Our City Pembroke Pines: November 2024

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Finally, these 3 Republicans, 2 Democrats, 2 Independents and 1 Socialist can all agree on one thing.

The best Senior Living in Weston.

They all chose The Palace, in the heart of Weston.

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.

16025 Emerald Estates Drive, Weston www.ThePalaceAtWeston.com 954.217.2000

HUMBLE PERSON

HUMBLE PERSON

Ali Bhojani is known for his honesty and unwavering commitment to the community. His integrity shines through in every decision, always prioritizing transparency and staying dedicated to the well-being of Pembroke Pines.

Ali Bhojani is known for his honesty and unwavering commitment to the community. His integrity shines through in every decision, always prioritizing transparency and staying dedicated to the well-being of Pembroke Pines.

HIGH INTELLIGENCE

HIGH INTELLIGENCE HONEST & COMMITTED

Ali Bhojani’s high intelligence is reflected in his strategic decision-making and ability to solve complex problems e ciently. His sharp analytical skills and forward-thinking mindset enable him to navigate challenges and create e ective solutions for Pembroke Pines.

Ali Bhojani’s high intelligence is reflected in his strategic decision-making and ability to solve complex problems e ciently. His sharp analytical skills and forward-thinking mindset enable him to navigate challenges and create e ective solutions for Pembroke Pines.

HONEST & COMMITTED

Ali Bhojani is a humble leader who believes in servant leadership, always putting the needs of the community first. His approach is grounded in listening, empathy, and working collaboratively to uplift every resident of Pembroke Pines.

Ali Bhojani is a humble leader who believes in servant leadership, always putting the needs of the community first. His approach is grounded in listening, empathy, and working collaboratively to uplift every resident of Pembroke Pines.

FIRM DECISION

FIRM DECISION

Ali Bhojani is a leader who makes firm decisions with confidence and clarity. He carefully evaluates every situation, ensuring that his choices are in the best interest of

Ali Bhojani is a leader who makes firm decisions with confidence and clarity. He carefully evaluates every situation, ensuring that his choices are in the best interest of the community and its long-term success.

Christy & Terry Jaillet

MANAGING EDITOR

Christy Jaillet

ART DIRECTOR

Tom Rowe

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Alana Brodie

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Nancy Koval nancy@ourcitymedia.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Jared Blaut, John Brodie

Denise Caligiuri, Adrienne Collins, Mariem Garcia, Silvia Silva

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Terry Jaillet, Jon Duka, Dr. John Goodner, DPM

Mayor Angelo Castillo, Patty Archer, Rose Sklar, Valentina Valderama

ADVERTISING INFO sales@ourcitymedia.com

Thanksgiving Reflection Perspective, Progress, & Gratitude

It is more important than ever to be thankful this Thanksgiving season. The contentious election has bombarded each of us with messages about how dire the state of the country is, how things are going downhill, and how others are making things so much worse.

Understanding how good we have it requires a bit of perspective. Social media algorithms combined with the political environment can make our present-day problems seem insurmountable. The reality is we are living such fantastic lives that our great-grandparents wouldn’t be able to imagine them.

It is easy to be pessimistic. There are bloody wars in Europe and the Middle East, major storms have hit Florida and the Southeast, and, many live in despair. These challenges may be with us for some time but will be overcome. We have already come so far, so fast.

100 years ago, the life expectancy at birth was about 60 years; today it is 77. Antibiotics did not exist. There was about one vehicle on the road per 100 people. Two in three homes lacked electricity; six out of seven had no bathtub. A typical person completed about eight years of school; segregation was rampant across the southern U.S., and the most common job in America was a farm worker. And, this was during the “Roaring Twenties,” a period of relative excess. Things we take for granted today, like air conditioning, the internet, air travel, television, and higher education simply didn’t exist.

Taking stock of all we have today makes us incredibly thankful. We live in comfort in a beautiful community carved out of a swamp. Our children are relatively safe to pursue their passions. There are numerous educational opportunities for almost everyone. Each of us carries access to all the world’s knowledge in our pocket. Our community is an incredible melting pot of cultures. The necessities of life are almost universally provided for.

We are thankful for all we have. .

Christy & Terry Jaillet

OUR CITY MEDIA PUBLISHERS

Yul Lopez, APRN
Hector Fabregas, MD
Jose Luna, APRN
Yuliett Collazo, APRN

A Lung Screening Could Save Your Life.

