Back to School

Today, once again I feel blessed for the activity we have done from the Luigi Boria Foundation, delivering backpacks and school supplies with the collaboration of those who feel the desire to serve in their hearts.

This initiative has been carried out thanks to my wife, Graciela Boria, my daughter Lorena Boria with a group of volunteers who joinedthis service which has taken place year after year, with the sole intention of aiding those in need.

With the help of Baptist Hospital, which also donated 300 backpacks, we have accomplished this work prior to the beginning of the school year. There are many families who have needs to meet commitments for their children; the Luigi Boria Foundation comes to serve this community and to extend a helping hand to our neighbors. We reap what we sow. 

What satisfies us the most is seeing parents alongside their children as they begin their first days of school here in our city of Doral. They are our joy, our motivation to continue to contribute to this noble cause. For them, this return to school, while it entails the obligation to study, is also a return to their world, for both the children and the teenagers. Our intention is that they return motivated with the desire to learn and the satisfaction that they lack nothing.

We know that the purchase of school supplies is a concern for many; but our satisfaction is to help relieve the parents of this stage at the beginning of classes.

Once again thanks to the team who joined and supported us on this great day. Thanks to Baptist Hospital for donating backpacks and school supplies and serving together. We will meet shortly, our Foundation is preparing for November with Thanksgiving Day. See you soon.

Badia commited to Doral

Whenever a new business is installed in Doral, it is a great satisfaction because it states that they trust in our city, a place to invest and to grow as well as to settle in this beautiful land in family.

Just as new openings arise, there are those who have been growing. Most importantly these growths seem to compromise them every day with their people, with their employees, with their environment, and maybe even their clients.

This is the case of Badia , a company founded in Doral in 1999 and that today occupies a national and international leadership.  I recently visited their new facilities where I was greeted by the businessman Jose “Pepe” Badia , president of Badia Spices. A man of extraordinary human quality, that together with his family stimulates the business, initiated in 1967 and that he has successfully launched worldwide.

If there is something that amazed me during the course of this visit, were its people, its labor force, which go hand in hand with the same values and principles in which “Pepe” acts as a businessman in charge, with his nearby community, and his neighbors.  It is with pride that I emphasize that Badia Spices employs 187 workers in his distribution centers with headquarters in Miami.

More than 350 different products are prepared, packed and sent to 70 countries as well as all of the United States.  I could also observe the production process during this visit.

It has two facilities in Doral.  One is 110,000 square feet storage and another one is the production building with 100.000 sq. feet.   Its production is based on packages and Badia’s Species mixtures which add up to more than100 species, herbs, dehydrated vegetables and other articles with which they develop more than 700 for the retail industries and food service.

During the visit he was showing us the manufacturer, some of the products are placed to the service of the community. Products that go out to market for a social cause. The fight against cancer, scholarships to students among other works. He understands, do to his human qualities, the commitment that he has with his people.

Communities of South Florida have been benefiters.  Even though we know that on a national scale his name has been placed on a top level. His family, together with him, has embraced organizations that work with the communities that are most in need.  Badia Spices follows the example of this tireless man.  It is an attempt of the Badia’s family to improve and strengthen the communities where in addition his employees live and their families grow up and play.

If there is something that surprised me was that they, his family circle, are the ones at the head of not only their customers, but also bring the social projects to effect with those who come to them to do work of charity. To name just a few, Dan Marino’s Foundation, Foundation against Breast Cancer, as well as Florida’s International University.

It was rewarding and I feel honored that they have allowed me to enter every corner of this important Food Company. We will continue supporting them…

Women: Managers of God’s gifts

I was recently invited to a meeting with Business Women, event which took place here in Doral, and where I could once again confirm the strength they have when I heard from them some of their ideals, goals and accomplishments.

I had the privilege, among all these women, to address a few words. As a man of faith, and feeling that it was the proper occasion, I spoke about the importance of women in the management of three fundamental aspects of their lives: the Management of their Families, of their Social world and of the resources provided for their Stewardship.

Because, without a doubt, women have received from the Almighty His favor and Grace.If there is something that God demands from them it is that they make the best use of what He puts in their hands. From there also derives a principle, which is what I really wanted to leave with them. God loves the joyous giver. There is a verse in the Bible, 2 Corinthians 9:6 that reads:

 “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”

Why are these words important? Because we are surrounded by many people in need; some, as public servants, through Foundations; others, through resources. Let’s look around us and see where we can sow what God has given us. As you sow, you will be rewarded by the Almighty.

