EXPERIENCE & RESULTS
WESTON
DAVIE
ou! y t s i ss a sure to a e l p a e It will b
$835,000
$789,000
WESTON HILLS • HARBOR POINT
RIVERSTONE
PINECREST
CORAL GABLES
$697,500
$599,000
G AT E D C O M M U N I T Y
LUXURY NEW CONDO
WESTON
WESTON
$389,000
$349,000
Maria Corina Martinez
SAN REMO • LAKE VIEWS • RENOVATED
TH E FA LL S
MIAMI
WESTON
WESTON Maria Corina Martinez
$479,000
From $465,000
$299,000
BRICKELL KEY
W I N D M I L L R E S E R V E L O T S • B U I L D YO U R C U S T O M H O M E
SAN MESSINA “RENTED FOR INVESTORS”
PEMBROKE PINES
$280,000 COBBLESTONE
Español a l b a Se H ortugues &P
WESTON EXPERIENCE AND RESULTS www.mcgrouprealestate.com Kim Nicoletto
Maritza Martinez
$439,000
mcgroup.assist@gmail.com | Se Habla Espanol S AVA N N A • C U L D E S AC L O T
95 4 . 2 2 4 .974 8
mcgroup.assist@gmail.com | 954.224.9748
mcgroup.kw.com
1625 N Commerce Pkwy | Suite 100 | Weston, FL 33326
Celebrate the Holidays with Us! Book your Holiday Party by October 1st and receive 10% off your Menu Selections, Complimentary Room Rental, Special Guest Room Rates Starting at $99.00 with Breakfast for Two Included, Complimentary Glass of Champagne Upon Arrival, and More! Contact one of our Catering Professionals For more details!
250 Racquet Club Rd, Weston, FL 33326
954.389.3300
ARE YOU SUFFERING FROM
PAIN?
cs
ics
ery
General Orthopaedics | Pediatric Orthopaedics | Sports Medicine PRP | Arthroscopic Surgery | Physical Therapy BIOLOGICS & PRP THERAPY
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is derived from your own blood and contains components which stimulate healing at the site of injury. The plasma is isolated, or concentrated, by spinning the blood sample in a centrifuge. It is then re-injected into the target area in order to trigger a healing cascade. • ACL Injuries • Hamstring Muscle Injuries • Rotator Cuff Tears
on
• Plantar Fasciitis • Tennis Elbow • Achilles Tendonitis
• Arthritis in the Shoulder, Hip, Knee & Spine
Total Orthopaedic Care Call Today! (954) 735-3535
Online Scheduling Request Available at: www.toc.md Same Day Appointments For Acute & New Injuries Pembroke Pines | 10794 Pines Blvd., Suite 104 | Pembroke Pines, FL 33026 Lauderdale Lakes | 4850 W Oakland Park Blvd. Suite 201 | Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33313
Full-sized anti-aging eye gels, $30 value.
Get a GIFT BOX of proven favorites when you purchase $125 or more in retail products.*
CORAL SPRINGS
2019
2878 University Drive In The Walk Shopping Plaza (954) 757-3689
UP TO
$
112 RETAIL VALUE*
WESTON
1374 Weston Road In Country Isles Plaza (954) 660-3689
Open Late, Nights & Weekends
*Only while supplies last. Offer available between September 9, 2019 through September 22, 2019. Offer valid only at time of purchase when one hundred and twenty five dollars ($125) in retail products are purchased. Retail purchase must be in one transaction to be eligible for the gift with purchase. See individual product packaging inside gift with purchase for additional information and/or use instructions. Products depicted may vary in size and may not be an exact representation of product included in the gift with purchase. Prices are subject to change and rates and services may vary by franchised location and session. Not all Massage Envy franchised locations offer skin care services. For a specific list of services, products or participation with this promotion, check with specific franchised location or see MassageEnvy.com. Additional local taxes and fees may apply. Each location is independently owned and operated. ©2019 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC. MM# 36244, MM# 35311
4 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
your child deserves the best
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL
95
$
INCLUDES:
Non-Insurance Patients
• Exam 0150 • Cleaning 1120 • X-Rays 0272 • Fluoride Treatment D1208
COMPLIMENTARY WELL BABY EXAMS
954.217.1121
Samira Alempour, DMD
Certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
Saturday & Evening Hours Available Se Habla Español 2863 Executive Park Drive, Suite 101 Weston, Florida 33331 www.westonkidsdentistry.com
The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, Examination, or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee, or reduced fee service, examination, or treatment.
IN G ST LI N EW
Savanna | The Preserve I | Offered for $416,000
Waterford Landing | Offered for $499,900 2400 sq. ft. | 4BR | 2.5BA | 2013 Roof
SO LD
1400 sq. ft | 4BR | 2BA | Screened Patio | Room for Pool
Weston Hills | Eagle Run | Sold for $77 5,000
Windmill Lake Estates | Offered for $650,000
44182 sq. ft. Point lot | 1.01 acre
SO
SO
LD
LD
2700 sq. ft. | 5BR | 4BA | 3-car | Pool | Impact Glass
The Isles at Weston | The Shores | Sold for $985,000
Weston Hills | Provence | Sold for $875,000
3400 sq. ft. | Courtyard | 5BR | 4.5BA | Gourmet Kitchen | Pool
SO
SO
LD
LD
5000 sq. ft. | 5BR | 4.5BA | 4-car | Pool | Lakefront
The Landings | Mallard Landing | Sold for $737,500
3200 sq. ft. | 5BR | 3.5BA | Pool & Spa | New Roof
Weston Hills | Bay Pointe | Sold for $565,000 2400 sq. ft. | 3BR | 3BA | Lakefront
SCAN THE QR CODE TO TAKE A 3D VIRTUAL TOUR facebook.com/HollyandBob twitter.com/HollyandBob
pinterest.com/hollyandbob
Dreams. Delivered. “We don’t just sell homes, we sell the Weston Lifestyle.” - Holly & Bob Catania
THE LANDINGS PELICAN LANDING Offered for $950,000 3600 sq. ft. | 4BR | 4BA Office | 3-car garage Saline chlorinated pool Scan the code to view the 3D virtual tour
HBC
Holly & Bob
954.614.6206 Bob 954.614.6207 Holly
Real Estate Group
HollyAndBob@Keyes.com www.HollyandBob.net
CATANIA
The Keyes Company’s #1 Realtors in Weston
LUXURY MARKETING SPECIALISTS
RELOCATION SPECIALISTS
Thinking of Selling? Call for a Complimentary Market Analysis
WWW.PSYCHIATRIST4U.COM
The Mind is a Maze YOUR PSYCHIATRIST IS YOUR GUIDE
Open House in Pembroke Pines
J
oin us an d m ee t ou r Ps yc hia tri st An na Bin de r MD , Ad ria na Ar ist iza ba l AR NP , an d Su si Bli tm an LC MH C.
Sep 12 5-7 pm
10261 Pines Blvd. Pembroke Pines, 33 02
Refreshments will be
Psych4u
HELPING PATIENTS FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE
6
served!
CALL NOW
500 1-888-Psych4u EXT. (1-888-779-2448)
INFO@PSYCHIATRIST4U.COM
WE ST ON • C OR A L S P R IN GS • BOCA RATON • WELLI NGTON Opening Soon
What Our Patients Are Saying! This is the best office ever!! The wait is minimal, the staff is ALWAYS friendly ad informative, and both the Orthodontist and Dentist are exceptional. They have great chairside attitudes with the kids and are great at explaining the procedures and what happens next.
The staff at this office is always friendly and efficient. They always know me by name. I never have to wait more than a few minutes and when something needs to be explained, it is done so thoroughly. I am extremely happy with all the staff.
Easily the best dental experience a child could hope for! From the kid-friendly waiting room, to the anxious mom-friendly emergency care for dental injuries, you guys are the best! We wouldn’t consider any other dentist in the area.
Call Us Today4!34
954-236-3
• Laser Dentistry
w w w. g r o s m a n d e n t a l . c o m
NEW
• Latest digital radiography & lowest exposure • Sedation dentistry
(Regular Value $250)
• More private & semiprivate treatment rooms NEW • Different play areas
NEW PATIENT SPECIAL $99.00
NEW
• More TVs on ceilings to engage your children while they get their treatment done • Evening & Saturdays appointments 4 4 0 1 S F l a m i n g o R d , S u i t e 1 0 9 • D a v i e , F L 3 3 3 3 0 • Te l : 9 5 4 - 2 3 6 - 3 4 3 4
Oral Exam, X-Rays, Cleaning, Orthodontic Exam
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES EWM REALTY’S BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES EWM REALTY’S
TopTop Agent Agent in Weston. in Weston. IN THE WESTON AND SOUTH FLORIDA MARKET IN THE WESTON AND SOUTH FLORIDA MARKET THERE IS A MAJOR BENEFIT WHEN IT COMES THERE IS A MAJOR BENEFIT WHEN IT COMES TO CREATING AND IMPLEMENTING EFFECTIVE TO CREATING AND IMPLEMENTING EFFECTIVE MARKETING STRATEGIES TO GET HOMES SOLD MARKETING STRATEGIES TO GET HOMES SOLD FAST AND FOR TOP DOLLAR. PHYLLIS IS A FAST AND FOR TOP DOLLAR. PHYLLIS IS A CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST AS WELL AS A CERTIFIED RELOCATION AS WELL AS A CERTIFIED RELOCATION SPECIALIST. SHE HAS ASSEMBLED A TEAM OF SPECIALIST. SHE HAS ASSEMBLED A TEAM OF HIGHLY-TRAINED PROFESSIONALS TO HELP TAKE HIGHLY-TRAINED PROFESSIONALS TO HELP TAKE CARE OF THE MANY DETAILS THAT COME WITH CARE OF THE MANY DETAILS THAT COME WITH BUYING OR SELLING A HOME. BUYING OR SELLING A HOME.
BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES EWM REALTY HOMESERVICES EWM REALTY INTERNATIONAL IS PROUD TO INTERNATIONAL IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE PHYLLIS’S 2018 AMAZING ANNOUNCE PHYLLIS’S 2018 AMAZING REAL ESTATE ACHIEVEMENT. REAL ESTATE ACHIEVEMENT.
954.980.3385 954.980.3385 2000 MAIN STREET SUITE 103/ WESTON, FL 33326 2000 MAIN STREET SUITE 103/ WESTON, FL 33326
SOLD IN
The Best Vie with Gas Ran
SOLD & C
A
4306 DIA EME
©2019 B
Your Weston Sales Leader! Your Weston Sales Leader! THE PROOF IS IN THE RESULTS THE PROOF IS IN THE RESULTS
REMODELED GOLF COURSE ESTATE! ESTATE! REMODELED GOLF COURSE
N 5 SOLD DAYS!IN FULL PRICE! 5 DAYS! FULL PRICE!
3236 HUNTINGTON, WESTON, FL 33332 | LIST PRICE $895,000 3236 HUNTINGTON, WESTON, FL 33332 | LIST PRICE $895,000
Views and the Best Updates! A True 5-Bedroom + Office, 3-Bathroom, Triple-Split Floor Plan, Beautiful Hardwood Floors and Crown Molding Throughout. Amazing Chef’s Dream Kitchen The Best the Best Updates! A TrueStainless 5-Bedroom Office, 3-Bathroom, Triple-Split FloorNew Plan,Redesigned Beautiful Hardwood Floors and Crown Molding Throughout. Chef’s Dream Kitchen ange, High-End 42”Views Woodand Cabinets, Granite Counters, Steel+ Appliances, Wine Cooler & Bar Area. Solar-Heated Pool/Spa, Huge Screened Enclosure Amazing and Covered Gasfor Range, High-End 42” Wood Cabinets, Granite Counters, Steel Circular Appliances, Wine Cooler Bar Area. Solar-Heated Pool/Spa, Huge Screened Enclosure and Covered Area with is Great Entertaining. Accordion Shutters, Custom Impact Front Stainless Doors, Paved Driveway. Custom& Closets In New EveryRedesigned Bedroom Plus 2-Car Garage with Built-Ins. Area is Great for Entertaining. Accordion Shutters, Custom Impact Front Doors, Paved Circular Driveway. Custom Closets In Every Bedroom Plus 2-Car Garage with Built-Ins.
WESTON’S PICTUREPICTURE PERFECTPERFECT HOME! HOME! WESTON’S
CLOSED 5 DAYS! IN 5 DAYS! SOLDIN & CLOSED
1231 CAMELLIA LANE, WESTON, 33326 | LIST PRICE $587,500 1231 CAMELLIA LANE, FL WESTON, FL 33326 | LIST PRICE $587,500
Beautiful 4-Bedroom, 3-Bathroom Home Located on a 13,125 SF Private Lot! Brand New Roof in 2018! New Updated Kitchen which Features Quartz Countertops, Beautiful 4-Bedroom, 3-Bathroom LocatedSteel on aAppliances. 13,125 SF Private Lot! BrandHave New Been Roof in 2018! NewHigh-End UpdatedLaminate Kitchen which 42” Wood Cabinets, Glass Tile Backsplash, 5-Burner Range Home and Stainless All 3 Bathrooms Renovated, FloorsFeatures in Main Quartz Living Countertops, Wood Cabinets, Glass Tile Backsplash, 5-Burner Range Steel Appliances. Allfor 3 Bathrooms Have Renovated, High-End Laminate Floors in Main Living Area and a Triple-Split42” Floor Plan. French Doors Lead to the Large Screened Pooland andStainless Patio Area which is Perfect Entertaining. PoolBeen Resurfaced in 2017, Travertine Pool Deck, Area and a Triple-Split Floor Plan. French Doors Lead Original to the Large Screened Pool and Patio which is Perfect for Entertaining. Pool Resurfaced in 2017, Travertine Pool Deck, Hurricane Impact Shutters. Owners Have Maintained ThisArea Home Impeccably. Hurricane Impact Shutters. Original Owners Have Maintained This Home Impeccably.
SOLD, SOLD, SOLD,SOLD! SOLD, SOLD!
DIAMOND TERRACE 960 CRESTVIEW 1765 LAKESHORE 1095 LONGVIEW 4306 DIAMOND TERRACE 960 CRESTVIEW 1765 LAKESHORE 1095 LONGVIEW ERALD ESTATES HIGHLAND MEADOWS EXECUTIVE HOMES LAGUNA SPRINGS EMERALD ESTATES HIGHLAND MEADOWS EXECUTIVE HOMES LAGUNA SPRINGS
Want the Same Results? Want the Same Results? Give Me a Call Give MeToday! a Call Today!
scarberry.p@ewm.com | TheScarberryGroup.com scarberry.p@ewm.com | TheScarberryGroup.com ©2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC.
9 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHHHomeServices Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices the Berkshire Hathaway symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. Berkshire Hathaway and the Berkshire Hathawayand HomeServices symbolHomeServices are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. ©2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.
CONTENTS PUBLISHERS’ PAGE 16
SAFETY CORNER 38 Fall Prevention – Standing Strong Together
A Taste for Knowledge
FEATURE STORY
COMMUNITY NEWS 18 Weston-led Effort to Overturn Firearms Regulation Passes First Hurdle 20 Weston Earns Distinguished Budget Presentation Award 22 New Turn Signal Makes Streets Safer 24 Weston Installs Energy Efficient Lighting in City Parking Lots 28 Summerfest Concert Impresses Audience of All Ages
56
40 The Changing Face Of Beauty & Wellness
CALENDAR AUGUST 2019
81
42 September 2019
MAYOR’S MESSAGE 47 Entering Another Exciting Year
LEGISLATIVE LOOK 48 Keeping Your Children Safe And Healthy
ASK THE EXPERT 52 Developmental Flatfoot in Children 75 Modern Day Plastic Surgery: Beauty, Health and Wellbeing Are One 83 Is An Eye Exam On Your To-Do List?
54 Baby Sharks – Biting
30 34 36 39 44 46 56 58
Music Society Platinum Circle Award Petal Power on Display at Family Bike Ride Five Fantastic Films Selected for Weston Foreign Film Series Weston University Program Opens Minds and Doors to Possible Career Paths Cleveland Clinic Florida Named Best Hospital in South Florida Kids Can Explore Various Interests at the Weston Community Center Weston Community Center Programs Engage Active Adults Association of Professional Businesswomen Offers Unique Networking Opportunities Weston Branch Library Book Clubs Foster Literacy and Love of Reading
73 How Healthy is our Market?
HEALTH AND WELLNESS ROTARY NEWS
SCHOOL NEWS 28 Commissioner Kallman Receives Weston
REAL ESTATE
32 Are You a Victim of SIBO 76 Sciatica
POSITIVE PARENTING
60 Straight A’s for Weston Schools 62 Five Weston Schools Earn Golden School Award 64 New Assistant Principal Lands at Eagle Point Elementary School
70 Character Counts at Imagine Charter School at Weston 72 Cypress Bay Senior Spends Summer in Bank of America’s Student Leaders Program 74 Weston AYSO U14 Boys Team Places Second at National Tournament
78 Rotary Supports Education and Literacy Initiatives
PET CARE
74
78 Periodontal Disease in Dogs
LEGALLY SPEAKING 80 Insurance policy for a wedding day
PET OF THE MONTH 82 Your Pet Could Be Our Pet of the Month!
TEE TO GREEN 81 Putting Is Personal
CAMP ROUND-UP 84,85 Camp Memories
SNAPSHOTS FROM SCHOOL 86 It’s the First Day of School
68 Falcon Cove Middle School Students Learn Math Matters 70 Academic Success Starts At Home
SEEN ON SCENE
87 Community Snapshots
PHOTO OF THE MONTH 88 The World’s Favorite Magazine
PUBLISHERS’ PAGE
A Taste For Knowledge
W
e are now a few weeks into the school year and hopefully your family has adjusted to the new routine. This year, three of our kids are attending Broward County Public Schools for the first time. One thing we have noticed here, that is different than their old schools, is that breakfast is offered to all students every day – and it is free for ALL children. The idea behind Universal Free Breakfast is a simple one: kids who eat a nutritious breakfast will be less hungry and, therefore, better able to pay attention throughout the day making them better students. Making the meals free to all students destigmatizes the situation. Economically disadvantaged kids won’t feel prying eyes when eating the free breakfast and, therefore, will be more likely to eat it. In practice, this is exactly what happens. According to the Food Research & Action Center, children who attend schools that serve universal breakfasts have lower rates of obesity, fewer visits to the school nurse, better behavior, better attendance, less tardiness, and, you guessed it, better test scores, by 17.5%. In fact, students with access to a healthy breakfast are 20% more likely to graduate from high school than those who don’t. So, make sure your children make it to the bus stop on time or get to school a couple minutes early so they can join their friends for breakfast. And tell them to eat up – their education is counting on it.
Christy & Terry Jaillet
Christy & Terry Jaillet Publishers
PUBLISHERS Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com MANAGING EDITOR Stacey Bomser OFFICE MANAGER Gabriela Moscoso ART DIRECTOR Jacqueline Allard GRAPHIC DESIGNER Tom Rowe ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Nancy Koval nancy@ourcitymedia.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES John Brodie, Denise Caligiuri, Adrienne Collins, Mariem Garcia, Silvia Silva, Jerry Spielman CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Beverly Perkins, Ivis Mateos, Representative Richard Stark, Dr. Jean Nerette, Stephanie Muniz -ARNP, Fire Chief Todd Draizin, Dr. Carlo A. Messina, Holly & Bob Catania, Dr. Maria Grosman, Terry Jaillet, Dr. Behar, Dr. Browner, Dr. Jane Therrien, Dr. Tamy Faierman, Evan Baron, Dean Sklar, Rose Sklar, Mayor Daniel J. Stermer, Miguel E. Cordova, DVM CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Emily Harris Photography, Kim Ruoff, Krushot Photography, PhotographyByLuigi.com, Victoria Genova Photography, Weston Photography Studios
GOT NEWS? editorweston@ourcitymedia.com ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com VISIT US ONLINE OurCityMedia.com
954-306-1007 400 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway Suite 200C • Sunrise, FL 33325
Our City Media of Florida, LLC publishes FREE monthly, local community news magazines throughout South Florida. Our City Magazines are mailed monthly to affluent single-family homes, condos and businesses in their respective communities. Monthly mailings are verifiable by USPS postage statements. Additional free copies are available at selected locations throughout the communities served and upon request by contacting the publisher. Opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher. Our City Media of Florida, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our City Media of Florida, LLC is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers. Entire contents copyrighted 2018 by Our City Media of Florida, LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.
16 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Cosmetic Surgery Of The Face, Body & Breast
CHARLES A. MESSA, III, M.D., F.A.C.S. DOUBLE BOARD CERTIFIED The American Board of Plastic Surgery and The American Board of Surgery
“Back To SchoolSculpting”
20% OFF
Weston Cosmetic Surgery Center 2823 Executive Park Drive
954.659.7760
2019
www.westoncosmeticsurgery.com Visit Us @drcharlesmessa
MEMBER
Se Habla Español Financing Available
The Patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for any other service, examination, or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement or the free, discounted fee or reduced fee, service, examination, or treatment
COMMUNITY NEWS
BY STACEY BOMSER
F
ollowing last year’s school shooting in Parkland, the City of Weston led a lawsuit against the State of Florida over a 2011 provision that prevents local governments and officials from enacting gun safety laws without facing severe penalties. Although the lawsuit was initiated by Weston and nine other South Florida municipalities, it ultimately involved 30 cities, three counties and more than 70 elected officials as it was consolidated with two other similar lawsuits. In late July, a Leon County Circuit Court Judge ruled the firearm preemption was unconstitutional. Days later the State filed an appeal, leaving the sanctions in place for now. At issue is a current law that prohibits city and county leaders from enacting local gun ordinances, such as prohibiting firearms in city buildings and parks, or face severe and unprecedented personal penalties. This includes civil fines up to $5,000 and removal from office for officials who violate the preemption. If sued, officials can not use public funds for their legal defense. In addition, local governments could also face potential lawsuits for attorney’s fees and damages up to $100,000. Mayor Daniel Stermer says he is pleased with
the ruling. “It restored my faith that an independent judiciary can review actions taken by the Florida Legislature and rule fairly and on balance – the preemption underlying the stricken provisions remains and the City Commission will review what action, if any, to consider going forward relative to firearms.” Weston City Attorney Jamie Alan Cole, Weston Mayor Daniel Stermer speaks during a press conference announcing victory in lawsuit against the State. who led the legal action, also commended the judge’s ruling in this case. “The deciwhat they feel their job is and representing their sion was well-written, well-reasoned and is based upon constituents. decisions of the United States Supreme Court, the Although now under appeal, the Court’s decision Florida Supreme Court and the various Florida District invalidates the extreme and extraordinary penalties Courts of Appeals, and is based upon doctrines that that deter local officials from even considering enactare the bedrocks of American democracy. This ruling ing reasonable and constitutional firearms regulations gives cities the ability to pass legislation that tests the in their communities. The Court’s decision found the boundaries of the firearm preemption, without the penalties and damage claims to be invalid and unconfear of being thrown out of office or penalized.” stitutional because they violate legislative immunity In a nutshell, the lawsuit sought to invalidate the and separation of powers, violate governmental funcpenalties so that cities and local officials could enact tion immunity, conflict with the Governor’s limited gun control ordinances. While many states have power to remove local government officials, and firearm preemption laws, Florida was the first in 2011 impair existing contracts with county administrators. to go so far as to punish local lawmakers with personal The Leon County Circuit Court judge declared all of fines and the threat of removal from office for doing the penalties to be invalid on those grounds.
SOLD!
