Our City Weston: December 2020 by Our City Media

Weston Our City

We Connect Communities | December 2020

“We feel like our formula to be different than all the othe Our intention was to create that when a child enters our s a sense of wonder,” said Gab “The children are still going t a lot, but we also wanted the they are in a magical place.”

Providing a Higher Level of Care and 20 Education

Photography By Jason Chandler

Weston & Davie’s #1 Premier Early Childhood Learning Academy!

2020

FEATURED ON PAGE 23

OurCityMedia.com

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“Every day that goes by, I am more grateful my mother is living at

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Happy Holidays We’ve reopened our practice in accordance with CDC and O.S.H.A. guidelines to responsibly resume seeing our patients for regular appointments and treatments.

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WE HAD BUYER & SELLER

CLOSED

3029 Birkdale, Weston The Reserve - Weston Sold for $1,375,000 5 beds, 5.5 baths Pool & Water, New Roof, Impact

2459 Provence Cir, Weston Weston Hills CC Sold for $1,180,000 5 beds, 4.5 baths Pool & Golf

1470 Victoria Isle Dr, Weston Weston Hills CC Sold for $1,160,000 5 beds, 5.5 baths Pool & Water

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3547 Derby Lane, Weston Windmill Ranch Estates Sold for $1,490,000 5 beds, 5 baths Pool & Water

PENDING SALE

CLOSED

NEW PRICE

2581 Jardin Dr, Weston Weston Hills CC Sold for $785,000 4 beds, 3.5 baths Pool & Water

STAGED & SOLD

1294 Chinaberry Dr, Weston Savanna Listed for $600,000 5 beds, 3.5 baths Pool

485 Alexandra Cr, Weston Palm Island Sold for $712,500 4 beds 3 baths Pool & New Roof

2542 Sanctuary Dr, Weston Weston Hills CC Listed for $1,945,000 5 beds 6 baths Pool & Golf, New Roof

2680 Riviera Ct, Weston Riviera in Weston Hills CC Listed for $1,590,000 5 beds, 6.5 baths Pool & Golf

2467 Provence Cir, Weston Weston Hills CC Listed for $1,499,000 4 beds + office + playroom 5 baths Pool & Golf, Brand New Roof

14940 SW 16th Ct, Davie Zona West Listed for $1,462,000 3 beds, 4 baths New Construction

2549 Hunters Run Way, Weston Weston Hills CC Listed for $1,130,000 6 beds, 5 baths Pool & Water

1640 Island Way, Weston Maple Island Listed for $850,000 5 beds, 3 full + 2 half baths New Roof & Pool

3703 Vista Way, Weston The Ridges Listed for $699,000 4 beds + office, 3 baths Pool

1849 Hidden Trail, Weston Weston Hills CC Listed for $900,000 6 beds, 4 baths Pool, Impact

1339 Plumosa Way, Weston Savanna Listed for $450,000 3 beds, 2 baths

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The Patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for any other service, examination, or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement or the free, discounted fee or reduced fee, service, examination, or treatment

CONTENTS PUBLISHERS’ PAGE

LEGALLY SPEAKING

14 Here’s to 2021!

34 Your 2021 Resolutions 58 Holiday Time Sharing

CALENDAR PAGE

60 BUSTED! Four Common Myths About Probate

18, 20 December 2020r

FEATURE STORY 23 Tree of Life Christian Academy Preschool Provides a Higher Level of Care & Education

ASK THE EXPERT 36 Impingement Syndromes in Dancers 38 Modern Cosmetic Surgery: Beauty, Health and Wellbeing Are One 52 Payroll Protection Program Tax & Accounting Implications 56 Considering Removing Your Breast Implants? 65 How to Manage Vision Changes Post LASIK

ROTARY NEWS

63 The Rotary Foundation, Dramatically Changing Lives In Our Community and Around the World

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

HEALTH AND WELLNESS 42 Teenage Sleep: Why is Your Teen So Tired?

68 GoldFellow Offers a Safe, Secure & Convenient Way to sell Gold, Silver Platinum & Diamonds

POSITIVE PARENTING

DINING OUT

24 Celebrate the Holidays the Sardinian Way Zona Blu Offers Weston a Taste of the Mediterranean

COMMUNITY NEWS 26 Weston Swears in First Woman Mayor

32 “The Show Must Go On” Virtual Event Launches the Road to Recovery Campaign 66 The Rotary Run for Tomorrow Goes Virtual 76 From Tokyo to Broward-Otoro Asian Kitchen Opens in Plantation

SCHOOL NEWS 28 Aftercare Safety is Never an Afterthought at Eagle Point 30 BCPS School Choice Applications Accepted Through February 8th 48 How to Keep Your Children Safe in a Remote Learning Environment 12 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

44 Holiday Stress? Get Your Family Through in a Breeze

CAN DO KID 46 This Girl Scout Delivers More Than Just Cookies

SAFETY CORNER REAL ESTATE

50 Holiday Safety

70 Off to the Races, We Are Leaning Into a Seller’s Market

FROM TEE TO GREEN 54 How Well Do You Practice Your Putting?

FEATURE STORY 72 Get Protection and Peace of Mind at South Florida’s Only 5-Star Range – Nexus Shooting

ANIMAL HEALTH 74 Selecting a New Puppy

PET OF THE MONTH 75 Meet “Suki”

PUZZLE PAGE 75 Answer Key 78 Crossword

PHOTO OF THE MONTH 81 OUR CITY Travels to the Blue Ridge Mountains

Weston’s Next Generation

Bobby Auerbach Broker Associate 954.547.3600 bobby.auerbach@compass.com

Superior marketing and technology for the luxury real estate market W H Y T H E AU E R B AC H G RO U P ?

$30M

Our team has sold over $30M in Real Estate so far in 2020, during the pandemic.

Compass is ranked #1 in all of Broward County.

• Compass Concierge: Get fronted for the cost of home improvement services with no interest—ever. • Superior marketing and technology brought to you by our in-house creative team. • Professional virtual tours, aeriel and videography included in your listing package • Extensive social media presence locally, nationally and internationally. • Compass Bridge Loans: A simple solution to bridge the gap between the home you have and the home you want. • Compass Collections: A curated visual workspace where you can keep track of the homes you like and save them in one place.

Just Listed

2133 NW 4th Ave $946,500 Wilton Manors, Fort Lauderdale 4 BD 3 BA 1 HB

Just Sold

421 Conservation Drive $507,000 Savanna, Weston 4 BD 2 BA 1 HB

Just Sold

304 Mallard Road $670,000 The Landings, Weston 4 BD 3 BA 1 HB

Just Sold

12320 N Parkland Bay Trail $1,033,000 Parkland Bay, Parkland New construction, Waterfront

Just Sold

4166 Open Way $400,000 Rock Creek, Cooper City 4 BD 2 BA 1 HB

Just Sold

737 Nandina Drive $679,000 Savanna, Weston 6 BD 4 BA

Just Sold

3501 N Ocean Drive #4C $1,325,610 Villas of Positano, Hollywood 3 BD 3 BA 1 HB

Scan to learn more

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

PUBLISHER’S PAGE

Here’s to 2021!

t is hard to reflect on the past year without a bit of shock and awe. The year began with Democratic Party presidential candidates debating which health plan is better, while South Florida hosted the NFL’s Super Bowl. The year’s final month will be our ninth consecutive enduring a pandemic. There is uncertainty if the NCAA’s football championship, planned to be played in the same stadium as the Super Bowl, will even allow spectators. To say it has been quite a year is an understatement. More than 250,000 Americans have died from COVID-19 related illnesses, including more than 17,000 Floridians. We have continued a troubling trend away from ideological politics toward conflict-infused, identity politics. As of this writing, firefighters on the west coast continue to battle massive wildfires; COVID-19 infections continue to increase. We mourn the loss of some of America’s most impactful people, including Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, basketballer Kobe Bryant, actor Chadwick Boseman, singer Kenny Rogers, Jeopardy host Alex Trebek and Miami’s own, Don Shula. Amidst all of this doom and gloom, however, it’s helpful to look forward. Several pharmaceutical companies from across the globe are in the final stages of vaccine clinical trials. New platforms like TicToc have enabled young, creative people access to an audience like never before, and progress to stem the effects of climate change is finally being made. So, this New Year’s Eve, raise a glass of champagne, to the year that was, but to the year that will be. Here is to a better 2021! Sincerely,

Terry & Christy Jaillet Co-Publishers

PUBLISHERS Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com MANAGING EDITOR Christy Jaillet ART DIRECTOR Tom Rowe GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Alana Brodie ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Nancy Koval nancy@ourcitymedia.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES John Brodie, Denise Caligiuri, Adrienne Collins, Mariem Garcia, Kenny Rodgers, Silvia Silva CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Beverly Perkins, Ivis Mateos, Representative Richard Stark, Dr. Jean Nerette, Stephanie Muniz -ARNP, Fire Chief Todd Draizin, Dr. Carlo A. Messina, Holly & Bob Catania, Dr. Maria Grosman, Terry Jaillet, Dr. Behar, Dr. Browner, Dr. Jane Therrien, Dr. Tamy Faierman, Evan Baron, Dean Sklar, Rose Sklar, Mayor Daniel J. Stermer, Miguel E. Cordova, DVM, Jon Duka,, Kalai Ramu CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Kim Ruoff, Krushot Photography, PhotographyByLuigi.com, Weston Photography Studios

GOT NEWS?

editor@ourcitymedia.com

ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com VISIT US ONLINE OurCityMedia.com

954-306-1007 400 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway Suite 200C • Sunrise, FL 33325

14 DECEMBER 2020 | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

Our City Media of Florida, LLC publishes FREE monthly, local community news magazines throughout South Florida. Our City Media Magazines are mailed monthly to affluent single-family homes, condos and businesses in their respective communities. Monthly mailings are verifiable by USPS postage statements. Additional free copies are available at selected locations throughout the communities served and upon request by contacting the publisher. Opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher. Our City Media of Florida, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our City Media of Florida, LLC is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers. Entire contents copyrighted 2020 by Our City Media of Florida, LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

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CALENDAR DECEMBER 2020

1st-11th

Toys for Tots –The Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program is partnering with Coldwell Banker Realty (CBR) offices across Southeast Florida. Each CBR office is collecting new, unwrapped toys every Monday thru Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Office drop-off sites observe COVID-19 social-distancing guidelines. Face coverings are required. For office locations or more info call 954-384-0099 or visit www. coldwellbankerhomes.com/florida/

4th

Ghost Light Society’s Soirée: Superhero Soirée – Become a superhero & support the performing arts during the 11th Annual Ghost Light Society’s Soirée: Superhero Soiré. Hosted by the Broward Center’s Ghost Light Society, the virtual celebration will benefit the Broward Center’s Road to Recovery fund. Faced with the loss of 90% of its revenues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts depends on contributions to sustain its operations as it prepares for the day when the doors reopen, the curtain rises, and the lights return to the Broward Center stages. Individual tickets to the Superhero Soirée are $50. The VIP package, which includes dinner and swag for two, is $250. Welcome reception begins at 6:30 p.m. & the main event is at 7:30 p.m. For more information, contact 954-468-3298 or ghostlight@browardcenter.org.

5th WESTON MUSIC SOCIETY HOLIDAY CONCERT – The Weston Music Society presents Jose Veliz & Mikayla Cohen live on the Weston Music Society FaceBook page. 6pm. Jose will be performing holiday classics on the piano while Mikayla Cohen engages us with her vocal range. There will be an interactive portion of the concert with the audience selecting a holiday classic which will then be performed by our talented duo. Says Gina Catone, Event Coordinator, “When Josse performed in September, he attracted over 2000 views. We are thrilled to be offering you the opportunity to witness two talented Weston residents in concert for the first time.” Please continue to check our website for updates: https://www. westonmusicsociety.org/ Domo arigato misuta Robotto! – Dance the night away at the Casino @ Dania Beach to the music of Styx and Journey. Cover band Majesty of Rock will be belting out Styx classics like ‘Renegade’, ‘Come Sail Away’ and ‘Mr. Roboto’ along with Journey’s incomparable rock-ballads ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ and ‘Faithfully.’ To combat the spread of the novel coronavirus, numerous precautionary & enhanced safety & cleaning measures have been implemented. Prior to entering, guests are required to pass through a thermal body imaging camera. Anyone with a temperature above 100.3 degrees will not be allowed to enter. Staff & guests are required to wear a face mask at all times. Tickets are $10-$14. 21+, 301 E Dania Beach Blvd. For tickets visit www. CasinoDaniaBeach.com/Entertainment

18 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

presented by Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all runners will participate at a location of their choice and complete their run any time between Dec. 5–13. Run results will be tracked by RaceJoy and automatically uploaded to a central database. Artfully designed runner medals and hi-tech drift shirts will be provided to all runners. For info visit www.westonrotaryrun.com.

