Our City Pembroke Pines: March 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PUBLISHERS

Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Christy Jaillet

ART DIRECTOR

Tom Rowe

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Alana Brodie

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Nancy Koval nancy@ourcitymedia.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Jaillet, Jon Duka, Dr. Robert Donoway, Dr. John Goodner, Amelis Lopez, Mayor Frank C. Ortis, Dr. Isabel Suate

ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com

VISIT US ONLINE ourcitymedia.com

954-306-1007

400 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway Suite 200C • Sunrise, FL 33325

GOT NEWS? EMAIL THE EDITOR! editor@ourcitymedia.com

March Is Women’s History Month

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,

Christy & Terry Jaillet

OUR CITY MEDIA PUBLISHERS

Yul Lopez,

Hector Fabregas, MD

MARCH 1

LOL - Living Out Loud

Seniors are invited to come to meet new people and make friends with similar interests. Socialize and plan group outings and trips; meetings are every first Wednesday of the month. Hosted at the Southwest Focal Point Senior Center, 301 NW 103rd Ave, from 11:00 am till noon. For info, call 954-450-1060.

MARCH 4

Broward County Waterway Cleanup

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

MARCH 2

Frank Contemporaries: Silent Narrator/Curious Spectator Walkthrough

Join this exhibition walkthrough and learn about the concepts behind the exhibition Silent Narrator/Curious Spectator. This walkthrough will feature artist talks with The Frank’s Chief Curator, Juliana Forero and exhibiting artists. Hosted at The Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery from 6:00 pm till 8:00 pm.

MARCH 8

International Women’s Day

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

MARCH 10

Relay for Life

“Relay For Life" is the nationwide signature event for the American Cancer Society. The City of Pembroke Pines welcomes the Pembroke Pines/Miramar Relay for Life Event on Friday, March 10, 2023. The 25th Silver Jubilee aka Relay-versary will take place at the City of Pembroke Pines Charter High Athletic Field, located at 17189 Sheridan Street from 5:00 pm till midnight. For info scan the QR code or call 954-392-2116

MARCH 13

Kid’s Corner Story Time @ The Frank

The Frank welcomes children and their caretakers for Storytime Hour! Join in on this literary celebration of Women’s History Month with the book ‘Mae Among the Stars’ written by Roda Ahmed and illustrated by Stasia Burrington. After the reading, children will be able to enjoy a guided art activity and games. Noon till 1:00 pm at The Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery, 601 City Ctr Way. For info call 954-392-2120.

March 2023 Calendar

MARCH 13

Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society

Spring forward with Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society! This month FGOS members will present "Orchid Repotting, Dividing and Culture Discussion" followed by a Q & A session. Doors open at 7:00 pm, the program begins at 7:30 pm at Flamingo Gardens, Mary N Porter Learning Center, 3750 S. Flamingo Road, Davie.

MARCH 17

Mayor’s Annual Golf Tournament

The Pembroke Lakes Golf & Tennis Center will host the annual Mayor's Golf Tournament. All proceeds benefit the Charter School Foundation of Pembroke Pines. Please contact Carol Campisi at 954-3922121 or ccampisi@ppines.com for info on becoming a sponsor or play information. Tee times are at 10:00 am sharp at Pembroke Lakes Golf Club, 10500 Taft Street.

MARCH 17

St. Patrick’s Day

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

MARCH 24

Teen Art Club Workshop

Teen Art Club offers monthly workshops for teenagers to explore artistic mediums and creative expression with artist and educator Melanie Oliva. Every month, students will learn new art skills following in the styles of a new artist. This program encourages creative problem-solving using a wide range of materials, exploring styles and techniques inspired by contemporary artists. Advanced registration is suggested, seating is limited to 20 participants. 4:30 pm till 6:30 pm at the Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery. Scan the QR code to register.

MARCH 26

Savor the Sound Music Series

Savor the Sounds is a fusion of music and food trucks - the perfect way to get the family together for a relaxing, feel-good evening of good food and good music! Featuring music by different genres each month. Music by Rough Shot (Country/Rock/Oldies) Live art by Galen Todd. 4:00 pm till 7:00 pm at the Charles F. Dodge City Center, 601 City Center Way.