JUST LISTED
2017 bestof weston
Audrey Gordon • Kara Farnsworth • Wendy Newman-Scheppke • Holly Lick • Mariana Fontanarrosa • Kelsey Morosini
There is no one better to sell your home than your own Weston neighbors! 18 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Wendy Newman-Scheppke, Principal Broker www.royalpalmrealtyflorida.com • (954) 326-5335
Photo courtesy City of Weston
Weston-led Effort to Overturn Firearms Regulation Passes First Hurdle
COMMUNITY NEWS
Weston Earns Distinguished Budget Presentation Award BY STACEY BOMSER
Photo courtesy City of Weston
O
nce again, the highest form of recognition in governmental budgeting has been bestowed upon the City of Weston. For the 17th consecutive year, Weston has received the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). “Congratulations are in order for Bryan Cahen, our Director of Budget, for preparing and presenting a budget that meets the scrutiny of his peers across the United States,” expressed City Manager John Flint. “Bryan’s work serves not only as a financial tool for the City Commission and the City staff, but also as an educational tool for the City’s residents to know and understand the City’s finances and how the city operates on an annual basis.” In order to achieve the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, the submitting entity must publish a budget document that satisfies nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation. The guidelines assess how well the budget serves as a policy document, financial plan, operations guide, and communications device. Publication of an award-winning document reflects the commitment of the government body
and staff to meeting the highest principles of governmental accounting. Cahen worked diligently with City of Weston department heads to prepare the annual budget for the Fiscal Year beginning October 1, 2018, pursuant to the GFOA guidelines. The City’s finance staff is currently working on the budget plan for Fiscal Year 2020. Public hearings on the proposed budget will be held on Wednesday, September 11th and Monday, September 23rd at 7pm at Weston City Hall. The budget will go into effect on October 1st. The proposed budget keeps the ad valorem millage rate (tax rate) steady for the second year at 3.3464
and proposes no decrease in General Fund service levels. According to Mayor Daniel Stermer, the City Commissioners take the budget process very seriously because the annual budget, with its implications on the City’s millage rate and the services provided, touches every resident and business owner personally and financially. The GFOA is a non-profit professional association serving over 19,000 government finance professionals throughout North America. The GFOA’s Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards program is the only national awards program in governmental budgeting. Weston residents can review the City’s award-winning Fiscal Year 2019 Budget document online at https://www.westonfl.org/ home/showdocument?id=3080.
Hunter Douglas Gallery Showroom
VISIT | VIEW | OPERATE | OVER 100 DISPLAYS Intelligent shades, smart savings. PowerView® Motorized Shades from Hunter Douglas move automatically to a schedule you set. Voice activation available. Act now for special savings on a wide range of popular styles. **The PowerView® App and additional equipment required for programmed operation.
, 2017
954-434-8701 Monday-Saturday 10:00am - 6:00pm 5967 S University Dr., Davie, FL 33328 (NW corner of University & Stirling)
20 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
@ashadeaboveflorida
w w w. as aw f. co m
WESTON’S REAL ESTATE LEADER WESTON HILLS VICTORIA ISLE
WESTON HILLS MEADOWOOD
NEW LISTING
NEW LISTING
1486 Victoria Isle Drive
SELLS WESTON LUXURY
SILVER
$1,199,900 5/6, Den. Lake. Pool. Loft. Updated. Storm Shutters. Gated.
WESTON HIGHLAND MEADOWS
NEW LISTING
2720 Meadowood Drive
$1,025.000 5/4. Lake. New A/C. New Floors. New Stainless Steel Appliances. Storm Shutters. Gated.
WESTON HILLS JARDIN
NEW LISTING
928 Greenwood Road
$648,888 4/3. Brand New Roof. Pool. Modern White Granite Kitchen. New A/C. Gated.
2570 Jardin Court
$749,500 5/3.1 Remodeled. Impact Glass. New Kitchen & Baths. Marble Floors. Golf. Pool.
WESTON HILLS
PLANTATION
VICTORIA POINTE
EL DORADO ESTATES
SOLD
SOLD
1795 Victoria Pointe Circle
$749,900 5/4. Pool. Huge Yard. Tiled Floors. Gated.
260 El Dorado Pkwy.
$499,999. 4/3. Pool. Lake. New Granite Kitchen & Bathroom. New Floors. Clubhouse. Gated.
AWARD WINNING “TOP PRODUCER” FOR 30 YEARS · GLOBAL LUXURY HOME SELLING SPECIALIST CORPORATE RELOCATION CERTIFIED · # 1 LEADING REAL ESTATE COMPANY · TRULY REMARKABLE SERVICE
“NO ONE SELLS MORE WESTON REAL ESTATE”
954.461.4455 www. LaurenSilver.com • silversell@aol.com
Coldwell Banker • 2690 Weston Road • Suite 101 • Weston, FL 33331
COMMUNITY NEWS
New Turn Signal Makes Streets Safer BY STACEY BOMSER Photos courtesy City of Weston
T
he intersection of Saddle Club Road and Royal Palm Boulevard/Glades Parkway is one of the busiest in Weston. Thousands of vehicles pass through it each day traveling to and from Weston Regional Park, the Weston Community Center and Weston YMCA Family Center. A new left turn signal is easing congestion and making the streets safer. Assistant City Manager/COO Karl Thompson has requested a traffic study for the past eight years. In June, the Broward County Traffic Engineering Division determined traffic counts and other factors finally met the criteria needed. It authorized the installation of protected left turn signals from eastbound and westbound Saddle Club Road onto Royal Palm Boulevard/Glades Parkway. Director of Communications Denise Barrett-Miller explains what warranted the decision to install protected left turn signals. “It is a combination of traffic volume, accidents and what traffic engineers call a failed cycle, which is when at least one queued left-turning vehicle cannot complete the maneuver in a single full cycle of the light.” The new turn signals should help with the flow of traffic and reduce the number of accidents at the intersection. As part of its traffic study, the Broward County Traffic Engineering Division looked at crash
reports from the Broward Sheriff’s Office and found three peak-hour correctible crashes occurred in that intersection during a 30-month period. The protected left turn signal should prevent future crashes. “A protected left turn is generally considered to enhance the safety of turning vehicles,” explains Barrett-Miller. “The green arrow pointing left allows you to make a protected turn; oncoming vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians are stopped by a red light as long as the green arrow is lit. So, as long as vehicles adhere to the lights, the turning vehicles are protected.” While traffic signals can help control the flow of vehicles, Barrett-Miller says nothing replaces common sense and proper driving techniques. “Remember the basics: use turn signals, don’t follow
closely, observe speed limits and stop signs, and don’t text and drive. These basics make a huge difference and save a lot of headaches, costly tickets and accidents.” In addition, Weston utilizes roundabouts, also known as traffic circles, to help control traffic flow through intersections. There are two roundabouts along Bonaventure Boulevard and one at the entrance to Weston Regional Park. Here are some helpful tips on how to safely navigate a roundabout: ▸▸ Slow down as you approach the roundabout and watch for pedestrians in the crosswalk. ▸▸ Continue toward the roundabout and look to your left as you near the yield sign at the entrance to the roundabout. You must yield to traffic already in the roundabout. ▸▸ Once you see a gap in traffic, enter the circle and proceed to your exit. If there is no traffic in the roundabout, you may enter without yielding. ▸▸ Look for pedestrians and use your turn signal before you exit the roundabout.
Voted Favorite Air Conditioning Service Company In Coral Springs & Parkland City News Reader’s Choice
FHP A/C Service, Inc Serving Broward & South Palm Beach
Licensed & Insured CAC1815930
954-426-9300 • 561-736-7756 We Are A Full Service Air Conditioning Company
in Water Source «Specializing Heat Pumps, Air Conditioners,
Pool Heaters & Commercial HVAC Products & Services
AS SEEN ON DIY TV
22 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
the highest level of «Ensuring Customer Satisfaction makes us stand above the rest.
Florida’s Heat Pump & A/C «Remember Services when you are looking to keep your house cool & your pool warm.
2019
COMMUNITY NEWS
Weston Installs Energy Efficient Lighting in City Parking Lots BY STACEY BOMSER
costs through energy savings. “LED lights are energy he City of Weston is continually looking for efficient and consume up to 90% less power than traways to save energy and money. One of the ditional lighting systems,” explains Chitepu. “After ways it is doing this is by upgrading to LED two years of actual costs, the City will do an actual lighting in city parking lots. So far, the energy comparison.” efficient LED lights have been installed at City In addition to energy savings, LEDs have lower Hall, the Administrative Services Center, Public maintenance costs as they last longer than incanWorks Services Center, Police Services Center, Fire descent or fluorescent lights. They also provide more Station No. 81 and at Tequesta Trace Park. The light, because LEDs emit light in a specific direcparking lot lights at Weston Regional Park, Vista tion, reducing the need for reflectors and diffusers Park, Fire Station No. 67 and Fire Station No. 55 will that can trap light and also reducing light pollube done next. tion. This is one of the many reasons LED lights are Director of Public Works Reddy Chitepu, P.E., says preferred for industrial use such as street lights, the City chose to upgrade its parking lot lighting parking garage lighting, walkway and other outdoor “due to the age of the existing lighting systems with area lighting. increased maintenance costs and the City’s stanParking lots are not the only place the City of dardization to LED’s at all the City’s facilities.” Weston is upgrading to LED lighting for energy effiThe City initiated the parking lot lighting ciency and improved lighting. According to Chitepu, upgrade to LED lights in 2017. It began by selecting “The City will be complete with interior renovations the light fixture and conducting a bid process to to all three fire stations and the police station by replace the lights at all ten city facilities. The total the end of this calendar year. These renovations project cost will be $400,000. Chitepu says the City included the upgrade to LED lighting.” In addition, budgets annually to perform lighting upgrades. The in 2011 the City upgraded to LED street lights. Fiscal Year 2019 budget provided $250,000. According to ENERGY STAR®, LED stands for light The hope is that the City will recoup some of its emitting diode. LED lighting products produce light
Photos courtesy City of Weston
T
approximately 90% more efficiently than incandescent light bulbs. An electrical current passes through a microchip, which illuminates the tiny light sources called LEDs resulting in visible light. ENERGY STAR® is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency.
GENTLE GYNECOLOGY & OBSTETRICS
Michael Augustino,
Fabienne Achille,
Leonardo Catalano
RECENTLY NAMED PHYSICIAN OF THE MONTH BY MEMORIAL WEST HOSPTIAL
BOARD CERTIFIED IN PEDIATRIC AND ADOLESCENT GYNECOLOGY
M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
M.D., F.A.C.O.G
Comprehensive Women’s Health Care
Specializing In:Personalized Pre-Natal Care, DaVinci Robotic Surgery, Natural BioIdentical Hormones (for Men and Women), MonaLisa Touch - For Vaginal Rejuvenation
Pines: 603 N Flamingo Rd., Suite 360 -A Pembroke Pines, FL 33028 Weston: 1605 Town Center Blvd. Weston, FL 33326 Call to schedule an appointment. 954 436-7667 pines | 954 384-8668 weston
24 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Pat promised to love me in sickness and in health I PROMISED I WOULDN’T PUT PAT IN A NURSING HOME When you made your promises so long ago, neither of you imagined Pat would need specialized care. Fortunately, Artis Senior Living lets you keep your promise, because our community looks and feels nothing like a “nursing home”—and everything like your own home: FPO Image: $60 1960s COUPLE WEDDING PORTRAIT Image ID: BR9DPR
• Cheerful, comfortable surroundings • Easy-to-navigate, secure neighborhoods • Each day is 100% unique, tailored to needs and preferences • Care partners keep your loved one engaged in favorite, meaningful experiences You didn’t break your vow, because you are taking care of your life partner the best way you can: The Artis Way.
so have I, Pat’s kept that vow. And ay of Memory Care. Thanks to The Artis W
For more information about memory care The Artis Way, and to schedule a personal tour, call us at 877-340-8649 or visit www.TheArtisWay.com/Weston Artis Senior Living of Davie: 2794 S. Flamingo Road, Davie, FL 33330 Assisted Living Facility License #11969411 Closer to Boca? Check out our sister community at 5910 North Federal Highway, Boca Raton, FL 33487
OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 25
PENDING/CLOSED SALES
Rose & Dean Sklar, REALTORS® Ranked #1 Agents in the City of Weston, FL 2008-2018
D CLOSE
D CLOSE
317 Mallard Road • Weston, FL THE LANDINGS Record Breaking – Pending in 7 Days Closed For $1,200,000
D CLOSE
D CLOSE
14601 N Jockey Circle • Davie, FL CHARLESTON OAKS We Brought The Buyer Closed For $1,400,000
2500 Montclaire Circle • Weston, FL WESTON HILLS CC Staged & Sold Closed For $875,000
D CLOSE
NG PENDI
2453 Poinciana Drive • Weston, FL WESTON HILLS CC Closed for $1,275,000
2685 Cypress Lane • Weston, FL WESTON HILLS CC We Brought The Buyer Closed For $1,095,000
3204 Islewood Avenue • Weston, FL WINDMILL RESERVE Asking $1,595,000
2454 Eagle Run • Weston, FL WESTON HILLS CC New roof & long lake views $900,000
1849 Hidden Trail • Weston, FL WESTON HILLS CC $815,000
NEW INVENTORY (954) 298.3616 Dean Cell (954) 298.3626 Rose Cell SklarTeam@gmail.com sklarteam.com
TO RECEIVE INSTANT PHOTOS & INFO OF OUR PROPERTIES FOR SALE DIRECT TO YOUR CELL PHONE PLEASE TEXT THE WORD “INFO” TO
G COMIN
SO O N
2481 Provence Circle • Weston, FL WESTON HILLS CC $1,425,000
954.289.5220
ROSE &DEAN SKLAR
# 1AGENTS WESTON,FL
11 CONSECUTIVE YEARS 2008 · 2018
Residential Real Estate, Inc.
Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate is owned by a subsidiary of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. If you have a brokerage relationship with another agency, this is not intended as a solicitation.
2988 Lake Ridge Lane • Weston, FL WINDMILL RESERVE $3,340,000
2829 Lake Ridge • Weston, FL WINDMILL RESERVE Ready in December 2019 $3,200,000
19361 Waters Edge Street • Weston, FL WINDMILL RESERVE $1,975,000
16593 Botaniko Drive South • Weston, FL BOTANIKO Contemporary masterpiece with the finest of upgrades $1,900,000
5655 SW 192nd Terrace • SW Ranches, FL WESTFIELD ESTATES 5 BD, 3.5 BA, 3 car garage, 2.76 acres, salt water pool, travertine patio, tiki hut and views to private lake $1,490,000
2990 Wentworth • Weston, FL WESTON HILLS CC 4 BD, 3.5 BA, total renovation water & pool, newer roof $999,000
1525 Victoria Isle Way • Weston, FL WESTON HILLS CC New roof, water & pool $1,025,000
2426 Deer Creek • Weston, FL WESTON HILLS CC Incredible long lake views from your custom oversized pool $825,000
1088 Skylark Drive • Weston, FL SAVANNA – THE MARSHES Cul-de-sac property with private lake & preserve views $800,000
1442 Blue Jay Circle • Weston, FL SAVANNA 4 BD, 2.5 BA, contemporary heated pool & water views $649,000
18900 SW 61st Manor • SW Ranches, FL 4 BD, 5 BA, 2.5+ acres, newly renovated travertine pool deck with pool, newer A/C units, newer water system $950,000
1017 Sunflower Circle • Weston, FL SAVANNA – THE MARSHES Exterior & interior freshly painted, two new A/C’s $550,000
“NOBODY KNOWS LIKE WE DO!” TM
COMMUNITY NEWS COMMUNITY NEWS
Summerfest SummerfestConcert ConcertImpresses ImpressesAudience AudienceofofAll AllAges Ages BY STACEY BOMSER BY STACEY BOMSER
NN
othing sayssays summer in Weston likelike thethe sounds Forte performed a jazz version ofof Rosas Rojas othing summer in Weston sounds Orlando Orlando Forte performed a jazz version Rosas Rojas of symphonic music. Once again, the Weston para una Dama Triste (Red Roses for a Blue Lady), with of symphonic music. Once again, the Weston para una Dama Triste (Red Roses for a Blue Lady), witha a Music Society hadhad thethe privilege of presenting from thethe principal violinist. One ofof the highlights Music Society privilege of presenting riffriff from principal violinist. One the highlights thethe Symphony of the Americas’ annual Summerfest of the Summerfest Concert was an original piece Symphony of the Americas’ annual Summerfest of the Summerfest Concert was an original pieceforfor Concert. A record-setting audience attended thethe perand string orchestra written by resident Concert. A record-setting audience attended per- marimba marimba and string orchestra written by resident formance at Dor Dorim Auditorium. composer Lorenzo Turchi-Floris specifically forfor formance at Dor Dorim Auditorium. composer Lorenzo Turchi-Floris specifically marimba soloist Angelo di Veroli. marimba soloist Angelo di Veroli. Photos courtesy Weston Music Society Proceeds from thethe Summerfest Concert support Photos courtesy Weston Music Society Proceeds from Summerfest Concert support thethe Weston Music Society’s educational programs. Weston Music Society’s educational programs.InIn addition to to bringing recitals byby professional musiaddition bringing recitals professional musicians to all Weston elementary schools and providing cians to all Weston elementary schools and providing scholarships to to graduating seniors toto continue scholarships graduating seniors continuetheir their music studies in in college, this year thethe Weston Music music studies college, this year Weston Music Society is expanding itsits reach byby partnering with Society is expanding reach partnering withthe the music programs at Falcon Cove Middle School and music programs at Falcon Cove Middle School and Tequesta Trace Middle School. Tequesta Trace Middle School. Under thethe baton of Maestro James Brooks“It“It is aispleasure to to bring such fine music Under baton of Maestro James Brooksa pleasure bring such fine musictotoour our Bruzzese, international musicians from acclaimed commuBruzzese, international musicians from acclaimed community orchestras around thethe world joined principal musiand orchestras around world joined principal musi- nity and to to know cians from the Symphony of the Americas in playing know the cians from the Symphony of the Americas in playing the proceeds classics by Vivaldi, Mozart andand Dvorak, along with a a proceeds classics by Vivaldi, Mozart Dvorak, along with will go to selection of pieces chosen specifically for this concert. go to selection of pieces chosen specifically for this concert. will bringing Claudio Osario, principal trumpet for the bringing Claudio Osario, principal trumpet for the music to our Symphony of the Americas, performed a mastermusic to our Symphony of the Americas, performed a masterstudents, ful ful rendition of Concerto for Trumpet andand Strings by by students, rendition of Concerto for Trumpet Strings elementary Giuseppe Tartini. Summerfest Concertmaster elementary Giuseppe Tartini. Summerfest Concertmaster through
through high school, to ensure the next generation high school, to ensure the next generation develops develops a love for fine music,” states Weston Music a love for fine music,” states Weston Music Society Society President Lou Marett. President Lou Marett. Many children attended the Summerfest Concert. Many children attended the Summerfest Concert. Members of Girl Scout Troop 10259 and Boy Scout Members of Girl Scout Troop 10259 and Boy Scout Troop 128 volunteered, serving as ushers, selling Troop 128 volunteered, serving as ushers, selling raffle tickets, and working at the reception desk. raffle tickets, and working at the reception desk. For many of the children, this was their first profesFor many of the children, this was their first professional orchestra concert, and all enjoyed the experisional orchestra concert, and all enjoyed the experience immensely. ence immensely. Following the concert, patrons were treated to a Following the concert, patrons were treated to a dessert reception with the musicians. Eleven-year-old dessert reception with the musicians. Eleven-year-old Juan Diego Molina, from the Amadeus Academy of Juan Diego Molina, from the Amadeus Academy of Music and Art, impressed attendees with his perforMusic and Art, impressed attendees with his performance of Grieg’s Piano Concerto. mance of Grieg’s Piano Concerto. The Weston Music Society is busy planning its upcoming concert The Weston Music Society is busy planning its upcoming concert season. For more information visit www.WestonMusicSociety.org. season. For more information visit www.WestonMusicSociety.org.
Commissioner CommissionerKallman KallmanReceives ReceivesWeston Weston Music MusicSociety SocietyPlatinum PlatinumCircle CircleAward Award BY STACEY BOMSER BY STACEY BOMSER
TT
Photos courtesy Weston Music Society
28 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM 28 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Photos courtesy Weston Music Society
he Weston Music Society presented its its cova partnership between thethe Rotary Club ofof Weston he Weston Music Society presented cova partnership between Rotary Club Westonand and etedeted Platinum Circle Award to Weston City the City of Weston. Platinum Circle Award to Weston City the City of Weston. Commissioner Thomas Kallman. TheThe prestiDuring thethe award presentation, Commissioner Commissioner Thomas Kallman. presDuring award presentation, Commissioner gious award recognizes Kallman was also recognized forfor hishis tigious award recognizes Kallman was also recognized outstanding individuals continuous support of the Weston Music outstanding individuals continuous support of the Weston Music for for their contributions to Society through professional expertise, their contributions to Society through professional expertise, music in the Weston comfinancial support andand attendance at at music in the Weston comfinancial support attendance munity. Commissioner its events. munity. Commissioner its events. Kallman hashas been a a “I am truly honored andand humbled to to Kallman been “I am truly honored humbled longtime supporter of be thought of and appreciated in this longtime supporter of be thought of and appreciated in this thethe Weston Music Society matter,” stated Commissioner Kallman. Weston Music Society matter,” stated Commissioner Kallman. andand waswas instrumental in “I have spent the instrumental in “I have spent the majorbringing music concerts majority of my bringing music concerts ity of my lifelife promotof all genres and forpromoting live music of all genres and foring live music within mats to town. within communities. mats to town. communities. That Toby Feuer, a longtime That passion. I Toby Feuer, a longtime is is mymy passion. I look friend and former City look forward to seefriend and former City forward to seeing Commissioner, presented ingthe thedoors doorsopen openon Former Commissioner Toby Feuer Commissioner, presented Former Commissioner Feuer presents the Platinum Circle Toby Award to thethe crystal award before on our long-awaited presents the Platinum Circle Award to crystal award before our long-awaited City Commissioner Thomas Kallman thethe Summerfest Concert. City Commissioner Thomas Kallman new state-of-the-art Summerfest Concert. new state-of-the-art During the speech, she credited Commissioner Community Center that will bebe an During the speech, she credited Commissioner Community Center that will Kallman with producing ten highly successful “Free amazing venue for live perforKallman with producing ten highly successful “Free an amazing venue for live perforConcert in the Park” shows from 2005 to 2014. Those This new facility has been Concert in the Park” shows from 2005 to 2014. Those mance. mance. This new facility has been concerts, which grew into one of Broward County’s one of my main priorities for thethe concerts, which grew into one of Broward County’s one of my main priorities for largest freefree outdoor concerts, were presented through sixsix years.” largest outdoor concerts, were presented through past past years.”
Commissioner Kallman, Elena Kallman, Diane Marett, and WMS President Lou Marett
WestonMusic MusicSociety SocietyPresident PresidentLou LouMarett MarettcomcomWeston mendsCommissioner CommissionerKallman Kallmanfor forhis hiscommitment commitment mends thearts artsininWeston. Weston.“It“Itisisbecause becauseofofpassionate passionate totothe people like Tom that Weston enjoys a growing access people like Tom that Weston enjoys a growing access musicalperformances performancesofofallallgenres genresininour ourcommucommutotomusical nity and wenity thank for hishim dedication and success.” andhim we thank for his dedication Commissioner Kallman has been an and success.” active member of the Weston business Commissioner Kallman has been an andmember culturalofcommunity many years. active the Westonfor business is President of Kallman Insurance andHe cultural community for many years. Agency, has been a City Commissioner He is President of Kallman Insurance sincehas 2012, is the former director and Agency, been a City Commissioner chairman of the Weston Business since 2012, is the former director and Councilof(an he helped chairman theorganization Weston Business Council in 2001), has been a member (anestablish organization he helped establish in of the of Weston 1998, 2001), hasRotary been aClub member of thesince Rotary served as thesince City 1998, Commission’s Club of Weston served asliaison the the Arts Council of Greater Weston, CitytoCommission’s liaison to the Arts and was the installing officer for Council of Greater Weston, and was the the Weston Music Society.