9th 5th & 6th Drive-Thru Live Nativity– All are invited to experience the joy of the Christmas story at the St. Paul Lutheran Church Drive-Thru Nativity. Cars will drive by narrated stations around the St. Paul parking lot. Live animals too! Two nights, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. St. Paul is located at 580 Indian Trace, Weston, FL 33326

“Soaring” Celebrating Heroes– FLITE Center, which helps 1,500 young people aging out of foster care transition into independent living each year, is hosting its the 3rd Annual Heroes Luncheon via Zoom. This year’s luncheon, titled “Soaring,” will pay tribute to the unsung heroes from our community who champion young people in need of a Hero. The event will honor FLITE Center partners, funders and front-line staff from partnering organizations that support and dedicate their lives to impacting the lives of youth in Broward County. Individual Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased at www. flitecenter.org. For more info contact Maria Vo at maria@flitecenter.org or 954-540-7825..

11th 6th 23rd Annual Rotary Run for Tomorrow– You are cordially invited to the special VIRTUAL edition of 23rd Annual Run for Tomorrow Half Marathon, Half Marathon Relay, 5K, 10K, and Cyber & bricks and mortar Mayor’s Challenge

Outdoor Movie Night at the Bell Tower– Join your neighbors for a fun night out under the stars at the Weston Town Center Movie Nigh presented by Dr. Maria Yazji. Seating accommodations with adhere to CDC guidelines and social distancing. Bring your lawn chair! This event is FREE to Weston residents and groups are limited to 5 people. Local restaurants will provide To-Go menu deals during the event. Registration begins at 7:00pm with show time at 8:00pm. For more info, call Angie Paulson 786-499-3430

CONT. ON PAGE 20

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CALENDAR DECEMBER 2020 (CONTINUED)

18th Friday Night Artisan Market at the Bell Tower– Enjoy a wonderful Friday Night browsing and shopping from amazing local artists and crafters while enjoying live music at the Weston Town Center. Also enjoy dinner at any of their onsite amazing eateries. Its a perfect kick out for the weekend! Social distancing will be strictly adhered to and masks are required. 6:00pm - 10:30pm at the Weston Town Center. For more info contact Angie Paulson 786-499-3430

10th-18th Festival of Lights– Join Jewish brothers and sisters in celebrating the eightnights of Hanukkah beginning at sundown on Thursday, December 10th. The festival is observed by lighting the candles of a candelabrum with nine branches, called a menorah (or Hanukkiah).

25th Christmas – The celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ is one of the central holy days for Christianity across the world. Christians celebrate good will, miracles, and time spent together with family and friends.

26th Private eyes, They’re watching you– Sing every word to the hits of one of music’s greatest duos! The Casio @ Dania Beach is hosting cover band H2O, singing the chart-toppers of Hall and Oats. Whether it’s the smooth cords of ‘I can’t go for that’ or the sweet lyrics of “You Make My Dreams’ these songs will bring you back to the ’70s and ’80s in an instant. To combat the spread of the novel coronavirus, numerous precautionary & enhanced safety & cleaning measures have been implemented. Prior to entering, guests are required to pass through a thermal body imaging camera. Anyone with a temperature above 100.3 degrees

12th Wheels N Reels Drive-In Movie Featuring Captain Marvel –The parking lot of Cypress Bay High School is being transformed into an old-time drive-in movie theater. Bring your own popcorn and soda and make sure you get an admissions ticket ahead of time (one per vehicle). Admission is FREE, but limited. Bring the whole family and watch Captain Marvel show what “girl power” is all about. Gates open at 6:15. Showtime is 7:30. To register visit squadup.com/hosts/5760940/events

20 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

will not be allowed to enter. Staff & guests are required to wear a face mask at all times. Tickets are $10-$14. 21+, 301 E Dania Beach Blvd. For tickets visit www.CasinoDaniaBeach.com/ Entertainment. Kwanzaa– he week-long celebration honoring African American culture begins on Wednesday, December 26th and ends on Tuesday, January 1, 2021’

31st New Year’s Eve – 2020 is a year we will all be happy to see go! Wishing all our readers a very happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year from all of us at Our City Media. Have a wonderful and safe evening. Here is to a better 2021! Sculpting – Adults interested in learning the art of sculpting are invited to register for this weekly class, which meets each Wednesday from 5:30

pm till 7:30 pm. Dec 31 is the last day to register! Participants will sculpt creative art pieces from clay using their imagination and inspirations in a peaceful and relaxing setting. Meets that the Coconut Creek Recreation Center, 4455 Sol Press Blvd. Registration is $50 for Coconut Creek residents and $60 for non-residents. For more info call 954-956-1580 or visit www.coconutcreek.net.

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OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | DECEMBER 2020 21

Tree of Life

Committed to giving your child A Higher Level of Care & Education

court that replicate ican Airlines Arena curriculum, and d Tree of Life has alre Facility’ award.

The faith-based preschool grows with the addition of Kindergarten A Brand New Kindergarten

Remarkable Campus & Facilities

from Weston’s Premier PreSchool! by JASON ZAUDER

For centuries, children have learned about the ‘Tree Of Life’ from the Book of Genesis. At the Tree of Life Christian Academy Preschool in Weston, children are learning many of life’s lessons in a thriving, mod- That magic will expand to Tree of Life’s ern school.2020 As Tree of Life approaches their brand-new kindergarten program. Their (Science-Technology-Engineering-Art-Mathematics) one year anniversary, owners Gabriel and kindergarten will be in a separate room Marcy Buitrago are celebrating what they that will not be attached to the preschool, have accomplished while looking ahead to and they are looking to reach a 9-1 stuthe future. dent-to-teacher ratio. With kindergarten starting on August 18th, Tree of Life has already reached fifty percent enrollment, and placements will be filling up quickly. There are already wait lists for two- and three-year olds who want to enroll in those programs, and administrators are confident that kindergarten will also prove quite popular. Kindergarten will be open to all children, regardless of whether or not they attended preschool at Tree of Life.

• Accelerated Reading Program • STEAM Program

Voted Best Preschool in Weston 7 YEARS IN A ROW!

One

FRthETuitEion

Mon

New students

• Low student to teacher ratio • Bilingual curriculum (English/Spanish) • Computers and iPads® • Organic & natural lunches • We teach moral & family values • Nurse & clinic on premises • Indoor play area • Latest in high security & surveillance • 13,000 sqft building on 2 acres • 4 outdoor playgrounds

“We feel like our formula for success is to be different than all the other preschools. Our intention was to create a feeling so that when a child enters our school, there’s a sense of wonder,” said Gabriel Buitrago. “The children are still going to be learning a lot, but we also wanted them to feel like they are in a magical place.” 20

Tree of L

The perfect Christmas list for your child...

The faith-based pr with the addition

Kindergarten Tree of Life’s campus has been thoughtful- A Brand NewAnniversary ly laid out to make the most of the 13,000 As Tree of Life gea square foot building. The classrooms surting plans together JASON round an by indoor playZAUDER area where a custheir own celebrati tom-made wooden Tree of Life serves as the For centuries, children have learned about events for the non hub. classroom private theEvery ‘Tree Of Life’ fromhas thetheir Book own of GenToys for Tots in De bathroom and drinking fountain, as well as esis. At the Tree of Life Christian Academy to the community in Weston, children are learning an Preschool exit to the playground. Students can take theTree school many of life’s in acurriculum, thriving, mod-learn That magic will impact expand to of Li advantage of a lessons bilingual ern school. As Tree of Life approaches their brand-new kindergarten living up to our mis program. Th sign language, and utilize the latest computone year anniversary, owners Gabriel and kindergarten willoften be incry a separate ro at the end Marcy Buitrago are celebrating what they that will not be attached to the prescho ried that their pare have accomplished while looking ahead to and they are looking to reach a 9-1 s cryingWith because they the future. dent-to-teacher ratio. kindergar

starting on August 18th, Tree of Life has ready reached fifty percent enrollment, placements will be filling up quickly. Th are already wait lists for two- and three-y olds who want to enroll in those progra and administrators are confident that k dergarten will also prove quite popu Kindergarten will be open to all childr ers and iPads. All of these features are proregardless of whether or not they atten tected by a state-of-the-art security system, preschool at Tree of Life.

Operating in compliance & strict Covid-19 safety rules for the protection of students & families

“That kindergarten transition is very tough on both the parents and the kids,” said Buitrago. “Many parents have been asking us to start a kindergarten; and with such a low student/teacher ratio, our teachers will have more than enough time with each child.”

which includes security cameras throughout and two separate passcode-protected doors one must pass through before entering the building’s interior. When students need a break from learning, they will find organic lunches “We likeday our to formula for success brought infeel every provide the fuelis they Tree of Life Ch to be different than all the other preschools. need to explore the expansive outdoor area. ed at 1250 So Our intention was to create a feeling so “That kindergarten transition is v A miniature fieldour wasschool, just completed canthebe that when a soccer child enters there’s tough on both theThey parents and kids,”rs to aadd to oftheir four said playgrounds and sport at www.treeofl sense wonder,” Gabriel Buitrago. Buitrago. “Many parents have been asking “The children are still going to be learning

to start a kindergarten; and with such a

1250 SW 160th Ave. Security Officer on Premise they are in a magical place.” more than enough time with each chi Weston, FL 33326 • 954.440.0174 • Bulletproof entry doors 20 ISSUE #304 • AUGUST 2014 • CELEBRATI • HD security surveillance cameras treeoflifeacademy.com

TOour ADVERTISE a lot, but we also wanted them to feel like student/teacher ratio, ISSUE #304 • AUGUST 2014 • CELEBRATING 25 YEARS DRWMAG.COM teachers will h

FEATURE STORY

Tree of Life Christian Academy Preschool Provides a Higher Level of Care & Education

By Terry es what the Miami HeatJaillet have outside of Amera. Between the top-notch facilities, excellent Committed to giving your child a any parent, what they The HIGH SCOPE Preschool Curriculum is the dedicated staff, itskcomes as no surprise that want in a preschool component of the HIGH SCOPE researched-based sysfor their children, and you will almost always eady garnered a ‘Best Private Early Childhood

