Weston Together JAN 2026

JANUARY 2026

A Look Inside GREETINGS from Your Chamber CEO!

KIND OF A BIG DEAL Episode 1

HB 303 And Human Trafficking Prevention Month

IN THIS ISSUE 2 | Introducing Weston Together

12 | The Exotic & Classic Car, Art & Jazz

4 | Greetings from Your Chamber CEO!

Show

6 | Tree of Life Media Box Opens in Weston,

15 | HB 303 And Human Trafficking

Giving Creators a Space to Be Heard

Prevention Month

9 | Treble Health Opens Weston Location,

18 | Smart Meters are Coming to YOU

Expanding Access to Specialized Hearing Care

19 | A Morning That Moved Weston:

10 | Kind of a Big Deal – Episode 1

How the Rotary Run Continues to Shape the Community

Introducing Weston Together Welcome to Weston Together! We’re proud to introduce our new news and communications hub for the Weston community.

Each month, we’ll publish a digital magazine, but that’s only one part of Weston Together. You can also explore individual articles on our website (available in Weston Together is sponsored both English and Spanish!), by the Weston Chamber of check the local events board Commerce and created in for new happenings, and use partnership with the City of our business directory to Weston and other valued discover and support local local organizations to bring businesses. you information that matters to you as a Weston resident, Weston Together is free for residents, and support from visitor or business owner. local businesses helps keep Everything is written locally it available to everyone. to stay relevant, timely, When you shop local and and connected to what’s support the businesses happening right here in featured in Weston Together, Weston.

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Weston Together | January 2026

you’re helping ensure this community resource remains here for all Weston residents.

The Weston Chamber of Commerce serves the businesses of Weston, Fla., and is dedicated to protecting and promoting the local business community. The Chamber provides members with networking, leadership, and growth opportunities essential for their success.

Partnering with your local Chamber is an investment in your business and in

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the community. Beyond supporting businesses, the Chamber is also a strong advocate for the City of Weston as a whole, helping make Weston a great place to live, work, and play.

Thank you for your support.

We hope this one-stop hub for everything Weston is as valuable to you as we intend it to be.

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(239) 278-4222 www.seabreezecommunications.com

Fort Myers • Cape Coral Bonita • Estero The Palm Beaches • Boca Raton Seabreeze Communications, Inc. does not endorse any advertising as it relates to the communities. Advertising is not screened by Seabreeze Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction or utilization of these contents in any form by any electronic, mechanical, or other means, including xerography and photocopying is forbidden without the written permission of the Publisher.

The Publisher is not responsible or liable for misinformation or misprints herein contained and reserves the right to accept or reject all copy deemed unsuitable for publication.

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Weston Together | January 2026

Greetings from Your Chamber CEO! A new year brings new possibilities for our residents, our businesses, and the future of our local economy. As we step into 2026, the Chamber is proud to continue one of its most important responsibilities: advocating for a business climate that helps our entire community thrive.

strengthening workforce pipelines, and ensuring that local businesses have what they need to open, operate, and expand. We meet regularly with elected officials, provide feedback on proposed policies, and bring a united voice to issues that shape our economic landscape.

Advocacy may sound like a business-only topic, but its impact reaches far beyond storefronts and office buildings. When businesses succeed, they create jobs, support city services through tax revenue, and contribute to the programs, schools, and amenities that enhance quality of life for all of us.

That’s why the Chamber’s work at the policy and leadership level is so critical to the community’s longterm well-being.

We also work closely with city and county partners to streamline processes, improve communication, and help new businesses navigate the path to opening their doors. When advocacy works, residents feel the benefits in vibrant shopping centers, more dining options, improved services, and a stronger, more resilient local economy.

This year, our advocacy priorities include supporting smart growth, encouraging responsible development,

As the only U.S. Chamber Accredited Chamber of Commerce in South Florida, we’re committed to upholding a long-standing tradition: for hundreds of years, Chambers across

the nation have served as connectors, problemsolvers, and champions for prosperity. We are honored to carry that legacy forward on behalf of our community.

In 2026, we look forward to continuing this work with transparency, collaboration,

and a shared vision for a thriving South Broward.

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

our event calendar, visit westonflchamber.com and westontogether.com.

Yours in Service, Patty Archer, Chamber CEO/Executive Director

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Tree of Life Media Box Opens in Weston, Giving Creators a Space to Be Heard Weston creatives, entrepreneurs, and storytellers now have a space designed just for them. Tree of Life Media Box officially opened its doors on November 20th, bringing a fully equipped podcasting and content creation studio to the heart of the community.

Designed with flexibility and creativity in mind, Tree of Life Media Box offers a professional yet welcoming environment for podcasters, content creators, small businesses, and anyone looking to share their voice.

