Black-N-Dade

What's going on?

2010-03-04T05:28:00.001-08:00

That's what many have been asking about B-N-D. Wellll...not much as you can tell. That doesn't mean that Miami-Dade County hasn't been buzzing with events and happenings! Not to worry peeps; B-N-D will be back very soon with more of the highlights and issues you love to read about. Thanks to those of you who have checked in and expressed very clearly that you want to read MORE! You are appreciated. To all new readers, a great big WELCOME to you!

Wishing all of you many blessings.

A Bad Look for Barry

2009-05-20T18:34:00.000-07:00

Attention past and present Bucs...your school is in the news, and not in a good way. Miami New Times reported a few weeks ago that Barry University has had several complaints against them of racial discrimination. Some have even gone as far as the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) with their claims of racial tension at the university. Click HERE for the entire article, it's an interesting read. Of course, Barry University spokespersons have denied all claims of racism against them. It looks like Barry alum may need to get some answers.

(source: Miami New Times; Blogging Black Miami)

Best of the Best is back

2009-05-19T18:35:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, May 24th, Miami will welcome THOUSANDS of reggae and dancehall fans onto Bayfront Park. That's right, it's time for Best of the Best 2009! Special performances include Mavado, Bounty Killer, Beenie Man, Spice and Elephant Man (Eeeeenergy!!!). A few Florida folks will hit the stage (Khaled, T-Pain, Rick Ross), but we know this show is all about di dancehall! Check out the official website HERE

Miami-Dade NAACP battle confederate flag display

2009-05-19T18:28:00.000-07:00

Bishop Victor Curry and members of the Miami-Dade NAACP are gearing up for a fight to keep the confederate battle flag from being displayed publicly. The uproar started 6 months ago when the Sons of Confederate Veterans paraded the flag in a Veterans' Day parade in Homestead. Curry and officials are strategizing the next move, which may include protests of Homestead chamber businesses. Check the full story out HERE

(source: MiamiHerald.com)

Updates on the way...

2009-05-19T18:24:00.001-07:00

You don't have to say it...BND has been on a SERIOUS hiatus. Not to worry Miami peeps and visitors, we're in the process of getting back up and running. Hang tight while we tidy up.

Black Crossroads makes March debut at Historical Museum

2009-02-08T11:52:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Vanessa over at Blogging Black Miami, I spotted the news on a GREAT exhibition set to open March 5th at the Historical Museum of South Florida Downtown. Black Crossroads will be featured at the museum from March until January 2010. The exhibition features historic photos, videos, audio and literature displaying the impact Africans in the Diaspora have contributed to Miami and South Florida.

Go HERE for more info on Black Crossroads, and be sure to check it out!

Get ready for Jazz in the Gardens 2009

2009-02-08T11:36:00.000-08:00

This year's line-up for the 4th Annual Jazz in the Gardens is on the up and up! One of Chi-City's best lyrical representers, Common, has joined the slate to perform at the annual jazz festival hel at Dolphin Stadium in Miami Gardens (Carol City). Other acts include Maze ft. Frankie Beverly, Anthony Hamilton, Kenny G., the one and only Ms. Badu and many more! Jazz in the Gardens has had a huge turnout since its inception, but expectations are high this year, with 30,000 projected to attend. Check the details:

WHAT: 4th Annual Jazz in the Gardens

WHEN: March 28th & 29th

WHERE: Dolphin Stadium, click HERE for directions

Please visit http://www.jazzinthegardens.com/ for info on tickets, artist bios and more!

Miami Herald video honors Overtown's musical history

2009-02-08T11:00:00.000-08:00

Check out this video that includes interviews, live audio and music from back in Overtown's heyday. Here's something I didn't know...Sam Moore of Sam & Dave ("I'm a soooooouuul maaaaan!) was a Towner 4 life!

http://www.miamiherald.com/video/index.html?media_id=2994975

Miami-Dade has a new Public Defender

2009-02-08T10:53:00.000-08:00

Miami-Dade County has inducted its first Cuban-American Public Defender, Carlos Martinez. Martinez now takes over an office dealing with serious budget cuts from the state and an enormous amount of cases. How these cuts and previous reports of the PD's office having to refuse cases will affect the poor in need of defence remains to be seen under Mr. Martinez's leadership. Check out Carlos Martinez's story and rise to our county's top defender HERE in today's Miami Herald.

In Case You Missed It...

2009-01-19T16:32:00.000-08:00

CBS-4 News had their I-team do a not-so-shocking expose on how our Commissioners are spending our money. Expenditures from tax-payer money, such as Dorrin Rolle's $10,000 Christmas cards (is he SERIOUS??!), other commissioners' personal bills (cell phones, satellite radio, etc.) were featured in the investigation.

Check out the I-Team's investigation HERE!

Long time coming...

2008-11-05T19:15:00.000-08:00

From 3/5ths human in the Constitution, to the highest office in the land.

The 44th President of the United States of America is Barack H. Obama!!!!!

THANK YOU Miami-Dade! We were a BIG part in turning the state of Florida my favorite color.

Everybody get ya vote on

2008-10-21T19:37:00.000-07:00

Attention Miami-Dade County! Early voting began this Monday, October 20th. So no excuses! Go HERE to view all early voting poll sites throughout the County. There are several amendments to vote on this election, so go HERE to check out a sample ballot (some cities have a specific ballot, which can be viewed as well). The lines have been LONG since early voting began. So have patience, get comfortable, and let NOTHING deter you from exercising your right!

(Photo source: BBC News)

Newsflash!

2008-10-21T19:19:00.000-07:00

Last week during the University of South Florida's (USF) Homecoming concert, Miami's own Flo-Rida shouted "look at all these beautiful ladies at UF!"

Whoops!!!

I know it's hard out there on the road, but c'mon hometeam! You reppin' FL, you gotta know what school you're at. Especially if you gone share the name of the state, seriously.

(Photo Source: The Insider)

Miami Herald recommends Barack Obama for President

2008-10-21T19:04:00.000-07:00

Here's a snippet of the Herald's recommendation:

"Indeed, the way the two candidates responded to the
economic meltdown offers a lesson in contrasting styles of leadership. Both have
put forth a series of worthwhile policy options, but where Sen. Obama was calm,
Sen. McCain was frantic. He first put his campaign ''on hold'' and suggested he
would cancel the first debate, and then suddenly decided to take part even as
the first bailout deal cratered. He said the fundamentals of the economy were
strong, then a few days later vowed to 'name the names' of those responsible for
the financial crisis."

Read (and weep for some) the entire recommendation HERE!

Catch Up

2008-10-21T18:49:00.000-07:00

It's been a minute since the last post, and life has definitely been HAPPENING! But I couldn't leave BND alone. So I'll steal from Jeezy right quick and say "let's get it!"

Clarification for South Florida voters

2008-09-28T19:22:00.000-07:00

There have been mass emails, text messages and blogs going around among South Floridians about the "No Match, No Vote" law and how it will affect this election. The Miami-Dade Department of Elections released this message to clear the air for voters regarding IDs, address match, and voting rights:

"We have received several calls from voters who were sent text and email messages
stating: “if your driver’s license address does not match the address on your
voter’s registration card, you will NOT be permitted to vote.” This was a mass
mail out, and in anticipation of voters calling for clarification, please be
advised of the following information which should be used in the event you get a
call regarding this:
It is not required that the address on your license
match the address on your voter information card. However, we urge you to ensure
your correct, current address is on file with our department. The address we
have on file determines your precinct and the ballot that applies to you.
ID
required and checked at the polls is used solely to confirm the voter’s
identity. Not to verify the voter’s ID number or address. The photograph on the
ID is compared to the person standing before the poll worker and the signature
on the ID is compared to the signature on record.
Therefore, you must bring
a current and valid identification that contains your photograph and
signature. Acceptable forms of identification include:
State of Florida
Driver's License
ID Card issued by the State of Florida
U. S.
Passport
Debit/Credit Cards
Military ID
Student ID
Retirement Center
ID
Public Assistance ID
Neighborhood Association
ID

Best Regards,
Christina White
Assistant to the
Supervisor of Elections
Miami-Dade Elections Department"

Click HERE for the official press release from the Florida Department of Elections regarding "No Match, No Vote."

Please everyone, stay aware of your rights as a voter! If you receive information, fact check for clarification. Not sure about the rules? CALL YOUR ELECTIONS DEPARTMENT, EMAIL THEM! Do whatever you have to do to ensure that you are clear on voting procedures for the state and for your County.

Photo Source: NAACP Legal Defense Fund

Tick Tock

2008-09-08T17:24:00.001-07:00

So, Miami-Dade School Board incumbent, and avid Rudy Crew supporter, Evelyn Greer was deafeted in the local elections by Larry Feldman with what is being called a successful "grassroots" campaign. Guess where that left Dr. Crew, Miami-Dade Schools Superintendent? You guessed it, on the chopping block.

The School Board held a meeting this morning to discuss what to do with Crew (that was not done on purpose!). A buyout was is being negotiated as you read.

Time now to put the focus back on the children! Ok, we all saw the side-show, but our students need appointed and elected officials who truly care about their future. We're waiting...

Overtown set to vote for new COB members

2008-08-24T13:31:00.000-07:00

Towners, this is your week to select the new members for the 2008 Overtown Community Oversight Board! As you may (or may not) know, the elections were postponed because of cancellations during Tropical Storm Fay. The members of this board will be advising City of Miami officials of issues that are affecting the Overtown community, so it is important to have members that actually care about this community more than building their resume!
Here's the breakdown:

WHAT: Elections for members to the Overtown Community Oversight Board
WHEN: THIS THURSDAY! August 28th
WHERE: Overtown N.E.T. office, 1490 NW 3rd Ave, Suite 111
TIME: Voting will be from 2pm-6pm only, so make sure you are there during these hours!

To vote, you must:
1. Be at least 18 years old or,
2. Be a resident of Overtown (that means Swamp, Bucktown, Town Park, and everywhere in between) or,
3. Own property or a business/be an employee of a business in Overtown or,
4. Be an employee or board member of a community-based organization that operates in Overtown

Click HERE for the complete list of candidates (there are only 5 seats open) and more information.

(Source: City of Miami Clerk's Office)

Third public meeting for Virginia Key this week

2008-08-24T13:21:00.000-07:00

The 3rd public meeting for Virginia Key's master plan will be this Tuesday. If you are interested in getting the latest info plans for the direction of this historic park and beach, please plan on attending. Check out the breakdown:

WHAT: Virginia Key master plan meeting
WHEN: Tuesday, August 26th
WHERE: Miami City Hall, 3500 Pan American Drive, Miami, FL 33133
TIME: 6:30pm

Big Money Balla$!

2008-08-17T11:40:00.000-07:00

Check out this post from the blog Eye On Miami detailing the most current net worth of incumbent County Commissioners running for office HERE. These amounts will astonish you, seeing that commissioners STILL want a salary increase (to the tune of about $90,000). Here's a snippet of Eye On Miami's breakdown of the cash flow:

County Commission Chair Bruno Barreiro's net worth 12/31/07 was $1,365,496.70
about $300,000 more than last year. Same date, Jose "Pepe" Diaz was worth
$267,373. He shows $82,666 income from the Asti Group in Coral Gables.
12/31/2004 Pepe was worth $225,833. Audrey Edmonson was worth $249,000, in 2006
she claimed her worth was $212,700. She gets $50,150 from the School Board.
Doing what?

That's a questions everyone should want answered...anyway, there are the figure$! Don't forget to click the link for the full report, and do what you will with the info in mind at the polls.

In case you missed it...

2008-08-17T11:23:00.000-07:00

Affectionately known as "Uncle Luke" and widely regarded as the King of Miami Hip-Hop, Luke has officially stepped on the reality show scene . "Luke's Parental Advisory" is one of the newest additions to VH1's reality line-up, and I must say Luke is a trip! Check out part of episode 1:

Palast puts Florida on BLAST?

2008-08-05T10:51:00.000-07:00

If this report is accurate, Florida is starting that under the table, corrupt voter registration foolishness again. According to Greg Palast, progressive author, journalist and former corruption investigator, Florida is refusing some 85,000 new voter registration from overwhelmingly Black voter drives. Check out his report HERE.

Admitedly, there is no surprise here if this is true. However, we the voters and citizens of Florida cannot stand for this again. This is not about parties, candidates, or with which "wing" you tend to fly. This is about literal disregard for the democratic process that we are supposed to follow. If a person meets all of the requirements to vote in this state, there is NO excuse for Florida to deny registration forms. This is inadvertently denying a citizen's right to vote in essence.

If you have registered here in Miami-Dade, it is supposed to take about 3 weeks to receive your new card. Stay on them if you still don't have it! as the deadline for registration is approaching (October 6th). Go HERE for the Miami-Dade Supervisor of Elections info.

Those of you around the state who are experiencing issues with obtaining your card and you have already registered, go HERE for the contact info of the Florida Division of Elections. Whether Mr. Palast's allegations are true or not, make sure that you meet the requirements, go through the process, and ensure that your rights are respected.

(Photo Source: Mother Jones)

Oh Drama!

2008-08-04T17:37:00.000-07:00

Miami-Dade County Public School Board has been the hot topic all last week since 3 members of the board sought to terminate current Superintendent Rudy Crew. So of course the board meeting tonight was full of suspense, with voices heard from those for and against Dr. Crew's termination. The big names attended, such as Bishop Victor Curry of Miami-Dade NAACP, and Congressman Kendrick Meeks in defense of Dr. Crew. Most surprising though were several student speakers, include one from Miami Senior High School, asking Dr. Crew to resign and requesting a change of guard in that position. How interesting that the students, whose best interest is supposed to be at heart, were apart of the "handful" of those wanting Crew out according to the REPORT in The Miami Herald. Understandably, it is the job of adults and those in public service to make decisions on issues such as those for the school districts. But it wouldn't hurt to survey the schools and ask the people you are supposed to be there for, THE STUDENTS. They have opinions on both sides of the issue, and they know more we think.

Check out this video featuring views from Miami-Dade educators as well as comments by Dr. Crew in an interview, interesting perspectives:

(Photo Source: Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce)

Parental Alert: Miami-Dade curfew ordinance, what do you know?

2008-08-01T09:54:00.000-07:00

Miami-Dade County kids only have a few more weeks left before the new school year begins (all the parents can let out a big YAY! now). But many of you may not know about the curfew ordinance that is in effect throughout the County. Check out the full report from a member of the Citizens' Crime Watch of Miami-Dade HERE in today's Miami Herald.

As funding decreases for programs, and many kids are too young to work (nevermind the job market right now!), the youth find themselves with less and less to occupy their time each year. Parents need to be aware of the curfew ordinance, regardless of whether your particular neighborhood or City has been enforcing the consequences to the full degree. Here are the basics:

Curfew hours are from 11pm to 6am from Sunday nights to Friday mornings. Hours are between 12am and 6am from Friday nights to Sunday mornings.
Curfew applies to any child under the age of 17 in Miami-Dade County.
Kids cannot be on foot or in a vehicle between these hours unless in the company of their parent or adult over age 21 (there are other exceptions outlined in the report above).
Kids found not in compliance with the ordinance will be escorted home or to the nearest police station or holding facility and their parents will be contacted.

This is just a message to all parents to stay aware of the rules in case of any incident arising with your children, especially those of you with pre-teens. It is easier to adhere to the rules, or deal with a situation, when we know them.

Collision in Overtown injures 7

2008-07-28T07:50:00.000-07:00

A major crash between a police squad car and a Ford Escort caused a stir along 3rd Avenue last night. All 7 injured parties (2 police officers, 5 passengers in the Ford) were taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital. A pregnant woman, a passenger in the Ford, is currently in critical condition. A report in today's Miami Herald says that the police car was "responding to an emergency call" when the crash took place. Of course, this just happened last night, so the investigation continues, and hopefully it is a very fair and THOROUGH one (updates will be posted when made available). BND wishes all 7 injured parties a speedy recovery.

(Source: The Miami Herald)

Assistance needed for West Grove track team members

2008-07-23T09:34:00.000-07:00

Everybody should know by now about the athlete talent that is bred from Coconut Grove's Village West community. Several young athletes from the Coconut Grove track club could be among the ranks of those names out of the Grove. They are set to travel to the AAU Junior Olympic Games this weekend to compete, but are short on funding. The track club has been around for many years, and has molded the talent of many of West Grove's young people. Check out this STORY in today's Miami Herald about the Coconut Grove track club's trip.

For those wishing to help, send donations payable to The Miami Coconut Grove Track Club, c/o the Cocoanut Grove Village Council, 3250 Mary Street, Suite 302, Coconut Grove, FL 33133.

Special shout out to their coach, Carl Springer, for doing a wonderful job all these years!

Miami scholar and mentor missing off of South African coast

2008-07-18T07:25:00.000-07:00

Please continue to keep the family and friends of Seraphin Bernard in your thoughts and prayers. This 22-year-old brother, a Miami native and 2004 Silver Knight award winner for art, has been missing off of South Africa's "Wild Coast" since this past Sunday. He is a graduate of DASH of Miami and recently graduated from Pratt Institute of Art and Design's Advertising program in New York. He is a mentor for young members of our community, and developed a program to spark their interest in art while he was a student at DASH. His family and friends, although receiving disheartening news about his disappearance, are still keeping the faith for Seraphin's return home. Go HERE to see Seraphin's portfolio.

Check out the full report in today's Miami Herald HERE.

Who is...Senator Frederica Wilson?

2008-07-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

Ok, it's time again for some Dade County history! I don't think there is enough room in this post to describe the MANY accomplishments this wonderful woman born and raised in Miami-Dade County! But she is most definitely a great figure in Dade County history who should be known. Check her out:

Democratic member of the Florida Senate, 33rd District

Minority (Democratic) Leader Pro Tempore, 2006-2008

Former Member, Miami-Dade County School Board

Founder and Executive Director, 5000 Role Models of Excellence (Miami-Dade County Schools)

Former Regional Director, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Advocate for probe into the death of Martin Lee Anderson (Bay County Boot Camp)

This brief synopsis most certainly does not include the numerous awards Senator Wilson has received, nor does it sum up the many years of service and advocacy she has dedicated to Miami-Dade County and the State of Florida. The Role Models program has been beneficial in the lives of thousands of Miami-Dade's young males, including in my own high school alma mater. For more information about Senator Wilson, please visit her Florida Senate official website HERE, or check out the 5000 Role Models of Excellence website HERE. Thank you Senator Wilson for your dedication of service to our community!

Dade County history, pass it on!

Booker T. players will sit out Adidas Tourny

2008-07-17T17:14:00.000-07:00

Alright Tornadoes, what is the problem? The coaching staff of Booker T. Washinton High School's football team has decided that players will not participate in an Atlanta tournament. The class 4A champs got into a serious fight with Pahokee High School players, and as a result will be punished by not participating in the upcoming tourny. Coach Earl Tillman (former Miami High head coach) suffered a broken leg in the melee that costs the guys a trip to Atlanta.

Ok champs, let's keep it positive. You accomplished so much last season, there is no need for the violence on or off the field.

(Source: The Miami Herald)

The secret is out...

2008-07-17T16:50:00.000-07:00

Well, maybe. So the internet is now going somewhat nuts over a video of Rick Ross being asked about whether he used to be a Corrections Officer. You know, the Rick Ross who's music includes A LOT of gun and drug talk. Of course, Miami-Dade has heard rumblings of this since oh about 2006! The interviewer stated that "Trick Daddy had said that you used to be a prison guard." If that ain't some "he say she say" then who knows what is! Check it out for yourself...

First of all, it is a sad day when someone is denying that they had a legal occupation (or went to college, hmm) before becoming a rapper, as if that is something bad, just to maintain an image. Secondly, it is disheartening to see the Miami "movement" somewhat unravelling in the media over hearsay; it has not even been confirmed that Trick Daddy made this statement, so why not reply to the interviewer that this needs to be resolved man to man with the homie T-Double instead name-calling over what somebody say he said! Thirdly, please Rick Ross don't tell me this is the first time you have heard this "rumor" (or fact). The allegation that Rick Ross was a Corrections Officer has been around Miami (and Florida for that matter) since before Port of Miami, he cannot be that shocked. Looks like what I stated in a previous post rings true; the Miami Hip-Hop "movement" has some serious issues. What happened to handling things like an adult? Like how about find out if the man even made the allegation before declaring somebody "green."

Live from Main Street tour stops in Overtown

2008-07-08T06:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend, the spotlight will be on Overtown as the National town hall meeting tour makes at stop in the historic neighborhood. The five-city tour visits Overtown's Historic Lyric Theatre in a town hall meeting appropriately titled "Magic City, Hard Times." Check out the full story in The Miami Herald. A variety of Miami representatives are scheduled to attend, including County commissioners, social activists, and authors. Here's the breakdown for those wishing to attend:

WHEN: Saturday, July 12th
WHERE: Historic Lyric Theatre, 819 NW 2nd Avenue (Overtown community)
TIME: 3:00 pm
COST: FREE! but organizers would like guests to please RSVP, Go HERE to reserve your spot!

Hopefully, this event be a great success filled with discussion and action plans brought to the table for some of our most pertinent issues in Miami-Dade. If you attend, don't hesitate to share your thoughts!

Who is...Dr. Robert Ingram?

2008-07-02T18:55:00.001-07:00

This series could not exclude the incredible Dr. Robert (Dr. Bob) Ingram! I have great memories of Dr. Ingram tellin' it like it is and giving a great speech at church banquet I attended years ago. He was a powerful, progressive, and compassionate leader in Miami-Dade, and his work will never be forgotten. Some highlights of Dr. Ingram's life and leadership are:

FIRST Black officer assigned to the Miami Police Dept's motorcycle unit
FIRST Black officer assigned to all-white dowtown Miami area
FIRST Black City Manager, City of South Miami
Former Mayor and Police Chief, City of Opa Locka
Miami-Dade County School Board Member, District 1 (until time of death).
Dr. Robert B. Ingram Elementary School (formerly Opa Locka Elementary) named in his honor.

Dr. Ingram passed away on September 5, 2007. He will always be remembered for his tremendous contributions to our community and paving the way for us all. For Dr. Robert Ingram's bio, visit the website in his honor HERE.

Dade County history, pass it on!

(Photo source: Blogging Black Miami)

Witness recants statement in '07 graduation party shooting

2008-06-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

It has been a year since Samuel Brown (16) and Michael Bradshaw (20) were shot and killed after a graduation party at the Polish American Club. Now, the main witness in the case is saying that police coerced him into saying 16-year-old Labron Brown was the alleged shooter. Kenneth Joel Edwards (19), who came to the police last year and was the driver of a truck described as one of the cars leaving the club, has recanted an earlier statement made to authorities. Check out the report in The Miami Herald HERE. This is sadly not a surprise. Also sad is the fact that 300 plus people attended this party, yet authorities have yet to identify a supposed second shooter. The case against Labron Brown gets more shaky as it progresses. But the ultimate sad fact is the AGES of all involved.

Miami's Hip-Hop "Movement" has some issues

2008-06-29T23:03:00.000-07:00

Alright, I was NOT going to even go there on this subject, so this post if definitely for lovers of Miami Hip-Hop. It is becoming very apparent that recent episodes are causing serious problems with the so-called "the Miami movement."

The buzz has been out there all week on several sites. One side of the issue has already been on a local radio station to air out what happened according to her. Therefore, many of you may know that Jacki-O and Brisco (two Hip-Hop artists born and raised in Miami-Dade) had an altercation last week. Check out the audio of Jacki-O's phone interview with a local DJ HERE and HERE. *Note: the audio is FULL of cursing and repeated use of the "n-word," so listen at your own discretion*It is alleged that after some exchange of words, Brisco threatened to "slap the *expletive* outta" Jacki-O on the set of Lil Wayne's A Milli video shoot in LA. They are former label mates on Poe Boy Entertainment (Jacki-O is no longer affiliated with Poe Boy). Based on Jacki's tone in the video, this angered her somethin' serious and "the movement" is looking more and more like a dirty, disrespectful game (well, for some).

What is happening to "the movement?" Guess # 1: some OUTSIDE elements are encouraging artists to act out or say and do things that they normally would not to fellow Miamians in the industry. Guess # 2: people have lost their minds! There is a lack of respect within the Miami Hip-Hop scene that is not a good look on the national stage. Guess # 3: my people and my generation, we get mad about the wrong stuff. Please pick up a copy of a local paper or watch the news there is much else to get heated over! Whew, that's another topic...

Whatever the reasons, we must ALL agree that no verbal altercation should make ANY man threaten to hit a woman, or follow through with that threat. Bottom line, we all need to learn how to respect one another in and outside of Miami. Making music for your audience should be the ultimate goal; all the other negativity and disrespect is honestly getting old and boring.

(Jacki-O photo source, Brisco photo source)

Who is...Gwen Cherry?

2008-06-22T18:41:00.000-07:00

Ok, this post was completely inspired by Ms. Vanessa over at Blogging Black Miami (hey!). Upon checking out BBM, I peeped the "People you should know" section to find a picture of Ms. Gwen Cherry. Now all Dade County natives have heard of Gwen Cherry Park and their famous Pop Warner team (more like dynasty!). There are also apartment complexes named after her. So I thought, hmm no big deal, don't know her. I clicked the link to learn that there is also the Gwen S. Cherry Black Women Lawyers Association that carries her namesake in our community. What many may not know (I know I didn't) is that Ms. Gwendolyn S. Cherry (1923-1979) was a monumental figure in Dade County and a trailblazer in our city and state. Here's a snippet of who she was:

The FIRST Black woman student in the University of Miami law school.
The FIRST Black woman to practice law in Dade County.
The FIRST Black woman to serve as a legislator for the state of Florida.

WOW! That is not even her complete bio. Check that out on the GSCBWLA website.

And now folks, we have a new series thanks to the inspiration from BBM. Be on the look out for more of "Who is..." of Dade County. We must preserve our history and pass it along, because it is truly rich and that's a fact! We must also recognize those who continue to work for the good of our community.

BND honors Gwendolyn S. Cherry for her many contributions to Miami and the state of Florida.

(Photo source)

Parental Alert: Watch those flags, check those profiles

2008-06-19T21:24:00.000-07:00

No not the flag kids give their pledge of allegiance to every morning before the start of a school day. A trend is spreading wide and fast in Miami-Dade County that screams danger. The newest accessory for many children in our community appears to be "flags" or bandannas of varying colors which display affiliation to a certain crew. Don't be fooled parents, it ain't no fashion statement, and definitely is not as innocent as it looks.

Last Friday, Willie Mathis, Jr. (16 years old) was shot and killed outside of the Roman Pub Lounge in Miami Gardens after a graduation party for one of his schoolmates. Willie Jr.'s MySpace page default picture shows him holding a gun (HELLO! problem) and noted that he was "Black Flag B****." A Miami Herald report also quoted the father of the victim as saying "these guys in red scarves surrounded him."

*Note: The investigation continues, and this is not an effort to establish a motive. This is also not an effort to blame this child's parents solely for what has happened, but to bring forth a warning through observation.

Regardless of whether Willie Jr.'s assertion on his MySpace page was true or any other reason we can think of, NO CHILD deserves to be killed this way, and NO CHILDREN of ours should be so ready and willing to kill another. This young man's tragic death is but one of the examples in our community today that should put all parents on alert and ready to take action.

This is an official parental alert for our entire community. WE NEED TO WATCH WHAT OUR CHILDREN ARE DOING! and in some instances, demand a stop to it. Remember the days when you had NO business in your momma and daddy's house? I do! Talk with your children; make an effort to meet their friends and associates and leave an open and honest door open for them to walk through when they are having trouble. Those "flags" are becoming a dangerous symbol of violence that apparently our children do not understand until it is too late. Social networking sites are a way for teens and adults to express themselves, but they are slowly getting many of them in serious trouble. Get involved in their tech interests as well. You know your child better than anyone else. If there is a questionable effort to hide things from you, something is definitely wrong (take it from a former teenager in the tech age!).

Granted, there are many very hard-working parents out here who struggle every day to keep their households together, and do the best they can for their families. That's why we all have to fill in the gap when we can. Although the year has changed, the proverb still rings true: "it takes a whole village to raise a child." Time to awake from our slumber. Social responsibility is not dictated by where you live...it is just that, our responsibility!

Public Defender to refuse cases?

2008-06-03T15:41:00.000-07:00

You know that little line in the Miranda rights that goes a lil' something like "...you have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford one, one will be provided to you" right (that is paraphrasing!)? Well, in Miami-Dade that may not be the case soon. According to a report in today's Miami Herald, the Public Defender's Office is considering turning down "most felony cases." Aren't those the cases where those declared financially unable to retain private counsel need a public defender the most?

This is apparently in response to the large budget cuts the Legislature has handed down this year. Governor Crist begs to differ according to the report. He claims the state's public defenders were some of the least to be cut, so that's a matter of numbers. The bigger question is where does this leave the thousands of Miami-Dade citizens caught in the legal system who need, and have the right to, representation? Is this another example of the state-wide budget cuts affecting Florida's most vulnerable citizens the greatest?

One down...

2008-05-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

...more investigations to go. Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones (yes, her again) must pay a $500 fine after pleading no-contest for not disclosing a $46,000 balance she has for legal fees. The law firm of Lydecker, Lee, Behar, Berger & de Zayas was representing Spence-Jones for another ethics investigation, according to the report in yesterday's Miami Herald.

You all are welcomed to head over to the report and check out for yourself the full breakdown of allegations against her. You do vote for these folks ya know.

If in fact we are in control of who represents our communities, which is VERY much questionable, shouldn't there be some concerns about the dealings of those who we elect now that all of this dirty laundry is coming out? IF (that's an if we need to examine) we are going to call these individuals our leaders, the next question is where exactly are they leading us? Do we want to continue to be led this way? How can we constantly criticize and complain about the outward enemy when it seems as though we are allowing our own to destroy from within?

Just some questions to throw out there as this drama unfolds...

(Photo source: Miami Sun Post)

Chief Adderley makes history in Lauderdale

2008-05-29T15:30:00.000-07:00

Ft. Lauderdale named its first Black police chief in the city's history just a day after the former chief resigned after 30 years on the force. Frank Adderley, who prior to the appointment served as Assistant Chief for the Lauderdale PD, has been with the police department for 28 years. And as some wish all officers in their area were, he is a native of the community he has served, being from around the Sistrunk way. This is hopefully the right combination to aid the department in striving to protect and serve the community, as well as bridging that gap between the two (something we need more of).

Congratulations to Chief Adderley and the Ft. Lauderdale Police Department for making history in South Florida. Check out the full report in today's Miami Herald HERE.

Enter malls/condos, Exit Grovites

2008-05-28T15:17:00.000-07:00

Well it looks like the building ball is continuing to roll it's million-dollar self on down Grand Avenue! The report in The Miami Herald details the approval from a City Advisory Board for land-use changes that pave the way for more commercial development. As a native of West Village Coconut Grove (aka the Black side, let's not get PC), I don't seem as enthused. Especially when it includes risking a majority of my fellow Grovites having to pick up their lives and move to make room for "new-comers." Let's not be fooled, we know what this is about. Gentrification under the guise of "economic development" that does not have the residents in mind is what it is looking like to me, but I could be wrong.

This is partly our fault in West Coconut Grove as well. I mean, how long have these plans been on the table? And we don't show our outrage, or demand provisions be made for native residents until AFTER proposals are already on the table ready to be taken to a vote. It's called being reactive, a common response in our communities in the past decade. We act as if we have nothing to offer this community, or even worse, that we could care less what happens to our historic neighborhood! It just may be too late to stop the fire, as every year I ride through the "backstreets" or visit family on Day Ave, Elizabeth St, or ride down Grand I see less of our faces. But there should always be hope and a strategy on how to make change work for us. I am not talking standing in the way of economic progress in our area. However, we must make sure that the plans include those of us and our families. Without us, and the historic foundation our families laid (contrary to the LIES told about our community), Coconut Grove would not exist. Therefore, all Grovites get your G.U.T.S. back and stand firm in the belief that you want what is best for your community, but you will not be moved just to see that it happens! That means every planning and zoning meeting, every Town Hall, every homeowners and tenants gathering, YOUR face needs to be in the place!

It's been a long time coming...

2008-05-26T14:04:00.000-07:00

Da Mayor of Dade County hip-hop, Trick Daddy has officially severed ties with Slip-N-Slide Records. And according to an interview with SOHH.com, he's got a new indie deal and is ready to put his group The Dunk Ryders (Iceberg, Soup and Lil Fella) on the scene.

The joint venture is with none other than...Cash Money Records. This really doesn't surprise me as much it does many people. We've seen CMR's presence on the music scene since some of the members' relocation to South Beach. The new move for Trick seems to be on the independent route that many artists are finally starting to take, which is always a good thing.

Click HERE to read the entire interview (and the weird comments from people, lol).

Best wishes to Trick in all future endeavors!

It's here again...

2008-05-23T20:08:00.000-07:00

...Memorial Day Weekend on Miami Beach that is! Often called "Urban Beach Weekend" by many tourists and promoters, this time of year is one of the most populous and busy weekends in our County.

Please have fun! Be safe!!!!! Many altercations can be avoided by just having yourself a good time, you have nothing to prove, and frankly we native Miamians have nothing to prove either...your plan should be to come to Miami, enjoy yourself, and ARRIVE BACK HOME!

*Special note: in past years, there have been MANY instances of wrongful arrests, racial profiling and/or mishandling of situations by the various security firms and police departments that are patrolling during this weekend. Please keep in mind that authorities are there for a reason, this is not a lawless County. HOWEVER, your rights must be respected. If you have any questions or concerns with treatment you received, please contact that ACLU Miami Chapter at 786-363-2700 or click HERE to send them an email. There will also be volunteers with the ACLU Miami and other organizations to monitor treatment of visitors as well, they can assist you in obtaining further information.

Have fun everyone!

Senator Obama stops in Broward!

2008-05-22T17:46:00.001-07:00

The Tampa rally was on point! Check out the photos HERE for a snippet. And now, Senator Barack Obama heads to South Florida, continuing to campaign throughout the state.

The breakdown...
WHEN: FRIDAY, May 23rd (that's TOMORROW FOLKS!)
WHERE: BankAtlantic Center, One Panther Pkwy, Sunrise, FL 33323
TIME: Doors open at 2pm, Program begins at 3:30 (Suggestion: GET THERE EARLY! Supporters were at the St. Pete Times Forum at the crack of dawn to get in that door, so seriously...be an early bird)
COST: For the FREE! Tickets are not required, but organizers strongly advise that guests RSVP. Make your reservation HERE!
SECURITY!: Do NOT bring bags into the Center. Signs or banners are NOT permitted inside.

Special shout out to Ms. Vanessa over at Blogging Black Miami for the info!

On the Scene: Miami's Hip Hop Soda Shop set for Grand Opening

2008-05-21T18:40:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I got word that the HipHopSodaShop franchise has a new home in Miami-Dade The Grand Opening festivities all go down TOMORROW, and it's for the FREE! Check out what's in store:

"Festivities for the launch of the Miami HipHopSodaShop on Thursday are scheduled to begin at 6:00pm and will include a grand opening ceremony where hip-hop celebrities Fat Joe, Fabolous, DJ Khaled, and DJ Q45 and The Infamous Mad Linx from BET's Rap City will walk the red carpet. There will be an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, an Xbox 360 on-line video gaming tournament and WEDR-FM 99 JAMZ Radio will be broadcasting live. Grand opening events are free and open to the general public on a first-come, first-served basis. A VIP pre-opening party is scheduled for Wednesday night, and on each night of the week of the grand opening, there will be VIP receptions celebrating the evolution of Miami hip-hop. The Miami HipHopSodaShop launch is a celebration of the evolution, flava, and cultural genius of Miami hip-hop. The grand opening will pay tribute to the artistic talent of Miami hip-hop artists Rick Ross, Trina, Trick Daddy, Grind Mode, Flo-Rida, Luther Campbell, Ball Greasy, Gorilla Tech, Brisko, Bizzle, DJ Chipman, DJ Khaled, DJ Entyce, and DJ Ali."

The breakdown...
WHAT: Grand Opening of the Miami HipHopSodaShop
WHEN: Thursday, May 22nd
WHERE: 2710 NW 167th Street, Miami Gardens
TIME: 6pm (My people, be punctual!)
*Click HERE to check out the website

Big shout out to Davo of UrbanEyes Music & Marketing for the info!

Miami's first Black news anchor to retire

2008-05-18T12:33:00.000-07:00

Dwight Lauderdale of Channel 10 Local News Miami will sign off on May 21st after 32 years on the air. Mr. Lauderdale became South Florida's first Black news anchor when he joined Channel 10 in 1976. He has been a mainstay in community news for Miami-Dade his entire time on the air.

Channel 10 is asking all viewers to tune in on May 21st to the 11pm news for Mr. Lauderdale's last broadcast. Check out Mr. Lauderdale's full bio and post a comment of well wishes to him HERE.

Thank you Mr. Lauderdale for your years of service to South Florida!

Congrats Edison Park Chess Team!

2008-05-17T23:46:00.000-07:00

Big shout out to the Edison Park Elementary Raider Rooks Chess team for their big accomplishment last weekend. The team, tied for first place at the National Elementary Championship, is the only inner-city school from our area to compete. This is great news for our kids, it's always good to see the positives in our communities!

Click HERE for the entire report in today's Miami Herald

Inspiring: Spotlight on Perrine Pastor

2008-05-07T17:10:00.000-07:00

A touching feature on a positive figure in our community for a change! How odd that the comments are at an extreme minimum when there's no scandal, spin or money trail story on one of our leaders? Hmm
Anyway, Check out the Miami Herald's piece on Mt. Sinai's senior pastor, Rev. R.W. Bell. This story was so touching that I had to post!

Click HERE for the report on Rev. Bell

Mansion bouncers under scrutiny again

2008-04-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

It's about to be a busy year for Club Mansion's legal team! In today's Miami Herald, the club has denied the account of hip-hop artist Granddaddy Souf where he stated he was severely assaulted by several bouncers at last year's Ozone Awards afterparty. Miamians have already heard the warnings about Miami Beach and it's club bouncers. Mansion is looking at 5 different lawsuits now. The most recent suit stems from the beating of 3 patrons, one of them being a former Mansion bouncer.

Check out the full report HERE.

Nas & Kelis v. City of Miami?

2008-04-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

Not sure how much truth there is to this. Several blogs out there (Media Take Out, the Miami New Times) have reported that there may be a lawsuit against the City of Miami by Nas (yes Mr. Nasir Jones, the Illmatic one) and his wife Kelis after Mrs. Jones was arrested in Miami. Asking amount? 100 million dollars. Reason? Racial profiling. We are in Dade, and no disrespect to the authorities, but we know that racial profiling in this County is a reality. We'll be checking on the validity of this and see the outcome.

Check out the Miami New Times post HERE.

Hialeah PD gets new Chief, promotes Black Commander

2008-04-18T21:31:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday, the Hialeah Police Department held the confirmation ceremony for new Chief Mark Overton. Promotions among the top ranks included Commander Raleigh Flowers, who is now the highest ranking Black officer in the department. Other moves up also included Commander Kimberle Warren, now the highest ranking female officer.

Congratulations to Hialeah PD on its new administration. Let's see what the new crew has in store for continuing to protect and serve the Hialeah community in the future!

Two brothers killed near Charles Drew schools

2008-04-18T21:00:00.000-07:00

Within blocks of Charles Drew Elementary and Middle schools, Rashawn (22) and Deon (21) Beneby were gunned down Thursday afternoon, forcing both schools on temporary lockdown. According to the report in today's Miami Herald, Rashawn was shot execution style, and Deon shot and killed while fleeing on foot as described by witnesses.

These two shootings bring Miami-Dade's homicide rate to 81 since January of 2008. And according to statistics, 37 of those homicides were BLACK MEN AGES 35 AND YOUNGER. This is not one of the charts we should be on top of! People, we have got to grab hold of our youth ASAP. It is obvious that if we don't take the time to care, who will? These are our children and young adults killing each other. Fortunately, students at both Charles Drew schools were in no danger, but within blocks? Someone's innocent child (maybe your child!) could have been caught in the cross-fire.

We've been listening to some of the airwaves in town, and frankly it is disappointing. There is MUCH time spent talking about what other groups, ethnicities, social classes, government entities are supposedly doing to us. All this must be put on the table at some point, because there is much truth to the biases we face in this County. But WE MUST HOLD OURSELVES ACCOUNTABLE AS WELL for what is going down up the street and 'round the corner from us, across the street from our schools, at our markets and all over our community. These young men have just been added to a saddening statistic, and we send condolences to the family and friends, despite what reports say regarding their status or suspected criminal activity; they were still someone's brothers, children, and friends. They are two more examples of what is ultimately happening to many of our young people on these streets.

Haitian Senators calling on PM to quit

2008-04-12T10:56:00.000-07:00

More in disturbance in Haiti is being reported all over the news, as 16 Haitian Senators have called on Prime Minister Jacques-Edouard Alexis to resign. A new report indicates these Senators are threatening to fire Alexis if he does not resign by today.

You all have probably seen national and international news of coverage of the outrage and violent protests in Port-Au-Prince and other Haitian cities over extreme hikes in food prices. The economic situation has worsened in the past weeks, food shortages threaten the livelihood of many Haitians and several international service organizations scramble to send emergency aid to the country.

More to come...any organizations sending aid to Haiti, please contact us so we can get the word out!

(Source)

Uncle Luke vs. The BM

2008-04-09T15:13:00.000-07:00

50 Cent, MC Breed, Sean Levert (RIP) and now Miami's own? Looks like the child support suit bug got down to the crib. Affectionately known as the "King of Miami Hip-Hop," Uncle Luke (real name Luther Campbell) has got a case of his own now.

According to a report on today's Miami Herald website, one of Luke's BMs (that's baby's mother for you all not familiar with certain lingo) is requesting that his license be suspended because she claims he owes back child support of over $38,000. Luke's daughter, Lutheria Campbell, is now 20 years old, taking college classes and working part-time.

Lutheria is legally an adult (she has been for 2 years now!), therefore most people assume that Luke is no longer responsible for paying child support for her. It is well known, however, that when the child in question seeks to further their education once turning 18, then child support must resume (am I right legal heads?). We'll let the REAL judge figure this one out...

On to a brighter note: check out the official website for Luke's National Youth Football League HERE! The website has information on activities for boys and girls, as well as charter information, schedules and team stats. Keep it positive Uncle Luke!!!

RIP - Mother Cedella Marley-Booker

2008-04-09T15:04:00.000-07:00

News has gotten all over the internet that Cedella Marley-Booker (mother of legendary artist and humanitarian Bob 'Nesta' Marley) has passed away. According to reports over at YardFlex, Mother Booker passed away at her home in Miami with her family around her.

(Source)

Charges against 7 Red Raiders DROPPED (Edison High fiasco update)

2008-04-09T14:55:00.000-07:00

More developments have come for the students that made nationwide news a few months ago. 7 of the students from Miami Edison High charged after the protest-turned melee at the school received word today that all state charges were dropped. You may remember our previous post about the incident, stemming from a protest of the arrest of a student allegedly assault by assistant principal Javier Perez, that quickly turned into chaos. A subsequent protest, held a week later at M. Athalie Range Park across from the school, resulted in students voicing their frustrations, getting community attention, and returning to classes without incident.

The 19 remaining students (all minors) have upcoming court dates to decide the fate of their charges.

(Source)

We're killing each other...Two teens gunned down within days

2008-04-06T08:56:00.000-07:00

Two teens have been killed in the Northwest area within the past couple days...if that doesn't sadden you enough, wait until you see the motives (straight foolishness!)...

Deandre Anderson, 14, was killed on Thursday near 7th Ave and 112th after he hit another car with the car he was driving in and fled the scene of the accident. The driver of the other vehicle decided to gun him down in a hail of bullets. Let's see...raising your insurance rates over an accident and letting juvenile justice take care of an underage driver vs. TAKING A 14 YEAR OLD CHILD'S LIFE! Decisions, decisions...HERE is the full report in the Miami Herald.

Yesterday, 16 year old Davon Smith was killed in front of his mother after an altercation on Friday night. His mother was also shot in the arm while trying to break up the scuffle between Davon and the gunmen, who according to family accounts, grew up with Davon. According to the Herald's REPORT, Davon was shot in the face in front of his mother, and his twin sister was inside of the house.

A group of children shooting another child in the face in front of his mother, as well as shooting his mother indicates that THERE ARE SEVERAL PROBLEMS HERE. So you can go in your house, lock the door and shut off the news if you'd like...hate to bust your bubble, but you live here too. If we don't come together for some solutions FAST, it could be your family next.

Miami-Dade jails probed...

2008-04-05T18:08:00.000-07:00

Check out this POST over at Blogging Black Miami (Shout out to Ms. VByers!). The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating the Miami-Dade County jails system for "possible civil rights violations." This is, of course, right after the fed take over of the Miami-Dade Housing Agency.

Just in time for election year, right County officials?

Now let's not get it twisted, jail is not supposed to be like a visit to Merrick Park, or a stay at the Ritz Coconut Grove. But if we are to be a County, similar to our country as a whole, that respects and protects the basic human rights of our citizens, that needs to apply to EVERYONE. That should be regardless to anyone's feelings about those convicted of a crime.

(Photo is of Metro-West Detention Center)

It's Official!

2008-03-30T11:59:00.001-07:00

Check out the official music video for Overtown's own Desloc Piccalo for the single "Stick N Roll." I know, we've been vibin' to it in Dade for a while now, but the video debuted on YouTube a few days ago. So enjoy! Shout out to Booker T. Washington High School Marching Band making their appearance!!!

Get ready for cuts/layoffs in Dade

2008-03-27T18:38:00.000-07:00

Check out today's Miami Herald report HERE on Mayor Carlos Alvarez's memo regarding the state of the County's finances. Anyone can see, as with other cities and counties, we are in tough times economically, so cuts are expected. However, I noticed there was no mention of cuts from the Mayor's office or salary to "do more with less." Hmmm looks like the trimming is starting from the bottom...when it rains on the power, it seems to pour on the people.

Be there...The Fair!

2008-03-27T18:35:00.001-07:00

You all know what that line means...the 57th Annual Miami-Dade County Fair & Expo (formerly known to us as "The Youth Fair") kicked off tonight! The famous fair extends to April 13th, so take your family...go with your friends...Aww don't act like you don't know the song!

Click HERE for ticket prices, exhibit schedules, fair times & more info...have fun!

Suspect sought in killing of Victor Carmona

2008-03-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

The following is an excerpt from an email I received from a fellow Miami High alum concerning the shooting death of our schoolmate, Victor Carmona. Miami Police have released a description of the suspect, and need the community or anyone with information's help to find him and bring him into authorities. Please note that the suspect is being described by Miami Police as "armed and dangerous." Please also note that Mr. Mendez is innocent until proven guilty, but needs to be brought into the proper authorities so that Victor's family may find some closure in this tragedy.

Julian Mendez, 28, a convicted robber and sexual offender, is being sought in the shooting death of a father of three inside a Allapattah night club last week, Miami police said Monday. Miami homicide detectives say Mendez shot and killed Victor Carmona, 26, at the Merengue House Nightclub, 2450 NW 36th St., on Friday morning.
Carmona was shot as he tried breaking up a fight between Mendez, another man and a third clubgoer. He is described as five-foot-six with long-braided hair and Chinese characters on his neck. According to state records, he also had ''Julianne'' inked on his left arm, and ''Mob'' on his left chest. Any one with information can call Miami Detective Freddy Ponce at 305-579-6530, or Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.

County approves "settlement" with Empowerment Trust

2008-03-19T18:53:00.000-07:00

There's a surprisingly small article in today's Miami Herald about Dade County's settlement with the Miami-Dade Empowerment Trust (that's the County-created agency that was supposed to use funding to implement economic development in our poorest neighborhoods...and well...they didn't).

According to the report, the County agrees to take back some land that the Trust was responsible for, some money, and THE KILLER: "legal and financial responsibility for the the trust's employees and board members." Hmmmmm. This does not include criminal activity, but looks like a little sweep under the rug! The sad truth to this all is that there are still unfinished projects started under the umbrella of this trust, and our communities still lack the economic development promised. And now it seems no one will be brought to task for it. Give your commissioners and "holla" and see how the County plans to rectify broken promises, the answers should be interesting. (Source)

Glow in the Dark Tour coming to the Triple A!

2008-03-17T19:07:00.000-07:00

Kanyeezy is coming to Dade County people! And he's bringing some friends! The Glow in the Dark Tour, featuring Kanye West of course, and friends N.E.R.D., Lupe Fiasco, and Rihanna, comes to the American Airlines Arena on May 6th. Tickets are sale now!!!

It's back to business on 79th Street!

2008-03-17T19:03:00.001-07:00

Several business owners along Northwest 79th Street have come together to form the "79th Street Business Association." Check out the article on the new association HERE.

I always keep high hopes for our community, and I know that progress is possible. Initiatives like this are a good look for improving economic development in one of the most needed areas of the County. I'm looking forward to seeing big things for the businesses along 79th Street and for the people of that community.

If you are a business owner in the area and would like more info on how to join, don't forget to click the link to the Miami Herald article for contacts in the association!

Violent weekend in Dade

2008-03-17T18:57:00.000-07:00

To say that this was a bloody weekend for Miami-Dade would be an understatement. Reports were released this morning that 7 lives were lost by gunfire, ranging from nightclubs to the streets of Liberty City all the way to Miami Gardens...in one weekend!

Our community better get its head out of the sand very soon before there is no future generation left. It is probably true that Miami is having a "big city moment" with the rise in violence. But the gunfire is overwhelmingly taking the lives of young Black men and women on a daily basis. And although showing solidarity through marches in the street is great, we have got to put our heads together, put our EGOS ASIDE (leaders) and find some real solutions to a streak that threatens to wipe out our community and a future generation.

Victor Carmona, 26, killed at Merengue House

2008-03-15T10:06:00.000-07:00

Very sad news for my alma mater, Miami Senior High School, and all who knew Victor. The 26 year old was killed after trying to break up a fight and defend his friend involved in it. Check out the Miami Herald report HERE.

Victor was on the Miami High baseball team during his years there, and was know for his energy and constant jokes. He is survived by his mother, sister, and three young children.

Let's Talk about "over the bridge" RICK ROSS! REALLY...

2008-03-10T21:48:00.001-07:00

Natasha Calixte, 14, killed in Opa Locka

Otissha Burnett, 17, killed in NW Miami-Dade

Sherdavia Jenkins, 9, killed in Liberty City

Zykarious Cadillon, 18 months, killed in Little River

...and the numerous other unnamed young people killed on the streets of Miami

Our version isn't as entertaining as his DVD sounds...sorry (Source)

Readers, please note: There is NOTHING glorious, glamorous, fabulous, or honorable about the life of known and proud dope dealers and killers. We encourage those with the resources to use them to be apart of the solutions, not an addition to the problems...there are better ways to spend money and movie studio time. In your supposed quest to "keep it real" about Miami, if you must tell the truth, please include the WHOLE truth.

Coconut Grove's Will Johnson passes at 55

2008-03-06T06:13:00.000-08:00

I just received an email about the news of Will Johnson's passing this past weekend. I always remember Mr. Johnson or his wife, Miok Johnson, coming in to my first job at a local market for a few things. Mr. Johnson was a great voice for West Coconut Grove for many years, and he will be missed dearly. The information for memorial services are below.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 5, 2008

Commission Aide Will Johnson Mourned Will Johnson, Aide to Commissioner Carlos A. Gimenez, passed away on March 2, 2008. He was 55 years old. Born and raised in Coconut Grove, Mr. Johnson graduated from Coral Gables Senior High School in 1971. Upon retiring from military service Mr. Johnson returned home to Coconut Grove describing it as his “calling,” according to his wife, Miok. He was known as a passionate activist for issues in the Village West and Coconut Grove community.
Mr. Johnson was a past President of the Homeowners and Tenants Association of Village West (HOATA), a former member of the Coconut Grove Village Council representing Village West, and a St. Albans Board Member. Recently, he was involved in the Bayshore Drive Beautification project, which was finalized before the Super Bowl hosted by Greater Miami in 2007. Additionally, Mr. Johnson was a major force behind the Grand Avenue Streetscape Beautification Program, and the construction and remodeling of Virrick Gym and Park. “Will had a passion for his community that transcended all lines and boundaries. He was a tireless advocate for children, the homeless, senior citizens, economic development and the jobless”, said Commissioner Gimenez.
A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, March 8, 2008, at Elizabeth Virrick Park, 3255 Plaza Street in Coconut Grove, at 2:00 p.m.

Florida's eye on Election '08: Featured Post

2008-03-05T18:30:00.000-08:00

Who is the Hypocrite? Florida and Michigan democratic voters, the democratic presidential candidates or is it the DNC? We will soon see. This is the year of the RAT, how poignant is that? It’s a presidential election year and the Florida democrats are this year’s “King Rat.” Rats are rodents most of us in this country find disgusting; I find Florida democ-rats disgusting hypocrites in this 2008 presidential primary. Just for the record, this is not a newfound disgust with the democ-rats, I was the democratic nominee in 1992 for the Florida House of Representatives, District 113. However, I didn’t have the blessing of the Florida democratic party because I refused the Miami Dade County party’s offer to help me raise $10,000 to run in another Florida house race and not challenge their favorite Republican in House District 113. Go figure; that is when I learned the very important lesson that a citizens right to vote, and/or a candidate’s right to file and run for office is totally predicated on the whims and rules of the Party and its leadership. It’s their Party, and you either dance to the music or you have no right to participate.

The sad fact is that the voters in Florida and Michigan, or any other state in the union for that matter, are under the illusion that their votes should count once the DNC (major parties) lays down the law by stripping them of their delegates or any other damnation the “party gods” hand down. Americans somehow thinking they have voting rights shows the lack of understanding of this “two political party” monopoly. The fact that all the candidates in the Democratic presidential primary agreed with the DNC as to Florida and Michigan delegates, and now one candidate needs those votes to count because the nomination was no longer a cake walk, after South Carolina, shows something about a person’s character, which speaks volumes.

A candidate that would have challenged the DNC on day one, and said that to disenfranchise the rights of Florida and Michigan voters would now have the moral high ground. Likewise, anyone of the Democratic candidates reversing their position at this point is the worst kind of RAT. This would be a true democ-Rat that would change the rules in the fourth quarter. Remember when the Republicans, (Republ-I-cans), "stole" an election, counterparts played fast and loose in 2000; only a hypocrite democrat would say that was a different story.

My position is this, if any citizens voting rights have been violated, it’s the citizens not pledging their souls to the two major parties. As an Independent in the state of Florida; Michigan independents are disenfranchised as in most States. But in this republic democratic system there is no consistent voting system, that was vary clear in 2002. Therefore, in a strange twist of fate, my brother Independents’ in Texas and Ohio can cast a vote for the candidates of their choice. Independents have no right to vote in Florida’s primary. I want to be first in line to file suit as an Independent for the violation of my 14^th amendment rights (Voters Rights Act 1965). Never trust a RAT. Who knows what’s next.

By Danny Couch ©

Danny Couch is a long-time social and political activist in Miami-Dade County. He is an advocate of and for the people, and has served in several public service capacities, including running for public office. He is a recognized voice for the rights of people in his native community, West Coconut Grove, and has held leadership positions throughout the City of Miami and Miami-Dade County. He resides in Miami with his family and continues to speak, write and work on relevant social issues throughout Miami-Dade and the world.

Major Disturbance @ Miami Edison, 30 students arrested

2008-02-29T11:07:00.000-08:00

Click for the full report in the Miami Herald HERE.

Apparently, this started out as a peaceful protest by students against a recent violent event between a fellow student and one of the assistant principals at Edison. There are reports that 30 students have been arrested so far, and about 70 police units responded to the school.

I am asking our leaders to gather (Marleine Bastien, longtime sista in the struggle for the Haitian American community is already on the scene) all information from ALL sides, including the students, and access this accordingly. Don't just jump on the "these wild kids are a mess" bandwagon...please!

I am asking authorities to maintain their humanity in trying to protect the public if there is a danger in this situation. You may have the badge, but we are all human beings, so remember that.

And if there is any wrong doing on any side, we as a community, ALL OF MIAMI-DADE need to handle it with some decency and respect! These are OUR children, and should be OUR police, so let's act like it!

Miami City Hall meets YouTube!

2008-02-19T17:07:00.000-08:00

Shout out to franzenz over at YouTube. They've got lots of vids on the channel of City of Miami Commission meetings...and our officials are some funny individuals! Check out this video of Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones trying to get some "clarity" from Marc Sarnoff...repeatedly. As a matter of fact, check back to franzenz's channel on the regular for all the stuff you missed from the meetings, you'll be surprised!

Voters denied and deterred in South Miami race?

2008-02-19T16:25:00.000-08:00

The elections for the City of South Miami's new administration is becoming...well, a mess. It's filled with alleged racially charged comments from a Commission hopeful, and even protest of Commission meetings by officials. NOW reports that voters have been turned away from the polls, or sent letters that they are not eligible to vote in the race are coming out. The Miami Herald's Sunday edition reported that some South Miami residents had received mailings that they were ineligible to vote in the election, even though they had been PAYING TAXES to the City for years. Others, according to the story, had been turned away from polls or had to argue with poll workers about their eligibility. Check out the full report HERE.

We know what's next right? Investigations...they are on the way. That's how it's been going down in Dade for a while now, no tides of change yet!

Charges against Trick Daddy DISMISSED

2008-02-19T16:09:00.000-08:00

Shout out to Da Mayor, T Double D. Allhiphop.com reported over the weekend that Trick Daddy has been cleared of all charges stemming from his arrest a few months back outside of Tootsie's nightclub in Miami Gardens. Now back to the music and the community for ya Trick, no time for negativity! Check out the story HERE!

Check out the official website for T-Double's non-profit organization, Trick Luvs Da Kids Foundation, Inc. for the haps on all they do for the community HERE!

Just What WE Need Ross!

2008-02-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

Oh my, I will attempt to watch my words on this one...

Allhiphop.com reported in its News section that Carol City rapper Rick Ross will executive produce a new documentary named...hold your breath...M.I.Yayo. Guess what its about? The drug game in Miami, because that subject has NEVER been covered before on film, NEVER! HOW ORIGINAL! Read the story HERE.

This is just what we need to boost our violent, drug-infested notoriety. Like the youth of this community don't get enough in their heads (a la First 48, the freakin' newspapers, Channel 7) to talk about the dope game down here. It is becoming more apparent that SOME rappers from this area care about nothing more than to fatten their pockets talking about the SAME THINGS that are wrong with our community over and over. Children have lost mothers and fathers, young men and women have lost their lives over what will now be captured in a new attempt to tell the "truth" about what goes on "the other side of the bridge." How this is supposed to change the situation is beyond me, since its probably not the goal anyway.

So what dey do Ross? I know you didn't sign up to be a community activist, but MUST YOU add to the deteriorating national image? Do you HAVE TO add your film to the list of references for the youth to use as something to aspire to be? It's cool to want the truth to be told about your city, but goodness, there is no glory in that life at the end (which is usually death or new age slavery aka the prison system) so why is there a need to portray this unless that message is being reiterated? It's also great to expand your horizons on the producing tip, but the subject matter has been played time and time again...resulting in what exactly?

My questions may never be answered, and maybe the film will have a motive to it besides spotlighting more dope dealers from Dade. We shall see...

Another child snuffed in Dade...

2008-02-05T18:30:00.000-08:00

...this time, over a PSP!!! This child, a promising young man with dreams of attending FAMU after graduation, was killed after he fled to young people (in their teens) trying to rob him for his PSP game and was struck by an oncoming truck. With the materialistic nature of where our society is going, it is no wonder the youth are ruining their lives over such things as electronics. We have got HUGE issues since this is what our children and young people are killing themselves and each other for, so it is high time to take our head out of the sand (or wherever else it may be)!

My condolences to the family and friends of James Felton-Maitland (17 years old).

Click HERE for the report in today's Miami Herald.

Liberty City Pastor arrested

2008-02-03T20:19:00.001-08:00

Ok, this is getting ridiculous. In last Thursday's Miami Herald, it was reported that Rev. Gaston Smith of Friendship Baptist Church in The City was arrested for misappropriating funds from a non-profit called "Friends of MLK." Let it be noted that Rev. Smith is innocent until proven guilty under the law.

The idea of "Friends of MLK" was to supposedly use the money to improve MLK Blvd. Well, that's not quite what investigators are saying happened, as no receipts have been given for any projects. (well those of you who pass MLK on the daily can see that!). Click HERE for the report and breakdown of these funds, which included a withdrawal at a bar in Vegas. Um, no comment. Maybe further investigation will fill in the blank on what was being done for LIBERTY CITY,MIAMI in LAS VEGAS!

So here's the Michelle Spence-Jones link (she just cannot get a break this year) : Spence-Jones, who is a member of Friendship according to the report, received money "...as a consultant" for this apparently unregulated agency. As of yet, she has not been accused of any wrong doing, but this one is putting her under the microscope again! Boy, that consultant word is starting to apply to everybody these days! What exactly are they consulting you for? Why should you have to be paid to be apart of something positive for your community? I guess Trick Daddy was right when he said "if you ain't about money, then you ain't from Dade." Pretty soon, there will be a fee to look someone's way! Don't forget to check out Miami Herald's report. The usual names are there...among them is former County Commissioner Barbara Carey-Shuler (who approved the "Friends"). This seems to have no end in sight, yet so hold tight for the ride.

Diamonds in trouble...again

2008-02-03T19:45:00.000-08:00

The North Miami Beach City Council will be meeting this week to discuss the fate of late-night licenses for Diamonds Cabaret. The Miami Herald is reporting that the strip club faces its licenses to stay open until 6am being suspended AGAIN after 2 stabbings and one shooting have occurred within one month. Diamonds has had several other violent altercations at the club all last year. These clubs are becoming anything but 'entertaining' when you may not make it out alive.

For North Miami Beach residents interested in attending the City Council meeting this Tuesday (please let other important issues be discussed), click HERE for the details and the full article.

Miramar 'Bloods' targeted under RICO Act

2008-01-30T19:49:00.000-08:00

The Miami Herald is reporting that a U.S. Attorney is going after the Miramar 'set' of the Bloods gang using the RICO Act. It is reported that alleged members of the gang are being charged with racketeering under the RICO Act, more widely known for being used to take down mob organizations. I'm still trying to figure out when large, nationally known gangs touched down in South Florida! Please people, help me get from the rock which I have obviously been under. Anyway, I'm guessing this equals longer sentences and harsher charges for those that are alleged to be affiliated? My law heads can help me out here.

Click HERE for the entire report.

Right On Sis! + 2 more cents

2008-01-30T17:57:00.000-08:00

Shout out to Ms. Vanessa over at Blogging Black Miami for a great post today. I agree it is high time that the people of Miami-Dade get the truth for a change in this Related Group/Miami Commission/Michelle Spence-Jones saga that seems to be playing out in the media. Click HERE to read what she's got to say on the matter.

I will add that Black leadership (which is starting to look more like Black elitism) in South Florida has become very disheartening. No disrespect to my elders, but my generation seems to be the one everyone likes to call 'out of control.' Whooooaaaa, are we reading the same headlines? Looks like we ALL need to come to the table and establish some accountability for the happenings of our community on BOTH sides of the generation gap!

~BND

~BND

'Roc' or 'Rock'?

2008-01-28T19:24:00.000-08:00

Hey all! Just a quick line about the discussion on my fav radio show in the morning, the Steve Harvey Morning Show! As many of you know, Steve and the crew (minus Carla and baby, congrats!) were in Miami at the Joseph Caleb Center last Friday for a live show. I enjoyed so much Steve, Shirley Strawberry and Nephew Tommy's interaction with the crowd and the kids from Miami Central (ROCKETS!!!) and Miami Jackson (GENERALS!!!). Some of the kids from each school were brought to the show as part of Steve Harvey's mentoring problem. Steve shouted the Rockets and Generals out several times during the show, and dedicated a song for them...

The song was Jay-Z's 'Roc Boys', and so the issue began...

Steve spoke this morning about an email he received for a Miami listener who was disturbed that Steve dedicated this song for the kids, stating that the song is about drug dealing and the dope game. With the problems plaguing our communities in Dade (and around the country) and the areas the kids are from, I'm not surprised at the concern. I'm a young person, but I do understand that parents and our elders are trying to turn the wheel back to positivity. So there was discussion on today's show and on the morning show's EMAIL BOARD about what the lyrics to Jay's song really mean.

Come on y'all. I know the song begins as a "Speech!," but I doubt that the thanks to the 'connect' 'hustlas' 'lil' kim and dem' is an allusion to the hip-hop industry (now dubbed the 'rap game' yes like the 'dope game' they slangin' these tracks!). I think that there was some confusion from Steve and others about what the content meant, as much of street slang is used by rappers. And as we all should know, Jay-Z is one of the masters of artistically integrating metaphors and double-meaning in the bars of his songs. And its obvious the 'Roc Boys' refers to Jay's (and Dame's, former I guess) Rocafella crew. But let's be real...unless Jay-Z claims otherwise, the songs alludes to the drug game. After all, he has said that the album American Gangster was inspired by the movie that chronicled the life of former notorious dope boy Frank Lucas. So although the lyrics can relate to other aspects of life, including the entertainment business, my interpretation of the lyrics is they are in step with the theme of the album: the life of a kingpin (the rise & fall, listen to the whole CD people!).

Now I won't take sides on whether Steve Harvey and his crew should no longer play the song. That's treading the very thin line of free speech that I don't want to try and cross (the censors does a better job than I ever could). I just wanted to note my perspective on the lyrics of the song, and why I understand why someone from Dade would be disturbed that the song would be dedicated to the kids in Green & White and Green & Gold. I also don't want to infringe on Jay's artistic right to express himself and tell a story through his craft.

Gotta mention that those kids proved to be wonderful examples of what great future leaders are coming out of our communities and schools, despite the odds, so props to them, Dade County was well-represented! Much respect to Mr. Harvey and the Crew as well for recognizing them and inspiring future generations to excel.

Say What Sarnoff?

2008-01-25T16:03:00.000-08:00

Miami Commissioner Marc Sarnoff on the proposed 3AM cut-off to sell alcohol in Coconut Grove clubs and bars:

"Coconut Grove needs to start servicing the wealthy people."

HUH??? Maybe I've missed the service to the working-class, low-income residents of The Grove during all my years of growing up there (you know, us on the other side that some wish would go away). Newsflash Commissioner, wealthy people are NOT the only people living in The Grove; in actuality, they are the new-comers. Here's another tip for ya: wealthy people are NOT the only residents concerned about drunk party-goers driving through their streets. Regardless, your mission to push this proposal should be in the best interest of ALL of Coconut Grove's residents. After all, that's who you represent. I'm pretty sure your intentions aren't as one-sided as they sound.

Click HERE for all the details of the proposal in today's Miami Herald.

Well, well, well...

2008-01-24T18:16:00.000-08:00

And so it begins, or continues...the foolishness I mean. Miami Commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones (District 5, yes YOU Overtown!) has reached some type of agreement to pay $8,000 for fines stemming from violations of election laws she was cited for during her campaign against Reverend Richard Dunn in 2005. One of the violations was for supposedly paying $23,000 in cash to poll workers (against Florida law that states poll workers must be paid with checks). Spence-Jones stated that the agreement to pay the fines is not an admission of guilt...ok.

Click HERE to read the entire Miami Herald article on this latest mess. Oh! and the comments section, very telling.

Opa Locka Police Chief Wright Fired

2008-01-23T06:28:00.000-08:00

Here we go again! Today's Miami Herald online edition is reporting that Opa Locka Police Chief James Wright has been fired. You may remember my earlier post about Chief Wright filing a complaint, claiming that Commissioner Gail Miller (Opa Locka) had threatened his job over treatment of her daughter at work. Looks like Commissioner Miller's alleged threats (which she has fervently denied) have become reality for Chief Wright. Click HERE for the full story and excerpts of the letter to Wright from Opa Locka City Manager Jannie Beverly.

Briscooo! Briscooo! Holla at them.

Better yet, Opa Locka residents! Holla at your City Officials ASAP. Your community deserves better than foolishness and political back-biting (which happens often lately there)! How can Opa Locka move forward progressively with so many steps backward? Just a question...

~BND

Dade vs. Broward Football

2008-01-22T21:42:00.001-08:00

Well, it seems the County to the north won the classic battle this time. I repeat THIS TIME! Broward football, you may have the victory this year, but we all know what time it is in terms of players and teams collectively, we are the best (no DJ Khaled reference intended)! And Dade County still dominates Broward in the famous series, so don't celebrate too hard guys!

Its all in fun and good football. Congratulations to both Miami-Dade and Broward County high school football players for a excellent job on the fields this past season!

Click HERE for the full report on the game from the Miami Herald.

What's a "Black Leader?"

2008-01-21T12:52:00.001-08:00

Check out an interesting article in today's Miami Herald about the changing dynamics and social position of today's Black "leaders" HERE

Let me know what you all think about their analysis of leadership roles in our community. Is the change from traditional views of a "leader" a good thing? As the dynamics of the struggle for equality and justice change for us, is it necessary to have a "leader" of sorts speak for us? Just some questions to ponder!

~BND

It's Dr. King's Day!

2008-01-21T12:42:00.000-08:00

Hi all! Technical difficulties have kept me back from posting in the past few days, but I'm back up. I wanted to shoot a quick post to you all to let you know we're still here, so no worries, but that's computer's for ya!

Today is Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day all around the country. In honor of Dr. King, I wanted to post a little known and rarely heard SPEECH of his. We all have heard the famous and moving "I Have a Dream" speech so much, that we could probably recite it right now! Dr. King touched on such a variety of topics, from war to poverty, and so we must expand our view of his vision by using our resources today to find and act on the many great things he had to say about what plagued our country. These issues are still part of our problem as a nation today. So take time out on this holiday to reflect on Dr. King's vision and mission, his point of view, and take the time to create your own. We can all contribute to making this a better place and honoring his legacy, as well as the legacies of those who walked and fought with him.

~BND

Arrest made in Stepha Henry's disappearance

2008-01-15T14:45:00.000-08:00

I am saddened to post this one, truly saddened. I know that many of you, including myself, have been following the disappearance of Stepha Henry ever since she was reported missing last May. This sista, a John Jay College honors graduate and New York native, had come down to South Florida to visit family, celebrate her sister's birthday, and enjoy Memorial Day Weekend festivities. She reportedly went out to Pepper's Cafe in Broward (which has since been renamed) and did not return to her aunt's house the next day.

The Miami Herald is reporting that Kendrick Lincoln Williams has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder and tampering with evidence in Stepha's case. He was apprehended and questioned New York. Investigators say that a large amount of blood found in Williams' car and issued the warrant for his arrest. Click HERE for the entire report.

I want to send my condolences to Racquel Henry (Stepha's cousin) at USF and your family. My prayers are with you all and He will see you through! The wonderful memories of Stepha will always remain alive in your hearts and minds!! Rest in peace Stepha.

The MegaPlan for Miami: What's it to Overtown?

2008-01-14T17:21:00.000-08:00

This photo, courtesy of The Overtown Collaborative, is of historic Overtown in 1900.

Check out Part 1 of The Miami Herald's new series "The Megaplan for Miami," where they focus on the role new developments introduced by Miami Mayor Manny Diaz to "revitalize" the city affects historic Overtown HERE. It still amazes me how some people underestimate the value of this town, its people, its culture and Overtown's tremendous history (check out the comments to this story to see what I mean). The contributions of historic Overtown and its people are part of what made Miami what it is today, if we want to be REAL.

In its hay-day (you know, when Black folks weren't allowed into Downtown unless we were cleaning up), entertainers, intellectuals, authors, civil rights leaders and working-class folks from around the country to enjoy the culture and comfort Overtown had to offer. Its easy to write off a community that, on the surface, seems like just another "ghetto" hood riddled with drugs, gun violence, and decrepit housing. No one wants to HONESTLY look at how it got that way though. Critics sound off about Overtown, but seem to gloss over the MANY hard-working people, that powerhouse of a school across the highway and the profound unity of a neighborhood so abandoned and misused by ills of the past that took place in this city. If there is to be a plan proposed to make a serious and beneficial turn-around in Overtown, honest needs to be first on the table. The problems didn't come about overnight, and painting the town with an expensive and dismissive brush won't help either. Let's hope this new plan is an attempt to do what's right by a community so wronged before.

Check out some history of this great community at the Overtown Collaborative's main site HERE

Florida Primary...are YOU ready?

2008-01-14T17:09:00.001-08:00

Hey all!! Its been one busy weekend, so sorry for not posting as much.
Well our primary election is January 29th, and if you haven't prepared yourself to cast your vote, now would be the time, its never too late to get educated on the candidates and how they feel on the issues! OnTheIssues.org is a great website that I found that breaks down each candidate and their stances and votes (if they are currently or previously have been in office) on the major issues Americans will be basing their votes on.

Florida has always had the eyes of the country on our primary in the past, am I the only one that feels its been a little...well..."light" on the exposure in Florida this year? Most mainstream and indie news outlets have been reporting that the one of the only candidates to focus on Florida has been Rudy Guiliani (I'm not sure that's a good thing). I've seen the commercials...same rhetoric in a New York accent. Anyway, enough of my opinion! Check out the candidates and how they've spoken out or voted on things from civil rights to abortion to immigration HERE

City Officials "Opa Locka goonin'?"

2008-01-09T15:06:00.000-08:00

From the looks of new allegations, some of Opa Locka's City officials and employees belong on a song with Brisco! The Miami Herald released a report today that City Police Chief James Wright has formally complained by letter that his job has been threatened by Opa Locka City Commissioner Gail Miller. His complaint alleges that his position has been threatened over the treatment of Miller's daughter, Tamika, who is a City employee. He allegedly received the threat via a voice mail to his cellphone after Miller's daughter was "reprimanded" for her job performance by Wright's former Deputy Chief (as Tamika Miller used to work in the police department).

According to the report, the former Deputy Chief is called by the person leaving the message "...that punk-a** deputy chief you got there..." and the caller goes on to say that Wright is "...going to wish you never had him when I'm threw with y'all."

Commissioner Miller, whose brother and mother have been Mayor of Opa Locka, is denying the allegations that she made the calls. Miller has made complaints DURING A COMMISSION MEETING (*WHY???*) about her daughter's work conditions (working in a trailer with no AC).

Sound off peeps, ESPECIALLY Opa Locka peeps. Check out your tax dollars at work!

Click HERE for the entire report in today's Miami Herald.

~BND

Congrats Booker T.'s Coach Harris!

2008-01-08T18:45:00.001-08:00

The Towners have done again! '07 was definitely year of the Tornadoes (and Bulls, don't chew me up! LOL). Head Coach Tim Harris was named USA Today's National Coach of the year 2007 for the tremendous 14-0 season BTW had last year. Booker T. went on to win Class 4A State Championship as well. The historic school has come back to show that they are a Dade County powerhouse after being a middle school from desegregation days up until the year 2000, when it once again became a senior high school. Check out the report over at Blogging Black Miami HERE.

Photo is courtesy of insidetheu.com

Questioning begins in Officer Walker's death

2008-01-08T18:17:00.001-08:00

Photo is courtesy of miamiherald.com and WSVN-7 Miami.

Police have begun questioning people in the shooting death of Miami detective James Walker of the Domestic Violence Unit and have a description of a vehicle they are looking for. Officer Walker, a 30 year old graduate of Miami Jackson Senior High, and had joined the City of Miami Police Department in 2000. Continuing coverage from many news outlets is, of course, underway. The Herald's website reported earlier this morning that Officer Walker was in an unmarked car in North Miami, when the car was apparently riddled with bullets not long after he went off duty.

And OF COURSE! the Herald's comments section is LIT UP with reactions to the comment made by a spokesman for the police department stating that "there's no place for a cop killer to hide." Some are upset at the notion that its big news and big hunt when a cop is killed, yet no similar talk for regular citizens. There's also some rants about cops going on rampages (sometimes violent) in response to these shootings of fellow law enforcement (this has been a discussion all over Florida). I'm gonna just stay out of that out of respect for the fact that A MAN, who happened to be in a public service capacity, has been killed, and he was someone's son/brother/husband/friend/colleague.

We'll have more as things develop. Everyone be safe out there.

~BND

Miami cop shot and killed

2008-01-08T06:07:00.000-08:00

The Miami Herald is reporting the shooting death of City of Miami Detective James Walker. Detective Walker was off-duty at the time and reportedly sitting in an unmarked police car in North Miami Beach early this morning. According to the article, Walker is the fifth police officer to be killed by gunfire since November 2006 in the South Florida area. Of course, this just happened, so details are very sketchy.

Go HERE for the entire article.

Music Mondayz

2008-01-07T17:18:00.000-08:00

Hey all! We're started something new on Black-N-Dade. Who doesn't LOVE some good music? Well, we do, so Mondays will be dedicating to all things music out of the Sunshine State. New music is coming out on what seems like a daily basis in the Miami mainstream hip-hop scene, so check back for some thoughts. We're also looking for new music in and around Dade County on the underground and local circuits. We've got some great musicians and artists in Dade and throughout Florida, so this should be fun!

*Note: This site is dedicated to Dade County and the state of Florida, meaning our main focus will be homegrown talent. Its all love though!

Let's talk comments...

2008-01-05T09:14:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I like to believe I'm an advocate of the supposed "freedom of speech" that we have in this country. I'm probably one of the last people to try and stop someone from expressing themselves, with the EXCEPTION that their expression does not hurt, harm or potentially endanger someone physically or emotionally. But I will say this...I do NOT tolerate blatant disrespect and outright hateful comments from anyone in person, and that will NOT take place on this blog as well. I think that a sign of adulthood and maturity is the ability to state your opinion, a fact, or give a great argument for your point of view without attacking someone personally (given that the topic is not that person's character).

It's apparently the "thing" on the 'net for random people to go around to the websites of popular newspapers, blogs and magazines and spread their racist, sexist, classist and hateful ideologies in the comment sections of these publications. And of course, the website of the Miami Herald is no exception now-a-days. Stroll over there to see what I mean. It's almost a given now that I can read the title of an article and guess correctly EVERY TIME that there will be the following type of comments:

"Nobody cares about a drug dealer, especially a negroid one."

"I love how black people say this could happen to any other race BUT it always seems to happen to Blacks. Coincidence? I think not! Please go back to the motherland."

And those are the light ones! Bishop Victor Curry wrote to the Miami Herald a few months back in response to the disrespectful and ignorant comments that tend to flood the site on certain stories (mainly those involving Black and Latino subjects). My question is where is the regulation of this site? With the lack of employment in our County, and with half their online readers suggesting that we "negroids" need to get jobs, it isn't too far-fetched to hire someone to read and DELETE comments such as these. I'm pretty sure this ignorance doesn't fall in line with the journalistic integrity and basic human ethics of the Miami Herald and its writers, right? Or maybe they don't care, that's a good possibility too, one that I'm really starting to wonder about seeing how long these type of comments stay up on their site.

All I'm saying is, let's be adults (young and old) about the topics we discuss here. We can disagree all day, hey having your own mindset is great! But save your ignorance for around the water cooler and your family rooms, I know how some people do! Or how about get rid of the ignorance, being that its a new year and all :)

~BND

Joshua Arroliga, 11, killed minutes before 2008

2008-01-03T09:30:00.000-08:00

Photo is courtesy of miamiherald.com

Reason number 1,063,856 why shooting on New Year's Eve is NOT SMART! 11-year-old Joshua Arroliga (pictured above) was shot several times and killed while hiding behind a couch in his Opa Locka apartment complex. Joshua was reportedly playing hide-and-seek minutes before the new year, when Zenon Fernandez, of the same complex, shot at the couch Joshua was hiding behind to celebrate the New Year. Fernandez apparently thought shooting in the air would be "too dangerous." How about SHOOTING AT ANYTHING is dangerous! Check out the video story HERE.

Go ahead with your comments family, I think I'm at a loss for anymore words. One more child in Miami-Dade is gone over foolishness and it saddens me to the fullest.

~BND

Overtown for sale?

2008-01-02T20:37:00.001-08:00

Of course, the New Year couldn't begin without a little good ol' Dade County drama and antics from local government. As some of you may know, the Crosswinds Project, a supposed $200 million condo project set to erect in historic Overtown, is in lingo...again! Yesterday's Miami Herald is reporting that City and County government are in a "battle" over ownership of the property (located near the historic Lyric Theater on 8th Street and 2nd Ave) proposed for the project that could scrap it all together. The City has reportedly filed a lawsuit to stop County takeover of the land.

This isn't the first set of controversy for this condo project, which has been heavily supported by Commissioners such as Michelle Spence-Jones (City of Miami) and Mayor Manny Diaz (City of Miami). We'll have more about them later!

Power U for Social Change (shout out to you all!) fought back through the courts last to have the project delayed, as the organization claimed the supposed "mixed-income" units were too highly priced for current Overtown residents (sound familiar Dade County folks? yeah, the 'G-word' in effect). Power U had the 2006 approval thrown out, but according to the Herald, City of Miami officials approved it AGAIN last month (surprise, surprise!).

In all this decision-making, we have yet to hear what the residents of Overtown want and need for their own community...basically because local government isn't trying to hear that! $ is speaking loud and clear in Miami once again!

Check out the full report from the Miami Herald HERE

Dade County...where Football lives...and WINS!

2007-12-27T21:24:00.000-08:00

...well we ain't talking about the Dolphins today, lol. Congratulations are in order for MIAMI NORTHWESTERN BULLS and Coach Billy Rolle (straight from West Coconut Grove y'all!!) for becoming the #1 High School football team in the nation. They are just coming down from the high of their state championship win in class 6A as well. All the BullFans out there are rejoicing and BRAGGING (hey, they got a right). Congrats are also do to those TOWNERS (T4L) of BOOKER T. WASHINGTON TORNADOES for their state championship win in class 4A as well; they have been ranked the #8 High School football team in the country.

People ask "what good can come out of Liberty City and Overtown?" I say, take a look at these two teams and the class and dignity they displayed on the field. And its not all gridiron for all the players; two of MNW's top players will be graduating EARLY this year, and are UM bound. Keep up the good work ON and OFF the field kids!

Welcome! and Holiday Greetings...

2007-12-21T07:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays to all! Feliz Navidad, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa...all dat! May you all have a wonderful and SAFE holiday season. Be careful on those highways, at those clubs and parties (no "keepin' it real going wrong" out there, please!) and get ready for the take off of this blog next year. We're tackling some major issues out of Miami-Dade, and all around Florida...

Just a teaser to hold ya 'til '08...

Let's talk about the latest report from the Miami Herald surrounding Commisioner Michelle Spence-Jones (City of Miami, District 2) and associates of hers accepting "consultation fees" for the Coconut Grove condo project per a memo from Commisioner Mark Sarnoff (City of Miami), WIDELY protested by the Grove residents...the drama is unfolding with talks of lawsuits, finger-pointing and all (what's new???)

We've got new music coming out of Dade County over the holidays and in the new year...Rick Ross got Trilla droppin' soon, talks of Trick moving homes, and Trina is "back on the prowl." We'll get into what's up with all these artists moving to Miami too, what are your thoughts?

And we'll discuss the Crosswinds development to come up in historic Overtown, with PowerU for Social Change at the forefront of this latest fight against unfair policies, gentrification, and lack of community involvement in this new project...

That's all for now! Be safe, and gather your thoughts for some real talk in the '08!!

~BND