DAWNTOWN '07

The big news story of the week may be the approval of the first steps in redefining what the city of Miami will look like in the future.  Miami commissioners voted on a package of projects that could change the landscape of the city and move it closer to the much discussed Miami 21.

According to the Miami Herald, "The 4-1 vote, adopted after hours of debate, embraced Mayor Manny Diaz's vision of a new Miami glittered with billions of dollars' worth of projects.

The package includes money for a $914 million tunnel to the Port of Miami, a Museum Park downtown and a $525 million baseball stadium on the site where the Orange Bowl now sits -- all tied together in one basket through a plan to expand city Community Redevelopment Agency districts.

''This agreement will allow us to put together the pieces to create a world-class city,'' Commission Chairman Joe Sanchez said shortly before voting yes."

But backing up just a few days, last Friday in fact, Ricky Burdett, the Chief Architectural adviser of the 2012 London Olympics was in town and gave his thoughts on what a major city of the future ought to look and feel like.  On hand for parts of this presentation, called DAWNTOWN '07, where Mayor Diaz and Commissioner Sanchez among others.

Rather than recap what was said, you have an opportunity to hear and see it all, courtesy of our website uVu, it is important information for all citizens of South Florida to hear, where ever you stand on the future development of the region.  Take a look and let us know what you think.

Atlantis Rising

Hi...This is Robin Hill. the host of Art 360. This coming episode on Monday at 7.30 pm on WPBT/Channel 2 in Miami, is particularly intriguing for anyone interested in Architecture and Modern Design. Filmed from the Iconic precipice that defines the Atlantis Condominium along Brickell Avenue in Miami, and designed by world renowned Architects; Arquitectonica.

Originally designed in 1982, the building achieved iconic status when it was seen on the front credits of Miami Vice, which in turn helped define Architecture in Miami with a unique sense of what I would call 'geometric optimism'...not that an an architect would use those terms, but as an avid lay person, I think those two words help to sum up the style. Once up in the empty cube that hangs in the air like a room without walls, its amazing how monumental the Architecture feels.

Calling All Artists

There is an open call for entries for an exciting contest sponsored by the  The Miami Herald.  The Herald will reproduce five original works by South Florida artists during Art Basel Miami Beach in December.
You can hear from Shelley Acoca, the features editor for Art and Style, who explains what this is all about by watching this clip on uVu or visit MiamiHerald.Com for contest details. 

Here are some of the specific about entering: