Category: Community

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2021 Homestead Exemption

All qualified Florida residents are eligible to receive a Homestead Exemption on their homes, condominiums, co-op apartments, and certain mobile home lots. To qualify for Homestead Exemption, you must own and make the property your permanent residence on January 1 of the year for which you are applying for this valuable exemption.

All assessments and exemptions are based upon the status of the property on January 1. If you purchased and/or made the property your permanent residence in 2020 and have not applied for Homestead Exemption, you can apply for 2021 exemptions at any time. There is no need to wait until 2021 to file your exemption application with the Property Appraiser’s Office. You can easily apply online at the Broward County Property appraiser website https://web.bcpa.net.

The deadline to file for all 2021 exemptions is March 1, 2021. You must make the property your permanent residence by January 1, 2021 to qualify; however, you have until March 1 to file your application with the property appraiser’s office. The late filing deadline for all 2021 exemptions is September 20, 2021.

For information about all the other exemptions available to qualified
applicants, please visit the “Exemptions & Classifications” page on the website https://web.bcpa.net/bcpaclient/#/Homestead.

Once approved, your Homestead Exemption automatically renews each year provided there is no change in the ownership or use of the property. If you have already applied and been approved for Homestead Exemption at your current property, you do not need to reapply for this exemption. You will receive a Homestead Exemption renewal card next month to keep for your records.

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I know Mickey’s not Mom, but still…

I don’t think I’m losing it, at least I hope not, but as Mickey grows, I have the strangest feeling that something about him reminds me of my mother.

It isn’t that he looks like my mom but when he looks at me I immediately think of my mom. At first, I thought the obvious (lol), my mom was reincarnated into my life as my dog. Although I am open to forces beyond my comprehension, this is not my real belief, so I continued to think about this strange feeling.

My second idea was that I was missing my mother in this second year after her death. I was experiencing what psychologists call transference, substituting my absent love for her onto Mickey. That just didn’t seem like the answer either. I have had plenty of love from my husband, family, and friends, so I didn’t think this answered the feeling either.

After more thought and soul searching, I think I realized what it is. There is nothing in this world like a mother’s love for her child. This love is unconditional, boundless, and always, always there. And how does the child feel their mother’s love? Through touch and care, but most of all in the absolute love that shines in their mother’s eyes.

That look is often the way Mickey looks at me. The love between people and dogs is a popular theme of endless books and movies. Who else greets you each and every time you return home with love with unlimited joy. Who else kisses you endlessly with their licks just to show how important you are to them. And who else looks at you with unconditional love and joy simply because you are in their lives. The answer is, of course, your dog. That wonderful look that Mickey gives me reminds me of my Mom and brings me to joy and tears.

One of the benefits of getting Mickey was that I have met a whole host of people in my neighborhood that I never knew before. These are all the dog owners that I meet while out walking Mickey.

Among the dogs we have met, one of Mickey’s favorite is Bailey, a cavapoo owned by Jodi. Every time our walks coincide, both Mickey and Bailey are joyous, and Jodi and I have really good conversations. I think she is a kindred spirit.

Jill and Mickey

I had to share my thoughts about Mickey and my mom with Jodi, whose mom had passed away a number of years ago. I started by saying that I had something strange to share, that Mickey reminded me of someone. Before I had a chance to go further Jodi finished my thought. She said, ”He reminds you of your mother doesn’t he?

Well, I was completely amazed. “How did you know that?” I asked. She said that Baxter, her other dog, reminds her of her mother. She feels that Baxter has her mom’s spirit and was sent to watch over her. She said, “It is all in the eyes.” It couldn’t have been coincidence that we both felt the exact same feeling and I don’t think either of us are crazy. I explained my theory to Jodi, and while she sees my point, she believes it is spiritual not just the love I described. Who knows and it doesn’t really matter.

How lucky we are to have this feeling and enjoy the love of our dogs and wonderful memories of our mothers. We can’t be the only ones believing their dog reminds them of someone loved and lost, but I have not yet shared my thoughts with others. Now I am sharing my feelings with you. I wonder if you have experienced this as well?