Welcome to taking charge of your lung health.

In November, we’re offering lung screenings for $35 .* Visit BaptistHealth.net/LungScreening or call 833-596-2473 .

*Applies to patients who are uninsured or their insurance does not cover this service. A prescription is required. If you don’t have a referring physician or medical professional to write a prescription for you, call 786-596-2464 and we’ll connect you with one. Any abnormal findings will be sent to your referring physician. This offer is not contingent on receiving any additional services from Baptist Health. No further services will be discounted. With the exception of the $35 fee, neither the patient nor any other third party will be billed additionally for this exam.

November 2024 Calendar

NOVEMBER 2

25th Annual Art & Music Fest in the Pines

Visit the Charles F. Dodge City Center as we welcome back Pembroke Pines’ annual Artfest in the Pines. Patrons and participants alike can expect eclectic and talented artists, fun-filled entertainment, family-friendly activities, and much more! Saturday 11:00 am - 8:00 pm, Sunday Noon - 5:00 pm. Scan the QR code for more info.

NOVEMBER 4

Coffee & Create

Create your own Autumn Centerpiece while enjoying unlimited cups of tasty coffee! Make new friends while you delve into your creative side at Pembroke Pines’ Studio 18 Art Complex. $10 per student. 10:00 am - Noon at Studio 18, 1101 Poinciana Drive. For more info or to register, call 954-961-6067.

NOVEMBER 8-10

Southeastern

Circuit Rodeo Final

Come out to Cowboy Town to watch the largest championship rodeo east of the Mississippi River, presented by the Weekley Brothers! Events kick off on Friday at 7:30pm. The action is constant and exciting as cowboys demonstrate their skill on top of some of the most powerful animals in the world. Gates open 1 ½ hours before showtime. Rodeo is held at the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 4271 Davie Road. For more info or tickets visit DavieProRodeo.com or call 754-816-3183.

NOVEMBER 10

Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival

The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival merges food, music, and entertainment for the ultimate Caribbean cultural event. Festival features include an extensive Food Court offering a variety of jerk cuisine and other dishes, the Publix Culinary Pavilion which features top chefs and celebrities in competition, the Western Union Cultural Stage, an Arts and Crafts village as well as a sizzling Party Zone. Main Stage entertainment will feature Jamaican classic reggae music all night. Event is hosted at the Miramar Regional Park Amphitheater from 1:0010:00 pm. Get details at www.jerkfestival.com.

NOVEMBER 11

Veterans Day

On Veterans Day, we honor and remember every man and woman who has served in the United States Armed Forces to serve and protect our nation, defend the Constitution, and the freedoms that we enjoy as Americans. Originally observed as Armistice Day, commemorates the end of World War I when fighting ceased on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. The holiday evolved to be a celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good of our nation.

November 2024 Calendar

(CONTINUED)

NOVEMBER 11

Flamingo Gardens Orchid Society

Dr. Jason Downing, the Director of Research and orchid curator at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, will speak. His focus is orchid research, propagation, and education under The Million Orchid Project, which reaches hundreds of K-12 schools each year. To date, over 500,000 native orchids have been replanted into the public landscapes of South Florida. Doors open at 7:00 pm, & the program begins at 7:30 pm at Flamingo Gardens, Mary N Porter Learning Center, 3750 S. Flamingo Road.

NOVEMBER 16

Flea Market

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Find the perfect item for your home! Saint John XXIII Catholic Church will host its annual Flea Market at 16800 Miramar Parkway. The public is welcome from 7:30 am - 2:00 pm. For more info or to reserve a space, call 954-392-5062.

NOVEMBER 22

Film Screenings

Enjoy a free screening of student films by the FAU’s Digital Storytelling class on Friday, November 22 from 6:00 -10:00 PM at the Studio 18 Art Complex. Join us for an opportunity to hear commentary from the filmmakers. No RSVP is required. Hosted at Studio 18, 1101 Poinciana Drive.

WHY CHOOSE SHAPING STARS FOR ABA THERAPY?

We are dedicated to teaching children with developmental disabilities and/or behavioral challenges in unique ways, and empower them to reach their full potential!

