Weston Together MARCH 2026

Get to Know Your City: WestonGov Academy Offers a Deeper Look Into Local Government

Ever wonder how your city works behind the scenes? The City of Weston offers a unique opportunity for residents to find out through the WestonGov Academy, an engaging civic education program designed for adults who want a clearer understanding of municipal government and how it serves the community.

WestonGov Academy is a hands-on, informative experience that helps residents learn about the services, processes, and decisions that impact daily life in Weston. Participants get an inside look at city operations, from public works and

emergency services to budgeting, planning, parks and recreation, and more. The goal is to create informed “civic ambassadors” who feel confident in explaining how local government operates and can serve as trusted resources for their neighbors.

Throughout the program, participants meet with leaders and staff from various city departments, ask questions, and gain a broader perspective on how municipal services are delivered and maintained. This kind of civic awareness not only strengthens individual understanding but also fosters greater community engagement. And at the

end of the day, that makes Weston a more connected and informed place to live.

Applications open February 26, and the biweekly sessions begin in April and end in July. Spots can fill quickly, so interested community members are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, or join the waiting list so they don’t miss the next session.

Participating in WestonGov Academy is a great way to go beyond city hall headlines and truly understand the inner workings of your community’s government. Whether you’re curious about how roads are repaired,

how parks are planned, or how public safety operates, this program provides valuable insight and opens the door to deeper civic involvement. For more information, visit https://www.westonfl.org/government/citycommission/civic-education/westongovacademy.

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Celebrate the Businesses That Make Weston Shine

Every thriving community has one thing in common: outstanding local businesses. From innovative startups to established companies that have served families for years, these businesses help shape Weston’s character, support local causes, and strengthen our economy. Now it’s time to celebrate them.

The Weston Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the 2026 Small Business of the Year Awards, culminating in a special celebratory luncheon on April 15. This highly anticipated annual program recognizes excellence, leadership, and community impact across a variety of categories.

Award categories include:

• Small Business of the Year

• Corporate Business of the Year

• Rookie Business of the Year

• Pinnacle Award

• Community Champion

These honors spotlight the entrepreneurs, employers, and leaders who go above and beyond, whether through exceptional service, innovation, growth, or meaningful contributions to the Weston community.

But first, we need your help!

The nomination process is now open, and we invite residents, customers, and fellow businesses to submit the names of companies that deserve recognition. Think about the businesses you recommend to friends, the ones that support local schools and nonprofits, or the new ventures

that are already making an impact. Your nomination helps ensure that their hard work does not go unnoticed.

The April luncheon will bring together community leaders, business owners, and residents for an inspiring program celebrating Weston’s best. It’s always a memorable event filled with pride, connection, and applause for those who make our city stronger.

For event details or to nominate a deserving business, visit westonflchamber.com. Let’s celebrate the businesses that help Weston thrive!

The nomination process is now open, and we invite residents, customers, and fellow businesses to submit the names of companies that deserve recognition.

Craig Zinn Honored at Inaugural Golf Tournament Benefiting Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital Men’s Health Initiatives

Craig Zinn, president and CEO of Craig Zinn Automotive Group (CZAG), was honored at the inaugural Craig Zinn Golf Tournament to benefit Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital on Jan. 12, at The Club at Weston Hills. The event raised $175,000 to support men’s health initiatives, with a focus on prostate cancer awareness, research, education and clinical care. Presented by The Heavyweight Factory, the tournament recognized Zinn for his longstanding community leadership and philanthropic commitment to Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital.

The tournament honored Craig Zinn, president and CEO of Craig Zinn Automotive Group, for his longstanding community leadership and philanthropic commitment to Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital. One hundred golfers participated in the shotgun start tournament at The Club at Weston Hills, enjoying a first-class golf experience featuring exclusive prizes, premium hospitality, breakfast and lunch.

“When our community comes together to support men’s health, it creates meaningful momentum for awareness, prevention and innovation,” said Chad Ritch, M.D., Chair of the Division of Urology, Cleveland

Clinic Florida Market. “These efforts help Cleveland Clinic advance leading-edge technology and research, ensuring patients continue to have access to world-class, comprehensive care.”

Craig Zinn has been a dedicated advocate and champion for the advancement of men’s health through his generous support of Cleveland Clinic. His philanthropic contributions include a $2 million gift to establish the Craig M. Zinn Distinguished Chair in Men’s Health and a $2 million gift to create the Cleveland Clinic Craig M. Zinn Concierge Medicine Suite in Weston, which opened in August 2025. His total contributions to Cleveland Clinic now total $4 million.