One last thought, I am reminded about the importance of our eyes since we are now wearing masks. Without seeing another person’s smile or facial expression, without enjoying a hug or handshake, the eyes have to communicate all our emotions. From our dogs to our moms, it is all in the eyes.

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Parklander Podcast Episode #16 – Dermatology with Dr. Ayar

For this episode, we interviewed Dr. Ayar, from Dermatology Experts in Parklander.  Dr. Ayar shared what dermatologist like him specializes in, and what his practice offer local residence.

Check out his new Parklander location at: 7535 N. State Rd 7, Parkland, FL, 954-726-2000.  Also, his mobile service website: http://mobilebodysculpt.com

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

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November 2020 Magazine

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Ask Dr. Renae: Speaking up as a true friend

Dear Dr. Renae,

I just found out that my good friend is drinking alcohol every night to relax
and to fall asleep. I saw the bottle in her room during our FaceTime chat and she laughed it off as no big deal. I know it is normal in her home since her parents have a nightly cocktail hour. We all learn the dangers of alcohol abuse in school every year, but when it feels normal at home, how can I get her to see that this is a problem? Is it?

Worried High School Junior

 

Hello Worried HS Junior,

This is a very important issue and I am glad you came seeking help. I feel the best thing you can do is to talk directly to her about why you believe this lifestyle is destructive. While it may be normalized in her household, having to drink alcohol to go to sleep is an unhealthy practice that is most likely due to another problem in your friend’s life. If you can find what the source of her anxiety is, you can recommend healthy coping options. Remember, the best thing you can do is be there and voice your concern. Hopefully, she will understand how much you care for her and begin taking steps to stop.

Your Fellow Teen

Dear Worried High School Junior,

While underage drinking is a worrisome subject, if your friend is engaging in alcohol consumption, it’s probably to help cope with stress. Many teenagers get stressed during the start of a new term and especially considering the current global climate, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Using alcohol as a crutch can became dangerous very fast and lead to unforeseen consequences. If her parents are drinking as well, it’s very easy to follow suit, but there are discrepancies between the two. It’s best to tread lightly and look for signs of alcohol dependency. If stress is the main factor in her drinking, perhaps you can try talking to her about how to relax responsibly and safely.

Your Friend

Dear Worried High School Junior,

I would definitely bring it up to your friend and let her know you are not judging, you just care about her health and safety. I would suggest having a conversation to show you are there for her. You can suggest that if she has trouble falling asleep, she can talk to her mom and they can talk to a doctor who can recommend something, instead of harming herself with alcohol every night.

A Caring Friend

Dear Worried High School Junior,

Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol daily, especially at our age, is wrong. I’m sure you know the negative things that  come with it, but your friend does not. My advice is that you shouldn’t lecture her, but instead, have a conversation about why she feels the need to drink every night. Help her tackle the root of the issue and try to get her some alternatives to alcohol, if you can. Be patient, change doesn’t happen overnight. Good luck to you and your friend.

High School Senior

Dear Worried High School Junior,

In addition to teens, adults are also worried about close family members or friends who abuse alcohol. In many families, as well as some cultures, alcohol use is normalized. Despite clearly knowing the numerous dangers, it is easy to go from use to abuse. It sounds like your friend stumbled upon the use of alcohol to fall asleep and continues this nightly routine since it works.

Exploring alternative sleep-inducing strategies is hard work and your friend might not be looking to change her plan. Reminding her of the dangers will not likely be successful, since she already knows about them. Continuing to let your friend know that you care about her very much and are very concerned, while continuing to offer alternative options in a non-judgmental way, might draw your friend away from you. Despite that risk, you cannot remain silent about your genuine worry if you wish to be a true friend and true to yourself.

More importantly, you will need to find ways to take care of yourself so the stress of worrying for your friend does not disturb your ability to maintain calm and peaceful within yourself. That is a difficult life requirement!

Dr. Renae

 

TEENS:  Curious as to what other teens would say? If you have a question or problem you would like to present to other teens, please email: askdrrenae@att.net and include your age, grade, and gender you identify with. All questions are published anonymously and your identity and contact information will be kept confidential.

