Play Ball!

Gilberto Lauzardo awaits the decision of Miami Dade County Commissioners.
After many hours of debate, the Commissioners decided that Miami will get a new ballpark on the current location of the Miami Orange Bowl.

A Moment of Remembrance

The daughter of Officer Jose Lazaro Somohano genitally holds a program at a street dedication ceremony in Miami-Dade County. Her father, Officer Jose Lazaro Somohano, was killed while on duty by an assailant who was armed with an assault rifle.

Manuel Fernandez Cano

Although he’s not a posted political figure, Manuel Fernandez Cano is a very involved with Miami-Dade County’s political seen. Manuel is also a contributor to Los Tiempos a local news paper directed towards Miami’s Latin community.

Ruff Waters

Few, if any, tourist could be see on South Beach today. Ruff surf, jellyfish, rip currents, and storms kept even the determined beach goers from venturing out.

Rattle Snake

I’ve never been big on wildlife photography, but the chance to take a photo of this little fellow was too tempting. I don’t know whether the snake was awake or not; snakes don’t have eyelids.

The Discarded Rose

This discarded rose could have so many stories behind it. It was found on the sidewalk in Miami Beach. It’s petals a mess and the leaves shriveled and dry; probably stepped on too.
Was it accidentally dropped by the recipient or thrown away as a form of rejection...

Xavier Cortada Plane-Flight to Freedom

Xavier Cortada, Miami-based Cuban-American artist, created this work of art in 2004. He painted the whole left side of the aircraft with images that represented freedom, community, truth, and hope.
The plane was flown from Cuba to Key West by Cubans seeking freedom from the communist country. The plane, a Russian Antonov-2 Colt, was bought at an auction after the U.S. authorities seized it.
The plane was exhibited for two years in North Miami until it was donated to Florida International University (FIU) on December 22, 2007. The plane will "eventually" be installed at FIU’s Deuxieme Maison building, but until then the plane will face the elements.

For a look at Xavier Cortada's creation before it's donation to FIU please click on the following link:

http://www.cubanmonumenttofreedom.com/

Domino Face

You've heard of a Poker Face; well here's a Domino Face.
Manolo Rivas stares down his opponent at a heated Domino game in Little Havana. These men don't play for money, but for bragging rights - probably more valuable to them.

A True War Hero

U.S. Congressman Sam Johnson visited Homestead Air Reserve Base for a dedication ceremony in his honor. The Air Force dedicated it's Fitness Center in his name.

Mr. Johnson fought as a Combat Pilot in both the Koren and Vietnam War. He was shot down during one of his missions and captured. Mr. Johnson was then held for seven years at a P.O.W. camp.
He eventually made it out alive; 6'.2" weighing only 125lbs.
After extensive rehabilitation he returned to the Air Force and served as Wind Commander for the 31st Fighter Wing at Homestead AFB from 1975 till 1979.

Concert At Vizcaya

Villa Vizcaya came alive last night with the sounds of classical music. A concert in collaboration with the Miami Bach Society was held in the mansions Round Room. Music by England's great composers Henry Purcell, John Dowland and William Byrd were played.
It was amazing the way the acoustics echoed throughout hallways of the old house.

Black History Month

The start of February marks the beginning of Black History. Festivities, speeches, will be just a few of the events that will be ongoing throughout the month.

This image was captured at a concert held at the government center lobby.

Oranges for Elegua

Many people aren't aware of South Florida's large Santeria subculture. The evidence can be see throughout Miami Dade County. Santeros often leave offerings to there Gods (Orishas) in specific locations such as railroad crossings, trees, cemeteries and [in this case] intersections. The offering can range from sacrificed animals, trinkets, and fruit. Each God has it's favorite.

The oranges pictured are possibly for Elegua; the god that Santeros believe protects the home.

Last look at an old friend

For those of you that didn't know; the last game at the Miami Orange Bowl was played on Saturday, January 26, 2008.
Looking back at the old stadium brings back so many memories: Like my grandmother screaming at the top of her lungs, "parrkin' tien doll'las," while selling off parking spots at her Little Havana apartment.

Francisco Santos Calderon pays a visit

Francisco Santos Calderon, Vice President of Columbia, met County Commissioners and Office of the Chair in order to begin discussions regarding foreign trade with his native country. Other topics such as Columbia's neighbor Venezuela and Hugo Chavez came up but were not elaborated on.

Day one:

Hello to all my friends and colleagues. After much procrastination I've decided to take a leap into the world of the internet starting off with a Blog. This Blog is my first step in getting my photography out where the world can see it.
Working as a photographer for Miami Dade County I've been given the chance to document a vast subject matter; some more interesting than others. One day I might find myself documenting the living conditions of a Miami Dade penitentiary and sick ficus trees the next.
This Blog will also be a window to many of my ongoing photographic projects. The challenge to me will be to post a daily image and caption. I greatly invite your compliments and criticisms.
Sincerely, Armando Raul Rodriguez