Miramar News

WINTER EDITION 2024 NEWS MIRAMAR

Miramar Fights to Block Incinerator!

On September 17, 2024, City of Miramar officials took a firm stand against the proposed incinerator near the west borders of Miramar during a Miami-Dade County Commission meeting. With serious concerns about the impact on air and water quality for over 250,000 South Broward residents and the natural Everglades, Mayor Wayne M. Messam, along with Commissioners Maxwell B. Chambers and Yvette Colbourne, voiced the city’s opposition at the MiamiDade chamber meeting. Vice Mayor Alexandra P. Davis and Commissioner Winston F. Barnes have also consistently expressed strong opposition to the incinerator.

While officials made their case inside the Miami-Dade chamber, scores of residents protested outside, holding signs with the message “Not in Our Backyard.” The overwhelming opposition led the Miami-Dade Commission to postpone the vote until November 6, 2024, allowing more time for further mobilization and discussion.

To keep residents engaged, Mayor Messam hosted a town hall on September 25, 2024, with over 600 people participating in person and online. He provided updates on the incinerator proposal and urged the community to remain involved. A Logistics Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, October 23, 2024, 6:30 pm at the Sunset Lakes Community Center.

Miramar officials continue to encourage residents to join the fight by attending the upcoming vote, either in person or online, to protect the city’s health and environmental safety.

Sign up to attend the upcoming Miami-Dade County Commission meeting with the City on November 6, 2024, when they will cast the vote: StopTheIncinerator.eventbrite.com.

FROM THE CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE

DR. ROY L. VIRGIN City of Miramar Local Government Academy

Empowering Residents and Employees

The City of Miramar launched the Local Government Academy in July 2022 to provide residents and employees with a comprehensive understanding of local government operations and ways to actively engage in city processes.

Participants in this program gained insights into various city functions, including garbage collection, water treatment, street paving, landscaping, cultural arts, and special events. The program also highlighted the relationships between residents, the City Commission, and City Administration, detailing the reasons behind project implementation and how services are delivered.

The curriculum covered key aspects of the budget planning process and other responsibilities essential to city governance. Each session was led by a department representative and featured a combination of informative and interactive learning experiences.

Program Contact Information:

Email: klindsay@miramarfl.gov or sgcoombs@miramarfl.gov

Phone: 954-602-3124 or 954-602-3048

Address: 2300 Civic Center Place, Miramar, FL 33025

The Local Government Academy aims to:

• Educate the public on the services provided by their local government.

• Increase awareness among residents and businesses about local government operations.

• Encourage greater involvement in city government.

• Enhance participants’ understanding of their role within the city government.

• Offer an inside look at how the City of Miramar operates.

• Demonstrate the use of local property tax and utility rates.

• Promote participation in a community project.

• Provide tools to enhance leadership skills and inspire leadership development. This year’s 10-week program concluded on September 10, 2024, with over 45 participants graduating from the academy. The graduation ceremony was held during the City Commission Meeting on September 18, 2024.

Owens,

Parrilla-Louissaint,

Alison Adams, Amanda Carrasquillo, Angelo Hawkins, Dr. Ann-Marie McSwain, Ashley Ferguson, Benjamin Bethel, Beyssa Buil, Carlene Ergus, Cassandra Murray, Choncia Harrell, Cindy Davis, Debbie Lewis-Taylor, Debra Lamb, Denise Nonome, Dona-Lee Raymond, Donna Hinds, Enide Bellamy, Femi Ogunmola, Frederika DeJean, Janeille Brathwaite, Jeniah Maitland, John Torelli, Julie

Karen Vielma, Kay Williams, Kristina

Lorraine Dawkins, Marcia Supria, Marie Rovira, Mitchell Metellus, Nancy Rebecca, Nichola Officer, Oliver Brown, Opal Browning, Rolando Taylor, Sapna Patel, Shannette Phillips, Sharon Bravo, Taja Rivers, Tyler Izuagie, Virgida Imprime, Xiomara Pedroza, Zain Remy, Walter Fitzpatrick, Johann Chong

2024 Graduating Class:

Protecting Our Community

MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR WAYNE M. MESSAM

The fight to protect our community from the proposed Waste-to-Energy incinerator continues. On September 17, 2024, the Miami-Dade County Commission heard from Miramar and our coalition of environmental groups, civil rights advocates, and city officials, standing up for the 250,000 residents who would be impacted by the Airport West site. A fourth site, off Okeechobee Road, is also being explored, just 1.5 miles from Miramar, posing similar environmental risks to wildlife, air, water quality, and public health. We await the Miami-Dade Commission’s decision, urging them to prioritize both people and the environment for future generations.

