📸✨ Photos by the talented Roxanne Jeffrey! Happy Birthday, Roxanne! 🎉🥳 We’re so grateful for your incredible work capturing the spirit of this unforgettable event. You can find all her amazing photography at roxannethephotographer.com 📷💫

On May 22, 2025, before the sun even fully rose over Doral, I had the incredible honor of sponsoring and participating in an event that reminded me exactly why I do what I do. The LT Michael P. Murphy Challenge, held at the USAG-Miami Fitness Center, brought together our military families, active-duty service members, and community supporters for a powerful morning of strength, sacrifice, and connection.

From 6:30 to 8:00 a.m., dozens of participants pushed themselves to complete the famously intense "Murph" workout in honor of LT Murphy’s extraordinary courage and ultimate sacrifice. But beyond the reps, the sweat, and the sore muscles—it was the spirit of unity that left the deepest impact.

Honoring a Hero with Action

The workout, inspired by LT Michael P. Murphy, a Navy SEAL who gave his life in Afghanistan during Operation Red Wings, included:

• 1-mile run

• 100 pullups

• 200 pushups

• 300 squats

• 1-mile run

It was a challenge in every sense of the word—and our community rose to it with heart, grit, and pride. It was a privilege to sponsor this event as part of the Compass Military Division, where our mission is not only to serve but to empower military families every step of the way—especially through homeownership.

Bridging the Gap Between Service and Stability

As a military-focused real estate professional, I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be for service members and veterans to navigate the homebuying process. That's why events like this matter—they bring people together and introduce them to resources that can change their financial future.

At Compass Military Division, I help clients:

• Understand and maximize their VA loan benefits

• Find homes in veteran-friendly communities

• Sell, buy, or invest with confidence and transparency

Why South Florida—Especially West Broward—is Ideal for Military Families

From my experience, many of my clients are drawn to areas like Pembroke Pines, Miramar, and Pinecrest—communities that offer everything a military family needs to thrive:

• Proximity to SouthCom and other military installations

• Top-rated schools and family-friendly neighborhoods

• Access to VA loan-approved properties

• A warm, diverse, and welcoming atmosphere

Whether it’s a move-in ready condo near Pines Boulevard, a single-family home in Pinecrest with space to grow, or a peaceful retreat in Miramar close to all the essentials—South Florida is more than a destination. It’s a launchpad for the next chapter.

What’s Next: Monthly VA Home Seminars at Shoma Bazaar

I’m excited to keep the momentum going by inviting you to our monthly VA Homeownership Seminars, held on the second Tuesday of every month at the vibrant Shoma Bazaar in Doral.

These in-person events are designed to educate, empower, and connect veterans, active-duty members, and their families with the tools they need to make informed real estate decisions.

📍 Where: Shoma Bazaar, Doral 📆 When: Second Tuesday of every month  from 4PM - 5:30PM 🧠 Topics include:

• How to qualify for and use your VA loan

• Understanding entitlement, COEs, and loan limits

• Tips for navigating today’s real estate market

• Using your VA loan for investment or multi-family properties

👉 Sign up now: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeg7oTOgSSPFyKpuPKq8vK9JkNi8v1JVAkX_mgEwwTf7n1LOQ/viewform?usp=header

Thank You to Everyone Who Made the Murphy Challenge Possible

This event wouldn’t have been the same without the incredible collaboration of Rosa E. Napolitano, my fellow Compass Military Division member. Rosa, thank you for your dedication, energy, and support—you helped make this a truly memorable experience for our community.

📸 Be sure to check out our event photos and videos on our social channels, and tag your friends and fellow participants! 🔗 Visit our website to explore VA tools, local listings, and military resources tailored for South Florida homebuyers. 📲 Use the hashtags to stay connected: #MurphyChallengeMiami #VAHomeSeminar #CompassMilitary #PembrokeMilitaryHomes #SouthComStrong

From My Heart to Yours

Supporting this event and the amazing individuals who participated was more than a professional milestone—it was personal. As a proud advocate for our veterans and service members, I’m here to help you not only find a house, but to create a home rooted in strength, stability, and legacy.

Let’s keep moving forward—together.

With gratitude, Celia Ruiz Executive & Regional Director Compass Military Division 📩 celia@morethanthesale.com