Blogging Black Miami

Jamaican prime minister stresses ties on South Florida visit

JAMAICA

Jamaica's prime minister stressed ties to South Florida's Jamaican community and encouraged more sharing of information on a weekend tour.

Posted on Sun, Mar. 30, 2008

BY TRENTON DANIEL AND JACQUELINE CHARLES

[email protected]

Related Content

• More coverage of the Americas

At a worship service Saturday, Jamaican Prime Minister Bruce Golding reminded Jamaican Americans about the importance of their cultural heritage and stressed the need for strong family values.

''We have to go back to some basics . . . where children were taught manners,'' Golding said in his 15-minute talk with congregants at Maranatha Seventh-Day Adventist Church.

The Miami Gardens church, with a large Jamaican congregation, was the second of three stops on Golding's first official visit with South Florida's burgeoning Jamaican-American community since he was elected in September. [More]

Mayor Alvarez and County Team Meet with Black Residents

One of the major bridge-building/community-building/political moves that somewhat quietly occurred last week was County Mayor Carlos Alvarez’s and other county administrators meeting with black residents on Monday night at New Birth Cathedral of Faith.

Greater Miami NAACP Branch president Rev. Victor Curry set stage for open dialogue with the mayor while also demanding accountability regarding community matters such as transportation, contracts awarded to black businesses and disparate treatment of black employees.

Since Curry had attempted to have such a meeting more than a year ago; many wondered if the Mayor acquiesced because of his upcoming re-election campaign.

Related Link:      Black residents finally meet with Dade mayor

Ringo Cayard arrested on numerous charges

Miami's Haitian community is reeling from the arrest of Haitian community leader Rulx "Ringo" Cayard on Thursday. After a 2 ½ year investigation by the State Attorney's office, Cayard landed in jail on a $500,000 bond.

Ringo Cayard, 55 faces 22 felony charges, including racketeering, grand theft and money laundering. He is chief executive officer of the Haitian American Foundation Inc. (HAFI), which provides social services to Haitian Americans and Haitian immigrants living in South Florida.

Through the investigation of HAFI, it is reported that forged documents were used to secure funding and a $300,000 bonus for Cayard.

 

Col. Brodes Hartley, Jr. Honored for Community Work

 

Harltey, left, with Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart

   

WASHINGTON, DC—Last week, in a Statement for the Congressional Record, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) applauded Col. Brodes Hartley, Jr. for his work in helping provide quality health care to nearly 40,000 patients.

 "Quality health care is such an important issue for our community, and Col. Hartley has made providing quality care his top priority," said Diaz-Balart.  "He developed the "Patient Care Comes First" motto and is committed to ensuring that his organization truly values patients' interests more than the organization. His steadfast commitment to patients will help shape the next generation in healthcare providers."

 Text of Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart's statement for the Congressional Record on Mar. 11: 

Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the work and accomplishments of a distinguished community leader and true humanitarian, Brodes H. Hartley, Jr.  For over two decades Mr. Hartley has done an outstanding job maintaining a high level of care to the nearly 40,000 patients of Community Health of South Dade, Inc.   

The "Patient Care Comes First" motto he developed, demonstrates that he puts patient's interest above those of the organization, creating an environment in which those in need receive the best possible care.  His willingness to take time for concerned patients, as well as to help shape the next generation in healthcare providers, through mentoring, has established him as a community leader.  

Brodes H. Hartley, Jr. has accomplished the goal he set out from the beginning, to deliver safe, compassionate, accessible and culturally competent quality health care service to the people of South Florida.  I am very grateful for his contribution to our community and honored to call him my friend.

Public Meeting Notice: Miami-Dade Transit (MDT)

Don't miss this meeting on the North Corridor Metrorail expansion. Commissioners Barbara Jordan, Dorrin Rolle and Audrey Edmonson are scheduled to attend.

Poll Results: Do you think the students at Miami Edison High School were mistreated by school administration and police?

Yes    70%

No    30%

Miami Norland Basketball Finals on SunSports

Special from the South Beach Hoosier

Finally! Miami Norland vs Boyd Anderson on Sun Sports

Finally!

The Miami Norland High School vs Lauderdale Lakes Boyd Anderson High School 6A title basketball game was televised Saturday the 15th at 3 p.m. on Sun Sports.

Well, that would be the Boys' title, though Sun Sports described it as Girls...
Sun Sports' website read thusly,
http://www.sunsportstv.com/news.jhtml?method=view&news.id=532

FHSAA BOYS BASKETBALL FINALS
(Sun Sports)
This year Sun Sports will televise all 12 of the FHSAA Girl's & Boy's Basketball Finals. The boys Finals air this week on the heels of the girl's Finals which wrapped up last week. Whit Watson calls the play-by-play action with Mark Wise serving as color analyst.
... Sat., 3/15 at 3pm Girls 6A: Miami Norland vs. Boyd Anderson

The encore telecast will be next Sunday, March 23rd at 4 p.m.

Finally, two weeks after the fact, you can see for yourself why the Miami Norland Vikings are
now ranked No. 25 in the USA Today Super 25 national poll.

Typically, with all the aplomb of a dying newspaper gasping on its deathbed, the Miami Herald doesn't even list this game in their Weekend Sports TV box on page 7-D Saturday's Herald.

But don't worry, they compensate for this slight by finding the space to list Sunday night's PBR Bull Riding event in Tacoma!

Over the weekend, I'll be commenting on the two-week delay in televising this ballgame, which only highlights South Florida's continuing Banana Republic sports status. [More…]

Haitian cancer patient needs help

CHARITY

Without help, a Jackson Memorial Hospital cancer patient will be sent home to Haiti, where she is unlikely to receive treatment.

Posted on Sun, Mar. 16, 2008

BY ELINOR J. BRECHER

[email protected]

Related Content

• WANT TO HELP?

Chaumala Laurent came to Miami from Haiti in November with a cancer-ravaged face but a joyous and hopeful heart.

She'll be leaving Jackson Memorial Hospital in a few days, still fighting the disease that ate away the left side of her face.

Gone is the bubbling good cheer that kept the 26-year-old teacher focused on a cure and reconstructive surgery, replaced by a quiet acceptance of whatever comes.

''God is good,'' she said, pointing to the ceiling. ``I do not really feel anxiety because I always ask God to open a door. This time I have to wait.''

The open door is more than a metaphor. She's due to be discharged Monday, and while Haitian-American activists are scrambling for a solution, the open door could be on an airplane bound for Port-au-Prince. [More..]

Don't Sleep On This!: Public meeting for Metrorail expansion

Public meeting for Metrorail expansion

Posted on Tue, Mar. 11, 2008

By MIAMI HERALD STAFF REPORTS

[email protected]

Miami-Dade Transit will hold a public meeting March 25 to present the latest plans for the proposed $526 million Metrorail spur that would run from the Earlington Heights station into the new Miami Intermodal Center.

The meeting will begin around 6 p.m. with an informal open house followed by a formal presentation at 7 p.m. at Transit's Sheila Winitzer Central Administration Building Auditorium, 3300 NW 32nd Ave.

The 2.4-mile MIC-Earlington Heights line is the first of three proposed Metrorail expansions known collectively as the Orange Line, and it is the only one being built without matching federal construction money.

More than 80 percent, or $426 million, is coming from the Miami-Dade half-percent sales tax for transportation, the balance from state transportation funds.

Construction is tentatively set to begin in December, and new train service would start in the late 2011.

The spur will end at a new station and bus terminal that will be built at the intermodal center located on the east side of LeJeune Road adjacent to Miami International Airport.

Direct access from the MIC Metrorail station to the airport will be provided by an automated people mover.

The original meeting, set for late February, was abruptly postponed so county commissioners and Transit administrators could travel to Washington to discuss the latest funding crisis for another piece of the Orange Line: the 9.5-mile, $1.6 billion North Corridor running up Northwest 27th Avenue from 79th street to the Broward County line.

 

Miami Edison unrest not on agenda of previously scheduled community meeting

Crew silent before Edison students

Posted on Wed, Mar. 05, 2008

BY TRENTON DANIEL, PETER BAILEY AND KATHLEEN McGRORY

[email protected] 

Miami-Dade Schools Superintendent Rudy Crew paid a visit Wednesday night to the community still upset about the district's reaction to Friday's fracas at Miami Edison Senior High School -- but he angered students and community leaders by choosing not to address the matter.

The meeting at Miami Edison Middle School -- down the street from the high school -- was the fourth in a series of six community workshops planned weeks before Friday's disturbance. It was intended to be a forum for a discussion on the budget and new academic programs.

Minutes after taking the stage, Crew said he would not be commenting on Friday's events.

''That incident was just that: a sad, unfortunate incident,'' Crew said, adding that most of the students in the school were growing and succeeding academically.

Shortly afterward, about two dozen disappointed parents and students headed for the exits. [More…]

Edison students to continue protest Monday

Two students were released for insufficient evidence while others will have to deal with the legalities surrounding the Friday disturbance at Miami Edison Senior High School. Assistant principal Javier Perez is still the subject of the students' protest which has escalated to their dissatisfaction as to how they were treated when staging the peaceful protest on Friday.

Here is an excerpt of today's Miami herald coverage of the incident.

MIAMI EDISON SENIOR HIGH

Students released from jail

A judge sent home 18 teens arrested after a clash with police. The students say they were protesting the vice principal's behavior.

Posted on Sun, Mar. 02, 2008

BY ROBERT SAMUELS AND TRENTON DANIEL

[email protected]

ALEXIA FODERE/FOR THE MIAMI HERALD

Edison High student Gregory Danny, 15, listens to one of his lawyers, Ariol Eugene, in courtroom 4-1 on Saturday morning. Edison students, 17 in all, were arrested on Friday during a protest against Assistant Principal Javier Perez, who was accused of racism.

» More Photos

A Miami-Dade Circuit judge on Saturday sent home 18 teens who were arrested for their role in a lunchtime melee between students and police at Miami Edison Senior High.

Circuit Judge Barbara Areces said she found insufficient evidence to hold two students in jail, citing vague police arrest affidavits. Sixteen other teens were given home detention until a Monday hearing. [More…]

The Children’s Trust Program Helps Adoption of Foster Care Children

By Michael R. Malone

Martin Avery, 11, wants one. Chad and Brad Mercado, 13-year-old fraternal twins, and their younger brother Salvador, 11, want one, too. Brothers Ray Gomez, 15, and Julio Gomez, 16, want one, too, but have been bounced through the foster care system for so many years that both are hesitant to leave their present living situation.

These kids and dozens of others, all housed in group homes or with foster-care families, are eager for families to adopt them. The Miami Heart Gallery, an initiative spearheaded by The Children's Trust, hopes to make those dreams come true.

Based on a national model, Miami Heart Gallery has enlisted the support of award-winning photographers from Miami and around the country to donate their time and expertise. On successive Saturdays in February, renowned photographers like Nigel Barker, of "America's Next Top Model" fame, brought their telephoto lenses, tripods and quick-action flashes to Jungle Island and to Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden to photograph the kids.

The kids loved it. Most had never heard of, let alone visited, the world-famous Botanic Gardens. So on a bright breezy day, in between trips on the tram to see iguanas, a gigantic Baobab tree and marvel at the huge sculptures of pop icon artist Roy Lichtenstein, the kids got to enjoy the limelight, striking poses for some of the industry's top photographers.

"It was real cool how they took the pictures, the way we got to do our thing," said Ray Gomez, who has been in the foster care system for the past seven years. "The photographers just told us how to pose and to be unique. Sometimes we did our own poses, like with my brother, we were hugging and he put his thumb and I put mine up. It was real alright."

Ray attends Mays Middle School and lives in Goulds in a group home. He's been there for three months, having had to relocate from a previous group home that could no longer offer the services he needed. Julio attends South Dade High School and lives in Homestead with a foster family. Both boys understand that education is the key to their future, enjoy reading and hope to become therapists and teachers when they're older.

Though Ray has a back-up plan, "If I can't be a teacher, I'll be a basketball or football player," he says.

At Fairchild, the photographers shot more than 50 pictures of each child and youth. In total, 70 children will be featured at a museum-quality photo exhibition that opens June 13 at Miami Art Central in South Miami. The photos will be highlighted, too, on a specially designed Web site with audio recordings of each child talking about themselves, their hopes and dreams. The site will also include a video of the development of the Miami Heart Gallery.

The exhibit will later travel for display at the Miami International Airport and then tour to other area sites – to attract the attention of potential families that might adopt.

"Our kids need a place to call home. They need a family, someone who's going to root for them on the bench and help make their dreams and goals come true," said Sabrina Sosa, community relations coordinator for His House Children's Home (HHCH), which has 11 children participating.

His House Children's, privatized two years ago, is listed among top five providers for at-risk children in South Florida. The agency, contracted by Our Kids of Miami-Dade/Monroe, Inc. and Child-Net, Inc. in Broward, provides residential care for 65 children and more than 350 children in foster care. Yet despite those efforts, there are more than 800 children in South Florida awaiting adoption, the overwhelming majority who are African-American.

