Category: 2024 Press Releases

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March 12, 2024

- Surf Camp runs from March 25-29 at South Pointe Park -

Miami Beach, FL – Making new friends, the occasional wipeout and even noodle arms are all part of the fun when the City of Miami Beach Parks and Recreation Department partners with the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) to host the 16th Annual Surf Camp for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) between March 25-29. This year’s Autism Surf Camp is made possible by the generous support of Mowi USA, LLC.

“Everyone who spends time with the children in this beautiful event comes away with a profound feeling of joy,” said Miami Beach City Manager Alina Hudak. “The kids look forward to coming here all year long and so do the lifeguards who make sure everyone remains safe in the water.”

Children will spend the week focusing on swimming skills, basic oceanography, meteorology, open water surfing and developing their own abilities. The educational component of the camp will be held at South Pointe Park while the surfing component will be held on the beach adjacent to the park.

The event has been held every year since 2008 with the exception of two years during the pandemic.

“We are honored to be co-hosting the 16th annual Autism Surf Camp with our remarkable partners at the Miami Beach Parks and Recreation Department,” said Dr. Michael Alessandri, CARD executive director. “Each year, this unique collaboration positively impacts the lives of our campers, their families, our counselors and volunteers. The commitment of Miami Beach to programming for those with unique abilities has been unwavering and we are delighted to keep building on this partnership in this and other ways going forward.”

ASD is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn and behave, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Although autism can be diagnosed at any age, symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life.

WHAT:            Surf Camp

WHEN:            9 a.m. daily from March 25-29, 2024

WHERE:         South Pointe Park

1 Washington Ave.

Day of Media Contact: Michelle Costa, Communications & Community Outreach CARD Manager: 305.301.4387

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About CARD

CARD stands for the Center for Autism & Related Disabilities at the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University. CARD’s mission is to provide support and assistance with the goal of optimizing the potential of people with autism and related disabilities.

CARD offers support at no cost to families within the natural contexts of settings, including the home, child care programs and schools, businesses, and the larger community, and provides this support across the entire lifespan, from early childhood to adulthood. CARD in collaboration with The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation, supports adults on their journey to find meaningful employment and works with South Florida companies to create these opportunities. CARD empowers the community with training and resources to make their places and spaces more inclusive through its Autism Friendly Initiative. CARD serves families and individuals in Miami-Dade, Broward and Monroe Counties. To learn more, visit www.card.miami.edu.

CARD is part of a statewide network of seven CARD centers at leading universities throughout Florida, including the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University in South Florida.


To request this material in alternate format, sign language interpreter (five-day notice required), information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any city-sponsored proceedings, call 305.604.2ADA (2232) and select 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 6; TTY users may call via 711 (Florida Relay Service).

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March 8, 2024

- Uber is warning drivers to expect busier than usual traffic and potential road closures -

Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach has teamed up with ride-sharing market leader Uber to prepare the company’s many drivers and passengers to expect major traffic delays during the entire month of March as the city imposes an unprecedented crackdown on unruly spring break crowds.

Drivers and riders will receive emails, in-app messages and push notifications that will link directly to Uber safety tips and the Miami Beach website.

“Uber drivers and riders should be prepared for significant traffic congestion as they enter Miami Beach over the next two weekends,” said Commissioner Alex Fernandez, who spearheaded the collaboration with Uber. “We’re urging drivers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. They should expect curfews and be aware of our comprehensive public safety measures including road closures, parking impacts, license plate readers and DUI checkpoints, all aimed at ensuring the safety of everyone in the city.”

Fed up with disorderly crowds, lawless behavior and a string of violent acts in recent years, the entire month of March has been designated as a high-impact period in Miami Beach. The periods between March 7-10 and March 14-17 are expected to generate the largest spring break crowds, and as such more stringent measures are being implemented during these two weekends.

Uber has advised drivers and riders to plan ahead to avoid the disruptions caused by the spring break measures. Visit www.miamibeachfl.gov/breakup for additional details.

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March 5, 2024

City of Miami Beach and Oolite Arts Present Short Films on Climate Change for 2024 Aspen Ideas: Climate Event

Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach and Oolite Arts have commissioned three short films on climate solutions through the Climate Commissions program to debut at the 2024 Aspen Ideas: Climate event on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at 1 p.m. at the Miami Beach Convention Center Hall C Breakout 1 Stage.

The filmmakers — all South Florida-based — received $15,000 to create a 10-to-12-minute film on the climate crisis. They are:

  • The Mango Movie by Jayme Gershen
    Through a tapestry of observation, personal anecdotes, and collective reflections, The Mango Movie, a short documentary about how people eat mangos, adopts an emotional lens, delving into the heart of Miami's beloved mango season and its intricate connection with climate.

Jayme Gershen, an award-winning filmmaker and photographer whose short film “Six Degrees of Immigration” (2019) is featured on the New York Times’ Op-Docs channel, won a regional Emmy and aired on PBS stations around the country. Gershen is currently a fellow of the ITVS Humanities Documentary Development Fund, supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities.

  • Ripples by Joshua Jean-Baptiste
    Luz, a passionate environmental researcher, discovers her community is at risk of being flooded by an impending development. Opposing her mentor's cautious approach, she sparks a grassroots discussion that threatens to derail the lucrative investment.

Joshua Jean-Baptiste, a Haitian-American writer with a diverse background in the film industry. He co-wrote the feature film “Ludi” (2021), which was awarded the Cinematic Arts Residency from Oolite Arts and premiered at both the Miami Film Festival and South by Southwest (SXSW).

  • Before the Flood by LeAnne Russell
    ‘Before the Flood’ is a portrait of a man reflecting upon his youth before the end of the world as he knew it.

LeAnne Russell, a Miami native, actress and filmmaker who is developing her first feature film. She has a master’s from the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University and received a Special Jury Mention for her application to the 2022 Cinematic Arts Residency at Oolite Arts.

Oolite Arts, Miami-Dade’s largest artist support organization, helps fast forward the careers of South Florida filmmakers through its Cinematic Arts Program. Learn more about Climate Commissions at oolitearts.org/climatecommissions.

Aspen Ideas: Climate brings hundreds of leaders and climate innovators together with the public to focus on climate solutions. The event features a range of public art commissions by Miami-based artists including film screenings, installations and performances highlighting issues related to climate change and sea level rise.

For media: Journalists interested in attending Aspen Ideas: Climate as covering reporters are invited to apply for press credentials here.

For more information, visit www.aspenideasclimate.org.

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About the City of Miami Beach
World-famous Miami Beach welcomes millions of visitors each year to its sandy beaches, turquoise waters and vibrant cultural scene. Known for its colorful art deco and MiMo architecture, the 7-mile island offers some of the finest dining, lifestyle and health and wellness experiences anywhere. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, the city is often described as a living laboratory for climate change. As a result, Miami Beach is also at the forefront of identifying workable solutions to meet the challenge of sea level rise.

About Oolite Arts

Oolite Arts strives to empower South Florida-based artists and enrich communities.

Established in 1984, Oolite’s mission is to support artists and advance the knowledge and practice of contemporary visual arts. Oolite Arts creates opportunities for experimentation and innovation and encourages the exchange of ideas across diverse cultures through residencies, exhibitions, public programs, education and outreach.

Exhibitions and programs at Oolite Arts are made possible with the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council; the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners; the City of Miami Beach, Cultural Affairs Program, Cultural Arts Council; the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture; the National Endowment for the Arts; the Jorge M. Perez Family Foundation at the Miami Foundation; the Lynn and Louis Wolfson II Family Foundation; and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. For more information, visit oolitearts.org. Follow @oolitearts on social media.

About the Aspen Institute
The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization whose purpose is to ignite human potential to build understanding and create new possibilities for a better world. Founded in 1949, the Institute drives change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve society’s greatest challenges. It is headquartered in Washington, DC and has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, as well as an international network of partners. For more information, visit www.aspeninstitute.org.

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March 5, 2024

- Lummus Park Exhibit Celebrates Madonna, Franklin, Estefan, Streisand and others -

Miami Beach, FL – Ten female stars of screen and stage, who have all performed in Miami Beach at least once during their careers, are being honored at a new exhibit in Lummus Park for Women’s History Month.

Titled “Ten Women Superstars,” the exhibit celebrates cabaret singer and social activist Josephine Baker, Miami Beach’s own Gloria Estefan, “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin, Hollywood legend Judy Garland, Whitney Houston, Madonna, Broadway’s Chita Rivera, Diana Ross, Barbara Streisand and Tina Turner.

“These women have defied conventions, shattered barriers, and left an indelible mark on the music industry,” shared Lynette Long, who chairs the Miami Beach Commission for Women, which is sponsoring the exhibit along with the Miami Design Preservation League.

“Ten Women Superstars” can be viewed 24 hours a day throughout the month of March in Lummus Park between 13 and 14 streets. The official ribbon-cutting for the exhibit will take place on Friday, March 8 at noon.

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March 1, 2024

From March 11-13, leaders and climate innovators from all backgrounds and fields of expertise will gather with thousands of attendees in Miami Beach for the third annual Aspen Ideas: Climate. Speakers include Secretary Jennifer M. Granholm, Secretary Deb Haaland, Bill Nye, Al Roker, Kathryn Murdoch, Katharine Hayhoe, Aria Mia Loberti, Lisa Jackson, Governor Jay Inslee, Polly Trottenburg, mayors from across the US, and leading global climate voices from Barbados to Ireland.

