Pembroke Pines is a city in Broward County, Florida, The United States of America. Our official motto is "Join Us - Progress with Us.". Pembroke Pines was named one of the best cities to live in America. Pembroke Pines won the National Civic League's coveted "All-America City Award" in 2004 and was a finalist in 2003. Pembroke Pines also received an "outstanding achievement award" in the "2005 City Livability Awards" Program, sponsored by the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Many of Pembroke Pines schools have received the "Five Star School Award" from the Florida Department of Education. The City of Pembroke Pines is Ranked #1 in Florida best Place to Raise Your Kids!
Broward Superintendent of Schools Refuses Reimbursement to City for School Resource Officers In the wake of the tragic Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown, CT in December 2012, security at city schools continues to be top of mind for parents and city officials alike. Many schools throughout the country immediately increased security at their schools and all continue to search for ways to take action to ensure their students always remain safe. At the March 6, 2013 City Commis- sion meeting, a lengthy discussion ensued after City Manager Charles F. Dodge informed the Commission of a leer he received from Broward Su- perintendent of Schools Robert Run- cie in response to the City’s action to increase the City’s School Resource Officer (SRO) presence in all elemen- tary schools to ensure every student’s safety. The leer notified the City that the Board will not reimburse the City for the five additional SROs that were assigned in January 2013. In the leer, Runcie stated: “our financial commitment for School Resource Officers (SRO) has already been finalized at the beginning of our fiscal year …and there are no addi- tional funds available.” City Manager Dodge advised the Commission that these unanticipated funds for the additional SROs, at an approximate cost of $138,000, were also not in the City’s budget. A School Resource Officer is a law enforcement officer who is assigned to a school not only to provide secu- rity and safety, but also to promote positive relations between youth and law enforcement. The additional five SROs, approved at the January 15, 2013 Commission meeting, would ensure that each elementary school in Pembroke Pines was assigned a full-time SRO. “Nothing is more important to us than our children,” said Commis- sioner Angelo Castillo at the January meeting. “We have always been at the forefront in providing security for our stu- dents, and now with these additional SROs we will continue to be. This needed to be done.” The SRO Agreement passed in January between the City and the School Board of Broward County called for the City to assign Po- lice Officers as SROs at 14 schools. Eleven SROs were assigned to the 14 schools. Four of these SROs were assigned to cover the nine Elemen- tary Schools, three to cover the three Middle Schools, and four to cover the two High Schools. In the agreement, the School Board would pay the City the sum of $46,252 per Officer, for a total of $508,772. In addition to the 11 SROs, begin- ning January 2013, the City added five SROs and requested that the School Board pay the City the sum of $23,126 per Officer, for an ad- ditional total of $115,630 which represents funding from January 2013 to June 2013. “The School Board has a respon- sibility to protect our children,” said Commissioner Jay Schwarꜩ. “Does this mean that if they don’t get funding they are not going to protect our children?” Mayor Frank C. Ortis suggested, and received the Commission’s con- sensus, that the City Manager write a leer to Superintendent Runcie asking if the five additional SROs can be funded in the next school year. “This gives them ample time for the request,” said Mayor Ortis. “Their answer will tell us where we stand on the issue.” The Pembroke Pines Commission voted to incur the SRO expenses for the balance of the school year so no school will be without an SRO. Pembroke Pines www.ppines.com April/May 2013 Volume 2, Issue 4 Pembroke Pines City Commission From left to right: Angelo Castillo (District 4), Jay Schwarꜩ (District 2), Mayor Frank C. Ortis, Iris A. Siple (District 3), Carl Shechter (Vice Mayor – District 1) Mayor Frank C. Ortis 954-435-6505 ……. [email protected]Commissioners: Carl Shechter, Vice Mayor 954-436-3266 ...... [email protected]Angelo Castillo 954-436-3266 ………. [email protected]Jay Schwarꜩ 954-436-3266 .....….. jschwarꜩ@ppines.com Iris A. Siple 954-436-3266 ..............… [email protected]City Manager: Charles F. Dodge 954-431-4884 ….......…. [email protected]
Transcript
Broward Superintendent of Schools Refuses Reimbursement to City for School Resource Officers
In the wake of the tragic Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown, CT in December 2012, security at city schools continues to be top of mind for parents and city officials alike. Many schools throughout the country immediately increased security at their schools and all continue to search for ways to take action to ensure their students always remain safe.
At the March 6, 2013 City Commis-sion meeting, a lengthy discussion ensued after City Manager Charles F. Dodge informed the Commission of a letter he received from Broward Su-perintendent of Schools Robert Run-cie in response to the City’s action to increase the City’s School Resource Officer (SRO) presence in all elemen-tary schools to ensure every student’s safety. The letter notified the City that the Board will not reimburse the City for the five additional SROs that were assigned in January 2013.
In the letter, Runcie stated: “our financial commitment for School Resource Officers (SRO) has already been finalized at the beginning of our fiscal year …and there are no addi-tional funds available.”
City Manager Dodge advised the Commission that these unanticipated funds for the additional SROs, at an approximate cost of $138,000, were also not in the City’s budget.
A School Resource Officer is a law enforcement officer who is assigned to a school not only to provide secu-rity and safety, but also to promote positive relations between youth and law enforcement. The additional five SROs, approved at the January 15, 2013 Commission meeting, would ensure that each elementary school in Pembroke Pines was assigned a full-time SRO.
“Nothing is more important to us than our children,” said Commis-sioner Angelo Castillo at the January
meeting. “We have always been at the forefront in providing security for our stu-dents, and now with these additional SROs we will continue to be. This needed to be done.”
The SRO Agreement passed in January between the City and the School Board of Broward County called for the City to assign Po-lice Officers as SROs at 14 schools. Eleven SROs were assigned to the 14 schools. Four of these SROs were assigned to cover the nine Elemen-tary Schools, three to cover the three Middle Schools, and four to cover the two High Schools. In the agreement, the School Board would pay the City the sum of $46,252 per Officer, for a total of $508,772.
In addition to the 11 SROs, begin-ning January 2013, the City added
five SROs and requested that the School Board pay the City the sum of $23,126 per Officer, for an ad-ditional total of $115,630 which represents funding from January 2013 to June 2013.
“The School Board has a respon-sibility to protect our children,” said Commissioner Jay Schwartz. “Does this mean that if they don’t get funding they are not going to protect our children?”
Mayor Frank C. Ortis suggested, and received the Commission’s con-sensus, that the City Manager write a letter to Superintendent Runcie asking if the five additional SROs can be funded in the next school year. “This gives them ample time for the request,” said Mayor Ortis. “Their answer will tell us where we stand on the issue.”
The Pembroke Pines Commission voted to incur the SRO expenses for the balance of the school year so no school will be without an SRO.
C I T Y C O N N E C TPembroke Pines
www.ppines.com April/May 2013 Volume 2, Issue 4
Pembroke Pines City CommissionFrom left to right: Angelo Castillo (District 4), Jay Schwartz (District 2), Mayor Frank C. Ortis, Iris A. Siple (District 3), Carl Shechter (Vice Mayor – District 1) Mayor Frank C. Ortis 954-435-6505 ……. [email protected]:Carl Shechter, Vice Mayor 954-436-3266 ...... [email protected] Castillo 954-436-3266 ………. [email protected] Schwartz 954-436-3266 .....….. [email protected] Iris A. Siple 954-436-3266 ..............… [email protected] Manager:Charles F. Dodge 954-431-4884 ….......…. [email protected]
Page 2 Pembroke Pines City Connect April-May 2013
April-May 2013 Pembroke Pines City Connect Page 3
Pembroke Pines City ConnectPublished by the City of Pembroke PinesMarianne Wohlert – News Editor10100 Pines Blvd – 5th FloorPembroke Pines, FL [email protected]
Recreation 954-437-1137Chuck Vones,Recreation Director [email protected]
Community Services 954-450-6868Jay Shechter,Community Services Director [email protected]
Human Resources 954-437-1146Daniel Rotstein, Human Resources Director [email protected]
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Ready, Set, Run and Have Fun!People of all ages can enjoy a day
of fun at the “Pill Box Pharmacies Pines 5K Pursuit to Good Health and Family Fun Day presented by Jose Maria Vargas University” being held
on April 28, 2013 at Walter C. Young Middle School, 901 NW 129 Ave. The event features free fun physical activities, demonstrations and light refreshments provided by The Whole Foods Market in Pembroke Pines.
All proceeds from the Race and Fun Day will benefit the City of Pembroke Pines Charter School Foundation.
“What a great day to come out and enjoy the weather, get active and have fun with your family,” said Mary Jordan, Development Direc-tor for the Pembroke Pines Charter School system. “And, you’ll be help-ing the children of our community at the same time.”
For walkers and runners, race day registration and/or packet pick-up be-gins at 6 a.m., and the 5K Race time is 7:30 a.m. The 1/4 Mile Kids Fun Run is 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. Family Fun Day ac-tivities will take place 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch is available for purchase.
To pre-register for the 5K Race, go to www.active.com; the Pembroke
Lakes Tennis Center, 10500 Taft Street, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.; Planet T Uniforms , 2214 Flamingo Road, Pembroke Pines, FL Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; or contact Mary Jordan, PPCS
To make a donation to the Pem-broke Pines Charter School Founda-tion, please make checks payable to: Pembroke Pines Charter School Foundation; Attn: Mary Jordan, 10600 Pines Boulevard, Pembroke Pines, FL 33024.
Page 4 Pembroke Pines City Connect April-May 2013
Pembroke Lakes Country Club Located in the Heart of Pembroke Pines
10500 Taft Street
Join us for Lunch Monday through Friday from
11 am to 3 pm. PRESENT THIS AD AND
RECEIVE 20% OFF YOUR LUNCH BILL.
Not valid with any other discounted offer. Offer expires April 15, 2013.
