Our City Pembroke Pines: September 2023

Jesus R. Barreto, DDS, PA Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry

"WE

FULL ARCH DENTAL IMPLANT PACKAGE (List Price $18,000)

Full

SENIORS GOOD NEW

Palace owners Helen & Jacob Shaham give every resident & family their personal cellphone number and say: “Call us any time you have an unsolved issue.”

Palace owners Helen & Jacob Shaham give every resident & family their personal cellphone number and say: “Call us any time you have an unsolved issue.”

Even though our managers & staff are incredibly responsive, there are times when a request warrants directly speaking to the ultimate decision makers.

Even though our managers & staff are incredibly responsive, there are times when a request warrants directly speaking to the ultimate decision makers.

Like the time our Mr. Arkin told Jacob he wished The Palace had an Oculus (ask any teenager) he could play with his grandsons when they visit. Jacob tried one out, loved the idea and Mr. Arkin got his wish.

Like the time our Mr. Arkin told Jacob he wished The Palace had an Oculus (ask any teenager) he could play with his grandsons when they visit. Jacob tried one out, loved the idea and Mr. Arkin got his wish.

Or the time our Mrs. Martinez called Helen about the health benefits she enjoys from the hyperbaric chamber she used in a healthcare facility nearby. Helen was so intrigued she tried one herself, and ordered two — one for The Palace at Coral Gables and one for The Palace at Weston.

Or the time our Mrs. Martinez called Helen about the health benefits she enjoys from the hyperbaric chamber she used in a healthcare facility nearby. Helen was so intrigued she tried one herself, and ordered two — one for The Palace at Coral Gables and one for The Palace at Weston.

Senior living isn’t really luxurious if you get bogged down in bureaucracy or if you have to wait for corporate headquarter response.

Senior living isn’t really luxurious if you get bogged down in bureaucracy or if you have to wait for corporate headquarter response.

At The Palace, we have the antidote to corporate-run senior livings — owners you can talk to any time.

At The Palace, we have the antidote to corporate-run senior livings — owners you can talk to any time.

Scan here. Luxury Living for Seniors

You’ll be surprised!

“At The Palace, your request goes right to the top.”

PUBLISHERS

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, Kenny Rodgers, Silvia Silva

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Jaillet, Jon Duka, Dr. John Goodner, D.P.M. Mayor Frank C. Ortis, Patty Archer, Rose Sklar, Valentina Valderama

PHOTOGRAPHER

Tom Dean moonwalkphotography.com

ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com

VISIT US ONLINE ourcitymedia.com

954-306-1007

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

Celebrate Local Culture

Ponce de Leon, the famed explorer, laid claim to Florida for Spain when he discovered it in 1513. Even after five centuries, Florida continues to be a home for settlers from Spanish-speaking nations. Broward County’s population is nearly 30% Hispanic, and in Miami Dade, the figure rises to almost 70%. This significant Hispanic presence lends a special resonance to National Hispanic Heritage Month in South Florida.

Observed from September 15th to October 15th, is a festive occasion that honors the history, culture, and contributions of American citizens with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The month is filled with various events and celebrations, such as the Festival de la Salsa 3 at Miramar Regional Park on September 9th, and the Hispanic Heritage Month Festival at the Pembroke Pines Branch Library on October 6th. These events will feature food, music, crafts, and storytelling, reflecting the rich cultural heritage.

For those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, Our City magazine’s calendar section is an invaluable resource. Each month, the magazine includes a handpicked list of diverse community activities and events that cater to a broad spectrum of tastes and interests. By engaging with these events, you can truly experience the unique cultural offerings of the region.

Christy & Terry Jaillet

Yul Lopez, APRN

Hector Fabregas, MD

September 2023 Calendar

SEPTEMBER 2

Kid’s Corner at The Frank

Bring your little ones for this month's imaginative storytime as we read A Child of Books by Oliver Jeffers and Sam Winston followed by a guided art activity. Story time is from noon till 1:00 pm and is free to the public. Hosted at the The Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery and Exhibit Hall, 601 City Center Way Pembroke Pines. Scan the QR code for more info.

