All right. Good evening, good evening, everyone. We're about to start. We're about to start. Our commission conference. We have a very packed agenda for this conference. I'm going to try to be as expeditious as I can and being respectful everybody's time. Today's Commission Conference for Tuesday, March 18, 2025, 5 p.m. Madam Clerk, can you please read the roll? President. President. President. President. Here. All right. Presentations. We're going to start off with the block, which is a commissioner. Jean, which is recognizing, and I'll read the names off, and then we'll bring them up. Deborah St. Ville, for Women's History Month, recognizing her, recognizing Claudia McLean, for Women's History Month, and recognizing Leslie Lohanthoff, for Women's History Month. And I'll let Commissioner Jean bring us up to the front. right. I'm going to go to the next room. I'm going to go to the next room. I'm going to go to the next room. I'm going to go to the next room. I'm going to go to the next room. I'm going to go to the next room. I'm going to go to the next room. I'm going to go to the next room. I'm going to go to the next room. I'm going to go to the next room. I'm going to go to the bathroom. I'm going to go to the bathroom. I'm going to go to the bathroom. I'm going to go to the bathroom. I'm going to go to the bathroom. I'm going to go to the bathroom. I'm going to go to the bathroom. I'm going to go to the bathroom. I'm going to go to the bathroom. I'm going to go to the bathroom. I'm going to go to the bathroom. All right. While we wait, we want to say greetings and good evening to everyone and also want to start off by saying congratulations to all the women for Celebrating ourselves and especially my fellow commissioners up here. Yes, so that's clapping up your all All the professional women and all the women who make the world go around so our first honoree for tonight is miss Debra St. Bill ifapet would please come forward. Ms. Deborah is currently serving as the President of the Haitian Lawyers Association. Born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in Haiti, Deborah's journey reflects resilience, dedication, and her family's migration to the U.S. in the early 2000s. Whereas Zebra is a distinguished attorney leader and advocate who has dedicated her career to serving vulnerable immigrant populations and mentoring future generations. She began her legal career at Catholic Legal Services, where she is now serving as a supervising attorney, training new attorneys and representing clients before immigration courts. The board of immigration appeals and the US citizenship and immigration services. Beyond her legal practices, Deborah is deeply committed to her community serving as the president of Haitian Law Association, the treasurer of Haitian American professional correlation, chairwoman of the Mimee Day Bar Immigration Committee and International Law Committee. Chair for the Orange County Board Association, her leadership extends to M-Dade County and throughout. Whereas she manages immigration services at the offices of the New American Division and her faith community. Deborah is a fellow of numerous prestigious leadership programs including the date legal aid puts, put something back leadership program, the Bar Association, and also junior leadership academy, and the Leader Council of Broward Institute. Miami Day chapter of the Florida Association for Women's Leaders and the Gwen Cherry Black Women Lawyer Association and Women's Leadership Academy. Her dedication and impact has earned her numerous accolades, including the 2022 Young Haitian American Professionals Top 20 in the 40 and the 2024 Florida Young Bar Lawyer Division for Pro Bono Services. And she was presented with the Pro Bono Service Award presented by the Florida Supreme Court, and the 2025 Florida Young Lawyer Division, 36 under 36. Now therefore, we the Marin Commission of the City of North Marmy Beach, do hereby honor Deborah St. Phil during Women's History Month, and commend her unwavering commitment to justice, service, and leadership. All right. Thank you. Thank you. I'm going to say a few words. I was not ready to say the word. You don't have to. But definitely, I want to say thank you to Mayor and the whole Board of Commission for this. I truly appreciate it. And thank you your partnership, the Dishonelers Association to continue on serving the community. It is a passion. I didn't choose it, that life chose me. So I want to say thank you again. All right, let's take a picture. Ladies and gentlemen, all right, bring, where's mama? So come on up, we're going to take a nice picture come on we never let's go Ready? One, two, three, arrow, close. Our next honoree. This is what I was going to say. You read it off the read. Okay. You want me to hold it? I do. Okay. This is an exciting one where it's's Leslie Lohenthal. Please come up. I don't need to read this to show you how important she is. Look at the gang that came to witness it. We are so proud of our Leslie. Whereas Leslie Lohenthal has been the driving force behind the greater North Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce for the past six years as his executive director. Where her visionary leadership has strengthened the chamber and positioned the city of North Miami Beach as a prime destination for business development and community engagement. In the interest of time we have to do it while she's walking, sorry. Whereas, though her tireless collaboration with Chamber Leadership, local businesses in the city of North Miami Beach, Leslie has played a divotal role in fostering economic growth, attracting new opportunities, and enhancing the city's reputation as an exceptional place to live, work, and play. And whereas prior to her work with the Chamber, Leslie owned the Leatherndall, Lowenthal Agency, where her strategic expertise in public relations, advertising and marketing propelled clients to national success, increasing their visibility, reputation, and profitability. And whereas Leslie's commitment to service extends beyond business. As demonstrated, I'm proof of all this. She brought me people from Northern Florida. I'm proof of it all. Whereas Leslie's commitment to service extends beyond business as demonstrated by her creation of the military room makeover program which provided free room makeovers for nine veterans across nine chambers of their and their