Our City Coral Springs: May 2023

IT’S NOT A CAREER, IT’S A CALLING.

To celebrate National Nurses Week, Wellpath honors the healthcare heroes in the Broward County Jails.

FEATURED ON PAGE 18

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Broward County. Important At CarePlus, it is important you are treated fairly. CarePlus Health Plans, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, disability, age, marital status, religion, or language in their programs and activities, including in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, their programs and activities. The following department has been designated to handle inquiries regarding CarePlus’ non-discrimination policies: Member Services, PO Box 277810, Miramar, FL 33027, 1-800-794-5907 (TTY: 711). Auxiliary aids and services, free of charge, are available to you. 1-800794-5907 (TTY: 711) CarePlus provides free auxiliary aids and services, such as qualified sign language interpreters, video remote interpretation, and written information in other formats to people with disabilities when such auxiliary aids and services are necessary to ensure an equal opportunity to participate. This information is available for free in other languages. Please call our Member Services number at 1-800-794-5907. Hours of operation: October 1 - March 31, 7 days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. April 1 - September 30, Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. You may leave a voicemail after hours, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays and we will return your call within one business day. Español (Spanish): Esta información está disponible de forma gratuita en otros idiomas. Favor de llamar a Servicios para Afiliados al número que aparece anteriormente. Kreyòl Ayisyen (French Creole): Enfòmasyon sa a disponib gratis nan lòt lang. Tanpri rele nimewo Sèvis pou Manm nou yo ki nan lis anwo an.

2022

No two hearts are the same

That’s why we have a team of experts who treat a full range of cardiovascular conditions and provide customized care that fits your individual needs.  Find a physician today, BrowardHealth.org/CardiacCare

Artwork by Ema Shin.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PUBLISHERS

Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Christy Jaillet

ART DIRECTOR

Tom Rowe

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Alana Brodie

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Nancy Koval nancy@ourcitymedia.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Jaillet, Jon Duka, Dr. Robert Donoway, Christine Hunschofsky, Mayor Rich Walker

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VISIT US ONLINE ourcitymedia.com

954-306-1007

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Welcome to the Age of Artificial Intelligence

In the mid-15th century, German inventor Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press. Over the next two centuries, his invention replaced the church’s near-monopoly on the written word. It led to an ever-increasing spread of knowledge, information, and understanding of history.

Similarly, the development of the steam engine kick-started the Industrial Revolution, changing how people lived forever. Economic growth accelerated, people migrated to cities, and goods became less expensive and standardized.

These breakthroughs were followed by the invention of the telephone in the late 19th century and air travel in the early 20th century. More recently, the development of the micro-computer, the Internet, and modern mobile phones have impacted every aspect of human life.

Each of these breakthroughs profoundly impacted the world and led to a democratization of sorts. The printing press allowed for the spread of information to the masses; The Industrial Revolution allowed people to choose vocations rather than inheriting them; And the telephone and air travel enabled people to communicate and meet with people anywhere in the world.

Artificial Intelligence is a similar watershed technology development that will reshape the world. Large language models like ChatGPT and Google’s Bard will soon be omnipresent. How they impact our world is exciting and daunting.

AI is already everywhere in our society. Students use it to “help” write term papers; forecasters use AI to predict hurricane tracks; software engineers use it to create websites; AI is used in healthcare to diagnose illnesses; and finance is used to detect fraud. Soon, any ask that utilizes a computer will likely be completed, at least in part, by communicating with an AI.

Each of the advancements in technology came with accompanying challenges. For example, there were sweatshops across London during the Industrial Revolution, airplanes were quickly turned into weapons of war, and the Internet was used to target people for nefarious purposes. However, each of these innovations has led to incredible growth in human prosperity, creativity, living conditions, and knowledge. We are confident that AI will do the same.