MARCH 28

Bingomania with Suzy

Seniors are invited to test their luck at the main hall in Pembroke Pines’ Southwest Focal Point Senior Center. Suzy will be calling numbers to see who the night’s big winners are. $12 per packet to play. Bingo dobbers also available for purchase. Bingo begins at 2:30 pm. For more info call 954-450-1060.

Younger More Healthy You!

Fox Vein & Laser Experts

Varicose Veins & Beyond!

Varicose veins are not just a cosmetic problem. They can make your legs ache, burn, throb, itch, and cramp. Untreated varicose veins tend to get worse over time. They can cause leg swelling, phlebitis (vein inflammation), thrombosis (blood clots in the vein), and skin ulcers.

Fox Vein & Laser Experts specialize in diagnosing and treating venous disease, including varicose veins, leg pain and swelling, ulcer care, venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and blood clotting disorders. We offer the newest and best minimally invasive vein procedures: Endovenous laser ablation, ClariVein®, Ambulatory phlebectomies, ultrasoundguided, foam and traditional sclerotherapy.

DR. SUSAN FOX

DABVLM, DO, RPVI, FSVM

Dr. Susan Fox is an expert in vein and vascular diagnosis and treatment. She is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Vascular Medicine, and Phlebology (the treatment of veins). She was one of the first physicians in the United States to be Board Certified in the treatment of veins. She is also a Registered Physician Vascular Interpreter (RPVI) and is certified to read vascular ultrasound studies.

After completing her Medical Residency and Vascular Fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, she joined the teaching faculty at University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Fox is a Diplomate of the American College of Phlebology and a Fellow of the Society of Vascular Medicine.

She has been featured as a vein expert on multiple news programs in both America and Latin America and has written numerous articles and lectured extensively on varicose veins. She has successfully taught physicians and medical personnel to treat venous disease for over a decade at her vein treatment facility. She is fluent in Spanish and English.

ENDOVENOUS LASER ABLATION (EVLA/EVLT)

Endovenous Laser Ablation is one of the most effective treatments for large varicose veins with a 98–100 percent success rate. It involves inserting a thin laser fiber through the affected vein; there are no incisions and thus leaves no scars. Tiny pulses of laser energy are delivered as the fiber is pulled through the vein, gently heating it and causing it to collapse and seal shut. The insufficient veins become shrunken scars that fade over time. These procedures take less than a 30-minutes with little to no downtime afterward.

VARITHENA®

Varithena® is ideal for smaller, less obtrusive veins. It uses foam sclerotherapy and is a safe and effective vein removal technique. During traditional sclerotherapy, a solution is injected directly into the affected veins. While you may feel a pinch at the injection site, foam sclerotherapy isn’t painful. We perform it under ultrasound guidance and direct the foam into the problematic veins watching everything along the way. The person has no downtime, usually minimal to no pain, and only needs to stay active and wear a compression hose afterward.

AMBULATORY PHLEBECTOMY

Ambulatory Phlebectomy is a surgical approach to removing larger and more troublesome veins. It is often an in-office procedure that requires a local anesthetic. The veins are teased out through the tiny holes without causing any significant scarring. Most people return to normal activities immediately afterward without much recovery time.

SPIDER VEIN REMOVAL

Spider Veins Removal is deemed cosmetic even though they may cause symptoms. There are a couple of treatment options. We can use sclerotherapy, where a solution is injected into the vein with a tiny needle. The vein lining gets irritated and gradually seals shut, closing the vein over several weeks. It may take several sessions for all of the veins to go away. There is also a cutaneous laser option if you prefer. The laser uses light pulses to heat the vein and scar them shut. For the tiny and unsightly facial veins or tiny red veins, we also have a machine called the VeinGogh. It uses energy microbursts to close tiny veins without any downtime or scarring. This procedure seals the small veins over a few days to weeks and can be done in a few sessions with excellent results.

