Rosie Cordero-Stutz, Miami-Dade County Police Department assistant director of Investigative Services and a candidate for county sheriff, addressed over 50 business owners during the Miami Lakes Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon held June 10 at the Miami Lakes Hotel on Main.
Cordero-Stutz spoke about changes coming to the department’s command structure.
“The sheriff will report to the citizens of Miami-Dade County,” Cordero-Stutz said.
Voters will be able to replace the sheriff during elections if they feel the top law enforcement official isn’t doing a good job, she said.
Her campaign website lists an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, though she didn’t mention him in her remarks.
Chamber President Fred Senra described the organization’s recent accomplishments, including two charity events held in June to benefit groups in town that serve children.
A golf tournament held June 19 at the Miami Lakes Golf Club raised almost $4,000 after expenses, Senra said to The Miami Laker.
Donations will be made to The Arc of South Florida; GiGi’s Playhouse; The Zonta Club of Miami Lakes; Angel’s Reach Foundation and 4 Kids, Senra said.
A masquerade ball and casino night to benefit Arc’s Ace Academy & Project Thrive, Gigi’s Playouse and the Angel’s Reach Foundation was held June 21 at the Miami Lakes Hotel on Main. The profits for charity were still being calculated from that event, Senra said, but he expected it to be a success as well.
Mabell Angel, director of development and communications for The Arc of South Florida, praised the chamber while presenting certificates of appreciation to the sponsors of the golf tournament.
“We’re honored and proud to have the opportunity to work together with Fred Senra, [and] the amazing team [at the chamber],” Angel said.
Along with the two charity fundraisers, Senra said he has been welcoming business and community leaders who are joining the organization.
“Our new membership enrollment is growing and every event we have is a full house,” Senra said.
Senra said the monthly lunches are also going well.
In June, more than 100 people turned up to hear from Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.
There are no plans to slow down during the summer months.
Luncheons will continue and Senra said the chamber is preparing for its annual Business Expo on Nov. 7, when business owners showcase their goods and services to the community at the Miami Lakes Hotel on Main.
The next chamber luncheon will be held Aug. 14. Sheriff’s candidate Ignacio Alvarez is the guest speaker.
For more information go to www.miamilakeschamber.com.