Sosa stressed that His House is meant to offer only temporary support, and that their goal is to find families for the children. Miami Heart Gallery helps that effort to locate caring, loving families.

"It's exciting to see how many volunteers – photographers, hair stylists, printing studios, and others – have come together to donate their time, expertise and resources to a project that will go a long way towards finding loving parents for so many children," said Modesto E. Abety, president and CEO of The Children's Trust.

Anyone interested in learning more about adopting a foster child can call The Children's Trust Helpline by dialing 211.

Independent Review Panel to meet Feb. 28

Independent Review Panel Meeting
February 28, 2008, 2 p.m.
140 W. Flagler St., Room 908

The meeting is open to the public. 

Background information on IRP (Independent Review Panel)

The Independent Review Panel (IRP) was created to address serious complaints about Miami-Dade Police or other County employees or departments. The IRP is where to go if you wish to be heard by civilian staff that does not work for the police department, trained to listen carefully in a manner that is neutral and unbiased.Learn more   

IRP staff members are Conflict Resolution Specialists that mediate less serious complaints and provide Conflict Resolution training workshops for government employees and the public. Staff is available for speaking engagements and complaint management consultation.Learn more 

Brochures are available in English , Español , and Haitian Kreyol .

For ordinance, membership, terms or qualifications please click here.

City of Homestead Calendar - This Week

Monday, February 11, 2008

2:00 PM

Bid Opening: Bid 20011 (Coarse Aggregates) & Bid 200812 (Cylinder Head & Liner Rebuilding)

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

5:30 PM

Committee of the Whole (COW) Meeting

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

5:00 PM

Education Committee Meeting

Thursday, February 14, 2008

2:00 PM

Development Review Committee (DRC) Meeting

City of Miami Calendar - February

	All
	January, 2007February, 2007March, 2007April, 2007May, 2007June, 2007July, 2007August, 2007September, 2007October, 2007November, 2007December, 2007January, 2008February, 2008March, 2008April, 2008May, 2008June, 2008July, 2008August, 2008September, 2008October, 2008November, 2008December, 2008January, 2009February, 2009March, 2009April, 2009May, 2009June, 2009July, 2009August, 2009September, 2009October, 2009November, 2009December, 2009
	Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1 2 3 4 5 10:00 AM: Civil Service Board 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 9:00 AM: City Commission 15 16 17 18 19 6:00 PM: Civilian Investigative Panel 20 7:00 PM: Planning Advisory Board 21 22 23 24 25 7:00 PM: Zoning Board 26 27 28 9:00 AM: City Commission 29

Board of County Commission Committee Meetings - February

> 02/11/08 -  Recreation and Cultural Affairs Committee (RCAC)

> 02/11/08 -  NLCRA Workshop

> 02/12/08 -  Governmental Operations & Environment Cmte. (GOEC)

> 02/12/08 -  Budget and Finance Committee (BFC)

> 02/13/08 -  Economic Development & Human Services Cmte (EDHSC)

> 02/13/08 -  Transit Committee (TC)

> 02/14/08 -  Airport and Tourism Committee (ATC)

> 02/14/08 -  Health and Public Safety Committee (HPSC)

> 02/19/08 -  Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners

> 02/21/08 -  Service Awards, Regular and Zoning

> 02/21/08 -  Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

> 02/25/08 -  CANCELLED - Sunshine Meeting

Mom and Pop Small Business Grants Available

Attention small business owners! Grants are available for your business through the The Mom And Pop Small Business Grant Program. The program provides financial and technical assistance to qualifying small businesses approved for funding.

Contact the district office where your business is located for applications and guideline information.

• Search for your Commission District office location
• View the 2007-2008 application schedule
• View Mom & Pop success stories 

Commissioner Sally Heyman joins the Hispanic Coalition to sponsor a U.S. Passport Day in District 4

(Miami-Dade County, FL) -- In continuing with her ongoing efforts to "Bring Government Closer to the People", Miami-Dade County Commissioner Sally A. Heyman has joined The Hispanic Coalition to sponsor a U.S. Passport Day in District 4.  On Friday, February 15th from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. those persons interested in applying for a new or renewed U.S. Passport can go to the North Shore Park & Youth Center located at 501 72nd Street in Miami Beach.

"Hosting this event in my district will allow those applying for a passport the ability to have face to face contact with members of the Miami Passport Agency without having to travel to downtown Miami to do so," said Commissioner Heyman.

Each new U.S. Passport applicant must have:  a government issued I.D.; two (2) identical passport size color photos; proof of U.S. Citizenship (certified copy of birth certificate or original Naturalization Certificate -no photocopies will be accepted).  If you are applying for a passport for your minor children, you need to bring the child's birth certificate listing parent(s) names.  If both parents cannot attend, then a notarized consent form signed by the non-appearing parent must be submitted with the application or the applying parent must submit evidence of sole custody.  The cost for a NEW adult passport (16 yrs old and older) is $100; for a minor (15 and younger) $85.  Payment is accepted in the form of a personal check or money order made payable to:  U.S. Department of State.

To RENEW a passport, you must have your previous, undamaged passport, issued with the past 15 years; you were at least 16 years of age when your last passport was issued; you still have the same name as in your previous passport (or can legally document your name change); submit two (2) identical passport size color photos and pay $75 with a personal check or money order made payable to: U.S. Department of State.

For more information, please call Commissioner Heyman's district office at 305-787-5999.

Miami-Dade County Black History Month Events

Celebrate the rich heritage of African-American History this month with a host of County activities sure to enlighten and inspire you. February 1-29, 2008 Black History Timeline Exhibit A look at African contributions to American history through a multi-media, interactive exhibit by Kinad, Inc. Stephen P. Clark Center 111 NW 1st Street Miami, Florida Details: 305-375-4606 Download printable calendar www.kinad.org Miami-Dade Transit Black History Bus Tour Featuring significant historical sites This year's tour includes an excursion to Virginia Key Beach, which once served as Miami's blacks-only beach in the days of segregation. Other stops include Overtown's historic Lyric Theatre and the Dorsey House, home to Miami's first black millionaire; the E.W. F. Stirrup house and Charlotte Jane Cemetery in Coconut Grove; and Georgette's Tea Room in Brownsville, a respite for black celebrities in the 40s and 50s and where Billie Holiday kept a permanent residence. Reservations Required To schedule a tour: 786-469-5028 www.miamidade.gov/transit/blackhis.asp The M Ensemble Company, Inc. Levee James, a dramatic play set in 1920's Georgia) February 7 - March 2nd Performances at 8 p.m. and 3 p.m. 12320 West Dixie Highway Gen. Admission: $25; Students/seniors - $20. Details: 305-895-0335 or visit Culture Shock Miami Oh Freedom Over Me An exhibit celebrating American Voting Rights and Responsibilities Miami-Dade County Main Library 101 West Flagler Street Miami, Florida Details: 305- 375-BOOK Miami-Dade County Public Schools Educational seminars, tours, Annual Theodore Gibson Competition Annual Black History Culture and Brain Bowl Details on events: Sherrilyn Scott: 305-995-1971 or [email protected] Details on tours: Anita McGruder 305-995-2490 or [email protected] Friday, February 15, 2008 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Gospel Concert and Marketplace Featuring The Doe Family gospel singers Sponsored by Arts on the Way Music, dance, poetry, Voter Education and vendors Stephen P. Clark Center 111 NW 1st Street Miami, Florida Details:  305-375-4606 Saturday, February 16, 2008 7:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. 4th Annual Valentine Old School Fundraiser Cruise On the Aquasino South Beach Gaming Yacht Miami Beach Marina 390 Alton Road South Beach Ticketed event $45 per person/$80 per pair (ship capacity 600) Proceeds benefit Young Pillars Scholarship Fund Details: 305- 375-4606 Saturday, February 23, 2008 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Black History Extravaganza All Day Free Family and Community Event Designated stop for Miami-Dade Transit Black History Tour Featuring food, music, fashion shows, art, entertainment and vendors African Heritage Cultural Arts Center 6161 NW 22nd Avenue Details:  305-375-4606 Saturday, February 23, 2008 1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Virginia Key Beach Grand Re-opening All Day Free Family and Community Event Featuring concert with Jeffrey Osborne 4020 Virginia Beach Drive Details: 305-960-4600 www.virginiakeybeachpark.net Friday, February 29, 2008 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. Concert and African Marketplace Featuring entertainment and vendors Stephen P. Clark Center 111 NW 1st Street Miami, Florida Details: 305-375-4606

Miami-Dade Chamber forum a step in the right direction

The Miami-Dade Chamber's recent forum was successful based on coverage by the Miami Herald. Hopefully, local Black media will also publish their perspective on the event.

The Herald focused on Bill Diggs' criticism of Carnival Cruise Lines lack of Blacks in management. Of course Carnival denied that but Diggs' must be commended for his boldness in speaking the truth. It was somewhat bothersome that The Herald chose to focus on one comment during the question and answer period rather than specific details in resolving problems for Black businesses.

Key points were made about the social climate for black professionals, the brain-drain, accountability and participation in community decision-making. Blogging Black Miami will focus more blog posts on black businesses and business owners. We can improve South Florida but only if we stay in South Florida to do so.

Black leader: Hold firms liable for community's woes

Black business people must hold politicians and major corporations accountable, the president of a business group said Thursday.

Posted on Fri, Feb. 08, 2008

BY SCOTT ANDRON

[email protected]

Bill Diggs is president and chief executive officer of the Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce.

• William Diggs: Hold companies accountable

A leader of Miami's black chamber of commerce criticized one of the region's most prominent corporations for its record on diversity, during a speech on the state of black business Thursday morning.

''Carnival Cruise Lines is one of the largest corporations in the world, and of course they're based here,'' said William E. Diggs, Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce president. ``You can't tell me of an African-American executive they have on the staff.''

Diggs' comments came during a question-and-answer session after a speech in which Diggs urged black professionals to be outspoken advocates for their communities. Asked about Diggs' remarks, Carnival issued a statement:

``Carnival Cruise Lines is a global company with more than 35,000 employees shipboard and shoreside. We have many black employees, both from the U.S. and from a variety of other countries, in management positions throughout the Carnival organization. The diversity of our employee base is one of our company's greatest attributes.'' [More…]

Stop Complaining and Do Something for Your Community!

ANNOUNCING FREE GOSPEL SUNDAYS AT THE ARSHT CENTER – A MUSICAL CELEBRATION WITH GOSPEL AM1490 WMBM

Inaugural Concert February 24 @ 4 p.m.

Knight Concert Hall

   

MIAMI, FL February 5, 2008 – Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County announced today a thrilling new ongoing partnership with Gospel AM1490 WMBM to host FREE GOSPEL SUNDAYS AT THE ARSHT CENTER, a year-round series of FREE monthly Gospel concerts in the Center's acoustically superb John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall. All performances are free and open to the public.

   

"This new free Gospel series represents another major step toward fulfilling the Center's commitment to offer all segments of the community access to a word-class facility and quality live entertainment. It is particularly meaningful that we were able to partner on this new initiative with an organization like WMBM that shares the Center's dedication to serving the people of South Florida," said Lawrence Wilker, interim president and CEO of The Arsht Center.

   

"WMBM is honored to have a new partner eager to embrace the Gospel community. Gospel music has played an integral role in history.   Together, we look forward to bringing all genres of South Florida's best and brightest Gospel artists to the Arsht Center for the entire community to enjoy," said Bishop Victor T. Curry, president and general manager of Gospel AM1490 WMBM and host of Morning Glory and Tuesday Talk.

   

The series launches on Sunday, February 24 – as part of the Center's Black History Month festivities – with a spectacular afternoon of Gospel music featuring nearly 200 performers, including national recording artist Johnny Sanders, the Florida Memorial University Gospel Choir, Pastor Avery Jones and the Avery Jones Singers, and New Jerusalem Primitive Baptist Church Choir.

   

"The lineup for Free Gospel Sundays represents Miami's spectacular pool of talent and I am very happy to see that the first concert showcases many performers from my district," said Miami-Dade County District 2 Commissioner Dorrin D. Rolle.

   

"I commend the Center on this new initiative and the involvement of the Florida Memorial University Gospel Choir.  I urge more choirs and gospel performers from my district and all over the community to participate in this series," said Miami-Dade County Vice Chairwoman Barbara J. Jordan.

   

Free Gospel Sundays performances have been scheduled for March 30, April 27 and May 25 and will include groups affiliated with churches throughout Miami-Dade County. The lineup for each upcoming performance will be announced as details become available. The series will then continue in Fall 2008 with year-round monthly performances. Church groups and choirs interested in participating are invited to contact Debra Toomer, WMBM Director of Marketing, at (305) 769-1100 or via email at [email protected].

   

   

TICKET RESERVATIONS

Admission is FREE. Free tickets can be reserved in advance through the Arsht Center box office at (305) 949-6722 or online at www.arshtcenter.org. Tickets will also be available on performance days in the Knight Concert Hall starting at 12pm, subject to availability.

