Weston Together MAY 2026

Celebrating Excellence: Weston Business Awards Recognize Local Leaders

The Weston business community came together for an inspiring afternoon of recognition and celebration at the 2026 Weston Business Awards Luncheon on April 15th, honoring the companies and leaders who continue to elevate our city through innovation, service, and community impact.

Hosted annually by the Weston Chamber of Commerce, this event highlights the businesses that go above and beyond—whether through exceptional customer experiences, sustained growth, or meaningful contributions to the community. Attendees included business owners, community leaders, and residents, all gathered to celebrate the achievements that help make Weston a thriving place to live and work.

This year’s honorees represented a diverse cross-section of industries, each demonstrating a commitment not only to success, but to the betterment of the community as a whole.

Hosted annually by the Weston Chamber of Commerce, this event highlights the businesses that go above and beyond...

202 6 BUSINESS AWARD WINNERS:

• Small Business of the Year: Devsign Media

• Corporate Steward of the Year: TD Bank

• Rookie Business of the Year: Mold Finders

202 6 INDIVIDUAL AWARD WINNERS:

• Pinnacle Award: Monica Arroyo with Family Therapy Group of Weston

• Community Champion: Kurt Asesor with Rotary Club of Weston

Each award tells a story—of resilience, leadership, and a dedication to serving others. From new businesses making an immediate impact to long-standing organizations continuing to set the standard, this year’s winners exemplify the strength and spirit of Weston’s business community.

Beyond the awards themselves, the luncheon served as a reminder of the power of connection. When businesses support one another and engage with the community, it creates a ripple effect that benefits everyone—from job creation to local investment and charitable giving.

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The Chamber extends our thanks to our election officials who were able to celebrate the winners with us: State Rep. Robin Bartleman, Weston Vice Mayor Henry Mead, and Weston Commissioner Byron Jaffe. The support and positive energy offered by our elected representatives made the afternoon particularly special for our members and honorees. We are also thankful for TD Bank’s sponsorship of the event, with VP Dylan Roberts sharing his journey with TD and the impact he sees being made for their small business customers every day.

The Weston Chamber of Commerce remains committed to supporting and celebrating the businesses that drive our local economy forward. We extend our congratulations to all of this year’s winners and nominees, and we look forward to another year of growth, collaboration, and success.

Leadership That Lifts a Community

Behind every strong community are individuals who go beyond their own success to invest in others. At this year’s Weston Business Awards, two honorees stood out not just for what they’ve built, but for how they give back: the Pinnacle Award and the Community Champion Award.

The Pinnacle Award recognizes a leader who embodies vision, consistency, and a deep commitment to both business excellence and community impact. This year’s recipient, Monica Arroyo, Founder and Clinical Director of Family Therapy Group of Weston, reflects that spirit through both her professional work and her dedication to the Chamber. With more than 20 years of experience in mental health, Monica has made a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families throughout the community. Beyond her practice, she actively contributes her time and leadership through Chamber initiatives, supporting fellow members and strengthening connections that help Weston thrive.

The Community Champion Award honors a servant leader— someone who understands that strong communities are built through service, generosity, and collaboration. This year’s honoree, Kurt Asesor, exemplifies that mindset. As a Weston business owner (Premier Martial Arts and XP League) and active member of the Rotary Club of Weston, Kurt has leveraged his platforms to support youth development, scholarships, and charitable initiatives. His leadership is rooted in the belief that business success and community impact go hand in hand, inspiring others to contribute their time, talent, and resources. A member since 2019, Kurt is currently serving as the President of Weston Rotary.

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Together, these two honorees represent the very best of Weston—leaders who not only achieve, but uplift those around them. Their work extends beyond their own businesses, creating ripple effects that strengthen families, support local organizations, and inspire others to get involved. Through mentorship, service, and

consistent community engagement, they help shape a culture where success is shared and leadership is measured by impact.

Monica and Kurt’s example reminds us that true success isn’t defined solely by growth or recognition, but by the positive difference we make in the lives of others and the community we call home.

