CITY NATIONAL BANK CLOSES $30 MILLION LOAN FOR DORAL CLASS A OFFICE BUILDING

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January 12, 2012

City National Bank of Florida (CNB) recently closed a $30 million loan on One Park Square, a 281,623-square-foot Class A office building Doral.

CNB provided the loan to New Boston Fund, a private real estate investment, development and management firm that purchased One Park Square in October 2010. The loan, which is a three-year mortgage with an option to extend two additional years, will be used for tenant improvements and leasing commissions.

One Park Square is approximately 60 percent occupied. Its tenants include Amadeus, Harley-Davidson’s Central and South America division and the Latin Recording Academy. Doral eatery Harvest Delights will soon relocate to One Park Square from its current location nearby.

“This is a tremendous asset that is well located,” said Scott McCleneghen, CNB’s Managing Senior Vice President and Palm Beach Market Executive who managed the loan for the bank. “New Boston Fund has a great track record for acquiring quality properties such as this.”

Mr. McCleneghen also credited Pryse Elam, New Boston’s Regional Director for the Southeast, for partnering with CNB to secure the loan.

About City National Bank of Florida
Headquartered in Miami, City National Bank of Florida (CNB) is the financial institution to which Floridians have turned for more than 65 years. The sixth-largest financial institution in the state, City National Bank of Florida was named the South Florida Business Journal’s Local/Community Bank of the Year in 2011. CNB is backed by Caja Madrid, founded more than 300 years ago and one of Spain’s largest financial institutions. CNB offers a diversified portfolio of financial products and services at 26 convenient banking centers from Miami-Dade County to the greater Orlando area.

About New Boston Fund
New Boston is an independent, privately owned real estate investment manager and an industry leader in providing real estate investment, development and management services with a history of strong sponsorship and oversight of its investment funds. New Boston has developed or acquired commercial and residential properties with a cumulative market value of about $4.4 billion, including 23 million square feet of commercial real estate and 7,500 residential units. Our investment vehicles cater to institutional and high-net worth investors by offering value-add and urban real estate investment funds with a focus on diversification and capital preservation. The New Boston Fund: People, Values, Returns.

HUD Awards Opa-locka a $624,479 Grant

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Community Newspapers

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January 12, 2012

U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Southeast Regional Administrator Edward Jennings, Jr., HUD Deputy Assistant Secretary for Multifamily Marie Head and Congresswoman Frederica Wilson on January 10, 2012, announced that OLCDC will recieve a $300,000 Choice Neighborhoods Planning Grant to support initiatives to transform the Niles Gardens community and seek new opportunities for transit-oriented development that connects housing with jobs. Opa-Locka is one of 13 communities nationwide awarded grants to begin grassroots efforts to revitalize housing and communities.

On Monday, November 21, 2011, “The Great” City of Opa-locka received a $624,479 grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The primary objective of the grant is to develop a long-term vision for the city’s revitalization, dubbed Sustainable Opa-locka 20/30. The plan will identify specific actions that will improve local housing and spur economic investment and development. The City has partnered with the Opa-locka Community Development Corporation to implement these funds, with both organizations providing matching funds that bring the total investment close to $1 million.

Improved housing and reversing the devastating impacts of the real estate downtown, is a key priority. Efforts are underway to reclaim and renovate foreclosed and abandoned properties and to help current residents improve their properties. The plan will identify and seek to improve key “livability” factors, including jobs, transportation choices, housing, health indicators and open space. These efforts will improve the community for current residents and attract new residents seeking affordable housing in a strong, safe neighborhood.

The plan will also identify opportunities to spur economic development in the area, by taking advantage of local facilities. The city boasts a large general aviation facility in the Opa-locka airport; a cluster on underutilized warehouse and industrial spaces; and 110 buildings throughout the neighborhood that feature historic Moorish revival architecture. These three assets are being explored as anchors for a bold strategy to attract business to the city and create jobs.

“While many of our families are struggling through these tough economic times, we have an opportunity for generational change in Opa-locka,” said Opa-locka Mayor Myra Taylor. “This grand vision requires an equally bold plan. This generous grant from HUD will provide us with the resources we need to see the entirety of our community, engage our citizens, and smartly target our investments to make the largest impact.”