Younger More Healthy You Fox Vein & Laser experts FoxVeinExperts.com
As Featured On Channel 10 News Vein & Laser Experts For Decades Laser Treatments • • • • • • •
Vein Removal Tattoo Removal Spot Removal Skin Rejuvenation Hand Rejuvenation Scar Removal Hair Removal
• State-of-the-Art in Office Vein Procedures for Varicose Veins • Local Anesthetic • Return to Work the Same Day • Treatments Done in Less than One Hour
Most Major Insurance Plans Accepted BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE
AFTER
Now Offering
VIVACE Call for Vivace Microneedling & RF Special’s Today!
Dr. Susan Fox, DO, RPVI, FSVM
Ask about SkinWave our NEW HydraFacial!
Dr. Fox is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Vascular Medicine and an expert in varicose vein treatment and laser procedures. She was Fellowship trained at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio and was on the teaching faculty at Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Fox has been featured in several news programs, articles and has lectured extensively on varicose veins and laser procedures.
• SPECIALS • 3 Sclerotherapy or Vein Gogh sessions for the price of two. 20% off Hair Removal or Non-Ablative Skin Resurfacing until September 30, 2019. Cannot be combined with any other offers. HOLLYWOOD 2699 Stirling Road Suite A301-302 Hollywood, FL 33312
PEMBROKE PINES 603 N. Flamingo Road Suite 365 Pembroke Pines, FL 33028
Call for monthly specials and a consultation today!
954-965-4922
THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Pedal Power on Display at Family Bike Ride & Expo BY STACEY BOMSER
W
Photos courtesy City of Weston
eston is a bicycle friendly city. With almost 50 miles of paved bike lanes, hundreds if not thousands of cyclists ride through town each day – and many of them are children biking to and from school. To help ensure the safety of everyone on the road, the City of Weston, along with the Broward Sheriff’s Office and YMCA, hosted a Family Bike Ride & Expo. Held just days before the start of the new school year, the timing was perfect to make sure that everyone stays safe and sound. Weston BSO Fire Rescue conducted free bicycle helmet fittings, while law enforcement officers distributed Child ID cards. The YMCA hosted a Tot Bike Rodeo where young riders could show off their pedal power while learning important road safety skills. Commissioners Byron Jaffe and Mary Molina-Macfie were in attendance, greeting guests and promoting cycling as a form of exercise. The City’s Parks and Recreation Department held this event to educate residents about bicycle and pedestrian safety. “Weston is a family friendly community and we want everyone to not just feel safe but to be safe when they are out and about, and that includes our youngest residents,” states Director of Communications Denise Barrett-Miller. “It is essential that everyone know and follow the rules of the road.” The evening also included two stunt shows by the BMX Trickstars.
VISIT | VIEW | OPERATE | TOP BRANDS | OVER 100 DISPLAYS
Emilio
NATION’S FIRST
, Rob
Bruce
Elliott
Vinny
Hunter Douglas Gallery Showroom
View videos and photo galleries at ashadeaboveflorida.com 5967 S University Dr., Davie, FL 33328 (NW corner of University Drive & Stirling Road)
954-434-8701
@ashadeaboveflorida
Monday-Saturday 10am - 6pm
MOTORIZED & MANUAL SHADES FOR ALL BUDGETS 30 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Are You a Victim of SIBO BY DR. JEAN-CLAUDE NERETTE & STEPHANIE MUNIZ, ARNP
I
Functional Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement REVERSE THE SIGNS OF AGING Stop Suffering – Start Living WE CAN HELP! WOMEN, If You Suffer From: • Hot Flashes • Pre/Post Menopause • Excess Body Fat • Mood Swings/PMS • Bad Skin • Migraines • Anxiety and/or Depression • Osteoporosis
MEN, If You Suffer From: • Decreased Sex Drive • Erectile Dysfunction • Loss of Muscle Tone • Increased Belly Fat • Poor Concentration • Irritability • Loss of Energy
“Anyone Can Prescribe Hormones, Few Can Master Them” Get Balanced by the Best! TM
COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION
954-384-8989 2665 Executive Park Drive, Suite #3, Weston, FL 33331
www.BellissimoMedical.com 32 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
n my practice I see a multiple of number of patients daily that have been sick for years looking for a solution and wanting to get better. Those same patients tell me that they have been to numerous specialists, had testing done, and was told “everything is fine”. But wait, everything is not fine! I still feel bad…. does it sound familiar? As a Functional Medicine Specialist, our mission is looking for the root of the problem using specialized testing validated by evidence-based medicine not typically used in traditional medicine. One of the examples, that Functional Medicine looks outside of the box is by the way it views the health of the GUT (the largest organ system comprised of the digestive system located between ones’ mouth and the anus). Many factors are involved in the balance of this GUT Environment / Microbiome. Some factors that impede the GUT Microbiome balance is the fact that we are living in a world of increase stressors and demands which may be further compounded with the intake of acid suppressants. The reason why balance of the microbiome, having the right type and number of bacteria, is so important is because alterations in its function can cause disease and numerous symptoms that can impact overall health. The human gut microbiome is now recognized as having a major influence on a wide range of human physiological processes, many of which influence a person’s risk for non-gastrointerstinal diseases. The dysbiosis (imbalance) of the small intestine is call SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), it has been associated with conditions such as obesity, fatty liver, diabetes, IBS, and Crohn’s to name a few. There are hundreds of different types of bacteria in the GUT and all of them have their place in the GUT, and once that balance is altered, havoc will come next. Numerous non-specific symptoms resulting from SIBO may include bloating, abdominal distension, pain, discomfort, diarrhea, fatigue, weakness, unable to tolerate certain foods. Furthermore SIBO, is often characterized by nutrient deficiencies, vitamin B12, iron, thiamin, nicotinamide and vitamins A, and vitamin E. So, what to do? If you have symptoms: bloating, abdominal distension, pain, discomfort, diarrhea, fatigue, weakness, unable to tolerate certain foods a Functional Medicine Physician will likely suggest a specialized Breath Test which indirectly measures the metabolic activity of microbes in the small intestine. If positive, that’s when Functional Medicine excels by not only finding the root cause of this imbalance but by having a personalized treatment plan to assist in repopulating, balancing, and healing the GUT. Some of the treatment plans may include specialized vitamins and minerals, peptides, medical grade probiotics, meditation and much more to recreate balance and health optimization.
“The human gut microbiome is now recognized as having a major influence on a wide range of human physiological processes, many of which influence a person’s risk for non-gastrointerstinal diseases”
Call today and schedule your free consultation at 954-384-8989. Dr. Jean-Claude Nerette is Board Certified in both Internal Medicine and Functional Medicine and Stephanie Muniz Nerette is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner and a Diplomate to the Board of Anti-Aging Medicine. Bellissimo Medical is located at 2665 Executive Park Drive, Suite #3, in Weston. For information, visit www.BellissimoMedical.com.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Five Fantastic Films Selected for Weston Foreign Film Series BY STACEY BOMSER
V
isit exotic locales. Immerse yourself in another culture. Travel back in time. It’s all possible during the 2019-2020 Weston Foreign Film Series, presented by the Arts Council of Greater Weston and the City of Weston. Tickets go on sale next month and the movies start in November. Weston Foreign Film Series Director Irene Carraway promises this will be a fabulous film season. “This year’s movies, previewed and selected by the Arts Council Board, have comedy, drama, pathos and community – everything you look for in great foreign films.” The Foreign Film Series kicks off on November 11th with Perfectos Desconocidos (Perfect Strangers). This Mexican comedy focuses on how hyper-focused people are on technology, specifically their cell phones. In this hilarious film, what begins as a provocative party game quickly becomes a wild ride full of twists and “textual tension.” The French film Le Choristes (The Chorus) will be shown on December 9th. This musical drama tells the story of how a new teacher at a strict boys’ boarding school positively affect his students’ lives through music. It was nominated for Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film and Best Original Song.
Cinema Paradiso will be shown on January 13th, 2020. This Italian drama pays tribute to the power of youth, nostalgia, and the movies themselves. In this movie, a filmmaker recalls his childhood when he first fell in love with the pictures playing at the cinema in his village as well as the projectionist. February features an unlikely film about love. In A Man Called Ove, an ill-tempered, isolated retiree spends his days enforcing block association rules and visiting his wife’s grave. It seems he has finally given up on life just as an unlikely friendship develops with his boisterous new neighbors. This Swedish comedy drama will be shown on February 10th. The Weston Foreign Film Series concludes on March 9th with A Bag of Marbles. It is a heartwarming story of a Jewish boy and his brother who escape Nazi persecution in occupied France. The film follows their adventures as they outwit their pursuers. The film includes French, German, Russian, and Yiddish. AMC Weston 8 hosts the Foreign Film Series. Show times are at 4:45pm and 7:30pm, with doors opening 30 minutes before showtime. All foreign language films have English subtitles. Weston Foreign Film Series season tickets go on sale on October 1st. The cost is $35 for all five films
Arts Council of Greater Weston’s 2019-2020 Weston Foreign Film Series Committee: Director Irene Carraway (bottom row, left), Vicki Rosen, Joy Rodenberg, ACGW President Jami Nix Rahn (top row, left), Eli Habib, and Betty Silva.
or $30 for four films (December through March). Series tickets are on sale through November 11th at the Weston Community Center (inside Regional Park) and the Weston Friends of the Library Bookstore (inside the Weston Branch Library). Both locations accept checks only. Individual tickets, if available, will be sold for $8 at the movie theater on the day of the showing beginning at 4pm. “The community response to the Foreign Film Series has been overwhelming,” states Arts Council of Greater Weston President Jami Nix Rahn. “I know our 14th season will be another superb year. Get your tickets early – we had a number of sell-outs last season.” For more information on the Weston Foreign Film Series visit www.1Weston.com or call 954-389-4321.
2019
2019
VOTED BEST PLACE FOR WEIGHT LOSS!
34 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Ranked Google’s No. 1 Kitchen Remodeler
KITCHEN | BATH | COUNTER TOPS
Come In And See Why We Were Voted Best of Weston Again!
Back to School Add
A NEW KITCHEN to the List!
954.398.1848 | info@shopstudio75.com www.ShopStudio75.com 1304 SW 160 Avenue | Weston, FL 33326 Indian Trace - AMC Theatre Plaza
Financing Available
COMMUNITY NEWS
Weston University Program Opens Minds and Doors to Possible Career Paths
A
Photo courtesy City of Weston
BY STACEY BOMSER pplications are now being accepted for the Weston University Class of 2020. Now in its 18th year, this one-of-a-kind civic education program provides select high school juniors and seniors with a first-hand look at how our local government works. The seven-month program begins in October during Florida City Government Week. Weston Weston University Class of 2019 graduation. University program students spend one day each month interacting with city leaders and participating staff there goes around the room and tells the students in hands-on activities while exploring the various departabout themselves, including what they went to school for ments and agencies that make up our local government. and what they do now. Over the years, there have been The curriculum focuses on local and state government, fire some very interesting tales. I think it is great for students to and emergency medical services, community services and see that life has twists and turns and takes you in different public works, development services: planning and zoning directions sometimes and that is okay – you don’t have to as well as engineering, law enforcement services, and have it all figured out at 16!” finance and technology services. The program may also Barrett-Miller says what is especially rewarding to her is include a one-day trip to Washington DC, so students can seeing the number of Weston University alumni who have better understand the relationship between municipal and gone on to government-related careers. “From our very federal government. It culminates with a simulated City Commission meeting where students utilize the knowledge first Weston U class, a young lady changed her career path after our day with Planning & Zoning. She went on to the they have gained throughout the program year to present University of Florida to study engineering, interned with and/or defend their side of several agenda issues. our City engineering firm in the summers and then went to Weston University program director Denise Barrettwork for them when she graduated. She now works for the Miller says the visit to Calvin Giordano & Associations for City of Boca Raton.” Planning & Zoning Services Day is one of her favorite. “The
Another Weston U graduate currently works for Barrett-Miller in the City’s Communications Department. “Daniela Alzate worked part-time for the City while going to college and then I brought her on full-time as a Communications Staff Assistant. She also spent one summer as a White House Intern during the Obama administration,” shared Barrett-Miller. “I know of several students who interned for Congressional leaders and another who is now a land use attorney who comes back to speak to our Weston University Class each year.” Students with an interest in local government are encouraged to apply to the Weston University program. Application information can be obtained at each school. Cypress Bay students should contact AP US Government Teacher Erica Salmeri-Bookman, Western High students should contact Activities Coordinator Helene Kocis, and Sagemont students should contact Principal Mellesia Nelson. Each school has its own deadline and selections will be made by early October. For more information on the Weston University program go to www.westonfl.org.
WESTON FAMILY EYECARE We provide our patients with the best vision and eye health care using the latest state-of-the-art technology in a warm, caring, and professional atmosphere.
Comprehensive Eye Exams | Contact Lens Evaluations | Corneal Molding (OrthoKeratology) | Pediatric Optometry Treatment Management of Ocular Diseases | Ocular Emergencies | Laser & Cataract Surgery Co-Management
Oliver Peoples, Tiffany & Co., Tag Heuer, Oakley, Gucci, Maui Jim, RayBan, Silhouette andand more. Prada, Persol, MauiBabiators, Jim, RayBan, Tom Ford, more. Weston Family Eyecare 4472 Weston Road, Davie, FL 33331 Phone: (954) 888-9393 | westonfamilyeyecare.com 36 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
2017 bestof weston Dr. Jane Therrien
Residential • Luxury • Commercial info@RamonaBautista.com
954.854.0937
Ramona Bautista
FOR SALE
Ken Shaloum
SOLD
Weston Hills Country Club – Eagle Run • $1,350,000 Luxury is the magic word! 5 beds, 4.5 baths, 3 car garage. Golf course & free-form pool views. Lilian Cobo 954.683.3255
Weston Hills Country Club – Eagle Watch • $820,000 Captivating 4 beds, 3 baths. Spacious, open, lots of natural light & high ceilings. Pool & golf course views from anywhere in the home. Yndira Diaz Benitez 305.775.0198
Lilian Cobo
FOR SALE Weston Isles at Weston • $710,000 6 beds, 3.5 baths. Beautiful lake view. Screen/fence oversize pool with spa. Extra-large patio. Oswaldo Moreno 786.586.6141 Oswaldo Moreno
REDUCED PRICE Weston The Meadows • $639,000 5 beds, 3 baths. Breathtaking water views. Formal Living and Dining, open Kitchen/Family Room. Oversized pool. Ramona Bautista 954.854.0937
JUST LISTED Weston California Court • $395,000 Beautiful townhome. 4 beds, 2 Baths. Corner Townhouse with lots of privacy. Golf & lake views. Ramona Bautista 954.854.0937
Pilar Granados
SOLD FULL PRICE
Yndira D. Benitez
Weston Coconuts • $230,000 Great Investment Opportunity. 2 beds, 1.5 baths Townhome. Screened Cover Patio looking at the lake view and Botanika Community. Ramona Bautista 954.854.0937
FOR RENT Victoria Isles • Weston Hills Country Club • $5800 monthly This Beautiful home offers the best view from every room to your courtyard pool/spa area and lake front. Ramona Bautista 954-854-0937
RESIDENTIAL LAND Coconut Grove • $1,550,000 Luxury Custom Home design already city approved permits for new construction. Home will be sitting on a 15,000 Sq. Ft. lot, Lush Botanical Garden in Prestigious South Coconut Grove. Marines Baigorria (202) 439-6339
Over 15 Years of First-Class Real Estate Services! We Are Local, We Are Global ENGLISH • SPANISH • PORTUGUESE
Marines Baigorria
www.RamonaBautista.com
FOUNDING MEMBER AND SHAREHOLDER OF
SAFETY CORNER
Fall Prevention – Standing Strong Together BY DISTRICT FIRE CHIEF TODD DRAIZIN his month marks the 10th anniversary of Fall Prevention Awareness Month, by the National Council on Aging (NCOA). According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), one in three adults age 65 and older falls each year. These falls can result in severe injuries, such as hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries, which can lead to drastic lifestyle changes, decreased quality of life, and can even be fatal. However, most falls are actually preventable. One of the first steps in preventing falls is to recognize that falling is not an inevitable part of aging, and to then adopt strategies that will make falls less likely:
T
Hector Fabregas, MD
Yul Lopez, APRN
Humberto Paez, APRN
FAMILY & GERIATRIC MEDICINE COMPLETE MEDICAL CARE
Annual Physicals • Specialists Referrals • Open Saturdays Woman Wellness Exam And Pap Smears In-Office Labs & Other Diagnostic Tests Home Visits Available For Frail Elderly Patients
We Accept Medicare, HMO Medicare Advantage Plans, All Commercial Plans and Marketplace Insurances.
3 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU PEMBROKE PINES
12301 Taft St, Suite 100 Pembroke Pines, FL
954-962-1180
WESTON
2229 N. Commerce Pkwy, Suite 240 Weston, FL
954-349-6378
DAVIE
4705 SW 148th St. Suite 102 Davie, FL
954-349-6378
www.medilifecenter.com 38 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
▸▸ Stay active. Lack of exercise results in diminished muscle tone and bone density, whereas physical activity can maintain and even increase strength and balance. ▸▸ Review your medications with your doctor, as they may have side effects and interactions that could make you dizzy and more susceptible to a fall. ▸▸ Do a home safety check to identify and correct common hazards like loose rugs, cluttered walkways, and insufficient lighting. ▸▸ Maintain your health. Chronic diseases can force seniors to give up their independence if not kept in check. Monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar levels and other illnesses that can cause dizziness will help prevent falls.
Certain activities and programs have been proven to reduce the incidence of falling in older adults. The ancient Chinese practice of Tai Chi uses slow gentle movements to strengthen the body while focusing the mind. According to Dr. Peter Wayne, research director of the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Tai Chi has been shown to reduce falls in seniors by up to 45%. It can also improve balance in those with a neurological condition such as Parkinson’s disease, as reported in The New England Journal of Medicine. Various fall-prevention classes have emerged that use an integrated approach to fortify older adults both physically and mentally against falls. One such program - A Matter of Balance (MOB) - is offered through the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Broward. Adapted for lay-leader instructors from the original model used at Boston University, this eight-week program not only teaches participants moderate exercises to enhance strength and balance, it also trains them to restructure negative, fearful thoughts about falling into positive and empowering beliefs. Upon completion of the MOB course, participants report a higher level of confidence in their ability to determine much of their own future health and activity level, as well as a stronger commitment to continued exercise. For more information, please contact District Chief Todd Draizin at Weston Fire Station #81 at 954-389-2015 or by email at Todd_Draizin@Sheriff.org.
Burton Danoff MD F.A.C.O.G. Gynecology & Women’s Health “We Make The Time For You”
Former Chief of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Broward General Medical Center)
• • • • • • • • •
America’s Top Obstetricians and Gynecologists (Consumers Research Council of America)
Best Doctors in America (Peer Review) Board Certified by the American Congress of Obstetrics & Gynecology
Office Consultations Annual Exams Birth Control PAP & HPV testing Vitamin D & Evaluation Menopause Management STD Testing Abnormal Pap Evaluation Breast Cancer Risk Evaluation
Weston
2300 N. Commerce Pkwy. Ste. 113 Weston, FL 33326
954.217.8866
Residential & Commercial Free Estimates
Fort Lauderdale The Physician’s Office Building at Broward Health Medical Center 1625 SE 3rd Ave., Ste 715 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
WE MATCH ANY PRICE PLUS 5% OFF! (SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY)
Special Offers GLOBAL 463.206.6621 for Contractors GARDENS GLOBALGARDENS.US@GMAIL.COM SE HABLA ESPAÑOL
Landscape Design • Irrigation • Maintenance
954.761.8602
We accept BCBS, UHC, Aetna, AvMed, Cigna, Ambetter, Humana and many other insurances. Evening and daytime appointments available.
www.burtondanoffmd.com
COMMUNITY NEWS
Cleveland Clinic Florida Named Best Hospital in South Florida BY STACEY BOMSER
T
he best gets better. Once again, Weston-based Cleveland Clinic Florida has been ranked as the No. 1 hospital in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metropolitan area by U.S. News & World Report. The magazine’s annual Best Hospitals survey ranked 67 hospitals in South Florida (Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties). This is the third time in the past four years that Cleveland Clinic Florida has earned this distinction. In addition, it is ranked fifth in the state out of the 269 hospitals reviewed. Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Gastroenterology & Gastrointestinal Surgery specialty continues to be nationally ranked, jumping eight spots to No. 17 for 2019-2020. Additionally, five specialties ranked as “high performing”, one more than the previous year. The high performing specialties include Geriatrics, Nephrology, Neurology and Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, and Pulmonary and Lung Services.
For the second year in a row, Cleveland Clinic Florida rated “high performing” in all nine common conditions and procedures evaluated by the magazine. These include abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, aortic valve surgery, heart bypass surgery, heart failure, colon cancer surgery, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), hip replacement, knee replacement, and lung cancer surgery. That’s not surprising when you consider that Cleveland Clinic Florida is the first hospital in region to offer a new treatment for COPD. Its Pulmonary Medicine Department is now performing this revolutionary non-surgical treatment which involves placing endobronchial valves in patients’ lungs to help them breathe easier. Cleveland Clinic Florida physicians are also credited with discovering a revolutionary breakthrough in gallbladder removal surgery. By using a novel intraoperative imaging technique called near-infrared
fluorescent cholangiography (NIFC), doctors are now able to dramatically reduce the risk of complications associated with gallbladder removal. In addition to cutting-edge science, Cleveland Clinic Florida is committed to patient care. Earlier this year it opened a new hospital wing here in Weston with a state-of-the-art Emergency Department. It also opened the Coral Springs Family Health Center, which provides ambulatory surgical services, as well as a new practice in Wellington to expand its reach into
Palm Beach County. Cleveland Clinic Florida CEO and President Wael Barsoum, MD, says it is an honor to be recognized for its commitment to high quality care. “This recognition belongs to our outstanding team of caregivers who are dedicated to improving the health and quality of life of our patients. I am proud of the world-class care they provide and their commitment to putting our patients first every day.” U.S. News & World Report publishes its annual Best Hospitals list to guide patients who need a high level of care because they face a particularly difficult surgery, a challenging condition, or added risk because of other health problems or age. Objective measures such as patient safety, survival rates, nurse staffing and other data are used to determine the rankings in most specialties. n To see a complete list of the ranked hospitals go to www.usnews.com/hospitals.
OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 39
FEATURE STORY
The Changing Face Of Beauty & Wellness
A
s a beauty and wellness expert, board-certified plastic surgeon, and founder of the Tamy M. Faierman Holistic Spa and Wellness Center, Dr. Tamy Faierman has been working for nearly two decades to create a new methodology for self-care in the modern age. Combining the most cutting-edge procedures from Western medicine with time-honored traditional practices from around the world, she offers patients an integrative approach to beauty and wellness that supports their changing needs through the different stages of their lives. Dr. Faierman shares more about her unique approach and practice. How would you describe your practice philosophy? I believe beauty and wellness are interconnected, meaning when we align the inner and outer body by taking care of ourselves, we not only look better, we feel better too. In my practice I take an integrative approach with the aim of addressing the totality of a patient’s health and wellness goals – from the inside out.
invasive procedures like injectable fillers, radiofrequency (RF) and other technology that help to lift and sculpt the face, procedures today have become safer, and there’s now far less postoperative downtime for healing. As a result, we’ve seen cosmetic surgery become much more widely accepted,
Holistic Plastic Surgeon Dr. Tamy Faierman is transforming beauty and self-care from the inside out. increasingly regarded as one of a set of tools – alongside clean beauty products, nutrition, exercise, spiritual practice, and others – that people can consider as part of an overall health and wellness plan that contributes to “aging consciously.”
