Our City Weston - October 2022

Same-day pediatric cardiology appointments in Weston

Nancy Dobrolet

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WE TREAT YOUR CHILDREN LIKE OUR OWN

Helen & Jacob founded The Palace over 40 years ago and they’ve always kept their hands-on style. They visit The Palace communities nearly every day, they know many of the residents & families by name, and they throw one terrific party after another because they truly believe The Palace is one big family.

Everyone here has Helen’s personal cell phone number and email, so anytime a resident or a family member has a question or a concern, all they have to do is reach out and say, “Hi Helen, can you help me?”

“You know why our life at The Palace is problem-free? We’re friends with the owners.”

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PUBLISHER PAGE

"Our City" Salutes

Heroes

CALENDAR

24 October 2022

COMMUNITY NEWS

Moonlight Movies in the Park Are Back

Weston Sports Leagues

Something for Everyone

Adopt-a-Grandparent and National Grandparents Day Celebration

Weston Foreign Film Series Previews a Marquis Year

Weston Music Society Has A Magical Musical Season Planned

HOMETOWN HERO

Cypress Bay Grad Serves Aboard

of the World’s Largest Warships, the USS Carl Vinson

TRICK OR TREAT

Nights of Fright! Come if You Dare to Broward's Scariest Haunted House

SCHOOL NEWS

Western High School Hosted 21st Anniversary 9/11 Memorial Ceremony

Cypress Bay To Host Marching Band Assessment Event

REAL ESTATE

Sellers, is the Party Over?

HEALTHCARE HEROES

Heroes Live Amongst Us!

POSITIVE PARENTING

Be Present

ASK THE EXPERT

Truths of Learning a Second Language

Pediatric Foot & Ankle Sprains Can Be a More Complex Growth Plate Injury

Get a Dilated Eye Exam

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

24Hrs RestorationYour First Call in an Emergency

Pediatric Associates Moves to Brand New State-of-the-Art Office in Weston

ROTARY NEWS

Rotary Club of Weston’s Commitment to Global Polio Eradication is Stronger Than Ever!

FROM TEE TO GREEN

Looking for the Opening Straight Drive Down the Middle of the Fairway?

ANIMAL HEALTH

Skin Problems

FROM THE STATEHOUSE

Community Resources

THE SHERIFF

Open and Unsolved

PET OF THE MONTH

Meet “Leo”

LEGALLY SPEAKING

In Honor of Halloween: Celebrity Probate Nightmares

SAFETY CORNER

“Fire Won’t Wait. Plan Your Escape”

WESTON CHAMBER

Greetings from your Chamber President!

SEEN ON SCENE

City Fort Lauderdale

PUZZLE PAGE

Answer Key

& Sudoku

Rose & Dean Sklar Team

Rose and Dean Sklar live, work, play and network in Weston, and have for over 20 years. Thinking of Selling your property? We may already have your Buyers, and your new home. We know of listings before they hit the markets, and we have Buyers ready to jump into your property.

Banker Team: Broward County

the City of Weston

Trends Large Team

Touch

Rose: (954) 298-3626

(954) 298-3616

Weston

2690 Weston Road, Suite 101 Weston, FL 33331

Florida

Fort Lauderdale 901 E Las Olas Blvd, Suite 101 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

“Our City” Salutes Healthcare Heroes

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Each year, we see the color pink in unexpected places. Whether it’s high school football players wearing pink socks to salute a mom’s struggle or a coworker adorning their shirt with a pink ribbon, the global Breast Cancer Awareness campaign has shone a light on breast cancer and helped raise billions in research funding.

Breast Cancer has impacted the Our City Media family as well. We have had family members struggle with a diagnosis and recover and have seen others succumb to the disease. One thing we saw again and again, however, was the tireless efforts of healthcare workers. These men and women have dedicated their lives to help people live as healthily as possible.

According to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, there are almost 1 million Floridians employed in the healthcare sector. There are 83,000 doctors, 190,000 nurses, 66,000 EMTs and Paramedics, and hundreds of thou sands of support staff.

These “front line” workers have been asked to do more in the past three years than at any time in a generation. We decided to recognize a few of these “Healthcare Heroes” in this month’s Our City magazine. Turn to page 44 to learn more about some of the people who are making an impact in the community. It is nice to know they are there for us when we need them.

Thank You to all of the healthcare professionals who are helping us live our best lives from all of us at Our City Media.

Sincerely,

Christy & Terry Jaillet

PUBLISHERS

Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Christy Jaillet

ART DIRECTOR

Tom Rowe

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Alana Brodie

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Nancy Koval

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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

October 2022 Calendar

OCTOBER 1

Get Your Blood Pumping

Show off your bikini bod! Boot camp workouts every Saturday in October. Led by personal trainer Susan Malinski, these sessions will get your blood flowing and set you off with a positive mindset. Boot camps are held at Peace Mound Park at 9:00am. Plus, get the kids moving on Tuesday afternoons at 4:00pm. For more info visit www.SusanMalinski.com or call or text 954-245-2071.

OCTOBER 8

Mayors’ Chess Challenge

It’s Your Move! Join Mayor Margaret Brown and members of the Weston City Com mission at this friendly open competition. Chess players of all ages and skill levels are welcome to participate in this event which is part of a series of events hosted by May ors throughout Broward County in support of Scholastic Chess. 10:00 am - Noon at Weston Community Center, 20200 Saddle Club Road. For info visit www.WestonFL.org/Events.

OCTOBER 7

BSO Weston Walk and Bike to School Day

Join the Broward Sheriff’s Office Weston District for Walk and Bike to School Day as children and adults around the world celebrate the benefits of walking and bicycling. This event teaches and promotes good biking and pedestrian habits, healthy physical activity and safe routes to school.

7:25 - 8:00 am at Eagle Point Elementary School, 100 Indian Trace. For more info call 954-385-2000.

OCTOBER 8

Flamingo Gardens Harvest Festival

Cowboys & Cowgirls Weekend

Celebrate the arrival of fall in south Florida every weekend during October. Each Har vest Festival weekend will have a theme of its own and guests are encouraged to dress up in costume to fit the week’s theme. Each weekend will feature hayrides, pony rides, entertainment, fun activities, and food. Admission to Flamingo Gardens is required. Scan the QR code for more info.

OCTOBER 8

Moonlight Movies in the Park

Enjoy the family-favorite Halloween film, “Hotel Transylvania - Transformania” under the stars. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Coolers are welcome (no alcohol permit ted). After one experiment, Johnny turns into a monster and everyone else becomes human. Will they be able to reverse this experiment? Show starts at 8:00 pm at Weston Regional Park, 20200 Saddle Club Road. For more call 954-389-4321.

OCTOBER 8-9

11th Annual Brazilian Festival

“A Love Letter to the Amazon Forest and the many Cultures of Brazil.” Florida’s most tra ditional multicultural festival is back at Sny der Park, in Fort Lauderdale. International Concerts, Samba Dancers, Carnival Rides, 100 Exhibitors, and Food Vendors. The Amazing Journey into Brazil’s Art, Culture, Tradition and Cuisine, From the traditional Brazilian “Rodizio, Churrasco, Vatapa, Pao de Queijo e Pastel” to the Sweet Dream of “Brigadeiros, Cocadas, Doce de leite, e Pamonha”. This is the taste of the Brazilian Cuisine featured by all the small business es of Broward in tents especially created to offer a dream day in Brazil’s Flavor-land. Hosted at Snyder Park, 3299 SW 4th Ave, Fort Lauderdale. For tickets and more info visit www.brazilianfestival.org.

October 2022 Calendar

OCTOBER 26-30

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

OCTOBER 13

BSO Weston - Senior Seminar

Join the Broward Sheriff’s Office Weston District and their community partners as they discuss fraud prevention, bleeding control and many other ways our senior population can stay safe and healthy. This educational event will include a FREE con tinental breakfast. Hosted at the Bonaven ture Town Center Club, 16690 Saddle Club Road. 9:00 am - 11:30 am. Scan the QR code to register.

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is the greatest boat show on the seven seas. Located steps from the beach in sunny South Florida, FLIBS spans nearly 90 acres across three million square feet of exhibit space that is connected by an intricate network of water and ground transportation services. The five-day show attracted over 100,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors representing 52 countries with more than 1,300 boats on display in 2021. Products range from sunglasses to superyachts and everything in between. For tickets & more info visit www.flibs.com.

OCTOBER 31

Halloween Celebration at Weston Town Center

Dress up with the kids and head to Weston Town Center for this safe family event. The Halloween celebration is one of the com munity's favorite events of the year. There will be trick-or-treating, a costume parade, character shows and much more. Hosted at the Weston Town Center. 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm. For more info call 954-349-5900 or visit www.westontowncenter.net.

OCTOBER 27-30

Saint David’s Carnival

OCTOBER 22

Trick or Trot 5K

Hit the road at the sixth annual Hallow een-themed 5K and Kids’ Dash! Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome, and costumes are encouraged! Runners/walkers will receive the coveted Trick or Trot treats: a commemorative medal and a t-shirt. (Shirts are available in youth medium, youth large, and adult sizes.) The gun will go off to start the race at 7:30 am at Markham Park. Follow the QR code to register. For more info call the Sunrise Leisure Services Department at 954-747-4600.

St. David Catholic Church welcomes every one to the annual fall carnival. Patrons are invited to advertise and attend the 4-day event at 3900 S. University Drive in Davie. Rides, live entertainment, shopping, freshly prepared food, and more. Discount tickets are now on sale. For times and more infor mation, please call 954-475-8046 or visit www.saintdavid.org.

OCTOBER 31

Happy Halloween

Trick or Treating will likely be a bit different this year than in years past. Kids will still be dressing up, playing games, and maybe even playing a trick or two on a friend or family member. We remind everyone to have fun and stay safe!

Moonlight Movies in the ParkARE Back!

By Terry Jaillet

Agreat part of living in Weston are the many family-friendly community activities. Moonlight Movies in the Park is one of the most popular community activities in the city.! Family-friendly block buster movies will be exhibited on a huge outdoor screen at Weston Regional Park this fall. The City of Weston’s Moonlight Movies in the Park series will feature a number of hit movies.

The popular program premieres October 8th with the “spooky” and spectacular ani mated Halloween film, “Hotel Transylvania - Transformania.” After one experiment, Johnny turns into a monster and everyone else becomes human. Will they be able to reverse this experiment? The kids will be on the edge of their seats as they watch to find out!