“I’ve always believed that success in business means nothing if you’re not giving back to your community,” Zinn said. “This tournament represents everything I stand for: bringing people together for a cause that saves lives. Cleveland Clinic is doing extraordinary work in men’s health, and I’m honored to support their mission through research, education and clinical care that will benefit South Florida families for generations to come.”

ABOUT CRAIG ZINN AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

As president and CEO of Craig Zinn Automotive Group, Craig Zinn owns and operates Lexus of Pembroke Pines, Toyota of Hollywood, Subaru of Pembroke Pines, Lexus of North Miami, Acura of Pembroke Pines, and the recently expanded and upgraded Toyota of Hollywood’s Pre-Owned supercenter, Amazinn Used Cars, offering new and used makes and models. Additionally, a new dealership in Kendall is on the way, further expanding the group’s presence in South Florida. The company’s mission is to be South Florida’s finest automobile dealership group, known for superior products, community involvement,

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and for helpful, courteous, and caring associates dedicated to delivering the ultimate client service experience. It is also passionate about community service as evident by its philanthropic endeavors. Over the course of 40+ years, it has made charitable contributions to Cleveland Clinic, SOS Children’s Villages, David Posnack JCC, Broward Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization, Broward Children’s Center, Ellie’s Army Foundation, Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital Foundation, the Humane Society of Broward County, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Spread Joy Toy Drive, CBS’ Neighbors 4 Neighbors Adopt A Family 4 the Holidays Operation Elf Program, Subaru’s annual Share the Love event, and Light-Up the Harbor for Children’s Harbor, to name a few. Headquartered out of Hollywood, Florida, the corporate team can be found at Toyota of Hollywood, located at 1841 North State Road 7, Hollywood, FL 33021 or https://www.czgroup.com/. It can also be found on Facebook at @zinnautogroup and Instagram at @craigzinnautomotivegroup.

2026 Florida Legislative Session:

What’s Moving and Why It Matters to Our

Community

Each year, the Florida Legislature meets to consider dozens of bills that shape everything from how cities operate to how residents live, work, and play. The 2026 Regular Session began in January, and while much of the focus is on budget and statewide priorities, several proposals in Tallahassee have the potential to affect

communities like Weston and the broader Southwest Broward area.

One of the most significant policy discussions this session centers around property tax reform. Lawmakers have been considering proposals that would reduce or phase out property taxes on

homesteaded residences. While this sounds appealing to many homeowners, local leaders and analysts warn that cutting property tax revenue could lead to dramatic erosion of funding for city services (police, fire, emergency medical services, parks, and infrastructure, for example) because property taxes currently account

for nearly half of municipal general fund revenue in Broward County. Final proposals are still being discussed, and any final proposal would have to go to the voters for approval in the November 2026 election.

Another legislative priority has been land use and development policy. Amendments to Florida’s Live Local Act—a state law that encourages housing development with certain affordable units— recently took effect and are now being clarified by lawmakers. These changes could influence future

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

development patterns, zoning decisions, and housing availability in communities across South Florida.

Additionally, the Legislature continues its work on conservation and environmental stewardship initiatives. A bill aimed at creating incentives for large landowners to set aside significant portions of property for conservation cleared early committee review, highlighting ongoing interest in protecting natural resources and green space.

These examples are just a snapshot of the many bills

Lemon Herb Roasted Asparagus

INGREDIENTS

• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed

• 2 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 clove garlic, minced

INSTRUCTIONS

moving through committees and onto floor votes. Staying informed and engaged helps us understand how state decisions affect our local services, quality of life, and the economic health of our communities.

For regular updates on the Florida legislative session and how it could impact Weston, visit the Florida House and Florida Senate websites throughout the session. The Chamber and its Government and Legislative Affairs Committee remain dedicated to keeping you informed about the issues that matter to our residents and businesses in Weston.

• Zest & juice of ½ lemon

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Optional: grated Parmesan or shaved pecorino

Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast 12–15 minutes until tender-crisp. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and optional cheese.

Kind Of A Big Deal - Episode 3

Giving back through education and leadership after a life-threatening illness.

In the latest episode of Kind of a Big Deal, host Kimberly Davis interviews Henry Rose, a business owner, publisher, civic leader, and community builder with a story that is both inspiring and deeply relatable.

