Sing 2 tells the story of Theater owner Buster Moon sets his sights on producing a brand-new musical with his troupe in the glamorous Redshore City. To gain the support of a ruthless music mogul, he pitches that he’ll feature Clay Calloway, a legendary but elusive rock singer as part of the show. Movie starts at 7:30 pm at Weston Regional Park (Event Stage). For info, call 954-389-4321.

FEBRUARY 11

Stay Fit

Get your bikini body back for the New Year! Boot camp workouts every Saturday. Led by personal trainer Susan Malinski, these sessions will get your blood flowing and set you off with a positive mindset. For more info call 954-2452071 or visit www.SusanMalinski.com

FEBRUARY 13

Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society

Come hear about Cattleya Hybrids from Omar Gonzalez who is a Chemist by trade and a Botanist at heart. Omar's presentation for tonight will be "Differences in Cattleya Hybrids and How These Differences Can Be Useful in a Home Setting" .Come learn about Orchids, meet other orchid hobbyist and have a great evening. Meeting in the Mary N. Porter Learning Center at Flamingo Gardens, 3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330. Doors Open at 7:00pm, program begins at 7:30pm.

FEBRUARY 13

Weston Foreign Film Festival: I'm Your Man (Germany)

Watch German Film I’m Your Man | Ich bein dein Mensch. This film tells the story of a scientist at the Pergamon Museum in Berlin is persuaded to participate in a study to get funding for her research. For three weeks, she must live with a humanoid robot designed to be the perfect life partner for her. Showtimes are 4:45 pm and 7:30 pm. Shows at the AMC Weston 8, 1338 SW 160th Ave.

FEBRUARY 18

Courage to Fight Gun Violence

AAUW Weston and Mujeres Latinas empowering women will hold a public meeting on Gabby Giffords’ legacy on “Courage to Fight Gun Violence” from 2 – 4 pm at Weston Community Center, 20200 Saddle Club Road, Weston, 33327. All are welcome to attend. For more information, email westonaauw@gmail.com.

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 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 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.

FEBRUARY 25

Weston Community CPR Day

Community members ages 8 and up are invited to participate in the FREE Handsonly CPR training, which also includes how to use an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED), and bleeding control techniques in the event of an emergency. Hands-only CPR is a simplified form of CPR using only compressions and no breaths. Participants will receive instruction from BSO Fire Rescue and Cleveland Clinic. In just one hour, you will learn life-saving instructions on CPR, how to operate an AED, & Bleeding Control. No reservation required; just stop in to get trained. The life you save could be a loved one. Hosted at the Community Center, Weston Regional Park. Classes start at 10:00 am.

Orange Blossom Festival, Parade & Rodeo is Back!

On February 24th, 25th, and 26th, the Town of Davie will commemorate its unique legacy and beginnings as an agricultural community by hosting the 86th annual Orange Blossom Festival. The Orange Blossom Festival, Parade, and Rodeo is projected to draw more than 15,000 people. The Parade and Festival will take place at the Bamford Sports Complex on Saturday, February 25, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, February 27, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is free to attend.

“The Orange Blossom Festival is a wonderful way to celebrate Davie’s heritage with friends and neighbors,” said local resident Claire Underwood, “Each year gets better and better!”

Over 200 displays will be shown during the Orange Blossom Festival, which will take place along Orange Drive from Davie Road west to SW 66th Terrace. There will be free attractions on both days, including an arts and crafts market, a fine arts show, musical entertainment, "Cowboy Town," a Native American display, an animal farm, a western carriage display, a commerce corner, information displays, and green product exhibits. Additionally, there will be free concerts on Saturday and Sunday and a kids' zone with activities, inflatables, and vendors.

Festivities begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday with a parade down Davie Road between Orange Drive and S.W. 39th Street. Marching bands, youth organizations, fire trucks and more horses than you can imagine will take part. Following the procession, awards will be awarded to the parade winners.

All weekend long, there will be plenty of food. At the old-fashioned farmers market, guests can buy fresh home-grown vegetables and fruits, much like in the old west. There will also be a massive food court where you can buy everything from burgers and fries to gyros.

Family entertainment will take place on both days. In addition to the free concerts on Saturday and Sunday, guests may see an old-fashioned rodeo at the Davie Rodeo Grounds on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Challenge 2,000-pound bulls, ride bareback, wrestle calves, barrel race, team rope, and more as cowboys and cowgirls from all over the world battle for championship titles.

The Orange Blossom Festival and Rodeo is the premier civic event of the year. Put on your best boots, don your cowboy hat, and have a great time!

AND BETTER THAN EVER

On Sunday, March 5, 2023, the 8th annual Weston World Fest will be held in Weston Regional Park from 12:00 noon-4:00 pm. This annual cultural event is put on by the Arts Council of Greater Weston in partnership with the City of Weston. Last year’s event attracted over 5,000 attendees, so mark your calendars now – you won’t want to miss this one.

Carol Lema, creator and director of the festival, announced, “The theme for this year is Animals of the Planet, highlighting native wildlife of the air, land and sea around the globe. All 20 international country booths as well as the Theme Village area will feature the event theme. Due to park rules, of course, there will be no live exhibits, but rather plenty of visual displays and information."

There will be interactive activities for children and educational displays for adults. A passport program for children elementary through middle school age who complete the journey will give them access to additional activity stations. The Arts Council asks

attendees to be sure and check in at the front gate to receive the festival event program as well as kids’ passports.