Disney’s “Encanto” will be featured on November 12th. Hidden in the mountains of Colombia, each member of the extraordinary Madrigal family can perform magical powers, with the exception of teenage Mirabel, who struggles to adjust to her place within her family, while searching for her own identity.

The 2022 Moonlight Movie in the Park series will conclude a showing of the classic “Home Alone,” starring Mcauley Cauklin. Eight-year-old Kevin must protect his house from a pair of burglars when he is acciden tally left alone at home by his family during Christmas vacation.

In an effort to present new releases, the City of Weston has not yet selected its spring Moonlight Movies in the Park films.

The titles will be announced as those dates get closer.

All movies are projected onto a giant inflatable screen at Weston Regional Park’s Event State, next to the Weston Community Center. Moviegoers should bring their own lawn chairs or blankets. Coolers are permit ted, but alcohol is not allowed in the park. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The City of Weston is home to a number of sports leagues. With the school year in full swing, many families are looking for activities for their little ones. Luckily, you won’t have to drive far to find programs in almost any sport. There are baseball, softball, basketball, field hockey, flag football, tackle football, cheerleading, lacrosse, rugby, and soccer programs for most ages and skill levels. Here are a few options!

BASEBALL, SOFTBALL & T-BALL

Weston Athletic League (WAL) westonathleticleague.org 954-270-4514

The Weston Athletic League has programs for kids beginning at age 7 all the way through high school. Players are slotted in divisions based on their age, experience and skill level to ensure every player has a great time and learns the game.

YMCA T-Ball YMCASouthFlorida.org 954-424-9622

The Weston YMCA Family Center offers a full range of competitive youth sports options – t-ball, basketball, soccer, volleyball, flag football, martial arts, swimming and gymnastics. The “Y” is a great place for kids to try new sports and get top-notch instruction.

Weston Explosion Softball

westonrecsoftball.com

The Weston Explosion softball club runs two seasons each year: September through December and January through April. Players are slotted into divisions starting with 4-6-year-olds in T-Ball all the way up to 15-18U competitive teams.

Weston Travel Baseball

In addition to recreational leagues, Weston is home to travel teams at almost every age level. Weston Travel Baseball has fielded some of the best teams in the state. For more info visit their Facebook page @westontravelbaseball

Weston Sports Leagues

Offer Something for Everyone

By Jon Duka

BASKETBALL

YMCA Basketball

YMCASouthFlorida.org 954-424-9622

The Weston YMCA Family Center offers a full range of competitive youth sports options – t-ball, basketball, soccer, volley ball, flag football, martial arts, swimming and gymnastics. The “Y” is a great place for kids to try new sports and get topnotch instruction. YMCASouthFlorida.org

FIELD HOCKEY

Weston Field Hockey

westonfieldhockey2017@gmail.com

Field Hockey is the fourth most popular sport in the world. The folks at Weston Field Hockey have the knowledge to get your athlete playing like a star. For more info, visit @WestonFHC on Facebook.

FOOTBALL

YMCA Flag Football

YMCASouthFlorida.org 954-424-9622

The Weston YMCA Family Center offers a full range of competitive youth sports options – t-ball, basketball, soccer, volley ball, flag football, martial arts, swimming and gymnastics. The “Y” is a great place for kids to try new sports and get topnotch instruction.

Weston Warriors Tackle Football & Cheer www.westonwarriorssports.com 954-900-6050

The Weston Warriors offer divisions from age 5 up to 14. Their teams compete in Pop Warner’s Gold Coast Division with games held on Saturdays during the fall. The program focuses on teaching the fundamentals of football and cheer while encouraging kids to have fun.

LACROSSE

Weston Warriors Lacrosse westonwarriorslacrosse.com 754-264-2405

The Weston Warriors offer both boys and girls lacrosse programs beginning with U6. It is a great way to introduce the sport to young ones in a less competitive envi ronment. As players move up levels the teams get more competitive. The club also has boys and girls travel teams for more advanced players.

SOCCER

AYSO Recreational Soccer ayso644.org

AYSO Region 644 is one of the most active soccer clubs in the country. The program is organized around AYSO’s six philosophies: Everyone plays, balanced teams, open registration, positive coaching, good sportsmanship, and player development. They always welcome new players at all skill levels.

Weston FC Travel Soccer www.westonfc.org

Weston FC is dedicated to providing the best training environment for all levels of competitive players so they can achieve the highest level of play. Formed in 1998 with 100 players, Weston FC has grown into one of the largest and most respected competitive soccer clubs in the nation.

RUGBY

Okapi Wanders Rugby Club okapiwanderersrugby.com

The game of rugby teaches discipline and teamwork while also giving players a good workout. Players are placed on teams by age with two practices a week during the season.

Cypress Bay Grad Serves Aboard One of the World’s Largest Warships the USS Carl Vinson

By Sang Kim, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West

Seaman Andy During, a 2020 Cypress Bay High School graduate, joined the Navy two years ago.

“I was inspired to join the Navy because I didn't want to go into debt to go to college,” said During. “The Navy provided the financial opportunities needed to further my education.”

Today, During serves as a culinary specialist. A culinary specialist is responsible for feeding thousands of sailors everyday on board the ship.

“When we go out to sea, we have to feed the whole crew,” said During. “We're in charge of the crew's morale.”

During relies upon skills and values from lessons learned in Ft. Lauderdale to succeed in the military.

“I learned that you have to work hard for every thing and to keep a positive attitude,” said During.

Homeported in San Diego, California, USS Carl Vinson is the United States Navy's third Nimitzclass supercarrier. She is named for Carl Vinson, a Congressman from Georgia, in recognition of his contributions to the U.S. Navy.

Aircraft carriers provide unique capabilities and survivability. They are a powerful exhibition of the American Navy's legacy of innovation, technological evolution, and maritime dominance, according to Navy officials.

Vinson, like each of the Navy’s aircraft carriers, is designed for a 50-year service life. When the air wing is embarked, the ship carries more than 70 attack fighter jets, helicopters and other aircraft – all of which take off from and land aboard the carrier at sea.

With more than 5,000 sailors serving aboard, Vinson is a self-contained mobile airport.

Aircraft carriers are often the first responders in a global crisis because of their ability to operate freely from anywhere on the world’s oceans. Carrier strike groups are uniquely mobile, which makes them far more strategically advantageous than fixed-site bases. No other weapon system can deploy and operate forward with a full-sized, nuclear-powered aircraft carrier's speed, endurance, agility and the combat capability of its air wing.

Since USS Langley's commissioning 100 years ago, the nation's aircraft carriers – such as Vinson – and embarked carrier air wings have projected power, sustained sea control, bolstered deterrence, provided humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and maintained enduring commitments worldwide.

"The aircraft carrier is our U.S. Navy's center piece, our flagship, and a constant reminder to the rest of the world of our enduring maritime presence and influence," said Rear Adm. James

P. Downey, Program Executive Officer (PEO) for Aircraft Carriers. "These ships touch every part of our Navy's mission to project power, ensure sea control and deter our adversaries."

Serving in the Navy means During is part of a world that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on strengthening alliances, modernizing capabilities, increasing capacities and maintaining military readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.

“The Navy is important to national defense because we go out to sea and patrol the waters,” said During. “We make sure that our waters and ports are safe at all times.”

More than 90 percent of all trade travels by sea, and fiber optic cables on the ocean floor carry 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic. Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to ready sailors and a strong Navy.

“Maintaining the world’s best Navy is an investment in the security and prosperity of

the United States, as well as the stability of our world,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. "The U.S. Navy – forward deployed and integrated with all elements of national power – deters conflict, strengthens our alliances and partnerships and guarantees free and open access to the world’s oceans. As the United States responds to the security environment through integrated deterrence, our Navy must continue to deploy forward and campaign with a ready, capable, combat-credible fleet.”

Sailors like During, have many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during their military service.

“My proudest accomplishment is helping my division win the culinary food competition,” said During. “We had the best food and best breakfast. I went to Chicago for that, and we got the trophy.”

As During and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.

“Serving in the Navy means I have to hold myself to the highest standard,” added During.

Photo by Mass Communication Specialist

Class

Nights of Fright!

if you Dare to Broward's Scariest Haunted House

Halloween is going to be spooky again this year! The South Florida Cloggers are sponsoring a 2-day scary haunted house event called "Nights of Fright!" The haunted house will be held at Bamford Multipurpose Center in Davie on October 27th through 29th. It is not for the faint of heart!

Have you ever heard the legend of the Bamford Sports Center? Many years ago, long before the Town of Davie even existed, a family lived on the grounds where the sports center now sits. Their youngest daughter, Robbin was said to be a lovely girl.

One Halloween night, a terrible accident occurred. Over time, the area became abandoned. Rumor has it, The Bamford Multipurpose Center has been haunted ever since, and every once in a while, on a cool October night, you can still hear Robbin's screams for help. Join us to find out what horrors still lurk in the darkness.

For those looking for a fun Halloween event with a little bit less fright, the group will also host a “G” rated event on Sunday, October 30, from 1-5pm at the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds. The “not so haunted” maze will be a great opportunity for the kids to show off their costumes and maybe get a little candy!

Children, ages 12 and under, are encouraged to come dressed in their Halloween costumes to participate in the costume contest. James-Crichton says prizes will be awarded for the Spookiest, Cutest and most original costumes in three age categories: five and under, six to eight years, and nine to 12 years.

▸ For more information call 954-347-5207. The Bamford Sports Complex is located at 3801 S Pine Islands Road.

School Skills Drop-off

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to help me improve in each section, and I earned a score I never thought was possible!” Taylor Metz - Pine Crest ‘22, Attending University of Wisconsin-Madison

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Max Hsu

NSU University School ‘22 Attending John Hopkins

helped me make my dream score a reality. They are so patient and taught me so many strategies that helped me exceed.

am extremely thankful for all of their support and guidance on this journey.”

Hailey Rabinowitz Cypress Bay HS

WESTERN HIGH SCHOOL HOSTED 21st Anniversary 9/11 Memorial Ceremony

Western High School Students came together to pay homage to the thousands who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. Since 2002, the school has marked this day with a student-constructed memorial, which has served as a symbol for Western High students to host the ‘We Will Never Forget’ ceremony. The monument replicates the Twin Towers, surrounded by the Pentagon, with a flagpole placed in the outline of the state of Pennsylvania.

Local fire departments and law enforce ment members participated in the “We Will Never Forget” ceremony alongside Western High JROTC, choral singers, band, and the Student Government Association.

“Today Western High School kept its promise that it made 20 years ago,” com mented Western High School Principal Jimmy Arrojo, “we treat this event with great reverence and respect. This monument was

designed and built by students.”