Whether recording a podcast, filming video content, hosting interviews, or producing promotional materials, the studio provides the tools and setting needed to create polished, high-quality content without having to build a home setup from scratch.

What sets Tree of Life Media Box apart is its focus on accessibility and community. The studio was created to support beginners and experienced creators alike, making professional media production feel approachable and not intimidating.

From entrepreneurs building their personal brand to nonprofits sharing

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their mission or families capturing meaningful stories, the space is designed to adapt to a wide range of creative needs.

The Weston Florida Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony, welcoming Tree of Life Media Box as a new resource for local innovation and expression. Chamber members, business owners,

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and community partners gathered to tour the studio and learn more about how it can support storytelling, marketing, and creative growth right here in the Weston Town Center.

As content creation continues to play a bigger role in how people connect, communicate, and build businesses, Tree of Life Media Box offers something unique: a local, professional space where ideas can come to life. For Weston residents looking to launch a podcast, elevate their content, or explore new creative projects, Tree of Life Media Box brings those possibilities closer to home.

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Treble Health Opens Weston Location, Expanding Access to Specialized Hearing Care Weston residents have a new local option when it comes to hearing health and tinnitus care. Treble Health has officially opened its doors in Weston, offering personalized support for people experiencing ringing in the ears, sound sensitivity, or hearing concerns—all in a calm, welcoming setting designed with patient comfort in mind.

Tinnitus affects millions of people and can often feel frustrating or overwhelming, especially when solutions seem limited.

Treble Health takes a different approach.

Instead of quick fixes, the clinic focuses on customized care plans that may include sound therapy, lifestyle guidance, and ongoing support to help patients better manage their symptoms and improve day-to-day quality of life.

The new Weston location also provides comprehensive hearing evaluations, making it a convenient resource for residents who want to stay proactive about their hearing health. From the moment patients walk in, the space is designed to feel more relaxed than clinical—an intentional choice that reflects Treble Health’s people-first philosophy.

The Weston Florida Chamber of Commerce welcomed Treble Health to the community with a ribbon cutting on January 8, 2026, celebrating the clinic’s arrival and its contribution to Weston’s growing health and wellness scene. The event brought together local business owners, chamber members, and community leaders, highlighting the strong sense of connection that defines the city.

As Weston continues to attract thoughtful, service-driven businesses, Treble Health adds another valuable option for residents looking to prioritize their well-being without leaving town. Whether someone is dealing with persistent tinnitus or simply wants a hearing checkup, Treble Health’s Weston location (2731 Executive Park Drive, Suite 10, Weston, FL 33331) offers a supportive, local solution rooted in care, comfort, and community.

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Kind Of A Big Deal - Episode 1 HR TO HUMAN IMPACT: WHY LEADERSHIP TRAINING ISN’T OPTIONAL (WITH LISA PEREZ) In the debut episode of Kind of a Big Deal, host Kimberly Davis sits down with Lisa Perez, the award-winning founder of HBL Resources and creator of National Management Training Week.

More than just an HR expert, Lisa is a passionate advocate for purposeful leadership and peoplefirst management. Her story is one of resilience, growth, and radical self-awareness—and it’s filled with lessons every business owner should hear.

THE LEADERSHIP CRISIS WE DON’T TALK ABOUT ENOUGH According to Gallup, only one in ten people possess the natural talent to manage. Yet many businesses continue to promote employees into leadership roles without formal training. The result? High turnover, burnout, and disengaged teams.

Lisa Perez has made it her mission to fix this. Through her Complete Manager Makeover program and the annual National Management Training Week, she equips managers with the soft skills and emotional intelligence required to lead with clarity and compassion.

“60% of employees leave their jobs because of their manager’s behavior.

That number drives everything I do.”

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A STORY OF REINVENTION Lisa’s own entrepreneurial path started in 1999, when she launched her business before she was truly ready.

After shelving it to gain the sales and development skills she needed, she returned stronger—and never looked back. Her story underlines a key truth: Success isn’t linear, and pausing isn’t quitting.

This message resonates especially today, when more than 62% of small

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business owners report feeling unprepared to manage people, according to the National Federation of Independent Business.

CAREGIVING AND CAREER: THE HIDDEN STRUGGLE Lisa also opens up about caring for her father during hospice while keeping her business afloat. Her experience inspired her to develop talks around caregiving in the workplace and the importance of employer empathy. With 60% of U.S. employees identifying as caregivers in some form, it’s an issue that affects productivity, morale, and well-being.

Her advice to employers? Build flexibility into your systems, and don’t wait for crisis to start supporting your team.

