Finally, these 3 Republicans, 2 Democrats, 2 Independents and 1 Socialist can all agree on one thing.
The best Senior Living in Weston.
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The five-star amenities of a posh resort, fine dining, and the attentive services of a well-trained staff – all at your fingertips. It’s also the only one rated “the best” by Fortune, Gallup and U.S. News & World Report, year after year.
Visit our beautiful community today for a personal tour.
Terry Jaillet, Jon Duka, Dr. John Goodner, D.P.M. Mayor Angelo Castillo, Patty Archer, Rose Sklar, Valentina Valderama
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Adopt a Pet Transform Their Life & Yours
Owning a pet can bring a wealth of benefits to your life, both physically and mentally. Research consistently shows that pet ownership can improve cardiovascular health, particularly of dogs and cats. Pet owners often have lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, reducing heart disease risk. Studies have also highlighted that dog owners tend to live longer after a heart attack than those without pets.
Beyond physical health, pets play a vital role in mental well-being. The companionship they offer helps alleviate feelings of loneliness and anxiety. Simply petting a dog or cat can trigger the release of endorphins, lifting your mood and reducing stress. This is especially important for older adults, as pets can provide a sense of purpose and structure, helping maintain cognitive function and mental sharpness.
Pets are also catalysts for a more active lifestyle. Dog owners, in particular, tend to lead more active lives through regular walks and playtime, which in turn contributes to better overall health. For children, growing up with pets has been linked to stronger immune systems and a reduced risk of developing allergies, owing to early exposure to a variety of microbes.
However, despite these numerous benefits, many animals still need a loving home. In the United States alone, an estimated 670,000 dogs are euthanized each year due to overcrowded shelters. Globally, millions of pets face similar fates.
Adopting a pet is not just a life-changing decision for you, but also a life-saving one for them. By opening your home to a pet, you’re not only gaining a loyal companion but also giving an animal the chance for a happy, fulfilling life. Consider adoption today—for their sake, and for yours. Visit the Humane Society of Broward County to
Yul Lopez, APRN
Hector Fabregas, MD
Jose Luna, APRN
Yuliett Collazo, APRN
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September 2024 Calendar
SEPTEMBER 2
Labor Day
Labor Day is a commemoration of the American labor movement and the invaluable contributions made by laborers to the growth and success of the United States. In 1894, President Grover Cleveland officially established this holiday by signing it into law. It serves as a significant milestone, signaling the end of summer and the start of the new school year. In South Florida, where the weather becomes more temperate, Labor Day offers a wonderful opportunity to gather with loved ones and friends, making it a perfect time for bonding and enjoying each other's company.
SEPTEMBER 7
Ortis Art Gallery Family Day
Join the Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery from 11AM to 1 PM to enjoy a day of art with the whole family! At 11:15AM enjoy a story reading. Anytime between 11AM and 1PM, complete a scavenger hunt based on our current exhibition. Enjoy a drop-in, self-led art activity. For all ages and families. Free and all materials provided. Hosted at Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery, 601 City Center Way. For more info, scan the QR code.
SEPTEMBER 8
Summer Symphony Series
The City of Pembroke Pines presents the Summer Symphony Series with members of the South Florida Symphony Orchestra for fun concerts for all ages, with a mix of lively pops, Broadway hits and contemporary melodies! Admission is free and registration is not required. For more information, call 954392-2122. 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm at the River of Grass ArtsPark, 17195 Sheridan Street.
SEPTEMBER 11
Miramar Sept 11th Ceremony
All are invited to Miramar’s 9/11 & Veterans Memorial at 8:00 a.m. for a somber reminder of those who lost their lives on 9/11 and all the first responders and veterans before and since. The event starts at 8:00 a.m. at Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway. For more info, call 954-602-3178.
SEPTEMBER 11
Patriot Day / Remembrance Day
Join people around the nation in honoring and remembering the victims, their families, first responders, and rescue and recovery workers who answered the call in the aftermath of the attacks of 9/11. We will never forget!
September 2024 Calendar
SEPTEMBER 12
‘The Crossing’ Opening Reception
Join the City of Pembroke Pines and The Frank for the Opening Reception of ‘The Crossings: A Global Movement Experience’. This exhibition by dancer and choreographer Damaris Ferrer explores the movement’s role in global narratives. Featuring a 20-foot skirt that traveled across 16 locations, it captures diverse cultural expressions. 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm at The Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery, 601 City Center Way. For more info, scan the QR code.