cities in honor of her late father, a World War 2 hero. And this earned her the prestigious Department of Defense, Seven Seals Award and National Recognition. Whereas her passion for education is evident in her work as the marketing special events and projects coordinator for adventurer of city of excellent charter school, ACEs, where she developed a groundbreaking marketing strategy that earned the school 13 state and national awards. Whereas Leslie has further contributed to shaping future leaders through the her role as an adjunct professor at the University of Miami and Florida International University mentoring students in journalism, public relations, advertising and marketing communications. And whereas her dedication to busy business, education and service has left an incredible mark on North Miami Beach, inspiring those around her through her leadership, her innovation, and her unwavering commitment to making a difference. Now, therefore, the mayor, the mayor, and the commissioners, and the city of North Miami Beach to here by recognizing commend, Leslie Rowan-Tholm, joined Women's History Month for her outstanding leadership service and dedication to the advancement of North Miami Beach community in witness we all have signed. Okay Mayor commissioner John vice mayor and and be commissioners I cannot thank thank you enough for this award. It means a lot to me. It's hard to find me solid, but today might be one of those days. I want to thank our NMB Chamber leadership, those who came out here for this tonight. And thank you all, City. Well, all right. Where's the chamber? Come on, the chamber family. Lawrence all family. Chamber family, please come up. All right. All right. There's a lot of them there. Take a picture. Diana, Adrian, come on up. Come on. Come on up. Lloyd. Everybody come on up. come on. Picture time. Brian Evan. Former Mayor Piper, yes. I second. All right, an MB Chamber family and friends and members, please come up to get in this picture and share it with me. Come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, come on. Come on. All right. Everybody, come on. Let's go, let's go, let's go. Five. Five. All right. All right. One, two, three. Congratulations. Congratulations. Congratulations. Thank you. Yes, all right. For our next honoree, whereas Claudia McLean, all right. Woo! Woo! Woo! Woo! Woo! Woo! Is here. Where has Claudia McLean has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to philanthropy, mentorship, and community service through her roles as executive director of Joshua's Heart Foundation and director of operations at first care home services. And whereas, through Joshua's Heart Foundation, Claudia has been instrumental in leading large-scale food distributions, volunteer programs, and outreach initiatives that have directly impacted countless families in need, ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive the support and resources they deserve. And whereas, Claudia's leadership has played a transformative role in mentoring young volunteers, equipping them with skills, confidence, and sense of responsibility necessary to take charge in serving North Miami Beach and beyond, fostering new generations of community-minded leaders. And whereas, in addition to our professional and philanthropic work, Claudia is a passionate advocate for women's empowerment, actively contributing as a member of the Junior League of Miami's event committee and engaging in Jamaican women to further initiatives that uplift and support women in their personal and professional endeavors. And whereas, her unwavering dedication to service as has created a long lasting ripple effect, inspiring individuals of all ages to lead with compassion, integrity, and a deep commitment to making a difference. And whereas, the city of North Miami Beach is proud to honor Claudia McLean for her exceptional contributions to the community, her advocacy for women's empowerment, and her dedication to nurturing the next generation of leaders. Now therefore, we, the Mayor and Commissioner of North Miami Beach, Florida, do hereby recognize and commend Claudia McLean. During women's history month for her outstanding leadership, philanthropy and service to the residents of North Miami Beach and beyond, in witness thereof, we have all signed this proclamation. Congratulations. I just want to say thank you. It's great to see familiar faces. We love working with the city. I'm representing Joshua's heart as much as working with the city as being almost 20 years. This is such a pleasure to be here and still see the same people coming out again and again and helping us to grow and be better. So thank you guys for your support and we look forward to many more years as long as there's a need we're here to help. Are you going to call up your you come home? Tell us about what Josh was doing now. Well, Josh, the founder of Josh's Art, he's actually moving back home, so he'll be here. Hey. And he's still very much involved in Josh's Art, given all the orders from New York. So thank you. All right. So how how long does it take to get the ball? Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. All right. One, two, three. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Ten minutes. Over here. All right. So you have the proclamation One more woman over here. One more over here. All right. So you have the proclamation? We have a presentation for a woman over here. Go ahead. So we would like to call Major Sandy Rodriguez. She is... And I also want to call the members are here of the Commission of Status of Women. Major Rodriguez is the commission of Status of Women 2025 woman of the year. I didn't get one. I didn't get one. Sad reading. And I just before I read what I want to read, what I love so much about Sandy and her husband, George, is that sometimes you see, you don't see couples actually often being so wonderful, so helpful, and so giving. And I just, I love that the two of you are just so amazing and do so much for our community and for so many communities. And thank you so much for being like that. Tonight we are honored to recognize Major Sandy Rodriguez as woman of the year, Commissioner of Solman, woman of the year for 2025. Celebrating her outstanding leadership, dedication, and service to the North Miami Beach community. Major Rodriguez began her career with the North Miami Beach Police Department in 1998 as a crime