Vol 82 Miami Shores Village Newsletter March 2024

NEWSLETTER

NEIL CANTOR APPOINTED AS

NEW COUNCILMEMBER

Neil Cantor is Miami Shores Village’s new Councilmember. On December 30, 2023, Daniel Marinberg resigned from his seat as Councilmember. In his letter to the Village Manager, Mr. Marinberg alluded to the State’s extensive financial disclosure laws effective January 1, 2024 as the reason for his resignation. Mr. Marinberg served as Vice Mayor for two years and as a Councilmember until December. He thanked the community for allowing him to serve, and “for the unforgettable learning experience this community service has been for me.”

The new vacancy on the Council garnered ten applications from our residents. The Village Council voted to select Neil Cantor as the newest Councilmember at the Council meeting of February 6, 2024 and he was subsequently sworn in as Councilmember at the meeting of February 20th. Mr. Cantor will serve on the Council until the term for his predecessor ends in April 2025. Our warmest congratulations to Councilmember Cantor on his new appointment.

VILLAGE HALL NEWS

COUNCIL HOLDS RETREAT

On Saturday February 17, 2024, the Village Council had its retreat for Council and Charter Officers. The half-day session was held at the Miami Shores Country Club from 8:30 AM to12-30 PM. The purpose of the retreat was to examine and develop standard operating procedures for effective, productive Council meetings. Pre-retreat data gathering was accomplished by reviewing the Miami Shores Village website, accessing Florida League of Cities pertinent documents, reading newsletters, watching past council meetings, and interviewing the eight participants. Based on participant input and research, the following desired outcomes for the retreat were determined:

• Discussion on expectations, roles, and responsibilities of staff and of Council

• Determining five priorities for Council and staff action

• Creation of group protocols/norms for Council meeting management

By virtue of the fore-mentioned, the proceedings discussed and explored role-specific expectations, roles and responsibilities, reaching consensus, group standards and protocols, and facilitative language to effect expected outcomes by consensus. From a list of approximately 15 priorities, populated from the Strategic Management Plan, the Village’s website, and pre-retreat interviews, five were chosen and deemed most important.

1. Zoning Code Update

2. Septic to Sewer

3. Country Club Clubhouse and Golf Course

4. Stormwater Master Plan

5. Strategic Management Plan Matrix and Timelines

The importance of employing “rules of engagement” for effective meetings was discussed at length and there was consensus on the acceptance of the list of norms and accepted behaviors. The retreat which was deemed a success was facilitated by Anne Schroeder of Schroeder Management Consultants.

MIAMI SHORES VILLAGE RECEIVES HIGH SCORE ON HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN

Miami Shores Village was one of seven cities in Florida to receive a high score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Municipal Equality Index (MEI). The MEI serves as a benchmarking tool for assessing LGBTQ+ inclusion in municipal law, policy and services and how these demonstrate diversity, inclusion and equality. The MEI evaluates 506 cities each year with Miami Shores Village as a participating partner since 2015.

Miami Shores Village received a score of 92 for 2023, one of only seven cities in Florida to receive a score of 90 or above. Earning a high score on the HRC MEI requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses policies, benefits, training, advocacy and cultural initiatives aimed at fostering LGBTQ+ inclusion. Each year, Miami Shores Village strives to maintain a high score on this index to demonstrate our commitment to diversity, inclusion and equality fostering a more supportive and inclusive environment.

MANATEE SIGN ON BISCAYNE CANAL

Through collaborative efforts involving residents, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and Miami Shores Village, a new sign has been erected along Biscayne Canal. This sign designates a Manatee no-entry zone, enforced from November 15th to April 30th, safeguarding these endangered creatures during their migration and mating seasons. Furthermore, a regulation for slow-speed minimum wake has been implemented throughout the rest of the year. This proactive step aims to reduce the risk of manatee collisions and bolsters conservation endeavors to maintain their natural habitat. These partnerships underscore the community’s dedication to wildlife preservation and sustainable environmental practices.

