Town of Surfside Gazette March 2024

10-12 uptown funtown

13-18 it starts in parks

19 police beat

19-21 surfside marketplace

22-23 town map

TOWN OFFICIALS

Hector Gomez, Town Manager townmanager@townofsurfsidefl.gov

Lillian Arango, Town Attorney larango@townofsurfsidefl.gov

Antonio Marciante, Chief of Police amarciante@townofsurfsidefl.gov

Sandra N. McCready, Town Clerk smccready@townofsurfsidefl.gov

Meetings and events are subject to change. For the most up to date calendar please visit TownofSurfsideFL.gov or scan the QR code.

BUSINESS NUMBERS

Town Hall (305) 861-4863

Police (305) 861-4862

Fire Rescue (305) 861-1115

Emergency 911 TOWN

WEBSITE

www.townofsurfsidefl.gov TELEVISION

ACCESS

Channel 663 (Atlantic Broadband)

Shlomo

Jeffrey

Fred Landsman, Commissioner

Marianne

MESSAGE FROM THE TOWN MANAGER

Hello Surfside Residents,

As we enter the month of March, I would like to take a moment and salute all the strong women in Surfside (and beyond) in the spirit of Women’s History Month.

I’m also excited to share some new upcoming events that celebrate our community spirit! Firstly, mark your calendars for Thursday, March 7 as the Tourist Board presents ‘SURF FOOD FEST,’ a food-truck focused event that will also highlight local restaurants. On March 24, we’ll be hosting an engaging Street Art Festival also sponsored by our Tourist Board. But before that, on March 20, our most important event: The Swearing in Ceremony for our new elected officials. This momentous occasion is an opportunity for us to come together and witness the commitment of our leaders who aim to serve our Town with integrity and dedication. Let’s all join in wishing our newly elected officials the very best as they embark on their roles of stewardship and service to our community. I’m looking forward to working with them to make great things happen for our Town!

Warm regards,

Hector Gomez, Town Manager

COMMISSION ACCOMPLISHMENTS

FROM THE FEBRUARY COMMISSION MEETING

Approved fireworks for 4th of July Celebration.

Created the Surfside Youth Council to encourage young Surfsiders to participate in local government.

Approved additional safety features for pedestrian and vehicular safety.

Authorized much needed improvement to Town Hall.

Secured funding from the State for Dune Restoration Project.

Secured funding from Miami-Dade County for the design of the Surfside Memorial Park.

Secured funding from State of Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) for the Completion of the CTS Investigation.

Approved new sidewalks in the north side of the Town.

Extended a 30% discount to condos for permitting related to special assessments.

Prohibited the development and construction of any structures within Point Lake, except for marine structures.

MAYOR

Shlomo Danzinger

COMMISSIONER

Fred Landsman

VICE MAYOR

Jeffrey Rose

COMMISSIONER

Marianne Meischeid COMMISSIONER

Nelly Velasquez

Your Voice Matters Commission in Action

COMMISSIONER MEISCHEID PARTICIPATES IN TALLAHASSEE DADE DAYS

Commissioner Marianne Meischeid recently had the opportunity to travel to the State’s capital, Tallahassee, for Miami-Dade County Days alongside other government members and officials. This two-day tradition includes more than 1,000 people representing 200+ organizations from Miami-Dade County’s public and private sectors. During her visit, the Commissioner met with various State officials to push current Town appropriations.

BOARDS AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS HONORED BEFORE FEBRUARY COMMISSION MEETING

On Tuesday, Feb. 13 prior to the start of the February Commission Meeting, a recognition ceremony was held to honor the men and women who currently serve on the Town’s numerous boards and committees. Appointed by the commission, members serve on behalf of the community. Those recognized were presented with a Town souvenir and thanked for their service and dedication. Members of the following were in attendance for the recognition: Tourist Board, Planning and Zoning Board, Parks and Recreation Committee, Police Trust Fund, Personnel Appeals Board, and the Pension Board.

MAYOR DANZINGER PARTICIPATES IN ANTISEMITISM AWARENESS EVENT HOSTED BY ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY

Last month, St. Thomas University hosted community leaders from across the region for the “Words Matter: Navigating Faith, Media, and Fashion in the Shadows of Antisemitism” event to raise awareness against antisemitism. Mayor Danzinger joined other guest speakers who lent their voice to the ocasion including George Feldenkreis, owner of Perry Ellis International.