SEPTEMBER 14
Sesame Street Live
Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Cookie Monster, and their friends from Sesame Street are coming to your neighborhood to say hello! At Sesame Street Live! Say Hello, sing, dance, and play alongside your favorite furry friends, all while you follow Elmo’s puppy, Tango, in a fun game of hide & seek. So put on your dancing shoes and make your way to where the air is sweet for this all-new celebration on Sesame Street! Two shows will be held at the Coral Springs Center for the Arts. Scan the QR code for info or tickets.
SEPTEMBER
14
Caribbean Dance Class
Celebrate the culture, sounds, and movement of island culture at this FREE monthly class led by Tailored Fitness. Coach Kam will be joined by Mayor Messam as he leads the group in Soca Step. 7:00 pm8:00 pm at Miramar Town Center. For more info, call 954-350-0031.
SEPTEMBER 21
Touch a Truck
Who wants to jump in the driver’s seat?
Join the City of Pembroke Pines for the Touch-A-Truck Vehicle Expo from 10 AM –12 PM. This event will allow children to not only sit in the driver’s seat, but EXPLORE, CLIMB and of course, TOUCH! All trucks, emergency response vehicles, and heavy machinery. Children of all ages will be able to meet the personnel who serve our community as well as protect it. For additional information, contact the Special Events office at 954-392-2116. Hosted at The Charles F. Dodge City Center, 601 City Center Way.
SEPTEMBER 21
Miramar Latin Music Festival
Join your neighbors and Commissioner Yvette Colbourne at this FREE annual celebration. The list of participating musicians grows every day and includes Hermanos Rosario, Adoloscentes Orquesta and many more. 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm at the Amphitheater at Miramar Regional Park. For more info call 954-602-3178.
SEPTEMBER 27
Out of the Darkness Walk
The Broward Out of the Darkness Walk gives people the courage to open up about their own connections to suicide and provides a platform to create a culture that’s smarter about mental health. Friends, family members, neighbors, and coworkers walk side-by-side, supporting each other and in memory of those they’ve lost. Let’s come together as a community to honor those we have lost, support those who are struggling, and work towards a brighter future. Scan the QR code to learn more or register.
GCommuting to Doral/MIA is as Easy as 1–2–3
75 Express Coach Offers Comfortable, Daily, Direct Service
etting from Western Broward County to the Doral area and MIA is a breeze with the new 75 Express Coach. Thousands of commuters already enjoy relaxing in the coach-style buses on their way to work in Downtown Miami. Great news! This popular service is expanding to serve commuters traveling to the Doral area and MIA. The 75 Express offers direct travel from the NEW Miramar Park & Ride and gets you to your destination quickly via the express lanes.
Fast, Comfortable, and Convenient
The 75 Express Coach is ideal for riders who own cars but prefer the convenience, comfort, and cost savings of commuting by coach. One-way fares are as low as $2.25! The coaches offer free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, charging stations, and comfortable seating. They travel in the express lanes for faster, more reliable travel times. Plus, parking at the Miramar Park & Ride is FREE!
Commuters can also rest assured knowing life’s little emergencies won’t disrupt their day thanks to the Guaranteed Ride Home program. This convenient program covers the cost of an Uber or Lyft if the Express Coach is unavailable and you must leave work early for an emergency or stay late for unexpected overtime.
A Better Way to Commute
This premium transit service is designed to get Western Broward County residents to their workplaces in Doral and MIA quickly, comfortably, and reliably. The coaches run in the morning to get you to work and in the evening to get you back home. The express lanes on I-75 are designed to reduce congestion and offer residents more commuting options. Instead of just driving to and from work every day, Express Coach riders can choose to relax, enjoy the ride, and save time traveling in the express lanes for the low express coach fare.
South Florida Express Coaches are funded by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), operated by Broward County Transit, and consistently receives rave reviews.
Try It FREE For a Week!
Scan the QR code below or visit ExpressCoach.org.
“One City at a Time” Rolls into Miramar Mobile Health Centers Bring Resources and Services to Underserved Communities
Memorial Healthcare System’s “One City at a Time” program is now active in the City of Miramar. Designed to bring essential health resources and services to south Broward residents, this initiative operates through mobile units that will be stationed at various community locations three times a week throughout September. All services are provided free of charge, ensuring that those who are uninsured or underinsured have access to crucial healthcare.
The program features pediatric and adult mobile health centers that aim to enhance health outcomes by eliminating barriers to care. By facilitating easy access to medical services, the program helps prevent or manage chronic conditions before they escalate. This initiative underscores Memorial Primary Care’s dedication to proactive health measures and community well-being.