Higher Level of Care & Education

tem of education. The curriculum has a set of teachhear about three things: safety, learning, and ing practices, content areas, assessment tools, and a emotional development. The Tree of Life Christian Academy Preschool has taken those priorities to heart. training model to help teachers use the curriculum The teachers and staff at Tree of Life are committed to to support children’s development. The curriculum is based on Active Learning. providing students with the highest level of care and Active Learning is direct, hands-on experiences education possible. with people, objects, events, and ideas. Children are The seven-time Best of Weston winner and 2020 encouraged to “construct” their own knowledge by Best of Davie winner offers a unique, high-level learncourt that replicates what the Miami Heat have outside of Amerpursuing their personal interests and goals, to guided ing curriculum with programs for infants through ican Airlines Arena. Between the top-notch facilities, excellent Committed giving your child a of by trained who understand the importance of curriculum, andnts dedicated staff, it comesadults as no surprise that are pre-kindergarten. They offer an innovative PdualHigher Level of Care & Education rd a row garnered t Balready Tree ofbilingual a ‘Best Private learning areasEarly for Childhood children in the preschool years. eshas WLife core curriculum that includes immersive !! n e k o p s e v Facility’haward. agraduate reschool grows teaching. In fact, more Tree of Life students Child Safety reading at the first-grade level than any other Weston The owners of Tree of Life Christian Academy are of Kindergarten preschool. We visited Tree of Life to learn what makes dedicated to the safety of every child who attends the Infants thru Kindergarten them unique. school. This includes physical safety, maintaining a n Celebration Remarkable & Facilities & Campus Charitable Events • Low student to teacher ratio • Nurse & clinic on premises school and ensuring that stu• Full-time & part-timesanitary bilingual • One of environment, a kind 1,200 sq ft curriculum offered indoor play area dents’ emotional needs are met. The school employs ars up for their fall classes, they are also put• Latest in computers and iPads • Latest in high security & surveillance armed• security guard, has • Tuition includes 100%an organic 4 outdoor playground areasbullet proof entry doors r for their one-year anniversary. In addition to of tstrained lunches & snacks • an 13,000 sqft building on 2.5 acresteacher Parenis and offers onsite clinic. Every in ard ion, the school will be coordinating charitable • Introduction to moral & • Convenient drop-off service available West Brookwen !! family values CPR and first-aid. The school even exceeds have sp the latest n-profit Women in Distress in November, and • Kids Cafeteria CDC COVID-19 safety protocols. In the times we are ecember. Teaching their students to give back Enrichments: living in, this Preschool important feature, y is just one way that Buitrago measures the Freehas a very Infants thru Kindergarten • Computers • Dance which is rarely seen; They have a clinic on premRegistration Anniversary Celebration & Charitable Events has made. “What makes us know that we are • Low student to teacher ratio • Nurse & clinic on premises ife’s Tree of Life’s campus has been thoughtful• Sports • Cooking • Full-time & part-time bilingual • One of a kind 1,200 sq ft ises and a nurse on staff. Take a tour today to and Uniforms! curriculum offeredlearn • Arts & Crafts • Music & ssion islywhen in of forthea tour, heir laid outchildren to make come the most 13,000they indoor play area more! As Tree of Life gears up forabout their fallall classes, theyprecautions are also put- they are • Spanish • Latest in computers and iPads • Latest in high security & surveillance of the taking to keep oom square foot building. The classrooms surd. But they’re not crying because they’re wor• Tuition includes 100% organic • 4 outdoor playground areas ting plans together for their one-year anniversary. In addition to ool, round an indoor play area where a cuslunches & snacks students safe. • 13,000 sqft building on 2.5 acres ents are going to leave them here; the kids are their own celebration, the school • Introduction to moral & ! will be coordinating charitable stu- tom-made wooden Tree of Life serves as the • Convenient drop-off service available g n zi a family values amWomen is y love it here and don’t want to go!” l o events for the non-profit in Distress in November, and • Kids Cafeteria Engaging Classrooms & Facilities “Tre o e of Life Christian h to rten hub. Every classroom has their own private “This sc e ownership, , Aca dem Toys for Tots in December. Teaching their studentswarm to give back y is anand amainviting zing school’s classrooms are s al- bathroom and drinking fountain, as well as From th , and teachersThe school!!measures s sothat Buitrago ! I am sothe to the th community Free blessed toEnrichments: y kidway e staff isivejust s mone and an exit to the playground. Students can take filled age-appropriate materials to help •stimuhave such a great scho • Computers Dance one ghas made. very with ry e re Registration ol v a impact the school “What makes us know that we are e e • Sports • Cooking !W here advantage of a bilingual curriculum, learn to e for v n my lo dau io ght is h er to atte creativity inforeach Learning include and Uniforms! ec children dlate nd. • Arts &centers Crafts • Music & living upmtoucour mission come a tour,child. they ouisr when Her in year sign language, and utilize the latest computteac hers & the staff py with ildren attend more! apthe • Spanish blocks, dramatic play, housekeeping, manipulatives, h they’re cBut often cryhat end. not crying because they’re worare r ama u zing o , ams, & e so v lovi ng ha & won ried that their parents to leave them here; kids areher! hool!”are going derthe fulsand & water station, musicinand with !” kinthis sc y library, science, ilart, g! amaz z Fam -Pai re crying because they love it here and don’t want to go!” ne a Fam v “Tree of Life Christian ily a hool is to -T ular. movement as well as writing. “This sc e ownership, , Academy is an amazing th rs he m Fro teac ren, d an so scho , s ol!!! I am so blessed to the staffe gives my kid Committed Teachers & Staff have such a great scho ry n nded Academy is definitely ol everyo ve! We are ve n to “Tree of Life Christian The for my daughter to atten y!! trained bab lo io our is for ch Tree of Life’s highly and certified teachers e ec u plac d d. ful m r h ou the most wonder Her teachers & the staff Our baby is ppy wit ildren attend ! kind ha and ng lovi so are amazing, & so lovin r ch u and create a thirst for learning teachers are motivate, encourage, o e ve Tre g give ha l!” & wonderful with her! to school every day. I happy to go by is schoo !” 10!” individualthstrengths, out ofchild’s buildingy aon10each Familygifts, -Paine Family of Life Christian Academ -Tavarez and talents. The school is equipped with the latest -Arias Family ers and iPads. All of these features are proitely stian Academy is defin technology, as well as a 1,200 square-foot indoor play e of Life Chri “Tre tected by a state-of-the-art security system, e for our baby!! The the most wonderful plac kind! Our baby is area fourAve. outdoor playgrounds. organic and loving and which includes security cameras throughout hers are so 1250 SWand 160th • Weston, FL 33326 andteac day. I give Tree y to go to school every happfaith-based and two separate passcode-protected doors naturalwww.treeoflifeacademy.com lunches are served. As a Christian Academy a 10 out of 10!” stian Chri Life of one must pass through before entering the hristian Academy Preschool is locatFamily school, Tree of Life teaches moral and family -Arias values. 954.440.0174 New Private School building’s interior. outhwest 160th Avenue in Weston. Every student feels loved and valued every day. Now registering for very When students need a break from 1250 SW 160th Ave. • Weston, FL 33326 reached at 954.440.0174 online Parents are invited to tour Tree of Life’s facilities, said learning, they will find organicorlunches Fall VPK and Kindergarten www.treeoflifeacademy.com flifeacademy.com. g us brought in every day to provide the fuel they withPreschool the schools staff, and speak with parents Tree of Life Christian meet Academy is locat954.440.0174 New Private School of low need to explore the expansive outdoor area. ed at 1250 Southwest 160th Avenue in After Weston. existing students. you do, you’ll know why they Now registering for DRW MAGAZINE E CALL 954.384.9666 21 have A miniature soccerCurriculum field was just completed They can be reached at 954.440.0174 or online Dual-Core have been voted Best of Weston and of Davie by the FallBest VPK and Kindergarten ild.” to add toTree theirof four playgrounds and sport at two www.treeoflifeacademy.com. Life Christian Academy uses curricureaders of Our City. A Tree of Life Christian Academy lums: the ABEKA curriculum and theTO HIGH SCOPE CALLPreschool ADVERTISE 954.384.9666 ING 25 YEARS DRWMAG.COM truly gives children a higher level of care DRW MAGAZINE 21 curriculum while immersing the children in the & education. Spanish language. They believe a successful education is centered on the curriculum used to teach kids. The ABEKA curriculum has been used internation■ Tree of Life Christian Academy Preschool is located at ally for over 50 years. Scholastically, reading is half 1250 SW 160th Ave in Weston. To learn more about enrollthe battle for preschoolers. ABEKA has a six-step ing your child or to schedule a school visit, call 954-440program to teach reading skills by using a pho0174 or visit www.treeoflifeacademy.com netic approach.

Life

(when transferring from another school)

OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | DECEMBER 2020 23

DINING OUT

Celebrate the Holidays the Sardinian Way Zona Blu Offers Weston a Taste of the Mediterranean

t has been five years since Zona Blu first opened and fresh tomato sauce, its doors and welcomed Weston diners to sample covered with a thin pila taste of Sardinia. Over that time the low of pizza dough and restaurant has become a fixture in West Broward’s baked in their woodculinary scene with its uncompromising quality and burning oven. unique dishes. Chef Andrea Fadda continues to give The restaurant offers diners a taste of the beautiful Mediterranean island multiple dining options off the coast of Italy. in order to provide In addition to its beautiful scenery, Sardinia is guests with the safest famous for its residents’ incredible life expectancy. possible experience In fact, Sardinians are ten times more likely to during the pandemic. In live to 100 years old than people living in America. addition to a spacious The study confirms that Sardinian cuisine is one dining room, Zona Blu of the main contributing factors to their longer, offers al-fresco dinhealthier lives. ing on their covered Zona Blu’s menu features fresh pasta and seafood, patio, take-out service, wood-fired pizza and imported ingredients found and delivery. primarily in Sardinia. The restaurant’s cuisine is Zona Blu also offers heavily influenced by Sardinia’s history. “For more full catering services for than 2,500 years, the island was occupied by nearly families and businesses. every Mediterranean power from the Middle East, It is a perfect way for families with higher-risk North Africa, Southern Europe, and the Far East,” family members to celebrate the holidays at home. commented Chef Fadda, “Those influences resulted Families can even opt in for a chef to come along in one of the most deliciously unique cuisines in with your catering order to prepare their famous the world.” “Pasta alla Ruota.” Simply choose your favorite pasta Zona Blu takes pride in offering dishes that are and your favorite sauce (pomodoro or alfredo) and not typically known outside of Sardinia, such as the chef will toss it in a massive wheel of 100% Fregola, a unique, couscous-style pasta simmered in Parmigiano Reggiano. The cheese is incorporated a double reduction of fish tomato broth, then tossed into the warm pasta and creates a dish and experiwith extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and the freshest ence your family will never forget! seafood imaginable. Another favorite is Spaghetti Be sure to take advantage of Zona Blu’s popular al Cartoccio, which is spaghetti with mixed seafood, weekday specials. During lunch hours, 11:30 am -

4:00 pm, and all day on Tuesday, ALL pastas are $15 and ALL pizzas are $10 for dine-in, carry-out and delivery. On Wednesday evenings, all wine bottles under $100 are half-price. Zona Blu also offers off 10% off catering for local businesses. Zona Blu is located in the Shoppes on the Green at 189 Weston Road, next to Walgreens. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30 am - 10:00 pm, Friday 11:30 am - 11:00 pm, Saturday 12:30 pm - 11:00 pm and Sunday from 12:30 pm - 10:00 pm. To make a reservation or view their menu please call 954-617-7999 or visit www.zonabluweston.com.

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OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | DECEMBER 2020 25

COMMUNITY NEWS

Weston Swears in First Woman Mayor By Terry Jaillet

he City of Weston swore in its first-ever woman as Mayor on November 15th. Margaret “Peggy” Brown raised her right hand and took her oath of office at the Weston City Commission meeting. She was joined in the swearingceremony ceremony by the city’s two newest Commissioners, Chris Eddy and Henry Mead. Brown is no new-comer to city

politics. She served on the Commission from November 2016, till her election as Mayor. She also served on the Broward League of Cities Board of Directors from 2018 to 2019. She was also Executive Director of Hearing and Communications in Florida, a not-for-profit agency which provides life-affirming hearing health care and audiological services, educational workshops and trainings, after school programs, case manage-

Chris Eddy sworn in as Weston City Commissioner with his Family

ment, mental health counseling, and advocacy for the hard-of-hearing, deaf, and deaf/blind in South Florida. She is a Coast Guard veteran and has called Weston home for more than 20 years. She won a three-way race over Rick Stark and former Commissioner Jim Norton. Chris Eddy won Commission Seat 1 over Rafael “Papa” Pons and Jason Zaunder. Eddy is a retired Brigadier General in the United States Air Force and former FBI Agent. Eddy served as a Board of Director at South Florida-based Freedom Veterans of America and currently serves as a Board of Director at the Prestige Club, a charity focused on improving the lives of disadvantaged Broward children. He is also active in the Rotary Club of Weston and serves as the Chair of its Veteran programs. Commission Seat 2 was won by Henry Mead over Dalia QuinonesZayas and Kim Schnitzius. He has lived in Weston since 2008 and has been active on the Home Owners’ Association and has been involved in

Weston Mayor Margaret Brown

city politics during the reconstruction of Peace Mound Park. Mead was an entrepreneur, owning women’s retail shoe stores, a catering business, and a home health agency caring for patients requiring specialized care such as IV therapy, chemotherapy, and specialized wound care. The new Commission members joined existing Commissioners Byron Jaffe and Mary Molina-Macfie for their first meeting while wearing masks under COVID-19 protocols. Newly elected #Weston City Commissioner Chris Eddy stands before his wife Anne and their children Ryan and Megan as Anne administers the Oath of Office. The City of Weston looks forward to your leadership.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Aftercare Safety is Never an Afterthought at Eagle Point By Beverly Perkins

s families are trying to get back to regular work schedules while simultaneously navigating the ongoing pandemic, everyone wants the best and safest solutions for their children. In this new era, Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) has taken extra steps to ensure that all students, staff, and faculty are happy, healthy, and safe. Between the multitude of training

opportunities and strictly following CDC regulations, the team at Eagle Point Elementary (EPE) is ready and able to provide the best care not only during a typical school day, but in their Before and Aftercare programs as well. For over a decade, the Eagle Point Elementary Aftercare (EPEA), a school board-operated childcare program, has been servicing students from pre-K to fifth grade. At the helm of this well-established program are Principal Christine de Zayas and Program Supervisor, Stephanie Murphy. “Our program is not your typical after-school care solution. Here at EPEA, we believe we are training leaders. Our program is curriculum based and our students have a say in the activities offered,” explained Murphy. “We not only focus providing extracurricular activities. We provide a place for our students to enjoy social interactions with their peers in a clean and secure environment.” Only those enrolled at Eagle Point can participate and no more than 150 students may be registered. Programs

such as Robotics, Music and Movement, Literacy Corner, Homework Assistance, Digital Art Classes, STEM, and much more are all inclusive of the reasonablypriced weekly fee. However, sibling discounts are given, and scholarships are also available. “I believe that we must reach out to children and give the opportunities to learn STEM which is key to providing a student with a bright future. The Eagle Point Elementary Aftercare program accomplishes this through stem activiBerret Adkins, EPEA ties such as robotics and science experiChild Care Monitor II ments,” exclaimed Berret Adkins, EPEA ▸ Supervised isolated clinic in the Childcare Monitor II. case a student displays symptom Some of the procedures in place to of COVID-19. keep students and staff members safe ▸ A low instructor-student ratio. are as follows: “In this time of darkness and ▸ 6ft distance is always maintained. uncertainty, our students bring light ▸ Individual bottles of water are with their smiles and hope with their provided daily. ▸ Students do not share art supplies. laughter,” added Murphy. ▸ Equipment is cleaned and saniIf you child is a student at Eagle Point tized frequently. Elementary and you are interested in ▸ All program showcases are virtual. registering your child for the Before Care or ▸ Several sanitizing stations are in Aftercare Program, please contact the office every program area. at 754-323-5503.

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SCHOOL NEWS

BCPS School Choice Applications Accepted Through February 8th By John Duka

chool-aged children living in Broward County are assigned to a school based on their home address and grade level. Parents can, however, apply for their child to attend a school other than the one their child is assigned school. The period where parents can apply for their child to attend a different school, or the school choice application window, opens on December 1 and will be closed on February 8.

