98 souls lost their lives on june 24, 2021. forever in our hearts. fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters...
Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at 10 a.m. 88 Street & Collins Avenue
Lighting of the Torch Ceremony
Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at 1:15 a.m.
Forever in Our Hearts
On the Fifth-Year Anniversary, honoring the memories of the 98 souls lost on June 24 2021, supporting survivors, and paying tribute to the first responders who were instrumental in the search and recovery efforts. th
it starts in parks advertising
business district map
Meetings and events are subject to change.
For the most up-to-date calendar, please visit TownofSurfsideFL.gov or scan the QR code.
Cover photo: 2025 Remembrance Ceremony.
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06/02/26
06/03/26
06/09/26
06/15/26
06/17/26
06/18/26
06/19/26
06/24/26
06/24/26
06/25/26
Resort Tax Board Meeting, 6 p.m.
Youth Council Meeting, 5:30 p.m.
Regular Commission Meeting, 7 p.m..
Parks and Recreation Meeting, 5:30 p.m.
Special Master Hearing, 10 a.m.
Sustainability and Resiliency Meeting, 12 p.m.
Holiday Town - Hall Closed, 9 a.m.
Lighting of the Torch Ceremony, 1:15 a.m.
Remembrance Event, 10 a.m.
Planning & Zoning Board Meeting, 6 p.m.
For all Gazette inquiries, please contact creyes@townofsurfsidefl.gov
TOWN OFFICIALS
Mario A. Diaz, Acting Town Manager mdiaz@townofsurfsidefl.gov
David Weingot, Commissioner dweingot@townofsurfsidefl.gov
MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING TOWN MANAGER MARIO A. DIAZ
Dear Friends & Neighbors…
As we welcome the month of June, we are reminded of all that makes Surfside such a vibrant and connected community. With the start of summer, our Town comes alive with programs and activities that bring residents together, from youth camps and wellness events to opportunities that enhance our shared spaces and coastal lifestyle.
June also provides an opportunity to celebrate and honor the important role of fathers and father figures in our lives, while remembering those who are no longer with us. Father’s Day is a meaningful occasion dedicated to recognizing the protection, support, mentorship, and love provided by fathers, grandfathers, and those who serve as guiding figures in our community.
Additionally, we recognize Pride Month, a time to celebrate inclusion, respect, and the diversity that strengthens our community, while reaffirming our commitment to dignity and equality for all.
At the same time, June represents a season of preparation and responsibility. As hurricane season begins on June 1, Surfside takes a proactive and informed approach to public safety. The Town activates its preparedness efforts, coordinates closely with Miami-Dade County Emergency Management, and encourages residents to secure their properties, review evacuation plans, and stay informed. Through thoughtful planning and community engagement, we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents.
This month also carries significant historical and cultural importance. June marks pivotal moments such as the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944, and Juneteenth on June 19, 1865, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. These milestones serve as powerful reminders of resilience, freedom, and progress.
In Surfside, June holds profound local meaning. On June 24, 2021, at approximately 1:22 a.m., Champlain Towers South collapsed, resulting in an immeasurable loss to our community. Since 2022, the Town has held annual remembrance ceremonies in late June to honor the 98 souls lost in the tragedy. These solemn observances, featuring candlelight vigils, moments of silence, and opportunities for reflection, echo our enduring commitment to remembrance, healing, and unity. June remains one of the most meaningful months in Surfside’s history, defined by resilience, preparedness, and the strength of a community that continues to stand together.
Even as we reflect, June is also a season of growth and positivity. Environmental initiatives such as tree planting, dune restoration, and beautification efforts contribute to a greener and more resilient community. Summer programming is in full swing, offering outdoor movie nights, beach yoga, and family-friendly park events that highlight Surfside’s welcoming and close-knit character. With the school year coming to a close, youth camps and recreational programs provide engaging opportunities for learning, creativity, and fun in a safe and supportive environment, supporting families and enriching the lives of our youngest residents.
Residents are encouraged to visit the Town Calendar to stay informed about upcoming meetings, events, and activities throughout the month. Together, we continue to nurture a community that is strong, resilient, and connected.