He highlighted the fact that this was the first time in three years the school was able to hold the ceremony because of covid restrictions.

Davie Mayor Judy Paul was also on hand, “Through all that devastation and all that destruction, these colors waived brightly in the air,” she commented, “and gave us the hope and the strength to continue.”

The memorial was built in 2002 by sixteen students from Davie, Weston, and Southwest Ranches as part of an engineer ing class. The ceremony takes place annu ally on September 11th or the closest school day to that date.

Every aspect of the monument has signif icance. The seating area is in the shape of a pentagon, with two concrete pillars centered inside representing the World Trade Center towers. Behind the towers is a flagpole, its base imprinted in the shape of Pennsylvania.

SELLERS, IS THE PARTY OVER?

By Rose Sklar

Well, it has definit ely changed.

We are in a very price-sensitive mar ket. Let’s take a look at what has happened just this year.

In May, we had a hard stop on the escalation of prices that happened in 2021. So in a sense, the Premium Pricing Party of 2021 came into the New Year and then stopped in May. What most consumers miss though is that the price escalation of 2021 and early 2022 held and gave us a new marker to start with that is much higher than 2019 and 2020 but is not escalating the same way it did in 2021, which we all know would not have been healthy overall for any market. What was different about this fast escalation is that it did not drop in the same fashion that it grew. That’s good news.

Now more than ever, sellers need to evaluate their pricing when coming to the “new market” and recent changes in the real estate market. Many sellers still choose to make the mistake of overpricing their homes to “test” the market or pricing their homes based on the escalation that occurred in 2021 that ended in May 2022. A savvy seller looks at all the variables and pays close attention to buyer habits. Right now, the prices are still up, just not as much as they were going up last year. The bottom line in putting a home on the market is that there is a big difference between having your home “on the market” and “in the market.” If you want to sell your home, then price it to attract the pool of buyers in the market.

Now more than ever, overpricing your home can cause you to miss potential offers and potentially miss the “current” market that seems to be rising, just not as high as it rose last year. You risk buyers thinking that you’re not serious or are holding out for your reach price. You may also be pricing yourself out of the pool of buyers who are obtaining financing. If you are a serious seller, it’s a good time to get realistic and not “hope” you can get an unrealistic price. As many pundits will tell you, “Hope is not a strategy.”

There are still some properties that receive multiple offers. The homes that are still selling

fast typically have one of a few features: highly renovated homes, with a focus on kitchen, bathrooms, and flooring, a new roof, current impact glass/hurricane protection, and of course Location. Location. Location (water, golf, ocean, or Intracoastal) Renovations matter a lot in this low inventory market. With a huge deficit of new construction for the high buyer pool, and the fact that buyers realize the value of the work, a freshly renovated home is much more valuable. Add to that the time and continued rising costs for renovations, product scarcity, and the difficulties in finding good/reputable/ timely contractors will make a freshly painted, newly landscaped, and updated property much more attractive.

Also, home preparation and presentation are key to securing your best offer. We all have to start to come to the realization as rates continue to be on the rise, affordability will play a part in it. Higher rates mean lower qualifying mortgage amounts and lower buying power. Here's what you can do to hedge the reset: Renovate, paint and put some elbow grease and DIY projects into your home preparation repertoire. As the clunker homes sit on the market, getting stale, like a supermodel with spinach in their teeth, the trick is to present your property in its best light. And here is how we can help: Our win-win game-changing program RealVitalize. This program is again a necessity for sellers to continue getting top dollar. Let the program do the work for you, with zero percent interest rate on the cost, paid at the closing. The ball is in your court. Renovate & recoup is our best advice.

Yes, it is still a great time to buy! Yes, Rates are up and we still have low inventory, but growing as more sellers are coming to the market. The best time to buy and sell is in a stable market or quite frankly, when you need to or

want to buy or sell. At the end of the day, we live, work and play in our homes. You can’t live, work and play in any other investment that historically rises over time, albeit at different rates. Can you live in your stocks or really say your car increases in value?

Jump into the real estate market today so you don’t look back and say, “You wish you did!” We are off to the races again and the party is still a really good one!

Rose Sklar, Coldwell Banker Realty. Team founder Sklar Team with offices in Weston and Fort Lauderdale

• #1 Coldwell Banker Team in Broward County 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021

• Ranked #1 Agents in the City of Weston for 14 Consecutive Years! 2008-2021

• Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate SOCIETY OF EXCELLENCE 2015-2021

Adopt-a- Grandparent National Grandparents Day celebration

a nurturing experience that’s a ‘win-win’ for both generations,” says Omar Urbay, Director of Activities.

Octogenarians from The Palace brought their love of learning to the Primrose school children – ages 8 months to pre-kindergarten - for a morning assisting, serving breakfast, reading, and interacting with the youngsters.

children, and a Tin Man and Dorothy posed for pictures. The party was highlighted by students from the Harmony Dance Academy who made their first appearance before a live audience. This event truly embodied the spirit of how the day was intended to be celebrated.

It was the perfect way to celebrate National Grandparents’ Day!

Residents from The Palace at Weston assisted living community joined with the Primrose School of Miramar for “Adopt a Grandparent Day” and then with Harmony Dance Academy in honor of “National Grandparents’ Day.”

“The Adopt-a-Grandparent Day (officially Sept. 10) was started in 2014 to recognize and honor the lives of the elderly in our society. Statistics show fifty percent of nursing home residents have no close relatives, forty-six percent have no living children, and sixty percent have no outside visitors. By interacting with young school children, many of whom may not have grandparents nearby, we created

In February of 1977, Congress passed legislation proclaiming the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents' Day. The statute cites the day's purpose: "...to honor grandparents, to give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children's children, and to help children become aware of strength, information, and guidance older people can offer".

Guests at The Palace at Weston Memory Care followed a yellow brick road to a Grandparents’ Day party in honor of this national event (officially Sept 11). A “Wizard of Oz” Palace-style theme and costumed staff charmed everyone. While the talented Palace culinary team served a sumptuous buffet, a charming green-suited leprechaun fashioned balloon animals for the

Palace staff, dressed as characters from the Wiz ard of Oz, welcomed Harmony Dance Academy instructor Victoria Chodrow and dance students

Harmony Dance Academy students entertain residents at The Palace at Weston.

Previews a Marquis Year

The City of Weston and the Arts Council of Greater Weston bring you the 17th season of the very popular Weston Foreign Film Series. Five international movies have been screened and specially selected for our Greater Weston audience. The series will be shown on the second Monday of each month from November through March 2023. There are 2 showings each night, at 4:45 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the AMC Weston 8 Theater.

Irene Carraway, Director of the WFFS, notes, “This year’s lineup promises romance, dreams fulfilled, and intrigue. I am grateful to the commit tee that has chosen such a variety of wonderful films – Eli Habib, Gloria Restrepo Lowenthal, Terry Rodriguez, and Vicki Rosen.”

All movies are in their original language with English subtitles.

Full-season series tickets will go on sale on October 3, 2022, for $35.

A 4-film series ticket will go on sale beginning November 15, 2022, for $30.

TICKET LOCATIONS:

Weston Community Center, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., checks only.

Weston Friends of the Library, Weston Branch Library, 4205 Bonaventure Blvd (afternoons only), checks only.

Online series tickets can be purchased by going to the Arts Council website, 1weston.com and clicking on the Film Series link.

For all films, single tickets will be available at the Arts Council table in the theater lobby on the evening of the showing (pending availability).

For further information, visit our website at 1weston.com or call 954-389-4321.

Joy Rodenberg, who introduces the films, has a special plea. She asks, “We have a movie

this year from Bhutan, which shows the great variety of our films. But - does anyone speak Dzongkha? My buddy, Google Translate, does not speak it, and I have not found any other site that does. Please - call the number above if you can translate Dzongkha and they will notify me.”

NOVEMBER 14, 2022 - EVERYBODY KNOWS

– 2 hours, 13 minutes, Spanish.

Laura (Penelope Cruz) returns home to Spain to attend a wedding, but an unexpected crisis exposes her family's hidden past.

DECEMBER 12, 2022 - DELICIOUS –1 hour 52 minutes, French.

France, 1789, just before the Revolution. With

the help of a surprisingly young woman, a chef who has been sacked by his master finds the strength to free himself from his position as a servant and opens his first restaurant.

JANUARY 9, 2023 - BECOMING ASTRID –2 hours, 3 minutes, Swedish.

The poignant true story of a character-defining period in the life of “Pippi Longstocking” author Astrid Lindgren. Becoming Astrid follows a teenaged Astrid as she breaks away from her conservative upbringing in rural Sweden and struggles with the new responsibilities of being a young unwed mother.

FEBRUARY 13, 2023 - I’M YOUR MAN –1 hour, 48 minutes, German.

A scientist at the Pergamon Museum in Berlin is persuaded to participate in a study to get funding for her research. For three weeks, she must live with a humanoid robot designed to be the perfect life partner for her.

MARCH 13, 2023 - LUNANA: A YAK IN THE

CLASSROOM – 1 hour, 50 minutes, Dzongkha.

An aspiring singer living with his grandmother in the capital of Bhutan dreams of getting a visa to relocate to Australia.

President Laura Dobrzanski invites the community to take advantage of this year’s series. “Each year, the response from you, the community, has grown. We are delighted to partner with the City of Weston in this event that has become a highlight of the arts and culture season.”

CYPRESS BAY TO HOST MARCHING BAND ASSESSMENT EVENT

Straight Superiors, at the 2021 show. We can't wait for October 29th, and we are absolutely thrilled that our friends at Cypress Bay are hosting. This is the marching band show of the year and it is not to be missed!”

On Saturday, October 29th, 2022, Cypress Bay High School will be hosting for the 1st time the annual Marching Band Assessment. They will welcome approximately 30 local marching bands to the school stadium.

The Musical Performance Assessment (MPA) is not a competition. Held annually by the Florida Bandmasters Association (FBA) from October to April each year, it does assessments in the following categories: marching band, concert band, jazz band, solos, and small ensembles. Each performing individual or ensemble is judged by professional musicians and granted a special grade, from 'good' to 'superior' performance. The Marching Band assessment includes choreography, and visual effects and adds special recognition of the Color Guard Team performance in each show.

Stephanie Bescherelle, President of the Cypress Bay Band Boosters, says, “We are delighted to host this event. It is a big honor for our band program. We welcome the com munity to stop by, even for an hour or two, and discover the beauty and creativity that go into a marching band show. There will be 30 fantastic performances to enjoy and cheer on.

Last year, under the direction of Brett Dawson, Cypress Bay's “Sound of Thunder” won the

'Otto J. Kraushaar Award' given to those band programs in the state that have earned straight superior ratings at all FBA events, from all judges, at the county and state level, during a single school year. Dawson has been involved in local and state music organizations and hosted the Marching MPA for over 10 years when he was at Coral Springs High School. David Smith, President of the Broward Wildcats Band Booster Association at Western High School, says, “We will never forget the shrieks of happiness and tears of joy that came from our kids when we were honored with the highest possible rating,

The Weston Music Society supports schol arships for senior graduates continuing their music studies in college and the music programs at both Cypress Bay High School and Western High School. Gina Catone, President of the Weston Music Society, is delighted our residents have this opportunity to view such talented student musicians. She says, “This is great for all ages, especially young children who might be interested in playing an instrument and joining a band in middle or high school. We enjoy working with music programs at all Weston schools, K-12th grades, as well as Western High School. It is so gratifying to see the students admire how well their peers play as they grow to appreciate music.”

The event will be held at the Cypress Bay Football Stadium from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm. $10 entrance tickets will be sold on-site, cash only, and parking will be $5, mainly in the student parking lot. Updates will be shared on social media – Facebook @cypressbayband, Twitter @BandCBHS – and on their website: www.cypressbaysoundofthunder.com.

Heroes Live Amongst Us!

They live in our community. They are our next-door neighbors, moms at the PTA meeting, dads who coach football, and young professionals who volunteer at the harvest drive. They do all the everyday things we all do. They go to the grocery store, plan vacations, exercise at the gym, and dine at their favorite restaurants.

They also save lives. Our community is filled with HEALTHCARE HEROES They all help us to live healthier lives. Whether it’s the EMT who responds to 911 calls, a nurse at the hospital, the oncologist treating cancer, your family dentist, or your local eye doctor. These heroes treat what ails us and help us live better quality lives. We’ve included a selection of some of the heroes from our community who are making an impact, enjoy!

Michele Lapayowker,

Lady Gynecology

Dr. Lapayowker is a Board Certified Gynecologist who has been caring for women in Broward and the surrounding counties since 1995. Dr. Lapayowker cares for each patient individually and has a gentle approach to women of all ages. As a female gynecologist, she takes pride in truly under standing from both personal and professional experiences a woman’s health concerns.

A passion for supporting women’s health and understanding the unique medical issues that women face is what sets Dr. Lapayowker apart. She has a tremendous rapport with teens, adults, and mature women going through their transition and menopausal years, and is able to relate to each stage of the life cycle to give every patient individualized care. Her practice incorporates women’s health maintenance, and she teaches her patients the importance of disease preven tion and personal health management.

Dr. Lapayowker is a tremendously thoughtful physician who listens to her patients in order to help them get the best medical care possible. Her ability to communicate openly and set her patients at ease makes her uniquely qualified.

Anand Vakharia, MD

Broward Community Medical Center

Dr. Anand Vakharia is a boardcertified primary care physician with extensive experience in both inpatient hospitalist medicine, as well as outpatient family practice. He has practiced medicine in Wisconsin, North Carolina, and New York. Most recently, he served as Medical Director at Mount St. Mary’s Hospital in Lewiston NY, where he was also named Regional Medical Director of the Year for all of Western NY.

Dr. Vakharia had always dreamed of return ing home to serve the community he grew up in, while working alongside his father. Dr. Vijay Vakharia, a board-certified physician in both internal medicine and cardiology, has practiced medicine in Broward County for over thirty years. Taking care of patients and helping people live their healthiest lives is a family affair. Together their practice strives to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to the local community.

Dr. Anand Vakharia was drawn to primary care at an early age. He shadowed his father often, and witnessed first-hand the trust and respect that his patients gave him, and the quality of care that was expected. He also had the privilege of attending several medical missions which further reinforced the impact of empathetic health care on not the patient but their entire family. “These experiences were enriching and humbling, and I returned from each with a broader perspective in treating patients at home.”

Today, Dr. Vakharia practices Primary Care at Broward Community Medical Center in Plantation.

Andrea Bretal, MD

Dr. Andrea Bretal opened Weston Medical Health & Wellness with one goal in mind: to help people live health ier and more fulfilling lives. It only made sense to locate the holistic clinic, which focuses on obesity medicine in Weston.

Dr. Bretal’s practice combines nutritional counseling with integrative medicine to help men and women of all ages achieve success with lasting weight loss. She understands the role hormones play in weight loss and specializes in balancing hormones, from thyroid and adrenal to estrogen and testosterone, to set your body up for weight loss.

Patients with chronic health conditions like diabetes can find management techniques and even achieve disease regression at Weston Medical Health & Wellness. By helping you lose weight and keep it off, Dr. Bretal believes you’ll live a healthier, happier life.

While the practice is known for weight loss, they offer much more. “Our services include Mental Wellness through Epigenetic and Nutritional imbalances, Hormone therapy for Men and Women,” said Dr. Bretal, “I am dedi cated to educating and enhancing the lives of my patients.”

Diana Torres, DDS

FAMILY DENTIST Family Dentistry

Dr. Diana Torres is passionate about giving patients the very best care possible at her practice, Family Dentistry. She treats all members of the family, from young children to grandparents. What drives her is the impact she can have on people.

“I believe in connecting with my patients and giving the most compassionate care possible,” said Dr. Torres, “what motivated me to pursue dentistry is the current and potential relationships that I get to build within my community while creating beautiful smiles.”

Dr. Torres’ specialty is Lite Dentistry. It is a pack age that might include invisalign, whitening, gum contouring, and composite veneers. Lite Dentistry is a noninvasive, high-impact, beautifully tailored approach to a healthy, life-changing smile.

The benefits of attaining a bright smile aren’t just cosmetic. Her patients feel better about themselves and are more confident. It can impact all aspects of their lives.

“What I enjoy the most about my profession is the ability to give patients back the confidence they desire by using a conservative smile design approach,” commented Dr. Torres.

She gets these results by combining extensive academic training with the latest, cutting-edge technology in dentistry. For example, Family Dentistry utilizes the iTero digital scanning device to take highly-detailed images and scans of patients’ teeth. This machine creates digital impressions to provide a more detailed image of a person’s teeth and the surrounding soft tissues. These impressions are often more advanced and precise when compared to traditional options.

“I absolutely love my practice, my team, and my patients,” said Dr. Torres, “Seeing lives being changed by healthy and beautiful smiles ignites my passion for dentistry every day. I am committed to providing an awesome dental experience.”

Dr. Torres grew up in Colombia before moving to Florida in 2000. She has been married for 17 years and has two children, Mateo (4) and Milan (3).

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To make an appointment with Dr. Diana Torres or to learn more about Family Dentistry, call 954-384-8484 or visit

Jose Valerio,MD, MBA

ONCOLOGY &

SURGERY

I

t is hard to imagine a more frightening moment in a person’s life than receiving a brain or spinal cancer diagnosis. Hearing those words would cause anx iety and fear in virtually any patient. Luckily there are new innovative treatments for these types of diseases. Dr. Jose Valerio is one of those pioneering surgeons treating these diagnoses. His offices are right here in South Florida.

Dr. Valerio is a board-certified neurosurgeon. He has completed a post-doc fellowship in cerebrovascular neurosurgery at the University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center (affiliated with Case Western Reserve University) and a clinical fellowship in neurosurgical oncology and spine at the Cleveland Clinic Ohio.

He trained and worked as a staff neurosurgeon at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio and Florida for eight years until 2013. After that, Dr. Valerio joined the Miami Neuroscience Center. His primary focus is on complex spine pathology and spine tumors. He has received multiple awards for treating brain tumors, including the American Brain Tumor Association Young Investigator Award, the Musella Foundation Award, and the Cleveland Clinic Clinical Research Award.

Dr. Valerio opened the first Radiosurgery Suite in Florida. This state-of-the-art facility uses real-time tumor tracking technology and motion management capabil ities to ensure precision that is not attainable in almost any other way.

Dr. Valerio is an expert in treating brain metastasis. Any cancer can lead to brain metastasis when cancer from other parts of the body spreads to your brain. Therefore, surgery to remove the brain tumor may be part of your treatment for metastatic brain cancer.

At his practices in South Miami, Hialeah, and Weston, Dr. Valerio performs many surgical treatments for brain metastasis. He also treats meningioma, the most common type of primary brain tumor, and glioblastoma, an aggressive type of cancer that affects the brain and spinal cord.

Dr. Jose Valerio is a unique type of neurosurgeon. He combines a proper patient-centered approach to care with his extensive skill and training to help his patients achieve the desired outcomes. His practice accepts most health insurance plans.

Faiza Khalid, MD MEDICAL DIRECTOR Radiance Medspa

Dr. Faiza Khalid has been at the forefront of minimally invasive aesthetic procedures for over ten years and was trained by some of the best pioneers in the aesthetic industry. She offers patients a decade of experience with inject ables, neuromodulators, and lasers.

Dr. Khalid’s initial training in Family Medicine gives her a holistic approach to beauty. The practice has evolved beyond the traditional use of Botox and fillers where the focus was to “chase lines“ to full facial sculpting which creates results, previously possible only with a scalpel.

Aesthetic medicine is a fascinating mix of science and artistry. Dr. Khalid’s inherent artistic eye com bined with her training as a physician made ‘medical aesthetics’ a natural career choice. When I started medical aesthetics 10 years ago, it was purely a leap of faith fuelled by my passion. She is known for creating natural results and accentuating the power of one’s own natural beauty.

“Watching my patients’ eyes light up when they see their transformation in the mirror, is truly the most rewarding part of my profession,” comments Dr. Khalid, “And this transformation is not just skin deep, it encompasses their psychological and social well-being as well. I regularly hear patients in my clinic describe their psychological motivations for seeking treatment—for example, loss of self-con fidence and social avoidance. As their aesthetic provider, being able to play a vital role in restoring a patient’s confidence, and self-esteem, and improv ing quality of life is the most fulfilling part of my job.”

Radiance Medspa has been serving the greater Weston community since 2006. Dr. Khalid’s long history, combined with her continued client support is a testament to the quality of the practice. They have been voted Best Medspa in Weston for six consecutive years in Our City’s Best of Weston.

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To learn more about Dr. Faiza Khalid and Radiance Medspa or to make a consultation appointment call 954-659-0199 or visit www.radianceweston.com.

Paula-Ann Francis,

Dr. Paula-Ann Francis is a boardcertified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. Her role as a community psychiatrist is to provide comprehensive evaluations and treatment for individuals in the community and at large.

She incorporates a holistic treatment protocol for mental health patients and provides mentorship and training for resident psychiatrists to reinvigorate the community we reside in. Dr. Francis is proud to be at the forefront of facilitating patients on their journey to mental well-being.

In her early teens, Dr. Francis had excellent mentors who encouraged her to give back to the community. Initially, she did this in the form of community service by providing care for and service to incarcerated individuals, people in mental health institutions, and underserved populations. Eventually, she aspired to achieve serving the underserved on a larger scale.

“I like being able to understand individuals at their core. Helping them to gain insight into, and overcome whatever obstacles are impeding them from reaching their full potential,” said Dr. Francis.

Dr. Francis currently manages her practice in Weston and is at the forefront of Psychiatry. Her practice provides state-of-the-art mental health care in the form of medication management and transcranial magnetic stimulation--a non-invasive, FDA-approved method of treating depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Helping people is what Dr. Francis has dedicated her life to, and it really shows.

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Paula-Ann Francis practices at 17110 Royal Palm Blvd • Suite 1 • Weston, FL. To make an appointment please call

Dr. Jane Therrien

PHYSICIAN Weston Family Eyecare

Dr. Jane Therrien grew up in Holland and immigrated to South Florida in 1986. In 1990, after graduating from South Plantation High School, her family moved to Weston. Dr. Therrien is the owner and Optometrist at Weston Family Eyecare. She and her staff have been caring for members of the Weston Community since she opened her optom etry practice, Weston Family Eyecare, in 2005.

Dr. Therrien specializes in serving her patients with the latest technology in vision correction techniques, lens treatments, contact lenses, and ophthalmic equipment. She was the first provider in Florida to offer the Neurolens, which provides relief of eye strain from digital devices, and has extensive experience with orthokeratol ogy (Orthok). Orthok is the science of reshaping the cornea of the eye without surgery to improve vision and virtually eliminate the need for daytime contact lenses and glasses.

“One of my favorite parts about being in a medical profession like optometry is that I get to help improve people’s quality of life by improving their vision and eye health,” said Dr. Therrien, “Optometry is also a very social profession and I love being able to interact with and learn about so many different people every day.”

Dr. Therrien’s practice offers patients excep tional eyecare. She is dedicated to providing the highest level of service so her patients can have the vision they deserve. She recommends sched uling a comprehensive eye exam once every year to ensure your eyes remain healthy.

Compassion and professionalism are extremely important to Dr. Therrien, and patients can expect to be treated as a member of her own family.

Carlo A. Messina, DPM

AND ANKLE SURGEON South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine

Carlo A. Messina is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon practicing podiatry in West Broward since 2009. He specializes in treating foot, ankle and leg injuries in infants, children, teenagers, and adults.

He graduated from the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine and completed his residency at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL.

He also completed a fellowship with the German Foot and Ankle Society in 2009.

His interests include treatment of complex deformities and trauma of the foot and ankle in children and adults. He lives in Weston with his wife, Victoria, their son, Sam, their daughter, Victoria, and their French Bulldogs, Mapache and Nya. He is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and is Board Certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. Dr. Messina continues to be active in the local communities.

make an appointment with Dr. Messina or learn more about South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine call

430-9901 or visit

If you are being treated for advanced or oligometastatic pancreatic cancer you may want to contact Dr. Robert Donoway at ATLAS ONCOLOGY in Hollywood, Florida.

Dr Donoway is using multi-modality therapy combining Pancreatic NanoKnife Tumor Ablation with chemo-immunoradio therapy to treat advanced stage cancer patients from around the world after they have stopped responding to standard of care therapy and have been left with few options for further treatment.

With over 32 years of experience performing pancreatic surgery in south Florida, Dr Donoway recognized that because of late diagnosis, up to 85% of patients treated for pancreatic cancer already had metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis. This fact limited the benefit many patients might receive from pancreatic surgery, which is problematic as surgery has been long held to be the only reproduceable therapy for cure; whereas in reality surgery is currently more likely Palliative in almost 80% of the cases.

Recent evidence shows that when even advanced disease is treated aggressively in an integrated approach, incorporating NanoKnife surgery with chemotherapy and now supplemented with immunotherapy, long-term survivorship can be achieved, especially when compared to chemotherapy alone.

Dr Donoway has been a pioneer in the use of pancreatic NanoKnife, especially for complex cases. During the past decade, patients from around the world have traveled to benefit from

this groundbreaking treatment by Dr Donoway, which is FDA approved. Dr Donoway also treats other advanced cancers, such as liver, Breast, and sarcomas, using NanoKnife Surgery based on its FDA approved guidelines. Patients experience a brief recovery, which means the patient can start chemotherapy and radiation that much sooner.

Dr Donoway feels that “we are long overdue to revise our approach to treating Pancreatic Ca. The treatment history been largely unchanged for over 80 years and has just broken the 10% five year survivorship barrier. Only thru thinking outside the box will we accomplish the positive. Otherwise, all we’re doing is confirming Einstein‘s definition of insanity.”

Dr Donoway is involved in ongoing research in identifying the best chemo-immuno therapy and sequencing to be used along with Pancreatic nanoKnife/IRE . Dr Donoway states, “the results so far have been very encouraging and we have begun using it for other select cancers. Among his longest survivors are now patients over nine years without evidence of cancer recurrence. In the past, without IRE they would have lived a little over a year, and so this technique opens a whole new avenue for treating those eligible patients in a more targeted fashion.”

Dr Donoway has presented his results of pancreatic ablation at the recent annual meeting of the American Pancreatic Association. For more information about Dr Donoway and the pancreatic IRE/NanoKnife program call 954-986-6366 or visit www.atlasoncology.com

ATLAS ONCOLOGY

Robert B. Donoway, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.S.S.O. Surgical Oncology & Pancreatic Surgical Oncology

Dr. Robert Donoway is a Board Certified Sloan Kettering trained Pancreatic surgical oncologist, who received his MD and surgical training at the University of Pennsylvania. At Sloan Kettering he was the General Motors Pancreatic Cancer Research Fellow. Dr Donoway is a former Director of the Memorial Regional Cancer Center (now the Memorial Cancer Institute) and Chairman of the Cancer committee for the Memorial Healthcare System as well as a former Chief of Surgery and Surgical Oncology at Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood, South Florida.

Dr Donoway served on the Board of the American Cancer Society and Gildas club. He has also served as past president of the American Cancer Society Broward chapter and serves on the board of trustees of the Ancient Spanish Monastery.

Dr Donoway is active in the The American and International Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Associations, The Pancreas Club, Society of Surgical Oncology and the American Pancreatic Association. His accomplishments include being the first surgeon in Florida to perform radio frequency ablation as well as laparoscopic major liver resection. He is the former recipient of the South Florida Health Award for use of micro-endoscopy for the detection of early stage breast cancer.

Dr Donoway has been repeatedly named to Top Doctor‘s in America by Castle Connolly. Dr Donoway is one of only a few international surgeons performing advanced multi-modal pancreatic and liver ablation therapy for non-resectable tumors.

Robert B. Donoway, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.S.S.O.

Director,

for

Medical

ONCOLOGY:

WESTON MUSIC SOCIETY HAS A MAGICAL MUSICAL SEASON PLANNED

Concert. The South Florida Symphony, who wowed the crowd last year, will return with a fresh program of popular classics and Broadway/movie songs.

Plans are afoot to repeat the fabulous Summer Pops Concert which featured spectacular local talent.

President Gina Catone says, “The Weston Music Society has upped its game. In addition to these wonderful offerings, we are fully subscribed to 12 matching schol arships for graduating seniors continuing their music studies in college. We also do in-school programs for the elementary schools and we work closely with the music departments at the high schools and middle schools.

The Weston Music Society has a wonderful season planned for our community. Says Co-Vice Presidents of Events, Diane Marett and Toby Feuer, “Music lovers of all genres will enjoy the eclectic offerings. We are really excited about this year’s programs”.

Kicking off the season will be: Dance Fever will take place on December 3rd from 6:30-8:30 pm in the Weston Town Center. Pure Energy from Coral Springs will be providing the entertain ment. Last year this event attracted many families, tees, and seniors, all trying out their special moves. Our theme this year is Come Dressed in White to keep cool while you dance the evening away.

On January 29th, the WMS will partner with the City of Weston and the Arts Council of Greater Weston on the popular Celebrate the Arts Day. The WMS will once again feature the bands, choruses, and drama departments from our high schools and middle schools. The talent of these amaz ing young musicians, nurtured and devel oped by their dedicated school directors, always brings cheers from the appreciative audience.

On April 1, 2023, the City of Weston and the WMS will bring back the outdoor Pops

We want to invite the community to join us to help make all these events happen. If you choose to become a member, you can designate your membership to be used toward the scholarships. We always need volunteers to help run our events. We can only take on more programs if we have the people to run them.’

You can find more details about all these musical events by visiting the WMS website at westonmusicsociety.org. This is also where you can find membership options and volunteer opportunities. The WMS looks forward to meeting all of you through out the year.

Just the other day

I came home from work after spending long hours at the office and many more stuck in traffic. I walked into the house and as I looked intensely at my sofa I had an internal debate about whether I should lie on it and vegetate or start preparing dinner; the debate was brief, and the sofa won! I laid there, on my phone, of course, surfing through social media, reading through my emails, and texting my co-worker about the day's shenanigans; as if we didn’t do enough talking at the office. My son came out of his room where he had been doing homework, sat next to me, and started

BE PRESENT

By Ivis Mateos

talking about school and something else, I couldn’t tell you what that something else was about because although I asked him, “sweetheart, how was your day?” I contin ued to surf through my phone and vegetate. My son continued to talk to me about his day, and suddenly raised his voice and said “mom, are you listening?” I responded, “yes, of course.” And he asked me to repeat what he said, I couldn’t. He then said to me that I was hearing him but not actually listening. He was right! A had a sudden revelation, I was not being present! I was doing the exact thing I was complaining about other parents doing. Children are desperately trying to get their attention, while parents walk aimlessly staring at their phones and unconsciously dismissing their children’s

need for attention. It is important that we remember to be present for our children. To prioritize our time with them. There is nothing wrong with spending your “me time” on your phone or doing whatever it is that helps you relax after a long day at work. However, it is important to be present and fully engaged when our children are around since our time with them is short but of significant impact. Children will naturally model their parent’s behavior. Some experts in the respective field suggest that the amount of quality time we spend with our children will greatly influence their future success in life. What example are we setting for our children? What kind of role models do we hope to be for them and what are we doing to achieve it?