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MAY 4

Teen Job Fair

Do you have a teen looking for a job this summer? Visit J.P. Taravella High School from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm to find afterschool and summer employment opportunities. Local businesses looking for help will be on hand. Click the QR code to RSVP or learn more.

MAY 5-7

Vietnam Wall Memorial

MAY 6

Shred-A-Thon

MAY 5

National Day of Prayer

The Clergy Coalition of Coral Springs and Parkland, in partnership with the Coral Springs Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee, will honor and celebrate Annual National Day of Prayer. A designated youth representative from each congregation will deliver a brief prayer on behalf of their religious community focused on our leaders, nation and world peace. For congregations to participate, e-mail Lydia Cutz at Lcutz@ coralsprings.org. 7:00 pm at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts, 2855 Coral Springs Drive.

Visitors are invited to view the “The Moving Wall,” a Vietnam Veterans Memorial Traveling Half-Size Replica, while it makes a stop in Coral Springs. The wall, which is a replica of the permanent memorial in Washington D.C. is being sponsored by the Veterans Coalition of Coral Springs. This marks the second time the Moving Wall will make its way to Coral Springs, as it was also here in 2015. The Moving Wall has been touring the country for more than 30 years.

It will be open for public viewing at the Tom Messenheimer Field in the Coral Springs Sportsplex, 2575 Sportsplex Dr. For info visit www.themovingwall.org.

The Coral Springs Police Department, in partnership with Shred Monkeys, will host a free touchless Shred-A-Thon event for city residents only at the Sportsplex (2575 Sportsplex Drive). All residents will be required to place their drivers’ licenses on the front dashboard upon arrival to the event. Limited to 3 file size cardboard boxes or reusable bins per vehicle. Plastic/garbage bags will not be accepted. Up to 3 additional boxes will be accepted with a $5 donation per box . Donations will benefit the Police Explorer Program. 9:00 am - 11:00 am at Sportsplex Park, 2575 Sportsplex Drive.

MAY 6

Eats N’ Beats

Get down to the tunes of one of South Florida’s favorite bands, Private Stock, at the Pine Trails Park Amphitheatre. Pack a lawn chair and blanket to get comfortable. There will be food trucks on-site offering a wide variety of tasty treats.

7:00 pm till 9:00 pm at Pine Trails Park, 10561 Trails End, Parkland. For more info, call 954-757-4107.

MAY 15

Mayor’s Chess Challenge

Families and students of all ages are invited to join Mayor Scott Brook along with elected officials and community leaders, for a game of chess. This is a free, open play event, so registration is not necessary. 10:00 amNoon at Sartory Hall, 10150 NW 29th Street, Coral Springs. For info, call 954-345-2200.

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Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being. It refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being and influences how we think, feel, and act. Good mental health allows us to lead a happy and fulfilling life, while poor mental health can harm our body, appearance, enjoyment of life, work, and relationships.

Here are some of the personality traits that are associated with good mental health:

Positive self-esteem means that you have a positive self-image and high self-esteem. You feel confident about yourself and your abilities and can recognize your strengths and weaknesses.

Emotional resilience allows you to cope with life's challenges and bounce back from setbacks. You can regulate your emotions, manage stress effectively, and maintain a positive outlook.

Healthy relationships are part of your life that lead to healthy and fulfilling relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. You can communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and maintain meaningful connections with others.

Productivity implies that you function effectively in your daily life. You can focus on tasks, make decisions, and be creative and innovative.

Enjoyment of life is associated with a sense of purpose and joy. You can engage in activities that you are fulfilling, pursue

your interests, hobbies, and sports, and feel satisfied with your achievements.

It’s important to note that mental health is not static; everyone has unique mental health needs. It’s common for people to underestimate the impact underlying mental health issues, such as anxiety, can have on their overall well-being. Sometimes, people may not even be aware that they are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges holding them back.

