Our City Weston: April 2020

Weston OUR CITY

We Connect Communities | April 2020

Photography by Luigi.com

FEATURED ON PAGE 30.

OurCityMedia.com

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Look Who’s

SELLING

ED CLONSD G PE IN

CLOSED

CLOSED

Weston!

Rose & Dean Sklar REALTORS®

#1 Coldwell Banker Team Broward County 2018-2019 City of Weston 2008- 2019

(954) 298.3616 Dean Cell (954) 298.3626 Rose Cell rose@sklarteam.com www.SklarTeam.com

2481 Provence Circle, Weston WESTON HILLS CC Staged & Sold for $1,175,000 6 beds, 4 baths, impact, new kitchen, pool & golf

G PENDIN

4102 Cinnamon Way, Weston THE RIDGES Pending in Two Weeks - Asking $675,000 6 beds, 4 baths, pool

2990 Wentworth, Weston WESTON HILLS CC Staged & Sold for $838,000 4 beds, 3.5 baths, total renovation, pool & water

G PENDIN

1631 East Lake Way, Weston COUNTRY ISLES Asking $609,900 5 beds, 3 baths, pool & water

3161 Inverness, Weston WESTON HILLS CC Closed for $860,000 4 beds, 3 baths, pool & golf

G PENDIN

1035 Waterside Cir, Weston SAVANNA Asking $875,000 6 beds, 4 baths, pool & water

Why Choose Us?

It’s Who We Know & What We Know...

It’s What We Offer...

With 50 years of combined real estate experience, more than 20 years living and loving Weston and a growing book of business, we have been able to cultivate great personal and professional relationships in the community. Year after year we have had consistent results and record breaking sales.

New & Trendy: REAL VITALIZE - A new Coldwell Banker program that covers the upfront costs of renovations and staging your home to sell it faster and for a better return. No hidden fees. It’s a game changer!

It’s What We Do...

Proud to provide concierge services to all of our clients, we help every step of the process so you have a worry-free transaction. Our strategic marketing and global reach using technology put us in advantage so we can offer better results to our clients.

• #1 Coldwell Banker Agent In Volume In 2018 •#5 Producing Agents In Broward County In 2018 • The Sklar Team Closed Over 93 Million Dollars In 2018

Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate is owned by a subsidiary of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. If you have a brokerage relationship with another agency, this is not intended as a solicitation.

2988 Lake Ridge Lane, Weston WINDMILL RESERVE Listed at $2,995,000 6 beds, 9 baths, 4 car garage, billiard room, home theater, sauna, full impact, pool, water

2474 Provence Circle, Weston WESTON HILLS CC $1,395,000 5 beds, 4.5 baths, office, theater, 2019 roof, highly upgraded

2697 Cypress Manor, Weston WESTON HILLS CC $1,295,000 5 bed plus office + playroom, 5 baths, new roof, pool & water

144 Dockside Circle, Weston PELICAN LANDINGS $1,190,000 6 beds, 5.5 baths, 2019 roof, pool & water

2457 Poinciana Court, Weston WESTON HILLS CC $1,149,900 5 beds, 4.5 baths, pool

2576 Eagle Run Lane, Weston WESTON HILLS CC Coming Soon $1,075,000 5 beds, 3.5 baths, new roof, full impact, pool, water

570 Coconut Circle, Weston PALM ISLAND $850,000 4 beds, 3.5 baths, pool & water

414 Mallard Lane, Weston WESTON HILLS CC $886,000 5 beds, 3.5 baths, pool & water

2246 Quail Roost Drive, Weston WESTON HILLS CC $925,000 6 beds, 6 baths, pool & water

2864 Oakbrook Drive, Weston WESTON HILLS CC $639,000 5 beds, 3 baths, pool

2800 Center Court Drive, Weston COURTSIDE AT WESTON HILLS CC $439,000 3 beds, 2 baths, full impact

4092 Cascade Ter,race Weston ISLES AT WESTON $510,000 3 beds, 2 baths

Weston

“NOBODY KNOWS

LIKE WE DO!”

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Savanna || The ThePreserve PreserveII || Offered Offeredfor for$416,000 $416,000 WaterfordLanding Landing||Offered Offered for$489,900 $489,900 Savanna Waterford for for $416,000 Waterford Landing | Offered for $489,900 Windmill Ranch Estates Savanna | The Preserve I | Offered The Landings | Mallard Landing Savanna | The Marshes

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3.5BA | Lakefront Pool | Offered $1,550,000 | 4BA Pool | Sold for $820,000 5BR | Offered $660,000

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2700 sq. ft.|| |5BR 5BR| |4BA 4BA 3-car Pool Impact Glass 44182sq. sq.ft. ft.Point Pointlot lot| |1.01 1.01 acre4BR 2700 ft. | |3-car | |Pool | |Impact Glass 44182 acre 2700 sq. ft. | 5BR 4BA | 3-car | Pool | Impact 44182 sq. ft.

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| TheThe The Isles at Weston Shores Provence The Landings Mallard Landing Sold for$737,500 $737,500 The Landings ||Mallard Landing ||Sold for Landings | Mallard LandingWeston | SoldHills for |$737,500

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4BA Office Pool || |Sold for|sq. $845,000 | 4BA | Pool | Impact Glass | 3400 Sold $775,000 3BRft.|| |Gourmet 2BA | Room Pool||4.5BA |Pool Sold for $397,500 5000 sq. ft.|| |5BR 5BR| ||4.5BA 4.5BA 4-car |Pool Pool Lakefront 3400for sq. ft.| |Courtyard Courtyard| |5BR 5BR 4.5BA Gourmet Kitchen |Pool 5000 ft.

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5.5BA |5BR Lakefront | Pool | Sold for| $985,000 5BR |Roof 4.5BA | Guest House | Pool 2400 |2400 Soldsq. for 5BRft.| |3.5 BA| 3BA | Pool| Lakefront | Sold for $737,500 3200 sq. ft.| |5BR 3.5BA Pool &Spa Spa |5BR New| Roof Roof | Pool & Spa | New sq.$875,000 ft.| |3BR 3BR| |3BA 3BA| |Lakefront Lakefront 3200 ft. | |3.5BA | |3200 Pool &sq.

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THINKINGSCAN OF SELLING? CALL US FOR A COMPLIMENTARY MARKET ANALYSIS SCAN THESCAN QR CODE TO TAKE ATO 3DTAKE VIRTUAL TOUR THE QR CODE TO A 3D VIRTUAL TOUR THE QRTAKE CODE A 3D VIRTUAL TOUR facebook.com/HollyandBob facebook.com/HollyandBob pinterest.com/hollyandbob facebook.com/HollyandBob pinterest.com/hollyandbob pinterest.com/hollyandbob twitter.com/HollyandBob twitter.com/HollyandBob twitter.com/HollyandBob

Dreams.

Delivered.

Dreams.

Delivered.

“We don’t don’t just just sell homes, we sell sell the the Weston Weston Lifestyle.”

“We homes, we Lifestyle.”

“Wesell don’t just sell homes, we sell the Weston Lifestyle.”

Holly & & Bob Bob Catania Catania -- Holly - Holly & Bob Catania

THE LANDINGS LANDINGS THE THE LANDINGS PELICAN LANDING LANDING PELICAN PELICAN LANDING Offeredfor for$899,900 $899,900 Offered Offered for $899,900 3600sq. sq.ft. ft.||4BR 4BR||4BA 4BA 3600 3600 sq. ft. | 4BR | 4BA Office||3-car 3-cargarage garage Office Office | 3-car garage Salinechlorinated chlorinatedpool pool Saline Saline chlorinated pool Scanthe thecode code Scan toview viewthe the3D 3D to virtualtour tour virtual

Scan the code to view the 3D virtual tour

Holly & Bob…Ahead of the curve in marketing Weston real estate and tout a proven track record in selling, buying and leasing properties in all price ranges.

Over 40 years of combined Real Estate experience selling Weston.

Hundreds of satisfied clients, hundreds of home sold!

HBC HBC

954.614.6206954.614.6206 Bob 954.614.6206 Bob Bob 954.614.6207954.614.6207 Holly 954.614.6207 Holly Holly

HollyAndBob@Keyes.com HollyAndBob@Keyes.com HollyAndBob@Keyes.com www.HollyandBob.net www.HollyandBob.net The Keyes Keyes Company’s Company’s #1Realtors Realtors in Weston Weston The #1 in The Keyes Company’s #1 Realtors www.HollyandBob.net in Weston LUXURY MARKETING MARKETING SPECIALISTS RELOCATION SPECIALISTS SPECIALISTS LUXURY RELOCATION SPECIALISTS LUXURY SPECIALISTS MARKETING SPECIALISTS RELOCATION LUXURY MARKETING SPECIALISTS Thinking of of Selling?

Selling?

Call for for Complimentary Market Analysis AnalysisMarket Analysis Thinking Call aa Complimentary Thinking of Selling?

Call for a Market Complimentary RELOCATION SPECIALISTS

“We swore we weren’t ready for senior living.

Then we saw The Palace.”

Jack & Evelyn Miller

“We were stunned. We stayed in the Four Seasons in Paris once, and The Palace in Weston looked better.

Ten minutes after we walked in the door, we realized we had never seen senior living like this.

Everything you can think of is at your fingertips. Chef-prepared meals in the dining room. A social director who makes cruise ships look dull. A staff trained to deliver such a high level of care and comfort they’ve been named #1 in America. Everywhere you look, it’s 5-star all the way.

But you need good friends to share it with. Our crowd at The Palace are some of the best new friends we’ve ever met, and every single one of us will tell you: ‘We wish we had found The Palace sooner.’ ”

The Palace at Weston is taking reservations.

Now is the time to visit our spectacular Weston Leasing Center at 15951 SW 41st St., Suite 500, Davie, FL 33331.

Luxury Living for Seniors

954.217.2000 · www.ThePalaceAtWeston.com

Our practice is more than a comprehensive dental experience.

Our patients have fun here!

From a child coming in for a regular checkup to a parent who decides to receive their own orthodontic treatment.

We treat each and every patient with respect and compassion.

Healthy Smiles Begins with Us!

w w w. g r o s m a n d e n t a l . c o m Grosman Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics your pediatric dentist and orthodontic specialist.

We offer compassionate dental care for children and orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults in a warm and caring environment.

954-236

-3434

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Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

EXECUTIVE HOMES Why Hire Phyllis?

Top Agent BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES EWM REALTY’S

in Weston.

SOLD IN 5 DAYS

ame Resu • FREE PROFESSIONAL MARKET ANALYSIS

• FREE PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY - AERIAL PHOTOS WHERE APPLICABLE • FREE VIRTUAL / VIDEO OF YOUR HOME

IN THE WESTON AND SOUTH FLORIDA MARKET

• FREE INTERNATIONAL MARKETING

THERE IS A MAJOR BENEFIT WHEN IT COMES

• FREE LISTING WITH ZILLOW, TRULIA & REALTOR.COM TO CREATING AND IMPLEMENTING EFFECTIVE

• FREE HOME STAGING RECOMMENDATIONS MARKETING STRATEGIES TO GET HOMES SOLD

• FREE "JUST ANNOUNCEMENTS (DIGITAL FASTLISTED" AND FOR TOP DOLLAR. PHYLLIS IS A AND PRINT)

The Best Views and the B with Gas Range, High-End Area is Great

• OPEN HOUSE CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME SPECIALIST TO THE PUBLIC (IFMARKETING REQUESTED AND/OR ALLOWED) AS WELL ASAS A CERTIFIED RELOCATION • ADVERTISEMENTS APPROPRIATE

SPECIALIST. SHE HAS ASSEMBLED A TEAM OF • WORLDWIDE INTERNET PRESENCE

SOLD & CLOSED I

HIGHLY-TRAINED PROFESSIONALS TO HELP TAKE

• CUSTOM YARD SIGNS WHERE ALLOWED

CARE OF THE MANY DETAILS THAT COME WITH

• NETWORK WITH THOUSANDS OF LICENSED REALTORS® BUYING OR SELLING A HOME.

• SOCIAL MEDIA ADVERTISING: YOUTUBE, FACEBOOK, TWITTER, LINKEDLN, ETC. • REAL ESTATE INTERNET BLOGS FEATURING YOUR HOME BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY • PROFESSIONAL REPRESENTATION AND NEGOTIATIONS HOMESERVICES EWM REALTY

INTERNATIONAL IS PROUD TO • HELP WITH HOMEBUYING PROCESS & WORLDWIDE RELOCATION SERVICES ANNOUNCE PHYLLIS’S 2018 AMAZING

Beautifu 42” Wood Ca Area and a Trip

REAL ESTATE ACHIEVEMENT.

Your Weston

Call Today!

Real Estate Leader!

954.980.3385 2000 MAIN STREET SUITE 103/ WESTON, FL 33326

4306 DIAMOND EMERALD EST

TheScarberryGroup.com Florida Realty

©2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. A

954.980.3385

he Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service mar 2330 WESTON ROAD • WESTON, FL 33326

LAGUNA SPRINGS

Your Weston Sales Leader!

Featured List ings

THE PROOF IS IN THE RESULTS

S! FULL PRICE!

REMODELED GOLF COURSE ESTATE!

ults?

3236 HUNTINGTON, WESTON, FL 33332 | LIST PRICE $895,000

Best Updates! A True 5-Bedroom + Office, 3-Bathroom, Triple-Split Floor Plan, Beautiful Hardwood Floors and Crown Molding Throughout. Amazing Chef’s Dream Kitchen d 42” Wood Cabinets, Granite Counters, Stainless Steel Appliances, Wine Cooler & Bar Area. New Redesigned Solar-Heated Pool/Spa, Huge Screened Enclosure and Covered t for Entertaining. Accordion Shutters, Custom Impact Front Doors, Paved Circular Driveway. Custom Closets In Every Bedroom Plus 2-Car Garage with Built-Ins.

IN 5 DAYS!

WESTON’S PICTURE PERFECT HOME!

Weston Hills Country Club, Golf Course Estate - 2538 Monterey Court

Pristine WESTON, 4 Bedrooms+Office/3 Full Baths,PRICE New Roof, Large, Open, Spacious Living Areas, High Volume Ceilings, 1231 CAMELLIA LANE, FL 33326 | LIST $587,500

Custom Kitchen, Huge Screened Pool/Patio Area, Accordion Shutters ul 4-Bedroom, 3-Bathroom Home Located on a 13,125 SF Private Lot! Brand New Roof in 2018!

New Covered Updated Kitchen which Features Quartz Countertops, abinets, Glass Tile Backsplash, 5-Burner Range and Stainless Steel Appliances. All 3 Bathrooms Have Been Renovated, High-End Laminate Floors in Main Living ple-Split Floor Plan. French Doors Lead to the Large Screened Pool and Patio Area which is Perfect for Entertaining. Pool Resurfaced in 2017, Travertine Pool Deck, Hurricane Impact Shutters. Original Owners Have Maintained This Home Impeccably.

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The Palms, Weston Sunny & Spacious 2/2.5 Condo in the 55+ amenity packed.

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An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.

CALL PHYLLIS TODAY! 954.980.3385 rks of HomeServices of America, Inc.®| TheScarberryGroup.com Equal Housing Opportunity. pmscarberry@gmail.com

CONTENTS PUBLISHER PAGE

LEGISLATIVE LOOK

16 You Have the Power to Change the World

COMMUNITY NEWS

34 How to Avoid Pet Sale Scams

POSITIVE PARENTING

18 City of Weston Expands Social Media Presence

41 Bring Boredom Back

19 Broward & Miami Dade Schools Providing Breakfast and Lunch During Coronavirus Pandemic 20 Student Artist Showcase Recognizes Young Talent

HEALTH & WELLNESS 43 Fake Nutritional Supplements Alert!

CALENDAR CAN DO KID

44 April 2020

61 Cypress Bay Senior Speaks Out As Climate Change Activist

ASK THE EXPERT

22 Weston Art Guild Exhibit Will Be A Visual Treat 26 The Best Way To Fight Coronavirus?

It’s In Your Hands.

46 Pediatric Foot and Ankle Sprains May Be a More Complex Growth Plate Injury

SCHOOL NEWS

54 Weston Schools Come Together on Day of Service and Love

28 Community CPR Day Educates & Empowers 32 Human Rights Through Art Exhibit Draws Attention to Advocacy 35 Coping with Coronavirus: Managing Stress, Fear, and Anxiety 36 Weston World Fest Featured International Art and Architecture 40 WestonNights Concert Series is Party in the Park 45 Coping With Coronavirus: Managing Stress, Fear, and Anxiety 48 Dylan Schopp Sunshine Foundation Bruncheon Spreads Awareness on Suicide Prevention 50 Weston Residents Benefit from New Cleveland Clinic Weston and YMCA Partnership 57 Quarantine Binge Watch 71 What To Do if Your Are Sick With Coronavirus Disease 2019

FEATURE STORY 30 Pediatric Dentistry of Weston Treats Your Kids Like They Are There Own

62 Young Artist’s Awareness Message Wins Art Contest

ASK THE EXPERT

52 Cypress Bay UNICEF Club Helps the Food Insecure

19

71

63 2020 US Tax Deadlines – 2019 tax year 65 Unexpected Cavities 66 The Modern Guide To Botox and Fillers 42 Do Your Sunglasses Really Protect Your Eyes from the Sun?