What is your background? I was born in Israel to parents from South America and at the age of eight we moved to New York City, where I was ultimately raised. I grew up speaking Spanish and Hebrew at home, and by age nine I was also fluent in English; later on I learned French. I think having this early exposure to other cultures and languages ultimately helped give my practice its global mindset. It also shaped my overall integrative beauty and wellness philosophy, which borrows from many different traditions. Where did you receive your medical training? My medical training in the U.S. focused on both general and reconstructive surgery. I graduated from The Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City and did subsequent surgical training at Montefiore/ Albert Einstein Medical Center, where I trained in General Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and Microsurgery. What would you say have been the biggest changes in cosmetic surgery in recent years? Thanks in part to the rise of minimally
What does it mean to be a “holistic” plastic surgeon? As our ideas about wellness evolve, alternative medicines and treatments are becoming more widely available and accepted, and people are finally seeing the many ways health and beauty are interconnected. I believe in complementing the very best surgical techniques with treatment plans that include natural
40 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
medications, homeopathy, and ancient healing practices like meditation, acupuncture, lymphatic drainage and massages. In doing so, I believe you can maximize healing, ease pain and discomfort, and enhance relaxation and stress relief. I also work with trusted practitioners— from ob/gyn’s and general surgeons to holistic aestheticians, acupuncturists and nutritionists— to address the full spectrum of my patients’ needs. Ultimately, my holistic approach is about empowering the individual to take control of their body through acts of self-care. I want my patients to glow from the inside out. What services does your practice offer? I perform a range of aesthetic surgeries including eyelid rejuvenation, breast contouring, liposuction and the more comprehensive set of procedures named the “mommy makeover,” which has become one of my specialties. I also offer non-surgical, non-invasive procedures, like dermal fillers, injectables such as Botox and Sculptra, and treatments such as combined radiofrequency and microneedling, a treatment for aging skin which improves fine lines, lifts the jowls and neck, and decreases the appearance of acne scarring by stimulating new collagen growth. But what really distinguishes my practice from many other traditional plastic surgeons is my “whole-body -beauty” approach to beauty and wellness, which is why I created the Tamy M. Faierman Holistic Spa and Wellness Center. Here we foster personal transformation — combining the best of Eastern and Western medicine to advance self-discovery and well-being. We offer holistic facials, herbal teas and tinctures, clean beauty products, and integrate a range of healing practices from guided meditations in our beautiful meditation room, to acupuncture, to rejuvenatinging massages.
What’s your best beauty and wellness advice? I always teach my patients that our body, emotions, and mind are connected. So when it comes to beauty and wellness, strive to marry the three. Nutrition, exercise, and emotional well-being are parts of a healthy lifestyle. Only when we align the inner body with the outer body are we able to truly reconnect with ourselves. n Dr. Faierman’s office is located at 17130 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 1, in the Windmill Professional Campus. Her office hours are Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. For more information about Dr. Faierman, please call at 954-322-2742 or visit her site at www.reshapeyourimage.com.
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Beauty and Wellness Expert Cosmetic Surgery of the Face & Body Mommy Makeover & Body Contouring Specialist Botox & Fillers Holistic Spa & Wellness Center
Tamy M. Faierman, MD, PA
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Founder, Tamy M. Faierman Holistic Spa & Wellness Center Fluent in Spanish, French and Hebrew
COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION • ENJOY OUR MEDITATION ROOM, THE MINDFUL SPACE, ANYTIME
RECLAIM your BODY and YOURSELF CALL 954.322.2742 17130 Royal Palm Blvd, Suite 1 Weston, FL 33326
www.reshapeyourimage.com
CALENDAR SEPTEMBER 2019
4th
10th
Kundalini Yoga – A blend of spiritual and physical practices, Kundalini Yoga incorporates movement, breathing techniques, and meditation. The adult program is from 6:15-7:15pm at the Weston Branch Library. Please bring yoga mats and wear comfortable clothing. Call 954-357-5304 for more information.
Adult Chair Yoga – Experience the benefits of gentle yoga from the comfort of a chair. This is a great practice for seniors, as it deepens flexibility and strengthens personal body awareness. This free program is offered every Tuesday from 12-1pm at the Weston Branch Library. Call 954-357-5304 for more information. Dog Smarts 101 – This free seminar offers plenty of helpful advice on how to solve some of your worst doggie nightmares – from chewing and pulling to bad potty etiquette. The program is from 6-7pm at the Weston Branch Library. Please do not bring any pets to the class. For more information call 954-357-5304.
5th SHHH! I’m Reading – In recognition of National Literacy Month, the Weston Branch Library will host a toddler story time focused on reading. Toddlers, ages 12-35 months, and their caregivers will enjoy stories, songs and other fun. The program is from 11:30am-12pm in the multi-purpose room. For more information call 954-357-5430. Wags n’ Tales – Children can gain confidence and become better readers by reading aloud to a therapy dog at the Weston Branch Library. This program is for ages five and up with a caregiver. It is from 3-4pm. Please pre-register by calling 954-357-5420.
11th APB Networking Luncheon – The Association of Professional Businesswomen meets the second Wednesday of the month from 11:30am-1pm at MCafe, inside the Midtown Athletic Club. For more information visit www.apbweston.com or call 954-557-4318. Weston Library Book Club – This book club meets on the second Wednesday of each month from 6:30-7:30pm at the Weston Library. This month’s selection is Becoming by Michelle Obama. Please call 954-357-5304 for more information.
12th 7th Children’s Acrylic Art Class – From 3-4:30pm children, ages six to 18, can take part in a painting class at the Weston Library and take home their personal artwork. The free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Weston Branch Library. Space is limited. Please pre-register at the Information Desk or call 954-357-5420.
Weston Friends Club Book Club – “The Happy Bookers” will meet at 1pm at a member’s home to discuss The Stars Are Fire by Anita Shreve. For more information about this book club or Weston Friends Club, please call Nancy Russo at 954-385-1445.
Yoga for Babies (3-11 months) is from 10:30-11am, Yoga for Toddlers (12-35 months) is from 11:30am-12pm, and Yoga for Preschoolers (3-5 years) is from 12:30-1pm. For more information contact the Youth Services Department at 954-357-5430.
14th Hobby Quest Airplanes – Children, ages 5-11, will build and fly their own model airplane at this aviation workshop. The program is from 11am-12pm at the Weston Branch Library. Please preregister by calling 954-357-5420.
18th Weston Friends Club 5-deck Canasta – This card group plays at a member’s home on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. If you are interested in this activity or more information about Weston Friends Club, please contact Canasta Chair Judy Good at jigood7@gmail.com. Adult Watercolor Painting Class – All materials are provided in this free art class at the Weston Branch Library from 11am-12:30pm. Space is limited; please pre-register by calling 954-357-5420.
19th Bilingual Toddler Storytime – To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, the Weston Branch Library presents a story time session with stories, songs, and rhymes in English and Spanish. It is for toddlers ages 12 – 35 months. The program is from 11:30am-12pm in the multi-purpose room. Contact the Youth Services Department at 954-357-5430 for more information. Basic Spanish Café – This free literacy program for adults at the Weston Branch Library allows basic learners to practice Spanish conversation and pronunciation. This program is offered every Thursday from 2:30-3:30pm. For more information call 954-357-5304.
20th Children’s Yoga – Little ones and their caregivers can take part in free yoga classes at the Weston Branch Library.
42 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Weston Friends Club Potluck Brunch – Weston Friends Club President Claire Jargiello will host a Ladies Potluck Brunch at her home. For more
information on this popular event or questions about Weston Friends Club, please call Claire at 954-384-2722.
23rd Weston Art Guild Meeting – Mixed media artist Tristina Dietz Elmes will demonstrate her unique layering process using collage, paint, texture and glaze, with resin accents. The meeting is free and open to the public. It takes place from 7-9pm at the Davie Parks Recreation Multipurpose Center, 3801 S. Pine Island Road. Contact Lifrancis Rojas at 305-310-9586 for more information.
26th Very Hungry Caterpillar Storytime – In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Eric Carle’s beloved children’s story, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, the Weston Branch Library is planning a special toddler story time session with stories, songs and a special visitor. The program is from 11:30am-12pm. It is for ages 12-35 months with a caregiver. For more information call 954-357-5430.
28th Free Concert – All ages will enjoy beautiful Venezuelan and Latin American traditional music performed by the Papagayo Vocal Ensemble. This free concert takes place from 4-5pm at the Weston Branch Library. Call 954357-5420 for more information.
30th LEGO Builders Club – Children in kindergarten through fifth grade can create a scene or character using Legos to display in the Weston Branch Library until the next Builders Club session. The program is from 3-4pm. For more information call the Youth Services Department at 954-357-5430.
t e f f u B e s e n Japa
LUNCH: Mon-Thur $12.95, Sat-Sun $13.95 DINNER: Mon-Thur $22.95, Fri-Sun $23.95
Buy One Get One FREE
House Wine, Sake & Domestic Beer Monday-Tuesday ALL Day 2019
The Freshest Sushi Feast in Town
Upscale Buffet Feast Featuring the Finest Japanese & Asian Cuisine SUSHI • SASHIMI • ROLLS • ORIENTAL SALAD • CRAB LEGS • HIBACHI OYSTERS • SHRIMP • DESSERT • ASIAN DELICACIES
595 / State Rd. 84 SW 30th Street
SHINJU
Griffin Road
Griffin Road
3305 S. University Drive, Davie • 954-472-3666 www.SJBuffet.com
University Drive
DAVIE LOCATION ONLY.
NOVA SE University
COMMUNITY NEWS
BY STACEY BOMSER
T
he Weston Community Center offers an exciting menu of enrichment courses for children and teens this season, especially with the introduction of its newest program, Gourmet Kids. With separate classes for children ages three to five and five to eight, Gourmet Kids is a fun way to inspire aspiring chefs and introduce picky eaters to new foods. In this unique and engaging hands-on cooking program, children will discover the importance of being healthy from the inside out as they learn good nutrition habits and the importance of eating a balanced diet. The class meets on Thursday afternoons. Children can express their creativity in Cartoon Club. All skill levels, from ages five to 18, will study famous characters before creating their own character and comic book. In addition to learning cartooning
technique, children will expand their imaginations as they master the art of storytelling through drawing and character development. This club meets every Tuesday. The popular Code Explorers program returns with a focus on 3D Animation and Programming this session. Young minds will explore engineering, computer science and technology by working with 3D animation to create digital storytelling projects and character animation. The STEM class meets on Monday afternoons with different sessions for three age groups, from five to 14. Chess Club is another way to motivate children to think outside the box. All skill levels can participate in this program which develops memory skills, self-confidence, intuition, imagination, logical and critical thinking, concentration and reasoning skills. Children, ages five to 18, can meet on Monday afternoons for Chess Club. Other programs to help expand young minds include Fun in Spanish, for ages two to five, and a SAT Preparation Class for high school students. Children can develop physical strength, stamina, posture and self-confidence in Youth Karate, Posture & Alignment Class for teens (and adults) or Superstars Dance and Baton. Kidokinetics offers five differ-
ent sports classes this season, with programs for infants through elementary school. Babykinetics is a great way to introduce families to the Kidokinetics program. The course is free for infants and their parents or caregivers. Children then advance through the program with Kidokinetics, Jr. and Kidokinetics. In the Sportskinetics sports clinics children will learn the basics of a variety of sports in a safe, non-competitive environment. Running and conditioning, as well as game play and drills, are all part of the fun in this fitness class. There is a nominal fee to participate in many of the programs at the Weston Community Center. Tuition is typically charged either by the month or session. To see a complete listing of all the youth and teen programs at the Weston Community Center visit WestonFL.org/Parks/Classes. You can register for classes at the community center located in Weston Regional Park. For more information call 954-389-4321.
Weston Cosmetics & Dermatology featuring the Surgical and Non-Surgical Facial Contouring Procedures Do you look in the mirror each day and see a stranger with wrinkles, sagging skin, and dull features? You’re not alone, but there is a fix SAY HELLO TO THE Y LIFT!
• The newest and most successful non-surgical facelift. • Accentuates the Cheekbone Region and Jawline. • Requires no incisions, stitches or General Anesthesia
Weston Cosmetics & Dermatology 17170 Royal Palm Boulevard • Weston, Florida 33326 www.westoncosmeticsanddermatology.com
CALL FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION
954-349-3376 44 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
“THE HOUR LIFT” MINI FACELIFT
• Surgically Tightens Jawline and Neck area • Under Local Anesthesia • Natural Appearing Results
SANDY R. GOLDMAN DOCTOR OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE FELLOW OF THE AMERICAN OSTEOPATHIC COLLEGE OF DERMATOLOGY BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGY BOARD CERTIFIED PHLEBOLOGY
www.DrSandyGoldman.com
Photo courtesy City of Weston
Kids Can Explore Various Interests at the Weston Community Center
Chiropractic? Why Not? “A Doctor’s Confession to West Broward”
Dear Friend,
write one for a lesser amount for chiropractic. When you bring in this article (by 9/30s/19) you will receive my entire new patient exam for $55. That’s with x-rays, biomechanical exam, history and consultation…the whole ball of wax. This exam could cost you $250 elsewhere. The law says that I must tell you THAT YOU OR ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR TREATMENT, WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR DISCOUNTED, OR REDUCED FEE FOR SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.
I
want to give credit where credit is due. So, perhaps a confession can help clear the air so there’s no misunderstanding. Before I talk about my confession, though, let me say a few other things first. Let me start by explaining the photo in this letter. You know, when I meet people in town they usually say, “Oh, yeah, I know you, you’re Dr. Rick. I’ve seen your ad with that picture of you and your family.” Well, I’m the guy on the left. Twenty-five years ago something happened to me that changed my life forever. I was a junior in high school and I started getting migraines. I had suffered from intense headaches since childhood. Over the years, I consulted many medical doctors, and specialists. I went through all kinds of tests, MRIs, and treatments. I tried every drug in the market; our medicine cabinet looked like a hospital’s infirmary. And still, nothing helped. But there’s more… A friend of mine convinced me to give a chiropractor a try. The chiropractor examined me, took X-rays, and then “adjusted” my spine. The adjustment did not hurt; it actually felt good. And guess what…I started feeling so much better! From daily migraines, I went down to three a week, and then to once in a great while. That’s when I realized that I wanted to become a chiropractor and help others. That’s how it happened! It’s strange how life is, because now people come to see me with their migraines. They also come to me with their chronic pain, neck pain, shoulder/arm pain, whiplash from car accidents, backaches, ear infections, asthma, allergies, numbness in limbs, athletic injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, just to name a few. Here’s what some of my patients had to say: “Due to an auto accident, I suffered from severe neck pain, vertigo and I could not raise my arm to comb my hair. Now I am symptom free with no medication and I can do everything I could not do before.” – E. Heaney, Hollywood, FL “Thanks to the DRX 9000 and the doctors, I no longer have chronic sciatic pain. It’s been a long time since I have taken pain medication.” – J. Walker, Miramar
Several times a day patients thank me for helping them with their health problems. But I can’t really take the credit. My confession is that I’ve never healed anyone of anything. What I do is perform a specific spinal adjustment to remove nerve pressure, and the body responds by healing itself. We get tremendous results. It’s as simple as that! Forty-five million Americans no longer have health insurance, and those who do have found that their benefits have been greatly reduced. That’s where chiropractic comes in. I have a significantly lower fee plan so that more people are able to afford the care they need. An entire week of care in my office costs what you could pay for one visit elsewhere. Another way to save…studies show that chiropractic can double your immune capacity, naturally and without drugs. The immune system fights colds, the flu, and other ailments. So you may not be running off to the doctor as much. Studies show that people actually pay less for their long-term overall health care expenses if they are seeing a chiropractor. You benefit from an amazing offer. Look, it shouldn’t cost you an arm and a leg to correct your health. You are going to write a check to someone for your health care expenses, you may as well
Great care at a great fee…Please, I hope that there’s no misunderstanding about quality of care just because I have a lower exam fee. You’ll get great care at a great fee. My qualifications…I’m a graduate of Life College and have been practicing for over 10 years. I’ve been entrusted to take care of tiny babies to pro athletes that you may know. I am constantly going to seminars and updating my knowledge so I can give my patients the latest information and techniques of my profession. My assistants are Annie and Bianca – really great people. Our office is both friendly and warm and we try our best to make you feel at home. We have a wonderful service, at an exceptional fee.
Our office is called Windmill Health Center and it’s at 17160 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 1 in the Windmill Professional Plaza. Our phone number is 954-217-4881. Call Annie or Bianca for an appointment. We can help you. Thank you.
For more information regarding our services please visit our website www.WindmillHealthCenter.com. If you would like to email us with your questions, you may reach us at: WindmillHealth@att.net – Rick Behar, D.C. P.S. I am also offering the second family member for only $47. P.P.S. Your time is as valuable as mine. That’s why I have a no-wait policy. You will be seen within minutes of your appointment.
DEEP TISSUE LASER THERAPY
DRUG-FREE
|
S U R G E RY- F R E E
|
PAIN RELIEF
LASER THERAPY RELIEVES PAIN AND INFLAMMATION ASSOCIATED WITH: FIBROMYALGIA ARTHRITIC CONDITIONS NEURALGIA NECK PAIN SCIATICA LOW BACK PAIN KNEE & ANKLE PAIN AND MUCH MORE!
GET BACK IN ACTION TODAY CALL AND GET YOUR FIRST
TREATMENT FREE ($90 VALUE)
With a $35 Consultation With the Doctor
Windmill Health Center
17160 Royal Palm Blvd, Suite 1, Weston, FL 33326
(954) 217-4881
Rick Behar, DC ~ Elliot Corvin, DC ~ Marc Browner, DC therapy lasers
The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination, or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee, or reduced fee service, examination, or treatment.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Weston Community Center Programs Engage Active Adults BY STACEY BOMSER
Photos courtesy City of Weston
T
his season there are plenty of Weston Community Center programs for active adults. Activities include art classes, strength and movement courses, and social programs. Adults can get in touch with their artistic side with two art classes taught by professional artists. Weston artist Lisa Botto Lee teaches a weekly Drawing class. Students of all levels can learn how to create interesting compositions in graphite and charcoal. Lee teaches the techniques needed to draw textures, glass, fur, feathers and still life objects. In the Watercolor Painting class, award-winning watercolorist Rolande Mooreland teaches the vocabulary of colors, shapes, composition and preliminary drawing, as participants work to complete a personal work of art. The Drawing class is offered on Thursday nights, while the Watercolor Painting course is held on Friday mornings. All fitness levels can participate in the Posture and Alignment Class taught by Physical Therapist and Posture Alignment Specialist Randee Englehard, BS, MPT, PAS. This class is designed to correct posture, promote proper alignment and balance muscles to reduce or eliminate pain. Exercises can be modified for each student’s ability. The class is offered on Sunday mornings.
Active adults seeking strength, conditioning and flexibility should enroll in Adult Karate. This USA Goju Karate class focuses on the basic principles of self-defense, kata, fighting, and weaponry. It’s a great class for building confidence and self-esteem. Sixthdegree Black Belt David Schopp has been teaching this karate program in Weston since 1997. The class is offered on Monday and Wednesday nights. The Weston 55+ Club provides plenty of opportunities for recreation and social interaction. This group, for adults age 55 and older, meets weekly for a wide variety of activities such as board game days, movie matinees, lunch outings, lectures and other
smile General Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry Jorge E. Mesa, DMD
events. The group has even gone on overnight trips to tour other parts of Florida. Membership is $50 for the year. Adults can make new friends while playing a friendly game of bridge at the Weston Community Center. Open Bridge Play takes place on Monday, Wednesday or Friday afternoons. Open game play is free of charge. Don Decker, Weston’s Director of Parks and Recreation, encourages residents to take advantage of the many offerings available this fall. “Opportunities for learning are available to everyone. The Community Center provides a space for residents to connect, learn and grow.” There is a nominal fee to participate in many of the classes and programs at the Weston Community Center. Generally, the tuition is charged either by the month or by the session. To see the complete listing of all classes and programs available at the Weston Community Center visit WestonFL.org/Parks/Classes. You can register for classes at the community center located at 20200 Saddle Club Road. For more information call 954-389-4321.
In our office, we believe the most important thing we can help our patients do is keep their teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime. With our friendly, professional care, we can help you get your teeth and gums in the best shape possible. Have healthy and attractive teeth – and keep them that way for the rest of your life. BEFORE
AFTER
“Thank you Dr Mesa for making me smile again.” – AM
954-384-7505
Emergency: 954-804-7348 advantagedentalweston@outlook.com Windmill Professional Campus 17130 Royal Palm Blvd, Suite 3 · Weston, FL www.AdvantageDentalEsthetic.com 46 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Jorge E. Mesa, DMD Call to schedule your visit. Walk-ins welcome. We see emergency patients the same day.