In addition to the housing and economic development outcomes, the plan will also provide guidance on zoning code, design guidelines, a housing strategy, property acquisition and community engagement strategy. “Protecting and celebrating the unique Moorish architecture will be a critical focus of our efforts. While we recognize our heritage, we also look forward,” added Taylor.

Another outcome includes improvements in energy efficiency and reductions in community energy use through community-scale energy strategies and green building code development.

The comprehensive Sustainable Opa-locka 20/30 plan is expected to be completed in 12 to 18 months with some elements being implemented concurrently.

OLCDC Helps Historic Neighborhood Recapture its Glory

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Christina Gordon

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January 12, 2012

logan-071 — Shovels held by key stakeholders involved in the community development project construction activity of the first apartment complex being revitalized in Opa-locka – (L to R) Marilyn Oliver Lopez, TD Bank, CFNMD Board Member; (Behind) Eli Bichachi; (L to R) Mr. & Mrs. Bichachi, ELCI Construction, Contractor (assigned for the rehabilitation of this building); Opa-locka Commissioner Gail Miller; Miami-Dade County District 1 Commissioner Barbara J. Jordan; City of Opa-locka Mayor Myra L. Taylor; Willie Logan, President/CEO, OLCDC; City of Opa-locka Vice Mayor Dorothy “Dottie” Johnson; Leo Toca, Wells Fargo, Vice President, Sr. Community Development Officer; Ed Brow, OLCDC Board Member; Eugene Simmons- Citibank.

“This is not about the rehabilitation of an apartment complex, this is about the redevelopment of a neighborhood and the building of a community,” avowed Willie Logan, Founder and President of the Opa-locka Community Development Corporation (OLCDC), on Wednesday, December 7, 2011 at 11:00 a.m., during a historic groundbreaking ceremony at 15050 Duval Street, Opa-locka, FL 33054, where Logan together with Miami-Dade County District 1 Commissioner Barbara J. Jordan, City of Opa-locka Mayor Myra Taylor, the City Commission, and a list of some of the brightest names in urban planning united, with hard hats and golden shovels, to initiate a new beginning for a community once infamously nicknamed “The Triangle.”

For years, “The Triangle,” in the City of Opa-locka, has had a renowned reputation for being one of Miami’s toughest neighborhoods. At the groundbreaking, citizens learned details about a transformation which the area is about to undergo, that will convert the neighborhood into one of the most aesthetically pleasing and potentially promising communities in South Florida, beginning with a rediscovered name, “Magnolia North,” and a vital investment by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

OLCDC is utilizing a portion of a $20 million HUD Neighborhood Stabilization Program 2 (NSP 2) grant to transform the old “Triangle” into the new “Magnolia North;” a safe and desirable place to live and work. The community development planning process, initiated last year, yielded a bold plan for the neighborhood and the first major project is about to begin, marked by the groundbreaking ceremony to showcase the redevelopment of the first apartment complex under the HUD NSP 2 grant. The neighborhood revitalization project presents great opportunity for South Florida with four buildings being revitalized in Opa-locka, over the next 12 months.

OLCDC develops a holistic vision for neighborhood transformation, and the Magnolia North transformation will derive from rebuilt and repaired houses, beautiful new apartment buildings, streets, landscaping, parks and playgrounds for children, along with seven areas that have been identified to create public art, which celebrates Opa-locka’s history and people. The ambitious undertaking will literally change the face of Opa-locka for generations, and serve as a community development model for other US cities, in upcoming years, as they tackle similar challenges. Once completed, this “community of choice” will consist of green (environmentally friendly) buildings and free access to the internet for every resident. OLCDC board members believe that the physical changes will create new spirit within the Magnolia North community.

“We are burning ‘the Triangle’ today,” exclaimed Commissioner Jordan! She suggested that the new blue print for Magnolia North will change the Horizon of the Community. Jordan, who “recaptured” an additional $2.5 million last year to assist OLCDC in the project, added, “You have what you have today, because NO ONE was selfish!” Admitting that this will have a long lasting, permanent effect on the community, she humbly asserted, “I am proud to be a part of the revitalization, the rejuvenation and the recreation of ‘Magnolia North!’”