CONTACT SHAPING STARS TODAY & BEGIN THE JOURNEY TO A BRIGHTER TOMORROW! 954-864-9512 info@shapingstarsllc.com ShapingStarsllc.com

NOVEMBER 19

Savior the Sound

Food + Music = Fun at The Charles F. Dodge City Center. Enjoy live music by Stella Fusion and live painting by Kailia “Key” Gumbs. Food trucks, live music, live art, and games. Please bring blankets or chairs. Different genres of music every month. 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm. Hosted at The Charles F. Dodge City Center, 601 City Center Way. For more info, visit www.ppines.com.

NOVEMBER 28

Thanksgiving Day

Happy Thanksgiving! We hope you gather with family and loved ones to celebrate each other and give thanks for all that we have. In the words of John F. Kennedy, “Over three centuries ago, our forefathers in Virginia and in Massachusetts, far from home in a lonely wilderness, set aside a time of thanksgiving. On the appointed day, they gave reverent thanks for their safety, for the health of their children, for the fertility of their fields, for the love which bound them.

A STAR EMERGES: SABRINA ARAUJO-ELORZA NAMED PLAYER OF THE MATCH AT U20 WOMEN’S WORLD CUP 2024

Sabrina Araujo-Elorza, a native of Pembroke Pines, recently achieved a major milestone in her soccer career by representing Venezuela at the U20 Women’s Soccer World Cup in Colombia. Her journey, rooted in a deep love for the sport, began at the young age of four when she started playing in recreational leagues. By age seven, Sabrina had transitioned to competitive soccer, quickly demonstrating her potential in tournaments across Florida and the U.S.

Her passion and dedication to soccer only grew stronger when she joined the Weston Academy, after the launch of the U.S. Soccer Development Academy program. There, she honed her skills while competing at the highest youth levels. She later joined the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL), where her performances stood out not only on the field but off as well. Throughout her education at Pembroke Pines Charter School, Sabrina maintained a flawless academic record and captained both the middle and high school soccer teams. In August 2022, Sabrina committed to playing collegiate soccer at Northeastern University in Boston, balancing her academic excellence with her athletic pursuits. The past few years have brought Sabrina not only great opportunities

but also significant challenges. In 2021, her international career took off when she represented the U.S. Olympic Development Program in Costa Rica, competing against local teams. That same year, the Venezuelan National Soccer Federation held recruitment trials in South Florida as part of a global scouting initiative. Both Sabrina and her sister Alai were selected for the U20 Venezuelan team, marking the beginning of their international careers.

Sabrina’s first major tournament for Venezuela came in April 2022, when she competed in the South American World Cup qualifiers in Chile. Her success continued as she won a gold medal with the U20 team at the PanAmerican Games in Paraguay. Later that year, she made her debut with the Senior National Team, playing against Brazil at the Copa America in Colombia. She also competed against Argentina’s senior team and earned a silver medal at the Central American and Caribbean Games in El Salvador.

However, Sabrina’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. A year and a half after being selected for the Venezuelan National Team, she suffered a serious injury that required a year-long recovery. Despite the physical and emotional challenges, Sabrina’s resilience never wavered. By September 2024, she had fully

recovered and returned to the field for the U20 World Cup in Colombia, where she played every minute of Venezuela’s three games. Her standout performance, including being named Player of the Match in a game against South Korea, solidified her place as one of the team’s key players.

Sabrina’s story is one of perseverance, grit, and triumph. Her dedication to both her sport and her academic achievements has inspired not only her local community in Pembroke Pines but also soccer fans worldwide.

Fun and Free Healthcare: ‘A Day for Children’

Huge Crowds turned out for NSU University in partnership with Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospitals “A Day for Children” on Saturday, October 19. The free annual event is dedicated to supporting the well-being of children in South Florida. It is designed for families and kids of all ages and took place on NSU’s Davie campus. The event focuses on offering vital health screenings and educational services to children while providing a fun, engaging atmosphere for the entire family.

Parents accessed a variety of free services, including vision and dental screenings, physical examinations, and behavioral health consultations, ensuring that their children have access to essential healthcare resources. Additionally, the event provides valuable information about safety, nutrition, and wellness from

healthcare professionals.

Beyond the health-focused offerings, “A Day for Children” also features live entertainment, games, and activities to keep kids entertained throughout the day. Families can enjoy bounce houses, face painting, character meet-andgreets, and more, making it a day of both learning and fun.

