Miami Lakes committee finalizes Hall of Fame induction logistics, approves runner and printed program

MIAMI LAKES — The Miami Lakes Sports Hall of Fame committee met Monday to finalize logistics for the upcoming induction ceremony, approving a temporary server ("runner") to assist bartenders and moving ahead with a printed program for the event.

The committee confirmed the event will use Eventbrite for ticketing and that the current catering plan provides food for about 60 guests. Committee members agreed inductees may invite up to 20 guests under an internal VIP policy but decided VIP parking will be limited and managed by submitting a guest list to staff in advance.

"20 people, 10 spots," a committee member summarized during the discussion on managing VIP parking and RSVPs. The committee directed staff to collect names and maintain an Excel spreadsheet to identify the VIP parking recipients.

Sponsorship and catering options were a central part of the meeting. Members reviewed a catering package quoted at $18 per person that would include unlimited wine, beer and nonalcoholic beverages; the vendor estimate for the current headcount was roughly $1,350. Committee members said sponsorship revenue and in-kind donations will cover most event expenses; several sponsors were discussed, including Grama Company and Ocean Bank, though some pledged funds had not yet been received.

On cost-saving and service, the committee voted to add a runner to support the bartender(s). "Motion by Maryann to get the runners," was recorded and seconded by Dave; the motion passed by voice vote with no opposition. Committee members said the runner would add roughly $200 to the expense line but felt the improved service was worth the cost if sponsorships clear.

The committee also approved producing a printed event program. Members agreed on an initial print run of 50 copies, to include inductee bios and sponsor listings; FastSigns and the town communications staff will finalize layout and pricing. One member noted paper programs are important for older guests who prefer a physical copy in addition to online materials.

Other operational items included finalizing honoree photos and plaque text (committee members agreed to circulate images by the end of the week), assigning committee members to check in inductees on the night, placement of a photo station and step-and-repeat for interviews, and preliminary plans to reconfigure the Hall of Fame wall with vendor FastSigns at a later date.

Members also discussed outreach to community attractions and mascots to enhance the event’s family appeal; the committee said any paid appearances would require separate approvals and potentially sponsorship support.

The meeting closed after routine procedural items. A motion to adjourn by Dave, seconded by Miriam, passed by voice vote; the meeting ended around 6:28–6:30 p.m. The committee expects to post Eventbrite tickets and finalize remaining sponsor confirmations and program layout in the days ahead.