Sunday Brunch Buffet10am to 2pm
$21.95 +TAX & GRATUITY
Includes complimentary champagne or mimosas to our guests.
www.pembrokelakesgolf.com
OPEN TO THE PUBLICPAR 72 -18 HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE
GPS SYSTEMS IN EVERY GOLF CART
Discounted Golf Rates for Pembroke Pines ResidentsFor Tee Times or More Information Call the Golf Shop at 954-431-4144
Pembroke Lakes Country Club offers Menu Service, Daily Specials and a Full Service Bar Monday through Sunday
beginning at 11 am. Join us for our Dinner Specials on Thursday and Friday evenings.
Enjoy our Happy Hour Bar Specials daily beginning at 4 pm.
For Dining Reservations Call 954-538-3731For Catering Information Call 954-435-3551
Browse AwayWhat better way to spend a week-
end than strolling through rows and rows of vintage quilts, fine china, antiques and collectibles at the 19th Pembroke Pines Antiques and Col-lectibles Show being held April 13 – 14, 2013.
Over the past 10 years, collectors have been flocking to S.W. Focal Point Community Center, 301 N.W. 103 Avenue, for the show along with dealers from all over the south Florida area to browse through a myriad of timeless memories from days gone by. Furniture, linens, retro 50’s items, vintage jewelry, china and much more will capture the interest of any collector.
The show features over 50 dealers including an exotic orchid dealer. Space proceeds benefit the Commu-nity Center’s programming, events & classes. The show is held twice a year, April & October, and is one of
the Center’s major fundraisers. There is free parking, and admission is $5 per person for a 2-day pass, children under 12 are free.
An appraiser is on site Sundays only to offer information about an item of interest. Hours are Sat. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Paradise Café is open for break-fast, lunch & snacks for those with hungry appetites.
For more information on renting a dealer space, please contact Diane Shawcross at 954-450-6888 or [email protected].
Public Input WelcomeThe Broward Metropolitan Plan-
ning Organization (MPO), together with the cities of Pembroke Pines and Hollywood, is conducting the Hollywood Pines Corridor Project which involves Hollywood/Pines Boulevard from SR A1A to US 27.
Using input from the public and through several Visioning Work-shops, the Project will identify how Mobility Hubs (places where people interact with the transpor-tation system) look, operate and contribute to a more livable and ac-cessible corridor for the two cities’ residents and visitors.
Last month, residents, commu-nity leaders and business owners gathered at the Pembroke Pines Visioning Workshop held at the Southwest Focal Point Community Center. They discussed types of preferred development at the Hubs at Pines Boulevard and University
Drive, and Pines Boulevard and Flamingo Road. Such develop-ment included housing, employ-ment, retail, transportation and infrastructure improvements. An-other Workshop held in Hollywood took place the same month.
“The goal of the MPO and this project is to focus on ways to pro-vide livable communities that are safe, enjoyable and sustainable for all citizens and visitors whether they walk, bike, ride or drive,” said Mayor Frank. C. Ortis. “These types of workshops are valuable for developing short and long term strategies and solutions so that our city remains a safe and thriving community.”
For more information on the MPO and Hollywood Pines Corri-dor Project, or to provide additional input, go to www.hollywoodpine-scorridorproject.com.
April-May 2013 Pembroke Pines City Connect Page 5
wholefoodsmarket.com
14956 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines • Call 954-392-3500 for details.Earth Day Celebration, April 20th
Pembroke Pines
FreshSo
It’s a Party! Don’t forget to be a part of the
City’s birthday celebration at the 53rd Annual Pembroke Pines Fair, run-ning April 4 through 14, 2013 at City Center. From the 4th Annual Taste of Pines, where visitors can enjoy sampling over 30 local restaurants’ cuisine on April 4, to the American Indian Fest, filled with music and dance April 11 to 13, there is some-thing for everyone.
During the 11 day party, there is also the 10 foot cake cutting ceremo-
ny and the Little Miss Sweetheart Pageant on April 6, a carnival midway, entertainment, music, food and more.
All Fair events are being held at City Center, located at 10300 Pines Boule-vard. between Hiatus Road & Palm Avenue – just west of City Hall. For more information, call 954-435-6525.
Music In the AirIf you haven’t yet experienced a free jazz concert at William B. Armstrong
Dream Park, it’s time. A relaxing jazz concert at the park, located at 1700 Dykes Road (NW 160 Ave.) from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., is yours for the taking.
Bring a comfortable chair or blanket to sit on as the sounds of jazz fill the air. Snack and refreshments are available for purchase. For more information, call the Special Events Office at 954-435-6525.
Information is PowerSmall business owners and entre-
preneurs who are looking for new ways to grow their business can take advantage of a free business forum. The Broward Business Forum: Is Your Business Ready to Grow? is being held on Wednesday, May 22, 2013, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Southwest Focal Point Senior Center located at 301 NW 103 Avenue.
Attendees to the event will have an opportunity to hear speakers discuss topics such as business plan creation, marketing through social media, and expanding your workforce.
“We have lined up very knowl-edgeable speakers from both the public and private sectors to provide valuable information for both exist-ing small business owners and future entrepreneurs,” said Michael Stamm, City of Pembroke Pines Planning and Economic Development Director.
The City’s Planning and Economic Development Division will be host-ing this event with its partners from the Greater Fort Lauderdale Broward Alliance, and the Miramar- Pembroke Pines Chamber of Commerce. This event will be the second of four being held throughout the county this year. Similar forums will be held in Tama-rac , Dania Beach and Wilton Manors to ensure that all four sections of the county have access to this program.
“Business education events like the Broward Business Forum are essential for small business owners” said Pembroke Pines City Commis-sioner Iris A. Siple. “Businesses need access to tools to grow their busi-ness. I am proud that the City can provide the medium to share this important information.”
For more information or to register for the event, please call 954-435-6513.
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Just One ClickFor several months now, Pem-
broke Pines residents have been taking advantage of the City’s “See, Click and Fix It” program which involves a new technological tool that helps cities resolve and solve various issues easily and efficiently with just a click from a smart phone.
The City’s Technology Services Department made the application available to all residents and busi-ness owners at the end of last year. Reports of non-emergency issues such as pot holes, graffiti, chronic overgrown landscaping and missing traffic signs, can be made directly from a smart mobile device.
“The response to See, Click and Fix It has been great,” said Michael Lockett, Director of Technology
Services Department. “It really does empower everyone in our city, and helps us respond to needs quickly.”
Through a free application downloaded to a Smartphone device such as an iPhone, android or blackberry, residents can take a picture of a problem (i.e. a pot hole), scroll down from a list of defined issues and then hit send. The GPS in the Smartphone can pinpoint the exact location of the problem, or the person can drag the map marker or input an address manually.
The issue is then sent to the ap-propriate department such as public services, public safety, parks & recreation, police, etc. and a confir-mation receipt within 48 hours will then be received.
Residents can then go online and track their issue and vote on other posted issues that need attention. http://www.ppines.com/seeclickfix/index.html
“We encourage all residents and business owners to download the app and use it when needed,” said Vice Mayor Carl Shechter. “It’s our community and we should all take pride in where we live and work. It’s easy to use, and any found issues can be fixed quickly – it’s a win-win for everyone.”
The SeeClickFix company, based in New Haven, Connecticut, cur-rently covers more than 25,000 towns and 8,000 neighborhoods, both in the United States and abroad, and is continually expanding.
Royal Boy or Girl? The whole world is talking about
and speculating on the birth of Prince William and his wife Kate’s expected bundle of joy. To join in on the royal excitement, a Royal Baby Shower Tea will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 2013 at the Southwest Focal Point Community Center at 2 p.m.
Will it be a boy or a girl may be the hot topic as guests sip their tea, nibble on tiny sandwiches and socialize. Each guest is being asked to bring an unwrapped baby gift to the tea that will be donated to a local charity. Reservations are required before May 29, 2013. Tickets are $18 per person.
By the way, the baby, who will be a great-grandchild of Queen Eliza-beth II, is due in July.
From the Clerk’s Desk
Homeowner and Condominium
Association RegistrationPlease take note: a city ordinance
mandates that a Homeowner or Con-dominium Association must provide current names and contact information for its property management company and certain Board officers. The following is the Code section:
32.504 HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIA-TION AND CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIA-TION BOARD MEMBER EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION.
Homeowners’ associations and con-dominium associations, as defined by Chapters 718 and 720, Florida Statutes, as amended from time to time, respectively, located within the City of Pembroke Pines shall designate one of their officers to be an emergency contact person. Each homeowners’ association and condo-minium association shall provide the City Clerk the name, address and phone number of the association’s property manager, emergency contact person, and at least one other board member. The associations, at their discretion, may pro-vide the city with the contact information of additional board members to be used in the event of an emergency or natu-ral disaster. Current associations shall provide the contact information of the necessary individuals no later than June 30, 2006. Thereafter, the associations shall provide the contact information of the necessary individuals no later than April 1 each year or within 30 days of an elec-tion of new board members. The home-owners’ association and condominium association are responsible for providing updated information within 30 days in the event there is a change in their board membership. The contact information for homeowners’ association and condomini-um association board members shall only be used in accordance with Chapter 119, Florida Statutes, as amended from time to time. (Ord. 1544, passed 5-17-06)
For those who have not yet updated their information, please provide correct information to the City Clerk’s office as soon as possible via fax: 954-435-6592, website: www.ppines.com/cityclerk/hoa/index.html or mail to City Hall, 10100 Pines Blvd, Pembroke Pines, FL 33026.
