Our City Weston: March 2023

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March is Women’s History Month

This year, Women's History Month provides us with an opportunity to celebrate once again and honor the women who have made a significant impact on our society.

Over the past decades, we have seen incredible advancements in women's rights and empowerment, and we must continue to strive toward equality and equity for all women.

As we recognize the achievements of women in our community, it is important to also acknowledge the challenges that still exist. Despite the progress we have made, women continue to face barriers in many areas, including pay equity, representation in leadership roles, and access to education and healthcare.

However, the inspiring women who have come before us give us hope and motivation to keep fighting for a better future. Women like Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who broke down gender barriers in the legal field and became an iconic figure for women's rights, serve as a reminder of the power and potential of women.

Women's History Month is not just about celebrating the past, but it is also about inspiring the next generation of women to reach their full potential. Let us continue to uplift, empower, and celebrate women in all their diverse and incredible forms. Here's to another year of honoring the women who have made and continue to make history!

Sincerely,

Christy & Terry Jaillet

OUR

CITY MEDIA PUBLISHERS

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Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com

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Christy Jaillet

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

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Fire Chief Todd Draizin, Jon Duka, Dr. Maria Grosman, Terry Jaillet, Ivis Mateos, Stephanie Muniz, ARNP, Dr. Jean Nerette, Kalai Ramu, Dean Sklar, Rose Sklar, Daniel J. Stermer, Dr. Jane Therrien

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MOBILE SCHOOL PANTRY DELIVERS FOR HUNGRY STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES

Mobile School Pantry is a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization established in 2013 to help alleviate hunger through the provision of nutritious food to children and their families at Title 1 Schools in South Florida.

The Mobile Pantry affords the chance to reach a greater number of schools and families, allowing them to serve those who are unable to access a food pantry in their neighborhoods with little burden for the school.

One in five children in South Florida live in food-insecure households. Mobile School Pantry understands that hunger is a reality facing children and families in our communities and gives families an opportunity to get fresh fruits and vegetables in their neighborhoods with very little burder on schools.

How Mobile School Pantry Works

MSP works with schools to establish a pop up Client Choice pantry on site. Students and their families can access nutritious food items from these pantries

with no questions asked. The goal of the school pantry program is to provide not only food but connections to additional services for the family in order to achieve long-term solutions to end hunger and malnutrition.

Children and families are referred to the Pantry by the guidance counselor or social worker at the school. There are two qualifications to participate in the programStudents must be enrolled in a participating school and need a helping hand.

MSP offers a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, bread, and non-perishable food items in a farmer's market-style atmosphere at no charge to families in need of food assistance. The program operates once a month at each school. During this time, they distribute an average of 14,000 pounds of food items and serve 450 to 750 children and families.

How You Can Help

There are a number of ways community members can help MSP end hunger. Financial donations are always welcome.

In addition, MSP accepts anything from cases to truckloads of food and non-food items that are dry-stored, frozen, fruits and vegetables, meat products, or surplus; and for any of the following reasons: surplus or seasonally packaged, cosmetically damaged or code-dated, unlabeled or mislabeled, discontinued or test-market, private-label brands, or under/over-weight items.

MSP welcomes volunteers ages 14 and older. On the day of the pickup, fresh produce and other nutritional goods are sourced from several local partners and are delivered to an outdoor packing location. A limited number of volunteers pack all items. The families are then able to select the items they would like, using reusable bags, helping to lower food waste.

▸ Mobile School Pantry's (MSP) mission is to provide nutritious, healthy grocery items to students and families at low-income schools throughout South Florida. If you know a child or a family that may benefit from their program visit www. mobileschoolpantry.com.

Facial Rejuvenation: Morpheus 8

GYNECOLOGY

• Exams/Preventive Care

• Annual Wellness Exam

• Contraceptions (IUD & Implants)

• Family Planning • Infertility

• Endometriosis • Pelvic Pain

• Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding

• Uterine Fibroids • Menopause Care

• Robotic Hysterectomy/Myomectomy

• Radio Frequency Ablation of Fibroids

• Abnormal Pap Smears

• Cryotherapy • Colposcopy

• LEEP • Ovarian Cyst

• Pelvic & Vaginal Infections

• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.

• In-Office Hysteroscopy

• Hormone Replacement Therapy

• Urinary Incontinence

• Vaginal Rejuvenation: Forma V

• Anti-Aging Skin Remodeling: Morpheus 8

• Sexual Dysfunction

OBSTETRICS

• Prenatal Car • High-Risk Pregnancy

• Multiple Gestation • Vaginal Deliveries

• Cesarean Sections • Cervical Cerclage

• In-Office 3D, 4D, 5D Ultrasound

• Preeclampsia • Gestational Diabetes

• Cord Blood Banking • Genetic Testing

• In-Office Blood Collection • Tubal Ligation

• Newborn Circumcision • Postpartum Care

Dr. Miguel Torres & Dr. Marcela Torres

State-of-the-ar t Ultrasound

MARCH 3

Chillin’ With the Cops

Chill out with your BSO Weston District Crime Prevention Unit at the basketball courts. Join in for a game of hoops with your hometown deputies at the Weston Regional Park Basketball Courts. Enjoy snow cones and tons of fun, too! Parents must attend with their child/teen. Hosted at Weston Regional Park Basketball Courts from 4:00 pm till 6:00 pm. For additional info, contact Deputy Danielle Quinones: Danielle_quinones@sheriff.org.

MARCH 5

Weston World Fest

Weston world fest will celebrate its 8th year running presenting international country booths, global cuisine, and world-level entertainment onstage. This award-winning festival is produced in partnership with the City of Weston. Six-time Best of Weston “Best Culture Event” award recipient. The event theme & booths change every year – no two fests are alike! Noon till 4:00 pm at Weston Regional Park. Scan the QR code for info.

MARCH 4

Broward County Waterway Cleanup

Join your neighbors across Broward County’s largest and longest-running environmental events. The annual event brings volunteers together for one today to celebrate our beautiful environment and remove trash from our community and waterways. There are over 30 locations across the county where you can help make a difference. 9:00 am till 1:00 pm. Scan the QR code to register and select a location. Turn to page 32 for more info.

MARCH 8

International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. Today, IWD belongs to all groups collectively everywhere. IWD is not country, group or organization specific.

MARCH 10

Moonlight Movie: Aladdin

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). This month features Disney’s live-action reimagination of Aladdin. As the story goes, a street rat pursues the princess of Agrabah with the help of his pet monkey and a powerful genie who can grant him three wishes. His primary opponent is a malevolent sorcerer who services as the chief advisor to the Sultan. The movie starts at 7:30 pm at Weston Regional Park. For info, call 954-389-4321.

MARCH 13

LUNANA: A Yak in the Classroom (Dzongkha)

Check out the latest film in Weston’s International Film Festival. This month’s feature is ‘A Yak in the Classroom.’ An aspiring singer living with his grandmother in the capital of Bhutan dreams of getting a visa to relocate to Australia. Presented in Dzongkha with English subtitles. Showtimes are 4:45 pm and 7:30 pm. Shows at the AMC Weston 8, 1338 SW 160th Ave. For info, call 954-389-4321.

MARCH 15

WestonNights Concert Series

Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and arrive early to pick your spot. The event stage is close to Weston Regional Park’s largest playground, which is a plus for those with smaller children. Coolers are welcome. No alcohol or pets permitted. A variety of food trucks will be onsite. This month’s concert features Big Rock Band, covering classics from Aerosmith, The Beatles, The Bee Gees, Peter Gabriel, The Police, Prince, The Rolling Stones, Santana, Tom Petty, ZZ Top, and more! Concert begins at 7:00 pm. For info call 954-389-4321.

MARCH 16-19

St. David Carnival

Bring the whole family to a fantastic carnival. Rides & attractions for all ages. Grab something to eat at the International food court or country store. Free parking. 3900 S. University Dr, Davie. For more info call 954-475-8046 or visit www.saintdavid.org.

MARCH 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.

MARCH 15

BSO’s

Coffee with a Cop

Stop by Bonjour Weston at 1435 N Park Drive between 8:30 am and 9:30 am to enjoy a cup of coffee and meet your hometown deputies from the Broward Sheriff’s Office Weston District. For additional information, please contact Weston

MARCH 17

St. Patrick’s Day

Celebrated on the 17th of March every year, St. Patrick’s Day is one of the most popular days of the year to travel to Dublin. For centuries, the Irish have celebrated the day as both a religious and social holiday. South Florida has become one of the go-to locations to celebrate Saint Patricks day in the United States. So, kiss me if you’re Irish!

MARCH 22

“Between the Covers” Book Club

The WESTON FRIENDS CLUB, "Between The Covers" book club will meet at a member's home at 1:00 pm to discuss the book, "Mademoiselle Chanel" by C. W. Gortner. For more information on this book club or other Weston Friends Club activities, please call Nancy Russo, 954-385-1445 or narusso42@gmail.com.