Exciting Developments at City Center Plaza

In addition, we’re excited to share that new businesses are joining City Center Plaza, including Juici Patties, a popular Jamaican franchise offering authentic patties and cultural delicacies. Additionally, Francisca, a restaurant offering Latin American Traditions will soon be part of our community. These additions further establish Miramar as a hub of diversity and culinary excitement, and we look forward to welcoming them.

Stay Active, Stay Engaged

Take part in our Soca Step Caribbean Dance Class every second Friday and Yoga sessions every Saturday. These wellness initiatives help foster a healthy, active community that we are proud to support. Additionally, we’re calling on our young leaders to apply to the Youth Advisory Council to help shape Miramar’s future. Check the website for updated information, www.miramarfl.gov

Hispanic Business Awards 2024 is being held on October 11, where we will celebrate outstanding contributions to our vibrant business community, State-of-the-City Address on October 30, where I will share important updates and the vision for Miramar’s future. These events highlight our continued commitment to growth, inclusion, and success for all residents.

Get Ready to Vote!

Election season is here, and the General Election is scheduled for November 5, 2024. I encourage every eligible resident to check their voter registration status before the October 7, 2024, deadline. Voting is a powerful tool in shaping the future of our community, so make sure your voice is heard!

Building

International Relationships

I’m also proud to share that Miramar has signed a Sister City Agreement with Belize to strengthen cultural and economic ties. It was an honor to welcome the Mayor of Belize and present him with the keys to our city, marking the beginning of a fruitful partnership.

Together, we will continue to fight for what’s right, promote wellness, and build a city that we can all be proud of. Thank you for your continued trust and support.

Sincerely,

Wayne Messam Mayor of Miramar

Contact: Mayor Wayne Messam at: 954-602-3151

Email: wmessam@miramarfl.gov

Website: MiramarFL.gov/WayneMessam

Mayor and Consul General of Israel in MiamiMaor Elbaz-Starinsky

Mayor and Consul General of Argentina in MiamiMarcelo Gilardoni of Argentina

Jamaica Emancipendence Banquet and Awards

Jamaica Emancipendence Ole Time Fair and Concert

Watch party for Miramar’s own

DANIELLA RAMIREZ for winning a TEAM USA OLYMPIC SILVER MEDAL in ARTISTIC SWIMMINGTEAM ACROBATIC

ALEXANDRA P. DAVIS VICE MAYOR Putting You First... Keeps Us First

This summer was fantastic! From community gatherings to expos, I ensured there was something for everyone to enjoy. My aim was not only to entertain but also to empower our residents with valuable information and resources. As Vice Mayor, it has been an absolute pleasure to connect with so many of you and witness firsthand the positive impact these events have had on our community. Let’s look back at the highlights of our memorable summer together.

On July 6th, I hosted a Community Outreach Event at Missionwood. The best part of my day was spending time with the residents and business owners of this City! We brought all the City and County services right to your front door in the Missionwood community. Thanks to all who participated and the staff who made it possible.

On July 13th, I presented the Save A Life Day Family Summer Edition. Families came out to learn how simple steps can save a life before help arrives! We had presentations and hands-on demonstrations where everyone could participate. Thanks to our Miramar Fire Department, Miramar Police Department, and our partners who assisted with demonstrations, presentations, and giveaways!

On July 27th, I partnered with the Children’s Services Council for the Back-to-School Extravaganza. The support was overwhelming, and we will need to provide even more supplies next year! Over 2,500 book bags were distributed in the first two hours! The need is truly great as we eased the burden on parents this school year. Children also received new sneakers and books while supplies lasted. Thank you to all our vendors, sponsors, staff, and volunteers who made it all possible!