April-May 2013 Pembroke Pines City Connect Page 7
Federally Insured by NCUA
Seminar Schedule5:30pmMayor Frank Ortis WelcomeAll evening Vendor table visits with FREE Giveaways
6:05pm – 6:25pmManaging Your Money - 2013
6:30pm – 6:50pmSecrets that Auto Dealers Don’t Want You to Know
6:55pm – 7:15pmMortgage and Foreclosure Options in 2013
7:20pm – 7:40pmSmall Business Solutions; Reduce Expenses,Minimize Risk, Increase Sales
7:45pm – 8:15pmQ and A with all speakers
For more information visit:www.bscu.org/community and https://www.ppines.com/parks/specialevents/specialevents.htmlor call 954-486-2728 ext. 5016
BrightStar Credit Union in Partnership with the City of Pembroke Pines presents a
FINANCIALFITNESSFAIRFREE Community EventWednesday, April 24th 5:30pm to 8:30pmWalter C. Young Middle School901 NW 129th Ave Pembroke Pines, FL 33028
• Dance to the sounds of Magic102.7 - Miami's Greatest Hits
• Free snacks and giveawaysfrom local businesses (whilesupplies last)
City of Pembroke Pines Glass Gal-lery, located on the first floor of City Hall, 10100 Pines Boulevard, presents “The Four Seasons” exhibit, by the 2+3: The Artists’ Organization.
2+3: The Artists’ Organization is a consortium of professional artists promoting visual arts through educa-tion, and dedicated to excellence. The name 2+3 denotes two- and three-dimensional artwork. From abstract to impressionism, realism, and sur-realism; from installations to paint-ings, photography and sculpture,
2+3 exemplifies creative excellence in nearly all disciplines and media.
A strict jurying process assures only top professionals will be admit-ted to the organization, of which there are 40 members. The Artists Organization, established in 1987, encourages interaction and under-standing between professional artists and the community. The artists are winners of numerous awards, includ-ing many Best of Shows in exhibi-tions and competitions throughout the country.
Based primarily in Broward Coun-
ty, the artists have exhibited in many galleries and museums throughout the United States and Internation-ally. Visitors to the Glass Gallery will have the opportunity to view the magnificent works of Tobi Archer, Tabitha Blaine, Eleanor Clarke, Joan Keirstead, Barbara Longwill, Leigh McDonald, Rolande Moorhead, Wilma Seigel, Betty Usdan, and Janie Washburn and others.
The Glass Gallery exhibit to follow this one will be Surreal Photography, with an opening reception scheduled for May 21, 2013.
The Glass Gallery in the Pembroke Pines City Hall is open Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For additional Glass Gallery information please contact Ben Menasche at 954-260-0167.
Time to Register for Camp The benefits of summer camp go
far beyond being physically active – friends are made, skills are devel-oped, confidence is built and technol-ogy takes a backseat in your child’s life. It’s no wonder parents are eager
to have their children take part in such a worthwhile experience.
Registration for the City’s Summer Soccer Camp has begun and a few changes have been made from a pre-vious announcement. For boys and
girls, ages 6 to 16, the half-day camp is going to be held at Walter C. Young School at 901 NW 129 Ave. Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., June 10 to July 19, 2013.
The cost is $120 per week, $330 for a full 3 weeks (there is a $30 discount), or $650 for a full 6 weeks (there is a $70 discount).
Registration is taking place at the West Pines Soccer Park located at 350 S W 196 Ave. from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. For out of city residents, there is a $100 per child registration fee.
For more information, please contact Renee Nunez at [email protected] or call the Soccer office at 954-538-3696.
Page 8 Pembroke Pines City Connect April-May 2013
Prepare for the HuntThere will be an added bonus
to the upcoming Flea Market and Bazaar at the Southwest Focal Point Community Center being held May 11 – 12, 2013. In addition to the overflowing treasures up for sale from over 100 vendors, the Stamp and Coin Show dealers will be there to participate both days.
Enthusiastic shoppers will get a chance to not only search through numerous tables of bargains, but also learn the value of their old
stamps and coins or maybe get inspired to start their own coin or stamp hobby.
Parking and admission are free. The two day event will take place on May 11 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on May 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Delicious food will be available inside the Paradise Café.
The Center is located at 301 NW 103 Ave. For more information, call 954-450-6969.
Granting Wishes The Student Council at the Pem-
broke Pines-Florida State University Charter Elementary School recently organized a very successful Nickel and Dime fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Florida, an organization that grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.
Each class-room com-peted to collect the most coins for a chance to win a pizza party. The winning class was Mrs. Velasquez’s third grade class, collecting more than $170. The total collected from the school was more than $1,200, far surpassing their goal of collecting $300.
Since 1983, the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Florida has evolved into an organization that grants a local child’s wish ev-ery 16 hours.
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown Now through April 14, 2013, the
light musical comedy “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” is playing at the Pembroke Pines Theatre of the Performing Arts. The award-win-ning family musical features un-forgettable childhood friends Lucy, Linus, Sally, Snoopy, Schroeder, and of course, Charlie Brown.
The play is based on the beloved
comic strip, Peanuts by Charles Schulz. Memorable songs such as “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” “My Blanket and Me,” and “My Philosophy” will be featured and the play itself will have audi-ences laughing out loud.
Free parking is available just off I-75 at Sheridan Street. Group pricing is also available. For more
information go to www.pptopa.com or call 954-437-4884.
April-May 2013 Pembroke Pines City Connect Page 9
Honoring VeteransTraditionally seen as the start of
the summer, Memorial Day is really a day set aside to honor all men and women who have died in military service for the United States.
On Monday, May 27, 2013, the City’s annual Memorial Day ob-servance will take place at Fletcher Park, located at 7900 Johnson Street, at 9 a.m. The Pembroke Pines Po-lice and Fire Honor Guard, veterans, community leaders and special guest speakers will join together to pay tribute, and a wreath placing ceremony will take place. The public is invited to attend.
Fletcher Park was named in 1970 in memory of Donnith H. Fletcher who became the first Pembroke Pines resident to be killed in the Vietnam War. He was awarded posthumously with a Purple Heart.
Just a reminder that memorial brick markers, engraved with a veteran’s name to honor and re-member, can be purchased. The
bricks surround the Pembroke Pines Veterans Memorial at 10300 Pines
Blvd. For more information, call 954-435-6500.
Airport Anniversary
Award winning North Perry Airport (HWO) in Pembroke Pines is celebrating its 55th anni-versary this year with a fun filled day for the whole family on Satur-day, May 11, 2013, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Whether you fly in or drive in, there will be free admission and parking for all to enjoy vintage aircraft on display, a classic car show, kid activities and a bounce house, food trucks, music, bus tours around the airport, flight simulators and aviation vendors.
“We are very excited about bringing our aviation family and local communities together to share fun and information,” said Nina Demeo, North Perry Airport Manager. “We are especially encouraging young people to come out and see for themselves the possibilities that aviation has to offer and how much fun we actually have.”
Discounted discovery flights will also be available during the celebration, and visitors can learn more about Angel Flights and the Civil Air Patrol.
Constructed by the U.S. Navy in 1943, North Perry Airport, located at 101 SW 77 Way, is a general aviation airport devoted to private and business light plane activity. Broward County ac-quired the airport from the Navy in 1957. It is built on 511 acres of land, has 300+ aircraft based there, and has 140,000 take-offs and landings annually. It also boasts five flight training schools.
For more information go to www.northperryairport.net or call 954-359-1016.
Bright Beginnings Camp PlansSpring may be in the air, but
parents are already making plans for their children’s summer camp. The Walter C. Young (WCY) Early Child-
hood Development Center, Bright Beginnings, offers a safe, secure and fun summer camp program which runs June 10 through August 15, 2013 – the perfect solution to the summer-time ho-hums.
The camp, for children ages Kindergarten through 5th grade, is filled with a variety of exhilarating activities including inflatable water slides, tackling a rock climbing wall, a mobile gaming unit, and exciting trips to the Rainforest Café, YMCA Water Park, Bowling, Movie Theater,
Laser Tag, Monkey Jungle Island and much more.
Space for the camp is limited. The registration fee is $75 and a camp T-shirt is included. A preschool camp is also offered for ages 2 years through pre-kindergarten. For more information, call 754-323-4519 or visit www.ppines.com/preschool/bright-beginnings.html. Bright Beginnings, established in 1989, is the recipi-ent of the Gold Seal of Excellence Award numerous times. All activi-ties are designed to educate and enrich the children.
METROQUEST REALTY
J. Garcia954-882-9699
M. Louis954-629-3920
CALL USMAKE YOUR EXIT TODAY!
Page 10 Pembroke Pines City Connect April-May 2013
Broward Business Forum: Is your Business Ready to Grow?Small Business Owners and Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Location: Southwest Focal Point Senior Center, 301 NW 103rd Avenue, Pembroke Pines 33026
Wednesday, May 22, 2013 ~ 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.RSVP/Information: 954-435-6513
Cost: Free
Speakers:Topic: Marketing through Social Media Speaker: Terra Spero, Co-Founder and CEO of RealTime Marketing GroupTopic: Your Business Plan Speaker: Rafael Cruz, Regional Director Florida Small Business Development Center in BrowardTopic: Developing your Workforce Speaker: Jack Bennings, Director of Workforce Development, Greater Fort Lauderdale Broward Alliance
City of Pembroke Pines, the Miramar-Pembroke Pines Chamber of Commerce, and the Greater Fort Lauderdale Broward Alliance
Lincoln Trunk Makes History Come AliveFor two weeks, Silver Palms
Elementary School recently had the opportunity to share with students the Lincoln Traveling Trunk from the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial in Indiana. The Trunk, which ironi-cally arrived at the school by mail on Lincoln’s birthday, is designed to teach students about Lincoln’s jour-ney from boyhood, to becoming the 16th President of the United States.
Filled with artifacts and replicas of items depicting Lincoln’s life, such as books, a writing slate, clay marbles, clothing, hats, toys, pictures, maps and documents, the Trunk makes history come alive. This hands-on approach provides students an opportunity to connect with the president, discuss and learn in a very different way than reading about him in a book.