SEPTEMBER 4

Labor Day

SEPTEMBER 9

Davie Pro Rodeo

If the Davie Arena could talk it would tell some tall stories! Grab your boots and hat and head on over to “Cowboy Town” for fantastic fun. The even begins at 7:30 pm at the Davie Arena, 4271 Davie Road. For more info or tickets, visit www.davieprorodeo.com

SEPTEMBER 3

17th Annual King of the Hill 5K

The little race that started with only 60 people now has 1500! Bring in Labor Day weekend in style and party like runners do. Conquer the might hill at Vista View Park with a thousand of your closest friends. As tough as the event may sound, it is really for anyone to participate! The race starts at 7:15 am. Scan the QR code to register today!

Labor Day is a commemoration of the American labor movement and the invaluable contributions made by laborers to the growth and success of the United States. Back in 1894, President Grover Cleveland officially established this holiday by signing it into law. It serves as a significant milestone, signaling the end of summer and the start of the new school year. In South Florida, where the weather becomes more temperate, Labor Day offers a wonderful opportunity to gather with loved ones and friends, making it a perfect time for bonding and enjoying each other's company.

SEPTEMBER 9

Festival de la Salsa 3

This year’s festival features Latin music icon Andy Montañez and Bobby Valentín and his Orq. Also, for the first time in South Florida, the great Jeremy Bosch and HERMAN OLIVERA - El Sonero del Siglo XXI paying tribute to Cheo Feliciano. To reserve VIP tables or get info call 786-835-4170. Show is hosted at the Amphitheater at Miramar Regional Park. For tickets, scan QR Code.

SEPTEMBER

7

6th Annual Mental Health Summit

Good health involves taking care of your body, as well as your mind. During National Suicide Prevention Week, the public can learn more about the mental health issues facing our communities in South Florida at the 6th annual Broward Mental Health Summit, held from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, at Charles F. Dodge City Center in Pembroke Pines. Scan the QR code for more info or to register.

Dr Alfonso Chie

September 2023 Calendar

SEPTEMBER 11

Patriot Day / Remembrance Day

Join people around the nation in honoring and remembering the victims, their families, first responders, and rescue and recovery workers who answered the call in the aftermath of the attacks of 9/11. We will never forget!

SEPTEMBER 15

Teen Art Club

The Frank’s program for teenagers holds monthly workshops for middle and high school students to explore artistic mediums and creative expression with artist and educator Melanie Oliva. Free for teens ages 13 – 16. 4:30 - 6:30 pm at The Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery, 601 City Center Way. For more info, call 954-392-2120.

SEPTEMBER 16

Crafty Kids

Hispanic Heritage Month

Creative and fun art & craft ideas designed and inspired by Hispanic Heritage Month. The class is hosted at Miramar Branch Library and Education Center in the Multipurpose Room, from Noon - 1:00 pm. Class size is limited. Be sure to register using the QR code.

SEPTEMBER 23

Touch A Truck

Those in attendance will have the opportunity to get up close and explore, climb, and touch trucks, emergency response vehicles, heavy machinery, construction vehicles, and all sorts of other equipment used for transportation. Guests will also get a chance to meet the personnel who serve and protect the community, including Fire and Police Officers. 10:00 - Noon at the Charles F. Dodge City Ctr. For more info, call 954-392-2116.

SEPTEMBER 16

Miramar Latin Music Festival

Celebrate summer with an outdoor Enjoy live music and dance the night away at the 2023 Miramar Latin Music Festival. Enjoy live Music, and Dance the night away at this FREE event and concert!

Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Reggaeton, Rumba, Samba and more! Food and beverages from top vendors will be available. And parking is free! The concert starts at 7:00 pm at the Miramar Amphitheater, 16801 Miramar Parkway. Admission is FREE. Scan the QR code to register. For more info call 954-602-3178.

SEPTEMBER 23

Chess Club for Teens & Tweens

Solve chess puzzles and play casual games of chess. The PE Chess Club is for young players of all skill levels. Come learn the game of chess and make new friends! Please bring a game clock if you prefer to play timed chess matches. We hope you can check(mate) it out!