The collaboration between NSU and Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital is not just a partnership, it’s a commitment. It exemplifies their dedication to fostering a healthier future for children in the community. By creating an accessible space for healthcare education and entertainment, they strive to empower families to take charge of their children’s well-being. For those looking to learn more about available services or simply enjoy a day out, this event offers a wonderful opportunity for families to connect, learn, and play together.

LEGACIES OF GREATNESS Broward Education Foundation Celebrates 2024 Sports Hall of Fame Inductees

The Broward Education Foundation honored seven remarkable sports legends at the 2024 Broward County Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony on October 18, held at the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort. The evening recognized extraordinary athletes, coaches, and sports pioneers who have made a lasting impact on Broward County.

This year's inductees include:

• Elliot Bonner, a longtime football and baseball coach, known for his 50-year career mentoring Broward County athletes. As a leader in Coral Springs, Bonner’s influence extends beyond the field, shaping professional athletes and responsible community members alike.

• Darius Butler, a Coral Springs Charter School graduate, excelled in multiple sports and later enjoyed a successful nine-year NFL career. Now a well-known sports personality, Butler frequently appears on The Pat McAfee Show and co-hosts the Man-to-Man podcast.

• Abbas Karimi, a Paralympic swimmer born without arms in Kabul, Afghanistan, overcame extraordinary challenges to compete on the global stage. Karimi, who was resettled to the U.S. as a refugee, has since become a symbol of resilience, winning medals at world swimming events and serving as an ambassador for Visit Lauderdale.

• Diana Nyad, renowned long-distance swimmer, famously swam from Cuba to Florida after a 35-year quest. Nyad’s career spans sports journalism and motivational speaking, and her memoir, Find a Way, was adapted into the 2023 biopic Nyad. Her story of perseverance has inspired millions.

• Steve Shapiro, a beloved figure in South Florida sports broadcasting, covered major sporting events during his three-decade career at WSVN. From the Super Bowl to the Olympics, Shapiro’s dedication to his craft made him a trusted voice in the sports world.

• Lexi Thompson, a Coral Springs native and professional golfer, made history by qualifying for the U.S.

Women's Open at just 12 years old. With 11 LPGA Tour wins and two appearances in the Olympics, Thompson continues to be a dominant force in women’s golf and a champion for growing the sport among young women.

• The 1973 Hollywood Hills High School State 4A Championship Football Team, a diverse group of players who overcame racial divides to win Broward County’s first state football championship. Led by Coach Dick Saltrick, the team’s undefeated season marked a significant moment in local sports history.

The event began with a cocktail reception and silent auction benefiting the Hall of Fame, followed by dinner and emotional tributes for each inductee. WSVN sports anchor Josh Moser served as the evening’s master of ceremonies. James A. Knapp, President and CEO of the Broward Education Foundation, highlighted the inductees' commitment to excellence: “Their legacy serves as an inspiration to both our students and the broader community.”

The Broward Education Foundation, the first and only education foundation in the U.S. with a dedicated athletic branch, has continually advocated for student-athletes in Broward County. “We are incredibly grateful for our sponsors and community partners who made this event possible after a six-year hiatus,” said Shawn Cerra, Director of Athletics for the Broward Education Foundation.

The 2024 inductees will be memorialized and enshrined on the Broward County Sports Hall of Fame Honor Wall at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, forever commemorating their contributions to sports and the community.

James A. Knapp, Elliott Bonner Jr.; Elliott Bonner; Todd Fitz-Gerald and Shawn Cerra

Pembroke Pines to Honor Veterans

On Saturday, November 11, 2024, the community is warmly invited to a poignant Veterans Day Observance at the Charles F. Dodge City Center Memorial Park, conveniently situated opposite 601 City Center Way. The ceremony features the presentation of colors, musical performances, and Guest Speakers. It’s a time for us, as a community, to come together and honor those who have kept us safe.

The US Airforce Band of the West will perform a pre-ceremony concert from 11:45 AM to 12:00 PM and a musical performance during the ceremony.

Veterans Day originally began as Armistice Day. This designation was chosen because November 11 marks the historic anniversary of the signing of the Armistice, the document that heralded the end of the harrowing World War I in 1918. However, a shift in perception occurred in 1954, when the name was changed to “Veterans Day.” This change broadened the remembrance, ensuring

it recognized all American veterans from every conflict and war.

