November not only brought a newly elected Council to Key Biscayne, but also many events that helped build a stronger community. The events included an Open Fair at L’Esplanade Mall, the Grand Bay Artisan Exposition and the Community Foundation Non-Profit Expo held at the Village Green.

The interesting thing about these events is the opportunity for residents to get to know what other residents are doing. The office and store owners of L’Esplanade were moved both by concern for lost business due to the closing of the Sonesta Hotel and the need to promote their goods and services. Artisans and small business owners, who do not want or cannot afford to have a permanent presence in our shopping centers, needed a way to showcase their work while getting feedback from neighbors and customers.

At the same time, many residents are involved in non-profit organizations that help those less fortunate and who need to get more hands on board to achieve their goals, tapping into the seemingly endless resourcefulness of our residents.

On the other hand, our residents also need some open air place to mingle, relax and have a good time.

Therefore, these events provided an excellent example of the Village motto for our Vision Plan exercise: “Keep the Village in the Village”.