Additional major funders teaming with OLCDC in this effort include: Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta, BB&T, AT&T, Wells Fargo, the Miami-Dade NSPII Consortium, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Among the community leaders, program participants and others attending the groundbreaking were, Vice Mayor Dorothy “Dottie” Johnson, Commissioner Rose Tydus, Commissioner Gail Miller, Evangelist Mary Alice Brown, Armando Fana, US Department of Housing and Urban Development Field Office Director; Jessie Williams, Chairperson OLCDC Housing Committee; OLCDC Board member and Former Commissioner Ollie Kelley; Representatives from Jamii Builders; Community Fund of North Miami-Dade; Affordable Home Realty; along with OLCDC Board of Directors and members. Music was performed by saxophonist Brian Wesolowski.

TotalBank breaks ground on new West Miami Banking Center

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Community Press Releases

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January 12, 2012

WestMiamiGB-release (resized) — City of West Miami City Manager Yolanda Aguilar; Nelson Hidalgo, Director of the Banking Center Division at TotalBank; Robert Revilla, Managing Director at TotalBank; City of West Miami Mayor Eduardo H. Muhiña; Luis de la Aguilera, President and Chief Marketing Officer, TotalBank; Ramon Ferran, Senior Vice President and Regional Manager at TotalBank; City of West Miami Commissioner Luciano L. Suarez; and Nicolás Fernández, Esq.

TotalBank recently broke ground on its latest Banking Center project in West Miami. Centrally located at 5782 SW 8th Street, the West Miami Banking Center will be a full-service, free-standing branch offering an array of TotalBank’s products and services, including drive-thru banking.

Participating in the Bank’s groundbreaking ceremony were special guests from the City of West Miami: Mayor Eduardo H. Muhiña, City Manager Yolanda Aguilar and Commissioner Luciano L. Suarez.

The opening of a new location in the City of West Miami is an integral part of TotalBank’s strategic plan for expansion in South Florida as it continues striving to meet the growing needs of the community.

About TotalBank
TotalBank is a leading consumer and commercial bank in South Florida with more than $2 billion in assets and 18 convenient locations throughout Miami-Dade County. Headquartered in Miami, TotalBank has served the South Florida community for more than 35 years, offering a broad range of domestic and international financial services to corporations, small businesses and individual consumers. The bank offers superior customer service focused on meeting the financial needs of customers while earning their confidence and loyalty. TotalBank is a wholly owned subsidiary of Banco Popular Español, whose member banks comprise Grupo Banco Popular, one of the leading banking groups in Spain with over $200 billion in assets and more than 2,500 banking centers. More information can be found at www.totalbank.com.

Students get real-life financial lessons during Real Money Business Bootcamp for High School Students

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Community Press Releases

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January 12, 2012

Photo copyrighted by Candace West 2011-- Candacewestphoto@yahoo.com--(954) 868-2205- — Students from Miami Beach Senior High and Miami Northwestern High School visit Jungle Island to learn about finances during the Real Money Bootcamp sponsored by City National Bank.

More than 100 students and volunteers participated in the Real Money Business Bootcamp at Jungle Island on Friday, Dec. 15. Hosted in partnership with Communities in Schools, the event brought together students from Miami Beach Senior High and Miami Northwestern.

Students participated in a variety of stations manned by counselors and volunteers and learned to make choices towards a career path as they leave for college as well as the financial implications of paying for their education, housing, transportation, entertainment, fitness, and insurance, and the skills to manage their credit and banking accounts.

During the previous two weeks, volunteers also visited the two schools and presented lessons on financial literacy and responsibility.

The Bootcamp began with fitness guru, Michael Moore of Hiperfit, and 18 Best Buy volunteers escorting the students off the bus at 8:30 a.m. After a welcome and special treat from Jungle Island, students entered into the Real Money Business Bootcamp in the Garden Outpost section of the jungle. The students each began with a set amount of income and spent 10-15 minutes at each station making sure to end up with a balanced budget.

The different stations included the Florida International University Career Station, The Continental Group Realty Housing Station, Warren Henry Auto Station, Best Buy Entertainment Station, Florida International University College Skills Station, Hiperfit Fitness Station, City National Bank Account Station, State Farm Insurance Section, and City National Bank Credit Station. Based on their appreciation for education and their eagerness to excel, the students were given “bonus money” to spend throughout the day. The experience and education provided by the station volunteers helped each student come out ahead of the game.

