South Dade Spotlight MAY 2026

South Dade Chamber of Commerce May Monthly Luncheon: Service Beyond the Uniform

Our upcoming Service Beyond the Uniform event will take place on Thursday, May 21, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at Capri by Mayamex, bringing the community together in celebration of Military Month and the continued contributions of those who have served in the armed forces.

This special gathering is dedicated to honoring the lasting impact of veterans and military members who continue to serve their communities long after their time in uniform. Their leadership, resilience, and commitment extend far beyond active duty, shaping local neighborhoods, businesses, and civic life in meaningful ways.

Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with community leaders, listen to inspiring personal stories, and engage in thoughtful conversations that highlight service, sacrifice, and continued dedication. The event is designed to foster appreciation

while also building stronger connections between veterans and the broader community.

Service Beyond the Uniform is more than a recognition event—it is a space for reflection and dialogue. By sharing experiences and insights, participants help shine a light on the many ways military service continues to influence lives long after active duty ends.

Visit our website calendar of events, where you can also submit a nomination to honor an active-duty military member from any branch. Simply use the nomination link provided on the event page to participate in recognizing their service during this special event.

Guests are encouraged to reserve their spot and join this meaningful occasion as South Dade comes together to honor those who have served. The event promises an afternoon of inspiration, connection, and gratitude in recognition of Military Month and the individuals who embody service beyond the uniform.

Hooked For a Cause: The PBA Dolphin Shootout & Fishing Village

South Florida’s waters come alive this June with the highly anticipated PBA Dolphin Shootout & Fishing Village—a one-day offshore Mahi tournament paired with a vibrant, family-friendly waterfront experience at Homestead Bayfront Park.

Anglers will take to the open ocean at sunrise, competing for a $10,000 grand prize for the heaviest Mahi, while spectators gather shoreside to watch the action unfold during the live, on-stage weigh-in from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The excitement culminates with an awards ceremony at 5:00 PM, celebrating both competition and community.

But this event is more than just a tournament—it’s a full-day celebration. The Fishing Village, open to the public from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, offers something for everyone: live music, a DJ, line dancing, local vendors, food and drinks, and interactive sponsor activations, all set against a scenic waterfront backdrop.

Open to PBA members, supporters, and local anglers, boats can depart from any port, making this tournament accessible to South Florida’s entire fishing community. Whether you’re offshore chasing Mahi or enjoying the festivities on land, the event brings together boating enthusiasts, families, and law enforcement supporters in a uniquely South Florida way.

At its heart, the Dolphin Shootout is a charity-driven event benefiting The Love Fund, a 501(c)(3) organization that has supported fallen officers and their families since 1984. Proceeds help cover funeral expenses, provide education for children of fallen officers, and offer critical psychological support to families affected by the demands of the profession.

EVENT DETAILS:

• Captain’s Meeting: June 4, 2026 Doral, FL

• Tournament & Fishing Village: June 6, 2026 Homestead Bayfront Park

• Lines in: 6:00 AM

• Fishing Village (Free & Open to Public): 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Whether you’re competing for the catch of the day or simply soaking in the coastal atmosphere, this is more than an event— it’s a day of purpose, community, and celebration on the water.

GET INVOLVED:

• Register to fish: dcpba.org/fishingtournament-registration

• Become a sponsor: dcpba.org/fishingsponsorship

• Apply as a vendor: miamifriendors.com/ apply/the-fishing-village

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See pictures of past events on page 8.

Celebrating Community, Creativity, and Tradition: The Miami-Dade Youth Fair

Concludes

Another Memorable Year

The Miami-Dade County Youth Fair & Exposition wrapped up another successful season on April 5, leaving behind weeks of excitement, community connection, and unforgettable memories for families across South Florida.

Held annually, the Youth Fair is one of Miami-Dade County’s most anticipated traditions, blending thrilling entertainment with educational opportunities for young people. This year’s event once again delivered a vibrant mix of rides, games, live performances, and agricultural

showcases that celebrated both fun and learning. From heart-pounding midway attractions to family-friendly exhibits, there was something for every age group to enjoy.

