When you fly now, you know it’s extra for everything — that airfare only pretends to be low.
But when a Senior Community offers luxury living for a seemingly-attractive monthly rent, you don’t expect to be Nickel-and-Dimed.
That’s why you’ll never see Nickel-and-Diming at The Palace. Here your monthly rent covers almost everything. Including all your meals, housekeeping, personal trainers, maintenance, and even Happy Hours with drinks and hors d’oeuvres.
You won’t see a long list of extra charges. At The Palace, the price is the price.
Remember when everything about flying was to make you feel special?
That’s how living at The Palace feels today. Call or visit soon to see for yourself.
ART
GRAPHIC
ADVERTISING
A Fresh Start to the New School Year
As summer draws to a close, it’s astonishing how quickly the new school year approaches. This year, Broward County students head back to school earlier than ever, with the first day set for August 12th. As we transition from beach days to school days, it’s time to gather supplies, pick out new lunch boxes, and finish those last-minute summer reading projects. Preparing for school has certainly evolved over the years, becoming more complex with the rise of technology and diverse educational choices.
The era of covering textbooks in brown paper bags is long gone. Today’s students are immersed in a digital world where learning materials are accessed through smartphones, tablets, and Chromebooks. With countless educational apps and online resources, students can explore a wealth of information right at their fingertips.
After-school activities have expanded far beyond traditional sports and music programs. Now, students can delve into coding classes, dual language programs, and much more. Parents, too, have a plethora of educational paths to consider. Alongside conventional public and private schools, options like charter schools, homeschooling, and virtual learning provide families with the flexibility to choose what best fits their needs.
Feeling overwhelmed by back-to-school preparations? Don’t worry—Our City has got you covered. This issue features our extensive Back-to-School Guide, filled with information on the best preschools, private schools, and educational programs in the area. Additionally, we’ve compiled a comprehensive directory of after-school activities, from arts and crafts to YMCA programs, designed to help you plan a successful school year.
While preparing for the upcoming school year, don’t forget to savor the final weeks of summer. Enjoy the sun, create lasting memories, and embrace the freedom of the season. Soon enough, school will be back in session, and a new chapter of learning and growth will begin.
So, take a moment to relax, enjoy the remaining days of summer, and know that you have everything you need to start the school year off right. Here’s to a fantastic and successful new school year!
Christy & Terry Jaillet
OUR CITY MEDIA PUBLISHERS
Yul Lopez, APRN
Hector Fabregas, MD
Jose Luna, APRN
Yuliett Collazo, APRN
1
August 2024 Calendar
AUGUST 2
Jamaica 62nd PreIndependence Day Fete
Experience Jamaica’s sound system culture at the Vernon E. Hargray Youth Enrichment Center. Celebrate at this family-friendly event with great food, drinks and more! 6:00 pm - Midnight at the Vernon Hargray Youth Enrichment Center, 7000 Miramar Parkway. For more info, visit www.miramarfl.gov.
AUGUST 2
Free BBall Fridays
Get on the court every Friday evening at Sunset Lakes Community Center. And Vernon E. Hargray Center. The Courts are open from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm for all to enjoy. For more info, call 954-602-3178.
AUGUST 3
Jamaica Emancipendence Celebration
Join Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam for an afternoon celebration. “Emancipendence” is a portmanteau combining the words “Emancipation” and “Independence,” and it refers to the celebration of both Emancipation Day and Independence Day in Jamaica. This period is marked by significant historical events in the country’s history. 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm at the Amphitheater at Miramar Regional Park. For more info, visit www.MiramarFL.gov.
AUGUST 10
Splash in the Pines
Make a Splash on the last weekend before school starts! Join the City of Pembroke Pines for Splash into Pines. This event features lots of water-themed plays and many surprises. The event will be held at the West Pines Soccer Park located at 350 SW 196 Avenue from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. Enjoy water slides, water games and lots of give-a-ways to help splash back to school. Don’t forget your towels and appetite. Food trucks and refreshments will be available for purchase. For more info, contact the Special Events Office at 954-392-2116.
