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Lauderhill Steel Ensemble asks city for steady rehearsal space after losing prior venues
Summary
Members of the Lauderhill Steel Ensemble told the commission they currently practice in a storage unit and are seeking a shared or city‑assisted rehearsal site to support year‑round programming for youth and adults.
At the Aug. 25 meeting the Lauderhill Steel Ensemble presented to the commission seeking help finding a reliable practice location.
Mary Rodriguez, a founder and member of the ensemble since 2003, described the group’s mission to teach steel‑pan music to youths and adults and to perform at community events. Rodriguez said the band currently stores instruments at a public storage unit on 203rd Avenue and “we are once again in need of a place to practice.” She listed past practice locations the band has used — city‑provided spaces, the former firehouse, the museum and community centers — and noted that recent commercial rents put steady rehearsal space out of reach.
Rodriguez said the ensemble runs programs for children (ages cited roughly 10–17) and includes elderly players such as “Buddy, who’s 80 and has played for 65 years,” and she asked the commission for assistance locating shared or donated space. The group also offered contact information and a “cheat sheet” the public could use to help identify possible spaces. The ensemble gave a brief musical demonstration during the presentation; several commissioners, including Vice Mayor Saray Martin, praised the ensemble and thanked the group for its service to the community.
No formal action was taken at the meeting. City staff and commissioners expressed support and suggested follow‑up conversations about potential shared spaces and city facilities that might be used to host rehearsals.