Don’t forget, immersed in your professional activities, of the commitment God has given you inside your home. I am proud of the woman that has walked by my side for so many years, the best wife and mother of my two wonderful children. Today, because of her, her fortitude, her energy, I am here after a serious illness, years ago, from which God healed me.The role she played during that time helped me recover, and today, here I am fulfilling my functions as Mayor, but especially as husband, father and grandfather.

You, women, shouldn’t neglect the role you play in your homes, regardless of how professional you are. You have a commitment to your children, with your husbands or by yourselves; but the home should never take second place, no matter how business focused you are. Ask for wisdom, I know it isn’t easy, but God will know how to help you to manage your time.

Finally, remember that in your social lives you can play a very important part. You cannot imagine the contribution you, as leaders, can make to those groups where you have social engagements. Act wisely. Don’t forget that, above all, the principles God has given us should reign in every “good time”. 

The Seed of Faith

In the National Day of Prayer, which we celebrate in the city, we had once again the opportunity to recognize, as an American people and as city authorities, we are committed - free - with the Prayer; which means invoke the creator God, maker of heaven and earth in all our responsibilities.

I thank the Almighty for allowing me to have directed a few words, but I would have preferred to hear from our religious leaders who always give words that come the soul. There I, understanding the power of prayer, make an appeal to all our hearts as we open the doors of their workplace-the seed of faith.

Today we rely on the alliance, wisdom, sovereignty of a God who created this beautiful country, the cua  is full of Freedoms. There is one, most important, we must not let loose, despite what we are seeing at the present time - that is freedom to pray. What greater privilege than this, when we see that many are being persecuted for their faith!

Those of us in positions of government, we have to rely on the Creator, with respect and humility to cry out for the welfare of the country. I thank God for the group of religious leaders who joined us, warriors men who fought the battle of the Faith. They are, Rev. Frank Lopez, Dr. Joaquín Molina, Rev. Edwin Castro, Rabbi Brashevitzki, Pastor Christopher Alessi, Alessi and Reverend Steve, our city leaders, quinees assume this responsibility with us.

In another act we celebrate, for this important date, we had the opportunity to pray for these warriors, whom we grant paths proclamations for the National Day of Prayer, recognizing also their dedication and collaboration in the Consultative Council of Faith, of our city .

It was nice to hear the Rev. Joaquin Molina, remind one of the great men of the Faith was Billy Graham as great councilor of presidents of this country; a great evangelist in time of war, hardship, hunger and depression, standing next to the leaders to pray and lead the people in a spiritual alliance in difficult times.

Special was shared with another great man of God in the city as it has is the Rev. Frank Lopez, who has a power of unimaginable call. I said how meaningful it was to see our city representatives as commissioners together. Said that when the people of God is bound to pray, to intercede for the nation, God answers.

Here at Doral in Florida and around the country through acts of faith we like them - with their actions - inspire our people. We also note groups working to lift others, feed the hungry, care for the poor, give a hand to the afflicted and seek peace where there is trouble. And we, public leaders in the various positions we occupy, faith leads us to do right.

There is no doubt that prayer was an important part of our public life. Freedom is our heritage because the Creator so conceived. No one should be persecuted because of their faith, which is why we are forced now to be engaged in prayer for those who suffer today.

Finally, we pray and recognize our dependence on the Almighty. Our human strength is not the strength of our creator. We understand that our plans are not always God's plans. We know that a God who created us for freedom is not indifferent to injustice. So we ask that our hearts are aligned with yours and give us the strength to do what is right and help those in need.

We ask that our city, our nation, our people use the freedom that has given us wisely. So we pray with confidence in God's purpose, with hope in the future and with the humility to ask God's help to do what is right.

Get Fit 5K Run / Walk

When we talk about what we want for Doral, our ideas, dreams and projects always went to see what it means to our residents, our families, in harmony with what we are doing through this beautiful city. 

Get fit at the Doral 5K Run / Walk has been one of the activities organized in Doral which has allowed us to share with a large number of residents, families in this activity which allowed us to enjoy a beautiful day and give us a time for good fun.