INSTRUCTIONS

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Strawberry Shortcake

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

• 2 tbsp sugar

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 2 tbsp powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 4 shortcake biscuits (store-bought or homemade)

Toss strawberries with sugar and let sit 10–15 minutes until juicy.

Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Slice biscuits in half.

Layer strawberries and whipped cream over the bottom half, then top with the other half.

Add more cream and strawberries on top and serve.

Businesses That Drive Weston Forward

A thriving community depends on businesses that do more than operate—they lead, innovate, and invest in the people around them. This year’s Weston Business Awards recognized three standout organizations that exemplify those qualities through growth, service, and community commitment.

The Corporate Steward of the Year Award honors a company that actively invests in both economic development and community well-being.

This year’s recipient, TD Bank, continues to set that standard. With a strong local presence, TD Bank is known not only for delivering exceptional customer service, but also for its commitment to supporting small businesses and strengthening the communities it serves. By providing financial guidance, resources, and meaningful community involvement, TD Bank plays a vital role in helping local entrepreneurs grow and succeed. We are grateful for their commitment to the Chamber as a Chairman’s Circle member, and their participation in the Weston Innovative Networking referral group.

The Rookie Business of the Year Award celebrates a rising star—an emerging company already making a measurable impact. Mold Finders, led by CEO Werner Chang, has quickly established itself as a trusted resource in specialized mold inspection and post-remediation verification. By focusing on unbiased, science-based assessments, the company brings clarity and confidence to homeowners and businesses alike, helping ensure safe and healthy environments across the community. Werner has been very involved with all aspects of chamber membership, actively participating in monthly events and contributing to his referral group Weston Leaders.

The Small Business of the Year Award recognizes excellence in entrepreneurship, service, and community engagement. This year’s honoree, Devsign Media, has built a reputation for helping businesses grow through strategic branding, storytelling, and digital marketing. Beyond their services, the team has embraced the Chamber as a platform for connection and giving back, even creating opportunities for other entrepreneurs to share their stories and inspire others by creating the Chamber’s Kind of a Big Deal Podcast.

Together, these businesses reflect the innovation, resilience, and collaboration that make Weston’s business community strong—and continue to move it forward.

Hooked For a Cause: The PBA Dolphin Shootout

& Fishing Village

South Florida’s waters come alive this June with the highly anticipated PBA Dolphin Shootout & Fishing Village—a one-day offshore Mahi tournament paired with a vibrant, family-friendly waterfront experience at Homestead Bayfront Park.

Anglers will take to the open ocean at sunrise, competing for a $10,000 grand prize for the heaviest Mahi, while spectators gather shoreside to watch the action unfold during the live, on-stage weigh-in from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The excitement culminates with an awards ceremony at 5:00 PM, celebrating both competition and community.

But this event is more than just a tournament—it’s a full-day celebration. The Fishing Village, open to the public from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, offers something for everyone: live music, a DJ, line dancing, local vendors, food and drinks, and interactive sponsor activations, all set against a scenic waterfront backdrop.

Open to PBA members, supporters, and local anglers, boats can depart from any port, making this tournament accessible to South Florida’s entire fishing community. Whether you’re offshore chasing Mahi or enjoying the festivities on land, the event brings together boating enthusiasts, families, and law enforcement supporters in a uniquely South Florida way.

At its heart, the Dolphin Shootout is a charity-driven event benefiting The Love Fund, a 501(c)(3) organization that has supported fallen officers and their families since 1984. Proceeds help cover funeral expenses, provide education for children of fallen officers, and offer critical psychological support to families affected by the demands of the profession.

EVENT DETAILS:

• Captain’s Meeting: June 4, 2026 Doral, FL

• Tournament & Fishing Village: June 6, 2026 Homestead Bayfront Park

• Lines in: 6:00 AM

• Fishing Village (Free & Open to Public): 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Whether you’re competing for the catch of the day or simply soaking in the coastal atmosphere, this is more than an event— it’s a day of purpose, community, and celebration on the water.

GET INVOLVED:

• Register to fish: dcpba.org/fishingtournament-registration

• Become a sponsor: dcpba.org/fishingsponsorship

• Apply as a vendor: miamifriendors.com/ apply/the-fishing-village

See flyer on page 14

Legislation Passed to Support our Veterans

REPRESENTATIVE ROBIN BARTLEMAN

May is National Military Appreciation Month, a time to honor those who have served our country and recognize the sacrifices made by their families. This session, the House passed legislation to better support Florida’s veterans. We expanded access to dental care by strengthening the Veterans Dental Care Grant Program through HB 253, helping veterans who do not qualify for federal dental benefits receive essential services. I was proud to cosponsor HB 199, which improves access to veterans’ treatment courts that offer rehabilitationfocused alternatives for veterans facing mental health or trauma-related conditions. Finally, we addressed housing insecurity through HB 1481, which creates incentives for landlords to rent to veterans, helping reduce homelessness.

I’m also excited to highlight a community initiative supporting veterans’ health. The Florida Mission of Mercy Veterans First Initiative will provide free dental care to veterans beginning on May 14, 2026, at the Prime Osborn Convention Center in Jacksonville, Florida. To register, visit FLAMOM.org.

As we recognize National Military Appreciation Month, we reflect on how we can continue to support those who have given so much in service to our nation. I also want to wish you a meaningful Memorial

Day. On this day, we honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, and we remain committed to supporting the families they left behind.

For those seeking support, resources are available.

• Broward County Veterans Services: Broward.org/veterans – (954) 357-6622

○ They provide assistance with benefits eligibility and filing VA claims.

• Mission United: Unitedwaybroward.org/ mission-united – (954) 486-4833

○ Led by United Way Broward, this resource connects veterans and their families to employment, education, and more.

• Veterans Crisis Hotline: 988 (then press 1)

○ The hotline provides 24/7 confidential support to veterans and their families.

• William “Bill” Kling Department of Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic: (954) 475-5500

○ The clinic provides primary care and specialty services, including cardiology, mental health support, and more.

It is an honor to serve you, and we are here to assist with any issues or concerns. Feel free to contact me anytime at Robin. Bartleman@flhouse.gov or our office at (954) 872-1770. You can also reach me on my personal cell at (954) 668-3662.

Kind Of A Big Deal - Episode 5

HOW A LATINA WOMAN SUCCEEDS AS AN ENTREPRENEUR IN THE U.S. (AND WHY MANY DON’T MAKE IT)

Host Alejandro Larrazabal sits down with Yamila Balzan — Venezuelan-born entrepreneur, owner of Golden Weston Insurance, mother of four, and active Chamber of Commerce member in Weston, FL.

Yamila shares the real story behind her journey: from studying journalism in Nicaragua, to arriving in the U.S. at 40 without speaking English, to building a thriving insurance agency that serves clients across Florida, Texas, and Georgia. She talks candidly about the sacrifices women make, the difficult decisions that come with motherhood, and the faith that kept her moving forward through every setback and reinvention.

In this deeply honest conversation, Yamila opens up about overcoming impostor syndrome, learning English as an adult, and how joining the Chamber of Commerce became the turning point that helped launch and grow her business. She also shares practical advice for Latina immigrants dreaming of entrepreneurship, explaining why empathy and genuine service will always matter more than any marketing budget — and why diversifying your skills means failure is never truly final.

Yamila’s story is a powerful reminder that no experience is wasted, no start is too late, and that community can change everything. If you’ve ever felt like starting over was impossible, or that your story doesn’t deserve a stage — this episode is for you.

Yamila’s story is a powerful reminder that no experience is wasted, no start is too late, and that community can change everything.