53 Weston University Program Provides Students with Look at Local Law Enforcement

TEE TO GREEN

56 Everglades Fourth Graders Piece Together Black History Month Knowledge

LEGALLY SPEAKING

58 KAPOW Connects Classroom and Career at Imagine Charter School 60 County Championships Cap Off Undefeated Seasons for Tequesta Trace Middle School Volleyball Teams

ROTARY NEWS 60 Rotary Foundation Global Grants Make Life-Changing Impact

57

65 Two Invaluable Putting Tips 55 Do I Need a Trust?

68 What Should I Do? 75 No Estate Plan? Here’s What Happens When You Pass Away

PUZZLE PAGE

66 Answer Key 72 Crossword and Sudoku

PET CARE

69 Spaying or Neutering Your Dog 69 Your Pet Could be the Pet of the Month

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 70 Elite Dental and Aesthetics Has New Faces and Bigger Smiles

REAL ESTATE 73 Advice for Buyers Looking to Buy a Condo

SAFETY CORNER

76 Practice Water Safety Year-Round

SNAPSHOTS FROM SCHOOL 78 School photos

PHOTO OF THE MONTH 79 the world’s favorite magazine™

SEEN ON SCENE 80 Community Snapshots

4EVERYOUNG WHERE HEALTH MEETS BEAUTY

LOOK YOUR BEST • BOTOX & DYSPORT • DERMAL FILLERS • FACIALS AND SKIN CARE • HYRDA FACIAL • MICRONEEDLING • KYBELLA • SCLEROTHERAPY

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ASK ABOUT OUR FILLER SPECIALS MENTION THIS OUR CITY AD FOR DISCOUNT. SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY. EXPIRES 4/30/20.

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BOCA RATON • DELRAY BEACH • FORT LAUDERDALE • JUPITER • WESTON

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PUBLISHERS’ PAGE

You Have the Power to Change the World

T

he past few weeks have been unprecedented. An exotic sickness from a far-off place has impacted every man, woman and child on earth.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 coronavirus we have seen the best and, at times, the worst of ourselves. Here, at Our City, we prefer to focus on the good.

Our community has come together in efforts to support each other in large and small ways. Things like college students shopping for senior citizens so they won’t have to leave their homes; or, restaurant owners providing meals for families in need. These are the things that make our community strong.

There is one other thing we can all do to help. Local businesses have been hurt. Many have seen their revenue drop to near zero. These are our neighbors, family and friends. If you have the means, support them. Pick up a dozen bagels for breakfast, book a one-on-one physical training session or schedule your next teeth cleaning.

Small, local businesses are what make communities unique. They are, in many ways, what defines the character of a place. Please do your part to ensure they make it through this crisis. We are all in this together.

Stay safe!

Sincerely, Sincerely,

Christy & Terry Jaillet

Christy & Terry Jaillet Publishers

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

GOT NEWS? editorweston@ourcitymedia.com ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com VISIT US ONLINE OurCityMedia.com

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

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

COMMUNITY NEWS

City of Weston Expands Social Media Presence

BY STACEY BOMSER

F

or years, the City of Weston has maintained a strong social media presence with two Twitter accounts (one for community news and the other for emergency alerts) and its own YouTube channel, as well as a Nextdoor account. Now it has expanded its social media presence to include Facebook and Instagram.

Director of Communications Denise Barrett-Miller says the addition of Facebook and Instagram was a natural progression. “Social media is where so many people go today to get their news and information about community events and happenings, and we need to be where people are looking for information. Facebook has approximately 69% of the social media market users in the United States and you can’t ignore those numbers.”

Additionally, Barrett-Miller says by having its own Facebook page, the City of Weston can provide a fact-based resource for information on the City,

projects and events and dispel any disinformation. This is particularly important because there have been fake Weston Facebook pages in the past.

“When we first started putting our page together, before our launch, there were several imposter sites we had taken down that were using our name improperly and using the city seal,” shares BarrettMiller. “This process took some time as we had to work through official channels at Facebook.”

She now stresses that residents should look for the official Facebook verification seal of approval to ensure they are on the City’s official Facebook page. She also recommends

residents select the “See First” option in the News Feed.

“It’s a way to make sure social users see our posts every time they go to their feed page,” explains BarrettMiller. “If someone is following say 100 different pages, this makes sure that our page always gets seen each day first.”

With all of the important news and events posted on Facebook, this is the perfect way to stay informed on what’s happening in your hometown.

According to BarrettMiller, “We have great information on City programs and events that occur year-round, along with healthy living tips, bike and

pedestrian safety information, and numerous ways to improve your quality of life and keep you informed about what’s happening within Weston.”

Recently, the City of Weston has been using Facebook to educate residents about Census 2020. City leaders say it’s imperative that everyone is counted to ensure Weston gets its fair share of the $1.5 trillion in federal funding allocated based on census data.

In addition to the Facebook page, the City’s new Instagram page features a selection of images from community events as well as important notices.

Barrett-Miller points out, “Facebook and Instagram are a huge compliment to what we have been doing and really give us a greater reach to more people and to more age groups.” n You can follow the City of Weston on Facebook and Instagram @cityofwestonfl. There are links to all of Weston’s social media platforms on the bottom righthand corner of its webpage at www. westonfl.org.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Broward & Miami Dade Schools Providing Breakfast and Lunch During Coronavirus Pandemic

BY JOHN DUKA

B

roward County Public Schools (BCPS) is providing breakfast and lunch to BCPS students their families while schools are closed becuase of the coronavirus.

Breakfast is offered from 8 am – 10 am, while lunch is offered from 11 am till 1 pm. The meals will be provided on every day that classes were previously scheduled.

Students are asked to bring their valid student identification to receive a meal for themselve and family members. However, the schools appear to be quite generous in cases where students do not have their IDs. The meals are available at the following schools: ▸ Boyd Anderson High School ▸ Blanche Ely High School ▸ Dillard High School ▸ Flanagan High School ▸ Hallandale High School ▸ Miramar High School ▸ Nova High School ▸ Sunrise Middle School ▸ Taravella High School Students and family members can obtain the fresh, hot-cooked meals by walking up or driving through designated areas on the campuses.

The food distirbution program is part of a partnership between the school system, The Hunger Coalition, Feed South Florida, the Health Foundation of Broward and the United Way.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Student Artist Showcase Recognizes Young Talent

BY STACEY BOMSER

T

he work of Weston’s most talented young artists will be on display this month at the Weston Branch Library. The 14th annual Student Artist Showcase runs April 1st through 30th.

As part of its commitment to supporting diverse arts and cultural events in the community, the Arts Council of Greater Weston sponsors this program, in collaboration with the City of Weston. The Student Artist Showcase provides a unique opportunity for student artists to experience the excitement of displaying their work in a gallery setting and for the community to see the incredible artwork being created in the art classrooms of Weston schools.

This year’s exhibit will feature approximately 200 works of art. Art teachers from all of the public and private schools in Weston are invited to submit up to ten pieces reflecting the best from their students’ art activities created in the classroom during the current school year and almost all accepted the invitation. Mediums include drawing, painting, photography, collage and more.

Sagemont Lower School Art Teacher Lindsay Wuest says she is looking forward to this year’s showcase. “Last year was my first year participat-

ing and I was blown away!”

Student Artist Showcase 2020 Director Gryssele Machicote and her committee work hard to produce this special event. “Art is so dergarten through high school. High important to creative thinking,” shares school winners will receive a cash Machicote. “We are lucky that Weston award; elementary and middle school area schools recognize this and prowinners will receive a gift certificate vide art classes. These dedicated teach- to a local art store. All of the featured ers bring out the best in artists will receive a their talented students.” certificate of parThe Weston comticipation and one-day munity is encouraged pass to Young At Art to stop by the library Museum. Members throughout the month of the Weston City of April to admire the Commission will presimpressive artwork on ent the awards along display. The student with Arts Council artists will be recogBoard Members. nized during an artists’ The Student Artist reception, at which time Showcase exhibit is prizes will be awarded open during reguto the first, second and lar Weston Branch third place winners in Library hours. It each of five grade categois free and open ries, ranging from kinto the public.

Photos courtesy Arts Council of Greater Weston

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Weston Art Guild Exhibit Will Be A Visual Treat

BY STACEY BOMSER

T

he Weston Art Guild’s newest exhibit will have the audience looking closely. “Optical Illusion” is the theme of the show which runs April 3rd through May 10th at the Sunrise Civic Center Gallery.

Costume Ball by Lynda Sauls

Weston Art Guild President Lynda Sauls says this exhibit is a fresh take on a previous show called “Now You See It.” For that exhibit, the artists had purposely placed hidden objects in their work for the viewer to find, but she explains with an optical illusion the visually perceived objects and images differ from reality.

“We really enjoyed the energy and excitement at our ‘Now You See It’ exhibit and the attendees loved looking for the objects,” explains Sauls.

“So, we decided to challenge the artist and attendee by creating images that are visually perceived differently from reality.”

In the “Optical Illusion” exhibit, each work will contain a difficult to find surprise or gem hidden within the body of work. For example, a bird among foliage in a natural scene, an orange in a crate of apples, or a profile hidden in an abstract.

Sauls says 20 of the Weston Art Guild’s 78 members accepted the chal-

lenge, and 35 pieces of artwork will be on display in the “Optical Illusion” exhibit. There will be a wide range of medium such as oil, acrylic, mixed media, laser cut, glass, watercolor and digital images, done in varying styles from realistic and abstract to three-dimensional and surreal.

An Artist Reception will be held on Friday, April 3rd at 6:30pm. This is a chance for patrons to view the artwork and meet the artists, who are more than happy to share details on their techniques and inspiration. Hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, wine and drinks will be served.

The Sunrise Civic Center Gallery is located at 10610 W. Oakland Park Boulevard in Sunrise. Gallery hours are Tuesday & Friday from 10am to 5pm, Wednesday & Thursday from 12-7pm, and Saturday from 10am to 3pm. Admission is free. For more information on the Weston Art Guild visit www.westonartguild.com.

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The Best Way To Fight Coronavirus? It’s In Your Hands.

T

he coronavirus pandemic has spread throughout Florida, bringing life to a standstill and overwhelming hospitals and emergency rooms across the state. Terms like “selfisolation” and “social distancing” have become part of our shared vocabulary.

Think you may have COVID-19? Before you can be tested, you first need to be assessed by a healthcare professional, a simple step to determine if you might have the virus. Over the past month or

important that patients are advised properly,” explains David Mishkin, M.D., medical director of Baptist Health Care On Demand. “Care On Demand is really the first ‘front door’ potentially for many patients regarding this illness and we have specific protocols when a patient does meet (COVID-19) criteria for an in-person evaluation.”

Using digital health tools such as Care On Demand as part of a front-line response to the COVID-19 virus pandemic helps ensure that

Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Baptist Health South Florida has been encouraging people with symptoms similar to those of COVID-19 to stay home and see a doctor via Care On Demand. Baptist Health’s online healthcare providers can answer any questions, evaluate your risk, and provide support to relieve symptoms.

Most cases of COVID-19 involve mild symptoms, including fever and a dry cough, that can be hometreated without medical intervention. Some patients

so, thousands of South Floridians have swamped local doctors’ offices, hospitals and emergency rooms in an effort to get tested, straining already over-taxed facilities, resources and staff.

If there is a silver lining to this public health crisis, it’s that it has shined a spotlight on the critical role telemedicine plays in healthcare, particularly in battling the COVID-19 crisis. Telemedicine services such as Baptist Health Care On Demand enable you to consult with a trained healthcare professional from the comfort of your home via your smartphone, laptop or computer.

“In a public health crisis such as this, it’s very

scarce hospital resources are reserved for the sickest patients, including those who need care for conditions not related to the epidemic.

Javier Pérez-Fernández, M.D., pulmonologist and critical care director at Baptist Hospital of Miami, says keeping emergency rooms available for those who are seriously ill has been a major concern for Baptist and hospitals throughout the world.

“Unless you’re sick, hospitals and emergency rooms are not the place you want to be right now,” says Dr. Pérez-Fernández. “Also, do you really want to be exposing yourself to this virus unnecessarily?”

Following guidance from the U.S. Centers for

develop pneumonia, which is a condition that can fill lungs with fluid, potentially causing difficulty breathing in some patients.

“If you’re experiencing shortness of breath in addition to other symptoms such as fever, cough and general malaise, then you should visit Care On Demand to see if you should be tested for the disease,” Dr. Pérez-Fernández says.

26 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Community CPR Day Educates & Empowers

A

round 200 Weston residents, of all ages, took part in the third annual Community CPR Day. This brings the total to over 800 people in our community who have participated in the free class and are now trained to perform life-saving CPR, as well as how to operate an automated external defibrillator (AED), perform the Heimlich maneuver, and stop life-threatening bleeding.

The free program was presented by the City of Weston, Weston District of the Broward Sheriff Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services, and Cleveland Clinic Florida.

“Cleveland Clinic is a large supporter of the Hands-Only CPR initiative,” states BSO District Fire

Chief Todd Draizin. “In fact, Dr. Roach, an Emergency Room Physician and Medical Director for Broward Sheriff’s Office, brought the initiative to BSO three years ago and has been integral in its success.”

Chief Draizin says it is important for adults, and children, to know how to administer hands-only CPR because the life they save will likely be that of a family member, friend or neighbor. “Science has proven that the faster circulation is restored to the victim’s life sustaining organs the better the chances are for the victim’s outcome. Since most victims collapse of cardiac arrest outside a hospital setting, it is essential that CPR is taught and, if needed, applied as quickly as possible. Children as young as eight have the upper body strength and ability to perform compressions and save a life.”

In fact, Chief Draizin says, as a CPR instructor for over 30 years, some

Photos courtesy City of Weston

BY STACEY BOMSER

of his best students are under the age of 12. “EMS1 magazine just featured an article on a middle school student who learned hands-only CPR in school and saved his father’s life, calmly remembering each step including directing his mother to call 9-1-1. Kids aren’t given enough credit when it comes to responding to emergencies. They are capable and confident they can make a difference – and they do.”

To show just how easy it is to learn and perform hands-only CPR, the City of Weston has produced a video of BSO Fire Rescue performing hands-only CPR to the song Baby Shark. You can watch it at https:// vimeo.com/cityofweston.

Weston BSO Fire Rescue and Emergency Services offers free monthly CPR classes for residents. For more information, call Fire Station 81 at 954-389-2015 and ask to speak to Mary Ann.

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FEATURE STORY

“

BY STACEY BOMSER

We are all moms here at Pediatric Dentistry of Weston; therefore, we treat your kids as if they were our own.

Once you come here, you will see that we take great pride in having the privilege of your trust and your child’s smile in our hands.

“

— Dr. Alempour

F

parents, feel at ease and look foror nearly a decade, Board Certified Pediatric Dentist ward to coming to the dentist.

Dr. Samira Alempour has “Our staff has many years of been bringing bright beautiexperience working with chilful smiles to the faces of Weston dren and adolescents. We build children – and their parents. lasting and trusting relationPediatric Dentistry of Weston ships with our patients and their provides comprehensive dental families,” explains Dr. Alempour. care for children, from infants “In addition, we have special through teens, with a focus on training to comfortably treat preventative treatments and patients with specific and special oral health education resulthealthcare needs.”

Children take comfort in the ing in a lifetime of beautiful, fun and festive office environhealthy smiles.

Dr. Alempour has a true conment. The child-friendly waiting room has video games, books, nection to the community. Not only does she practice in Weston, toys and TV’s to make the probut she is raising her family cess comfortable and enjoyable. here as well. Dr. Alempour and Children receive prizes for their her husband, Robert, moved to oral care efforts and as a reward Weston in 2008, and opened her for being wonderful patients. practice a few years later. Over Parents take comfort in time, her office has expanded Pediatric Dentistry of Weston’s along with her family. Dr. commitment to patient comfort Alempour is now the mother of and safety. “We avoid sedation three beautiful children, Riad, Ayla and Nina, and in 2016 she welcomed Board Certified Pediatric Dentist Dr. Marcela Solarte to her practice.

“We are all moms here at Pediatric Dentistry of Weston; therefore, we treat your kids as if they were our own,” shares Dr. Alempour.

“Once you come here, you will see that we take great pride in having the privilege of your trust and your child’s smile in our hands.”

When treating her young patients, Dr. Alempour says she is always thinking in the back of her mind, “What would I do if this were my child?” She is committed to ensuring that all patients, and

Dr. Samira Alempour

as much as possible and use different techniques to desensitize children to gain their trust organically over time,” shares Dr. Alempour. “When necessary, we offer nitrous oxide sedation for any child who may be nervous about their dental treatment and that helps get them to relax and enjoy their visit while watching TV and staying fully awake yet comfortable.”