See children, youth and adults sharing these spaces, in which I also did a participant, I motivate us to continue working on the basis of a better quality of life for our residents. Not only creciciento and development of the city but generating activities that are directed to the welfare of our people

The Morgan Levy Park, was the meeting point, from early participants gathered together with their companions to receive all that the Parks Department in our city organized by the hand of a group of sponsors including Runner's Co. ,  First Bank, OrthoNOW, Yoga Core, Vulcan Materials, Choice Market and Wellness Stretch Zone that also make life in the city.

The Southeast of Doral grows with the 25 St Viaduct

Doral has four cardinal virtues that enable the city to an unstoppable development. I would like to refer to the Southeast of the city from 33 St. to 25 St., since there exists an interesting concentration, as it is our industrial and commercial sector.

While the vast majority of these companies have been in this area long before the creation of the city, which from the historical point of view is a binding made with what has been our development from an economic  and social point of view plays a major role given its link with the Miami International Airport and all major roads surrounding Doral.

There is no doubt that the residential, commercial and industrial growth in Doral is given by having around the Turnpike in the west of the city, 836 in the South and 826 on the east side. Already having all these important ways, today the viaduct is also built in the 25th St highly frequented by trucks as they connect to the Miami Airport.

We have no doubt that the viaduct will contribute to the development of the Southeast area of ​​Doral. It will offer a better operating condition to the industrial and commercial sector. The logistics operators concentrated in the area will be able to mobilize the goods inside and outside the airport quickly and safely. Also, one of the great benefits for our residents is that will decongest the 25 St. from trucks, since they will be able to utilize a direct line to the airport.

Along with this important road alternative offered by the Transport System of Florida, new projects that have been approved as others are already under construction and have passed through our city telling us what the future will be to the Southeast area the city.

Business centers such as Jackdak with 25,000 Building sfqt office space; Riviera Point Business Park with 36,869 sqft; Doral Gateway Center with 11,276 sqtf of retail, 40,791 square feet of offices and 23,000 restaurant. Hotels like the Element with 143 beds, Residence Inn Marriott with 129 beds; the Caribean with 8,779 sqft Radiation Oncology; Mercantile Bank under construction with 6,174 sqft; and warehouse such as Transal Industrial and Continental Flowers with 184,300 and 65,000 sqft respectively.

I venture to say that we have three important periods in our city of Doral. End of 2015, 2020 and 2030. We will see a city in full development with its own strengths which makes us the most sustainable city that lead us to provide a better quality of life to our residents.

Downtown Doral boosts the local economy

As is known, Downtown Doral is raising about 120 acres of land located in the heart of our city. The vision of a businessman, as Armando Codina, gave the start a project of this size, which in ten years will show its complexity and majesty. However, this year, perhaps a few days before Christmas we will have the honor of opening the downtown, thanks to a group of men and women who are there running this work for doralinos.

Downtown Doral should mean - for everyone here - a leap to growth and economic development of the city. There about one million square feet of office and 200,000 sqtf. of commercial premises, what we referred to the creation of new jobs and great economic movement that will propel Doral.

It is important to mention, that by now – when phase I is under construction, that Codina has generated a little over 1,000 direct jobs only in the Downtown Doral; local workers whose salaries and wages are reinvested in our city consolidating significantly to a number of families of Doral.

While it may refer to the characteristics of Downtown Doral, there is another previous event to highlight, which is the social responsibility of the company to the city. I’m referring to the construction of a Charter School in the heart of the city. A social contribution that this businessman; Armando Codina is delivering to residents of this community. Currently, this school is under construction and will have a capacity for 840 students. The classes will be taught between the Spanish and Portuguese language. It is a fact, that the doors will be open during the month of August of this year.

Another contribution is fifty million dollars invested in the consolidation of internal pathways of the Downtown Doral. Here is an item of note; the sidewalks are wide double to make it friendlier to pedestrians. The walk will have exactly 50 feet long. On the other hand, all buildings will have chargers- as the retail stores for its costumers- for the use of electric cars and thus contribute to a faster and better mobilization.

When we speak of economic movement, I must refer to the 600,000 square feet of office already finished. They will rise 400,000 more and we understand that such amount, 180,000, will begin construction this year. By the way, this building is next to the City Hall and will be called Park Place.