On July 31st, I hosted our annual Biz Fit Small Business Expo, spearheaded by me. Attendees engaged and learned from the best in the business on how to open, scale, and operate a successful business. Thank you to the staff, panelists, moderators, and vendors for making our Biz Fit Expo a great event for all!

For Jamaica’s Independence, on August 2nd, I hosted the Jamaica 62nd PreIndependence Fete. This celebration not only honored the resilience and strength of our ancestors but also celebrated the rich cultural heritage and vibrant spirit of the Jamaican community. The event was filled with music, dance, food, and joyous festivities, bringing together people to commemorate this significant milestone in our history.

On August 21, in celebration of National Senior Citizen Day, I had the pleasure of hosting the Timeless Treasures Gala. This special event was dedicated to honoring the wisdom, contributions, and rich life experiences of our senior citizens. The evening was filled with heartfelt speeches, recognition, lively performances, and moments of joy and reflection. A sincere thank you to Pinnacle Communities, Aetna, and Humana for being our generous sponsors and making this memorable evening possible. Their support allowed us to create an event that truly celebrated the timeless treasures in our community. Until next time. Always remember putting you first, keep us first!

UPCOMING EVENT:

Vice Mayor Alexandra P. Davis Hosts Black British Night

October 19th – Miramar Cultural Center

6 p.m. – Midnight

To contact my office regarding any concerns, please feel free to call (954) 602-3155 or email me at apdavis@miramarfl.gov. You may subscribe to receive email updates from my office, sign up at miramarfl.gov/Davis. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @4AlexandraDavis. Please take care of yourself and each other!

Para comunicarse con mi oficina con respecto a cualquier inquietud, no dude en llamar al (954) 602-3155 o enviarme un correo electrónico a apdavis@miramarfl.gov. Puede suscribirse para recibir actualizaciones por correo electrónico de mi oficina, regístrese en miramarfl.gov/Davis. Sígueme en Facebook, Instagram y Twitter @4AlexandraDavis. ¡Por favor, cuídense y cuídense unos a otros!

Pou kontakte biwo mwen an konsènan nenpòt enkyetid, tanpri, ezite rele (954) 602-3155 oswa voye yon imèl ban mwen nan apdavis@miramarfl.gov. Ou ka abònman yo resevwa dènye nouvèl imel nan biwo mwen an, enskri nan miramarfl.gov/Davis. Swiv mwen sou Facebook, Instagram, ak Twitter @4AlexandraDavis. Tanpri pran swen tèt ou ak youn ak lòt!

Community Outreach Missionwood

MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER WINSTON F. BARNES

Hello Miramarians!

As our children return to schools across our fair city and county, I am sharing the privilege and pleasure of the success of our annual backpack giveaway event, held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Lakeshore Park in the University Park area of the city.

One of the great satisfactions we gained from this event was when we were asked why we staged it so early. We explained that we do so before parents start shopping for back-to-school supplies for their children! This way, they were able to remove at least one item from their shopping list. In fact, we were able to give away 1,400 backpacks, making a significant impact on our community.

Another significant event was River Run Park’s annual Night Out Against Crime. Despite being interrupted by rain last time, the event was a resounding success for several reasons. The police department’s interaction with our residents

Contact: Commissioner Winston F. Barnes at: 954-602-3142

Email: wfbarnes@miramarfl.gov

Website: MiramarFL.gov/WinstonBarnes

and the presence of many young people, volunteers, and visiting residents all made a significant difference. This event not only fostered positive relationships with the police but also strengthened the bond among our residents, making our community a safer and more connected place.

It’s also worth noting the ongoing commitment of our student volunteers. Their dedication to serving their fellow residents is commendable and truly inspiring. The success of both the backpack giveaway and the safety event can be largely attributed to the invaluable involvement of these young volunteers. They are not just participants but integral members of our community, and we are deeply grateful for their service.

National Night Out 2024

School Dayz Back Pack Giveaway 2024

MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER MAXWELL B. CHAMBERS

Dear Miramar Residents,

As we welcome the crisp and colorful embrace of Fall, I want to extend my warmest wishes for a season filled with joy, safety, and gratitude. Fall is a time for reflection and giving thanks, and I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering support of the Timeless Passion Exhibition at the Ansin Family Art Gallery. Featuring the culturally rich works of Andy Ballentine from June 3rd to August 7th, 2024, in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month, this exhibition was a resounding success thanks to your engagement and dedication to uplifting the arts.