Deep Fried Funk Band Rocks It Out At

On February 11, the WestonNights Outdoor Concert took place at the Weston Regional Park, featuring the Deep Fried Fun Band. The park was filled with families, groups of friends, couples and individual music-lovers, all dancing and swaying to the band's diverse setlist. The evening was perfect, with mild weather and a light breeze, making it the ideal setting for a night of music and fun.

The Deep Fried Fun Band showcased their musical versatility by flawlessly transitioning from soul to Latin to funk throughout the evening. The crowd responded with enthusiasm and danced throughout the night. People of all ages could be seen enjoying the music, which was suitable for everyone. Some danced, while others sat on blankets, enjoying the music and the company of loved ones.

In addition to the music, the food trucks were another highlight of the evening. Delicious food offerings were available, including pizza, tacos, burgers, and popular gelato and ice cream pops. It was a perfect combination, with attendees taking breaks from dancing to enjoy the variety of tasty treats.

The WestonNights Outdoor Concerts provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy live music in a

beautiful outdoor setting, surrounded by nature. The events bring the community together and offer a wonderful chance to make new friends and to share a love of music. The concerts have become increasingly popular, with many attendees marking the dates on their calendars for the next event.

The next WestonNights Outdoor Concert will be on March 15, featuring the Big Rock Band. It promises to be another amazing night of music, food, and community. The Weston community is already looking forward to the upcoming event and planning to bring their friends and family along to experience the magic of the WestonNights Outdoor Concerts.

Celebrate The Arts Day Was marvelous

On Sunday, January 29, 2023, the Arts Council, the Weston Music Society, and the City of Weston held the family favorite event Celebrate the Arts. It was a spectacular showcase of the arts in Weston and attracted 2000 visitors.

As Mayor Margaret Brown was enjoying one of the performances, she stated “Celebrate the Arts Day is really something special. Families get to see and experience so much of what our students are learning in the way of the arts and the kids are interacting with other students, it’s just fabulous”.

Booths highlighting art, music, photography, chess and robotic clubs from various Weston schools showcased student work and provided hands-on activities for all to enjoy. The popular 28’ graffiti wall was easily a big fan favorite, attracting almost everyone who attended to add their inspired drawings. Jami Nix-Rahm, former Arts Council President who traveled from Colorado to be with us, said, “We had record crowds for this year’s Celebrate the Arts Day. This year’s theme, Skyward Dreams, was well represented with the creative drawing on our graffiti wall and in Master Chalk Artist’s Ken Mullen’s vision of a 3-D paper airplane, perfect for group pictures and selfies”.

Young at Art Museum featured their open-air studio with projects inspired to complement the YAA On the Go Mobile Art Museum [parked nearby. The mobile museum highlights an interactive art installation by artist Ali Shrago-Spechler.

Olaf from the movie “Frozen” was there, and everybody wanted a picture with him, including Mayor Brown, every kid (and every kid at heart), and even two policemen grinned broadly as the camera snapped them with this beloved character.

Event attendees enjoyed performances throughout the afternoon by drama and music groups from various schools located in and near Weston. The talent of these young student musicians is superb. Aspiring musicians got a chance to experience instruments at the Youth All Star booth, where we know of several students going on to join their school bands because of this experience. Gina Catone, President of the

Weston Music Society, noted, ““Celebrate the Arts was a marvelous event highlighting our talented youth in musical performances and showcasing the arts in Weston.”

Annalisa Walker, Special Events Manager for Weston, summed it up this way. “This event brings individuals of all ages together to engage in a variety of art and cultural activities, as well as enjoy numerous performances by talented young students. Watching attendees experience each booth and explore their inner interests, puts a smile on my face. The City is delighted to continue partnering on this event and is grateful for the numerous volunteers who help to make this event possible.”

BROWARD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS HIRES YET ANOTHER INTERIM SUPERINTENDENT

Dr. Earlean Smiley agreed to terms with Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) to serve as the school district’s interim superintendent. The retired school administrator was selected by the school board in a 7-2 vote. She was Superintendent of McCormick County Public School District in South Carolina from 2010 to 2013 and was the Principal of Blanche Ely High School. School Board negotiations were led by Chair Lori Alhadeff. Smiley’s compensation package is said to be valued at approximately $300,000.

The move comes after the departure of controversial Superintendent Dr. Vickie Cartwright. After agreeing to a separation agreement, Cartwright said, “I am confident that the district will continue to thrive under new leadership, and I do wish the district continued success in the future. Thank you for your support and your understanding.”

Smiley’s initial focus will be on improving the culture within the district’s administration.

“I’ve heard many board members talk about toxic culture,” Smiley said, “I want to move out of the culture that we’re in, to a

culture where we can thrive at every level.”

Smiley, who is 71 years old, will fill the role as the School District looks for its fourth leader in just three years.

“She has a no-nonsense personality, and I believe that is what Broward County Public Schools needs right now,” said Broward School Board Chair Lori Alhadeff, “This is how I know that she’s going to be tough but fair and a very strong leader.”

Leadership at BCPS has been a political hotbed since the Tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas. The fact that the school board and Dr. Cartwright were frequently at odds with Governor Ron Desantis during the COVID pandemic made matters only more difficult. Desantis frequently quarreled with Broward County over back-to-school rules and mask requirements.

The rift between Tallahassee and BCPS culminated when Desantis removed four board members last August. He had convened a Grand Jury to investigate the root causes of the Parkland tragedy and used his powers as governor to remove the board members after the grand jury’s findings suggested the

school board was partially at fault.

Desantis’ hand-picked replacement board members were at odds with Cartwright from the moment they took their seats, eventually voting to terminate her during a late-night meeting just days before three of them were to be replaced following the November election. In a twist of fate worthy of a TV melodrama, Cartwright was reinstated by the new board two weeks later, only to be pushed out for good a month later.

Dr. Smiley will remain interim superintendent until the board recruits a new, permanent leader. Finding the best candidate to lead the nation’s sixth-largest school district will likely be a challenge, given the chaotic history of the last three years. Dr. Cartwright was hired after former Superintendent Dr. Robert Runcie was indicted for allegedly lying to a grand jury in 2021.

“We’re not looking to rush it, but we want to make sure that we have Dr. Smiley in place for enough time for us to be able to do the national search for a permanent superintendent,” said Alhadeff.

Help Make Broward County Beautiful at the Waterway Cleanup

Boward County Waterway Cleanup

will be held on Saturday, March 4th, 2023. The cleanup is open to volunteers of all ages and is a great way for students to earn community service hours. This year’s event will be hosted at more than 30 different locations across the county.

The Broward County Waterway Cleanup, organized by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, is the county’s largest and longest-running environmental event.

The first Waterway Cleanup was held in the late 1970s to help ensure that both the community and the marine industry could enjoy our local waterways.

Last year more than 1,100 volunteers of all ages joined with more than 300 boats/personal watercraft throughout 35 sites across Broward County to remove 25 tons of trash and debris from our inland waterways.

To volunteer for the event, you must first complete the registration form and sign the waiver. When registering, you will be asked to choose one of our more than 30 site locations to clean up at.

Once you have registered, on the day of the event, you will arrive at your site location, and a site coordinator will provide you with additional instructions on cleaning up at that specific location.

Participants are strongly recommended to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes for the event. Each volunteer will receive a Waterway Cleanup T-Shirt. The event is open to all ages. However, kids 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Chabad Hebrew

ROTARY CLUB OF WESTON’S 36TH ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC PROVIDING SCHOLARSHIPS TO LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS IN NEED

By Golf Committee Co-Chairs: Deborah O’Connor Richman & Jacqueline Gillman

On Thursday, May 18th, the Rotary Club of Weston will hold their Annual Scholarship Awards Breakfast awarding students graduating from Cypress Bay and Western High Schools, The Sagemont Preparatory School, HANDY (Helping Abused, Neglected and Disadvantaged Youth) and Children’s Harbor with scholarships. This is the 36th consecutive year that the club has awarded scholarships to students in the community. This year the Club hopes to be able to award scholarships to over 50 students valued well in excess of $150,000, thanks to funds raised from the Draw Down Raffle, being held February 23 at Porsche West Broward and the FHV Rotary Golf Classic, being held on April 3 at The Club at Weston Hills.

“We are only able to provide scholarships to students in need because of the generous donations and support of our sponsors, including Freedland Harwin Valori and Ryan, the Golf Title Sponsor for over 10 years, major sponsors, Moises

Gillman Homes, UKG, Acuderm, and Hooters,” said Steve Goldstein, Scholarship Chair. “It is only because of the generosity of these businesses and individuals and the financial support from members of our Rotary Club of Weston, that we are able to continue to help deserving students with an opportunity to achieve their dreams of higher education.”

To apply for a scholarship, students from Cypress Bay, Western, Sagemont Preparatory, HANDY and Children’s Harbor must complete a detailed application that included scholastic achievement, community service hours, extra-curricular activities and achievements, proof of financial need, and reference letters from teachers and administrators. These students are then interviewed by members of the Scholarship Committee, who will evaluate them using objective criteria and finally, make scholarship award determinations. Not only do the students need to demonstrate financial need, but also demonstrate qualities of

Above Self”.