Throughout the next month, the students will be asked to complete a one-page essay about their experience. The top three winners will be chosen to receive scholarship money, which will be provided thanks to sponsor donations.

About the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce
The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce was formed in 1921 to promote the economic well-being of Miami Beach’s citizens, to improve the quality of life for the entire community, and to communicate the view of the business community on major issues of public policy.

About City National Bank
Headquartered in Miami, City National Bank of Florida (CNB) is the financial institution to which Floridians have turned for more than 65 years. The sixth-largest financial institution in the state, City National Bank of Florida was named the South Florida Business Journal’s Local/Community Bank of the Year in 2011. CNB is backed by Caja Madrid, founded more than 300 years ago and one of Spain’s largest financial institutions. CNB offers a diversified portfolio of financial products and services at 26 convenient banking centers from Miami-Dade County to the greater Orlando area.

The Future of Franchise Business Opportunities Examined at Franchise Expo South on Miami Beach, January 20-22, 2012

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Community Press Releases

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January 12, 2012

In 2011, gourmet burgers, cupcakes and frozen yogurt topped the list of popular franchise trends. To start the New Year, The Sixth Annual Franchise Expo South returns to South Florida on January 20-22, 2012 affording visitors a unique opportunity to see what the future of franchising holds. From the basics of buying a franchise to launching a brand internationally, the show will address today’s hot topics, as well as attract thousands of entrepreneurs, current franchise owners, and returning veterans interested in owning their own franchise business. Sponsored by the International Franchise Association, the Expo will be held at the Miami Beach Convention Center and will feature educational seminars and conferences, several of which have been approved for Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) accreditation, in addition to the franchisor exhibits on the tradeshow floor.

“Franchising is very important to South Florida’s economy, as it creates business opportunities for entrepreneurs and more local jobs, especially for the thousands of American troops who will be re-entering the workforce next year,” said Tom Portesy, president of MFV Expositions, producers of Franchise Expo South. “In fact, more than 825,000 franchises support 18 million U.S. jobs and contribute $2.1 trillion to our nation’s economy, proving that franchising has a significant impact.”

After three years of restrained growth, due to the recession and its lingering effects, franchise businesses show signs of recovery in 2012, with establishment growth forecast at 1.9 percent, according to a new report by IHS Global Insight for the International Franchise Association Educational Foundation. The Franchise Business Economic Outlook: 2012 forecasts modest growth in the number of establishments in each of the 10 business lines in the report, including automotive, business services, commercial & residential services, lodging, personal services, quick service restaurants, real estate, retail food, retail products & services and table/full service restaurants.

Franchise Expo South is designed specifically to allow prospective franchisees to discover which types of businesses match their needs. The tradeshow is a forum for potential candidates to do their research in person and meet with franchisors to ensure their potential investment is an ideal match. The expo floor will feature hundreds of exhibitors from food to professional service franchises including Hardee’s, The Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Co., Baskin-Robbins, EmbroidMe, Lucille Roberts, Red Mango, Sign-a-Rama, and Wireless Zone, along with thousands of attendees.

“Franchise Expo South offers the chance for franchise businesses to differentiate themselves from the rest of the competition as they connect with potential new small business owners across South Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean,” said Portesy. “We welcome members of the community to explore the many different franchise opportunities available to them and learn about the benefits of owning a franchise business at the Franchise Expo South.”

For more information about attending Franchise Expo South, please visit www.franchiseexposouth.com.

About MFV Expositions:
MFV produces the leading franchise events worldwide. These global events consistently bring together franchise concepts, at all investment levels, with the most qualified visitors seeking to own their own business. For access to online franchise opportunities, MFV also offers web-based resources, lead management tools and solutions for generating sales. For more information about MFV Expositions, visit www.mfvexpo.com or call 201-226-1130.

There’s lots to see and do at the Gardens

By

Alana Perez

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January 11, 2012

Wow! This past year our garden has really grown.

We have added new and exciting festivals. We have launched a performing arts venue with a season line-up that includes theater, music and dance in our newly renovated Banyan Bowl. We have turned the Hibiscus Room into a full-time fabulous art gallery featuring a new exhibit every month. We have welcomed into our fold the CLEO Institute, founded by educator and environmental activist Caroline Lewis, who has taken on a global initiative of engaging people in the topic of climate change.