MAYOR DANZINGER SPEAKS AT RECENT CONDO CONNECT EVENT

Surfside Mayor Shlomo Danzinger recently participated in a Condo Connect forum centered around the pivotal topic of E-voting for condominiums. This innovative approach to voting empowers a broader spectrum of condo owners, enabling them to actively participate and become valued stakeholders in shaping the direction of their condo boards and policies. This inclusive engagement not only enhances democratic practices, but also contributes to a condominium’s overall safety and well-being.

Commission in Action

MAYOR DANZINGER SIGNS SISTER CITY PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CITY OF HIALEAH

On Wednesday, Feb. 14, Mayor Danzinger joined City of Hialeah Mayor Esteban Bovo, Jr. for a Sister City Partnership signing ceremony held at the Hialeah City Council Chambers. Representatives from both municipalities were on hand alongside both mayors for the occasion.

The unique partnership carries a Mutual-Aid Agreement with the Hialeah Police Department that will include staff support and shared training resources. Equipment donations for schools and Town-sponsored field trips focusing on cultural experiences and the environment are also part of the package.

TOWN COMMISSION REDUCES BUILDING PERTMIT FEES FOR CONDOS BY 30 PERCENT

In an effort to reduce the financial impact of compliance with the new 30 Year Building Recertification Requirements, the Surfside Town Commission has resolved that the Building Department provide a 30 percent discount off building permit fees for all work pertaining to or required by the Building Recertification process. This discount will also apply to all work which improves Life Safety in buildings as well. This discount will provide substantial relief to condominium building owners, especially where the cost of repair work is in the millions of dollars.

To honor the new venture, the Town has created a mini–Flamingo Park near Biscayne Bay to highlight the unique partnership that will soon be finalized. The Park will house a distinct Flamingo sculpture exclusively donated by the City of Hialeah. In exchange, the Town donated one of it’s colorful turtle sculptures which will be housed at Hialeah’s popular McDonald Water Park.

Your Voice Matters!

SURFSIDE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION & PRESIDENTIAL PREFERENCE PRIMARY ELECTION

The Town of Surfside will be holding a General Municipal Election and Presidential Preference Primary Election (PPP) on Tuesday, March 19, 2024.

PLEASE SEE THE TOWN’S GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION SAMPLE BALLOT >

Miami-Dade County Municipal Elections started mailing out the Vote by Mail ballots on February 15, 2024.

Last day to request a Vote by Mail (VBM) ballot – March 7, 2024

Official General Municipal Election Ballot

March 19, 2024

Surfside, Florida

Boleta Oficial de las Elecciones Generales Municipales 19 de marzo del 2024

Surfside, Florida

Bilten Vòt Ofisyèl Eleksyon Minisipal Jeneral

19 mas 2024

Last day to register to vote on the March 19, 2024 election was Feb. 19, 2024 (29 days prior).

EARLY VOTING

Scan the QR code for all locations and more election information.

News From Town Hall

From Public Works - The Town of Surfside is hosting its annual hazardous waste drop off event.

Bring your hazardous waste products to Town Hall on Saturday, May 11, 2023 from 9 a.m. - noon

• All materials must be sealed tightly and properly to avoid any spills

• All material that is loose (i.e. batteries) must be bagged

• All bio-hazardous waste/medical waste (sharps) must be secured (capped and bagged)

• Electronic devices will be accepted as well

Accepted: anti-freeze, household chemicals or fertilizers, propane tanks, paint and paint thinner, household pesticides, batteries, pool chemicals and used motor oil.

Not Accepted: mercury thermostats/thermometers or devices/items containing mercury, medicine/pharmaceutical waste

Public Works staff reserves the right to refuse residents if the guidelines are not followed.

For ammunition and/or prescription drug drop off, contact Surfside Police at 305-861-4862.

For more information on the hazardous waste drop-off, contact Public Works at 305-861-4863.

ARBOR DAY FOUNDATION RECOGNIZES SURFSIDE WITH TREE CITY USA AWARD FOR 8TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

From Public Works - For the eighth consecutive year, the Town has been awarded the distinguished honor of being recognized as a TREE CITY USA as part of Arbor Day Foundation. Tree City USA is greening communities across the country. This program is a great opportunity to celebrate the importance of an urban tree canopy and improve care of these vital city trees. The Public Works Department completed the planting of additional greenery at the 89th street beach end, which both residents and visitors alike enjoy.

News From Town Hall

TRANSITIONING FROM GAS-POWERED TO ELECTRIC OR BATTERY-OPERATED LEAF BLOWERS

From Code Corner -The Town of Surfside continues its commitment to environmentally friendly practices and has adopted ordinances demonstrating so. Using electric or battery-operated leaf blowers has a lower negative environmental impact than gasoline-powered leaf blowers.