August concluded with a spectacular celebration of Trinidad and Tobago’s 62nd Independence Celebration. The lively performances by Shelly Sweetshells, Lauderhill Steel Emsemble, Moko Jumbies, and the Miami Carnival representatives made it a truly memorable event. There was a guest performance by Nigel Lewis. Your participation in such celebrations helps keep our rich cultural heritage alive and thriving.

As we embrace this season of change, I encourage you to participate in the upcoming elections. The general election is scheduled for November 5th, 2024, with voter registration ending on October 7th, 2024, and the vote-by-mail request deadline on October 24th. Your voice is vital in shaping the future of our community. If you need assistance with voter registration or any election-related inquiries, please contact 954-357-VOTE (8683).

In celebration of our city’s vibrant creativity, I warmly invite you to Miramar’s Art, Food, and Wine Festival on Saturday, October 5th, 2024 at 6 p.m. at Miramar City Hall by the Lake, followed by our Art Festival on Sunday, October 6th 2024 at the Miramar City Hall Plaza. We encourage both students and adults to showcase their artistic talents. If you’re interested in participating, please contact my office at 954-602-3157 or mbchambers@ miramarfl.gov for more details.

Also, mark your calendars for our Annual Miramar International Art and Fashion event on December 14-15th 2024. This is an unmissable opportunity to experience exceptional works by renowned fashion designers and artists.

Lastly, I wish you and your families a joyous and blessed Thanksgiving and Christmas, and may the New Year bring continued happiness and prosperity.

Thank you for being an integral part of our Miramar community. I look forward to seeing you at these exciting events, and as always, I Am Here For You.

Contact: Commissioner Maxwell B Chambers at: 954-602-3154

Email: mbchambers@miramarfl.gov | Website: MiramarFL.gov/MaxwellChambers

Trinidad & Tobago 62nd Independence Celebration

Ansin Family Art Gallery with Timeless Passion Art Exhibits

MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER YVETTE COLBOURNE

Hello Neighbors,

The City of Miramar Commission has just completed its budget process and we are embarking on our new Fiscal Year 2025. I am pleased to announce that the city did not increase its millage rate this year and we are financially stable. As a City of Miramar Commissioner, I represent the city on a local and national level and support our residents with various initiatives. Here are some results of the work I have done and continue to do on behalf of the city.

Representing the City of Miramar as National League of Cities 2024 President of Women in Municipal Government Constituent Group (WIMG): In this role it was an honor to host women in elected office from around the country as well as our local elected officials at the National League of Cities WIMG Summer Conference in Miramar and Hollywood. This role afforded me a greater platform to advocate for women and to provide information that will propel them to greater heights.

Representing Miramar as Chair of the Metropolitan Planning Organization, The City of Miramar, Florida Department of Transportation, Broward County and Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) came together to announce the opening of the new pedestrian bridge on University Drive and the completion of the University Drive roadway improvements. These long-awaited improvements that I have advocated for, adds to the quality of life of our residents. A big thank you to all our partners.

Initiative in the support of culture and businesses: As a Sister Cities International member, I created the Sister City Committee and appointed members of the community to evaluate and recommend a Sister City for Miramar. The Miramar Commission approved Belize as our first Sister City. After much anticipation, the City has a formal Sister City with a relationship based on cultural background and business aspects. Much gratitude to the Sister City Board members and city staffers.

Contact: Commissioner Yvette Colbourne at: 954-602-3131

Email: ycolbourne@miramarfl.gov

Website: MiramarFL.gov/YvetteColbourne

Remembering 9/11 - Always remember, never forget

Attending the Miami-Dade Commission meeting opposing the mass-burn facility construction near Miramar

Latin Music Festival was a MAJOR Hit!