Hosted at the Pembroke Pines/Walter C. Young Resource Center from 11:00 amNoon. For more info or to register, scan the QR code.

SHOEBOXES OF HOPE:

South Florida’s Back-to-School Mission for the World

As the school year approaches, shoebox packers are making use of backto-school prices to purchase gifts and essential items for children in need around the world. Residents in Weston are collecting school supplies, along with personal care items and fun toys, to pack in shoeboxes. Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, will deliver these gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 100 countries.

For many children, access to these simple items is essential to an education. This was the case for Justin Thomas, a shoebox recipient in Southeast Asia whose parents could not afford the supplies needed for school. Thomas remembers the specific day he received a gift-filled shoebox from Operation Christmas Child and found it filled with toys and most exciting to him—school supplies!

Growing up with hand-me-down clothes and used items, Thomas used to write with a pencil so short that he held it using a pen cap. Having an entire packet of new pencils and a pencil sharpener all his own was a treasure to him. This simple gift made a life-changing impact for Thomas because it opened the doors for him to receive an education.

For more information, visit samaritanspurse.org/occ. National Collection Week is Nov. 13-20. Participants can donate $10 per shoebox gift online through “Follow Your Box” and receive a tracking label to discover its destination. Those who prefer the convenience of online shopping can browse samaritanspurse.org/buildonline to select gifts matched to a child’s specific age and gender, then finish packing the virtual shoebox by adding a photo and personal note of encouragement.

Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan's Purse, seeks to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world and, together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 209 million giftfilled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories. This year, Operation Christmas Child will celebrate its 30th year of ministry!

APPLY TO BE FEATURED IN THE 25TH ANNUAL Art & Music Fest in the Pines

The City of Pembroke Pines invites you to apply to the 25th Annual Art & Music Fest in the Pines held at the Charles F. Dodge City Center, 601 City Center Way, on Saturday, November 4 from 11AM to 8PM and Sunday, November 5, from 12PM to 5PM.

Pembroke Pines is known for its commitment to the arts and culture, its outstanding schools, cultural diversity, numerous parks and forward-thinking in an ever-changing world.

The city's iconic event Artfest has been rebranded to celebrate its 25th anniversary and the diversity in the local community. Art & Music Fest in the Pines is a two-day art and music celebration free to the public that will attract people from the local and surrounding communities.

The 25th Annual Art & Music Fest in the Pines features:

• Talented artists from all over the country

• Live performances and diverse musical entertainment

• A variety of food trucks

• Family-friendly immersive activities

• Live hands-on art demonstrations

• A student art competition

• A kids' art and game zone

• Workshops at The Frank Art Gallery

Artists will be judged for Best in Show and Best in Category competition, with the opportunity to win up to $4,850 in cash prizes! Additionally, these winners are automatically invited to participate in next year's event.

Applications will be accepted until Wednesday, October 25th. The jury process is on an ongoing rolling basis during the application period. Artists will receive acceptance invitations via e-mail and will be required to purchase their booth space after acceptance. Jury and Booth Fees are non-refundable. Artists submitting applications for multiple mediums must fill out an application and pay the jury fee for each medium submitted.

▸ If interested in becoming a sponsor, please call 954-392-2122. For general Art & Music Fest information or inquiries, email artfest@ ppines.com. Scan the QR code to learn more or apply.

2023

BEST OF PEMBROKE PINES

FOR

6th Annual Broward Mental Health Summit

Good health involves taking care of your body, as well as your mind. On September 7, during National Suicide Prevention Week, the public can learn more about the mental health issues facing our communities in South Florida at the 6th annual Broward Mental Health Summit, held from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, at Charles F. Dodge City Center in Pembroke Pines. The Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County, Memorial Healthcare System, UKG, and Aetna bring together the leading mental health providers in South Florida from county, state and federal government, private practice, non-profits, and academia to discuss and examine the current issues relating to mental health in Broward County..

