By Chief Fred Maas - Sunny Isles Beach Police Department

More than 600 people attended a standing room only event at the Wyndham Hotel on Miami Beach on Saturday evening, May 22, 2010.  The celebration was the annual Police Benevolent Association (P.B.A.) Awards Gala recognizing Dade County Law Enforcement.  The celebration was highlighted by not only the appearance of Governor Charlie Crist, but his attendance for the entire event which lasted for hours and his presentation of some very special awards.

Amongst the special recognitions, was that of our very own City Commission who were singled out for their unwavering support of the Sunny Isles Beach Police Department over the past 12 years.  It was specifically noted that this commission and past members of the commission have provided everything requested in order for our officers to efficiently do their job.  It was also noted that benefits and support of officers has been a constant by this City Commission and it was suggested that their support serve as a model for other cities and agencies.

In addition to the recognition of our City Commission, who were ALL in attendance, every one of them, to support the agency as well as Officer Marcelino Mariabello who received the distinguished “Rookie Officer of the Year” Award.  This young enthusiastic and dedicated officer was selected from amongst all other nominations from agencies throughout Dade County.  This is the 2nd time in 3 years that a Sunny Isles Beach police officer has received the award.  Both PBA President John Rivera and Governor Charlie Crist presented the award to Officer Mariabello, whose family was on hand to witness the event.  Congratulations are extended to him and all our officers who strive to make the City of Sunny Isles Beach a safe and proud place to live and play.

Lastly our city and agency are grateful to President Rivera and his entire staff, who every year without fail, create an event second to none and have maintained their focus on remembering the fallen, while honoring the best and recognizing all others who were out working the streets during the event.  Family members of those killed in the Line of Duty are the true celebrities of the evening, and that is how the P.B.A. makes them feel:  Never Forgotten!  Thank you John and your entire staff, from our family to yours!