IMPOSTER SYNDROME IS A LIAR So many entrepreneurs face the quiet voice that says, “You’re not good enough.” Lisa counters that with a practical tool: Read your own bio out loud. It may sound strange, but it forces you to acknowledge your achievements objectively.

“Don’t say no to yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask.

And always keep moving forward.”

3 TAKEAWAYS FOR ENTREPRENEURS AND LEADERS • Leadership is not optional: If you manage people, invest in training. Your business depends on it.

• Balance takes honesty: Know your limits, especially during life’s toughest seasons.

Step back when you need to.

• Your story is power: The lessons from your personal journey are what will connect and inspire others.

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Prestige Club of SW Broward Presents: THE EXOTIC & CLASSIC CAR, ART & JAZZ SHOW On Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Prestige Club of SW Broward will transform Pembroke Pines City Center (601 City Center Way) into a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and horsepower. This family-friendly signature event blends exotic and classic automobiles with live entertainment, art, food, and philanthropic purpose—all to support children and families in need across South Florida.

LUAU BRUNCH EXPERIENCE Inside the City Center’s elegant second-floor banquet hall, guests can reserve a seat for a special Luau Brunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Tickets: $100 per person – includes: • Full luau-style brunch • Live performance by Barber Shoppe Quartet • Chris McDonald as Elvis • Special appearances by Lilo & Stitch

A FULL DAY OF EXPERIENCES Guests can expect a dynamic outdoor showcase featuring: • Exotic & classic cars • Food trucks & drink stations • Cigar booth • Pet rescue partners • Leo’s Dog Therapy • Live Jon Saxx Jazz • Art booths • Kikimora Entertainment • South Florida Cloggers

PURPOSE WITH HEART For over 30 years, the Prestige Club has been committed to “Helping Those in Need” by supporting underserved children, families, and seniors across Broward County. This event continues that mission—bringing the community together through joy, entertainment, and generosity.

Families will enjoy a dedicated Kidz Race Car Corner, balloon artists, face painters, and beloved character meet-and-greets.

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Weston Together | January 2026

EVENT PARTNERS Lockton • Jon Saxx Event Experience • Pembroke Pines • Supercar Sundays Florida • Local artists & community partners Brunch tickets and sponsorship information: Call 954-617-6210 Brunch served from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

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HB 303 And Human Trafficking Prevention Month January marks Human Trafficking Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness of this crime that exploits millions of individuals.

Sex and labor trafficking are prevalent in Florida and often occur behind closed doors and out of public view. Human trafficking continues to impact communities across Florida, and the state currently ranks third in the nation for reported cases. Victims are often tough to identify and reach, making education and prevention critical. During this month, we pause to recognize warning signs, promote prevention efforts, and support victims.

In an effort to help identify human trafficking victims, this session I filed HB 303 – Human Trafficking Training for Nursing Students, with Senator Gayle Harrell (R–Stuart). Frontline healthcare workers, especially nurses, play a key role in identifying trafficking and helping victims access safety and services. Nurses are often the first and sometimes the only healthcare professionals to encounter victims of human trafficking. They see patients in emergency rooms, hospitals, and clinics, and are uniquely positioned to recognize warning signs and connect individuals with help. However, under current law, nurses are not required to complete human trafficking training until license renewal,

which can occur up to two years after entering the workforce. This creates an unnecessary gap where newly licensed nurses, many with no prior training, may encounter vulnerable human trafficking victims without the knowledge needed to identify or assist them. The bill requires schools to incorporate the state’s existing two-hour human trafficking prevention course into their programs and requires that the training be completed within 6 months prior to graduation. Moving up the timeline will strengthen clinical readiness and ensure newly licensed nurses enter the workforce prepared to identify and respond to trafficking from day one.

Frontline healthcare workers, especially nurses, play a key role in identifying trafficking and helping victims access safety and services.

Not only do health care professionals need to be trained and vigilant, but parents must also stay informed in order to protect their children from online predators seeking their next victim. Stay involved in your child’s online world by monitoring their social media activity and maintaining open communication about the risks posed by online predators. Encourage children to keep their accounts private, avoid accepting messages or friend requests from people they do not know in real life, and never continued on page 16 westonflchamber.com 15

share personal information such as their school, online. Make sure they know they can location, or phone number online. Set clear always turn to a trusted adult for help rules around screen time and social media use, without fear of punishment. regularly review privacy settings together, and remind children to trust their instincts if an If you or someone you know may be interaction feels uncomfortable. Teach them to at risk, these confidential resources recognize warning signs such as excessive flattery, are available 24/7: pressure to keep secrets, requests for photos, • National Human Trafficking offers of gifts, or “opportunities” that seem too Hotline: Call or text good to be true, and remind them never to meet 1-888-373-7888 anyone in person whom they have only met • Text: “HELP” to 233733 (BEFREE) • Florida Human Trafficking Resource Line: 1-855-FLA-SAFE

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I want to wish everyone a happy and healthy New Year. The 2026 Regular Session begins January 13, and I look forward to continuing my work on behalf of our community in the months ahead. It is an honor to serve you, and my office is here to assist with any issues or concerns.