Additionally, the treatment and hygiene rooms are separate and private so that the hygienists and doctors can focus on each child, providing each family with the utmost attention. The private

rooms also provide parents and doctors the luxury to discretely discuss the child’s needs and answer questions in the most private setting possible.

“We never rush, and we are proud of that,” boasts Dr. Alempour. “I take great pride in the amount of time my staff and I take to speak with our patients and their parents regarding how to keep their teeth and smiles healthy and glowing. We discuss a great deal about the home care routine, not only from a flossing and brushing perspective but also about the child’s dietary needs. For instance, did you know gummies, including gummy vitamins, can stick in the grooves of your teeth long after you brush? That’s an example of what is discussed during your child’s dental visit.”

Oral health education is a focus at Pediatric Dentistry of Weston. “We really believe in giving great dental advice from a

very early age and are advocates vention, Dr. Alempour recomof the one-year dental well visit,” mends parents start brushing states Dr. Alempour. “During their baby’s teeth as soon as that first visit, we discuss how to the first primary tooth erupts keep the little one’s teeth strong using an extra soft toothbrush. with the proper home care “We like to use specific infant routine. We also discuss breast brushes that the baby can chew feeding, bottle feeding, pacifier on during teething with a speand finger sucking habits.” cial handle to prevent gagging.

Dr. Alempour is such a strong Stop by our office and we will proponent of early well visits happily give your baby a few.” that they are complimentary She recommends parents for children under the age of begin flossing as soon as any two. “By seeing the child so early, tight areas between the teeth we can establish the concept of develop. “The molars (back a safe and comfortable dental teeth) can be tight as early as home. Plus, if there are any two-and-a-half to three-years cavities starting to develop, we of age,” explains Dr. Alempour, can properly and conservatively adding that brushing with fluoslow them down or remineralize ride toothpaste is also important. those areas of concern to avoid “Fluoride is a vitamin to restore invasive treatment and avoid the weak spots that develop daily traumatizing the child. The earfrom the acid and carbohydrates in our food. That includes the lier the child is brought in, the healthy foods too.” more informed our parents are Realizing, no matter how about cavity prevention and it’s a diligent a tooth brusher you and win for all!”

As an advocate for early inter- your child may be, cavities can

develop, Pediatric Dentistry of Weston is committed to x-ray safety, since x-rays are one of the diagnostic tools used to detect cavities. “All of our patient rooms are private, and each room has its own x-ray machine surrounded by dense walls and away from other patients for added precaution,” states Dr. Alempour. “We use digital (lowest radiation) x-rays, and always use lead aprons and thyroid shields for additional safety.”

As a progressive pediatric dentist, Dr. Alempour is always looking for ways to improve patient service by using the latest technology. As an alternative to fillings in some cases, Pediatric Dentistry of Weston offers Silver Diamine Fluoride.

“It’s a topical medicament used to treat and prevent cavities without having to anesthetize or cut into the tooth. It works great for very young children, because it can be painted on in one or two minutes and the child is ensured a fast, easy and effective visit.”

Dr. Alempour is a dedicated and highly experienced board certified pediatric dentist and published author. Having lived in South Florida since she was a child, Dr. Alempour attended the University of Miami where she earned degrees in biology, chemistry and English. She obtained her dental degree from Nova Southeastern University and then was immediately accepted into NSU’s Pediatric Dentistry Residency working at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and Broward General Hospital.

Her specialty is in the oral healthcare of infants, children, teens and children with special healthcare needs.

n Pediatric Dentistry of Weston is located at 2863 Executive Park Dr., Suite 101, in Weston. For information, call 954- 217-1121, visit www.westonkidsdentistry. com, or send an email to info@ westonkidsdentistry.com.

OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 31

COMMUNITY NEWS

Human Rights Through Art Exhibit Draws Attention to Advocacy

BY STACEY BOMSER

T

he Weston Branch of the American Association of University Women, in partnership with the Broward County Library, is presenting a human rights awareness program at the Weston Library on Saturday, April 11th. The free program features a student art exhibit followed by a presentation by Hardy Vieux, Human Rights First’s Vice President – Legal.

Human Rights Through Art was initiated by Cypress Bay High School sophomore Juan Pablo Gonzalez Pacheco, founder of Unite for Human Rights. The exhibit will feature the work of 15 student artists, with art pieces based on selected items from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations in 1948.

Juan encourages his Weston neighbors to come view the art exhibit, meet the young artists and learn the motivation and message behind their work, and hear Mr. Vieux speak about how Human Rights First advocates for

affected Juan was being the victim of two home robberies, one of which involved being threatened at gunpoint.

From that, he discovered that his basic human right of living in a secure place and his family’s right to own property had been violated.

Seeing his family members rise above these challenges inspired Juan. “I have been encouraged to develop the strength to not only surpass challenges but also to mitigate similar situations where human rights have not been fully present. I have reflected that maybe, if the people who committed these atrocities would have comprehended the infinite value of the human right to life, the infinite value of the human right of living with security, if they would have understood the unqualifiable value and importance of human rights, then maybe these atrocities would not have happened, and maybe if we all understood this, other violations around the globe could at least be decreased in number.”

As a result, Juan founded the human

human rights in all walks of life, all over the world.

“By understanding our universal, basic rights, we can more easily detect unjust violations of these, and therefore more easily demand ourselves and our governments to take action about such unjust violations,” explains Juan. “By doing so, the Weston community can help in the protection of not only themselves, but also other individuals who may not have such knowledge about human rights.”

Juan says various factors encouraged him to become an advocate for human rights. “One circumstance has been seeing my mother’s resilience in so many forms including doing her very best to provide for my right to an education by making efforts when we lived in Colombia to pay for my school despite economic hardship. As I have learned the deep value of having my human right to an education complied, this has extended the value of human rights for me.”

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Artist and human rights advocate Juan Pacheco works on a sculpture

rights advocacy group, Unite for Human Rights. His first project is Human Rights Through Art. “I hope that by showing the importance of human rights, more people comply with them, and therefore prevent others from having loved ones or themselves experience similar situations where human rights have not been quite present.”

Human Rights Through Art takes place on April 11th at the Weston Branch Library. The art exhibit is open from 12-2pm, followed by the public meeting with Mr. Vieux from 2-5pm. For more information on this program or Unite for Human Rights email uniteforhumanrights@gmail.com.

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LEGISLATIVE LOOK

How to Avoid Pet Sale Scams

BY REPRESENTATIVE RICHARD STARK f you are considering buying a pet make sure you do your homework first. Unfortunately, there are scammers out there who will lure victims in with the promise of a new furry friend only to defraud them of hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

In a typical pet sale scam, a consumer will see an advertisement for an animal, most commonly a dog, accompanied by heartwarmingly cute pictures.

The seller will usually claim to be far away but will offer to ship the animal to the new owner’s location.

Unfortunately for the buyer, the scammer doesn’t truly have any pets for sale and is just sending pictures of animals found on the Internet.

Once the buyer sends the money, the scammer will come up with extra fees like crate rentals, pet insurance, vet bills, and unexpected shipping costs that must be paid before the pet can be delivered to its new home. As long as the victim is willing to pay, the scammer will continue adding on new fees. The scammer typically uses untraceable wire transfers so once the buyer catches on, their money is long gone.

Look for the following red flags to avoid becoming a victim of a pet sale scam: ▸ Wiring Money: Never wire money to anyone you have met online. Also exercise caution when using peer to peer payment methods like Venmo, Google Pay, Apple Pay, Facebook Payments or Zelle. ▸ Suspicious Photos: Look out for pet images that look like stock photos.

Consider doing an online image search of the photo to see if it’s posted somewhere else. ▸ Bogus Stories/Excuses: Scammers will often come up with complicated reasons why they need immediate wire transfers or why they can’t deliver a pet directly to you.

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Additionally, the Florida Pet Law is a consumer guarantee that provides standardized health requirements for dogs and cats being sold or transported.

Consumers should ask for a Health Certificate at the time of purchase. A responsible breeder, shelter, or rescue organization will provide registration and veterinary health records.

According to the Pet Law, the animal should be examined by a licensed and accredited veterinarian no more than 30 days prior to its sale. The Pet Law has specific requirements, like certain vaccines, deworming, and a fecal check to look for intestinal parasites, that veterinarians must comply with prior to issuing the Health Certificate. Under certain conditions, it provides buyers with recourses if it is determined that the pet was unfit for sale at the time of purchase.

While the vast majority of pet breeders are legitimate, it can sometimes be difficult to spot a fraud. If you suspect that you have become a victim, report it immediately. You can file a complaint at FloridaConsumerHelp.com or by calling 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) or 1-800 FL-AYUDA (352-9832) en Español.

State Representative Richard Stark (D – Weston) represents House District 104 which includes all of Weston. You can reach Rep. Stark at RichardStark@myflorida.gov or by calling his legislative office at 954-217-0287.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Coping with Coronavirus: Managing Stress, Fear, and Anxiety

BY JOSHUA A. GORDON, M.D., PH.D

These are confusing, stressful times for all of us. As the coronavirus pandemic affects numerous facets of our society, it also impacts each person in different ways. The disruptions to daily life are already being felt by many, my family included—my son has been sent home from college, my place of worship has closed, and the comforting social gatherings that usually fill my weekends are off-limits. We are all feeling uncertain about what could happen in the coming weeks, as we hope to slow the spread of this pandemic.

Feelings of anxiety and uncertainty are completely normal during times like this.

Now imagine you are facing this uncertainty and have a mental illness. How much more challenging must it be to navigate this uncertainty? While we all are concerned about the future, for those with anxiety disorders, worry may be all-consuming. For those with schizophrenia, the concern that people are infectious may contribute to paranoia. And for

those with depression, lack of social engagement and disruption in routines could increase symptoms.

If you need support coping with the events of the last few weeks, there is advice and help available. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a webpage with information on dealing with fear, anxiety, and stress brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. A section of this CDC page is specifically geared toward those of us with children, as they can be particularly sensitive to uncertainty. For additional shareable resources for those with children, see this NPR story, which features an interview with National Institute of Mental Health expert Dr. Krystal Lewis.

For those with mental illnesses, be sure to continue your treatment regimens. Consider developing a plan for telehealth sessions with your provider if you (or your provider) are quarantined or must avoid exposures to the public for any reason. And, reach out to friends and family for support, virtually if necessary.

This last piece of advice is really important for all of us. It is important to realize that social distancing does not have to mean social isolation, especially with modern technologies available to many of us.

Connecting with our friends and loved ones, whether by high tech means or through simple phone calls, can help us maintain ties during stressful days ahead and will give us strength to weather this difficult passage.

Joshua A. Gordon, M.D., Ph.D. is the Director of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the lead federal agency for research on mental disorders. He oversees an extensive research portfolio of basic and clinical research that seeks to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses, paving the way for prevention, recovery, and cure.

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OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 35

COMMUNITY NEWS

Weston World Fest Featured International Art and Architecture

BY STACEY BOMSER

T

he fifth annual Weston World Fest was a feast for the senses with vibrant country booths to visit, delicious international delicacies to taste, musical and dance performances to watch, and the unique opportunity to observe inspiring artists at work. More than 2,500 guests attended the program, which has quickly grown to become a destination event in Broward County.

“Due to the herculean efforts of the Weston Arts Council, the Weston World Fest has evolved into a multicultural event for all ages that is

Photos courtesy Weston Arts Council

magical at times with costumed dancers, musicians, singers, decorated booths, international foods, and people, lots of people, enjoying every aspect of a special day,” said Mayor Daniel Stermer.

Presented by the City of Weston and Weston Arts Council, Weston World Fest is a celebration of the cultural diversity in our community. A staple of the event is the country booths. Event Founder and Director Carol Lema says she was impressed by the efforts put forth this year in the country booth presentations. “Each booth is put together by community residents, and every year the returning groups seem to take it to another level.

The displays, the activities and the costumes this year were just over the top.”

Children were encouraged to “travel”

the world without leaving Weston by visiting the 20 country booths, exploring the art and architecture of each nation, and having their “passports” stamped.

There was also a Kids’ Zone with henna art, a slime station and balloon twisting.

The event stage was alive with excitement ranging from performances by Sagemont keyboardist Diego Suarez, Cypress Bay vocalist Marieliza Pietrantoni, and a group performance by the Cypress Bay Lighting Drama department, to a full schedule of professional entertainers. The international acts included the Shimmy Connection Oriental Dance Troupe, Perizat Kopobaeva and Erlan Andashev representing Kyrgyzstan, Peru Danza, Ballet Folklorico Azteca, South Florida Chinese Performing Arts Group, a Jamaican artists ensemble, the Ukrainian Dancers of Miami, and the popular Ronin Taiko drummers.

New this year was the Art Village,

hosted by Young At Art Museum.

Visitors were able to admire featured fine art, sculptures and concept art created by local artists, watch live painting and art demonstrations, and view an exhibition of recycled fashions created by area students.

After taking in all the sights and sounds of Weston World Fest 2020, attendees could satisfy their appetite and quench their thirst by sampling authentic cuisine from Greece, Spain, Germany, Italy, Indian, and Singapore, along with Italian gelato, Taiwanese bubble tea and American specialty coffees. There were also samples of Jamaican snacks and juices available in the Art Village.

City Manager Don Decker declared this year’s Weston World Fest the best one yet. “If this isn’t the premier cultural event in the area, then I don’t know what is. Well done, all.”

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Panna New Latino Food Celebrates 20 years in Weston

A taste to remember, the place you love!

BY JOHN DUKA

W

DEAR CUSTOMER

We also serve burgers, salads, paninis, eston residents have known for a long time where they could get cachapas and a wide variety of fresh, tasty Latin cuisine at PANNA. bakery delights. riskrisk situation, Just in reference to the coronavirus coronavirus(covid-19) (covid-19) situation, PANNA now has seven fast-casual restaurants With the current coronavirus please be informed of the following actions taken in this restaurant: in South Florida, including two in Weston. situation, do you offer take-out options?

What began as a single-location Venezuelan Yes! We are a fast-casual restaurant, which 1 A complimentary sanitizer bottle is available for everyone at the salsa restaurant in Weston, now delights from means we make everything fresh-to-order bar area.

Colombia and Argentina as well. anyway. Weston residents can order their 2 All our coffee will now be served in disposable cups covered with lid.

At PANNA, everyone can find something meals and pick them up or have it delived. to eat. They are open for breakfast, lunch, How does PANNA ensure their 3 For a limited time, our orange juices will be displayed into the closed compartment of the refreshment refrigerator. If you wish to have one dinner and even late night. We sat down with food is safe? please ask for them and our people will be happy to hand it.

Jaime Ramirez, PANNA’s Marketing Director, Our restaurants meet the most rigorous to learn more. standards of safety and hygiene. We 4 All juices / smooties will now be served with closed cover instead of the dome lid.

Tell us about PANNA manufacture our bakery products in our PANNA was born and raised right here own production facility, SQF certified and 5 Will keep the use of sanitizer cleaner to service all tables, chairs and surfaces. in Weston. We are proud to serve, now two USDA approved. PANNA is top quality in Debbie, David and Dara Schopp generations. Our restaurants offer Latin products and service 6 Our lobby employees use globes while on duty of dinning salon and restrooms. tastes they remember from home. We also Anything else you’d like our love to introduce South American favorites readers to know?

7 We reinforce frequent hand washing among all our workers. to everyone. We truly have something for We invite them to pick up a meal at every taste. either of our Weston locations today. They 8 No employees with flu, cough or other afection risk of contagious are working in any station.

What are your restaurants’ specialties? are located at Weston Town Center and on Weston Road. We will be open for business We are known for the best Venezuelan We will keep “attentive ear” to further developments and providing quality, tasty food to our Cachitos and Tequeños and the best The administration. community. Just as we have for 20 years.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

WestonNights Concert Series is Party in the Park

BY STACEY BOMSER

A

crowd of approximately 1,500 music lovers enjoyed an evening of music under the moonlight during the second installment of the WestonNights Concert Series starring the VAM Band featuring vocalist Michael Boone.

This group of highly skilled and experienced musicians is one of South Florida’s most popular party bands. They play a mix of Pop/Top 40, Soul, Funk, R&B, Motown, Reggae, Latin music and more.

Known for an extensive playlist and high energy performance, the VAM Band did not disappoint during the Weston concert, playing a wide variety of popular party songs from yesterday and today. The playlist included Brick House by The Commodores, Get Down On It and Ladies Night by Kool & The Gang, Rock With You by Michael Jackson, Fireball by Pitbull, Cake by the Ocean by DNCE, Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars, and many more.

“Concertgoers were up on their feet singing and dancing alongside the VAM Band under a moonlit sky,” shared Annalisa Walker, Weston’s Special Events Manager. “The weather was picture perfect which helped to draw a full crowd.”

The evening was a memorable one for the VAM Band as well, with the band tweeting after the show:

“We had an amazing time entertaining in Weston last night! A couple got engaged during our 2nd set!”

The concert was particularly meaningful for guitarist Adam Moskowitz, who grew up here in Weston. He shared that he was excited to be playing to a hometown crowd and how special it was to be there in the same park where he once played baseball.