analyst before becoming a sworn officer in 2005. Over the years, she has risen through the ranks, serving as detective, Sergeant Captain, and now police major overseeing the operations division. And she's like so nice and so quiet, you just don't realize how much she has achieved because she doesn't brag. Throughout her career she has worked on numerous high profile cases earning prestigious awards such as investigative excellence, merit tourist service, and the highly regarded Leo Award. Major Rodriguez has played a key role in community engagement, mentoring young officers, and leading critical divisions such as community affairs, investigations, and field training. Her dedication to public safety and strategic operations has made a lasting impact on both the department and the residents she serves. Major Rodriguez is not only a leader in law enforcement, but also role model for women in the profession, proving that dedication and perseverance lead to success. Please join me in congratulating Major Sandy Rodriguez on this well-deserved honor. Thank you. Thank you. Yes. Thank you. Good evening, everyone. Good evening. Yes, he's going to come up. My husband. This is George Rodriguez. He's 30 years with Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office retiree, living his best life right now. So I just want to say I am very honored and humble to have received this award. And this is very meaningful. I just want to say that to stand here and be recognized along other women who have, you know, leaded in community and has support the community is to me as a big deal and I want to continue to do the same and pass it on even for the younger generation that's in this, this audience. So I just want to say thank you to my family and to my friends. Thank you, big thank you to the commission of status of women. You guys do awesome work. Thank you the way you uplift and empower women in this community. I think it's awesome. And I'm just really grateful for everything. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm going to get you on the other side. You just... You know what? And all police officers are here. All police officers are here can come for picture if they want. Because without them we wouldn't be here. Take that. We're not going to be here. I'm going to go to the bathroom. I'm going to go to the bathroom. And then this is in that way. I'm going to go to the next slide. I'm going to go to the next slide. I'm going to go to the next slide. I'm going to go to the next slide. I'm going to go to the next slide. I'm going to go to the next slide. I'm going to go to the next slide. I'm going to go to the next slide. I'm going to go to the next slide. I'm going to go to the next slide. I'm going to go. I'm going to go over there. Just like, you can be on this side. Everybody, please, let to go. I'm going to go over there. I'm going to go over there. Everybody, please. Everybody. Yes. Joshua. From. So, yeah, you're going to have to go in just a little bit. Just a little bit. Slider. You're going to have to go in there. Come in front. Yeah. Sweet best. Right there. Let I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'd like to call up the Holocaust Heroes Worldwide Organization, please. And today we have a special guest who is a Holocaust survivor himself. He's also here. So Ira yeah okay Hello sir it's an honor to have you here. Yes. Yes. We're going to have to stand in the next name, sir. Marie. Marie. Marie. I should meet you. We're celebrating the 97 years. We're going to be. Yes. Okay. So you. Yes. Yes. Whereas the city of North Miami Beach has long been dedicated to serving, empowering, and meeting the needs and diversity of the community, enriching its heritage, the city's heritage, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. The city of North Miami Beach has remained steadfast in its commitment to the Jewish community, especially in honoring and caring for Holocaust survivors and their families. Standing firmly against anti-Semitism, racism, and hatred through education, tolerance, and understanding. And whereas the Holocaust hero's worldwide was founded in 2019 by Moran Alphacy in honor of her grandmother, Leah Grenier, a survivor of Auschwitz, as well as Holocaust survivors and victims with a mission to care for and empower survivors. Elevate their voices and combat anti-Semitism through education. Holocaust Heroes worldwide has developed impactful social and educational programming in response to the rising anti-semitism, bringing survivors to schools, organizations, and communities across South Florida, including engagements in North Miami Beach at Bridge Prep Academy, the Public Library, government agencies, private events, and collaborations with the Multicultural Committee and city events to educate and inspire future generations. And whereas Holocaust heroes worldwide recognizes Holocaust survivors as heroes of life, ensuring they receive the care, dignity, and support they deserve. Addressing the challenges of elder isolation and the lasting effects of trauma through innovative and meaningful initiatives. And whereas through its tribe project, Holocaust Heroes Worldwide has fostered deep community engagement by encouraging long-term volunteer work that benefits Holocaust Heroes and strengthens the intergenerational connection, improving the lives of both survivors and Florida residents. And whereas Holocaust Heroes worldwide has remained unwavering in its commission, mission to combat anti-Semitism and educate thousands through Southeast Florida, working in a wide variety of institutions, organizations, and government agencies to ensure that the lessons of the Holocaust are never forgotten and that the future of unity and acceptance is upheld. And whereas, the city of North Miami Beach commends Holocaust heroes worldwide for its vital contribution to education, remembrance, and the well-being of Holocaust survivors, recognizing the organization as a leader in fostering, understanding and standing against hatred. Now therefore, we, the Mayor and Commission of the City of North Miami Beach, Florida, do hereby recognize and commend Holocaust Heroes worldwide for its extraordinary service and dedication to honoring Holocaust survivors, educating future generations, and combating anti-Semitism, and we urge all residents to support and participate in their mission for a more just and inclusive