School Choice By state law, students may apply to attend any public school that has not reached capacity, regardless of their home address. To determine which schools are accepting applications, Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) reviews enrollment data and projected students. Parents may request a school that is accepting applications by completing a School Choice Application during the application window. School Choice Applications are awarded using a computerized random selection process. If more seats at a school become available during the School Choice process, additional selections from the application pool will be made. There is no guarantee that a child’s application will be granted. How To Apply There are three alternative options available for families. These options include Magnet Programs, Nova Schools, or a reassignment School. Parents can submit one application for each option per child. Applications must be submitted on BCPS’ website prior to February 8. Parents will be notified if their child was selected on March 11, 2021. If selected, they must contact their

child’s new school and enroll by March 19 or that seat will be vacated. If a child’s application was not awarded, parents can apply for another School Choice option or remain in that school’s applicant pool and register the child at his/her assigned school.

For more information on Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) School Choice program or apply for an alternate school visit www.browardschools.com/schoolchoice.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

“The Show Must Go On”

Virtual Event Launches the Road to Recovery Campaign

ore than 1,000 attendees tuned in online to the Broward Performing Arts Foundation’s virtual 2020 Annual Reception sponsored by Bank of America. They were treated to captivating musical performances featuring Broadway stars singing songs from the shows in the next Bank of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale season. Guests had an opportunity to see something that has been missing from the Broward Center stages during the pandemic – performances from Broadway shows. The event also launched the Center’s Road to Recovery Campaign, inviting those attending to help ensure that “the show will go on.” To open the evening’s program, Foundation board vice chair Senator George LeMieux welcomed guests and highlighted the Broward Center’s legacy. “The Broward Center has always been a meaningful place where people gather to see the arts and enjoy our community,” said LeMieux. “Although this has been a very difficult time, that still holds true today and we know we will get through it with the help of the community.” The star-studded list of Broadway performers and their songs included Amber Iman (“Satisfied” from Hamilton), Nick Spangler (“Whaddya Do” from Tootsie), Ellyn Marie Marsh (“Rodeo Drive” from Pretty Woman), Adam Kantor (“Answer Me” from The Band’s Visit), Josh Lamon (“Barry Is Going to Prom” from The Prom), Liz Callaway (“Memory” from Cats) and Eden Espinosa (“One Song Glory” from Rent).

32 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

Broward Center President and CEO Kelley Shanley updated guests on the pandemic’s impact and what has been happening at Broward Center while the theater is dark. “This time has been devastating for the performing arts. Although we can’t gather in person, our staff has been finding new and innovative ways to continue our mission of providing the arts to the community. I am inspired each day by the hard work of our staff and partners, and I know with your support during our Road to Recovery we will be ready to welcome you safely back into our theaters when the time is right.” After recognizing Bank of America for its support of the evening as well as its unflagging philanthropy in the community, Foundation President Lisa Kitei urged guests to join the Broward Center’s recovery campaign. “There has never been a time where your support is more important than it is right now,” she said. “Funds raised through the Road to Recovery campaign will help us sustain operations as we prepare for the day when our doors reopen, the curtain rises and the lights return to the Broward Center stages.” The community can also support the Broward Center by becoming members or renewing memberships, becoming sponsors or renewing sponsorships and purchasing tickets to Broward Center virtual events. Since the pandemic, the Broward Center has been presenting virtual concerts and shows featuring Broadway luminaries, comedians, family theater and today’s top entertainers and will begin offering

some live performances on the campus with social distancing. In addition, Broward Center@Home provides free online performing arts classes and content for all ages. The fall season is filled with singing, acting, improv and dance classes that offer a fun, exciting and engaging experience that can be enjoyed from the comforts of home. ■ For more information about the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, call 954-468-3284 or email foundation@BrowardCenter.org Broward Performing Arts Foundation For more than 30 years, the Broward Performing Arts Foundation has been instrumental in providing support for the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The Foundation was established in 1985 to deliver the required private funding to build the Center and create an endowment to sustain its operations. Over the years, the Foundation has successfully raised funds to support the Broward Center’s innovative and diverse programming, arts-in-education initiatives, community engagement activities and capital projects. The Foundation recently completed a $30 million capital campaign to renovate and restore the iconic Parker Playhouse. Prior to this, it raised $60 million to complete the Encore! capital campaign to renovate, renew and revitalize the Broward Center. Broward Center’s Road to Recovery Fund The Broward Center is on the Road to Recovery. While the theaters are dark and staff is at a minimum, the hard work continues. Faced with the loss of 90% of its revenues, the Center depends on contributions to sustain its operations as it prepares for the day when the doors reopen, the curtain rises and the lights return to the Broward Center stages. Donations to the Road to Recovery Fund can be made at BrowardCenter.org/R2R.

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■ LEGALLY SPEAKING

Your 2021 Resolutions By Bruce Iden, Esquire

s 2020 thankfully comes to a close, we naturally begin to think ahead to resolutions intended to change habits, improve our health or make things better for ourselves and our families. Resolutions are simply promises we make to ourselves. Perhaps your new year’s resolutions include walking 10,000+ steps each day, eating a cleaner diet or learning to meditate. Whatever your resolutions may be, consider adding to your list an important one: protecting your loved ones. Let’s look at some basic questions and see if you can answer the following: ▸ Who will take care of me if I can’t take care of myself? Do I have adequate insurance? Is there a clear successor to manage my financial and business affairs? Are my personal wishes set forth in writing so they are known and accessible when needed? ▸ After I am gone, how will my family and loved ones manage the debts, taxes and other legal obligations I leave behind? Have I created a way to reach important family and financial goals? ▸ Who will take over my business if I am disabled or gone? What can I do to increase the probability that my business will survive after me? ▸ Who will care for my young children if my spouse and I cannot? What financial protection and instructions have I left for their care? ▸ When and how will my spouse, children and other loved ones receive their inheritance? How can I be sure they receive their gifts in a manner which maximizes use and enjoyment but protects against creditors, predators or their own possible fiscal mismanagement? Thinking about these matters can be absolutely overwhelming. But because we care about our families we are obligated to raise these tough questions and explore the answers. As spouses, we want to provide the resources and safeguards to make our loved ones’ futures more secure. As parents, we want our children to have a happy and secure life, especially if that life does not include us. Why not resolve to start the process of caring for your family should something happen to you? The ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu wisely said, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Your first step is to meet with a qualified estate planning attorney to design and put into place a plan which will ensure that these are promises you can keep. Fortunately, there are many qualified attorneys in the area. Speak to several. Do your research. Ask questions. If you have already done your estate planning, good for you! Please also make a habit of reviewing your plan, including beneficiary designations for insurance policies, retirement accounts and 401(k) plans. Changes in your financial situation, family circumstances and the law may make the revision and updating of your estate plan essential.Life can change in an instant. What are you waiting for? ■ Bruce Iden earned his J.D. from George Washington University National Law Center and his L.L.M in taxation from the University of Miami School of Law. He has been practicing in the areas of estate planning, real estate and business law for over 30 years. For more information, or to schedule a consultation with Mr. Iden, contact Iden Law Offices at 954-885-0085. 34 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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Impingement Syndromes in Dancers By Carlo A. Messina

ain in the front or back of the ankle can occur from a dancer standing “en point” or “demi point”. Pain behind the ankle is due to a bone prominence that pinches the soft tissue or due to a fractured bone or cartilage in the back of the ankle (Os Trigonum). A deep pain in the back of the ankle is felt and is made worse if the foot points down. Treatment includes REST, PHYSICAL THERAPY and ANTIINFLAMMATORY MEDICATION. If the pain does not improve, a Cortisone injection is given to decrease inflammation and scar tissue. Unresolved pain may be treated surgically, thus allowing a full return to dance. The back of the ankle is cleaned out and a small piece of bone may be removed with ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY to allow the dancer to return to full activity. Rarely an open procedure is needed. Pain in the front of the ankle is usually caused by thickening of the ankle joint lining and can cause pain while moving the leg forward on the foot. This impingement syndrome is

usually associated with an ankle ligament injury and can become very painful, especially the first thing in the morning when getting out of bed to walk or after sitting for a short period of time and getting up to walk. The inflammation and soreness usually lessen with activity but return later on in the day. PHYSICAL THERAPY and a short course of ANTIINFLAMMATORY MEDICATION may be necessary to reduce the inflammation in the ankle joint. If that does not improve, a Fluoroscopic Guided Cortisone injection may be necessary to reduce the thickening of the soft tissue. If conservative measures fail, a PLATELET RICH PLASMA (PRP) injection can be given into the joint to improve healing potential. In some cases the impingement in the front part of the ankle does not improve and ARTHROSCOPIC SURGERY may be necessary to completely regain the ankle mobility without discomfort. In

some cases a small spur is present on the front part of the lower leg bone. This can cause chronic pain and stiffness in the ankle. If present, arthroscopic removal of the bone spur is also performed to allow the dancer to resume activity. Prognosis is excellent with full return to dancing with proper treatment. n C arlo A. Messina, DPM, is a Board Certified Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Diplomate American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He is a Foot and Ankle Surgeon with the Foot, Ankle and Leg Specialists of South Florida and specializes in treating infants, children, teens and adults. His partners are Dr. Robert Sheinberg (In Memory), Dr. Al DeSimone, Dr. Fernando Moya, Dr. Alexander Bertot, Dr. David Shenassa, Dr. Michael Cohen, Dr. Franz Jones, Dr. John Goodner and Dr. Warren Windram. The South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine in Weston is located at 1600 Town Center Blvd., Suite C, (954) 389-5900 and in Pembroke Pines at 17842 NW 2nd Street, (954) 430-9901. The practice website is www.SOUTHFLORIDASPORTSMEDICINE.org

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IMEs • Personal Injury • Worker’s Compensation Most HMOs/PPOs • All Foot Ankle & Leg Emergencies Same Day Appointments • Saturday Appointments Early Morning & Evening Appointments

SELF PAY RATES (Procedure cost is in addition to office visit.) New Patient . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $200 Surgery Consult . . . . . . . . . . . $200 Injections . . . . . . . . . .$75 per shot Casts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$175 Follow Up Visit . . . . . . . . $50-$100 Orthotics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $350 Ingrown Nail . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125 X-Rays . . . . . . . . . . . . $50 per area PRP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$600 Shockwave (3 sessions) . . . . $500 Laceration Repair . . . . . . . . . $250 Wound Care . . . . . . . . . . .$75-$125 (FOR CHRONIC HEEL PAIN & TENDONITIS)

SPORTS MEDICINE ASSOCIATES (Self Pay Rates Do Not Apply To This Practice Below)

Dr. Al DeSimone, M.D. Board Certified SHOULDER & KNEE SPECIALIST

Dr. Fernando Moya, M.D. Board Certified SHOULDER & KNEE SPECIALIST

36 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

Dr. David Shenassa, M.D. Board Qualified HAND & WRIST SURGEON

Dr. Alexander Bertot, M.D. Board Certified SPORTS MEDICINE SPECIALIST

Dr. Franz Jones, D.O. Board Certified SPINE SPECIALIST

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Modern Cosmetic Surgery: Beauty, Health and Wellbeing Are One

By Dr. Tamy M. Faierman, MD PA

hat does it mean to be beautiful? In the two decades I’ve been a practicing, board-certified plastic surgeon, I’ve seen our ideas about beauty undergo a dramatic evolution. Now, with Covid-19 in our lives, this evolution has sped up even faster. Even during this new normal we have learned that people want to live happily, healthily and with gratitude. We also want to look good and feel beautiful- even through a pandemic. Less and less frequently am I hearing from women looking to achieve a kind of idealized perfection – the perfect breasts, the perfect waist, the perfect nose – and so on. Instead, more often, many of my patients come to me looking to achieve something quite different: self-confidence, happiness, balance. Whole Body Beauty Today cosmetic surgery is seen less as a standalone solution and instead as one of several powerful tools we can use to help us age “consciously.” When I talk to my patients about their beauty and wellness goals, I ask them to consider more than cosmetic procedures – we talk about wholistic health, including mindfulness practices like meditation, exercise habits, and nutrition. We talk about their health goals and their life goals. This is the

38 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

new beauty concept as I see it: an opportunity to realign what lives inside with what lives outside of ourselves, so that we can positively reconnect with our physical bodies. This new ambition for balance, self-confidence, and happiness is something I call “whole-body-beauty.” Beauty-Oriented Wellness As we move away from disease-oriented medicine toward regenerative, wellness-oriented medicine, we’ve gotten a clearer understanding of the many nuanced and complex ways the mind and body communicate with one another. Wellness in this context usually refers to the process where we make conscious choices to lead a healthier life, including diet, nutrition, exercise, and emotional health. Whole-body-beauty expands the conversation to include the many ways beauty and wellness are interconnected, making beauty an equally important player and part of the total wellness journey. A growing number of plastic surgeons have begun to adopt wellness services into their practices. Few, myself included, have gone a step further to create integrative protocols and experiences for patients. These doctors are complimenting their cutting-edge surgical techniques with natural medications, clean beauty products, homeopathy, meditation, acupuncture, lymphatic drainage and holistic facials and massage therapy – all from

within the environment of their medical office. Today’s marriage of plastic surgery with wellnessoriented medicine seems to me a natural and even logical evolution. Beauty-oriented wellness is here to stay. Self-Confidence Through Self-Care As plastic surgeons, we are literally in the business of personal transformation. But today’s woman needs more than a quick nip and tuck to be her very best self. I believe patients can advance self-discovery, increase their self-confidence and improve their overall wellness through engaging in regular and specific acts of self-care. So whether that means treating aging skin to a blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) or undergoing a tummy tuck or a mommy makeover, getting a holistic facial, changing diet and exercise habits, talking to a therapist, enjoying regular massages, starting a mindfulness practice, or all of the above, women and the doctors who treat them should be striving for a new definition of beauty, one that considers what’s happening on the inside to be every bit as important as what’s happening on the outside. ■ Dr. Tamy M. Faierman is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, writer, beauty and wellness expert, and founder of the Tamy M. Faierman Holistic Spa and Wellness Center. Her office is located at 17130 Royal Palm Boulevard, Suite 1, in the Windmill Professional Campus. For more information, please call 954-322-2742 or visit www.reshapeyourimage.com.