Therefore it’s essential to get a mental health checkup regularly to know the level of your emotional health, just like you get a blood test to understand your physical health. SelfView is accurate and used in top medical centers to support research. We are making it available to you for the first time. SelfView tests 24 aspects of mental health using artificial intelligence to arrive at a diagnostic report in about 10 minutes. It is state of the art; you can take it at home, so know it is private and confidential.

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May 2023 Calendar

MAY 13

ARTventures Family Fun Day

Head to the Coral Springs Museum of Art for ARTventures Family Fun Day. Families will enhance their education in arts and culture with creative activities such as storytelling, music, and handson art making. ARTventures starts with a tour of the current exhibit and culminates with a fun and engaging activity for the whole family. 2:00 pm till 3:00 pm at the Coral Springs Museum of Art. For more info, call 954-340-5000.

MAY 20

Homes Fur Dogs Expo

Studies have shown that pet owners have lower blood pressure, lower levels of stress, and reduced risk of depression & heart disease. Bring your dog to the Barkland Dog Park to celebrate. The Expo will showcase pet vendors, food trucks, music, and competitions open to both humans & animals. Several pet adoption agencies will be on hand with pups looking for their forever homes. 9:00 am - Noon, 9245 Ranch Road, Parkland. For info call 954-753-5040.

Parkland State of the City

The City of Parkland Commission will share a high-level overview of the many initiatives that are completed, in process, and scheduled to begin throughout the City. The annual presentation will take place from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm at Parkland City Hall.

MAY 18

Juice Box Jam

A parent and me program designed for toddlers ages 1 to 4 years old to enjoy an indoor play area while parents meet other parents. Upon entry, each toddler will receive a juice box and snack. No registration, first-come, first-served basis. Hosted at The Coral Springs Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs Dr., 10:00 am till noon. For info, call 954-345-2200.

MAY 28

Parkland Memorial Day Celebration

Listen to patriotic music while we honor fallen heroes. The event will include guest speakers and food trucks. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, and wear red, white, and blue! The event begins at 5:30 pm at Pine Trails Park Amphitheatre. For info call 954-757-4107.

MAY 12

Bites-N-Sips

Coral Springs’ popular food truck event returns featuring delicious bites, craft cocktails, and a colorful, artful Spring theme. This month’s event will coincide with the “Art of Data” an art exhibit on display in the City Hall Lobby. Both Bites-N-Sips and Art of Data are free and open to the public. Cost of food and drinks is additional. Arts & Crafts, inflatables, balloon twisters and a toddler area will be on hand for the little ones with more than a dozen food trucks expected. 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm at Coral Springs City Hall Lawn. For info, email events@coralsprings.gov.

MAY 29

Coral Springs Memorial Day Ceremony

The City of Coral Springs, in partnership with the Veterans Coalition of Coral Springs, will host a ceremony to honor the brave men & women who gave their lives in service to our nation. The event will take place at Veterans Park, 8601 Royal Palm Blvd. at 9:00 am. For more info, call 954-345-2200.

To celebrate National Nurses Week, it is important as a community that we honor the front line Wellpath nurse heroes in the Broward County Jails.

During National Nurses Week, we acknowledge and honor the healthcare heroes who work tirelessly every day to care for the most vulnerable individuals in our society. These exceptional professionals put the needs of their patients and team members first, and they are the backbone of our healthcare system. In Broward County Jails, we have a team of dedicated and passionate nurses who are making a difference in the lives of the underserved, and we celebrate their commitment to excellence.

Patricia Butler, LPN, is a shining example of the kind of nurse who makes a difference every day. With 12 years of experience working at the Main jail, she is a valuable source of knowledge and always welcomes new staff with open arms. She loves her job, focuses on efficiency, and is our culture carrier, planning staff get-togethers during the holidays. Sherri Klimko, RN, is a new charge

nurse who has a passion for teaching her staff and taking every opportunity to show them love and support. Oddeth Mattis, RN, is our sick call nurse, who takes on many roles, including the detox unit and charge nurse. Her warm personality and dedication to her patients make her a pleasure to work with, and the team loves her.