The Trunk was also on display during the school’s “Reading Un-der the Stars” event that included a pasta dinner and book fair filled with books about Abraham Lincoln, the Civil War and Presidents.
“The Trunk provided a new experience for the students of Silver Palms, and they will, no doubt, remember it for a long time,” said Principal Amada M. Walker.
Brenda Irby, Second-Grade Teacher and Team Leader, was
instrumental in bringing the Lincoln Traveling Trunk to the school. “The children were very excited to see all the artifacts from the time period,”
said Irby. “I’m not sure who enjoyed it more, the children or adults. Hav-ing it at our school was worthwhile for everyone.”
Out and About Pembroke Pines’ many lush and activity filled parks are calling – beck-
oning all ages to come outside and play. On National Kids to Parks Day, May 18, 2013, there will be free activities throughout the City parks for everyone to enjoy.
National Kids to Parks Day, created by the National Parks Trust, is a grassroots movement to reclaim America’s parks through play, and in-spire children to be involved in healthy outdoor recreation.
To help celebrate the day, on May 18, there will be free Tennis Clinics from 9 a.m. to noon at the following locations:
▪ Pembroke Lakes Tennis Center, 10500 Taft Street▪ Paul J. Maxwell Tennis Center, 1200 SW 72 Avenue▪ TownGate, 901 NW 155 Avenue▪ SilverLakes South, 17601 SW 2 Street▪ SilverLakes North, 2300 NW 172 Avenue▪ Rose G. Price Park, 901 NW 208 Avenue
There will be free Swimming from noon until 6 p.m. at:
▪ Pembroke Lakes Pool 10500 Taft Street▪ TownGate Pool 901 NW 155 Avenue ▪ Price Park Pool 901 NW 208 Avenue
There will also be free Swimming from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. at▪ Pembroke Pines YMCA Aquatic Center, 1361 NW 129 AveChildren across the country are encouraged to explore their neighbor-
hood parks and discover the history, nature and adventure right around the corner or just across town. For more information, call 954-435-6525
April-May 2013 Pembroke Pines City Connect Page 11
CITY OF PEMBROKE PINES COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Open HouseSaturday, June 22, 2013 ~10 a.m. – 2 p.m.S.W. Focal Point Community Center
• FREE Hot Dogs & Refreshments • Student Art Exhibit • Art Demonstrations: Pottery, Drawing, Painting, Mosaics • Class performances: Line Dance, Belly Dance, Zumba, Jazzercise, Acting
• Tai Chi Demonstrations • Classroom & facility tours • Learn about programs and classes • Meet instructors and staff • Face painting and art activities for kids
301 N.W. 103rd Avenue ~ Located off Johnson Street ~ one block west of Palm AvenueFor more information call 954-450-6888 or visit: www.ppines.com
Fulfilling a Vision An old sandpit at Pembroke Lakes
Elementary School has recently been transformed into a lush outdoor en-vironmental center for all to enjoy.
“A square sand lot in the center of our school has become a garden oasis due to the vision of our former Prin-cipal Rosemary Lester and the dona-tions and partnerships from our PTA, the City of Pembroke Pines, business leaders and fellow educators,” said Sandra Shipman, Principal of Pem-broke Lakes Elementary School.
At a special dedication and rib-bon cutting ceremony for the center, guests enjoyed listening to “Ever-green” and “All the Living Things” sung by the school chorus, led by Chorus Director Tim Carney. En-vironmental Club Sponsor Jennifer Mally inducted 31 students who “promised to care for the garden,” and the Kindergarten class sang “A Little Seed.”
Ms. Lester’s vision before leaving as principal was to have an outdoor
area where students and teachers could work in small groups, enjoying sunny days, and promote the impor-tance of taking care the environment.
“As current principal, it is my privi-lege to carry on this vision and con-tinue to make it a special place for our students and staff,” added Shipman.
Plants in the garden include Florida natives like cocoplum, lantana, firebush and sabal palm, as well as an array of flowering plants. Work will continue in the area as pavers will continue to be added and a permanent irrigation system will be installed.
Feeling Groovy Find some bellbottom pants and
fringed vests and join fellow bingo players at the “Groovy ‘70s Bingo” party, hosted by the Friends of the South Regional/Broward Col-lege Library. It will be held in the library’s multi-purpose room on April 20, 2013 at 2 p.m.
Participants are encouraged to wear 70s style clothing for the event, featuring prize bingo, food and fun. Tickets are $5 and will be available at the Library, 7300 Pines Blvd, before the event in Room 230. All proceeds will go to-wards supporting library programs.
The Friends of the Library is a
non-profit organization which ex-ists to provide advocacy and finan-cial support for the library. Over the years this organization has been
responsible for funding programs such as the Summer Reading Pro-gram, the Children’s BookFest; SAT Preparation for teens ; Kwannzza Program; and Miss Lou Reading Festival. For more information, call 954-201-8829.
Page 12 Pembroke Pines City Connect April-May 2013
In the SwimThe pool doesn’t have to be just a
place for leisure splashing about or swimming laps. Water aerobics can be done as a great alternative work-out option. According to the Aquatic Exercise Association, it’s especially beneficial for those with joint problems or medical conditions such osteoporo-sis, arthritis, back pain and diabetes.
For 16 years the City has held wa-ter aerobics classes in a heated pool at the Pembroke Lakes Pool, located at 10500 Taft Street. One hour classes are offered on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday at 9 a.m. Classes are $3 each or $50 for a 20 class swim pass. All classes are held by certified instructors.
“Out low impact water aerobics
classes are a great way to have fun, improve heart health and increase flexibility in a safe environment,” said Greg Groselle, Aquatic Coordi-nator for the City of Pembroke Pines.
For more information about the City’s Aquatic Program or pool hours, please call 954-435-6580.
In A W-O-R-DIt’s time to dust
off the dictionary, pull out the Scrabble board and pencil in the crossword puzzles. The City of Pembroke Pines Community Services Department’s 3rd Annual Senior Spelling Bee is being held on Tuesday, May 14, 2013 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. at the Southwest Focal Point Senior Center.
Prizes will be awarded to the First, Second and Third Place winners. Individuals interested in participating in the competition should sign up at the Activities Desk by May 10, 2013. This event is free to all registered members of the Center.
Word buffs who need more information can call 954-450-6888.
Anti-Bullying Kudos to Central CampusThe students of Pembroke Pines
Charter Middle School Central Cam-pus have been recognized for their efforts against bullying.
Last year they received the honor of being named Fall 2012 Bullying Academy National Champions for both 6th and 7th grades. The Social Studies Team administered a pre-test, implemented bullying academy cur-riculum and concluded the program with a post-test. Between the months of September and December 2012, the students demonstrated what they knew about anti-bullying and outscored all the other participating schools and over 4,000 students na-tionally for their respective grades. Earlier this year, the Social Studies Team responsible for implementing this anti-bullying program as part of the school’s initiative to combat bul-lying, and their students were pre-sented with two National Champion plaques for the 6th and 7th Grades and a $250 check towards continu-ing efforts against bullying by Nova Southeastern University and Bullying Academy program administrators, Daryl Hulce, Alex Velasquez and
Alex Duarte.Student Government President,
Caroline Abramovici and Vice President, Nicholas Cozzati, accepted these plaques on behalf of the stu-dent body. “The Bullying Academy program administrators were very impressed with the students and staff’s commitment towards working to reduce incidents of bullying,” said Guidance Counselor Jill Bear who coordinated the bullying curriculum plans for the teachers to implement.
The middle school students and staff have been participating in a Nova Southeastern University dis-sertation study to determine the effectiveness of the various interven-tions that have been implemented to educate and combat bullying this school year. Thus, this recognition is especially rewarding, as the school has initiated a school-wide anti-bul-lying program through the school’s Connections classes grades 6-8.
The students also have been issued
incentives to help promote a bully-free school environment, through acts of kindness and serving as pro-active bystanders.
“Our school is on the right track towards reducing incidents of bully-ing and addressing incidents im-mediately upon reports made,” said Kimberly Pizzo, Assistant Principal and Anti-Bullying Initiative Devel-oper. “We are very proud of the com-mitment that our staff and students have given to this important social concern to help our students feel safe and valued. We will continue to strive to create and maintain a posi-tive school climate.”
The 8th Grade students are in the process of completing their Bullying Academy program for the spring 2013 competition window and are eligible for this recognition, as well.
U. S. History teacher and depart-ment chairperson, Darrin Schwarts, is helping the 8th Graders win this challenge for the spring 2013. For more information regarding this anti-bullying curriculum program, go to www.bullyingacademy.org
Life is a Cabaret!
Funny Man, Lou Marsh continues to delight audiences at Cabaret Night at the Walter C. Young Resource Cen-ter/Jim Davidson Theatre of Perform-ing Arts, located at 901 NW 129 Ave.
On April 27 and May 18, 2013, Lou will keep people laughing and danc-ing all night long to the sounds of the Sonny Mange Band. Acts included: Damian Songs Best Acts, Singing Duo Rudy Redwine and Robert Kole and Master Juggler Rick Klinger.
Cabaret Show ticket prices are $15 and a 10% discount is given to all Se-nior Citizens. Tables can be reserved in advance and this event is BYOB. Door open at 7 p.m. and the show time is 8 p.m. For reservations and information on future shows, please call Lou Marsh at 954 438-6200.
April-May 2013 Pembroke Pines City Connect Page 13
Now is your opportunity to rent at Pines Place, a spectacular rental community featuring spacious one and two bedroom apartments. Pines Place offers affordable apartments for persons of all ages in the heart of Pembroke Pines.
Pines Place is located at 8210 Florida Drive, on the Howard C. Forman Human Services Campus at University Drive between Pines Boulevard and Pembroke Road.