   

The Arsht Center is made possible by the public support of the Miami-Dade County  Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners . The Center also receives generous support from private and corporate contributions to the Performing Arts Center Foundation of Greater Miami, and additional public support from City of Miami Omni Community Redevelopment Agency and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Local FAMU Alumni Group Elects Officers

At the February meeting of the Miami-Dade Chapter of the Florida A&M University National Alumni Association, the local alumni leadership team was elected to serve throughout 2008 and 2009. "We are committed to partner with local public and private schools to recruit quality students, increase fundraising for the University, strengthen relations with local and state political leaders and increase the roll of dues paying alumni members."

The Association plans to reach out to generations of FAMU Rattlers and partner with youth-oriented organizations to ensure that Florida A&M and other HBCUs have a rich pool of intelligent, talented students from which to choose. They also encourage networking and fellowship with other Rattlers and friends at their next meeting, 8:30 a.m., Saturday, February 16 at Piccadilly's, 13250 Biscayne Boulevard, North Miami.

Chapter Officers 2008-2009
President	Vanessa W. Byers
Vice-President	Romania Wilson
Recording Secretary	Denetra D. Collins
Corresponding Secretary	Natasha C. Stubbs
Treasurer	Dr. Art E. Woodard
Financial Secretary	Acquanetta B. Buggs
Business Manager	Arthur L. Simms
Parliamentarian	Carlton Jerkins, Jr.
Chaplain	Woodard B. Vaught

Website: www.miamidaderattlers.org

e-mail: [email protected]

Check this blog regularly for information on local Florida A&M activities. If you are an alum of another HBCU, feel free to send us your news and info also.

Embattled minister easily finds support

Friendship Baptist Church minister Gaston Smith found supporters amongst his parishioners and fellow ministers. Smith was arrested for misspending a County grant. A portion of the funds were given to Karym Ventures, a group with ties to City of Miami Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones.

Bishop Victor T. Curry, president of the local NAACP, says the organization will launch an investigation. Stay tuned.

The State of Black Business

The Miami-Dade Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a forum on the state of black business, Thursday, 9 AM at Florida Memorial University. Here are the questions to be discussed.

• What has been done with all of the money that has been allocated for the urban core?
• Why do we not hold our politicians accountable for their actions in our community?
• Who is getting all the contracts for minority vendors at the county and various city levels?
• Should black businesses be given more opportunities to compete for major contracts?
• Why are we not supporting our black schools and their causes?
• Should we expect fair and reasonable housing allowances to be made for inner-city residents?

Those questions are great jumping off points but will the session be tantamount to mental masturbation or will an action plan be developed and actually put in motion?

The sad reality is that many of our leaders and organizations are so inextricably tied to the powers that be, that any real progress is doubtful as long as there is dependency on others for personal survival.

I do hope that the Chamber's event is meaningful, successful and productive. If any of you attend, get back with me with your perspective.

Celebrate Black History Month at Miami-Dade Public Libraries

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:    

Media Contact:

Victoria Galan, Public Affairs Officer

Tel. 305.375.5180; [email protected]

 

Vinora Hamilton, Public Information Officer

Tel. 305.375.3327; [email protected]

 

Acclaimed authors, music, dance, historical exhibitions

and theatrical performances to commemorate Black History Month

at Miami-Dade Public Libraries

 

(MIAMI, January 28, 2008) – The Miami-Dade Public Library System will celebrate Black History Month with some of the most compelling authors of today, plus an extensive lineup of musical and theatrical presentations, dance performances, cultural workshops and outstanding exhibitions.

Book lovers of all ages are in for a treat as several authors, including New York Times Bestselling Author Carl Weber - Something on the Side- and acclaimed author Edwidge Danticat - Brother, I'm Dying, will read from their latest work and sign autographs at various branch libraries, while Jerry Pinkney, award-winning illustrator of more than 75 children's picture books, will share his success story at the Main Library.

Dr. Ivan Yaeger, inventor of a state-of-the-art prosthetic arm will conduct a series of technology workshops for young entrepreneurs, and Professor Valerie Patterson, of Florida International University, will trace the evolution of hip-hop from the 70s to the 21^st century in a multi-media presentation entitled "From Black Power to Black Empowerment."

Explore the history of the civil rights movement with Bob Devin Jones, as Harry T. Moore, founder of the Progressive Voters League, and Ersula Knox Odom as Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, visionary educator. The exhibition Oh Freedom Over Me, at the Main Library, offers a visual account of the civil rights era with powerful images from the Freedom Summer Campaign of 1964.

 

All programs are free and open to the public. Registration may be required for some workshops. Please visit www.mdpls.org, for full schedule of events or call 305-375-2665.

Black History Month programs are funded in part by CITI, and supported by the Florida Humanities Council, the City of Miami Beach, the City of Coral Gables, Homestead Center for the Arts, and the Key Biscayne Rotary Foundation .Media sponsors include Caribbean Today, The Miami Herald, Miami Times, WEDR -99 JAMZ and WSVN-TV.

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Program Lineup:

 

Authors and Illustrator

 

Nanette Orange - Soul Whisperings- Poems for Victorious Living - Local author and poet Nanette Orange shares her timeless poems of love and romance, family sanctity, self-awareness, and nature's divinity. From rhyming stanzas to emotionally charged free verses, Orange's writing uplifts with a deep sincerity anyone can appreciate.

 

Saturday, Feb. 2, 2 p.m. - West Kendall Regional – 10201 Hammocks Blvd – 305-385-7135

 

Edwidge Danticat - Selected as part of Oprah's Book Club for her novel Breath, Eyes, Memory, the acclaimed author will share from her latest work, Brother, I'm Dying.

 

Saturday, Feb. 9, 2 p.m. - Edison Branch - 531 NW 62^nd St. – 305-757-0668

 

Toni Simmons - Author Toni Simmons brings life to her work, The Cheese Chase: Why Dogs Chase Cats, with rhythm, songs and audience participation.

 

Thursday, Feb. 14, 10 a.m. Palm Springs North – 17601 NW 78 Ave. 305-820-8564

Thursday, Feb. 14, 4 p.m. Miami Lakes – 6699 Windmill Gate Rd. 305-822-6520

Saturday, Feb. 16, 11 a.m. West Dade Regional – 9445 Coral Way – 305- 553-1134

Saturday, Feb. 16, 1:30 p.m. West Flagler – 5050 W. Flagler St. 305-442-8710

 

Carl Weber - For years, Carl Weber has caught the attention of critics and readers alike. In 2005 Weber made his debut on the New York Times bestseller list with The Preacher's Son. His next work, So You Call Yourself a Man, also appeared on that list as did She Ain't the One, co-authored with Mary B. Morrison. The author will share his latest work Something on The Side - a tale of friendship and love, sex and betrayal.

Saturday, Feb. 16, 2 p.m. – North Dade Regional - 2455 NW 183^rd Street – 305-625-6424

 

Jerry Pinkney – Children's Book Illustrator - This award-winning children's book illustrator will share his success story and the exciting creative process. Pinkney has illustrated more than 75 children's picture books including classics such as The Ugly Duckling, Aesop's Fables, The Little Red Hen and The Jungle Book.

 

Thursday, Feb. 21, 10:30 a.m. Main Library – 101 W Flagler Street – 305-375-2665

Thursday, Feb. 21, 4 p.m.- California Club Branch – 850 Ives Dairy Road – 305-770-3155

 

Geoffrey Philp author of Grandpa Sydney's Anancy Stories, Benjamin, My Son and other works, shares how his Caribbean roots inspire him to write novels for children. Philp's latest work, Grandpa Sydney's Anancy Stories, draws on the rich oral tradition of Anancy stories that are told and re-told in West Africa, Jamaica and the Caribbean.

Tuesday, Feb. 26, 10:30 a.m. - Lemon City Branch – 430 NE 61^st St. 305-757-0662

 

Music and Dance:

 

Sounds of the Caribbean with Reggie Paul

Reggie Paul, known for his smooth vocal style and fine guitar playing, will offer an interactive program of music and dance for kids. Children will be introduced to a repertoire of musical styles including light rock, reggae, calypso, merengue, and jazz.

Saturday, Jan. 26, 2 p.m. Sunny Isles Beach Branch – 18070 Collins Ave. 305-682-0726
Tuesday, Jan. 29, 6:30 p.m. - Naranja Branch – 27060 S Dixie Highway – 305-242-7935

Thursday, Jan. 31, 10 a.m. South Shore Branch- 131 Alton Road – 305-535-4223

Thursday, Jan. 31, 2 p.m. Country Walk Branch - 15433 SW 137 Avenue -305-293-4577

Monday, Feb. 11, 10:30 a.m. California Club Branch - 850 Ives Dairy Road – 305-770-3155

Tuesday, Feb. 19, 10:30 a.m. Model City Branch – 2211 NW 54 St. – 305-636-2233

Tuesday, Feb. 19, 3:30 p.m. West Kendall Regional -10201 Hammocks Blvd – 305-385-7135

Wednesday, Feb. 20, 4 p.m. Lakes of the Meadow Branch – 4284 SW 152^nd Avenue – 305-222-2149

 

Juba This Juba That

The Library System's troupe of storytellers will entertain with a special traveling performance of poetry, creative dramatics and songs.

Tuesday, Feb. 5, 10 a.m. Model City Branch - 2211 NW 54 St. – 305-636-2233

Thursday, Feb. 7, 3 p.m. Concord Branch - 3882 S.W. 112th Ave – 305-207-1344

Tuesday, Feb. 12, 3 p.m Coconut Grove Branch – 2875 McFarlane Road – 305-442-8695

Wednesday, Feb. 13, 10:30 a.m. North Central Branch - 9590 NW 27 Ave – 305- 693-4541

Thursday, Feb. 14, 10 a.m. Allapattah Branch- 1799 NW 35th Street – 305- 638-6086

Tuesday, Feb. 19, 10:30 a.m. Opa locka Branch- 780 Fisherman Street – 305- 688-1134

Wednesday, Feb. 20, 10:30 a.m. Miami Springs Branch - 700 S. Royal Poinciana Blvd. – 305- 884-2575

Wednesday, Feb. 20, 3:30 p.m. Doral Branch - 10785 NW 58th Street – 305- 716-9598

Thursday, Feb. 21, 10 a.m. Fairlawn Branch - 6376 SW 8th Street – 305- 261-1571

Thursday, Feb. 21, 3 p.m. Hialeah Gardens Branch - 11300 NW 87th Court – 305- 820-8530

Tuesday, Feb. 26, 7 p.m. South Dade Regional - 10750 SW 211 Street- 305-233-8146

Thursday, Feb. 28, 10 a.m. Culmer Branch - 350 NW 13th Street – 305- 579-5322

Thursday, Feb. 28, 3:30 p.m. Tamiami Branch - 13250 S.W. 8th Street – 305-223-4758

 

Freddick Bratcher and Company Contemporary Dance Theatre presents
a storydance: A creative interpretation of the Anansi stories

Anansi and his cast of characters will leap from the storybook pages as this magical folk tale comes to life through dance, music and narration.

Wednesday, Feb. 6, 10 a.m. - Main Library, 101 W Flagler Street – 305-375-2665

Saturday, Feb, 16, 11 a.m. West Kendall Regional - 10201 Hammocks Blvd – 305-385-7135

Saturday, Feb. 23, 11 a.m. – Coral Gables Branch - 3443 Segovia Street – 305-442-8706

 

Write your own Hip-Hop song with renowned Jazz Musician and Teacher Nicole Yarling

Thursday, Feb. 7, 4:30 p.m. - West Dade Regional - 10201 Hammocks Blvd – 305-385-7135

Thursday, Feb. 21, 3:30 pm -Little River Branch- 160 NE 79th Street- 305- 751-8689

 

Jamaican Folk Revue

Norma Darby leads this well known group, which uses folklore to educate about Jamaican culture.

Saturday, Feb. 9, 11 a.m. Coral Reef Branch – 9211 Coral Reef Drive – 305-233-8324

Saturday, Feb. 9, 2 p.m. - South Dade Regional - 10750 SW 211 Street- 305-233-8146

 

Miami String Project

Learn about the relationship between African drums, violin, cello, and bass with this dynamic Youth String Chamber Orchestra.

Saturday, Feb, 23, 2 p.m. Edison Branch - 531 NW 62^nd St. – 305-757-0668

 

Theatrical Performances

 

Faith, Scholarship, Service: Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune

Travel back to 1954 to meet the founder of Bethune-Cookman College in Daytona Beach, Florida. Ersula Knox Odom portrays Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune a visionary educator, civil rights activist and presidential advisor. Odom shares stories about Bethune's life and accomplishments, and her thoughts about the Supreme Court's landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision.

 

Saturday, Feb. 9, 2 p.m. - Coral Reef Branch - 9211 Coral Reef Drive – 305-233-8324

Saturday, Feb. 16, 1:30 p.m. South Dade Regional - 10750 SW 211 Street- 305-233-8146

 

Bea Peskoe Lunchtime Lecture Series

Actor and scholar Leroy Mitchell, Jr. portrays James Weldon Johnson, a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance. Mitchell will entertain dialog about Weldon Johnson and his impact on civil rights, arts and humanities.

