Miami Today: Week of Thursday, March 12, 2015

WEEK OF THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

A Singular Voice in an Evolving City

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More towers add ‘help wanted’ notices in a tight market, pg. 13 TRAFFIC APP: If you’re setting out on a trip in Miami-Dade County and want to find out what traffic is like, now there’s an app for that.

The recently launched Audio Traffic MiamiDade app provides real-time traffic reports, bulletins posted by local law enforcement and community news. The app delivers the messages in an audio format and users can choose between getting the information in English or in Spanish. The app is the result of a partnership between Miami-Dade County and West Palm Beach-based Audible Broadcasting Co., a provider of audio traffic reports for iPhones and for Android devices.

Signs of strong retail space market are abundant, pg. 14

THE ACHIEVER

BY JOHN CHARLES ROBBINS

FARE OR NOT?: Final action on a county commission measure to eliminate the requirement that no fare be charged on Metromover, the public transportation that loops through downtown Miami and Brickell, is due March 17. Removing the requirement that ridership is free would require a two-thirds vote. No fare schedule is attached to the measure.

The original Metromover fare was 25 cents.

PARKING IN WYNWOOD: The city parking agency’s roll-out of a new parking plan for the Wynwood Arts District is “progressing exceptionally well,” said Miami Parking Authority CEO Art Noriega. “Revenue is way better than expected, which speaks to the growth of the neighborhood,” Mr. Noriega told the Off-Street Parking Board recently. The plan, which relies mainly on PayByPhone parking, was launched in October.

The number of parking transactions in Wynwood topped 43,000 last month. The agency hopes to use the Wynwood experience – virtual parking via an online application – as a “blueprint for other areas,” he said.

MOVING AHEAD: A lawsuit may have stalled the start of a milliondollar redevelopment of the Coconut Grove waterfront but it hasn’t stopped work on a planned public garage. Miami Parking Authority CEO Art Noriega told the Off-Street Parking Board on March 4 that design work continues on the garage, which will include retail use. City commissioners in 2013 agreed to lease city-owned land to Grove Bay Investment Group LLC for $1.8 million a year upon completion, and about $17.9 million of privately-funded improvements to redevelop a marina, construct restaurants, improve the baywalk, fund a portion of a garage and other improvements. The authority would build and run the garage. The pending suit has a court hearing next month.

Photo by Marlene Quaroni

Art Furia

Chairing conference leading to Milan World’s Fair The profile is on Page 4

County can fund part of downtown Tri-Rail link

BY L IDIA DINKOVA

The South Florida Regional Transportation Authority wants Miami-Dade County to fund about $8.3 million of the cost to bring Tri-Rail to downtown Miami.

Tri-Rail is a commuter train that links Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. In Miami-Dade, the trains stop in the west. A recent push to expand east and have trains come downtown hinges on nailing down $69 million to fund the infrastructure.

Most recently, Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez said he supports Tri-Rail service downtown.

“It needs to happen,” Mayor Gimenez told Miami Today on Monday. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s a great use of public funds to leverage private dollars.”

Tri-Rail expansion would piggyback on infrastructure being built privately by All Aboard Florida, the express passenger train to link Miami and Orlando. Plans are for TriRail trains to pull into All Aboard’s downtown Miami station and run on the Florida East Coast Railway tracks in east Miami-Dade.

AGENDA

Riverfront 60-story towers due

For that to happen, the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority must solidify funds for infrastructure that Tri-Rail needs, said Jack Stephens, authority executive director. That includes tracks for Tri-Rail trains at All Aboard Florida’s station.

“It’s a proportional share,” Mr. Stephens said. “They [All Aboard Florida] pay their share, we pay our share. Anything strictly for Tri-Rail, Tri-Rail would pay that 100%.”

Specifically, the $8.3 million requested would come from a voter-approved halfcent sales surtax paid countywide. The surtax is part of the People’s Transportation Plan.

Charles Scurr, executive director of the Citizens’ Independent Transportation Trust, the appointed body that oversees surtax spending, said using the surtax to help TriRail expand does fit with the original mission of the People’s Transportation Plan.

“This is consistent with what that fund should be used for,” he said. “This is not diverting money. This is helping stimulate those projects.”

Mr. Scurr added that his organization has enough in hand for the $8.3 million request.

Dual 60-story residential towers with a waterfall are proposed for choice riverfront land in the shadow of Miami Avenue Bridge.

During the city’s last building boom, three condo towers rose on a block on the north side of the Miami River in the Central Business District: The Ivy, Wind and Mint.

This latest proposal, as yet unnamed, is planned to fill in the vacant lot hugged by the existing three towers.

Details of the ambitious project were revealed Monday at a committee of the Miami River Commission. Committee members spoke favorably of the project and made suggestions to improve the riverwalk but took no formal vote.

The two towers are to rise taller than the existing towers.

The new buildings will be connected at the top and bottom, with open space in the middle.

An earlier project planned for the site included one bulkier residential tower. The new proposal includes two slender towers joined in an L-shape by a podium about five stories tall, according to Iris Escarra, an attorney for the developer. Kar Miami MRP LLC is listed as the owner.

Ms. Escarra said they were excited to learn recently that the riverwalk can be extended beneath the bridge and connect with the existing riverwalk east of the bridge. She said the developer is willing to improve that part of the riverwalk, beyond an extra wide and lushly landscaped portion in front of the proposed dual towers.

The design of the towers has them facing the river. A large waterfall would be built on the front portion of the podium levels.

“The water feature falls from the building,” Ms. Escarra said.

Plans call for 406 residences, 20 lodging units, about 30,000 square feet of commercial space and parking for 520 vehicles.

The regional authority is also on track to secure about $21 million – $3.1 million from its own coffers and about $17.9 million from the state, Mr. Stephens said.

The $3.1 million would go to install safety technology on Tri-Rail locomotives. A federal order requires trains with positive train control – technology that monitors and controls movement.

The state’s contribution would cover the $1 million access fee for the regional authority to use the Florida East Coast Railway corridor as well as tracks TriRail would use at All Aboard’s station.

Tri-Rail and All Aboard trains would pull into separate platforms and on separate tracks.

Even with this financing, the regional authority would still need $40 million more.

The source that has been widely discussed is tax increment financing from Miami community redevelopment agencies that would repay bonded debt.

As for the $8.3 million, Mr. Stephens said: “It would be great that the county’s contribution could be a grant up front, so Towers to have entire 57th floor it would not have to be bonding and set aside for commercial use, pg. 8 incurred debt.”

YOUTH FAIR TAKES OFFENSIVE IN BATTLE OVER LAND ...

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COMMERCIAL FLOOD INSURANCE CHANGE DUE APRIL 1 ...

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PLAN PUTS KEVIN SPACEY IN GROVE PLAYHOUSE ROLE ...

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CITY RETAIL LINEUP WEAK AS MARLINS OPENER NEARS ...

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VIEWPOINT: HUGE CASINOS JUST SUPERSIZE PROBLEMS ...

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COUNTY SEEKING HIGHER FEES TO USE LAND AT ARENA ... 17

BUS USE TUMBLES WITH CHEAPER GAS, FREE TROLLEYS ...

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ST. THOMAS UNIVERSITY ROLLS OUT 20 NEW PROGRAMS ... 18

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TODAY’S NEWS

MIAMI TODAY

WEEK OF THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

THE INSIDER PARKING PARTNERS?: The plan for a public-private partnership to bring a large parking garage to the Wynwood Arts District remains alive. Art Noriega, CEO of the Miami Parking Authority, told the Off-Street Parking Board on March 4 he is still “very optimistic” about a deal with Goldman Properties, a key player in Wynwood’s revival. The company plans a parking facility west of Northwest Second Avenue between Northwest 27th and 28th streets. Mr. Noriega said it’s like being 100 yards from the finish line and it’s time “to finish the Art Noriega race or call it day.” Talks were on pause recently, he Photos by Marlene Quaroni said, while the main negotiator for Goldman was out of town.

The Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition sits just south of main Florida International University campus.

AFFORDABLE UNITS: Miami Mayor Tomás Regalado and Commissioner Francis Suarez joined Miami-Dade Commissioner Bruno Barreiro and Alberto Milo Jr. of Related Urban on March 5, to celebrate the opening of Edificio Piñeiro, an affordable elderly rental building in Shenandoah. The three-story building at 1176 SW 20th Ave. was developed by Related Urban DevelopBY LIDIA DINKOVA ment Group, a division of The Related Group, for lowsomeone comes and knocks on income seniors, on the same site of a 1926 building your door and says, ‘I want to that was vacant and in foreclosure. Although most of This year, the opening of the buy you an equal or better house.’ the old structure had to be demolished due to disre- Tomás Regalado annual Miami-Dade County Fair Well, where is it?” pair, the new one followed a similar footprint and design and has 34 units. & Exposition comes with some The lease between the fair and City and county funds made the $7.4 million project possible.

County fair taking offensive to stay put where lease has 70 years to run

KNIGHT ARTS AID: The Board of Trustees of the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, which is based in Miami, dedicated the foundation-funded plaza of Museum Park downtown Sunday and stayed in town Monday, meeting with arts and civic leaders. The board visits a different city every year – Macon, GA, last year and Detroit the year before – but hadn’t visited its home town officially before, President Alberto Ibargüen told guests at Sunday’s reception. The foundation, which eight years ago began funding the arts in Miami to accelerate their growth, extended its 8-year- Alberto Ibargüen old Knight Arts Challenge for another two years. “I really do believe that we are making art general in Miami,” Mr. Ibargüen said.

BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce Goals Conference to set aims for the year ahead will return to the Hilton Miami Downtown and restore an end-of-week schedule on June 4 and 5, Chairman Antonio Argiz told members last week at their trustee luncheon. Last year’s conference at the Biltmore in Coral Gables was the chamber’s first to be held on a Monday and Tuesday. The 2013 conference at Jungle Island was Thursday and Friday, as was the prior year’s at the Hilton Miami Downtown, which at 1601 Biscayne Blvd. is in the same complex as the chamber’s Antonio Argiz offices. The chamber’s original conferences were held out of the county and extended into the weekend as family events.

