a night at the mansion

🥂 An Evening of Elegance & Community

Guests arrived dressed in true Roaring Twenties fashion—gentlemen in tuxedos, some sporting top hats and canes, and ladies adorned in pearls, feathers, and flapper-inspired gowns that shimmered under the evening lights.

At the entrance, a Glenn Curtiss look-alike portrayed by Tomas Hernandez welcomed attendees alongside Pan Am–inspired flight attendants, paying tribute to the aviation roots that shaped Miami Springs.

Among the distinguished guests were:

Natalie Milian Orbis
Dariel Fernandez
Dan Espino
Gloria Oliveros

As guests took their seats, they received a beautifully curated Centennial program featuring historic photos, stories from Miami Springs’ past, and heartfelt acknowledgments of the sponsors who made the evening possible.

🏛 Honoring Leadership & the Centennial Team

The program opened with Alex Van Mezl, an advocate for historic preservation and the evening’s host, who guided guests through the remarkable story of Miami Springs.

Mayor Walter Fajet reflected on the city’s founding and its enduring spirit, reminding everyone:
“We are here today because of a vision.”

City leadership was proudly recognized, including:

Vice Mayor Joseph Dion
Councilman Orlando Lamas
Councilman Fabian Perez-Crespo
Councilman & Centennial Liaison Jorge Santin

Santin thanked the dedicated Centennial Committee:

Sherry Feijoo (Chair)
Noelbys Gonzalez
Michael Gavila
Jaime Petralanda
Ivonne Yee

Special recognition was also given to Carmen Algeciras Vadia for her behind-the-scenes efforts in securing key donations.

Chair Sherry Feijoo extended heartfelt gratitude to Event Director Javier Diaz and his team for bringing the evening to life. On behalf of the committee, Noelbys Gonzalez shared an inspiring message:
“This is just the start. We have many events planned throughout the year.”

📖 Celebrating Our History

Beloved city historian Ken Wilde captivated the audience with fascinating stories from the city’s past, including the legendary Arabian Nights nightclub lost during the Great Hurricane of 1926.

Artist Natalie Plasencia followed with a heartfelt presentation on the Glenn Curtiss and June Bug Memorial, earning a well-deserved standing ovation.

Proclamations honoring the Centennial were presented by Natalie Milian Orbis, Dariel Fernandez, Dan Espino, and Gloria Oliveros—recognizing the legacy and bright future of Miami Springs.

🍽 A Culinary Experience to Remember

Guests were treated to an exceptional seated dinner featuring perfectly prepared prime rib and tender fingerling potatoes, complemented by an unforgettable house sauce that had guests whispering from table to table:
“This is amazing.”

The dinner was generously provided by Ricky Meats and Dade County Foods.

Dessert was equally unforgettable as Twice as Sweet, led by Elizabeth Santin, unveiled a stunning display of handcrafted sweets—beautifully presented and joyfully shared.

💃 Dancing Into the Next Century

The celebration continued indoors as DJ Ralph filled the mansion with music and energy. Guests danced beneath the historic ceilings well into the night, closing the evening with laughter, gratitude, and unforgettable memories.

“This was incredible,” shared Milly Perez-Crespo, President of the Miami Springs Woman’s Club.
“This is another level of gala for Miami Springs.”

🌟 Supporting the Future

All proceeds from A Night at the Mansion will benefit the Glenn Curtiss and June Bug Memorial and support upcoming Centennial events throughout the year.

Special thanks to Javier Diaz, Dade County Foods, Event Outfitters, Ricky Meats, Robert Pardo, DJ Ralph, Danny Regalado, Fuego Soul Band, AES Creative Media, Aldo Saavedra, and everyone who contributed their time and talent.

💙 A City, A Century, A Celebration

On this unforgettable night, Miami Springs did more than celebrate 100 years—it honored its past, strengthened its present, and stepped boldly into its next century.

✨ The Centennial continues… and this is only the beginning. Stay tuned, Miami Springs.