Hablamos su idioma
No Interest Financing
MAYOR’S MESSAGE
Entering Another Exciting Year BY DANIEL J. STERMER, MAYOR, CITY OF WESTON
I
hope that everyone had an enjoyable summer and is ready for all the fun, excitement and challenges that back to school brings. One of those challenges is the safety of thousands of students getting to and from school each day. Put Your Phone Down - Motorists need to heed the NEW traffic law that prohibits the use of a wireless communications device in a handheld manner in a designated school crossing, school zone or work zone area if construction personnel are present. (F.S. 316.003(101). City Budget - Ensuring the quality that is expected by our residents, each September, the City Commission will consider and vote on the proposed budgets for the City of Weston, the Indian Trace Development District and the Bonaventure Development District for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on October 1st. Budget hearings are open to the public and your input is encouraged. The proposed budget keeps the ad valorem millage rate (tax rate) steady for the second year at 3.3464 and proposes no decrease in General Fund service levels. Hearings will be held on Wednesday, September 11 and Monday, September 23 at 7:00 p.m. at Weston City Hall. A Grades - It is my distinct honor to congratulate every single public and charter school in Weston, as well as Western High School, for each achieving an ‘A’ grade issued by the Florida Department of Education for the 20182019 school year. This is an exceptional achievement that deserves formal recognition for which the City Commission will recognize each school and principal at an upcoming City Commission meeting. Quality schools are an enormous draw for families and businesses looking to locate within a community and it should be honored. This is a significant factor in Weston’s appeal. I have said this before: quality education, within a safe community, surrounded by environmental beauty, superior recreation facilities, fiscally sound government and access to quality healthcare, is everything families and businesses are looking for. Performing Arts & Events - Adding to the quality of life in Weston is the Performing Arts season which starts in October and runs through April. Residents will soon receive the Weston @Play Parks & Recreation Guide, which details tons of upcoming events such as the free Weston Nights Concert in the Park Series, the Foreign Film Series, Moonlight Movies in the Park, the Symphony Concert Series, the Winter Safety Expo and Community Center class information. Be Prepared - As always, be mindful that until November we are in hurricane season. September is actually the peak of Hurricane season and the adage “the first 72 are up to you” means that you have to have the food and supplies to maintain yourself for 3-days without assistance. I encourage you to continue to be vigilant and prepared for a weather emergency and be registered for CodeRED Emergency Notifications. Register under E-Notifications at WestonFL.org. For those on Twitter, you can follow us @CityofWeston, as well as on our urgent message only account: @WestonFLAlert. Lastly, take a few minutes to thank our long-time City Manager John Flint for all his efforts over the past 22 years that has culminated in the Weston we enjoy today. John will retire at noon on October 8, 2019, leaving behind a great legacy that we call home. Mayor Stermer can be contacted via email at dstermer@westonfl.org or at 954-385-2000. OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 47
ATTORNEY AT LAW
Michael E. Muchnick P.A. Your Hometown Lawyers, Dedicated to Personal Service
Lesli E. Muchnick, Michael E. Muchnick, Jeffrey D. Muchnick, Jessica E. Muchnick
Serving South Florida for 36 Years
· PERSONAL INJURY* · DIVORCE
• Automobile Accidents • Slip and Fall Accidents • Cruise Ship Accidents • Boat/Airplane Accidents • Business Law • Alimony/Custody
• Marital/Pre-Marital Agreements • Visitation/Modification • Child/Spousal Support • Paternity/Relocation
954-385-6363 2883 Executive Park Drive · Suite 101 · Weston, FL 33331
www.MuchnickLaw.com Gatorlaw600@aol.com
Free Consultation
*No Recovery, No Fee, No Costs
WE ACCEPT MAJOR CREDIT CARDS. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience. 48 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
LEGISLATIVE LOOK
Keeping Your Children Safe And Healthy BY REPRESENTATIVE RICHARD STARK
T
he State of Florida provides resources to protect the health and well-being of children. From protecting children from identity theft to providing resources on healthy eating, our State is helping pave the way for a successful future for the next generation. Protect Your Child’s Identity Becoming a victim of identity theft is not just something that happens to adults; children are increasingly targeted as well. Children comprise the fastest-growing segment of identity theft victims. Each year, more than 50,000 children in Florida become victims of identity theft and more than $100 million is stolen using the fraudulently obtained identities of children. Identity thieves target young victims because children have clean credit records, making it easy for the criminal to create new accounts. Because parents often don’t check their child’s credit report, identity theft among children can go undetected for years. Keep Your Child’s Personal Information Safe Be cautious when providing your child’s Social Security number (SSN). When a school, youth sports team, or a medical office asks for your child’s Social Security number, question why they need it, what they will do with it and how they plan to keep it safe. Shred anything with your child’s personal information. Shred forms, documents and mail before disposal. Never carry your child’s Social Security card. To help reduce the risk for theft, leave your child’s card — and the cards of all the members of your family — in a secure place. Educate your child about identity theft and the dangers of sharing personal data. Keep your child’s sensitive documents safe and teach them the importance of keeping their Social Security card and other personal information in a secure place. Contact credit reporting agencies to place a credit freeze on your child’s SSN. The fee to freeze a child’s credit report is $10. If the child has already been the victim of identity theft, the fee is waived. Keep Your Children Healthy Meeting children’s dietary needs is a key component in helping them achieve academic success, and I encourage students and parents to download the Nutrislice app from Google Play or iTunes. The app, which was launched in Florida in 2013, provides detailed information by specific school on the food choices available, so families can plan their students’ meals and protect them from any food allergies they may have by helping guide their decisions in the cafeteria. Using Nutrislice, students can also vote for their favorite foods and compete in educational activities about healthier eating. The State of Florida partnered with Nutrislice to develop this interactive menu and provide it to Florida school districts free of charge. A new function allows kids and parents to plan the entire meal and see the nutritional summary of each item on the menu. Let’s start the new year off safe and healthy! State Representative Richard Stark (D – Weston) represents House District 104 which includes all of Weston. You can reach Rep. Stark at RichardStark@myflorida.gov or by calling his legislative office at 954-217-0287.
954.349.4441 www.k-9kuts.com 16674 Saddle Club Rd. Weston, FL 33326
VOTED BEST GROOMER SINCE 2005
WITH TENDER LOVING CARE!
WE MAKE GROOMING YOUR PET AFFORDABLE FIRST TIME? FREE MONDAY THRIFTY FIESTA WEEKLY MANIA THURSDAY FRIDAY WOW ENJOY TOE NAIL
50% OFF
TRIM
ANY FULL GROOMING
WOW SAVE $8!
Limited To First Time Customers Only. Coupon Not To Be Combined. Must Present Coupon. One Per Household/Pet. Valid Any Day. Only Valid For $50 or Less. Expires 9/30/19
Coupon Cannot Be Combined. Must Present Coupon. One Per Household/Pet. Expires 9/30/19
20% OFF
20% OFF
15% OFF
$6 OFF
FULL GROOMING
FULL GROOMING
FULL GROOMING
FULL GROOMING
Coupon Cannot Be Combined. Must Present Coupon. One Per Household/Pet. Expires 9/30/19
Coupon Cannot Be Combined. Must Present Coupon. One Per Household/Pet. Expires 9/30/19
Valid Fridays Only. Coupon Not To Be Combined. Must Present Coupon. One Per Household/Pet. Expires 9/30/19
Coupon Cannot Be Combined. Must Present Coupon. One Per Household/Pet. Expires 9/30/19
VALID MONDAYS ONLY
(SAVE UP TO $7)
VALID THURSDAYS ONLY
ANY DAY OF THE WEEK
GRITTY BURNING IRRITATED TEARING EYES •Dry Eye Evaluation, Management & Treatment •Comprehensive Eye Exams •Diabetes Eye Exams •Macular Degeneration Management & Treatment •Glaucoma Management •Pediatric Eye Exams •Emergency Eye Care •Lasik, Cataract & Glaucoma Surgery •Scleral Lens Fitting for Irregular Corneas & Ocular Surface Disease
Make Your Eye Exam Appointment Today!
COMPLIMENTARY DRY EYE SCREENING
Our Eye Care Physicians: Orlando A. Galindez, MD • Michelle Levin, OD • Jacquelyn M. Lopez, OD • Priscilla A. Sotomayor, OD, FSLS
DRY EYE CENTER OF EXCELLENCE 1608 TOWN CENTER BLVD. | SUITE C | WESTON, FL 33326
954.945.5570 | WWW.VISIONCARESURGERY.COM | Hablamos Espanol OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 49
FRIDAY NIGHT ARTISAN MARKET BEHIND BELL TOWER August 30, september 20, october 11, december 13 6pm – 11pm Shop local artisan vendors, dine at our fine restaurants while enjoing live music, face painting for kids
TO REGISTER AS A VENDOR PLEASE CONTACT ANGIE PAULSON: APAULSON@WESTONLEASINGFL.COM | 954-349-5900 (LIMITED SPACES AVAIL ABLE)
WESTONTOWNCENTER.NET 1675 MARKET STREET WESTON, FL 33326
Follow Us
ASK THE EXPERT
Developmental Flatfoot in Children BY DR. CARLO A. MESSINA evelopmental flatfoot is one of the most common conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system of children and teenagers. There is a tendency for the child’s flatfoot to be ignored or treated with benign neglect. The facts are that it is NOT normal, the majority of children do NOT outgrow it, and there IS cause for some concern. Flatfeet are a genetic problem. Ligaments in the arch which connect the bones together are loose, allowing the arch to collapse. Congenital bone abnormalities as well as trauma to the tendons and ligaments in the inner arch can cause flattening of the arch and foot. A common cause of developmental flatfoot is tightness in the calf muscles, which aggravates the severe foot deformity. Symptoms include young children constantly preferring to be carried by a parent or be put in a stroller due to fatigue in their legs. Another symptom is leg pain, especially at night, and premature fatigue with activity, especially in young children or teenagers. Inner leg, ankle and foot pain with activity is com-
D
mon. Other symptoms occasionally associated with flatfeet are inner knee pain and lower back pain. Signs of developmental flatfoot include lowering or complete collapse of the arch. The front part of the foot is turned out relative to the back part of the foot and the arch bulges towards the inside of the ankle. Knock-knees are common, which exasperates
the deformity. The feet, ankles, and legs just do not appear right upon examination or when the patient is standing. The child can be overweight and lacks athletic ability. General inactivity or avoidance of activity in children is common. Abnormal shoe wear as well as a child or teenager that does not run correctly occurs due to the deformity. Treatment begins with a complete physical examination of the lower extremity and spine to find the underlying cause. This includes examining the child’s gait (walking pattern). Physical therapy may
be prescribed to strengthen weak muscles and loosen tight muscles and to help improve overall coordination. Occasional immobilization of the extremity to loosen up tight muscles with a walking cast is necessary to decrease the deforming force of the calf muscle on the flatfoot. Custom molded shoe insoles (orthotics) to help permanently support the foot and put it in its proper position may be recommended. In most cases, this will overnight correct the fatigue and leg pain that the child experiences. It will also help to allow better performance in activities of daily living or sports. In some cases when conservative treatment fails, surgery can be done to help with the problem. The appropriate treatment plan can be a lifechanging experience for the child. Prognosis is excellent, especially with timely management of the problem. 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. Robert Sheinberg, Dr. Al DeSimone, Dr. Fernando Moya, Dr. Alexander Bertot, Dr. David Shenassa, Dr. Michael Cohen and Dr. Franz Jones. The South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine in Weston is located at 1600 Town Center Blvd., Suite C, (954) 389-5900 and in Pembroke Pines at 17842 NW 2nd Street, (954) 430-9901. The practice website is www.SOUTHFLORIDASPORTSMEDICINE.com.
ACCEPTING: MEDICARE • BC BS • UHC • CIGNA • AETNA • AV MED • TRICARE • WORKERS COMP • ACCIDENTS/LOPs • SUNSHINE • BETTER HEALTH • MEMORIAL PHO
South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine
FOOT, ANKLE, & LEG SPECIALISTS OF SOUTH FLORIDA
SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS CARTILAGE INJURIES Microfractures, Cartilage Transplants, Osteochondral Grafting RECONSTRUCTIVE FOOT, ANKLE AND LEG SURGERY Flat Foot, Bunions, Hammertoes, FRACTURES Ligament Repair, Achilles Tendon Why go to an Emergency Room? Dr. Robert Sheinberg, D.P.M. Dr. Carlo Messina, D.P.M. Dr. Michael Cohen, D.P.M. Dr. John Goodner, D.P.M. Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Qualified All Foot, Ankle, and Leg Fractures Tears, Arthritis Surgery FOOT, ANKLE, & LEG SPECIALIST FOOT, ANKLE, & LEG SPECIALIST FOOT, ANKLE, & LEG SPECIALIST FOOT, ANKLE, & LEG SPECIALIST in Children and Adults! SPORTS MEDICINE WESTON PEMBROKE PINES PLANTATION Tendon and Ligament injuries, Heel FOOT AND ANKLE ARTHRITIS 1600 Town Center Blvd. 17842 NW 2nd St. 220 S.W. 84th Ave., #102 Pain, Shockwave Therapy, PRP Injections, Total Joint Replacement, 954-389-5900 954-430-9901 954-720-1530 Arthroscopy and Tendoscopy, Shin Splints, Ankle Replacement, Arthroscopy, SATURDAY HOURS Compartment Syndrome Fusions, Joint Realignment Make Your Appointment Online at www.SouthFloridaSportsMedicine.com FOOT, ANKLE & LEG QUESTIONS? EMAIL THE DOCTOR! DrJohnGoodner@gmail.com (Don’t Send Protected Health Information) PEDIATRICS
• Flat feet • High Arches • Fractures • Growing Pains • Warts
• Toe Walkers • In Toe • Out Toe • Limping • Ingrown Nail
IMEs • Personal Injury • Worker’s Compensation Most HMOs/PPOs • All Foot Ankle & Leg Emergencies Same Day Appointments • Saturday Appointments Early Morning & Evening Appointments
SELF PAY RATES (Procedure cost is in addition to office visit.) New Patient . . . . . . . . . . .$75-$125 Surgery Consult . . . . . . . . . . . $200 Injections . . . . . . . . . .$75 per shot Casts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$175 Follow Up Visit . . . . . . . . $50-$100 Orthotics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $350 Ingrown Nail . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125 X-Rays . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 per area PRP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$600 Shockwave (3 sessions) . . . . $500 Laceration Repair . . . . . . . . . $250 Wound Care . . . . . . . . . . .$75-$125 (FOR CHRONIC HEEL PAIN & TENDONITIS)
SPORTS MEDICINE ASSOCIATES (Self Pay Rates Do Not Apply To This Practice Below)
Dr. Al DeSimone, M.D. Board Certified SHOULDER & KNEE SPECIALIST
Dr. Fernando Moya, M.D. Board Certified SHOULDER & KNEE SPECIALIST
52 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Dr. David Shenassa, M.D. Dr. Alexander Bertot, M.D. Board Qualified HAND & WRIST SURGEON
Board Certified SPORTS MEDICINE SPECIALIST
Dr. Franz Jones, D.O. Board Certified SPINE SPECIALIST
OUR WESTON RAPY AT ABA THE C L IN IC IN S ID K 4 S T H E R A P IE
A T O N S I S I TH A S I S I H T E GAM Y P A R E TH HERAP W W W .T
IE S 4 K ID
S .C O M
ical ality med u q h ig h roviding ffer a ated to p ida. We o r ic lo d F e d h t is u Inc. en with cross So S 4 KIDS, for childr bilities a e a r is a d THERAPIE c t h c it ome, e w ell as dir pies at h children a w r o s e t a h s t e n e ic io serv nsultat e provid alized co orders. W u is id d l iv a d t in n ns. e FREE a locatio id developm r d lo n F a h l t a ic veral Sou neurolog of our se y n a in nd school a
CALL
APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS
954-828-2669
info@therapies4kids.com Most Insurances Accepted Open Saturdays
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SPEECH THERAPY
PHYSICAL THERAPY
PSYCHIATRIC THERAPY
CHIROPRACTIC SERVICES
NEW!
4 CLINICS IN SOUTH FLORIDA
BOCA RATON • CORAL SPRINGS • PEMBROKE PINES • WESTON WELLINGTON AND MORE LOCATIONS OPENING SOON
POSITIVE PARENTING
Baby Sharks – Biting
28
Years in
Weston
Take Out
· Catering · Dine-In · Delivery
BY IVIS MATEOS
B
Catering Menu For The Perfect Corporate/Office, Family, or School Party!
HOURS: Mon–Thurs 11:30am–9:30pm • Fri 11:30am–10:30pm Sat 12:30pm–10:30pm • Sun 12:30pm–9:30pm
Make Your Reservations or Cater Your Holiday Event With Us! 2 Free Egg Rolls
3 OFF
WES
$
WES
Pick-Up Only | Minimum Order $25
Dine-In Only | Minimum Order $35
1 Coupon per pick up per visit. Dinner Hours Only. Not valid with any other offer and with magazine coupon only. Holidays excluded. Expires 9/30/19
1 Coupon per pick up per visit. Dinner Hours Only. Not valid with any other offer and with magazine coupon only. Holidays excluded. Expires 9/30/19
954-389-7029
954-389-7029
Don’t Forget To Call For Today’s Special!
Phone: 954-389-7029 • Fax: 954-389-8955 1382 Weston Rd. Country Isles Plaza, Weston, FL 33326 FOR 9 YEARS!
www.Parc28Weston.com
DENTISTRY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY • Gentle Teeth Cleanings • Cosmetic & Preventative Dentistry • Natural Tooth Color Fillings • Porcelain Crowns & Bridges • Implant Restorations • Veneers
Dr. Diana Torres and Dr. Guillermo Rodriguez
954-384-8484
2625 Executive Park Dr, Suite 2 • Weston, FL 33331 • Se Habla Español
www.FamilyDentistryInWeston.com
54 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
iting is a common behavior among children birth to three-years-old. Developmentally, most toddlers don’t have enough words to express how they are feeling. According to The Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning at Vanderbilt University, children primarily rely on sounds and actions to communicate what they are thinking and feeling. The good news is that they usually grow out of the biting stage by the age of three or four. At a preschool setting every effort will be made to determine the reasoning or the function behind the biting behavior so that we can try to figure out what teachers and parents can do to teach the child more appropriate responses than biting. When biting occurs, teachers will record incidents and document observations to better understand the context before and after a bite (where, when, how, who), as well as noting when the behavior is absent. Teachers will also note the location and availability of staff during the incident to ensure proper supervision is taking place. As staff members are working to better understand why the child is doing the behavior, they will work to be proactive in striving to prevent future incidents. Children bite for many different reasons. Some of the reasons include, but are not limited to, exploration, teething, investigating cause and effect, attention, frustration in expressing needs or wants, becoming independent, learning to play with other children, anxiety, or feeling threatened by a new or changing situation. When a child bites another child, staff will: ▸▸ Intervene immediately. ▸▸ Help the child who was bitten by showing concern and support. ▸▸ Work to teach the child with the challenging behavior in a caring and firm way that the behavior is not acceptable as well as alternate behaviors that are acceptable. ▸▸ Reinforce positive behaviors. The school will provide a confidential accident report to the parents of the bitten child, while a confidential incident report will be provided to the parents of the biter. These forms assist in documenting and identifying patterns so that staff can work to prevent future incidents by changing the environment and implementing intentional teaching strategies (social-emotional supports). If the biting continues the school will then request to meet with the parents of the child who is biting to plan strategies for supporting children in positive social behaviors. On the very rare occasion that the biting continues without improvement, the school reserves the right to ask the parents to seek professional help to help identify a core issue if any seem present. An important thing to remember is to always conscious discipline and do not label your child as a biter. Work together with your teachers and school administrators to find the tools necessary to change your child’s behavior and soon you will see that this too shall pass. 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, please contact 954-384-4884.
Sushi - Hibachi - Steak - Seafood
10 OFF
$
TOWARDS YOUR CHECK OF $50 OR MORE Dinners Only, Mon-Thurs. Valid At Weston Location Only. Before Tax. One Coupon Per Table. Must Present Coupon. Holidays Not Included. Can’t Be Combined With Any Other Offer. Expires 9/30/19.
YOU WILL EXPERIENCE THE HIGHEST STANDARD OF BUFFET –STYLE DINING.
LUNCH: Mon - Fri 11:30 am -3:30pm, Sat & Sun 12:00 pm- 4:00pm DINNER: Mon - Thurs 5pm -10pm, Fri & Sat 5pm-10:30pm, Sun 5pm-9pm 1651 Bonaventure Blvd., Weston, FL 33326 (next to Walgreens)
954.389.5188 www.pocbuffet.com
COMMUNITY NEWS
Association of Professional Businesswomen Offers Unique Networking Opportunities BY STACEY BOMSER
F
or nearly 20 years, the Association of Professional Businesswomen, Inc., has been welcoming women from across the tri-county area to its monthly networking sessions held here in Weston. They are an opportunity for women of all career fields to gather to exchange contacts, ideas and advice. Director of Membership Michelle Seidle, who is also a past president, says the Association of Professional Businesswomen (APB) is not your typical networking group. “In addition to networking with other businesswomen, our members discuss issues in the workplace, share business development ideas, and gain meaningful connections with other professionals. APB’s meetings and events are not just about collecting and passing out cards. It’s about offering both professional and friendly social environments that give opportunities to meet with peers, share experiences, and get to know each other both professionally and socially.” APB hosts various social programs in addition to its monthly network luncheon meeting held at MCafe inside the Midtown Athletic Club on the
second Wednesday of each month. Seidle says visitors are always welcome, especially students and young women entering the workplace as APB members are eager to share their experiences and business wisdom.
“Women accomplish amazing things when we support each other,” states Seidle. “When a woman helps another woman, they both benefit. And when women celebrate one another’s accomplishments, we’re all lifted up. Together women can do more, go further, and change the world!”
In addition to networking and professional development support, APB members benefit from presentation opportunities, business networking and connections, website exposure including free advertising, and inclusion in the membership directory. Seidle encourages professional businesswomen in the community to consider joining APB. “It is amazing to be part of a group of women who want you to be your very best and actively help you succeed. For a support network of established business leaders, APB is your ‘go to group!’” The not for profit organization attracts members of all professions. According to Seidle, “Our members are professionals, business owners and executives representing many different industries such as medical, legal, insurance, auto sales, retail sales, contractors, consultants, and more.” To learn more about Association of Professional Businesswomen events and membership go to www.apbweston.com or email apbweston@gmail.com.
25 Years Specializing in General & Cosmetic Dentistry Especialista En Odontología Cosmética Y General, Implants
79
$ AVENTURA & SAWGRASS For All Your Dental Needs Same Day & Saturday Available DR. DIANA WOHLSTEIN
TUFTS UNIVERSITY DENTAL GRADUATE UNIVERSIDAD CENTRAL DE VENEZUELA
(305) 931-5626
2925 Aventura Blvd, Suite #203 (NE 199th St)
√ In House Specialists √ All Insurance Accepted
(1/2 block east of Biscayne Blvd)
Aventura, FL 33180 aventuradds.com ALSO
√ A Gentle Dentist
Sawgrass Dental Center 12651 W. Sunrise Blvd, Suite #200
√ Multilingual Staff
Sunrise, FL 33323
√ Financing Available
56 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
(Sawgrass Regional Medical Center)
(954) 846-7000 sawgrassdental.com
FALL SPECIAL
• Exam D0150 • X-Rays D0274 • Cleaning D1110
WITH COUPON *If Gum Disease Present, Additional Fee Charged. Not valid with insurance. Expires 10/31/19.
Dental Implants & Hybrid Bridge Packages
Guided Dental Implant Fixed Prosthesis Done 6/30/19 on 4 or 6 Implants. (Includes CBCT Cone Beam X-ray & Digital Planning.)
20% OFF
FREE Consulation
By appointment only. New services6/30/19 only. Not valid with insurance. Expires10/31/19.
20% OFF Fillings, Crowns & Bridges
By appointment only. New services only. Not valid with insurance. Expires 10/31/19. 6/30/19
COMMUNITY NEWS
Weston Branch Library Book Clubs Foster Literacy and Love of Reading BY STACEY BOMSER
T
he Weston Branch Library is not only a place to borrow books, it’s a destination for literary lovers. The library hosts a variety of book clubs and story time programs for all ages and, best of all, participation is always free. According to Melody Chait, Community Library Manager of the Broward County Weston Branch Library, now is the perfect time to check out one of the adult book clubs. “Being a part of a book club means being a part of a community of people who not only share a love of reading, but also share a passion for discourse on a wide range of topics brought up by each book.” The Weston Library Book Club meets the second Wednesday of each month from 6:30-7:30pm. Librarian Connie Standish serves as moderator. This month they will discuss Becoming by Michelle Obama. Standish says when making the monthly book selection, she looks for titles according to book availability, books that have gotten popular or critical notice, and novels that address relevant topics such as immigration, women’s issues, racial issues, the criminal justice system, poverty, class divisions and religion. “I facilitate the discussions using open-ended questions that allow people to express themselves,” explains Standish. “It is the members who are truly the heart and soul of the Weston Library Book Club.
Their dedication to this meetup group keeps the Book Club going.” Broward County Library Director Kelvin Watson will be hosting a session of the Director’s Book Club here in Weston on September 4th at 2pm. The book selection is Tangerine by Christine Morgan.
“Because books have an uncanny way of bringing people together and inspiring warm, revealing conversations, our Director started his book club as a way to connect with and get to know the people who use our libraries,” explains Chait. “The Director’s Book Club was a natural way to share his love of bestsellers, old and new.” Chait leads the relatively new Books and Bites book
club for teens and pre-teens, ages eleven to 18. “The books are chosen based on award-winning books and recommended popular Young Adult authors,” explains Chait. “I also use input from the book club members and the Weston Branch Library Teen Advisory Board. Refreshments are served courtesy of the Weston Friends of the Library.” Although not a true book club, the Weston Library hosts weekly story time sessions for young children. Chait says it’s a wonderful experience for both the children and their parents or caregivers. “Story times spark imagination and creativity through interactive techniques and skills used by the librarians,” she notes. “At our story times, starting with infancy, children are introduced to new concepts such as language, colors, shapes, numbers, movement, music, rhythm, their bodies and socialization with other children.” To learn more about book club programs at the Weston Branch Library call 954-357-5420 or visit www.broward.org/library/Pages/ BranchDetails.aspx?branchInfo=40. There is a link to the calendar page for a full listing of book club meetings, story time sessions and other programs.
Psychoeducational Evaluations Gifted Evaluations Educational Consultations Children & Adolescents
HELP YOUR CHILD LEARN! PSYCHOEDUCATIONAL TESTING AT AFFORDABLE RATES.
