At the February 13, 2013 Miami-Dade County School Board meeting, School Board member Dr. Lawrence S. Feldman and the Miami-Dade School Board recognized the City of Homestead in view of the City’s Centennial Celebration.
“The Centennial Committee and Council members of the City of Homestead have organized so many wonderful events leading up to the Centennial celebration,” said Dr. Feldman. “We have seen plays about the history of Homestead, educational contest involving students, festivals with characters from when the city was first founded, and activities to educate, and celebrate the history of this city, as well as look towards the future.”
Representing the City of Homestead at the meeting were Centennial Steering Committee Chairwoman Yvonne Knowles, Vice-Chair Timothy Craig and committee Kevin Myles.
“All these events were made possible thanks to dedicated volunteers who donated their time to be able to give our community a beautiful Centennial celebration” said Yvonne Knowles. “Our city really came together and made this a birthday celebration to remember for the next 100 years.”
The distinguished resolution, which was presented by Dr. Lawrence Feldman on behalf of the School Board of Miami-Dade County Public Schools to congratulate Homestead in its Centennial Celebration read:
“Whereas, the City of Homestead had the privilege of observing its centennial on February 2nd. The Homestead Centennial Celebration included live bands, carnival games, bounce houses, rides, food trucks and a historical show titled, “The Homestead Story.”; and whereas, the fun-filled event encouraged community members and families to come together and honor the city for 100 years of service to the community; and whereas, Homestead has a rich history that dates back to 1898 when it was opened to homesteaders, which makes it the second oldest city in Miami-Dade County. Originally a city of 121, Homestead now boasts more than 60,000 residents; and whereas, Henry Flagler extended the railroad from Miami to Key West in 1904, which allowed farmers to transport their goods to Miami and other parts of the state; and whereas, men and woman from throughout the Americas, Caribbean, and Europe who came to work on the railroad stayed and discovered the agricultural potential, and by building churches, schools, libraries, and a government center, created a community and helped establish the City of Homestead in 1913; and whereas, the City of Homestead is to be commended for positioning itself as a strong community partner and supporter of education. Its commitment to providing its residents a safe and nurturing place to call home has enriched the lives of many. Now, therefore, be it resolved that: The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, approve Resolution No. 13-032 of The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, recognizing the City of Homestead’s Centennial celebration.”
