The Haitian Heritage Cultural Month Opening Reception hosted by Commissioner Marleine Bastien in partnership with Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Commissioner Keon Hardemon at the prestigious Intercontinental Hotel was a great success. This event showcased the best of Haitian culture. It highlighted a sampling of Haitian rich culture including their crafts, art, paint, music, fashion, and cuisine. In addition, the event exhibited the great contributions of Haitians in every aspect of American society and the World. There are many other cultural events scheduled throughout the month. 

Thank you to the Haitian American Chamber of Commerce (HACCOF) for organizing such a great event!

Art is a reflection of society and culture. It is the shortest path from man to man (Andre Marleaux). Commissioner Marleine Bastien was honored to share with Miami-Dade County employees and residents the beauty of Haiti through “Wonders of Haiti Art Exhibition” in collaboration with Bart Muce on May 1, 2023 at the Stephen P. Clark Center. The artists depicted Haiti natural splendor, cultural opulence, and historical significance through the rhythms of their music, their colorful arts, and their dance. Kudo to artists Claudia Apaid, Isaie Zeek Mathias, Turgo Bastien, Porsha E and Nancy St Leger Troupe Ensemble who showcased the richness of Haitian culture and warm hospitality. Thank you to Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Chairman, Oliver G. Gilbert, III for their remarks and support of Haitian art and culture.

The exhibit will be showcased until May 31, 2023. Please enjoy the beauty of Haitian culture!

On April 29, 2023, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine cava and Commissioner Marleine Bastien hosted the Poinciana Community Cookout at the North Park at Scott Carver. The purpose of this meeting was to collect community input and make sure every voice is heard about the future Poinciana project. Good paying jobs, education , training, and housing were the top priorities for the community.

Our Financial Literacy Workshop held at the Arcola Lakes Branch Library on April 21, 2023 was a great success. The event featured important topics to assist small business owners in their quest of getting resources for their business. The following organizations have participated in the workshop:

1. “The Library System: How Small Business owners can benefit from?" was presented by Miami-Dade Public Library System staff, Krystal Powell, Arcola Lakes Branch Manager.
2. HACCOF/ Scale Up 305 presented the "Business Incubator System" by Naed J. Desire
3. SBA Deputy District Director Althea A. Harris walked the attendees through the process of accessing capital for their business.
4. "How to Make your Business Bankable" was presented by Miami Bayside Foundation (MBF), a leader in financial literacy. The presenters were Joshua Numa and Francy Rueda.



Special thanks to Mr. Ray Baker, Director of Miami-Dade Public Library System and Branch Manager Krystal Powell for hosting the event, and to Opa Locka Mayor John H. Taylor for his attendance and words of wisdom.

Miami-Dade County launched its First Time Homebuyer and Emergency Housing Assistance Programs. The plan will provide relief to both homeowners and renters, create more housing people can afford by bringing new units online in the immediate short term and building new units, and preserve and enhance existing affordable housing. Click on the link below to learn more about the programs.

The Miami-Dade Public Library System celebrated National Library Week from Sunday, April 23 – Saturday, April 29, 2023. Commissioner Marleine Bastien read stories for 37 children at the Arcola Lakes Branch. A picture of Commissioner Bastien, reading her own books titled : Angelina (Volume I) and Angelina in the Land of the Free (Volume 2) was unveiled during the occasion. 

"I am proud to say Mia Casa is in District 2. As a member of the Homeless Trust Board, and as Chairwoman of the County’s Housing, Recreation, Culture and Community Development Committee, I look forward to continuing my life’s work, and through my new role as a Commissioner to provide life enhancing services to low income households through housing and improved health care."

-Commissioner Marleine Bastien

Roadway improvements to NW 37th Ave from NW 36th St to NW 79 St