Beginning this month, the use of gas-powered leaf blowers will be prohibited; only electric and battery-operated leaf and power blowers will be permitted.

We ask that you share this information with your landscaper and verify they comply with the regulations.

Code staff will be providing informational pamphlets to landscapers and will continue their efforts to educate the community via courtesy notices.

We trust that your environmental commitment will make this a smooth transition. Please call us with any questions or concerns at 305-861-4863 ext. 233.

EMPLOYEE ANNIVERSARIES

CRISTHIAN ACOSTA - 3 years

CARLOS AGON – 8 years

RIGOBERTO CHAVIANO – 2 years

DINA GOLDSTEIN - 16 years

GUSTAVO GONZALEZ – 11 years

BRYANT LUKE – 18 years

JAMES MCGUINNESS – 3 years

MITCH MICHEL – 8 years

MAGALYS QUINTERO – 1 year

HILDA RODRIGUEZ LOZANO – 1 year

CARMEN SANTOS-ALBORNA – 8 years

News From Town Hall

SURFSIDE SAFE STREETS SURVEY: RESULTS BELOVED

The Town has tabulated the results of the recent Surfside Safe Streets: Community Survey, where 224 community members shared their thoughts on making Surfside safer. The majority (74%) of respondents were adults aged 18 - 65.

Walking Habits and Concerns:

Residents are most active during the daytime, with the majority of respondents reporting more frequent walks during daylight hours. In fact, most of the respondents stated walking was a primary method for getting around downtown Surfside. However, despite the enjoyment of strolling through Town, concerns about safety persist. From speeding cars to the lack of sidewalks and shaded areas, residents voiced a desire for enhanced safety measures to make walking a more secure and enjoyable experience.

Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Concerns:

The survey revealed that most of the participants expressed concerns about drivers in Surfside not adhering to speed limits. Furthermore, many respondents emphasized the importance of implementing traffic calming measures near their residences, with preferences varying, including suggestions such as speed bumps and crosswalks. Additionally, some participants suggested an increase in police presence as a potential deterrent to reckless driving behaviors.

The Surfside Safe Streets: Community Survey reveals key safety concerns and aspirations within the community. By addressing issues such as pedestrian infrastructure, traffic enforcement, and urban planning, the Town can collaboratively create safer, more enjoyable streets for all residents and visitors.

Any Surfsider lucky enough to have met “the beautiful British lady” loved Pamela Salem O’Hagan. The great neighbor and community advocate passed peacefully Feb. 21, 2024; her valiant spirit finally freed from the pain her body endured living with both cancer and debilitating Parkinson’s disease.

Pamela and her husband Michael O’Hagan fell in love with Surfside in 2011 as they were easing into retirement from successful acting careers in London and L.A. After years working with stars like Sean Connery and Ian McKellen, here in Surfside Pam enjoyed writing and producing “live radio” plays that captured Surfside’s quirky qualities and were performed at our Community Center and throughout South Florida.

When Michael died in 2017, Pamela’s family and friends in England urged her to “come home.” So loving the beauty and warmth of this place and its people, she said, “I am home ... in Surfside.” Pam brought her bright smile and beautiful voice to St. Joseph’s parish choir, and her gracious manner and fun energy to everyone. “My lovely friends,” she wrote near the end, “all of you have your own battles and I can only pray you are surrounded by as many Guardian Angels as God has sent me. Blessings and thanks to you all. Pamela.”

A memorial service will be held at St. Joseph’s on Saturday, April 20 at 11 a.m. To honor Pam, donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Uptown Funtown

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL AT THE SURF CLUB CLAIMS COVETED SPOT AMONG TOP U.S. HOTELS, ACCORDING TO U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT

U.S. News & World Report recently unveiled its prestigious rankings, which consider a variety of factors including industry awards, hotel star ratings, and user feedback. Securing a coveted position in the top echelon, Surfside’s Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club clinched the impressive spot of number two. The iconic establishment exemplifies excellence in luxury accommodation, offering guests an unparalleled experience that blends sophistication with unrivaled service. These rankings, which reflect the collective voice of both industry experts and discerning travelers, serve as a testament to the commitment of The Surf Club’s Four Seasons Hotel to exceed expectations and set the standard for exceptional hospitality.

Whether guests seek a tranquil beachside retreat or a lavish urban escape, this acclaimed destination stands as a beacon of excellence, inviting travelers to indulge in the finest accommodations and amenities while creating memories to last a lifetime.