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HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=FK8LCUL8EVK

Who is the Humane Society of Broward County

Thinking about adding a pet to your family? There are so many options as to where to go but hopefully adopting and saving a pet will be your first choice. One of the largest non-profit organizations to adopt from is the Humane Society of Broward County. Founded in 1944, the shelter started from humble beginnings and has evolved into a 33,000 square foot building able to house over three hundred dogs, cats, and other furry animals. The Humane Society of Broward County (HSBC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is advocating for and improving the lives of animals by providing adoptions, community services, and education.

Located at 2070 Griffin

Road in Fort Lauderdale, the shelter always has a variety of dogs and cats available for adoption and occasionally there are rabbits and Guinea pigs as well. Most animals are surrounded by their families when they are no longer able to care for them. When you adopt the adoption fee includes: spay/ neuter surgery before going home, flea/tick preventative, preliminary vaccinations and de-worming, overall wellness check, heartworm test for dogs (7 months or older) and feline leukemia test for cats, microchip, limited 14 day follow-up care at participating VCA Animal Hospitals (restrictions apply, up to $250), a bag of Purina ONE pet food.

Pet adoption is most likely the first thing you think

about when you hear Humane Society, but at the Humane Society of Broward County there is so much more. The HSBC has an extensive education program and visits schools to teach about empathy and kindness to animals. School field trips are also possible. The Education Department hosts birthday parties, summer camps (already sold out for 2026), Pawsitive Service Days, has their own Girl Scout patch, is a partner with Broward County school libraries and has reading programs with dogs – just to name a few. Other services offered are Animal Assisted Therapy teams visit nursing homes and hospitals to spread cheer, a low-cost vaccine clinic open six days a week, dog obedience classes, volunteer

THE SHELTER IS LOCATED WEST OF I 95 AT 2070 GRIFFIN ROAD, FORT LAUDERDALE, 33312

opportunities, and a Pet Boutique to get all your pet supplies and more.

The HSBC receives no direct funding from the government or any national group with a similar name, but instead relies on the generosity of the community, private grants, and local fundraising efforts. To learn more, see who is looking for a home, or to donate visit www. humanebroward.com or call 954-989-3977. Also be sure to follow the shelter on social media including Facebook, IG and TikTok and share the posts.

A LITTLE KITTEN GETS A PEDICURE BEFORE HEADING OFF TO A FOSTER HOME.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County

Raises $400,000 at Déjà Vu: Drift Away to

Summer to Support Lifechanging Mentoring Programs

COMMUNITY LEADERS HONORED FOR THEIR GENEROUS COMMITMENT TO YOUTH MENTORSHIP

Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Broward County raised almost $400,000 at its 22nd annual signature fundraiser, Déjà Vu: Drift Away to Summer.

More than 350 community leaders decked out in summer chic attire celebrated generosity, mentorship and brighter futures while enjoying a private, poolside concert by multi-platinum artist Uncle Kracker at the glamorous Guitar Hotel pool deck at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood.

“I am deeply grateful to our incredible honorees for their unwavering commitment to mentorship and the powerful impact they’ve had in helping us expand opportunities for local youth. Their leadership truly changes lives. Thank you to our sponsors and everyone who joined us to ‘drift away’ for the evening, dancing, celebrating and investing in the future of our young people. Together, we are creating BIG change,” said Malena Mendez, President and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County.

Event co-chairs Traci Miller, SVP and Shareholder at Miller Construction and Nicky Tesser, Senior Manager, Regional Marketing at JetBlue, outdid themselves once again. A stunning tunnel entry welcomed guests who enjoyed a festive cocktail reception, a high-energy live auction and an array of silent auction items to bid on. Guests mingled and nibbled from gourmet food stations set up against the backdrop of the famous Guitar Hotel, which was decked out in green lighting as a special nod to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County.

During the magical evening, four exceptional leaders who champion Big Brother Big Sisters’ mission of empowering youth to reach their full potential through meaningful mentoring relationships were honored including:

Champion of Children: Manuel “Manny” Catedral

Manuel “Manny” Catedral joined the BBBS of Broward County Board two years ago, but his dedication to mentorship began long

COLLINSON’S VICE PRESIDENT, MANNY CATEDRAL AND UNCLE KRACKER

before. He currently mentors a student in the BIG Futures program and supports two young professionals at Collinson, where he serves as Vice President of Business Development for The Americas.