The event is open to everyone! It is intended to educate, inform and offer tools for your mental wellness. Now in our sixth year, we have assembled a robust committee, who have put together interactive sessions that are timely and informative. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, first responder, aspiring activist unsure of how to contribute, an accomplished community

leader, a business owner, elected official, or just simply a concerned citizen, you’ll walk away with concrete data, information tools, and a better understanding of the challenges affecting those with mental health issues. After all, mental wellness affects everyone! Over 300 people are expected to attend the annual summit, which will focus on issues affecting five populations: law enforcement, attorneys, elderly, veterans, and youth. Whether you are a healthcare provider, first responder, aspiring activist unsure of how to contribute, an accomplished community leader, a business owner, elected official, or just simply a concerned citizen, you will leave with concrete data, information tools, and a better understanding of the challenges affecting those with mental health issues.

This year’s summit will be highlighted by keynote speaker Samantha Arsenault Livingstone. She is an Olympic gold medalist, performance consultant, keynote speaker and mental health advocate. At home in the classroom, Samantha spent six years teaching high school science and coaching swimming. After a near-death experience with

her then 12-month-old daughter, Samantha knew it was time to pay forward all she’d learned about high achievement, rising from through hard things and finding fulfillment in the striving.

In 2016, Samantha founded Livingstone High Performance and the Whole Athlete Initiative (the WAI) in response to the mental health crisis impacting young people across the globe. LHP disrupts the old-school model of mental toughness as the path to high achievement by providing pillars of support to organizations, teams, and individuals to bolster mental well-being and improve performance. In addition to private coaching, Samantha consults with business leaders and teams on wellness initiatives, mindful leadership, emotional agility and developing healthy, high-performing cultures.

▸ The cost to attend is only $10 per person and includes breakfast and lunch. Visit www.BrowardMentalHealthSummit.org for more info or scan the QR code.

DEDICATE SEPTEMBER TO REFLECTION AND RAISING AWARENESS OF SUICIDE PREVENTION

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and September 10 – 16, 2023 is National Suicide Prevention Week. Did you know… Suicide ranks as the 10th leading cause of death and is the second leading cause of death among adolescents and young adults aged 15-24. This is all in the face of increased attempts to die by suicide, incidents of self-harm, and increased levels of depression and anxiety. The impact of a death by suicide affects more than the individual who tragically dies including the family, friends, and even the first responders who respond to these calls.

When a person is experiencing challenges to their mental health, it is important they have the help, resources, and support necessary to guide them through. Please take a moment to reflect and know the warning signs of suicide. These signs include feelings of despair, hopelessness, loss of interest in things that used to give them joy, excessive drug/alcohol use, becomes withdrawn or isolates themselves, or recently experienced or sustained traumatic life events. The best way to find out if someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts is to ask them directly.

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 for their emotional turmoil or unresolved trauma. For any stressful situation, talk about the feelings you have, provide an open dialogue, and promote the fact that it is OK to talk about feelings of stress, isolation, and anxiety.

Help is here! United Way of Broward County partnered with the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, and the Department of Children and Families to prioritize mental health struggles in its county-wide “It’s OK to not be OK” initiative and the 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.

Call the 9-8-8 hotline for support! Trained counselors provide each caller with guidance and free resources that will help in most situations.

Suicide prevention resources:

• Dial 9-8-8 if you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts.

• The 211 Broward Crisis and Suicide Care Support – www.211-broward.org/ crisis-and-suicide-care

• United Way of Broward County’s Commission on Behavioral Health & Drug Prevention’s website, drugfreebroward.org, also provides a support and prevention resource center with tool kits that provide support for mental and behavioral health issues.

• Postvention Support for Suicide Survivors is available through the Local Outreach for Suicide Survivors (LOSS) Team and provides survivor support groups and a Purple Packet Resource Guide. For more information, please feel free to call: 954.746.2055 X134 or email LOSS@mhasefl.org

BEYOND THE BADGE: Sergeant Jennifer Martin's Triumphs in Sports and Service

set four new World Records!

Sergeant Martin’s success comes just six weeks after she traveled to San Diego, CA to compete in the United States Police & Fire Games. While there, she won thirteen gold medals - setting eight new records in both swimming and indoor rowing events.