Nurse Strong, our Charge Nurse/Sick Call Nurse, started as an LPN over 10 years ago and is structured and organized, always showing initiative and a focus on completing tasks. She provides excellent care to our patients and endless support to our team. Linda Brown, LPN, has been with us for three years and is flexible and able to work in many different positions. She loves her patients and is always their advocate, while also welcoming new hires and efficiently training them. Nurse Minnis, our charge nurse, started as an LPN over 10 years ago and always has a big smile on her face. She takes charge when necessary and is always available to assist and guide others.

In addition to these outstanding nurses, we must also recognize Nurse C. Babwah, one of our hard-working Infirmary Nurses, who has been with Wellpath for four years. She shows compassion for her patients and team members and takes pride in her work. Maureen Dixon, RN, is a team player extraordinaire who will switch from day charge nurse shift to night charge nurse shift whenever needed. She takes initiative to coordinate coverage and never says no when asked to help others. Carol Mannings and Marianne Scibilia, Clinic LPN Staff, have been with us for almost a year and a half,

treating our patients with kindness and respect and working to keep them seen in a timely manner.

When we asked these nurses why they love what they do, they overwhelmingly shared their passion for making a difference in the lives of the underserved. They feel proud to be part of a mission-driven organization with a peoplefirst culture that supports diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, autonomy in a warm team environment, excellent career growth opportunities, and training.

As we celebrate National Nurses Week, we are reminded of the famous quote, “Save one life, you’re a hero. Save a hundred lives, you’re a nurse.” Every day, our special group of RNs, Charge Nurses, LPNs, Sick Call Nurses, Infirmary Nurses, and more show up with non-judgmental compassion to provide hope and healing to those who need it most. We honor them today for living our mantra to “Always Do The Right Thing.”

“Save one life, you’re a hero. Save a hundred lives, you’re a nurse.”

Coral Springs Students Reassigned to Coral Glades High School

After a long and contentious process that sparked tension between residents of Coral Springs and Parkland, the Broward County School Board has voted to rezone the boundary of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School (MSD). The move will initially impact 351 Coral Springs students who are rising eighth graders. These students will no longer attend MSD and are now slated to attend Coral Glades High School, starting in the 2023/24 academic year.

The board made the decision during a meeting at J.P. Taravella High School in Coral Springs, voting 6-3 to alter the boundary in an effort to alleviate overcrowding at MSD. Board members Debra Hixon, Sarah Leonardi, and Dr. Jeff Holness voted against the change, which will affect students living in Coral Springs to the south of Wiles Road, west of University Drive, north of Royal Palm Boulevard, and east of Coral Springs Drive.

The rezoning has been the subject of heated debate in recent months, with

Coral Springs residents pressing the board to halt the changes and urging school officials to restart the boundary process for MSD using a "more regional approach" that would consider other schools across the district. Some Coral Springs residents also criticized the boundary process as unfair, citing the disclosure from school district staff just before the previous public hearing on the rezoning that the guidelines for the process weren't properly followed.

In contrast, Parkland residents have been pushing the board to take action, noting that MSD's student population has been increasing and is projected to be 500 students over capacity in the near future.

After the boundary change, district staff will meet with each affected student and family to address any concerns they may have about attending Coral Glades rather than MSD. School Board Chair Lori Alhadeff emphasized the duty to act in her closing remarks at the meeting.

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FEELING STRESSED? LONELY? ANXIOUS? IT’S OK TO NOT BE OK!

DIAL 9-8-8

COUNTYWIDE INITIATIVE AIMS TO CREATE DIALOGUE AND PROVIDE RESOURCES TO ANYONE IN NEED

We all have one thing in common now- we’re all living in this new “normal”. Whether you are experiencing stress, loneliness, or anxiety, remember that we’re all in this together. It’s OK to not be OK. It’s essential to CARE for one another with respect; COMMUNICATE and listen without judgment and CONNECT those who need help with support services in our community. If you or someone you know needs help, dial 9 -8-8 today.