Monday, Feb. 4, noon - 1 p.m. Homestead Branch - 700 N Homestead Blvd – 305- 246-0168

 

Harry T. Moore - America's first civil rights martyr

Before civil right marches and bus boycotts Harry T. Moore worked in Jim Crow Florida to organize the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and the Progressive Voters League. In 1951, a bomb, placed under his bedroom ended Moore's life. Writer, director and performer Bob Devin Jones portrays Moore on the eve of his tragic death in 1951.

Saturday, March 1, 2 p.m. - North Dade Regional – 2455 NW 183^rd Street – 305-625-6424

 

Workshops

 

Technology Leaders Initiative Program

This unique hands-on invention and entrepreneurship program will offer children a real-world learning experience. Dr. Ivan Yaeger, inventor of a state-of-the-art prosthetic arm, will guide participants through the creative process in this nine-part workshop series.  Registration is required.

 

North Dade Regional - 2455 NW 183^rd Street – 305-625-6424

Black History Presentation – Wednesday, January 23, 4-5 p.m.

Lessons 1 & 2 – Wednesday, Jan. 30 – 4-6 p.m

Lessons 3 & 4 – Wednesday, Feb. 6, 4-6 p.m.

Lessons 5 & 6 – Wednesday, Feb. 13, 4-6 p.m.

Lessons 7 & 8 – Wednesday, Feb.20, 4-6 p.m.

Lesson 9 – Wednesday, Feb. 27, 4-5 pm - Book & certificate ceremony 5-6 pm

 

Hip-Hop Lecture Series

Valerie L. Patterson, assistant professor in the School of Public Administration at Florida International University presents "From Black Power to Black Empowerment," a multi-media presentation and discussion that traces the evolution of hip-hop culture, from the 70s to the 21^st century.

Saturday, Feb. 2, 2 p.m. - Coral Reef Branch - 9211 Coral Reef Drive – 305-233-8324

Tuesday, Feb. 12, 6 p.m. - Golden Glades Branch - 100 NE166 St. – 305-787-1544

Tuesday, Feb. 19, 7 p.m. -North Dade Regional – 2455 NW 183^rd Street – 305-625-6424

Saturday, Feb. 23, 2 p.m. -South Dade Regional - 10750 SW 211 Street- 305-233-8146

 

Jewelry Making with African Beads

Explore Black History through the art of beading. Wendy Ross of the Bead Boutique will discuss how beads were used throughout history, and in today's society for health and well being. Registration required.

Saturday, Feb. 2, 2 p.m. - South Miami Branch – 6000 Sunset Drive – 305- 667-6121

 

Adinkra Symbols Workshops

Under the direction of artist Brenda Jordan, children will explore the symbolism of an ancient African language by designing and painting a panel for themselves, in this interactive and educational workshop.

Saturday, Feb. 2, 11 a.m. Key Biscayne Branch – 299 Crandon Blvd – 305- 361-6134

Saturday, Feb. 9, 2 p.m. West Flagler Branch - 5050 W. Flagler St. 305-442-8710

Saturday, Feb. 16, 11 a.m. Miami Beach Regional - 227 22^nd Street- 305- 535-4219

Saturday, Feb.16, 3 p.m. North Shore - 7501 Collins Avenue- 305- 864-5392

Saturday, Feb. 23, 1p.m. Opa-locka Branch - 780 Fisherman Street – 305- 688-1134

Saturday, Feb. 23, 4 p.m. California Club Branch - 850 Ives Dairy Road – 305-770-3155

 

"Read around the Town" - a multicultural journey of stories, games and hands-on activities with storyteller and librarian Melinda Munger

Bring your child in for our exciting four-week literacy program, for children 7-10 years.

 

Tuesdays, Feb., 5, 12, 19 & 26, 3:30 p.m. - Culmer/Overtown Branch - 350 NW 13th Street – 305- 579-5322

(Sponsored in partnership with The Friends of the North Miami Public Library and the Dade Community Foundation).

 

Art Exhibitions:

Oh Freedom Over Me

January 5 – March 30, 2008

Main Library Auditorium, 101 W. Flagler Street, Miami - 305-375-2665

 

Celebrating American voting rights and responsibilities, this exhibition includes some of the most significant documentary images recorded during the Civil Rights era and taken during the Freedom Summer campaign of 1964.

Through the Southern Documentary Project, photographers and activists Matt Heron, George Ballis and David Prince aimed at creating a visual account of the rapid social changes taking place in Mississippi and

other parts of the South. The exhibition is curated and organized by the Center for Documentary Studies at Duke University.

 

100 Years of Service: The Alpha Kappa Alpha Story

January 10 – February 3^rd, 2008

North Dade Regional Library, 2455 NW 183 St., Miami – 305-625-6424

 

In celebration of the 100-year anniversary of Alpha Kappa Alpha, this display will feature books, photographs and historical objects from the archive of the Gamma Zeta Omega, Miami Chapter. Founded in 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha is the world's oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American college-educated women. Important literary members include Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou, and Alice Walker. The history of the Miami Chapter, founded in 1940, will be the focus of this wonderful celebratory display.

Celebrate Black History Month at the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts

THE ARSHT CENTER CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH

PERFORMANCES BY MUSIC LEGENDS MAVIS STAPLES AND THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA; FREE CONCERTS OF BLUES, SOUL, AND GOSPEL; AND THE INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED MUSIC AND DANCE TROUPE, PERU NEGRO

 

PLUS

THE LARGEST-EVER EXHIBIT OF '50s AND '60s NIGHTCLUB BILLBOARDS FROM OVERTOWN'S VIBRANT "LITTLE BROADWAY" ERA

Miami, FL January 31, 2008 – In honor of Black History Month, the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County is proud to present a series of activities, concerts, and a major historical exhibit celebrating African heritage throughout February.

The exciting and diverse lineup of family-friendly activities includes:

Overtown Rhythm & Soul: An Exhibition of '50s and '60s Nightclub Billboards from Miami's "Little Broadway"

FREE ADMISSION

Count Basie, B.B.King, Duke of Earl, Bo Diddley, Little Eva, Etta James, Ben E. King, The Dells, Nina Simone, Patti Labelle, and Bill Haley are just a few of the many top stars featured in this dazzling retrospective. Relive the vibrant days of Overtown nightlife, when Miami's historic neighborhood was the place to catch America's reining jazz, blues and R&B entertainers. The Arsht Center is proud to host the largest-ever showing of classic billboards from The Black Archives' Clyde Killens/Sam Rabin collection. It is at once a richly hued recreation of a unique moment in our city's past and a stirring tribute to one of the most fruitful eras in the history of American music. "Overtown Rhythm & Soul" marks the Arsht Center's first-ever temporary art exhibit and the beginning of a new tradition of visual arts at the Center.

Saturday, February 9, and Sunday, February 10 , Noon – 7 pm

Carnival Studio Theater

For information, visit www.arshtcenter.org.

Lecture by Dr. Dorothy J. Fields, historian, archivist

FREE ADMISSION

The public is invited to learn more about the nightclub billboards in this exhibit and how Overtown came to have one of the most thriving music scenes in the country from the founder of The Black Archives, History and Research Foundation of South Florida.

Saturday, February 9, 4 p.m.

Carnival Studio Theater

 

Free Concert on the Plaza - Blues and soul man Joey Gilmore

FREE ADMISSION

Miami-based artist Joey Gilmore kicks off the fourth installment of The Arsht Center's free multicultural music festival – Target Globalbeat. With a musical style reminiscent of blues legends from the 1940s and '50s, Gilmore has shared the stage with artists James Brown, Etta James, Bobby Bland, Little Milton, Johnny Taylor and others. Make a day of it! Come for the concert, catch the exhibit, tour the Center, enjoy the strolling street performers and take part in all the activities for kids.

Saturday, February 9, 3 p.m.

Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza for the Arts

Mavis Staples and The Blind Boys of Alabama

A Sunday afternoon of Gospel Music!  Mavis Staples is an iconic musical voice. With both her family group, the Staple Singers, and as a current solo artist in her own right, she has helped to define much of what is righteous and soulful in American music for more than 50 years. The Blind Boys of Alabama have spread the message of soul and gospel music for more than six decades, garnering four Grammy® Awards along the way.

Generously underwritten by Betsy and George Sherman; Kevin J. King; Roberto and Jeff Kirsch; Pathman Lewis, LLP

Sunday, February 10, 4 p.m.

Knight Concert Hall

Tickets $15 - $60

For tickets, visit www.arshtcenter.org or call (305) 949-6722.

Perú Negro

A Chivas 18 Presentation

Perú Negro, a dynamic group of more than 20 singers, dancers, and musicians, celebrates Peru's rich African heritage in an evening the Village Voice describes as "an inspiring night of black pride, South American style." Their high-energy show, a dazzling combo of celebratory dances and vibrant live music, bring to life the folkloric history of their ancestors.

Generously underwritten by Morgan Lewis & Bockius, LLP; BiscayneAmericas Funds; Anice and David Shpilberg.

Saturday, February 23, 8 p.m.

Knight Concert Hall

Tickets $15 - $48

For tickets, visit www.arshtcenter.org or call (305) 949-6722.

Free Gospel Sunday

FREE ADMISSION

The Arsht Center's month-long tribute culminates with a FREE gospel music extravaganza in the Knight Concert Hall featuring several of South Florida's acclaimed choirs and a special guest appearance by a national recording artist. Additional details will be announced soon.

Sunday, February 24, 4 p.m.

Knight Concert Hall

To reserve free tickets, visit www.arshtcenter.org or call (305) 949-6722.

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County is made possible by the public support of the Miami-Dade County Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners. The Arsht Center also receives generous support from private and corporate contributions to the Performing Arts Center Foundation of Greater Miami through its Alliance Membership Program, City of Miami Omni Community Redevelopment Agency and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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Press Contacts:        
Suzette Espinosa

(786) 468-2221
[email protected]               Alexis Feldman

(786) 468-2228
[email protected]       
Editor's Note:
related high-resolution photos can be downloaded directly from The Arsht Center press room at www.arshtcenter.org/press

 

About Adrienne Arsht Center for Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County

Adrienne Arsht Center for Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County is Miami-Dade County's largest ever public/private-sector partnership, comprised of an $150 million private capital campaign conducted by the Performing Arts Center Foundation and public funding drawn primarily from the County's Convention Development Tax revenues, as well as the City of Miami Omni Redevelopment District Community Redevelopment Agency. Greatly enhancing the artistic and educational opportunities in South Florida, The Arsht Center also will have significant and long-term economic benefits for the city and the region.

The Arsht Center, designed by world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli of Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects, includes the 2,400-seat Sanford and Dolores Ziff Ballet Opera House, the 2,200-seat Knight Concert Hall, the 200-seat black box Carnival Studio Theater, the Peacock Education Center, the restored Carnival Art Deco Tower, and the Parker and Vann Thomson Plaza for the Arts, which unites the Center buildings across Biscayne Boulevard, providing a magnificent setting for outdoor entertainment and informal gatherings. The key members of the design team include theater planning and design consultant Joshua Dachs of Fisher Dachs Associates, Inc. and acoustician Russell Johnson of ARTEC, Inc., both of whom worked on the project since its inception.

The Arsht Center is a Miami venue not only for its four resident companies (Concert Association of Florida, Florida Grand Opera, Miami City Ballet, and New World Symphony), but also for many smaller South Florida arts organizations that will perform in its theaters on a regular basis, as well as for the finest popular and classical performances from around the world. With state-of-the-art performance facilities in Miami for the first time, The Arsht Center offers South Florida audiences the best and most diverse theater, music, and dance—with a dedication to entertain, challenge, and educate all segments of the community. For more information, visit www. arshtcenter.org.

Suzette Espinosa

Media and Public Relations Manager

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County

1300 Biscayne Boulevard

Miami, FL 33132

T: (786) 468-2221

F: (786) 468.2003

[email protected]

FLAMENCO FESTIVAL MIAMI, Feb. 7 – 9. Get the best seats in the house by ordering a Premium 3-Pack. Call  305.949.6722 or visit www.arshtcenter.org.

Commissioner Spence-Jones linked to payouts from arrested minister

Last night's continuing report on the arrest of Rev. Gaston Smith linked the minister to embattled City of Miami commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones. According to reports, Spence-Jones was paid as a consultant from funds from the grant. This is the grant for which is does not appear as though any work has been done?

This is really ugly, folks. Over relatively small amounts of money, Miami's black community continues to regress. Although the scandals in the community tend to center around individuals, the entire black community loses. The folks at the center of these controversies know their involvement in the situations of which they are accused. It's also likely they know of others who are not black who have done the same thing but we can't get caught up in that.

The expenses attributed to Rev. Smith are so very damaging that it is difficult to imagine a credible defense to the charges. Rev. Smith's attorney also appears a too dramatic and demonstrative; he may want to pull up a bit.