New for 2023 is an expanded restaurant and dining section, following unprecedented attendance and demand in 2022. Expect to taste both sweet and savory specialties from such countries as Lebanon, Greece, Italy, Spain, Singapore and Turkey along with beverages such as bubble tea and U.S. coffee concoctions.

Onstage you can enjoy international artists bringing instrumentals, dance and drum performances throughout the day. Attendees can look forward to the return of Ronin Taiko, an acclaimed Japanese taiko drum ensemble which has wowed past audiences, as well as new acts such as the Paraguayan bottle dance.

The ACGW is excited to announce that they are taking part in a national survey at the event which helps assess the

economic impact of arts and culture in our community. The survey is being completed in partnership with the Broward Cultural Division and the City of Fort Lauderdale. Surveys will be available at the Arts Council check-in booth the day of the event.

Annalisa Walker, Special Events Manager for the City of Weston, says, “We urge everyone to take a few minutes and participate in this survey. We want to ensure events like this return year after year and show the need for additional outreach to our diverse, thriving community."

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.

WestonNights Outdoor Concert Series Is Back at Weston Regional Park

The popular WestonNights Concert Series continues with another evening of music under the stars. On Saturday, February 11th, the Deep Fried Funk Band takes the stage at Weston Regional Park.

Enjoy a cool South Florida evening jamming to the beat of the Deep Fried Funk Band. From hip-hop and neo-soul to jazz, funk, and more, there is something for everyone!

All WestonNights concerts take place from 7:00 - 10:00 pm on the event stage in Weston Regional Park. The event stage is close to the park’s largest playground, which is a plus for families with smaller children. There is plenty of room to get your groove on, and dance as the tunes ring out.

Concertgoers should bring their own lawn chairs or blankets to sit back and enjoy the music under the stars. Guests are welcome to bring coolers and picnic dinners; alcohol is not permitted. Food trucks will be on-site selling a variety of food and beverages.

The concert series is provided free of charge by the City of Weston. It is a perfect event for date night or to bring the whole family. It is one of many fun, family-oriented events hosted at Weston's award-winning parks throughout the year.

▸ For more information about WestonNights Concert Series of the Deep Fried Funk Band visit www.westonfl.org.

BROWARD WELCOMES 2023 SCOTTISH FESTIVAL

& HIGHLAND GAMES

For almost four decades, the Southeast Florida Scottish Festival and Highland Games has become well-known around the country for its high-quality organization and featured entertainment celebrating Scottish Culture and Heritage.

Once again, the anticipated 98th annual event will be held on March 4th at Plantation Heritage Park. The centrally located premier venue will be transformed into an exciting exhibition of Scottish culture.

The Scottish Festival is a very colorful cultural event, and highlights include a wide variety of Scottish heritage activities such as international entertainers, massed bagpipe bands, heavy athletics, Scottish country dancing, Highland dancing, Scottish clans and societies, fiddling, piping, and drumming competitions, children’s games, sheep herding, Scottish food, drink, and merchandise.

This is coupled with a Highland Games, which comprises competitions in bagpiping, drumming, and heavy athletics with participation by people of all ages, ethnicities, and sexes and is not restricted to those of Scottish heritage.

Additionally, an area of children’s activities will immerse young lads in Scottish culture through dress-up, coloring, child-appropriate athletics, and a passport game that guides them around the heritage displays.

This year the impressive lineup of live music performances feature Seven Nations, Dunedin City Pipe Band (Grade 2 winners at 2018 World Pipe Band Championship held in Scotland), and Blu Sky Pipes & Drums. There will be a Kilted Legs Contest as well as Scottish Country Dancing.

Hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM., rain or shine, no refunds. For further information and advance tickets please click on the QR code, visit www.SASSF.org or call 954-460-5000

▸ The Scottish American Society of South Florida, Inc. is a not for profit 501(c) 3 Florida corporation. Over the years, in addition to providing a community cultural opportunity, the event has provided one-hundred and thirtytwo performing arts and fifty-eight academic scholarships for academic courses and Scottish performing arts totaling over $53,000.

THE BRADY BUNCH: ENSURE A LASTING LEGACY FOR BLENDED FAMILIES

By Andrea L. Jakob, Esq.

Remember The Brady Bunch? The "Blended" family dynamic has become the new normal, but very different than the Brady Bunch Family of 1970’s TV. Today many families are "blended" and have stepchildren that aren't legally adopted, but are considered “their” children, nonetheless. As a second marriage lasts for many years, quite often, the spouses decide to leave everything to the surviving spouse instead of planning for their own children.

Imagine that Mike Brady, in today's world, sits at his desk to draft a will from an online resource. He wants to save some money, so the price looks reasonable. He leaves everything to his lovely wife, Carol, as he knows she will take care of his children. Later that year, Mike passes away. The following are potential problems he created.

Disinherited Loved Ones

Suppose the will he created online omitted information for a blended family or definitions of "descendants." In that case, he may have unintentionally disinherited his stepdaughters, Marcia, Jan, and Cindy, by electing to divide his assets among his "descendants" (biological or adopted children, not stepchildren.)

A more devastating outcome would occur if Carol became incapacitated following Mike's death and her daughters took over the family finances to their own benefit, potentially disinheriting Mike’s sons.

Even worse, if Carol remarries, her future husband and stepchildren may ultimately inherit whatever is left, leaving Greg and his brothers entirely out of the picture.

Violating Specific Laws

He may have left his home for his lovely wife, Carol. Still, he may have unintentionally violated the Florida Constitutional Law's homestead provisions by not including his children as beneficiaries.