AUGUST 12
First Day of School
Broward County Public School students are heading back to school! Early in the morning, kids will be on the roads and waiting at bus stops. Please drive with caution and remember to slow down in school zones. Good luck to all our students from everyone at Our City Media!
AUGUST
13
Passport Service Walk-In Day
Get express service for your U.S. Passport at Miramar City Hall. All applicants who sign in before noon will be seen. Processing begins at 9:00 am. Be sure to bring your valid photo ID, original proof of citizenship, a passport photo (or applicable fee for one to be taken), and a personal check or money order. For more info, call 954-602-3178.
AUGUST 18
Summer Symphony Series l
Experience the magic of music with the City of Pembroke Pines’ Summer Symphony Series! Join us for fun concerts suitable for all ages, featuring members of the South Florida Symphony Orchestra. Enjoy a lively mix of pops, Broadway hits, and more! Join the City of Pembroke Pines for our Summer Symphony Series! 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm at the Charles F. Dodge City Center, 601 City Center Way. For more info, scan the QR code.
AUGUST 20
Primary Election Day
Voters will be heading to the polls early in the morning for Florida’s Primary Election. Please exercise your right to vote and make your voice heard. Drive safely and be mindful of increased traffic around polling stations. For more info on your voting information, visit www. browardvotes.gov.
The Democrats Choice!
Former Mayor of Broward County, 14 years in elected office. Business owner and Nurse for 33 years.
Dr. Barbara Sharief is celebrated for her work in healthcare, housing, education, and employment.
Personal History
Born in South Florida, Barbara was one of eight siblings. Her father's death instilled a strong work ethic. She earned a Bachelor’s in Nursing, a Master’s in Nursing, and an ARNP license from Florida International University. In 2017, she completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Wilkes University.
Work History
Barbara advanced from registered nurse to ARNP and founded South Florida Pediatric Homecare, Inc. in 2001, specializing in care for medically complex children.
Political Career
Barbara has served Broward County for 13 years as a County Commissioner, former Vice Mayor, and two-time Mayor. She was the first African American woman to serve as Mayor and the first African American female President of the Florida Association of Counties. Her initiatives focused on insurance relief, affordable housing, healthcare, school funding, and teacher pay. She also championed veterans, reproductive rights, clean water, and veterans’ benefits.
Leadership & Advocacy
As Mayor, Barbara led responses to Hurricane Irma, the Fort Lauderdale Airport shooting, and the Port Everglades oil spill. She advocated for all 67 Florida counties on healthcare, social justice, voting rights, women’s issues, human rights, education,
environmental protection, and jobs. She lobbied in Washington on healthcare, Medicare, Medicaid, clean water, and rural issues.
Notable Accomplishments
Barbara saved taxpayers $33 million and secured funding for the Miramar Amphitheater and youth employment programs. She led infrastructure improvements and supported minority-owned and LGBT+ businesses.
Community Engagement
Barbara sponsored the Foster Park Reading Library Program and Veterans Appreciation Day. She supports minority-owned businesses and fosters an inclusive environment.
Legacy & Ongoing Efforts
Barbara’s legacy in Broward County is profound. As a State Senate candidate for District 35, she is committed to healthcare, social justice, voting rights, women’s issues, human rights, education, environmental protection, and jobs. With 30 years in healthcare and a successful home health company employing over 500 professionals, she understands community challenges and is ready to fight for her constituents. Barbara is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA) and The Links, Inc.
Dr. Barbara Sharief exemplifies dedication and leadership, combining her healthcare expertise with her passion for public service. Her achievements highlight her commitment to improving life for all Broward residents and her readiness to serve as a State Senator for District 35.