PARENTS OF TEENS: Would you like to anonymously and confidentially ask the panel of teen Peer Counseling Writers to comment on a parenting issue you are struggling with? If you are ready for a variety of honest opinions from real teens, please address your questions to askdrrenae@att.net.

Dr. Renae Lapin, a licensed marriage and family therapist with 40
years experience, currently maintains a private practice in Boca Raton, Florida. For more information about Dr. Renae and her practice, visit her website: www.askdrrenae.com

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5 Ideas for Halloween During COVID

Due to the pandemic, halloween will look different this year. Instead of the traditional dressing up and trick-or-treating, we will be celebrating Halloween safe at home. 

There is no reason to cancel Halloween, instead, alter your plants to fit the health and safety precautions for your area.

Here is a list of 5 ideas to still have a spooky spectacular night:

  1. Decorate your house with pumpkins, lights, and spooky sights. Go crazy with orange, black, and white decor.
  2. Spooky Halloween movie marathon- grab some popcorn, candy corn, and get cozy. Time to gather all your favorite Halloween spooky movies with family.
  3. Halloween Hunt- create clues and scour the scene for items featured in a photo scavenger hunt. Make it a competition or work together as a family. Make sure you have candy prizes!
  4. Drive-by-Trick-or-Treating- have people drive by and gently throw candy at costumed kids in their yards like your car is a parade float. Blast some music and have fun lights around your car to get into the spirit.
  5. Zoom Halloween parties- have a dress up party via zoom. Pick a theme, plan a zoom-like fashion show to show off your creation.

https://indywithkids.com/ideas-covid-halloween-celebration/

https://www.courier-journal.com/story/life/holiday/2020/10/12/safety-and-decorating-tips-for-halloween-2020-amid-covid-19/3529755001/

https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/advise-me/7-ways-to-have-a-happy-and-safe-halloween-during-covid-19

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Ask Dr. Renae: The “Friend Code”

Dear Dr. Renae,

I recently reconnected with an old friend from middle school and we have been talking a lot virtually. I really like him as more than a friend and I think he feels the same way. The problem is that he is my good friend’s ex-boyfriend. They were together for all of the eighth grade and didn’t remain friends when they broke up. I would often be caught in the middle of their problems as they both came to me for advice. Their relationship ended three years ago and we have all moved on, I think. Is it okay for me to date a good friend’s ex? Is there a “girl code” like my mother has described from when she was my age?

Confused 17-year-old

Dear Confused 17-year-old,

Essentially, yes. “Girl code” could be used for this scenario. Regardless of the time, this boy was once your friend’s boyfriend, so going out with him yourself could damage the friendship, as well as place guilt on yourself. If you really like this guy, and your friendship can withstand it, then go for it. Perhaps, try explaining to your friend that you reciprocate feelings for her ex-boyfriend and see what happens. Make sure it’s clear this wasn’t intentional or malicious. It is helpful in these situations to know that some things are circumstantial and not personal at all.

Your Friend

Dear Confused 17-year-old,

Your current situation should be handled carefully. I suggest talking to your friend and asking her if she has completely moved on and how she would feel if you and her ex got together. If she is fine with it, then go for it. However, if she has any concerns, or if she is not ok with it, then do not pursue her ex. Friendships are more valuable than romantic relationships, so make sure you do not ruin your relationship with either of them.

A High School Senior

Dear Confused 17-year-old,

I am happy you were able to reconnect with someone during the quarantine. I believe it is completely fine for you to date this person because he and your friend dated when they were much younger and very inexperienced with life. Now that all of you have grown up and most likely learned from your mistakes, it will lead to a stronger relationship .If everyone involved has moved on, it is completely fine to date this boy. If you have doubts, you can always ask your good friend about this issue. I hope this helps.

Your Fellow Teen

Dear Confused 17-year-old,

“Girl code” can vary from person to person and what they see as “right.” I suggest that you talk to your friend before you start to date her ex-boyfriend. For a lot of people, it hurts more if they weren’t told something ahead of time. Talking with your friend will ensure she is okay and knows what’s going on. This way, if she does understand and you do start dating, you won’t lose your friendship.

