MIAMI – More than 3,500 people visited Oak Grove Park in North Miami on June 28 to take part in Haitian Fest, organized by Commissioner Dorrin D. Rolle.
This free event included a soccer match between Africa United and Selection Haiti teams, tennis matches, domino competitions, food, a live concert, and other activities.
Haitian Fest was held a month after Africa Fest 2008, also sponsored by Commissioner Rolle; Africa Fest, while successful, had to be cut short due to inclement weather.
“I heard from so many people who wanted to attend Africa Fest, but could not due to torrential rain,” said Commissioner Rolle. “Haitian Fest gave them another opportunity to enjoy family fun activities and take pride in their heritage.”
The most anticipated part of the event was a live performance by famous Haitian singer Sweet Micky, who promised to return to South Florida when his initial performance at Africa Fest was canceled due to thunderstorms. Attendees were able to enjoy some of the singer’s most popular songs during the concert. Commissioner Rolle also managed to collect non-perishable food items from guests to donate to Haiti to alleviate the island’s food shortage.
Other Miami-Dade County departments were also on hand to help residents, with the Elections Department distributing information on voters’ registration, and the Water and Sewer Department exchanging attendees’ old showerheads for newer, high efficiency models. Guests were treated to free food and drinks courtesy of Ragaman Ginseng Energy Drink and Bakery Café Restaurant, and received free on-the-spot cell phone airtime minutes to call family and friends in Haiti from Nopin Long Distance.