If we talk about businesses, the first 80,000 square feet of retail are under construction. A mixed-use space where Restaurants, Cleaning, Clothing, Spa, Wine Store, Banks, UPS, cell phone companies, etc. are installed. Inside the property, will also be a supermarket of 49,000 square feet and will be located next to the City Hall.

Definitely, residents will enjoy the Downtown Doral, because it will be a place to work, live and enjoy all the amenities that will be installed soon.

I don’t want to leave out a topic that will leave footprints in Doral.  I have been talking about to the exaltation of art in Doral. With respect to the Downtown Doral, residents and visitors, will be able appreciate, sculptures right at the project’s entrance, created by the artist John Henry of 30 feet of height. We've been informed that all buildings, specifically in their lobbies, there will be a component of art. At the Charter School, there will murals painted by local artists and the garages on the connection of the four buildings, will have a walk of murals from North to South.

Codina has been building these spaces for thirty years.  Armando Codina, has built a large parte of his life in this city. It is the first time that builds condominiums and no doubt, it's one of his more ambitious projects that can leave in regards to construction in Doral.

Within the next ten years, the whole project will be finished and then will be forty years of continuously building in the city. His presence, his contribution, will be permantent in the consoidation of Doral.

Doral..land of Arts and Dreams

Recently, I have been writing about the growth in Doral regarding infrastructure; however, there is something beyond that motivated me to highlight our multicultural characteristic and with its art, which enriches our beautiful city.

Doral, has received immigrants from all over the world, including Argentine, Colombian, Venezuelan, Italian, Brazilian, Peruvian and Asian to highlight some of the countries that have send us for a long time- their children, who today will bring their works, creativity, interconnecting ideas and art, now viewing from different points.

Facilities like Miami Dade College, the Auditorium of Ronald Reagan High School, Carlos Albizu University, Galeria Interbroker Inc., new spaces as Geno`s Art Gallery & Studio, Macondo Coffee, gallery Artifice, hotels and our parks have witnessed artistic and cultural events that have been organized for the enjoyment of our residents.

I will like to feature that has been assigned sixty thousand dollars for the development of cultural activities to the Advisory Board of Cultural Affairs, chaired by Carmen Ramos and Eduardo Orozco, Elizabeth Canchola, Russian Beatriz and Jorge Artaza.

This group of people, who work with passion have scheduled a series of activities for the enjoyment of the entire family. For this coming May will have a great artist who works its art with coffee by the sepia color it produces, Reynier Llanes; also at the musical level, Opera with The Three Tenors, led by Manny Perez; International Festival of Music and Dance Paulo Gualano and many other activities.

For a new sculpture that will enrich the city - whose location has not been determined-are designated    $15,000 whose concept will be presented to the city council in the coming days. It has been also assigned resources for the Miami Short Film Festival and the Festival of Hispanic Heritage collaboration of Miami Dade College and Exhibition Doral Art Walk, in public spaces for the month of September.

To conclude, this is being generated not only from the city but also from private artistic spaces and cultural activities that complement the development of Doral in a harmonious and enriching way. About this privileged city, it will continue the conversations not only for its development and its strategic location, but of its people, its art and those who love and leave their footprints in the works presented for you all.

EGG Stravaganza

We celebrated our traditional festival EGG Stravaganza at Doral Central Park. It is a great pleasure to see families sharing in one of our leading parks, in a very friendly, secure, and entertaining way.

Thanks to the work being done by our Parks and Recreation Department, once again, it was offered to our residents, especially children, a space to celebrate this traditional event during Passover.

The Easter bunny as always, was the most searched for the respective family photo. I wonder also how children are excited to see this character very close to them. Finding colored Easter eggs was the main activity of the day, entertaining the children, who impatiently with the help of their parents were looking under the dry grass to collect as many eggs as possible in their baskets.

Other attractions   included   the inflatables, games, face painting, and competitions. The Doral Central Park was part of the attraction of the day as well, since many families were located in different areas around the park to make their picnic, enjoining a spectacular weather.

It has been definitely very rewarding to see all families to have fun in these open spaces that we offer to the full enjoyment of our residents and visitors

Doral...a Cosmopolitan City

For Doral the designation of Edwards Rojas as City Manager has been a very good choice. Today, committed to the responsibility that has been assigned is fulfilling his duties diligently, committed to the city that has seen him perform as an efficient public servant in different positions.

