City of Fort Lauderdale annual Light Up Sistrunk event and grand reopening of Historic Sistrunk Boulevard a success

By Staff Writer

      On Dec. 7, 2012, the City of Fort Lauderdale hosted its sixth annual Light Up Sistrunk.

     This year also marked the grand reopening and ribbon cutting of historic Sistrunk Boulevard, named after Fort Lauderdale’s first Black doctor, Dr. James Sistrunk.

     The City began major redevelopment to improve and revamp Sistrunk Boulevard in January 2011. Upon completion, residents now have more on-street parking, decorative streetlights, wider sidewalks, median and landscape enhancements and new bus shelters. In addition, overhead utilities in various areas were positioned underground.

     The Light Up Sistrunk event was led by Mistress of Ceremonies, Tamara G., radio personality. The invoca-tion was given by Rev. Kito March, Mt. Nebo M.B. Church. After the welcome by Alfred Battle, City of Fort Lauderdale Dept. of Sustainable Development, the Dillard Jazz Band and Osswald Park Kids entertained the crowd. Walgreen’s also created a Walgreen’s Wonderland with toys, screenings and giveaways.

     Commissioner Bobby Dubose and Mayor John ‘Jack’ Seiler wished every-one happy holidays and discussed the accomplishments the community has made.

     After the grand reopening and ribbon cutting, the 30-foot holiday tree from FPL was lit. The benediction was given by the District 5 Seat Broward County School Board Member, Rev. Dr. Rosalind Osgood.

     The City of Fort Lauderdale thanks all of the sponsors of this extravaganza. It was a great and safe place to start the holiday season!