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THE DONOWAY CENTER NEW HOPE FOR PANCREATIC CANCER PATIENTS

Robert B. Donoway, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.S.S.O. Diplomate American Board of Surgery Diplomate, Society of Surgical Oncology Former Medical Director Memorial Cancer Center Medical Director, Atlas Oncology: Institute for Pancreatic Cancer IRE/NanoKnife Ablation

Patients diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer have few treatment options. However, a new procedure called Irreversible Electroporation or IRE for short has changed that for many patients who are seeing a doubling and tripling of their life expectancies. Dr. Robert Donoway, who has one of the largest International experiences for performing this procedure on the pancreas and liver is a Hollywood based, Sloan Kettering trained Pancreatic Surgical Oncologist, and former medical director of two of the local cancer programs remains among a very small handful of Pancreatic surgeons who perform the procedure which is done in the operating room as an outpatient. During the procedure, Dr. Donoway places fine needle probes under direct ultrasound guidance into and around the pancreatic tumor while carefully avoiding critical structures. High voltage current up to 3000 volts is then delivered in 90-microsecond pulses synchronized with the patient’s heart rhythm to avoid any cardiac problems. The pulses destroy the cancer cell membranes which then causes the tumor to die and be absorbed by the body. The average procedure lasts approximately 1-2 hours and the patients may be discharged the following day. A brief recovery means the patient can start chemotherapy and radiation that much sooner. Dr. Donoway is participating in several clinical studies identifying the best chemotherapy and immunotherapies to be used along with IRE. Dr. Donoway states, “The results so far have been very encouraging and we have begun using it for other select cancers. The longest survivors are now out over 5 years and without evidence of cancer recurrence. In the past, without IRE they would have been likely to have only lived a year and so this technique opens the whole new avenue for treating those eligible patients in a more targeted fashion.” For more information about Dr. Donoway and the Pancreatic-IRE/NanoKnife Program and clinical trials call 305-682-1995 and visit www.AtlasOncology.com

4000 Hollywood Boulevard • Suite 160 North • Hollywood, Florida 33021 Phone: 954-986-6366, 305-682-1995 • Fax: 954-986-4355 www.AtlasOncology.com

ATLAS ONCOLOGY Robert B. Donoway, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.S.S.O. Surgical Oncology & Pancreatic Surgical Oncology Practice specializing in Cancer of the Pancreas, Liver, GI Tract, Sarcoma, Adrenal, Thyroid, Parathyroid, and Melanoma. Laparoscopic and Image Guided Cancer Surgery, IRE/NanoKnife for Non-Resectable Pancreatic and Liver Cancer.

r. Donoway is a board certified Fellowship-trained Surgical Oncologist who received his MD and Surgical training at the University of Pennsylvania. He completed his fellowship in Surgical Oncology at Sloan-Kettering where he was the General Motors Cancer Research Fellow. He has taught on the faculty at Penn, Sloan-Kettering, University of Miami and Nova Southeastern. Dr. Donoway is the former Medical Director of the Memorial Cancer Institute and Chairman of the Cancer Committee for the Memorial Healthcare System as well as Chief of Surgery and Surgical Oncology at Memorial Regional in Hollywood. Dr. Donoway served on the Board of the American Cancer Society & Gildas Club. He has also served as past President of the American Cancer Society Broward County Chapter. Dr. Donoway is active in the 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 Liver Resection. Dr. Donoway is a recent recipient of the South Florida Health Award for the use of Micro-Endoscopy for the detection of early stage Breast Cancer. Dr. Donoway is the Medical Director of the Institute of Breast Cancer Prevention and has been repeatedly named to “TOP DOCTORS IN AMERICA” by Castle Connolly. Dr. Donoway is the ONLY surgeon in Florida performing specialized Pancreatic and Liver ablation therapy for non-resectable tumors. Dr. Donoway is the Former Chair of the Aventura Cancer Committee at Aventura Hospital and Medical Center. Dr. Donoway has privileges and operates at Aventura Hospital, Memorial Regional, Memorial South and Memorial West. Continuing to care for our patients during the Coronavirus cirsis

• Now Offering Telemedicine • Office maintains strict disinfection protocol • Dr. Donoway is still operating on patients four days a week OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | DECEMBER 2020 41

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Teenage Sleep: Why is Your Teen So Tired? By Maria Isabel Clemente, MD

leep is food for the brain. During sleep, important body functions and brain activity occurs. Sleep is vital to your wellbeing: as important as the air you breath, the water you drink, or the food you eat. As we grow, the hours of sleep change. When you are an infant, you need daytime and nighttime sleep. It is not until you are between the age of four and five that you stop taking naps during the day and are able to accomplish your daily routine with only resting between eight to ten hours each night. During “the teen years” which coincides with puberty, our sleep demands change. It is recom-

mended for teenagers to be sleeping between 8.5 to 9.5 hours each night while most of them sleep only between 5.5 to 7 hours each night. All humans come with an internal clock that influences body temperature, sleep cycle, appetite and hormonal changes. This biological and psychological processes are called the Circadian Cycle. Before adolescence, the internal clock in children makes them fall asleep around 8pm but puberty changes teens’ internal clock thereby delaying the time of feeling sleepy to around 11pm or later. Teens require more sleeping hours than adults due to physiological changes that occur during puberty -- it is the time when the body is working harder to conduct the changes. In addition, during nighttime sleep the body goes through a maturation of its immune system and the brain releases growth hormone and serotonin -- a chemical substance with an essential role in preventing depression. There are various consequences to not getting the proper amount of sleep each night: 1. Limiting the ability to learn, listen, concentrate and solve problems. 2. Catalyzing aggressive or inappropriate behavior – such as yelling at your friends or being impatient to friends and family members. 3. Causing one to eat more – most of the time

unhealthy food that contributes to weight gain. 4. Distorting ones’ memory – thereby limiting students’ abilities to retain and remember the previous day. 5. Increasing chances of depression, car accidents, and drinking caffeinated beverages – like energy drinks and other stimulants. Here are some strategies that promote obtaining the adequate amount of sleep each night: • Make sleep a top priority just like school homework. • Keeping track of time, organizing each day, establishing priorities. • Establishing a bedtime, wake up time and sticking to it. • Not eating or exercising within an hour of sleeping. • Trying to avoid cell phones, the TV, video games or computers an hour before bedtime. • Avoiding caffeinated drinks or sleeping pills. • Associating the bedroom as a place only for sleep (i.e. not spending excessive amounts of time in bed). • A brain that is hungry for sleep will not hesitate to get it, even when it is not expected. At One Source Pediatrics we are here to provide helpful information to assure each child has a healthy development and the tools to accomplish it! ■ One Source Pediatrics is located at 1625 North Commerce Pkwy, Suite 205, Weston, FL 33326. (954) 659-8550

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Holiday Stress? Get Your Family Through in a Breeze By Molly Brousseau

he holidays are here and that brings happiness, cheer, and increased family stress. This year in particular may be extra hard on families as they plan their socially distant holiday parties and buying gifts on a tight budget. Here are a few tips on how to skate through this holiday season without losing the little sanity we may have left! First, get rid of expectations and try to relax. Children mimic the behaviors and the attitudes of their parents, so modeling to your children how we

handle stressful situations is particularly important holiday season. during these times. Psychology Today mentions creatHandmade gifts are a great alternative to storeing â&#x20AC;&#x153;happy momentsâ&#x20AC;? to help prevent the increase bought and can also be a great teaching tool. Having a in negative behaviors. This can be done by simply child think up and plan a gift helps with creativity and spending 5 minutes of â&#x20AC;&#x153;special timeâ&#x20AC;? with your child, imagination. Taking your child to the craft store and doing something they love, and giving lots of posiletting them pick out the materials gives them their tive attention. own sense of independence. Great ideas for homemade Make sure to talk to your children about new gifts include hand-painted tote bags, oven mitts, or rules or changes in their normal routine before they decorated picture frames with a family picture inside. encounter new situations. Open conversations help Baking around the holidays is another great way to ease transitions and reduce stress for the whole family. bring the family together and can also double as a fun It is important to be flexible, especially during these and easy gift. Start a new tradition of baking cookies or uncertain times, things creating hot cocoa kits to give to loved ones or service change, so make sure to providers (our amazon workers need treats toođ&#x;&#x2DC;&#x160;). have a plan B. Managing stress during the holidays can be a Take the focus off difficult task but remember to take a deep breath of gift-giving. Now is a and be grateful for the time spent with our family great time to teach your and loved ones. children the importance â&#x2013; Molly Brousseau a first time mom and an educator of giving gifts during with over 14 years of experience working with young the holidays. Whether children. She graduated from FIU with her bachelors itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s making something in Elementary Education and has worked teaching for a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hospital, children from preschool to elementary levels. She or writing cards for the received her directorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s credential and also a National elderly, many organiza- Administrators Certificate and has been directing tions are available to preschool for the last five years. She is currently the help give to the less director at Tiny Planet Preschool and has been since fortunate during the they opened five years ago.

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CAN DO KID

This Girl Scout Delivers More Than Just Cookies By Beverly Perkins

he first thing that comes to mind when talking about Girl Scouts is cookies. But in this case, Weston resident, Isabella (Bella) Rodriguez from Troop 10084 was talking costumes not cookies… Halloween costumes that is. While the ambitious 4th grader was cleaning out her closet, she discovered several Halloween costumes that she had outgrown which were still in excellent condition. This sparked the idea for the junior-level scout to open her heart and her closet. After pulling out an abundant amount of

Isabella Rodriguez from Troop 10084

beautiful costumes from many years of trick-ortreating and commenting on what great shape they were in and how she only wore many one time, Bella wanted to do something charitable. “They are in perfect condition so someone else should get to love these like I did,” stated the generous youngster. She then remembered that her Girl Scout Troop participated in the Angel Tree project last year with ChildNet Broward at Christmas time so that foster kids could get the holiday gifts they

wanted. She then thought this holiday should not be any different. “You could almost see the light bulb moment when she decided she could make a whole costume drive out of it. She wanted to deliver as many costumes as possible and make sure the kids had a special Halloween,” explained her mother Amy Rodriguez. “I can do this, Mom! I can run a costume drive and help,” exclaimed Bella. Not only did she want to donate her own preloved costumes, the nine-year-old Imagine Charter Weston student wanted to collect gently worn costumes from others to give to foster care children so they could celebrate October’s signature holiday. In order to proceed with her plan, her mom suggested she reach out to her troop leader to share her idea. Of course, she received full support and encouragement. Her next step was to create a flyer to share with the troop’s Service Unit to ensure great exposure of her project. “People have asked her what she was getting out of doing it. Was it for a special Girl Scout high award or a special project? No, she did not do this drive with any other reason than to just give back. We are very service oriented as a family and as a troop, so helping others is just our nature,” further explained her proud mother. This was followed up by contacting ChildNet and working with them to be sure all safety measures for collecting, bundling, and distributing were met due to the nature of the ongoing pandemic. Bella proudly sorted and packed every costume individually that had been donated into a sealed bag to prepare for delivery. Trick-or-Treat bags filled with plenty of goodies were put together by the other girl scouts in the Troop. In all, she was able to deliver 60 costumes, 100 Halloween goodie bags, 70 inspirational cards, 2 giant bags of stuffed animals, and a two-year supply of brand-new Highlights magazines to Childnet Broward. “Bella was so excited for the delivery day! The day we delivered the full carload of donations was the nine-year anniversary of her grandfather’s passing. She was too little to remember him, but he adored her, and we were blessed he lived long enough to meet her. He adored all children and spent his life helping them, so this was such a special way to honor him that day by helping other children,” added her mom. “I knew I could run a costume drive and collect even more so lots of foster kids could have a Happy Halloween,” said Bella. “And that’s just what she did!” Girl Scouts offers every girl a chance to practice a lifetime of leadership, adventure, and success. Girl Scouts of Southeast Florida serves more than 10,000 girls in Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River and Okeechobee Counties. To explore opportunities to join, volunteer, or partner with Girl Scouts, call 561-427-0177 or visit www.gssef.org.