Mental health and well-being is different for everybody. When a person is experiencing challenges to their mental health, it is important that they have the help and support necessary to guide them through it. Mental health challenges can affect a person’s moods, behaviors, and even their cognitive functioning. The norm in some cultures may be to avoid talking about problems, feelings, or mental health concerns. While some individuals can have healthy coping mechanisms, many people often struggle to find proactive methods of dealing with emotional turmoil or unresolved trauma. For any stressful situation, this initiative encourages talking about the feelings you have, providing an open dialogue, and promoting the fact that it is OK to talk about feelings of stress, isolation, and anxiety.

United Way of Broward County partnered with the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, and Department of Children and Families to prioritize mental health struggles in its county wide initiative that promotes “It’s OK to not be OK” and the newly created 9-8-8 hotline. The goal is to provide an outlet of support to the community facing challenges with mental health, or any feelings of stress, isolation, and anxiety. Thus, creating a space for dialogue and offering the very much-needed resources during difficult times by providing someone to talk to.

You might notice the “It’s OK to Not be OK” message around the community which directs people to call the 9-8-8 hotline for support. Please help us to share the message. Trained counselors provide callers with guidance and free resources that will help in most situations. United Way of Broward County’s Commission on Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention’s website, drugfreebroward.org, also provides a prevention resource center with tool kits that provide support for mental and behavioral health issues.

Are you feeling stressed, lonely, anxious or depressed? Or do you know someone who is feeling this way? It’s OK to not be OK. Support and Help are available. And, now more than ever, it is essential to come together and CARE for one another with respect; COMMUNICATE and listen without judgment and CONNECT those who need help with support services in our community. If you or someone you know needs help, please dial 988 today. #ItsOKtoNotbeOK

South Florida is Not Always BRIGHT SKIES & BEAUTIFUL BEACHES

South Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and warm weather year-round. However, our home is also no stranger to the devastating effects of hurricanes. Over the years, the region has been hit by numerous storms that have left a lasting impact.

The history of hurricanes in South Florida dates back centuries. Native American tribes who lived here long before European settlers arrived experienced the effects of hurricanes just as we do today. Unfortunately, there is limited information about these storms.

According to Edward N. Rappaport; Jose Fernandez-Partagas & Jack Beven of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the first recorded tropical cyclone to affect the area that is now the state of Florida occurred in 1523, when two ships and their crews were lost along the western coastline. A total 159 hurricanes are known to have affected the state prior to 1900, destroying more than 100 boats and costing thousands of lives.

In 1935, a major hurricane hit South Florida, this time with catastrophic consequences. The storm, known as the Labor Day

Hurricane, had winds of over 185 miles per hour and caused massive storm surges that flooded much of the region. The hurricane caused over 400 deaths and left many communities in ruins.

In the decades that followed, South Florida continued to be hit by hurricanes, although the severity of these storms varied. In 1992, Hurricane Andrew made landfall just south of Miami, causing over $27 billion in damage and leaving over 250,000 residents without power. The storm was a wake-up call for many in the region, who realized that they needed to be better prepared for future storms. Building Codes were changed after the hurricane to ensure future structures would fare better.

In recent years, South Florida has been hit by several major hurricanes, including Hurricane Irma in 2017. The storm caused widespread flooding and left many residents without power for weeks. Although Broward County was largely spared from the worst of the storm, we still felt its effects. In the aftermath of the storm, many residents were left to deal with the damage to their homes and businesses.

Despite the many hurricanes that South Florida has experienced over the years, residents and officials have learned to be better prepared for these storms. Broward County has invested in infrastructure improvements, including flood control measures and stronger buildings, to help minimize the damage caused by hurricanes. The county also has a robust emergency management system in place, which helps to ensure that residents are informed and prepared for potential storms.