STREET ART FESTIVAL DEBUTS MARCH 24

The Tourist Board is introducing a second new event to their spring lineup this month, the Street Art Festival in partnership with ACT Productions. Hosted on 93rd Street and the adjacent parking lot, the event will feature talented street artists who will inspire attendees with their creations and challenge them to make their own. Art-focused vendors will also be on hand to show off their offerings and celebrate the visual arts. The Surfside Street Art Festival is free and open to all visitors and residents alike – please join us on Sunday, March 24 from 2 to 5 p.m.!

An exciting and stimulating art event that is sure to entretain and inspire!

Uptown Funtown

2024 THIRD THURSDAYS SEASON KICKS OFF WITH A BANG

This month Surfside transformed into a vibrant carnival with lively parades, festive masks, and the soulful sounds of New Orleans jazz as residents and visitors indulged in the spirit of Mardi Gras.

Food samples were offered from a number of local Harding Avenue restaurants. The evening featured a swing dance lessons and caricatures.

Join us at the next installment of Surfside’s iconic block party!

Third Thursdays Latin Tropical March 21 | 6 to 9 p.m. 93rd Street in front of Town Hall

Uptown Funtown

SURF FOOD FEST PRESENTED BY THE TOURIST BOARD ON MARCH 7

The Tourist Board is adding a new event to its spring lineup, Surf Food Fest – a food-truck focused event (both kosher and non-kosher) that will cater to the entire community promising fun, flavor and kid-friendly festivities. In addition to a wide array of food trucks, the event will feature two music bands, one from 6 to 7:45 p.m., the other 8:15 to 9:45 p.m. Additional activities include a painting station, caricatures, and a play area. Please note attendance to the event area is free; however, all food is for purchase. We hope to see you there! Stay tuned to our social media channels for more information.

A JAZZY MUSIC ON THE BEACH

On Feb. 11, Jazz was featured at Music on the Beach at the 93rd Street Beach from 2-4 p.m. Attendees soaked in the rhythmic sounds against the backdrop of the waves. The event appealed to both music enthusiasts and those seeking a leisurely outing. Attendees brought beach towels and danced with friends, creating a lively atmosphere.

Join us for the next installment on March 10 for Latin!

It Starts In Parks

SWEET MOMENTS AT OUR SWEET HEART DANCE

FAMILY FUN DAY 2024 RECAP

REFRESH YOUR BEACH SAFETY KNOWLEDGE

•Don’t fight

•Swim out of

current then to shore.

•If you can’t escape, float or tread water.

•Call or wave for assistance.

• Always swim in a lifeguarded area.

• Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills.

*Conditions available during beach tower operations.

For daily beach conditions, contact the Community Center at (305) 866–3635.

• Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities.

• Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed warnings.

It Starts In Parks

FUN TIMES AT FEBRUARY’S SENIOR BRUNCH BUNCH

Town

February 5th

Police Beat

Officer Ruben Ravelo was sworn in as Surfside’s newest Police Officer on Feb. 12 in the Commission Chambers. We welcome Officer Ravelo to our Surfside family.

OFFICER RUBEN RAVELO WAS SWORN IN AS SURFSIDE’S NEWEST POLICE OFFICER

BEAUTY SALON/BARBER SHOP

Surfside No. 2 Barber Shop - 9504 Harding Ave

LAHH Salon - 9480 Harding Ave

D’Nails Lounge - 9466 Harding Ave

Justin Barbershop - 9452 Harding Ave

Alexia + Frankie’s Beauty Bar - 9448 Harding Ave

Uni K Wax - 9567 Harding Ave

Femme Coiffure & Spa - 9563 Harding Ave

Extension Dreams Hair Salon - 9521 Harding Ave

Surfside Barber Shop - 9431 Harding Ave

BOUTIQUES/SHOES/TAILORS/CLEANERS

Penny’s Alterations - 9532 Harding Ave #104

Verdile’s/Mario The Tailor - 9520 Harding Ave

H20 Dive Center - 9520 Harding Ave

The Shoppe Miami - 9486 Harding Ave

Tsniout Runway - 9458 Harding Ave

Condotti - 9565 Harding Ave

Lucky Cigar Surfside - 9555 Harding Ave

Iris Alterations & Tailoring - 9553 Harding Ave #204

Mercy’s Alterations - 9533 Harding Ave #202

WoW The Concept - 9507 Harding Ave

SIGAL - 9453 Harding ave

GIFTS/JEWELRY/FLOWERS

Moon Over Miami Gift Shop - 9520 Harding Ave

Liborio Cigars - 9520 Harding Ave

Miami Gift / Italian J- 9482 Harding Ave

Gray and Sons Jewelry - 9595 Harding Ave

Amoris Flowers + Events - 9577 Harding Ave

Sunny Toys & Gifts - 9575 Harding Ave

Miamira Jewelers - 9573 Harding Ave

7th Plateau - 9559 Harding Ave

JS Diamond Enterprises - 9553 Harding Ave #307

Furry Baby Pet Care & Boarding Services- 9531 Harding Ave

Yaffa Wigs - 9515 Harding Ave.

