3rd Annual Jonathan's Day

On January 21, Palmetto Bay residents and friends met one another at Coral Reef Park as part of Palmetto Bay’s Unique Abilities Fair to learn about available community resources to help kids with unique abilities.

Championed locally by Councilwoman Larissa Siegel Lara and supported by the entire Village, along with many businesses and organizations, the day was a fun success.

The event is named Jonathan’s Day after Jonathan Mizrachi, a 13-year old with autism who lives in the area. The day had lots of fun games, food, a 2K Fun Run/Walk and even a petting zoo.

Jonathan Mizrachi (center) during last year's event.

Unfortunately, this year, Jonathan was sick with the flu and didn’t attend, but his father Jason Mizrachi certainly had a lot to say, “As a parent of an autistic child, you have a choice. You can put them in a bubble and put them away or you can let them experience life.”

Miami-Dade School Superintendent Alberto Carvalho on right, with Mayor Eugene Flinn and CBS4's Mike Cugno

Miami-Dade School Superintendent Alberto Carvalho added, “We need to support additional funding at all levels so we can elevate the dignity and the humanity of our children with special abilities.”

CBS4 sports anchor Mike Cugno acted at as the emcee for the second year in a row.