Vedner Guerrier, Memorial Healthcare System’s chief transformation officer, emphasizes the importance of accessibility: “We know that not having easy access to care is one of the social determinants that impact
a person’s overall health. That’s why we’ve made the commitment to have our mobile units on-site at community locations to make it easier for people to care for themselves and their families.”
For the month of September, Memorial’s mobile teams will be available at the following Miramar locations without the need for appointments:
• Wednesdays (10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.) –Lakeshore Park (8501 South Sherman Circle)
• Thursdays (9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.) – Vernon E. Hargray Youth Enrichment Center (7000 Miramar Parkway)
The range of services offered includes medical exams and screenings, vaccinations, nutritional counseling, information on Medicaid eligibility and insurance enrollment, referrals to social services and specialists, and access to primary care physicians.
Memorial Primary Care, a branch of
Memorial Healthcare System, is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate, patient-centered care. Its extensive network throughout South Florida ensures that healthcare professionals can meet individual needs in a friendly and culturally sensitive environment.
For over 70 years, Memorial Healthcare System has been a national leader in delivering quality care with a focus on patient, physician, and employee satisfaction. The system’s commitment to deeper caring and smarter health is evident through its collaborative, innovative, and transparent approach, serving nearly 17,000 staff members and operating multiple healthcare facilities across the region.
Broward County has reached a remarkable milestone, earning an "A" school rating—a clear reflection of the collective efforts of the entire community. This success underscores the county’s dedication to education and promises a brighter future for its residents, with enhanced real estate values and a robust local economy.
The leadership of the recently retired Superintendent Dr. Peter Licata was pivotal in achieving this success. Together with Deputy Superintendent Hepburn, now the new superintendent, they laid the groundwork for an environment where both students and educators could excel
CELEBRATING BROWARD COUNTY’S ACHIEVEMENT “A” School Rating Success A+
through their strategic vision and hard work.
In light of this accomplishment, Mr. Hepburn, now the Superintendent, praised the unwavering commitment of the dedicated staff who made this achievement possible. “This is a proud moment for all of us,” Hepburn remarked.
“Amazing work by our staff, amazing work by our teachers, our principals, our custodians, our bus drivers, our cafeteria workers, our clerical staff. I can go on and on and on,” he said.
He also thanked the nearly 260,000 students who attend the district’s
public schools every day.
“Thanks to our students and our families. They really took charge of their kids’ education. Our students took charge of their own education,” said Hepburn.
Hepburn also highlighted the broader implications of this achievement, particularly its impact on the community at large. He pointed out that a high-performing school district significantly boosts real estate values and attracts families seeking quality education and a vibrant community.
“This 'A' rating enhances Broward County’s appeal as a destination for families looking for a great place to raise their children. It’s a
testament to our collective efforts and a foundation for future growth,” Hepburn noted.
Broward County’s success story is one of community collaboration, where teachers, parents, and local leaders unite to prioritize education. This joint effort has positioned the county as a leader in educational excellence, setting a benchmark for other districts.
As Broward County basks in this achievement, the community looks forward to continued progress under Hepburn’s leadership, ensuring that the county remains a great place to live, learn, and grow.
METAL DETECTORS ROLLED OUT AT BCPS HIGH SCHOOLS
Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) experienced some growing pains after metal detectors were installed at BCPS high schools for the 2024 school year. Students and visitors entering BCPS high schools must pass through metal detectors monitored by security personnel and school staff. The program's launch on the first day of school led to TSA-like lines and anxious teens. Reports from local schools suggest some of the challenges have been mitigated.
The metal detector initiative is part of a broader system-wide security initiative implemented by the county’s revamped school board.
School Entry Process
Students can carry their backpacks or bags and will not need to empty pockets or remove shoes, cellphones, keys, metal on clothes, or belts, as those items will not alert the system. Some items will result in an alert and must be placed on adjacent tables to be screened by security staff. These include laptops, large eyeglass cases, musical instruments, umbrellas, and 3-ring binders. Once students are cleared for entry, these items can
be collected.
Students who alert the system when passing through the metal detectors will be screened separately. School staff will be available to support them during this process. Special accommodations will be available for students with disabilities. Parents and guardians should contact the school’s administration for details.
Questionable Impact on Safety
Research on the use of metal detectors in U.S. high schools reveals mixed findings regarding their effectiveness and impact on school safety and student well-being.