A Caring Friend

Dear Confused 17-year-old,

The change in maturity from eighth grade to nearly the end of high school is incomparable to any. The amount one person grows during this time is unlike any other, so I’m sure your friend would not mind if you pursued a relationship with an ex she had in middle school. Most people in high school realize that their relationships in middle school were not meant to last. As your close friend, I am certain that she wants to see you happy, so any reservations she may have about the situation may be put to the side. However, I doubt she will have reservations as a relationship in middle school does not hold much relevance in her current day to day life. My one big piece of advice is to be sure to inform your friend of your actions, and what you plan to do next. If you go about this in a secretive manner, then it may become an issue because she will feel you are going around her. However, if you are open and honest about your feelings, I’m sure it will all work out!

A Romantic

Dear Confused 17-year-old,

It reveals a lot about your character that you are concerned about your friend’s feelings. A true friend will be open to hearing your concern and considering it sincerely so they can be honest about their feelings. You might already know your friend well enough to know how she would feel about your dating her middle school ex-boyfriend, and whether she will honestly share with you if it disturbs her. Despite not being fully grown, young teens have the capability of developing strong feelings in relationships which, while different, are just as intense as mature love. In discussing this, consider how your friend would feel if the relationship became serious enough to include all of you spending time together. Don’t forget to think about how you might feel if they become good friends again and the role was reversed with him going to her for relationship advice. How you might feel about yourself regarding dating this guy is just as important as how your friend might feel. A soul-searching conversation with yourself will help you assess the possible outcomes.

Dr. Renae

TEENS: Curious as to what other teens would say? If you have a question or problem you would like to present to other teens, please email: askdrrenae@att.net and include your age, grade, and gender you identify with. All questions are published anonymously and your identity and contact information will be kept confidential.

PARENTS OF TEENS: Would you like to anonymously and confidentially ask the panel of teen Peer Counseling Writers to comment on a parenting issue you are struggling with? If you are ready for a variety of honest opinions from real teens, please address your questions to askdrrenae@att.net.

Dr. Renae Lapin, a licensed marriage and family therapist with 40 years experience, currently maintains a private practice inBoca Raton, Florida. For more information about Dr. Renae and her practice, visit her website: https://askdrrenae.com

 

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October 2020 Magazine

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Parkland Life: October 2020

Coincidence or Godwink?

A couple of years ago, I read a book titled, “When God Winks at You” by Squire Rushnell, and the concept has remained with me.

Godwinks (Rushnell’s term) are coincidences that, when we think about them, make us pause, smile, or just say aha. An example we probably have all experienced is when you are thinking about someone and the phone rings, and it is that person.

Another example is when you lose something important and just as you are giving up on ever finding it – it turns up in a place you think you searched thoroughly before.

To me, Godwinks are messages the universe is sending me when I am open to receiving that information. Well, this morning I received a Godwink.

For the past few months, my columns have focused on my feelings and behaviors during the pandemic. I am still staying at home and still only dreaming of getting on a plane to see my family in New York.

I have tried to find positive things to do, but life feels a bit bland and sad. And then this morning I received a strong message, or as I would term it, a Godwink. The first message (Godwink) came as I watched the “CBS This Morning” show. One of the daily segments is when the anchors discover/find a story, news segment, or video and want to share it with all of us.

This morning, co-anchor Tony Dokoupil read about a recent poll centered on the Coronavirus’ effect on peoples’ feelings. He stated that according to the poll, two-thirds of Americans believe they are better people due to the pandemic and 70 percent said they learned a lot about themselves as a result of the pandemic. Hmmm.

The second message (Godwink) came to me in email form. I received a group text from a friend that I read just after the morning show ended. The gist of it is in this one stanza of the much longer message: “Let’s put some color in our grey…And despite everything, we must continue to enjoy with serenity this time we have left.