BARBARA ORTIS, CITY OF PEMBROKE PINES
VICE MAYOR LINDA HILL ANDERSON, HOLLYWOOD
VICE MAYOR ALEXANDRA DAVIS, CITY OF MIRAMAR
FM. VICE MAYOR IRIS SIPLE, CITY OF PEMBROKE PINES
VICE MAYOR CARYL HATTAN, TOWN OF DAVIE
DEPUTY MAYOR MARK DOUGLAS, CITY OF SUNRISE
COMMISSIONER LINDA HILL-ANDERSON, CITY OF HOLLYWOOD
COMMISSIONER MAXWELL CHAMBERS, CITY OF MIRAMAR
COMMISSIONER DENISE D. GRANT, CITY OF LAUDERHIL
COMMISSIONER JACQUELINE GUZMAN, CITY OF SUNRISE
COMMISSIONER NEIL C KERCH, CITY OF SUNRISE
COMMISSIONER LISA MALLOZZI, CITY OF COOPER CITY COMMISSIONER JOSEPH SCUOTTO, CITY OF SUNRISE COMMISSIONER JAY SCHWARTZ, CITY OF PEMBROKE PINES
COUNCIL MEMBER JIM ALBRITTON, TOWN OF SW RANCHES
COMMISSIONER ELVIN VILLALOBOS, CITY OF TAMARAC
COMMISSIONER MARVIN PRICE, WEST PARK FM. COMMISSIONER THOMAS DORSETT, WEST PARK COMMISSIONER DON D’ARMINIO, CITY OF WILTON MANORS COMMISSIONER ALANNA MERSINGER, SOUTH BROWARD DRAINAGE DISTRICT HON. PERRY THURSTON, FORMER STATE SENATOR HON. ELAINE SCHWARTZ, FORMER STATE REPRESENTATIVE HON. JENNIFER GOTTLIEB, FORMER BROWARD COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER HON. LORI MOSELEY, FORMER MAYOR, CITY OF MIRAMAR HON. DANIEL STERMER, FORMER MAYOR, CITY OF WESTON HON. TOBY FEUER, FORMER COMMISSIONER, CITY OF WESTON HON. KAREN FORTMAN, FORMER BROWARD COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER & BROWARD DEM. PRESIDENT OF COUNCIL OF CLUB COMMUNITY LEADERS, UNION OFFICIALS AND DEMOCRATIC PARTY OFFICERS (BOTH PAST AND PRESENT) MICHEAL ALBETTA, LORI BAER, MITCHELL BERGER, HOPE CALHOUN, SERGIO CANTU, GRACE CARRINGTON, MARIO CARTAYA, MITCH CEASAR, ADOLFO COTILLA, LOURDES DIAZ, HEIKO DOBRIKOW, KEN EVANS, DAVID L. ERICKS, DR. MARIE ETIENNE, DADLY FILIUS, ANNA FUSCO, AUSTIN FORMAN, KAREN FORTMAN, BERNIE FRIEDMAN, NATASHA HAMPTON, RICHARD HOYE, PERCY JOHNSON, STEVEN JULIAN, BILL LAYSTROM, KEITH POLIAKOFF, LINDA THOMPSON GONZALEZ, MARGARITA HERNANDEZ, GEORGIANNA IRBY, WILLIE JONES, DODIE KEITH-LAZOWICK, PATTI LYNN, ANDY MADTES, DENNIS MELE, JOHN MILLEDGE, DORSEY MILLER, CATHERINE MINNIS, RAYMOND MOLINARY, TYRONE NABBIE, GEORGE PLATT, COREY SHEARER, AUDE M L SICARD, JODIE SIEGEL, JIM SILVERNALE, JOHN T, JEAN-PIERRE TURGOT, JOHNNY WALKER DIXON, SCOTT WEISELBERG, TERESA WILLIAMS, ESQ.
Dr. Rosalind Osgood STATE SENATOR
Brenda Foreman BROWARD CLERK OF COURTS
Perry Thurston FMR STATE SENATOR
Hazel Rogers COMMISSIONER
Frank C. Ortis FORMER MAYOR
Iris Siple FORMER VICE MAYOR
Harold Pryor BROWARD STATE ATTORNEY
Jay Schwartz COMMISSIONER
Barbara P. Ortis
Elaine Schwartz FMR STATE REPRESENTATIVE
Mark Bogen COMMISSIONER
Alanna Mersinger COMMISSIONER
Sharief
Obama.
MODERN OBGYN CARE UNVEILS SPACIOUS,
STATE-OF-THE-ART
FACILITY
Modern OBGYN Care is excited to announce the grand opening of their new state-of-the-art location on Pines Boulevard. This new office, which is conveniently located and easily accessible, is more than twice the size of their previous location, providing ample space and comfort for patients. The new facility offers a serene, spa-like ambiance designed to help patients feel relaxed and at ease. Whether you are an expecting mother or seeking gynecological care, the welcoming environment and advanced technology at Modern OBGYN Care will ensure you receive the highest quality of care.
Modern OBGYN Care is committed to providing women with exceptional Obstetrics and Gynecological care by integrating evidence-based treatments with cutting-edge technology. Dr. Miguel Torres and Dr. Marcela Torres, both board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, lead the practice. Their dedication to women’s health is evident in their compassionate, respectful, and professional approach to every patient. The doctors at Modern OBGYN Care offer modern, personalized care for women of all ages in the community, ensuring each patient receives tailored treatment plans that meet their unique needs.
The practice’s approach emphasizes the combination of evidence-based medicine with the latest technological advancements, state-of-the-art methods, and minimally invasive techniques. Dr. Miguel Torres and Dr. Marcela Torres are both skilled in robotic surgery, which offers numerous benefits to patients, including faster recovery times, reduced intra-operative blood loss, smaller skin incisions, and less post-operative pain. This advanced surgical technique exemplifies Modern OBGYN Care’s commitment to providing the best possible outcomes for their patients.
Modern OBGYN Care is also at the forefront of innovative treatments, being one of the pioneers in a new FDA-approved radio-frequency ablation therapy for fibroid treatment. This therapy uses ultrasound guidance with transvaginal and laparoscopic approaches, providing a minimally invasive option for patients suffering from fibroids. In addition to this cutting-edge treatment, Modern OBGYN Care offers a wide range of women’s services, including facial and vaginal rejuvenation, prenatal care, and delivery services.
The new office on Pines Boulevard not only enhances the patient experience with its tranquil setting but also equips the physicians with the latest technology to deliver top-notch care. Patients are encouraged to visit the new location to experience firsthand how Modern OBGYN Care is redefining women’s healthcare. With their unwavering dedication to patient care and continuous pursuit of medical excellence, Modern OBGYN Care is setting a new standard in Obstetrics and Gynecological services.
GYNECOLOGY
• Exams/Preventive Care
• Annual Wellness Exam
• Contraceptions (IUD & Implants)
• Family Planning • Infertility
• Endometriosis • Pelvic Pain
• Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding
• Uterine Fibroids • Menopause Care
• Robotic Hysterectomy/Myomectomy
• Radio Frequency Ablation of Fibroids
• Abnormal Pap Smears
• Cryotherapy • Colposcopy
• LEEP
• Ovarian Cyst
• Pelvic & Vaginal Infections
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.
• In-Office Hysteroscopy
• Hormone Replacement Therapy
• Urinary Incontinence
• Vaginal Rejuvenation: Forma V
• Anti-Aging Skin Remodeling: Morpheus 8
• Sexual Dysfunction
OBSTETRICS
Prenatal Care • High-Risk Pregnancy • Multiple Gestation
Tubal Ligation • Newborn Circumcision • Postpartum Care
PEMBROKE PINES CELEBRATES INDEPENDENCE
Pembroke Pines was ablaze with excitement as residents of all ages gathered to commemorate the nation’s birthday on July 4th. The annual event, cherished by families, proved to be an unforgettable experience this year as well.
