For promoting the value of city-run parks programming, the Pembroke Pines Parks and Recreation Department recently pocketed a first place Florida Recreation and Parks Association award Aug. 27.

Winning for Category II, or those cities serving populations between 150,000 and 199,999, Pines jumpstarted an awareness campaign two years ago to show the role parks and recreation plays in its city.

Pines joined 159 other parks agencies across Florida that spread messages of achievement, economic development, health, heritage, nature and conservation.

For more information, visit www.frpa.org.