An engaged board member and finance committee contributor, Catedral brings strategic insight and hands-on leadership to initiatives such as Lace Up for Learning, which provided more than 500 youth with new sneakers for the school year. Through his advocacy, Collinson has funded mentoring support for 20 high school students participating in BIG Futures, equipping them with tools for college and career readiness. His servant leadership and

SOUTHERN GLAZER’S WINE & SPIRITS’ GREG RABINOVICH, BRIAN MCGRATH AND HEATHER ZYJEWSKI

passion for youth empowerment continue to make a meaningful difference.

Impact Award: Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits is a valued BIG Futures partner, working with Stranahan High School to expand mentorship and career pathways for students. The company currently supports 15 Bigs and 20 Littles, reflecting a strong investment in workforce readiness and opportunity.

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From its longstanding BIG Futures partnership in Miami to its continued support in Broward, Southern Glazer’s has demonstrated consistent commitment. For the past five years, the company’s in-kind support of BBBS events has strengthened fundraising efforts.

Their culture of mentorship is exemplified by employee Brian McGrath, named 2025 Big of the Year. Rabinovich, Executive Vice President of Sales Execution, accepted the Impact Award on behalf of Southern Glazer’s.

Legacy Award: Dawn Stagliano Dawn Stagliano has served on the BBBS of Broward County Board for more than 15 years. As Director of Government Affairs and Community Impact for Comcast, she has secured critical funding and resources for the organization, leveraging Comcast’s national partnership to drive local impact.

She also designated BBBS as a beneficiary of Comcast Cares.

A driving force behind the success of Déjà Vu, Stagliano’s leadership, creativity and dedication have helped elevate the event into a signature celebration that generates vital funding for youth mentoring programs. Her ability to rally supporters and champion the mission has created lasting opportunities for countless young people.

Inductee to the Alumni Hall of Fame: Chief Delrish Moss

Chief Delrish Moss, a former Big Brother in Miami, has long championed the power of mentorship. As Chief of Police for the City of Miramar, he launched the Bigs with Badges program, pairing officers with high school students to foster trust, guidance, and college and career readiness.

With more than 40 years in law enforcement, Chief Moss has served in leadership roles with the Miami Police Department, the Florida International University Police Department and as the first African American Chief of Police in Ferguson, Missouri, where he guided the department through significant reform.

His induction into the Alumni Hall of Fame honors both his distinguished public service career and his steadfast belief that mentorship transforms lives.

DELRISH MOSS, CITY OF MIRAMAR POLICE CHIEF

G. MÉNDEZ UNIVERSITY’S SAMUEL RIVERA, SHARO NEGRÓN, SYNDIA A. NAZARIO-CARDONA, LIZA ERAZO, JESSY ALLAIN, MARCELA MUNERA, DR. JOSÉ F. MÉNDEZ MÉNDEZ, DRA. EILEEN RODRIGUEZ-DOMENECH, BRENDA PÉREZ, RAFAEL GONZÁLEZ AND CAROLINA VIERA

Sponsors of the 22nd Annual Déjà Vu: Drift Away to Summer were the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood and The Guitar Hotel, Baker Construction, JM Family Enterprises, Publix Supermarket Charities, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, Sixth Star Entertainment, Ana G. Méndez University, Comcast, Miller Construction Company, UKG, Collinson Group, Upchurch Management, Leo Goodwin Foundation, WSVN, Pepsi, GMS Law, City of Miramar, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Franklin Street, SouthState Bank, Rosalind Perlmutter, One Digital, First Southeast Mortgage, Grant Cardone Foundation, Team SCG, Stearns, Weaver and Miller, Norwegian Cruise Lines Holdings Ltd. and Lifestyle Media Group.