The festivities commenced at 6:00 pm with the much-awaited Kids’ Fun Zone opening at the Pines Recreation Center. The area came alive with carnival rides, bouncy houses, arts & crafts, and a spirited pie-eating contest that added to the thrill. Meanwhile, a delightful array of
food trucks catered to everyone’s taste buds as families secured their spots on the lawn, eagerly anticipating the grand finale.
As the clock struck 7:00 pm, the crowd was treated to captivating musical performances taking the celebratory spirit to new heights. The entertainment continued to enthrall the attendees until the mesmerizing fireworks display painted the night sky with brilliant colors at 9:00 pm.
From the youngest to the oldest, it was an extraordinary evening that left a lasting impression on everyone present. With hearts full of joy and anticipation, they eagerly look forward to the next year’s festivities, ready to create more cherished memories.
Be sure to check Our City Pembroke Pines monthly calendar for exciting local events and activities.
Youth Baseball Shines at Pembroke Pines’ Annual Mayor’s Play Ball Summer Celebration
Mayor Angelo Castillo of Pembroke Pines hosted a heartwarming event in collaboration with the United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) and Major League Baseball. The annual Mayor’s Play Ball Summer event, featuring the timeless charm of a classic song, took place at Flamingo Park on July 12th.
Children between the ages of 7 and 14 were invited to participate in this free event, which aimed to promote youth baseball and softball. The day was filled with exciting activities, music, and delicious food, ensuring everyone had a great time.
The kids were split into age groups, and Mayor Castillo led the pitch, hit, and run competitions. Pembroke Pines has been actively involved in the Major League Baseball program since its launch in June 2015. This nationwide campaign aims to encourage continued participation
in baseball and foster a connection between generations through the love of the game.
Play Ball provides an excellent platform for current baseball enthusiasts to engage further while also offering opportunities for those interested in getting involved, with a special focus on youth participation. Thanks to the collaboration with mayors across the country, Play Ball Events are energizing communities and nurturing the passion for baseball and softball.
Representatives from the Florida Marlins joined the event this year, adding to the excitement. Along with on-field activities, the children received Play Ball t-shirts, relished tasty snacks, tried their luck at the dunk tank, and had the joy of taking pictures with Marlin’s mascot, Bill Marlin. It was a day filled with laughter, sportsmanship, and cherished memories for everyone involved.
Pembroke Pines’ Olympic Pride Returns to the Track in Paris
As the world eagerly anticipates the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, Pembroke Pines beams with pride, ready to cheer on its own hometown hero, Kendall Ellis. This exceptional sprinter, known for her electrifying speed and tenacity, is set to make her mark on the global stage once again.
Kendall Ellis’ journey from the quiet streets of Pembroke Pines to the world’s grandest athletic platform is nothing short of inspirational. Ellis, a graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas High School, has always showcased remarkable talent and dedication. Her high school and collegiate careers were marked by numerous accolades, including multiple state championships and All-American honors while competing for the University of Southern California (USC).
Ellis’ Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020 was a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence. She played a crucial role in the United States’ 4x400 meter relay team, securing a bronze medal and etching her name in the annals of Olympic history. Now, with Paris 2024 on the horizon, Ellis is poised to elevate her legacy even further.
Returning to the Olympics, Ellis embodies the spirit of perseverance and hard work. Her rigorous training regimen and unwavering commitment have prepared her for this moment. “Every race is an opportunity to prove to myself and to others that hard work pays off,” says Ellis, reflecting on her preparation for Paris.
Beyond her athletic prowess, Ellis is a beacon of inspiration for young athletes in Pembroke Pines. She frequently engages with the community, sharing her experiences and encouraging the next generation to chase their dreams with the same fervor and determination.
As Kendall Ellis steps onto the track in Paris, she carries with her the hopes and cheers of Pembroke Pines. Her journey serves as a reminder that with passion and perseverance, our small-town dreams can indeed reach the world stage. Here’s to cheering on our hometown hero, as she sprints towards Olympic glory once more.