BACK TO HIS ROOTS: Former Miami-Dade County chief economist Robert Cruz, who got his start in higher education with an associate’s degree at Miami Dade College, has returned to the college as department chairperson for the School of Business on the Kendall Campus. He has more than 25 years as a university professor in addition to his seven years as county chief economist. He holds a doctorate in economics from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and a bachelor’s from Georgetown University.

Robert Cruz

MORE US AIR LINKS: American Airlines last week added direct service to and from Kansas City, Salt Lake City, San Antonio and Austin, TX, bringing to 52 its number of US cities served directly via Miami International Airport. Meanwhile, Frontier Airlines, which began service to and from Miami in December, added its sixth US link from Miami with service to and from Atlanta.

BEACH PROPERTY SELLS: Miami realtor Edie Laquer sold 245-251 Washington Ave. in Miami Beach to Green Card Fund LLC for $8,250,000.

The purchasers have not disclosed their plans for the property. The 13,000-square-foot parcel (selling at $634.62 per square foot) is one of the last remaining double lots in the neighborhood, two blocks north of Joe’s Stone Crab restaurant and zoned for medium-high density development.

Peter Andolina and Karen Brady of Metro 1 were the listing agents.

YOUNG HONORS: The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce honored five young professionals at the annual HYPE Awards presentation during last week’s trustee luncheon. Jon Hoffenberg, president of YellowTelescope, which consults with medical practices, was named entrepreneur of the year for firms that have been in business a year or more.

Jessica Eve Berrin, corporate director of government and community relations for Baptist Health South Florida, was given the Go Getter award.

Elisa J. D’Amico, an attorney with K&L Gates, was named the Difference Maker for volunteer activities off the job. Kristen A. Corpion, a litigation associate with Greenberg Traurig, was honored for her work in her first year on the job. Rocio De La Grana, a recent graduate of Florida International University, was honored for her achievements while at the university.

RIVER FUNDING: The Port of Miami River has been included in the Southeast Florida Regional Freight Plan, part of Florida Department of Transportation’s Strategic Intermodal System. This makes the river eligible for significant multi-modal transportation funding, according to Jim Murley, who chairs the commission’s Urban Infill Subcommittee.

The river is used for some short sea shipping, where shipping containers can be moved by barge and connect with rail freight lines.

CORRECTION: The name of the foundation raising funds for Miami Children’s Hospital was misreported in a story last week about a gift from Barbara and golfer Jack Nicklaus. It is the Miami Children’s Health Foundation.

extra bang.

Representatives of The Youth Fair went on the offensive in a full-page ad that ran in last week’s Miami Today that reassured residents that the fair will be held for years to come at its usual location in Tamiami Park.

Through the ad, The Youth Fair also outlined what it says are “false” ideas and proposals FIU has made about the fair and its relocation.

“Florida International University’s frenetic campaign to get The Youth Fair evicted from Tamiami Park so it can take over 64 acres of the Fairgrounds has misled Miami-Dade residents time and again. It has led to doubt among the public. Put those doubts to rest. We aren’t going anywhere, anytime soon.

Despite FIU’s $1.6 million political campaign … Despite half-truths, propaganda and false statements,” part of the text in the ad read.

Last November, Miami-Dade voters approved a referendum question that ultimately exempted FIU from complying with development restrictions at Tamiami Park, a county park. FIU wants to expand and build dorms and research and academic facilities on 64 acres in the park. The Youth Fair is currently held at that location. The park is adjacent to the school’s Modesto A. Maidique campus. The voters approved for FIU to be exempted from the development restrictions at the park just the way The Youth Fair is currently exempted.

Robert Hohenstein, president and CEO of Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition Inc., told Miami Today that he ran the ad because this year the organization wanted to be proactive instead of reactive on the issue.

“I felt that we need to set the agenda, we need to frame the discussion and not allow what happened in 2014,” Mr. Hohenstein said, adding that at the time FIU spoke to other media outlets in town to present its perspective on the issue. “I thought it was time this year that we frame the discussion, we frame our position and not be responding to something from FIU.” Among the allegations The Youth Fair makes against FIU in the ad is that the school has said that the voter approval in last

“They were doing everything they could to belittle the fair,” said its president, Robert Hohenstein.

year’s referendum gave FIU a “mandate” to expand onto the fairgrounds.

“It was not a mandate,” Mr. Hohenstein told Miami Today.

“I am simply not going to allow any longer FIU to frame the conversation and allow them to use words such as mandate.

Words have meaning … and elections have meaning and I felt it was time for the community to understand the meaning and the context of it being used.”

Through the ad, fair representatives went on to allege that FIU has said that fairs are losing popularity. The Youth Fair countered that by saying that its annual attendance has increased 22%.

“My feeling was that they were doing everything they could do to belittle the fair to convey a message to the community that it was an insignificant event,” Mr. Hohenstein said. “I simply could not allow that to happen in 2015.”

Attorney Richard Perez represents FIU in its bid to expand and responded to a request for comment on the ad.

“FIU’s expansion is a matter of critical importance to our community. It means expanding educational and economic opportunities for all of the County’s residents. FIU’s door will always be open to finding a mutually beneficial solution,” Mr. Perez, of Holland & Knight law firm, said in an emailed statement.

“We continue to hope that the Fair will come to the table to discuss reasonable alternative sites,” he further stated in the email.

Mr. Hohenstein has previously said that the responsibility to find a new site for the fair falls with the fair’s landlord, namely Miami-Dade County, and with FIU. “I kind of feel that’s the responsibility of our landlord and FIU,” he told Miami Today. “If

the county expires in 2085 but it could be terminated early as long as the county secures “an equal or better alternate site in Dade County” for the fair, according to the lease.

Miami-Dade hasn’t evaluated potential new sites for the fair, said Michael Hernandez, spokesman for Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez, in an email.

Recently, a proposal to relocate the fair to Tropical Park surfaced but county officials said in a statement that the park isn’t suitable for the fair.

In past years, about 24 sites have been studied but none was determined as feasible for The Youth Fair.

The voter-approved referendum stipulates that Miami-Dade County isn’t on the hook for any relocation costs. That leaves FIU to bear that financial burden, which has been estimated to cost about $230 million. The fair is to also get a three-year notice before it is required to move, according to the lease between the fair and the county.

Since the voters approved the referendum question in November, the county has been working to identify feasible sites for The Youth Fair. Mr. Hernandez, of the mayor’s office, said that a report on the suggested sites will be transmitted to county commissioners by month’s end.

WEEK OF THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

TODAY’S NEWS

MIAMI TODAY

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Proposal would put Kevin Spacey in Grove Playhouse role

BY SUSAN DANSEYAR

When Miami-Dade’s Economic Prosperity Committee meets today (3/12) to discuss a deal with GableStage for a home at the Coconut Grove Playhouse, anything can happen.

The plan, recommended by Mayor Carlos Gimenez, was for GableStage to manage and run the former playhouse at 3500 Main Highway for 25 years. On Monday, however, Commissioner Xavier Suarez sent the mayor a memo outlining a “twotheater solution” whereby GableStage would run a 300-seat theater and a 750-seat theater would be run by a new non-profit with Kevin Spacey as its artistic consultant.

Mr. Spacey has been acting in films, plays and television since he began his career as a stage actor in the 1980s. He will step down as artistic director of the Old Vic theater in London in the middle of this year. Mr. Spacey performed at the Arsht Center’s 2014 gala.

“I sought out Mr. Spacey for several reasons,” said Michael Eidson, president of the newly formed Coconut Grove Theater Foundation Inc. “He is one of the greatest stage actors of his generation, directs and – most importantly – spent the past 12 years as the artistic director of the Old Vic, where he was successful in reviving that historic theater to its former greatness.”

Mr. Eidson said he believes Mr. Spacey plans to live parttime in Miami. “We hope that he will be able to consult with us both here and from outside of Miami,” Mr. Eidson said. “Since it would be at best several years before there was an acceptable theater in the Grove, he would be providing vision, guidance and organizational assistance in creating a new company to present great theater in Miami.”

Kevin Spacey in consultant role? Mike Eidson says he has pledges.

Joseph Adler fights against plan.

Mr. Eidson said the foundation would have 18 to 24 months during design development to raise $35 million or $40 million needed to build the 750-seat theater, restore the façade, and build an entrance and spaces including apartments for visiting performers, a 5,000-square-foot restaurant/bar, retail, and administrative offices.

“We can balance the budget and do this without a public subsidy,” Mr. Eidson said. “We’ve conducted an extensive study and worked with the best minds in the business, who told us there’s a tremendous market for a 750seat theater that is necessary to revive the historic Coconut Grove Playhouse.”

In his memo, Mr. Suarez outlined an agreement: A new entity would have majority representation from appointees of Miami-Dade County and Florida International University and minority representation from private donors and artistic consultants. That entity would be the playhouse’s landlord.

Long-term agreements with theater groups would assure common use of facilities, parking and compatible schedules.

The county would pay design costs of both theaters from general obligation bonds until the end of the design phase in about 18 months.

If private funds weren’t suf-

ficient to complement the county’s $20 million and build both theaters, the memorandum of understanding would be revised to satisfy the county and FIU. No private entities would have vested rights to the operating agreements for the theaters.

Continuance of the long-term operating agreements would be subject to performance criteria the county and FIU would set.

Agreements with the Miami Parking Authority to manage parking and the City of Miami, which gave the theater historic preservation status in 2005 so that it cannot be torn down without city approval, would stay in effect.

The understanding Mr. Suarez highlighted would maintain the playhouse’s façade, configuration and size; would create operating and management agreements with those who will manage each theater, as well as a master agreement; and assumes that government and private donors would fund about two-thirds of the building of the two theaters.

His memo sought the mayor’s feedback before today’s meeting.

The county Cultural Affairs Department has been spearheading reconstruction with the aim of opening a 300-seat theater on the site of what was once a 1,500seat regional theater.

The county has about $20 mil-

Private contributors would initially pay Mr. Spacey, Mr. Suarez wrote. He said the understanding is Mr. Eidson will select the foundation’s first board of directors, its initial members, and will formulate its internal operating agreement.

This plan for two theaters blindsided Joseph Adler, producing artistic director for GableStage, he said last week. He said he hopes the committee recommends the original plan to the full commission.

“Our goal is to fulfill the plan we’ve been working on for about seven years and move forward,” he told Miami Today.

On Monday, Mr. Adler said it’s up to the county to decide whether the property is split up.

“All we want is a new, 300seat theater in as timely a manner as possible,” he said. “We don’t want to see any more delays.”

Mr. Eidson said he has been promised substantial pledges once a deal is signed with the county.

“Our goal is to help the county bring back world-class theater in a state-of-the-art facility with a robust, educational component as quickly as possible,” he told Miami Today on Tuesday. “We’d like an agreement with the county to memorialize the work we’ve done and the extensive conversations we’ve had with the county over the past year about being part of this project.”

lion in general obligation bond borrowing capacity to rehabilitate the playhouse – which closed in 2006 due to accumulated debt.

That money can’t be released until the county commission agrees.

In January 2014, Miami-Dade won state permission to take over the mid-1920s building. The county and FIU were to jointly oversee the reborn playhouse, which was to become the home to GableStage, now based in the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables.

In a written statement last week, Mr. Adler appealed to GableStage supporters for help today. “Commissioner Suarez has invited opponents of our agreement to attend this public hearing and speak against GableStage,” he said. “We need you to attend and speak at this hearing to show your strong support for this agreement.”

Mr. Adler wrote “here are the facts and we need you to stress them at the committee meeting.”

GableStage has a record of excellence.

The county won a 99-year lease from the state for the playhouse based on inclusion of GableStage.

The playhouse lease and business plan were approved by the governor, Florida Cabinet and county commission.

GableStage will take full responsibility for raising money to cover all playhouse operating and programming costs.

“You have been here for us throughout the years and now is a real threat to the agreement guaranteeing us a new home at the playhouse,” Mr. Adler wrote in an email he signed from himself and the GableStage board.

Details: County Commission Economic Prosperity Committee, March 12, 2 p.m., County Commission Chamber, 111 NW First St.

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MIAMI TODAY

WEEK OF THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

City retail lineup weak as Marlins near opener

BY JOHN CHARLES ROBBINS

The Miami Marlins’ home opener of the 2015 season is Monday, April 6, the start of the fourth season at the 37,000-seat Major League Baseball facility.

Meanwhile, the bulk of the Marlins Park garage retail space remains empty.

Most of the more than 50,000 square feet of retail space available for lease in three of the four parking garages built by the city remains unclaimed.

The Miami Parking Authority, by way of the Off-Street Parking Board, approved signing a rare lease for some of the retail space for a state driver’s license office March 4, but most of the space goes unwanted.

As the county-owned stadium ages another year, the only commercial activity in the garage retail space has been a cigar shop and, one year ago this

month, the long-awaited opening of a Subway sandwich shop.

The Subway opened March 20. The store is about 1,400 square feet at 1576 NW Seventh St. The only other major tenant, Café Rubio, finally signed an amended lease in November 2014 for 3,196 square feet along Seventh Street.

And while build-out work has begun on the interior of the restaurant, it is far from ready to open for business.

Café Rubio is a Latin restaurant and sports bar. It first signed a lease for garage retail in January 2013 but then ran into budget issues and was close to walking away from the deal, according to parking authority officials.

But Café Rubio came back to the authority seeking an amended contact.

On Nov. 5 the parking board

Photo by Maxine Usdan

Café Rubio, which was to start paying rent in July 2013, is still listed as “coming soon” to a city garage.

approved an amended lease with Café Rubio Restaurant Inc., increasing what the tenant must pay for construction costs by $10 to $110 per square foot for improvements to the space and pushing back the date rent began more than 12 months to Aug. 1, 2014. The original rent commencement date was July 15, 2013.

Café Rubio’s annual base rent is $76,704.

The parking board last week approved a sublease agreement between the authority and HRB @ Marlins Park LLC. There will also be an agreement between the State of Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (the sub-tenant) and HRB @ Marlins Park LLC. The state required this thirdparty arrangement, according to Authority CEO Art Noriega.

The space negotiated is 7,205

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MIAMITODAY A Singular Voice in an Evolving City

square feet with 10 exclusive parking spaces and 50 nonexclusive spaces. The 10-year agreement has two three-year options that must be exercised 90 days before the lease termination.

The annual base rent is $169,584 with a possibility of a renewal at $202,492.16 that would be adjusted annually. The initial six calendar months of the first rental year, the monthly base rent will be $7,066, and during the remaining six months of the initial year the base rent rises to $14,132 monthly.

Realtor NAI Miami is under contract with the city to handle the leasing of the 53,281 square feet of ground floor retail.

In its activity report for December 2014, NAI Miami noted continued work on securing a health care center for the stadium garages.

Negotiations are “on-going” with Wellmax Medical Center for 14,000 square feet for a primary care medical clinic, general office and administrative purposes, the report says.

Frank Martinez, owner of 100 Fires Cigars, was interested in leasing 7,000 square feet for a conference center, and True Blue Hospitality was interested in about 1,000 square feet for a recruitment office, according to the report.

NAI Miami also reported initial interest from some businesses that ultimately declined, including fitness centers, stating the space dimensions are not ideal, and a marine supply company, saying the location is not ideal.

The report lists other parties that had shown interest, include an adult day care, commissary kitchen, barber shop, speech therapist, clothing store, pharmacy, antiques store, bicycle store, beauty salon, batting cages and more.

The report concludes, “The majority have declined the space because of the build out. Ideally, they are seeking vanilla shell [basic finished interior] or second generation space.”

The report notes that NAI Miami reached out to earlier prospects Presidente, Pollo Tropical and Navarrro Discount Pharmacy but all declined.

The lack of tenants has a financial impact on the city, which planned to use rental income at the garages to add to the $10.06 per parking space that it gets from the Marlins as the organization resells parking for game days to help repay bondholders who financed construction of the garages. Those bonds were issued for $101.3 million in 2010.

TODAY’S NEWS

WEEK OF THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

MIAMI TODAY

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County pushes toward higher fees for land use behind arena

BY L IDIA DINKOVA

Miami-Dade County officials have tentatively approved higher fees for the use of about 4 acres of waterfront land behind AmericanAirlines Arena. Known as Parcel B, the area is owned by the county and generally used for the staging of events held at the arena, whether they be a concert or a circus.

An appraisal by CBRE, a real estate firm, showed that the county could be collecting about $230,000 a year, or 187% more than what it currently collects, from the fees it charges for the use of Parcel B, according to county records.

The net revenues the county collects from these fees are then allocated to the Miami-Dade parks department.

The Strategic Planning and Government Operations Committee gave preliminary OK to the new fee schedule Tuesday.

The approval came after some debate over whether stakeholders have been informed and engaged in discussions on the proposed fee changes.

“Are we including a dialogue beforehand with those with whom we have a working relationship?” asked Commissioner Sally Heyman. “My concern is if we are transparent.”

Miami-Dade issues permits to entities that want to use Parcel B, including to Basketball Properties Inc., which manages AmericanAirlines Arena.

Pablo Acosta, a partner at Coral Gables-based Jorge Luis Lopez law firm, told the committee that Basketball Properties hasn’t had an opportunity to discuss with the county the proposed fee schedule but that it knew the county had sought an appraisal of the land. Basketball Properties Inc. does not have a lease on Parcel B. Lester Sola, director of the Water and Sewer Department and former director of the Internal Services Department, told the committee that Basketball Properties Inc. was informed that the fees might change but it wasn’t privy to the proposed numbers.

On Tuesday, the committee approved this fee structure for the use of parcel B: A $2,000 deposit for valet parking and a $4,000 daily fee, A $2,000 deposit for concert staging and a $1,100 daily fee.

A $5,000 deposit for circus staging and a $1,300 daily fee.

A $5,000 deposit for carnivals and an $18,000 daily fee.

A $5,000 deposit for concerts held there and a $36,000 daily fee.

A $2,000 deposit for parties and a $2,500 daily fee.

Commissioner Heyman further took issue with the county voting for the fee rates while CBRE reported a wide range for the possible market value for Parcel B. “The hiccup here is establishing a fee schedule when our own appraisals were that varied,” she said.

The CBRE report concluded that the possible market value

Photo by Maxine Usdan

A CBRE report evaluated this land at $7.5 million to $120 million, varying with its covenant restrictions.

for Parcel B ranges between partially because the tract Parcel B. The lower end of the $7.5 million and $120 million, comes with a restrictive cov- appraisal is taking into considrecords show. The variation is enant that limits the uses of eration the covenant’s restric-

tions and the upper end is the appraisal of the parcel without any use restrictions.

Commissioner Rebeca Sosa, who sits on the committee, argued in favor of the fee changes, saying that it would benefit the county’s coffers.

“Sometimes you rent a home and there comes a time when you have to increase the rent of that home. You have to let the people know who rented the home that they have to pay more,” she said. “The funding received would go straight to the parks department budget, meaning we would have to rely less on the property taxes to pay for it.”

The full county commission also has to sign off on the changes for the new fees to become effective.

Commissioner Daniella Levine Cava said that before the item goes up for a final vote, stakeholders and the county will have about two weeks to explore issues with the new fees.

Spring

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MIAMI TODAY A Singular Voice in an Evolving City

18

TODAY’S NEWS

MIAMI TODAY

WEEK OF THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

St. Thomas rolling out 20 programs in ‘strong turnaround’

BY MARILYN BOWDEN

St. Thomas University is rolling out 20 new degree programs this year in a bid to prepare students for positions in emerging fields.

“We are in the nascent stage of what will prove to be a strong turnaround for St. Thomas,” said Somnath Bhattacharya, dean of the School of Business, where many of new programs will be added.