A cornerstone of the fair is its strong focus on youth development. Students from across the county proudly displayed their talents through academic exhibits, art displays, and competitive projects. These showcases highlight creativity, innovation, and dedication, reinforcing the fair’s mission to support education and personal growth. Livestock presentations and agricultural programs also gave attendees a closer look at farming traditions, connecting urban communities with the region’s agricultural roots.

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Beyond the attractions, the Youth Fair served as a gathering place for the community. Families, friends, and visitors came together to enjoy classic fair food, cultural performances, and a lively atmosphere that reflects the diversity of Miami-Dade County. The event not only entertained

but also strengthened local bonds and created shared experiences that will be remembered long after the gates closed.

As the fairgrounds quiet down for another year, the impact of the event continues. The Miami-Dade County Youth Fair remains

a cherished institution, inspiring young minds and bringing the community together in celebration of achievement, culture, and fun. Attendees now look ahead with anticipation to next year’s fair, eager to once again take part in this beloved South Florida tradition.

Empower South Dade: Business & Career Opportunities & Hiring Expo

Get ready to take the next step in your career at the upcoming Empower South Dade: Business & Career Opportunities Expo Saturday, May 16th, 2026, 10 AM-1 PM, a unique chance to connect directly with hiring employers and explore real job opportunities, all in one place.

This event, at Miami Dade College Homestead Campus, 301 Civic Ct, Homestead, FL 33030, is designed for job seekers who are ready to make meaningful connections and potentially secure employment on the spot. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet employers

who are actively hiring, participate in on-site interviews, and learn more about immediate openings across a variety of industries.

To make the most of the experience, come prepared. Bring multiple copies of your resume and dress in professional or business-casual attire to ensure you make a strong and lasting impression. Being ready and confident can make all the difference when meeting potential employers face-toface.

In addition to job opportunities, the expo offers access to valuable career resources

MAY 10, 2026

MAY 25, 2026

and support services. Whether you’re looking to refine your resume, explore new career paths, or gain guidance from experienced professionals, you’ll find tools and insights to help you succeed. Attendees can also benefit from insider tips shared by industry experts, giving them a competitive edge in today’s job market.

From networking with local employers to discovering new career possibilities, this event is more than just a job fair—it’s a gateway to professional growth and opportunity. Don’t miss your chance to connect, interview, and take a step closer to your career goals.

SAVE THE DATE

Empower South Dade: Business & Career Opportunities Expo

Saturday, May 16th, 2026 10 AM - 1PM

Miami Dade College

Homestead Campus, 301 Civic Ct | Homestead, FL

Honoring Leadership and Legacy: A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Panelists

The South Dade Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere gratitude to the incredible panelists and generous sponsors who made the 7th Annual Ladies of Legacy Leadership Luncheon such a meaningful and inspiring event. Held at the Miccosukee Casino & Resort, this special gathering brought together community leaders, professionals, and changemakers to celebrate the power of women’s leadership.

We are deeply thankful to our distinguished panelists—Karie A. Contreras, Charlotte Thompson, Kemarr L. Brown, Andrea Moreno, and Heather Moehling—for sharing their powerful stories, experiences, and insights. Their journeys of resilience, leadership, and dedication left a lasting impression on all in attendance. Special appreciation goes to our moderator, Yordy Rivero, for guiding a thoughtful and engaging discussion.

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to our valued sponsors whose support made this event possible: Danielle Cohen Higgins; Baptist Health Homestead Hospital; Ken Spell; Kionne L. McGhie; SouthState

and Sponsors

Bank; Chase; Rock & Rose; Bercow Radell Fernandez Larkin + Tapanes; and Monarch All Health. Your commitment to empowering women and strengthening our community is truly appreciated.

The Ladies of Legacy Leadership Luncheon continues to be more than just an event—it is a celebration of purpose, perseverance, and progress. Thanks to your support and participation, we are able to uplift and honor women who are shaping a brighter, more inclusive future.

We look forward to continuing this important mission together and thank you once again for helping make this year’s luncheon an unforgettable success.