Henry shares how facing a life-threatening illness at just 29 years old reshaped his perspective and ultimately fueled his drive to build something

meaningful. What followed was the creation of a successful publishing company, along with a growing commitment to giving back through education efforts and Chamber leadership. His journey is a powerful example of how adversity can become a turning point instead of a stopping point.

Throughout the conversation, Henry talks about what it takes to start a business when the odds feel stacked against you, and why staying focused and believing in yourself matters more than waiting for perfect circumstances. He also dives into the importance of building multiple streams of revenue, how networking can create unexpected opportunities, and why saying yes to new experiences can lead to relationships that transform both your business and your life.

The episode wraps with practical advice for entrepreneurs centered on trust, consistency, and doing the work even when no one is watching. It is a motivating listen for anyone looking to turn setbacks into growth and build something bigger than themselves.

This episode is sponsored by Yamila Balzan from Golden Trust Insurance.

Henry shares how facing a life-threatening illness at just 29 years old reshaped his perspective and ultimately fueled his drive to build something meaningful.

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The Everglades: Beneath the Surface

Documentary Follows A Photographer’s Journey Capturing the Perfect Shot

Hidden in plain sight, one of the world’s most extraordinary natural spectacles unfolds each year along Florida’s coast. The Everglades: Beneath the Surface, an awardwinning documentary by The Everglades Foundation, invites viewers to experience this wonder through the lens of National Geographic Explorer, photographer and Foundation Board Member Mac Stone.

The 6-minute documentary follows Stone as he traverses America’s Everglades by helicopter, boat, and on foot, capturing the landscapes, wildlife, and waterways at the heart of Florida. Offering an intimate look into his lifelong connection to the ecosystem, the documentary highlights some of Stone’s most iconic photographs of Everglades wildlife and the diverse Everglades habitats that they depend on.

From ancient cypress trees all the way to Florida Bay, the film reveals how the Everglades watershed connects freshwater flows to a Florida coast where millions of fish migrate each year. Beneath the water’s surface, Stone brings viewers into the center of one of the largest animal migrations on Earth: the annual mullet run. This critical event fuels a dynamic

web of predators and prey, with fleeting interactions that made for one of the most challenging images of Stone’s career.

“We can only truly care for what we know. And the truth is, most people don’t know the Everglades.” – Mac Stone, The Everglades: Beneath the Surface

With the hope of connecting more people to the Everglades ecosystem, Stone shares the unique beauty of America’s Everglades, emphasizing the importance of restoring and protecting this natural treasure for generations to come.

So far, The Everglades: Beneath the Surface has earned a 2025 Regional Suncoast Emmy® Award and has been included as an official selection of the Coronado Film Festival in California and the Key Biscayne Film Festival, underscoring its powerful storytelling and visual impact.

HB 579 Aims to Protect Services for Students With IEPs and 504 Plans

REPRESENTATIVE ROBIN BARTLEMAN

National Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Awareness Month is a time to recognize the strengths, talents, and contributions of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It is also an opportunity to reaffirm the importance of inclusive and accessible education for all students. For students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the right support can make the difference between simply being present in a classroom and having a genuine opportunity to learn, participate, and succeed. When educational environments are designed to meet students where they are, every student is better positioned to reach their full potential.

Families of children with disabilities often spend years advocating for the services and accommodations their children need to access an equitable education. Supports such as speech and language therapy, occupational and physical therapy, and applied behavioral analysis help promote positive educational outcomes and are outlined in individualized education programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans. These formal school plans are designed to support students with disabilities and ensure they have equal access to education.

Currently, when parents choose to enroll their child in a private school, they must waive their child’s right to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). As a result, the services and accommodations in a child’s educational plan are no longer guaranteed, and families are often left without clear information about what support will actually be provided. Many parents have contacted my office after learning that when their child moves to a private school, they may no longer receive services such as speech and language therapy. Instead, they are told to seek these supports through their medical insurance. This often leads to significant frustration, as many families say they would not have transitioned their child to a new environment had they known the necessary support services would no longer be available. My bill addresses this gap by requiring private schools to clearly disclose which services, accommodations, and modifications they will offer based on a child’s existing educational plan. This bill is a simple consumer protection for parents. Parents deserve to have all of the information they need when it comes to making a decision about their child’s education.

As a former ESE teacher and assistant principal, I have seen how critical transparency is for families making educational decisions. HB 579 is about empowering parents with information, respecting the work they have already done to support their children, and ensuring students with disabilities continue to have access to the tools they need to succeed. Awareness matters, but so does action.

When educational environments are designed to meet students where they are, every student is better positioned to reach their full potential.