Welcoming Hair Cleaning Lice removal business to the City of Miramar

With the Murano Community

Presenting at the recent Go Local Miramar Business Academy

National Night Out River Run Park and Riviera Isles

Enjoying the moment at the Senior’s Luncheon

Support to Jamaica and the Caribbean during Hurricane Beryl

Aunt Lili-

resident celebrating 100 years Proclamations presented during Hispanic Heritage Month

Miramar

Women Leaders Forge Future at Municipal Summit

Women in Municipal Government (WIMG) Summer Conference 2024 under the theme “Uplifting Women: Leadership, Safety, Success” was nothing short of an enriching, action-packed and service-oriented experience.

Led by WIMG President, and Miramar Commissioner Yvette Colbourne, this event brought together local government leaders from across the country, providing a unique platform for networking, learning, mentorship, and inspiration.

This conference, part of the National League of Cities which is currently celebrating 100 years, welcomed city leaders from Texas, North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Missouri, Delaware, California, and many other municipalities discussing housing insecurities and sharing solutions, environmental issues, and security.

WIMG 2024 conference was seamlessly executed by President and Miramar Commissioner, Yvette Colbourne, from the initial board meeting attended by Broward County Commissioner, Nan Rich, and other National League of Cities officials, discussing housing, economy, security matters and membership updates to the last day closing sessions on empowering women for the future.

The leadership and vision of President Colbourne was evident throughout the event providing a platform of inspiration, inclusion, and mentorship for all who attended urging women to continue striving for excellence in their respective roles as well as displaying Miramar as a premier progressive destination city.

Speaking to the presentation from Women in Distress President & CEO, Linda Parker, on the topic: Staying Safe: Women and Domestic Violence, President Colbourne emphasized and re-iterated that “Women should all have a seat at the table ensuring that priority is given to securing funding for programs used especially for domestic violence programs”.

Major Ty Shaw-Williams provided some valuable insight into the statistics, redflags, and ways that the Miramar Police Department treats domestic violence calls.

Throughout the conference, attendees participated in motivational sessions that left everyone feeling empowered and ready to make a difference in their communities with the innovative ideas and cross-cultural community enhancements which could be readily implemented.

Presentations from women leaders, Wendy Doyle, and Burnadette NorrisWeeks shared strategies for women in leadership. This was well received as leaders themselves in their respective industries.

Past presidents, AmyMarie Vizzo-Paniccia, Council-member Bridgeport, CT (2019), Wally Campbell, Councilmember Goodyear, AZ (2021), Jan Arbuckle Mayor Grass Valley, CA (2022) and Chrelle Bookerj Mayor Pro Tem Tryon, NC (2023) provided sound words and mentorship opportunities for newly elected officials.

Conference participants had the unique opportunity to visit several significant locations as part of the program, including His Place Children’s Home a faith-based organization in neighboring Miami Gardens operating since 1989 partially grant-funded, housing approximately 24,000 children over the years with a population of 1,520 last fiscal year; also visited was Miramar City Hall, Ansin Family Gallery, Ansin Sports Complex where the Paralympics trials were in full effect for Paris Olympics 2024 qualifications, and the impressive 54,000 sq ft Levan Innovation Center at Nova Southeastern University campus. Each visit offered valuable insights into the impactful work being done at these locations.

Besides the networking events and valuable information gathered at the conference, one of the highlights was the reception dinner with lively dancing, a captivating junkanoo performance, and music from a fantastic live band. It was the perfect way to unwind and connect with fellow attendees in a more informal setting.

The Women in Municipal Government (WIMG) summer conference 2024 was a memorable and enriching experience that left new insights, connections, and motivation to enhance contributions to local government across the country. Women in Municipal government play a vital role in shaping the future of their communities bringing diverse perspectives, experiences, and leadership styles to the table, essential for creating inclusive and equitable policies.

The event was held in Hollywood, Florida Wednesday July 17 to Friday July 19, 2024, with over 100 participants from across the country attending.

Sponsors for the event included: Waste Pro, Sunbeam Development and Properties, City of Hollywood, Local Infrastructure Hub, Related Group, Mission Square, Amazon, Wells Fargo, Austin Pamies Norris Weeks Powell LLC, and City of Miramar.

PUBLIC SAFETY Congratulations to your newly promoted officers!

Captain Brittany Sera

Captain Sera joined the Florida Highway Patrol as a state trooper and was stationed in Pinellas County, FL. During her tenure she had the opportunity to work on the security detail for Barack Obama’s 2013 inauguration and the Wyoming Governor’s security detail for the 2012 Republican National Convention.