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ABOUT BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF BROWARD COUNTY

For more than 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County has offered unprecedented access to resources to empower youth to reach their full potential through meaningful mentoring relationships. These mentoring relationships build selfconfidence and emotional well-being,

encourage young people to stay on a path to graduation and higher education, and help them establish a plan for a successful future. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County is to ignite the power and promise of youth. For more information, visit bbbsbroward.org.

Pardon Our Progress: Investing In Weston’s Future

If you’ve noticed construction cones, fresh pavement, or park improvements popping up around Weston lately, you’re not alone. While temporary disruptions can be inconvenient, they’re also a visible sign of something important: continued investment in the quality, safety, and longevity of our community.

Through its Capital Improvement Program (CIP), the City of Weston is making strategic upgrades to roadways, parks, and public spaces across the City. These projects are designed not just to maintain what we have, but to enhance how residents move, play, and connect every day.

Here’s a look at just a few of the projects currently underway or recently completed.

WESTON ROAD CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENTS

One of Weston’s major thoroughfares is getting a comprehensive refresh. Stretching from Indian Trace to Griffin Road, the Weston Road Corridor Improvements project focuses on both function and safety.

The work includes resurfacing the roadway,

improving drainage, upgrading sidewalks, and adding accessible curb ramps at intersections. New pavement markings and enhancements to bicycle lanes are also part of the plan, along with landscaping improvements that maintain Weston’s signature aesthetic.

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Beyond the visible upgrades, this project “resets the life cycle” of the roadway, helping ensure smoother travel and safer conditions for years to come.

INDIAN TRACE ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS

A key east-west corridor, Indian Trace, is also receiving significant attention. This project extends from Saddle Club Road east to the City limits at I-75 and addresses both current needs and future resilience.

Improvements include roadway resurfacing, enhanced drainage to reduce standing water after heavy rains, and the addition of 7-foot buffered bike lanes to improve cyclist safety. The project also incorporates accessibility upgrades such as curb ramps and sidewalks, along with new features like a designated crossing guard parking area at a busy intersection. These small but meaningful improvements support daily life in Weston.

GATOR RUN PARK ENHANCEMENTS

Weston’s commitment to quality of life extends beyond roadways and into its parks. At Gator Run Park, families are already enjoying a newly upgraded playground designed with both fun and safety in

mind. The current improvements include additional parking and multi-use courts.

WINDMILL RANCH PARK IMPROVEMENTS

Another exciting park project is underway at Windmill Ranch Park, where enhancements focus on revitalizing and elevating one of Weston’s underutilized green spaces.

The transformation will be dramatic. New amenities will include an accessible playground and shade canopy, sand court for beach volleyball and tennis, a multicourt for basketball and pickleball, a Bankshot family basketball area, exercise equipment, a shaded picnic area, a walking path,

WINDMILL RANCH PARK RENDERING

dedicated parking and restrooms.

BUILDING TODAY FOR TOMORROW

Capital Improvement Projects are more than construction zones; they are long-term investments in Weston’s infrastructure, safety, and quality of life. Whether it’s smoother roads, safer bike lanes, or upgraded parks, each project reflects a commitment to maintaining the high standards residents expect.

So, the next time you see a lane closure or construction crew at work, remember:

progress is happening. The result will be a stronger, safer, and even more vibrant Weston for years to come.

For more details on each of these projects and many more, please visit our Capital Improvement Projects page on the Weston website.

Also, be sure to sign up for Weston’s weekly eNewsletter, Newsday Tuesday, to stay up to date on the latest events, programs, and information in Weston.

When a City Shows Up

THE ROTARY CLUB OF WESTON LEADS AN EPIC DAY OF SERVICE

There are days you mark on a calendar, and days that mark you. May 16th has the potential to be both.

On that Saturday, the Weston YMCA Family Center and Midtown Athletic Club will become the beating heart of a city in motion — as residents, families, and professionals gather for something rarer than entertainment or competition: the act of service.