Fast-forward to 2016, and a significant addition was made with the introduction of the Veterans Day Moment of Silence Act. This act, a solemn and significant part of our observance, encourages all U.S. residents to pause for two minutes of contemplative silence on Veterans Day, precisely at 3:11 p.m., Atlantic Standard Time. This ritual is more than a tradition; it’s a national gesture of respect and appreciation for the countless sacrifices made by veterans throughout the country’s history.

Pembroke Pines Veterans Park was officially dedicated on November 11, 2006. It was created to honor and remember those who served in the United States Armed Forces. The park serves as a location for various events, ceremonies, and gatherings, especially on significant days like Memorial Day and Veterans Day, to pay tribute to veterans.

Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer. Our highly skilled surgeons utilize the most advanced techniques to treat breast cancer with the best possible outcomes.

Our mulitidisciplinary surgical team is here for you. For personalized treatment. For breast reconstruction. For every care in the world.

Call 877.463.2010 to schedule an appointment. ClevelandClinicFlorida.org/BreastCancer

Martin Newman, MD Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
Cassann Blake, MD Breast Oncology Surgeon
Margaret E.G. Thompson, MD Breast Oncology Surgeon
Andres Mascaro Pankova, MD Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon

Festive Frolics Winter Celebrations in Pembroke Pines

The festive winter season is here, offering numerous celebratory opportunities for the community.

Snowfest

Mark your calendars for December 7th! Prepare for snowy fun from 4pm to 8pm at Charles F. Dodge City Center, 601 City Center Way. Anticipate 75 tons of snow, a meeting with Santa, musical acts, rides, delectable food trucks, games, and a host of other festive activities. For inquiries, reach out to the Special Events office at 954-392-2116.

Ornament Painting

Get in the holiday spirit with this festive and fun ornament painting class! Pick from a selection of pre-made ceramic ornaments and learn techniques for painting and glazing before designing your own uniquely decorated holiday themed ornament. Friday, December 13, from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM. $15 a person, nonrefundable, registration required. For more information, please email studio18@ppines.com

Santa’s Holiday Hotline

Santa's setting aside time to ring up the kids of Pembroke Pines! For children aged 10 or below, parents can preregister to get a call from Santa between December 16-19, from 6pm-8pm. To sign up, download the form at www.ppines.com/specialevents and submit by December 6, 2023, to: Santa’s Holiday Hotline, c/o City of Pembroke Pines, 601 City Center Way, Pembroke Pines, FL 33025. Need more info? Dial the Special Events office at 954-392-2116.

Holiday Art Market at the Frank

Experience a vibrant market filled with local artisans at The Frank Gallery. Dive into a treasure trove of handmade gifts, ranging from artistic prints to home essentials. Complimentary refreshments and appetizers are available. It's an open invite for all on December 19th, from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at the Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery.

For more information on Pembroke Pines holiday events, visit www.ppines.com.

GCommuting to Doral & Miami International Airport 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 $2.65! 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.

DEBUNKING COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT WILLS

Did you know that the majority of Americans do not have a will? It's true! The number of US households with a will has been steadily declining. But estate planning isn't just for the wealthy, older adults, or married couples; it's beneficial for everyone. Let's bust some common myths about wills and estate plans:

Myth #1: Wills can be used to avoid probate.

I like to say that a will is a “Dear Judge Letter!” Many people believe that having a will allows them to avoid probate. However, even if you have a will, your estate may very likely go through probate if any asset does not have a joint owner or beneficiary designation. Probate is costly and delays distributions to your loved ones but is necessary to ensure that your estate is administered accurately and legally. To avoid probate, consider using a trust-based estate plan, which may very well avoid probate. As the saying goes, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."

Myth #2: You cannot use a will for tax planning.

The certainty of death and taxes, as famously noted by Benjamin Franklin, is not quite as certain as the taxes you might owe at the time of your death. Estate taxes, sometimes called death taxes, are applied to assets (your money and property) that you leave to others when you pass on, but the threshold net worth value when these taxes kick in is very high. If you pass In 2024, you will not owe federal estate and lifetime gift taxes until your taxable estate is over $13.61 million, per person. However, the federal estate tax exemption amount is set to decrease sharply at the start of 2026 and revert to pre-2017 levels that are around half of what they are now. This anticipated decrease in the exemption amount might justify employing advanced estate planning strategies now, ahead of the 2026 sunset. Remember, "A penny saved is a penny earned."