Jewelers Choice - 9501 Harding Ave

World of Smoke & Vape - 9501 Harding Ave

Tzfasman Jewelers - 9425 Harding Ave

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

ONE Sotheby’s International Realty - 9588 Harding Ave

The Agency - 9564 Harding Ave

Infinity BH Real Estate/Goldfarb - 9520 Harding Ave

Estelle Stern Realty - 9508 Harding Ave

M.

- 9585 Harding Ave

-

HEALTH & WELLNESS

CVS Pharmacy - 9578 Harding Ave

Oberle Opticians - 9552 Harding Ave

Lemel Medspa - 9538 Harding Ave

Surfside Chiropractic - 9532 Harding Ave #101

Veterinary Wellness Center of Surfside - 9530 Harding Ave

Dr. Curson Podiatry - 9528 Harding Ave

Dr. Edy A. Guerra Dental Center - 9456 Harding Ave

The Tox MIA - 9541 Harding Ave

Surfside Hearing Aid - 222 95th St

Bal Harbour Smiles - 260 95th St #202

Malekin Law PA -260 95th St #206

Dr. Schwartz/Dr. Sugar - 9445 Harding Ave

FINANCIAL/SERVICES

Amtrust Bank - 9592 Harding Ave

Chase Bank - 9556 Harding Ave

Camissar International - 9520 Harding Ave

AT&T Surfside - 9569 Harding Ave

SKF Tech - 9553 Harding Ave #302

SK Worldwide - 9553 Harding Ave #303

Gelb Productions - 9553 Harding Ave #311

CitiBank - 9525 Harding Ave

U.S. Post Office Surfside - 250 95th St

Barry Cohen Law Firm - 260 95th St #201

Executive Auto Group - 260 95th St #203

T-Mobile - 9435 Harding Ave

The UPS Store - 9429 Harding Ave

Wells Fargo Bank - 9401 Harding Ave

POP-UPS

La Èsha Couture at Extension Dreams - 9521 Harding Ave

CVRGE, Jupe NYC, and Malka Majesty Gown at WoW The Concept - 9507 Harding Ave

The Shoppe Miami - 9486 Harding

RESTAURANT/SUPERMARKET

Starbucks - 9560 Harding Ave

Cine Citta CafeK - 9544 Harding Ave

Subway - 9536 Harding Ave

Flanigan’s Seafood Bar & Grill - 9516 Harding Ave

Cafe Ragazzi - 9500 Harding Ave

Big Daddy’s Liquor - 9494 Harding Ave

Cafe VertK - 9490 Harding Ave

RustikoK - 9476 Harding Ave

Street KitchenK - 9460 Harding

TYO SushiK - 9454 Harding

Publix Supermarket - 9400 Harding Ave

Sushi Republic - 9583 Harding Ave

Morelia Gourmet PaletasK - 9571 Harding Ave

KooluluK - 9561 Harding Ave

Zohar’s GelatoK - 9543 Harding Ave

Rolling Pin BakeryK - 9523 Harding Ave

The CarrotK - 9519 Harding Ave

Josh’s Deli - 9517 Harding Ave

Naamah Sushi - 9509 Harding Ave

Neya RestaurantK - 9491 Harding Ave

26 Suhi + TapasK - 9487 Harding Ave

Specchio Cafe - 9485 Harding Ave

KoshK - 9477 Harding Ave

The GroveK - 9467 Harding Ave

Fialkoff’s Express SurfsideK - 9463 Harding Ave

Moncheese Pizza - 9459 Harding Ave

Rita’s Ice Custard Happiness - 9461 Harding Ave

Serendipity Yogurt CafeK - 9457 Harding Ave

RoastK - 9441 Harding Ave

Miami Beach Chocolates SurfsideK - 9433 Harding Ave

The Harbour BistroK - 9427 Harding Ave

Harbour Grill DeliK - 9415-9421 Harding Ave