Thereafter, she moved closer to home and joined the Miramar Police Department. Captain Sera had the opportunity to be a part of the Field Operations Bureau, P.R.I.M.E. Unit, Community Resource Unit, and Internal Affairs Unit. In her capacity as a community resource officer, she created the Hoops 4 Hope scholarship, which provided high school seniors in Miramar with a college scholarship. With the assistance of local businesses, she was able to raise over $20,000 and provide fourteen students with scholarships. In 2020, she was promoted to sergeant and in 2024, she was promoted to captain.

Sergeant Marc St. Fort

Marc St. Fort was born in Miami, FL. He started his law enforcement career in 1998, as a state correctional officer at Everglades Correctional Institution. In late 1999, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. He then left state corrections and joined the Broward Sheriff’s Office as a Detention Deputy in March of 2000. In 2002, Sergeant Marc St. Fort joined the Miramar Police Department. He worked in the following units: DUI Task Force, Field Training Officer, Parttime Traffic, Criminal Investigations, Money Laundering Task Force, P.R.I.M.E. (Preventing Repeat Incarceration through Monitoring and Enforcement) and Professional Compliance/Recruitment. Sergeant St. Fort has a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Barry University and is working towards his master’s degree in business leadership at Nova University. It was his lifelong dream to become a police officer as a child.

PUBLIC SAFETY

HALLOWEEN:

Fire Safety Tips:

Halloween is CREEPING up on us! The Miramar Fire-Rescue department wishes everyone a safe and happy Halloween experience. Take a minute to read these 5 tips to make sure you and your family stay safe while trick-or-treating.

Trick-or-treat with trusted neighbors. Plan your route ahead of time and find the safest, most efficient route to the candy. Nextdoor publishes a treat map that people planning to give out candy can add their house to and a lot of neighborhoods/HOA’s do something similar making maps or handing out flyers for participating houses to hang outside. If you’re planning to hand out candy this year, add your house to your neighborhoods plan and don’t forget to choose a Teal Pumpkin if you plan to hand out non-food treats for trick-or-treaters with food allergies.

Dress like a ghoul or goblin but stay safe. Make sure costumes and candy bags or pails are reflective. Costumes shouldn’t drag too far on the ground to avoid tripping, and masks, hats, and shoes should be well-fitting.

If you plan to be driving during trick-or-treat hours, watch for children walking on roadways, medians, and curbs. Be sure to enter and exit driveways carefully. If you

will be walking, use well-marked routes to get to the candy. Always use the sidewalk, and do not cut across yards or use alleys. Wherever possible, cross the road at a crosswalk.

When in doubt, throw the candy out. Avoid candy that has loose wrappings, is completely unwrapped, has puncture holes, or is homemade and not factory wrapped. Small children should not be allowed hard candy, which could be a choking hazard.

When decorating your house for Halloween use battery operated candles or glow sticks in your jack-o-lanterns avoiding open flames that can very easily catch your other decorations on fire. Also remember that when you are placing your decorations make sure to keep your exits clear in case of an emergency.

SENIOR & SOCIAL SERVICES

Seniors in Action

The Southcentral Southeast Focal Point Senior Center is more than just a home for the senior residents of Miramar proudly serving seniors from our 12 catchment cities, extending up to West Sunrise in Broward County. We are currently accepting applications through our senior interest portal on the city website, under the Social Services tab. Anyone over the age of 60 who is interested in joining our vibrant community is encouraged to apply.

The season is packed with exciting events at our Senior Center! We are thrilled to announce the inaugural Senior Olympic Games, a local celebration inspired by the Olympic Games in Paris. This event was held right here in Miramar, with a fantastic opportunity for seniors to stay active, competitive, and engaged. Remember, it’s never too late to compete, and healthy competition fosters camaraderie and sportsmanship. The games inspired Johanna Quaas, a 98-year-old gymnast from Germany, who recently performed an impressive routine on the parallel bars.

In addition to the Senior Olympics, we celebrated National Senior Center Month in September with a special “Spirit Week!” recognized nationwide by the National Institute of Senior Centers (NCOA), this month-long celebration featured a variety of engaging activities.