PINES PLACE
For more information Please call 954-965-6240 or 954-894-1185
Or visit our webpage: www.ppines.com
Pines Place Requirements: Applicants must be 18 years of age or older
Have an annual minimum income of $16,300 for one person and $18,650 for two persons. If unable to qualify by income, a guarantor must be provided.
The apartments include: Washer and dryer
Well designed Kitchen & Bathroom Screened Patio
A gated community Pets are not allowed
8210 Florida Drive, Pembroke Pines, Fl 33025
954-965-6240 954-894-1185
Three different models available Amenities include: water, garbage,
maintenance, exterminating and cable.
Los apartamentos incluyen: Lavadora, secadora
Baños completos de ducha Balcón o patio con anjeo
Contraventana de huracán GRATIS: El agua, la alcantarilla, la colecta de basura,
el mantenimiento de jardín y el cable del TV Animales no son permitidos
Los solicitantes deben: Ser capaces de vivir independientes Tener una entrada financiera anual
de $16,300.00 por una persona o 18,650.00 por dos. (Si el solicitante no tiene esa entrada financiera, pude tener un fiador que lo respalde)
La Ciudad de Pembroke Pines Pines Place ofrece comodos apartamentos para personas de todas las edades en el corazon de Pembroke Pines.
Host Families NeededChaminade-Madonna College
Preparatory School in Hollywood has an International Student Pro-gram which allows Chinese stu-dents to live in South Florida while studying at the high school. This first year, they have five students in the program.
“We are asking for the assistance of the residents of Pembroke Pines to become Host Families for these hard working students during the school year,” said Janice Sham, the International Student Program Co-ordinator at the School. “It’s truly a great program that would bring a new experience to families in the Pembroke Pines area.”
The Program works in partner-ship with The Cambridge Institute of International Education. Host families must pass a background screening process, as do the stu-dents who participate.
“Our international student
program complements our school’s mission of fostering a family-like community comprised of individu-als from diverse backgrounds, eth-nicities and cultures,” said School President Rev. Larry Doersching. “The program also offers our inter-national students an opportunity to receive a quality education in the United States, opening up immense possibilities for their futures.”
For more information, call Janice Sham at 954-989-5150 ext. 154 or email [email protected].
Take Note – From Police Dept. Desk
The Shred-a-Thon and Operation Medicine Cabinet has been resched-uled for Pembroke Pines on Saturday May 11, 2013 from 9 a.m. to noon. The location is 400 North Hiatus Rd on the east side of Pembroke Lakes Mall behind Target. The Pembroke Pines Police Department Community Affairs Unit works with the Broward Sheriff’s Office in hosting the event which allows residents to properly dispose of unwanted or unused
prescription drugs, and also to shred away identity theft.
The Adult Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Certification Training classes start May 20, 2013 – for 4 weeks, one night a week from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the police department.
Applications are also now being accepted for the Citizens Police Acad-emy #38 which starts August 2013. For more information on any of these events, please call 954-436-3274.
Swingin’The City Parks and Recreation
Department is offering Summer Camps for Tennis and Golf June through August 2013 at the Pem-broke Lake Golf and Racquet Club at 10500 Taft Street. All are super-vised by USTA and PGA certified
instructors. Space is limited. For more information call 954-431-4146.
Page 14 Pembroke Pines City Connect April-May 2013
End of School Year ApproachingMay is a bittersweet month for
the VPK students at West Pines Preschool as they celebrate the end of the school year. The students graduate and make their way into the world of Kindergarten.
Family and friends of the students await anxiously as the children walk across the stage and accept their diploma from one of the dignitaries in the city. The students then sing songs and perform for the audience.
“The social aspect of preschool is most important at this age,” says Site Supervisor Holly Bonkowski. “It is wonderful to see how the students blossom from very young children to very mature VPK students. They are all certainly ready for kindergarten.”
Summertime at West Pines is also a great transitional time from one school year to another. It gives the children a chance to relax from their world of curriculum and enjoy summertime activities such as water days, the fire department “hosing off the kids” and the Police Department doing a great puppet show.
Enrollment for children ages 2 to 5 for summer classes is currently taking place. The children will enjoy a variety of themed activities such as “Under the Sea” and “Books, Books and more Books.” Spanish and Tap, Jazz, Ballet and Hip Hop are also offered and allow the children to expand their creative sides.
West Pines Preschool, located at 18490 NW 8 Street, boasts large class-rooms, computers in every room, a hot lunch program and two large shaded playgrounds. For more infor-mation on Summer and Fall enroll-ment, please call 954-437-1134. Fashionistas Unite
Just in time for a new spring and summer wardrobe, there will be a Spring Fever Fashion Show and Shopping Event on Wednesday, May 22, 2013, noon to 2 p.m. at the Southwest Focal Point Community Center located at 301 NW 103 Ave.
Taylor Marie’s Apparel will be providing women’s clothing and accessories for this fashion show featuring members of the SWFP Community Center as models.
Clothing and accessories that ap-peal to women of every age will also be available for the public to purchase at the event.
Center Members who are inter-ested in “walking the runway” and modeling in the show should sign up at the activities desk. The fash-ion show is free and open to the public. Free refreshments will also be served. For more information call 954-450-6888.
Walkabout for AutismEarlier this year, Pembroke Pines
Elementary (PPE) School students and staff participated in their very own “WalkAbout PPE” to promote autism awareness. They sported favorite team shirts and jerseys and “walked about” the perimeter of the campus.
“I’m very proud of all the walkers for their efforts and commitment for helping our community,” said April Schentrup, Pembroke Pines Elemen-tary Principal.
Maulty Moore, retired Miami Dolphin player #65 Defensive Tackle, was a special guest speaker at the WalkAbout. “The definition of a team is more than two people work-ing for a common goal,” said Moore. “The WalkAbout PPE gives us a chance to unite for a worthy cause.”
A few weeks later, more than 60 PPE Pirates laced up their sneakers and joined the Dan Marino Founda-
tion WalkAbout Autism held at Sun Life Stadium. This community event promoted awareness for those touched by Autism and supported education for students with Autism. The PPE Pirate team raised $ 2,500 in donations (25% went directly back to the school to support the Autism cluster).
“WalkAbout 2013 gave Pembroke Pines Elementary an amazing oppor-tunity to show our ‘Pirate Pride and Passion,’ our generosity, and team spirit,” said Susan Schwartz, Autism Coach. “We really do treasure all our students at PPE.”
Showtime at PPCHTalented students at the Pem-
broke Pines Charter High School will be performing at two special events this month. On April 18, 2013, “The Other Room” by Ari-adne Blayde, will hit the stage. It’s a moving story about a teenager with autism and his encounter with a student after school while waiting to go home.
“It’s a play to make you think, and directed for teens to view and hopefully walk out with many things to discuss,” said Andrea Kidd, PPCHS Drama teacher and director of the play. “The students are motivated to do a great job and are learning from the experience.”
Most of the proceeds from the ticket sales will go to the FSU Char-ter campus which has a program for autistic students.
On April 23, 2013, the PPCHS
Latin Dance Club will join efforts with the Joe DiMaggio’s Children’s Hospital and The Joe DiMaggio’s Foundation by participating in a benefit show called Dancing 4 a Cause. It will take place at the River of Grass Auditorium at 7 p.m. Dancing 4 a Cause will feature all dance clubs and teams from PPCHS, as well as other dance teams from schools throughout the community.
“We are so proud to also have the participation of the FSU Campus Elementary Dance Teams under the director of Lawrence Daniel,” said Annette Sandin, Moderator for the School’s Latin Dance Club. “And we are honored to be a partner in this worthwhile endeavor.”
For more information contact [email protected] or call 954-538-3700 ext. 1206.
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April-May 2013 Pembroke Pines City Connect Page 15
Study Participants Needed Residents of Pembroke Pines are
invited to participate in a his-toric study that has the potential to change the face of cancer for future generations. The American Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention Study-3 (CPS-3) needs men and women be-tween the ages of 30 and 65 who have never been diagnosed with cancer to take part in the study.
CPS-3 will enroll a diverse popu-lation of up to half a million people across the United States and Puerto Rico. The opportunity for local residents to enroll in CPS-3 is being made available at City Hall located at 10100 Pines Blvd on May 7, 2013 from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The study will help researchers better understand the lifestyle, envi-ronmental, and genetic factors that cause or prevent cancer. To enroll in the study, individuals will be asked to read and sign an informed consent form; complete a compre-hensive survey packet that asks for information on lifestyle, behavioral, and other factors related to their health; have their waist circumfer-ence measured; and give a small blood sample.
Upon completion of this process, the American Cancer Society will send periodic follow-up surveys to update the information and annual newsletters with study updates and results. The in-person enrollment process takes approximately an hour to complete. Periodic follow-up surveys of various lengths are expected to be sent every few years to individuals.
“Many individuals diagnosed
with cancer struggle to answer the question, ‘What caused my cancer?’ In many cases, we don’t know the answer,” said Alpa V. Patel, Ph.D., principal investigator of CPS-3. “CPS-3 will help us better under-stand what factors cause cancer, and once we know that, we can be better equipped to prevent cancer. Our previous cancer prevention studies have been instrumental in helping us identify some of the major factors that can affect cancer risk. CPS-3 holds the best hope of identifying new and emerging cancer risks, and we can only do this if members of the community are willing to become involved.”
Researchers will use the data from CPS-3 to build on evidence from a series of American Can-cer Society studies that began in the 1950s that collectively have involved millions of volunteer participants.
“Taking an hour or so every few years to fill out a survey – and po-tentially save someone from being diagnosed with cancer in the future - is a commitment that thousands of volunteer participants have already made,” said Dr. Patel. “We’re look-ing for more like-minded individu-als in Pembroke Pines to join this effort that we know will save lives and improve the outlook for future generations.”
For more information or to learn how to become involved with CPS-3, visit cancer.org/cps3, email [email protected], or call 954-564-0880 ext. 2848.