In a recent statement, Broward County Mayor Steve Geller emphasized the importance of being prepared for hurricanes. "We know that hurricanes are a part of life here in South Florida," he said. "That's why we need to make sure that we're doing everything we can to prepare for these storms and protect our residents."

South Florida has a long and storied history of hurricanes, with Broward County being no exception. We are now better prepared than ever to manage the impacts these storms can have. It is still incumbent on all of us to be prepared.

Weather the Storm WITH A ‘HURRICANE KIT’

Living in South Florida offers numerous advantages, from unparalleled weather to world-renowned beaches and a vibrant culture. However, along with the good comes the possibility of experiencing hurricanes.

Given the potential for storms, it's important to be prepared and think ahead. After a hurricane, you may need to survive on your own for several days, which means having your own food, water, and other supplies. This is where a disaster supplies kit comes in handy.

To create your kit, the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends assembling a collection of basic items that your household may need in case of an emergency. You should store these items in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as plastic bins or large duffel bags, and make sure they are stored inside air-tight plastic bags.

A BASIC EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT SHOULD INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDED ITEMS:

• Water (3 gallons per family member)

• Non-perishable food (3 days worth)

• Battery-powered cell phone charger

• NOAA Weather Radio with extra batteries

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• First Aid Kit

• Whistle

• Package of Surgical Masks (to filter out contaminated air)

• Plastic Sheeting and Duct Tape

• Moist Towelettes

• Garbage Bags

You may also want to consider adding these additional items to your kit:

• Prescription medications and glasses

• Infant formula, food, and diapers

• Pet food and extra water for your pets

• Copies of insurance documents, bank records, etc.

• Cash

• Sleeping bags or blankets

• A complete change of clothes for each family member

• Fire extinguisher

• Matches or a lighter

• Personal hygiene items

• Books, games, puzzles

By being prepared with a disaster supplies kit, you can ensure that you and your family are ready to weather any storm that may come your way.

Preparing Your Small Business FOR THE UNEXPECTED

As a business owner in South Florida, preparing for a hurricane is crucial to safeguard your employees, customers, and assets. With the frequency of hurricanes in the region, it's essential to have a comprehensive hurricane plan in place.

Here are some steps that business owners can take to prepare for a hurricane:

1. SECURE YOUR BUILDING: Before a hurricane strikes, make sure that your building is secure. Cover windows and doors with shutters or plywood, and clear gutters and drains to prevent flooding. If necessary, consider reinforcing your building's roof and walls.

2. DEVELOP A HURRICANE PLAN: Develop a plan that outlines how your business will operate before, during, and after a hurricane. Identify critical business functions and the resources needed to continue operations. Assign tasks and

responsibilities to employees, and ensure that everyone understands the plan.

3. COMMUNICATE WITH EMPLOYEES AND CUSTOMERS: Keep employees and customers informed about your hurricane plan. Share information about the storm's progress, business closures, and reopening plans. Make sure that employees know whom to contact and how to stay in touch during and after the storm.

4. BACKUP CRITICAL DATA: Ensure that all critical data, including financial records, customer data, and business contracts, are backed up and stored in a secure off-site location.

5. HAVE AN EMERGENCY KIT: Keep an emergency kit on hand with essential supplies, such as water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, and batteries.

6. REVIEW INSURANCE COVERAGE: Review your insurance coverage to ensure that your business is adequately covered for hurricane-related damages.

If a hurricane hits, follow your hurricane plan, and prioritize the safety of your employees and customers. After the storm, assess the damage to your building and assets, and document all losses. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to file a claim.

Several resources are available to help businesses prepare for hurricanes. The Small Business Administration offers guidance on disaster preparedness and recovery, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency provides a Business Emergency Operations Center to support businesses during emergencies.