In closing, we are pleased to recognize Betty Beret (B.B.), Judge of the Surfside Poetry Contest, launched this April in honor of National Poetry Month. The inaugural year drew tremendous enthusiasm, with a strong collection of creative and inspiring submissions from across our community.
From Betty Beret (B.B.)
And now… the moment we’ve all been waiting for…the envelope, please! And the Winners are:
See page 15 for info.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF OF POLICE CHARLES R. PRESS
The Town of Surfside is buzzing with excitement! I am pleased to congratulate Mayor Shlomo Danzinger on his re-election and look forward to working alongside him in the years ahead. I am eager get to work hand in hand as we tackle everything this vibrant community has in store.
And there is certainly plenty on the horizon, from new construction projects reshaping our town to the upcoming FIFA event, which is set to bring a wave of visitors and energy to our area. Through it all, the Surfside Police Department remains committed to keeping disruptions to a minimum and ensuring our community stays safe and welcoming.
Speaking of safety, we are now entering Hurricane Season. If you have not yet made preparations, please do so now. Ensure you stock your emergency kit, review your evacuation plan, and be ready to act if an evacuation order is issued by the Miami-Dade County Mayor. A helpful guide that could save a life can be found at miamidade.gov/hurricane/library/guide- to-hurricane-readiness.pdf.
As always, we are grateful for your continued support and proud to serve this wonderful community.
Commission Corner
Dear Neighbors,
SHLOMO DANZINGER MAYOR
Thank you. Thank you to every resident who participated in our recent election. While the process was long and, at times, challenging, it resulted in the highest voter turnout in our town’s history. That level of engagement speaks volumes about the pride we share in Surfside and the care you have for its future. Every vote, whether in support or not, is a reminder that we must continue earning your trust each day.
I also want to recognize those who stepped forward to run for office. Public service requires courage and conviction. I thank Tina Paul and Mark Blumstein for their commitment to our community and for raising important issues during the campaign. I was listening and learning, and I am committed to creating more opportunities for residents to share concerns directly with me and the Commission.
I would like to congratulate the newly elected commissioners. Our first Commission meetings have already shown that, while we may not always agree, we share a common goal, serving Surfside
DAYANA BENMERGUI VICE MAYOR
Surfside is more than just a beautiful coastal town — it is a community built on resilience, unity, and compassion. Every day, I am inspired by the dedication of our residents, local businesses, first responders, and town staff who work together to preserve the unique character and warmth that make Surfside such a special place to call home. Our town continues to move forward with strength and optimism, while honoring the values that connect us as neighbors and friends.
Recently, we had a beautiful swearing-in ceremony attended by a large and enthusiastic audience, which truly reflected the strong sense of community and civic pride that defines Surfside. It was an honor to stand before residents, family members, colleagues, and friends as we celebrated not only a new chapter in leadership, but also our shared commitment to the future of our town. The energy and support in the room were inspiring and reaffirmed the importance of public service and community engagement.
As Vice Mayor, I believe our greatest responsibility is to ensure that Surfside remains a safe, welcoming, and thriving community for families, seniors, visitors, and future generations. I am committed to maintaining an open dialogue with residents and being accessible to hear concerns, ideas, and feedback. Meaningful communication and genuine connection with our community are essential to effective leadership, and I welcome every opportunity to engage with the people we proudly serve.
with professionalism, civility, and respect. I am so privileged to work alongside colleagues who care deeply about our town. I am grateful for our dedicated town staff, and our law enforcement officers and their families, whose work often goes unseen but never unappreciated.
We have important work ahead. I have already begun collaborating with our neighboring communities, including Bal Harbour and Bay Harbor Islands, to address traffic and congestion. I will also continue working with our state partners on infrastructure, environmental priorities, and funding for initiatives like undergrounding utilities to improve safety and quality of life.
Most importantly, this election reminded us that our town feels divided. Over the next two and a half years, the most meaningful work we can do is restoring a renewed sense of unity. For me, this is a second chance to get it right, to listen more than I speak, to lead with humility and purpose, and to remember that, first and foremost, we are neighbors.