Minor Beneficiaries

Mike loved his architecture business and may have decided his teenage son Bobby should inherit his company. Minor beneficiaries may only have the legal authority to take control of their inheritance once they reach the age of 18 or 21. If Bobby isn't yet 18, he may need to have court-appointed guardianship established.

Nightmare Probate Process

If any of the above occurred, Carol might need to hire an attorney and begin the long road through Probate. Although a will was created, a judge has determined that it was legally insufficient, and now the bunch must deal with probating an intestate estate.

According to Florida Law, the stepdaughters will not be entitled to inherit anything from Mike's estate. A battle may ensue between the step-siblings over financial assets, personal items, or even the family dog (Tiger.)

Failing to fund a trust

If Mike created a DIY trust to avoid Probate and didn't "fund the trust" (i.e. transfer the title of his money and property into the name of the trust or direct as POD), the bunch will still need to endure the probate process and trust administration.

Our takeaway: don't be penny-wise and pound-foolish in creating your lasting legacies.

▸ 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.

Have you ever wondered about the advantages of enhancing your career by learning Spanish or any other language? Language in general functions as a symbol and instrument of power, social standing, and personal identity.

People who communicate via language engage in more than an exchange of words. Words take on different meanings based on the social and power relationships between speakers. The meaning is related to the social, cultural, political, and historical contexts in which a conversation takes place. The following example shows how language functions as an instrument and symbol of power.

The Latin of ancient Rome is no longer spoken, even though it can be studied in its written form. According to History, Latin became the dominant language in commercial, legal, and administrative affairs. The spread of not only spoken Latin but also the Roman alphabet to the provinces of the Roman Empire was one of many sociocultural effects of Rome’s political domination on the diverse groups of people it conquered. Another example to illustrate how a dialect assumes power is observing a particular dialect of Spanish, Castilian.

It became Spain’s standard language beginning

A

By Dr. Katya Pizarro

with several events in 1942, the New World discovery. As Spain spread its empire to other parts of the world, Spanish supplanted numerous indigenous languages while continuing to evolve.

What Rome had done to Spain; Spain was now doing to people in the Americas. In a similar way, English spread worldwide with the imperial expansion of Great Britain and the national growth of its former colonies, including the United States. As with Spanish, there are many varieties of English within and across nations. It is also important to know when a dialect comes to into power as a standard; its status is usually reinforced in written media, such as newspapers, magazines, books, and articles. It is also reinforced in oral broadcast media and in academic settings in both oral and written forms.

As a matter of fact, when you explore and learn a second language you sense the value of other languages and cultures; you are more likely to feel positive about a diverse society. At the same time, you build other people’s sense of identity and self-worth creating the effective foundation of your success.

During your assimilation process, you represent

the new language and culture sharing your lessons at work, and anywhere you go! You model a positive attitude and perspective toward others. Keep in mind that the language we all speak is intricately interwoven with our early socialization to family and community. It forms an important element of our personal identity, our social identity, our racial identity, our ethnic identity, and even our national identity.

▸ Dr. Katya Pizarro is the Founder and President of Elite Language Academy (ELA), a hybrid -virtual language center in USA. She lectures as a Professor at Broward College in Florida. Her research interests and publications relate to TESOL education, multiculturalism, schooling settings with ESL students, and professional development. Her dissertation Exploring Private School Teachers’ Perceptions and Pedagogical Efficacy with English language Learners, has effectively contributed to ESL teaching in U.S. She has frequently delivered presentations at Annual TASS, Teaching Academic Survival and Success Conferences.

just has a curiosity for all things tech, we've got classes to keep them excited and engaged ...with a lot of FUN in the mix!

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

2021-22 Graduation Rates

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. Cypress Bay High School led the way with 98.1% of its seniors graduating. Nova High School had a graduation rate of 96.8%, Western High School saw 94.4% of its students graduate while Piper High School finished with a graduation rate of 95.7%.

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

CHABAD OF WESTON

Weston’s Jewish Home Away from Home

Chabad of Weston has been serving the local Jewish community since it first opened in 1996. Moving to its current 18000 square foot facility in 2001, it is home to a Sanctuary, social hall, library, Glatt Kosher kitchen, pre-school and Mikvah.. The facility is home to a Sanctuary, social hall, library, Glatt Kosher kitchen, pre-school, and Mikvah.

“Chabad of Weston is dedicated to providing every Jew, regardless of background, philosophy, or level of commitment, an open-door environment for strengthening and enhancing Jewish family life,” said Executive Director Howard Gladstone, “Chabad serves individuals and families looking for an anchor and non-judgmental, accepting, personalized Jewish experience.”

Chabad offers “Judaism with a Smile,” and a home away from home for everyone who walks through its doors. Chabad is like a warm embrace. We sat down with Rabbi Yisroel Spalter to learn more.

Tell us what is unique about Chabad of Weston?

Our mission statement of being loving and accepting to every Jew, no matter their background, upbringing, financial status or level of observance, is what makes everyone feel welcome and connected.

What has been the key to your lasting success?

Following in the footsteps of our leader and our inspiration, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, we practice Ahavat Yisrael - love of our fellow. That love, warmth, acceptance,

and genuine caring for everyone that comes through our doors is what makes us, together with Chabads around the world, the hotspot for Jewish life, everywhere.

What Youth Programs do you offer?

There are two large youth offerings we have throughout the year: Chabad's Hebrew School and Camp Gan Israel. Each program is a wonderful way for our youth to explore the Jewish experience.