Our 14-plus acres are more lush and beautiful than ever, and on Oct. 17 the National Park Service announced the addition of Pinecrest Gardens to the National Register of Historic Places. The designation of the “Parrot Jungle Historic District” recognizes the historic significance of this incredible property that was once home to a world-famous tourist attraction.

It is our intent to renew this commitment to becoming a world-class attraction, offering our local community and beyond a cultural haven; a gathering place for families to enjoy, to celebrate, to laugh, to learn and to be entertained.

So, what’s up at the Gardens during the first two weeks in January? A lot!

FINE ARTS FESTIVAL
Jan. 14-15, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Come to one of Florida’s premiere juried art shows and enjoy an afternoon surrounded by spectacular visual arts in the most lush and luxurious setting now in its ninth year. Amongst a generous representation of the best artists and artisans in this area and beyond—you will find the perfect piece of art for your home, original jewelry for yourself or significant other, a great selection of delicious food, live music, and other activities for the entire family.

FARMERS MARKET
Open Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Grab your trusty straw tote because Bee Heaven Farms is back selling the very best in locally grown produce. But don’t stop there. The Market now boasts more than 60 vendors featuring fresh produce, locally farmed honey, fresh made pasta, arts and crafts and so much more. GARDENS GALLERY Open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Our next exhibit opens Jan. 6 at 6:30 p.m. when the gallery will feature CCT-ART. CCT was founded by two mothers, all parenting special needs children, and a group of therapists whose concern and challenges led to a desire to offer their children creative stimulation while caring for their personal needs. Creative Children Therapy, through their Artists Realization Technology Program, continues to help children with special needs and profound disabilities put their inner-most thoughts on to canvas.

HONORING OUR FOUNDERS
In 2003, when the Gardens was purchased by the Village, there was a fundraising initiative dubbed our Founders Tree. By purchasing a leaf on this tree, one’s name would be etched, forever recognizing that name as a founding member in Gardens’ history. This year we have renovated our tree, and on Jan. 7 we will honor our founding members in a special ceremony as we officially launch our new membership drive for 2012.

BENEFIT CONCERT
The Community Foundation of Pinecrest, a non-profit organization, will present a Concert under the Stars featuring renowned jazz vocalist Nicole Henry on Saturday, Jan. 7, at 8 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the Gardens’ performing arts initiatives and the Banyan Bowl. A wine and cheese reception at 7 p.m. precedes the concert. Tickets are $42 (includes reception) and may be purchased online at www.pinecrestgardens.org.

EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES
• The CLEO Institute amplifies civic engagement on environmental issues by bringing together scientists, educators, private and public sector leaders, and young people. You are invited to a community-wide film screening and discussion of the documentary Carbon Nation on Friday, Jan. 13, 7-9:30 p.m., with a follow-up discussion led by Caroline Lewis and her Youth Task Force leaders.
• Join us on Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 10 a.m. for a special presentation on Basic Bonsai Techniques and Care in our Hibiscus Room. This wonderful lecture and workshop is free to the public.

TOUR THE GARDEN
Every Sunday at 11 a. m. and 1 p.m. we have scheduled tours given by our volunteers. These tours are free with an admission of $3 for adults and $2 for children.

For more information, visit www.pinecrestgardens.org, Facebook or call 305-669-6990.

Severe stroke cannot keep dancer Tammy Farris down

By

Raquel Garcia

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January 11, 2012

Tammy Farris 2553 — Tammy Farris (center right) is surrounded by former students and friends at Dance Gallery.

Tammy Farris, who had been dancing most of her life, suffered a severe stroke in October 2011 that left the professional dance instructor wheel chair-bound, unemployed, and minus insurance. The South Florida Dance Showcase on Jan. 20 at Broward College is dedicated to help get her and other stroke victims back on their feet.

“My mother was told to get my things in order because they did not think I was going to make it,” Farris said. “I was found hours after passing out and immediately rushed to the hospital for surgery. They drained the blood out of my brain and performed a tracheotomy to clear my lungs. I don’t remember my first month in intensive care.”