society. In Witness Thera, whereof, we are here to set our hands cause the seal of City, North Miami Beach affix and signed by us all. Thank you very much. First of all, I want to say thank you so much for recognizing our mission and the importance of it. This is a true honor for us to do it day by day to care for those heroes to take their message and pass it to future generations. We just came back right now from Miami-Dade College educating over 170 students and Larry actually spoken, share his message. So we are honored to stand on the shoulder of giants who are Holocaust survivors. And if I may, can I just have this man, this wonderful man just celebrated 97 years old, birthday. He is a survivor of the Holocaust and serving the US Army. Thank you all for giving me such an honor to be in here and I am very proud. I was at the school at the college with the kids, and it was so, I felt so at home, like this is like this, and all my children. And I gave them whatever I'd known, whatever question they had for me, I did not hold back on anything. I was born in 1928, as you know, to get to the side. So I went through the wars, the Russian invasion of Poland, the German invasion of Russia, and we were right in the middle of all of that. I survived for three years in the forest. I was in partisan with my family and I never went to the concentration camps because my father was already a war hero in the Russian-German war, the first war war. He says, you got to take one before they take you. So when you do go to heaven, at least you know it didn't. You didn't waste your time in this world. So we survived the family. I lost some parts of my family, the dying fighting. But overall, we came out of it at least 90% of life. And we see Hitler down and we came up. Thank you. And here I am to tell the story. 91, listen to listen. I'm there as I promised my friends that they're no longer here because of age that I'm not going to be quiet about it. Thank you. Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes One second. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you so much for coming. But why did you go to church? What church was it? What? What was it? It's Friday. You know, some people stood up and not everybody in the audience did. And that's actually was very upsetting to me. And I apologize if I get upset over something like that. I think he needs every single one of you to stand up and give him a standing ovation. His birthday is Friday. We could sing Happy Birthday. Yeah, how you happy birthday to you. Happy birthday dear Larry. Happy birthday to you. Yeah. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for coming. You're welcome. He'll be back. He'll be back. We'll sing Happy Birthday for his hundreds. Yeah. Yeah. I'm going to do a very special recognition for women of the month and this one is our grandmother come on up you bond Jackson Okay, well she's coming this was very important to me. And I thank Lorenzo Hall, who I called him. I said, you know, everybody in Washington Park is raising the next generation and the next generation and the next generation. And you know what? We both thought of the same name, Yvonne. So we're very excited to Yvonne Jackson. I'm happy to be here. I'm happy to be here. I'm happy to be here. I'm happy to be here. I'm happy to be here. I'm happy to be here. I'm happy to be here. I'm happy to be here. I'm happy to be here. I'm happy to be here. are women that we all respect and love. So honoring Yvonne Jackson for her dedicated service and impact on the community. Whereas the city of North Miami Beach is proud to recognize and celebrate the achievements of outstanding women whose dedication and service have made a lasting impact to our community. And whereas Yvonne Jackson has been a pillar of the Washington Park community, dedicating and dedicate of death case of her life to serving and uplifting those around her. Yvonne and her husband James Jackson may rest in peace. Return to their beloved, not yes. Thank God. Thank God. Return to their beloved community. Well. Well now we all know that we've got good people still with us. Yes. James Jackson returned. I saw the word return. I come up. You have to believe now because God brought it back. Okay. I saw the word return. Return to their beloved community after his 20 years of service in the United States Army, raising four children and embracing the role of neighborhood grandmother, embodying the belief that it takes a village to nurture and support future generations. And whereas in 1997, Yvonne began her journey with Washington Park as a recreation leader, dedicating her time to creating meaningful programs and opportunities for residents. Whereas that same year, she joined the voters council as treasure, demonstrating her deep commitment to the civic engagement and leadership in their community. And whereas Yvonne's dedication and hard work led to her promotion as a star coordinator in 1999, and later as a recreation specialist 2007, a role in which she enriched countless lives through mentorship, recreation, and community building. And whereas after 20 years of service, Yvonne retired in 2017. Believing behind the legacy of dedication, compassion, and unwavering support for the residents of Washington Park at North Miami Beach. And whereas Yvonne Jackson, Impact Extended, extends beyond her professional roles, as she has nurtured and supported generations of families, embodying the spirit of selfless service, leadership, and love for her community, Art North Bank of Beach. Now, therefore, we, the Mayor and Commission of the City of North Bank of Beach, to here by recognize and commend Yvonne Jackson for her remarkable contributions to the Washington Park community and beyond. We honor her on wavering commitment, leadership and legacy she has built through her service. In witness whereof, we here do set our hands and cause the seal of the City of North Miami Beach from the mayor and the commissioners on this 18th day of March and it's all signed by us. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We want you to say a few words. Oh, thank you. Just like the thank you everyone for coming out and thank you for making this service staff the recognition of me at this time. Those that know me, I'm not a talker. I don't speak out on anything. I mean, I was watching the park 20 years and they had to get me so many times to try to speak it. I just told them, I take care of kids. That's my job. Take care of kids. I take care of kids. So I welcome everybody who's coming out. All right. Thank you. No, we can't take a photo. I'm going to take a photo. And we're definitely going to be. Ready? Yes. One, two, three. All right. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank officer of the year. I'm on, I'm on. No, no. We have another certificate of recognition. Steven civilian of the year. Last but not least, we have recognition for Margarit Dean, Spanish Montessori, a certificate of recognition for Margarit Dean, Spanish Montessori Foundation. Come on. Is she here? I want to recognize, first off and foremost, our officer of the year, I would like to tell you everything he did to earn this, but we only have about 15 minutes and it would take me three days. Every month there was something spectacular. So we want to always honor you and give you something you can hang and always look at. And for our civilian of the year, she says, lies daily. So we are so proud and we are so grateful. Marjorie Dean called that she couldn't be here, but she's extremely appreciative. She's had 10 years with the Spanish monastery, growing it, taking care of it, sharing it with everyone. And she is very appreciative of North Miami Beach and how much they help her to do it. She's sorry she couldn't be here tonight, but I'll hold her certificate if you have it. Okay, and do you have any two words? Come on. All right, good afternoon everyone, I'm Officer Cooper. I would like to thank our Chief of Police, our Command Staff, thank the wonderful City Commissioners and last but not least, I would like to thank the residents of North Miami Beach. Hopefully we keep protecting you guys and keeping you guys safe. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. You guys ready? We can get that. Thank you all for being here. Thank you all for this honor. I really appreciate the recognition. Thank you all for this honor. I really appreciate the recognition. Thank you all very much. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for your friendship. Oh, sorry. Where do you want to go? Anywhere, too. All right. Ready, one, two, three. Congratulations. Thank you. Just a man that he should be. Yes. Yes, yes, yes, yes. All right. Next item on the agenda is Proclamation Recognizing Thai American Association Asian Culture Festival Day. Thanks. All right. Yeah. We recognize you every month. We're talking. That's not the right. Okay. All right. So we're ready. as the city of North Miami Beach values and embraces the rich cultural diversity that enhances our community, recognizing the contributions of individuals and organizations that promote heritage, unity and understanding. And where as the Thai American Association of South Florida has been steadfast advocate for the preservation and promotion of Asian culture, fostering awareness and appreciation of the diverse traditions that contribute to our vibrant fabric of our region. And whereas in the year 2000, the of Directors of the Asian American Association of South Florida recognized the importance of celebrating Asian heritage and took the initiative to continue the tradition of cultural appreciation by renaming and expanding the Asian culture festival which has since flourished into a cherished annual event. And whereas now in its 34th year, the Asian Culture Festival sponsored by the Thai American Association of South Florida in partnership with the Miami-Dade County Asian American Advisory Board and the Miami-Dade Parks and Recreations and Open Spaces Department has become a premier event that offers a unique cultural experience featuring traditional arts, crafts, entertainment, plants, and authentic cuisine from across Asia. And whereas the Thai American Association of South Florida's commitment to fostering harmony, inclusivity, and cross-cultural understanding has made a long-lasting impact on the residents of North Miami Beach and beyond. Further strengthening the bonds of our diverse community. Whereas the city of North Miami Beach proudly recognizes the contributions of the Thai-American Association of South Florida in preserving and sharing the rich customs, traditions, and heritage of Asian American, Americans through their dedication to the Asian Culture Festival and their broader cultural initiatives. Now therefore, we, the Mayor and Commission of the City of North Miami Beach, Florida, do hereby recognize and commend the Thai American Association of South Florida for their outstanding efforts in promoting cultural awareness and unity and proclaim March 2nd, 2025 as Asian Culture Festival Day in the City of North Miami Beach. In Winnith Thera, we have here on to set our hands and cause the seal of the City of North Miami Beach affixed and signed by all mayor and commissioners. Thank you. Thank you for the opportunity for the commission and the mayor and vice mayor. Part of the Asian and Maccavazir, Germany's judge, the program, Dr. 40, Marmita County's Asian and Macavaza board with a co-host. And we also have in the, it didn't say it, but it was studied by the Asian and Macavaza Florida, which really was part of that as well. She's also a founding board member of our Asian and Macavaza, under the county. But at the same time, we also have Vice Mayor, a former, former board member of the Asian-American Vos everywhere as well. But all of this is about coming together as one. Asian culture festival is our festival. It's not something different, it's something that it is a community. And as Mayor says before, it's about bringing everyone together to see the beauty of our community as one, not me or you but us as we. And that's where we did this for 34 years. This is my ninth year. But it's same that we're gonna continue for next year, 30, 50 year, over, we have more than 10,000 people in two days. We're gonna expand it more. Why? We need it more. During this time, we definitely need to see who we are, share our culture to the beat of it, so we have respect for one another. It's not about tolerance. We don't tolerate people. It's about respecting one another because we cherish what you bring to the table. We cherish our background, we cherish what we bring as one to grow together for our future. I did this for my kids. I have three kids born in Halu, Florida But the parents are Koreans. I'm Korean American, but their