Miami Beach, FL – The Aspen Institute and City of Miami Beach today published the agenda for the third Aspen Ideas: Climate. From March 11-13, more than 150 speakers will gather with global expertise spanning policymaking, science, business, technology, art, education, food, media, and more, to elevate and amplify climate solutions. A limited number of passes remain on sale, while members of the media are invited to apply for press credentials.

The full agenda is available here. 

In addition to plenary sessions, breakout discussions, workshops, announcements, and private roundtables, Aspen Ideas: Climate will feature a public arts program with environmental flair from local artists, and excursions and tours to points of interest across Miami-Dade. The Tech Expo will feature climate tech solutions from 25 innovative companies, and runs throughout. Additionally, early stage entrepreneurs will pitch their big ideas at two Climate Solutions Showcases, aimed at investors, potential clients, colleagues and anyone interested in climate tech.

Aspen Ideas: Climate is excited to partner with the global automaker FIAT. The event will host the next North American “drop” of the 2024 Fiat 500e, with CEO Olivier Francois attending. Attendees will have the opportunity to test ride in the new electric model during Aspen Ideas: Climate, with more information to be shared in the coming days. 

From March 9-11, the third Future Leaders Climate Summit brings together 110 dynamic young leaders from around the world to discuss climate policy, communications, advocacy, and individual action with climate and energy experts. Future Leaders will then stay on to attend Aspen Ideas: Climate.

The agenda will regularly update with the latest programming and speaker updates. Among the many programming highlights and topics planned:

Monday, March 11 See agenda for specific timings

  • The opening plenary features US Energy Secretary Jennifer M. Granholm in conversation with NBC Today Weather Anchor Al Roker. Legendary science educator Bill Nye speaks to former White House National Climate Advisor Gina McCarthy. US Interior Secretary Deb Haaland chats with two young leaders from the Aspen Institute’s Center for Native American Youth and Fresh Tracks initiatives. American Clean Power Association CEO Jason Grumet and Constellation EVP Kathleen Barrón discuss the future of the energy system with Cipher’s Amy Harder. And Minister of State at Ireland’s Department of Finance, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, on how Ireland is investing in climate solutions.
  • Coastal cities are finding innovative solutions in the face of climate change. Charleston Chief Resilience Officer Dale Morris, Billion Oyster Project Executive Director Peter Malinowski, Curtis and Rogers Design Studio Director of Resilience Design Mariana Boldu, and New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell share what they’ve learned with the Miami Herald’s Alex Harris.
  • Museums are typically testaments to the past, but a growing number are using exhibitions to shape our future response to climate change. Hear from MOMA Senior Curator Paola Antonelli, Local Projects Principal Jake Barton, American Museum of Natural History President Sean Decatur, Director of the Pérez Art Museum Miami, Franklin Sirmans, Science Museum of Minnesota CEO Alison Rempel Brown.
  • Solutions to plastic pollution: Marea Verde Panama President and McNulty Prize winner Mirei Endara de Heras, Kadeya CEO Manuela Zoninsein, L’Oréal North America CSO Marissa Pagnani McGowan, and U.S. State Department Senior Adviser Jonathan Gillibrand are interviewed by CNN’s Rachel Ramirez.

Tuesday, March 12

  • In the morning plenary, Nature Conservancy Chief Scientist Katharine Hayhoe and Al Roker explore how to tell America’s climate change story. Futurific Studios co-founders Kathryn Murdoch and Ari Wallach preview their new PBS docuseries, A Brief History of the Future, in conversation with journalist Mariana Atencio. Center for Rural Enterprise and Environmental Justice Founder Catherine Coleman Flowers and White House Council Federal Chief Officer  Jalonne White-Newsome speak to CNN’s Rachel Ramirez. Deputy Secretary of Transportation Polly Trottenberg, Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, and Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava discuss rethinking the urban environment. Invenergy Founder and CEO Michael Polsky speaks to TIME’s Justin Worland on how he built more than 200 clean energy projects.
  • Authors C. Pam Zhang, Lily Brooks-Dalton, Jenny Offill, and Téa Obreht explore the role fiction plays in conveying the reality of climate change, with podcast host Mitzi Rapkin.
  • What are the multi-sector solutions that promise to cut agricultural emissions? With leading conservation and biodiversity expert Monica Medina, Innovative Genomics Institute Director Brad Ringeisen, US Department of Agriculture Under Secretary Chavonda Jacobs-Young, and Fed By Blue Co-Founder Jennifer Bushman.
  • Cows, Corn, and CRISPR: Brad Ringeisen, Executive Director, Innovative Genomics Institute, Shara Ticku, CEO, C16 Biosciences, David Babson, Executive Director of Climate Grand Challenges at MIT, speak to the Aspen Institute’s Greg Gershuny on the climate potential  of biotech.
  • Leading environmental journalists on how they work towards greater climate coverage, reach, and diversity of thought. With TIME’s Justin Worland, Atmos Magazine’s Yessenia Funes, Grist’s Naveena Sadasivam, former Times of India Correspondent Manka Behl, and Green 2.0’s Adriane Alicea.
  • At the evening plenary, CEO Olivier Francois launches the new Fiat 500e from the stage. Actress and climate activist Aria Mia Loberti, Black Girl Environmentalist Executive Director Wawa Gatheru, and Noticias Telemundo’s Vanessa Huac discuss the concept of “climate joy” and empowering young leaders. Potential Energy Coalition Chairman and CEO John Marshall presents on the power of storytelling and analytics to increase the size and power of the climate movement.