Metal detectors can indeed help confiscate weapons, thereby potentially reducing the immediate risk of violence. For instance, in New York City schools, a significant number of weapons, including firearms, stun guns, and knives , have been confiscated using metal detectors. However, according to a RAND Corporation analysis, metal detectors alone do not guarantee reduced violence or threats
The implementation of metal detectors can affect students' perceptions of safety. Some studies indicate that
metal detectors might contribute to a heightened sense of fear and a feeling of being criminalized among students. This is particularly pronounced in urban schools, although the negative impact on students' sense of safety is somewhat less than in suburban or rural schools (IES.gov)
A study from the Education Trust suggests constant exposure to security measures like metal detectors may contribute to an environment of distrust and anxiety. This can potentially undermine the relationship between students and school staff, negatively impacting the overall school climate.
The Education Trust argues that resources might be better allocated towards other safety measures and supportive services that foster a positive school environment. These include improved mental health services, equitable discipline policies, and enhanced teacher-student relationships.
For more info on Broward County’s metal detectors scan the QR code.
APPLY TO BE FEATURED IN THE 26TH ANNUAL Art & Music Fest in the Pines
The City of Pembroke Pines invites you to apply to the 26th Annual Art & Music Fest in the Pines held at the Charles F. Dodge City Center, 601 City Center Way, on Saturday, November 2 from 11AM to 8PM and Sunday, November 3, from 12PM to 5PM.
Pembroke Pines is known for its commitment to the arts and culture, its outstanding schools, cultural diversity, numerous parks and forward-thinking in an ever-changing world.
The city's iconic event Artfest has been rebranded to celebrate its 26th anniversary and the diversity in the local community. Art & Music Fest in the Pines is a two-day art and music celebration free to the public that will attract people from the local and surrounding communities.
Larissa Meek’s ‘Guardian of the Ethereal Garden’ was chosen as the poster winner at the 19th Annual Art Competition and will be featured at The 26th Annual Art & Music Festival!
Larissa Meek is a multi-talented creative professional, blending her expertise as an artist, UX advocate, and digital design executive. She has been a resident of Pembroke Pines for 10 years and is also a dedicated mom and wife, continuously pushing the boundaries of creativity and design in both her personal and professional life..
The 26th Annual Art & Music Fest in the Pines features:
• Talented artists from all over the country
• Live performances and diverse musical entertainment
• A variety of food trucks
• Family-friendly immersive activities
• Live hands-on art demonstrations
• A student art competition
• A kids' art and game zone
• Workshops at The Frank Art Gallery
Artists will be judged for Best in Show and Best in Category competition, with the opportunity to win up to $4,850 in cash prizes! Additionally, these winners are automatically invited to participate in next year's event. Applications will be accepted until Wednesday, October 25th. The jury process is on an ongoing rolling basis during the application period. Artists will receive acceptance invitations via e-mail and will be required to purchase their booth space after acceptance. Jury and Booth Fees are non-refundable. Artists submitting applications for multiple mediums must fill out an application and pay the jury fee for each medium submitted.
▸ If interested in becoming a sponsor, call 954-392-2122. Scan the QR code to learn more or apply.
Yah Mon! Miramar Celebrates Jamaica Emancipendence Ole Time Fair!
Miramar's “Jamaica Emancipendence
Ole Time Fair” was a vibrant celebration of Jamaica’s rich history and culture, honoring the nation’s Independence and Emancipation from British rule. On Saturday, August 3, 2024, the picturesque Miramar Regional Park Amphitheater in Florida became a lively hub of Jamaican traditions and festivities.
Music, the heartbeat of Jamaican culture, filled the air throughout the day. The amphitheater pulsed with the powerful rhythms and melodies of legendary Jamaican reggae artists. Gyptian’s soulful voice, Bushman’s
classic reggae beats, Leroy Sibbles’ timeless songs, Gem Myers’ passionate performances, and Frisco Kid’s energetic tunes kept the atmosphere electric. The crowd, ranging from the young to the elderly, couldn’t resist dancing, embodying the joy and freedom that the event celebrated.
Food stalls offered a culinary journey to Jamaica, tempting attendees with the irresistible aromas of authentic dishes. From spicy jerk chicken to flavorful curry goat, the food transported taste buds straight to the island. Nearby, a bustling farmers market added another layer to the event, offering lessons in beginner gardening and sustainable practices like composting. This combination of entertainment and education ensured that the fair catered to all interests.