Prior to the concert, Mayor Daniel Stermer, along with City Commissioners Thomas Kallman, Byron Jaffe and Mary Molina-Macfie, State Representative Richard Stark and Broward School Board Member Robin Bartleman, recognized a moment of silence in honor of lives lost during the Marjory Stoneman Douglas tragedy two years ago.

The final concert in the WestonNights Concert Series was held last month. It featured the Shane Duncan Band, with opening act Saving Herald.

Reflecting on the program, Walker shared, “It’s exciting to see the WestonNights Concert Series continue to appeal and engage a large-scale audience and keep the high-energy alive throughout the season and we look forward to another season of entertaining concerts that will kick off this fall.”

Mayor Stermer led a moment of silence in honor of the 2nd anniversary of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas tragedy.

n Stay informed on happenings in Weston throughout the year by visiting www.WestonFL.org/events.

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POSITIVE PARENTING

Bring Boredom Back

BY IVIS MATEOS ours and hours of my youth were spent outside playing with my friends and neighbors that became friends after asking to join in the random game of marbles in the dirt. One bag of 20 colorful marbles was enough to attract a bunch of children to the outdoors. We would bet our own favorite marble, as we competed by flicking your favorite marble into another marble to see who could click the marbles the farthest.

Once our fingers where sore until we could play no more, we would commence our sprint running competitions. Hours and hours of creative play and friendship building consumed our afternoons. It wasn’t until the sun came down and supper was ready that we would go home to take a bath, eat and be tucked into bed by our parents.

Kids now-a-days spend half the amount of time playing outside compared to how much their parents did. According to a survey conducted by the National Trust in the U.K., “Nearly all of the 1,001 parents of children ages four through 14 who were polled said they believed spending time outdoors was good for kids.

Yet, they also collectively reported their kids spend an average of only about four hours a week under the sun and clouds, compared with the more than eight hours they spent outside themselves when they were young.”

Child Mind Institute suggests that nature plays an important role in child development because when children have the opportunity to navigate in a less structured environment, it builds confidence and creativity as well as stimulates the senses more than time spent using electronic devices and playing video games.

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Additionally, spending time in nature and away from urban environments helps children relax their brain. Not only does it provide a much-needed break, it helps children develop a mindful appreciation for their environment.

Let’s make a conscious decision to help our children fall in love with the outdoors and allow them room for creativity and the opportunity to build social relationships with the kids in their community. Let’s start a new movement to bring boredom back!

Ivis Mateos is a mother of two boys and has more than 24 years combined experience in educational consulting and management. In addition to earning her National Administrator Credential, Mateos has led 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, please contact 954-384-4884.

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OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 41

ASK THE EXPERT

Do Your Sunglasses Really Protect Your Eyes from the Sun?

BY DR. JANE THERRIEN

W

e live in the Sunshine State so it’s important to make sure your sunglasses provide quality protection from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. According to the American Optometric Association’s (AOA) 2015 American Eye-Q® survey, 47 percent of consumers do not check the UV protection level before purchasing sunglasses. Overexposure to UV rays can cause eye and vision problems.

To be sure your sunglasses will adequately protect your eyes, follow these tips from the AOA: ▸ Be sure your sunglasses block out 99 to 100 percent of both UV-A and UV-B rays. While some contact lenses also offer UV protection, these should be worn with sunglasses to maximize protection. ▸ Your sunglasses should screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light. ▸ The frame of your sunglasses needs to fit close to your eyes and contour to the shape of your face.

This prevents exposure to UV rays from all sides, even from behind. ▸ Pick lenses that are perfectly matched in color and are free of distortion and imperfection.

▸ Lenses should also have a uniform tint, not darker in one area than another. The AOA suggests a gray tint, which is particularly helpful when driving as it offers the best color recognition.

Short- and Long-term Effects of UV Exposure If the eyes are unprotected and exposed to excessive amounts of UV radiation over a short period of time, even just a few hours, individuals may experience an effect called photokeratitis, known as a “sunburn of the eye.”

Photokeratitis may be painful and include symptoms such as red eyes, a foreign-body sensation or gritty feeling in the eyes, extreme sensitivity to light and excessive tearing. Fortunately, this is usually temporary and rarely causes permanent damage to the eyes.

Long-term overexposure to UV radiation over the course of one’s life can cause more serious problems, such as damage to the eye, which can result in cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, pterygium (an abnormal growth of the white of the eye onto the cornea) and cancer of the eyelids, skin around the eye and even the eye itself.

Don’t Forget About Your Children’s Eyes Parents need to be sure their children have appropriate eye protection. Unlike the lens found in an adult eye, which is more mature, a child’s lens cannot filter out UV rays as easily, possibly causing damage to the retina.

UV protection is important for people of all ages, but children’s eyes are more vulnerable since they are more transparent than an adult’s eyes. When children go to play outside, they are excited and may not remember to put on sunglasses. Parents should help get their kids in the habit of wearing their sunglasses, which will help instill good eye care practices for life.

Dr. Jane Therrien and her staff at Weston Family Eyecare can help be sure your sunglasses will properly protect your eyes from UV radiation, and will also help ensure your eyes are healthy through yearly, comprehensive eye exams. To make an appointment with Dr. Therrien, call 954-888-9393. Dr. Therrien and her staff look forward to exceeding your expectations.

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

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Fake Nutritional Supplements Alert!

BY ALEX A. MAYER, MBA-HSA ere we go again!

Last year Amazon alerted consumers who had purchased Align (Procter & Gamble brand) nutritional supplements from a certain seller that the product was counterfeit and that they needed to stop consuming it.

Just to put this problem into perspective, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development reported that in 2016 the on-line sales of counterfeit products, ingredients, and name brands amounted to $509 Billion!

Raw materials come in many forms and from numerous sources (India, China). Some are not as effective as others, perhaps because they are less bioavailable or less stable than others. Some are selected by manufacturers, not because they are better quality, but because they are cheaper or easier to use in the manufacturing process. Also, while dietary supplement manufacturers are required to perform identification tests on raw materials, they are not required to test their materials efficacy or things like residual solvents and fillers that may be used in the production process with potentially harmful consequences over prolonged consumption.

It may surprise you, but dietary supplements do not require FDA approval since they are classified as special food category and fall under the jurisdiction of Dietary Supplement Health & Education Act of 1994. This is why it is so important to purchase only “medical-grade” supplements from a reputable source.

Bellissimo Medical in Weston believes that it is critical that consumers understand the importance of this issue and remain educated. Not all supplements are created equal and therefore, we only rely on a variety of national reputable companies that continually test raw materials and finish products in state of the art laboratories with cutting edge scientific methods to guarantee substance identity, potency, and safety.

H

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation at 954-384-8989. Dr. JeanClaude Nerette is Board-Certified in both Internal Medicine and Functional Medicine.

Stephanie Muñiz Nerette is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner and a Diplomate to the Board of Anti-Aging Medicine. Bellissimo Medical, LLC is located at 2665 Executive Park Drive, Suite #3, Weston FL 33331 (www.bellissimomedical.com)

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www.BellissimoMedical.com OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 43

CALENDAR APRIL 2020

1st

Census Day – Be Counted! This is deadline day to complete the Census 2020 questionnaire.

After today, Census takers will be out in the community to visit households that have not yet responded.

1-30th Student Artist Showcase – View the work of Weston’s most talented young artists at the Arts Council of Greater Weston’s annual Student Artist Showcase at the Weston Branch Library. The free exhibit features around 200 works of art submitted by local school art teachers.

For more information visit www.1weston.com.

4th Easter Celebration and Egg Hunt – St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool invites all children to the hear the Easter story and then take part in an egg hunt. The free program begins at 10am. The church is located at 580 Indian Trace.

For more information call 954-384-9096.

Puppet Show – Bob Nathanson and his Puppets To Go perform a free puppet show at the Weston Community Center. Showtimes are at 1:30pm and 3pm. The performance is best suited for children in Pre-K through 2nd grade. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

For more information, call 954-389-4321.

“Aladdin” – The Moonlight Movie in the Park program concludes with Disney’s live action film, Aladdin. It’s the story of a young street rat who pursues the princess of Agrabah with the help of a powerful Genie who can grant him three wishes.

His primary opponent is a malevolent sorcerer who serves as the city’s grand vizier and the chief advisor to

the Sultan. This free, family film will be shown at 8pm on a giant inflatable screen at Weston Regional Park. For more information, please call 954-389-4321.

8th APB Networking Luncheon – The Association of Professional Businesswomen meets the second Wednesday of the month from 11:30am-1pm at MCafe, inside the Midtown Athletic Club. For more information visit www. apbweston.com or call 954-557-4318.

11th Royal Egg Hunt – Children, ages ten and under, are invited to join the fun of scrambling to collect candyfilled eggs. The egg hunt begins at 10am sharp at Weston Regional Park; please arrive by 9:15am. Children should bring their own basket. After, kids can pose for pictures with the Royal Bunny and enjoy the bounce houses.

For more information call 954-389-4321.

Human Rights Through Art – The American Association of University Women in partnership with the Weston Branch Library presents a student art exhibit based on the United Nation’s Declaration of Human Rights, followed by a presentation by Hardy Vieux, Vice President of Legal for Human Rights First. The exhibit is open from noon to 2pm with the public meeting taking place from 2-5pm. For more information call 954-384-4460.

12th Resurrection Run – St. Paul Lutheran Church & Preschool hosts the 8th annual Resurrection Run, an Easter morning 5K run/

44 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

walk that follows a two-lap course around Tequesta Trace Park. Registration is $30 and includes a t-shirt. All proceeds go to support youth mission trips. For more information and to register go to www. stpaulweston.org.

Easter Family Funday – Mr. and Mrs. Bunny will be posing for photos and handing out holiday eggs in Linear Park at Weston Town Center from 3-6pm. Other activities include a princess show, pony rides, bounce houses, face painting, choo choo train, and more. For more information visit www. westontowncenter.net.

13th Weston Friends Club Men’s Group – “Weston Guys Meet & Eat” will meet for breakfast at Lester’s Diner at 9am.

For more information or to make a reservation, contact Chair Mike Callahan at 954-298-8724.

Earth Day Storytime – Children, ages five to ten, can get an early start on the Earth Day celebration with a special story and craft at the Weston Branch Library from 4-4:30pm. This free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Weston Library.

Registration is required; please call 954-357-5305.

15th-17th “Spamalot” – The awardwinning Cypress Bay High School drama department presents this musical comedy adapted from the 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Show times are at 7pm each night in the Cypress Bay Auditorium. Tickets are $5 in advance or $10 at the door. To purchase tickets online go to www.lightningdrama.com.

For more information contact drama instructor Cynthia Lutwin at www.cynthia. lutwin@browardschools.com.

16th

22nd-25th

Weston Friends Club Book Club – “The Book Markers” will meet at a member’s home at 1pm to discuss The World That We Knew: A Novel by Alice Hoffman. For more information on this book club or other Weston Friends Club activities, please call Mary Sedlak at 954-389-3605.

Bulk Trash Pick-up – Free bulk trash pick-up will take place on your regularly scheduled garbage collection day, which is Wednesday, Thursday or Friday for single-family homes and Saturday for multi-family units with dumpsters. All items should be curbside by 7am on your collection day.

For questions regarding bulk pickup, please call the City of Weston Public Works Services Center at 954-385-2600 or visit the City website at www.

WestonFL.org/BulkPickup.

19th Cabaret Musicale – Come support the Weston Music Society at this intimate musical concert featuring the Rachel Ohnsman Cabaret Trio from the University of Miami Frost School of Music.

This talented trio, consisting of a singer, keyboardist and bass player, will perform a selection of your favorite songs from 2-4pm at Bonaventure Country Club. Tickets are on sale now at Mia of London Jewelers in the Weston Commons shopping center for $30 for adults and $5 for students; tickets are $35 at the door. For more information please visit www. westonmusicsociety.org.

20th Weston Friends Club Bunco Group – “The Bunconeers” will meet at 1pm at a member’s home to play bunco. For more information about this fun monthly bunco group, which meets the third Monday of the month, call Chair Elena Hajek at 954-802-6720.

22nd Cone with a Cop – Join deputies from the Broward Sheriff’s Office for this tasty fundraiser to benefit Special Olympics Florida. It takes place at Yogurtland in Weston Town Center from 2:30-4pm. For more information contact Deputy Danielle Quinones at 954-389-2063.

25th Adult Art Class – In celebration of Earth Day, aspiring adult artists will learn techniques using lines, shapes, and angles and watercolor pencils to draw pictures of birds. This free program, which takes place from 11am-12pm at the Weston Branch Library, is sponsored by the Weston Friends of the Library. Space is limited and registration required; please call 954-357-5304.

26th Household Hazardous Waste & Electronics Recycling – Drop off your household hazardous waste and electronics items at the Weston Public Works Services Center, 2599 South Post Road, between 9am and 3pm. This is the safe way to dispose of paint, pesticides, pool chemicals, tires, batteries, computers and televisions.

For more information call 954-385-2600.

27th Weston Art Guild Meeting – Artist Bonnie Robinson will demonstrate her technique of painting on silk. The meeting is free and open to the public.

It takes place from 7-9pm at the Davie Parks Recreation Multipurpose Center, 3801 S. Pine Island Road. Contact Lifrancis Rojas at 305-3109586 for more information.

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Pediatric Foot and Ankle Sprains May Be a More Complex Growth Plate Injury

BY DR. CARLO A. MESSINA

X

-rays do not always provide a complete and accurate picture of the diagnosis. Injuries to the growth plate in children may cause damage to the structures at the end of the bone that will allow the child’s bone to grow to full adult size. These injuries may be misdiagnosed as a simple sprain of the foot or ankle.

However, a more complex injury may be present.

Growth plates, which start to close between the ages of thirteen and eighteen, can be damaged in incidents such as simple falls, sports injuries, automobile accidents or other major or minor trauma. If not recognized and treated early, a child’s growth plate injury can lead to shortening of the bone (growth ceases) as the growth plate may close prematurely.

Angular deformities of the bone (a curve) may also develop. The severity of these deformities depends on the age at the time of injury, extent of the injury and the part of the growth plate that has been damaged.

Certain portions of the growth plate may be injured affecting its growth while other parts grow more normally thus causing a bowing of the bone.

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

X-rays are used to evaluate bone and joint alignment. A growth plate can be injured or even fractured with a normal X-ray. In more moderate to severe cases, x-rays will usually show the fracture.

When in doubt, a CT scan may be necessary. Early diagnosis is crucial.

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

2. If the injury has caused misalignment of the growth plate it can sometimes be carefully manipulated back into place and then protected with a cast.

The cast would be necessary for a minimum of six to

eight weeks. Nonweightbearing would be mandatory.

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

The most important thing is immediate diagnosis and treatment.

Carlo A. Messina, DPM, is a Board Certified Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgeon, Diplomate American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He is a Foot and Ankle Surgeon with the Foot, Ankle and Leg Specialists of South Florida and specializes in treating infants, children, teens and adults. His partners are Dr. Robert Sheinberg, Dr. Al DeSimone, Dr. Fernando Moya, Dr. Alexander Bertot, Dr. David Shenassa, Dr. Michael Cohen and Dr. Franz Jones. The South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine in Weston is located at 1600 Town Center Blvd., Suite C, (954) 389-5900 and in Pembroke Pines at 17842 NW 2nd Street, (954) 430-9901. The practice website is www.SOUTHFLORIDASPORTSMEDICINE.com.

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Dr. Robert Sheinberg, D.P.M. Dr. Carlo Messina, D.P.M. Dr. Michael Cohen, D.P.M. Dr. John Goodner, D.P.M. Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Qualified All Foot, Ankle, and Leg Fractures Tears, Arthritis Surgery FOOT, ANKLE, & LEG SPECIALIST FOOT, ANKLE, & LEG SPECIALIST FOOT, ANKLE, & LEG SPECIALIST FOOT, ANKLE, & LEG SPECIALIST in Children and Adults!

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• Flat feet • High Arches • Fractures • Growing Pains • Warts

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46 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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

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

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

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OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 47

COMMUNITY NEWS

Dylan Schopp Sunshine Foundation Bruncheon Spreads Awareness on Suicide Prevention

BY STACEY BOMSER

O

ne life lost is too many. Through a non-profit foundation named in memory of their son, the Schopp family of Weston is working to ensure no other family faces the loss of a child to suicide. The community is invited to learn more about its efforts and what can be done to prevent suicide at the Dylan Schopp Sunshine Foundation’s second annual Sunshine Bruncheon on Saturday, April 4th.

“After Dylan passed, we felt such an outpouring of support from the community, and we wanted to find a way to help his legacy continue to live on,” explains Foundation Director Debbie Schopp. “Creating the Dylan Schopp Sunshine Foundation was our way to share what we’ve learned in the wake of our loss and do what we can to prevent future tragedies.”