Wednesday, March 13 

  • The morning plenary sees the co-chairs of the climate action coalition America Is All In, Washington Governor Jay Inslee and Apple VP and former EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, take the stage. Two leading meteorologists, Bernadette Woods Placky and John Morales, discuss their role as climate communicators. Monica Medina speaks to NOAA Chief Scientist Sarah Kapnick about ocean biodiversity. Texas environmental justice leader Hilton Kelley appears in conversation with Grist’s Naveena Sadasivam. Multi-Platinum musician and Human Rights and Sustainable Development phd Adam Met seeks common ground by incentivizing the co-location of renewable energy facilities on land leased for oil and gas. UL Standards and Engagement Executive Director David Steel explains that built environment standards are a pathway for getting to greater climate adaptation. New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell gives a spark talk on offshore wind.
  • What can the USA’s IRA do for global decarbonization? With Barbados’ Climate Resilience Adviser Pepukaye Bardouille, WHOSTP ​Deputy Director for Industrial Innovation and Regional Growth Justina Gallegos, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace African Program Director Zainab Usman, and ORF America Energy & Climate Fellow Shayak Sengupta.
  • 59% of Americans are “alarmed” or “concerned” about climate change, and we have the tech to drastically reduce emissions. So… why don’t we? An interactive panel will explore how to build political will, with Yale Program on Climate Change Communication ​Director Anthony Leiserowitz, Citizens’ Climate Lobby Senior Government Affairs​ Director Jennifer Tyler​,  DEPLOY/US​ VP Alex Bozmoski, and Director of the Environmental Voter Project, ​Nathaniel Stinnett.
  • How can healthcare heal people and planet? Hear from University of Miami President Julio Frenk, Director of Education and Policy at Harvard’s Center for Climate, Health, and the Global Environment Gaurab Basu, Health Care Without Harm Chief Program Officer Emmie Mediate, and Jackson Memorial Hospital Nurse Practitioner and Educator Elizabeth Joseph.
  • Big ideas in climate tech, from clean energy storage and nuclear fusion to deploying AI to scan the earth’s surface for geothermal potential. Hear from Jamie Beard, Executive Director, Project InnerSpace, David Bierman, Chief Commercial Officer, Antora Energy, Jackie Siebens, Director of Public Affairs, Helion, and Juliet Rothenberg, Lead Product Manager, Google.
  • Aspen Ideas: Climate closes out with Local Projects Principal Jake Barton explaining why culture is the most powerful solution we’ve barely tried. Young ocean activist Bodhi Patil describes how he’s working to increase access to coastal waters for marginalized communities, with more programming to be announced.

Excursions and hands-on opportunities take place throughout Aspen Ideas: Climate, offering participants the opportunity to explore sustainable initiatives in the Miami-Dade region and access facilities normally inaccessible to the public. Among the planned trips and experiences:

  • Miami Beach Clean-up: Hosted by Clean Miami Beach, a nonprofit dedicated to the protection of the beach and its rich marine wildlife.
  • Tour the Underline: The Underline is transforming the land below Miami’s metrorail into a 10-mile linear park, urban trail, and public art destination.
  • University of Miami Coral Reef Futures and Wave Tank: An exclusive guided tour of the Alfred C. Gassell, Jr. SUSTAIN Laboratory wind-wave tank.
  • City of Miami Beach Resiliency Tour: A City of Miami Beach resilience expert, this tour highlights mitigation and adaptation efforts facilitated by intergovernmental and community collaboration.
  • Tuning into True Nature: Garden Immersion & Writing Excursion: A guided writing mediation at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens.