Awards ranging from $1,000 up to full 4-year scholarships are awarded to deserving students. Last year, the Rotary Club of Weston presented a record number of nine (9) Florida Fully Paid Scholarships. These were issued in partnership with the Broward Education Foundation whose mission is “to energize and engage the extended community to transform the lives of Broward County Public School students through the support of quality education”.

If you or your company would like to be part of this rewarding program to help the youth of our community who are in need achieve their dreams, please contact us at westonrotarygolf@gmail.com.

▸ The Rotary Club of Weston meets Thursdays at 7:30 AM at The Club at Weston Hills. For more information, visit www.westonrotarygolf.com.

REVIEW AND UPDATE YOUR ESTATE PLAN REGULARLY

By Andrea L. Jakob, Esq.

Imagine this scenario: Wendy spent her life creating a nice asset portfolio. The assets are at a bank (let’s call it “Sun-bust”.) She named her husband as her initial beneficiary and her children as the alternate or contingent beneficiaries. Now imagine that Sun-bust is sold to another bank (let’s call it “Tru-not”.) Tru-not has taken over all of Sun-bust’s client accounts. Somehow during the transfer, the beneficiary designations were lost and Tru-not had no record of them. Then Wendy dies. When her family finds out the beneficiary designations weren’t transferred over, what should they do?

Our friend John has a job at Publix. He has a good job, a comfortable salary, and a nice home. However, John has never thought about what would happen if he lost his job or became ill or injured.

One day, John is involved in a car accident and is unable to work for several months. During this time, his expenses continue to mount. He still has a mortgage, car payments, and other bills to pay. However, John has no savings and no disability insurance, so he quickly finds himself struggling to make ends meet.

“Continuity planning” refers to organizing one’s personal finances and lifestyle in the event of job loss, disability, or other unexpected events.

The goal is risk management. To protect your loved ones you must reduce any long-term risk for businesses and family investments. Many of my clients have never heard of an umbrella policy, let alone a business succession or continuity plan.

If this sounds like you or your family, keep reading.

When the pandemic hit, many businesses and families were unprepared for an economic downturn or loss of resources.

Here are some ways to reduce your risk of loss and plan for the future:

▸ Obtain an “umbrella policy.” Many car insurers do not offer enough coverage to protect you against liability claims. Unfortunately, a bad accident with multiple injuries can wipe out your savings. An umbrella policy provides extra coverage. Check with your car insurer to see if they offer one to bundle with your auto plan. Also, consider purchasing disability insurance or life insurance to provide financial support in the event of the unexpected.

▸ Figure out your family’s needs and dynamics to plan for short- and long-term scenarios by identifying potential events that could disrupt your finances and lifestyle, such as job loss, illness, or death.

▸ Create contingency plans for both personal assets and your business, such as establishing an emergency plan. Aim to build up a savings account that can cover your expenses for three to six months.

▸ Other asset protection strategies include the transfer of rental property to a business entity.

▸ Trusts can also be used to transfer property to another, minimizing risk and financial loss and at the same time, potentially reducing tax consequences.

By reviewing and updating your plan regularly you can account for changes in your circumstances or goals. In Wendy’s case, she should have reviewed the beneficiary for her accounts annually, such as at tax time, saving her family the hassle of a potential probate estate.

And of course, preparing an Estate Plan with a competent Estate Planning attorney will help you plan for any unexpected events that could disrupt your life, finances, and lifestyle.

▸ 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.

A SECOND

By Dr. Katya Pizarro

The truth is to learn a language as a “Whole.” Success in learning a second language depends on academic, social, emotional, and affective factors that interact between and within these major factors. The social and emotional/affective factors such as individual differences, temperament and personality characteristics, attitudes, values, and beliefs have a positive impact in the student’s second language development.

These factors help second-language students to adapt to a new culture and language. The learner’s needs, interests, motivation, attitudes, and emotional states affect the L2 (Second Language) learning process. Attitudes that are determined by language learners with co-workers, peers, parents, and teachers influence the way students see the new world. Multicultural awareness activities and programs sensitize work-school personnel, students, families, and community members to the needs and feelings of speakers of other languages.

There are many ways you can become an advocate for speakers of other languages and cultures. You become an advocate for speakers of other languages and their families when you open your heart and mind to learn about the ethnic background of other citizens of the world. By doing this process, you develop a habit of sociocultural observation for understanding cultural patterns and avoiding stereotypes and over-generalizations. By attending community events, such as festivals or local restaurants, you can understand second language students’ experiences as they occur in genuine cultural and linguistic environments. Your challenge is to make connections and embrace other cultures and languages. Your goal is to become a true mediator between your own culture and many others. You’ll be a mentor who can offer a meaningful interface of bicultural identities of speakers of other languages enhancing work and daily-life experiences overall!

This Is No Joke: Weston Outdoor Pops Concert Returns to Weston Town Center on April 1st

On Saturday, April 1, 2023, the South Florida Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Maestra Sebrina Maria Alfonso, returns to Weston Town Center for the always popular free Outdoor Pops Concert. This year’s program features talented vocalists performing a wide variety of genres. The program begins at 6:30pm behind the Bell Tower.

Diane Marett, Vice President of Events for the Weston Music Society, comments,

“We are proud to be bringing this wonderful cultural event to Weston. The South Florida Symphony is a first-class orchestra and their program will appeal to audience members of all ages.”

This free family-friendly concert, presented by the Weston Music Society and the City of Weston in partnership with the Arts Council of Greater Weston, is a community favorite with something for all ages. This year, highlights will include music from Mama Mia, (bring your dancing shoes), Disney’s Encanto, (a very special enchantment), Harry Potter, (everyone’s favorite Wizard), Frank Sinatra (bring the grandparents), and more.

President of the Weston Music Society Gina Catone notes, “This concert is such a perfect follow-up to our In-Schools Program where the students

learn the individual instruments. Now they can hear the sounds of all of them playing together and experience a full orchestra for free!”

Some chairs will be set up but feel free to bring your own lawn chairs to enjoy this musical treat. Tell your friends, your neighbors, your families about this wonderful cultural offering. Annalisa Walker, Special Events Manager for the City of Weston, says, “This event brings a new level of music appreciation to our city. Our residents have enjoyed it for years, and we know this year will be better than ever.”

Sagemont School Changes Name to Sagemont Preparatory Academy

The Sagemont School announced last month that it has changed its name to become Sagemont Preparatory School (Sagemont Prep), whose mission is to inspire academic excellence through intellectual exploration, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Students at Sagemont Prep are encouraged to take responsible risks and develop a deep understanding of social responsibility as active agents of change. This evolution comes after a year-long brand, image, mission, and educational revitalization project.

To celebrate the milestone, the school hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on January 26, with Weston Mayor Peggy Brown cutting the ribbon, along with Sagemont Prep’s Head of School Mellesia Nelson.

Sagemont Prep also nurtures students’ abilities to connect existing knowledge to unique ideas that extend beyond the classroom. Examples include:

• A student-run coffee shop -- Pride Rock -- which provides a way to learn about, entrepreneurship, & economics.

• In kindergarten, students learn to collaborate and create an in-school marketplace called Kindermart. Students conduct and use research to create their own business, and celebrate their kinderpreneurship with a culminating event and opening of their marketplace to the school community.

• The school’s Week without Walls takes students outside of the school building where they engage in community service and exploration. The program includes experiences like learning to fly a plane or exploring horticulture at local farms.

“We are ecstatic to unveil our new image and name to the larger Broward County community. Sagemont Preparatory School better reflects our mission to prepare students not only for what is known, but also what is unknown as they become the architects of the future,” commented Mellesia Nelson, Sagemont Preparatory Head of School. “Our school aims to break the traditional grades-driven approach to explore ideas, partnership and leadership to expose our students to the vulnerability that leads them to student-powered confidence, new skills, knowledge, and ultimately -- success.”

In addition to changing the name of the school to better reflect its mission to empower students to lead and be prepared for the future, school leaders and staff also collaborated to incorporate innovative teaching strategies and instill an entrepreneurial mindset, while reevaluating instructional practices to increase the rigor of lessons.

▸ Sagemont Preparatory School is part of Spring Education Group, a multischool network providing superior private school education from infant care through high school. For more information, visit www.Sagemont.com.

About Elizabeth

Elizabeth Gonzalez

Owner & Director

A World of Knowledge Learning Center Greentree Prep Charter School Apple Tree Montessori

Elizabeth opened A World of Knowledge Learning Center, a preschool in Pembroke Pines, 19 years ago. The school took a different approach than others: she wanted to help young children learn and appreciate the world that surrounds them while learning their ABCs. The focus was to teach children that we are all the same regardless of where we come from or what we look like, and we all have talents that are unique to us. Taking these young learners around the world to learn about the different cultures that make up our communities became an immediate success with many of our parents. As the owner, Elizabeth wanted to bring something different and unique to the community and something that would impact students for life.

