Vice Mayor Stephen Shelley took time at the August 22nd Special Presentations to recognize the individuals, organizations and businesses that made Homestead’s 2018 Military Appreciation Day possible. The annual community event celebrates military personnel and their families, bringing them together with civilians and the larger Homestead community.
In its seventh year, Military Appreciation Day took place on May 12th at Losner Park. Vice Mayor Shelley noted that in spite of the bad weather, the event was a big success. He explained, “This event has been very near and dear to my heart,” adding “One of our biggest economic engines and stable legs here in the City of Homestead is our military and Air Reserve Base.” Military Appreciation Day is organized annually by the City of Homestead along with the Homestead Air Reserve Base, the Military Affairs Committee, South Dade Chamber of Commerce, and Homestead Main Street.
Vice Mayor Shelley first recognized event sponsors, including Texas Roadhouse, a first-time sponsor. The local eatery provided food to all of the event volunteers and military personnel. “Our volunteers gave their time and efforts and Texas Roadhouse rewarded them with fantastic food,” he said.
He then recognized Eagle Brands and introduced National Account Manager Jonathan Borgert, noting that he was very involved with the City of Homestead’s Military Affairs Committee and was a strong advocate of the military base.
Vice Mayor Shelley then mentioned SOCSouth’s contributions as a sponsor from the event’s inception. He noted that this year it had provided the big tent for the military display, which he explained “shows the weaponry our military men and women use to protect us and our freedoms.” He added that SOCSouth has also provided teams for the event’s “Military Challenge,” an obstacle course that was added to the event two years ago to showcase participants’ strength, endurance, and teamwork.
Vice Mayor Shelley called members of the committee to the front of the Council Chambers, saying “This is your committee that plans Military Appreciation Day each and every year. Give them a round of applause.” He presented each person with a special certificate, acknowledging their “support, service and participation.” The following individuals and organizations received certificates:
1SG Erik Birch
Anthony Gorman
Best Studio Inn – Carlos Batista and Sylvia Batista
Christopher Huss
Dairy Queen of Homestead – David McKean
Eagle Brands Sales –George Halper and Jonathan Borger
Homestead Main Street – Yvonne Knowles
Homestead YMCA Family Center – Sue Loyzelle
Hugh Hudson
Laura C. Saunders Elementary School – Ana Maria Jaramillo
Monroe Marauders – Bob Asher
Pastor Brock Shiffer
Ron Mongole
Rotary Club of Homestead
Seminole Theatre – Mickey McGuire
SFC Pedro Horta
SOCSouth - Air Force Colonel Tracey Onufer
South Dade Chamber of Commerce – Kerry Black
South Dade News Leader – Dale Machesic
Texas Roadhouse - Mary Montanez