Americans wrap in the Korean But why do we to bring pride to see who they are? Not with different, but we're same and Once I thank you for the recognition and hope you have a great time, but next year is always the first weekend in March at Tropical Park. So come on, you're gonna have a great time. It's gonna be best better every year, morning. That's really nice. Good evening everyone. And ladies, I think City Law Miami Beach is the one is the best city in Miami-Dade County, which is really spent time to recognize not only the other community but also Asian communities. And this is really thank you, our mayor and the commissioners. And those is the one that we've been so many cities, but we don't really get to feel the welcome. That we have here okay. May 10. No going to be. We are going to be 10. So just have the day. May 10, going to be having a event. We're going to have a sit-in line with you. We thank you. We have the Chinese New Year festival. We have the Asian Cultural Festival in Norma. Miami Beach, that is a different one for on May 10. So Mark, your calendar, come out and enjoy another really cultural program for everybody over here. Thank you so very much. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. the . . . . Next up is water department. All right. Proclamation recognizing in and be water. Come on up. Yes, that's last. Oh, that's why you're all this. All right. Commissioner Smith. Okay. This is a very important proclamation. Thank you. Thank you. This is a very important proclamation. Thank you. This is a very important proclamation. Every time you hear somebody talk about our water, they're going to say good things because we won the award. In North Miami Beach Water Department for receiving the American Public Works Association Florida Chapter Project of the Year Award. Come on, y'all. That's our North Miami Beach Water Plant. Whereas the City of North Miami Beach is committed to maintaining and improving its infrastructure to ensure the highest quality of service and reliability for its residents and businesses. Whereas North Mine Beach Water has demonstrated exceptional dedication to enhancing water services through invocative and sustainable projects that strengthen our city's water infrastructure. Whereas the Alita River crossing Water Main replacement project, projectT-R-2007-A. That's the code. Along with West Dixie Highway from North East 179th Street to Grinnell's Park entrance was undertaken to replace an aging 8-inch Water Main, installed approximately 690 leader feed of high density HDPE pipe using horizontal direction drilling to improve pipeline reliability and prevent future breaks due to corrosion. Whereas this critical project which began on July 22nd, 2024 and reached substantial completion in November 2024, exemplifies NMB's Waters commitment to ensuring a resilient and sustainable water infrastructure for the North Miami Beach community. And whereas the American Public Works Association, APWA Florida chapter has recognized the outstanding achievement of North Miami Beach Water by awarding the Alito River Crossing Project as a project of the year in the water wastewater category. And whereas this prestigious honor will be presented to the City of North Miami Beach at APWA 2025 Public Works Conference on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 in Orlando, Florida, highlighting NMB's water leadership in public works and infrastructure excellence. Now therefore, the mayor and the commissioners of the City of North Miami Beach do here by recognize and commend NMB Water Department for its outstanding achievement in receiving the APWA Florida chapters project of the Year award and for its continued dedication to sustainability and service excellence in our community in witness thereof by all the commissioners and the mayor. All right. Director, please quickly, have you had some work? Director, please, few words. Thank you. Thank you. Director, please quickly, have you had some work? Director, please, few words. Thank you. Thank you, commission and mayor for recognizing this award for NNB Water. I'm so proud of our staff. There's a lot more to come. We're going to complete more of this project. And also, I want to celebrate one of the oldest new years of when in the history started from three over 3000 years ago. Persion New Year, happy New Year called No Rules. to. All right. Thank you. Thank you. Last but not least, certainly not least. The next and final item for this city conference conference. Very packed hour. The certainly not least, the key to the city to Trisha Harris. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. here, so let's, um, come in, sir, turn off. This is your item. All right. Everybody know Trish? Who doesn't know Trish? Nobody. Everybody knows Trish. What is she? The unofficial mayor of Highland Village. That's what we call her, okay? She's wonderful. Good evening everybody. Tonight we honor a woman whose heart and dedication have shaped Highland Village and North Miami Beach in countless ways. Trisha Harris, loveling the known as the mayor of Highland Village, has spent her life serving the community with passion and purpose. A lifelong resident she continues, her family's legacy of leadership always asking not why, but how she can help. Through her back to school drives, holiday giveaways and food distributions, Trisha has touched the lives of hundreds of families each year, whether organizing resources, for those in need advocating for seniors or supporting our first responders, she remains a tireless champion for all. A breast cancer survivor, she also leads awareness, efforts to ensure others have access to life-saving care. Her dedication extends beyond grassroots efforts. He serves on multiple city boards ensuring that the voices of Highland Village residents are always heard. Trisha serves on several North Miami Beach sanctioned boards, including the Commission on the Status of Women, Commission on Aging, North Miami Beach Library Board, Club Law and Order, Education Board, and the Census Board. Her outspoken, determined and well-respected voice represents- And multicultural committee. And multicultural committee. Well-respected voice represents Highland Village residents at every North Miami Beach Commission meeting. Trisha is the heart of her community, a fierce advocate and a true inspiration. For her unwavering service and impact, we are