“Let’s try to eliminate the afters…I’m doing it after…I’ll say it after…I’ll think about it after…So let’s leave nothing for later because still waiting we can lose the best moments.” Two positive and strong statements on making the most of our life during this time filled with frustration and waiting. A Godwink certainly meant for me.

I am in need of an attitude adjustment. I must again learn to appreciate and love the time as it is now. I have worked to make my days better, fuller and more fun. I have received the love of a wonderful puppy and been reawakened to the beauty of the world through his eyes but I have not gone the extra mile to welcome this time into my emotions. Instead, I have resented it,  gotten angry, and felt cheated. So I projected this dissatisfaction and have not been the optimistic and hopeful person I certainly can and have tried to be.

So I am now beginning to think about how to give myself an attitude adjustment. What are the positives that have come out of all these months? How can I take those positives and gain a new perspective on my life under COVID-19? I need to lose “The Afters.” My goal this coming month is to understand how this time has made me better and learn more about myself. My goal this month is to be happier, more giving and more positive. I’ll let you know if the Godwink worked its miracle.

By Jill Vogel

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Always that perfect something

Pizazz is a women’s jewelry and gift boutique in Coral Springs, offering unique gifts for every occasion.

Traditional gift shops are mostly a thing of the past, but Pizazz, at 10724 Wiles Road, has been in business for 12 years. A testimony to the success of its goal of making shoppers feel welcome from “the moment a customer is greeted coming in our door until they leave,” asserts owner Brent Brewster.

“It is our pleasure to offer our beautiful and complimentary gift wrap for every purchase,” Brewster adds. “Our goal is to make the customer service at Pizazz stand out tremendously. We hope that everyone who shops with us feels welcome and cared for because they are,” she adds.

Pizazz offers gifts for every occasion: Babies, graduations, weddings, holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, retirements, bar and bat mitzvahs, and more. And you’re likely to find something for yourself as you browse.

Go ahead. Treat yourself.

The store also includes a large selection of Fair Trade items, products that give back to communities in need all over the world. You can find out what they do at fairtradecertified.org.

“I had always wanted to open a gift shop,” Brewster explains. “When my second daughter went off to college, I really wanted to try something new. My very supportive husband said, ‘Give it a try.’ And we did!

“We opened in the Promenade in 2008, just as the economy was crashing. Pizazz was able to weather that storm though, and in a few short years we had quite a few loyal customers.”

Brewster says there are two things she enjoys most about her business. The first is “the joy that comes from providing my customers with products and service that I, myself, enjoy.” The second, but just as important, she emphasizes, is that “Pizazz is a local, family business. I love that.

“I love being part of what this country is supposed to be about. I love knowing that I can do something that I enjoy and make a positive impact on my community at the same time.”

The last few years in retail have been incredibly difficult,
especially for small businesses, Brewster notes, and “the past
few months have seen a tremendous strain on the entire retail community.

“We feel the best future for Pizazz is to go small and offer online services which we have not been able to do in the past. Our goal is to press forward and hopefully see the resurgence of mom and pop businesses,” Brewster says.

“What is most satisfying about Pizazz,” Brewster believes, “is that I get to be a part of the lives of women.” The store’s line of Fair Trade items helps “provide safety and jobs to women around the world. This is the heartbeat of Pizazz.

“I also get to be part of women’s lives in South Florida. It doesn’t matter if you’re a student looking for a gift for your teacher, a young mom who is looking for a special pick-me-up for herself or a grandmother who is excited to welcome her new grand baby, Pizazz has that perfect something.”

Pizazz, 10724 Wiles Road, Coral Springs, 954-688-9895, www.pizazzflorida.com. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Private shopping hours available by appointment.

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SoFlo BUZZ: October 2020 I

PARKLAND DASH is back — virtually

In keeping with social distancing requirements, this year’s Parkland Dash will allow participants to choose their own routes. Runners will be able to view live results online throughout the race day as participants submit their times.

On Saturday, October 18th, just run and track your 5K (3.1 miles) or 5 miles while using the RaceJoy app on your cell phone. The deadline to submit your time is 3:00 p.m. race day. Once the countdown clock reaches zero, no more times will be accepted and the race will be finalized.