Get Out on the Links for a Good Cause at the Mayor’s Golf Tournament

Break out your clubs and get ready to play a round for a great cause. The Annual Mayor Frank C. Ortis Golf Tournament, benefiting the Pembroke Pines Charter School Foundation will be held on Friday, March 19 from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Pembroke Lakes Country Club.

The competition promptly gets underway at 10:00 a.m. with player registration starting at 9:00 am. Activities will include a putting contest, a delightful lunch and finally,

By Terry Jaillet

an 18-hole competition on the rolling greens of the John Stanford designed course. Following the tournament, a high-class dinner buffet, award presentations, live auction and prizes will also take place.

Pembroke Lakes Golf Club features a John Sanford Design golf course with Paspalum Supreme Grass, awesome E-Z-GO Golf Carts equipped with GPS System, Coquina Waste Areas and a fantastic practice area with a chipping green, practice bunker, grass driving range tees, and an oversized practice putting green.

“It’s that time of year again, and I’d like to invite all golfers to this fantastic event,” said Mayor Ortis.

The driving range and practice tee will also be available for golfers to refine their skills before bringing them to the field of play. In addition

to a great fundraiser, the tournament is a fantastic opportunity to meet members of the Pembroke Pines community.

Proceeds from the tournament and auction benefit The Pembroke Pines Charter School Foundation, a 501c3. The foundation was established in January of 2004 to assist teachers and students through the creation of a one million dollar endowment. These monies provide scholarships for high school graduates, teacher scholarships for advanced degrees, and Employee of the Year bonuses for instructional and non-instructional employees in the Pembroke Pines Charter School System.

The Pembroke Pines Charter School System is the largest Charter School System in Broward County, and the largest municipally run non-profit charter system

in the State of Florida. In 1998, Pembroke Pines built and opened two elementary schools and a middle school: Pembroke Pines Charter West Elementary and Middle, and East Elementary campuses. The Charter High School was then built as part of the City’s Academic Village. Two years later, another elementary and middle school were built – Pembroke Pines Central Charter Elementary and Middle Campus. And in 2003, the Pembroke Pines Florida State University (FSU) campus opened, the last campus to be built.

▸ To become a sponsor or to acquire additional golf registration information in reference to the 2023 Mayor Frank C. Ortis Golf Tournament, contact Carol Campisi at ccampisi@ppines. com or call 954-392-2121.

BLUE HOPE COLON CANCER AWARENESS 5K WALK/RUN WILL HIT THE STREETS ON MARCH 11

The 3rd Annual Blue Hope Colon Cancer Awareness 5K is being held on Saturday, March 11, 2023, at Miramar Regional Park, located at 16801 Miramar Pkwy, Miramar, FL 33027. We are inviting participants to join us from all over South Florida for a family-friendly, fun day of wellness, fitness, and education as we promote awareness of colon cancer and early screening.

According to the American Cancer Society, “In the United States, colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related

deaths in men and in women, and the second most common cause of cancer deaths when men and women are combined. Many lifestyle-related factors have been linked to colorectal cancer. In fact, the links between diet, weight, and exercise and colorectal cancer risk are some of the strongest for any type of cancer.”

At We Stand Together Inc, we believe that true wealth is an educated and healthy community. Though a 5K is a one-day event, our hope is that it will encourage healthier lifestyles and motivate many to schedule screenings and take control of their health. We also want to inspire hope and empower those battling cancer in our communities to know “No One Fights Alone!”

The event will begin at 7:00 a.m. with an opening ceremony hosted by NBC 6 Morning News Anchor, Constance Jones. It will also include a warm-up session with a fitness instructor and DJ. The 5K will kick off at 7:30 a.m. We will also host our Blue Hope Table Talk series with a panel of experts who will share valuable information

about colon cancer, risks, signs, symptoms, treatment options and more. We will end with a closing/awards ceremony and a special presentation to announce the Natalie Marc Surpris Scholarship Fund recipients. Additional activities will include health screenings, children’s activities, a bounce house, face painting, healthy food vendors, and more.

The funds raised will benefit two of our programs, the “We Stand Together Financial Assistance Program”, which provides emergency funds to those impacted with cancer, to help assist with living expenses, and the Natalie Marc Surpris Scholarship Fund, named after the late Founder, which is awarded to high school seniors or college undergraduates, attending a Florida college/ university, who have a parent that is currently battling cancer or has passed away due to cancer diagnosis.

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

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

By Ivis Mateos

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

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

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

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

▸ Ivis Mateos is a mother of two boys and has more than 22 years combined experience in educational consulting and management. In addition to earning her National Administrator Credential, Mateos has lead workshops on curriculum development, teacher development and parenting. She has been the General Manager at Tiny Planet Preschool and an Educational Consultant for Graven International Group for the past three years. For more information, call 954-384-4884.

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

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

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

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

culture where we can thrive at every level.”

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

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

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

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

school board was partially at fault.

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

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

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

Help Make Broward County Beautiful at the Waterway Cleanup

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

REVIEW AND UPDATE YOUR ESTATE PLAN REGULARLY

By Andrea L. Jakob, Esq.

Imagine this scenario: Wendy spent her life creating a nice asset portfolio. The assets are at a bank (let’s call it “Sun-bust”.) She named her husband as her initial beneficiary and her children as the alternate or contingent beneficiaries.

Now imagine that Sun-bust is sold to another bank (let’s call it “Tru-not”.) Tru-not has taken over all of Sun-bust’s client accounts. Somehow during the transfer, the beneficiary designations were lost and Tru-not had no record of them. Then Wendy dies. When her family finds out the beneficiary designations weren’t transferred over, what should they do?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

▸ Andrea L. Jakob, PA is located at 12401 Orange Drive, suite 219 in Davie. They can be reached at 954-862-1479 or on the web at www.jakoblegal.com.

About Letti

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

What Makes ASM Beauty World Academy Unique

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

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

What Contributed to Letti’s Success

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

A Fun Fact About Letti & ASM Beauty World Academy

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

Leticia

Milazzo

President ASM Beauty World Academy, Inc.

About Elizabeth

Elizabeth Gonzalez

Owner & Director

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

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

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

What Makes Elizabeth’s Schools Unique

Elizabeth has established a family of schools based on the foundations layed at A World of Knowledge. Greentree Prep Charter is a high performing school, teaching students in a gifted environment. Students score high is state assessments and the school has been an A school for eight consecutive years. She created an unique accelerated learning program that is unmatched in South Florida. This program sets the schools apart by bringing the world to their students. With her incredible and experienced staff, this proved to be successful for over 98% of AWOK students who entered kindergarten reading and for Greentree Prep students entering high school on an honors track.

What Contributed to Elizabeth’s Success?

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

Dr. Laura Gonzalez, DMD

Cosmetic Dentist

Best Smile Cosmetic Dentistry

About Dr. Laura Gonzalez

After graduating from the prestigious Facultad de Odontologia de la Universidad Autonoma de Mexico, Dr. Gonzalez went on to complete her studies and graduated from Nova Southeastern University School of Dental Medicine.

With this exceptional training and experience behind her, Dr. Gonzalez decided to open her own practice with the goal of providing excellence in dentistry with outstanding aesthetic results. In order to stay on the leading edge of her profession, Dr. Gonzalez has also completed extensive hours of post-graduate training both at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies and the world-renowned Institute for Laser Institute.

What Makes Best Smile Cosmetic Dentistry Different

As soon as you walk through the doors at Best Smile Cosmetic Dentistry, you realize that this practice is different than others you may have been to. The calm, inviting ambiance makes you relaxed. That is a big difference from a typical dentist’s office!

Dr. Laura Gonzalez and her cosmetic dentistry team are focused on bringing their patients the state-of-the-art dental care and outstanding aesthetic solutions — all in an exquisite environment that feels more like a spa than a dental office.

What Contributed to Dr. Gonzalez’s Success?