Because of the success of the early learning center, Elizabeth opened Greentree Prep Charter K-8, offering the same advanced learning philosophy to over 300 students. Today, she also oversees Apple Tree Montessori and these three schools embody her passion and philosophy as when she first started this journey 19 years ago. Elizabeth’s passion for what she does, as an educator, administrator, and parent, is what has helped her achieve her success. “As a manager in the airline industry, I was able to see firsthand the beauty that each country and culture has to offer,” said Elizabeth, “After I became a mom, I wanted to bring the world to my children.”

What Makes Elizabeth’s Schools Unique

Elizabeth has established a family of schools based on the foundations layed at A World of Knowledge. Greentree Prep Charter is a high performing school, teaching students in a gifted environment. Students score high is state assessments and the school has been an A school for eight consecutive years.

She created an unique accelerated learning program that is unmatched in South Florida. This program sets the schools apart by bringing the world to their students. With her incredible and experienced staff, this proved to be successful for over 98% of AWOK students who entered kindergarten reading and for Greentree Prep students entering high school on an honors track.

What Contributed to Elizabeth’s Success?

Students are not taught in the traditional way at Elizabeth’s schools. They learn through interactive activities and with love, compassion, and care. The incredible teachers and administrators working at three schools are committed to this approach, and it shows. These teachers believe in the programs and go above and beyond expectations. They are outstanding and are the branches that keep the schools growing and gaining accolades from the community and the state.

Denice Landaeta

Team Leader

Dluxuss Group Coldwell Banker

About Denice

Denice Landaeta moved to Weston right around the time the city was born. The community was not new to her, however. “Back when Bonaventure was built, in the ’80s, my family had a vacation villa, and we used to come and spend most summers in Bonaventure” remembers Denice, “I remember the happiness of my childhood, biking around the city and fishing on the lakes.”

She loved the area so much that she chose to raise her children here. Denice and her husband were married at Weston Hills Country Club and fondly watched their kids grow up in the healthy and happy environment that makes Weston the city it is.

Denice is now one of the most successful real estate professionals in South Florida. She is the Team Leader of Dluxuss Group at Coldwell Banker and has helped countless families find their homes in Weston.

What Makes Dluxuss Real Estate Group Different

Denice and her team have been leaders in their sector for more than 15 years, selling luxury real estate. Dluxuss is a real estate boutique created with the aim of connecting the best properties and businesses with the right clients. Its concept of luxury is born through the satisfaction that users experience when making their transactions. Dluxuss consistently receives awards, including Our City’s Best of Weston, year after year.

What Contributed to Denice’s Success

Denice’s commitment to client dedication and exceptional service have helped her build on her past successes to build Dluxuss Group. She has recruited and mentored highly efficient, dynamic real estate professionals with a deep knowledge of the market. They take great pride in their utmost discretion, professionalism, and genuine care of their current and past clients..

Something to know about Denice

Since beginning her real estate career, Denice has continuously grown her business and has been recognized as a leader in the industry. She is ranked in the Florida 100 Top Realtors and NAHREP Top Latino Agents.

Alisa Jacob

Owner & Founder

Dance IQ, LLC

About Alisa

Alisa Jacob is a certified instructor for BodyMind Dancing™ somatic dance education. She has a Master of Arts in Dance Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and is an active member of the National Dance Education Organization. In addition to running her studio, Alisa develops Dance and Musical Theater curricula for public and private schools.

Alisa established Dance IQ to focus on the creativity and artistry of dance through a non-competitive, all-inclusive, and safe establishment for children and adults to evolve mentally and physically. Through the model of Dr. Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, Alisa will help each student develop and recognize his or her bodily-kinesthetic, visual-spatial, and musical-rhythmic intelligence.

What Makes Dance IQ Different

Dance IQ’s Traditional Dance forms and Creative Movement Brain-Based Dance incorporates the dance system of BodyMind Dancing using dance phrases, spatial concepts, improvisations, and kinesthetic intelligence of the body, including support structures of breathing and body alignment, while working with imagery and community building. In between are stages that develop organically, such as breath, navel radiation, spinal patterns, homologous patterns, homolateral patterns, and contralateral patterns. Somatic dance and therapy aid the dancer in injury-free movements.

In somatic dance education, somatic therapy goes through phases of what would have been the child’s development in the first year of life. For example, tummy time is critical for a child to develop the muscles in the back when turning over or the stimulation of rolling (vestibular inner ear balance of gravity as well as speed in stopping and going), which is created with the log roll. Children learn choreographic concepts such as levels, pathways, energy qualities, and, symmetrical and asymmetrical movements, as well as contralateral movements such as an alligator scoot, bear crawl, and creeping.

Starting at a young age, for example, a three-year-old child doing somatic movement dance patterns can help develop neurological patterns in the brain. Exercise also increases the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain. Dance can assist students in focusing in class.

Dance IQ specializes in musical theater for beginners starting at six years old. They teach everything from audition techniques to singing, dancing, and acting.

What Contributed to Alisa’s Success?

While working at American Heritage School-Plantation as the lower school dance and after school musical theater director, Alisa was inspired to expand her education. She attended The University of North Carolina, Greensboro in their Master of Arts in Dance Education. She specializes in writing All-Inclusive Dance Curriculum and Musical Theater programs for public and private schools. Alisa graduated UNCG in 2017.

Fun Fact About Alisa

Alisa speaks fluent Brazilian Portuguese and conversational Spanish. She lived in Barcelona, Spain, Sao Paulo, Brazil, and London, England.

Dr. Katya Pizarro

Founder & President Elite Language Academy

About Dr. Pizarro

Dr. Pizarro leads and manages Elite Language Academy (ELA). She creates and implements short-and long-range strategic plans in collaboration with the faculty and administrative team. She also oversees all aspects of curriculum design, marketing, and execution based on ELA’s goals and mission for international enrollment to promote a diverse and culturally competitive world’s community.

She frequently presents academic and professional lectures to international college students and instructors at American high schools on second language acquisition, ESL teaching methods, and accommodations for English language learners in mainstream classes.

What Makes Elite Language Academy Unique

Elite Langauge Academy exists to facilitate language learning, multicultural awareness, and teaching practices through technological innovation. Dr. Pizarro and her team strive to impact students’ success in achieving academic and professional goals on a global scale.

ELA’s website is designed to be user-friendly while helping you to compare not just courses but how they identify with your needs. ELA is dedicated to getting results for its clients.

What Contributed to Dr. Pizarro’s Success

Dr. Pizarro lectures as a Professor at Broward College. In 2017, she completed the Doctoral Program in Organization Leadership and Higher Education at NSU. She accomplished her dissertation that focused on Exploring Private School Teachers’ Perceptions and Pedagogical Efficacy with English language Learners.

Dr. Pizarro’s research focuses on teacher learning and teacher identity, building in schooling settings that incorporate English learners. She has supported adult immigrants and refugees in a community ESL program, where she integrated as a member of the advisory board, researching to improve the instruction and resources that could be provided to members of the community.

Dr. Pizarro’s Words to Live By

“We all need to be constantly curious, and know that passion, determination, and perseverance will make any dream possible!”

Dr. Diana Torres

Lead Dentist & Entrepreneur Family Dentistry in Weston

About Dr. Torres

Dr. Diana Torres is the Lead Cosmetic and Family Dentist at Family Dentistry in Weston, where she fights decay and periodontal diseases while she helps patients enhance their smiles with a noninvasive and affordable approach. After earning her bachelor’s degree in biomedical and physical science from the University of Central Florida, Dr. Torres attended the Loma Linda School of Dentistry, where she received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Her specialty is Lite Dentistry. A package that might include teeth straightening, whitening, gum contouring, and composite veneers. Lite Dentistry is a noninvasive, high-impact, beautifully tailored approach to a healthy and life-changing smile. Dr. Torres’ focus as a Dentist and business owner is to have a relationship-based practice where team members feel part of a family and patients enjoy visiting our practice every single time.

What Makes Family Dentistry in Weston Unique

Dr. Diana Torres prides herself on staying on the cutting edge of dentistry, such as Invisalign®, endodontics, and implants, in her very family-oriented practice. Her exceptional, friendly staff is the practice’s greatest asset. They are excited about what they are doing, have high standards of quality and integrity, and are motivated to achieve the best results for their family of patients. The Family Dentistry team is committed to staying on the cutting edge of dentistry and patient communication. Feedback from our patients about an experience in our office is always welcomed.

What Contributed to Dr. Torres’ Success?

Dr. Torres credits her team with playing a huge role in helping her care for patients with love and experience. Her most significant accomplishments are being able to help patients gain their confidence back by providing conservative options that can help them eat, talk and smile without pain.

Something to Know About Dr. Torres

Dr. Diana Torres enjoys salsa dancing and all beach related activities. Traveling with her husband is a yearly goal for her, Dr Diana loves to do Yoga and spends all her time off from work with her two young boys Mateo and Milan.