During Aspen Ideas: Climate, the City of Miami Beach and the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs will present a series of art commissions and performances highlighting issues related to climate change and sea level rise, with more information about featured artists available next week.

As part of organizers’ commitment to sustainable programming, Aspen Ideas: Climate has partnered with ClimeCo to offset the event’s carbon emissions, funding greenhouse gas abatement projects in Florida. Aspen Ideas: Climate is supported by title sponsors John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, The Related Group, and the Jorge M. Pérez Family Foundation. Additional sponsors include Howard and Caroline Draft, Ami and Jack Glottman, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Lennar Foundation, LSN Partners, AstraZeneca, Wells Fargo, American Airlines, Major Food Group, Bank of America, Miami-Dade County, and the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority.

For media: Journalists interested in attending Aspen Ideas: Climate as covering reporters are invited to apply for press credentials here.

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The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization whose purpose is to ignite human potential to build understanding and create new possibilities for a better world. Founded in 1949, the Institute drives change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve society’s greatest challenges. It is headquartered in Washington, DC and has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, as well as an international network of partners. For more information, visit www.aspeninstitute.org.

World-famous Miami Beach welcomes millions of visitors each year to its white, sandy beaches, turquoise waters and vibrant cultural scene. Known for its colorful art deco and MiMo architecture, the 7.2-square-mile island offers some of the finest dining and hotel experiences anywhere along with a beautiful oceanfront promenade that connects South Beach to North Beach. Steps away from the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, Miami Beach is also at the forefront of identifying workable solutions to meet the challenge of sea level rise.


To request this material in alternate format, sign language interpreter (five-day notice required), information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any city-sponsored proceedings, call 305.604.2489 and select 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 6; TTY users may call via 711 (Florida Relay Service).

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Feb. 29, 2024

- Earning the Highest ISO Class 1 Ranking in Florida -

Miami Beach, FL – The Miami Beach Fire Department has once again earned a prestigious ISO Class 1 rating, a distinction held by slightly more than 1% of the 37,983 participating agencies in the United States. The Insurance Services Office bases its rating on the Fire Suppression Rating Schedule, which was developed to assess the fire prevention and fire suppression capabilities of individual fire departments.

“Our Miami Beach Fire Department earned a total credit of 105.16 out of the highest possible score of 105.5,” Miami Beach City Manager Alina Hudak said. “This is the highest score ever achieved by our department, and, according to our assessor, the highest score he has seen for any department in Florida.”

The Fire Suppression Rating Schedule measures the major elements of a community’s fire protection system and assigns a numerical grade that incorporates nationally accepted standards developed by organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association, the American Water Works Association and the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials International. The Miami Beach Fire Department also holds accreditation through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International.

“To be accredited and an ISO Class 1 agency is a big honor for our department,” explained Miami Beach Fire Chief Virgil Fernandez. “This rating is based on an independent review by subject matter experts who evaluated our department against national criteria. I’m very proud of the teamwork that went into this accomplishment.”

Most U.S. insurers, including the largest ones, use the rating information as part of their decision-making when deciding what business to underwrite, coverages to offer or prices to charge for personal or commercial property insurance, according to ISO. The city’s new rating becomes effective on June 1.

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Feb. 21, 2024

- Miami Beach to Unveil Heliotropic Seekers for Elevate Española -

Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach is pleased to present Heliotropic Seekers, a newly commissioned art installation by Brazilian artist Beatriz Chachamovits opening March 6, 2024, at 5:30pm on Española Way between Washington and Collins avenues. The work will be the fourth installment of the city’s Elevate Española series of site-specific installations over Española Way.

“My goal is to create site-specific projects that immerse people in coral reef communities. These experiences serve as platforms to showcase the urgent needs of coral reefs while highlighting their captivating beauty and life-sustaining role in our present and future,” shared Chachamovits. “I invite the public to discover a complex biological network, where the concept of ecosystem is materialized through organization, symmetry and repetition.”

Heliotropic Seekers will feature five brightly colored hanging plexiglass cutouts of various endangered species of fish and coral native to South Florida shores, including grouper, angel, grunt, blue tang and parrot fish joined by coral species such as elkhorn, pillar, staghorn, star, starlet and brain coral. The species will overlap in various compositions, emphasizing the interdependence and diversity of coral reefs. Complementing the suspended cutouts will be a mural painted in collaboration with students from Miami Beach Senior High School’s Painting 1 class.

The diverse marine species on display will encourage spectators to immerse themselves in the flora and fauna of the surrounding marine ecosystem, which is inaccessible to most Miami Beach residents and visitors without diving into the ocean. By engaging with the natural world, viewers will be prompted to consider how their behavior may affect coral reefs and inspire action to care for the world’s oceans.