By taking the necessary steps to secure your building, develop a hurricane plan, communicate with employees and customers, backup critical data, have an emergency kit, and review your insurance coverage, you can help protect your business from the devastation of hurricanes.

May UPDATE

By State Rep. Christine Hunschofsky

As a mom, I appreciate Mother’s Day and celebrate all the wonderful mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, and mother figures who have made a difference in our lives. They are the ones we seek out for support, help, advice, and comfort. Our world is a better place thanks to the love, care, and support our mothers give. I would be remiss if I didn’t say how eternally grateful I am to my own mom and all the mothers I have met along the way who shared their guidance, advice, knowledge, and support, which has allowed me to be the best mother I could be to our two boys. I also recognize how challenging Mother’s Day can be for some who have lost their mothers or for mothers who have lost children. So, while you celebrate this day, please keep those who may be having a difficult time on Mother’s Day in your thoughts.

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 8–12, and it's a time to thank all our teachers for their commitment to the education of our children and for the difference they make in our children’s lives. When I think back to the special teachers in my life, they were the ones who saw potential in me when I didn’t necessarily see it myself. They didn’t hold my worst day against me, and they challenged me in a positive way to think outside the box, to treat my assignments with thoughtfulness and care, and to be a good person along the way. To all my teachers, my children’s teachers, and all our teachers who make a positive difference in our children’s lives, THANK YOU!

May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of those living with mental health issues and to help reduce the stigma of mental illness. Many of us have faced challenges of isolation, loss, grief, and additional anxiety. It is critical that we all take time to assess how we are doing and also check in on our family, friends, and neighbors. Help and resources are available by calling 211 in Broward County. You can also visit www.211-Broward.org or www.eagleshaven.org for additional assistance.

As your State Representative I continuously work to make better policies for our constituents, and that is possible because we are the home of the free because of the brave. That is why Memorial Day is a special holiday where we honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. All the cities in the district will be acknowledging and honoring those lost in the line of duty on Memorial Day, and I encourage you to attend these special ceremonies.

Coconut Creek May 29, 9:00 am at Veterans Park, 3550 Lyons Road Margate May 29, 9:00 am at Veterans Memorial Park, 7044 NW 1st Street Parkland May 28, 5:30 pm at Pine Trails Park Amphitheater, 10555 Trails End Coral Springs, May 29, 9:00 am at Veterans Park, 8601 Royal Palm Blvd.

At the time of submission, the 2023 Legislative Session was scheduled to end on May 5th. We will be hosting legislative updates throughout the District in June to share with all of you what bills passed and what their impact is. Please keep an eye out for our email newsletter to receive updated information on dates, times, and locations. If you are not receiving our emails, please subscribe by emailing Linda.Beauport@myfloridahouse. gov with "subscribe" in the subject line. I want to thank all of you who have reached out to me with your concerns, comments, questions, and feedback. If you need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office by phone at (954) 956-5600 or by email at HD095@myfloridahouse.gov. Also follow me on Facebook at @RepChristineHunschofsky and Twitter at @RepHunschofsky for regular updates. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve as your state representative. Please stay in touch!

CORAL SPRINGS COMMISSION MAY MESSAGE

May marks the return of one of our most popular events, Bites-N-Sips! The fun-filled, food event takes place Friday, May 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on the Great Lawn of City Hall (9500 W Sample Rd.) This year event guests will be invited to view the Art of Data, an exhibit that showcases original artwork from local artists who have taken city data and translated it into unique pieces of art. The Art of Data will be on display in the City Hall Lobby through May.

In partnership with the Veterans Coalition of Coral Springs, the city welcomes the Moving Wall Vietnam Veterans Memorial to Sportsplex Park (2575 Sportsplex Dr.) from Friday, May 5 through Sunday, May 7. The city and the coalition will also host a Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 29 to honor the brave men and women of our military who have given their lives in service to our nation. The event will take place at Veterans Park (8601 Royal Palm Blvd.) at 9 a.m.