Truths of Learning a Second Language

Her Story

n today’s globalized world, speaking a second language does not only offer advantages but essential elements for success in life. Citizens of the world need to embrace other cultures to expand knowledge and tolerance. From businesses to consumers, from early childhood education students to higher education ones, from tourist travelers to luxury passengers, the international com munity shows integration and connection. Organizations need people who can lead the constantly changing world’s economy. Learning a second language facilitates individuals to develop these needed skills. At the same time, learning another language enhances academic achievement, cogni tive development, and positive attitudes towards diversity. Simply said, second language learning is now “imperative “for growth in this contemporary global society.

In addition to the world’s societal contribution, learning a second language enhances any student’s school performance and cognitive development including:

• Problem-Solving Skills

• Communicative Skills

• Memory Performance (long & short-term)

• Creative & Critical Thinking

• Attitude Toward Foreign Language and Culture

Dr. Katya Pizarro

Lonna Spitaleri

• Higher standardized test scores

• Higher reading achievement

Founder & President

Elite Language Academy

Dr. Pizarro leads and manages Elite Language Academy (ELA). She creates and implements short-and long-range strategic plans in collaboration with the faculty and administrative team. She also oversees all aspects of curriculum design, marketing, and execution based on ELA’s goals and mission for international enrollment to promote a diverse and culturally competitive world’s community. As an innate educator, Dr. Pizarro is devoted and dedicated to teaching and learning. She frequently presents academic and professional lectures to international college students and instructors at American high schools second language acquisition, ESL teaching methods, and accommodations for English language learners in mainstream classes.

Advice to Young People Beginning a Career

benefits but career advantages as well. Bilingual or multilingual speakers have spe cific benefits over monolingual speakers in this globally connected world. These second language features will definitively make you consider the importance of learning English, Spanish, Mandarin, Italian, Portuguese, Korean, or any other language you consider attractive for this exciting new journey!

Principal Broker and Owner Costa Bella Realty Group

Being familiar with the second language learning process brings awareness and understanding of this complex and ben eficial process for all citizens of the world. Essentials of second language acquisition provides enhancement and development. Second language learning needs to be pro moted as a main component of the school’s curriculum and professional development. It gives not only cognitive and academic

You are ultimately responsible for your success. A growth Mindset needs to be present in your life. Having goals without planning just having positive thoughts! We learned that we obtain knowledge and growth when we consciously set goals and practice self-reflection. Do not hesitate to make changes that will lead you where you want to be. Your understanding of intelligence skills is key. There’s no doubt that developing a growth mindset allows your dreams to become realities. It’s worth it! Katya truly values the Golden Rule. The idea of treating others in the same way you’d like others to treat you. It is true people are different, but they all value respect, work ethic, honesty, empathy, and kindness. They all help me to be connected to my staff and students.

Something to Know About Dr. Pizarro

am grateful I have a chance to refresh that there is always room for growth mentally, physically, and spiritually. We all need be constantly curious. We must also consider that passion, determination, and perseverance will make any career path and dream possible!

Her Story

Lonna Spitaleri is the founder and real estate broker of Costa Bella Real Estate Group. With over 20 years in the real estate indus try, her knowledge, experience, and expertise combined deliver successful results to all types of real estate transactions. Lonna specializes in luxury homes where she is a certified Luxury Home Specialist. She also enjoys selling single-family homes and condos throughout Florida. Lonna works with developers and handles commercial property transactions. Lonna isn’t your ordinary real estate broker. She is a Concierge Broker. Her aim is to exceed her clients’ expectations by delivering personalized service to them whether the sale is small or monu mental. In her eyes, every client is special! She has been recog nized by her peers and was appointed to the Regional Board Mem ber by Broward Palm Beaches & Port St. Lucie Board of Realtors.

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

Advice to Young Women Pursuing a Career in Real Estate

Keep your service both personal and professional! Make sure your clients know that they are the most important thing for you and they will reward you. Consistency is another key to success. Always be available and reliable every step of the way.

Fun Fact about Costa Bella Realty Group

Lonna has 22 amazing hand-picked professional agents at Costa Bella! They offer the same service that Lonna has built her reputa tion.

When disaster strikes in your home, there is only one company to turn to 24, Hrs Restoration. The professionals at 24Hrs Restoration understand that every second of a disaster is crucial, so they are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The company specializes in fire and smoke damage, water and sewer extraction, mold remediation, individual and community board-up, and restoration services. Their team of skilled, trained ad insured technicians will be at your property within minutes of receiving your call.

When a South Florida property is damaged, it is extremely important to act immediately. Mitigating property damage early is the key to ensuring a small-scale issue doesn’t become a big problem.

Water Damage

Water damage in South Florida can come from many places. A leaky roof, a burst pipe or even a window left open can lead to water damage. If water damage is not treated quickly and properly additional damage to your house could result. 24Hrs Restoration’s team of qualified technicians will get to work within minutes to ensure your home is repaired and restored

Fire Damage

Restoring your home after a fire requires a very special set of skills. 24Hrs Restoration specializes in fire damage and smoke damage cleanup, removal of smoke odors and the resto ration of the space back to its original condition (or even better).

Mold Damage

Quickly and safely removing mold from a home can minimize the damage to your property and, more importantly, minimize the impact

mold can have on family members’ health. 24 Hrs Restoration’s Mold Remediation Team will get to work to remove and stop the spread of mold in your home.

Whether your family is facing a major disaster or a small water leak, 24Hrs Restoration is the ideal partner to call to ensure your home will be on the path to restoration. The owners and staff pride themselves on integrity and always act in their client’s best interest.

▸ If are in need of water, fire, mold, or hurricane remediation, call 24Hrs Restoration 877-400-2424 They are available day and night.

Rotary Club of Weston’s Commitment to Global Polio Eradication IS STRONGER THAN EVER!

By Margarita Lartitegui

vaccines, have donated, and advocated for this cause. Thousands of Rotarians have helped administer Polio Vaccines during National Immunization Days around the world. Even in the most remote territories and conflict areas, millions of kids under five receive the Polio vaccine annually.

Today, more than 20 million people are able to walk and are protected from potential paralysis or even death because of the successful worldwide vaccination effort. Additionally, we have gone from 122 countries suffering from endemic Polio to only two countries. Pakistan & Afghanistan are still facing pockets of infection and just a few cases of circulating Wild Poliovirus. Rotary is steadfast in its commitment to continue its humanitarian efforts until Polio is eradicated worldwide. Although two countries still have pockets of infection, the rest of the world has been declared Polio fee, and only a few countries have faced temporary outbreaks.

awareness. Last year, the Rotary Club of Weston raised and contributed $12,000 towards the Polio Initiative. Thanks to the matching program with the Gates Foundation, this translated to approximately 60,000 vaccine doses! We are so close. Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Weston will stay committed to Polio eradication until we are Polio Free in the World.

▸ Please visit the Rotary Club of Weston weekly meetings each Thursday at 7:30 AM at The Club at Weston Hills or join us at our bi-weekly Evening meetings in Weston. Visit www.westonrotary.com or find us on Facebook @RotaryClubofWeston for more info and learn more about Rotary's people of action.

More than 35 years ago, Rotary International made a promise of “A Polio-Free World.” Since this promise, Rotary’s humanitarian service effort has been on the frontline of the Global Polio eradica tion initiative. In collaboration with Rotary International are worldwide Governments, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, among many others. Worldwide eradication of Polio has been centerstage of Rotary International’s commitments and priorities. Subsequently, this has become one of Rotary’s signature initiatives around the world and in almost every club, big or small.

Rotary International has contributed more than $2.6 Billion to this crusade, becoming the biggest Private sector donor, even above government contributions. Almost every Rotary member in the world, as part of this organization of 1.4 million members, has contributed and actively participated in the End Polio Now effort. Rotary members have fundraised for Polio

Today, the strategy is very clear, and countries are following a successful model. Every year, Rotary International commits $150 Million to this effort, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation matches $1 to $2 for Polio vaccine distribution, surveillance, and more. We have made incredible progress, and we are 99.9% Polio Free. Still, Rotary International will not stop until the world is Polio Free!

Rotary Club of Weston has been highly involved and supportive of this ambitious goal for years. Every year members of the Rotary Club of Weston have devoted countless hours of their time collecting donations and successfully raising funds for Polio vaccines. The Rotary Club of Weston supports this humanitarian effort through direct donations from community partners, like schools participating in Polio Purple Pinkie Days, or organizations that contrib ute funds for vaccines and to create

Pediatric Associates Moves to Brand New State-of-the-Art Office in Weston

Pediatric Associates recently moved its Weston office to a brand new location at 1695 N Park Drive, Suite 101. The newly renovated office features an inviting ambiance that will make kids of all ages feel welcome. Bright colors, 3D artwork, and an underwater theme give an unmatched level of comfort for your child’s next visit to the doctor.

The new, upgraded offices include a medical lab, on-site X-Ray equipment and an in-house Allergist. Patients can have access to care 24 hours a day, year round. Pediatric Associates also offers telemedicine options in addition to on-site care. Parents can download their telemedicine app, KidZDocNow or visit the

website www.KidzDocNow.us to access care.

Pediatric Associates is Florida’s largest privately owned primary care pediatric practice, with more than 200 providers and 50 convenient locations extending from Jacksonville to Miami. Their facilities offer families comprehensive services, including X-ray and state-certified laboratories. They are open 365 days a year with weekend, evening, and holiday hours for your convenience.

The practice’s mission is to enhance the lives of all children and their families by delivering the highest quality pediatric healthcare in a compassionate and healthy environment.

Founded in 1955, Pediatric Associates opened its first office in Hollywood, Florida. Since then, their physicians have cared for generations of families with their first patients now bringing their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to the practice.

Each child’s care is coordinated by the primary clinician of his/her parent’s choice. Their Medical Home is a “Pediatric Team” or partnership between parents, your child, your family, and your primary care clinician.

▸

Pediatric Associates offers Comprehensive Medical Care for patients from newborns to age 21. They are currently accepting new pa tients at their new Weston location. To make an appointment or learn more call 954-389-7000 or visit www.pediatricassociates.com.

Our Weston office has moved

Come visit the new location!

Pediatric Associates Weston has a new home on North Park Drive.

1695 North Park Dr., #101

Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm Saturday, 8am – 12pm 954-389-7000

PEDIATRIC FOOT & ANKLE SPRAINS Can Be a More Complex Growth Plate Injury

By Dr. Carlo A. Messina

X-rays can fail to provide a complete and accurate picture of the diagnosis.