Heliotropic Seekers is the fourth installment of Elevate Española as a dedicated art installation and the fifth to be presented over Española Way. In 2021, the art collective FriendsWithYou presented a hanging installation over Española Way, which was called Little Cloud Sky, consisting of eight inflatable cloud sculptures. In November 2022, Edouard Duval-Carrié debuted the inaugural installation for Elevate Española titled Trapeze Contortionists. In spring 2023, artist Jillian Mayer presented Very Moving, which explored the impact of technology on our lives and artist collective assume vivid astro focus presented a drag-inspired installation called Adora Vanessa Athena Fantasia during Art Week Miami Beach 2023. Commissions at the site will continue twice a year.

The next installment of Elevate Española is planned for December 2024 by artist Jen Stark to coincide with Miami Beach Art Week.

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About the City of Miami Beach Art in Public Places Program
Art in Public Places is a city board responsible for the commission and purchase of artwork by contemporary artists in all media. The program allocates funds totaling 2% of hard costs for city projects and joint private/public projects. Funds from construction projects may be aggregated into the Art in Public Places Fund and allocated for artwork at public sites and for collection maintenance. The fund is administered by a City Commission-appointed citizen’s board of seven members, the Art in Public Places Committee.

About the Miami Beach Cultural Arts Council
The Cultural Arts Council (CAC) is an 11-member council created in 1997 for the purpose of developing, coordinating and promoting the performing and visual arts in the City of Miami Beach. The CAC serves as arts advocates before governmental bodies, coordinates collective marketing initiatives for the local arts community and funds not-for-profit arts organizations. Since the program’s inception, the CAC has awarded approximately $18 million in cultural arts grants, supporting thousands of performances, exhibits and other cultural activities in Miami Beach.

About Beatriz Chachamovits

Beatriz Chachamovits is an environmental artist and educator from São Paulo, Brazil living and working in Miami, Florida. Her work renders tangible the decline of the coral reef ecosystems, and the role played by humans in it. Her intention is to share the majestic beauty of at-risk marine ecologies as well as the appalling rate of their destruction. She works with monochromatic ceramic sculptures and drawings to highlight the unique shape, form and texture that exists in the underwater world. She is the author and illustrator of the “The Little Handbook of Marine Fishes and Other Aquatic Marvels” (Pequeno manual de peixe marinhos e outras maravilhas aquáticas), published by Companhia das Letrinhas in São Paulo, Brazil in 2018. Selected solo shows includes “White Sea” at Galeria Tato in São Paulo, Brazil (2017), “Into the Great Dying: Waters We Share" at Faena Art Project Room (2022) "Our Changing Seas" at the Frost Science Museum (2022). Selected group shows include: National Museum of Rio de Janeiro, “Coral Expedition: 1865 - 2018” (2018) The Phillip and Patricia Frost Science Museum “Transitional Nature” (2020), and the Art and Cultural Center of Hollywood “C[h]oral Stories and Collective Actions” (2022). Chachamovits’ work has recently been featured in Vogue Magazine’s Earth and Us section and in the National Geographic Education platform, part of an AAAS grant to teach fifth graders about women in marine science. She has received a prize from The Village of Pinecrest for artists and is a resident artist at The Bakehouse Art Complex in Wynwood, Miami.

 

Media Contact

For additional information, images and interview requests please contact:

Katrina Stewart or Andy Cushman

Blue Medium

E: katrina@bluemedium.com or acushman@bluemedium.com

T: 212.675.1800

To request this material in alternate format, sign language interpreter (five-day notice required) information on access for persons with disabilities, and/or any accommodation to review any document or participate in any city-sponsored proceedings, call 305.604.2ADA (2232) and select 1 for English or 2 for Spanish, then option 6; TTY users may call via 711 (Florida Relay Service).

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Feb. 13, 2024

- Measures range from $100 flat parking rates at some city-operated parking lots to double towing fees for nonresidents -

Miami Beach, FL – Fed up with unruly crowds, lawless behavior and a string of violent acts in recent years, the City of Miami Beach is implementing tough new measures aimed at putting an end to spring break. These include bag checks, restricted beach access, DUI checkpoints, license plate readers and heightened police enforcement for consumption of alcohol in public, drug possession and violent behavior.

“The measures I proposed approved by our Commission will ensure that our residents, businesses, and visitors are safe and thrive during Spring Break,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “Everyone is invited to enjoy the beauty and hospitality of our City. But we are a law and order City and we will enforce our laws all year round, including during March’s Spring Break.”

More details on the city’s plan to end spring break will be released by the mayor, Miami Beach Commission and senior members of the city administration at a spring break press conference on Thursday, Feb. 15 at 3:30 p.m. The event will take place at Miami Beach Police Headquarters at 1100 Washington Ave.