The madness continues…

Congratulations, Jacquelle Sconiers, Miami-Dade County’s Teacher of the Year

REGION 3

Jacquelle E. Sconiers, Juvenile Justice Center School

Posted on Fri, Jan. 25, 2008

BY MATTHEW BYRNES

U/Miami News Service

ANDREW ULOZA / FOR THE MIAMI HERALD

Jacquelle Sconiers, Juvenile Justice Center School.

Jacquelle E. Sconiers teaches business and math, but her daily routine at school is anything but typical.

For the past six years, Sconiers has taught in the Juvenile Justice Center School in Miami's Allapattah neighborhood, where about 100 students in grades six through 12 have had some kind of brush with the law and are in detention. Many are dropouts or low achievers. [More…]

Dr. King’s Living Legacy Honored at 5000 Role Models Unity Scholarship Breakfast

 

By Michael R. Malone, The Children's Trust

 

In their honor, the lights were dimmed, candles were lit on the tables and their adult mentors joined hands to form a huge circle around the ballroom. The 98 young men, this year's scholarship winners from schools around Miami-Dade County, were then called forward to receive their achievement awards from the 5000 Role Models for Excellence Foundation.

 

"We love our boys, and they know it", said Sen. Frederica Wilson, founder and director of 5000 Role Models and master of ceremonies at the 15^th Annual Unity Scholarship Breakfast, celebrated on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in the Jungle Island Ballroom and sponsored by The Children's Trust.

 

In addition to the scholarship ceremony, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist, House Speaker Marco Rubio, BET personality Bobby Jones, a host of local and state legislators, members of the clergy, over a hundred mentors from the 5000 Role Models program and other guests were on hand to celebrate the living legacy of the renowned civil rights leader.

 

Dr. King stood for so many great things, his words before the Lincoln Memorial are so inspiring and reach a higher place that talk to your soul about doing what's right, said Crist, adding, these young men who received their awards earlier today, you were good to them and hope is in their hearts because of you.”

 

Crist, the keynote speaker, was presented with the 2008 Spirit of Excellence” award for his efforts to restore voter rights to felons who have served their time as well as for other civil rights advocacy, including assistance for the family of Martin Lee Anderson, a 14-year-old who was beaten to death in 2006 in a boot-camp youth detention center.

 

It sounds like a fairness thing to me, like the right thing to do, Crist said, referring to the restoration of voters rights. We believe that when we say that people have paid their debt to society, that they have paid their debt to society. It's about trying to do the right thing.”

 

Restoring rights to felons, providing scholarships for the young men and promoting fairness all honor the legacy of Dr. King, the governor said. When you get a second chance, you have hope, and justice is about giving people hope. Civil rights is about giving people second chances, and first ones.”

 

David Lawrence Jr., chair of The Children's Trust, was presented with a plaque in honor of The Children's Trust's support and efforts in the community.

 

House Speaker Marco Rubio, of Miami-Dade County, praised Dr. King as a great moral leader, but said he would be saddened because equality still eludes so many African-American and Hispanic women who are left alone to raise children.

 

Dr. King would be saddened to see the number of children with seven strikes against them, Rubio said. You cannot be right if your people are not right themselves, and increasingly today for too many young men incarceration is more common than graduation.”

 

Referring to King's famous 'I've Been to the Mountaintop' speech, Rubio said, "Dr. King didn't say I think I see it, he affirmed to us that he would make it, and it is the deepest desire of my heart that my 7-year-old daughter will not only see the promised land from the mountain top, but will descend into it."”

 

Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez praised Dr. King for his vision and the 5000 Role Model program for providing guidance to young men in the community.

 

Role models provide priceless service. They are living proof that education and hard work do pay off. Martin Luther King Jr. has taught all of us lessons that justice and equality are an ongoing struggle. We know that his message and his pursuit of true equality is still a work in progress, the mayor said.

 

Gospel recording artist and role model, Bobby Jones, offered an inspiring rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing. Jones, whose father was a sharecropper in a small town in western Tennessee, said that injustices he suffered as a boy taught him lessons that motivated him to educate himself and persevere in his dreams.

 

As part of their scholarship award, the young men were all gifted with $1,500 and assisted in opening back accounts. The winners were chosen by a team of judges.

 

Recently deceased school board member and community activist, Robert Ingram, was also honored at the event for his long-time support of the Role Model program. Frederica Wilson, then a school principal, launched the program in 1993 as a mentoring program for fatherless boys.

 

In additional to the Unity Scholarship breakfast, The Children's Trust sponsored a series of MLK events around Miami-Dade County including: the Martin Luther King Parade in West Perrine; Martin Luther King breakfast in Signature Gardens featuring Dr. Anthony Reed of the AME Episcopal District; the Battle of the Bands at Harris Field in Homestead; Miami Gardens 3^rd Annual MLK Celebration; and the MLK Parade and Festivities in Liberty City.

 

      

MegaPlan to revitalize Little Havana

Today's Miami Herald coverage of the review of the MegaPlan for Miami and Miami-Dade County focuses on the Orange Bowl and plans for baseball to revitalize Little Havana. Mayor Manny Diaz's ambitious plan requires continuous financial support from either citizens and/or visitors to the area. With the downward spiral of the economy, it's doubtful that needed support is probable.

In the meantime, what happens to any meaningful, sustained, probable development of a cultural and economic foundation is planned for Liberty City, Perrine, Opa-Locka and other predominantly black communities?

If blacks continue to sit back and allow Miami to grow around them…oh, well. There's an old saying that 'every tub sits on its own bottom'. Do for yourself and don't expect others to do for you.

Miami Today accepting Gold Medal Awards applications until Jan. 31

Have you or your company been recognized by your professional peers with an honor in the past year? Then Go for the Gold: you are a candidate for Miami Today's ninth annual Gold Medal Awards.

A panel of top-level judges will select Gold, Silver and Bronze medalists to be honored at a spring dinner by Miami Today and featured in a special issue to be published in April 2008.

The 2007 recipients were: George Foyo; Hands on Miami; Victor M. Diaz Jr.; Mercy Hospital; Albert E. Dotson Jr. ; and Our Kids of Miami-Dade/Monroe, Inc.

Entries must be postmarked no later than January 31, 2008. Click here to obtain application. If you have questions, call 305-358-2663.

Dwyane Wade to autograph copies of video in North Miami Beach

A video has been made about the life of HEAT star Dwayne Wade. The video will trace Wade's professional career and go all the way back to his childhood days. It sells for $24.98 with proceeds to go to charity.

Wade will autograph copies of Undeniable: The Rise of Dwayne Wade from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the North Miami Beach Wal-Mart Super Center, 1425 NE 163rd St.

$30 MILLION DOLLAR GIFT TO PERFORMING ARTS CENTER BY ADRIENNE ARSHT

National business leader and philanthropist, Adrienne Arsht, will bring
Miami's performing arts center financial security with a $30 million
donation. The gift was announced today by Sherwood (Woody) Weiser,
Foundation Chairman Emeritus. In recognition of the gift, the former
Carnival Center for the Performing Arts will be renamed the Adrienne
Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County. Carnival
Corporation graciously agreed to relinquish the naming rights in favor
of this new major donation.

"With this landmark gift, Adrienne Arsht puts Miami's performing arts
center on a whole new sound financial footing ensuring the long-term
stability of the center and positioning it to truly fulfill its
mission," said Weiser, who negotiated the deal along with Trust Chairman
Ricky Arriola.

"Both Adrienne and Carnival have shown tremendous civic commitment by
putting community interests first to make this happen," said Arriola.

The Center will receive the $30 million over the next three years. Of
the $13 million the Center receives immediately, $4 million will go into
working capital to fund Center programming, $7 million will pay off a
bank loan and $2 million recently given to the Center by Carnival will
be refunded as part of the termination of their ten-year, $10 million
dollar commitment. The Center will keep the original Arison family gift
of $10 million in return for naming of the Studio Theater, bridge and
Art Deco Tower. It is expected funds from the Arsht gift donated in
years two and three will add to working capital and complete funding of
the Center's $16 million dollar endowment giving the Center long-term
financial security.

Arsht, who has been a strong supporter of the Center since its inception
and has been a supporter of the arts for many years said, "I hope this
gift inspires others to act on behalf of their passions, whatever they
may be, for the greater good of the global community." Arsht was
instrumental in helping the Center transition to new leadership by
funding the salary for interim president and CEO Larry Wilker. Arsht
collaborated with Wilker fifteen years ago when he was CEO of the
Kennedy Center and she served as chair of Kennedy Center Productions,
Inc.

"First, let me extend a very big thank you to Adrienne Arsht for making
this most generous contribution," said Howard Frank, vice chairman and
chief operating officer of Carnival Corporation & plc. "Carnival's
interest has always been in doing what is best for the Performing Arts
Center and the community. We originally had naming rights to the
Concert Hall, based on a $10 million contribution and we were quite
content with that. When we were asked to double our financial
commitment in exchange for naming rights to the overall facility and to
relinquish those rights to the Concert Hall, we agreed that it was the
right thing to do. So this is the second time we have stepped back from
naming a facility as we once again want to do what is in the best
interest of the Performing Arts Center and the community," Frank said.

Wilker noted that today's action gives the Center greater ability to
fulfill its commitment to offering the highest quality and widest
diversity of programming. "The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing
Arts now has all the tools it needs to emerge as one of the great
performing arts centers of our time."



About the Adrienne Arsht Center for Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County

The Center offers South Florida audiences the best and most diverse
theater, music and dance. The Center hosts many local, national and
international arts organizations and performers and is home to four
resident companies (Concert Association of Florida, Florida Grand Opera,
Miami City Ballet and New World Symphony, America's Orchestral Academy).
The Center, designed by world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli of Pelli
Clarke Pelli Architects, includes the 2,400-seat Sanford and Dolores
Ziff Ballet Opera House, the 2,200-seat John S. and James L. Knight
Concert Hall, a 200-seat black box Studio Theater, the Peacock Education
Center, a restored Art Deco Tower and a Plaza for the Arts that unites
the Center buildings across Biscayne Boulevard. The Adrienne Arsht
Center is made possible by the public support of the Miami-Dade County
Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners. The Center also receives
generous support from private and corporate contributions to the
Performing Arts Center Foundation of Greater Miami, and additional
public support from City of Miami Omni Community Redevelopment Agency
and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural
Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, the John S. and James L. Knight
Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Celebrate 100 Years of Service: The Alpha Kappa Alpha Story

The Miami-Dade Public Library System presents 100 Years of Service: The Alpha Kappa Alpha Story January 10 – February 3rd, 2008 North Dade Regional Library, 2455 NW 183 St., Miami – 305-625-6424 Centennial Celebration: Tuesday, January 15, 6- 8:30 p.m. In celebration of the 100-year anniversary of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, this display will feature books, photographs, and historical objects from the archive of the Gamma Zeta Omega/Miami Chapter. Founded in 1908, Alpha Kappa Alpha is the world’s oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American college-educated women. Important members include Maya Angelou, Alice Walker, Ella Fitzgerald, and Rosa Parks. Gamma Zeta Omega members include Senator Frederica Wilson and the late civil rights activist and community leader Athalie Range. The history of the Miami Chapter, founded in 1940, will be the focus of this wonderful celebratory display. Black History programs at the Miami-Dade Public Library System are made possible by Citibank. North Dade Regional Library Hours Monday – Thursday, 9:30 - 9:00 p.m. Friday, Saturday, 9:30 - 6:00 p.m. Sundays, 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Art Services and Exhibitions 305.375.5048 [email protected] Vinora Hamilton Public Information Officer Miami-Dade Public Library System Marketing and Media Relations 101 West  Flagler Street Miami, Fl 33130 Phone: 305-375-3327 Fax: 305-375-2978 www.mdpls.org "Delivering Excellence Every Day"

Families suffer because of housing assistance backlog

MIAMI-DADE

Dade families' housing delayed by paperwork mess

Problems at Miami-Dade's rental assistance office, which was taken over by HUD, have left some families with fewer housing options.

Posted on Wed, Jan. 02, 2008

BY ANDREA ROBINSON

[email protected]

CHARLOTTE SOUTHERN/FOR THE MIAMI HERALD

Molita Cunningham lives with her 24-year-old daughter, who has four children of her own. In addition to the daughter, Cunningham also has two older kids, an 8-year-old and 6-year-old twins. In total, 11 people live together.

Molita Cunningham and her four children should have their own house.

They had a residence for five years, helped by a federal rent voucher. But for the past four months, she and her children, ages 6 to 16, have had to depend on family and friends for a place to stay because she can't get her paperwork approved to move into a new place. [More]

Funeral home helps with teen’s burial

OPA-LOCKA

'Angel' appears to slain girl's family

An Opa-locka funeral home, founded by a woman in honor of her slain father, will host a viewing for a teenage girl who was shot to death in a car on Christmas Eve.

Posted on Wed, Jan. 02, 2008

Digg del.icio.us AIM reprint print email

BY LAURA MORALES

[email protected]

• Audio | Interview with Lori Davis

When Lori Davis opened her own funeral home in Opa-locka, she named it Hadley's after her father Emory Hadley Jr., who was stabbed to death by a nephew in July.

''I wanted to honor my dad's memory and I wanted to do work where I would be in a position to help people in difficult times,'' said Davis.