Meet the Master’s Gallery Somerset Academy
Charter School held a “Meet the Masters” night last month in the school’s cafeteria. First through third place win-ners were chosen from each elementary class. Each win-ner received a homework pass, and is having their work dis-played in the school-wide event
on May 9, 2013.The night was filled
with performances by the elementary Pan-therettes, the Singing Sensations, the middle/high drama students and
band. Lucky winners of a raffle received a Cheesecake Factory gift card, a massage gift card and two Florida Panther Hockey tickets.
Making MusicCity Jazz is a group of middle
and high school musicians from various schools (currently including Flanagan High School, McArthur High School, Pines Middle School and Pines Charter Middle School) who perform together at local events. Led by Mr. Anthony Williams, this group meets every Monday night from 5-8 p.m. for rehearsal and is available (for a nominal fee) to perform at local events.
The group performed last month at an event for the Cities of Pembroke Pines and Miramar Chamber of
Commerce. Other engagements have included Jazz in the Parks, adult day care centers, various church functions and local fairs. Membership fees for this club are $25 a month to cover the cost of rehearsal space.
Students who currently play a jazz instrument and would like to be a part of this group should call , or you have an event you would like this group to perform at please call Mr. Anthony Williams at 754-234-7495 or visit us @ www.musicalexperi-enceme.com.
Young At HeartEvery year since 1963, May has
been designated Older Americans Month. This year’s theme is “Un-leash the Power of Age.”
“This theme has never been more fitting since older Americans are productive, active, and influential members of society,” said Jay Shech-ter, Director of Community Services. “They share their talents, wisdom and life experience with us all.”
The Southwest Focal Point Community Center has many special programs scheduled to commemorate Older Americans
Month in May. Throughout the entire month, there will be a careers photo wall, showing where people from the beginning of their lives to where the path took them today or in their profession.
Each week, various professions and people will be honored such as artists and art educators; healthcare professionals; teachers and admin-istrative professionals; America’s builders, movers and shakers; and Police, Fire and Military Personnel.
For more information on events and activities throughout May, call 954-450-6888.
YMCA EventsRegistration begins on Healthy
Kids Day, April 13, 2013, for YMCA Summer Camps which run June 10 – August 16, 2013. For more informa-tion call 954-334-9622.
On Tuesday, May 14, 2013 a 10 a.m., the YMCA of Broward County will host local Mayors and the Drowning Prevention Task Force to kick-off a Water Safety Awareness Campaign focused on saving lives this summer. It will take place at the Pembroke Pines YMCA Aquatic Center, 1361 N.W. 129th Ave. Com-
munity leaders will join pre-school kids, community leaders and the Y to raise awareness of drowning preven-tion efforts this summer.
Two teens from Pembroke Pines, Meghan Christy from Flanagan High and Carlos Masjuan from Pines Char-ter High took part in the 56th Annual State Assembly in Tallassee recently. The YMCA Youth in Government Civic Engagement Program prepared them and 29 other students to rep-resent Broward County and debate their bills on various topics.
Page 16 Pembroke Pines City Connect April-May 2013
New Classes at Studio 18Spring is a great time to get cre-
ativity flowing. To channel that cre-ativity, new classes are being offered at Studio 18 in the Pines, located at 1101 Poinciana Drive.
“The classes and workshops will inspire students to reach their full potential and meet their artis-tic goals,” said Robyn Vegas, City of Pembroke Pines Cultural Arts Coordinator. “Our talented instruc-tors provide individual attention in an environment designed to support artistic growth and vision.”
Classes include: Drop-in Life Drawing Class, where a nude model sits for class on the last Thursday of each month. Any me-dium can be used to create work. No previous art experience is required. Drawing boards are pro-
vided on site. 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Cost: $15 per person. For more informa-tion, please call 954-961-6067.
Classical Oil Painting - through the study of still life, students explore the use of materials, composition, and sketching. Students receive individu-al attention and constructive critiques. Upon completion of the course stu-dents will have acquired the under-standing of how to develop a success-ful painting. The instructor is Maria Wieder. The six week class is held on Tuesdays or Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon. Fees: $125 and $15 for materi-als. To register or for a class schedule please call Maria at 954-649-4053.
A Ceramics Hand Building Class is for beginners through the advanced student. Hand building techniques, pinching, coiling, soft slab and hard
slab are taught. Award Winning Ceramics Artist John Antczak teaches a choice of two workshops which in-clude: 25 lbs. clay, glazes and firing. It’s $50 for a three hour workshop; and $225 for a 12 hour workshop and four hours of Studio Time. Please contact John at 954-483-6688 or [email protected].
At the Drawing/Painting Work-shop, students will create and devel-op oil paintings using the Grisaille, Alla Prima or Bistre method, the traditional methods of the Masters. Students will learn painting from life,
use glazes, and develop paintings in the time-honored methods compli-mented by contemporary concepts. The Professor is Tom De Vita. Dates/Times: Fridays 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and/or Saturdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fee: $150 3 days/3 hours per day, plus materials. Please register online at: www.DeVitaStudioWorkshops.com.
All classes are held at Studio 18 in the Pines. For information about all the classes offered at the Studio please visit www.ppines.com, click on Art & Culture, Studio 18 or call 954-961-6067. Great Yard Award
Deadline ApproachesThe City of Pembroke Pines Land-
scape Advisory Board is reminding residents that there is still time to participate in the Natalie Belmonte Great Yards Award, but the deadline is fast approaching. All applica-tions must be in by April 16, 2013. Applications are available at the City Clerk’s office in City Hall or by downloading the application at the City’s website www.ppines.com (The Natalie Belmonte Great Yards link is located on the left side, half way down the page).
The award was created in memory of Natalie Belmonte, a well-known resident and businesswoman, who was also known for her love of na-ture, particularly butterflies. Ms. Bel-monte passed away in July of 2011.
A total of five Pembroke Pines yards will be selected, one yard from each City Commission District and one at-large yard. Yards will be judged by the landscape advisory board on five components. The win-ning residents will be presented their
awards at the last commission meet-ing in May, 2013.
For further information, please contact Gloria McCluskey, Chairper-son of the Pembroke Pines Landscape Advisory Board at 954-432-7370.
Fun Math and DramaPembroke Pines Charter East
Campus students know that learn-ing can be fun. On April 10, 2013, the school is holding a Publix Fam-ily Math Night where students and their parents can use their math skills finding solutions to math problems involving estimating weight, count-ing and money throughout the store. To add to the fun, there will also be a face painting table.
The Kindergarten class through second grade will attend from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., and the third through fifth graders will attend 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. The children are given a variety of math problems to see how the math-ematics skills they learn in school come in handy when grocery shop-ping and in every day life.
The school’s drama club, com-prised of 29 students, is also busy working on their annual drama performance which will take place May 31, 2013 at the River of Grass Theater on the High School’s cam-pus. All are welcome to attend. This
year’s production is Aladdin, Jr., a one act, seven-scene theater musical adapted from the animated Disney film Aladdin.
“The children work on their per-formance all school year and always put on a great show,” said East Cam-pus Drama Teacher Hitomi Clark. “Our drama club is the place to find a student’s potential – the students actually experience for themselves that hard work pays off, what com-mitment means and how to have fun in the mix.”
April-May 2013 Pembroke Pines City Connect Page 17
CITY OF PEMBROKE PINES Flood Insurance Program Information
Dear Resident: Your property is located in the floodplain, a normally dry land area that is susceptible to inundation by water from any natural source. This includes but is not limited to all homes, mobile homes, condominiums, and busi-nesses in Pembroke Pines. The purpose of this newsletter is twofold: To increase flood awareness and to prevent prop-erty damage in the event of a flood.
FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM FACT SHEET
FACT: Most homeowners insurance policies do not offer protection against flood damage. FACT: Ninety percent of all disasters in the U.S. are flood related. FACT: You are four times more likely to experience a flood than a fire if you live in a high-risk flood zone, or a Special Flood Hazard
Area (SFHA). FACT: Flood insurance is available through the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is adminis-
tered by the Federal Insurance Administration, a part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Flood insurance can be pur-chased through any licensed property/casualty insurance agent or through many private insurance companies that are now writing flood insurance under arrangements with the Federal Insurance Administration.
FACT: Flood insurance is required by law. Congress passed the Flood disaster Protection Act of 1973, mandating that all federally-insured or regulated lenders require flood insurance for mortgages and other loans on buildings and manufactured (mobile) homes lo-cated in the SFHA.
FACT: Almost any building with at least 2 walls and a roof may be insured if it is principally above ground and located in a commu-nity participating in the NFIP. Coverage is also available for buildings under construction.
FACT: The average premium for an NFIP flood insurance policy nationwide is $300 per year for approximately $85,000 worth of coverage. For those not in an SFHA, but still exposed to flood risk, a Preferred Risk Policy is available.
FACT: While there are more than 2.5 million flood insurance policy holders, estimates are that between seven and eight million households in the U.S. are exposed to the risk of flooding.
FACT: Businesses may also be insured through the NFIP. FACT: Contents of insurable, fully enclosed buildings may be covered by a separate policy, making flood insurance available to
renters. FACT: There is normally a 30-day waiting period between the time flood insurance is purchased and the time coverage is in force.
For more Information visit the City of Pembroke Pines, Environmental Services, 13975 Pembroke Road, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33027. You can also telephone Environmental Services at (954) 435-6511 or fax (954) 435-6755.
Page 18 Pembroke Pines City Connect April-May 2013
FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP More than 90% of all properties are located in Flood Zone AH. These are areas of the 100-year shallow flooding. Although depths of water average between one to three feet, there is a greater than 1% chance of flooding per year. Zone X has been designated outside the 100-year floodplain, where average water depths have less than 1% chance for flooding. The City’s Environmental Services Division provides flood hazard information as shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map issued by FEMA effective August 18th, 1992 and is available by visiting the Public Services Complex, by telephone, fax or mail. We also provide, at no cost, Elevation Certificates for houses that were built after March 1, 2002. We can provide some of the information requested by insurance companies in order to issue a flood insurance policy. This information is free and available from the following sources along with written material that provides valuable information about flood hazards, flood insurance, flood protection, flood safety, flood proofing, retrofitting, flood warning, flood damage, etc.