Myth #3: Creating a will is cheaper than creating a trust.

Creating a basic will might be cheaper than creating a basic trust, but it is not an apples-to apples comparison. Trusts tend to be more complex and therefore more expensive to prepare. However, both wills and trusts can contain similar provisions that require a comparable amount of time to draft properly. Consider the costs of not having an estate plan or having a plan that falls short of your goals. Probate Administration can be costly, and your family will have to bear these expenses later.

Estate planning is not an area where it pays to cut corners. As the old adage goes, "You get what you pay for."

And Beware: A will does not determine who will make financial and medical decisions for you if you are alive but unable to make them yourself due to illness, injury, or age-related decline. As our population continues to age, many folks will leave their autonomy subject to the decisions of the state or county without proper estate planning.

To discuss your estate planning goals and how we can help you meet them, please reach out and schedule a consultation. Let's ensure your legacy is protected and your loved ones are taken care of.

Say hello to Daisy, a lovable 2-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel! Daisy adores her toys and every new friend she meets. She loves strolling through Pembroke Gardens, exploring the Hollywood dog beach, and joining in on school events. She’s the heart of our family, and we couldn’t imagine life without her!

Pembroke Pines UPDATE

Dear Friends:

I’m proud to announce that the City of Pembroke Pines has once again been named the Best City in America for Hispanic Entrepreneurship. We have consistently been in the top ten US cities in this category since 2014. This speaks strongly to the strength of small business activity citywide regardless of ethnicity. It also underscores the city’s effort to be a business friendly, low tax, high quality of life and diversity-embracing city. There is much to be proud of here, yet we still have much to do. Together we are getting there though, because We Love Pembroke Pines and it shows in everything we do.

A very special event that is approaching quickly is one at which I hope to see everyone -- to honor and recognize the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces at the City of Pembroke Pines Veterans Day Ceremony on Monday November 11, 2024, at 12:00 noon at the Charles F. Dodge City Center Memorial Park, located across from 601 City Center Way. The ceremony features the presentation of colors, musical performances, the Veterans Portrait Project Exhibit Display, and gues t speakers.

This hurricane season we have been fortunate so far, however, please remember that Hurricane season doesn’t end until November 30th. We must remain vigilant. I encourage you to visit www.ppines. com/hurricane under Pembroke Pines Prepared before a storm to gather information, print out lists, view videos and continue to be prepared.

There is also a special section on the city’s website at www. ppines.com/hurricaneupdates that will be activated when there is a hurricane or tropical storm to inform residents of closings, alerts, etc. We also have a city emergency hotline (954-565-9571), however, it will only be activated when the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) goes to a Level 2 – partial activation, or a Level 1 – full activation for an impending storm. This phone number allows residents to report or ask questions relevant to the hurricane on topics such as mandatory evacuations, shelter information, road closures etc.

Especially during hurricane season, but also throughout the year, it’s important for Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and Condominium Associations (CA) to keep contact information correct and updated. The City of Pembroke Pines adopted an ordinance requiring HOA/CA boards to continuously provide updated contact information to the City to ensure that our communications database is as accurate and up to date as possible in the event of an emergency. It is imperative that the city has updated email addresses to ensure that notifications and alerts can be sent out to key members of HOA/CA boards and HOA/CA emergency contacts of emergency public meetings, which ultimately helps our residents stay informed. For more information about providing this information, please call 954-450-1050 or email drogers@ppines.com.

I would like to wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving and 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 acastillo@ppines.com.

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.

Estimados amigos: Me enorgullece anunciar que la ciudad de Pembroke Pines ha sido nombrada una vez más la mejor ciudad de Estados Unidos para el emprendimiento hispano. Hemos estado consistentemente entre las diez mejores ciudades de Estados Unidos en esta categoría desde 2014. Esto habla claramente de la fortaleza de la actividad de las pequeñas empresas en toda la ciudad, independientemente de la etnia. También subraya el esfuerzo de la ciudad por ser una ciudad favorable a las empresas, con bajos impuestos, alta calidad de vida y que abrace la diversidad. Hay mucho de lo que enorgullecerse aquí, pero aún tenemos mucho por hacer. Sin embargo, juntos lo estamos logrando, porque amamos a Pembroke Pines y eso se nota en todo lo que hacemos.