About Wendy

Wendy Newman-Scheppke

Principal Broker Royal Palm Realty of South Florida

With over 20 years of real estate experience, Wendy is dedicated to providing you with the best results and service in the industry. Wendy lives, works, and plays in Weston and is the local expert on the current market value of homes in Weston and the extended region.

Wendy began her real estate career in Manhattan and Chicago before moving with her family to South Florida 18 years ago. Coming from a corporate construction and property management background, she brings a unique technical understanding of home repairs and renovations. Coupled with experience in customer service, Wendy built a culture centered around professionalism, integrity, and unfailing attention to anticipating and responding to her clients’ needs with urgency and expertise. Her consistent stream of repeat and referral clients is a testament to how much getting the details right matters in this competitive marketplace.

Selling her clients’ homes or finding the right property for a buyer is just one part of what Wendy does. Royal Palm Realty, the boutique brokerage that Wendy founded and cultivated alongside a phenomenal group of highly skilled associates, is the “go-to” source for its clients. Royal Palm Realty provides a personalized concierge level of connections for all things real estate, home, and lifestyle. Their clients know that their relationships don’t end at the closing table. Wendy and her team are their real estate resource for life.

What Makes Royal Palm Realty Different

Royal Palm Realty of South Florida offers all of the services and technology larger firms provide but with a more personal touch. Clients’ homes are marketed on all syndicated websites as well as on Royal Palm’s huge persence on social media platforms. They have a full suite of service providers like title companies, attorneys, home inspectors, and contractors. What continuously sets Royal Palm Realty apart from other firms is its laser focus on putting its clients’ needs first.

Royal Palm Realty’s Lifestyle Concierge Service exemplifies their client-centered culture. The Royal Palm team provides homeowners with recommendations, referrals, and advice on an extensive range of topics. Their clients know they don’t have to do the hard work of finding dependable vendors. The fact that many team members live and are immersed in Weston makes them even more helpful.

The team at Royal Palm Realty brings a broad array of backgrounds, languages, and skills that are difficult to duplicate. One trait that runs through them all is their proven record of going above and beyond for their clients.

What Contributed to Wendy’s Success?

Wendy truly believes that success is achieved by hard work, determination, and a willingness to make her clients’ needs her priority. She puts these practices to work daily - giving VIP service to every client - beyond what other agents offer and beyond her client’s expectations, all to ensure their real estate dreams come

true. When you do what you love, it shows--and Wendy loves real estate. It is as simple as that. Whether it’s showings, marketing, negotiations, staging homes, counteroffers, or finding the perfect home for clients–Wendy is all in!

Wendy’s Words to Live By

“At Royal Palm Realty, we collaborate and support each other to benefit our clients. We want our clients to have an extraordinary experience, regardless of a property’s price point. Our clients become clients for life. We strive to help them in any way we can, even long after their transaction is complete.”

Mellesia Nelson

Head of School

Sagemont Preparatory School

About Mellesia

Mellesia has been part of the Sagemont Prep family since 2004. She began her career as a Guidance Counselor, where she successfully implemented and facilitated drug prevention, self-esteem, and anti-bullying programs by building strong, lasting community partnerships. She transitioned after five years and became the school’s College Counselor. While in that position, Mellesia increased college and university representation on the Sagemont Prep campus by over 550%. She also raised scholarship dollars awarded for Sagemont graduates. Her journey at Sagemont Prep continued as the Assistant Principal, Principal of the Upper School, and the past three years as Head of School.

Mellesia’s days are all different, and that is a fun part of being Head of School at Sagemont Prep. She defines instructional practices to construct a meaningful educational experience. She works alongside a team of educators to facilitate students’ ability to reach their full potential and tap into their passions and talents. Mellesia’s vision for Sagemont Prep students is that they own their education. She creates opportunities that put students in the driver’s seat to their future and set high standards for their educational growth.

What Makes Sagemont Prep Unique

Sagemont Preparatory School embodies a transformative approach to private school education through a focus on intellectual exploration, innovation, and entrepreneurship, which inspires both academic excellence and a connection to real-world applications for each student.

Sagemont Prep’s curriculum fosters an appreciation for and cultivation of intellectual curiosity and creativity; adeptness at analytical thinking; a balance of self-directed, independent exploration and collaboration; the pursuit of educational endeavors with responsible risk-taking and reflection; and a dedication to social responsibility. Student-powered innovation and a spirit of entrepreneurship at every age are ingrained in Sagemont Prep’s educational philosophy.

What Contributed to Mellesia’s success?

The factor Mellesia credits most to her success is her remarkable team. “What we do together to ascend to lofty heights does not happen in a vacuum. It is with sincere collaboration that new leaps and bounds can be made,” she says, “Together with remarkable Sagemont Prep educators, we accomplish the extraordinary and remarkable. The foundation for this is building and continuously developing relationships with each other, students, educators, and parents. It is a joint effort in partnership to empower our incredible students to lead.”

Rabbi Marci R. Bloch

Rabbi Temple Dor Dorim

About Rabbi Bloch

In Jewish tradition, every Jew has a spark called the Pintele Yid. Rabbi Bloch of Temple Dor Dorim leads by nurturing her community’s quest for meaning, community, and love, helping to ignite this spark. She loves her faith and helps others access the wisdom of the tradition through teaching, mentoring, and guiding people through life’s challenges. As a Rabbi, she prides herself in doing God’s work by helping people make meaning, connect with others, and grow closer to God. Rabbi Bloch loves guiding her community through the deepest questions of life.

What Makes Temple Dor Dorim Unique

Temple Dor Dorim is in a large community where we benefit from each other. We stand together. In its broad community, the synagogue is a special place. Temple Dor Dorim is a community of people who care deeply about one another and where the congregants truly love each other.

Temple Dor Dorim has multiple generations of families that have been members of the synagogue since the temple was founded almost 27 years ago. When you ask the members of Temple Dor Dorim about their congregation, they say things like: “This is my home away from home.” “I know that if I am feeling down when I go to services, I will be uplifted.” “If I am experiencing a simcha or a sorrow – my community is there for me.”

What Contributed to Rabbi Bloch’s Success?

Rabbi Bloch is warm, down-to-earth, and intelligent. She is creative and deeply spiritual. She has a unique ability to connect with the members in a way that is genuine and real. Even recently on a Friday night when members were asked during monthly Birthday blessings what they learned this past year, an upcoming B’nai Mitzvah student said, “I learned that through preparing for my Bar Mitzvah that our Rabbi is pretty awesome.”

Rabbi Bloch has brought themed Shabbats to the congregation such as S’more Shabbat, Shabbark Shalom, and Gratitude Shabbat. She listens to what her congregants need, what interests them, and what they are seeking. And she meets them where they are.

She is also proud of her creation of TDD Cares in which our members check in on others who are sick and send gifts that provide comfort. She feels one of her greatest strengths as a Rabbi is being able to walk with her members on their journey and just love them. She said, “Success is never me alone….it is working with wonderful staff and volunteers and being together on the same page which has helped our congregation flourish.”

Something to Know About Rabbi Bloch

Rabbi Bloch was recognized nationally by the Union for Reform Judaism for developing innovative programs for both children and adults. She enjoys bringing experiences for her families that encourage their love of Judaism. In the last few years Rabbi Bloch has been a panelist for Rabbinic Students as well as for Rabbis in the field on how to deal with trauma in their community.

SCAN CODE TO LEARN MORE

About Ivis

Ivis Mateos is a mother of two boys and has more than 25 years combined experience in educational consulting and management. In addition to earning her National Administrator Credential, Mateos has led 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 as well as the Founder of I Am Kids Academy.

She began her career in education as an elementary assistant teacher for an English immersion program for non-English speaking immigrant students in Rockdale County, Georgia. After returning to her hometown Miami, Florida, Ivis’ journey in preschool began as a substitute teacher. Her passion to for teaching grew stronger every day as she worked her way up to leading a wonderful preschool as a Director.

Ivis’ vision and passion for creating a school that leads with a Heart & Mind Education became her priority and led her to expand programs to Weston, Miami, Texas & Mexico. .

What Makes Tiny Planet Unique

The greatest psychologists and educational philosophers of the century inspire they day-to-day interactions at Tiny Planet. Tiny Planet is multidisciplinary in its philosophies in order to promote children’s strengths in all disciplines. Their teachers and students benefit from the educational beliefs of Howard Gardner (Multiple Intelligences), and Loris Malaguzzi (Reggio Emilia).

At Tiny Planet, they encourage social conscience and their education program is focused on the contribution to kids’ development, such as critical thinking, independence, and making decisions to influence others positively.

What Contributed to Ivis’ Success

Ivis attributes her success to her relentless ambition to make the world a kinder and more compassionate place by planting the seed of love in the hearts of each of her students.

Ivis’ Words to Live By

“My mission is greater than my fears, and watching the sacrifice my mother made as a single immigrant mother to raise me, has pushed me to provide a better future for her and my family.”