Injuries to the growth plate in children may cause damage to the structures at the end of the bone that will allow the child’s bone to grow to full adult size. These injuries may be misdiagnosed as a simple sprain of the foot or ankle. However, a more complex injury may be present.

Growth plates, which start to close between the ages of thirteen and eighteen can be damaged in incidents such as simple falls, sports injuries, automobile accidents or other major or minor trauma. If not recognized and treated early, a child’s growth plate injury can lead to shortening of the bone (growth ceases) as the growth plate may close prematurely. Angular deformities of the bone (a curve) may also develop. The severity of these deformities depends on the age at the time of injury, extent of the injury and the part of the growth plate that has been damaged. Certain portions of the growth plate may be injured affecting its growth while other parts grow more normally thus causing a bowing of the bone.

Symptoms of a growth plate injury may mimic a sprain. These injuries occur more frequently than realized. There will always be pinpoint tenderness on the bone’s growth plate and a degree of swelling that is proportional to the degree of injury to the area. The child will often limp and try to avoid the body part. Normal treatment for a sprain may involve simple observation and application of an ace bandage or brace. This treatment for a growth plate injury that is severe may be devastating.

X-rays are used to evaluate bone and joint alignment. A growth plate can be injured or even fractured with a normal X-ray. In more moderate to severe cases, x-rays will usually show the fracture. When in doubt, a CT scan may be necessary. Treatment options (early diagnosis is crucial):

1. Immobilization in a below-the-knee cast with or without crutches may be necessary if the growth plate is well aligned. These injuries will heal on their own within six to eight weeks. The younger the child, the faster it heals.

2. If the injury has caused misalignment of the growth plate it can sometimes be carefully manipulated back into place and then protected with a cast. The cast would be necessary for a minimum of six to eight weeks. Non Weight Bearing would be mandatory.

3. If the misalignment is more severe and not able to be manipulated back into its normal position, surgery would be necessary to restore the growth plate to its proper position. This may help avoid later problems including malalignment or premature growth plate closure that may cause the extremity to be shortened and crooked.

The most important thing is immediate diagnosis and treatment.

▸ 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. 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.

Dr.

GET A DILATED EYE EXAM

By Dr. Jane Therrien, Optometric Physician

What is a dilated eye exam?

A dilated eye exam is the best thing you can do for your eye health! It’s the only way to check for eye diseases early on when they’re easier to treat — and before they cause vision loss.

The exam is simple and painless. Your eye doctor will check for vision problems that make it hard to see clearly, like being nearsighted or farsighted. Then your doctor will give you some eye drops to dilate (widen) your pupil and check for eye diseases.

Since many eye diseases have no symptoms or warning signs, you could have a problem and not know it. Even if you think your eyes are healthy, getting a dilated eye exam is the only way to know for sure.

How often do I need to get a dilated eye exam?

How often you need a dilated eye exam depends on your risk for eye disease. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.

Get a dilated eye exam every 1 to 2 years if you:

▸ Are over age 60

▸

▸

Are African American and over age 40

Have a family history of glaucoma

If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, ask your doctor how often you need an exam. Most people with diabetes or high blood pressure need to get a dilated eye exam at least once a year.

What happens during a dilated eye exam?

The exam includes:

▸

A visual acuity test to check how clearly you see. Your doctor will ask you to read letters that are up close and far away.

▸ A visual field test to check your peripheral (side) vision. Your doctor will test how well you can see objects off to the sides of your vision without moving your eyes.

▸ An eye muscle function test to check for problems with the muscles around your eyeballs. Your doctor will move an ob ject around and ask you to follow it with your eyes.

▸ A pupil response test to check how light enters your eyes. Your doctor will shine a small flashlight into your eyes and check how your pupils react to the light.

▸ A tonometry test to measure the pressure in your eyes. Your doctor will use a machine to blow a quick puff of air onto your eye, or gently touch your eye with a special tool. Don’t worry — it doesn’t hurt!

▸

Dilation to check for problems with the inner parts of your eye. Your doctor will give you some eye drops to dilate (wid en) your pupil. This helps the doctor see inside your eye.

Depending on your needs, your doctor may include other tests too. Ask your doctor if you have questions.

How does dilation work?

Dilating your pupil lets more light into your eye — just like opening a door lets light into a dark room. Dilation helps your eye doctor check for many common eye problems, including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

What happens after a dilated eye exam?

For a few hours after a dilated eye exam, your vision may be blurry and you may be sensitive to light. Ask a friend or family member to drive you home from your appointment.

If your eye doctor finds refractive errors in your vision, you may get a prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses to help you see more clearly.

Bring your sunglasses!

Your eyes may be sensitive to light for a few hours after your exam. Sunglasses can help, so bring them if you have them! Your eye doctor may also have disposable sunglasses they can give you.

If your eye doctor finds signs of an eye disease, you can talk about treatment options and decide what’s right for you.

If you’re seeing clearly and there are no signs of eye disease, you’re all set until your next exam. Make an appointment for your next dilated eye exam before you leave the office — that way, you won’t forget!

Looking for the Opening Straight Drive Down the Middle of the Fairway?

By Dean Sklar, PGA Professional

It’s a great feeling to stride off the first tee knowing you have hit your ball straight down the middle of the fairway. It’s a huge boost to your confidence and any self-doubt you may have had immediately disappears. It’s a given that when you hit it straight from the very start you set up great momentum for the rest of your round.

Realistically speaking it’s a fallacy to think you can hit dead straight golf shots all of the time. Here are some tips and drills to help you hit a straight shot.

Try to avoid being too tense – Work on removing tension from your wrist and forearm muscles and learn instead to swing freely. A cluttered mind will always add tension and therefore start to improve by reducing the number of different swing thoughts in your head. It is far easier to release the club through impact without tension because a relaxed muscle is faster than a tense one. In addition, less tension makes it far easier to rotate your shoulders and hit the straight shot you are looking for. Swing with a neutral grip – The key to hitting it straight comes from maintaining a neutral grip. Focus on some of the key check points including counting the number of knuckles you can see when you address the ball. Ideally you will see only two knuckles on your left hand; anymore and you are likely to hook the ball. Equally, check the number of knuckles visible on your right hand. You should see no

more than three; anymore and you are likely to slice the ball. In conclusion, the right hand controls the swing path and the left hand controls the angle of the clubface.

Set up correctly to the ball – Line up your feet, hips and shoulders parallel to the ball to target line at address. In lining up square to the ball to target line, make your life easier by picking a spot about six feet out in front of the ball to represent this imag inary line. Check that your left shoulder faces the target, perhaps the flag stick on a par 3. Check the direction of your divots – Check your divots to determine whether you are hitting the ball with a square clubface. Your divots will clearly tell you the angle at which you struck the ball. If they are pointing directly at the target you need to go back to basics making sure your feet and shoulders are lined up properly.

Determine the correct ball posi tion for each club – It varies for each club and therefore it is critical you set up your ball position correctly at address. For pitching wedges and short clubs, the ball should be positioned in the middle of your stance.

Always see your local PGA Professional for lessons as they are the ones to help you have more fun out on the course.

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

Skin Problems

By Miguel E. Cordova, DVM

A wide variety of skin and coat conditions can cause your dog to itch and scratch, but pinpointing the problem can sometimes be difficult because many skin disorders cause similar out ward signs. Following are four major categories of skin conditions seen in dogs.

Bacterial Skin Infections

The most common bacteria identified in bacte rial skin diseases in dogs are Staphylococcus. Not contagious to people or other pets, these bacteria commonly cause a condition called “pyoderma” that results in itchy, yellow pustules; reddened skin; ulcerations; and/or hair loss.

Bacterial skin infections are usually diagnosed based on the patient’s history as well as the location and appearance of the affected area. Your veterinarian may also perform blood tests and skin tests to determine the origin of the problem. Many bacterial skin infections have an underlying cause, such as parasite infestation, hormonal or immune system disorder, or allergy. If the underlying cause is not treated appropriately, the skin infection will likely return. Treatment involves an antibiotic shampoo followed by application of an antibiotic ointment and oral antibiotics.

Fungal Skin Infections

The most common fungal skin infection in dogs is ringworm, which causes circular patches of hair loss usually on the head and legs. Diagnosis is best made via a fungal culture, where your veterinarian will pluck a few hairs from the edge of the circular patch and grow the fungi to see exactly what it is. Treatment for ringworm involves bathing the dog in a special fungicidal shampoo and administering antibiotics. Complete eradication of the infection can take a month or longer.

Ringworm is quite contagious to both people and other pets. Therefore, children and other household pets should be kept away from an infected dog during the treatment period. Anyone coming into contact with the affected dog should wash their hands regularly.

Allergic Skin Diseases

Allergies develop when your pet’s immune system overreacts to certain substances, causing tissue irritation. Skin conditions caused by allergy are challenging to diagnose and difficult to treat. Your veterinarian will first rule out all other types of

skin irritation before making a diagnosis of allergy. Allergic dermatitis can be triggered by natural and artificial fibers, drugs, plants, dust, and food ingredients.

Treatment of allergies in dogs varies from ointments and sprays to injections and oral medication. A steroid called corti sone is sometimes used to ease the itching, but it can cause other health problems if used long-term. Although there is no cure for allergies, they can be controlled. The best remedy is to avoid whatever it is that sparks the allergy.

Parasitic Skin Diseases

There are a number of parasites that can infest dogs, all of which irritate the dog and cause self-mutilation from excessive scratching and biting. Fleas are one of the biggest culprits. Repeated infiltration by fleas can cause an immediate skin reaction to even one bite. If your dog is allergic, he will scratch excessively, causing redness, bumps, pustules, scabs, and hair loss in the affected areas. Other small bugs such as chiggers, deer flies, and gnats can also

bother dogs, but they don’t typically cause extensive skin problems.

Sarcoptic mites, also called “scabies” or “red mange,” inflame the skin and create numerous small scabs. Because they burrow under the skin, they are intensely uncomfortable for the dog but are often difficult to diagnose. Demodex mites are commonly found in small numbers in all dogs, but a percentage of dogs can experience an extensive infestation that leads to skin problems.

Help Is Available

Most skin conditions can be controlled but not cured and therefore require frequent, sometimes lifelong, treatment. No matter the cause of your dog’s skin irritation, it is possible to ease his pain and suffering. When you do, it will be a relief for both of you.