“If you are looking to cause problems, do not come to Miami Beach,” added Chief Wayne Jones. “We are fully prepared to ensure our city is safe for everyone. Our message is simple: we want people to enjoy their time here, but will not tolerate the behavior we have witnessed in the past few years”.

The entire month of March has been designated as a high-impact period in Miami Beach, which will result in additional measures being taken with respect to traffic, staffing and public safety. The periods between March 7-10 and March 14-17 are expected to generate the largest spring break crowds of this year. As such, more stringent measures will be implemented during these two weekends as described below:

Every Thursday through Sunday in March, the following high-impact measures will be in place:

  • A flat parking rate of $30 will be in effect at city parking garages and surface lots in the Entertainment District, including the garages at 7 Street and Collins Avenue (G1), 12 Street and Washington Avenue (G2), 13 Street and Collins Avenue (G3) and 16 Street between Collins and Washington avenues (G4).

The flat parking rate and 6 p.m. entrance restriction does not apply to residents, access card holders or authorized employees. The flat parking rate will be increased to $100 on the two highest-impact weekends in March (pending second reading on Feb. 21 as referenced below).

  • The nonresident towing rate will be $516 — double the regular rate — for vehicles towed in South Beach.
  • Beach entrances on Ocean Drive will be limited to 5, 10 and 12 streets and will have security checkpoints and bag checks to ensure prohibited items are not brought onto the beach. These entrances will close at 6 p.m. Coolers, inflatable devices, tents, tables and similar objects will not be permitted on the beach. Amplified music without a city-issued permit will be restricted. As a reminder, alcohol and smoking are always prohibited on city beaches.
  • Packaged liquor stores in the Entertainment District will strictly adhere to the 8 p.m. regular closing time.
  • The Miami Beach Police Department (MBPD) will implement a traffic plan beginning at 6 p.m. each Friday through Sunday to reduce traffic impacts around the South of Fifth (SOFI), West Avenue and Flamingo Park neighborhoods. Motorists can access the SOFI neighborhood via Alton Road, Washington Avenue and Collins Avenue. The Flamingo Park neighborhood can only be accessed via Alton Road. Local access restrictions will be enforced on some city streets to limit traffic and improve mobility for residents and business patrons.

On March 7-10 and March 14-17, the following additional high-impact measures will be implemented:

  • An amendment to the high-impact ordinance regarding increasing parking rates to $100 for March 7-10 and March 14-17 was approved on first reading at the Jan. 31 Commission Meeting for city parking garages and surface lots in the Entertainment District, including the garages at 7 Street and Collins Avenue (G1), 12 Street and Washington Avenue (G2), 13 Street and Collins Avenue (G3) and 16 Street between Collins and Washington avenues (G4). Second reading will be heard on Feb. 21.

Entry to the city parking garages and surface lots in the Entertainment District will also be restricted from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. The parking garage closures will not apply to residents, access card holders and authorized employees.

  • Sidewalk cafes on Ocean Drive will be closed on March 8-10 and March 15-17.
  • The Miami Beach Police Department will implement a License Plate Reader (LPR) detail on the eastbound lanes of the MacArthur and Julia Tuttle causeways on March 8-10 and March 15-17 starting at 6 p.m. with set up at 5 p.m. Motorists should expect significant traffic impacts and delays as eastbound travel lanes will be reduced on the MacArthur and Julia Tuttle causeways. MBPD will also have an LPR detail along the 5th Street corridor on March 22-24 starting at 6 p.m. with set up commencing at 5:30 p.m.

License Plate Readers have been instrumental in the identification of serious and violent offenders as well as the recovery of stolen vehicles.

  • A DUI sobriety checkpoint will be in place along the 400 block of 5 Street starting at 5 p.m. over March 8-9 and March 15-16.
  • Businesses renting or leasing golf carts, low-speed vehicles, autocycles (i.e. slingshots), motorized scooters, mopeds, motorcycles powered by motors of 50 cubic centimeters or less and motorized bicycles will be suspended from operating on March 7-10 and March 14-17.
  • Ocean Drive will only be accessible to vehicles via 13 Street with a sole exit at 5 Street on March 7-10, March 14-17 and March 21-24. Barricades will line both sides of Ocean Drive to reduce the potential of pedestrians coming into contact with motor vehicles.

Parking

The city will conduct enhanced parking enforcement and increased towing throughout the month of March — with priority attention given to residential areas.

Parking will not be allowed on Collins Avenue from 5 Street to Española Way and Washington Avenue from 5-16 streets starting at 5 a.m. on March 7-11, March 14-18 and March 21-24.