Farris experienced the classic stroke symptoms of numbness on her left side and dizziness prior to passing out and attributes the stroke itself to high blood pressure and stress. In just a few months since the October stroke, she has regained partial use of her left arm and is attempting to learn to walk.

Like millions of Americans, Farris did not have insurance at the time of the stroke. She was teaching at Dance Gallery in the South Miami area after giving up her own studio to enable her to teach fulltime. Dance Gallery has sponsored several fundraisers on Farris’ behalf and they sell “Hope You Can Dance” bracelets for her, but more help is needed.

“I applied for Medicaid and finally did receive it but they do not cover occupational therapy so I started doing it on my own to continue to improve. I made so many calls to so many organizations but as soon as they found out I was a stroke victim they would say ‘oh, we don’t take stroke victims.’”

A branch of Medicaid called Medica offers limited occupational therapy which apparently Farris already has used up and so she continues to make calls to find a way to get help while doing what she can on her own — a risky gamble.

“I am living with my mom now and we have modified the house so I can take a shower in the wheelchair but there are so many things you cannot do with only one arm. I can’t cook; I can’t fold laundry. I have fallen four times already and, thank God, I have not split my head open because one time I landed on my face on the ceramic tile. This is why so many stroke victims end up back in the hospital,” Farris said.

A life of immobility to a lifelong dancer brought up in the studio of her mother, Virginia Harris, is not a proposition Farris is willing to accept.

“When something tragic and unexpected happens in life you have to fight. I believe you can achieve anything you desire if you work hard enough and believe in yourself,” Farris said.

Apparently this is the style of leadership she taught her nearly 500 students during the course of her career thus far.

“Her students love her and want to do more for her,” said Rosemary Baker, Dance Gallery director. “She has been in the dance community a long time and is very well known. She really relates to the students.

“Tammy is able to get on their level and explain things in a unique and effective way. If she is teaching ballet, for example, she makes it fun. Ballet is not fun for a lot of students but Tammy could make it fun for everybody.”

Many of Farris’ alumni have gone on to dance for the Miami Heat, the Miami Dolphins, and performed on national and international stages such as on the television program So You Think You Can Dance. Some have left travel engagements to come back to town and teach master classes to benefit Farris. Recently a group of students at Dance Gallery decided to post messages about the difference she has made in their lives.

“You are my motivation,” Alexis Browning said.

“You not only inspired me to dance but also to stay strong and always keep your head up,” Stephanie Pujol said.

“You are one of the best teachers I have ever had, not only an inspiration but also a role model,” Casey Ruiz said.

The First Annual South Florida Dance Showcase to Benefit Stroke Victims is Friday, Jan. 20, 7 p.m., in the Omni Auditorium at Broward College North Campus, 1000 Coconut Creek Blvd.

Call Tammy at 305-323-9041 or send email to distinctiondance@aol.com for more information.

Free Black Violin concert set at SMDCAC, Jan. 15

By

Nicolle Ugarizza

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January 11, 2012

South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center (SMDCAC) in Cutler Bay and CultureShockMiami.com present Black Violin, a free concert on Sunday, Jan. 15, 7 p.m., sponsored in part by TD Bank.

Students, ages 13-22, may get tickets through www.cultureshockmiami.com. The general public may obtain a voucher to exchange for up to four tickets per person. For information on vouchers contact the SMDCAC Box Office at 786-573-5300 or visit online at www.smdcac.org for more information.

To most people, jazz, hip-hop, funk, and classical are musical genres. But to revolutionary music group Black Violin, they are nothing but ingredients. Combining a daunting array of musical styles and influences to produce a signature sound that is not quite maestro, not quite emcee, this group of two classically trained violinists along with their deejay and drummer, are redefining the music world-one string at a time.

With influences ranging from Shostakovich and Bach to Nas and Jay-Z, Black Violin breaks all the rules, blending the classical with the modern to create something rare, a sound that nobody has ever heard, but that everybody wants to feel.

Miami String Project opens the show. They are a dynamic youth string chamber orchestra comprised of talented young violinists, violists, cellists and bassists between the ages of 12 and 19.

This concert is meant to provide a way for students to be introduced to the new center and to participate in CultureShockMiami.com.

