The Landings & Bay Colony

6

Mayor’s Message

John P, “Jack” Seiler

Mayor, City of Fort Lauderdale

Ceremony to Highlight Great American Beach Party!

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ongratulations to Hugh Taylor Birch, Ina Lee, Ron O’Brien, and Tim Schiavone.
These four icons will be recognized for their lifelong accomplishments and

outstanding contributions to our City with induction into the Fort Lauderdale Walk of
Fame on Saturday, May 23 as part of the sixth annual Great American Beach Party.
Each of this year’s honorees has distinguished themselves in their respective fields,
while greatly contributing to the progress and advancement of our City.

Hugh Taylor Birch 

Recognized as the father of Fort Lauderdale Beach, Hugh Taylor Birch fell in love with
this area shortly after arriving here in the late 1800s. His foresight and commitment to
protecting the beauty and aesthetics of Fort Lauderdale resulted in the preservation of
hundreds of acres of precious oceanfront land, including the City’s world famous
public beach that millions of residents and visitors continue to enjoy today.

Ina Lee 

As founder of the Winterfest Boat Parade and owner and publisher of Travelhost of
Greater Fort Lauderdale, Ina Lee has spent decades promoting Fort Lauderdale Beach
as a “must see” destination; strengthening the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry;
supporting major events that bring worldwide attention and media exposure to the City;
while serving as an enthusiastic promoter and steadfast support of Fort Lauderdale.

Ron O’Brien 

Diving Coach Ron O’Brien has had a long and distinguished career coaching eight
United States Olympic teams and training numerous Olympic Medalists and World
Champions at the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex from 1990 to 2006. O’Brien
produced a United States National Champion in 25 of his 30 years as a diving coach
and had a National Champion for 24 consecutive years from 1973 through 1996.

Tim Schiavone 

As owner of The World Famous Parrot Lounge, Tim Schiavone has worked tirelessly
for over four decades to enhance tourism, business, and hospitality in the City, while
serving as a goodwill ambassador for Fort Lauderdale Beach. Under his leadership,
over the past 45 years, The World Famous Parrot Lounge has helped support and
raise money for countless charities and
philanthropic endeavors.

Each honoree will receive a
commemorative marble paver that will 
be placed in the Walk of Fame to
memorialize their outstanding
accomplishments. The Fort Lauderdale
Walk of Fame is located on the beach
along the east side of A1A at 
Las Olas Boulevard.

Fort Lauderdale Icons to be Inducted into 
Walk of Fame on May 23!