MIAMI
Shelley Ludwig EdS, RN, MSW
PEMBROKE PINES
9260 Sunset Drive, Suite 201 Miami, FL 33173
Licensed SchoolPsychologist
1601 N. Palm Avenue, Suite 300 Pembroke Pines, FL 33026
305-595-9986
EMAIL: sludwig237@aol.com
954-450-1800
58 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
#SS995
MOBILE: 786-556-5369
EXCEL AFTER THE BELL AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAMS WE NURTURE POTENTIAL. After the school bell rings, children in our on-site program are given a safe environment to boost academic skills and develop healthy habits that they will carry with them throughout their lives, all under the guidance of caring adults. TRAINED STAFF • ACADEMIC CURRICULUM • PLANNED ACTIVITIES & GAMES SPORTS LEAGUES • SPECIAL NEEDS • AQUATIC CENTER Visit your local YMCA in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties. WESTON YMCA FAMILY CENTER 20201 Saddle Club Road, Weston, FL 33327 (954) 424-9622
PEMBROKE PINES YMCA FAMILY CENTER 501 SW 172 Avenue, Pembroke Pines, FL 33029 (954) 727-9622
*Financial Assistance Available.
Learn more at ymcasouthflorida.org
OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 59
SCHOOL NEWS
Straight A’s for Weston Schools BY STACEY BOMSER
E
xcellent public schools are one of the hallmarks Principal Mindy Morgan, from Country Isles of this community. The high-quality education Elementary School, also credits the school commuis why many families choose to call Weston nity, citing the importance of children, parents and home and why this city is continually ranked among staff working together. “Our staff is committed and the nation’s best places to live. relentless and will continue to close the achievement All of the Broward County Public Schools serving gap for all students and push students to their maxithe Weston community earned an “A” grade from the mum potential.” Florida Department of Education for the 2018-2019 Of course, a quality education is about much more school year. Congratulations to the students, teachthan just test scores. Gator Run Elementary Lead ers and administrators at Country Isles Elementary, Learner Keith Peters believes a letter grade does not Eagle Point Elementary, Everglades Elementary, Gator accurately reflect all that takes place within the school. Run Elementary, Indian Trace Elementary, Manatee “At Gator Run, we pride ourselves on our culture of Bay Elementary, Falcon Cove Middle School, Tequesta high expectations without the constant focus on testTrace Middle School, Cypress Bay High School, ing. Our goal is to develop lifelong learners who know Western High School and Imagine Charter School at that a score cannot and will not define them.” Weston. These Weston schools were among only 69 Manatee Bay Elementary also focuses on developBroward County Public Schools to earn an “A” grade. ing the whole child through a variety of academic and Indian Trace Elementary Principal Amy Winder hands-on problem-solving programs. According to says she is proud that her school once again achieved Principal Heather Hedman-DeVaughn, “Not only do “A+” status. “The key to our school’s success continues we encourage our students to excel, but to find who to be the partnership of inquisitive students, support- they are and work on being the best they can be. Our ive and involved parents, and a staff that is commit‘A’ represents the diversity, perseverance and belief ted to their own professional learning for the good of in our caring staff, motivated teachers, and supportthe students.” ive community.”
The Florida Department of Education’s school grades are based on a variety of factors including results from the Florida Standards Assessments and End of Course exams, as well as levels of achievement and learning gains, industry certifications earned and graduation rates.
Play & Learn Birth - 5 yrs Nurture confidence, curiosity and physical skills.
Drop in for any class
29
$
No membership needed.
Art 18 mths - 5 yrs Inspire creativity in visual and interactive arts. Music 6 mths - 5 yrs Explore music through play, activity and song.
Fabulous classes for parents & children to make friends & learn in a fun environment! CALL NOW 954.900.2799 Indian Trace Shopping Center • 1314 SW 160th Avenue, Weston, FL 33326 westonfl@gymboreeclasses.com 60 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Do You Know That High Blood Pressure & Diabetes Are The 2 Most Common Causes Of Kidney Failure? SOUTH BROWARD KIDNEY ASSOCIATES SYED ALI, M.D.
Board Certified Nephrologist SPECIALIZING IN:
✔ Acute Kidney Injury ✔ Chronic Kidney Disease ✔ High Blood Pressure ✔ Diabetes Related Kidney Disease ✔ Kidney Stone Management ✔ Transplant Follow Up ✔ Kidney Failure & Dialysis
CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT
(954) 447-2496 601 N Flamingo Road, Suite 416 | Pembroke Pines, FL 33028 SE HABLA ESPANOL | MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED | MEDICARE/MEDICAID
September is DENTAL MONTH at Animal Health Center @ Weston
“The Gentle Practice You Can Rely On!”
Call For Details On Our
Great Dental Package!
13 YEARS IN A ROW!
20% OFF SPECIAL Exp. 9/30/19
EMERGENCY HOTLINE
954.385.8389
Hablamos su Idioma
Miguel E. Cordova D.V.M.
2701 Executive Park Dr, Suite 1 · Weston, FL 33331
954-385-8389
www.animalhealthcenteratweston.com OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 61
SCHOOL NEWS
Five Weston Schools Earn Golden School Award BY STACEY BOMSER
A
lthough the statement is often credited to former Secretary of State, Senator and First Lady Hillary Clinton, “It takes a village to raise a child” is actually an old African proverb. It means that an entire community of people must interact with children for those children to experience and grow in a safe and healthy environment. In many ways, that is what is happening here in Weston as parents, community leaders and local businesspeople actively volunteer in our schools. Five Weston schools earned the 2018-2019 Golden School Award from the Florida Department of Education. It recognizes exemplary volunteer programs at schools which promote parent and community engagement in education. Country Isles Elementary School received the Golden School Award for the 32nd year. Principal Mindy Morgan says volunteers are a vital part to her school’s success. “Our volunteers are committed to providing our students with extra support
needed and extracurricular activities. They help Steven Carruth says student success at Falcon in so many ways and we appreciate all they do for Cove is a result of its partnership with students, our school and students.” teachers and families. “Our volunteers help in For the past 29 years, Indian Trace Elementary so many ways from assisting us in the day to day School has earned the operations of the school to helping with field trips Golden School Award and and support for our students and staff. We could not be such an amazing school without the dediPrincipal Amy Winder says cation of our parents and our amazing volunteers.” it is an honor to receive it He is quick to point out that the school is not each time. “We have the the only one to benefit from this partnership. most dedicated group of volunteers at our school. We “Volunteering also helps the person doing the volunteering itself. When you give back and you’re come up with the ideas and our hardworking volunteers able to have an impact on students and the school, it can provide a greater sense of purpose along assist in any way they can with learning new skills and meeting new people.” to make them come alive to The Florida Department of Education’s Golden enhance the learning environment for our students. School Award recognizes elementary, secondary So many of our programs and adult schools with exemplary volunteer proand initiatives were created as a result of this grams. Schools must meet the following criteria: partnership.” 80% of the school staff trained in volunteerism; Eagle Point Elementary has received the a school volunteer coordinator designated for Golden School Award for 25 years and Manatee recruitment, placement, training and supervision Bay Elementary is a six-time recipient. of volunteers; and the total number of hours of Falcon Cove Middle School was also recognized volunteer service equals at least twice the number for its volunteerism. It has received the Golden of students enrolled in the school. School Award for the past 18 years. Principal
Bounce House Accident Attorneys Has your child been hurt in a bounce house or other inflatable attraction? If yes, we can help you.
!
• FREE CONSULTATION • NO RECOVERY • NO FEE • NO COST
www.BounceHouseInjuryLaw.com 17190 Royal Palm Boulevard • Suite 2 • Weston, FL 33326
(305) 279-0999 · (954) 687-9100 Se Habla Español The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.
62 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
SAT & ACT PREP • TUTORING FOR ALL SUBJECTS
A Great Score BROWARD TUTORIAL SERVICES
Can Be Life Changing!
“My experience with the help from Broward Tutorial made all the difference in my high scores. The instructors taught me strategies that were so helpful when taking the test. I know that their help was an essential part of my success.”
“ Thanks to BTS I was able to get into my school of choice to study biomedical engineering / pre-med track. Mike and Adam were amazing tutors and prepared me very well for the SAT test. “
Ana Julia Campos
Cypress Bay High School ‘19 Attending Case Western Reserve
Riley Carpinteri
Cypress Bay High School ‘20
ACT 35
SAT +210 “BTS was an amazing resource to help me improve my SAT score. They adequately prepared me for the questions and timing of the test. I had a positive testing experience thanks to BTS.”
“BTS has the best test tutors around. Mike helped me master the SAT, especially the math, very quickly. I scored perfect on the SAT and PSAT Math, and I was done testing early in my junior year!”
Aiden Adams
Ross Miller
Cooper City High School ‘19 Attending University of Pennsylvania
1550 SAT
Pine Crest High School ‘19 Attending University of Pennsylvania
SAT 1560
WESTON OFFICE DAVIE OFFICE 2883 Executive Park Drive University Office Park We are looking for new tutors. Call to inquire. Suite 104 5400 S. University Drive, Suite 508 Weston, FL 33331 Davie, FL 33328 (954) 667-6500 (954) 645-PREP
www.BrowardTutorial.com
SCHOOL NEWS
New Assistant Principal Lands at Eagle Point Elementary School BY STACEY BOMSER
A
mong the new faces at Eagle Point Elementary School this year is a new assistant principal. Mayte Garcia brings 17 years of experience as an educator and leader to this administrative position. Ms. Garcia comes to Eagle Point from Sunset Lakes Elementary in Miramar, which she describes as a high performing “A” school similar to Eagle Point. She has worked with students in all elementary grades, as a kindergarten through third grade teacher and a resource coach for students in fourth and fifth grade. She also held various leadership roles within the school including School Advisory Council chair, volunteer coordinator, partnership liaison, team leader, clubs sponsor, multicultural liaison, and Cambridge coordinator. In addition, Ms. Garcia served as acting assistant principal. Although she loved her years as a classroom teacher, Ms. Garcia says she is looking forward to the greater impact she will have as an administrator. “As a classroom teacher, one has the ability to positively impact a room full of students year after year. As an educational leader, I am able to impact and influence a greater number of students and educators alike creating a positive change in education.”
Assistant Principal Mayte Garcia, Principal Christine de Zayas and Assistant Principal Kizzy Dailey.
Ms. Garcia intends to work collaboratively with Principal de Zayas and Assistant Principal Dailey to help make Eagle Point the number one school in Broward County and beyond. “I hope to encourage teachers to empower each other with ideas that will help cultivate student enthusiasm for becoming lifelong leaders and learners. I will engage in professional conversations with teachers about their teaching practices and work with them to help raise the bar for all learners.”
Cultivating community relationships is also on her list of priorities. “I plan to build strong positive relationships with students, staff and the community. Relationships are the key to success. They help us grow, give us a sense of belonging, and make us feel safe. It is important that a school foster partnerships with parents and the community to better assist students attain academic success and social emotional well-being.” Ms. Garcia says she is looking forward to the challenge of leading a school of over 1,400 students and 100 staff members. “One of my goals is to remain visible and use a hands-on approach to build relationships with all stakeholders – students, families, community and staff. I hope to spread my passion for education to all those I encounter so together we can continue to make ‘Great Things Happen at EPE.’”
WELCOME
PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS 2020-2021
Join us for our
OPEN HOUSE Saturday, November 2, 2019 Two Sessions: 9:00 AM & 1:00 PM 5451 South Flamingo Road Southwest Ranches, FL 33330
www.mccarthyhigh.org
954.434.8820
Atmosphere Academics Arts 64 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Athletics
Bring a Friend & You Get 50% OFF Admission
Indoor Playground • Open Play • Classes Birthday Parties • Events • Baby Showers Baby Gender Reveal Parties
Follow us @playtownmuseum
(954) 928-8839 153 Weston Road • Weston, FL, 33326
Must present this coupon. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Friend must be new to Playtown Museum. Expires 9/30/19.
Playtown Museum is a safe and fun indoor playground specialized in active imaginary play. We provide superior quality play and educational experiences for children from toddlers to 6 years old. Children will have fun pretending in themed houses like a market, vet, fire station, diner and salon. There is also a slide and toddler area. It’s so fun, they won’t want to leave!
School & Sports Physicals Made Easy YOUR SCHEDULE IS HECTIC. VISIT BROWARD HEALTH URGENT CARE AND TAKE YOUR CHILD’S SCHOOL AND SPORTS PHYSICALS OFF YOUR TO-DO LIST. 3 Convenient Locations in Broward County (Open Daily 8am-8pm) CORAL SPRINGS
WESTON
PLANTATION
Magnolia Shoppes 9663 Westview Drive Coral Springs, FL 33076 954.320.3323
Broward Health Weston 2300 N. Commerce Pkwy. Weston, FL 33326 954.217.5700
Jacaranda Square 1811 N. Pine Island Rd. Plantation, FL 33322 954.320.3360
What to bring • A copy of the entire school or sports physical form for the provider to review and sign to your child’s • Your child’s prescription eye glasses or contacts (if applicable) physical: • A copy of your child’s latest immunizations
Walk-ins are welcome. Call one of our locations for details or visit BrowardHealth.org/UrgentCare. M4711_BHUC_SchoolPhysicals_Ad_OurCity_8.5x5.indd 1
OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 6/28/192019 65 14:37
High Anxiety: Kids, School and Stress
By: Peter B. Laird
With the new school year comes plenty of stress and anxiety for students. Being aware of the stressors your children face – and recognizing when anxiety begins to interfere with their daily lives – can go a long way in keeping them happy, healthy and ready to face the challenges ahead. help from a psychiatrist or therapist,” Dr. Rohaidy says. It may seem “old school,” but Dr. Rohaidy suggests a family dinner night at least once a week (“Put the phones away!”), which can foster relaxed conversations around the table. Better still, find outdoor activities that you can do as a family, such as going to the beach, riding bikes or going for a walk. Most important of all, says Dr. Rohaidy, is to take charge. “Give them space when they need it but don’t be complacent,” Dr. Rohaidy advises. “Rely on your intuition. If you see something, bring it up. Reach out to them and have a conversation.”
Rachel V. F. Rohaidy, M.D., a Baptist Health psychiatrist, says anxiety is normal for people of all ages, especially adolescents. Most middle-schoolers and high-schoolers tend to have the same general anxieties about starting a new school year:
• Social Life – Will I be liked and accepted, and be able to make friends? • Peer Pressure – Will I have to do things I’m uncomfortable with in order to fit in? • Personal Safety – Will I be bullied or have to face an active shooter situation? How they handle these anxieties can make all the difference as they navigate through the turbulent emotional waters of adolescence.
So how do you know if your child is struggling with anxiety issues? What signs should you be looking for? More importantly, what can you do to help? “Adolescents don’t have the emotional vocabulary to express what they’re feeling or why they’re feeling that way,” Dr. Rohaidy says. “As a result, you may see somatic symptoms bubbling up such as headaches, stomach cramps, nausea or diarrhea.” Other things to watch for are abrupt changes in behavior, isolation, anger outbursts, sadness or crying, or a sudden drop in grades. Dr. Rohaidy also sees a lot of teens who are selfmedicating with alcohol and cannabis, even as early as middle school. “When their anxiety is so bad that they’re not functioning at all, that’s when you should seek professional
In the end, your goal as a parent is to equip your child with the emotional skills and knowledge they’ll need once they leave the nest. That journey isn’t always easy, and there are lots of obstacles and pitfalls along the way. Being vigilant and involved can help keep your child on track and out of trouble. If your child needs help dealing with anxiety or addiction issues, there are lots of community resources available. Ask your pediatrician or primary care provider for help, or go online and look for community resources for teens. In Broward, there are several resources for teens in distress, including TeenSpace Help Line (dial 211), and various teen support groups.
Urgent Care for life's bumps and bruises. Same-day care is here.
When life knocks you down, Baptist Health makes it easier for you to get back up with convenient, urgent care. Simply visit one of our neighborhood urgent care locations in person or download the Baptist Health Care On Demand App. The care you need, at your convenience. That’s Carevenience.
Visit us in person
Meet us online
Urgent Care 1642 Town Center Circle Weston Town Center Open daily, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Book online with "Save My Spot".
Baptist Health Care On Demand See our doctors from your phone 24/7. Download the App and sign up today.
Learn about your care options at BaptistHealth.net/Carevenience
SCHOOL NEWS
Falcon Cove Middle School Students Learn Math Matters BY STACEY BOMSER
S
ome people call Stella Copulos Stringer, M.S.Ed., a saint; others think she is crazy. She has been a middle school math teacher at Falcon Cove Middle School for the past eight years. During that time, she has taught students at various levels in all three grades, sixth through eighth. She considers it a privilege to be able to teach students at such a pivotal point in their education. “Most of the students who walk into my classroom have struggled with math for many years,” shares Ms. Stringer. “So, they already have a negative attitude towards math. My job is to change that and show them that math can be fun and that middle school math matters!” Ms. Stringer says the challenge lies in helping students develop a growth mindset instead of a fixed mindset. She follows the teachings of Stanford University Professor Carol Dweck, author of Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, who believes a student’s notion about his or her ability to learn falls somewhere between a fixed mindset and growth mindset. “Math is one subject that many students have a fixed mindset about,” states Ms. Stringer. “They believe they ‘just can’t do it and will never be able to’ whereas, according to Dweck, we need to change
68 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
their self-talk to ‘This is one subject I am not good at yet.’” In addition to teaching math skills, Ms. Stringer works on teaching perseverance, resilience and grit. “As middle school students are discovering themselves, they are also learning productive struggle. They are making positive changes in their
lives and, hopefully, learning to have fun in math.” She tries to make math fun by relating it to things we do every day. To those students who ask, ‘Why do I need to learn math when I will never
use it?’ Ms. Stringer shows them how math is a foundation to our everyday life. She relates eating out at a restaurant and needing math to calculate the tip or using math to measure ingredients when following a recipe. “Most importantly, they are learning the value of money,” she notes. “How to balance a budget and understand the cost of living, such as the price of their cell phone, which is their most prized possession in middle school.” Aside from the implications in everyday life, Ms. Stringer stresses that middle school math matters because it lays the foundation for high school and college-level math. “They are building the foundation of numbers through Number Sense (ie: counting), Measurement (ie: length, width, height, amounts, time and money), Patterns (ie: logical order thinking), and Problem Solving (ie: think through a problem and solve it more than one way through learning the beginning of algebraic concepts.” She also points out that over the next ten years we will see more STEM-related jobs, according to the U.S. Commerce Department. “Today’s students need to develop a solid math basis and that starts in middle school.”
Nevine Groulx
Certified Interior Designer
Interior Design • Renovations • Home Staging 954-600-0401 ethnicadesigns@hotmail.com Ethnica Designs
OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 69
SCHOOL NEWS
Academic Success Starts At Home BY STACEY BOMSER
W
e are a few weeks into the start of the new school year and for many families that means the stress has already started. Between homework and extracurricular activities children are busier than ever and that can take its toll on even the most organized households. In order to make the 2019-2020 school year the best it can be, some of the elementary schools in Weston shared their suggestions for academic success – and most of these tips extend to students in all grade levels. Manatee Bay Elementary School Principal Heather Hedman-DeVaughn believes academic success starts at home. She suggests families establish a schedule for completing homework, one that is free from distractions. She also stresses the importance of students coming to school prepared, organized and ready to learn – and that includes eating a healthy breakfast. Principal Hedman-DeVaughn says students should never be afraid to ask questions in class. “The question you are asking might be the same one someone else wants to know.” When it comes to studying, she recommends students have a study friend. “Someone you feel
comfortable with that you can study with at home when a big test is coming.” She encourages students to set goals for themselves and action steps for completion. “Believe in yourself and that you can accomplish your goals. Share your goals with your family so they can support you – and then celebrate your success.” Principal Hedman-DeVaughn shares these words of encouragement: “Good, better, best, never let it rest, until your good is better and your better is best!!!” Indian Trace Elementary School Literacy Coach Elementary School, encourages his students to set high standards for themselves and try new things. Susana Cruz, believes it is important to have “My hope for all students this year is that they enjoy meaningful conversations with your children the experience of learning something new. Our about their school day. “During dinner, or when goal must always be to help our students develop a you have time to chat, ask your child what was the love of lifelong learning. The best way to discover high and low of their day. Many times, when we ask our children how their day was, we get a basic your interests is by reading. Read every day!” For children who may need extra academic ‘good’ as an answer. Stay involved and keep the support, the library offers free live tutoring and lines of communication open by prompting ‘What was the best part of the day?’ and ‘What was some- skills-building for students in kindergarten thing that could have gone better?’ It will keep you through twelfth grade from Brainfuse. Assistance is available daily from 2-11:55pm and students can in the loop of what is going on in your child’s day access the online service on a desktop computer or to day life.” by mobile app. For more information on learning Principal Keith Peters, from Gator Run resources at the library visit www.broward.org/
Character Counts at Imagine Charter School at Weston BY STACEY BOMSER
A
t Imagine Charter School at Weston, character education is just as important as the core academic subjects of language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. The school prides itself on being a National School of Character. According to Assistant Principal Theresa Sumner, “At Imagine Weston, character education is not a program relegated to one part of the school day. Character formation begins with the adults on each campus. It is taught, modeled, and integrated into every aspect of the school day.” The school’s philosophy is that character education is the decisive ingredient of success. It teaches core values and desired character traits and, by doing so, nurtures the qualities that enhance the students’ moral growth and development. Through its Character Counts curriculum, students at Imagine Weston learn the following six Character Pillars: Trustworthiness – Be honest in communications and actions. Don’t deceive, cheat or steal. Be reliable. Have the courage to do the right thing. Build a good reputation. Be loyal. Keep
70 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
your promises. Respect – Treat others with respect and follow the Golden Rule. Be tolerant and accept differences. Use good manners. Be considerate of others’ feelings. Don’t threaten, hit or hurt anyone. Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements. Responsibility – Do what you are supposed to do. Plan ahead. Be diligent. Persevere. Do your best. Use self-control. Think before you act. Be accountable for your words, actions and attitudes. Set a good example for others. Make healthy choices. Fairness – Play by the rules. Take turns and share. Be open-minded. Listen to others. Treat all people fairly. Caring – Be kind. Be compassionate and show you care. Show empathy. Express gratitude. Forgive others and show mercy. Help people in need. Be charitable. Citizenship – Do your share to make your home,
school, and community better. Cooperate. Get involved and stay informed. Be a good neighbor. Obey the laws and rules. Respect authority. Protect the environment. Teachers, staff and students work together at Imagine Weston to create a caring community where each person is valued and treated with respect and where it is safe to make mistakes and learn from them. “We make time to talk about what it means to live as people of character, set goals for how we can improve, and reflect on how we’re doing,” explains Curriculum Coach Susana Padilla. “Students learn by collaborating, leading, making decisions, and taking responsibility for those decisions.”
2011 bestof weston 2014 bestof weston 2017 bestof weston
2012 bestof weston 2015 bestof weston
2013 bestof weston 2016 bestof weston
THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US!
954-385-2554
104 Weston Rd., Weston
Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6:30pm • Sat 10am-5pm Gift Certificates Available
n 30 Minute Custom Framing n FREE Pickup and Delivery n FREE Picture Hanging (with framing purchase)
n Photo Transfer to Canvas n Photo Restoration n Custom Mirror Frames n WE FRAME IT ALL!
20% OFF
ALL CUSTOM FRAMING All Art • Weston · 954-385-2554
Coupon must be presented with incoming orders. With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Exp. 09/30/19.