We are all tuned to the city we wish to give our children; we are immersed in a multicultural and diverse community; businesspeople and residents with vision. For the next five years, we will have a sustainable city with an urban sense that balances a strong commercial / industrial sector – with well planned residential developments – great quality and perception, which are complemented by a vibrant nightlife attached to a healthy entertainment and a unique lifestyle.

With all his team of Directors involved -minute by minute with the growth, development and quality of life of Doral, casting a city that is drafted as an international and cosmopolitan such as Miami, but also within the line of large cities around the world. All this under the regulations and building codes that make communities make during meetings held with builders, council members or directly and spontaneously rise to the city.

Edward Rojas, as administrator, with the synergy that must generate to the extent that performs its functions with the support of council and my own, has the great responsibility to maximize the infrastructure of our organization internally, so that we can act as a Service Provider to operate efficiently and sustainably, which we have achieved over time. All this, because the city is preparing for the inevitable growth. The needs and expectations of our residents - in terms of the services we provide - must be safeguarded as important point in our agenda.

We emphasize that the new constructions built in Doral, a city that is growing rapidly in infrastructure and services, is based on the principle of creating environments for our residents, a city closer to the individual, aimed at reducing the need to move from one point to another in vehicles. The very nature of the developments we see today in different parts of the city are mixed use, which provide a place where people can live, work, walk and play. The heart of any major city in the world.

I firmly believe that we are developing projects responding to our vision, as the Doral authorities and Edward Rojas as City Manager, has successfully interpreted and run-our vision-along with the group of Directors accompanying him on this great mission.

Growth of the Northwest of the City

A group of important developments are currently raising the length and scope of our thriving City of Doral; others in administrative processes. Private companies have put their trust in this new land that gathers important sectors such as industrial, commercial and residential which makes it attractive for future investment.

I want to explain what these developments and how our city is growing harmoniously thanks to the work of the private sector along with the city, which is planned for the execution of the works mentioned below:

MIDTOWN PROJECT DORAL: located northeast of the city. A total of 1548 housing units are built. In an area of 300,000 square feet; 75,000 square feet others are developing trade and office areas.

In this same area, we have a project under the approval process, DORAL COMMERCIAL COMMONS. With an area of 7,500-sqft for restaurants; 24,000 square feet of office spaces; about 4000 square feet assigned for restaurants with outdoors seating area. Also, commercial c/o retail, 104,000 square feet.

A third project, already under construction by the company Lennar, is the GRAND BAY NORTH with 347 housing units and SOUTH GRAND BAY with 1700 homes. There is a Charter School; K-12 located at 78 terraces 102 avenue.

With these constructions the lands that at some point didn’t have any type usage are now being developed. This adds to the whole area located by the 114 PARK AVE, which is already under construction and next to the GRAND DORAL ONE AND TWO, which is a residential area. So far, the owners have submitted their applications to the Planning & Zoning Department for change of use. 

It is important for the development of this project to meet the zoning High Density and Multifamily 3. At this point, the owners are working with the community and during the month of April should come to the city for their respective process, as it was reported by the Department of Planning & Zoning, efficiently directed by Julian Perez.

I have given you an overview of the North West area, but during our next edition I will be offering information from other areas of our city.

To conclude, I just want to say that along with the construction sector we are developing a more urban city, leading Doral as a model among other cities in Miami-Dade County, based on the organized planning and looking into the future.

Canal Stabilization & Restoration in Doral

2.5. Millions of dollars are being invested this year in the stabilization of stopping the erosion channels that some are presented by the very consequences of nature, of which $1 million dollars come from the State Grants to complement the project.

To do this, they are using plastic cells located on the canal bank and depending on elevation in some cases filled with stones or earth. This is to prevent and avoid erosion; maintain the capacity of its water and protect property in some cases close to both private and public areas, which are the city streets.

It is important to mention, these works respond to a study conducted in which all the canals were analyzed and in accordance with the results and severity of erosion, the Canal Bank Stabilization Program emerged.

Currently, Program 4 is on development. The previous programs also included the restoration of channels and installation of shared bike/pedestrian path.