A World of Knowledge offers top academic excellence in early childhood education. Through a unique curriculum designed especially for the school, the children graduating from the program achieve high scores in assessments and screenings.
Academic
School 4 Arts
8673 Stirling Road, Cooper City as4a.org
954-999-5956
Academic School 4 Arts i s a learning institution that nurtures the whole child, utilizing the gifts of the fine and performing arts. The fine and performing arts are treated as equal learning disciplines with core academics. AS4A promotes mindfulness, problem-solving skills, independent thinking, and celebration of diversity. We help mold great citizens!
Apple Tree Montessori School is a PreK-8 school that uses the Montessori method to encourage independence and freedom with limits and responsibility. It also allows for the child to grow independently and encourages the self-absorption. Students have been encouraged to exchange ideas and to discuss their work freely with others by using good communication skills to ease the way in their new setting.
Beth Emet School
4807 S Flamingo Road, Cooper City templebethemet.org
954-680-1882
Beth Emet School is committed to helping students reach their full potential through a challenging, advanced curriculum with a warm, supportive environment that promotes critical thinking, creative expression, self-esteem, emotional learning and Jewish ethics.
2023
Franklin Academy
18800 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines
franklin-academy.org
954-703-2294
Franklin Academy creates a learning atmosphere where differentiated instruction implements strategies that support student success within the classroom. They also constantly enhance student skills that are essential for success beyond the classroom walls, ensuring students are college and career ready.
Greentree Prep has a mission to prepare K-8 students for high academic achievement and personal success. The school was designated as one of the top 3 performing schools in Broward County according to FSA scores in 2014. Greentree Prep enrolls students in grades K-8. .
Sagemont Preparatory School
1570 Sagemont Way, Weston sagemont.com
954-389-2454
Sagemont Preparatory School inspires academic excellence, through intellectual exploration, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Students in Pre-k through grade 12 are encouraged to take responsible risks and develop a deep understanding of social responsibility as active agents of change.
Small World Montessori School
18461 Miramar Pkwy, Miramar swmontessori.com
954-544-2915
At Small World Montessori, they have over 20 years of experience instilling the self-discipline & skills necessary for children to achieve higher education while enhancing each child’s imagination and improving their quality of life. They have programs beginning with toddlers through age 6, including summer programs.
ACTIVITIES & ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT
Academy of Arts
20841 Johnson St, #113, Pembroke Pines academyofartsinc.com 954-704-0068
In the warm, caring environment of Academy of Arts, every student is special. Nurturing their love of the arts by creating a class filled with positive learning experiences, your child will be challenged in areas where his/her growing body and mind can benefit most. Academy of Arts teaches classes in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Hip Hop, Flamenco, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Drama, Art, Violin, Guitar, Piano, and Voice for preschoolers through adults.
British Swim School
6861 SW 196th Avenue, Suite 405, Pembroke Pines
britishswimschool.com
954-828-2881
Offering you easy access, located on The Sagemont School Upper Campus, the British Swim School program offers a variety of small group classes to suit the littlest of beginners through to advanced swimmers, adults and private classes. We also have open swim events, host birthday parties, summer camps, private event rentals and much more.
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Code Ninjas
5534 S Flamingo Road, Cooper City codeninjas.com
954-323-4555
Code Ninjas teaches kids ho to code by building their very own video games. Their flexible coding programs for kids make it easy for parents. They offer flexible dropin hours after school and on weekends. With programs for kids as young as five there is something for every aspiring computer scientist in your family.
Camp Lingua offers an after-school language program that uses a proven natural, multi-sensory approach, delivered by professional educators who utilize engaging materials, ensuring students’ success in the acquisition and mastery of a new language. It also offers customized tutoring tailored to the student’s proficiency level, learning style, and schedule.
Sun City Aviation Academy Aero Camp
7201 S Airport Road, Suite 504A, Pembroke Pines suncityaviation.com
754-423-2159
Aero Camp is a day camp program for high school students designed to give young people a unique opportunity to explore the vast & exciting world of aviation and aerospace. Sun City Aviation Academy also offers a variety of pilot certification courses.
