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The United Chinese Association of Florida (UCAF) presented the 10th Annual South Florida Dragon Boat Festival on September 29th at Haulover Park welcoming a crowd of more than 3,000 people. The highlight for our City, as one of the sponsors, was that our Sunny Isles Beach “Sunny Dragons” Racing Team took first place in their racing division! Sunny Isles Beach City Commission was there to cut the ribbon and participate in opening ceremonies including painting the eyes of the ceremonial dragons.
Many businesses and government agencies sponsored or provided entertaining stations including, a 1987 Mercedes smash booth, operated by Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce Miami. The Taiwanese Junior Chamber sold authentic Taiwanese iced Bubble Tea. The Church by the Sea of Bal Harbour brought a live rescued pelican to educate about the plight of local wildlife.
The day-long festival entertained the crowd with cultural performances, a kite tournament, an egg-roll eating contest, games and play areas for the children and other activities for their parents. Viva Classic Rock Band and Cayote entertained the crowd playing two sets each. The South Florida Dragon Boat Race had over 30 teams in participation. The UCAF hosted another successful event and our team can hardly wait until next year to defend the racing title!
 
Left :SIB Commission at opening ceremonies left to right: SIB Commissioners Isaac Aelion, Jeanette Gatto, Keith Oliver, SIB Mayor Norman S. Edelcup, Vice Mayor Lewis J. Thaler, Commissioner George “Bud” Scholl and Winnie Tang of the UCAF.
Right:
Dragon dancing for the crowd
 
Left: Commissioner George “Bud” Scholl and Commissioner Isaac Aelion with Mayor Norman S. Edelcup paint the Dragon eyes. Right: Face painting was provided for the kids
 
Left: TEAM SIB SUNNY DRAGONS won first place in their division! Right: SIB Sunny Dragons paddling with high energy
 
Left: “SIB Sunny Dragons” going through their paces. Right: Amuchastegui, Niridey Houser, Yasminia Essabba pose with winning trophy.
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