At the center of it all is The Rotary Club of Weston — proudly partnering with the City of Weston, the Weston YMCA Family Center, Midtown Athletic Club, and Hooters.

A Global Movement. A Local Legacy.

The EPIC Day of Service unites more than 2,500 Rotary clubs and 75,000 volunteers worldwide in

a single day of collective impact. In Weston, that mission is backed by nearly 40 years of credibility. Since 1986, the Rotary Club of Weston has awarded over $3 million in scholarships, contributed hundreds of thousands to local charities, and built a network of more than 28 community partners, all guided by one motto: Service Above Self.

One Day. Multiple Missions. May 16th is packed with opportunities to give, act, and connect:

Rise Against Hunger (Weston YMCA Family Center) Join volunteers in a high-energy, assembly-line meal-packing event where together we will pack 20,000 nutritious meals destined for families facing hunger around the world. Fast-paced, deeply rewarding, and unforgettable — this is service you can feel. Spaces are limited and advance registration is required. See contact information on page 30.

OneBlood Drive (Multiple locations throughout the day) One hour of your time and

a donation of blood, could save up to three lives. Visit any of our OneBlood Drive locations, roll up your sleeve, and make your donation count. No special skills needed, only heart.

Community Donation Drive (Weston YMCA & Midtown Athletic Club) Bring what you can. We gladly accept gently used clothing, shoes, books, diapers, wheelchairs, and new socks and underwear.

Every item collected is distributed through our 28 charitable partner organizations directly to those who need it most.

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Hooters Friendraiser (All day)

Dine with purpose. Present your receipt and 20% goes directly to The Rotary Club of Weston Scholarship Fund — fueling the next generation of leaders right here in our community.

Ready to Do More?

If May 16th moves you, and it will, know that this is

only a glimpse of what The Rotary Club of Weston does every single week. We are professionals, leaders, and neighbors who believe that service is not a moment; it is a way of life.

We meet every Thursday morning at 7:15 AM at the Club at Weston Hills. Come as a guest. Come curious. Come ready to be part

of something bigger than yourself.

To register, donate, or learn more, visit www. westonrotary.com or contact rcwcommunityservice@ gmail.com.

The table is set. The meals need packing. The community is waiting. Will you show up?

South Dade Schools Bring Everglades

Learning to Life Year-Round

HOW LOCAL CLASSROOMS ARE TURNING THE

“RIVER

OF GRASS” INTO A LIVING STEM LESSON

In South Miami-Dade, where the Everglades is not a distant concept but a neighbor, students are learning that one of the world’s most unique ecosystems begins practically in their backyard. From early learners to graduating seniors, local classrooms are exploring how water moves, why wildlife thrives, and what restoration means for the place they call home through education programs designed to build real Everglades knowledge and a lifelong sense of stewardship.

The Everglades is a vast, complex landscape of winding waterways, wildlife, and plant life that sustains South Florida. But decades of development and disrupted water flow have

strained the ecosystem, making education a critical part of protecting it for the future. The Everglades Foundation works to restore and protect this wetland through science, advocacy, and education, and for thousands of students each year, the “education” piece is where the story becomes personal.

A CURRICULUM BUILT FOR TEACHERS, AND FOR COMMUNITIES LIKE OURS

At the center of The Everglades Foundation’s education work is the

Everglades Literacy Program, a STEM-based initiative launched in 2014 that offers a free PreK–12 curriculum designed to immerse students in the Everglades ecosystem. Developed by educators for educators, it aligns with Florida state standards and integrates multiple subjects, making it flexible for different ages and learning styles.

That flexibility is part of what makes it a natural fit for South MiamiDade schools. Here, the connection isn’t abstract; students can see the region’s canals, wetlands, coastal

waters, and wildlife corridors as pieces of the same watershed. The curriculum helps them explore topics like biodiversity, water quality, and ecosystem restoration, not as faraway science, but as local reality.

Over the past decade, the Everglades Literacy Program has expanded significantly across Florida, reaching more than 9,000 teachers in 1,400 schools across 32 counties, and engaging more than 312,000 students.