Un evento muy especial que se acerca rápidamente es uno en el que espero ver a todos: honrar y reconocer a los hombres y mujeres que han servido en las Fuerzas Armadas de los EE. UU. en la Ceremonia del Día de los Veteranos de la Ciudad de Pembroke Pines el lunes 11 de noviembre de 2024, a las 12:00 del mediodía en el Charles F. Dodge City Center Memorial Park, ubicado frente a 601 City Center Way. La ceremonia incluye la presentación de los colores, actuaciones musicales, la exhibición del Proyecto de retratos de veteranos y oradores invitados.

Hasta ahora, hemos sido afortunados en esta temporada de huracanes; sin embargo, recuerden que la temporada de huracanes no termina hasta el 30 de noviembre. Debemos permanecer atentos. Los invito a visitar www.ppines.com/hurricane en Pembroke Pines Prepared before a storm para recopilar información, imprimir listas, ver videos y seguir estando preparados.

También hay una sección especial en el sitio web de la ciudad en www.ppines.com/hurricaneupdates que se activará cuando haya un huracán o una tormenta tropical para informar a los residentes sobre cierres, alertas, etc. También tenemos una línea directa de emergencia de la ciudad (954-565-9571), sin embargo, solo se activará cuando el Centro de Operaciones de Emergencia (EOC) pase a un Nivel 2 (activación parcial) o un Nivel 1 (activación total) para una tormenta inminente. Este número de teléfono permite a los residentes informar o hacer preguntas relacionadas con el huracán sobre temas como evacuaciones obligatorias, información sobre refugios, cierres de carreteras, etc.

Especialmente durante la temporada de huracanes, pero también durante todo el año, es importante que las Asociaciones de Propietarios (HOA) y las Asociaciones de Condominios (CA) mantengan la información de contacto correcta y actualizada. La Ciudad de Pembroke Pines adoptó una ordenanza que requiere que las juntas de HOA/CA proporcionen continuamente información de contacto actualizada a la Ciudad para garantizar que nuestra base de datos de comunicaciones sea lo más precisa y actualizada posible en caso de una emergencia. Es imperativo que la ciudad tenga direcciones de correo electrónico actualizadas para garantizar que se puedan enviar notificaciones y alertas a los miembros clave de las juntas de HOA/CA y a los contactos de emergencia de HOA/CA de las reuniones públicas de emergencia, lo que en última instancia ayuda a que nuestros residentes se mantengan informados. Para obtener más información sobre cómo proporcionar esta información, llame al 954-450-1050 o envíe un correo electrónico a drogers@ ppines.com.

Me gustaría desearle a usted y a su familia un muy Feliz Día de Acción de Gracias y, como siempre, si tiene alguna pregunta o inquietud, no dude en comunicarse con mi oficina al 954-450-1020 o por correo electrónico a acastillo@ppines.com.

Muy sinceramente.

Angelo Castillo

Greetings From Your Chamber President!

As November rolls in, we enter an exciting time of year—the start of the Small Business Season. While many of us are gearing up for the holidays, it’s important to remember the impact our shopping habits have on the local economy. Small Business Season runs from now through the end of the year, and it’s the perfect opportunity to support the businesses that make our community unique.

Small businesses are the heartbeat of Miramar and Pembroke Pines. They provide more than just goods and services—they create jobs, offer personalized customer experiences, and are often the sponsors behind our local sports teams, schools, and community events. When you shop local, a significant portion of the money stays in the community, helping fund public services, infrastructure, and economic growth.

This season, whether you’re shopping for holiday gifts, dining out, or hiring services, remember the importance of shopping small. Every dollar spent locally helps ensure that these businesses, many of which are family-owned and have been here for years, continue to thrive. Small businesses have shown resilience through recent challenges, and now more than ever, they need our support.

Let’s make this holiday season one to remember by shopping locally and investing in our community’s future. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant local economy—one that benefits us all.

So, as you start your holiday shopping, make it a priority to support the small businesses that are the heart of our community.

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 miramarpembrokepines.org.

Yours in Service,

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