City of Pembroke Pines South Regional Library Broward County Main Library Environmental Services 7300 Pines Boulevard Government Documents Center 13975 Pembroke Road Pembroke Pines, Florida 33024 100 South Andrews Avenue Pembroke Pines, Florida 33027 (954) 963-8825 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301
Phone (954) 435-6511 fax (954) 435-6755 ARE YOU INSURED? For many people, their home and its contents represent their greatest investment. Property losses due to flooding are not covered under most standard homeowner insurance policies. You can protect your home and its contents with flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP is a federal program established by congress in 1968, which enables property owners to buy flood insurance at reasonable rates in participating communities. In return, participat-ing communities’ carry out flood management measures designed to protect life and property from future flooding. The NFIP is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency through its Federal Insurance Administration. The City of Pem-broke Pines has participated in the NFIP since August 18, 1992. Flood insurance is required for federally backed mortgages. The amounts of flood insurance that is available through the NFIP as of March 1st, 1995 are as follows: Single Family Residential……..$250,000 Nonresidential………………$250,000 Contents: Residential…….$100,000 Nonresidential………………$500,000 To find out more about flood insurance for your property and its contents, contact your insurance agent. There is a 30 day waiting period before a flood insurance policy takes effect, so don’t wait until a storm threatens before you secure the flood insurance you need. FLOOD SAFETY MEASURES Do not walk through flowing water. Drowning is the most frequent cause of death during a flood, especially a flash flood.
Currents can be deceptive; six inches of moving water can knock you over. Use a pole or stick to ensure that the ground is still there before you go through an area where water is not flowing.
Do not drive through a flooded area. More people drown in cars than anywhere else. Do not drive around road barriers; the road or bridges may be washed out.
Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. The second largest killer after drowning is electrocution. Electrical cur-rents can travel through water. Report downed power lines to Florida Power and Light (F.P.&L.) or to the City of Pembroke Pines Environmental Services Division at (954) 435-6511. Have your electricity turned off by the Power Company. Some appliances, such as TV sets, keep electrical charges even after they have been unplugged. Do not use those appliances or any motors that have gotten wet.
Look out for animals, especially snakes, alligators and rodents. Animals, which have been flooded out of their homes, may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke, turn things over, and scare away any animals.
Look before you step. Debris, such as broken bottles and nails, often cover the ground after a flood. Wear protective cover-ing (boots, e.g.) on your feet at all times. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be extremely slippery.
Be alert for gas leaks. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Unless you know your gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated, do not smoke, use candles, lanterns, or open flames.
Carbon monoxide exhaust kills. Use generators or other gasoline-powered machines, including camping stoves, outdoors. Charcoal fumes are especially deadly. Cook with charcoal outside.
Clean every wet item. Floodwaters pick up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, factories, and storage buildings. Therefore, flooded food, medicine, and cosmetics can be very hazardous. When in doubt, throw them out!
PROPERTY PROTECTION Every year, flooding causes more property damage in the United States than any other type of natural disaster. While recent construction practices and regulations have made new homes less prone to flooding, many existing structures remain susceptible. Throughout the country there is a growing interest from property owners to develop practical and cost effective methods for reducing or eliminating exposures to flooding. Retrofitting is a unique approach to reduce flooding be-cause the property itself remains subject to flooding while the building is modified to prevent or minimize flooding of habitable space. There are several recognizable approaches to retrofitting: Elevation of the structure above flood protection levels, con-struction of barriers (floodwalls, berms, etc.), dry flood proofing (water tight floor and wall systems), wet flood proofing (constructing the flood prone areas so as to permit the entry and passage of floodwaters and removing or relocating items of value to higher elevation levels and maintaining approved slopes on lakes and waterways. In the event of pending flood threats, it is always advisable to take the following emergency actions: 1. Sand bagging to reduce erosion and scouring. 2. Elevate furniture above flood protection levels. 3. Create floodway openings in non-habitable areas such as garage doors. 4. Seal off sewer lines to the dwelling to prevent the backflow of sewer waters.
Publications and assistance in property protection are available from the City of Pembroke Pines Environmental Services Division at (954) 435-6511. Valuable information on flood protection is also available on the FEMA website http://www.fema.gov/about/programs/nfip/index.shtm. FLOOD WARNING SYSTEM The City of Pembroke Pines has adopted the Disaster Response Agreement with Broward Coun-ty and neighboring cities. The City has also developed the Peace Time Emergency Plan to assist you in the flood watch, warning, impact and recovery phases. Familiarize yourself with the evacuation routes located along Pines Blvd, I-75, U.S. 27, the Florida Turnpike, and I-95. Flood watches and warnings will be issued by all local radio and television stations. If you have any questions on emergency measures or shelters, please call: Broward County Emergency Management Division (954) 831-3900 or the Ameri-can Red Cross (954) 763-9900. DRAINAGE SYSTEM MAINTENANCE The City of Pembroke Pines along with South Broward Drainage District has implement-ed a plan to maintain and improve the drainage systems throughout the City. SBDD conducts inspections of various types of drainage structures twice a year to make sure they are clear and free of debris. They also have a team of personnel who can re-pair and clean drainage structures throughout the City. There are also numerous regulations against dumping in canals, lakes, and any drainage inlets. Since many of our catch basins drain into our local waterways, debris, including grass clippings can easi-ly clog a catch basin and cause localized flooding. All violations can be reported to the South Broward Drainage District (954) 680-3337 or Environmental Services (954) 435-6511. PERMIT REQUIREMENTS With the City of Pembroke Pines participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the City administers flood management regulations and measures designed to minimize the potential of flood losses in the City. Any development in Pembroke Pines requires a permit from the City Building Department. Through this process, the City insures de-velopment is taking place according to flood regulations. Regulations include required elevations of living floor areas, flood proof-ing certain construction, limitations on placement of fill and prohibitions of certain substantial improvements, additions or recon-struction. Any construction taking place without a permit can be reported to either the City of Pembroke Pines Building department (954) 435-6502, or Code Enforcement (954) 431-4466. In accordance with NFIP standards the City of Pembroke Pines requires that if the cost of any reconstruction, rehabilitation, additions or other improvements to a building equals or exceeds 50% of the building’s market value, such work is considered a substantial improvement. The existing building is then required to meet the same standards as a new building. For residential structures in Pembroke Pines, these requirements typically mean raising the living area of the building to 18” above the base flood elevation. FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT In their undisturbed and natural state, the City’s wetlands provide many beneficial functions and resources, including floodplain management, wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities. Since 1978, the City has been work-ing toward the preservation and restoration of the Wetlands System to protect these functions and resources for future genera-tions. Throughout the City there are many mitigation and natural preserves, which serve this purpose. For example, Chapel Trail Nature Preserve was created because a percentage of all new land development in the city must be set aside for parks and miti-gation areas. Chapel Trail Nature Preserve is the largest such park in the City totaling 459 acres. The main purpose of the park is to preserve and restore wildlife habitat, and maintain the diversity and integrity of this unique wetlands system. LOCAL FLOOD HAZARDS Florida had more than 13,000 flood insurance claims from September 2004 through September 2005. Our local flooding is primarily caused by heavy rainfall that occurs in short periods of time, as is common during summer thunderstorms, tropical storms, and hurricanes. Because of the City’s proximity to the Everglades National Park, the flood threat is significant. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has identified most of the City as a Special Flood Hazard Area on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps. These maps establish base flood elevations for development within these areas with the low-est permitted habitable flood level to be a minimum of 8 feet above sea level. The potential for flood loss always exists when tropi-cal storms and hurricanes hit the area, such as when a storm hit in April 1979 and dropped 17.5 inches of rainfall in less than 48 hours. In October 1999, Hurricane Irene released 16 inches of rain in 24 hours and seven properties in Pembroke Pines received flood damage. Another storm in October 2000 dropped 7+ inches in 48 hours and four properties received flood damage. Resi-dents need to respect these hazards and be prepared to deal with them accordingly. Roughly 25% of all claims paid by the Na-tional Flood Insurance Program are for policies in low to moderate risk communities. FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAPS The City of Pembroke Pines Environmental Services Division is the community’s primary source of information regarding Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Since most of Pembroke Pines is in a Special Flood Hazard Area, it is important to know the base flood elevation of any property and the flood insurance purchase requirements, if applicable. If you have any questions regarding Flood Insurance Rate Maps, contact Environmental Services at (954) 435-6511 or write us at 13975 Pembroke Road, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33027. ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE The City of Pembroke Pines provides public information regarding flood hazards, flood insur-ance, and flood protection and mitigation measures designed to correct existing deficiencies in flood prone construction. For more Information visit the City of Pembroke Pines, Environmental Services, 13975 Pembroke Road, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33027. You can also telephone Environmental Services at (954) 435-6511 or fax (954) 435-6755. Valuable information on flood protection is also available on the FEMA website http://www.fema.gov/about/programs/nfip/index.shtm. Depending on the exact situation, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (www.fema.gov/government/grant/hmgp/index.shtm) or Repetitive Flood Claims Grant (www.fema.gov/government/grant/rfc/index.shtm) may apply to help further protect your home. More information and details can be obtained from their websites.