“Across Florida, students are learning that the Everglades isn’t just a beautiful place; it’s a critical resource that supports our water, our wildlife, and our way of life,” said The

Everglades Foundation’s VP of Education Jennifer Diaz. “When young people understand how this ecosystem works and why it matters, they’re more prepared to protect it and lead Florida’s future.”

In a region as close to the Everglades as South Dade, that proximity matters. In Miami-Dade County, more than 2,500 teachers from 260 schools have been

trained in the Everglades Literacy Program, with 360 of those teachers from South Dade. Many schools in the southern part of Miami-Dade have made Everglades literacy a yearround priority supporting how students understand science, problem-solving, and civic responsibility.

One outstanding PreK–5 Everglades Champion School in South Dade, Vineland K-8 Center, hosted a school-wide Everglades Day celebration on April 7, 2025. The vibrant event brought the entire school community together as students from every grade level led to engaging, Everglades-themed activities for their peers.

continued on page 34

Another excellent example of Everglades leadership is BioTECH at Richmond Heights Senior High. An Everglades Champions in Action School, BioTECH is demonstrating powerful student leadership by collaborating with Miami-Dade County’s Environmental Endangered Lands to conserve land in South Florida as critical habitat for the endangered Florida bonneted bat.

FROM THE WETLANDS TO THE CLASSROOM: SUPPORTING THE PEOPLE WHO TEACH

Ask any educator and you’ll hear it: The strongest programs don’t just inspire students, they also support teachers. That’s why The Everglades Foundation

offers free teacher trainings and an annual symposium, giving educators practical strategies and resources to bring Everglades literacy into everyday instruction.

Teachers can also tap into the Everglades Literacy Teacher Toolkit, an online hub filled with PreK–12 lesson plans and other instructional resources. With these ready-to-use materials, educators can turn complex Everglades science

into learning that feels clear and engaging. They also help students connect classroom lessons to real environmental challenges and see how science, advocacy, and action work together.

LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

In 2023, The Everglades Foundation expanded its education offerings with Everglades EcoQuest, a web-based platform that turns Everglades learning into interactive exploration. Supported by Florida Power & Light Company, EcoQuest helps students understand habitats, plants, wildlife, and the importance of ecosystem restoration. Through games and challenges, students can

earn badges and move through adventures across the watershed, encountering species such as alligators, manatees, and largemouth bass. It’s the kind of learning that meets today’s students where they are – digital, curious, and motivated by discovery.

TURNING KNOWLEDGE INTO STEWARDSHIP: SCHOOLS AND STUDENT LEADERS

Education is powerful, but action is what turns learning into lasting impact. The Everglades Foundation extends its education work through programs that engage students and schools in leadership and stewardship.

One of those is the

Everglades Champion Schools program, which helps schools integrate Everglades literacy into daily learning through lessons, student-led projects, and field experiences, building a campus culture of environmental responsibility. Schools showing exceptional commitment can be recognized as Champion Schools, and participating teachers can apply for mini-grants to support field studies, habitat restoration, and hands-on initiatives.

ENGAGING FAMILIES— AND THE FUTURE SCIENTISTS AMONG US

Everglades education doesn’t stop at the school doors. The Foundation also reaches households through Families ForEverglades, a

series of virtual programs that invite families into ongoing conversations about endangered species, invasive plants, and conservation. Designed as virtual family night sessions, the program aims to spark curiosity and strengthen everyday connections to the natural world around us.

South Miami-Dade sits at the doorstep of one of the planet’s most extraordinary ecosystems. That proximity is both a gift and a responsibility. When local students learn how the Everglades works, they’re not just studying a landscape; they’re learning about the natural system that shapes Florida’s future.

That’s why Everglades education resonates so strongly here: It connects students to place, to science, to community, and to the idea that protecting the Everglades is not someone else’s job, it’s part of our shared story.

To learn more about The Everglades Foundation and its education programs, visit evergladesliteracy.org