Blogging Black Miami

Deal...No Deal: Political games Miami-style

Just when it appeared that the Umoja Village Project was headed in the right direction and the land would be conveyed to the people to develop affordable housing, The Homeless Trust throws a monkey wrench in already agreed upon commitment between Umoja and the city commission. Trust president Ron Book, a powerful lobbyist, convinced the commission to completely reverse its position on this issue. That move was not only a power play but a reality check for Rameau and anyone else who thinks that the government is actually for the people.

Check out a few blogs that have captured this situation: Umoja Village Burned Again, Umoja Village Saga Continues and Max Rameau and Rich Lobbyist Duke it Out.

After you check those blog posts, share them with your family and friends. If we keep doing what we're doing, we'll keep getting what we got. It's time for a change.

Reaves right to protect parents’ names

About two weeks ago, The Miami Herald ran a story on the controversy that arose when invitations were sent regarding the re-naming of the building of the center in the Jefferson Reaves Park in honor of community activist Everett Stewart. The Herald and the Miami Times dissed for State Representative Darryl Reaves for calling Mayor Carlos Alvarez and bringing the planned festivities to a screeching halt.

By that action Commissioner Audrey Edmonson was forced to explain why she sponsored the re-naming. There were allegations that the late Jennie Reaves, widow of Jefferson Reaves supported the change. Then there were arguments on semantics about naming the building and the park. It was very messy.

Research proved that Jennie Reaves did not actually sign the petition to change the name. Commission records consistently indicate "re-name", not "name". Several commissioners questioned the change and did not support the recommendation. Even more interesting is the input of Antioch Baptist Church past, Rev. Larrie Lovett's assertion that Mrs. Reaves supported the change also.

Hmmm…So why hasn't The Herald provided a follow-up to this situation? They were forwarded more research supporting the position of the Reaves Family. So what's up with that?

Perhaps The Herald doesn't want more egg on their face but they should apologize to Darryl Reaves. He's only doing what any child should do, protect the family name.

Oh yeah, with all the construction going on in Miami, surely there's another building that can be named in honor of Mr. Stewart.