Welcome to the first edition of the new South Miami newsletter, the SoMi INSIDER.

This will be your source for important news exclusively about the City of South Miami. We will keep you informed regarding the latest events, programs, breaking news, and information in the City of South Miami. We will make sure you're 'in the loop' when it comes to City Commission decisions that affect you, your family, and your property.

At a time when it's hard to know whether to trust everything you read, you can be confident in the credibility of the SoMi INSIDER because it comes straight from the source. This is the official newsletter of the City of South Miami.

We hope you find our stories informative and helpful. Please help spread the word! Forward this email to anyone you know in South Miami that wants to be 'in the know' in South Miami.

Like heading through a "No Wake" zone, the City of South Miami is slowing down before rewriting the rules for how residents store their boats.

There had been discussion of updating the rules governing how and where on your property you could park and store a boat. A proposed change would have included regulations concerning size, number, location, and screening from neighbors.

After discussion by the City Commission, Commissioners decided not to adopt the proposed new rules.

Are you looking for a fun, safe place for your child to spend winter break? Check out the SoMi Parks Winter Camp.

The camp runs from December 21 to 24, and then again from December 28 to 31. The hours are 8:00am to 6:00pm (expect on Christmas Eve and News Year's Eve when the camp closes at 4:00pm).

If your child is between kindergarten and 6th grade, this is a great way to spend winter break. The fee is only $50 per session for residents, and $125 per session for non-residents.

The City of South Miami is supporting other South Florida cities' opposition to conversion therapy.

Conversion therapy describes efforts to change an individual's sexual identity. The City has thrown its support behind a legal fight between South Florida cities that have banned conversion therapy and individuals who claim the ban is an infringement on free speech. The legal fight could reach the U.S. Supreme Court. If it does, South Miami would be one of several cities filing an opinion supporting the ban.

The City of South Miami Annual Toy Giveaway will be held December 21 at the Gibson-Bethel Community Center. The event (which is only open to city residents) will be from 10:00am to 7:00pm at 5800 SW 66th Street.

Pre-registration is required, and proof of city residency will also be required. The event will be for infants up to 15-years old. All children must have an adult with them.

To register, email parks@southmiamifl.gov or visit the community center at 5800 SW 66th Street. Toys are available on a first-reserved, first served basis while supplies last.

Have you checked out the new free rides in and out of downtown South Miami?

That's right! We said: FREE!

Freebee is a FREE, door-to-door, on-demand transportation service, brought to you by the City of South Miami! Freebee vehicles are 100% electric, and emission-free!

Your Freebee guide will share with you the latest and greatest happenings in South Miami. Rides can also be requested by flagging down an available Freebee!

Freebee runs Monday to Friday: 7:00am to 11:00pm and Saturday from 11:00am to 11:00pm. There is no Sunday service.