Pembroke Pines UPDATE

ear Readers, While we may not notice too much here in South Florida, Spring has sprung and it’s a great time to go outside, explore our parks and have fun at the many events planned around the city. While outside, I urge everyone to take a moment before our Florida weather gets too hot to enjoy a bit of relaxing in the shade under the many trees throughout our city, due in large part to our efforts. It’s one of the reasons why Pembroke Pines has once again been named Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation. Each year through a dedicated commitment, we achieve this recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation. We are very proud of our city’s commitment to these goals.

In April we also celebrate Earth Day.

By Frank C. Ortis

DThis year, on April 22nd, Earth Day’s theme is “Invest in Our Planet.” Many of our City’s Master Plans focus on this investment and in improving the quality of life for our residents. And, so I encourage everyone to enjoy our outdoors, our trees and all the city has to offer in activities and programs.

A very popular activity, especially for our younger residents and families is our Annual Egg Hunt. It will take place on Saturday, April 8, 2023, at two locations. More than 54,000 eggs in total will be scattered at Pines Recreation Center, located at 7400 Pines Blvd., and Pembroke Shores Park, located at 501 SW 172 Ave. Gates will open at 9:30 and the egg hunt starts at 10 a.m. Admission at both locations is free. There will also be bounce houses, games, prizes and a visit with the big Bunny himself.

I especially hope to see everyone at our 63rd Annual Pines Day “Birthday Bonanza” on Saturday, April 22, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the Charles F. Dodge City Center, located at 601 City Center Way. In true western-themed fashion, all ages will have fun with free rides, music, games, a Petting Farm, visiting with special character “guests” and learning to lasso with the “Cowgirl Circus” entertainer. There will be food trucks, a Kids Konnection Business Expo, performances, Cupcake Towers and so much more. Please visit www.pinesday.com for all event information or call our Special Events office at 954-392-2116.

And with Spring comes Spring cleaning. You may want to take advantage of the Pembroke Pines Police Department Communities Affairs Unit’s Shred-A-Thon being held on Saturday, April 8th from 9 a.m. to Noon at the Charles F. Dodge City Center. This is open to Pembroke Pines Residents only, with ID. This event allows, up to 5 boxes of paper goods only per car. For additional information please call 954-436-3274.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office at 954-450-1020, or by email at fortis@ppines.com.

Frank C. Ortis