proud to present Trisha Harris with the key to the city. Please join me, the mayor, and all of our commissioners. And please. Thank you. All right. I just quickly wanted to say that the key to the city is for Dignitarie and here she is right now the mayor of Highland Village. knowledge. Peace of few words. Come on Trish. You can pretend you're yelling at somebody. It's okay. No. Oh shit. Oh, where's the Trish. You can do it. Pretend you're yelling at somebody. It's OK. No. Her speech is on. Oh, shit. Oh, what's her phone? It's OK. She has it. Hey. Hey. Oh. Speed speech. And of course, I'm nervous. I'm nervous. I'm nervous. I mean, what was the last time we gave a key away, right? Maria? Yeah. All right. That's a good one. You're not going to get it. I hate it. You're going to read it. Okay. I'm not good at this part of it. Okay. I am deeply honored and humbled to receive. I am deeply honored and humbled to receive the key to the city. This recognition means more to me than words can express. I sincerely thank Jay for putting my name out there and the rest of the city officials. This is an incredible honor and for their continued dedication to our community. To my family and friends, your support and love and encouragement have been all the foundation of everything that I do. I share this moment with you. I am proud to be part of a wonderful community and city and will continue to serve and support with pride and gratitude. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Great job. Great job. And I have one last thing. This is for my family that unfortunately does not live in this area and could not make it. So if you could please hold this for a moment. This is for you. Wow. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. All right. Can my friends... Of course. Yeah. Also happy... Yeah. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. All right. Can my friends... Of course. Yeah. Yeah. Also happy... Yeah. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Okay. Can my friends. Of course. Also happy St. Patrick's Day. You didn't say that. You didn't say that. Yes. Great nail. Come on. Everybody come on up. Born and raised, she has lived her whole entire life in the city of North Miami Beach. What 40 years? Yeah 63. And they didn't mention how when the hurricanes come, when the storms come, when they lose water, when the streets are flooded, it's Trisha that gets everything straight now. My Washington Park family come up here too. Just everybody. We're going to call it every month. I'm going to call it every month. You guys have known for years. It's going to be a long time. I need to go to the police. I brought my work. I'm going to have a little bit of information for you. All right. Bill Gates. and church, and the men can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I can't see that. I. Yeah. Mommy come. That one. Okay. Okay. Okay. Okay. We got one more. Wait. We got one more. One more. Is Claudette still here? Is the audience still here? I'm going to go to the water. Is the audience still here? I'm going to go to the water. Is the audience still here? I'm going to go to the water. Is the audience still here? Is the audience still here? Is the audience still here? Is the audience still here? Is the audience still here? Is the audience still here? Is the audience still here? I'm not going there. We just come to the room. No, that knows for sure. OK. Anybody doesn't know where we're throwing them out. Let's go. Let's go. You just come to the room. Tell your husband to come. Daniel, Daniel, Daniel, Daniel, Daniel, my hair. I have a seat. Right? All right. We have no seat. We have no seat. We have everybody. All right. Wait, wait, wait, wait. We got one more. We got one more. Wait. Come on. Come on. Everybody come on. All right. We got it. Okay. I was two, three. Like I said, a camera. We can't do this. Claudia, come on. Well, well, we got Claudia. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. Come on. All right. One, four, one, two, three. Got it. Congratulations. Congratulations. That's right. Sorry. All right. Now we're on to our last proclamation recognizing stars of tomorrow, Commissioner Smith's item. Proclamation, stars tomorrow. Congratulations. Last side. You are. You are. You are. You are. You are. You are. You are. You are. You are. You are. You are. You are. Now it's official. Thank you all so much. All right. Stars of tomorrow. Stars of tomorrow. Last items. Thank you. All right. Stars of tomorrow. Stars of tomorrow. Last items. All right. Stars of tomorrow. Stars of tomorrow. Last items. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right, stars of tomorrow, stars of tomorrow. Last items. We're starts tomorrow. So who's starting? I'm moving. We are wrong. I know. I'm doing the same. I'm doing the same. No, I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm doing the I'm sorry. All right. Come on, sir. And to be charged as strong, yeah. Thank you. OK. All right. All you Trish people settle down for one more minute. One more minute, because this is very befitting that Jimmy Jasmine's organization would come after Trish. Because Trish was celebrated for all she does for the community and we are honoring you for all you do for our community. I love you. I love you. I love you. It's so true. Before I read this, and we're really rushed for time, I just want to tell you real fast, that I went to a celebration of the 100th anniversary of Fullford. And when I heard them tell us all that this man has done, because he went to that elementary school in North Miami Beach. And he went to our school for junior high and high school. And you know what happened? He came back. Pro football. For pro football called him. He could be anywhere in any city. He came back to North Miami Beach. And for 10 years, he had 16 years, who's counting? You hear what we're saying? He has contributed to his own city and stayed and made sure that North Miami Beach was better for all. So this is really something I'm proud to present and have your young one with us just to hear all about it. Whereas the city of North Miami breaches proud to recognize organizations that uplift and empower our youth. Something strengthening our community and shaping the leaders of tomorrow. And he's not getting it individually because he already got one individually. But a little plug, he can leadership can always use some some