April-May 2013 Pembroke Pines City Connect Page 19
FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP More than 90% of all properties are located in Flood Zone AH. These are areas of the 100-year shallow flooding. Although depths of water average between one to three feet, there is a greater than 1% chance of flooding per year. Zone X has been designated outside the 100-year floodplain, where average water depths have less than 1% chance for flooding. The City’s Environmental Services Division provides flood hazard information as shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map issued by FEMA effective August 18th, 1992 and is available by visiting the Public Services Complex, by telephone, fax or mail. We also provide, at no cost, Elevation Certificates for houses that were built after March 1, 2002. We can provide some of the information requested by insurance companies in order to issue a flood insurance policy. This information is free and available from the following sources along with written material that provides valuable information about flood hazards, flood insurance, flood protection, flood safety, flood proofing, retrofitting, flood warning, flood damage, etc.
City of Pembroke Pines South Regional Library Broward County Main Library Environmental Services 7300 Pines Boulevard Government Documents Center 13975 Pembroke Road Pembroke Pines, Florida 33024 100 South Andrews Avenue Pembroke Pines, Florida 33027 (954) 963-8825 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301
Phone (954) 435-6511 fax (954) 435-6755 ARE YOU INSURED? For many people, their home and its contents represent their greatest investment. Property losses due to flooding are not covered under most standard homeowner insurance policies. You can protect your home and its contents with flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The NFIP is a federal program established by congress in 1968, which enables property owners to buy flood insurance at reasonable rates in participating communities. In return, participat-ing communities’ carry out flood management measures designed to protect life and property from future flooding. The NFIP is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency through its Federal Insurance Administration. The City of Pem-broke Pines has participated in the NFIP since August 18, 1992. Flood insurance is required for federally backed mortgages. The amounts of flood insurance that is available through the NFIP as of March 1st, 1995 are as follows: Single Family Residential……..$250,000 Nonresidential………………$250,000 Contents: Residential…….$100,000 Nonresidential………………$500,000 To find out more about flood insurance for your property and its contents, contact your insurance agent. There is a 30 day waiting period before a flood insurance policy takes effect, so don’t wait until a storm threatens before you secure the flood insurance you need. FLOOD SAFETY MEASURES Do not walk through flowing water. Drowning is the most frequent cause of death during a flood, especially a flash flood.
Currents can be deceptive; six inches of moving water can knock you over. Use a pole or stick to ensure that the ground is still there before you go through an area where water is not flowing.
Do not drive through a flooded area. More people drown in cars than anywhere else. Do not drive around road barriers; the road or bridges may be washed out.
Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. The second largest killer after drowning is electrocution. Electrical cur-rents can travel through water. Report downed power lines to Florida Power and Light (F.P.&L.) or to the City of Pembroke Pines Environmental Services Division at (954) 435-6511. Have your electricity turned off by the Power Company. Some appliances, such as TV sets, keep electrical charges even after they have been unplugged. Do not use those appliances or any motors that have gotten wet.
Look out for animals, especially snakes, alligators and rodents. Animals, which have been flooded out of their homes, may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke, turn things over, and scare away any animals.
Look before you step. Debris, such as broken bottles and nails, often cover the ground after a flood. Wear protective cover-ing (boots, e.g.) on your feet at all times. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be extremely slippery.
Be alert for gas leaks. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Unless you know your gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated, do not smoke, use candles, lanterns, or open flames.
Carbon monoxide exhaust kills. Use generators or other gasoline-powered machines, including camping stoves, outdoors. Charcoal fumes are especially deadly. Cook with charcoal outside.
Clean every wet item. Floodwaters pick up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, factories, and storage buildings. Therefore, flooded food, medicine, and cosmetics can be very hazardous. When in doubt, throw them out!
PROPERTY PROTECTION Every year, flooding causes more property damage in the United States than any other type of natural disaster. While recent construction practices and regulations have made new homes less prone to flooding, many existing structures remain susceptible. Throughout the country there is a growing interest from property owners to develop practical and cost effective methods for reducing or eliminating exposures to flooding. Retrofitting is a unique approach to reduce flooding be-cause the property itself remains subject to flooding while the building is modified to prevent or minimize flooding of habitable space. There are several recognizable approaches to retrofitting: Elevation of the structure above flood protection levels, con-struction of barriers (floodwalls, berms, etc.), dry flood proofing (water tight floor and wall systems), wet flood proofing (constructing the flood prone areas so as to permit the entry and passage of floodwaters and removing or relocating items of value to higher elevation levels and maintaining approved slopes on lakes and waterways. In the event of pending flood threats, it is always advisable to take the following emergency actions: 1. Sand bagging to reduce erosion and scouring. 2. Elevate furniture above flood protection levels. 3. Create floodway openings in non-habitable areas such as garage doors. 4. Seal off sewer lines to the dwelling to prevent the backflow of sewer waters.
Publications and assistance in property protection are available from the City of Pembroke Pines Environmental Services Division at (954) 435-6511. Valuable information on flood protection is also available on the FEMA website http://www.fema.gov/about/programs/nfip/index.shtm. FLOOD WARNING SYSTEM The City of Pembroke Pines has adopted the Disaster Response Agreement with Broward Coun-ty and neighboring cities. The City has also developed the Peace Time Emergency Plan to assist you in the flood watch, warning, impact and recovery phases. Familiarize yourself with the evacuation routes located along Pines Blvd, I-75, U.S. 27, the Florida Turnpike, and I-95. Flood watches and warnings will be issued by all local radio and television stations. If you have any questions on emergency measures or shelters, please call: Broward County Emergency Management Division (954) 831-3900 or the Ameri-can Red Cross (954) 763-9900. DRAINAGE SYSTEM MAINTENANCE The City of Pembroke Pines along with South Broward Drainage District has implement-ed a plan to maintain and improve the drainage systems throughout the City. SBDD conducts inspections of various types of drainage structures twice a year to make sure they are clear and free of debris. They also have a team of personnel who can re-pair and clean drainage structures throughout the City. There are also numerous regulations against dumping in canals, lakes, and any drainage inlets. Since many of our catch basins drain into our local waterways, debris, including grass clippings can easi-ly clog a catch basin and cause localized flooding. All violations can be reported to the South Broward Drainage District (954) 680-3337 or Environmental Services (954) 435-6511. PERMIT REQUIREMENTS With the City of Pembroke Pines participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the City administers flood management regulations and measures designed to minimize the potential of flood losses in the City. Any development in Pembroke Pines requires a permit from the City Building Department. Through this process, the City insures de-velopment is taking place according to flood regulations. Regulations include required elevations of living floor areas, flood proof-ing certain construction, limitations on placement of fill and prohibitions of certain substantial improvements, additions or recon-struction. Any construction taking place without a permit can be reported to either the City of Pembroke Pines Building department (954) 435-6502, or Code Enforcement (954) 431-4466. In accordance with NFIP standards the City of Pembroke Pines requires that if the cost of any reconstruction, rehabilitation, additions or other improvements to a building equals or exceeds 50% of the building’s market value, such work is considered a substantial improvement. The existing building is then required to meet the same standards as a new building. For residential structures in Pembroke Pines, these requirements typically mean raising the living area of the building to 18” above the base flood elevation. FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT In their undisturbed and natural state, the City’s wetlands provide many beneficial functions and resources, including floodplain management, wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities. Since 1978, the City has been work-ing toward the preservation and restoration of the Wetlands System to protect these functions and resources for future genera-tions. Throughout the City there are many mitigation and natural preserves, which serve this purpose. For example, Chapel Trail Nature Preserve was created because a percentage of all new land development in the city must be set aside for parks and miti-gation areas. Chapel Trail Nature Preserve is the largest such park in the City totaling 459 acres. The main purpose of the park is to preserve and restore wildlife habitat, and maintain the diversity and integrity of this unique wetlands system. LOCAL FLOOD HAZARDS Florida had more than 13,000 flood insurance claims from September 2004 through September 2005. Our local flooding is primarily caused by heavy rainfall that occurs in short periods of time, as is common during summer thunderstorms, tropical storms, and hurricanes. Because of the City’s proximity to the Everglades National Park, the flood threat is significant. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has identified most of the City as a Special Flood Hazard Area on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps. These maps establish base flood elevations for development within these areas with the low-est permitted habitable flood level to be a minimum of 8 feet above sea level. The potential for flood loss always exists when tropi-cal storms and hurricanes hit the area, such as when a storm hit in April 1979 and dropped 17.5 inches of rainfall in less than 48 hours. In October 1999, Hurricane Irene released 16 inches of rain in 24 hours and seven properties in Pembroke Pines received flood damage. Another storm in October 2000 dropped 7+ inches in 48 hours and four properties received flood damage. Resi-dents need to respect these hazards and be prepared to deal with them accordingly. Roughly 25% of all claims paid by the Na-tional Flood Insurance Program are for policies in low to moderate risk communities. FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAPS The City of Pembroke Pines Environmental Services Division is the community’s primary source of information regarding Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Since most of Pembroke Pines is in a Special Flood Hazard Area, it is important to know the base flood elevation of any property and the flood insurance purchase requirements, if applicable. If you have any questions regarding Flood Insurance Rate Maps, contact Environmental Services at (954) 435-6511 or write us at 13975 Pembroke Road, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33027. ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE The City of Pembroke Pines provides public information regarding flood hazards, flood insur-ance, and flood protection and mitigation measures designed to correct existing deficiencies in flood prone construction. For more Information visit the City of Pembroke Pines, Environmental Services, 13975 Pembroke Road, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33027. You can also telephone Environmental Services at (954) 435-6511 or fax (954) 435-6755. Valuable information on flood protection is also available on the FEMA website http://www.fema.gov/about/programs/nfip/index.shtm. Depending on the exact situation, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (www.fema.gov/government/grant/hmgp/index.shtm) or Repetitive Flood Claims Grant (www.fema.gov/government/grant/rfc/index.shtm) may apply to help further protect your home. More information and details can be obtained from their websites.
Published by the City of Pembroke Pines For Advertising Information:[email protected]
Presort Std.U.S. Postage
PaidSouth Fl, FL
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Alexandra Heart Attack Patient
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