Please feel free to contact me anytime at Robin.Bartleman@flhouse.gov, our office at (954) 872-1770, or on my personal cell at (954) 668-3662.

It is an honor to serve you, and my office is here to assist with any issues or concerns.

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Smart Meters are Coming to YOU To enhance the reliability of our water services and modernize essential infrastructure, the City of Weston, together with the City of Sunrise, is upgrading water and gas meters serving homes and businesses. These new smart meters are part of an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system that will provide long-term benefits for both customers and the utility.

Because this is a large, multi-year project, Weston wants residents and business owners to be fully informed at every step.

Please visit WestonFL.org/SmartMeters, for a project overview video, contractor information, a full list of benefits, and answers to frequently asked questions.

WHAT ARE SMART METERS? Smart meters are digital utility meters that communicate wirelessly between your home or business and the City of Sunrise Utility.

They eliminate the need for monthly manual readings and help identify issues faster.

KEY BENEFITS INCLUDE: • Greater accuracy of water usage readings • Leak and tampering alerts are sent directly to the utility, often before issues become serious

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• Improved reliability of the overall water system • No additional cost to residents or businesses Installers will enter your property only to access the outdoor meter, and they will never enter your home. You will receive a door hanger notification approximately one week before your scheduled meter replacement. The installation typically takes about 30 minutes, with water service interrupted for approximately 10 minutes.

In Weston, approximately 17,000 residential and commercial water meters will be replaced, and the City of Sunrise will replace approximately 46,000 water meters.

The City is just at the beginning of the project, and will add installation dates to our webpage as they become available at WestonFL.org/SmartMeters

A Morning That Moved Weston: How the Rotary Run Continues to Shape the Community On December 7, 2025, Cypress Bay High School became more than a campus—it became a gathering place for one of Weston’s most powerful displays of community connection. The Rotary Club of Weston’s Annual Rotary Run once again demonstrated how a single morning can bring together thousands of residents in support of health, education, and service.

Now recognized as Weston’s largest fitness and wellness event, the Rotary Run has grown into a cornerstone of the city’s civic calendar.

This year marked a milestone, with more than 1,100 runners taking part in race events ranging from the Half Marathon to the 1-Mile Family Walk, and an estimated 1,500 additional walkers joining throughout the morning.

Every Weston elementary

school participated, contributing to more than 900 student registrations and underscoring the event’s deep roots within local schools and families.

Beyond the races, the Rotary Run has evolved into a fullscale community experience.

The expanded Health & Wellness Festival featured more than 75 participating organizations and sponsors, offering free, family-friendly activities such as fitness demonstrations, obstacle courses, youth games, food stations, raffles, and wellness resources.

The festival atmosphere ensured that residents of all ages—whether racing or cheering from the sidelines— felt included in the day’s purpose. continued on page 20

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The event’s success is built on collaboration. Longtime Title Sponsor Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital once again played a pivotal role, with CEO Caitlin Stella in attendance to celebrate the shared mission of improving children’s health and community well-being.

Cypress Bay High School served as a critical partner, providing facilities, staff, and logistical support to safely accommodate thousands of participants.

More than 400 volunteers powered the event from start to finish. Rotarians, Interact students, and community members began work before dawn, managing race logistics, hydration stations, registration, and post-event cleanup. Their dedication embodied Rotary’s guiding principle of “Service Above Self” and reinforced the culture of volunteerism that defines Weston.

Civic leadership was also well represented.

Members of the City of Weston Commission, Broward School Board Member Adam Cervera, and State Representative Robin Bartleman attended the event, while the office of Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz participated with an informational booth.

Public safety support from the City of Weston, BSO Fire Rescue, and BSO Police ensured a safe and seamless experience for all involved.

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Perhaps most notably, the Rotary Run’s impact extends far beyond race day. Over the years, the event has generated more than $2 million in charitable support, funding local scholarships, nonprofit organizations across Broward County, and youth leadership programs such as Interact and RYLA. These investments continue to shape opportunities for students and families throughout the community.

As students celebrated their school’s win of the City of Weston Commission Cup and families gathered under clear December skies, the message of the day was unmistakable: when a community comes together with purpose, the results are lasting. For the Rotary Club of Weston, the Rotary Run remains a testament to what can be achieved through partnership, service, and a shared commitment to the future of Weston.

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