The Town of Surfside Commission recognized three distinguished community leaders at its June 10 meeting with formal proclamations honoring their lasting impact on the Town and beyond.
Mayor Charles W. Burkett issued proclamations for Reverend Father Juan J. Sosa, Elizabeth Alvarez-Rodriguez, and Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar, highlighting their decades of service, spiritual leadership, and dedication to the residents of Surfside and the greater 33154 community.
Father Juan J. Sosa, Pastor of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church since 2010, was recognized ahead of his upcoming retirement on July 1. A Cuban exile who arrived in Miami via Operation Pedro Pan in 1961, Father Sosa has served the Archdiocese of Miami for more than 50 years. He was noted for his leadership during the Papal Visit of John Paul II in 1987, his published works in Catholic liturgy, and for offering comfort and support following the Champlain Towers South tragedy. “Father Sosa has been a beacon of hope and inspiration,” said Mayor Burkett. “His leadership and faith have uplifted countless lives, especially during Surfside’s most difficult moments.”
Elizabeth Alvarez-Rodriguez, a longtime resident and educator, was honored for her 30-year teaching career at Ruth K. Broad Bay Harbor K-8 Center. Her imaginative teaching style, community involvement, and heartfelt commitment to her students earned her widespread admiration and multiple Teacher of the Year awards.
“She brought joy and creativity into her classroom and made every child feel special,” the proclamation read. “Her legacy will live on through the generations of students she inspired.”
The third proclamation was a posthumous honor for Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar, founder of The Shul in Surfside and a key spiritual leader for the region since 1982. He was remembered not only for his visionary leadership and expansion of Jewish life in the area, but also for his tireless efforts during the Champlain Towers South collapse. Rabbi Lipskar opened The Shul as a relief center, led community prayers, and provided meals, guidance, and compassion to grieving families and first responders.
“Rabbi Lipskar’s legacy of service, love, and leadership has left an indelible mark on Surfside,” said Vice Mayor Tina Paul. “We are forever grateful for his devotion to this community.”
The proclamations serve as part of the Town’s continued effort to recognize those who embody its spirit of resilience, compassion, and public service.