donations. Whereas, Saurav tomorrow, Inc, has founded on March 22nd, 2010 by Jimmy Jasmine as a 501C3, nonprofit organization dedicated to mentorship, education, leadership, and community service for young people in North Miami Beach and beyond. Over the past 15 years, SOT has remained steadfast in its mission to break cycles of adversity and provide opportunities for youth to excel academically, athletically, and socially, instilling in them a sense of responsibility and service to their communities. And where stars of Samarit hosted impactful events such as Hangout Day, an annual two day event focused on mentorship, networking, health, and wellness, featuring youth football and cheerleading camps. With the support of NFL agents and professional athletes and a charity basketball game. At North Miami Beach Senior High School, drawing NBA champions, professional athletes and community leaders to inspire and uplift young participants. And where stars of tomorrow ink has demonstrated a known wavering commitment to philosophy and philanthropy through initiatives such as a taste of giving back, which provides meals to the homeless in partnership with Camela's House, ensuring that those in need receive nourishment and care during Thanksgiving. SOT's Christmas Invasion, launched in 2010 at Fullford Elementary, has since expanded to Robert B. Ingram Elementary and to Donald Donald House Miami bringing bringing holiday cheer, gifts, and joy to a hundred of children and families, while also recognizing and rewarding the dedication of educators in our community. And whereas SOT success has been made possible through the generosity of sponsors, including Gulf Stream Park, last chance group homes, the Coach I ULI Foundation, the College Funds, ZO Life University, KJ Party Rentals, DOLS, Enterprises, and Club Echo, who have played a vital role in supporting the organization's transformation programs. Stars of Tomorrow Inc. Continues to serve as a beacon of hope and empowerment, creating life-changing opportunities for youth and strengthening the fabric of our community through its dedication to service, mentorship and leadership development. Now, therefore, the mayor and the commissioners of the City of North Miami Beach recognize and commend Stars of Tamar Inc. on the anniversary for its invaluable contributions to youth and families of North Miami Beach, recognize and commend stars of tomorrow ink. On the anniversary for its invaluable contributions to youth and families of North Miami Beach, be it further resolved that in honor of its 15 years of impact and dedication to empowering our youths, March 22nd, 2025, is hereby dedicated to stars of tomorrow day in the city of North Miami Beach encouraging all residents to celebrate and support the organization's mission. In witness the air whereof we have here to set our hands and cause the seal of the city of North Miami Beach to be affixed to this 18th day of March 2025 signed by the mayor and all the police. Well, well deserved. And you know if he doesn't say it tonight, I'm going to say it for him. You know what he said? I'm going to do it till I have no more breath left. Full for it. Come up here. My full for staff, please come up here. Full for that dementia, please. Come up here, come up here, come up here, come up here. KJ, come up here, come up here. You know, 17 years ago, I was graduating college and God gave me a vision. And because I was wondering what I would be doing after playing football when I come back to the city of North Miami Beach, What would I be doing? I wanted to sleep. God gave me a vision 17 years ago and I've been on that mission ever since I got here. So 2010 was when I really took off with the mission and just making a powerful impact in the community of North Miami Beach. I went to Fortford Elementary. I went to J.L.K. I Miami Beach, senior high. A, I am NNB. And I'm a proud Full NNB in you. So, Dr. Rodriguez. We did, come here. Please, I know they say a few words, but. from the bottom of my heart, I'm the very proud principal of Fullford Elementary School. And I started, yes, we started in 2021 over there. So this is my fourth year there. And Jimmy just kind of came in and he said, you know, Dr. Rodriguez, he sent me an email. What do you think about bringing Santa back to Fullford? Well, I was like Santa Max Fullford. Let's do Santa Back to Fullford. Come on in here, I absolutely want that. And I will tell you something, this gentleman has been instrumental in encouraging our children, incentivizing our children, making our children feel special and valued. And many of them sometimes don't have the things that we want all of our children to have. He makes sure that they do every single holiday. But then this year he went up above and beyond. And he came back and he said, you know what? We always celebrate our children. We always give back to the kids. But what about the staff? What about the teachers? What about the people that leave the blood, sweat, and tears there every single solitary day? I want to incentivize and give them something back. And this man did. He made it his mission. He said, I'm going to start with the teachers, but he was able to help everyone. And when I tell you that he gave support to every single staff member at our school, that's why we're just representing a little piece of our 65 Miss Williams. We're very grateful to him for caring for us as much as he does. So thank you very much, not only for sharing of yourself, but sharing your family, sharing your friends, sharing everyone, your wife, the entire community, because everyone gives back. And we're very grateful for that, so thank you Jimmy. Thank you. Thank you so much. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. All right. All right. Picture time. Picture time. You got to turn around. Big smile. Yeah. I'm going to get a smile. Can I try for a few? Oh, you can. What's up with you? Oh, That ends our commission conference. We will start our commission meeting next seven minutes at 630. I'm sorry. you music Tired of getting unwanted calls on your mobile phone? Here's what you can do about them. Your best option is a call blocking app. An app can stop scam calls before they get to you, silence calls from unknown numbers, or send suspicious calls straight to your voicemail. Some call blocking apps are free. Some are not. 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