46 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

SCHOOL NEWS

How to Keep Your Children Safe in a Remote Learning Environment By Nevin Markwart, Chief Information Security Officer at FutureVault

s parents, we have conflicting feelings on remote learning. One on hand, we want our children to stay healthy, especially in the midst of a public health crisis. On the other hand, online education opens the door to new threats— including opportunities for hackers, risks to our children’s privacy, and increased online harassment. Fortunately, we as parents can play a proactive role in ensuring that our children’s online education is a safe and fulfilling experience. Here are several easy steps that you can take to protect your children in remote learning situations:

Classroom Learning Creating an open dialogue with your children’s educators is a simple yet effective way to ensure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to safety and privacy. You should discuss safety protocols with the school and flag anything that concerns you. Confirm the school has privacy policies in place and learn what they are. Speak with your children’s teachers and meeting administrators about which screen share tool they use and confirm that only the school can control screen share. Learn that program and security features as much as possible.

48 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

Make sure the teacher allows students to turn off their cameras after confirming attendance if they’re uncomfortable “going live.” Many adults feel uncomfortable on camera, so imagine how children must feel. Privacy Parents should have ultimate control over what their children use and see online. Know what platforms your children are using, whether for learning or social media. Maintain direct oversight on whom your children engage with online and limit that circle to known friends, family, and acquaintances. Use Screen Time or Parental Controls to restrict the types of online activities your children can do. You should set up secure passwords for your children to prevent their accounts from getting hacked. Secure passwords are at least twelve characters long, do not include dictionary words, and mix numbers, symbols, and letters (lowercase and uppercase). Turn on your firewall and make sure your children only download files from people or sites you know and trust. Remember that anything posted online is public, not private information. So, talk to your children about what they’re not allowed to post online. They

should never post any sensitive personal information (e.g. social security number, passwords, etc.) on their internet profiles: changing a profile does not delete old copies of it. Cyberbullying Communication is a key step to prevent cyberbullying. Explain to your children that what happens on the Internet can be permanent and damaging. You should treat people the same way online as you would in person: with respect. This includes not saying anything mean or untrue about someone online. Ask your children’s school what disciplinary measures are in place for online misbehavior. Report online harassment, including any message that makes your children feel uncomfortable. If the harassment occurred through your children’s remote learning platform, notify their school. You can also report harassment to local law enforcement. Make sure to save and print any records of threatening messages—including screenshots, emails, and texts—for evidence. ■ Nevin Markwart is the Chief Information Security Officer at FutureVault, an industry leader in enterprise digital vault solutions that securely store, organize, and share important documents.

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s the holisure candles are kept at least day season 12 inches away from things approaches, the that can burn. Keep matches BSO Department of Fire and lighters out of reach of Rescue in Weston wants children. Remember to turn off holiday lights before to share important safety leaving the house or going to bed and do not overload tips to help ensure that extension cords. If your holiday décor includes a real everyone enjoys a safe Christmas tree, water it daily as dry trees can easily holiday season. Be fire catch fire. smart as you celebrate Holiday safety should always include plans forthis holiday season and safe driving. Drivers and passengers should be propbe sure to include plans for safe travel. This year it is erly buckled in a seat belt and all children must ride also important to consider how COVID-19 may affect in an appropriate car seat that is properly installed. your holiday plans. Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for Smoke alarms are an important first step in any people ages 1-54 in the United States. Always practice home fire safety plan. Install working smoke alarms distraction free driving by committing to not using a on every level of your home as well as inside and cell phone and focusing only on the road while drivoutside sleeping areas. Review your family’s fire ing. For adults over 21, who attend a holiday party or escape plan with all family members and guests event and plan to drink alcohol, designate a driver or staying in your home. Cooking fires are the leading use a car service to ensure you keep yourself and othcause of home fires and injuries. Be sure to stay in ers safe on the roadways. Shopping center parking the kitchen while cooking, keep things that can burn lots are often busier during the holidays, so watch away from the stove, turn pot handles inward, and out for distracted pedestrians or drivers, especially in case of an oven fire, turn off the oven and keep the when backing out of parking spaces. door closed. When using candles, select flameless If you plan on hosting or attending a holida gathcandles or choose candles in enclosed jars and be

ering, consider how COVID-19 may affect your plans. Adhere to state and local guidelines for social distancing and mask requirements. You may also refer to guidance and recommendations from the CDC by visiting www.cdc.gov. Fire Rescue District Chief Todd Draizin wants to remind all Weston residents and visitors, “whether you experience a fire or medical related emergency, have questions about fire safety, or need help with creating a family fire safety plan, your fire department is here to serve you.” For emergencies, call 9-1-1. For assistance with installing a child car seat or for help creating your family’s fire safety plan, contact the Weston Fire Rescue Public Education Team at 954-389-2015 or visit https://BSOFireRescuePublicEducation. as.me/ to schedule a virtual car seat installation appointment. ■ For more information, please contact District Chief Todd Draizin at Weston Fire Station #81 at 954-389-2015 or by email at Todd_Draizin@Sheriff.org.

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he PPP was born in a flash — the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and Treasury launched the program in only a week — and forged in a flurry of interim final rules and frequently asked questions (FAQs). That guidance often raised more questions, and many small businesses relied on CPAs to help chart a safe path through the chaos. The program stopped accepting new applications on Aug. 8 after funding more than 5.2 million loans for a total of $525 billion. Nearly two months later, small businesses that received PPP funding rely heavily on accountants to guide them through seeking forgiveness for the loans while keeping an eye on potential additional funding from the federal government. Borrowers who wish to apply for forgiveness and release the burden of their PPP loan are pressuring CPAs to help them move forward with the process. But, as has been the case since the beginning, much uncertainly still surrounds the PPP. Two of the biggest areas of uncertainty remaining with PPP forgiveness are the following: Deductibility of expenses Forgiven PPP loans are not taxable income, but the IRS declared that no tax deduction is allowed for an expense that is otherwise deductible if the payment of the expense results in forgiveness of a PPP-covered loan. The position is that allowing the deductibility of expenses paid with PPP funds would result in a double-dipping scenario. Given the severity of the pandemic’s impact on U.S. businesses, the tax professionals believe that Congress intended PPP expenses to be deductible. Lawmakers from both parties have voiced support for this position, but that has not yet translated into congressional action. Blanket forgiveness Most PPP loans were for $150,000 or less. Because the PPP loan forgiveness process can be tedious, members of Congress have proposed legislation that would allow for a much simpler process of streamlined forgiveness for loans under a certain amount. The commonly discussed threshold is loans of $150,000 and below, but that could change, and there’s a possibility that blanket forgiveness won’t ever be granted. In an ideal scenario, borrowers won’t file for loan forgiveness until the questions surrounding tax-deductibility and automatic forgiveness are resolved. Of course, we have no idea when that will be, which leads us to… PPP loan forgiveness Borrowers eager to get PPP loans forgiven may want to know the deadline for forgiveness applications and whether they can submit applications early. If they are a co-owner in the company where they work, they may also want to know if they are subject to the stricter PPP compensation replacement calculations for owner-employees.

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Forgiveness application due date There is no defined deadline for borrowers submitting the forgiveness application, but borrower payments will be required 10 months after the end of the covered period as explained in FAQ No. 3 of the PPP Loan Forgiveness FAQs. Early applications for loan forgiveness are permitted, but there’s a catch: An eight- or 24-week covered period will still apply. The PPP Flexibility Act, P.L. 116-142, signed into law June 5 extended the covered period from eight weeks to 24 weeks. For loans funded before June 5, 2020, borrowers can choose to keep the eight-week covered period or move to the 24-week period. If the loan was funded after June 5, 2020, the borrower must use a 24-week covered period. ■ Jay Shapiro is a Certified Public Accountant with offices at 1950 N Commerce Parkway, Suite 5, Weston, FL. For more info on the Paycheck Protection Program or other tax or accounting matters call 954-385-6616 or email info@jayshapirocpa.com

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FROM TEE TO GREEN

How Well Do You Practice Your Putting? By DEAN SKLAR, PGA PROFESSIONAL

he next time you’re on the putting green, try these simple practice drills that will help

you become a better putter: 1. Place a golf ball about five to six feet from the hole, then put two tees in the ground, approximately eight to ten inches behind the ball. Place them a little farther apart than the length of your putter head. Make sure they are directly on the target line you intend to putt the ball. This drill is intended to have you swing the putter straight back away from the ball. If you strike either tee on your back stroke, your backswing path is offline. When you can swing the putter head back and forth between the tees, you will know that the putter is moving along the correct path, ensuring you will make solid contact every time. This path is vital, because it helps start your ball on its intended target line. 2. Next, I encourage golfers to hold the finish of their putting stroke until they hear the ball

54 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

falling into the hole. This drill is effective in training your head and body to stay still over a putt while also helping you maintain the putter face on line throughout your stroke. Finally, your focus on the follow-through will keep your mind off missing the putt. As I watch golfers struggle with putting, I notice many have trouble with distance control. This problem relates to feel. 3. A good drill to increase feel and improve your distance control is to practice putting with one hand. Start by placing the ball eight to ten feet from the cup, and hit a few putts with just your right hand. Next, repeat the putt just using your left hand. By now you should notice which hand gives you better control of the putter. From then on, practice your one-hand drill mostly with the dominate hand. 4. Another great tip is a drill I learned from an instructor I had as a junior golfer at a golf camp. He told me that whenever he lines up for a putt and addresses the ball he looks at the hole and makes about two or three practice strokes just staring at

the hole only and not the ball. This allows him to feel the distance, so when you get up to make your actual stroke you now have a good idea how far the distance is to the hole without walking up to address the ball without feel. It really works and I have been applying this method of feeling the distance for decades. You will not be knocking the ball past the hole as in the past and as if you had a few practice putts at the hole. This drill will have you feel much more comfortable and confident over putts, improving your distance control, thus giving you a more confident stroke. It’s always a great idea to practice these tips prior to teeing off if you have time or try and split up your time on the driving range and mix in a few of these drills.. ■ PGA Professional Dean Sklar is a member of the Quarter Century Club of the PGA of America, an elite group of members who have served the PGA with honor and pride for 25 years. If you would like to talk to Dean about your golf game, contact him at Dean. Sklar@FloridaMoves.com or the Rose and Dean Sklar Real Estate Group at Coldwell Banker, 1760 Bell Tower Lane in Weston, 954-389-6197, or online at www.WestonFloridaUSA.com.

ASK THE EXPERT

Considering Removing Your Breast Implants? By Charles A. Messa, III, M.D., F.A.C.S.

espite the evidence that breast augmentation is the most common cosmetic surgery procedure that results in higher patient satisfaction with their breasts and enhanced psychological well-being, an increasing number of women are electing to remove their breast implants. In 2017, more than 45,000 breast implant removal procedures were performed – a twenty percent increase over the previous three years. The impetus to undergo breast explantation is multifactorial ranging from implant related complications like implant rupture, hardening (capsular contracture) or breast pain, to large breasts with size dissatisfaction to autoimmune symptoms which patient’s attribute to their breast implants. After the implant is removed, the breast can appear empty or “deflated”. To avoid this unaesthetic result, the breast can be lifted (mastopexy)

56 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

and volume can be restored with the patient’s own fat (autologous fat transfer) or by rearranging or reshaping the breast with adjacent breast tissue, a so-called augmentation. All these techniques have been shown to be successful in plastic surgical literature. When the implants are removed, patients are often pleased with the aesthetic outcome and report very high patient satisfaction rates. Additionally, in a Journal of Immunologic research in February 2017, it was noted that in numerous studies, patients with symptoms of breast pain, muscle aches, and fatigue, those symptoms were reduced once the implants and capsules were removed. In this same article, blood markers for autoimmune disease were unchanged after implant removal in the majority of patients. There is an extensive body of medical literature demonstrating that breast augmentation with both saline and silicone implants is safe without a direct link to autoimmune disease. The decision to undergo cosmetic surgery is a highly personal one, and therefore treatment options should be indi-

vidualized based on each person’s unique aesthetic goals. If you are considering breast augmentation, a breast implant exchange or replacement, or implant removal, it is important to discuss your goals with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Messa is board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, an active member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is a recognized expert in cosmetic plastic surgery and has achieved Allergan’s Black Diamond Award as one of the top 1% of plastic surgery practices in the country by volume. Dr. Messa has also achieved Chairman status with Medicis and Mentor Corporation. This award honors distinguished leaders in cosmetic surgery for demonstrating expertise and excellence through a high volume of aesthetic product procedures. The certification is awarded to leaders in the field of medical aesthetics and demonstrates their commitment to innovation, excellence, and the highest level of patient care. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Messa, please call our office at (954) 659-7760.