The South Dade Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere gratitude to the incredible panelists and generous sponsors who made the 7th Annual Ladies of Legacy Leadership Luncheon such a meaningful and inspiring event.

Jackson South Medical Center Miracles Made Daily!

Jackson South Medical Center stands as a trusted destination for high-quality healthcare, offering a comprehensive range of medical services designed to meet the diverse needs of its community. Staffed by nationally respected, board-certified physicians and skilled healthcare professionals, the hospital brings together expertise across a wide array of specialties and subspecialties, ensuring patients receive well-rounded and personalized care.

The facility is thoughtfully designed to promote both comfort and efficiency. Patients benefit from private rooms that enhance rest and recovery, as well as an expanded emergency department equipped to handle urgent medical situations with speed and precision. In addition, the hospital features newly built operating room suites outfitted with state-of-the-art technology, allowing surgical teams to perform advanced procedures with improved outcomes.

Beyond its advanced infrastructure, Jackson South is committed to

creating a welcoming and contemporary environment where patients feel supported throughout their healthcare journey. From the moment patients walk through its doors, they have access to a seamless continuum of care that prioritizes safety, innovation, and compassion.

Whether individuals require diagnostic services, surgical procedures, rehabilitation, or emergency care, Jackson South Medical Center is prepared to

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deliver. Its integrated approach ensures that patients not only receive expert treatment but also benefit from coordinated care tailored to their unique needs.

With a strong emphasis on quality, comfort, and clinical excellence, Jackson South

continues to earn the trust of patients and families seeking reliable healthcare services. It remains a vital resource for the community, dedicated to improving health outcomes and enhancing the patient experience every step of the way.

Grand Opening of Sushi Sake Homestead: A New Culinary Hotspot Arrives in Downtown Homestead

Sushi Sake Homestead is set to make an exciting debut in Downtown Homestead with its highly anticipated grand opening on Friday, May 8, 2026, at 4:30 PM. More than just the launch of a new restaurant, this event marks the beginning of a vibrant dining destination for the South Dade community.

Located in one of Homestead’s most iconic areas, Sushi Sake Homestead promises to

bring a fresh and modern culinary experience, blending high-quality sushi with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Guests attending the grand opening celebration can look forward to an evening filled with flavor, entertainment, and community spirit.

The festivities will kick off with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing an exciting new chapter for Downtown Homestead. During the exclusive VIP hour, attendees will enjoy complimentary bites and handcrafted cocktails,

offering a preview of the restaurant’s diverse menu and elevated bar program. Signature sushi selections will take center stage, showcasing the artistry and freshness that Sushi Sake is known for, alongside a full bar experience designed to complement every dish.

Beyond the cuisine, the event will feature music, high energy, and a dynamic crowd, creating an atmosphere that reflects the restaurant’s vision— bringing people together to celebrate great food, drinks, and connection. The grand opening is not just

Humane Society of Greater Miami’s new Wags & Wellness Care Clinic

The Humane Society of Greater Miami’s trusted veterinary clinic is getting a fresh new look! Introducing the Wags & Wellness Care Clinic, continuing to offer affordable, accessible care for pets in our community.

Join us for our Wags & Wellness Care Clinic Launch Party on Sunday, May 31st from 11 AM to 4 PM at the Humane Society of Greater Miami. This dog-friendly community event will feature free microchips, raffle prizes, treats for people and pets, and much more. To get involved contact Lissette@ humanesocietymiami.org

about dining; it’s about creating a social hub where residents and visitors alike can gather and make lasting memories.

As Sushi Sake Homestead opens its doors, it aims to become a standout destination in South Dade, offering a unique blend of flavor, ambiance, and community engagement. Guests are invited to be part of this special milestone and experience firsthand what promises to be one of Homestead’s newest hotspots.

South Dade Schools Bring Everglades Learning to

Life Year-Round

HOW LOCAL CLASSROOMS ARE TURNING THE “RIVER OF GRASS” INTO A LIVING STEM LESSON

In South Miami-Dade, where the Everglades is not a distant concept but a neighbor, students are learning that one of the world’s most unique ecosystems begins practically in their backyard. From early learners to graduating seniors, local classrooms are exploring how water moves, why wildlife thrives, and what restoration means for the place they call home through education programs designed to build real Everglades knowledge and a lifelong sense of stewardship.