Awareness is the key. This year’s bruncheon will include two educational presentations. Dr. Tamy Faierman, owner of a holistic spa and wellness center in Weston, will conduct a mind, body and wellness session.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to speak at this event,” shares Dr. Faierman. “Mental health and wellness are two intertwined topics that are near and dear to my heart, and even more so in today’s

modern, fast-paced, overstimulated world.”

The keynote speaker is Whitney Goodman, LMFT, a licensed psychotherapist, writer and owner of The CCC, a co-working space for wellness professionals in Miami. She will provide education on what can be done to help spread awareness and prevent suicide.

Debbie, David and Dara Schopp

It’s a topic that needs attention now, as suicide is the eighth leading cause of death in Florida, and the second leading cause amongst college students.

Since Dylan’s passing, the Schopp family has made it their mission to stop suicide, work with mental health advocates, and provide support to those, who like them, have lost loved ones to suicide.

Schopp says the intention is that bruncheon

attendees will “come away from this event with a better understanding of mental health struggles and learn some accessible tools and strategies to help when unpleasant thoughts or feelings may arise.”

In addition to the guest speakers, the bruncheon will feature a buffet meal and silent auction.

Proceeds from the event will allow the foundation to continue its education, awareness and support efforts, many of which are focused on the Weston community.

“We are involved with the Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention and together we have Hope Sunshine Clubs in over 40 Broward County schools.

For those unfamiliar with the Hope Sunshine Clubs, it is an after-school program for middle and high school students where they learn about mental health challenges and tools to overcome problems they may experience,” explains Schopp. “We are also working with the Weston YMCA to host a Hope Sunshine social gathering for teens where they can meet, talk and share about their experiences.”

Tickets are on sale now for the Dylan Schopp Sunshine Foundation Bruncheon, which takes place from 11am-2pm on April 4th at Jacaranda Country Club in Plantation. For more information visit www.dylansfoundation.org/events/2020sunshinebruncheon.

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Fun, Educational, Themed Camp Options: Camp Explorer, STEM Camps, Cooking Camp and Preschool Camps Offering Themed, Age-Appropriate Activities! *Ages vary by location

For more information visit CreativeChildLearningCenter.com 48 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Weston Residents Benefit from New Cleveland Clinic Weston and YMCA Partnership

BY STACEY BOMSER

A

new partnership between Cleveland Clinic Weston and the YMCA of South Florida is building a healthier community. Weston residents will now have access to a state-of-the-art physical therapy center, along with a variety of health and wellness education programs and services.

The new partnership allows Cleveland Clinic to expand its sports and physical therapy program, giving patients the ability to complete therapy at the new Cleveland Clinic Physical Therapy Center at the Weston YMCA Family Center, located in Weston Regional Park. The new 1,200 square foot facility is located on the ground floor of the Weston YMCA. The official ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by Mayor Daniel Stermer and Commissioners Thomas Kallman, Byron Jaffe and Margaret Brown, along with Cleveland Clinic Weston leadership and YMCA board members.

In addition to providing patients with physical therapy services, the new partnership will also provide Y members and Weston residents with access to monthly comprehensive health education programs and services including seminars, screenings, physician lectures, wellness assessments and nutritional information.

Mayor Daniel Stermer and Commissioners Thomas Kallman and Margaret Brown join Cleveland Clinic Weston leadership and YMCA board members at a ribbon cutting to celebrate the new partnership.

Cleveland Clinic Weston Sports & Orthopaedic Physical Therapist Victor Garbalosa demonstrates the use of the physical therapy equipment to Physical Therapy Assistant Marjorie Etts, Debbie Bellinger of the YMCA, Commissioner Margaret Brown and Mayor Daniel Stermer.

“Our goal is to improve the quality of life for our patients and the community by closing the ‘clinic to community gap’ for health care services and education,” states Cleveland Clinic Weston President Rodolfo J. Blandon, MD, MBA. “Our organizational missions align, and we are excited to collaborate with the YMCA to create a new model of program offerings for our community.”

Some of the benefits Y members and the Weston community will enjoy as a result of this partnership include: ▸ On-site access to physical therapy ▸ Opportunities to register for seminars by Cleveland Clinic professionals including nutritionists, physical therapists, nurses and doctors ▸ Access to health assessments and screenings at the Weston Y ▸ Information on executive assessments and health physicals ▸ Information on Cleveland Clinic doctors and physical therapists ▸ Referrals and easy appointments with Cleveland Clinic professionals.

For more information on Cleveland Clinic Florida’s Department of Physical Therapy go to https://my.clevelandclinic.org/florida/ departments/physical-therapy#overview-tab.

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50 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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SCHOOL NEWS

Cypress Bay UNICEF Club Helps the Food Insecure

BY STACEY BOMSER

C

ypress Bay High School is home to the largest UNICEF Club in the country, with more than 1,000 members. With that much manpower, the club is able to accomplish great things. This year it has been helping tackle the issue of food insecurity by donating food and volunteer hours to Feeding South Florida, the region’s leading domestic hungerrelief organization.

“Helping the food insecure in South Florida ties in with UNICEF’s central aim of advocating for children’s rights,” explains Sachitaa Senthilkumar, Senator of Policies and Regulations, pointing out that 11.8% of South Floridians are food insecure. “Meals are missing from the tables of 706,130 people, many of which are children. Our UNICEF branch is helping to reduce this number by volunteering at Feeding South Florida, in turn directly affirming the larger organizational aims.”

At the end of February,

UNICEF Club members spent their second day volunteering at the food bank, helping inspect donated food and sorting it into boxes to be distributed to recipients. The volunteers sorted through the donations, disposing of cans that were bent or boxes that were torn, as well as items that had expired.

In addition to donating manpower at Feeding South Florida, the UNICEF Club has also donated food to support the agency’s efforts. Members collected more than 10,000 soup cans which were donated to help the hungry in our community. Senator of Financial Affairs Matthew Sloboda says in addition to Feeding South Florida, food donations were made to St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, Saint Vincent de Paul, St. Katherine Drexel Catholic Church and Temple B’nai Aviv.

In addition to food drives, the UNICEF Club also hosts fundraisers. Its goal is to raise $40,000 this year for the National UNICEF organization in New York. The club has raised over $300,000 since it first started eight years ago.

“This money helps to give children in need an education and even provides simple yet necessary items such as food

For More Information Or to Register: Visit www.mccarthyhigh.org 52 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

and water,” shares Sloboda. “This is why we take action on helping feed those in need, both in our community and globally.”

UNICEF’s effects are felt here in Weston as well, with students learning the power of community service. According to Sachitaa, “This club is an outlet for so many students who don’t know how to help but want to. Through various fundraisers and community events, the feeling of satisfaction and pride is felt by our members.”

UNICEF is the United Nations Children’s Fund.

It works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, to defend their rights, and to help them fulfill their potential, from early childhood through adolescence.

Camps Available: Drama Baseball Girl’s Soccer Basketball iPad Beach Volleyball Robotics Boy’s Soccer Volleyball Wrestling Dance

COMMUNITY NEWS

Weston University Program Provides Students with Look at Local Law Enforcement

BY STACEY BOMSER

explained some of the techniques they use to process aw Enforcement Services Day is always a favor- crime scenes. Students then donned protective covite of Weston University program students. A eralls and gloves and practiced lifting fingerprints variety of hands-on activities provides students and swabbing for DNA. with a unique perspective on what the Broward Following lunch, students met with members of Sheriff’s Office does to protect the SWAT team and K-9 units. They our community. were treated to a bite demonstration.

The morning began with an K-9 officers explained the unique hanintroduction by City Manager dler/dog relationship and the training Don Decker, followed by a roll both go through to become an effeccall greeting by Captain Kevin tive K-9 unit. The program day also Butler of the BSO Weston District. included a drone demonstration and Deputies Danielle Quinones tour of the BSO Weston District Office. and Dominic Raimondi then The Weston University program led the group’s activities wraps up this month throughout the day. with a City Commission The first stop was Markham Simulation. Students will Park, where students got to demonstrate the knowlsee how and where BSO depuedge of local government ties train for their line of work. they have learned throughThe tour included a visit to the out the course by carrying tactical training facility and the out a mock city commisshooting range, where students sion meeting, role playing were treated to a firearms jobs such as Mayor, City demonstration.

Commissioner, Fire Chief Crime scene technicians and City Manager.

Photos courtesy City of Weston

L

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OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 53

SCHOOL NEWS

Weston Schools Come Together on Day of Service and Love a “Thank You” banner for the Weston BSO Officers for their service to our community. In addition, first graders worked together to clean up the area around their classrooms.

Teachers used the First graders in Mara Miller’s class at Everglades Day of Service and Elementary learned the meaning of peace.

Love as an educational

BY STACEY BOMSER opportunity. For example, Mara Miller, a first-grade he Weston schools teacher at Everglades Elementary School, talked about Country Isles students participated in A Day showed their appreciation Cypress Bay students decorated stones the meaning of peace with her students and why it is for BSO officers and helped for the Peace Garden of Service and Love, in beautify their school. important to show love and kindness to others. commemoration of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy. As a At Cypress Bay High School, students began the way of honoring the lives lost, all Broward schools were encouraged to engage students in activities and volunteer service projects that serve others, while also raising awareness about important and meaningful causes and issues.

The Cypress Bay Innovation Zone collaborated on a hunger project to benefit the food insecure.

Students and staff at Cypress Bay High School, Falcon Cove Middle School, Tequesta Trace Middle School and Manatee Indian Trace Elementary students showed their love for first responders.

Bay Elementary School worked day by watching a Manatee Bay Elementary students helped assemble meals for Feeding Children Everywhere together to documentary on the assemble meals for Feeding Children MSD tragedy and Everywhere. Students at the other listening to Rise Up. Weston schools, Country Isles Students then received Elementary, Indian Trace Elementary, a colored ‘passport’ Eagle Point Elementary, Gator Run with their schedule for Elementary and Everglades Elementary, the day. They rotated made cards to go with the meal kits. through four service According to Danielle Nascimento, activities; one of which Student Government Advisor at Cypress was creating the meal kits for Feeding Children Everywhere.

Bay, The other projects included making over Feeding 600 dog toys from recycled t-shirts for the Children Humane Society of Broward County, creating a Everywhere is a non-profit organization that helps Peace Garden at groups pack meals for families in need. The school the school with raised $5000 for the project and packed over 26,000 decorated stones meals during the Day of Service and Love. and pinwheels, Additionally, some schools and classes created and taking their own special projects to mark this somber day. part in a Mind At Indian Trace Elementary, students created “All Body Wellness You Need Is Love” banners which they delivered Workshop led by to the Weston BSO the school’s Mind Body Ambassadors. police station, three fire stations, City Hall and their local Publix. “We gave each place a banner and some cookies to brighten their day!” shared Indian Trace Principal Amy Winder.

Students at Country Tequesta Trace Middle School Students packed meals for Feeding Children Everywhere.

Isles Elementary made

T

54 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

Cypress Bay students made 600 dog toys for the Humane Society.

LEGALLY SPEAKING

Do I Need a Trust?

BY BRUCE IDEN, ESQUIRE hould I consider creating a trust even though I don’t have a multi-million dollar estate? Gone are the days that revocable living trusts were only for wealthy individuals. Why? Because it’s now less about avoiding estate taxes and more about the cost savings and protections that trusts can provide. And a properly drafted and funded trust avoids the expense, delay and loss of privacy of probate.

The following scenarios help my clients understand why a revocable living trust may be their best option: Meet our hypothetical family, George and Jenny happily married for 25 years with three children, Jessica, age 20, Josh, age 15, and Jonathan, age 12.

Both George and Jenny have created wills, leaving everything to each other.

After they are both gone, their wills leave it all to their children, in equal shares.

Sounds like a logical plan? Maybe not.

Tragically, George dies suddenly and, according to his will, all of his property transfers to Jenny. The following year, while rushing to an appointment on a rainy morning, Jenny loses control of her car and rear-ends a bus full of trial attorneys heading to the annual Ft. Lauderdale “I’ll See You in Court Convention.” Several of the attorneys are injured and predictably, lawsuits follow. Now what happens to Jenny’s inheritance from George? It’s likely all gone to creditors. What is left to raise her children? Perhaps nothing. If George and Jenny had used a trust in their estate plan, the final outcome may have been different. While Jenny’s property would still be subject to creditor claims, her inheritance from George inside a trust would be safe for her and their children.

In another sad scenario, imagine that Jenny dies first. George later remarries Susan, a woman with four adult children. What happens when George passes? His property, including what he inherited from Jenny, may go to Susan and eventually to Susan’s children.

George and Jenny’s children could be completely disinherited! With a properly drawn trust, George and Jenny can rest assured that even if the surviving spouse remarries, their money will go to their children.

Finally, think of George and Jenny happily enjoying retirement and grandchildren, but unfortunately, they are not fond of Jessica’s husband, Robert. Jenny fears that their son-in-law will never earn a decent living, and be dependent on their daughter Jessica to support him for the rest of his life. George worries that if they leave an inheritance to Jessica and she ultimately divorces Robert, a substantial portion of Jessica’s inheritance could be lost to her “no-good husband.” If George and Jenny leave the inheritances to their children in a trust, these assets will not be commingled with marital property. Therefore, in the event of a divorce, daughter Jessica’s inheritance will not be the subject of division and partial distribution to Robert.

Speak with a qualified estate planning attorney to see if a trust is right for your family situation.

Life can change in an instant. What are you waiting for?

S

Bruce Iden earned his J.D. from George Washington University National Law Center and his L.L.M in taxation from the University of Miami School of Law. He has been practicing in the areas of estate planning, real estate and business law for over 30 years. For more information, or to schedule a consultation with Mr. Iden, contact Iden Law Offices at 954-885-0085.

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OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 55

SCHOOL NEWS

Everglades Fourth Graders Piece Together Black History Month Knowledge

BY STACEY BOMSER

and Langston Hughes, scientist George ourth grade students at Washington Carver and mathematiEverglades Elementary School cian Dorothy Vaughan. Through their had to go beyond the biography research, the students were able to for a Black History Month research recognize not only the accomplishproject. Students in Keara Horton and ments that made the person famous Leesa Flaherty’s classes utilized both but the obstacles they had to overcome print and digital sources to compose a to reach greatness. multi-page report on a famous African “The students were able to learn American and his/her contributions to more about the adversity faced by our country. some of their favorite athletes and “This report allowed students to apply that determination to succeed research unfamiliar, famous, signifiin their own lives,” notes Ms. Horton. cant figures in our nation’s history,” “They were able to make connections explains Ms. Horton. “Understanding with significant names, like Dorothy the history of African people, how Vaughan (the NASA mathematician they came to be in America, and what and computer programmer seen in they have overcome and accomHidden Figures) or events such as the plished is something I hope resonates Civil Rights Movement.” with students.”

The children uncovered some The students chose to study famous interesting facts during their research. figures from all walks of life and For example, Ms. Horton cites that generations, such as sports legends Sojourner Truth spoke to Abraham Michael Jordan and Muhammad Lincoln about shared views, in high Ali, historical figures Rosa Parks and school Michael Jordan did not make Sojourner Truth, poets Maya Angelou the basketball team on his first try, and

F

Ruby Bridges was the first African American to go to an allwhite school.

In addition to sharing the knowledge they gained about their chosen figure, the students also collaborated on a tessellation quilt which now hangs outside their classroom. Each student created a square encompassing a picture of their person, the accompanying name, and a brief summary of their research. The students’ reports were also on display with the quilt.

Ms. Horton believes studying the unique contributions of all these famous African Americans allows students to view American history and culture through a unique lens. “It’s important for students to understand

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56 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

COMMUNITY NEWS

Quarantine Binge Watch

BY JOHN DUKA

Nurse Jackie - Showtime/Netflix (seven seasons) Nurse Jackie is a medical drama-comedy that tells the story of Jackie Peyton (Edie Falco), an Emergency Room nurse at a hospital in New York City. Every day is a “high wire act” for Jackie as she juggles patients, doctors, fellow nurses, and her own drug addiction.

Falco’s portrayal of Jackie, as a strong-willed, iconoclastic New York City nurse juggling the frenzied grind of an urban hospital and an equally challenging personal life, is phenomenal.

B

oredom and stress have become constant challenges as we stay at home in self-quarantine from coronavirus. One way to overcome both is to get lost in a TV series. Luckily, there is no shortage of compelling TV available. With so many options to choose from, we polled our staff for their favorites.

The Mandalorian - Disney Plus (one season) The Mandalorian is the break-out star of Disney’s streaming service. The 10 episode drama is set in the Star Wars universe after the fall of the Empire. The classic “space western” follows bounty hunter Din Djarin from one adventure to another. His discovery of “The Child,” better known in popular culture as Baby Yoda, made our family fall in love with the quick moving series.

Stranger Things - Netflix (three seasons) Set in the 1980s in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, Stranger Things focuses on the investigation into the disappearance of a young boy amid supernatural events occurring around the town, including the appearance of a girl with psychokinetic abilities.

It follows the boy’s friends, Mike, Dustin and Lucas as they uncover mysteries surrounding their friend’s disappearance.