The West Pines Panthers tackle football club offers kids ages 4-16 tackle football and cheer opportunities. The program focuses on development of basic skills and self discipline through practice and competition while promoting teamwork and sportsmanship. Home games are played at Cooper City’s Flamingo West Park.
AUGUST SENATE UPDATE
By Senator Lauren Book
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As we navigate through the summer months, I want to provide you with important updates on insurance help, homeowner protection programs, and information on voting. Your safety, well-being, and confidence in our government are my top priorities as your Senator.
The Insurance Consumer Helpline: 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-6935236) is a lifeline for Floridians looking for insurance information and assistance, allowing Floridians to speak directly with insurance experts one-on-one. These experts can help you review their policies to understand coverage, help file claims for damage, and offer assistance when having trouble communicating with their insurance company.
Homeowner Protection Programs
The My Safe Florida Home Program is available for another year! This program helps homeowners protect their homes from storms and reduces insurance premiums. Visit My Safe Florida Home Program to learn more and apply.
Additionally, condo associations can now participate in the My Safe Florida Home Condo Pilot Program to protect your condominiums and reduce insurance costs. To be considered, add your condo association’s name and contact information here: Condo Pilot Program.
Voting Information
Our democracy is only as strong as our participation in it. With elections coming up this August and November, it's crucial to ensure you're registered and ready to vote. If you’ve been voting by mail, please note that the laws have changed. You’re no longer automatically enrolled and must now re-enroll for each election cycle.
Important Dates:
The Primary Election will be held on August 20, 2024. Early voting for the Primary Election will be held from August 10th to August 18th from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
The General Election will be held 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
Greetings From Your Chamber President!
By Patty Archer
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the support of pro-business policies are crucial for fostering economic prosperity. As a Chamber of Commerce, we understand the vital role we play in promoting the growth and success of our local business community. By advocating for policies that create a favorable business environment, we can drive economic growth and enhance our area’s competitiveness.
Legislative Advocacy serves as a powerful catalyst for change, providing a platform for businesses to voice their concerns, ideas, and aspirations. By actively engaging with policymakers and stakeholders, we can help shape policies that reduce regulatory burdens, foster innovation, and create opportunities for businesses to thrive. Probusiness policies, such as tax incentives, streamlined licensing processes, and infrastructure improvements, help attract investment, encourage entrepreneurship, and create jobs.
We invite you to join us for our 3rd Annual Eggs & Issues Legislative Breakfast, sponsored by Waste Pro, on Wednesday, August 28th in Pembroke Pines. A number of our local elected officials will be joining us for a discussion and taking questions ahead of their next legislative sessions. Guests must register through our events calendar to attend.
It is important to recognize that advocacy is an ongoing effort. The Chamber continues to build relationships, communicate positions through our legislative agenda, and keep you informed about emerging issues and opportunities. The Chamber takes seriously its responsibility for advocacy work that strengthens the collective voice of our business community. Together, we can advocate for policies that support a vibrant business ecosystem, benefiting not only our members but also the entire community.
For more information and our calendar, visit www.miramarpembrokepines.org.
Yours in Service,
Patty Archer
Chamber President
This is Kiki, our sweet 13-year-old girl! She’s a little blind and cross-eyed, and her quirky antics only add to her charm. Kiki is very vocal and always ready to greet you or have a conversation. A gentle soul, she loves to cuddle, comfort, and is friendly with everyone she meets!
Pembroke Pines UPDATE
By Mayor Angelo Castillo
Dear Friends:
My town hall meetings over the past several months were well received and well attended. We collected hundreds of great ideas for a better city. We will spend the next months using the resident guidance collected to produce a strategic plan to City Commission adoption. This plan will take our city forward into a brighter future. I look forward to this resident-driven plan and I can’t wait to get those initiatives started. I will schedule additional Townhall meetings to review the plan with you so we can progress together.