As part of a network of hundreds of Chabad Hebrew Schools and Camp Gan Israels around the country and even throughout the world, we take pride in our ability to give children an authentic Jewish experience while giving them an absolutely incredible time. We engage their mind and their senses through workshops, crafts, games, music, drama, and more - and they keep wanting to come back!

Camp Gan Israel

Camp Gan Israel is open to Jewish children ages 2-12 and will take place from June 26, 2023 through August 4, 2023. Families that enroll before March 15th will receive a 10% discount off the regular price. Campers will experience an incredible time including yoga, Zumba, karate, sports instruction, daily off-site activities and trips, nutritious hot lunches and much more. To enroll in Camp Gan Israel visit www.CGIWeston.com.

Chabad Hebrew School

Registration for the 2023/2024 season of Chabad Hebrew School is now open. Students will learn about all aspects of Jewish life, including Jewish identity and leadership, holidays & culture, Bar & Bat Mitzvah preparation, Hebrew reading, and more. To register or learn more visit www. ChabadOfWeston.com/HebrewSchool.

Sisterhood, Brotherhood Empty Nesters

Israel Solidarity Youth Programs (K-12)

Social Action/Tikkun Olam

SAVE THE DATE

TDD Gala April 29, 2023

Early Childhood Center* (3 month-Pre K)

Camp TDD (3 mth-10yr)

Torah Study, Adult Education Religious School

*The only NAEYC accredited preschool in Weston

Friday Night Services, Themed Tot Shabbats, Holiday Experiences Worship for all ages

Rotary Club of Weston Drawdown: FUNDRAISER FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

The Rotary Club of Weston is excited to host its 2023 Annual Drawdown, reverse raffle, event at the Porsche of West Broward on Thursday, February 23rd.

What is a Drawdown?

The Drawdown Reverse Raffle - a reverse raffle where ticket numbers are randomly selected and eliminated until the last lucky ticket holder takes home the Grand Prize! At the event, each ticket holder will have 1 in 400 chance to win $10,000. Tickets are limited and last long, so BUY NOW!

Use QR code to purchase your tickets

Entertainment- Charitable Casino Gaming

While the Drawdown raffle is in progress, guests can enjoy other fabulous prizes through Charitable Casino Gaming Las Vegas Style, including Blackjack, Poker, Craps, Roulette, and Slots, operated by professional croupiers. Many other raffles and various games of chance, giving you even more chances to take home some exciting prizes. Food and drinks will be available. This event is the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and enjoy an evening of entertainment while supporting a great cause.

Proceeds from the event will go to the Rotary Club of Weston Scholarship Fund. As a community-driven organization, we are committed to improving the lives of those around us and investing in the education of our youth. By attending this event, you'll not only have the chance to have a fun night out, but you'll also be supporting a cause that will have a lasting impact on the lives of local students.

RCW Scholarship Fund

The Rotary Club of Weston Scholarship is an acknowledgment awarded to a selective group of extraordinary students graduating from certain schools. It includes outstanding scholastic grades, demonstrating leadership, serving worthwhile causes and going beyond challenging circumstances. Last year they awarded nearly 70 students with scholarships ranging from $1,000 up to a full 4-year scholarship and presented 9 Florida Prepaid Scholarships in partnership with the Broward Education Foundation.

Sponsorship Opportunity

Our annual Drawdown fundraiser, offers a unique and exciting opportunity for sponsors to make a difference in their own community. Your sponsorship helps raise funds for scholarships for students

who demonstrate both financial need and scholastic excellence. Your generous contribution will help us reach our goal and support our mission to serve our community. For more sponsorship information for this event, please contact the Drawdown committee chairs, Jose Barbosa and Maria Penaloza-Houstoun at email: drawdown.rcw@gmail.com

We look forward to seeing you at the upcoming Annual Drawdown Scholarship Fundraiser.

Tickets are limited and won't last long, so BUY NOW and support a great cause with chances to win big!

I Am Not Ready

was feeling a little strange, not sure what exactly was happening, but I know my body well enough to know when something is off. So, I decided to make an appointment to do routine blood work and hoped it was just my busy work and personal schedule taking a toll on me. I was not really anticipating any crazy results back, because a little over a year ago I had complete blood work done for a life insurance policy. Those results came back stating that I was among the top 5% of the healthiest people in the country.

Moving forward a year, I go back to my doctor’s office to get the results from the routine check-up and to my surprise, according to the MD reading my results, I am on the verge of dying of a heart attack! I couldn’t believe my ears, he said I was pre-diabetic, possibly had a tumor in my kidney since there were traces of blood in my urine, and

By Ivis Mateos

Imy cholesterol was so high I was on the verge of a heart attack.

When you are told you are about to die, suddenly it puts life into perspective. I am not ready to go. I haven’t done everything I need to do. I haven’t said the things I need to say to the people that matter most to me. I want my children to be older before it’s time for me to go. I want them to be adults, married, with children. I want to meet my grandchildren. I want to be there for most of their milestones. I want to make sure they have a happy life before I go. So many things went through my mind, while I sat staring at the doctor’s face while he spoke.

Life is unpredictable and you never know if you will have time to take care of all the things you need to take care of. But, when you think you are about to die, you realize that you need to start moving, start planning and preparing for that moment when you will no longer be around to take care of your children. Think about a will, life insurance, important documents and information your

family might need in order to proceed if you are not around. Do all the things you need to do and say all things you want to say before it's too late.