This year the restoration of the channels is complemented by the “Bikeway Master Plan” which is to build Bike Path 10 feet wide, which in addition to the use for cyclists and pedestrians also allows access for maintenance of the canal.

We're talking about five miles of Bike Path and about 10 miles stabilization canals. Currently, work is being conducted in 97 ave. between 42 St. and 49 between Terrace and 102 ave. and 104 ave. which could be completed by June. In addition, stabilization works have completed between 25 St. and 107 and 117 ave.

We need to highlight that the amount of investment for the stabilization of the canals is $12.9 million dollars and have been developed by stages or programs. This year, we’re in stage 4 while we are designing stages for five six next two years.

WorldCity, Doral and International Trade

 We had the opportunity to share an excellent conference organized by WorldCity, in which the subject, was extremely interesting; especially in Doral, and was related to the international trade and diversification of imports and exports. Why is it important to our city? Because is part of one of the main counties, Miami-Dade, in South Florida and where the most important multinationals worldwide are located.

Talking to Ken Roberts, president of WorldCity, organization, that through publications and events connect large corporations; many of them here in Doral, mentioned to us that through this events, local companies had a opportunity to get closer to valuable figures that contribute to the planning and business expansion, driven by multinationals.

Doral has had a rapid growth in the industrial sector and around it, a significant number of logistics operators. Our proximity to the main cargo airport of the United States; like the Miami International Airport, makes it a strategic city.

Shipping lines, which mobilize the largest number of marine cargo, 9 million last year, from the port of Miami whose impact on the economy is in the order of $ 12 billion. Services and manpower available to the international trade that makes our County a landmark in the ranking of Fortune, based on the number of worldwide well-known offices.

All these factors combine here in Dade and our Doral, directly affecting the generation of new jobs and the development of small businesses that feed in this commercial chain, products and services.

Other cities like, Brickell, Coral Gables, and Blue Lagoon are highly favored by its geographical location. Moreover, Miami has a lot to offer. Its multicultural environment makes it attractive for all kinds of international business. It's not only a bilingual community between English and Spanish; Portuguese is today clearly accentuated by the Brazilian community that has settled in this area along with others such as Colombia, Thailand and Argentina, making Miami and around the perfect place to do business.

We feel honored to have had this meeting of local entrepreneurs and of different nationalities represented their communities here in Doral thanks to the initiative of WorldCity. From here, we will continue to offer quality of life, business opportunities and continue to establish actions to develop - together with the private sector and the state of Florida - our industry which is secured in a strategic location for International Trade.

Doral and Miami International Airport

It was a pleasure to have held a meeting with the Director of Miami International Airport, Emilio González and learn about their expansion plans.

Important was to have known that in January 2015 the figures showed an increase in traffic of international passengers compared to January 2014. 

While the number of visitors coming from Venezuela fell and hit the MIA is no less true that the growth of South Florida tourist attraction and businesses, remains the main attraction for investors and travelers.

We do not doubt that as the person in charge of the number one Cargo Airport and the second in Passengers across the United States has an impact on the cities of South Florida and we are pleased that the Doral receives such important benefits.

What way? The proximity of the airport to our industrial area, contributes to its growth and the consolidation of the sector that drives the economy in the city. However, no less important the tourism and businesses, keep us as an attractive place for the enjoyment of many.

The restaurants and hotels are satisfied thanks to the commercial movement that comes from the Miami International Airport not only because of our proximity, but also for the good service that offers its modern facilities.

During this conversation surged ideas that we will eventually share with all our residents. They should be studied and analyzed in order to meet its feasibility; but we do not doubt that any relationship established indirectly will benefit airport users, residents, tourists and businesses, who are in our City of Doral.

We wish success to the Director of the Miami International Airport; a man of great vision that will continue bringing the MIA to the top of the list as one of the best airports in the world.

Major Sport Success at Ronald Reagan / Doral Senior High School

With great satisfaction we accompanied four young students from Ronald W. Reagan / Doral Senior High School during their signing day to play for important universities in the USA; achievement obtained based on their dedication and commitment to sports.

Shawn Curtis, from the “Doral Broncos” football team, Steven Mejia, Anthony Callan and Juan Saldarriaga are four young athletes who received cheers from fellow students in the auditorium of Ronald Reagan, which fills us with great satisfaction to witness these sporting prospects that serve as example of consistency and discipline to achieve goals.