Dr. Gonzalez studied at NOVA Southeastern University and completed her residency training at Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI), the premier post-graduate teaching facility in North America. Dentists from all over the world go to LVI to learn the most advanced cosmetic and neuromuscular dentistry principles and techniques. She has put this knowledge to work at her practice in South Florida for more than 20 years.

Dr. Gonzalez’s Words to Live By

“First do what you love, find your passion and use your desire and motivation as fuel to drive you towards your goals. A positive “get it done attitude” and a strong sense of leadership makes all the difference. Inspire and motivate the people you are lucky enough to impact. Take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves and never get complacent. Women have a unique opportunity - they figure out a way ‘to do it all.’ If you have kids, if you are married, if you are a caregiver, if you have any sort of medical setbacks, and you have a job, you have to figure out how to accomplish it all. Lead with passion and your actions will make a difference in all aspects of your life.”

About Christy

Christy is the Co-Publisher and Editor-in-Chief at Our City Media. She manages all of the positive community news stories that go into Our City’s eight magazines every month. Christy leads our editorial team and ensures we get the word out about all of the amazing things happening in South Florida! She is also the primary conduit for our guest writers and expert columnists to reach our readers with their informative stories.

Despite being incredibly talented at her current role, what makes Christy truly remarkable is the fact that Our City is actually her second career. Dr. Christy Jaillet is also a board-certified Optometrist. Prior to moving to Florida, Christy owned an Optometry practice in Johns Creek, Georgia. She practiced Optometry for more than 20 years, taking care of the ocular health of thousands of patients.

What Contributed to Christy’s Success?

Christy is a principled person. Her integrity is very important to her, and it shows in all of her business dealings. Deadline week at a community magazine publisher can be stressful for anyone. Having a consistent, level-headed leader like Christy keeps the team on task.

She is also a voracious reader, often finishing two books a week. Christy’s continuous absorption of new ideas and information makes her particularly adept in her role

Fun Fact About Christy

Like many South Floridians, Christy loves the beach and the ocean. When she isn’t working, watching one of her children’s sporting events, or attending a community event, you will likely find her at the beach or on the Intracoastal waterway. In fact, she and her husband plan to complete the “Great Loop” boating trip one day.

Christy Jaillet

Co-Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Our City Media of Florida, LLC

IMPINGEMENT SYNDROMES IN DANCERS

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 anti-inflammatory medication. If the pain does

By Dr. John Goodner

Pnot 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 anti-inflammatory 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.

⊲ Dr. John Goodner is a Board Certified Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgeon with the Foot, Ankle and Leg Specialists of South Florida and specializes in sports medicine foot and ankle injuries, foot and ankle arthroscopy, lower extremity trauma, and lower extremity deformities in infants, children, teens and adults. The South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine is located at 17842 NW 2nd St Pembroke Pines, FL 33029-2806

Tel: (954) 430-9901 The practice website is SouthFloridaSportsMedicine.com. Instagram @SouthFloridaSportsMedicine and Twitter @SFLSportsMed

OFFERING SAME DAY & EARLY MORNING APPOINTMENTS & CONSULTATIONS

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

$800

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

$550

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

ORTHOTICS $400 | CASTS $200 | LACERATION REPAIR $550 Dr. Carlo Messina

MEDICARE | BLUE CROSS | BRIGHT | UHC | CIGNA | AETNA | AMBETTER | TRICARE | WORKERS COMP | ACCIDENTS/LOPS

SIMPLY | SUNSHINE | OSCAR | MEMORIAL PHO

MEDICARE | BLUE CROSS | BRIGHT | UHC | CIGNA | AETNA | AV MED AMBETTER | TRICARE | WORKERS COMP | ACCIDENTS/LOPS SIMPLY | SUNSHINE | OSCAR | MEMORIAL PHO

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

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

STEM CELLS $1200 | SHOCKWAVE (5 SESSIONS) $600 | ORTHOTICS $400 | CASTS $200 | LACERATION REPAIR

Greetings From Your Chamber President!