Ivis Mateos

General Manager Tiny Planet Preschool

Dr. Jane Therrien

Optometrist/CEO Weston Family Eyecare

About Dr. Therrien

Dr. Therrien is the owner and founder of Weston Family Eyecare, where she has been offering a full range of eye health services to her patients since 2005. She is dedicated to helping you enjoy healthy eyes and sharp vision, with a complete array of eye care services. Dr. Therrien and her staff provide cutting-edge vision and eye care treatments. Her practice utilizes the latest technology in vision correction techniques, lens treatments, contact lenses, and ophthalmic equipment. She is the first optometrist in Florida to offer the Neurolens, a revolutionary lens technology which relieves headaches, eye strain, dry eyes, neck and shoulder pain, and dizziness, from digital devices. Neurolens helps her patients see and feel better. Dr. Therrien also has extensive experience providing specialty contact lens services, particularly with orthokeratology and scleral lens designs. She is one of the only Fellowship-trained orthokeratologists in Florida. Ortho-K is the science of reshaping the cornea without surgery to improve vision and eliminates the need for daytime glasses and contact lenses.

What Weston Family Eyecare Different

The team of professionals at Weston Family Eyecare are dedicated to providing their patients with the highest quality in eye health and vision care. They offer a full range of eye care services so all your family’s needs are met under one roof. The goal of Dr. Therrien and her staff is to promote and foster overall patient wellness to assure optimal eye health and visual function.

What Contributed to Dr. Therrien’s Success?

Compassion and professionalism are extremely important to Dr. Therrien, and patients can expect to be treated like family. Dr. Therrien and her team are dedicated to providing everyone with the excellent, personalized care and the warm, compassionate service they deserve. She looks forward to exceeding your expectations!

Dr. Therrien’s Words to Live By

“Treat patients like family. Strive to stay current on the latest technologies and techniques. Find something you love that you are good at!“

Dr. Monique Gusmao Rodriguez

Acupuncture Physician & Founder Five Element Wellness Center

About Dr. Rodriguez

Dr. Rodriguez is a board-certified and licensed acupuncture physician. She graduated from the Academy of Five Element Acupuncture in Gainesville, Florida, with her degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine after attaining a bachelor’s degree in molecular biology from Florida Atlantic University.

Her role as an owner is to lead Five Element’s wonderful staff by encouraging, motivating, and influencing them to collaborate and use their abilities to serve their patients best. As a physician, she manages disease and pain using holistic approaches while educating patients on maintaining health and focusing on them as individuals rather than their pain or illness.

What Makes Five Element Wellness Center Unique

Five Element differs from other care providers because they have created and nurtured a culture that is centered around their patients. Every day, Dr. Rodriguez and her team focus on patient needs in the journey back to health and living life pain-free.

They have consistently delivered high-quality healthcare over the last 21 years and maintain a close relationship with their patients. In fact, they consider their patients to be part of their extended family.

What Contributed to Dr. Rodriguez’s Success?

The biggest factor that has contributed to her success is Dr. Rodriguez’s passion for medicine and the great joy and fulfillment she gets from helping patients live life to the fullest. She also values her personal connection with the people she cares for. She is persistent and has a deep commitment to learning. Dr. Rodriguez knows that failure is part of the journey and maintenance of success and that “every setback is a setup for a comeback.”

Something to Know About Dr. Rodriguez

One of Dr. Rodriguez’s biggest accomplishments is being able to juggle her career, and family life. She has four children, including two beautiful daughters, who are now resilient, adults, a son who is almost done with high school, and her daughter Fenix, who is just five years old. In addition to raising a family, managing her practice, and caring for patients, Dr. Rodriguez is working toward yet another degree.

About Letti

Letti founded ASM Beauty World Academy to prepare each student to become a fully licensed and qualified professional in his/her field and to prepare them for diversified employment opportunities across a number of fields, including Cosmetology, Nail Technology, Skin Care, Instructor Training, Full Specialist, Barber, Basic Makeup Artistry, Advanced Makeup Artistry and Electrology.

What Makes ASM Beauty World Academy Unique

ASM’s maintains honest and fair relationships with its students, patrons, staff, and faculty and protects their health, education, and welfare. Their classes are bilingual in English and Spanish. They have been in business for more than 37 years.

ASM has programs to help students from all around the world become professionals in the Beauty Industry. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has approved the school to process International Student Visa applications (M-1) with programs lasting between two to ten months.

What Contributed to Letti’s Success

Letti’s success was due, in part, to her ability to meet with and interact with school directors from all around the world. She meets with directors from Latin America and Europe on a regular basis to discuss the latest education techniques in their regions and implements best practices at ASM.

A Fun Fact About Letti & ASM Beauty World Academy

ASM Beauty World Academy offers scholarship programs for students in need. An international student from Medellin Colombia recently received a scholarship, graduated from the program and now owns his own business.

Leticia Milazzo

President

ASM Beauty World Academy, Inc.

BIGGER & BETTER THAN

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."

Understanding Mental-Wellness ADHD and Nutrition Deficiencies

By Dr. Andrea Bretal M.D.

esearchers are beginning to learn how to favorably influence genes via the study of epigenetics, a gene-altering process called methylation which is involved in 70% of serious psychiatric conditions.

Several studies revealed that most mental disorders involve disturbances or imbalances of essential nutrients that alter brain function.

All heritable mental illnesses were presumed to have an unavoidable genetic component and people believe their biological and psychological fate has already been predetermined and is locked in by gene mutations.

Many mental disorders now appear to be epigenetic, rather than genetic. This means that gene protein making can be switched on (called gene expression) or off (called gene silencing) by environmental factors such as radiation, temperature, food or lack of food. Certain molecules within foods (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential oils) can do this reliably.

Most severe heritable mental disturbances will be reversible once we understand how to tap into epigenetics. Moreover, present nutrient therapies have already resulted in thousands of reports of recovery in persons diagnosed with violent behavior, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia.

More than 70% of people with behavioral and mental disorders have a methylation imbalances, this chemical that dominates gene expression. About 42% of schizophrenics are over-methylated while 28% are undermethylated. More than 95% of persons diagnosed with autism, OCD, and antisocial personality disorder (e.g., convicted felons) exhibit undermethylation.

The body’s methyl groups arise from methionine, one of the amino acids

Rpresent in meat and other proteins. There are nutrient therapies that can normalize methylation and correct many brain chemistry imbalances without resorting to drugs.

Copper overload is a primary offender in many mental disturbances, including autism, paranoid schizophrenia, clinical depression, hyperactivity, learning disability, and postpartum depression. Excessive copper reduces the brain chemical dopamine and increases norepinephrine.

During pregnancy, blood copper levels more than double to stimulate the development of new blood vessels as the baby grows rapidly. If copper levels do not return to normal after birth, then postpartum depression may result and antidepressant drugs usually do not help these women.

Vitamin B6 is another nutrient that is associated with many mental health issues, producing symptoms of irritability, depression, poor short-term memory, insomnia, muscle weakness, difficulty walking and even psychosis. B6 is needed to produce important brain chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine and GABA (a relaxing brain chemical).

Zinc deficiency is the most frequently observed chemical imbalance in mental health populations. Zinc deficiency is associated with temper control problems, weak immunity, depression, poor wound healing, epilepsy, anxiety, learning problems and hormone imbalances. Another common imbalance is a chemical produced in the body called pyrrole that binds to zinc and vitamin B6 and increases their excretion in the urine. Nearly one-third of persons diagnosed with depression, behavioral disorders, autism, and psychosis have elevated pyrroles. A urine test can reveal whether a pyrrole disorder is present. This important chemical imbalance can be corrected within weeks using supplements of zinc, B-6, and augmenting nutrients.

Experience with ADHD and depression patients report significant improvement within month of individualized nutrient therapy and some of them are able to wean away from psychiatric drugs without a return of symptom. Women with post-partum depression have reported significant improvement after blood copper levels were normalized.

s a mother of two and an expert in preschool education, I am bombarded daily with tons of questions about whether to breastfeed or not, vaccine choices, potty training, is biting or hitting normal, the cause of tantrums, etc. One of the most common questions I am asked is, “how do you feel about children sleeping with their parents?” Here is my humble opinion, I UPGRADED TO A KING-SIZE BED!

If you do your research for expert advice in books or online, you will find very different opinions about the impact of co-bed or family bed, commonly known as children sleeping with their parents. Some experts say sleeping with your children is emotionally unhealthy because it makes them co-dependent, others will defend cultural acceptance for sleeping with their children since this will give the child a sense of security. I say, forget what these experts say, they don’t live with you, and they don’t

By Ivis Mateos

Aknow the needs of your child like you do. I believe that as a parent you should go with your gut feeling first and foremost. There is no better sensor of truth than that instinct that lives inside your maternal or paternal gut (some may argue my theory – but I side with my gut).