MARCH EVENTS & HAPPENINGS

Optimist Park Sunday Farmers Market 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Optimist Park Sunday Farmers Market10:00 am

Recreation Fields Fine Arts Commission Concert 7:00pm

Community Center Open Gym 6:00pm

Library

Constitution Park Fitness in the Park9:00am

Library

Film of 49’ Series 10:00am

Library

Senior Tech Connect 10:30am Community Center Recreating Advisory Meeting 6:30pm

Library

MOCA Art Program 3:30pm

9900 Building Village Council Meeting 6:30pm

Library MOCA Art Program 3:30pm

Community Center Fine Arts Commission Meeting 6:30pm

Village Hall Village Council Special Meeting 6:00pm

Library MOCA Art Program 3:30pm

9900 Building Village Council Meeting 6:30pm

Field House Spring Break Camp 8:30am

Field House Spring Break Camp 8:30am

Library

LIVE Puppet Show 4:00pm

Travel Adventures

Around the World1:00pm READ with Major TROY 3:30pm Author Event 6:30pm

Village Hall Code Enforcement Board 6:00pm

Library Travel Adventures 1:00pm Library Frost Museum 4:00pm Community Center FL Licensing on Wheels By Appt.

Library Business Clinic 10:00am

Community Center Open Gym 6:00pm

Village Hall Historic Preservation Board 6:30pm

Field House Spring Break Camp 8:30am

Field House Spring Break Camp 8:30am

Library

Travel Adventures Around the World1:00pm 9900 Building Planning and Zoning Board Meeting 6:30pm

Field House Kids Day Off 8:30am

Library Film of 49’ Series 10:00am

Community Center Wreath Workshop 10:00am

Constitution Park Fitness in the Park 9:00am

Library

Film of 49’ Series 10:00am

Library

Saturday Storytime 10:30am

Community Center CPR Class 9:30am

Library

Film of 49’ Series 10:00am

Field House Spring Break Camp 8:30am

Aquatic Center Egg Dive 2:45pm

Athletic Fields Marshmallow Drop 9:30am

TRAFFIC COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS TRAFFIC CONCERNS

Beginning this month, the Ad-hoc Traffic Committee will be discussing traffic concerns by zone as outlined in the Miami Shores Village Traffic Study that was completed in 2016. Please join the committee at a time and place to be determined in March to discuss the traffic concerns in Zone 1 as outlined on the map. Look for more information on our website at www.msvfl.gov.

PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT

For more information on Parks and Recreation programs call: 305-758-8103

FEBRUARY EVENTS RECAP

Elevate Your Game: Pickleball Clinic

The Community Center buzzed with excitement as beginners gathered to embark on their pickleball journey at the Beginner's Pickleball Clinic. With paddles in hand and eager smiles, participants eagerly soaked up the knowledge and skills shared by our experienced instructor.

Concert in the Park

The Miami Shores Fine Arts Commission hosted an electrifying concert on the Athletic Fields, bringing together an eclectic fusion of electro-pop, funk, and Latin rhythms. Music lovers gathered to experience the dynamic performance of AFROBETA. Dancing, food and fun were had by all in an unforgettable night of entertainment.

USA Kickboxing National Championships

The weekend of Feb 8-11, Master Aaron Fruitstone brought several competitors to the 2024 USA Kickboxing National Championships in Orlando. Two of the competitors, Mateo Nicolucci and Leo Forsberg, won National Titles and have been selected as members of the USA Kickboxing Junior National Team. They will be competing in Budapest in August at the WAKO Kickboxing Junior World Championships!

Miami Shores Recreation Basketball

On January 17th, the Miami Shores Recreation Basketball players and coaches came out in support of the Barry University Men’s Basketball team who played Florida Southern. The Bucs won 116-112. It was a great experience for our players as all the teams were introduced at the begin of the game and our 9-11 year old teams played each other at halftime. Go Shores!!! Go Bucs!!!

Lifeguard Class

American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification, CPR/AED and First Aid

Join us for our upcoming Lifeguard Certification Class, where you'll have the opportunity to gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a certified lifeguard.

April 10 - May 9 | 5:00pm - 9:00 pm

Swim Test required | $200 Fee

Wreath Workshop

Learn how to create a stunning, one-of-a-kind holiday themed wreath. Participants will learn basic wreath making skills and the wreath will go home the same day!