The Everglades is a vast, complex landscape of winding waterways, wildlife, and plant life that sustains South Florida. But decades of development and disrupted water flow have

strained the ecosystem, making education a critical part of protecting it for the future. The Everglades Foundation works to restore and protect this wetland through science, advocacy, and education, and for thousands of students each year, the “education” piece is where the story becomes personal.

A CURRICULUM BUILT FOR TEACHERS, AND FOR COMMUNITIES LIKE OURS

At the center of The Everglades Foundation’s education work is the

Everglades Literacy Program, a STEM-based initiative launched in 2014 that offers a free PreK–12 curriculum designed to immerse students in the Everglades ecosystem. Developed by educators for educators, it aligns with Florida state standards and integrates multiple subjects, making it flexible for different ages and learning styles.

That flexibility is part of what makes it a natural fit for South MiamiDade schools. Here, the connection isn’t abstract; students can see the region’s canals, wetlands, coastal

waters, and wildlife corridors as pieces of the same watershed. The curriculum helps them explore topics like biodiversity, water quality, and ecosystem restoration, not as faraway science, but as local reality.

Over the past decade, the Everglades Literacy Program has expanded significantly across Florida, reaching more than 9,000 teachers in 1,400 schools across 32 counties, and engaging more than 312,000 students.

“Across Florida, students are learning that the Everglades isn’t just a beautiful place; it’s a critical resource that supports our water, our wildlife, and our way of life,” said The

Everglades Foundation’s VP of Education Jennifer Diaz. “When young people understand how this ecosystem works and why it matters, they’re more prepared to protect it and lead Florida’s future.”

In a region as close to the Everglades as South Dade, that proximity matters. In Miami-Dade County, more than 2,500 teachers from 260 schools have been

trained in the Everglades Literacy Program, with 360 of those teachers from South Dade. Many schools in the southern part of Miami-Dade have made Everglades literacy a yearround priority supporting how students understand science, problem-solving, and civic responsibility.

One outstanding PreK–5 Everglades Champion School in South Dade, Vineland K-8 Center, hosted a school-wide Everglades Day celebration on April 7, 2025. The vibrant event brought the entire school community together as students from every grade level led to engaging, Everglades-themed activities for their peers.

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Another excellent example of Everglades leadership is BioTECH at Richmond Heights Senior High. An Everglades Champions in Action School, BioTECH is demonstrating powerful student leadership by collaborating with Miami-Dade County’s Environmental Endangered Lands to conserve land in South Florida as critical habitat for the endangered Florida bonneted bat.

FROM THE WETLANDS TO THE CLASSROOM: SUPPORTING THE PEOPLE WHO TEACH

Ask any educator and you’ll hear it: The strongest programs don’t just inspire students, they also support teachers. That’s why The Everglades Foundation

offers free teacher trainings and an annual symposium, giving educators practical strategies and resources to bring Everglades literacy into everyday instruction.

Teachers can also tap into the Everglades Literacy Teacher Toolkit, an online hub filled with PreK–12 lesson plans and other instructional resources. With these ready-to-use materials, educators can turn complex Everglades science

into learning that feels clear and engaging. They also help students connect classroom lessons to real environmental challenges and see how science, advocacy, and action work together.

LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

In 2023, The Everglades Foundation expanded its education offerings with Everglades EcoQuest, a web-based platform that turns Everglades learning into interactive exploration. Supported by Florida Power & Light Company, EcoQuest helps students understand habitats, plants, wildlife, and the importance of ecosystem restoration.

Through games and challenges, students can

earn badges and move through adventures across the watershed, encountering species such as alligators, manatees, and largemouth bass. It’s the kind of learning that meets today’s students where they are – digital, curious, and motivated by discovery.

TURNING KNOWLEDGE INTO STEWARDSHIP: SCHOOLS AND STUDENT LEADERS

Education is powerful, but action is what turns learning into lasting impact. The Everglades Foundation extends its education work through programs that engage students and schools in leadership and stewardship.