CAN DO KID
Cypress Bay Senior Spends Summer in Bank of America’s Student Leaders Program BY STACEY BOMSER
A
s President of the Habitat for Humanity chapter at Cypress Bay High School, Catalina Garcia is reinforcing the leadership skills she gained this summer while participating in Bank of America’s Student Leaders program. She was one of four Broward County students selected to participate in the prestigious program that included an eight-week paid internship and a trip to Washington D.C. to attend the Student Leadership Summit. “I believe that I was chosen for the Bank of America Student Leaders program due to my passion for helping the people in my community and all around the world,” shares Catalina. “I am also very interested in business and have won several DECA competitions for my school. DECA is an international program which is supposed to help teach future business leaders.” During her summer internship, Catalina says she learned a great deal about the business behind a non-profit. She and the other interns developed a marketing campaign for the YMCA. At the Leadership Summit, Catalina worked alongside 200 fellow student leaders from across the country. They met with members of Congress and
learned about diversity, nonprofit work and building leadership skills. “Attending the Leadership Summit helped increase my political efficacy by helping me understand issues and teaching me how to properly defend them. It made me feel like what I had to say mattered and that I should use my voice,” explains Catalina. “Listening to the different speakers not only taught me a lot but also inspired me to keep doing what I’m doing for my community.” One of the chief things she is doing is expanding the reach of the Habitat for Humanity chapter at Cypress Bay. Throughout the summer, Catalina worked closely with representatives from Habitat Broward to develop a literacy theme for this school year. “We will be having book drives for the kids at the new Rick Case Habitat community and we will be building a little free library where the kids that live there can take books whenever they want,” states Catalina. “We will also be having more build sites because that is what our members enjoy the most due to the fact that they get to interact with future homeowners and get their hands dirty. We also plan on reaching out to other schools in Broward County
with Habitat for Humanity chapters to try to have one big event for all of our members.” Catalina is committed to expanding the work high school chapters do to support Habitat for Humanity. After attending the Leadership Summit, she realized the vital importance of this organization and government’s role in creating affordable housing. “I learned that South Florida is one of the cities with the largest affordable housing crisis in the nation, so my work is just getting started.”
IF YOU CAN’T DO IT, WE CAN DO IT FOR YOU!
Kitchen & Bath • Tile/Marble Flooring • Paint • Electrical & Plumbing Work Carpet Installation • Pressure Cleaning • Repairs • And much more...
Call today for your free estimate.
954.803.6903
Over 10 years of experience 72 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Licensed & Insured
REAL ESTATE
How Healthy is our Market? BY PHYLLIS SCARBERRY
O
ver the past few years, many sellers have been hesitant to put their homes on the market because they were concerned about finding another home to purchase. Some were fearful of property taxes – perhaps because they are unaware of Florida’s portability. Inventory shortages have been a constant concern for potential buyers. The two leading obstacles to homeownership for buyers today are (1) Affordability and (2) Limited Inventory. Nationally, research has shown there is a steady month-over-month increase in the number of homes coming to market for sale. Fewer listings and available inventory slow the real estate market. However, an increase in inventory has many buyers and sellers now thinking it is time to make a move. For the last two months, we’ve seen over four months of inventory become available for sale, a promising number that’s been slowly increasing this year and creating more buying opportunities. To further support the idea of an improving real estate market, Sam Khater, the Chief Economist at Freddie Mac says, “…In the near-term, we expect the housing market to continue to improve from both a sales and price perspective.” Many experts, like Khater, believe the second half of 2019 will drive a stronger market than we saw at the beginning of the year. This is great news for homeowners who have put off getting their houses on the market and are now ready to make a move. How healthy is our Weston market? Our months of Inventory for single family homes (all price ranges and based on closed sales) is 5.4 months, which is up 46.6% compared to last month and up 85% compared to last year. Under six months of inventory still lends itself to a seller’s market. This supports what is happening nationally. The average listed price in Weston is nearly a million dollars – $989,000. The average sold price is $623,000. The average list price is up 1.6% compared to last month and up 11% compared to last year. The average sold price is up 1.5% compared to last month and up 8.5% compared to last year. The average price per square foot is $218 – which is down 6.8% compared to last month but up 0.5% compared to last year. Single-family homes are selling within 95% of their original listed price. The days on market is merely 49 days (from list to contract date). The number of homes closed is down 29.2% compared to last month and down 45.7% compared to last year. The number of homes placed under contract is down 4.7% compared to last month and up 2.5% compared to last year. Current statistics show 341 homes on the market and 85 homes under contract. This represents an inventory is up 4.9% compared to last month, yet 0% compared to last year. If you are thinking of selling, now is the time as inventory is healthfully on the rise.
SPECIALIZING IN
Autoimmune Neurology • Multiple Sclerosis NMO/Devic’s Disease • Stroke • Headaches & Migraines Movement Disorders • Parkinson’s Disease, Tremors, Other Dementias, Seizures, Myasthenia Gravis Peripheral Neuropathies
WE OFFER
Biologic Drug Management • Botox • EEG/EMG Immunomodulators Management
VANGUARD NEUROLOGY - MS neurology health
Karen Náter-Piñeiro, MD
board - certified neurologist • consultations at westside regional hospital & memorial hospital
10650 W State Road 84 | Suite 211 Davie FL 33324
954-368-9233
Hablamos Español
@msneurologyhealth
FOR SALE Dream Home in the NC Mountains $649,000 4BR/3.5BA
• • •
2500 sq. ft.
•
Tennis, Golf, Pickle Ball, Fitness Room, Outdoor Heated Pool
• •
Close to ski slopes
•
Multi-state, Layered Mountain Views
•
Exquisite high-end finishes throughout
Open Floor Plan Full Country Club Membership
Excellent rental potential!
324 N. Pinnacle Ridge Rd. Beech Mountain, NC Contact– Cindy Giarrusso 828-964-2896
Phyllis M. Scarberry, CRS, CLHMS, SRES, E-pro, Certified Relocation Specialist, Realtor® is affiliated with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty. She has been licensed for 23 years and has assembled a team of highly trained professionals to help take care of the many details that come with buying, selling and leasing your property. To learn more, call 954-980-3385, e-mail Scarberry.p@ewm. com, visit www.PhyllisMScarberry.com, or check out her blog at www.ScarberryGroup.com. OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 73
CAN DO KIDS
Weston AYSO U14 Boys Team Places Second at National Tournament BY STACEY BOMSER
T
wo AYSO teams from Weston competed in the AYSO National Games in Hawaii, with the U14 boys team taking home the second place trophy. The U19 boys team also played in the Hawaiian tournament. Colleen DiGiamberardino, whose son Massimo plays on the U14 team, says both teams spent the summer practicing and fundraising for the trip. One practice was held in Lauderdale by the Sea, with the boys holding a beach clean-up afterwards. The trip to Hawaii was expensive, so to help offset
AYSO Weston U19
costs both AYSO teams held dine-out fundraisers at local restaurants, and the U14 team held a car wash at the Weston YMCA where the boys raised $960. There was also a Go Fund Me account for supporters to make donations. All the preparation and effort were worth it. DiGiamberardino says the Opening Ceremony was reminiscent of the Olympic Games with a parade, bands, Polynesian entertainment and words of encouragement from Hawaiian dignitaries. Although a competition, she says she was impressed with the level of sportsmanship expressed by the players. “The players were privileged to meet boys from various states and exchange team pins after competing. Our coaches took pictures of our team and the teams we played as a large group. We wanted to share a feeling of togetherness and unity with teams throughout the country.” Looking back on the experience, DiGiamberardino says the parents are all proud of their boys for their athletic achievement as well as their personal growth. “While in Hawaii
Tejeunte Kittrell 202. 24 6. 39 13 74 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
AYSO Weston U14 won 2nd Place
our boys demonstrated respectful behavior while in the hotels, during competitions and while in public. We are proud of their accomplishments and professionalism.” In addition to cheering on the teams, families were able to do some sightseeing while in Oahu. According to DiGiamberardino, many families visited Diamondhead, Hanauma Bay, Moana Falls and Pearl Harbor. Both teams enjoyed a beautiful dinner together at a waterfront restaurant adjacent to Pearl Harbor. The AYSO U14 team is coached by Rubin Jimenez and Assistant Coach Reggie Araujo. The U19 team is coached by John DeLeo with Assistant Coach Alan Dagen.
ASK THE EXPERT
Modern Day Plastic Surgery: Beauty, Health and Wellbeing Are One BY DR. TAMY FAIERMAN
W
hat does it mean to be beautiful? Over the last two decades our cultural beauty standards have undergone a dramatic evolution. This is especially true of the plastic surgeon’s office, where women are no longer only looking to achieve the idealized perfection of yesterday – the perfect breasts, the perfect waist, the perfect nose – and so on. Instead, many of today’s patients are looking to achieve something else entirely: self-confidence; happiness; balance. Whole Body Beauty As cosmetic surgery is seen less and less as a standalone solution and instead as one of several powerful tools that can be used to help women age “consciously,” clients are bringing their beauty and wellness goals into the plastic surgeon’s office. In addition to cosmetic procedures they are talking about mindfulness practices like meditation, exercise habits, and nutrition. This kind of “whole body beauty” represents a new ambition to re-align the outside with the inside in an effort to positively reconnect with the self. Beauty-Oriented Wellness As we move away from disease-oriented medicine toward wellnessoriented medicine, we’ve gotten a clearer understanding of the many nuanced and complex ways the mind and body communicate with one another. Wellness in this context usually refers to the process where we make conscious choices to lead a healthier life, touching on diet, nutrition, exercise, and emotional health. Whole body beauty expands the conversation to include the many ways beauty and wellness are interconnected, making beauty an equally important player and part of the total wellness journey. A growing number of plastic surgeons have begun to adopt wellness services into their practices, with some going a step further to create integrative experiences that complement their cutting-edge surgical techniques with natural medications, clean beauty products, homeopathy, meditation, acupuncture, lymphatic drainage and holistic facials and massage therapies – all from within the environment of their medical office. Today’s marriage of plastic surgery with wellness-oriented medicine seems a natural and even logical evolution. Introducing: beautyoriented wellness. Self-Confidence Through Self-Care Many plastic surgeons recognize that while they may literally be in the business of personal transformation, today’s woman needs more than a quick nip and tuck to be her very best self. With the right kind of support from their physician, many women are now finding they can advance self-discovery, increase their self-confidence and improve their overall wellness through engaging in regular and considered acts of self-care. So, whether that means treating aging skin to a blepharoplasty (eye lift), undergoing a tummy tuck, getting a holistic facial, talking to a therapist, enjoying regular massages, starting a mindfulness practice, or all of the above, women and the doctors who treat them are striving for a new definition of beauty, one that considers what’s happening on the inside to be every bit as important as what’s happening on the outside. n Dr. Tamy M. Faierman is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, writer, beauty and wellness expert, and founder of the Tamy M. Faierman Holistic Spa and Wellness Center. Her office is located at 17130 Royal Palm Boulevard, Suite 1, in the Windmill Professional Campus. For more information, please call 954-322-2742 or visit www.reshapeyourimage.com.
You Deserve I e s u a c e t! B
IN A STATE-OF-THE-ART ATMOSPHERE, IBC OFFERS A HIGHLY PERSONALIZED APPROACH TAILORED TO EACH OF OUR CLIENTS INDIVIDUAL NEEDS TO SUPPORT AND LEAD THEM TO A HAPPIER AND HEALTHIER LIFE.
• Individual Counseling • Family & Couples Therapy • Trauma Therapy • Life Coaching • Behavior Therapy & ABA • Groups
CHILDREN, ADOLESCENTS & ADULTS Services in: English • Spanish • Portuguese admin@insightbehavioralcenter.com
954-388-0800 PINES PROFESSIONAL CAMPUS 17900 NW 5th Street, Suite 103 Pembroke Pines, FL 33029
WWW.INSIGHTBEHAVIORALCENTER.COM OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 75
T E S CE ! S T VI N FA ER OW S T IN
Humberto’s SHOE & LUGGAGE REPAIRS
Professional Designer Handbag Repairs, Shoes, All Bags, Leather Goods, Red Soles Professionally Installed, Golf Bags, Jackets & More PROFESSIONAL ALTERATIONS 5 Tailors On Site While You Wait (When Possible) No Appointment Necessary 50+ Years Experience
M
KIDS UNIFORMS & PANTS HEMMING
ONLY $7.99
No Limits. Cannot be combined with any other offer exp 09/30/19.
WEDDING DRESS ALTERATIONS
RED BOTTOM SOLE PROTECTORS Make Your Shoes More Comfortable & Stylish
954.430.2253 15963 PINES BLVD. PEMBROKE PINES, FL 33027
(CORNER OF PINES & DYKES RD., NEAR REGAL CINEMA)
MON-FRI: 8AM–7PM • SAT: 9AM–4PM NO COUPON COPIES ACCEPTED. COUPONS CANNOT BE ACCEPTED ON ANY SPECIALTY, RUSH OR WHILE YOU WAIT SERVICE.
10% OFF PREPAID ORDERS
No Limit. Not Valid With Other Offers. Incoming Orders Only. No Exceptions. Expires 9/30/19
SCISSOR SHARPENING BRING 2 GET 1 FREE
Can Not Be Combined With Any Other Offer. Expires 9/30/19
FREE HOLE PUNCHING
Belts, Purses and More Maximum of 3 Items. Expires 9/30/19
FREE KNIFE SHARPENING Limit One. No Service Required. Expires 9/30/19
BEST PARTY PLACE IN BROWARD!
STARTING AT ONLY $285 NEW!
GENER AL ADMISSION
3 OFF
PART Y SPECIAL
35
$
Up to 2 kids. Must Present Coupon. Not Valid With Any Other Discount or Promotion. Ages 24 Months & Under Excluded. Expires 9/30/19
$
Your Next Party Package. Must be Booked by 9/30/19. Not Valid With Any Other Discount Or Promotion.
NEW!
NEW TODDLER BALL PIT!
NEW!
BOOK YOUR PARTY NOW! 954-888-6488 2750 GLADES CIRCLE, SUITE 100 WESTON, FL 33327 • LITTLEJAVAS.COM
76 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Sciatica BY DR. BEHAR AND DR. BROWNER
BACK TO SCHOOL
Professionally Installed
Yes We Do Embroidery!
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
ost of us have heard of Sciatica. For some, it may be so familiar the mere sound of the word sends reminder pains down the leg. Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve – the longest and largest in the body – becomes irritated and inflamed. The sciatic nerve is made up of five nerves that leave the spinal cord from the lower spinal column, join in the pelvic area, and travel down the leg. It is not surprising, then, that sciatica sufferers may experience pain at several locations along the sciatic nerve path, from the back of the thigh to the ankle, foot or toes. The pain of sciatica is often a deep ache which, upon movement, can become very sharp and may range from occasional to constant. Often accompanying sciatic pain are other sensations such as numbness, pins and needles, tingling, irritability or tenderness. Sciatica has a wide variety of causes: strain or sprains of the lower back, disc problems, arthritic problems of the lower back or hips, poor posture, obesity, bone diseases, or internal diseases such as diabetes. One of the primary causes of sciatic nerve irritation is abnormal position and motion of the vertebrae in the lower back. Proper treatment for any symptom, including leg and back pain, must begin with a correct diagnosis. Your chiropractic doctor is specifically trained to diagnose the cause of your symptoms and to recommend appropriate treatment. Research has found chiropractic care to be very effective for the relief of most forms of sciatica and back pain. The chiropractic profession emphasizes the importance of restoring and maintaining proper structural integrity (correct alignment and biomechanics) of the spine. A healthy spine involves, among other things, normal positioning and mobility of all joints of the back and pelvis. Many causes of sciatic pain irritate the sciatic nerve by adversely altering the normal positioning and mobility of the spine. Through gentle spinal adjustments and other procedures, your chiropractor can help to restore normal position and optimum mobility to the spine and pelvis. Correct spinal biomechanics allow normal nerve function to return. Relief from sciatica pain may be as simple as a call to your chiropractor. For a consultation or more information you can reach Dr. Browner and Dr. Behar at Windmill Health Center in Weston at 954-217-4881. They have two additional locations to serve you in Pembroke Pines and Naples; contact the Weston location for more information.
SINCE 2014
ASK THE EXPERT
Prenatal Oral Care and Your Child BY DR. MARIA GROSMAN hat does your personal oral care have to do with your newborn? More than you think. Unaware of its importance, many women avoid regular dental care during and immediately after pregnancy. In addition, uneducated dentists may not stress its importance and may even be less willing to provide certain services during pregnancy. This is very unfortunate for there are definite implications of poor oral health in pregnant women, their pregnancies, as well as their children. Multiple studies have shown links between periodontal disease (infection of the gums and bones supporting the teeth) and adverse outcomes in pregnancy including preterm deliveries, low birth weight babies, and preeclampsia. Children born to mothers with poor oral hygiene and high levels of certain oral bacteria have a significantly higher risk of developing cavities at an early age. This may be one of the causative factors in a child’s development of a condition called early childhood caries or ECC. ECC is a complicated situation in which cavities occur rampantly at an age in which needed care may be difficult to deliver. Fortunately, most of the causes of both cavities and ECC are preventable. Cavities are caused in large part by having high levels of certain oral bacteria. Although children are not born with these cavity causing bacteria, they are eventually transferred by caregivers to children. This can occur, for example, by blowing on a hot spoon of cereal. It is not natural, or possible, to forever eliminate these bacteria. However, the longer it takes to transfer, the decreased risk of cavities in general and ECC specifically. The way of accomplishing this would be to eliminate cavities in the mouths of mothers (and all caregivers for that matter) and reduce the amount of plaque through regular dental checkups, cleaning and application of topical fluoride (in toothpaste and rinse). It would be easiest to complete all dental work prior to pregnancy. However, it is important to keep in mind that most dental procedures can be accomplished during pregnancy. The safest and most comfortable time to accomplish dental work during pregnancy is the second trimester. We recommend using this time not only to receive services, but also to obtain tips for oral care for mother and baby. There are many special circumstances during pregnancy. For example, nausea and vomiting can create some difficulty in controlling the acid levels in the mouth, which can increase the risks of both enamel erosion as well as cavities in mother. You would be surprised at the creative strategies which can be used to overcome many of these challenges.
W
The office of Dr. Maria Maranzini-Grosman (Board Certified Pediatric Dentist) and Dr. Alon Grosman (Specialist in Orthodontics) is located at South Flamingo Road on the NW corner of Griffin and Flamingo Road. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 954-236-3434.
Saturday, September 21, 2019
YOU'RE INVITED! 9AM Cardio Kickboxing Class Trial 10AM Adult Self Defense Workshop 11AM Karate for Concentration Workshop 11:30 AM Martial Arts Demonstration
(954) 217-6006 Premier Martial Arts Weston 1375 Shotgun Rd • Sunrise, FL
(NEXT TO YOUFIT IN THE RIGHT WAY COMMERCE CENTER)
www.premiermartialarts.com/weston Follow us on
@premiermartialartsweston
@pmaweston
OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 77
ROTARY NEWS
Rotary Supports Education and Literacy Initiatives BY PAT SHORT HORNSBY, ROTARIAN
R
otarians around the world celebrate September as Basic Education and Literacy Month; it’s a time for us to think about ways to invest in the future through education. Today, more than three quarters of a billion people over the age of 15 are illiterate. That’s 17 percent of Planet Earth’s adult population. And lest anyone think this number represents only people in far-away places, illiteracy is a problem here, too. According to a June 2019 PBS Newshour report, 36 million adults in the U.S. lack the basic literacy skills needed to sustain employment. While recent and reliable statistics on literacy rates in the state of Florida are difficult to find, the Florida Literacy Coalition estimates approximately 20 percent of Floridians over the age of 16 lack the most basic reading skills — a number well above estimated national levels of 14.5 percent. Poor literacy rates affect workforce readiness, impacting economic prosperity and quality of life for all. In Rotary, our goal is to help communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy. Worldwide, we support educational opportunities for all children and literacy for children and adults through mentoring programs, supporting teacher
Student volunteers at the Rotary Club of Weston’s annual drawdown event to benefit the club’s scholarship fund.
training and literacy programs, providing scholarships, opening schools or making them healthier learning environments and so much more. Here at home, Weston Rotarians are dedicated to offering educational opportunities to young people through college and vocational scholarships, sponsoring high school Interact clubs and Rotaract clubs for
young adults, sponsoring Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, and supporting local charities focused on helping young people achieve their potential. We encourage student leadership and reward educational excellence. Every fall, as the children in our community go back to school, we work with local educators and social services providers to identify needs and celebrate accomplishments. Do you have a passion for service? Education is just one area in which Rotarians work together to change the world. By the way, do you know a high school student who would benefit from an intensive youth leadership training camp experience in the spring? The Rotary Club of Weston will be accepting applications for a RYLA 2020 sponsorship soon. Does your student need volunteer hours, or have a genuine desire to help others? We hold fundraising events and service projects throughout the year, and support Interact service clubs in our local high schools. Visit us online or reach out to a Rotarian to learn more about how you can become involved. The Rotary Club of Weston meets weekly at 7:25 AM on Thursdays at Weston Hills Country Club. Visit www.westonrotary.com to learn more.
PET CARE
Periodontal Disease in Dogs BY MIGUEL E. CORDOVA, DVM
M
ore than 85% of dogs over four years of age have periodontal disease. It starts when bacteria form plaque on the teeth. Within days, minerals in the saliva bond with plaque to form tartar, a hard substance that adheres to the teeth. The bacteria work their way under the gums and cause gingivitis, which is an inflammation of the gums. Once under the gums, bacteria destroy the supporting tissue around the tooth, leading to tooth loss. Inflammation of the bone and tooth support structures is referred to as periodontitis. The combination of gingivitis and periodontitis is known as periodontal disease. Bacteria associated with dental disease can travel in the bloodstream to infect the heart, kidneys, and liver. What Are the Signs of Periodontal Disease? The signs of periodontal disease include: bad breath; redness or bleeding along the gum line; drooling, which may be tinged with blood; difficulty chewing; pawing at the mouth; loose or missing teeth; facial swelling, especially under the eyes; nasal discharge; and gum recession. How Is Periodontal Disease Diagnosed? Your veterinarian can see signs of gingivitis and tartar buildup by examining your dog’s mouth. However, since most periodontal disease occurs beneath the gum line, the only way to truly assess your dog’s mouth is to perform an examination while your pet is under anesthesia. Your veterinarian can use a dental probe to measure any loss of attachment around each tooth and take dental radiographs (x-rays) to assess for bone loss, abscesses, and other problems. 78 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated? Treatment depends on the severity of the disease. If your dog has mild periodontal disease, consisting of gingivitis without any bone loss, a thorough dental cleaning that includes the area beneath the gums, followed by dental polishing, can help reverse the problem. Your veterinarian may also recommend a dental sealant that helps prevent tartar from accumulating on teeth. If there has been a loss of the supporting structures around the teeth, however, this cannot be reversed. Your veterinarian may need to apply antibiotics beneath the gums and perform dental procedures, which may include tooth extraction. After a dental cleaning, your veterinarian may also recommend a plaque prevention gel that adheres to the teeth surfaces to inhibit tartar. Ask your veterinarian which dental diets or treats are best for your pet and what dental hygiene methods are recommended. Don’t forget to keep scheduled appointments for follow-up dental checkups. n Animal Health Center @ Weston is “The Gentle Practice You Can Rely On”. Dr. Miguel E. Cordova and his staff are committed to caring for your precious pets. The practice is located at 2701 Executive Park Drive, Suite 1. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact 954-385-8389 or www.animalhealthcenteratweston.com.