With gratitude,
Mayor Shlomo Danzinger
We recently held our first Town Meeting as a new Commission, and I was proud to see the respectful and civil communication demonstrated throughout the evening. Even when there were differences in ideas and opinions, there was still respect among us, and that is something I am very proud of. It was encouraging to witness a spirit of cooperation, professionalism, and unity as we began working together on behalf of our residents. I am truly optimistic about the future ahead, as our Commission continues to show teamwork, collaboration, and a shared commitment to serving the Surfside community.
What truly sets Surfside apart is the spirit of togetherness that defines our town. In moments of celebration and in times of challenge, our community consistently comes together with kindness, resilience, and support for one another. I remain deeply honored to serve this extraordinary community with both an open heart and a strong sense of responsibility. My commitment is to lead with integrity, listen with respect, and always stand firm in protecting the values and future of our town.
Above all, I thank God for His blessings, for guiding my path, and for bringing me to this meaningful moment of service and responsibility. I am grateful for the trust placed in me, for the support of this incredible community, and for the opportunity to continue working together for a stronger and brighter Surfside. With faith, unity, and purpose, I look forward to all we will accomplish together.
With gratitude and appreciation,
Vice Mayor Dayana Benmergui
Commission Corner
ANDREA TRAVANI COMMISSIONER
It’s been an intense first two months, filled with important events: Earth Day, the Swearing-In Ceremony, and the first three Commission meetings. These gatherings, along with my new role as Commissioner, have given me the opportunity to listen to many residents and to engage in debate — sometimes lively — on the dais about important topics that affect our Town.
It’s always encouraging to see such strong civic engagement, and it’s vitally important that we keep the dialogue open. Personally, I’m used to construction sites where, if there is an issue, people can get very angry and very vocal! So, I get it: I’m totally sympathetic to people’s frustrations when they feel things are going wrong, and sometimes I get frustrated too.
But I also think this is an opportunity to reflect on what lies at the
DAVID WEINGOT COMMISSIONER
It is with deep humility and immense gratitude that I stand as one of your newly elected Commissioners for the Town of Surfside. Thank you for placing your trust in me.
This town is so special, beautiful, and full of people who genuinely care about one another. I have witnessed this through our years of living here, but especially over the past few months of conversations with so many residents. You have chosen us to help guide our community forward, and I do not take that responsibility lightly. To Mayor Danzinger, Vice Mayor, and fellow Commissioners, I extend my sincere congratulations and my hand in partnership, let’s roll!
The next two years will bring both opportunities and challenges, and I am committed to working collaboratively with all of you, for the benefit of every resident in our town.
Surfside Commission Recap: Special Meeting & First Regular Meeting
The new Surfside Commission got off to a strong start, emphasizing stability, efficiency, and delivering measurable results for residents. We are focused on ending the costly cycle of starting over every two years — where studies and plans are repeatedly scrapped — and instead building continuity so taxpayer dollars produce lasting progress.
Key Actions & Accomplishments: Board & Committee Nominations: Appointed highly qualified Surfside residents to town boards and committees with diverse representation. Strong support for reinstating the Community Relations Board and forming a new Budget Committee for enhanced oversight and fiscal strategy.
Critical Repair Approvals: -Pool deck tile replacement at the
bottom of our hearts. I’m convinced that our deepest instincts and desires always find a way to surface and shape the actions we take. In the same way, it’s important to reflect on how we truly see our neighbors. Do we feel they do not belong to our group? Do we feel they are not worthy of compassion? Are we friendly enough toward them? Do we feel that our way of living is the only possible way? Are we able to separate ideas from people?
I value very much the passion that so many residents have. It is vital for our democracy to foster participation and public engagement. I’m used to working with very different groups of people — different nationalities, political orientations, and religions — and I have always found value in debating with people who have different perspectives.
Therefore, I’m encouraging everyone to take some time this month to look within. Maybe you’ll find an opportunity to become better, more engaged, or more open. I’ll do my best to do the same.