One of those is the

Everglades Champion Schools program, which helps schools integrate Everglades literacy into daily learning through lessons, student-led projects, and field experiences, building a campus culture of environmental responsibility. Schools showing exceptional commitment can be recognized as Champion Schools, and participating teachers can apply for mini-grants to support field studies, habitat restoration, and hands-on initiatives.

ENGAGING FAMILIES— AND THE FUTURE SCIENTISTS AMONG US

Everglades education doesn’t stop at the school doors. The Foundation also reaches households through Families ForEverglades, a

series of virtual programs that invite families into ongoing conversations about endangered species, invasive plants, and conservation. Designed as virtual family night sessions, the program aims to spark curiosity and strengthen everyday connections to the natural world around us.

South Miami-Dade sits at the doorstep of one of the planet’s most extraordinary ecosystems. That proximity is both a gift and a responsibility. When local students learn how the Everglades works, they’re not just studying a landscape; they’re learning about the natural system that shapes Florida’s future.

That’s why Everglades education resonates so strongly here: It connects students to place, to science, to community, and to the idea that protecting the Everglades is not someone else’s job, it’s part of our shared story.

To learn more about The Everglades Foundation and its education programs, visit evergladesliteracy.org

Pinecrest Launches First Health & Wellness

Fair at Suniland Park

Suniland Park has hosted birthday parties, Saturday baseball and football games, and Sunday morning walks. On May 30, it hosts something new.

The FitCrest Health & Wellness Fair runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., converting the park into a free, full-service wellness hub where you can dance to a DJ, take a mini fitness class and learn something new. Backed by a partnership between the Village and the Pinecrest Business Association, the event delivers what typically requires time, money, and a waiting room: free health screenings, fitness and mental health resources, and stress-management support right at the park down the street.

The fair arrives during an active period in Pinecrest Parks & Recreation’s history. Coral Pine Park and Veterans Wayside Park are both scheduled to reopen this spring following major capital improvements, including new pickleball courts,

fitness stations, walking paths, and playground equipment. The Parks and Recreation Department also earned the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA) certification in 2024, a distinction held by only 209 of 10,000 agencies nationwide.

“We had to go through 154 standards to get the accreditation, and we met every single standard,” said Parks and Recreation Director Robert Mattes. “This means residents know we can deliver the highest quality facilities and that the people we employ and contract

are all vetted and go through rigorous training.”

That standard of care extends to the FitCrest Health & Wellness Fair. Move through live fitness demonstrations and high-energy mini-workouts. Licensed professionals offer on-site fitness, mental health and stress management consultations. Baptist Health will offer free wellness workshops. Browse local wellness vendors, grab a stressmanagement consultation, and discover what keeps Pinecrest residents healthy. A DJ and giveaways keep the energy up

throughout the morning.

Local businesses interested in joining the FitCrest initiative and reaching Pinecrest residents through events like this fair can email jmarzouka@pinecrest-fl.gov to learn about partnership opportunities.

Plan to attend the FitCrest Health & Wellness Fair on Saturday, May 30, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Suniland Park. Admission is free and open to the public. RSVP for the free event at https://fitcresthealth.

eventbrite.com

HPS/ENERGY RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION WITH INDUSTRY AWARDS

The City of Homestead is proud to announce that Homestead Public Services (HPS/Energy) has received two prestigious national recognitions from the American Public Power Association (APPA): the Reliability Award and the RP3 Diamond Designation. These honors highlight the City’s continued commitment to delivering reliable, efficient, and high-quality electric service to the community.

The APPA Reliability Award recognizes exceptional electric utility performance over a five-year period. Based on industrystandard metrics—including the frequency of outages, the duration of outages, and the speed of restoration—HPS/Energy has consistently outperformed national benchmarks through 2025. This distinction reflects the utility’s ability to minimize disruptions and restore power quickly when outages occur.