Please remember that we are still in hurricane season and are quickly approaching our most active time of the year. I hope everyone has their hurricane plans in place and is taking steps to prepare. This also includes pruning trees and landscaping now before a storm is on our doorstep. Be sure to visit our hurricane preparedness information at www.ppines.com/hurricane to help you in your preparations. There are helpful tips, informational videos, resources etc. covering every aspect of making sure we are storm-safe.
Our students will be returning to school this month after their summer break. It’s a time when parents often sigh relief, and students and teachers anticipate new beginnings and challenges. It’s also a time when motorists should slow down and proceed with caution in school zones, stop for buses and be alert for children walking in the street or biking to school.
Parents can help by teaching their children safety rules, and supervising young children as they walk or bike to school or as they wait at the school bus stop. And, students should practice the safety rules for waiting at the bus stop, getting on and off the bus, and riding the bus. If walking to school, they should learn and practice the safety rules for pedestrians, cross at cross walks, obey all traffic signs, traffic lights and safety patrol instructions.
Very Sincerely Yours,
Angelo Castillo
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.
M opened its newest location on Pines Boulevard at the corner of NW 98th Ave. They offer the largest buffet dining experience in Pembroke Pines with food that is fresh and plentiful with lots of choices. It is a perfect choice for a family as they have a wide variety of non-seafood and vegetarian offering as well as fresh sushi. The restaurant offers a refreshingly modern interpretation of classic dishes.
The Ambiance
sushi rolls, they offer prime rib, snow crab, steak, prime rib, and a full hibachi grill station. It would take three or four visits to simply sample everything on offer.
Seafood
The salad bar offers a vast choice of vegeta bles, fruits, and dressings.
If you enjoy sushi and have a big appetite, this may be the best restaurant in South Florida. They offer a huge selection of sushi rolls. Traditional selections like Spicy Tuna Rolls and California Rolls are always available. They also offer an ever-changing selection of chef-created features that are worth the price of admission all by themselves. The cold bar includes offering like snow crab legs, oysters, peel and eat shrimp, crawfish, sashimi and more.
Hibachi
The Food
The interior of the restaurant has been transformed from the previous establishment into a comfortable atmosphere for customers to dine in style. It is a large space but still feels comfortable with family or a date with pleasant music playing in the background. There is also a private room for parties or business meetings. The bar and buffet areas are decorated with a cool modern Asian theme. Most importantly, the buffet and food prep areas are immaculately clean.
The Food
This family-friendly buffet restaurant is a welcome addition to Pembroke Pines’ culinary community. The food is fresh, excel lently prepared and incredibly diverse. The atmosphere is both modern and hospitable. The servers are friendly and helpful. Minato Japanese Buffet is a welcome new member of the community offering wonderful cuisine at a reasonable price!
Minato Japanese Buffet recently opened its newest location on Pines Boulevard at the corner of NW 98th Ave. They offer the largest buffet dining experience in Pembroke Pines with food that is fresh and plentiful with lots of choices. It is a perfect choice for a family as they have a wide variety of non-seafood and vegetarian offering as well as fresh sushi. The restaurant offers a refreshingly modern interpretation of classic dishes.
The Hibachi offers steak, scallops, chicken & shrimp, along with a variety of traditional vegetables and tofu. They even offer some unusual items like Cajrun corn on the cob.
The challenge with any buffet restaurant is balancing choice with quality. Minato tack-les this challenge by offering an exception-ally broad selection with relatively high-end dishes. In addition to a large number of sushi rolls, they offer prime rib, snow crab, steak, prime rib, and a full hibachi grill station. It would take three or four visits to simply sample everything on offer.
The challenge with any buffet restaurant is balancing choice with quality. Minato tackles this challenge by offering an exceptionally broad selection with relatively high-end
The hot food selections are what you would expect from Chinese and Thai cuisine. They include favorites like Szechuan beef, Kung Pao chicken, and Thai coconut