Perhaps you are more like me, somedays you want to hold your child tight in your arms and don’t mind the leg over your neck and arms spread so wide you only have a small, 10-inch corner of the bed for you to spend the next 8 hours of sleep in. Other nights, you want to be the one spreading the arms and legs and taking up all the sleeping space, while the child sleeps in their room. There are some days your child will demonstrate a need for additional nurturing – maybe they are not feeling well, or they simply have a need for an extra dose of TLC. Take advantage of these moments.

I had both my boys sleep with me on and off and when it was time for them to ween off, they did it on their own. Nothing wrong with that! Yet, my boys have grown

up to be very independent, dependable, intelligent, young men (most of the time). Still, on occasion, my teenage boy sneaks in, in the middle of the night and I welcome him. They are kids for a very short time; soon enough, they will be sleeping in their own place, perhaps in a faraway land. You never know where the future may take them. Deciding what is best for you and your family is a very personal decision, and it is our responsibility to make the decision with the child’s best interest in mind. When the intention is healthy and fueled with love the results will yield just that.

▸ 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 954-384-4884.

HEEL PAIN IN CHILDREN

By Dr. Carlo A. Messina

Does your son or daughter complain of heel pain daily, especially during or after activity? Do they remember any traumatic event or did the pain just occur? If this sounds like your child, there is a high probability that they have Calcaneal Apophysitis (or Sever’s Disease). This is actually a condition and not a disease. This occurs when the growth plate (apophysis) located at the bottom and back of the heel (the portion of the bone that allows growth) becomes painfully inflamed. Although plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the ligament that supports the arch) is the most common cause of heel pain in adults, it is extremely uncommon in children.

Cause:

▸ Growth plate inflammation on the back and the bottom of the heel

▸ Over-activity in children commonly between the ages of 8 and 14

▸ Tight muscles in the lower extremity, especially the calf muscle

▸ Flatfeet

▸ Poor shoe gear or walking barefoot

▸ Growth spurts

Symptoms:

▸ Discomfort in the heel bone at the end of activity

▸ Occasionally painful to the Achilles and ankle

▸ Stiffness in the foot in the morning and pain with walking or running

▸ Pain alleviated by rest and a decrease in activity

▸ Pain is usually present during or after a child is done with the activity, sits for a period of time, and then tries to get up and walk

Signs:

▸ Tenderness to the back and bottom of the heel with touch or grasping the heel

▸ Walking on the ball of the foot to avoid touching the heel to the ground

▸ Discoloration and swelling are almost never seen in the heel

▸ Limping at the end of an activity that may persist as the condition worsens

Treatment:

▸ Modification of activity and avoiding going barefoot

▸ Rest and ice

▸ Stretching exercises

▸ Proper shoe gear and heel lifts to decrease tension on the heel

▸ Night splinting to stretch the tight calf muscle and arch ligament

▸ Taping the foot to decrease the pulling of the plantar fascia on the heel bone

▸ Custom molded orthotics to support the foot and help restore proper alignment

▸ Occasional immobilization in a boot or cast to completely rest the heel and allow healing

▸ Physical therapy to improve flexibility and diminish inflammation of the growth plate.

▸ 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

OFFERING SAME DAY & EARLY MORNING APPOINTMENTS & CONSULTATIONS

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 | 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

SIMPLY | SUNSHINE | OSCAR | MEMORIAL PHO

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

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

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

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

Dr. Carlo Messina

DRY EYE A COMMON BUT OVERLOOKED CONDITION

ry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its high prevalence, it is often overlooked and misunderstood. Dry eye is a condition where the eyes don’t produce enough tears to keep them moist, leading to discomfort, blurred vision, and even vision loss. It can be caused by many factors, including age, medications, hormonal changes, and environmental

By Dr. Jane Therrien, Optometric Physician

Ddetermine the root cause of dry eye. They may perform a simple test, called a tear film breakup time, to measure the stability of the tear film and determine the severity of the dry eye.

The treatment of dry eye varies, depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing exposure to wind and smoke and increasing water intake, can be helpful in relieving symptoms. Artificial tears, ointments, and gels can be used to soothe and moisturize the eyes. Some people may benefit from lid hygiene, such as regular cleaning of the eyelids, to reduce the amount of bacteria that can cause inflammation.

tears from the eyes, helping to keep the eyes moist for longer periods of time.

While dry eye is a common condition, it is important to seek treatment to prevent the worsening of symptoms. Prolonged dry eye can lead to further complications, such as corneal ulcers, scarring, and even vision loss. With early detection and appropriate treatment, dry eye can be managed effectively and prevent further harm to the eyes.

In conclusion, dry eye is a common but often overlooked condition that affects millions of people worldwide. With proper treatment, it can be managed effectively to prevent further harm to the eyes. If you are experiencing symptoms of dry eye, it is important to seek the advice of a qualified eye doctor to determine the root cause and appropriate treatment. With proper care, you can enjoy comfortable, healthy eyes for years to come.

Gaia Spa Offers Harmony and Balance in the Heart of Weston

The recently opened Gaia Spa in Weston is an oasis away from the grind of everyday life. Its serene environment, coupled with the exceptional skill of its therapists will help even the most stressed-out person relax and discover their inner Zen.

Life’s most joyful moods and moments should be our focus. They should last as you connect to the world, to the community, and to yourself. The staff at Gaia Spa helps make this happen. Every treatment, detail, space, and technique has been carefully crafted by experts to bring a sense of calm and relaxation. Be it a plush robe, the serene ambiance or the caring touch of a therapist, your needs will be taken care of. All experiences here are customized to meet your unique needs, while the service and luxurious touches remain exceptional.

PRIVATE SAUNA & SALT SUITE

Gaia Spa is unique in the Weston area. It is the only Day Spa that features a private salt suite. The floor of the room is covered in pink Himalayan salt giving you the feeling of stepping out onto a beautiful beach. You will feel the benefits as soon as you enter and begin breathing in the pure Epsom salt. Private 45 minute sessions in the salt suite are favorites of spa-goers everywhere and are now available close to home.

The private sauna is another feature that Gaia Spa brings to the community. This room offers the benefits of dry heat, healing energy radiating from their infrared mats, and a personal shower to complete your hot and cold therapy. But the popularity of saunas has grown over the years thanks to their many science-backed benefits.

Some benefits of regular sauna use include improved heart and mental health, relief of chronic pain, and relaxation.

SERVICES

Gaia Spa offers a full menu of spa services, including massages, facials, meditation time in the salt suite, and private time in the sauna suite. Their miraculous team of experts and therapists use the power of touch to relieve chronic tension, increase circulation, and melt your troubles away. Massages promote restful sleep, unwound muscles, and a calmer mind. In other words, serenity.

Their expert estheticians tailor a one-ofa-kind facial that will sweep away dull skin, prevent wrinkles, and clear your pores. Leave feeling radiant. Gaia also offers a number of Rituals which include several services. Go on a journey as they completely immerse your senses and skin with the Oasis Ritual.

It starts with a 60-minute Salt Stone

Massage that uses a heart-shaped Himalayan salt stones to relax, rejuvenate and infuse your muscles with 84 naturally occurring minerals. Afterward, you will envelope yourself in a dome of 90% pure oxygen with Gaia’s 60-minute Oxygen Infusion Facial leaving your skin wrinkle-free and soft.

MEMBERSHIP

Gaia Spa offers two membership levels for discerning people focused on self-improvement. Their Unity Membership includes a monthly 60-minute Signature Session each month, plus discounts on other services available at the spa. The Harmony Membership includes all the benefits of the Unity Membership plus a private sauna suite and private salt suite session each month.

▸ Gaia Spa is located at 4563 Weston Road in the Weston Commons. Call 954-365888 or visit www.thegaiaspa.com to book your next experience today.

How to Grip a Golf Club Correctly

By Dean Sklar, PGA Professional

The golf grip is often overlooked when trying to cure a slice or any other problem with a shot for that matter. Knowing the correct way to grip a golf club could help you see an end to your hooks and slices and have you on your way to a lower handicap.

One thing I often see when people have problems with their grip is they tend to hold it too much in their palm. Gripping the golf club too much in the palm leads to a loss of wrist action, which is a great source of power. Limiting the wrist action will lead to a loss of power and feel in the golf club. The fingers are the most sensitive parts of our hands. Placing the golf club more in the fingers than the palms results in an increased amount of wrist hinge, which means longer tee shots and more feel.

You don’t have to grip it hard to hit it hard! So many times, I see people choking their clubs to death to try and hit it longer. In actual fact gripping the club this hard can seriously decrease the distance you get on your shots.

The Vardon grip is a popular way of holding the golf club and it is seen as a proper golf grip for distance. Many pros use this grip today, but it was made popular by a golfer known as Harry Vardon way back at the turn of the 20th century. This golf grip is taught by many professional golf instructors to beginners, and it’s ideal for getting players to grip the club in their fingers rather than their palms.