After reading about 14-year-old Natasha Calixte, a Westview Middle School seventh-grader who died of a gunshot to the back on Christmas Eve, Davis knew the girl's family had no money for a funeral or burial. [More]

Black Men march in unity and in remembrance

Posted on Sat, Dec. 29, 2007

Marchers mourn the loss of black men to violence

BY ANDREA ROBINSON

The men came from South Dade, Miami, Miramar and beyond to Carol City Park Saturday to march in silence and remember black fathers, sons and brothers who have died violently.

Declaring the killings a curse on the community, they evoked a clear message: We must do better.

The Miami-Dade branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, People United to Lead the Struggle for Equality and ministers led about 300 men, teenagers and toddlers in a silent march through Miami Gardens followed by a rally to protest the increasing violence plaguing South Florida.

Organizers hope the display of unity will encourage peace.

''This march is in memory of all the brothers we've lost. They can't speak any longer so we have to do it for them,'' said Victor T. Curry, the local NAACP branch president who suggested the idea months ago, following fatal police shootings of unarmed black men, and ``brothers killing each other.'' [Continue reading…]

Don’t Celebrate Kwanzaa, Live Kwanzaa: Remembering our Ancestors

Art by Shirley Shelton 

During the Kwanzaa ceremony, Kukumbuka (Remembering), the ancestors and those who have lived and applied the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles) with songs, poetry, literature, music or deeds are remembered and honored. It is in that spirit the names of individuals who transitioned during 2007 are listed below. Feel free to leave a comment including the name of your loved one who passed away this year.

• Effi Barry
• Elias Blake
• Judge Jane Bolin
• Robert "Buck" Brown
• Roscoe Lee Browne
• Chad Butler AKA "Pimp C"
• Julia Carson
• George W. Clinch
• Pateesha Clinch
• Alice Coltrane
• William Dandy
• Art Davis
• Sgt. Donnie Dixon
• Lucky Dube
• Cecilia Dunn
• Catherine Finch
• Nailah Franklin
• Eddie Griffin (professional basketball)
• Rep. Augustus Hawkins
• Billy Henderson
• Oliver Hill
• Dr. Asa G. Hilliard
• Pookie Hudson
• Joe Hunter
• Pamela Hutchinson
• Luther Ingram
• Rev. Dr. Robert Ingram
• Linda Innocent
• Stebbins Jefferson
• Dennis Johnson
• Adrian Dennis Jones
• Hercules "Pops" Joyner
• Yolanda King
• Ernie Ladd
• Robert Weldon Lawrence
• Henry LeTang
• Marissa Lightbourne
• Calvin Lockhart
• Jon Lucien
• Lamar Lundy
• Harold Madison Jr. AKA "Mr. Butch"
• Judge William McAnulty
• Jesse J. McCrary
• Rep. Juanita Millender-McDonald
• Barbara McNair
• Rep. Parren Mitchell
• Frances Murphy
• Bishop G.E. Patterson
• Frankie Bell Payton
• Oscar Peterson
• Max Roach
• Eddie Robinson
• Percy Rodrigues
• Fred Ross
• Dr. Sheryl Shivers-Blackwell
• Monica Smart
• Lowell Smith
• Dakota Staton
• Darryl Stingley
• Sekou Sundiata
• Sean Taylor
• Zola Taylor
• Hansel Tookes
• Walter Turnbull
• Ike Turner
• Johnny "J.B." Turner
• Dr. Donda West
• Willye B. White
• Audrey Bethel Williams
• Darrent Williams
• Willie Williams
• Ernest Withers
• Carl Wright

Kutoa majin is the calling of names of family members, ancestors and African-descended heroes to invite their presence. As the proverb says, "As long as someone is here to speak your name, you exist."

We first call forth beings of the past — family members, leaders and teachers who left us a place on Earth to harvest our success.

Please call out your deceased loved ones now.

Next we call out the names of those who are living now – our partners, friends, family members and co-workers. Please call out your living loved ones now.

Finally, we call on the nameless, faceless, formless children of the future. We ask a moment of silence for them because they have not been named, but we feel their presence. We feel their light because the work of freedom, dignity and prosperity must continue and we leave a legacy of triumph for them.

Ashe'.

Ashe'.

Ashe'.

The Spirit of Kwanzaa dims for perennial community Kwanzaa Celebration

Since 1989, the Miami-Dade Chapter of the Florida A&M University National Alumni Association has celebrated Kwanzaa. We grew from celebrating in the living room of an apartment in South Miami with a kinara drawn on a poster board to the largest celebration in the Miami area.

In 1999 we were honored to have Tavis Smiley as our special guest. At least 500 people packed the meeting room at the Joseph Caleb Center to hear Smiley, enjoy the entertainment and feast on American soul food, Caribbean delicacies and African entrees. The next year, our event expanded to include the Caleb Center auditorium for the main performances and the meeting room for more performances and the feast.

The event has always been free to the public with members of our organization providing the karamu (feast) and various musicians and drummers sharing their talent gratis. Through Miami-Dade County, the facility, security and custodial services were provided at no charge to the organization.

Unfortunately, this year, we will not celebrate Kwanzaa because support from Miami-Dade County has been reduced tremendously. That is most disheartening because practicing the principles of Kwanzaa is exactly what the black community needs. Sometimes it appears as though those in responsible positions of government and other influential positions want the people to remain un-enlightened and un-conscious.

Even when other local organizations received assistance to present the Kwanzaa celebration and make money from vendor booths, members of our organization continued to provide in the true spirit of Kwanzaa.

The Kwanzaa Celebration provided an opportunity for family and friends to celebrate together, in spite of religious and perhaps political differences. Kwanzaa principles reinforce individual pride and pride in the community. It also promotes support of businesses in the community as well as appreciation for the artistically gifted among us.

Most important is Kwanzaa's foundation of non-commercialism and lessons of faith and responsibility to children and respect for elders.

Several people in the community have contacted us about the event this year and we've had to share the bad news of our forced break this year but our intent on enlarging our circle of support for 2008.

Celebrate Kwanzaa: Ujamaa

Kuumba Artists Collective, Diaspora Arts Coalition

& the African Heritage Cultural Arts Center

Cordially Invite You

to

Celebrate  Kwanzaa: Ujamaa

featuring Drums N Unity

December 29, 2007 at 6:30 p.m.

Bring A Dish To Share

Also to View

The Annual Kuumba

Kwanzaa Art Exhibition

of new and recent works by Florida African World Artists

The African Heritage Cultural Arts Center

2166 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard

(NW 62 Street at NW 22 Avenue)

Miami, Florida

The Official & Special Unveiling of Wisdom Wall

Friday, January 18, 2008

Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday

Celebration Weekend

6:00 to 9:00 p.m. ~ Amadlozi Gallery

Events are Free and Open to the Public

The Exhibition closes January 21, 2008

Presented by

Kuumba Artists Collective of South Florida

African Heritage Cultural Arts Center

Miami-Dade Park and Recreation Department

Diaspora Arts Coalition

Michelle Lynn Solutions, Inc.

Absolute Graphics

Productive Hands

U

Altine/Productive Hands
[email protected]
786-260-1246
Liberty City, FL 33147

Miami families who lost homes to explosion remembered by Commerce Bank

Families in Miami apartment building explosion receive holiday gifts from Commerce Bank employees
Westside Gazette
Originally posted 12/27/2007

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Christmas came early for 11 families who lost their homes in an Aug. 30th gas explosion in Miami’s historical Overtown community thanks to Spirit of Giving, a nonprofit organization that is run, managed, and funded by Commerce Bank employees.

The explosion ignited a large fire in the Town Park Village apartments and left two apartment buildings condemned.

With help from the Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Commerce employees and the Commerce Bank mascot, Mr. C, delivered more than 150 wrapped gifts to the families at a Saturday morning holiday celebration in the Town Park Village. The daylong party was capped with a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, food, music, and plenty of dancing. [Continue reading...]

Silent March to Stop the Violence, Saturday, Dec. 29

SPECIAL NEWS BULLETIN!!! We must stop the Violence (Miami ) On December 29, 2007, the Miami-Dade Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, (NAACP) under the leadership of Bishop Victor T. Curry, President, People United to Lead the Struggle for Equality, (P.U.L.S.E) along with community leaders, organizations and citizens will lead 1000 Men and Boys in a silent march against the increasing violence and crime that continues to plague South Florida. On that date, at 9:00am men and boys will gather at Miami Carol City Park , 3201 NW 185th street and march silently through Miami Gardens in reverence and solidarity. They will return to the Park and will be joined by concerned women for a rally and demonstration. This Event seeks to put public spotlight on the violence that is still taking place in Miami-Dade County . "We must stop the shootings that continue to occur, says Bishop Curry, the visionary for the Event. "We must stop the crimes, particularly those against each other. As men we must take the lead and teach our brothers that there are alternatives to solving differences." "We are asking fraternities, men's groups and boy's organizations to march," says Bishop Victor T. Curry. "Men, lets take the action that is needed for our families." Voter Registration, as well as Health, Employment and Restoration of Rights information will be available. This event is free and open to the community. For group participation, call Kevin "Dr. K" Moyd at 305.769.1100. For more information call 305.685.3700. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is an interracial membership organization, founded in 1909, that is devoted to civil rights and racial justice. The NAACP has been instrumental in improving the legal, educational, and economic lives of people of color. Throughout its existence, it has worked to fulfill its goals to secure full suffrage and other civil rights, with the ultimate goal to end segregation and racial violence. MORE NEWS... email: [email protected] phone: (305) 835-0321 web: http://jebapresents.com

City commissioners give go ahead for Marlins stadium and Port tunnel

DOWNTOWN MIAMI

Vote could change face of Miami

Miami commissioners voted for a historic multibillion-dollar deal to transform downtown, including a Marlins stadium and a Port of Miami tunnel.

Posted on Fri, Dec. 14, 2007

BY MICHAEL VASQUEZ CHARLES RABIN AND MATTHEW I. PINZUR

[email protected]

JOHN VANBEEKUM / MIAMI HERALD STAFF

The Orange Bowl site could be reborn as a new stadium for the Florida Marlins.

• New Marlin stadium plan unveiled
• Stadium deal still far from a sure thing
• Miami's CRA must overcome its past
• Port tunnel survives a crucial vote
• Miami, Dade leaders reveal multibillion-dollar downtown plan
• Park plan faces hurdles at city, county, team level
• Video | Miami city commissioners vote on downtown deal
• Document | Resolution setting up changes to Omni Community Redevelopment Agency
• Document | Miami-Dade County's proposed deal with the City of Miami and Florida Marlins
• Document | Outline of the proposed ballpark deal, including non-relocation promise, financing and parking

Moving with dispatch and sidestepping voters, Miami commissioners on Thursday approved a historic public works package that would build a new Florida Marlins stadium and spur a downtown revival.

The 4-1 vote, adopted after hours of debate, embraced Mayor Manny Diaz's vision of a new Miami glittered with billions of dollars' worth of projects.

The package includes money for a $914 million tunnel to the Port of Miami, a Museum Park downtown and a $525 million baseball stadium on the site where the Orange Bowl now sits -- all tied together in one basket through a plan to expand city Community Redevelopment Agency districts. [Continue reading…]

*******

NOTE: Read the South Florida Business Journal's coverage of that same meeting. Ask yourself where blacks fit in in the future plans of Miami? How many blacks will benefit from the jobs to be generated?

FAMU leads initiative to address black infant mortality in Tallahassee area

President James H. Ammons announced today that Florida A&M University will form an alliance with campus health care experts, researchers, and local, state and national organizations to address the Infant Mortality Crisis in Leon County. He is calling the group the FAMU Black Infant Health Alliance.

During the press conference, the State Surgeon General of the Florida Department of Health Ana M. Viamonte Ros pledged her support of the initiative.

"We are pleased that Dr. Ammons has step forward to address this matter," said Viamonte Ros. "We are committed to being a partner."

Ammons says the high infant mortality rate among African Americans threatens the stability and future of African Americans. He wants to bring campus health care professionals and others on campus together to strengthen FAMU's impact and efforts to address this crisis. He would be relying heavily on the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, the School of Allied Health Sciences and the School of Nursing as resources.

"In as much as this crisis is in the shadows of the Florida A&M University community, we feel that it is our duty to engage all relative departments at the university and others with great interest in addressing this crisis," said Ammons. "We will join forces with state, national and local organizations and coalitions to develop strategies that will address this crisis. Infant mortality is a crucial issue that the university must embrace. We want to take the lead and have impact."

Ammons has asked Cynthia Hughes-Harris, dean of the School of Allied Health Sciences, and Dr. Joseph Webster, of the Webster Surgical Center in Tallahassee, to co-chair the alliance that would convene a think tank in January. The think tank on "Health Care: Infant Mortality Crisis in Leon County" will bring members of the alliance together to identify resources and develop goals and objectives. Dr. Ammons believes this alliance will be able to develop a plan that will be effective in addressing the crisis.