The Mandalorian, courtesy of Disney

Breaking Bad In what many people call the greatest television series yet made, high school chemistry teacher Walter White transforms into the Southwest’s biggest drug lord after learning he has incurable cancer. The pace of the show and incredible writing make it easy to pass hours on end.

Shameless, courtesy of Showtime

Shameless - Showtime/Netflix (nine seasons) Set in the slums of Chicago’s South Side, Shameless follows the Gallagher family as they navigate life on the edge. The family is led by William H. Macy’s ,Frank Gallagher, a dysfunctional alcoholic who is hilariously self-destructive. What makes the show work is the cast’s ability to make you love the characters despite their sometimes reprehensible behavior.

OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 57

SCHOOL NEWS

KAPOW Connects Classroom and Career at Imagine Charter School

BY STACEY BOMSER

habits play in the classroom magine Charter School at Weston is promoting and the similarities in the career readiness thanks to its partnership with workplace. The students had a KAPOW (Kids and the Power of Work). For nearly chance to role play both good 30 years, the career development program has been and bad habits, followed by matching professionals from the community with discussion,” shares Barredo. elementary, middle and high school classes. The “It was truly amazing to see volunteers teach a series of lessons based on career the students’ involvement and interaction with each awareness and workplace skills. other reinforcing leadership skills, communication KAPOW Coordinator for Imagine and fifth grade skills, and other necessary skills needed to excel teacher Patricia Roach says she loves the KAPOW inside and outside the classroom.” program and how it exposes students to career Susana Sangiovanni, of Banesco USA, has been opportunities and helps them connect what they are partnered with Elizabeth Sentell’s sixth grade learning to their futures in the workplace and life. advanced reading class. As a volunteer and mentor, “The KAPOW program builds on the child’s young she says it’s rewarding to know she is making an imagination and enthusiasm for learning, encourag- impact on these children. “The program truly broading the child through business volunteer-led activiens their young minds and really gets them thinking ties to understand the school-workplace connection. of all the opportunities that await them, if they took KAPOW encourages our students to dream big!” the time to start preparing now. The more industries Renzo Barredo, of One South Florida Wealth they are exposed to the better it helps them underAdvisors, has been involved with KAPOW for the stand the options they have and role models they can past eight years. This year he has been serving as a reach out to.” mentor for a fifth grade class at Imagine. During his Ms. Sentell believes that learning the importance last lesson, he discussed the importance of good and of developing good work skills from a respected bad work habits. adult that is not their teacher or parent is invalu“In this lesson, we took a look at the role work able. “There is a lasting positive effect for students

I

when an unbiased person shares the same or similar information with them that they have learned at school and at home.

Also, students get to see another adult as a role model in the community who is volunteering and sharing with us, even when they don’t have to. That gives students a taste of what true selfless volunteering is about.”

There are five KAPOW classrooms at Imagine Charter School at Weston. Sixth grade teacher Paul Zimmerman’s class is paired with partner volunteers Stephany Herrera and Alvaro Cornavaca from Citibank, and Elizabeth Sentell’s class with Susana Sangiovanni from Banesco USA. Fifth grade teacher Lorena Najera is paired with Toby Malbec from Constrata Technology Consulting, Luisa Ortiz’s class is with Renzo Barredo from One South Florida Wealth Advisors, and Patricia Roach is paired with partner volunteer Orlando Moreno from Ford Motor Company.

For more information contact KAPOW Program Director Tania Reynolds at 305-338-5548, email taniakapow@gmail.com, or visit www.kapowlfs.wordpress.com.

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OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 59

SCHOOL NEWS

County Championships Cap Off Undefeated Seasons for Tequesta Trace Middle School Volleyball Teams

BY STACEY BOMSER

C

ongratulations to the Tequesta Trace Middle School Girls and Boys Volleyball teams. Both teams reign supreme as the Broward County Middle School Athletic Association County Champions.

This is the third consecutive County Championship win for the girls team, which has a record of 35-1 over the past three seasons. Both teams finished this season with a perfect undefeated record of 12-0.

According to Tequesta Trace Middle School Athletic Director Howie Schrager, the girls defeated Westglades Middle School in the semifinals by a score of 21-13, 21-3, while the boys handled Ramblewood Middle School by a score of 21-18, 21-14.

“The finals for both teams were the battle of Weston against rival Falcon Cove Middle School,” states Coach Schrager. “After defeating Falcon Cove handily during the season, the girls team was up for the challenge as they defeated the much-improved Falcons by a score of 21-16, 24-22 in a thrilling match. The boys were up

next and held on to defeat the Falcons 21-17, 21-18.”

Both teams are coached by Peer Counseling Coordinator Julie Sikorski, who says she could not be more proud of her Cougars.

“These girls are the epitome of hard work and dedication,” states Coach Sikorski, noting the girls practiced every morning before school. “They didn’t lose a set in two straight years! That takes a lot of physical and mental discipline. They are true champions!”

While this was the girls’ third consecutive trip to the County Championship, Coach Sikorski says the road to the finals was not as smoothly paved for the

boys. “The boys team started with raw athletic talent, but they didn’t have volleyball skills and knowledge of the game. Through their hard work and willingness to learn, they were able to dominate on the court, losing only one set all year. It was so much fun watching them learn and grow into a County Championship volleyball team!”

Although winning the County Championship trophies was truly a team effort, the Most Valuable Player awards were presented to Emily Economou and Tyler Johnson. These were the ninth and tenth County Championship wins for Coach Sikorski.

Way to go Cougars!!!

ROTARY NEWS

Rotary Foundation Global Grants Make Life-Changing Impact

BY PAT SHORT HORNSBY, ROTARIAN

small towns and villages as needed. The generator he La Guajira region of Colombia is a penis ecologically friendly, low maintenance, built to insula in northeastern Colombia on the last for 20 years, and has an ultraviolet lamp to kill Caribbean, bordering Venezuela. It is home bacteria. The price tag for the setup? Over $72,000. to the Wayuu, an indigenous ethnic group. Here, Fortunately, the mission of The Rotary the environment is harsh and the people live in Foundation of Rotary International is to enable poverty. Those in rural areas took their drinking, Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill, cooking, and bathing water from wells that dried up and peace through the improvement of health, the over the course of an intense drought affecting the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty. area. Untreated rainwater, retrieved from trenches Rotary’s charitable funding arm has an exemplary where animals also drank, was the only water source track record of stability and stewardship, allowfor many. The community was ing it to provide millions of dollars of suffering from high rates of grant money annually to those who illness and death, particularly need it most. for children under five, due to Learning of the Wayuu people’s acute diarrheal disease. urgent need for a reliable potable water So local Rotarians found source, the Rotary Club of Weston and a solution — an Atmospheric individual Rotarians contributed over Generator of Potable Water $11,000 towards the purchase and instalthat runs on solar power. The lation of the water generator. By partnerstainless-steel generator, which ing with nine other Rotary clubs from can expel 300 liters of clean South Florida, Colombia, and Toronto, water a day in places with relaCanada, the total donations eventually tive humidity over 50%, could reached over $20,000. Still, not enough.

Wayuu children enjoy clean, healthy water thanks to the be set up in a marine storage Matching grant monies from the four efforts of ten rotary clubs and a container and moved between Rotary districts where the clubs reside Rotary Foundation Global Grant.

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60 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

The self-regulating water generator is powered by solar panels atop its container roof.

brought the total up to almost $43,000. However, it was the power of a Rotary Foundation Global Grant that provided the project with the additional $32,000 it needed. The Foundation’s grant application process is comprehensive, requiring needs assessment, project sustainability, financial accountability, and community involvement to ensure long-term success.

When you give to The Rotary Foundation, over 90% of each dollar goes directly to programs and services to help those less fortunate, in life-changing ways. The Rotary Club of Weston is proud to have been a Rotary Foundation Global Grant participant and work with Rotarians in Colombia to change the lives of hundreds of Wayuu people in La Guajira, who now have clean drinking water.

The Rotary Club of Weston meets weekly at 7:25am on Thursdays at Weston Hills Country Club. Visit www.westonrotary. com to learn more.

CAN DO KID

Cypress Bay Senior Speaks Out As Climate Change Activist

BY STACEY BOMSER

Individual action is imperative to s a member of the Cypress catalyze systemic action to mitigate the Bay High School Debate Team, climate crisis.”

Nicole Buckley understands As Florida Director of Schools the power of persuasion. As a cliUnder 2C, a student-led organizamate activist, she is harnessing her tion aiming to raise awareness on the forensic talent and personal passion urgency of climate change through to raise awareness about the climate both compliance and educational change crisis. campaigns, Nicole is helping lead the The high school senior says this is charge at Cypress Bay. “Me and two something that affects fellow activists, Jordana all of us. “Climate Rockley and Andres change is a critical Maraone, hosted issue with a very small a climate literacy margin for error,” seminar at Cypress to explains Nicole. “The over half the student Intergovernmental body. I want to expand Panel on Climate these literacy events Change reported in to individual classes 2018 that we had 12 and relate climate years left to address science to their curthe emissions to riculum. For example, mitigate the risk of for business classes, I deadly impacts that want to talk about ESG certain communities (Environment, Society, are already facing.

Government), a new Photo courtesy Serenity Garcia

A

investment model, or the effects of climate on resource prices, etc.”

In addition to educating her peers, Nicole is trying to recruit them to her cause. “Literacy events are important to start getting students at least thinking about the problem we face. Some Cypress clubs have already shown they are invested in the crisis. For example, the National Honor Society recently had a seminar given by the Union of Concerned Scientists.”

Nicole says the Weston community can also support the effort to save the planet. “Individually, people could eat less meat, even if they don’t cut it completely out. Animal agriculture is responsible for 13-18% of greenhouse gas emissions. Personally, I have also decided to cut down on fast fashion which has created 52 fashion ‘seasons’ and creates immense waste.”

She believes the best way to help is to contribute to organizations that are fighting for systemic change either by volunteering or donating. “There

Nicole Buckley at the Miami DNC Debates Underwater Climate Rally

are a lot of cool organizations like the CLEO Institute and some local chapters of national organizations such as 350 South Florida, Sierra Club, and Citizen’s Climate Lobby,” shares Nicole.

With the 50th anniversary of Earth Day being celebrated this month, Nicole says now is the perfect time to get involved and take action to fight climate change. “Earth Day was originally focused on clean air and clean water, but now it’s so much bigger than that. On April 22nd, students from all over the county are organizing another strike for our future in Fort Lauderdale by the Broward Commission to demand action.”

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CAN DO KID

Young Artist’s Awareness Message Wins Art Contest

BY STACEY BOMSER

B

owen Marzan is a kid who cares. As a member of the Country Isles Elementary School Environment Club, the fifth grader spends his Thursday afternoons picking up trash around campus. But his environmental concerns reach beyond Weston. He’s using his artistic talents to promote tobacco free beaches.

Bowen was one of 25 winners in the Tobacco Free Art Contest sponsored by the Tobacco Free Partnership of Broward County, Holy Cross Hospital and Fort Lauderdale Beach Sweep. Students, ages five to 18, were invited to submit artwork that promotes tobacco free beaches and parks in South Florida. Bowen chose to combine his environmental message with one of warning about the dangers of smoking and vaping.

“I want to help the cause to stop deaths of innocent children who die when they are corrupted by those poisons,” explains Bowen. “I feel that if we don’t get this message around that more kids will die from vaping or smoking. If we get this message around and people actually listen, we can stop the epidemic.

And I know that it will work.”

In addition to wanting to help save the lives of other kids from the dangers of tobacco use, Bowen

wants to protect marine life, which is suffering from pollution on our beaches. That was the inspiration behind his entry to the art contest.

His poster was done with markers and features some of his cartoon characters.

“I decided to enter the contest so I could practice my new characters and use the main one with a face saying he is tired of picking up cigarettes on the beaches and seeing animals choke on them,” shares Bowen. “He wants to stop it, but he knows that some people don’t listen and keep causing harm to wildlife.”

Bowen believes his and the other posters can help spread awareness about this important environmental concern. The top 25 pieces of artwork were on display at the BB&T Center during a recent Florida Panthers game. The winning artists also posed for a group photo on the ice after the game.

Bowen says it was an honor to have his artwork featured in such a public place. “I felt so happy

that everyone saw that I have talent when it comes to drawing.”

He’s hoping seeing all of these anti-tobacco messages will make people take action. Bowen wants people to help solve the problem instead of causing it. “No one wants to be a part of destroying wildlife society. Be a part of a solution and help clean and put laws up for solving the problem.”

To learn more about the Tobacco Free Partnership of Broward County and its efforts go to www.tfp-broward.org.

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ASK THE EXPERT

2020 US Tax Deadlines – 2019 tax year

BY JAY S. SHAPIRO, CPA

A

pril 15th is known across the country as “tax day.” The IRS, however, has a few other critical filing dates that you might need to be aware of. Keep these dates in mind when working on your taxes or with your tax professional.

March 16, 2020 ▸ Deadline for S corporation (Form 1120-S) and partnership (Form 1065) to file 2019 tax returns.

Relevant extension forms would need to be filed to request a further six-month extension. ▸ Deadline for Owners of Foreign Trusts to file Form 3520-A. Extension Form 7004 would need to be filed to request a further six-month extension.

April 15, 2020 ▸ Deadline for filing 2019 Individual Federal Income Tax return. If you reside outside the US on April 15, 2020, you get an automatic extension until June 15, 2020. However, if you owe any tax for 2019, it is due on April 15 and interest will accrue from this date. If you reside in the US, an Extension Form 4868 would need to be filed to request a further six-month extension. ▸ Deadline for Individuals to pay Quarter 1 of their 2020 Estimated Income Tax payment. If you have income that does not have US Federal tax or the income cannot be offset using deductions or foreign tax credits, pay your Estimated Taxes by this date using Form 1040-ES. ▸ Deadline for filing 2019 FBAR form. An automatic extension is provided to file the FBAR until Oct 15. There is no further extension for FBAR filing. ▸ Deadline for filing 2019 Corporation Income Tax return. Extension Form 7004 would need to be filed to request a further six-month extension.

▸ Deadline to file 2019 US Trust form 1041 Extension Form 7004 would need to be filed to request a further six-month extension.

June 15, 2020 ▸ Deadline for filing 2019 Individual Federal Income Tax return for individuals residing outside the US and non-resident aliens who do not have an office or place of business in the US. ▸ Extension Form 4868 would need to be filed to request a further sixmonth extension. ▸ Deadline for Individuals to pay Quarter 2 of their 2020 Estimated Income Tax payment.

September 15, 2020 ▸ Final extended deadline for S corporation (Form 1120-S) and partnership (Form 1065). ▸ Final extended deadline for Owners of Foreign Trusts to file Form 3520-A ▸ Deadline for Individuals to pay Quarter 3 of their 2020 Estimated Income Tax payment.

October 15, 2020 ▸ Final extended deadline for filing 2019 Individual Federal Income tax return. ▸ Final extended deadline for filing 2019 FBAR form. ▸ Final extended deadline for filing 2019 Corporation Income Tax return.

December 15, 2020 ▸ Final extended deadline for filing 2019 Individual Federal Income Tax return for non-resident aliens who filed an extension on or before June 16, 2020. ▸ Contact us to discuss any tax planning and tax return compliance questions.

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TEE TO GREEN

Unexpected Cavities

Two Invaluable Putting Tips

BY DR. ALON GROSMAN lmost daily, we have a child come into our office with many more cavities than anticipated. In some instances, they are “regulars” coming in for their 6 month checks and everyone present attests to their daily brushing ritual. Still, in a relatively short period of time, these cavities have formed between the teeth. To understand this situation better, it is helpful to look at the underlying causes of cavities.

In order to form a dental cavity, there are certain ingredients that are a must. First of all, cavity-causing bacteria must be present. The most notable of these bacteria are the Streptococcus Mutans. Although the thought of bacteria entering the mouth is an unsavory one, it is a fact of life. In fact, these bacteria make a home in our mouth at a very early age and are usually transmitted unintentionally by a child’s caregiver (i.e. when blowing on a hot spoon during feeding time). The bacteria colonize on our teeth and form a plaque. They use sugars we ingest to increase the size of the plaque.

Biproducts from these colonies are acidic. This decrease in pH begins the process of breakdown of the tooth’s outer layer, the enamel. Once this shell is accessed, the bacteria can start to travel through the tooth. Therefore, the main players are bacteria, sugar, and acidity.

We recommend brushing and flossing to reduce the quantities of bacteria and remove sugars left behind after meals. Fluoride can be used to strengthen the enamel. Xylitol products are showing some promising data in the ability to limit the effectiveness of the bacteria. Still, a person who brushes/flosses and goes to the dentist for cleanings and fluoride application can still have cavities depending on the intake of certain foods and liquids. As it turns out, consumption of sugar is not the only advantage that our diet provides the bacteria. Many of the foods and beverages we are consuming are acidic and therefore lower the overall pH in the mouth speeding the process of cavity making. For example, diet soda may have no simple sugars useful to the bacteria, but the carbonation creates a very acidic oral environment. Studies have shown that many of the popular sports drinks are more acidic than batteries used for small appliances. After a little digging, we usually find out that the unexpected cavities are preceded by the intake of acidic beverages.