The School of Business recently announced the creation of the Gary Goldbloom Endowed Chair in Cybersecurity, funded by a $2 million endowment from Gary Goldbloom, president of M.G. Investment Inc. Recruiting for the distinguished professor of cybersecurity is under way.

“We will have courses such as ethical hacking,” Dr. Bhattacharya said, “because you don’t know how to stop a hacker unless you know how to hack. We’re also looking at ransomware, data mining and network security, from both software and hardware perspectives.

“There’s a tremendous market for this. Cybersecurity is not a computer risk; it is a business risk. Any business worth its salt needs to look at it. I think in the next five years it will be an auditable risk. So we are trying to stay ahead of that curve by training students to fill these positions.”

A graduate program in cybersecurity will begin this fall, he said, followed by an undergraduate program.

“We are addressing the issue in a multidisciplinary way that is very exciting,” said Irma Becerra-Fernandez, the uni-

NEW AT ST. THOMAS School of Business Bachelor of Business Administration degrees: Marketing, Economics Masters of Science degrees: Cybersecurity, Trade & Logistics, Marketing New MBA Concentrations Doctoral degree: Sports Administration School of Science Bachelors of Science degrees: Physics, Nursing Masters of Science degrees: Science Teaching, Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics & Nanoscience, Cell & Molecular Biology, Nursing for Nurse Practitioners Biscayne College Bachelors degree: Global Studies Masters degrees: Criminal Justice; Liberal Studies for the 21st Century, with concentrations in Ethics, Religious Studies and English School of Theology and Ministry Master of Arts Degree: Pastoral Ministry, with a concentration in Religious Education versity’s new provost and chief academic officer. “Most complex problems in society fall between disciplines, and yet, traditionally, most universities are built as a collection of colleges. Multidisciplinarity bridges those gaps and allows us to create programs that integrate our intellectual assets in new ways.”

Dr. Bhattacharya said some of the business school’s new graduate programs existed in different forms before.

“We had an undergraduate concentration in marketing under management,” he said.

“Marketing is one of the most

marketable programs there is, so we made it a standalone undergraduate major, and then it made sense to add MBA and MS marketing programs.”

The addition of an undergraduate business degree program in economics follows the same logic. St. Thomas is also adding a master of science program in trade & logistics, he said – a discipline formerly known as supply-chain economics.

Growing interest worldwide in sports administration – an area of concentration Dr. Bhattacharya said St. Thomas was among the first universities

Dean Somnath Bhattacharya cites new courses like ethical hacking.

The university gauges demand, notes Irma Becerra-Fernandez.

to offer on the undergraduate level – led to the creation of a new doctoral program in sports administration that might be the country’s first.

That graduate program will be funded by a $500,000 gift from Arthur Hertz, chairman & CEO of Wometco Enterprises, to establish the Arthur H. Hertz Endowed Professorship in Sports Tourism.

“We will be recruiting for that position next year,” Dr. Bhattacharya said. “We’re holding off for a year to make sure we do it right.”

In all, he said, the business school is actively looking for four new professorial recruits this year, and is anticipating adding three to five new faculty members in the next few years.

Healthcare is another area where St. Thomas expects growing demand, said Dr. Becerra-Fernandez.

The university previously offered a two-year nursing program, after which students could transfer to another school to complete a four-year degree, she said, but “starting this fall, we are offering our own fouryear nursing program and

master’s program for nurse practitioners. This is just the beginning. We intend to grow this area of focus.”

New programs, Dr. BecerraFernandez said, are developed in collaboration with the faculty, but unlike earlier models, which based programs on faculty interests, St. Thomas tries to gauge student demand.

“Typically students go where the jobs are,” she said. “Miami is a city of immigrants, and we are sensitive to that. We’re dedicated to seeing every student graduate within four years, with a job waiting at graduation. So when putting these programs together, we look at areas where we know there is a need for people with skills.

“Each new program has its own new prospectus. In industry, it would be called a business plan. It has to be approved internally by the Academic Program Committee and then by the Board of Trustees, which also looks at its financial viability.

“Then the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools validates our ability to deliver this curriculum.”

Turkish-American businesswomen aim to build business ties

BY SUSAN D ANSEYAR

To promote networking and partnership opportunities, Sevi Sari and Duysevi Miyar are recruiting members for their recently-established Association of Turkish American Business Women.

They are targeting American and Turkish women, but membership is open to active businesswomen all over the world as well as to men.

“It is a much-needed initiative because we have so many successful businesswomen both in Turkey and in the US and we see mostly men doing business between the two countries,” said Ms. Miyar, who services as vice president of the association. “We would like to see more women, too, as there is so much potential.”

She and Ms. Sari, who serves as president, had this project in mind for more than a year.

They began actively working on establishing the association in September, having many meetings with advisors. They created the bylaws and are currently officially filing the organization with the state and still constructing their website.

“Since we recently established the organization, we are still in the process of finding a space and recruiting members,” said Ms. Miyar. “At the moment we meet once every two months at different locations. Our last meeting was a brunch in January 2015 at the Palm Beach Breakers Hotel.”

Any women and men interested in commercial, industrial, agricultural, professional, tourist and civic progress of women are eligible. All applicants will be subject to approval by the board of directors and Ms. Sari. Those who join can be executive board members, individual members,

corporate members and advisory members.

“The organization will foster the advancement of trade relations between Turkey and the US and we will bring Turkish and American women investors together to invest in both Turkey and vice versa,” Ms. Miyar said. “Our main goal is to promote trade opportunities in both countries by connecting Turkish and American women and also working with the Turkish government on the availability of grant opportunities for businesswomen in various sectors.”

In addition, she said, the organization will “provide and promote assistance with professional opportunities, personal development and financial growth through networking and support women in community leadership and bring legislative awareness to women and also deliver educational programs to empower women.”

Ms. Miyar and Ms. Sari said they would like to see women as powerful as men in our society and increase the percentage of businesses owned or managed by women and also reduce the income disparity between the two groups.

“One of our strengths is our women,” said Turkish Consul General Özgür Kivanç Altan during a reception for the association and its founders at his home last week. “If we have more women in business and politics, the world will be a better place.”

In most world societies, the number of businesses managed by women is lower than those managed by men, said Ms. Sari at the reception.

She and Ms. Miyar hope to empower and reach out to women in South Florida by letting them know the opportunities open to them.

Details: Sevi Sari, Sevi@Live.com

Photo by Susan Danseyar

Organization President Sevi Sari, left, Vice President Duysevi Miyar.

20

MIAMI TODAY

“Chile-United States: A Thriving Relationship 10 Years after the FTA.” 88:15 a.m. registration and continental breakfast. 8:15-9:30 a.m. presentation and discussion. Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, Granada room, 50 Alhambra Plaza, Coral Gables. Free for academics and students. $40 others. RSVP. Details: (305) 284-9871 or chprsvp@miami.edu or www.miami.edu/ chp.

ART

Thursday 3/12 BARE HANDED

The Dina Mitrani Gallery hosts opening reception and artist talk for “Bare Handed,” by Holly Lynton.

The artist’s first solo exhibition at the gallery brings together images from three related but separate series that the artist has been working on for seven years. From New England to the low country of South Carolina, the images narrate the stories of rural communities and those who have chosen to maintain ethical farming practices despite the pressures of industrial agriculture and new technology. The people in her photographs demonstrate a powerful yet intimate hands-on connection as they work meditatively in tandem with their environment. 7 p.m. reception and talk. Exhibits through May 2.

Dina Mitrani Gallery, 2620 NW Second Ave., Wynwood Arts District, Miami. Details: (786) 486-7248 or dinamitrani@gmail.com or www. dinamitranigallery.com.

LEGISLATIVE

Thursday 3/19 ESTATE PLANNING

Friday 3/13 YOUNGARTS MIAMI WINNERS

The National YoungArts Foundation hosts YoungArts Miami where local talents will showcase their creativity and talent through public performances and an exhibition. The events will include an art, design and photography exhibition opening, writers’ readings, film screenings, a jazz combo, as well as performances directed by Michael McElroy (1985 YoungArts Winner, Theater) and by John Heginbotham. March 13-15. Times and locations vary. Details: (305) 377-1140 or http://www.youngarts.org/young arts-miami.

BOOKS

Tuesday 3/17 KENT

RUSSELL

Author and essayist Kent Russell discusses his book “I Am Sorry to Think I Have Raised a Timid Son.” The book is a deeply personal record of his quest to understand, through his journalistic subjects, his own appetites and urges, his persistent alienation, and, above all, his knotty, volatile, vital relationship with his father. 8 p.m. Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. Details: (305) 442-4408 or www.booksand books.com.

FLAMENCO FESTIVAL MIAMI: The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of MiamiDade County presents the eighth season of “Flamenco Festival Miami.” The festival will feature four performances by one of Spain’s foremost ambassadors of flamenco, Ballet Flamenco Sara Baras. 8 p.m. March 12-14. Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall, Miami. $35-$95. Details: (305) 949-6722 or www.arshtcenter.org.

calendar of events week of thursday, march 12, 2015

Wednesday 3/18 CRISIS OF ISLAMIC MASCULINITIES

Books & Books, in collaboration with the University of Miami’s Center for the Humanities, hosts discussion with author Amanullah De Sondy about his book “The Crisis of Islamic Masculinities.” In order to evaluate whether there is only one valid, ideal Islamic masculinity, the book explores key figures of the Qur’an and Indian-Pakistani Islamic history, and exposes the precariousness of tight constraints on Islamic manhood. 8 p.m. Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. Details: (305) 442-4408 or www.books andbooks.com.

BUSINES S

Thursday 3/12

BUSINESS BUILDER BREAKFAST

The South Dade Chamber of Commerce hosts “Business Builder Breakfast” featuring guest speaker Hugh Hudson, vice chair of the Homestead Tourism Advisory Committee. The breakfast will include a presentation “Media Interest in S. Dade Warmth.”

8-9 a.m. Longhorn Steakhouse, 2531 NE Eighth St., Homestead. $15. RSVP required. Details: (305) 247-2332 or wbrown@chamberinaction.com.

Friday 3/13 BRAZIL

DISCUSSION

The University of Miami Center for Hemispheric Policy hosts panel “Brazil: The Dilemma of Economic and

BREAKFAST

The Latin Builders Association hosts its Legislative Breakfast, which includes a presentation by MiamiDade Commissioner Daniella Levine Cava. 8 a.m. registration and networking. 8:30 a.m. presentation.

Bilzin Sumberg Attorneys at Law, 1450 Brickell Ave., 23rd floor, Miami. Free for members. $35 others.

RSVP required. Details: (305) 4465989 or lbambrserv@lbaorg.com.

Political Uncertainty.” Panelists will include David Fleischer, emeritus professor at the Institute of Political Science, University of Brasilia, and visiting professor at the Elliot School of International Affairs, George Washington University; Kellie Meiman Hock, managing partner at McLarty Associates; and Paulo Vieira da Cunha, head of macro research at ICE Canyon LLC. 8-8:15 a.m. registration and continental breakfast. 8:15-10 a.m. presentation and discussion. Westin Colonnade Coral Gables, Gables Salon, 180 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. Free for academics and students. $40 others. RSVP. Details: (305) 284-9871 or chp-rsvp@miami.edu or www .miami.edu/chp.

CEO POWER BREAKFAST

The Miami Finance Forum presents its annual commercial real estate program “Where Are We in the Cycle?” The event, part of the forum’s “CEO Power Breakfast Series,” will focus on commercial real estate banking. Tom Cornish, Florida president at BankUnited N.A., will moderate the panel featuring Arva Jain, founder of the Vagabond Hotel; Rudy Prio Touzet, founder and CEO of Banyan Street Capital; Jacob Roffman, principal at 13th Floor Investments; Danet Linares, vice chairwoman for Blanca Commercial Real Estate; and Charles Foschini, vice chairman of CBRE. 7:30-10 a.m. Conrad Hotel, 1395 Brickell Ave., Miami. $45 members.

Monday 3/16

GALLA

Tuesday 3/17 GLOBAL SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PANEL

The Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce presents networking luncheon and expo “Global Supplier Diversity Panel.” The panel of global supply diversity leaders will guide attendees through the evaluation process and answer questions.

With the participation of the US Small Business Association, American Airlines, Northrop Grumman, the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and others. 11:30 a.m.1:30 p.m. University of Miami’s Student Center Complex, 1320 S Dixie Highway, Coral Gables. $35 members. $45 others. RSVP required.

FAIRY DOLL BALLET

Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida presents “Fairy Doll.” The production, originally known as “Die Puppenfee” by composer Josef Bayer, was one of the most successful productions of the late 19th century. The Issaev recreation and revival of the ballet is played in two acts, telling the tale of a doll that uses her magic to bring more than 60 dolls to life when the toy store closes. 7 p.m. Additional performance March 15. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Ft Lauderdale. $30.

Details: www.artsballettheatre.org.

EXHIBITS Thursday 3/12

Details: (305) 673-4440 or www. gaybizmiami.com.

Cruise Shipping Miami returns for its 31st edition with a comprehensive conference program highlighting trending themes and hot topics. The fourday conference will feature panels on topics such as “The Geography of Cruise Tourism,” “Safety and Ship Operations,” “Market Segments,” “Cruise Product Development” and more. March 16-19. Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Dr., Miami Beach. Details: http:/ /www.cruiseshippingevents.com/ miami.

DANCE

Saturday 3/14

90 MILES

$85 others. Details: www.miami financeforum.com.

CRUISE SHIPPING MIAMI

The Estate Planning Council of Greater Miami hosts workshop “Asset Protection.” The workshop by Patrick J. Lannon, partner at Bilzin Sumberg, will feature a presentation on “Comparative Analysis Florida,”

by Gail E. Cohen, vice chairman and general trust counsel at Fiduciary Trust Co. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Hyatt Regency Miami, Hibiscus Room, 400 SE Second Ave., Miami. Free for members. $65 others. RSVP. Details: RSVP@epcmiami.org or www.epc miami.org.

RECEPTION

The Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, Kaufman Rossin, OUTLaw at University of Miami and GALLA (Gay & Lesbian Lawyer’s Association) host a cocktail reception tailored for attorneys, judges and legal professionals. The luncheon will feature a presentation by the new GALLA co-chairs about the plan for the organization as well as proposed networking. 2-4 p.m.

University of Miami’s Student Center Complex, 1320 S Dixie Highway, Coral Gables. Free. RSVP. Details: (305) 673-4440 or www.gaybiz miami.com.

BUSINESS

LUNCHEON

The Business Referral Group hosts a luncheon networker. Attendees will network with experienced industry professionals, share ideas and listen to Ellen Siegel, a certified financial planner practitioner of Ellen R. Siegel and Associates. Noon. Love is Blind, 225 Altara Ave., Coral Gables. RSVP required. Details: (305) 984-6344 or www.businessreferralgroup.org.m

Wednesday 3/18 AMBASSADORS FORUM

The University of Miami Center for Hemispheric Policy hosts ambassadors forum with H.E. Juan Gabriel Valdés, ambassador of Chile in Washington. The discussion will focus on

Miami Dade College’s Museum of Art + Design, in partnership with WAIL (Word And Image Lab) and in collaboration with The Center for Writing & Literature at MDC, presents “90 Miles,” a project by Carlos Alejandro. The multimedia installation is an interactive installation and dialogue on immigration and human rights. The ongoing crocheting project uses 90 miles of multi-colored yarn, creating a continuous strip totaling about 1.5 miles, yet if unraveled the sum is equal to 90 miles, symbolic of the distance between Key West and Cuba. Exhibits through April 19.

MDC Museum of Art + Design at The Freedom Tower at MDC, 2nd floor, 600 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. $5. Details: (305) 237-7710 or museum@mdc.edu or www.mdcmoad .org.

7 SEVEN

The SaludArte Foundation in collaboration with the National Art Exhibitions by the Mentally Ill present the exhibition “7 Seven,” by outsider Cuban artists. The exhibit is an exploration of works between portraits, paintings and sculptures from artists who don’t belong to any “official pattern.”Artists include Damian Valdes Dilla, Pedro Pablo Bacallao, Boris Santamaria, Misleidys Castillo, Isaac Crespo, Adrian Horta and Luis Manuel Otero. Exhibits through April.

Ideobox Artspace, 2417 Miami Ave., 2nd floor, Miami. Details: naemi@ bellsouth.net or www.naemi.org.

12TH MAN

The David Castillo Gallery presents “12th Man,” a solo show by

MIAMI TODAY

WEEK OF THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

calendar of events ART

Sienna, Turkey Madonna, 2010.

Bare Handed The Dina Mitrani Gallery hosts opening reception and artist talk for “Bare Handed,” by Holly Lynton. The artist’s first solo exhibition at the gallery brings together images from three related but separate series’ that the artist has been working on for seven years. From New England to the low country of South Carolina, the images narrate stories of rural communities and those who have chosen to maintain ethical farming practices despite the pressures of industrial agriculture and new technology. The people in her photographs demonstrate a powerful yet intimate hands-on connection as they work in tandem with their environment. 7 p.m. reception and talk. March 12.

Exhibits through May 2. Dina Mitrani Gallery, 2620 NW Second Ave., Wynwood Arts District, Miami.

Details: (786) 486-7248 or dinamitrani@gmail.com or www.dinamitranigallery.com.

sents its “Open Barre: Practice Makes Perfect and The Evolution of a Dancer.” The dance series gives the audience a rarely-seen glimpse into the lifetime of training, discipline and artistry practiced by aspiring professional ballet dancers.

Thirty minutes prior to each performance in the lobby, there will be a complimentary “open bar” reception with refreshments.

Additionally, Miami City Ballet’s principal dancer Jennifer Carlynn Kronenberg will be in the lobby during the reception posing for pictures and signing her book “So, You Want to be a Ballet Dancer?,” a guide for young dancers who want to know the ins and outs of becoming a ballerina. 6:30 p.m. March 13-14.

Miami City Ballet, Lynn & Louis Wolfson, II Theatre, 2200 Liberty Ave., Miami Beach. $10 for Miami Beach INcard holders. $15 others.

Details: http://www.miamicity ballet.org/.

BOOKS

his own appetites and urges, his persistent alienation, and, above all, his knotty, volatile, vital relationship with his father. 8 p.m.

March 17. Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables.

Details: (305) 442-4408 or www.booksandbooks.com.

EXHIBITS

OUTDOORS

A Frank Wildhorn and Leslie Bricusse musical.

Liberty Lodge by Evin Collis, oil on canvas 2014.

Attitudes in Latitudes ArtCenter/South Florida presents the exhibition “Attitudes in Latitudes: The Northern Wild Explores the Tropics,” curated

by Ombretta Agró Andruff. The exhibition feature six artists from Winnipeg, Canada, who were invited to join six South Floridabased artists as they explore the connection between the landscapes that surround, and in many ways isolate, the creatures, either real or invented, that inhabit them. The opening night reception will feature a performance

by Ana Mendez. 7-10 p.m. opening reception at Richard Shack Gallery. March 18. Exhibits through April 26. ArtCenter/ South Florida | 800-810 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach.

Details: www.artcentersf .org.

DANCE A personal journey.

Kent Russell discusses his book “I Am Sorry to Think I Western Symphony, choreography Have Raised a Timid Son.” The

by George Balanchine. book is a deeply personal record of his quest to understand, Open Barre The Miami City Ballet pre- through his journalistic subjects,

EXHIBITS

cont.—

Wendy White. The exhibition expands on the artist’s interest in the psychological connection between art and athletics by way of extreme fandom, corporate branding and the emotional sacrifice of the professional athlete. The title refers to the fan or the extra “player” who potentially helps determine the fate of the team and also underscores the gender-specific terminology that pervades sports and society overall. Exhibits through March 31. David Castillo Gallery, 420 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach.

Details: www.davidcastillogallery.com.

PATHS AND VISIONS

The Spanish Cultural Center presents “Paths and Visions” by Joaquin Gonzalez. The exhibition will feature paintings inspired by the trip the art-

Details: (305) 441-0506 or pation of the premiere of “Wild www.womensfundmiami.org.

Tales,” the cinema pays tribute to the actor through these THEA TER THEATER screenings. The films will include “Son of the Bride,” “The Secret in Their Eyes,” “Nine Queens,” “The Dancer and the Thief” and “The Aura.” In Spanish with English subtitles. Times vary. March 13-19. Coral Gables Art Cinema, 260 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. $11.50 and under.

Details: (786) 385-9689 or info@gablescinema.com or www.gablescinema.com.

Giving back.

Jekyll and Hyde

Festival for the Poor

The South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center presents the fifth national Broadway touring production of “Jekyll and Hyde.”

The musical tells of the epic struggle between good and evil, based on the classic story by Robert Louis Stevenson and featuring a score of pop rock hits from Frank Wildhorn and Leslie Bricusse. The tale is of two men, one a doctor, passionate and romantic, the other, a terrifying madman; and two women, one beautiful and trusting, the other, beautiful and trusting only herself. Both women are in love with the same man, and both are unaware of his dark secret. 8 p.m. March 14. South MiamiDade Cultural Arts Center, 10950 SW 211th St., Cutler Bay. $37.50-$67.50.

Details: (786) 573-5300 or www.smdcac.org.

The St. Louis Catholic Church community hosts its annual “Festival for the Poor.” The threeday event will feature rides, game booths, international food booths, raffles, dinners, auctions, live entertainment and arts and craft vendors. All of the profits are donated to non-profit agencies throughout Miami-Dade including Habitat for Humanity, Camillus House, Kristi House, Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Project Cradle and St. Ann’s Mission. March 13-15. St. Louis Catholic Church, 7270 SW 120th St., Pinecrest.

Details: (305) 281-3014 or bettyq0629@bellsouth.net.

SPECIAL EVENTS

MUSIC

FILM

Kent Russell

ist took to the cave called Qyaqpuma, cave paintings located between the districts of Llancanora and Baños del Inca in Peru. Exhibits through April 10. Centro Cultural Español Miami, 1490 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Details: http://www.ccemiami.org/.

THE BIRDS OF AMERICA

HistoryMiami presents “The Complete Audubon: The Birds of America” by John James. Created between 1820 and 1838, Audubon’s “The Birds of America” contains some of the most famous and spectacular prints ever made. It also includes the rare first edition of this masterpiece, and will display all 435 of its life-size engravings in one exhibition. Exhibits through May 31. HistoryMiami, 101 W Flagler St., Miami. Details: (305) 375-5792 or www.historymiami.org.

BETWEEN HEAVEN AND EARTH

The Patricia and Phillip Frost

21

Ricardo Darín.

Argentinean Film Showcase The Coral Gables Art Cinema presents screenings featuring popular films by Argentinean actor Ricardo Darín. In anticiMuseum of Science presents “Xu Bing: Writing Between Heaven and Earth.” The exhibition encompasses 5,000 square feet and features the artist’s installations plus newer artworks that provoke viewers to challenge their perceptions of cultural identity and language, including a never-before-seen artwork that Xu Bing is creating specifically for this exhibition at the Frost Art Museum.

Exhibits through May 24. Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum at FIU, 10975 SW 17th St., Tamiami. Free.

RSVP for lecture. Details: (305) 3482890 or artinfo@fiu.edu or www.thefrost.fiu.edu.

MASTER PHOTOGRAPHER

Miami Dade College’s Museum of Art + Design presents “Mario Algaze: Master Photographer.” The exhibition by the MDC alumnus and photographer highlights 39 portraits

Co-chairs M. Victoria Cummock and Tiffany Zientz Heckler.

IKO IKO.

Power of the Purse

Blues Fest

The Women’s Fund hosts its Power of the Purse Luncheon and Auction, celebrating women and girls. The event will also honor Ruth Shack with the Marilynn Gladstone Lifetime Achievement Award. March 13.

Hilton Miami Downtown, 1601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. $150$200.

Fritz & Franz Bierhaus presents the 17th annual Coral Gables “Blues Fest.” Acts include Stan Street, IKO IKO, Joey Gilmore Blues Band, A’N’T’ and many more. March 12-15. On the Bierhaus Plaza, 60 Merrick Way, Coral Gables. Free.

Details: www.bierhausblues .com.

of artists, writers, actors and filmmakers whom he photographed during the Miami International Film Festival. Exhibits through April 28. West Gallery, 3800 NW 155th Ave., Doral.

Free. Details: http://www.mdc.edu/ galleries.

publishing tycoon, rooted in themes of power, corruption, vanity – the American Dream lost in the mystery of a dying man’s last word: “Rosebud.” 6:50 p.m. Miami Beach Cinematheque, 1130 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. $8 members. $9 seniors and students. $10 others.

Details: www.mbcinema.com.

FILM

Thursday 3/12 ORSON WELLES AT 100

The Miami Beach Cinematheque, in collaboration with Miami International Film Festival, screens “Citizen Kane” as part of “Orson Welles at 100,” a retrospective exhibition. The Orson Welles’ groundbreaking film will be presented in a 70th anniversary digital transfer with revitalized digital audio from the highest quality surviving elements. It tells of the controversial life of an influential

TRANSPORTER

2

The Miami Beach SoundScape Cinema Series screens the 2005 film “Transporter 2,” directed by Louis Leterrier. A beach chair or towel is all moviegoers will need to enjoy the film projected onto a 7,000-square-foot wall of the New World Center through a freestanding state-of-the art visual and audio system. 8 p.m. New World Symphony SoundScape, southwest corner of Washington Ave. and 17th St., Miami Beach. Free. Details: (305) 673-7577 or www.mbculture.com.

22

WEEK OF THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

MIAMI TODAY

To calendar submit

of events FILM cont.— THE DUKE OF BURGUNDY

The Miami Beach Cinematheque screens “The Duke of Burgundy,” directed by Peter Strickland. The film is set in a crumbling European estate, where butterfly researcher Cynthia and her lover Evelyn repeatedly enact a sadomasochistic roleplaying game, with Cynthia as the stern mistress and Evelyn her subservient sex slave. But as the lines between fantasy and reality begin to blur, their relationship is pushed to the limit. 9:15 p.m. Additional screenings through March 19. Miami Beach Cinematheque, 1130 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. $8 members. $9 seniors and students. $10 others.

Details: www.mbcinema.com.

Saturday 3/14 LEVIATHAN

The Miami Beach Cinematheque screens “Leviathan,” directed by Andrew Zvyagintsev. The film, a Golden Globe winner and Oscar nominee, follows Kolia, who lives in a small fishing town near the stunning Barents Sea in Northern Russia. He owns an auto repair shop that stands next to the house where he lives with his young wife Lilya and his son Roma. Corrupt mayor Vadim Shelevyat is determined to take away his business, his house and his land. The mayor tries buying off Kolia, but Kolia fights so as not to lose everything. Facing resistance, the mayor starts being more aggressive. In Russian with English subtitles. 4 p.m.

Miami Beach Cinematheque, 1130 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. $8 members. $9 seniors and students. $10 others. Details: www.mbcinema.com.

Sunday 3/15 TWO DAYS, ONE NIGHT

The Miami Beach Cinematheque screens “Two days, One Night,” directed by brothers Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne and starring Marion Cotillard and Fabio Rongione. The film follows Sandra, who after a bout with depression is about to return to work when she learns of a global predicament firsthand: her job will be a thing of the past, as the factory where she’s employed downsizes.

She is given two days and one night to convince her coworkers to forego an annual bonus so she can remain on the payroll. 5 p.m. Miami Beach Cinematheque, 1130 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. $8 members. $9 seniors and students. $10 others.

Details: www.mbcinema.com.

Wednesday 3/18 STRICTLY

BALLROOM

The Miami Beach SoundScape Cinema Series screens the 1992 film “Strictly Ballroom,” directed by Baz Luhrmann. A beach chair or towel is all moviegoers will need to enjoy the film projected onto a 7,000-squarefoot wall of the New World Center through a freestanding state-of-the art visual and audio system. 8 p.m.

New World Symphony SoundScape, southwest corner of Washington Ave. and 17th St., Miami Beach.

Free. Details: (305) 673-7577 or www.mbculture.com.

MUSIC Thursday 3/12 BLUES FEST

Fritz & Franz Bierhaus presents the 17th annual Coral Gables “Blues

Fest.” Acts include Stan Street, IKO IKO, Joey Gilmore Blues Band, A’N’T’ and many more. March 1215. On the Bierhaus Plaza, 60 Merrick Way, Coral Gables. Free. Details: www.bierhausblues.com.

PIOTR

ANDERSZEWSKI

The Miami International Piano Festival presents Piotr Anderszewski in a benefit concert for Sarcoma Research. The program will include Bach’s Overture in the French style, BWN 831 and English Suite No. 3; and Schumann’s Novelette No. 8 Op. 21 and Fantasy in C Major, Op. 17.

8 p.m. Colony Theatre, 1040 Lincoln Rd., Miami Beach. Details: www. colonytheatremiamibeach.org.

Saturday 3/14 WILL CALHOUN QUARTET

KCC Productions presents The Will Calhoun Quartet as part of the Jazz Series at Pinecrest Gardens. The quartet will comprise Will Calhoun on drums and percussion, Orrin Evans on piano, Luques Curtis on bass and Marcus Strickland on sax. 8 p.m.

Banyan Bowl at Pinecrest Gardens, 11000 Red Rd., Pinecrest. $25-$30.

Details: (305) 669-6990 or www. pinecrestgardens.org

OUTDOORS

Saturday 3/14

RELAY FOR LIFE

The Miami Cancer Institute hosts the American Cancer Society’s “Relay for Life of East Kendall,” a survivors’ celebration, camp-out and relay-style walk around the hospital campus lake. The fundraiser will benefit cancer research, education and patient services. Noon. Baptist Hospital campus, 8900 N Kendall Dr., Kendall. Details: (305) 779-2853 or http://relayforlife.org/ekfl.

BIKE DAY

The Village of Pinecrest hosts its sixth annual Bike Ride Day, in collaboration with Miami-Dade County Public Schools Vice Chair Lawrence Feldman. All types of bicycles are welcome. The event is to encourage student and family participation in activities geared toward healthy and active lifestyles. Sponsors will also be fitting and giving away bicycle helmets, while supplies last. Read Conmigo will be distributing their bilingual books to families. 9-11:30 a.m. Pinecrest Community Center, 5855 Killian Dr., Pinecrest. Details: http://www.pinecrest-fl.gov/ index.aspx?page=20&recordid=8526.

PUBLIC MEETINGS Thursday 3/12 TRADE & TOURISM

The Trade and Tourism Committee meets. 9:30 a.m. Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW First St., second floor commission chambers, Miami.

Details: (305) 375-2035.

TEEN

COURT

The Teen Court Youth Action Committee meets. 10 a.m. Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW First St., 18th floor room 18-A, Miami. Details: (305) 375-5661.

SUNSHINE MEETING

A Sunshine Meeting between Rebeca Sosa, Miami-Dade County commissioner, District 6; and Esteban L. Bovo Jr., vice chairman of the Miami-Dade County Commission, District 13, is to discuss the Miami-Dade Expressway Authority. 1 p.m. Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW First St., second floor

This is a calendar of selected events in Greater Miami for the week beginning Thursday, March 12, 2015.

Information must be received in writing two weeks before the event.

Include costs, details, relevant phone numbers and photos if possible.

Send to: Miami Today Calendar Attention Jennifer Lima 2000 S. Dixie Highway, Suite 100, Miami, FL 33133 E-mail: calendar@miamitodaynews.com

commission chambers, Miami. Details: (305) 375-1293.

ECONOMIC

PROSPERITY

The Economic Prosperity Committee meets. 2 p.m. Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW First St., second floor commission chambers, Miami.

Details: (305) 375-2035.

6T

INVESTIGATIVE

PANEL

The Civilian Investigative Panel meets with the Ordinance Revision Committee. 4 p.m. Civilian Investigative Panel Office, 970 SW First St., #305, Miami. Details: (305) 9604952.

The Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce hosts its 93rd annual dinner gala and silent auction. May 9. Fontainebleau Miami Beach, 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach.

Details: (305) 674-1300 or www.miami beachchamber.com.

AMERICAN CANCER GALA

The American Cancer Society hosts its annual gala. The evening will feature a cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner and dancing. 6:30 p.m. April 11. Location to be determined. Details: (305) 779-2879 or Karla.Pascua@Cancer.org.

WORLD STRATEGIC FORUM

The International Economic Forum of the Americas hosts “The Miami World Strategic Forum” under the general theme “Engineering The Resilient Economy.” Confirmed speakers include José Miguel Insulza, secretary general of the Organization of American States; Fred Hochberg, chairman and president of the Export-Import Bank of the United States; and Enrique García Rodríguez, president and CEO of the Development Bank of Latin America. April 13-14. Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables.

DEVELOPMENT

DEVELOPMENT

Miami’s Downtown Development Authority’s Flagler Street Committee meets. 8 a.m. Downtown Development Authority, DDA conference room, 200 S Biscayne Blvd., #2929, Miami. Details: (305) 579-6675.

Monday 3/16 METROPOLITAN

PLANNING

The Metropolitan Planning Organization Executive Director Selection Committee meets. The committee is composed of members of the MPO Governing Board. 11 a.m. Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW First St., 21st floor conference room, Miami. Details: (305) 375-1293.

SUNSHINE MEETING

A Sunshine Meeting between Esteban L. Bovo Jr., vice chairman of the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners, District 13; and Dennis C. Moss, Miami-Dade County commissioner, District 9, will take place to discuss transportation in Miami-Dade County. Noon.

Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW First St., 3rd floor conference room, Miami. Details: (305) 375-1293.

FAIR IMMIGRATION

The CRB Fair Immigration Committee meets. 2 p.m. Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW First St., 10th floor rear conference room, Miami. Details: (305) 375-1406.

CHILDREN’S

TRUST

The Children’s Trust meets to discuss nominations. 3 p.m. The Children’s Trust, 8th floor conference room A, 3150 SW Third Ave., Miami. Details: (305) 571-5700.

Tuesday 3/17 COUNTY

REACH FOR THE STARS

The Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre hosts its 24th annual Reach for the Stars Gala Auction. Attendees will bid on over $300,000 worth of live and silent auction items, while enjoying culinary offerings from more than 35 Coral Gables restaurants, wine and champagne courtesy of Premier Beverage Co., and an open bar sponsored by Bacardi U.S.A. 6 p.m. April 18. Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. Details: (305) 444-9293 or www.ActorsPlayhouse.org.

GOLF & TENNIS TOURNAMENT

The Jackson Memorial Foundation hosts its inaugural Golf and Tennis Tournament. April 17-18. Trump National Doral, 4400 NW 87th Ave., Doral. Details: (305) 585-4483.

JUDICIAL RECEPTION

The Greater Miami Jewish Federation hosts the 31st annual Judicial Reception.

5:30 p.m. March 31. Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Watson Island.

Details: (786) 866-8414 or www.Jewish Miami.org.

PEDIATRIC COURSE

Miami Childrens Hospital holds its 50th annual Pediatric Post Graduate Course.

About 450 attendees expected. Ends March 16. InterContinental Miami, 100 Chopin Plaza, Miami. Details: www. mch.com.

ROBOTICS SYMPOSIUM

International Robotic Prostatectomy Symposium holds its annual

symposium. About 275 attendees expected. Runs March 12-15.

Fontainebleau Miami Beach, 4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. Details: www.prostate awareness.net.

MIAMI GRAND PRIX

Formula E holds “Miami Grand Prix” sports event. About 25,000 attendees expected.

March 14. Along Biscayne Bay, downtown Miami. Details: www.fiaformulae.com/miami.

SOURCE: GREATER MIAMI CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Miami’s Downtown Development Authority’s Executive Committee meets. 9 a.m. Downtown Development Authority, DDA conference room, 200 S Biscayne Blvd., #2929, Miami. Details: (305) 579-6675.

DOWNTOWN

4

Details: http://forum-americas.org/.

MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS

Friday 3/13 DOWNTOWN

P LAN

MB CHAMBER GALA

MIAMI COMMISSION

The City of Miami Commission meets. 9 a.m. Miami City Hall, commission chambers, 3500 Pan American Dr., Coconut Grove.

O

COMMISSIONERS

The Miami-Dade County Commission meets. 9:30 a.m. . Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW First St., second floor commission chambers, Miami. Details: (305) 375-2035.

SUNSHINE MEETING

A Sunshine Meeting between Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade County commissioner, District 8; and Rebeca Sosa, Miami-Dade County commissioner, District 6, will focus on Sea Level Rise and Honor Code.

1:30 p.m. Stephen P. Clark Center,

111 NW First St., second floor conference room 2-A, Miami. Details: (305) 375-1293.

CIVIL

SERVICE

The Civil Service Board meets. 10 a.m. City of Miami, City Hall Chambers, 3500 Pan American Dr., Miami.

Details: (305) 416-2020.

INVESTIGATIVE

PANEL

The Civilian Investigative Panel meets. 5:30 p.m. Miami City Hall, commission chambers, 3500 Pan American Dr., Coconut Grove. Details: (305) 960-4952.

SPORTS & EXHIBITION AUTHORITY

The Miami Sports & Exhibition Authority meets. 1 p.m. Miami City Hall, city manager’s conference room, 3500 Pan American Dr., Coconut Grove. Details: (305) 416-1105.

WYNWOOD BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT

The Wynwood Business Improvement District Board meets. 11 a.m.

310 NW 26th St., #1, Wynwood Arts District, Miami. Details: (646) 7394643.

Wednesday 3/18 LIBRARY

ADVISORY

The Library Advisory Board meets. 12:30 p.m. Miami-Dade Main Library, 101 W Flagler St., second floor conference room, Miami. Details: (305) 375-1293.

COMMUNITY

RELATIONS

The Community Relations Board holds general membership meeting. 2 p.m. Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW First St., conference room 18-4, Miami. Details: (305) 375-1406.

EQUAL

OPPORTUNITY

The Equal Opportunity Advisory Board meets. 12:30 p.m. Miami Riverside Center, 10th floor main conference room, 444 SW Second Ave., Miami. Details: (305) 416-1990.

FINANCE

COMMITTEE

The Finance Committee meets.

Noon. Miami City Hall, city manager’s conference room, 3500 Pan American Dr., Coconut Grove. Details: (305) 416-1336.

PLANNING & ZONING

The Planning, Zoning and Appeals Board meets. 6:30 p.m.

Miami City Hall, commission chambers, 3500 Pan American Dr., Coconut Grove. Details: (305) 416-2037.

Thursday 3/19 ZONING MEETING

The Zoning Committee meets. 9:30

a.m. Stephen P. Clark Center, 111 NW First St., second floor commission chambers, Miami. Details: (305) 375-1244.

OVERTOWN

COMMUNITY

The OAB/Overtown Community Oversight Board meets. 5 p.m.

Culmer Center, 1600 NW Third Ave., Miami. Details: (305) 372-4550.

PARKS & RECREATION

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meets. 6 p.m. Miami City Hall, commission chambers, 3500 Pan American Dr., Coconut Grove. Details: (305) 416-1332.

STREET

COMMITTEE

The Plat and Street Committee meets. 2 p.m. Miami Riverside Center, 10th floor main conference room, 444 SW Second Ave., Miami. Details: (305) 250-5360.

TICKETING

APPELLATE

The Ticketing Appellate meets. 9 a.m. Miami City Hall, commission chambers, 3500 Pan American Dr., Coconut Grove. Details: (305) 2505360.

BEACH

TRUST

The Virginia Key Beach Park Trust’s Planning, Construction, Nature and Environment Committee meets. 6 p.m. Virginia Key Beach Park Trust, 4020 Virginia Beach Dr., Virginia Key. Details: (305) 9604603.

SPECIAL EVENTS Thursday 3/12 TWELVE GOOD MEN

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida hosts its 22nd “Twelve Good Men Luncheon” to recognize men in the community for their philanthropic work with charities and non-profit organizations. 11:30 a.m. Jungle Island Treetop Ballroom, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail, Watson Island. $150. Details: (305) 324-5683 or www.RMHCSouth Florida.org.

KIT KAT DIVAS LIVE

The Gleason Room Backstage at the Fillmore Miami Beach will be transformed when the divas of Chicago’s Kit Kat Lounge take up a monthly residency. Kit Kat Divas Live, known for its female impersonators, will feature performances throughout the venue, providing an interactive experience with special lighting, elegant draperies and state of the art projections. 8 p.m. March 12-15. The Fillmore Miami Beach,

MIAMI TODAY

WEEK OF THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2015

calendar of events SPECIAL EVENTS

cont.—

1700 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. $25-$45 general admission. $65 VIP. Details: www.kitkatdivaslive.com or www.fillmoremb.com.

Friday 3/13 POWER OF THE PURSE

Saturday 3/14 HEARTS & STARS

The Little Lighthouse Foundation hosts its “Hearts & Stars Gala 2015: Casablanca.” Bill Dean’s Terra Veritatis, 4949 Pine Tree Dr., Miami Beach. $175. early bird. Details: (305) 417-8553 or reed@thelittlelight house.org or www.heartsandstars gala.com.

The Women’s Fund hosts its Power of the Purse Luncheon and Auction, celebrating women and girls. The event will also honor Ruth Shack with the Marilynn Gladstone Lifetime Achievement Award. Hilton Miami Downtown, 1601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. $150-$200. Details: (305) 4410506 or www.womensfundmiami.org.

RED CROSS BALL

GALA

Miami Bridge Youth & Family Services Inc. hosts its “Bridge to the Stars ‘Arabian Nights’ Gala.”

The evening will feature exotic flavors, vibrant colors, belly dancing and a silent auction, as well as other surprises. CBS Miami’s Cynthia Demos will serve as emcee. Attire is Miami Chic. 7:30 p.m. The Temple House, 1415 Euclid Ave., Miami Beach. $175. Details: http:// miamibridge.org/miami-bridgegala/.

CELEBRATION

The Board of Dade Heritage Trust hosts a gala to honor Becky Roper Matkov for her 18 years of leadership as the trust’s CEO and to thank Luis Gonzalez for his 15 years of service as office manager. The event will also celebrate the 90th anniversary of the “Biltmore’s Beginnings.”

Cocktail Attire. 7 p.m. The Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables. $150 members. $200 others. RSVP. Details: (305) 358-9572 or info@dadeheritage trust.org.

The American Red Cross Greater Miami & the Keys hosts the 33rd annual American Red Cross Ball. 7 p.m. Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne, 455 Grand Bay Dr., Key Biscayne. $600.

Details: (305) 728-2512 or Kenia.

Tedesco@RedCross.org.

ARABIAN NIGHTS GALA

Tuesday 3/17 HAT

LUNCHEON

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens hosts its seventh annual “Preservation Luncheon” (Hat Luncheon). The luncheon reprises the fashionable daytime events in the gardens, which were a tradition in Vizcaya’s early years. Guests will enjoy cocktails, modeling of jewelry and elegant fashion looks. 11 a.m. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, 3251 S Miami Ave., Miami. $350. Details: (305) 250-9133 or www.vizcaya.org.

Wednesday 3/18 HEART & STAR AWARD DINNER

The Cancer Support Community of Greater Miami hosts the 2015 “Heart & Star Award Dinner,” honoring Alina Villasante and Amy Hollub. 6:30 p.m. Coral Gables Country Club, 997 North Greenway Dr., Coral Gables. $300. Details: http:// cancersupportcommunitymiami.org/ heart&star_entry.htm.

SPORTS Monday 3/16 MIAMI HEAT

The Miami Heat takes on the Cleveland Cavaliers. 8 p.m. American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. $10$400. Details: www.nba.com/heat.

GOLF CLASSIC

The Boys & Girls Clubs of MiamiDade hosts the 48th annual golf classic in memory of “Bebe” Rebozo. The event offers players the choice to play for fun or at a competitive level. The daylong tournament will feature a putting contest, golfer gift bags, complimentary parking, green fees, cart, range balls, lunch, on-course chicken wings and liquor shots and dinner at the awards banquet and ceremony.

Golfers are encouraged to take part in activities and games throughout the day. 11 a.m. Deering Bay Yacht & Country Club, 13610 Deering Bay Dr., Coral Gables. $100 dinner only. $1,600 foursome. Details: (305) 4469910 ext. 30 or kfoley@bgcmia.org.

Wednesday 3/18 MIAMI HEAT

The Miami Heat takes on the Portland Trailblazers. 7:30 p.m. American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. $10-$400. Details: www.nba.com/heat.

THEA TER THEATER

Thursday 3/12 THE SEVEN YEAR ITCH

The Miami Theater Center presents “The Seven Year Itch,” by George Axelrod. The play, adapted

by Stephanie Ansin and Fernando Calzadilla, tells of loneliness, temptation and lust. Feel the summer heat aggravate the anxiety and desire of one man’s mid-life crisis in this irreverent interpretation of a 1950s stage comedy that inspired the Hollywood film. 8 p.m. Additional performances through March 22. Miami Theater Center, 9806 NE Second Ave., Miami Shores. $150 opening night. $35 other performances. Details: (305) 751-9550 or www.mtcmiami.org.

TRUST

The Zoetic Stage and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County host opening night for the regional premiere of “Trust” by Paul Weitz. The offBroadway dark comedy is about the power of human relationships, detailing the exploration of the personal price paid to attain power and wealth.

7:30 p.m. Additional performances through March 29. Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, 1300

23

Biscayne Blvd., Carnival Studio Theater, Miami. $45. Details: (305) 9496722 or www.arshtcenter.org.

THE PEARL FISHERS

The Florida Grand Opera presents “The Pearl Fishers,” by Georges Bizet with libretto by Eugène Cormon and Michel Carré. The play follows a priestess with a mysterious past as she is pursued by a fisherman who happens to be the best of friends with his rival in love. Honor, jealousy and communal duty jeopardize the lovers’ burgeoning bond with the threat of death at dawn, but they are freed from their fate by the revelation of a long-buried secret. Sung in French with English and Spanish projected titles. 7:30 p.m. Additional performance on March 14. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Ft Lauderdale. $21-$200. Details: http://tickets.fgo.org/.

Wednesday 3/18 FIRST DATE

The Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents “First Date,” book

by Austin Winsberg, with music and lyrics by Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner. The musical follows blind date newbie Aaron as he is set up with serial-dater Casey for a casual drink at a busy New York restaurant turns into a hilarious high-stakes dinner. As the date unfolds, the couple find that they are not alone. Casey and Aaron’s inner critics take on a life of their own when other restaurant patrons transform into their best friends, manipulative exes and protective parents, who sing and dance them through ice breakers, appetizers and potential conversational land mines. 8 p.m. Additional performances through April 12. Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. Details: (305) 4449293 or www.ActorsPlayhouse.org.

As demand slows, 12,543 downtown units in planning stages

BY CATHERINE LACKNER

Downtown Miami’s real estate picture looks encouraging, even as demand is slowing from the furious pace of the past few years, said Anthony Graziano, managing director of Integra Realty Resources’ Miami/Palm Beach office.

“Early signs of new demand are slowing,” according to a report he presented to directors of Miami’s Downtown Development Authority, “but pricing remains healthy.”

There are 6,019 condominium units under construction from Wynwood/Edgewater to Brickell, the report said; 2,070 are under contract, and reservations have been taken for 1,598.

Another 12,543 units are proposed or in the planning stages for the market.

“Some may not make it,” Mr. Graziano said. Construction costs have risen 25% to 30%, he said, and that could hamper developers, who must set budgets and try to forecast expenses while taking deposits and signing contracts.

But he said the market is not overbuilt, and even if it were, that would not necessarily signal a crisis. “Crashes are caused by demand shock,” he explained.

“The local economy has gotten better, and it looks like it’s going to stay strong. I think developers are going to pause, look at the market, and be sensible.”

Another cloud on the horizon: declining currency exchange and purchasing power in the markets from which Miami traditionally draws. Brazil’s real was valued at .599 against the US dollar in 2011. It had dropped to

.373 last month, representing a 37.65% decline in purchasing power, Mr. Graziano said.

Russia, an emerging market for Miami, has suffered an even further skid, with the ruble now at .017 against the dollar, a decline of 46.8%. Argentina’s peso was traded at .243 to the dollar in 2011; it’s now .117, which reflects a slide of 51.9%.

But, pointed out board mem-

ber Alicia Cervera, who is managing partner of Cervera Real Estate, monetary woes in other countries have a way of working to Miami’s advantage, as buyers seek stability and security.

The Integra report summarizes where the residential market has been and where it may be going. Brickell continues to dominate, with 3,146 condominium units under construction and

2,722 planned, it said. Next is Edgewater, with 949 units being built and 1,583 proposed.

But the residential demand may be shifting: the central business district has only 352 units under construction now, but 6,232 in the pipeline.

Across the market, average condominium sale prices continued their steady ascent, from $305 per square foot in 2012, to

$372 in 2013, to $431 at the end of 2014.

“Noticeably, the number of transactions declined in 2014,” the report notes, “and as predicted, price gains retreated to a still-healthy 16% increase year over year. IRR-Miami predicts further slowdown in appreciation and resale transaction volume as new projects deliver to the market in 2015.”