When Pembroke Pines Police Sergeant Jennifer Martin isn’t patrolling the streets of Pembroke Pines, you can probably find her in a pool. The world-class athlete and 15-year police veteran has quite a list of impressive accomplishments.

Last month Sergeant Martin traveled to Winnipeg, Canada to participate in the 2023 World Police & Fire Games. She competed in nine traditional swimming events, as well as the two-mile open water swim. She earned eight gold medals, two silver, and

Sergeant Martin does just excel in the pool. She has been a Drug Recognition Expert for over a decade and is the first female motor officer in the Pembroke Pines Police Force. Sergeant Martin graduated from the Broward Sheriff's Office Motorcycle Operator Course this year and is now assigned to the Traffic Unit. She can be seen on the street riding her Police motorcycle. Regarding her athletic accomplishments, Sergeant Martin is understated. "It's a break from work. It's competitive, I like being competitive," she said after competing in China in 2018, "There is no greater feeling than representing the United States of America and hearing your name called. It's an absolute honor to be there on behalf of our country."

In a field where primary care providers often offer a wide range of services, Common Health stands out by concentrating on senior care and providing a more personalized approach. With seven locations across Broward County, Common Health is committed to ensuring the holistic well-being of their senior patients. Raul, the Sales and Marketing Director and patient advocate, shares the company's unique philosophy and dedication to providing high-quality healthcare services with a personal touch.

A Personal Connection:

Raul's strong connection to seniors fostered through his close relationship with his grandparents, led him to choose a career path dedicated to their well-being. Having experienced firsthand the challenges faced by the elderly, Raul made it his mission to provide seniors with the resources, healthcare options, and support that he wished he had available during his formative years.

Proactive Care and Listening:

What sets Common Health apart is their emphasis on taking a hands-on, proactive approach to senior care. Instead of offering additional, non-essential services like nail and hair salons, Common Health focuses on what truly matters to seniors: their health and well-being. By scheduling more frequent visits and actively listening to their health concerns, Common Health ensures that seniors receive comprehensive care that extends beyond conventional medical treatments.

Putting Seniors First with Proactive Care & Dedicated Support

Guidance for a Better Quality of Life:

Recognizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle, Common Health goes beyond just treating medical conditions. They provide guidance to seniors, promoting a better quality of life through personalized care plans and resources. Medicare 101 classes empower seniors to make informed decisions about their healthcare, while also offering assistance with Medicare Advantage insurance plans. Seniors can rely on Common Health to help navigate and maximize their healthcare benefits.

Compassionate Assistance and Resources:

Common Health understands that healthcare needs often extend beyond medical appointments. Raul and his team actively seek out and provide resources to address a range of senior needs, such as food insecurities, access to medical equipment, housing, transportation, and more. Seniors can trust that they are not alone on their healthcare journey, with Raul making himself available to them even outside typical office hours.

Adapting to the Modern World:

In the midst of advancing technology, Common Health goes the extra mile to ensure accessibility for their senior patients.

Beyond in-person visits, they offer telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with their providers remotely. Additionally, for emergencies or when transportation is a barrier, Common Health provides transportation services to ensure their seniors can attend appointments or receive immediate care.

With their unwavering commitment to seniors, proactive care approach, and comprehensive support, Common Health exemplifies a value-based primary care provider. Raul and his team at Common Health prioritize the well-being and quality of life of their senior patients, bringing a personal touch to every step of their healthcare journey. Whether it's providing resources, guidance, or compassionate assistance, Common Health is redefining what it means to truly care for seniors in Broward County.

We’ll discuss your needs and find a Medicare Advantage plan for you.

If you’re new to Medicare, I can help you make sense of it. Or maybe you have Original Medicare and want more— say, a prescription drug plan (PDP). A Humana Medicare Advantage plan has everything Original Medicare has, and usually extra benefits you might not get with Parts A and B.

Whatever your questions about Medicare, I can help. Call a licensed Humana sales agent

MIGUEL RIVERA

954-422-4416 (TTY: 711)

Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. En español? Llame al 954-422-4416 (TTY: 711) mrivera62@humana.com

Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, ethnicity, marital status, religion or language.English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 877‑320‑1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 877‑320‑1235 (TTY: 711).