By Patty Archer

We are elated! Thank you for choosing the Miramar Pembroke Pines Regional Chamber of Commerce as Our City’s Best Organization in Pembroke Pines! We are humbled to serve our business community and ensure that our local economy is healthy for our businesses to grow and thrive. Remember that you are welcome at any of our Ribbon Cutting celebrations as we help welcome new businesses to Miramar and Pembroke Pines.

We hope you are planning to celebrate with us at our 17th annual A Sip of Wine, A Taste of Heaven event on March 18th at the Miramar Amphitheater where we will showcase the best restaurants, caterers and bakeries that South Broward has to offer. Enjoy a VIP lounge, live entertainment, mobile cigar lounge, coffee station, and a vast selection of food, dessert, wine and beer. See all the ticket options at miramarpembrokepines.org/sip-taste.

The Chamber is also renewing our accreditation with the US Chamber of Commerce. Miramar Pembroke Pines is the only chamber in South Florida with this designation, earning 4 stars for excellence in chamber planning and outstanding contributions toward positive change in our communities. The Chamber is committed to promoting the South Broward area and fosters sustainable economic growth by empowering our business leaders’ growth and supporting new and vibrant businesses to make our community a desirable place to live, work, and play.

For more information and our event calendar, visit www.miramarpembrokepines.org.

Yours in Service,

Patty Archer Chamber President

Pembroke Pines UPDATE

By Frank C. Ortis

Dear Readers, Our Pembroke Pines Fire Department is celebrating! It’s been 50 years since the City of Pembroke Pines first incorporated in 1960, with its first fire station of volunteers next to North Perry Airport. In 1973, the City then hired its first four paid firefighters, marking the inception of the City’s Fire Department. In 1978 the second fire station opened at 9500 Pines Blvd, and more were built in 1981 (old station 79), 1987 (station 89), 1996 (station 99), and 2001 (station 101). To commemorate this accomplishment, 50th-anniversary badges have been given to the city’s firefighters and personnel to be worn throughout the year. The badge itself represents both authority and protection. As firefighters, they are in a field that enjoys one of the highest levels of public trust. The badges proudly display the number “50” on the emblem with the American Flag in the background. The eagle, a symbol of strength, courage, valor, and freedom sits atop the badge, with the established date of 1973 underneath. We are very proud of our Fire Department and sincerely thank them for their service to our residents.

Applications for the 18th Annual Art Competition are now being accepted. Artists 18 years or older residing in Dade, Broward or Palm Beach counties are eligible to participate. Categories and prizes include: $500 Best of Show, $200 Best Photography, $200 Best Drawing, $200 Digital Art, $200 Best Painting, $200 Best Mixed Media, $200 Best Sculpture, and $200 Best watercolor. Artists can submit up to 3 pieces of artwork. Each submission is $15. Accepted artwork into the Competition will be exhibited from Friday, May 5 through July 12, 2023, at the Studio 18 Art Complex located at 1101 Poinciana Drive, Pembroke Pines. Winners will be announced on Friday, May 5, 2023, 7 p.m. @ Studio 18 Art Complex. The application deadline is Monday, April 10, 2023. For more information, please contact Amelia Mohamed at 954- 961-6067 or amohamed@ppines.com.

Just a reminder that daylight savings time begins at 2 am on Sunday, March 12, 2023. This is also a good time to replace the batteries in your smoke alarms. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month and the batteries should be replaced at least once or twice a year. Smoke alarms have become such a common feature in our homes that it is easy to take them for granted and forget about them. Let’s keep our smoke alarms working properly and stay safe.

Did you know, that every Monday & Thursday, February 2 through April 17, 2023, between the hours of 10:00 am and 2:00 pm, AARP will provide Tax Aide at the Carl Shechter Southwest Focal Point Community Center Campus, 301 NW 103rd Avenue, Pembroke Pines? You can receive free assistance for all tax questions. For more information or to make an appointment, please call 561-739-2595 or go online to http://AARP.org/findtaxhelp . Walk-Ins are accepted however, anyone with an appointment will have priority.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office at 954-450-1020, or by e-mail at fortis@ ppines.com. Wishing you all a great, safe and prosperous new year!

Frank C. Ortis