Today, their families deserve recognition. Fathers, mothers, brothers, were present, proud of their achievements; is a teamwork effort that comes from the household head and that is reflected in the achievements of the children. During this occasion, these youths have guaranteed admission to distinguished universities.

Shawn Curtis, is a young Christian who relies on his faith to achieve their goals. Heard to say how excited he still felt for being signed by Ole Miss Rebels. At 6 feet 2 inches tall and 245 pounds has become a valuable asset to their defensive.

Steven Mejia, Princeton University; TJ Callan will be part of the football program at the University of West Florida and Juan Saldarriaga at Valley City State University.

We wish the best to these young athletes. The opportunities have come to their hands thanks to the effort they have put into their practices and sports.

Finally, would like to recognize a great man, great coach as Juan Lopez, who has been a teacher and example for this group of students who today are opening the doors to success. My words of pride and admiration for his work. 

        

From the office of the Mayor

1.-We continue announcing good news for our city. I’m very excited because we understood the responsibility to our children and our schools, and keep monitoring all new investments very closely, which we had already announced months ago, as planned by the Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

It is Important to mention that Doral is one of the few cities in the county where the need to expand the capacity of some schools are under the GOB program.

According to new projects, there is an investment of $ 11,641,500 for a new K-8 center, which it will be located at NW 90 St. and 114 avenue on a land already planned for this development. Even more interesting, is the conversion of Doral Middle School to a Senior High School with an investment of $ 3,000,000, which will be used in infrastructure, maintenance, and new technology.

Other investments will be made in Doral Middle Scholl (John I. Smith K-8) for $ 272.429, Eugenia B. Thomas K-8 Center, $ 324.651 and John Smith K-8 Center for $ 509.723

2.-We acknowledge the work that has been done by the Department of Parks and Recreation, directed by Barbara Hernandez, who this year has a very interesting agenda that involves the whole family, which it has been always our purpose. Recently, we had a spectacular event at JC Bermudez Park called “Camping Under the Stars” which it was a success. The event had an excellent organization and a massive attendance. Our purpose is to offer recreational alternatives to our residents. I witnessed the participation of entire groups of families enjoying the moment, indicating that we are on the right track.

3.-Also, we continue the police presence at major traffic lights, helping to move the traffic flow during peak hours. As you can see, the Miami-Dade County is also conducting a series of construction work on our main streets and avenues. We understand the consequences and causes of discomfort among drivers but we hope you recognize that these are specific investments made on our roads for the benefit of our city.

We will continue to communicate all the progress in our city and hope you follow this blog, which is another form of communication, in order to keep you well informed about what happens in our city.

Today everybody talks about Doral

If there is something to say is that we have achieved our goal, our vision and our dream, which it was to be project our renowned city all over the world thanks to what has been an extraordinary event - the Miss Universe. Our values, our city, our people, have gone to each of those countries that were represented by each contestant.

It is important to highlight the commitment we make to all of those who for one reason or another are interested in Doral. Today, the responsibility is much greater because we work on the basis of a responsible growth, which results in good services and better quality of life for our residents and visitors.

In our city, developers, elected officials, residents, and business owners, have the obligation to do everything in our power to keep improving every day and make Doral the city we all dream. I have no doubt that many viewers and followers of the pageant that had the desire to invest in residential property for recreation or as a new destination for living, have already set their sights on this beautiful city, newer for some and spectacular for others, as it was described by the international media as the hosting city of the Miss Universe 2014.

Years ago, when I decided to enter into the electoral race, I always said, perhaps without measuring my words or thoughts that Doral was going to be known in every corner of this earth. The Miss Universe has been the path to achieve it. This event has been the most watched Miss Universe since 2006. Cities from around the globe saw the name of Doral and spectacular images that spoke of this thriving and vibrant land.

We must continue to invest in infrastructure; we know exactly what our weaknesses and strengths are, and with the help of the Miami-Dade County, we will create projects to improve our transportation system, as it was agreed during our last conversation. It is a compromise. In 2016 we will witness the completion of different developments, which will be attractive to investors.

We will continue moving forward. To our Colombian community that makes life in the City of Doral, my congratulations for the new beauty queen, who represents the beauty of their country, its people and its values. Congratulations!