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ost people think of the holiday season with gleeful anticipation of time with family. For couples who have been through a divorce, the holiday season can often be a very stressful time. This stress can also be felt by the children of a divorced couple. It is not uncommon for holiday visitation issues to surface during this time of year. Hopefully the parties’ settlement agreement or Parenting Plan is specific as to time sharing. Over the course of approximately 35 years of practice my clients have experienced many issues concerning holiday visitation. The biggest obstacle to solving an issue in court during this time of year, is the reality that court time is very difficult to schedule. Last minute issues will usually not be addressed. Of course, the parties are always able to try and work things out on their own or with the help of attorneys and mediators. I would certainly suggest not waiting until the “last minute” to address any such concerns. The best way to insure there will be no conflicts during the holidays is to anticipate potential problems ahead of time and address them in the marital settlement agreement and/or Parenting Plan. The more specific your agreement is, the more likely you will not experience conflicts along the way. For couples with minor children Parenting Plans have been mandatory. These Parenting Plans are designed to be very specific as to time sharing in an effort to head off any trouble in years to come. Unfortunately, these Parenting Plans were not used prior to the latter part of 2008 and therefore many existing agreements do not include this provision. I believe the most important thing to remember is that any timesharing arrangement should always keep the best interest of the children as a priority. Children want to spend time with both parents and this is especially true during the holidays. They also want to be a part of any family gatherings. Sometimes that is not always possible, but advanced planning may be able to achieve this goal. Often parents divide the entire winter break in half, with Christmas day being the “exchange day”. As an example, in odd numbered years such as 2015 perhaps Dad has the children from the day school ends until noon Christmas Day. Mom will pick up the kids and keep them until school begins again. Next year they can reverse the schedule. In some cultures, Christmas Eve is more of a celebration, so perhaps one parent can celebrate every Christmas Eve and the other Christmas Day. Also remember that “gift giving” is not a competition, with the winner being the parent who spends the most money. Oftentimes the finances of each parent may not be the same and one must buy gifts within his/her budget. For a parent to embarrass the other by purchasing a more expensive and lavish gift is only going to lead to hard feelings and potential problems. Hopefully, the parents can discuss this issue beforehand and plan together. Often parents wish to visit family out of town. Consider the feelings of your former spouse and the children in planning such a trip. Children have the need to be with extended family during the Holidays. Perhaps holiday trips out of town can be rotated from year to year between parents. Mom and Dad can certainly make the holiday season a joyous time for their children or they can focus on themselves and make it a time that everyone would like to forget. ■ The law firm of Evan H. Baron and Associates is located at 1655 North Commerce Parkway, Suite 201, in Weston. If you have any questions concerning this issue or any other family law matter, call the office at 954-385-9160.

2111 North Commerce Parkway, Weston 33326 Law@DivorceBroward.com

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The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience. 58 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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Proud Weston Residents Since 1998 ■ LEGALLY SPEAKING

BUSTED! FOUR COMMON MYTHS ABOUT PROBATE By Wendy Hill ElDeiry, Esq.

Mo N. ElDeiry

ATTORNEY AT LAW

o many, probate is a mystery. There are so many myths and misconceptions about this process being touted as fact that it can be really difficult to distinguish the truth from the lies. Unfortunately, we’ve seen situations time and time where misunderstandings regarding the probate process Wendy Hillagain ElDeiry cause people toAT make damaging decisions during the estate planning process. ATTORNEY LAW Today we’re busting four of the most common myths so that you can make better informed decisions.

WILLS • TRUSTS MYTH #1: ESTATES WITH WILLS DO NOT GO THROUGH PROBATE ESTATE PLANNING A surprising number of people are under the impression that if you have a will, Celebrating your estate will not need to go through probate at all, automatically. Generally PROBATE ADMINISTRATION speaking, most homeowner’s will have to go through the probate process, even

(954) 670-2800 Years of Service

though they have a Will, unless they have done some estate planning. Good estate planning can help certain assets stay out of the Probate Court system. For instance, you can use a trust if you want certain assets to pass to your beneficiaries out of probate.

Convenient in-your-home appointments Weston EXPENSIVE MYTH #2:available PROBATE ISinPROHIBITIVELY

It is true that there are some fees and costs associated with probate and that

the longer itP.A. goes on, the more expensive it will become. However, it is not as ElDeiry & ElDeiry,

probate will indiscriminately leave your estate drained as so many people Proud Weston Residents480 Since 1998 Sawgrass Corporate ifseem Parkway, Suite 110 to believe. If there are no disputes, the fees will usually be reasonable and

Sunrise, Florida 33325 to the size of the estate. proportionate (Near IKEA on NW 136 Avenue)

www.eldeirylaw.com

Mo N. ElDeiry

ATTORNEY AT LAW

Wendy Hill ElDeiry ATTORNEY AT LAW

WILLS • TRUSTS ESTATE PLANNING PROBATE ADMINISTRATION

(954) 670-2800

Convenient in-your-home appointments available in Weston

ElDeiry & ElDeiry, P.A.

480 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway, Suite 110 Sunrise, Florida 33325 (Near IKEA on NW 136 Avenue)

www.eldeirylaw.com 60 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

MYTH #3: PROBATE TAKES YEARS AND YEARS This only happens in extremely unusual circumstances. While it is not impossible that your estate will get tied up for a long time, it is much more likely that probate will be resolved in less than a year as long as there are no disputes. Red flags for a time-consuming probate process include debts, complicated taxes, and family disputes. MYTH #4: YOUR OLDEST CHILD IS ALWAYS YOUR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE In fact, you can choose anyone you would like to be your personal representative, as long as they agree to perform the duties this entails. While many select their oldest child, you can choose any family member or friend (if they live in FL), or even your bank or CPA (again, if they live in FL). It is important to think about probate when you’re making your estate plan, and not to make any incorrect assumptions about what it entails. The team at ElDeiry & ElDeiry can help you create an informed estate plan and can also represent you in the probate process. Contact us today to learn more about these services. We can’t wait to connect with you. ■ The law firm of ElDeiry & ElDeiry, P.A. is located at 480 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway, Suite

110, Sunrise. . Call 954-670-2800 or visit www.eldeirylaw.com to make an appointment for a consultation today.

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ROTARY NEWS

The Rotary Foundation Dramatically Changing Lives in Our Community & Around the World By Joseph Altschul, Rotarian

o whom much is given, much is expected. Many of those in our Weston community, like in our nation, have been given much. And most understand that we are called to give by helping those less fortunate. Many will agree that they have been given much more than they deserve. And there are so many worthy causes that the decision about where to give can be difficult. Enter the annual fund of the Rotary Foundation (“TRF”). When money is donated to the Rotary Foundation’s annual fund, 100% of the money goes to the ultimate cause. None of the money is used for advertising, salaries, expenses, or administration. That is why the Rotary Foundation has received the highest possible rating from Charity Navigator – 4 stars – for 11 consecutive years. A four-star rating is received by less than 1% of all charities.

The causes supported by the Rotary Foundation’s annual fund are defined by Rotary International’s six areas of focus, which are: • Disease prevention and treatment. • Water and sanitation. • Basic education and literacy. • Maternal and child health. • Economic and community development. • Peace and conflict prevention/resolution. Rotary has also been the moving force behind the Polio Plus initiative. Rotary launched PolioPlus in 1985 and was a founding member of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in 1988. Through decades of commitment and work by Rotary and our partners, more than 2.5 billion children have received the oral polio vaccine. In Weston, the 135-plus member Rotary Club of Weston has been the leading financial contributor to the Rotary Foundation in South Florida for more than 20 years. Through the dedicated and determined fundraising efforts of our members, we continue to support many local and international charities, as we have done for more than 35 years. As we make year-end giving decisions, we ask that you consider the Rotary Foundation and the causes supported by the Rotary Club of Weston. We also ask that you consider joining and co-laboring with us!

■ The Rotary Club of Weston meets weekly at

7:30 AM on Thursdays via ZOOM .We hope to resume meeting in person in the coming months at the Weston Hills Country Club. Please contact Pete Pecci at 954.882.9061 or Visit www.westonrotary.com to learn more.

OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | DECEMBER 2020 63

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SECTION 2017

ASK THE EXPERT

How to Manage Vision Changes Post LASIK By Dr. Jane Therrien

ptometrists often hear post-LASIK patients say their surgery “isn’t working anymore” or it has “expired”. While the corneal tissue that was ablated is gone forever, eyes can change over time, and laser vision correction does not stop time. There are many reasons why eyes change after laser vision correction. The vast majority of Lasik patients have stable distance vision. A study published in Journal of Refractive Surgery analyzing 4,937 eyes indicates 90.6 percent of patients still see 20/20 binocularly five years after surgery. In the early days of laser vision correction, up to ten percent of patients needed additional surgery after the initial healing period. Currently, the percentage of patients who need an enhancement procedure within the first year after surgery can be as low as 1.4 percent.

Myopic patients

A variety of refractive combinations can be seen after LASIK, but the most common are myopic patients getting more myopic and hyperopic patients getting more hyperopic. A very small group of patients are presented with increasing astigmatism. Younger myopic patients can become more myopic with age. Treating myopic patients’ residual myopia is usually straightforward. It is important to use corneal tomography, such as Oculus Pentacam, to assure corneal stability and thickness. Most surgeons perform photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) over the existing LASIK flap rather than lift the flap. This greatly reduces the risk of an epithelial ingrowth. Patients who are in their 50s and become more myopic often have lenticular changes even though they still correct to 20/20. A referral to the operating surgeon for corneal tomography can be very informative.

Hyperopic patients

Results of hyperopic LASIK reveals fewer patients achieve 20/20 vision without correction, but these patients can still be some of the happiest. When

hyperopic patients become more hyperopic, it can be the result of several factors, including decreased accommodation and increased hyperopia and/or epithelial hyperplasia. The corneal epithelium does a good job of filling in any irregularity on the corneal surface, and in this case, it works against our laser vision correction treatments for hyperopic patients. Hyperopic LASIK removes a trough of tissue in the mid-periphery of the corneal stroma, resulting in the central cornea becoming relatively steeper. In hyperopic PRK, epithelial cells fill-in this trough, which negates the effect of the treatment. This also happens in hyperopic LASIK, albeit to a lesser extent. Treatment options for these patients include clear lens extraction, glasses, and contact lenses.

Astigmatism

It is unusual to see an increase in corneal astigmatism after laser vision correction. Similar to myopic patients, a patient who has significant withthe-rule astigmatism prior to surgery can develop with-the-rule astigmatism after surgery. Oblique astigmatism cases are more worrisome. On rare occasions, increasing astigmatism is the first indicator for corneal ectasia. While an increase in with-the-rule astigmatism is often treatable with an enhancement procedure, investigate first with corneal tomography for corneal stability. This test is sensitive for corneas that are developing ectasia. Testing is more important today because we can treat corneal ectasia early with corneal crosslinking (CXL) to reduce or prevent the devastating effects of vision ectasia. Most patients who return to the office years after laser vision correction still enjoy wonderful distance vision from this procedure. Nevertheless, eyes change over time for various reasons, and it is important to understand why the refractive status is changing and how to best manage that refractive change.

For a consultation or more information, you can reach Dr. Therrien at Weston Family Eyecare, 4472 Weston Road, or call 954-888-9393. Dr. Therrien and her staff look forward to exceeding your expectations.

WESTON FAMILY EYECARE We provide our patients with the best vision and eye health care using the latest state-of-the-art technology in a warm, caring, and professional atmosphere.

Oliver Peoples, Tiffany & Co., Tag Heuer, Oakley, Gucci, Maui Jim, RayBan, Silhouette andand more. Prada, Persol, MauiBabiators, Jim, RayBan, Tom Ford, more. Weston Family Eyecare 4472 Weston Road, Davie, FL 33331 Phone: (954) 888-9393 | westonfamilyeyecare.com

2020

Dr. Jane Therrien OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | DECEMBER 2020 65

COMMUNITY NEWS

The Rotary Run for Tomorrow Goes Virtual By Terry Jaillet

he past nine months have impacted us all in many different ways. For some, the biggest impact of the COVID-19 quarantine has been on their fitness levels! There is no need to wait until next month to make a New Year’s resolution to get in shape. You can hit the ground running on Sunday, December 6th for the 23 annual Rotary Run for Tomorrow and Mayor’s Challenge. This year’s event will feature the same 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Half Marathon Relay as last year. The only difference: This year we are doing it

VIRTUALLY. Runners will register online and use an app to track their progress when they run their race. Entrants will have a week to complete the race between December 5th and December 13th. In addition to the run, Weston’s new Mayor will host her first Mayor’s Get Fit Challenge 1-Mile Family Health Walk. This virtual event will be in conjunction with a cyber and brick & mortar Fitness and Health Festival. The Run for Tomorrow is Weston Rotary’s primary charity fund raiser. Over the past two decades, it has generated more than $1 million for local charities, non-profit organizations, and The Rotary Foundation. Race proceeds from this community and regional event go to the Weston Rotary Club’s local and international charitable, health, and educational projects, which include: Gilda’s Club, HANDY, Harvest Drive, Hope Outreach, LifeNet4Families, Sandy Nininger Jr. State

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Veterans’ Nursing Home, Susan B. Anthony Recovery Center, Broward Education Foundation, and Rotary International’s fight to end Polio. The Rotary Club is best known for feeding the homeless and supporting people who slip through the social safety net. The Rotary also helps mothers recover from addiction without separating them from their families. The fight for a better tomorrow by providing life-saving vaccinations against polio, preventing the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses like zika and malaria. The Rotary also provides clean water and sanitation to communities in need, around the world. n

For more information or to register for any of the 23nd annual Rotary Run for Tomorrow events visit www.westonrotaryrun.com.