The Lifestyle You Moved to Weston For

HOW THE CITY MAKES THAT POSSIBLE

At no time of the year is it more apparent why so many choose to live in South Florida and call Weston home. While much of the country faces snowstorms and freezing temperatures, our climate allows residents to enjoy the outdoors.

From youth sports and family outings to community festivals and concerts under the stars, this season highlights what makes Weston special. When you visit one of our parks, you can count on well-groomed fields, clean and modern restrooms, safe playgrounds, and amenities maintained with care.

That level of quality does not happen by accident. It is the result of thoughtful planning, professional maintenance, and the reliable investment in services that keep our community looking and functioning at a high standard. As property tax reform is being discussed at

the state level, it is especially important for residents to understand how these services are funded.

Ad valorem property tax dollars support the core services that maintain city parks, athletic facilities, and public safety throughout Weston. Those same dollars fund the crews and equipment that keep fields in top condition, keep the park restrooms clean, maintain parking lots and walkways, and inspect, clean, and maintain playgrounds. This ongoing investment is a key reason Weston feels exceptional every day, not just during special events.

It is also important to understand how your

property tax bill is distributed.

Only about 19% of the ad valorem property taxes you pay go to the City of Weston. The remaining portion is shared among several taxing authorities, including Broward County, the Broward County Public Schools, the Children’s Services Council, the Hospital District, the South Florida Water Management District, and others.

Celebrating 30 years in 2026, Weston is known for its high standards and maintaining them comes at a cost. At the same time, the city has worked diligently to keep its millage rate low

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through careful budgeting and long-term planning. Weston has maintained the millage rate of 3.3464 for eight consecutive years, the lowest rate in Broward County. Rising property values have helped generate additional revenue, allowing the city to keep pace with increasing costs for goods and services without raising the rate. How the city is maintained is also an important factor in why property values continue to rise.

Financial Transparency

Financial transparency is a priority for the City of Weston. Residents are encouraged to explore the city’s Open Finance Portal, which is updated daily and provides detailed information on expenditures, revenues, and vendor payments. Additional resources, including information on how property taxes fund city services, are available in the Finance section at WestonFL.org/ government/finance.

Residents and businesses have made a significant personal investment and strategic choice to locate in Weston. Staying informed about potential changes in property tax policy helps ensure our community remains strong, well-maintained, safe, and financially responsible.

You moved to Weston because it offers something special. Together, we can work to keep it that way.

See the Magic of the Rotary Club of Weston 2026 Drawdown!

Each year, the Rotary Club of Weston’s Drawdown Scholarship Fundraiser brings together community leaders, business owners, and residents for an evening of fun, philanthropy, and life-changing opportunities. But beyond the thrill of the reverse raffle, where the last ticket standing wins $10,000, this event represents something much bigger—a chance to transform lives.

For almost 40 years, the Rotary Club of Weston has provided over $2 million in scholarships to local high school seniors at Western High, Cypress Bay, Sagemont Prep, HANDY, Children’s Harbor and those with other organizations who need financial

help. These scholarships don’t just fund education—they relieve financial burdens, open doors to new opportunities, and give students the freedom to dream big.

Beyond the scholarships, the impact of the Drawdown continues to ripple. Many students not only send heartfelt video messages expressing their gratitude, but some also return in person to share how these scholarships changed their lives. One former recipient, now a successful artist, even has their work showcased on Celebrity Cruises, proving that these opportunities

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can take students to places they once only dreamed of.

This year, like last, the event will take place on Tuesday, March 17, at the Weston Town Center with live music, St. Patrick’s Day-themed games, and an electric atmosphere. If you were one of those attending – you know what a wonderful evening it was. Tickets are $125, for a night of food, drinks, and entertainment—all while supporting the next generation of leaders.

And in true Drawdown fashion, not only will the last ticket drawn win the cash jackpot but the first ticket drawn will also win a substantial cash prize.

Only 400 tickets will be sold so don’t wait –get your ticket today so you can not only get in on the fun but have a chance at the $10,000 and drawings.

Because at the Drawdown, it’s not just about winning—it’s about giving students a future they may not have had otherwise. Join us and be part of the legacy. Weston Town Center, March 17, 6 p.m. Get your ticket now: www.westonrotarydrawdown.com

For monthly calendar: Tuesday, March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day) –Rotary Club of Weston Annual Drawdown Event. Weston Town Center, 6 p.m. Food, drink, music and chance to win $10,000 and more. Go to westonrotarydrawdown.com for tickets and more information.

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