"Community leaders, healthcare professionals and county leaders have expressed there is indeed a crisis and a solution to this problem is imperative," said Ammons. "Although there are no immediate answers to the high rate of infant mortality in Leon County, this alliance will be used to address and obtain viable measures to decrease the number of infant deaths in the county. If we do not assemble scholars to review a life and death issue affecting the future of our communities, then we would reduce the meaning and impact that an institution of higher learning should have in its community and state."

Several organizations have agreed to support this alliance, including the Florida Department of Health, Tallahassee Health Equity Alliance Team, the Institute of African American Health, the Gunn Society, and Bond Community Health Center. Commissioner Bill Proctor has agreed to work closely with the alliance, as well as, Charles Evans, who will represent the State Chapter of the NAACP; Eunice Cofie, Miss Black Florida USA; and Dr. Nelson L. Adams, M.D., president of the National Medical Association.

"FAMU has a right and obligation to take a stand," said Dr. Joseph Webster. "I commend Dr. Ammons for taking that stand and thank him for his vision. Today, we stand ready to lead this alliance."

"There is a need to develop programs and coordinate resources," said Proctor. "The educational entities must become involved to improve health care access. The university will empower this initiative and find practical solutions to decrease the number of infant deaths in Leon County."

PHOTO CAPTION: FAMU President James H. Ammons announces the alliance to address the infant mortality crisis. Supporters of the alliance include (from left to right) Charles Evans, president of the Tallahassee Branch of the NAACP; Yolanda Bogan, director of FAMU's Counseling Center; Fran Close, assistant professor of behavioral science and health education; Jean Kline, representative from the Florida Department of Health; Ed Dixon, county commissioner for Gadsden County; and State Surgeon General of the Florida Department of Health Ana M. Viamonte Ros.

 

Related Link: Killing black babies before they have a chance at life

Important Community Meeting with Mayor Alvarez and Commissioner Edmonson on MLK Transit Village

For Immediate Release: November 20, 2007 Media Contact: Marta Martinez-Aleman

Mayor Carlos Alvarez and Commissioner Audrey M. Edmonson to discuss status of MLK Transit Village at community meeting

(Miami-Dade County, FL) -- Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez and District 3 Commissioner Audrey M. Edmonson will meet with residents and business owners from communities surrounding the proposed MLK Transit Village to discuss the status of the embattled project.  The meeting will take place at the Joseph Caleb Center, 5400 N.W. 22 Avenue, on Tuesday, November 27 at 7 p.m. The Transit Village Project, proposed for the southeast corner of N.W. 62 Street and N.W. 7 Avenue, is part of a comprehensive plan for the economic stimulation of the once-vibrant Liberty City.  It is expected to be a catalyst for the area’s revitalization but has seen some obstacles.  The meeting is being held to address community and business concerns about construction delays and administrative changes at the agencies overseeing the project. “The County made a promise to residents and business owners in this area; and they in turn had been prepared to accommodate the necessary inconvenience of bringing the Transit Village to this community because they recognized that it would be good for Liberty City,” said Commissioner Edmonson.  “We owe it to them to attend to their unease, be open about the status of the project and assure them that we remain committed to the economical renewal of this community.” The original plans for the MLK Transit Village were similar to the retail district surrounding the Metrorail Dadeland stations.  It included a transit hub for Miami-Dade Transit buses, retail shops, commercial buildings and affordable and workforce housing units.

New Orleans and Gulf Coast Residents Still Need Help, Give a Day of Service

Here's an opportunity to help rebuild New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. Far too many former residents of the area are still displaced and need to return to re-claim their land. This is an opportunity to actually do something to help that historic area.

More than two years after hurricanes Katrina and Rita, some neighborhoods still remain devastated and uninhabited.

Join Tavis Smiley, Tom Joyner and the State of the Black Union panelists in partnership with the Office of Lt. Governor Mitchell Landrieu to assist in the clean-up and rebuild of New Orleans.

SOBU BUILDS 2008 – DAY OF SERVICE
Friday, February 22, 7:00am to 3:00pm
(Service Orientation: Thursday, February 21, 7:00pm – 8:00pm)

Volunteer to help rebuild New Orleans! The goal is for 1,000 people to come out in their sweats and work boots and help rebuild New Orleans.

Attendees will be assigned to one of six projects.
Project 1 – Build a Home
Project 2 – Beautify a City Park
Project 3 – Build a Playground
Project 4 – Demolish a Home
Project 5 – Beautify a School Yard & Donate Books
Project 6 – Build Shelves for Public Library and Donate Books

Volunteers will receive a T-shirt, service kit (gloves, face mask, sponsor giveaways), continental breakfast, box lunch, and Reserved Seating at State of the Black Union 2008.

Title Partner
Office of Lt. Governor Mitchell Landrieu

National Sponsor
Wells Fargo

Lead Partners
Habitat for Humanity
Trinity Christian Community
Xavier University
Recovery School District
New Orleans Public Library
PBS & PRI - Public Radio International

REGISTER TODAY at http://www.tavistalks.com

Chief Jimmy Brown Hot Talk Host launches MySpace page celebrating 18 years in radio

"I really appreciate the love and support that I have received from the "Hot Talk" listeners during the past years.  Hot Talk listeners are special people." said Chief Jimmy Brown. 

By Rose Reeder

MySpace.com, the evermore popular networking site for a gazillion people on the planet has a new member, Chief Jimmy Brown of Hot Talk 105.1 fm. (Clap, clap, clap!!) His website is http://www.myspace.com/chiefjimmybrown. For those not familiar with myspace.com, it is one of several on-line communities used by techies, young people, mega-superstars i.e. Halle Berry, Will Smith, Oprah, Kanye West, Former President Bill Clinton (the Black president), Presidential candidate Barack Obama, International Keynote Speaker James Amps, Nationally Acclaimed Author and Motivational Speaker Lisa Rogers-Cherry etc. use to communicate/market services all over the world. Savvy business people in every arena have a site or are setting one up.

Here is a portion of what the viewer will read on Chief Brown's MySpace page in the section called " About Chief Jimmy Brown" :

Somebody say boom-shacka-lacka -( listeners know this is one of Chief's favorite sayings when he agrees with a comment and or statement )

Talk Show Host

"South Florida's number 1 Arbitron Rated talk show, Hot Talk on Hot 105.1 fm presents its esteemed host, "Chief Jimmy L. Brown".

Every Sunday night at 11:00pm (EST) listeners tune in to the most informative "live" talk show in the South Florida market. Regulars know the all too familiar voice who starts the show sending shout-outs to various people and municipalities throughout South Florida with special shout outs to his mom, Mrs. Ida Mae Brown of Perrine and to his "Barbie Doll" (Chief's wife Michelle Brown) in Davie.

The talk show "Hot Talk" was born out of the rage and frustration that erupted into violence on the streets of Miami in 1989 after a police officer shot and killed a motorcyclist, touching off days of civil unrest infamously known as the McDuffie riots.  Brown was part of the army of officers who swept through Miami's Black community, arresting looters and bottle-throwers"…….

To the left of the About Chief Jimmy Brown section are pictures.  As one explores the site, there are various sections to read and listen to. Most notably; "book of the week"; "Go back with Chief and reminisce….letter from the Birmingham jail by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr." and soon to be placed on the page the much requested "Willie Lynch letter". As with all of the MySpace pages people who have them can place their picture(s) and other information on other sites. Programming Producer Missey Bailey was instrumental in galvanizing the experts to put this site together for Chief Brown to pay homage to him. 

Having worked both on the air and behind the scenes, Bailey is enjoying her tour of duty with Hot Talk host.  "Chief Jimmie Brown is like a Father figure to me" said Bailey. "Every Sunday he delivers insightful information to our South Florida listeners with a hard core one, two punch".  In the background assisting is Brotha Maze and the intern, Brandon. (You can see their pictures on the site).

As Chief Brown reminisces about the 18 years on the air he said "I really appreciate the love and support that I have received from the "Hot Talk" listeners during the past years.  Hot Talk listeners are special people." Many callers requested more Hot Talk before and after the demise of the People's station. 

Chief Brown is encourages listeners/callers to let Phil Michaels-Trueba, Program Director know you want more "Hot Talk" .. His email is [email protected] and  phone number is (305) 567-5692.  Stay tuned for more information about Chief celebrating 18 years on the air and be sure to check out the site http://myspace.com/chiefjimmybrown! 

Haitian Toddler Needs Life-Saving Surgery and You Can Help

Too often we hear bad news about the interactions of people in Miami so anyone with a heart was moved upon hearing the story of 14-month old Johnsley Mainville's fight for life and another child with health challenges, 10-year old Devin Alvarez who offered to help.

Johnsley and his family traveled from Haiti for medical assistance. It seems that Johnsley's illness, unaddressed in Haiti as it would have been in the United States, has reached the stage where the child is projected to have only 6 months to live.

Young Devin was in the same predicament as Johnsley a few years ago but successful surgeries saved his life. Devin still undergoes regular surgery but when you learn of how far he has come, his journey is more than miraculous.

Johnsley needs $60,000 for medical treatment. Click here for a link to his page over at the International Kids Fund site. You can get more information on Johnsley and other children and more important, you can make a donation. Whatever amount you can spare would help this child. Many small amounts can make a big difference. Actually, Johnsley should need about $59,993 since Devin donated $7 of his allowance.

If this seems like a hard sell, it's not. Just remember, there but for the grace of God go you and me. While I don't have Bill Gates or Oprah money, I can forgo a couple of expensive lunches to help this child.

If you decide to donate, let us know here. Thanks and Be Blessed.

Related Links:

Running Out Of Time, Heart Surgery Needed 

Life-saving surgery needed for Haitian toddler (Video) 

You can make an online donation to this child. Click here to donate. If you wish to donate by check or money order, you can mail your donation to:

International Kids Fund P.O. Box 2020 Miami, FL 33101

Please specify on your check or money order you would like to allocate your funds to Johnsley Mainville and make your checks or money orders payable to International Kids Fund.

What we can learn from American Gangster

Check out the excellent editorial from The Westside Gazette on Denzel Washington's latest work, American Gangster. While the glorification of a criminal like Frank Lucas is not where we need to go as a people, there are some basic principles we should employ for the progress of the black community.

   

Over $700 billion of spending power: Black America, the New American Gangster
"He didn't own his own company. He thought he did, but he didn't. He just managed it. The white man owned it, so they owned him."
— Frank Lucas, The American Gangster
From the Westside Gazette's Editorial Board

NAACP criticizes The Miami Herald for Website Comments

In case you missed it, Bishop Victor Curry, in his role as NAACP president sent a letter to the Miami Herald regarding racist comments on its website. All I can say is "Thank God!" Everyone has a right to their own opinion but some of the comments to articles posted on the site have been horrendous, disgusting and shameful.

I have reported some of the comments I felt crossed the line and they were eventually deleted but The Herald must do a better job of monitoring the comments and banning the IP address of those that violate their terms of service.

Thank you, Bishop Curry and the NAACP.

ATTENTION! Share Your Soul Bowl Memories!

The Miami Northwestern Bulls continued to romp their competitors in a 46-0 rout of traditional rivals the Miami Jackson Generals in the Orange Bowl. As Northwestern is rated #1 in the nation, the outcome was not a surprise; check the Miami Herald's game coverage.

What should not be lost on high school football fans and the community as a whole is that Soul Bowl 2007 will go down in history as the last in the Orange Bowl as we know it. Unfortunately, the local mainstream media has done little to include the black community in the celebration of the history of the Orange Bowl. Rather than get angry about it, let's use this opportunity to document our own history and share it with our family and friends. There will be more posts about the Orange Bowl and the Black community as it will not be demolished until March or April of 2008. Let's start with the history of the Soul Bowl, one of the most important events for the Black community, regardless of the school you attended.

It's been 40 years of the Jackson-Northwestern Soul Bowl rivalry but the Soul Bowl actually dates back to the 1940s when black high schools Dorsey and Booker T played on Thanksgiving Day. Share your Soul Bowl memories to be included in an upcoming commemorative section of Blogging Black Miami. Send all questions, images and correspondence to [email protected] no later than December 15, 2007.

Remembering Pamela Hutchinson

PAMELA M. HUTCHINSON, 45

Compiled 'Who's Who' of black professionals

Posted on Mon, Nov. 05, 2007

BY DIANA MOSKOVITZ

[email protected] 

 

Pamela M. Hutchinson of Davie died Friday.

Pamela M. Hutchinson of Davie, the creator of Who's Who in Black South Florida, died on Friday of complications after brain surgery. She was 45.

Her death came less than a year after the publication of Who's Who, a networking guide for black executives. The book's publisher is already working on the second edition.

''If she said she was she going to do something, you didn't have to worry about it. It was going to be done, and done well,'' said her husband of 22 years, Jerome Hutchinson. [Click here to read more…]

MY VIEW: Black People, Can We Talk?

by Vanessa Woodard Byers

Miami-Dade County voters may soon elect the County's property appraiser. That may not seem like a big deal but it is. Such an election would likely lead to the election of other county-level positions such as police director, elections supervisor and tax collector. Don't be surprised if the school superintendent position became an elected position also.