To use the Vardon grip, all you do is overlap the pinky of your trailing hand (in a right-handed golfer’s case, the right hand is the trailing hand) and place it between the middle and index finger of the lead hand (which is the left for a right-handed golfer). The lead hand thumb should fit in the lifeline of the trailing hand. This works especially well for players with large hands.

Make sure that when looking down at address, you can see the first two knuckles of your left hand and a “V” formed between the thumb and forefinger pointing toward your right shoulder. With the right hand, have the “V” pointing toward your chin or slightly to the right shoulder. Trust me, this works!

This Interlock grip literally locks the hands together, but the golfer also runs the risk of having the handle stray into the palms of the hands. People with medium sized hands, weak forearms and wrists, and beginners in many cases prefer this style of grip.

To apply the interlocking grip, you start off by taking the little finger on the trailing hand (the trailing hand is the right hand for right handed golfers) and intertwine it with the index finger on the lead hand. The lead hand’s thumb should fit perfectly into the lifeline of the trailing hand.

In every sport, physical strength and conditioning are important to succeed. Golf is no different. Strong forearms and wrists are essential for golf success and they play a huge part in developing a proper golf grip.

▸

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.

Examination And Rabies Vaccine

By Miguel E. Cordova, DVM

Regular examinations are essential to maintaining your pet’s health.

A thorough physical examination checks every major body system.

Periodic vaccine risk assessments help ensure that your pet is properly immunized against infectious diseases.

Rabies is a deadly disease that is generally fatal in all species. Vaccination against rabies is required by law in most states.

Why Are Annual Examinations Important?

Regular physical examinations are essential to maintaining your pet’s health. A thorough examination checks every major body organ and system.

• Eyes—The eyes will be checked for redness, cloudiness, or discharge.

• Ears—Many pets suffer from ear infections. Your veterinarian will examine your pet’s ear canals for possible signs of an ear problem: debris, waxy buildup, or trauma caused by scratching.

• Mouth—Your veterinarian will look in your pet’s mouth for signs of dental disease and

for broken or missing teeth. If he or she sees any problems, your veterinarian may recommend a thorough dental examination and cleaning for your pet.

• Respiratory system—Your veterinarian will listen to your pet’s heart and lungs.

• Digestive system—Your veterinarian will “palpate” (feel) your pet’s abdomen for signs of discomfort and to check that the major organs are the right size and shape.

• Musculoskeletal system—Your veterinarian will palpate all your pet’s major muscles and bones to check for signs of weakness or pain.

• Skin and hair coat—Your veterinarian will check of all your pet’s “lumps and bumps.” If anything suspicious is found, a biopsy or lump removal may be recommended.

• Laboratory tests—During a routine examination, your veterinarian may also want to take samples of your pet’s blood, urine, and feces to obtain additional information about your pet’s health or to ensure that specific body systems are functioning properly.

During your pet’s examination, your veterinarian will also ask you many questions about your pet’s behavior, lifestyle, and health history since your last visit. The answers to these questions will help your veterinarian determine what preventive care recommendations he or she should make in order to help keep your pet healthy. Based on your pet’s age, lifestyle, and disease risk, your veterinarian will recommend vaccinations for your pet. In virtually every state, vaccination against rabies is required by law.

What Is Rabies?

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system. All warm-blooded animals, including wild animals, dogs, cats, and humans, can get rabies. Once clinical signs appear, rabies is generally fatal. However, the disease is also generally preventable through vaccination.

Rabies remains prevalent in wildlife populations—primarily raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks. Pets are at risk of contracting the disease from wild animals and potentially transmitting it to humans.

The virus can have an incubation period lasting from days to months. Rabies is usually transmitted through contact with the saliva of an infected animal; most pets and people

become infected through a bite wound. An animal’s saliva becomes infective once the virus has traveled through the animal’s nervous system from the initial bite site to reach the brain and, ultimately, the salivary glands. Once the virus enters the salivary glands, the animal can pass the infection to other animals or humans through its saliva. Animals with rabies are referred to as rabid.

Prevention

Because of the potentially serious human health implications, rabies vaccination of dogs is required by law in virtually all states, and many states also require cats to be vaccinated. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the disease in animals and, in doing so, to safeguard human health. Today’s rabies vaccines are very safe and effective.

Other forms of rabies prevention include:

• Keeping your pet away from wildlife.

• Ensuring that all other dogs or cats your pet comes in contact with are vaccinated.

• Minimizing contact with stray animals. Do not feed stray animals with unknown vaccination status or allow them to remain near your home and pets.

Vaccination helps protect your pet from unnecessary euthanasia or extended quarantine if he or she has contact with a rabies animal.

⊲ 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. For more information call 954-385-8389 or visit them online at www.animalhealthcenteratweston.com.

e are lucky to live in a country where we have the right to vote and choose our elected leaders. Our state affords us the opportunity to vote either on Election Day, during early voting or vote by mail. Recent legislation changed the vote-bymail process.

Voters are now required to request a vote-by-mail ballot for each general election cycle. You will need to renew your request every four years and should do so as soon as possible.

You can request your vote-by-mail ballot on the SOE website at browardvotes.gov.

When requesting your ballot, you will be asked to provide the identification information you used to register to vote – either your driver’s license or the last four digits of your Social Security number. If one form of identification does not work, try the other. You can also request a vote-by-mail ballot over the phone by contacting the Supervisor

VOTING

By State Representative Robin Bartleman

Wof Elections Office at (954) 357-VOTE (8683).

I also continue to receive calls regarding property insurance cancellations, “age of roof” issues and premium increases. The bill passed in Special Session was, as the sponsor stated, intended to stabilize the market. Please contact the Office of Insurance Regulation at floir.com or at (850) 413-3140 for help. You should also contact my office so I can advocate for changes based on your personal experiences.

▸ It is an honor to serve you and we are here to assist with any issues or concerns you may have. Please reach out anytime at (954) 668-3662 or robin. bartleman@myfloridahouse.gov

Greetings From Your Chamber President!

By Patty Archer

Years ago, business people joined the chamber because it was expected. It was just something you did. These days membership isn’t automatic, but it’s still a valuable investment in your business. In addition to networking events and ribbon cuttings, the chamber offers a lot of benefits that you can’t do for yourself, saving you time and money by negotiating group savings programs, advertising, and a united voice for business advocacy. You can also extend the benefits of a chamber membership to your employees by sharing events, opportunities, and trainings as an extension of your own.

We hope you can join us and our parent organization, the Miramar Pembroke Pines Regional Chamber of Commerce, at the 17th annual A Sip of Wine, A Taste of Heaven event on March 18th at the Miramar Amphitheater where dozens of the best restaurants, caterers and bakeries in South Broward will be showcased. Enjoy a VIP lounge, live entertainment, mobile cigar lounge, coffee station, and a vast selection of food, dessert, wine and beer. See all the ticket options at miramarpembrokepines. org/sip-taste.

By making your business our business, the Chamber of Commerce is engaged in the priorities of our membership, businesses, community, and future generations of professionals and their business needs. Now and in the future, the Chamber is dedicated to being a Convener of Leaders, a Catalyst for positive change, and a Champion for a strong business community. For more information and our event calendar, visit www.westonflchamber.com.

Yours in Service,

Patty Archer Chamber President

ur nation has witnessed, once again, another tragedy that took place at the hands of five Memphis police officers. Incidents like this spark outrage and distrust from the people we serve and disappointment among our ranks.

When I entered the law enforcement profession, I took an oath to serve and protect – an honor I hold with high regard and implore among our ranks. While the actions of a few can tarnish the efforts of many, the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) has taken progressive steps toward preventing incidents like this from happening in Broward County.

Since becoming Sheriff, I've worked with our organization’s leadership core to implement policies and procedures that identify areas of concern, address behaviors, enhance training and hold people accountable for their actions.

BUILDING TRUST

By Sheriff Gregory Tony

OThe below highlights some of these initiatives:

▸ Early Warning System: A process designed to detect policy violations and misconduct through various review boards: Use of Force Review Board, Vehicle Pursuit Review Board and the Shooting Review Board.

▸ Professional Standards Committee (PSC): We restructured the PSC to include greater diversity and inclusiveness – including minority members, qualified civilians and BSO command staff. The PSC gives the public a voice in critical decisions regarding the discipline of deputies accused of wrongdoing.

▸ Racial Intelligence Training (RITE): Training focused on reinforcing a bias-free workplace, racial and cultural sensitivity and de-escalation techniques. While BSO nears 100% completion for all deputies, we have also funded the RITE Train-The-Train -

er Course, expanding this valuable training opportunity to all local law enforcement agencies to train their personnel.

▸ 8 Can't-Wait: BSO is in full compliance with the eight immediate proven steps to curtail police violence.

▸ Neighborhood Support Team: A proactive law enforcement presence in the community designed to make law enforcement more visible, reduce fear and support interactions between the public and law enforcement.

At BSO, we understand the value of maintaining trust from those we serve. As a public safety organization, we will continue to evaluate policies and build programs centered around doing what is right, responsible, fair and equitable while being accountable and transparent with the community.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony