FEATURES
Happy Birthday Miami
by William LaCasse
Yes. Miami is one hundred years old this year, and the City is pulling out all the stops to make this the celebration of the century. July, through December is brimming with exciting tributes to Miami's rich history and cultural diversity.
Organizers have ensured a vast presentation of everyday life in Miami. Virtually all facets of the social and religious establishment of this community will be represented. Everyone has a chance to participate in celebrating Miami's 100th Birthday showcase festival of events.
Amy Deutch, Director for Miami Centennial '96 says the primary goal and focus of these events is to "celebrate how far we've come in only one hundred years and to help unite us as we look forward into the next century." Ms. Deutch also points to July 28, as a very important highlight of Miami's first century anniversary.
Miami will celebrate the actual birthday of the city on July 18, with the AT&T sponsored, "Miami Centennial Birthday Extravaganza." The day's events will be staged at Bayfront Park, the AT&T Amphitheater and Biscayne Blvd.. Foreign Consulates and area radio stations are providing entertainment for what has been billed, "The Party of The Century." Bayfront park will come alive with the musical sounds of Miami, by performers representing Brazil, Peru, Argentina and even Japan, as well as many others.
Various displays will grace the walkways to Bayside, the Intercontinental and Flagler Promenade. A special display will feature Centennial merchandise, including T-shirts, books, posters and the special edition Coca Cola Commemorative Centennial bottle. A large children's area provides all day activities for families such as face painters, games and more.
The AT&T Centennial Shuttle Express is provided free to the public by Mears Transportation. The NET (Neighborhood Enhancement Team ) offices will serve as gathering stations for festival goers who wish to use the shuttle. Stops will include the Historical Museum and Gusman Theater, which will host a variety of old style vaudeville shows.
The Metropolitan Fellowship of Churches is promoting " Unity In The Christian Community " to coincide with Miami's Centennial celebration. Executive Director, Tommy Watson says there is a strong Christian emphasis among the churches remembering Miami's 100th birthday.
" Our heritage is one of growth, diversity and strong leadership." says Watson. " We want to acknowledge the grace and blessing of God upon our city and county." There will be united public events throughout the Christian community. Churches are encouraged to recognize and participate in this very special anniversary.
Miami's Centennial '96 Celebration is an exciting opportunity for us to take stock of who we are as a community of believers, and chart our course, with God's favor , into the next millennium. Happy Birthday Miami.
Centennial Highlights
Fourth of July Olympic Torch Lighting at Bayfront Park, 9:15 pm.
Call: (305) 358 - 7550.
July 9 -13, Black Christians of the United Church of Christ.
Contact Dory Lingo at (305) 691 - 1982.
August 1, Miss Miami Tourism Pageant.
Contact Armando Diaz at (305) 266 - 6331.
September 24 - 28, Adult and Community Educators.
Call: (305) 222 - 2233.
October 31, Hispanic Heritage Festival
Contact Eloy Vazquez at (305) 541 - 5023.
November 1 -5, FlorExpo 100 Years of Growth,
hosted by the Florida Federation of Gardens Club.
Contact Pat Clarke at (305) 661 - 1837.
December 12 - 15, Holiday Customs in Multi - cultural Miami.
Contact Alice Johnson at 253 - 4061.
For more information and a complete anniversary schedule of events,
contact the Centennial '96 office at (305)377 - 1996.
For special church related events, contact
Miami Concerts of Prayer at (305) 884 - 8400.