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2020 was a year of lockdowns…school closings…no proms and certainly no graduation ceremonies. With his daughter Jordan as a graduating senior, former Aventura Commissioner Michael Stern and his wife Randy knew how disappointed Jordan and her friends were and decided to do something about it. Michael asked the City for their help with a high school graduates’ car parade. The City’s response was overwhelming, with City officials and the Aventura Police Department working side-by-side with Michael to turn his idea into an extremely successful reality. Parade day arrived, and over 100 cars decorated with their college destinations lined Country Club Drive as the Aventura Police Department led the parade. Residents lined the streets and stood out on their balconies waving and cheering on the new graduates. Horns were honking, police lights were flashing and it would have been a hard decision to know who was more emotional…the students or their families.
This year, Michael, current Chairman of the City’s Community Advisory Panel, the City of Aventura and the Aventura Police Department did it again. On May 19th, the Class of 2021 Aventura high school seniors in their college-bound decorated cars and their families gathered at the Aventura Mall to line up for the parade. High-energy music was playing as the cars checked in with Gary Pyott, Chairman of the new Aventura Police Foundation, and volunteers who gave everyone in the car a goody bag from the City and event sponsors.
Circling Country Club Drive, the parade was filled with cheers of support from people along the route, lots of car horns honking and huge smiles on the faces of the students.
Aventura Vice Mayor Dr. Linda Marks spoke on behalf of the City and said, “Our City is so excited to share in the excitement of high school graduations! We wish every graduate the very best and we know their futures will be bright. Remember to keep love in your heart, fill your head with wisdom and do good deeds for others.”
Police Chief Bryan Pegues added, “For the second year in a row, the City of Aventura was able to create a memorable event that brought tremendous happiness to the students and their families who attended this joyous celebration. This event showcased just how special the City of Aventura truly is. We wish all of the graduates the best of luck. “
Michael Stern said, “To see so many smiles and people celebrating this special occasion warmed my heart. And how wonderful to see our Aventura Police officers interacting with the community and helping to provide an unforgettable experience!”