Saturday, March 9, 2024 |10:00am – 12:00pm |$79 fee

Save a Life: Community CPR Class

We're excited to announce our upcoming Community CPR Class, where you'll have the opportunity to learn CPR techniques that could make all the difference in an emergency situation.

Saturday, March 23, 2024 | 9:30am - 12:30pm | $75 fee

Miami Shores Spring Break Camp

Designed to engage and entertain children during the school break, our Spring Camp promises a week of fun-filled activities, new friendships, and unforgettable experiences.

Monday-Friday, March 25 – 29 | 8:30am – 5:00pm

Egg Dive

Get ready for an egg-citing aquatic adventure at the Miami Shores Aquatic Center's Egg Dive Event on March 29th! This thrilling event promises fun for the whole family as we celebrate the arrival of spring with an underwater egg hunt like no other. Regular admission fee applies.

Friday, March 29, 2024 | 2:45pm

Marshmallow Drop

Join us at the Miami Shores Recreation Fields for our Annual Marshmallow Drop. Thousands of marshmallows will be dropped from a helicopter to be turned in for a bag full of goodies. Live entertainment will follow. Grab your baskets and get ready to catch some marshmallows!

Saturday, March 30, 2024 | 9:30am | Free admission

LIBRARY NEWS & EVENTS

For more information on Library programs call: 305-758-8107 | Registration Required.

FEBRUARY EVENTS RECAP

FROST MUSEUM: THE CHILL ZONE EVENT

On February 8th , 2024 at 4:00 pm, the theme of the month was The Chill Zone: Liquid Nitrogen! Museum educators explored physical reactions by freezing everyday objects with liquid nitrogen. Patrons watched as balloons, flowers and other

objects underwent a physical change when exposed to extremely cold temperatures (-321°F to be exact). For The grand finale participants were mesmerized when museum educators created a simulated cloud - thunder and all!

Brockway

Continues its 75th Anniversary Celebrations with a Classic Marionette Show

On Wednesday, February 7th, Youth Services Librarian, Brenda Holsing, along with Brockway’s former Youth Services Librarian, Anne Kelly, and Library Assistant, Belinda Muzii, resurrected the Library’s

antique collection of French marionettes to present our youngest patrons with a live presentation of “Beauty and the Beast”. More than 50 children and their caregivers experienced the dazzling classic fairytale brought to life in this unique offering. The children were mesmerized by the strings, scenery changes, lighting and music! When the show was over, Ms. Kelly was presented with a box of chocolates and a handful of flowers in gratitude for her help with the production and her 32 years of service. Truly a treat for all who attended!

KIDS PROGRAMS

MOCA AT THE LIBRARY

TUESDAYS, March 5, 12, 19 | 3:30 – 4:30 PM

LIVE Puppet Theatre

Wednesday, March 6, 2024 | 4:00 pm

READ with Major TROY

Thursday, March 7, 2024 | 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm

FROST MUSEUM of SCIENCE

Thursday, March 14, 2024 | 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

SATURDAY STORYTIME

Saturday, March 16, 2024 | 10:30 am

VILLAGE KIDS BOOK CLUB

Thursday, March 21, 2024 | 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

ADULT PROGRAMS

Senior Tech Connect

Saturday, March 2, 2024 | 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Author Event - Phantom Lady Christina Lane

Thursday, March 7, 2024 | 6:30 pm

Travel Adventures around the World

Thursdays, March 7, 14, 21, 28 | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

OLLI - The Life of Clara Schumann

Friday, March 8, 2024 | 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Sound Bath Meditation

Thursday, March 21, 2024 | 6:30 PM

PUBLIC WORKS

MARCH COUNCIL ACTIONS

THREE CUBIC YARDS

In our continuous effort to refine waste management practices and uphold community aesthetics, the Village is revising its bulk waste disposal policy. While historically accommodating larger piles, the frequent occurrence and resulting constraints have led to enforcement of existing ordinance - effective immediately, bulk waste exceeding 3 cubic yards is no longer accepted (refer to Village Ordinance Sec.9-2(d), 1971). Violations prompt a Courtesy Notice, specifying the breach, associated fees for special pick-up, and a compliance date. We appreciate your understanding as we enhance waste management efficiency. Together, let us maintain a safe, visually appealing community. Thank you for your cooperation.

SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP SERIES

Thursday, March 14 | 6pm-8pm

Unlock the path to nonprofit success with our comprehensive workshop on strategic growth through partnerships, grant writing, board selections, and embracing a business-minded approach. Specifically designed for nonprofit leaders and teams, this transformative session offers practical strategies and insights to help scale your organization. Learn how to cultivate impactful partnerships, optimize board selection, and run your nonprofit with the efficiency and mindset of a successful business.

9900 NE 2 Avenue | Miami Shores, FL

Small Business Clinic

Friday, March 15, 2024 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Business Consulting with Orlando Espinosa of Emineo Media At Brockway Library

Mike Skofstad Village Arborist

IMPROPER PROPER

VILLAGE UPDATES

NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES:

OVERGROWTH

We would like to inform all residents that the Miami Shores Neighborhood Services & Public Works Department are currently conducting a comprehensive survey of all alleyways within the Village. This survey is aimed at actively identifying and addressing overgrowth issues within the alleyways. Hedges, plants, and trees are prohibited within the alleyway easement. Established vegetation that was planted in the past, within the alley right of way, must be maintained to minimum setback requirements or be removed. The Village’s policy on previously established vegetation requires a clearance of 15 feet in height and vegetation trimmed back at least 1 foot from the edge of the roadway, straight up. Vegetation growing out from the property, not planted in the alley, must be trimmed/pruned back to the property's fence/property line.

POLICE DEPARTMENT

HISTORIC HOUSE OF THE MONTH MARCH 2024

Continuing our celebration of Miami Shores Centennial History, March’s historic house of the month showcases this house built in 1924 by the Shoreland Company. The house was designed in the Mediterranean revival style by the famous architectural firm of Kiehnel and Elliot which had a strong presence in Miami Shores and throughout South Florida. This was the first home completed by the Shoreland Company and served as the temporary field sales office. Named “The Tyler House” for its first resident, Mr. Hansford D. Tyler, Vice President of Hill Motor Car Company, a successful car business company. The property is registered as a National Historic Place and was designated a local Historic Landmark in 1983.

Drive by and admire this beautiful Miami Shores Centennial home at 431 NE 94th St!

MULTITRAFFIC OPERATION

Miami Shores Police participated in multi-agency traffic operation “Slow Your Roll” on Tuesday January 30 th and February 1 st , 2024. The agencies were comprised of El Portal PD, Miami-Dade PD, City of Miami PD, Florida Highway Patrol, and Miami Shores PD. The operation was focused on speeding and other traffic violations on NE 2 Ave and N Miami Ave, from NE 70 th Street to NE 115 Street. The purpose was to enforce traffic violations and to educate the public utilizing these roadways, whether they be motorists, bicyclists, or pedestrians.

“Slow Your Roll” was a successful effort, for all agencies involved, in addressing traffic safety issues, with MSPD units alone issuing 93 citations.

Photo Credit: Zalmy Meyer, A.IA.

Village Council:

Mayor: George Burch georgeburchdvm@msvfl.gov | 786-893-7022

Vice Mayor: Jesse Valinsky

Council Members:

Jerome Charles

Sandra Harris

Neil Cantor

Charter Officers:

Village Manager: Esmond K. Scott

Village Clerk: Ysabely Rodriguez

Village Attorney: Chanae Wood

Departments:

Building: Ismael Naranjo BO@msvfl.gov | 305-795-2204

Finance: Holly Hugdahl financedirector@msvfl.gov | 305-762-4855

Library: Michelle Brown brownm@msvfl.gov | 305-762-4921

Neighborhood Services: Mike Orta ortam@msvfl.gov | 305-762-4863

Planning and Zoning: 305-762-4864

Police: Chief David Golt david.golt@mspd.org | 305-759-2468

Public Works: Chris Miranda mirandac@msvfl.gov | 305-762-4886

Recreation: Angela Dorney dorneya@msvfl.gov | 305-762-4903