Pembroke Pines

By Mayor Frank C. Ortis

t a recent Commission Meeting I announced that I will not be seeking re-election in March 2024. I have had the honor and privilege of being the Mayor of this great City of Pembroke Pines for 19 years, preceded by 8 years serving as a Commissioner. This was a difficult decision because I love being your Mayor, but the time has come. For now, I am here, as your Mayor, and loving every minute of it. This is not a goodbye. There is still much work to be done and I am dedicated to doing the best job possible for all residents.

Now back to business, we have an exciting 4th of July Celebration planned for you. On July 4th from 6 pm to 9 pm, please join us at the Pines Recreation Center Festival Grounds, located at 7400 Pines Blvd., we will have rides, live musical entertainment, food trucks and of course, the

Aspectacular fireworks display that will begin at 9 pm. Please remember to bring blankets or lawn chairs, but no pets, coolers, or personal fireworks. For more information, please check our website at www.ppines.com. This celebration is free and open to all ages.

As we are in the midst of our hot summer months, the City of Pembroke Pines Recreation and Cultural Arts Department is once again providing a Summer Family Film Fest now through August 5, 2023. The movies, rated G and PG, begin promptly at 10 am, are free, and no tickets or reservations are required. They are shown at the Susan B. Katz Theater, located at 17195 Sheridan Street. Food, drinks, and pets are not permitted. For a full list of movies, please visit our website.

Let’s all remain swim safe this year. The City offers swimming lessons for people of all ages at the Towngate Pool located at 901 NW 155 Ave. Preregistration is required, and classes are limited to eight students. It’s so import- ant to learn how to swim and to also be aware of swim safety measures. Please call the Towngate office at 954-4506895 for more information.

And, I’d like to end with one of the most fun events we have all year – the Mayor’s Play Ball event. Each year it’s held in conjunction with the United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) and Major League Baseball. This year it will be held on July 14, 2023 from 10 am to noon at Flamingo Park located at 1900 NW 122 Terrace. This event is free and features fun activities, music, and food. There will be a Pitch, Hit, Run Competition with separate age divisions for Beginners and Advanced players. Boys and girls ages 7 to 14 will be given the option of using baseball or softball equipment. For more information, please call 954-392-2116.

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