▸

If you would like further information please feel free to contact us here at Animal Health Center @ Weston (954)385-8389 or visit our website www.animalhealthcenter atweston.com

Dr. Susan Fox

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

By State Representative Robin Bartleman

y office receives calls regard ing numerous issues from housing and property insurance to mental health and school resources. We are always happy to help; however, when you or a loved one are in crisis, it is important that you have access to help 24 hours a day.

The phone number 211 Broward is 24-hour comprehensive helpline. This free and confidential service connects individuals and families to experts that can guide and assist them with help in health and human services within Broward County. In coordination with over 3,800 programs and nonprofit agencies, the helpline offers listening support, information, referrals, and crisis services in any language. The helpline can assist with mental health

Mand substance use, military and veterans’ issues, general health and wellness, TeenSpace, child development, special needs connections, elder care, caregivers’ resources, disasters and emergencies, and more! On their website, you will find differ ent ways to connect with a professional via call, text, online chat or email. You can also download the program’s app for quick access.

Visit: www.211-broward.org

Additionally, a new phone number for the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was established (988) to connect with counsel ors 24/7. In crisis situations, the counselor does not automatically call 911. Instead, the counselor connects with the caller by listening to their story to make them feel safe no matter the root of the problem. Although these helplines are valuable tools, they do not replace dialing 911 in case of an emergency.

Additional Mental Health Hotlines

No matter where you live in the country, there are several dedicated helplines available to you.

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: call 1-800-273-8255 or DIAL 988

• Veterans Crisis Line: call: 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 text: 838255

• Crisis Text Line: text the word ‘Home’ to 741-741

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

OPEN & UNSOLVED

old cases, by their very name, are crimes that remain unsolved. Investigating these cases takes patience, tenacity and innova tive thinking. At the Broward Sheriff's Office, unsolved crimes will never be placed on the shelf or forgotten, and the passage of time will not delay our quest for justice.

In 2019, BSO created a full-time Cold Case Unit, whose primary function is to investigate unsolved homicides and sex crimes. The cases date back to 1963; today, about 350 remain open.

The trails of these investigations might have gone cold, but the pain for the families never goes away. The detectives investigating these crimes work tirelessly for the victim's loved ones, never giving up the search for that one clue that could help lead us to solve these crimes.

Making progress on these cases can be challenging; however, significant technological

By Sheriff Gregory Tony

Cadvances have helped immensely. Thirty years ago, DNA testing was in its infancy. Today, we can retest physical evidence to identify potential suspects and link them to a crime. Progress in fingerprint identification has also come a long way. Even minute, unique details of an individual fingerprint can be discerned by new programs, leading to faster and more accurate identification.

Last year, the BSO Cold Case Unit, working with the Miami Police Department, Brazilian National Police and U.S. federal agencies, tracked down the man responsible for the brutal murders of three South Florida women decades ago through DNA and fingerprint technology. The resolution of the case received worldwide attention. However, it is only one of the eight cases the BSO Cold Case Unit has solved since its inception.

To bring more exposure to these investi gations, we launched a cold case video series to uncover possible new leads. The first epi sode details a North Lauderdale mother and daughter who were shot and killed in their bed in 2017. In another, a Pompano Beach-based American Airlines pilot was shot nine times

at his front door in 2011. The latest episode explores the brutal murder of Jerri Emken in 1985, who was found dead at the Pompano Beach bar where she worked. While the mur ders remain unsolved, detectives hope the series will jog a memory and result in new leads bringing resolution to these cases. I encourage you to take some time to view this series on the Broward Sheriff's Office YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/BrowardSheriffsOffice.

You, too, can help bring a critical clue to one of our cold cases. Broward Crime Stoppers is a vital resource for submitting tips resulting in successful outcomes. Even the most minor clues, something someone saw, heard or remembered, can result in a new lead. Anyone with information on unsolved cases is asked to contact the Broward Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Division at (954) 321-4200 or Broward Crime Stoppers at (954) 493-TIPS (8477) to report a tip anonymously.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

In Honor of Halloween: CELEBRITY PROBATE NIGHTMARES

By Andrea L. Jakob, Esq.

Recently, we heard about the tragic passing of Anne Heche. I was astounded to read she did not have a will, although the mother of minor children.

Earlier this year, I spoke at the Broward County Library regarding "Probate Nightmares." While I used recent stories you may be familiar with as examples of what not to do, I think it shows us what we ALL must do! And I hope that Anne Heche’s legacy will not end up as a topic of my next speaking engagement.

Nightmare 1. Rockstar Prince’s Intestate Estate. Without a will, your wishes are determined according to state law. The court may make the decision as to who will receive your assets. If you have minor children, a guardian may not be the one you would have chosen.

Prince died intestate. His full sister, five half-siblings, and hundreds more individuals claimed to be entitled to his funds. The IRS then fought with his family for about six years to determine the value of his taxable estate. Lesson learned: avoid a nightmare by consulting a trusted attorney to plan for the future.

Nightmare 2. Aretha Franklin’s improperly completed wills.

Suppose you do not clearly and unequivocally complete your estate plan documents according to state law. In that case, your family may end up with a mess like Aretha’s Family. They assumed she had no will, but a few handwritten documents were found. Then her attorneys found a draft "Will of Aretha Franklin" that was never signed. She had four improperly completed "wills" that forced her estate and assets to remain stuck in court years following her passing. All to await a judge to rule on the validity of those documents. Lesson learned: Ensure your documents are properly signed and executed according to state law.

Nightmare 3. Jerry Garcia’s ex-wives: Selecting the right "fiduciaries" or persons to handle your matters.

Jerry Garcia's family dealt with a complex probate estate. His decisions led to a family and court battle. His third wife was named the Executor (Personal Representative) responsible for the ongoing alimony payments to his second wife. Lesson learned: choose the right people to fulfill your responsibilities and wishes.

Nightmare 4. Robin William’s “Stuff."

The family of Robin Williams was lucky his estate plan was well prepared; except for one major issue: the plan for his collectibles, photographs, and memorabilia, including one Academy Award, six Golden Globes, two Emmys, and five Grammys, was left unresolved. His family ended up in a bitter feud over these unique and treasured items.

Lesson learned: personal property, "our stuff," may have emotional or financial worth. You don't want your family fighting over your personal belongings.

Although each celebrity discussed likely had agents, managers, and attorneys heavily involved in their careers, none had an ideal estate plan.

Given the constantly changing laws and the inherent complexities in today's families, everyone—famous or not—needs to take time to protect their loved ones with a complete, updated estate plan.

▸ Andrea L. Jakob, PA is located at 12401 Orange Drive, suite 219 in Davie. They can be reached at 954-406-5239 or on the web at www.jakoblegal.com.

” FIRE WON’T WAIT. PLAN YOUR ESCAPE ”

By Chief Todd Draizin

One-third of all fires reported in the United States occur in homes during sleeping hours. Each year the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) releases a national theme for Fire Departments to educate the public about fire safety. This year’s theme is “Fire Won’t Wait. Plan Your Escape.” As we celebrate Fire Prevention Week, October 9-15, The Broward Sheriff Office Department of Fire Rescue will visit elementary schools around Weston to educate students on the importance of practicing fire safety at home, starting with a home fire safety plan which includes a meeting place where all family members can go for reunification.

Elementary-aged children across the United States will participate in fire safety presentations, have fun visiting with firefighters, or take tours through the fire station. Students will learn about steps to stay safe from fire, starting with never playing with matches or lighters. As Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue partners with Weston elementary schools,

School-aged students participating in fire safety presentations will receive a home escape map worksheet and a homework assignment to speak with their parents and create or review their home fire safety plan, including a family meeting place. Parents and caregivers can also partner with us by helping their child(ren) create a home fire escape plan and choose a family meeting place. Children will also be taught how and when to call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

Parents and caregivers can help keep their families safe from fire by practicing a few simple fire safety tips. Test your smoke alarms monthly, and change the batteries when you change your clocks, twice yearly. Newer smoke alarms may have non-replaceable batteries. Weston residents ages 55+ who need assistance with changing batteries in their smoke alarm(s), please call the City of Weston Fire Station 81 at 954-389-2090 to schedule an appointment. Lastly, the NFPA recommends replacing all smoke alarms ten years old or older.

Create and practice a fire escape plan with everyone living in your home. This plan should include knowing two ways out of each room, staying low, and crawling your way to safety. Get out and stay out, and remain at your meeting place. Some great examples of family meeting places are mailboxes, a tree in front of the house, street signs, or other landmarks outside the home.

The final tip is to practice home fire drills. Schools practice fire drills monthly to ensure that children know where to go and what to do in the event of a fire. This repetition and practice make it easier for kids to remember what to do in the event of a real fire emergency.

Since more fires occur in homes than in schools, it is a great idea to practice home fire drills. For more information about home fire drills, please visit www.NFPA.org. With proper preparedness, you can help keep your family safe from fire.

By Patty Archer

The Weston Florida Chamber has been serving this community since its inception just a few short years ago in 2017. Our network of local leaders are dedicated to developing their businesses into ones that will stay and grow in Weston for years to come. To that end, the Chamber serves as a way to develop business skills, connect with elected officials, and build the lasting relationships that businesses need to grow. At every turn, the Chamber encourages our businesses and neighbors to shop locally in Weston.

The idea of Shop Local is integral to ensuring a strong local economy to sustain our area in the long-term. A greater portion of each dollar spent locally tends to stay in the local economy when you spend it with a local business. Stronger local busi nesses are then able to hire more local employees, spend their money sourcing materials locally as well, and also support local charities more. A flourishing local business environment also increases competition and diversity of choice for consumers, which in turn promotes innovation and keeps prices competitive.

Help keep Weston strong! When you need a product or service, always think of Weston first. If you’re looking for a new provider to help with a service at your home or office, let the Chamber be your first resource for finding a local business to be the answer. A strong local economy means a strong Weston for us all.

Now and in the future, the Chamber strives to be a Convener of leaders, a Catalyst for positive change, and a Champion for a strong business community. For more information and our event calendar, visit www.westonflchamber.com.

CELEBRATING OUR CITY FORT LAUDERDALE

The Publishers and Staff of Our City Fort Lauderdale celebrated the launch of our eighth and newest magazine at Tarpon River Brewing. We were joined by friends, city leaders, business leaders, and community members for a fantastic time. The food and ambiance were outstanding; we loved the craft-brewed beer and can’t wait to return soon. Thank you, everyone!

CONCEALED

PRIVATE

thru

tuition:

daughter in kindergarten is excelling in reading & writing, she loves learning and I know it’s because of Tree of Life. Their amazing school brings a balance of nurture and structure, giving students the best preparation for school years ahead! We are blessed to have Tree of Life in our community!”

Family