To register for the run, visit runsignup.com/parklanddash.

Each $30 registration helps support Canine Assisted Therapy, the mission of which is to improve the health and well-being of children and adults by achieving specific physical, cognitive, social, or emotional goals through the use of certified pet therapy teams.

Canine Assisted Therapy has provided ongoing services to MSD, The Parkland Library, Riverglades Elementary, and Aston Gardens. They work with isolated seniors, pediatric patients, individuals with special needs, veterans, those suffering from grief or loss, and many others. Founded in 2009, this non-profit organization has the goal of improving the safety, effectiveness, and efficiency of pet therapy services in South Florida.

 

Foundation distributes 41,000 school supply kits

Broward Education Foundation, dedicated to serving students and teachers in Broward County Public Schools, recently distributed more than 41,000 safely sealed 18-piece basic school supply kits to 41,000 students from 69 Title I elementary schools in Broward County.

 

More than 90 percent of students in Broward’s top 40 Title I elementary schools are enrolled in free and reduced lunch programs.

The foundation pivoted from a physical school supply drive to a virtual one. Thanks to the generosity of the Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation, Jim Moran Foundation, Wells Fargo, Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, Ultimate Software, Hamilton Group Funding, Inc., People’s Trust Insurance, Harmony Development Center, Inc., State Farm Insurance, Pride Center at Equality Park, Centennial Bank, Broward County Public Schools, BrightStar Credit Union, Pirtle Construction, and many more generous corporations and individuals, the campaign was a success.

“Ordinarily, Broward Education Foundation’s School Supply Drive would help to stock the shelves at our school supply center where teachers from Title I schools shop free for their students in need,” said Shea Ciriago, executive director of the foundation. “We knew we had to be proactive in light of COVID, so we orchestrated the online fundraising campaign.”

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Musical education not left behind by COVID-19

During the past several months, COVID-19 has been a roadblock for the educational system. This spring, school classes went virtual, and a lot of extracurricular activities were halted in their tracks.

For parents with kids who are learning to play an instrument, the uncertainty with school bands and lack of in-person classes has been an ongoing challenge. One local music teacher is Glen Friedman from the G-Clef Music Academy in Parkland.

Glen has been teaching his students virtually throughout the summer. As schools open, he is planning to continue to teach virtually as this is key to ensuring his students keep up with their curriculums and not fall behind due to this year’s pandemic limitations.

Music strengthens the mind
Why is music education important for developing minds? A study by Professor Hudziak from the University of Vermont College of Medicine found that the “more a child trained on an instrument, it accelerated cortical organization in attention skill, anxiety management, and emotion control.”

According to Professor Hudziak, in an interview with the Washington Post, music is like an exercise for the brain. “What I was surprised by was the emotional regulatory regions. Everyone in our culture knows if I lift 5-pound, 10-pound, 15-pound weights, my biceps will get bigger. The same is true for the brain. We shouldn’t be surprised we can train the brain.”

Music helps with math
Much of Science, Engineering, and Math is built on the principles of harmonics. One key principle, the Fourier Transform, expresses the world in terms of musical chords. Joseph Fourier, in 1822, first showed the usage of infinite sums of harmonics to describe a signal, which the mathematical transform is now named after. Recently, our modern mobile communications mostly rely on the concept of harmonics to transmit information over the air.

Learning music has been shown to benefit students’mathematical abilities. Researchers from the University of Texas, in a peer-reviewed article for the Journal of Learning through Arts, found “the students who learned through the various music-integrated instructional settings demonstrated increased mathematical ability levels over the intervention period in the present study.”

According to Glen, the best way to learn music is through one-on-one sessions. The individual feedback is important to help develop and improve a student’s skills.

During the pandemic, it hasn’t all been virtual lessons. Glen is part of some virtual big band recordings, too. You can find some of those sessions on YouTube’s “Glen Friedman Music”channel.

If you are deciding how best to keep your child busy after school, improve their focus and emotional control, or just want better grades in math, enroll them in music classes. This is where the arts and sciences intersect.

By Li Pan

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