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GoldFellow Offers a Safe, Secure & Convenient Way to Sell Gold, Silver, Platinum & Diamonds

By Christy Jaillet

o you have an old piece of jewelry around the house? Maybe it’s a broken bracelet or a ring you just don’t wear anymore. For many of us, those items simply sit in a drawer or a safe, collecting dust, never to be worn or seen again. That is where the folks at GoldFellow can help! GoldFellow will purchase unwanted gold, platinum, silver and diamond jewelry at very competitive prices. The company was founded by Robin and Michael Gusky. The couple previously owned one of the largest manufacturers and distributors of karat gold jewelry in the United States for 30 years before selling to Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway in 2007. They’ve taken that vast experience to create a firm you can trust. We sat down with the company founder, Michael, to learn more.

Tell us about GoldFellow We purchase consumers’ unwanted gold, platinum, silver, and diamond jewelry at very competitive prices. We also purchase fine Swiss timepieces such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Cartier. We have been in business since 2008. We are proud to have earned an A+ rating.

How does the process work? At GoldFellow, the process is totally transparent. Your items are tested right in front of you, using XRF x-ray technology, which shows the exact amount of precious metals it contains. The testing takes less than 10 seconds! Based on that reading and the weight of the item, we make you an offer on the spot. GoldFellow has the financial strength to pay its clients immediately regardless of the amount.

Is it a good time to sell precious metals? Yes! In fact, with precious metal prices at record high prices, one of our fastest-growing areas is purchasing gold and silver bullion, bars, and coins.

Can people trust your firm? We have been in business since 2008. We are proud to have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, and have hundreds of 5-star reviews. Our customers are throughout the United States. We are family owned and have been in the gold jewelry business for 40 years. We offer total transparency, a strong reputation for fairness, and have been familyowned since our founding. n

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GoldFellow is located at 1930 N Commerce Parkway, #5 in Weston. Stop by today for a no-obligation, in-person evaluation of your precious valuables. There is no appointment needed. For more info call 954-888-9500 or visit www.goldfellow.com

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OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | DECEMBER 2020 69

SECTION 2017

REAL ESTATE

Off to the Races, We Are Leaning Into a Seller’s Market By Rose Sklar

hy NOW may be the best time to sell your singlefamily home, in particular, in Weston. Why? The driving force is a combination of local Realtors inundated with buyers who are now finally off the fence, buyers who want to cash in on the historic low-interest rates, Weston’s small-town feel safe community, our close proximity to cities, airport, and top-notch public and private schools, along with our stellar parks and recreation areas. Coupled with the surge from the North East, New York City, New Jersey, and Boston in particular, due to our “no income tax’ status in Florida and the attraction to our warm winters, the lifestyle and the benefits of federal and state tax laws just for establishing their residence here in South Florida. Weston, in particular, has the small hometown feel adjacent to the advantages of the global and international appeal of nearby cities and towns. But this year is different from all else. We need Sellers. Calling All Empty Nesters!! Now maybe the time to sell the big family home and make the

70 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

move east to vertical living or 55+ communities. There is plenty of inventory to choose from! There are also incredible rental deals to be had as you contemplate leaving the nest and downsizing or rightsizing. The issue at hand is the lack of singlefamily home inventory for the growing millennial population. This means rising prices for current homeowners due to the lack of inventory. The market right now is a recipe for success, if you are ready to make the move out of your singlefamily home. According to the Miami Association of Realtors, Miami- Dade, and Broward County homes sales are up again more than 12% in September 2020 over September 2019. Single-family homes sales grew by 19.3% while condo sales grew only 6.3% What does this mean? Tight inventory means higher prices for sellers. Inventory is down 39/3% for a single-family from 5,330 in September 2019 to 3,234 in September 2020. Sellers get ready to come to the market. We are in a price-sensitive market across the board. We have a strong buyer pipeline in the market, but the buyers are very savvy and have a lot of information available to them. The best market on price would

be the number of showings PLUS the number of offers. A lot of showings and no offers mean that the property is attractive but the price is not attracting an offer. A lot of offers but no contract generally means that the buyers and the seller are out of sync with each other. Pricing is one of the most important features of a home. If a home is priced close to the market, the property will generate multiple offers. That’s when you know you have priced correctly! Buyers Tips to get the new listing. Get ready for multiple offers. Buyers, be flexible, this year is different from all others. Keep in mind, not all homes are HGTV ready. Look for the potential or as we like to call it “the bones” of the home. Low balling will get you nowhere and could alienate the seller. Homes are on the market for a matter of days or hours. You will need tough skin and be ready for heartbreak. This too shall pass. So, off to the races we go. ■ The Rose & Dean Sklar Real Estate Team is part of Coldwell Banker Weston. Their office is at 2690 Weston Road, Suite 100. For more information call 954-298-3626, visit www. EastMeetsWest.info, or email Rose@SklarTeam.com.

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FEATURE STORY

Get Protection and Peace of Mind at South Florida’s Only 5-Star Range – Nexus Shooting By Beverly Perkins

hether you are looking for a fun new sport or hobby, an exciting idea for your next date night, or peace of mind protection for yourself and your family, Nexus Shooting can assist multiple needs. The unique state-of-the-art facility is one of the world’s most advanced gun store and range. The facility features Nexus Lanes, a live fire digital video targeting system which creates a unique training environment. Their friendly and professional staff is available to assist and make each guest feel safe and comfortable. Instructors teach new techniques while always promoting safety and new defensive techniques. Located conveniently in Davie, the award-winning range offers more than just a retail showroom. They offer their customers a safe, high-tech shooting range, training and licensing classes, and an overall exclusive experience regardless if one is a novice or a professional. We sat down with co-owner Bernard Hsiao, MD. PhD. to learn more about Nexus. How did you, a physician, get involved with opening one of the world’s most advanced gun ranges? (laughs) It does seem far removed from my role in medicine, doesn’t it? Most people are surprised that I had actually never shot until just a few years before opening Nexus. Once I started though, I was hooked. I’m an extremely competitive person and became intensely involved in local pistol matches. I was practicing several times a week, often shooting thousands of rounds. Over time though, I noticed I was strangely becoming short of breath during my regular exercise routine. I realized I was inhaling gun smoke and the toxic by-products due to the inadequate ventilation of the ranges I was shooting in. My respiratory function was being compromised, and I was getting lead poisoning! I took a hard look at the gun industry and asked several questions. Why are there no regulations protecting shooters from suffering the same ailment I did? Why are gun ranges and stores frequently

dirty and unsafe “holes” in the wall? Why are we still shooting at paper targets in the 21st century? How can we make shooting more fun? Why do gun store “experts” treat women and novice shooters with such disdain? The concept of Nexus emerged to provide the answer to all of these issues. How has Nexus addressed the toxic gun smoke? Not only will our ventilation system protect you from the toxic byproducts of shooting, but the HEPA filtration and laminar air flow are also superb at affording protection from the respiratory droplets of COVID-19. The air pumped into the range is actually cleaner than the air outside, so shooting with us is actually one of the safer activities you can enjoy during the pandemic. You also mentioned safety. What sets Nexus apart? Safety is our number one priority. We have range safety officers on the range to assist our members and ensure everyone’s safety. Each member is separated by bulletproof walls. We also have multiple ranges, so you can come in with your friends or family and shoot in complete safety and privacy. How has Nexus made shooting more fun? Since the gun’s invention, we’ve been making holes in paper targets which is boring and not great training. My brother and partner in Nexus, Michael Hsiao, has a background in programming. We leveraged his expertise to make shooting more exciting through technology.

72 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

or “Guggenheim Museum” of gun stores because of the spacious, clean and welcoming environment. What else distinguishes Nexus? It’s really the experience we offer. Shooting is the “new bowling”, a family friendly activity. We’re not here to just sell guns. Nexus is the only five-star range in South Florida rated by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. We received this prestigious award by providing an unparalleled shooting and shopping experience, as well as superb customer service. We carry one of the largest inventories in the country with thousands of guns in stock. We also have hundreds of rental guns, so you can try before you buy. Our training Thus, our advanced virtual range, the program is also extremely compreNexus Lanes, was born. You shoot hensive. Our instructors can train your actual gun and real ammo at anyone including someone who has interactive video targets, like zombie never touched a gun before to expegames, skill drills, asteroids, etc. The rienced shooters, security personnel, computer provides instant feedback, scoring and analyzing each shot. We and even law enforcement. We focus on the needs of female shooters too. also have a standard paper target Half of our staff is female, including range for those that prefer a tradiour store manager. We have female tional experience. instructors also. Seems like a great partnership. Nexus seems very high end. Was it just you and your brother that Is it expensive to shoot there? That’s started Nexus? Our third partner, a common misconception. Even Christopher Longsworth, brought though we are a five-star range and the final piece of the puzzle with his offer the highest level of amenities background in real estate developand quality, we aren’t even the most ment and architecture. All the expensive range in Broward County. projects in his portfolio are highly regarded as being at the cutting edge It’s like driving a Ferrari for the price of a Toyota! of modern architecture, such as Strata at Plantation, and Koi Marina n Nexus Shooting is located at 2600 Davie and Residences in Pompano. It was Road in Davie. Hours of operation are Mondaythrough his vision that the striking Friday from 10am - 10pm; Saturday from 9am architectural design of the building to 10pm; and Sunday from 9am-8pm. For more information, please call 954-587-8005; send an and high-end retail showroom came to fruition. Our guests call our show- email to info@nexusshooting.com or visit www.NexusShooting.com. room the “Apple Store”

ANIMAL HEALTH

Selecting a New Puppy By Miguel E. Cordova, DVM

What Should I Consider Before Getting a Puppy? While a puppy can tug at anyone’s heartstrings, choosing a puppy should be more than an emotional decision. All too often, the cute and cuddly puppy that is purchased on impulse is relinquished to a shelter because it grew up to be a large, rambunctious dog. That’s why it pays to do your homework before you even look at a puppy. Start by researching the kind of adult dog that will be most compatible with your lifestyle. A book on dog breeds is a good starting place, but also ask veterinarians for their suggestions. They are very familiar with the different dog breeds and suitability for each home. You can also visit dog shows to see many different breeds at once and talk with dog breeders and trainers. Consider the size of the adult dog and how it would fit into your household. Would you prefer a lap dog or do you have room for a large dog? Research the exercise and grooming requirements of different breeds. Some breeds, such as herding dogs, require more exercise and may be best suited for someone who is looking for a jogging partner. Other breeds need regular grooming, so you will need to plan for those expenses. Some breeds may be predisposed to certain health conditions. In some cases, you may ask the breeder to test for the condition, if possible, or provide a written guarantee should the condition occur. Mixed-breed dogs may be less likely to have certain health conditions than purebred dogs. Where Should I Look for a Puppy? If you prefer a purebred dog, ask veterinarians and breed clubs for advice on how to locate a reputable breeder. You’ll want to interview several breeders and ask to see the puppy’s parents and the breeding facility, if possible. It is important to visit the facility to ensure that a limited number of puppies are raised in a sanitary, well-socialized environment. When buying a purebred dog, it’s worth the effort to find a reputable breeder. Unfortunately, there are many puppy mills that sell poorly socialized puppies that may develop health and behavior problems over time. These puppies are often sold at pet stores and become ill, requiring costly treatment. Buying a puppy from a pet store also limits your knowledge of the puppy’s initial living conditions, and you cannot see the puppy’s parents to ensure they are in good health and well socialized. How Do I Check a Puppy’s Physical Health? Most breeders and some shelters will provide you with paperwork that the puppy has been examined by a veterinarian, has been checked/treated for parasites, and has received at least the first round of vaccines. Many breeders may also provide you with a health guarantee. 74 DECEMBER 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

A healthy puppy should: ▸ Appear alert and energetic, not lethargic (tired) ▸ Be well fed, with a little fat covering the rib cage ▸ Have a good coat, without dry, flaky skin or bald patches ▸ Walk and run normally, without limping ▸ Have no discharge from the eyes, nose, or ears ▸ Follow a tossed toy with its eyes ▸ Not cough, sneeze, or appear to have difficulty breathing ▸ Turn to look at you when you clap or make a noise behind it Puppies should be comfortable when handled. Try holding the puppy and touching the ears, mouth, and paws. If the puppy becomes aggressive or struggles to get away, it might not be the kind of dog who will snuggle with you on the couch or allow you to trim its nails. Choosing a healthy puppy with a good disposition will increase your chances of raising a dog that will be a great fit for your household and your best friend for years to come! Animal Health Center @ Weston is “The Gentle Practice You Can Rely On”. Dr. Miguel E. Cordova and his staff are committed to caring for your precious pets. The practice is located at 2701 Executive Park Drive, Suite 1. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact 954-385-8389 or www.animalhealthcenteratweston.com.

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