Vip Gala
STARTING | 5:30PM
ENDING | 10:00PM
Golf Classic & Awards Luncheon
LEGALLY SPEAKING
AWARDED 9 YEARS
Insurance Policy for a Wedding Day BY EVAN BARON eople are obsessed with planning: planning vacations, planning birthday parties, family reunions, and especially the ultimate party— their wedding day. Generally, people enjoy planning for things they deem fun and exciting. Seldomly, however, are people excited to plan for life events that are sad or devastating in nature. People don’t want to spend any of their time thinking about, let alone discussing, what happens when things go wrong. The saying goes, “if you fail to plan—you plan to fail”. This is why we have insurance policies. No one hopes to get into a car accident or experience a category 4 hurricane; but because the possibility exists, people safeguard against these events in an attempt to mitigate their exposure to losses. This thought process can also easily be applied to one of the happiest times in a person’s life—their wedding day. It is no secret that a high percentage of marriages end in divorce. Despite this knowledge, a very low percentage of couples choose to prepare a prenuptial agreement to safeguard themselves in the event of a contentious divorce. According to Florida Statute 61.079—”a premarital agreement is an agreement between prospective spouses made in contemplation of marriage to be effective upon marriage.” However, a premarital agreement only really becomes relevant in the event the couple initiates a divorce proceeding. Just like a car insurance policy cannot prevent an accident, a prenup will not prevent a divorce. What a prenup *can* do is protect couples from each other during a divorce. If given the choice—would you prefer negotiating terms with a friend, or would you rather do so with an adversary? Unfortunately, when going through a divorce—individuals become adversarial in nature. This results in an already difficult situation becoming even more difficult due to emotions being high, and rationale being low. This dynamic often results in never-ending litigation that takes an emotional and financial toll on everyone involved. Having a prenuptial agreement can serve as an insurance policy that’s in place to help avoid and/or minimize a couple’s damage if and when, they decide they no longer wish to remain married. Some important details about a premarital agreement are as follows: • The agreement must be in writing and signed by both parties; becoming effective once the marriage has taken place. • The agreement may address matters related to assets, property (tangible or intangible); details of spousal support or the complete waiver of such support; • Ownership rights in & disposition of death benefits from a life insurance policy; • The choice of law governing the construction of the agreement; • Any other matter relevant to the parties, so long as same is not in violation of Florida’s public policy or law. • Note: child related matters, such as child support, cannot be addressed within premarital agreements.
P
FAMILY LAW TRAINED IN THE COLLABORATIVE LAW PROCESS
Divorce • Relocation • Custody Child Support • Domestic Violence Continuing to serve the Weston, Davie and Pines areas with over 30 years of experience.
1655 North Commerce Pkwy, Suite 202 Weston, Florida 33326 Law@DivorceBroward.com
FREE CONSULTATIONS
954-385-9160 After Hours: 954-850-3357
The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience. 80 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Contact the law firm of Evan H. Baron and Associates is located at 1655 North Commerce Parkway, Suite 201, in Weston. If you are interested in prenuptial agreements and how best to go about initiating this process, call the office at 954-385-9160.
TEE TO GREEN
Putting Is Personal BY DEAN SKLAR, PGA PROFESSIONAL
H
aving a balanced, smooth swinging stroke is of crucial importance when putting. The image I use to visualize this is that of a pendulum – something that swings slow and steadily through a complete arc of motion, with even tempo throughout. The end of the putter forms the bottom of the pendulum, your arms provide the smooth motion. Having a firm, balanced, solid base is an important part of putting. You need to hit the ball at the right point in your arc and get it going in a straight line. Putting your feet in the right place and connecting to the ground properly facilitates this. You want to have your feet about shoulder width apart and your eyes are more or less over the ball. On putts of more than 30 feet in distance, pace is much more important than line. Remember, a 2-putt is all you’re aiming for, so the first putt is all about getting the distance right. A useful trick to help you with this task is to visualize a circle the size of a street manhole cover around the hole. Your goal is to get the ball within this circle in order to make the second
putt an easy one. Turning up at a golf course and expecting to perform well straightaway is unrealistic. Before going to the first tee, it pays to do a little practice or warm-up. Get yourself over to the practice green, get a bunch of balls and practice your putting stroke and get a feel for distance and pace on the greens. It’s all about building confidence for the real thing. Putting is so much about touch and feel, especially when it comes to judging distance. The next time you’re on the practice green working on distance putts, try closing your eyes on a few before and during the stroke. As long as you’re set up well there’ll be no problem in hitting the ball okay. With your eyes closed, focus on how the stroke feels, how the hands absorb the impact of the ball on the putter face. Open your eyes and see how you did for distance. Close them again and keep practicing until you develop a sense for how good lag putting feels as well as looks. Don’t be tempted to spend long amounts of time agonizing over how different putts are going to break. As long as you’ve worked out an approximation of borrow, a ball to the right or inside left edge for example, just play the shot and don’t dwell on it. Your green reading skills will improve with time
and experience. Just like with the longer clubs or indeed any shot in golf, you must develop a routine and stick to it. Obviously, careful thought and planning should go into any decent putting routine. Ask your local PGA Professional to challenge you to a putting match on the practice green and see the way they line up their putts and go through their own routine. Remember, practice makes perfect. 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. Sklar@FloridaMoves.com or the Rose and Dean Sklar Real Estate Group at Coldwell Banker, 1760 Bell Tower Lane in Weston, 954389-6197, or online at www.WestonFloridaUSA.com.
Get involved and help raise funds for stomach cancer.
www.DebbiesDream.org
Our busiest event season is under way and volunteers are needed to help plan these EXCITING events! Dream Big Oceanside Jazz Bruncheon October 27, 2019 - Wild Thyme at the Atlantic Hotel & Spa (Fort Lauderdale, FL) 4th Annual Dream Fore A Cure Golf Tournament November 14, 2019 - Jacaranda Golf Club (Plantation, FL) 11th Annual Night of Laughter January 26, 2020 - Improv Comedy Club (West Palm Beach, FL) 11th Annual Dream Makers Gala April 18, 2020 - Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort (Hollywood Beach, FL) 2nd Annual Miami Night of Laughter March 8, 2020 - Miami Improv Comedy Theatre (Doral, FL)
Help us with: SECURING AUCTION ITEMS EVENT PLANNING SPONSORSHIP SUPPORT Join our Event Committee Meetings from now until the event.
Contact us at (954) 475-1200 or email Events@DebbiesDream.org to get involed.
Your time and support makes all the difference! OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 81
ASK THE EXPERT
“ROOKIE”
Which Breast Surgery is right for you? BY CHARLES A. MESSA, III, M.D., F.A.C.S. ccording to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery operations in our country. Patients will often come to our office wanting their breasts to be fuller and are not certain which type of surgery is best for them. Is an implant necessary, or lift, or both? The technique used to enhance a woman’s breast should be individualized based on each woman’s personal appearance goals and unique anatomy. A common misconception is that breast implants make a woman’s breast stay up longer and not sag. This is not true. A breast implant adds volume or size to the breast. An implant can increase breast width, projection, and firmness, but doesn’t prevent the breast from sagging with time, especially if a woman doesn’t wear a bra. When a woman loses breast tissue volume or size as a result of weight loss, pregnancy, or through natural deficiency in breast development, then placing a breast implant beneath the glandular tissue or under the muscle (pectoralis) will enhance the appearance. When there is excess breast skin, such that the nipple and areolar position is now below the fold of the breast, then a breast lift or mastopexy is most likely necessary. This procedure involves removing the excess skin and tightening the remaining breast tissue to elevate or lift the nipple and areola and the breast itself. The type of mastopexy procedure utilized depends on the shape and the degree of sagging (or ptosis). There are three main types of breast lifts depending on where the incisions are placed on the breast. Periareolar (Benelli, around the nipple only), circumvertical (lollipop, around the nipple and from the nipple to the fold), and inverted “T”, or anchor incision same as above with an additional incision along the inframammary crease or fold. All are safe and effective techniques for lifting the breast depending on the degree of sagging. A breast augmentation and mastopexy can be safely performed at the same time, depending on the patient’s anatomy and individual history. An implant can improve the aesthetic appearance of the breasts when volume or size enhancement is necessary, in addition to skin tightening or lifting. In general terms, if a patient is an A or small B cup bra with sagging breast tissue, a breast lift and implant would be beneficial if the patient desires an increase in breast size or projection. When a patient’s breasts are a full C or D cut, then the breast lift alone may be sufficient depending on her individual breast appearance goals. As with facial rejuvenation and body contouring, there is no single breast enhancement procedure that is applicable to every patient. A thorough preoperative consultation and discussion of each woman’s individual appearance goals is essential to ensuring the proper surgery technique is performed.
A
To learn more about Dr. Messa and his practice, visit his website at www.westoncosmeticsurgery. com. His office is located at 2823 Executive Park Drive, Weston, Florida. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Messa, call the office at 954-659-7760. 82 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Pet
of the
Month
My name is Rookie, I am a 10 year old rescued Brittany Spaniel. My human family loves me very much, especially my brother, Noah. I’m living my best life everyday. I love to eat, rest a lot, chase ducks, and run “zoomies” in my backyard. Last seen posing for this picture because I get a treat!
Enter Your Pet and Win
ONE COMPLIMENTARY ANNUAL VACCINE PACKAGE Sponsored By:
Animal Health Center @ Weston Quality Medical, Surgical & Dental Care
954.385.8389
2701 Executive Park Dr., Suite 1 Weston, FL 33331 www.animalhealthcenteratweston.com
Your Pet Could Be Our Pet of the Month! Every month Our City Media randomly picks a pet of the month winner. Enter your pet today! Email entries to: anna@ourcitymedia.com. Must include the following information to receive your prize. Owner name and email and/or phone number. Please send a high-resolution photo with your entry. Tell us a little bit about your pet… Animal name & breed / Age and gender of animal / Favorite person Favorite toy / Likes & dislikes / Favorite thing to do / Last seen
ASK THE EXPERT
Is An Eye Exam On Your To-Do List?
Large or Small, We Top ALL!
BY DR. JANE THERRIEN
S
ummer vacation has come and gone, and a brand-new school year is upon us. Our goal as parents is to always equip our children with everything they will need to not only to conquer that first day, but the entire school year. Beyond school supplies, one very important back-to-school task often overlooked is an eye exam. Your child’s vision is critical to success in school. Eye examinations for children are extremely important. Studies show that even our youngest children might already be experiencing vision problems. According to a recent article, up to 10% of preschoolers have vision problems while 25% of school aged children require some sort of vision correction. This is a huge issue when it comes to learning in class. How can we possibly expect our children to learn their alphabet when it’s difficult for them to even see the letters on the board? With one in ten preschoolers having vision problems, you might be asking, “How young should our children be when getting their first eye exam?” The answer is rather shocking for some. According to the American Optometric Association, infants should have their first comprehensive eye examination at the age of six months. It is then recommended that they have their next eye exam at the age of three, and yet another examination at the age of about five or six, right before they enter the first grade. After that, comprehensive eye exams are recommended annually not only to assess whether vision correction is needed, but also to check on the overall health of the eye. For years, many parents have simply relied on vision screenings that may be offered through the school itself; however, these screenings are limited in nature and rarely find any actual issues. In fact, studies show that only about 5% of vision issues are detected through these vision screenings. Our early years of school are the foundational step to higher learning. If a child is having a hard time seeing the board or reading their lesson books, it can inhibit their education to a point beyond frustration. School can become no longer enjoyable to them, and they can easily fall behind. As parents our goal should be to equip our children for success and that starts with an eye exam. If you would like a comprehensive eye examination for your child, contact Dr. Jane Therrien at Weston Family Eyecare at 954-888-9393. The practice is located at 4472 Weston Road. Dr. Therrien and her staff look forward to exceeding your expectations.
5 YEARS IN A ROW!
TILE | SHINGLE | METAL | FLAT
Licensed & Insured CCC#1326266
Member
New Construction • Roof Repairs • Reroofing Roof Cleaning • Inspections • Preventative Maintenance 25+ Years Experience Commercial/Residential All Work Guaranteed
954-922-5999 www.rockysroofinginc.com
FREE ESTIMATE
$300 OFF $100 OFF NEW ROOF OVER $7500
Coupon must be submitted at the time of estimate. Cannot be combined with any other offer.
Exp. 9/30/19
ROOF REPAIR
OVER $1000
Coupon must be submitted at the time of estimate. Cannot be combined with any other offer.
Exp. 9/30/19
Put Rocky In Your Corner For All Your Roofing Needs! PLUMBING REPAIRS • LOCATE LEAKS • PUMP, SEPTIC & GREASE TRAPS
OPEN 7 DAYS FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE
E-Schedule plumbingexperts.com SERVICE CALLS AVAILABLE • SAT. & SUN. 9:00AM-4:00PM AT NO EXTRA COST
10% OFF ANY WORK No expiration date. Save until you need it! Limit one coupon per service call.
FREE SERVICE CALL
WITH ANY REPAIR OCM
100% Satisfaction Guaranteed! PlumbingExperts.com We Accept Competitor’s Coupons
954-786-0477 BROWARD’S BIGGEST & BEST Licensed & Insured • CFC1427238 CGC1508546
CAMP ROUND-UP
BACK TO NATURE
Camp Chameleon took full advantage of its natural surroundings at Markham Park with regular nature hikes. The campers also enjoyed fun-filled field trips, pool time and arts and crafts sessions.
BEAT THE HEAT
At Tiny Planet Preschool, campers kept cool with waterplay, a field trip to Pines Ice Arena and tasty treats from Kona Ice.
LIVE AND LEARN At Camp Lingua, children were able to learn another language while enjoying plenty of outdoor fun. Camp activities included horseback riding, watersports, arts and crafts, and camp games. 84 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
CAMP ROUND-UP
PATRIOTIC PRIDE
Children and families at Tiny Planet Preschool’s summer camp dressed in red, white and blue to celebrate a 4th of July barbecue and game day.
SUMMER FUN
SHOW TIME
The Inside Out Theatre Company’s Summer Intensive 2 concluded with a production of Thoroughly Modern Millie.
Photos courtesy Pedro Iguaran
At Eagle Point Elementary School’s Soaring Eagles summer camp, children enjoyed a fun-filled summer with trips to the water park, animal encounters, a talent show and much more.
SO DRAMATIC
At the conclusion of Camp Sagemont’s four-week Drama Camp, campers performed Mary Poppins.
OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 85
SNAPSHOTS FORM SCHOOL
SCHOOL SPIRIT
Members of the Sound of Thunder Marching Band showed their colors during Spirit Week. Daily themes kept morale high at band camp.
BACK TO SCHOOL SMILES
The excitement of a new school year was evident in the smiles of students, teachers, administrators and City leaders.
KIDS AT HEART Indian Trace Elementary School teachers tested out the new playground equipment at Indian Trace Park. The City of Weston renovated the park with new sports fields and fitness stations, walking paths, restrooms and parking lot.
86 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
Photo courtesy City of Weston
Photos courtesy Weston Music Society
SEEN ON SCENE
MUSIC APPRECIATION
A record crowd attended the Symphony of the Americas’ Summerfest Concert presented by the Weston Music Society. City leaders and music lovers enjoyed an evening of orchestral music and mingling with the highly talented musicians
IN THE NEWS
BOOK BUDDIES
Weston Mayor Daniel Stermer was featured on NBC’s Sunday Today with Willie Geist. The mayor spoke to reporter Kerry Sanders about Florida’s preemptions on gun laws. The City of Weston led a lawsuit against the State of Florida over a 2011 provision that prevents local governments and officials from enacting gun safety laws without facing severe penalties.
Photo courtesy Weston Tennis Center
Members of the Weston Friends Club “Happy Bookers” book club gathered to discuss Another Woman’s Husband by Gill Paul.
IN A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN
Congratulations to the Weston Tennis Center. It was recognized by USTA Florida as 2018 League Facility of the Year.
GOTTA GETAWAY
Members of the Weston Friends Club’s Travel Club discussed potential group trips for 2020. OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | SEPTEMBER 2019 87
We Want Your Take your latest copy of Our City Weston on the road with you and you could be our lucky winner. Send us your “The World’s Favorite Magazine™” photo and you could win a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Happy trails!
THE WORLD’S FAVORITE MAGAZINE™ Tuan, Phuc, Ethan and Ellie Phan brought along their copy of Our City Weston while visiting Vietnam. This photo was taken outside the Da Lat Railway Station, which was built in 1938 by French architects. Its gables are thought to represent the three peaks of Lang Biang Mountain.
EMAIL PHOTOS TO: editorweston@ourcitymedia.com Please send hi-resolution original digital photos as attachments only. Include name, address, phone number and where photo was taken.
You can have a virtual office at
ess!
An address to impr
59
$
A FOR AS LOW
S
FLAMINGO COMMONS
Office Benefits Without The Office! • Mail & Package Storage • Conference Room & more!
*Some Restrictions Apply
954.862.1400 • WWW.THECREXENT.COM
12555 Orange Drive, Davie • On the NW corner of Orange Dr. & Flamingo Rd. 88 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
THE ULTIMATE BAHAMAS ESCAPE GET AWAY FROM THE DAY-TO-DAY
QUICK. EASY. FUN. ESCAPING TO PARADISE IS EFFORTLESS FROM THE PORT OF PALM BEACH! OUR DYNAMIC 2-NIGHT CRUISE TO GRAND BAHAMA ISLAND DEPARTS DAILY FOR AS LOW AS $139 PER PERSON. HOP ABOARD! CALL (877) 909-7464 NOW OR VISIT BAHAMASPARADISECRUISE.COM TO BOOK YOUR GETAWAY. BAHAMAS PARADISE CRUISE LINE—A BETTER WAY TO GETAWAY *PRICE IS PER PERSON AND BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY. SHIPS’ REGISTRY: THE BAHAMAS AND PORTUGAL.
Laminates • Engineered Wood Hardwood Floors Porcelain & Marble Tiles Crown & Baseboard Trims Kitchen Remolding
0% INTEREST FINANCING AVAILABLE • FREE ESTIMATES • SE HABLA ESPAÑOL
Monday-Friday 9am-6pm Saturday 10am-4pm
954-708-3953 | 954-533-4369 Located in Westgate Square
15834 W State Road 84 ON THE CORNER OF 84 & WESTON RD
www.westonfloors.com
90 SEPTEMBER 2019 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM
THE WORLD’S MOST ADVANCED SHOOTING RANGE
LEARN FROM THE PROS
The Only 5 Star Range In South Florida
NEXUS LANE ADVANCED VIDEO TARGETS. Real Gun, Real Ammo, Real Fun!
FREE CLASSES FOR MEMBERS YOUTH SAFETY CLASS
Teaches minors the ins and outs of gun safety and basic marksmanship.
Sign up at www.NexusShooting.com
10 OFF
$
ONE HOUR PRIVATE LESSON
Coupon required. Good for 1 person lesson only. Applies to FIRST lesson only. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires 9/30/19. Please see website for rental and range restrictions.
www.NexusShooting.com OC1HRPL10OFF
FIREARM LAW SEMINARS
Learn when you can legally use your gun and how to protect yourself from liability.
Sign up for our email list to receive class schedule.
5
marksmanship, handgun parts and function. Excellent for novices, first time gun owners, or experienced shooters who wish to review the basics. Shotgun and rifle classes also available.
$
LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP Coupon Required. Good for up to 4 people. Cannot be combined w/other offers. Expires 9/30/19. Please see website for rental & range restrictions. No gun rentals by solitary shooters.
www.NexusShooting.com OC5LM
BASIC HANDGUN Emphasizes safety, fundamentals of
LADIES DAY: every Monday ladies get free range time.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Private lessons available for all skill levels, from first timers to advanced shooters. Customized to your specific needs by our NRA certified instructors.
Call (954) 587-8005 to sign up today!
Call (954) 587-8005 to sign up today!
10 OFF
$
CONCEALED WEAPONS PERMIT CLASS
DEFENSIVE HANDGUN
Stepwise progression from fundamental skills used in defensive situations to advanced techniques such as holster draw, and malfunction clearing
Call (954) 587-8005 to sign up today!
Ask Us About Discounts for Military & Law Enforcement
Coupon Required. Good for up to 4 people. Cannot be combined w/other offers. Expires 9/30/19 Please see website for rental & range restrictions.
www.NexusShooting.com OCCWP10OFF
954-587-8005 • 2600 Davie Road, Davie, FL 33314
www.NexusShooting.com
400 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway, Suite 200C Sunrise, FL 33325
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE
PAID
**********ECRWSSEDDM***
954.306.1007 400 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway, Suite 200C • Sunrise, FL 33325
MIAMI, FL PERMIT #4002
Postal Customer
Weston's Premier Early Tree of Life Childhood Learning The faith-based preschool grows Academy! Best Preschool with the additionVoted of Kindergarten We have the highest percentage in Weston of graduates reading at 1st grade level.
A Brand New Kindergarten
in Weston
6 YEARS IN A ROW!
Remarkable Campus & Facilities
by JASON ZAUDER
T
Infants thru Pre-K For centuries, children have learned about
Included in monthly tuition: the ‘Tree Of Life’ from the Book of Gen• Accelerated Reading Program esis. At the Tree of Life Christian Academy • STEAM Program Preschool in Weston, children are learning • • • • • • • • • • •
“My daughter in kindergarten is excelling in reading & writing, she loves learning and I know it’s because of (Science-Technology-Engineering-Art-Mathematics) many of life’s lessons in a thriving, mod- That magic expand to Tree of Life’s Treewill of Life. Their amazing ern school. As Tree of Life approaches their brand-new kindergarten program. Their school brings a balance of Low student to teacher ratio one year anniversary, owners Gabriel and kindergarten will be structure, in a separate room nurture and giving Bilingual curriculum (English/Spanish) Marcy Buitrago are celebrating what they that will not be attached the preschool, students the besttopreparation Computershaveand iPads®while looking ahead to and theyforareschool accomplished looking to reach a 9-1 years ahead! Westuthe future. are blessed havekindergarten Tree of dent-to-teacher ratio.toWith Organic & natural lunches in our community!” starting onLife August 18th, Tree of Life has alWe teach moral & family values ready reached fifty percent enrollment, and - Cruz Family Nurse & clinic on premises placements will be filling up quickly. There are already wait lists for two- and three-year 1,200 sq ft indoor play area Latest in high security & surveillance olds who want to enroll in those programs, and administrators are confident that kinConvenient drop-off service available dergarten will also prove quite popular. Kindergarten will be open to all children, 13,000 sqft building on 2 acres (new or families) regardless of whether not they attended 4 outdoor playgrounds preschool at Tree of Life.
FREE REGISTRATION & UNIFORM!
The Security & Protection of your precious children is a TOP PRIORITY! • Armed security officer on premises • Bulletproof entry doors “We feel like our formula for success is • HD security surveillance cameras to be different than all the other preschools. Our intention was to create a feeling so that when a child enters our school, there’s a sense of wonder,” said Gabriel Buitrago.
T w
Tree of Life’s campus has been thoughtfully laid out to make the most of the 13,000 square foot building. The classrooms surround an indoor play area where a cusJASON ZAUDER tom-madeby wooden Tree of Life serves as the hub. Every classroom has their own private For centuries, children have learned about bathroom drinking fountain, well as the ‘Tree and Of Life’ from the Book of as Genan esis. exitAttothe theTree playground. Students can take of Life Christian Academy Preschoolof in Weston, children are learninglearn advantage a bilingual curriculum, of life’s and lessons in a the thriving, Th signmany language, utilize latestmodcomputern school. As Tree of Life approaches their one year anniversary, owners Gabriel and Marcy Buitrago are celebrating what they have accomplished while looking ahead to the future.
br kin th an de sta re pl ar ol an de ers and iPads. All of these features are proKi tected by a state-of-the-art security system, re which includes security cameras throughout pr
and two separate passcode-protected doors one must pass through before entering the building’s interior. “That1250 kindergarten is very When students FL need 33326 a break from SWtransition 160th Ave. Weston, tough on both 954.440.0174 the parents and the kids,”•said learning, they will find organic lunches treeoflifeacademy.com Buitrago. “Many parents have been asking us brought in every day to provide the fuel they