The bad news is that our modern diet is full of sugary acidic foods. Our children’s heroes promote them in every marketing medium.

Our office philosophy is not to deny our children their treats but rather to modify eating habits and limit the periods of exposure to certain foods. For example, a child who drinks a sports drink after practice should do so at one sitting rather than doing so throughout the day. We recommend rinsing with water after consuming acidic drinks as it is very effective at balancing pH. If hard candy is eaten, brushing should be done. Sugary snacks should be eaten with meals. Snacks eaten between meals should be of a healthier variety, like fruits veggies and granola. The idea is to be creative rather than restrictive. Happy eating!!!!!!

BY DEAN SKLAR, PGA PROFESSIONAL utting using a name or line on your ball can really help in setting you on the correct path line.

The key is to use your dominant eye so you will not struggle in correctly lining up your ball.

First, to determine your dominant eye, hold both hands out in front of you clasped together and create a small hole to look at the flag. Close one eye at a time to determine which eye is still able to see the flag. The eye that you see the flag with is your dominant eye and you will want to use that eye in lining up your ball.

If you are left eye dominant you will want to aim your ball line with your left hand. If right eye dominant, use your right hand to aim your ball line at the target. Use the same hand to increase the odds of getting the ball directly in line between your dominant eye and the target. You should now find it much easier to aim the ball directly at the target.

Once your ball is all lined up, go set up to the ball and make sure the clubface alignment matches the balls. Now you are ready to stoke it at your target. Trust your aim, begin focusing on your speed and you will become a better putter. If you are having difficulty matching your putter to the line (so it feels like you are aiming at your target), you may want to change your set-up until they match.

Check to see if your eye is directly over the ball. Think about why this is so important. When you line up to putt you want to see the direct line from the ball to the intended target. In this case, it’s the hole that you are putting the ball into.

Set up to putt with your normal putting stance over the ball and place a ball under your eye. Now you want to release that ball to see if it lands directly on top of the ball that you are using to putt into the hole. If the ball lands before it, you are standing too far away. If the ball lands past the ball to the right, you are standing too close. Keep trying this test to make sure your eye is directly over it with the ball always landing directly on top of it. You will be surprised how you need to make the proper adjustment to get the eye directly over the ball and see the right line that you are stroking the putter head on the same path your eyes see it.

As always, see your local teaching Professional for a putting lesson. No one knows the game better than them.

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Drs. Maria and Alon Grosman are Board Certified Pediatric Dentist and Orthodontist. Their office is located at 4401 S Flamingo Rd on the NW corner of Griffin and Flamingo Rd. For more information or to schedule an appointment call (954) 236-3434.

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PGA Professional Dean Sklar is a member of the Quarter Century Club of the PGA of America, an elite group of members who have served the PGA with honor and pride for 25 years. If you would like to talk to Dean about your golf game, contact him at Dean.Sklar@FloridaMoves.com or the Rose and Dean Sklar Real Estate Group at Coldwell Banker, 1760 Bell Tower Lane in Weston, 954-389-6197, or online at www.WestonFloridaUSA.com.

GOT NEWS? email: editorweston@ourcitymedia.com

OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 65

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The Modern Guide To Botox and Fillers PuzzleJunction.com

12/19 Sudoku

To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

8 6 5 3

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2 9 7 6 1 4 1 6 2 7 Media 12/19 Crossword 8 5 6 9 1 3 Solution 8 7 1 4 6 B E E A N T I R O A D S L O L O W E S L O X D E C E D J E E S O D A O V E N W E D

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E N T R A N C E

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Sudoku Solution

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66 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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BY DR. TAMY FAIERMAN, BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON e are fortunate to live in a time when nonsurgical options for facial rejuvenation have come to the forefront due to the huge advancements in product composition and modernized techniques. In past years, cosmetic injectables were often associated with over plumped cheeks and the infamous “duck lips” due to overuse and overfilling. As a result of these advancements, achieving natural results and making subtle tweakments that are widely undetectable has become easier than ever before. Below is a quick and informative guide so you can best understand how these newer, more modern and innovative products and techniques are used in today’s consciously aging world.

The New Generation of Fillers The new generation of dermal fillers are designed for a more natural and seamless integration with the skin and create natural improvements in facial rejuvenation. Fillers, made from hyaluronic acid, fill in wrinkles therefore making the skin appear younger and rejuvenated. They also help maintain or restore hydration and volumize the tissues of the face. Bio-Stimulators, such as Sculptra, stimulate your skin to regrow its own natural collagen over time and work to replace volume lost and correct shallow to deep facial wrinkles and folds resulting in a firmer, younger looking skin. All are minimally invasive and done in the office setting with virtually no downtime.

Botox and Filler Techniques Have Changed PuzzleJunction.com Aging doesn’t occur in isolation, therefore aesthetic experts are now taking a global and three-dimensional approach to Botox and filler procedures by looking at the entirety of the face and neck, with an appreciation of its interconnectedness. It is no longer about just filling a line, but more so sculpting the face, often by injecting smaller amounts of product in a number of different areas. One of the key advantages of injectables is that they have the ability to lift and define. For example, often times filler is used to restore volume in temples and cheeks for overall rejuvenation. At the same time, Botox and Dysport are used in the neck area to counteract sagging jowls. More viscous hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane Lyft and Voluma can be injected to lift the cheeks and nasolabial folds, while at the same time, Botox or Dysport can minimize sagging neck muscles from pulling the face down, which helps refine the jawline and also raise a downward-turned smile.

Filler and Botox Are Designed for Today’s Lifestyle Men and women today are busier than ever. Setting aside the couple of weeks that would be necessary for surgery and recovery time after a facelift is much more time intensive. Yet, nonsurgical rejuvenation procedures can be completed over a lunch break. Botox, Dysport, and dermal fillers take just a few minutes to administer, and the results that appear within just a few days are what I call “subtle-dramatic”. You look refreshed yet not overdone. Sculptra is administered over a few visits and works within a few weeks to months.

Being in the hands of an expert injector, along with improved formulations and techniques, has been a game changer when it comes to aging and making natural and subtle changes. With all of the wonderful products that allow for such customization, it is always important to seek an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who has an artistic as well as scientific eye, and uses the most advanced products and devices available on the market and can provide you with the highest quality products and care.

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Dr. Tamy M. Faierman is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, writer, beauty and wellness expert, and founder of the Tamy M. Faierman Holistic Spa and Wellness Center. Her office is located at 17130 Royal Palm Boulevard, Suite 1, in the Windmill Professional Campus. For more information, please call 954322-2742 or visit www.reshapeyourimage.com.

LEGALLY SPEAKING

THE TUG OF WAR ENDS WHEN YOU ARE ON THE SAME SIDE

What Should I Do?

BY EVAN H. BARON, ESQ. s we go through our daily lives we often come upon situations which require us to make decisions. Sometimes these decisions can be minor in nature and other times they can be somewhat more complex. None of them compares to the decision a person has to make in deciding if they should pursue a divorce from their spouse.

I hear these questions almost every day from either prospective or existing clients; “Should I stay married or get a divorce?”; “Should I accept this deal or go to trial?”; “What should I do?”

Unfortunately, divorce attorneys don’t always have the answers. I can certainly advise a client based upon my many years of experience, but in reality, the decision must always be that of the client. When I meet with a prospective new client who is considering a divorce, I am often asked for my opinion as to what he or she should do. I explain that I do not ever encourage an individual to get divorced, but obviously sometimes that is in fact their best option. It is, however, a very personal decision that he or she must make based upon all the factors involved. I can advise a person as to the law and how his or her case will probably get resolved. I say probably because when there are two parties involved it is impossible to predict what the other party will be seeking. I often explain to a client that no matter how reasonable they may be, the process will also depend upon the reasonableness of their spouse.

So I am asked, “What should I do?”. I tell them that is their decision and they will know when it is time to make that decision. I have had individuals return to retain my services one or even two years after their initial consultation. It took that long to be able to answer the question, “What should I do?”

A

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The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

68 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

Once the process has begun I am also often asked “what should I do?” when faced with the decision to either enter into a marital settlement agreement or proceed to trial. Once again, I can advise them based upon the law and my experience, but no attorney can ever guarantee a particular result if the case goes to trial. Often times the agreement is extremely fair and equitable and as such, I advise my client that it is a good deal for them and they should certainly consider it. If the offer is equal to “their worst day in court”, then the decision is also fairly easy. Why settle a case when you will probably get better results from a judge. Of course, the usual reason is financial, since it costs more money to go to trial than to settle. We sometimes have clients who disregard our advice and accept a “deal” which may not be the best that they can receive. Of course, it is ultimately their decision.

So, in reality, the person who can best answer the question “What should I do?” is the client. Of course, I can only hope that the decision is made after they consider my advice. n The law firm of Evan H. Baron and Associates is located at 1655 North Commerce Parkway, Suite 201, in Weston. If you have any questions concerning this issue or any other family law matter, call the office at 954-385-9160.

PET CARE

Spaying or Neutering Your Dog

BY MIGUEL E. CORDOVA, DVM ne of the most important steps you can take to ensure the lifelong health of your dog is to have him or her neutered or spayed. This relatively simple procedure will keep your dog healthier and reduce certain unwanted behaviors. You are also doing your part to help reduce the numbers of unwanted puppies that are placed in animal shelters each year.

What Is a “Spay”?

Spaying, also known as ovariohysterectomy, is a surgical procedure in which the reproductive organs (ovaries and uterus) are removed from a female dog. The procedure is performed while your pet is under general anesthesia.

While spaying is generally a simple and safe procedure, it is still a major surgery in which the abdominal cavity is opened to remove the reproductive organs.

At the end of the procedure, the incision is closed with sutures and/or staples and will take ten to 14 days to heal. Depending on the age, size, and health of your dog, she may stay at your veterinarian’s office for a few hours or a few days.

Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding pain medication and aftercare, such as keeping your dog calm and quiet for a few days.

What Is a “Neuter”?

Also called a castration, neutering is a surgical procedure in which both testicles are completely removed from your dog. Neutering is a minor surgical procedure that is done while your dog is under general anesthesia.

Your pet’s abdominal cavity is not opened during a neutering procedure. At the end of the procedure, the incision is closed with sutures and will take ten to 14 days to heal. As with spayed animals, your dog may stay at your veterinarian’s office for a few hours or a few days depending on his age, size, and health. Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations regarding aftercare.

Why Should I Spay or Neuter My Dog? Research shows that removing the reproductive organs of female pets before their first heat cycle (around six months of age) significantly reduces the chance of breast cancer. Spaying also removes the possibility of uterine infection as well as ovarian or uterine cancer. In males, neutering eliminates the possibility of enlargement of the prostate gland as well as testicular cancer. Altering a pet also reduces the influence of reproductive hormones on a pet’s behavior, making him or her less likely to roam or exhibit aggressive behavior.

When Should I Spay or Neuter My Dog? Most dogs are able to reproduce by the time they are six to 12 months of age, so the procedure should be done before then to eliminate the chance of an unwanted litter. The cost of spaying or neutering depends on the sex, size, and age of your dog, your veterinarian’s fees, and a number of other variables.

Spay and Neuter Q & A Q: Will my spayed/neutered dog get fat and lazy?

A: As long as you avoid overfeeding and make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise, he will not become fat or lazy.

Q: Isn’t it better for a dog to have one litter first?

A: No. Evidence shows that females spayed before their first heat cycle are typically healthier overall.

Q: I want my dog to be protective. Will spaying/neutering change that?

A: Spaying or neutering does not affect a dog’s natural instinct to protect home and family. A dog’s personality is formed more by genetics and environment than by sex hormones.

Q: Will my male dog feel like less of a male?

A: Not at all. Dogs don’t have any concept of sexual identity or ego. Neutering will not change his basic personality, and he will have no emotional reaction when neutered.

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Animal Health Center @ Weston is “The Gentle Practice You Can Rely On”. Dr. Miguel E. Cordova and his staff are committed to caring for your precious pets. The practice is located at 2701 Executive Park Drive, Suite 1. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact 954-385-8389 or www.animalhealthcenteratweston.com.

“YOGI BEAR”

Pet

of the Month

This handsome boy name is Yogi Bear. He is a Bernese Mountain Dog. He just turned 2 years old in February 14th. He likes to be the leader of the pack or alpha dog, specially with his 5 y/o sister Belle, a Black Labrador Retriever girl. He is very obedient and follow directions, but when you get home he likes to give big hugs to give you a warm welcome. He loves walking around the neighborhood specially with the cool weather. His favorite is jump on our bed in the middle of the night. His favorite toy is grabbing sneakers from the closet and hide them around the house.

Enter Your Pet and Win

ONE COMPLIMENTARY ANNUAL VACCINE PACKAGE Sponsored By:

Animal Health Center @ Weston Quality Medical, Surgical & Dental Care

954.385.8389

2701 Executive Park Dr., Suite 1 Weston, FL 33331 www.animalhealthcenteratweston.com

Your Pet Could Be Our Pet of the Month!

Every month Our City Media randomly picks a pet of the month winner.

Enter your pet today!

Email entries to: anna@ourcitymedia.com.

Must include the following information to receive your prize.

Owner name and email and/or phone number.

Please send a high-resolution photo with your entry.

Tell us a little bit about your pet…

Animal name & breed / Age and gender of animal / Favorite person Favorite toy / Likes & dislikes / Favorite thing to do / Last seen

OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 69

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Elite Dental and Aesthetics Has New Faces and Bigger Smiles

BY BEVERLY PERKINS

J

ust a couple of months ago, Dr. Santiago Lopez and Dr. Carolina Borgenicht acquired Elite Dental and Aesthetics. Although the popular Plantation practice has new faces, the office is still dedicated to personalized care in the dental field. A variety of services are offered and the dynamic dental duo is sure to make their patients’ dental experience a great experience.

Dr. Santiago Lopez is an expert in the area of implant and cosmetic dentistry, a master of the latest concepts in digital smile design and has a fully digital workflow. Dr. Carolina Borgenicht is a family dentist who treats patients from

ages 3 and up. However, she is skilled in all phases of Cosmetic, Implant and Restorative Dentistry.

Combined, the Gator loving couple offer a variety of treatments in the dental field, including placing and restoring implants, teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, crowns, bridges, oral surgery, dentures, and so much more. The state-of-the-art facility also has the latest and greatest technology available to make each procedure as easy and painless as possible.

Drs. Lopez and Borgenicht recently took the time to answer some questions about their newly acquired practice.

What distinguishes you from your competition?

First and foremost, we listen to our patients’ needs and expectations. We value our patients’ time, so we provide many services all under one roof by providing excellent care with the latest technology. Our fully digital workflow allows predictability in our treatment, from the diagnostic phase, and planning up to the execution phase. This type of workflow guarantees the satisfaction of our patients and most importantly, a natural-looking smile.

Besides traditional dental services, what others do

you provide?

We are going to start offering treatment for sleep disorders, special needs patients, TMJ problems, and orofacial pain.

Is there anything else you would like readers to know about you and/or your business?

At Elite Dental and Aesthetics our patients are treated like family in a warm and caring atmosphere. We actively listen and understand their needs and tailor our recommendations to give them the very best oral health care. By doing so, we meet the desires and expectations of our patients.

Elite Dental and Aesthetics is located at 131 NW 100th Avenue, Plantation, 33324. To schedule an appointment, please call 954-476-4537 or email info@plantationdentist.com.

Trusted, Caring & Comfortable Dentistry

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Comprehensive Oral Evaluation, a full set of X-rays, Periodontal Evaluation, Teeth Cleaning (with healthy gums), Oral Cancer Screening, Complimentary Digital Smile Design Analysis and an Intraoral Scan

$139

TEETH WHITENING SYSTEM

in office treatment with

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$299

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$99

70 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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in Invisalign Clear Aligner Orthodontic treatment.

Dr. Cynthia Savioli, Dr. Santiago Lopez, Dr. Carolina Borgenicht & Dr. Jack Behn With care, attention, and compassion, our Plantation dentists are dedicated to becoming true partners in your quest for excellent oral health and a beautiful smile.

Your needs and wishes are at the forefront of everything we do for you and we will work with you to develop a treatment plan that works within your needs and personal circumstances.

131 NW 100th Ave. • Plantation • 954.476.4537 • www.plantationdentist.com

What to do if you are sick with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) If you are sick with COVID-19 or suspect you are infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, follow the steps below to help prevent the disease from spreading to people in your home and community.

Stay home except to get medical care

Clean your hands often

You should restrict activities outside your home, except for getting medical care. Do not go to work, school, or public areas.

Avoid using public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them together until they feel dry. Soap and water should be used preferentially if hands are visibly dirty. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home People: As much as possible, you should stay in a specific room and away from other people in your home. Also, you should use a separate bathroom, if available.

Animals: Do not handle pets or other animals while sick. See COVID-19 and Animals for more information.