With a Hispanic majority, that would assure all top positions in the County would be held by Hispanics and likely eliminate any possibility of a non-Hispanic person holding such a position again. Y'all know how polarizing voting is for almost every group except Blacks. We can't even get behind Barack Obama for President but let me not go there right now.

Anyhoo, if you think this is a "Let's Bash Cubans" post, you're wrong. Whining serves no purpose. Besides, the situation is not hopeless if we make wise, strategic choices and are willing to sacrifice.

Hmm…sacrifice. Did I lose you on that note? Far too many of us are unwilling to sacrifice lately. Let's just be real. Our unwillingness to sacrifice, especially for the collective, has been studied by others and used to cripple us. It's not just the hip-hop generation that has been blinded by the bling.

At the root of our problems as a people is our hatred of self. I'm sure you've heard that before. No matter the words that come out of our mouths, or the clothes we wear, we have succumbed to the ideology of white supremacy. I'll exercise brevity in making my point but the facts speak for themselves. We still think white is better than black and we demonstrate that every day.

How many times have you described straight or wavy hair as "good" hair and nappy or coarse hair as "bad" hair? How many Black businesses do you really support? Let's talk, Black people. An education at a predominantly white institution is superior to that of a black institution. Make sure you get a white lawyer if you want to win your case, don't get a black lawyer. I could go on and on with ridiculous statements we've either made ourselves or heard others make.

Hispanics demonstrate the same twisted view of their African ancestry with aspirations of Aryan physical features. Asians do the same with cosmetic surgery to un-slant their eyes. Think about it. There are other examples of skin lightening and rhinoplasty but I think you get my point. People are just crazy because when you combine all this and look at white people trying to tan and white women trying to have butts like Black women, it's all so neurotic.

But when all is said and done the neurosis in others doesn't position them, as a group, to be consumers rather than business owners. Users rather than producers. Generations have not been raised in poverty, single-parent households, dangerous public housing conditions and substandard education.

How does this change? It changes when we change our consciousness and return to our village mindset. I'll deal with that in detail in a future post but please take some time to listen to the video excerpt from Madea's Family Reunion. Even if you've already seen the movie, close your eyes and listen this time.

What say you, black people, can we talk?

World Challenge 2007: Help Children in Haiti

World Challenge 2007 is a global competition that highlights and rewards projects and businesses that give back to the community. The competition is sponsored by BBC in association with Shell Oil. Your vote can determine the winner.

Representatives of each of the top three projects will be flown to The Netherlands in December for a ceremony that will award $10,000 to the runners-up and $20,000 to the winner.

The information below is from the World Challenge website. Visit the site to learn about all of the projects nominated. All of the 12 finalists are worthy recipients of the award but you are encouraged to vote for School for Success in Haiti.

 

SCHOOL FOR SUCCESS 

Ecole Paradis des Indiens - HAITI

The Paradis des Indiens project began as a one-room school in the small fishing village of Les Abricots. Canadian expatriate Michaelle de Verteuil set up the school especially for children whose families couldn't afford uniforms and shoes – without which they were unable to attend Haiti's ordinary schools. More than 30 years later and Paradis des Indiens has expanded into a multi-faceted development programme. Poverty reduction activities include beekeeping, embroidery, woodworking and fruit-drying schemes. Environmental efforts are focused on reforestation – a key priority for tree-stripped Haiti. The project also runs a microfinance scheme to foster local businesses and lift individual families out of poverty. However, Paradis des Indiens has not neglected its 'core business' – ten small schools now run under its name, each with around 150 students.

Watch Video

Launch video 

 

ONLY ONE VOTE PER PERSON.

Your efforts can help these needy children in Haiti. Please spread the word!

Click here for my older posts! 

A Tribute to Dr. Robert B. Ingram

Here is a poem written by Rebecca "Butterfly" Vaughns in tribute to the recently deceased Rev. Dr. Robert B. Ingram. Miami-Dade County Schools, in conjunction with the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project will pay tribute to Ingram at a special celebration, Wednesday, October 17^th, 11:30 a.m – 12:30 p.m., in the auditorium of the School Board Administration Building, 1450 NE Second Avenue, Miami.

All school board employees and the community-at-large are invited to attend the commemorative celebration and to donate to a scholarship fund in his honor.

Please mail your check or money order to:

5000 Role Models of Excellence

Dr. Robert B. Ingram Scholarship Fund

School Board Administration Building

1450 NE 2^nd Avenue, Room 227

Miami, FL 33132

Sagging pants to be banned in Opa-locka?

The city of Opa-locka is joining the movement to ban sagging pants. City Commissioner Timothy Holmes is sponsoring the ordinance to keep youngsters from wearing pants around their rear ends.

On the surface that sounds fine but the shameful message is that our children are out of control. Yeah, they are. How anyone thinks that sagging pants look good is a mystery to me but hey we've all been young and foolish, haven't we?

Anyhoo, if the ordinance is approved, so be it, but our children need to be respectful of themselves and others.

Vacant School Board Seat Issue Heats Up Again

Today's Miami Herald covers the vacant District 1 school board seat. Twenty people submitted applications.

Here is the list, in alphabetical order, of applicants so far to fill the District 1 seat on the Miami-Dade School Board previously held by Robert B. Ingram, 71, who died last month:

• Victor T. Curry, Democrat, senior pastor, New Birth Baptist Church.

• Cecil T. Daniels, Democrat, retired school principal.

• Patrenia Dozier-Washington, Democrat, Miami-Dade Public Schools teacher.

• Oliver G. Gilbert III, Democrat, attorney.

• Wilbert T. Holloway, Democrat, state representative.

• Erhabor Ighodaro, Democrat, chief of staff to the late Robert B. Ingram.

• Ted Lyons, Republican, director of business, Contractors Resource Center.

• Richard Marquess-Barry, Democrat, priest, St. Agnes Episcopal Church.

• Dannie Perry McMillon, Democrat, administrative assistant, Urban League of Greater Miami.

• Gordon Murray Sr., Democrat, attorney.

• Dufirstson Neree, Republican, economist, Freedom Trust Co.

• Anna M. Price, Democrat, chaplain, Florida Department of Corrections, and minister, Universal Truth Center.

• Arlington Sands Jr., Republican, community liaison specialist, Miami-Dade schools.

• Starex B. Smith, Democrat, assistant to the city manager, Opa-locka.

• Abraham J. Thomas, Democrat, retired social service supervisor, Miami-Dade County.

• Robert L. Thomas, Democrat, former region superintendent, Miami-Dade Public Schools.

• Doris Denise Wallace, Independent, attorney, city of Miami.

• David Williams Jr., Democrat, community relations director, Florida Family Partnership/Informed Families.

• Larry T. Williams, party affiliation unavailable, self-employed financial planner.

• James Barry Wright, Republican, chief of police, city of Opa-locka.

Now that's an interesting bunch. Governor Crist is scheduled to interview Curry, Williams, Gilbert, Daniels, Wright and Holloway this week. Will all applicants be interviewed or is this his short list?

The governor has been urged by many to fill Ingram's seat as soon as possible.

Oh yeah, The Herald also has an online poll. Cast your vote.

Leadership and Empowerment Conference

The Honorable Karen Mills-Francis is the keynote speaker at the Leadership and Empowerment conference sponsored by the Pratt Missionary and Holy Spirit Christian Church, 2:30 p.m., Saturday, October 13, 2007. The church's address is 1900 NW 183 Street, Miami Gardens.

The target audience is college-aged individuals but anyone can benefit from the strategies presented. Parents are especially encouraged to bring their high school age students.

In addition to Judge Mills-Francis, other speakers include Commander Alonzo Whitehead of the City of Miami Police Department and Ernie Long of the Aventura Police. The suggested donation is $25. For more information call Ms. Tyse at 786-523-3778.

Whatever Happened to Community Pride?

Are you tired of your neighborhood looking like a dump? I know I am. Too often people blame others for their condition rather than just taking responsibility and standing up for their community and themselves.

Case in point, about three weeks ago, I was backing my car out of my driveway and noticed an older model four-door brown vehicle driving slowly down the street. As I waited for it to pass, I noticed a folded cardboard box on the trunk of the car. Naturally that appeared odd. As the car drove further down the street, I noticed the brake lights come on and the car appeared to pull over to the side of the road. Now I’ve seen that before, there was about to be some garbage dumping going on.

I slowed the pace of my vehicle enough for the driver of the brown vehicle to see me seeing him. As he pulled from the side of the road back into the street the box fell off of the trunk of the car. The driver hesitated and then drove off.

As I passed the box in the street, I slowed down to see what was in it and without getting out of the car, I could see the long nose and two eyes of a small animal. It appeared to be a dog but those kinds of things creep me out so I didn’t dawdle there.

So you know I’m really pissed off by the time I saw that. How dare he use my neighborhood as a dumping ground?!

I followed the car as it did one of those O.J. Simpson-Al Cowling white Bronco slow speed chase scenes. To make a long story short, the driver went back to the box that had fallen off of the car. I parked in the street and told one of my neighbors what happened so we both could watch him. The driver got out, picked up the box and put it back on the trunk of his car and drove off. He was a tall, slim to medium build black man in his mid-thirties to early forties.

I know that I probably shouldn’t have followed that car like that but I was angry. I called my mom as this was occurring so she’d know what was going on. I lost him in traffic but I’m willing to bet that he dropped that animal off in another predominantly-black neighborhood. That’s what my dad calls black-on-black crime.

I’m really angry with myself for not getting his tag number and taking a picture of his car. From here on out, whenever possible, I’m putting those kinds of people on blast. Photos…tag numbers…whatever it takes to keep my community safe and clean. Feel free to submit your own photos and information on folks that don’t keep our community clean. Enough is enough.

Miami is far from a perfect place but I really like living here. If we keep running north and don’t try to salvage our community, what legacy do we leave for future generations? Furthermore, what a message of ingratitude we send to our ancestors who made tremendous sacrifices for this community.

So, to all of you who have trash piles in your neighborood, shopping carts in front of your houses and throw trash out of your car windows or on the ground as you walk...pick that s_ _ _ up! Call Solid Waste  to pick up bulky items. Call Team Metro to report violations. It's our community, let's have some community pride.

Junior Achievement Needs Volunters!

About Junior Achievement | Programs & Services | News & Events Volunteers Needed! The volunteer from Colonial Bank featured above had a blast with JA!  Now, we're looking for volunteers like her for the following dates and locations. Please email Scott at [email protected] if you can help! Elementary Schools Completed in one day, our "JA Days" at elementary schools are our most-popular events.  Volunteers present 5 fun activities over a single morning and afternoon. For more info, visit the "About Junior Achievement" page at www.jamiami.org. Wednesday, October 10th - W.J. Bryan Elementary, 1201 NE 125 Street, North Miami (33 classes). Wednesday, October 17th - W.J. Bryan Elementary (Kindergarten Annex), 1201 NE 125 Street, North Miami (6 classes). Friday, November 16th - Kensington Park Elementary, 711 NW 30 Avenue, Miami (56 classes). Middle Schools Help teach kids how to live on a budget and write a resume'!  Middle School volunteers must be willing to visit their classes a total of 8 times over the course of a semester.  For more info, visit the "About Junior Achievement" page at www.jamiami.org. Aventura Charter, 3333 NE 188 Street, Aventura Multi-Ethnic Youth Group, 7900 NW 27 Avenue Nautilus Middle School, 4301 North Michigan Avenue, Miami Beach North Miami Public Library, 835 NE 132, North Miami High Schools These are all on-going opportunities to teach either our "Company" or "Banks In Action" programs.  Volunteers must be willing to visit the school up-to-12 times over the course of a semester.  For more info, visit the "About Junior Achievement" page at www.jamiami.org.  Academy for Community Education High, 39 Zamora Avenue, Coral Gables Archbishop Curley High, 4949 NE 2 Avenue, Miami Booker T. Washington High, 1200 NW 6 Avenue, Miami Coral Park High, 8865 SW 16 Street, Miami Coral Reef High, 1010 SW 152 Street, Miami Design & Architecture High (DASH), 4001 NE 2 Avenue, Miami Hialeah High, 251 East 47 Street, Hialeah Jackson High, 1751 NW 36 Street, Miami Krop High, 1410 Countyline Road, Miami/Aventura Miami Lakes Educational Center High, 5780 NW 158 Street, Miami Lakes Miami Springs High, 751 Dove Avenue, Miami Springs Multi-Ethnic Youth Group, 7900 NW 27 Avenue North Miami High, 800 NE 137 Street, North Miami North Miami Beach High, 1247 NE 167 Street, North Miami Beach Northwestern High, 1100 NW 71 Street, Miami Southwest High, 8855 SW 50 Terrace, Miami William Turner Tech High, 10151 NW 19 Avenue You will have a wonderful time volunteering with Junior Achievement...and the students will love you for it!  Please contact Scott Galvin at sgalvin@jamiami now and reserve your spot for the experience of a lifetime! Junior Achievement of Greater Miami, Inc. 13490 NW 7th Avenue | North Miami, FL 33168 | (305) 687-3977