Luckily for me, my doctor actually gave me the wrong information. I almost did literally die of a heart of attack right in front of his face! Needless to say, I re-tested a week later with another doctor and all I had was a little cholesterol that a change in my diet could fix. Take care of yourself so that you can be the best that you can be for your children and take a moment reflect on the important things that need to get done.

▸ Ivis Mateos is a mother of two boys and has more than 22 years combined experience in educational consulting and management. In addition to earning her National Administrator Credential, Mateos has lead workshops on curriculum development, teacher development and parenting. She has been the General Manager at Tiny Planet Preschool and an Educational Consultant for Graven International Group for the past three years. For more information, call 954384-4884.

ARTHROSCOPY OF THE FOOT & ANKLE

By Dr. Carlo A. Messina

Foot and ankle injuries are very common in sports or in general activities of daily living. Many structures including bone, ligament, cartilage, and joint lining may be injured. Injuries may occur from a single traumatic event or from overuse. Injuries may occur during the teenage years that may manifest themselves later on. These injuries may cause stiffness and pain in the foot or the ankle joints, especially after getting out of bed first thing in the morning to walk. This stiffness and pain will be present for a proportional period of time usually to the degree of joint injury. With weightbearing, the joint usually loosens and the person is able to ambulate. This stiffness and pain will redevelop if the person sits for a period of time and tries to get up and walk. As the day goes on, the foot or ankle may ache, especially with excessive activity. Swelling may be present over the area that is injured. Instability may develop if the ligaments have been injured causing the foot or ankle to constantly twist. When these injuries are unresponsive to conservative treatment which may include orthotics, medication or rehabilitation, arthroscopic surgery may be necessary to remove the damaged tissue in the foot and ankle.

A miniature camera is placed into the injured joint allowing an image to be seen on

a television screen. The joint is visualized, and small instruments are introduced into the joint to clean out and repair the damage. Fragments of bone and cartilage are often removed. Suctioning of debris and smoothing rough surfaces will often allow a joint to resume its normal gliding motion.

Arthroscopic surgery may be used to treat chronic joint pain and swelling; arthritis and bone spurs; loose bone and cartilage fragments; stiff, scarred joints; and ankle fractures that have not completely recovered.

The advantages of this treatment include faster recovery; less pain and swelling; avoids large incisions; low risk of infection; it is an outpatient procedure; and a quicker return to activities.

Joints are designed to give our bodies freedom of movement. Wear and tear of a joint due to injury or due to aging may alter the lifestyle of an individual. When conservative treatments fail, arthroscopic surgery should be considered. The surgery is especially helpful for a fracture that has occurred to the ankle even after the ankle has been fixed surgically. The cartilage in the ankle joint may have been damaged during the injury causing chronic stiffness and pain that may be mild but never goes away completely. Patients often think that this is a very livable condition. However, once treated arthroscopically, a full return to activity may be possible.

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

SCHOOL-AGED VISION: 6 TO 18 YEARS OF AGE

child needs many abilities to succeed in school and good vision is key. Reading, writing, chalkboard work and using computers are among the visual tasks students perform daily. A child's eyes are constantly in use in the classroom and at play. When his or her vision is not functioning properly, education and participation in sports can suffer.

As children progress throughout their education, they face increasing demands on their visual abilities. The size of print in textbooks becomes smaller and the amount of time spent reading and studying increases significantly. Increased workload and homework place significant demands on the child's eyes and children depend on their vision to function properly so they can learn efficiently and excel.

Vision skills needed for school

Vision is more than just the ability to see clearly or having 20/20 eyesight. It is also the ability to understand and respond to what is seen. There are many basic visual skills beyond seeing clearly that are important to supporting academic success.

▸ Every child needs to have the following vision skills for effective reading and learning:

▸ Visual acuity—the ability to see clearly in the distance for viewing the chalkboard, at an intermediate distance for the computer and up close for reading a book.

▸ Eye Focusing—the ability to quickly and accurately maintain clear vision as the distance from objects change, such as when looking from the chalkboard to a paper on the desk and back. Eye focusing allows the child to easily maintain clear vision over time like when reading a book or writing a report.

▸ Eye tracking—the ability to keep the eyes on target when looking from one object to another, moving the eyes

By Dr. Jane Therrien, Optometric Physician

along a printed page or following a moving object like a thrown ball.

A▸ Eye teaming—the ability to coordinate and use both eyes together when moving the eyes along a printed page, and to be able to judge distances and see depth for classwork and sports.

▸ Eye-hand coordination—the ability to use visual information to monitor and direct the hands when drawing a picture or trying to hit a ball.

▸ Visual perception—the ability to organize images on a printed page into letters, words and ideas and to understand and remember what is read.

Other visual perceptual skills include:

▸ Recognition—the ability to tell the difference between letters like "b" a nd "d".

▸ Comprehension—"picture" in the child's mind what is happening in a story he/she is reading.

▸ Retention—remember and recall details of what we read.

If any of these visual skills are lacking or not functioning properly, a child will have to work harder to learn as effectively. Students who struggle with a learning-related vision problem may experience headaches, eyestrain and fatigue. Parents and teachers need to be alert for symptoms that may indicate a child has a vision problem.

Signs of eye and vision problems

When certain visual skills have not developed, or are poorly developed, learning is difficult and stressful. A child may not tell you that he or she has a vision problem because they may think the way they see is the way everyone sees. Children will typically attempt to do the work, but with a lowered level of comprehension or efficiency.