Call ahead before visiting your doctor If you have a medical appointment, call the healthcare provider and tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. This will help the healthcare provider’s office take steps to keep other people from getting infected or exposed.

Wear a facemask You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) or pets and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a facemask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then people who live with you should not stay in the same room with you, or they should wear a facemask if they enter your room.

Cover your coughs and sneezes Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw used tissues in a lined trash can; immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60-95% alcohol covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them together until they feel dry. Soap and water should be used preferentially if hands are visibly dirty.

Avoid sharing personal household items You should not share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding with other people or pets in your home. After using these items, they should be washed thoroughly with soap and water.

Clean all “high-touch” surfaces every day High touch surfaces include counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and bedside tables. Also, clean any surfaces that may have blood, stool, or body fluids on them. Use a household cleaning spray or wipe, according to the label instructions. Labels contain instructions for safe and effective use of the cleaning product including precautions you should take when applying the product, such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product.

Monitor your symptoms Seek prompt medical attention if your illness is worsening (e.g., difficulty breathing). Before seeking care, call your healthcare provider and tell them that you have, or are being evaluated for, COVID-19. Put on a facemask before you enter the facility.

These steps will help the healthcare provider’s office to keep other people in the office or waiting room from getting infected or exposed.

Ask your healthcare provider to call the local or state health department. Persons who are placed under active monitoring or facilitated self-monitoring should follow instructions provided by their local health department or occupational health professionals, as appropriate.

If you have a medical emergency and need to call 911, notify the dispatch personnel that you have, or are being evaluated for COVID-19. If possible, put on a facemask before emergency medical services arrive.

Discontinuing home isolation Patients with confirmed COVID-19 should remain under home isolation precautions until the risk of secondary transmission to others is thought to be low. The decision to discontinue home isolation precautions should be made on a case-by-case basis, in consultation with healthcare providers and state and local health departments.

For more information: www.cdc.gov/COVID19 CS 314937-D 03/05/2020

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PUZZLE PAGE

Our City Media 12/19 Crossword Across

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56 55 34 Scoundrel 35 Calendar abbr.

Copyright ©2019 puzzlejunction.com 36 Fizzy drink Down 13 Burn 37 37 Arid 15 Pipe joint 39 38 Author LeShan 1 Tavern 19 Genuine 41 40 Bit of butter 2 Nephew of Cain 21 Munitions, 42 42 Scoffed 3 And others, for briefly 45 Broad valley short 23 Antiquated 43 48 Scotch’s partner 4 Bio bit 24 Grief 44 49 Like some jams 5 Pizazz 25 Surpassed 52 Kiln 6 Hammett hound 27 Electric fish 46 53 ___ mode 7 Doorway 28 Spank 47 54 Actress Turner 8 Riot spray 30 Corn serving 48 55 Tie the knot Our City 12/19 31 Lyric poem 50 56Media Eskimo knifeSudoku 9 Word of disgust 11 Paragons 33 Cicatrix 51 57 Dowel

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Advice for Buyers Looking to Buy a Condo

BY ROSE SKLAR hen looking to buy a condo, do your research first. Explore target areas and narrow down what suits your lifestyle best. What is most important to you? Accessibility to work and transportation, school districts, amenities, etc.? Do you prefer a garage or parking space? Do you have a pet? Always check for pet breed and size restrictions. Also, keep in mind that condo living is different from single family home living. Proximity to your neighbors is much closer.

Set a realistic budget and don’t forget the maintenance fees. If you are looking in a high rise, consider the exposure and unit floor location. Visit each exposure for your preferred views. Note to self: buildings have a 40-year reinspection to certify the integrity of the building. This, many times, can cost the homeowner large assessments to correct those items no longer up to code. Make sure the building has good financials (reserve funds set aside for maintenance projects and future expenditures). Always check for any pending assessments as well as ownership and voting rights in the association.

Be sure to ask questions and get answers. You will want to know the following: ▸ What is included in the maintenance? Usually maintenance and repairs to common areas. ▸ What do condo fees cover? ▸ Who cleans the windows? ▸ What are the unit boundaries? (interior areas or exterior wall, roof and behind the drywall) ▸ Can you have a BBQ or smoke on your balcony? ▸ Can you work from home? Always check the restrictions. ▸ Can you rent your unit? If so, how many times per year? Can you use Airbnb or another short-term rental arrangement? ▸ Are there guest rules and limitations? How long can guests stay and where can they park? ▸ Is there any storage in the building for seasonal items like bikes and sports equipment?

Living in a condo has many advantages, namely the large number of luxury amenities such as concierge services. With fitness at a high priority, most new buildings now have a gym on premise. Pools are commonplace, especially here in South Florida. Be sure to find out if there are any restrictions on use.

Communal barbeque areas are also common amenities, as most buildings do not allow a personal BBQ on the balconies.

And lastly, remember you are responsible for attending meetings or at least getting the minutes. If the bylaws change, you are responsible, even if you did not know.

W

Rose Sklar of The Sklar Team has 20 years of South Florida real estate experience along with her partner and husband, Dean. They have a ten-year streak as No. 1 in both volume and units in the City of Weston and were named the No. 1 Coldwell Banker agents in all of Broward County in 2019 both

by Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate. They nationally outrank 99.5 percent of all NRT Coldwell Banker agents. The Sklar Team at Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate is located at 2690 Weston Rd., Suite 101, Weston, FL 33331. For more information, call 954-298-3626 or visit SklarTeam.com.

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LEGALLY SPEAKING

No Estate Plan?

Here’s What Happens When You Pass Away BY: WENDY HILL ELDEIRY, ESQUIRE ELDEIRY & ELDEIRY, P.A. t ElDeiry & ElDeiry, P.A., we are constantly reminded of the importance of having an estate plan in place. We are familiar with the frustrating and expensive repercussions that loved ones face when someone passes away without a relevant estate plan. But just how frustrating and expensive is it?

Being without a Will means that your estate is “intestate.” This means that since you did not state your wishes about what should happen to your estate after you pass, it will be up to Florida law to decide what happens on your behalf.

If you were married at the time of your death and had no children or grandchildren outside of your marriage to that person, your entire estate would go to your spouse. If you were married and had children and/or grandchildren from a different relationship, your spouse would get half of the estate and the other half would be distributed among your descendents from outside that marriage. If you have no spouse or descendants, your estate would go to your parents. In the absence of parents, it would go to grandparents, and so on. If you have no direct ascendent relatives, it would then go to siblings, aunts, uncles, etc. As a last resort, your estate may pass to any living descendants of your grandparents, with half going to the maternal side of your family and half to the paternal.

Sounds complicated, right?

What’s worse, is that intestacy laws can exclude some of the people you love the most. Do you have stepchildren who you love as if they were your own? They’ll receive nothing from you. Any charitable donations you had in mind? Those won’t happen. Wanted to leave money to someone who wasn’t related to you by blood? Intestacy law doesn’t allow for that, unfortunately.

But what about the “expensive” part?

Even in you do have a just a Will, you may still have to go through the Court probate process – which is where the expense is. However, with a good estate plan, you can use tools like trusts which can help you avoid the Probate Court Process altogether Who can help me create an estate plan?

If you want to make sure your assets pass to the people you want them to, as well as helping your loved ones avoid the time, expense, and emotional drain associated with Probate Court after you pass away, contact ElDeiry & ElDeiry, P.A. today. Our friendly team can help you get started. We work hard to make the estate planning process as easy as possible for our clients.

Give us a call at (954) 670-2800 to get started.

A

Celebrating

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Proud Weston Residents Since 1998

Mo N. ElDeiry

ATTORNEY AT LAW

Wendy Hill ElDeiry ATTORNEY AT LAW

WILLS • TRUSTS ESTATE PLANNING PROBATE ADMINISTRATION

(954) 670-2800 ElDeiry & ElDeiry, P.A.

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

www.eldeirylaw.com OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 75

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Practice Water Safety Year-Round

BY BSO DISTRICT CHIEF TODD DRAIZIN s the cool weather once again becomes a distant memory, Floridians everywhere will be ramping up their activities in and around the water. It is the ideal time to build water-safe habits with your family – habits to be practiced year-round.

Broward County has over 150,000 swimming pools, with many of them being within the City of Weston.

Broward also has 23 miles of coastal beaches, 165 miles of intra-coastal waterways, countless ponds, lakes, and spas, above-ground and portable pools. This waterlogged landscape demands our constant vigilance – particularly where children are concerned.

In Broward, drowning is the leading cause of death in children before the age of four. While the importance of teaching children to swim cannot be overstated, most children who fall victim to drowning were never intended to be in the water.

Instead, they wander away from a distracted caretaker and into an unsupervised area with water.

Parents and child care providers must continually employ multiple layers of protection, including: ▸ Supervision – Always have a designated, responsible adult whose undivided attention is on the children – not only when swimming, but whenever access to water is a possibility. Children must be taught from an early age never to go near the water without an adult. ▸ Barriers – All swimming pools must have a fence or enclosure around the yard or pool to prevent unintended entry. In addition, any door or window that opens into the pool area must be equipped with an audible alarm when opened. For the safety of your family and those family or friends that visit, use child-proof locks on all doors, check all door and window alarms, confirm all pool fences and screens protect the pool, and that all self-closing and selflatching gates are in working order. ▸ Safety – Swim only in designated areas that are supervised, swim with a buddy and never alone, and if you are an inexperienced swimmer wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket when around water. ▸ Preparation – Learn CPR and keep proper safety gear, including a phone, lifevests, hook, and ring buoy, near the pool. If a child is missing, always check the pool first. ▸ Swimming and Water Safety Lessons – Even the youngest children can learn skills to help them to be safer in and around the water. Caregivers should learn to swim as well.

Luckily, there are now numerous, inexpensive options for swimming and water-safety lessons. Free or reduced price swim lessons are available through the YMCA of Broward County SPLASH program. Additionally, Broward County’s SWIM Central program offers $40 vouchers towards swim lessons for children four years of age and under. Go to www.watersmartbroward.org to request a voucher.

The City of Weston offers a wealth of information and resources for all things related to water-safety on its website (https://www.westonfl.org/government/public-information/community-initiatives/water-smart-weston). Please remember that while swimming lessons are an essential part of drowning prevention, there is no substitute for active adult supervision – especially for small children.

A

For more information, please contact District Chief Todd Draizin at Weston Fire Station #81 at 954-389-2015 or by email at Todd_Draizin@Sheriff.org.

76 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

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SNAPSHOTS FROM SCHOOL

SECTION 2017

SCIENCE MATTERS

CAREER DAY

Fifth graders from Eagle Point Elementary School enjoyed a visit to JA BizTown. This unique program provides students with hands-on experience at being citizens, consumers, employees and business owners as they “work” in a simulated city.

SPECIAL GUEST

Students in Marcy Winer’s first grade class enjoyed a special visit with Pete the Cat during Everglades Elementary School’s Jungle Book Fair.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Mara Miller took her first-grade class outdoors for a science lesson exploring the difference between living and nonliving things and a discussion on the parts of a plant.

SMILEMAKERS

The Operation Smile Club at Gator Run Elementary School hosted its second annual Valentine Grams sale. Students and staff were able to purchase special treats for each other. The money raised will provide life-changing cleft palate surgery for four children.

78 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

Congratulations to the Cypress Bay High School National Science Bowl teams for finishing in 2nd and 3rd place at the South Florida Regional Competition at UM, competing against 36 teams.

SHINING STARS

Gator Run Elementary third grade teacher Roni O’Hara rolled out the red carpet for a class “Oscar Awards” ceremony. Students wrote essays about what award their classmates deserved to win and presented them with an “Oscar” for that special talent or character trait.

THE WORLD’S FAVORITE MAGAZINE™

We Want Your Take your latest copy of Our City Weston on the road with you and you could be our lucky winner. Send us your “The World’s Favorite Magazine™” photo and you could win a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Happy trails!

Leigh Ann Russo and John Uffendell brought along their copy of Our City Weston to keep up with what’s going on at home while they enjoyed a relaxing cruise aboard the new Sky Princess.

This picture was taken while docked in the port of Philipsburg, the capital of Dutch St. Maarten. The island of Sint MaartenSaint Martin is the smallest land mass in the world to be shared by two different nations: Netherlands and France.

EMAIL PHOTOS TO: editorweston@ourcitymedia.com Please send hi-resolution original digital photos as attachments only. Include name, address, phone number and where photo was taken.

OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020 79

SEEN ON SCENE

GIVING BACK

Photo courtesy City of Weston

A big thank you goes out to Weston BSO Fire Rescue personnel for their generous donation of over $1,000 in gift cards, hygiene items, rain protection, undergarments, safety whistles and more to benefit veterans facing homelessness.

The donation drive was organized by Mission BBQ.

FINE DINING

Members of the Weston Friends Club group, The Epicureans, enjoyed a delicious dinner at Cooper’s Hawk along with great company and conversation.

CULTURAL CONNECTION

Photos courtesy City of Weston

The Arts Council of Greater Weston and City of Weston presented the fifth annual Weston World Fest, a celebration of our community’s cultural diversity. More than 2,500 people enjoyed the event’s 20 interactive country booths, onstage entertainment and authentic international cuisine, along with the new Art Village.

HEARTFELT GIFT

On the Day of Service and Love, Brownies from Troop 14005 prepared 50 packets of wildflower seeds for family and friends to plant at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Memorial Garden.

FOSTERING FRIENDSHIPS

For World Thinking Day, Weston Girl Scout troops participated in a multi-cultural celebration. Troops researched and represented different countries around the world. With “passports” in hand, the scouts then visited each country to learn about its culture, sample its food, and play a game or make a craft.

WESTON COUNTS

In preparation for Census 2020, the City of Weston launched a massive outreach campaign with City leaders and volunteers manning informational booths at community events including the WestonNights concert and a Mujeres Latinas meeting.

80 APRIL 2020 | OUR CITY WESTON | OURCITYMEDIA.COM

Photos courtesy City of Weston

OURCITYMEDIA.COM | OUR CITY WESTON | APRIL 2020  81

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Weston's Premier Tree of Life Preschool!

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Preschool in Weston We have the highest percentage A Brand New Kindergarten Remarkable Campus & Facilities 6 YEARS of graduates reading at or above IN A ROW! 1st grade level.

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Infants thru Pre-K For centuries, children have learned about

Included in monthly tuition: the ‘Tree Of Life’ from the Book of Gen• Accelerated Reading Program esis. At the Tree of Life Christian Academy • STEAM Program Preschool in Weston, children are learning • • • • • • • • • • •

“My daughter in kindergarten is excelling in reading & writing, she loves learning and I know it’s because of (Science-Technology-Engineering-Art-Mathematics) many of life’s lessons in a thriving, mod- That magic expand to Tree of Life’s Treewill of Life.

Their amazing ern school.

As Tree of Life approaches their brand-new kindergarten Their school brings a program. balance of Low student to teacher ratio one year anniversary, owners Gabriel and kindergarten will be structure, in a separate room nurture and giving Bilingual curriculum (English/Spanish) Marcy Buitrago are celebrating what they that will not be attached the preschool, students the besttopreparation Computershaveand iPads®while looking ahead to and theyforareschool accomplished looking to reach a 9-1 years ahead!

Westuthe future. are blessed to have Tree of dent-to-teacher ratio.

With kindergarten Organic & natural lunches in our community!” starting onLife August 18th, Tree of Life has alWe teach moral & family values ready reached fifty percent enrollment, and - Cruz Family Nurse & clinic on premises placements will be filling up quickly. There are already wait lists for two- and three-year 1,200 sq ft indoor play area Latest in high security & surveillance olds who want to enroll in those programs, and administrators are confident that kinConvenient drop-off service available dergarten will also prove quite popular.

Kindergarten will be open to all children, 13,000 sqft building on 2 acres (new or families) regardless of whether not they attended 4 outdoor playgrounds preschool at Tree of Life.

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Our intention was to create a feeling so that when a child enters our school, there’s a sense of wonder,” said Gabriel Buitrago.

Tree of Life’s campus has been thoughtfully laid out to make the most of the 13,000 square foot building. The classrooms surround an indoor play area where a cusJASON ZAUDER tom-madeby wooden Tree of Life serves as the hub. Every classroom has their own private For centuries, children have learned about bathroom drinking fountain, well as the ‘Tree and Of Life’ from the Book of as Genan esis. exitAttothe theTree playground.

Students can of Life Christian Academy take Preschoolof in Weston, children are learninglearn advantage a bilingual curriculum, of life’s and lessons in a the thriving, Th signmany language, utilize latestmodcomputern school. As Tree of Life approaches their one year anniversary, owners Gabriel and Marcy Buitrago are celebrating what they have accomplished while looking ahead to the future.

br ki th an de st re pl ar ol an de ers and iPads. All of these features are proK tected by a state-of-the-art security system re which includes security cameras throughoupr

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“That1250 kindergarten is very When students FL need 33326 a break from SWtransition 160th Ave. Weston, tough on both 954.440.0174 the parents and the kids,”•said learning, they will find organic lunches treeoflifeacademy.com Buitrago. “Many parents have been asking us brought in every day to provide the fuel they