877‑320‑1235 （聽障專線：711）。 Y0040_GHHHXDHEN23_AD_M

Pembroke Pines UPDATE

By Mayor Frank C. Ortis

Dear Readers:

This year marks the 22nd Anniversary of the horrifying terrorist attack on the U.S. On Monday, September 11, 2023 the City of Pembroke Pines will remember and honor the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives during those attacks in New York, Washington D.C. and Shanksville, Pennsylvania during a special ceremony. It will be held from 8:30 am to 10:30 am at Memorial Park adjacent to the Charles F. Dodge City Center, located at 601 City Center Way.

This solemn ceremony, which is free, will begin with the Presentation of Colors by the City of Pembroke Pines Police and Fire Department Honor Guards. All ages are encouraged to attend. It will also include guest speakers, community leaders and patriotic music featuring local school bands and area musicians. Those in attendance are encouraged to tour the statues that are part of Memorial Park. For more information regarding the City of Pembroke Pines observance of the 9/11 Anniversary or Patriot Day, please call 954-392-2116.

Also, an important note, please be sure to mark your calendars and tell your friends about the Annual Veterans Employment Expo which will take place on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Carl Shechter Southwest Focal Point Community Center Campus, located at 301 NW 103 Ave. If you are a veteran in need of a job, I strongly encourage you to attend. It’s a great opportunity to meet directly with hiring managers in our area, from a variety of companies and organizations. Here in Pembroke Pines, we appreciate the support our veterans have received from the business community, and we especially appreciate our veterans for their service. For more information, please call the Center at 954-450-6888

It’s back - the very popular Touch-A-Truck Vehicle Expo will take place on September 23, 2023 from 10 am to noon at the Charles F. Dodge City Center. Children will have the opportunity to get up close and explore, climb and touch trucks, emergency response vehicles, heavy machinery, construction vehicles and all sorts of other equipment used for transportation. Admission and parking are free. For more information, please call 954-392-2116 or visit www.ppines.com/ specialevents.

And, just a reminder that September 10th marks the peak of our hurricane season. It only takes one storm to make an impact. Let’s all be prepared. Please check out our Pembroke Pines Prepared Hurricane Resources at www.ppines.com/ hurricane where there are videos, important information and resources at your fingertips.

▸ As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office at 954-450-1020, or by email at fortis@ppines.com.

BENEFITS OF RUNNING WITH ORTHOTICS

hether you like to run 5K’s, 10K’s, Half or Full Marathons, having the proper running shoe is the single most important factor in injury prevention for runners of any level of competition or training. Running shoes must be selected based on the following: past experience with different shoe brands; biomechanical demands specific to the gait of the runner; and environment of the running surface on which the runner will race or train. In addition, current injuries and foot type (pronated, neutral, supinated) must be addressed to maximize running efficiency.

If a runner is pronated, or flat footed, they are using more muscle energy to compensate and elevate the arch to a more ideal push off position. This leads to slower racing times, more overuse injuries, and degenerative joint changes to the lower extremity. A custom orthotic can maintain the fallen arch in a more energy efficient position allowing your muscles to work less, creating potentially faster racing times, and decreasing lower extremity injury. A supinated or high arch, that is flexible, can also cause pain and present with similar issues; this can be addressed with a

By Dr. John Goodner, D.P.M.

Wcustom orthotic as well. Going for a run? Check out these injury prevention tips first: How often should I replace my running shoes?

It is commonly recommended to replace running shoes every 300-500 miles. This can be difficult to keep track of, so the competitive runner should keep a running calendar to calculate when they will need replacement shoes based on their daily mileage and training schedule. For the more casual runner who does not track their mileage, it takes approximately 66 hours to run 500 miles at an eight-minute per mile pace. When is the best time to try on new shoes and how do I know they fit? Always try a new pair of shoes on late afternoon. This is when your feet are the largest due to swelling from standing and activity throughout the day. Always wear a cushioned sock when trying on a new shoe. You should be able to fit your thumb’s width in between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. How many pairs of shoes should I be using at one time? For the competitive runner, two to three pairs of shoes should be used. It is best to alternate running in one pair one day then using the second pair the second day to allow full recoil of the shoe cushioning and maximize the life of your shoes as well as decrease your chance of injury.