Following International Day, Spirit Week was launched and featured several other exciting events:

Game Day: Color WarZ Royale competition, where teams battled it out in a series of fun and challenging activities to claim the title of the greatest team color.

Senior Prom: One of the most anticipated events, where our center hosted a glamorous Senior Prom. Seniors had the chance to dance the night away and celebrate with peers, culminating in the crowning of a Prom King and Prom Queen.

The week culminated with our major outreach event, the Senior Resource Fair at the Multi-Service Complex. Building on last year’s success, where 605 seniors registered, this year’s fair featured numerous vendors and sponsors, and offered valuable resources and information to our senior community.

International Day kicked off Spirit Week, showcasing the rich cultures and diverse backgrounds of our seniors. Participants represented their countries, shared cultural traditions, and displayed artifacts and memories from their homelands. Last year, we had representation from 16 countries, this year was even greater!

BUSINESS

Greetings from your Chamber President, Patty Archer!

We are always proud to witness the vibrant growth and prosperity of our Miramar business community. Our bustling streets, thriving entrepreneurs, and dynamic workforce are a testament to our community’s collective efforts in driving sustainable economic development.

In our journey towards progress, it’s crucial to recognize the pivotal role of business policies that sustain our momentum. These policies serve as the cornerstone of our community’s growth, ensuring a sustainable insurance market, prioritizing workforce education, facilitating affordable and attainable workforce housing, and promoting responsible and sustainable growth.

At the heart of advocating for these policies lies our organization. We are not solely about networking; we are the voice of our local businesses and the champions of an environment where businesses can thrive, jobs can flourish, and opportunities can abound.

Supporting good business policies isn’t just about bolstering the bottom line; it’s about investing in the future of our community. A sustainable insurance market ensures that businesses can weather unforeseen challenges without compromising their operations. Workforce education equips our residents with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in an ever-evolving economy. Sustainable housing initiatives provide stability for our employees and small business employers, which fosters a sense of belonging and commitment to our community. And responsible growth safeguards our environment and preserves the beauty and charm of our surroundings for generations to come.

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.

For additional information about Miramar Pembroke-Pines Chamber of Commerce, please contact us at: info@miramarpembrokepines.org or call 954-432-9808.

CULTURE CORNER

AROUND MIRAMAR

SAVE GAS - hop around town in the free bus shuttle

For over 20 years, the City of Miramar in conjunction with Broward County has been providing free community bus shuttle program to residents.

We want to keep Miramar moving and saving on gas as you go about your daily life in our beautiful City. The free bus service offers three routes, 5 days per week for 6 hours each day.

The free bus shuttle provides transportation to residential streets and neighborhoods where it would be impossible for large Broward County Transit (BCT) buses to navigate. This helps to reduce traffic congestion on our roadways.

More stops in the work!

We are working on improving the bus shuttle services and the city is collaborating with a consultant to review the three (3) routes in operation and making recommendations for improvements to increase ridership. These improvements include, but are not limited to:

• Adding more stops at various shopping plazas

• Extension of one route to State Road 7 for connectivity with BCT

• Adding weekend service

• Removing unproductive stops

• Launching of a marketing campaign to grow awareness and increase usage of the free bus shuttle.

We appreciate your feedback!

Thank you for participating in our surveys and public meetings – we truly value your feedback and recommendations, and we are actively working with the consultant to incorporate these recommendations into our plan.

Please send any additional feedback or recommendations to Horace Derricks at hderricks@miramarfl.gov or 954-883-5826. Get on the bus Miramarians! For more information including routes – visit miramarfl.gov/freeshuttle. Relax and enjoy a ride on one of our shuttles to your favorite location here in the beautiful City of Miramar.

COMMUNITY & EVENTS

Jamaica Independence Gala, Jamaica Pre-Independence Fete, Jamaica Pre-Independence Fete, Jamaica Pre-Independence Fete, Jamaica Emancipendence celebrations, Ole Time Jamaican Fair, Jamaica Emancipendence celebrations, HOA Roundtable, North Perry airport town hall meeting, Safe House opening, Haitian Flag Day, Community and Public Safety Day.

COMMUNITY & EVENTS

Trinidad Independence Celebrations, Miramar Memorial Health Fair