Community Center (essential life-safety repair to maintain this key amenity).
-HVAC replacement at Town Hall - the existing unit has far exceeded its serviceable life. We are committed to maintaining Town Hall to the highest standard as we set a “ 5-star premier living ” benchmark for all of Surfside. - Ruth K. Broad Schools Bus Shuttle Program: Discussed concerns regarding cost and reliability of the current operator. Town Manager Diaz presented multiple options. My position remains clear: we must continue this vital program with strict adherence to student safety best practices , while reviewing costs. I also supported exploring use of the bus as a shuttle to improve accessibility for senior programs.
Traffic Calming & Safety (Speed Bumps / Speed Tables): Reviewed the history of previously installed speed bumps/speed tables that did not meet Miami-Dade County code. Discussed cost-efficient paths forward for effective traffic calming and improved safety, while carefully considering potential secondary effects (such as impacts on emergency response, noise, or neighboring streets). I strongly supported incorporating this into a broader traffic improvement plan that prioritizes data-driven solutions and overall public safety.
Street Lighting: Voted to reopen this well-studied project from Mayor Danzinger’s previous term. It will significantly enhance pedestrian safety and nighttime traffic visibility throughout town.
We also recognized and thanked our Town administration, staff, and departments for their outstanding efforts in creating a beautiful and memorable swearing-in ceremony.
We are working collaboratively to move Surfside forward responsibly — balancing immediate needs with l ong-term planning, fiscal prudence, and resident quality of life
Thank you to our newly nominated board and committee members and to our excellent Town staff. Looking forward to a productive term delivering real results for our community!
News From Town Hall
News From Town Hall
SURFSIDE SWEARS IN 2026 TO 2028 TOWN COMMISSION
Hundreds of residents gathered the evening of Monday, May 4, outside Town Hall as the Town of Surfside officially swore in its 2026 to 2028 Town Commission, marking the start of a new term of service for the Town’s elected leadership.
Members of the 2026-2028
Members of the 2026-2028
Members the 2026-2028
Town Commission: Town Commission: Town Commission:
Representatives from neighboring municipalities also attended to recognize the newly elected officials and the significance of the occasion. Acting Town Manager Mario A. Diaz served as master of ceremonies, opening the program with a welcome and recognition of attendees. The Town of Surfside Police Department Honor Guard presented the colors, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Police Chief Charles Press. The ceremony featured remarks from distinguished guests, including State Rep. Fabián Basabe and Miami-Dade County Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz. U.S. Sen. Rick Scott’s representative, Marie Leandre, was also in attendance and delivered remarks on behalf of the senator.
An invocation was delivered by Rabbi Zalman Lipskar of The Shul before the formal presentation of certificates of election and administration of the oath of office. Town Clerk Sandra N. McCready administered the oath of office to Commissioner Andrea Travani, Commissioner Gerardo Vildostegui and Vice Mayor Dayana Benmergui. Commissioner David Weingot was sworn in by his wife, Rivka Weingot, and Mayor Shlomo Danzinger was sworn in by his son, Yisroel Danzinger. Each official delivered brief remarks following the ceremony.
The ceremony concluded with a benediction from Father Andrew Foltyn of St. Joseph Catholic Parish.
The Town extends its appreciation to the dedicated staff whose planning and coordination ensured a successful and memorable event. Guests were invited to remain after the ceremony to enjoy light refreshments and celebrate the occasion.