Signs that may indicate a child has a vision problem include:

▸ Complaints of discomfort and fatigue.

▸ Frequent eye rubbing or blinking.

▸ Short attention span.

▸ Avoiding reading and other close activities.

▸ Frequent headaches.

▸ Covering one eye.

▸ Tilting the head to one side.

▸ Holding reading materials close to the face.

▸ An eye turning in or out.

▸ Seeing double.

▸ Losing place when reading.

▸ Difficulty remembering what he or she read.

Undetected and untreated, vision problems can elicit some of the very same signs and symptoms commonly attributed to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), like hyperactivity and distractibility. Due to these similarities, children eliciting these symptoms should have a comprehensive vision exam with their doctor of optometry to avoid misdiagnosis.

A comprehensive eye examination is as essential for back-to-school success as supplies for learning. Because vision may change frequently during the school years, your child should receive an eye examination every year, or more frequently if specific problems or risk factors exist, or if recommended by your doctor of optometry. Unfortunately, parents and educators often incorrectly assume that if a child passes a school screening, there is no vision problem. The most common vision problem in schoolaged children is blurry vision or refractive error caused by nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism resulting in blurry vision. However, a child who can see clearly and have 20/20 vision can still have a vision problem relating to eye focusing, eye tracking and eye coordination. In reality, the vision skills needed for successful reading and learning are much more complex. A vision screening is not a comprehensive exam. Even if a child passes a vision screening, they should receive a comprehensive eye examination.

Vision changes can occur without your child or you noticing. The earlier a vision problem is detected and treated, the more likely treatment will be successful. When needed, the doctor can prescribe treatment including eyeglasses, contact lenses, and/ or vision therapy to correct vision problems.

DR. JANE THERRIEN Optometric

HITTING THE BALL INTO THE WIND OR HITTING THE BALL DOWNWIND

By Dean Sklar, PGA Professional

hen hitting into a headwind, your shots carry shorter, fly higher and come down at a steeper landing angle due to the extra lift and drag the headwind causes. Under calm conditions, the air is moving into the ball at the same speed the ball is traveling.

When there is a tailwind, the wind speed subtracts from the airflow. When there is a headwind, the wind speed adds to the airflow. The greater the speed of the headwind, the more lift and drag is produced. The higher airflow into the ball causes more lift (what makes the ball rise) and more drag (what slows the ball down) causing the ball to balloon into the air. It’s a common misconception that the ball spins more when hit into the wind. It’s actually the added lift when hit into the airflow that gives this false impression. However, more spin is the enemy when hitting into the wind as more spin creates more lift and more drag and a resultant ballooning ball flight that winds up short of the target. Instead of swinging harder into the wind, usually resulting in more club head speed and more spin, use a club with less loft which will help you reduce the spin and optimize the flight of the ball into the wind.

The opposite is true with a tailwind. If you hit a shot with too little spin when downwind, the ball will drop out of the sky too soon and fall short of the target. Remember, a tailwind will produce shots that carry longer, fly lower and roll more

Wonce they land due to decrease amount of lift on the ball. Your best bet downwind is to launch the ball higher so that it will fly higher, carry longer and land more softly. The relationship between the lift and drag do not behave linearly, and that is why a headwind hurts more than a tailwind helps.

Now that you know how the relationship between headwinds and tailwinds affects the golf ball, here is a general tip for calculating how many yards to add or subtract on a given shot. Throw up a few pieces of grass and pay attention to how far away from you the grass lands. For a tailwind, add two yards of extra distance to how far your shot will go for each yard that the wind blows the grass toward the target. For a headwind, subtract four yards of carry for each yard the wind blows the grass away from the target. This general rule with help you estimate which club to use when playing into a headwind or when playing downwind.

Whenever I am on the course and feel a stiff wind in my face I automatically take two extra clubs. For example, from the 150 yard marker when it would be a 7 iron in distance, I would now select a 5 iron and make a nice easy smooth swing knowing that I have enough club selected and that my ball will bore through the heavy wind on target with just the right amount of distance.

The same goes for when I am faced with the same distance and I have 150 yards to the green and a strong gusty wind is at my back. I take a 9 iron to compensate for the wind and the ball has a much higher trajectory, whereas the wind carries it right on target with the proper amount of distance as well.

▸ PGA Professional Dean Sklar is a member of the Quarter Century Club of the PGA of America, an elite group of members who have served the PGA with honor and pride for 25 years. If you would like to talk to Dean about your golf game, contact him at Dean@SklarTeam.com or visit Rose and Dean Sklar at Coldwell Banker online at www.SklarTeam.com.

GUM DISEASE IN DOGS

More than 85% of dogs over 4 years of age have periodontal disease.

▸ Periodontal disease is a progressive inflammation of the supporting structures around the teeth.

▸ Signs of periodontal disease include bad breath, redness or bleeding along the gum line, difficulty chewing, drooling, and loose or missing teeth.

▸ Periodontal disease is diagnosed by examining the teeth and supporting structures while the pet is under anesthesia.

▸ Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) can be reversed with a thorough dental cleaning and polishing.

▸ Loss of tooth attachment, or bone loss, cannot be reversed.

▸ Treatment of periodontal disease may include antibiotics and other dental procedures, including tooth extraction.