This month, the Coral Springs Multi-Cultural Committee will host a National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 4. Participants of all faiths are invited to join this candlelight ceremony. The popular Shred-A-Thon, organized by our police department to prevent identity theft, will take place Saturday, May 6 from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. at Sportsplex Park (2575 Sportsplex Dr.) This event is for Coral Springs residents only.

Many of our young residents have been sharpening their chess skills to take part in the Mayor’s Chess Challenge on Saturday, May 6. This free event is open to all ages and skill levels. Additionally, the King of Coral Springs Chess Tournament will take place on Saturday, May 20. Participants must register in advance. Visit CoralSprings.gov/events for more details.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. As we enter the spring and summer months, we remind our community that mental health resources exist to help tackle whatever challenges life may bring. Dial 2-1-1 Broward or text 898211 to be connected with help.

The next Commission meetings will take place on Wednesday, May 3 and Wednesday, May 17 at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are aired on CityTV, Blue Stream Channels 25, 25.7, 725 and on AT&T U-Verse channel 99. Meetings are also live streamed at CoralSprings.gov/CityTV.

▸ If you would like to schedule an appointment with any of your City Officials, please call 954-344-5911. Make sure to follow Coral Springs on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Mayor Scott Brook @CSCommissioner1, Vice Mayor Shawn Cerra @CSCommissioner2, Commissioner Nancy Metayer Bowen @CSCommissioner3, Commissioner Joshua Simmons @CSCommissioner4, and Commissioner Joy Carter @CSCommissioner5

PARKLAND LIVING ON THE WEDGE

arlier this spring, we came together to honor Parkland’s historic past, enjoy festive traditions, and celebrate the City’s 60th birthday with old and new friends.

As I look back over the past eight months, I see a close-knit community. I also see a thriving City with much more on the horizon.

Our newly acquired Heron Bay Parkland property reflects the ethos of our community and strong economy. We are steps away from a monumental infrastructural redesign of Loxahatchee Road. Large-scale drainage improvements are taking place in a few key areas in the City. And we will soon begin work on the new Wedge Preserve Park.

All of these projects and improvements will positively impact our life experiences for years to come. As Mayor and as a Parkland resident, I am grateful

By Mayor Rich Walker

Efor the strength of our relationships and partnerships, and I am inspired by the work that has been done to usher in our future.

There is much to say about where we are headed as a community, and I believe an exciting report like this should be shared in person. The Commissioners and I will deliver the State of the City at City Hall at 6:30 p.m. on May 10, at 6600 University Drive, 33067. Should anything change, we will be sure to keep everyone up to date on the details.

During our State of the City, the City Commission will share a high-level overview of the many initiatives that are completed, in process, and scheduled to begin throughout the Wedge. I think the presentation, which will include visual references and opportunities to speak with City commissioners in an informal setting, will give residents a better understanding of the scope of the projects going on in our community.

Through the years, our successes

have firmly planted us where we are today, and we want to continue to embrace what is sure to be a dynamic future for the City of Parkland. Consider making plans to hear more about our next chapter together.

I look forward to seeing you there. If you have questions or comments you would like to share, I would love to hear from you. I can be reached via e-mail at rwalker@Cityofparkland.org or via cell phone at (973) 390-1453. Of course, I am frequently available monthly at Parkland businesses and love to talk with residents there. I encourage you to visit the City’s website Cityofparkland.org and click on the social media icon that you prefer, to ensure that you stay informed on events and helpful information.

To RSVP to the City of Parkland’s State of the City, use your smartphone to scan the QR Code:

Meet Teddy! He is a five-year-old golden doodle who is the kindest, most gentle dog anyone could ever ask for. He loves long walks around the park, hunting for lizards and trying to steal scraps around the kitchen table when we are eating. Teddy does not have any negative qualities. He is the family’s best friend and we cannot imagine a life without him.