Parking along the 100 blocks of 6-14 streets will be restricted 24 hours per day on March 7-11, March 14-17 and March 21-24. Residential Zone 5 parking permit holders are exempt from these restrictions, unless noted otherwise on signs.

Parking along the 200 blocks of 6-15 streets will be restricted nightly from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. on March 7-10, March 14-17 and March 21-24. Residential Zone 5 parking permit holders are exempt from these restrictions unless noted otherwise on signs.

Staffing
Staffing levels for Miami Beach Police, Fire Rescue, Ocean Rescue, Code Compliance, Park Rangers, Parking and Sanitation will be significantly enhanced throughout the month of March.

MBPD will be supplemented by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Florida Highway Patrol, Miami-Dade Police Department, Miami-Dade Schools Police Department and other municipal law enforcement agencies.

The Miami Beach Fire Department will have augmented staffing, including Fire Inspectors who will be conducting nightly, weekend inspections for occupancy loads and life safety systems at nightclubs and other establishments.

Goodwill Ambassadors wearing pink “Take Care of Our City” T-shirts will be deployed throughout the Entertainment District to answer visitor questions, provide directions and give tips on how to enjoy the city.

Miami Beach Trolley Service

The Miami Beach free citywide trolley service will operate on an enhanced schedule during two of the highest-impact periods, with additional vehicles operating on South Beach Loops A and B as well as two additional vehicles assigned to the Collins Express route. The enhanced trolley service will operate from 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. on March 8-11 and March 15-17.

For additional information, visit www.miamibeachfl.gov/breakup.

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Feb. 7, 2024

- Miami Beach will provide up to $20,000 in matching funds for approved projects -

Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach will begin accepting applications this month for up to $20,000 in grant funds for flood risk assessments and flood mitigation projects as part of the city’s innovative Private Property Adaptation (PPA) program. Applications for second-round funding may be submitted between Feb. 15 and March 15.

The first-of-its-kind program generated 65 applications and 42 site assessments during the first round of funding. The flood risk assessments were valued at $2,500 in addition to up to $17,500 in matching project reimbursements. As in the case of the first round, the program is open to single-family residential, multifamily residential and commercial properties. Low-to-moderate income applicants are eligible to receive the entire $20,000 maximum reimbursement without a funding match.

“We want to encourage Miami Beach residents and businesses to become more resilient as we experience unprecedented challenges from sunny-day flooding, sea level rise and changing weather patterns,” Miami Beach City Manager Alina T. Hudak explained.

Every $1 spent on resilience can save an estimated $13 in disaster response and recovery costs, according to the National Institute of Building Sciences.

Approved projects in the first round of the program range from seawall upgrades, home elevation projects, rain gardens, dry floodproofing and the relocation of mechanical systems to prevent intrusion from flood waters. This includes, electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing and air-conditioning systems.

Miami Beach property owners can learn more and submit an application starting Feb 15 for consideration by clicking here. Informational virtual workshops for residential properties will be held via Zoom at 6 p.m. on Feb. 12 and 22. Another workshop will be held for businesses on Feb. 22 at 10 a.m. Zoom meeting information is also listed on the website.

An internal team of reviewers will evaluate and prioritize each application based on established criteria that includes elevation, residential status, historic designation, income and flood data.

For more information, visit www.mbrisingabove.com/ppa.

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Feb. 1, 2024

- Under the city’s new ordinance, violations will be enforced by civil fines based on the number of balloons -

Miami Beach, FL – Seeking to keep local waterways clean as well as protecting birds and marine life, the Miami Beach City Commission voted to ban party balloons in city parks, public marinas, marine facilities and along city beaches.

“We are surrounded by natural beauty and it’s our duty to prevent harm to our marine life,” explained Miami Beach Commissioner David Suarez, who sponsored the ordinance. “Our environment must always be at the heart of our commitment to the city.”

The State of Florida prohibits the release of 10 or more balloons within a 24-hour period in the case of balloons that have been inflated with any gas lighter than air. Such offenses are considered a noncriminal offense. The Miami Beach ordinance goes a step further by banning balloons altogether in a public marina, public marine facility, park or city beach.

An educational written warning will be provided to any person or entity with balloons at any public marina, marine facility, public park or beach, unless they’ve had a previous warning within the preceding 12 months. The first violation of the Miami Beach ordinance by a person or entity within a 12-month period will carry a $100 civil fine for each balloon up to $1,000. Fines will increase for repeated violations within the prior 12 months.

Please help to keep our wildlife safe and waterways clean. Environmentally friendly alternatives to balloons include paper garlands, banners, streamers, flowers, pompoms, pinwheels, bubble-blowing solution and kites.

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