Swearing-In Ceremony for City of Sweetwater Mayor a Festive and Solemn Occasion

By Lou Hernández

The Jorge Mas Canosa Youth Center hosted the swearing-in ceremony for Sweetwater Mayor Jose “Pepe” Díaz and three city commissioners on May 24. The evening event was attended by many civic and community leaders, among them, Hialeah Mayor Esteban “Steve” Bovo, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Juan Carlos “JC” Bermudez and West Miami Mayor Eric Díaz Padrón. Another political dignitary in attendance was Miami-Dade County State Attorney Katherine Fernández Rundle.

The hour-long ceremony included a multi-agency Honor Guard Presenting of the Colors and a stirring rendition of the National Anthem by Cuban pop singersongwriter Madai. From the auditorium rafters hung a giant American flag as an appropriate backdrop to the occasion. Univision news anchor and Sweetwater-raised Sandra Peebles was the master of ceremonies, with Miami-Dade Police Department Spokesman Detective Alvaro Zabaleta as the event introduction speaker.

“These are special people,” said Zabaleta, referring to the mayor and commissioners, “because you elected them, and they hold the best interests of the people of Sweetwater in their hearts.”

“We are here to celebrate the present moment of Sweetwater and the promise that it holds for the future,” stated Peebles, who revealed a parallel to her career and that of Díaz. “My first story ever as a news journalist was in 1991 covering a Sweetwater commission meeting where the now-mayor was a commissioner. That started a long history of me documenting the career of Mayor Díaz. I’m so happy and honored to be able to say a few words, reminding everyone of his accomplishments.”

“Today we are swearing-in four superbly qualified leaders who will play a major role in the evolution of policy and carrying out those policies in the city,” added Peebles.

The first to take the oath of office was Commissioner Reinaldo Rey, sworn-in by the Honorable Judge Lody Jean. “Wow, I want to thank God, and everyone for coming here,” said an emotional Rey. “I was pushed every single day, and the people came out and voted. I’m here to do the job I have to do with my fellow commissioners.”

Next to the swearing-in podium was Commission Vice President Isidro Ruíz, affirming his allegiance to the city for a second term. The Honorable Judge Kristy Nuñez, who swore-in Ruíz four years ago, repeated the honors. Ruíz graciously expressed gratitude to the people behind the scenes: “Thank you to all the volunteers who went above and beyond, knocking on doors, you guys are the best.

I love the residents of Sweetwater, without them this would not be possible.”

The third member of the commission to be sworn-in was also a second-term council member, Saúl Díaz. His cousin, Mrs. Ileana Cruz, read the pledge of office for Díaz to repeat. She relayed a touching backstory about her cousin who arrived in the United States from Cuba with his father at the age of 12 and who, for political reasons, had to leave behind his mother and brother. “I want to thank Eduardo Cruz and Mercedes Cruz, without them I would not be here,” said Díaz, who was elected to the presidency of the commission last year. “I came to the United States in the Mariel boatlift when I was 12 years old and look at me now. That is what this country, that big flag up there, is all about, the freedom and the opportunity we all have. I moved to Sweetwater in 1998, and when people asked me where I lived, I would say, ‘Across the street from FIU.’ I was ashamed to say I lived in Sweetwater. Now, it’s a new beginning. I say, Welcome, welcome to Sweetwater!”

Díaz’ most heart-felt gratitude was directed at his loved ones and the incoming mayor: “I wish to thank my family, without theirs and God’s help, I could not have done this. And I want to thank the mayor. Thank you, Mr. Mayor, for the respect you give to this commission. For the first time, in at least four years, the photos of the commissioners hang on a city hall wall.”

Introducing the marquee politician of the evening, master of ceremonies Peebles said: “Even though he is back, you all know he never left. From afar he was influencing so many things that have made this city a much better city today. His love story with Sweetwater is a long and colorful one. One of the longest serving leaders in Sweetwater, after 20 years at the county, this is a joyous homecoming for José “Pepe” Díaz. Mayor, may God lead your way, and may you be led with truth.”

The Honorable Judge Marcus Bach read the oath. Bach disclosed that he had first met the mayor when he was previously employed with the Miami Dolphins and had worked with Díaz on many sports projects. “The citizens of Sweetwater are fortunate to have this incredible man take the helm here,” stated Bach. “There is no vision too small, no challenge too daunting, no fight too fierce for Pepe Díaz. He is the commissioner of impact.”

“First and foremost, I thank God,” said the longtime politician who was genuinely humbled by the moment. “Without him we cannot do anything. Without him our goals are meaningless, and that’s what drives me. What also drives me is the incredible family He has blessed me with. Thank you all for being here. You are all very special to me.”

“This city will shine,” pledged the mayor. “And it will shine more than it has ever shined before.”

An opening prayer by Pastor Steve Alessi was complemented with a closing benediction from Rev. Father Aristidis Arizi.