OFFERING SAME DAY & EARLY MORNING APPOINTMENTS & CONSULTATIONS

Pediatrics: We treat flat feet, high arches, fractures, growing pains, warts, toe walkers, in & out toe, limping, and ingrown nails in children.

What shoes should I wear when I’m not running or training? Never walk in flat flexible shoes, flat sandals, or barefoot; even around your house. Competitive runners use recovery sandals with arch support and a heel that is higher than the toes. Purchase a good pair of supportive house sandals to prevent stress or overuse injury secondary to lack of arch support.

What are the best socks for runners? Socks are essential in terms of injury prevention and athletic performance. Synthetic Acrylic/CoolMax® fiber socks are ideal for the distance runner in order to prevent friction skin injuries. Many running stores have sport-specific socks with thickened padding for prominent areas on the feet to prevent mechanical or shear-induced injury to the deep tissue and bone.

▸ 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. You can reach the office at (954) 430-9901.

Website www.SouthFloridaSportsMedicine.com

Instagram @SouthFloridaSportsMedicine Twitter @SFLSportsMed.

OFFERING SAME DAY & EARLY MORNING APPOINTMENTS & CONSULTATIONS

Fractures: We can diagnose all foot, ankle & leg fractures in children & adults.

Cartilage Injuries: Microfractures, cartilage transplants, osteochondral grafting.

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

Reconstructive Surgeries: Flat foot, bunions, hammertoe, Achilles tears, more!

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

Foot & Ankle Arthritis: Total replacement, arthroscopy, fusions, realignment.

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

ORTHOTICS $400 | CASTS $200 | LACERATION REPAIR $550

Sports Medicine: Tendon & ligament injuries, heel pain, shockwave therapy, PRP & stem cell injections, arthroscopy, tendonoscopy, and more!

Foot, Ankle, or Leg Injury Questions? Email the Doctor at DrJohnGoodner@Gmail.com (Don’t Send Protected Health Information)

MEDICARE | BLUE CROSS | DEVOTED-HEALTH NETWORK ONE | UHC | AV MED | AMBETTER | TRICARE | WORKERS COMP | ACCIDENTS/LOPS

SEMINOLE TRIBE | MICOSUKEE | SIMPLY | SUNSHINE | OSCAR

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

When it comes to treatment for all foot, ankle, and leg injuries, trust us to provide

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

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

STEM CELLS $1200 | SHOCKWAVE (5 SESSIONS) $600 | INJECTIONS $100

ORTHOTICS $400 | CASTS $200 | LACERATION REPAIR $550

Dr. Carlo Messina

Pet of the Month

Greetings From Your Chamber President!

By Patty Archer

With the back-to-school season upon us, our community has a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on both our local economy and the education of our children. While the convenience of big-box stores and online retailers is undeniable, let's not overlook the tremendous value that local businesses bring to our community.

When we choose to shop at local retailers for back-toschool supplies, we're doing more than just checking items off our lists - We're investing in the future of our community! Local businesses contribute significantly to our economy, providing jobs and generating tax revenue that supports essential services. Moreover, these businesses often offer personalized service and a connection to the community that goes beyond mere transactions. Many small businesses are the sponsors that support our little leaguers, cheer squads and relay teams.

By supporting local businesses, we create a virtuous cycle of economic growth. The revenue generated stays within our community, helping other local businesses to thrive. This, in turn, fosters a vibrant business landscape that enriches Miramar and Pembroke Pines and beyond.

As we shop for backpacks, notebooks, and school outfits, let's consider the impact of our choices. Let's choose to strengthen our community by supporting the businesses that have been here for us year-round, and in doing so, let's ensure that our community's future is as bright as the minds of our students.

Now and in the future, the Chamber is dedicated to being a Convener of Leaders, a Catalyst for positive change, and a Champion for a strong business community.

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

Yours in

Service, Patty Archer

Chamber President