▸ Regular, at-home dental care, with periodic veterinary dental cleanings, is the best way to prevent periodontal disease and keep your dog’s mouth healthy.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease starts when bacteria form plaque on the teeth. Within days, minerals in the saliva bond with plaque to form tartar, a hard substance that adheres to the teeth. The bacteria work their way under the gums and cause gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. Once under the gums, bacteria destroy the supporting tissue around the tooth, leading to tooth loss. Inflammation of the bone and tooth support structures is referred to as periodontitis. The combination of gingivitis and periodontitis is known as periodontal disease. Bacteria associated with dental disease can travel in the bloodstream to infect the heart, kidneys, and liver.

What Are the Signs of Periodontal Disease?

The signs of periodontal disease include:

▸ Bad breath

▸ Redness or bleeding along the gum line

By Miguel E. Cordova, DVM

▸ Drooling, which may be tinged with blood

▸ Difficulty chewing

▸ Pawing at the mouth

▸ Loose or missing teeth

▸ Facial swelling, especially under the eyes

▸ Nasal discharge

▸ Gum recession

How Is Periodontal Disease Diagnosed?

Your veterinarian can see signs of gingivitis and tartar buildup by examining your dog’s mouth. However, since most periodontal disease occurs beneath the gum line, the only way to truly assess your dog’s mouth is to perform an examination while your pet is under anesthesia. Your veterinarian can use a dental probe to measure any loss of attachment around each tooth and take dental radiographs (x-rays) to assess for bone loss, abscesses, and other problems.

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of the disease. If your dog has mild periodontal disease, consisting of gingivitis without

any bone loss, a thorough dental cleaning that includes the area beneath the gums, followed by dental polishing, can help reverse the problem. Your veterinarian may also recommend a dental sealant that helps prevent tartar from accumulating on teeth.

If there has been a loss of the supporting structures around the teeth, however, this cannot be reversed. Your veterinarian may need to apply antibiotics beneath the gums and perform dental procedures, which may include tooth extraction. Ask your veterinarian which dental diets or treats are best for your pet.

After a dental cleaning, your veterinarian may also recommend a plaque prevention gel that adheres to the teeth surfaces to inhibit tartar.

Ask your veterinarian what dental hygiene methods are recommended for your dog, and don’t forget to keep scheduled appointments for follow-up dental checkups.

⊲ Animal Health Center @ Weston is “The Gentle Practice You Can Rely On”. Dr. Miguel E. Cordova and his staff are committed to caring for your precious pets. The practice is located at 2701 Executive Park Drive, Suite 1. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact 954-385-8389 or www.animalhealthcenteratweston.com

PROPERTY INSURANCE REFORM

he Florida Legislature made another attempt to address Florida’s property insurance crisis during a December special session. Many constituents have been asking important questions about this:

“What does this mean for homeowners? Should we expect insurance premium relief? And if so, by what percentage?”

The bill’s sponsor stated this legislation was meant to stabilize the market, and “hopefully in the future there may be a rate reduction.” I don’t believe this was consumer-friendly. Many colleagues proposed amendments specifically addressing rate reduction and freezes; however, these amendments failed.

SB2-A, Property Insurance:

▸ Creates the Florida Optional Reinsurance Assistance program

▸ Prohibits assignment of benefits, curtailing fraud

By State Representative Robin Bartleman

T▸ Eliminates “one-way attorney fees” - you may be responsible for all your attorney fees.

▸ Allows insurance companies to offer the option to buy a policy with a binding arbitration provision for a rate reduction. I encourage all to research this to ensure you are making an informed decision. The arbitrator’s decision cannot be appealed, limiting your access to the courts. You must consider hiring an attorney and experts to present your case; insurance companies have many on standby and you’ll not be reimbursed for those fees.

▸ Requires evidence of a breach of the insurance contract before a homeowner may bring a bad faith action against an insurance company

▸ Reduces a homeowner’s time to report a claim to an insurance company and reduces the claim processing time for insurance companies

▸ Property insurers may be subject to an

additional market conduct examination by the Office of Insurance Regulation post-hurricane.

▸ Depopulates Citizens - When it’s time for you to renew your policy, if a private insurance company offers you a similar policy costing up to 20% more- you MUST take this policy and pay the new premium; you’ll be removed from Citizens.

▸ Citizens policyholders will be required to purchase flood insurance separately We’ll revisit insurance during regular session where I hope we create a bill that will continue to stabilize the market, protect consumers and reduce premiums. I welcome ideas and suggestions.

▸ As always, I’m here to help. Please reach out anytime at (954) 668-3662 or robin. bartleman@myfloridahouse.gov.

FULFILLING OUR PROMISE

By Sheriff Gregory Tony

February 14 marks five years since 17 innocent lives were taken at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Our hearts remain heavy as we remember the victims of the senseless tragedy and offer condolences to all who continue to grieve. Yet, while the pain will never fully heal, we find solace in knowing their legacies live on through meaningful reforms and action.

In the years since, young survivors, family members and community leaders have rallied together, working toward reforms and improvements to keep our schools and community safe. There have also been significant changes in the way public safety agencies operate, none more than the Broward Sheriff's Office. When I first took command of this organization in 2019, I made a commitment to prioritize school safety. As sheriff, I instituted a two-pronged approach focusing on threat mitigation and enhanced training and response protocols to ensure the failures from that tragic day would never happen again.

Public safety is our primary goal, including preventing incidents of mass casualty violence. Our BSO school resource officers continue to undergo comprehensive training annually. Prior to assignment, each SRO must complete a 40-hour state-mandated FDLE course, a 40-hour Crisis Intervention Team training, and training for autism awareness, threat assessment and patrol-rife certification. Furthermore, all BSO SROs must participate in annual active assailant training as an additional requirement. In August 2022, SROs completed a full-scale active killer training to enhance their capabilities and knowledge to rapidly and effectively respond in the event of a school threat.