“This recognition reflects the dedication and expertise of our HPS/Energy team,” said Barbara Quiñones, HPS/Energy Director. “Our commitment to maintaining a reliable

system ensures that our residents and businesses can depend on consistent, highquality electric service every day.”

In addition, HPS/Energy recently earned the RP3 Diamond Designation, one of the highest honors awarded by APPA. This designation recognizes public power utilities that demonstrate excellence in reliability, safety, workforce development, and system improvement.

Both awards are based on data-driven evaluations using national benchmarks, reinforcing the City’s strategic investments in infrastructure, technology, and operational planning. Together, they affirm that the HPS/Energy system experiences fewer outages, restores service more quickly, and operates at a level of excellence recognized across the industry.

These achievements further position Homestead as a leader in public power reliability and service, providing confidence to residents, businesses, and stakeholders alike.

For more information, please contact City of Homestead Chief Public Information Officer Camila Varcarcel at (305) 224-4448 or communications@homesteadfl.gov.

Florida City Moves Forward Under New Leadership with Mayor Charlotte Thompson

Florida City is entering a new chapter defined by strong leadership, operational improvements, and a renewed commitment to its residents. Following her February election, Mayor Charlotte Thompson has prioritized inclusive leadership—ensuring that residents’ voices help guide decisions related to public safety, economic growth, infrastructure, and investment.

The City has also focused on strengthening operations by welcoming new hires across administration and key departments, bringing fresh expertise and improving service delivery.

At the same time, Florida City is modernizing its infrastructure. Efforts are underway to digitize records systems to improve efficiency and transparency, alongside planned IT upgrades to enhance Wi-Fi connectivity and overall technology at City Hall.

Public safety and neighborhood upkeep remain top priorities. Enhancements within safety services and Public Works have improved maintenance and response times, particularly in addressing illegal dumping. The Police Department has

also launched a Gun Lock Campaign to promote responsible firearm storage and community safety.

Community engagement continues to grow. The City hosted its first-ever Community Visioning Meeting, giving residents an opportunity to share input and help shape the future of their community.

Additionally, through Parks and Recreation, Florida City has introduced a daily senior program offering meals and activities to support the well-being and social connection of its senior population.

Florida City is looking to build a stronger foundation and the road ahead is promising as the focus is on responsive governance, community engagement and long term growth.

Florida City is entering a new chapter defined by strong leadership, operational improvements, and a renewed commitment to its residents.

Cutler Bay Welcomes Senator Alexis Calatayud for

Office Hours at Town Hall

The Town of Cutler Bay recently hosted Senator Alexis Calatayud at Town Hall, where she held community office hours and met directly with residents to provide assistance with state services and share valuable resources.

Throughout the afternoon, Senator Calatayud was very busy connecting oneon-one with residents, listening to concerns, answering questions, and helping navigate state-level programs. In addition to meeting with the public, she spent time with the Town’s Active Adults, attending

a Chair Pilates class and engaging with participants, highlighting her commitment to staying connected with town residents.

Senator Calatayud also met individually with Councilmember Richard Ramirez and Councilmember Suzy Lord, during which

they discussed the potential impacts of tax reform, including proposed changes to ad valorem taxes and the financial impact on Cutler Bay. These conversations provided an opportunity to share local perspectives and priorities as discussions continue at the state level.

Additionally, Town Manager Rafael Casals met with Senator Calatayud to provide updates on key initiatives, including upcoming development projects and the Town’s Legacy Park & Municipal Complex. The discussion also focused on the Town’s legislative priorities, with an

emphasis on continued collaboration and ensuring that state-level efforts align with Cutler Bay’s long-term vision.

“Having Senator Calatayud here in Cutler Bay, meeting directly with our residents, councilmembers, and engaging with our community, makes a real difference,” said Town Manager Rafael Casals. “These conversations help ensure the Senator has a clear understanding of the needs of our Town, especially as important issues like tax reform and future development continue to take shape. It was also impactful for her to see firsthand the positive impact of her appropriation award, which helps fund our Active Adults program and supports meaningful programming for our residents.”

The Town of Cutler Bay remains committed to fostering strong partnerships with state leaders and providing residents with access to resources and information that support their needs.