MAY COMMISSION MEETING ACCOMPLISHMENTS
• Resolution Calling for a Special election to be held on November 3, 2026, for the purpose of submitting to the electorate proposed amendments to the town charter at article ii, section 5 “number; selection; term”, section 8 “presiding officers”, and article vi, section 105 “general and special elections of commission members”; providing for the establishment of four-year staggered terms for the mayor and commissioners; providing for the selection method for the vice mayor; and providing for a plurality or highest number of votes for the mayor, eliminating the mayoral run- off election
• Resolution Calling for a Special election to be held on November 3, 2026, for the purpose of submitting to the electorate an amendment to the town charter amending article ii, “town commission”, section 11, “powers of commission”, subsection (16) to require a majority vote in lieu of a unanimous vote of the town commission for expenditures over $2,000,000
• Resolution Calling for a Special election to be held on November 3, 2026 for the purpose of submitting to the electorate an amendment to the town charter amending article ii, “town commission”, section 11, “powers of commission”, subsection (17) to remove the requirement that a sixty percent (60%) vote of the electors is needed to expend more than twenty percent (20%) of the most recent budgeted property tax revenue collections
• Resolution Certifying the April 7, 2026, Mayoral Run-Off Election Results
• Resolution Approving RFP 2026-03 Town Hall HVAC Replacement Project Award to FXP Corp.
• Resolution Approving RFP 2026-05 Community Center Pool Deck Tile Replacement Project Award to PIF Construction Group, Inc.
• Resolution Approving FIND Waterways Assistance Program Grant Application – Living Seawall Habitat Enhancement Project.
• Resolution Approving Budget Amendment No. 5
News From Town Hall
WATCH NOW: SWEARING IN CEREMONY
Residents who were unable to attend the Town’s swearing-in ceremony on May 4 can watch the full ceremony on the Town’s official YouTube channel. A short video recap highlighting memorable moments from the evening is also available on the Town’s social media platforms.
Scan to watch & follow us on Instagram @
News From Town Hall News From Town Hall
BARRIER ISLAND MAYORS UNITE TO ADDRESS TRAFFIC CONGESTION AND REGIONAL SAFETY INITIATIVES
Surfside has once again been named a Tree City USA, earning this national recognition for the 10th consecutive year.
This honor highlights Surfside’s strong commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship and a greener future. Nine years strong. Growing a greener Surfside. Learn more about the Tree City USA program:
News From Town Hall
HURRICANE SEASON BEGINS: BE PREPARED, STAY SAFE
From Code Compliance - June marks the start of hurricane season, and now is the time to make sure you and your household are ready. A little preparation today can make a significant difference when severe weather approaches.
If you haven’t already done so, review your emergency plans with your family. Know your evacuation routes, identify a safe place to go if needed, and ensure important documents are stored in a secure, easily accessible location.
Take time to inspect your property as well. Trim trees and remove dead or overgrown branches that could become hazardous in high winds, especially those near structures, power lines, or neighboring properties. Be sure that any landscaping debris is properly removed and not left curbside or in open areas.
Outdoor items—such as patio furniture, décor, and recreational equipment—should be secured or brought indoors when a storm is approaching. Even lightweight objects can become dangerous projectiles during strong winds.
Preparedness is a shared responsibility. By taking these simple steps, you help protect not only your home, but also your neighbors and the community as a whole.Stay informed, stay prepared, and have a safe hurricane season.
News From Town Hall
TOWN OF SURFSIDE CELEBRATES MUNICIPAL CLERKS WEEK, HONORING DEDICATED SERVICE
In recognition of Municipal Clerks Week, the Town of Surfside is celebrating the essential contributions of Town Clerk Sandra N. McCready, MPA, MMC, and Deputy Town Clerk Genesis Guevara. The week of May 3-9, which marks its 57th anniversary, highlights the critical role municipal clerks play in local governance and their tireless work to ensure the smooth operation of government services.
Initiated in 1969 by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC), Municipal Clerks Week is a time to honor the public service provided by municipal and deputy clerks across the globe. These professionals serve as the foundation of local commissions, holding critical roles and performing key duties that impact communities every day.
In 1984 and again in 1994, Presidents Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton officially declared Municipal Clerks Week the first full week of May, recognizing the significant role municipal clerks play in supporting local governments.
The Town extends its appreciation to Town Clerk Sandra McCready, Deputy Town Clerk Genesis Guevara and Assistant to the Town Clerk Angie Alcala for their continued professionalism, dedication and commitment to serving the Surfside community. The Town encourages residents to use #MuniClerks and #MuniClerks2026 on social media to join the conversation and show appreciation for the vital work of municipal clerks worldwide.