Additionally, we have expanded BSO's Threat Management Unit (TMU)

and Real Time Crime Center (RTCC). Using cutting-edge technology combined with proactive policing, we can monitor and address threats in real-time. With access to nearly 18,000 school cameras across Broward County, the TMU has investigated approximately 1,600 potential violent incidents resulting in more than 220 arrests, including connecting 730 individuals with mental healthcare services.

While we've seen incredible results with these threat mitigation improvements, we will never become complacent and will continue to prepare for the next threat. As one of the nation's largest sheriff's offices, we strive to be the most prepared and best-equipped organization in the country. Focused on training, we have significantly expanded our Training Division and instituted more extensive, real-world course requirements for all our sworn personnel.

Our evolution is partly a product of BSO's new Department of Preparedness and Response. Established in June 2020, the department centralizes BSO training under one umbrella, resulting in superior training and service to Broward County. Today, our comprehensive training approach has made BSO a flagship training organization and has attracted public safety professionals locally and nationally.

Our progress continues as we prepare to open the doors to our new, onsite state-of-the-art training center later this year. The 103,000-squarefoot facility will match the agency's training needs, maximize staff capabilities and ensure a safe and effective training environment. The highlight of the facility will be the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Memorial Lobby. The names of the 17 lives lost on February 14, 2018, will be etched on the wall and serve as a daily reminder of the valued importance of training and preparedness.

With their memories close to our hearts, we will continue to work tirelessly to make our schools and community safer places to live, learn and grow.

Learn CPR-It’s a Life Saver

By District Chief Todd Draizin

According to the American Heart Association, out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) claims more lives than many types of cancers, influenza, pneumonia, car crashes, HIV, firearms, and home fires combined. In 2018, more than 366,800 people suffered from OHCA in the United States alone. Approximately 70 percent of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in homes, with 20 percent occurring in public places and the remaining 10 percent in long-term care facilities such as a nursing home. Unfortunately, an estimated 90 percent of these victims did not survive. These statistics are a dramatic improvement from the 2012 statistics and are directly attributed to increased out-of-hospital bystander Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation or CPR.

What we know is the faster we can restore blood flow to vital organs including the brain, the better chances of not only surviving a cardiac arrest but maintaining a quality of life after being discharged from the hospital. This can only be accomplished in the OHCA by bystander CPR. Less than one-third of the people who experience out-of-hospital cardiac emergencies receive bystander CPR prior to the arrival of professional help, which resulted in survival to hospital discharge in almost 10 percent of the victims (or in almost 12,500 cases) of OHCA with good neurological function leading to being discharged home with a quality to life restored. The numbers don’t lie, the faster CPR is started the better the chance the victim of cardiac arrest will not only survive but return to their pre-cardiac arrest lifestyle.

Learning bystander Hands-Only CPR takes less than one hour and is one of the first steps to ensuring that you are equipped to help respond in the event of a cardiac emergency and can double or triple a person’s chance of survival. Knowing how and when to perform CPR requires a willingness to help and the ability to follow two simple steps. Step one - call 9-1-1 and Step 2 - push hard and fast in the center of the chest until first responders arrive or the victims pulse returns. Performing bystander or Hands-Only CPR allows you to serve as an immediate responder, performing the steps necessary to help save a life until first responders arrive.

The City of Weston and the Broward Sheriff’s Office encourage the public to learn how and when to perform CPR.

To learn how to perform Hands-Only CPR, use an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED), and severe bleeding control consider joining us for Weston Community CPR Day on February 25, 2023. Ongoing CPR classes will be held from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm at the Weston Community Center – 20200 Saddle Club Rd. Weston, FL 33326. Registration is recommended and free but not required to participate. Please register online at https:// BSOFireRescuePublicEducation.as.me/WestonCPRDay

While instances of cardiac arrest remain high globally, the good news is that there are steps we can take to ensure that we are prepared to respond by performing CPR as quickly as possible.

▸ For more info, contact BSO Public Educator Melanie Brocato at 954-389-2090 or by email at Melanie_Brocato@Sheriff.org.

Greetings from Your Chamber President!

By Patty Archer

Times of economic uncertainty don’t cause anyone to look for new ways to spend money. But there are some investments in your business that even when you’re worried about cash flow, are worth the return. Chamber membership is one of those necessary business investments. It helps to have a partner looking out for your best interests. The chamber is in a unique position to provide that assistance for a minimal investment.

Luckily, the job market on average remains strong. Sometimes hiring needs are even outpacing available, skilled candidates. If you’re looking for a job, you can network and locate available opportunities and get to know hiring managers and business owners, making a job search much easier and improving your chances of finding your dream job. On the other hand, as a hiring entity, you can get to know potential job candidates who aren’t actively looking for work.

Whether you have your eye on pro-business legislation or a zoning issue, as a chamber member, your concern over business is amplified. When the chamber speaks to elected officials, they are speaking on behalf of all businesses. This gives your concerns more power among the powers that be.

While economic development of the area may not be a pressing issue in your mind right now, it helps keep you in business. A strong local economy can help maintain prosperity even when the national economy is struggling. The chamber is dedicated to building community and ushering in smart economic growth so everyone can thrive. Chamber membership not only safeguards your business interests and helps you achieve your own goals but improves the business community,and thus the community, for all.

Yours in Service, Patty

Archer

Chamber President