Children were also at the heart of the festivities, with a dedicated kids’ zone brimming with excitement. Water activities provided a refreshing escape from the heat, while bounce houses were filled with laughter and energy. Talented face painters added a colorful touch, decorating children’s faces
with vibrant designs, including the colors of the Jamaican flag and favorite animals. More than just a celebration, the fair was an immersive experience, offering a deep dive into Jamaica’s history and culture. Attendees left not only with memories of a day filled with joy and entertainment but also with a renewed appreciation for Jamaica’s resilient spirit and rich cultural heritage.
SEPTEMBER SENATE UPDATE
By Senator Lauren Book
Dear Friends and Neighbors, As we approach the peak of hurricane season and prepare for the upcoming General Election, I want to ensure you have the essential information to stay safe and exercise your right to vote.
Storm Prep: Be Ready and Stay Safe
With hurricane season in full swing, it's crucial to be prepared. Here are some key steps to ensure you and your family are ready:
• Create an Emergency Plan: Ensure all family members know the plan and have a designated meeting place. Remember to consider your pets, too.
• Build an Emergency Kit: Stock up on essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, batteries, and important documents.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local weather updates and have a reliable method to receive emergency alerts.
• Secure Your Home: Check your home for vulnerabilities. Secure windows, doors, and outdoor objects that could become projectiles. Get sandbags if needed to help mitigate flooding.
• Know Your Evacuation Route: Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and shelters. Remember, in many cases, you don’t have to go far to be kept safe.
For more detailed information, visit www.broward.org/Hurricane/. Vote-by-Mail: New Requirements and How to Ensure Your Vote Counts
Do you prefer to vote by mail? A new Florida law now requires voters to request a vote-by-mail ballot after each general election. If you have not yet requested a mail ballot for the 2024 election, you need to do so to ensure you can vote by mail.
Important Steps:
Request Your Mail Ballot: If you requested a new mail ballot after November 2022, you are all set for the 2024 election. If not, contact your county’s Supervisor of Elections to request a vote-by-mail ballot.
Broward County Residents: Visit www.BrowardVotes.gov or call 954-357-8683 to request your ballot. The General Election is on November 5, 2024.
It is my greatest honor and responsibility to serve as your Senator. My staff and I are always here to help with any questions or concerns you may have. If you need assistance, please reach out to me at book.lauren.web@flsenate.gov or (954) 424-6674.
I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for placing your trust in me.
Always at your service,
Lauren Book
Florida Senate Democratic Leader
District 35, West Broward County
Pembroke Pines UPDATE
By Mayor Angelo Castillo
Dear Friends:
Why are building permits important? By applying for a permit before certain improvements to your home you assure yourself and your neighbors of safety and avoid situations like improvement failures and potential fires should your improve ments not comply with the State Building Code. Inspections are conducted to protect your interest and that’s why permits are legally required.
It’s important to know that building permits are required to construct, enlarge, alter, move, remove, or demolish, any building, structure or any part thereof. Typical household projects which require a building permit include, but are not limited to, the following work: Installation of pools, screen enclosures, sheds, fences, carports, driveways, patios, plumbing (new and existing), electrical (new and existing), water heaters, toilets or replacement of Air Conditioning units. Exterior home repairs such as the replacement of windows, doors, siding, or a new roof require building permits as well. All of them require a city building permit before work begins.
Please note that obtaining a building permit is the first step required to start work on a project. Following the permit process allows experienced personnel to ensure a project meets the established code and safety requirements. It also provides peace of mind for homeowners, as licenses and insurance are verified for the selected contractor before work begins. While the work is being done, a building permit guarantees oversight of the contractor’s work while following the Florida Building Code.
Working without a permit may result in code violations or potential fines. Trying to obtain an after-the-fact building permit may be challenging and could result in increased permit fees. Failure to attain proper building permits may also impact insurance coverage for your home and ultimately affect the ability for you to sell your home in the future. Lately, the City of Pembroke Pines has seen an increase in residential projects completed without building permits and is concerned about this trend.
The City of Pembroke Pines Building Department enforces the Florida Building Code, 7th Edition (2020) and related regulations. A permit is typically not required for general maintenance of a home such as painting or resurfacing a floor. If there are any doubts as to whether a permit might be required for work within your home, please contact the City of Pembroke Pines Building Department at 954-435-6502 before you begin the job or visit: https://www.ppines.com/164/Building -Department.
Very Sincerely Yours,
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office at 954-450-1020, or email me at acastillo@ppines.com.
A BOOK BY JOHN A. BRODIE
Greetings From Your Chamber President!