CultureShockMiami.com is a program run by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, dedicated to making Miami-Dade’s rich cultural life affordable and accessible to high school and college students ages 13-22.

Through the site, students may buy tickets for $5 to the best dance, music, theater, film and spoken word events in Miami-Dade County, and two-for-$5 tickets to museums. Tickets donated by cultural organizations are available for purchase through www.cultureshockmiami.com free of any taxes, fees or surcharges. A student must use the first ticket purchased, but the second ticket may be used by a person of any age.

When the members of Black Violin first learned to play their signature instruments — Wil B, the viola at 14, and Kev Marcus, the violin at the tender age of 9 — neither could have foreseen that it would become their livelihood, though it was already becoming their passion.

The two Florida natives first met while attending the Dillard High School of Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale, a school whose exceptional music programs served to nurture their already budding talents. But it was not until the two were exposed to the work of legendary violinist Stuff Smith that the seeds that would one day become Black Violin were truly planted.

Smith, born in Portsmouth, OH, in 1909, was one of preeminent jazz violinists of the swing era, who went onto perform with names like Alphonse Trent, Coleman Hawkins, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie and Sun Ra throughout a long and storied career. His final album and most soulful, titled Black Violin, so inspired and influenced the young Kev Marcus and Wil B that they eventually would name their band in honor of the man who had shown them that there were no limits to what the violin could do.

UM men’s basketball tickets free to Gables residents only

By

Rosie Tobalina

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January 11, 2012

UM men's basketball — Gables residents can watch UM men’s basketball action for free.

Thanks to a 20-year Development Agreement between the City of Coral Gables and the University of Miami, Coral Gables residents can receive up to four free tickets per household for upcoming Hurricanes men’s basketball games.

“This is another example of how the City of Coral Gables and the University of Miami are working together for the benefit of residents,” said Pat Salerno, city manager.

Last year, all tickets were distributed.

Tickets for the following games are available:

Sunday, Jan. 22, noon, University of Miami vs. North Carolina State. Only 250 tickets are being distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, which began Monday, Jan. 9.

Wednesday, Feb. 1, 8 p.m., University of Miami vs. Maryland. Only 250 tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning Monday, Jan. 23, at 8 a.m.

Saturday, Feb. 18, 1 p.m., University of Miami vs. Wake Forest. Only 250 tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning Thursday, Feb. 2 at 8 a.m.

Sunday, Feb. 26, 6 p.m., University of Miami vs. Florida State University. Only 250 tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 8 a.m.

The games will be played at the BankUnited Center on the University of Miami campus. Tickets will be distributed in person at the War Memorial Youth Center, 405 University Dr., no earlier than the designated distribution date. Residents must show proof of residential address. Tickets are limited to four per household.

For additional information, contact the Parks and Recreation Division at 305-460-5600.

Graffiti Tour leads weekend bikers to Wynwood art

By

Community Newspapers

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January 11, 2012

PT-ArtInMiami1 — Biker stands in front of a striking mural on a Wynwood building wall.

Early Sunday morning on Dec. 18, I did what I often do – put my bike on the back of my car and set out for a rolling view of whatever Miami has to offer. Actually, on this crisp morning, I threw my son’s bike on the back too, drove down Old Cutler and dropped him off at his friend Jose’s house near the Green Market. Along the way, I weaved around other bikers – you know, the kind who seem to irritate people.

I’m not one of those bikers, those flashy, aggressive, flying mobs wrapped in spandex like the Blue Man group, chattering madly and getting madly fit. No, I’m in the other kind of bicycling mode, the ones who only tie you up on the last Friday of the month — or occasional weekends — in the bowels of the city. We go looking for camaraderie differently, in this case, with art as the goal.

Allapattah Station was the meeting point and, to my surprise, a crowd of nearly 150 impatiently waited for the next late arriving Metrorail – the weekend Metrorail never arrives on time – why even publish a schedule? In any case, we never leave on time either.

Today’s group is called Emerge, a loosely affiliated, happy-go-lucky crew of folks who meet Tuesday evenings in Little Haiti at Sweat Records to plan community activities like this out of the goodness of their hearts. Today’s excursion, the Graffiti Bike Tour.