TOWN ADOPTS OFFICIAL PAINT COLOR PALETTE
The Town Commission has recently amended the Town Code to adopt an official exterior paint color palette for properties throughout the municipality. The new provision is intended to promote a consistent and harmonious visual character while preserving the Town’s unique aesthetic identity.
Under the updated code, property owners planning to repaint the exterior of a house are not required to obtain a building permit. However, prior to beginning work, owners must apply for and receive a Zoning Approval Letter confirming that the proposed paint color complies with the adopted color swatch palette.
The application allows the Town Planner to review the selected color for consistency with the approved palette and ensure compliance with community design standards. This process helps maintain an attractive and coordinated streetscape across the neighborhood.
Questions regarding the application process or palette options may be directed to the Planning Department.
The Town appreciates residents’ cooperation in supporting this initiative to preserve and enhance the community’s overall appearance.
Police Beat
MARIAN CRUZ HONORED FOR EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE AND COMMUNITY IMPACT
The Town is proud to recognize Marian Cruz for her outstanding dedication to public service and the lasting impact she continues to make both in uniform and throughout the community.
Sergeant Cruz began her career with the Surfside Police Department in 2004 as a dispatcher. After nearly five years of dedicated service, she was sponsored to attend the police academy and became a police officer in 2009. Her leadership, professionalism and commitment to excellence led to her promotion to sergeant in 2016. She later served as acting captain for a year and a half, reflecting the department’s confidence in her leadership and abilities.
Throughout her 17-year career, Sergeant Cruz has served in a wide range of roles, including detective, sergeant of the Criminal Investigations Unit, Honor Guard team member and Public Information Officer for the department.
Her service has earned numerous recognitions, including Officer of the Year in 2016, multiple Officer of the Month awards, a 2022 Community Policing Award from the Aventura Marketing Council and the prestigious FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Award.
Beyond her work in law enforcement, Sergeant Cruz is also the founder and leader of Closet of Living Hope, a nonprofit organization that provides families in need with a store-style shopping experience at no cost. Through donated clothing and household goods, the organization helps those in need.
OFFICERS RECOGNIZED FOR SWIFT RESCUE AND SAFE REUNIFICATION OF MISSING CHILD
The Surfside Police Department recently recognized Sergeant Marian Cruz, Officer Rafael Gomez Jr., and Officer Joseph Matthews for an act of swift, compassionate service to our community.
They were commended for their quick response in locating a missing child with autism who had become separated from his family. The child had been carried offshore by ocean currents and, disoriented and frightened, wandered off before anyone could intervene. What followed was a coordinated effort that reflects the best of what our officers bring to their work every day.
Through clear communication and teamwork, Cruz, Gomez, and Matthews were able to locate the child and safely reunite him with his relieved family.
The Town is proud to recognize these officers for their professionalism, their calm under pressure, and their unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of every member our community.
The Town of Surfside invites residents to view the recording of the recent Micromobility Workshop, where community members and Town officials discussed key issues related to e-bikes, scooters and pedestrian safety
Uptown FunTown
A SURFSIDE STAPLE SINCE 1998: CELEBRATING FLANIGAN’S ON HARDING AVENUE
For more than 28 years, Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill has been a beloved part of the Surfside community, proudly holding the distinction of being the Town’s oldest operating restaurant. Since opening its doors on Harding Avenue in January 1998, Flanigan’s has welcomed generations of residents and visitors alike with its laid-back atmosphere, outstanding hospitality and unmistakable Florida charm.
Known throughout South Florida for serving quintessential Florida flavors, Flanigan’s has built a loyal following through its fresh seafood, famous ribs, hearty comfort food and neighborhood spirit. The restaurant has become more than just a dining destination — it is a longtime gathering place where families celebrate milestones, friends come together after a day at the beach and visitors get a true taste of the local lifestyle.
The Town of Surfside proudly congratulates Flanigan’s on this remarkable milestone and thanks the restaurant and its team for nearly three decades of dedication to the community. Their continued success reflects the enduring character, warmth and sense of tradition that make Surfside such a special place. Located at 9516 Harding Avenue.