By Patty Archer
As the back-to-school season approaches, our community has a special chance to make a meaningful impact—both on our local economy and the educational experiences of our children. While the ease of shopping at big-box stores or online retailers is tempting, we mustn’t forget the crucial role that our local businesses play in sustaining our community.
Choosing to shop at local stores for your back-to-school needs does more than just help you prepare for the school year. It’s an investment in the well-being and future of our community. Local businesses are the backbone of our local economy, providing jobs and generating tax revenue that funds essential public services. They also offer something you can’t get from a big retailer: personalized service and a genuine connection to our community. These are the businesses that sponsor our youth sports teams, school events, and neighborhood activities.
By opting to support local businesses, you’re contributing to a positive cycle of economic growth. The money spent locally stays within the community, allowing other businesses to flourish and enhancing the vibrancy of Miramar, Pembroke Pines, and surrounding areas.
So, as you shop for school supplies, clothing, and gear, remember the impact of your choices. Let’s keep our dollars close to home, support the businesses that have always supported us, and help ensure a bright future for our community and its students.
Now and in the future, the Chamber is dedicated to being a Convener of Leaders, a Catalyst for positive change, and a Champion for a strong business community. For more information and our event calendar, visit www.miramarpembrokepines.org.
Yours in Service,
Patty Archer
Chamber President
Meet Marbles! She’s the Princess of our home and one of our greatest blessings. Marbles has a special bond with “Buela” and takes care of all of us with her sweet nature. It feels like she’s always been part of our family. She loves long walks, chasing lizards in the yard, and sniffing out friends on her morning and afternoon strolls.
STANDING UP FOR MIRAMAR: A COMMUNITY UNITED
As Mayor of Miramar, my foremost responsibility is to safeguard the well-being and interests of our residents. This September, we face a significant challenge that underscores the importance of community solidarity and vigilance. The Miami-Dade Commission, it is alleged, is pushing forward with a vote on September 4th, 2024, to build an incinerator just 0.8 miles from West Miramar, near the Airport West area. This proposed site poses a direct threat to the health of our residents, the surrounding environment, and the wildlife that calls this area home.
What is most concerning is the Miami-Dade Commission’s lack of engagement with the cities that will be affected by this decision. Despite the profound impact this project could have, the Commission has chosen not to meet with any of the cities involved, showing disregard for the voices of those who will bear the brunt of this decision. We have made it clear that Miramar is prepared to take legal action to protect our community, and we will not stand idly by while decisions are made without our input.
Commitment to Community
As we prepare to challenge the incinerator project, I want to reassure you that our commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Miramar remains unwavering.
By Mayor Wayne Messam
Throughout my tenure, I have focused on building a city that not only inspires pride but also fosters a strong sense of belonging. We take immense pride in the rich diversity that defines South Florida, and especially our vibrant Miramar. Recently, we celebrated Jamaican and Caribbean Heritage in August, and now we look forward to my annual reception honoring Hispanic Heritage taking place on October 10th at the Miramar Cultural Center.
Honoring Our Heroes
Each year, we gather at the Miramar 9/11 Memorial site at the Regional Park to honor the victims of September 11th. This solemn event is a reminder of the resilience of our nation and the strength of our community. In addition, our Veterans Memorial at the same location serves as a lasting tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country. These memorials are places of reflection, where we come together to pay our respects and ensure that the sacrifices made are never forgotten. I invite all residents to join us for these important commemorations.
Health, Wellness & Civic Engagement
In addition to our ongoing efforts to safeguard our community from external threats, we continue to promote health and wellness through a variety of initiatives. Our parks and green spaces are hubs
for healthy living. From running trails and bike paths to pickleball courts, Doggie Park, Soca, and yoga sessions, our parks offer something for everyone. These amenities are designed to keep our families healthy, active, and connected, and I encourage all residents and visitors to take full advantage of them.
As election season approaches, I want to remind you of the power of your vote. Our democratic process is the cornerstone of the America we all strive to live in—a nation where every voice matters. I urge you to exercise your right to vote, as it is through participation that we shape the future of our city and our country.
Looking Ahead
As we prepare for the challenges ahead, I remain confident in the strength and unity of our community. Miramar is a city that stands together in the face of adversity, as demonstrated by the generous response of our residents to the relief efforts for those affected by Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean. I am proud to serve as your mayor, and I am inspired by the compassion and solidarity that define our city. Together, we will continue to advocate for what is right, protect our environment, and ensure that Miramar remains a city where families can thrive.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our community. Let’s stand united, stay engaged, and keep moving forward.