Leaders Dario and Olga know a lot about who has painted what, where they come from, when they were commissioned, and what they’re up to these days. In some cases, they break out notes to insure they get it right. They know where everything that is fit to print has been painted – legally and illegally as it goes. We weave in and out of alleys, avoid the broken glass, throw our hands in the air and shake’em like we just don’t care for getting flat tires and everybody takes a heap of photos – often on the iPhone.

A group of French tourists somehow are on the tour and Dario keeps asking if anyone can translate into French. Of course, the French speak English better than any of the bike riders who aren’t Haitian can speak French, but everyone manages; we ride, we stop, we ride, we stop. We photograph and some listen intently.

We hear about Retna, Books Bischof of Primary Flight, Above, RISK, Shepard Fairey and the local Puerto Rican brothers like Trek6 who began painting in Wynwood when it was primarily a local Puerto Rican neighborhood. If you listen carefully, you can imagine Andy Warhol, Keith Haring and Basquiat nodding their heads. This could be the start of something new is rerunning in their heads.

It’s mostly legal and legit these days. Hundreds of legal pieces have been commissioned and during Basel on the cityside, Montana-Cans, the spray paint of choice for these artists, supposedly donated 8,000 cans of paint last year; few artists are getting paid. But a landscape has changed, people appreciate what they see, talk about it and participate in a scene which invites events such as this bike tour.

Carl Rachelson has a Masters Degree in Humanities and is an English teacher at Palmer Trinity School. He may be contacted via email at crachelson@palmertrinity.org.

‘Spirit of the Season’ tradition lives on

By

Raquel Garcia

-

January 11, 2012

DSCF3319 — (L to r) William Thompson, Thomasena Thompson, James McCants and CRA board member Denise Covington outside the Thompson residence.

South Miami Icon David Bethel was a teacher at Ludlam Elementary, South Miami Middle School and J.R.E. Lee before becoming a commissioner from 1996 to his 2004 retirement. A few years before his passing Commissioner Bethel began a special holiday tradition that continues today. The 2011 “Spirit of the Season” awards for home decorations in the community redevelopment agency area enjoyed another beautiful season.

Twinkling lights in reds, greens, blues and whites, a sea of giant candy-canes, and Santa Claus with his green-hooded elves led by Rudolph and a sleigh of reindeer were all to be enjoyed by the passerby in an outdoor winter wonderland tucked in the heart of South Miami.

“Commissioner Bethel galvanized the community to begin a new tradition of outdoor holiday lights and decorations to expand the spirit of the season among neighbors and friends in the community redevelopment agency (CRA) area. His Spirit of the Season legacy lives on today,” said Programs Coordinator and Community Outreach Director for the CRA James McCants.

Five homes in particular were honored this year for their creative and colorful displays. James and Margaret Dean of 62 Street outdid themselves yet again with their one of a kind six foot ornaments individually crafted by Dean. In shapes of candy canes and snowflakes the larger than life creations bedazzled the front lawn. “I see a design and it just comes to me, I make it. Each one takes about 45 minutes or so to do. Instead of going to the store and buying them, I make my own.” Jacqueline Hill Moultry of 62 Terrace and her son Jaiden went for a “Disney on Ice” theme. Giant fancily wrapped presents decorated their front lawn while Mickey Mouse and Tiger and Rudolph and friends seemed to be skating around the gifts.

Thomasena and James Thompson of 63 Street must have hired the Jolly Green Giant to set up their lights. The bright twinkling colors wrapped around the trunks of tall palm trees and the rest of the beautifully landscaped tropical foliage.

At Rosa Gragg’s house on 63 Terrace, Santa Claus and his friendly elves were gathered around the front lawn celebrating what appeared to be a party hosted by none other than Frosty the Snowman. His snowman arm was waving hello as if in invitation to join along.

“Every display is a winner,” said McCants. It is always a pleasure to see the beautiful colorful lights and enjoy the enthusiasm of those who participate for all in the community to celebrate the spirit of the season show.”

Each home receives a sign to add to their unique display that reads: “Spirit of the Season Award. In recognition of your efforts to share holiday cheer and inspire community pride.” To find out more about the “Spirit of the Season” David Bethel community tradition and other CRA community outreach programs contact James McCants at 305-796-2536 or email jmccants@southmiamifl.gov.

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‘Spirit of the Season’ tradition lives on

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