SURFSIDE’S PADDLETOPIA BRINGS WELLNESS, ADVENTURE AND ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION TO 96TH STREET PARK
Surfside’s Paddletopia brought energy and excitement to 96th Street Park on May 16, with residents and visitors enjoying a full day of outdoor adventure, wellness activities, and environmental engagement. The event featured complimentary paddleboarding and kayaking, fitness classes, live music, family-friendly programming, yoga, Zumba, bootcamps, rock climbing, wellness experiences, and local vendors, all set to the sounds of the Soul Travelers Band.
Due to inclement weather, programming scheduled for May 17 was canceled. A new date for the “Paddle for Plastic” initiative with @plasticfisherman may be announced, and the community is encouraged to stay tuned for updates.
Sponsored by the Resort Tax Board, Paddletopia continues to highlight the Town of Surfside’s commitment to wellness, environmental stewardship, and engaging community experiences.
Uptown FunTown
SURFSIDE ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF INAUGURAL POETRY CONTEST
Surfside is pleased to announce the winners of its inaugural Poetry Contest, launched in April in celebration of National Poetry Month. The contest received an enthusiastic response from the community, with a strong collection of creative and inspiring submissions.The winners are: • First Prize, a $250 gift certificate to the Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club: Ashley Urbanski • Second Prize, a $150 gift certificate to Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill: Ursula and Klaus Schmitz • Children’s Category, a $25 gift certificate to 16 Handles: London Friedman, Shilo Moshkovitz and Mia Ehrman. Mayor Shlomo Danzinger will formally present the awards during the June 9, 2026, Town Commission Meeting. The winning poems will be displayed on the second level of Town Hall for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Poetry Contest
Shilo Moshkovitz
Mia Ehrman
London Friedman
It Starts In Parks
FIRST SEA TURTLE NEST OF SEASON DISCOVERED IN SURFSIDE; RESIDENTS URGED TO PROTECT NESTING HABITAT
The Town of Surfside has its the first sea turtle nest of the season, marking the start of an important period for coastal wildlife along Surfside’s beaches. Residents and visitors are reminded to take simple steps to protect sea turtles and their habitat. These include turning off or shielding outdoor lights at night, filling in holes and flattening sand before leaving the beach, removing beach furniture, tents and trash, keeping a safe distance from nesting turtles and marked nests, and never touching or disturbing turtles, hatchlings or nests.
Anyone who sees a sea turtle in distress is asked to contact MiamiDade Sea Turtle Conservation Program at (305) 310-3046
Rudy Perez, Parks and Recreation Director, said the community plays a key role in protecting nesting sea turtles. “Every small action on the beach makes a difference. By working together, we can help ensure these nests safely hatch and that Surfside continues to be a safe haven for sea turtles,” Perez said.
We encourage the community to work together to help ensure Surfside’s beaches remain safe and welcoming for sea turtles throughout nesting season.
It Starts In Parks
SURFSIDE OFFERS WEEKLY HATHA YOGA CLASSES FOR STRENGTH, FLEXIBILITY AND MINDFULNESS
Residents are invited to take part in a weekly Hatha Yoga program in the Town of Surfside designed to support overall wellness, improve flexibility and build strength in a calm and supportive environment.
Classes are held Sundays at 11 a.m. at the Surfside Community Center, 9301 Collins Ave., and are open to participants of all experience levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. The program emphasizes mindful movement, breathing techniques and stress reduction, offering residents an opportunity to recharge both physically and mentally while connecting with others in the community.
Registration is currently open, and residents are encouraged to secure their spot in advance as participation is expected to grow. For more information, contact the Surfside Community Center at (305) 866-3635
REFRESH YOUR BEACH SAFETY KNOWLEDGE
HOW TO BREAK
THE GRIP OF THE RIP:
•Don’t fight the current.
November 10
•Swim out of the current then to shore.
December 9
•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.
Tiny Bubbles Toddler Readiness
*Conditions available during beach tower operations.
• Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed warnings. For daily beach conditions, contact the Community Center at (305) 866–3635.
• Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities.
