Virginia Key GrassRoots Previewed 2/14

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Virginia Key GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance Previewed at the February 14 a Day at the Beach Concert

Day two of the concert series to feature Big Mean Sound Machine, Afrobeta, Jean P Jam, Oigo and Big Brooklyn Red at the North Beach Bandshell

Miami Beach, FL – February 2, 2016 – The fifth annual Virginia Key GrassRoots Festival of Music and Dance returns to Virginia Key February 18-21, 2016, but fans can enjoy an exclusive preview of a few of the acts scheduled to perform on Sunday, February 14 at the North Beach Bandshell (7275 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139). The free, all-ages show, featuring Ithaca, NY’s Big Mean Sound Machine and local faves Jean P Jam, Oigo and Big Brooklyn Red, will also feature yoga beats with Afrobeta, workshops, food vendors, crafts and more. Doors open at noon; learn more at www.VirginaKeyGrassRoots.org.

“Our partnership with the GrassRoots organization is a natural one – we share the common goal of wanting to positively impact our communities through the arts,” says CAC Executive and Artistic Director Jose Elias. “We invite everyone to come back to the North Beach Bandshell the day after our opener to take in a special Valentine’s Day sneak preview of this year’s Virginia Key GrassRoots Fest, which promises to be their best yet.” Community Arts & Culture won a 2015 Knights Arts Challenge South Florida grant and was recently awarded a National Endowment of the Arts Challenge America award. They present the arts as a tool for education and are a 501(c)3 charitable organization.

Big Mean Sound Machine’s stated goal is to create music that stimulates both the body and brain. A dozen plus-piece big band, they thrive in the live setting, passionately emoting a mix of Afrobeat, funk, dance and experimental music, drawing influences from West Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean and North America and performing from 100-150 dates a year throughout the United States. They are currently promoting their third full-length release called Contraband, which was recorded live, fully analog and in two sessions at 19th Century churches.

Jean P Jam was born Jean Almatas Pokito in Haiti where he began is musical exploration on guitar and with the Konpa and Racine styles. His professional career began at age 16, and he went on to tour with the Gemini All-Stars on bass, before joining the legendary Magnum Band, touring and recording with them for several years. In addition, he’s worked with notable artists such asRichie and Cedella Marley (Mother B), as well as several prominent local acts. He is currently based in Miami and is well-known throughout the region for his unique blend of reggae and world music. His latest recording Keep Walking is now available on CD.

Big Brooklyn Red is a neosoul recording and performing artist whose classic gospel stylings have appeared on countless house and dance tracks and compilations. Influenced by Marvin Gaye, Donnie Hathaway, Al Green and others, he can be seen performing throughout Miami at lounges, clubs and hotels as a solo artist, in the Red Monkey duo or as part of a few different groups. His release Foreward is available on iTunes.

With sister events also occurring in Shakori Hills, NC and Ithaca, NY during the last 25 plus years, the GrassRoots Festival of Music and Dance organization, its own 501(c)3, has served to both engage and give back to the local and regional communities in which they exist by providing financial and organizational support to impact positive change. The Virginia Key festival officially opens with a pre-concert Culture Camp, which runs February 14 – 17 at the festival site, featuring instrument, dance, movement and cooking workshops, nightly themed dances and more. Beachfront camping is once again available.

Descemer Bueno, who is best known for the 2014 international hit “Bailando”, will headline the opening day concert planned for the day before, also at the bandshell, marking the official start of Community Arts & Culture’s (CAC) busy season of musical and educational activities. The concert is an all-ages event also featuring members of the at-risk youth mentorship program Guitars Over Guns Organization (GOGO). Pre-sale tickets are $25 and available at bpt.me/e/2471841; show begins at 4 p.m.

The concert series is generously being sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, theMiami Beach Cultural Arts Council, Blackwell Rum, 7th Circuit Productions, and the Moksha Family Arts Collective. For more information, call 786.218.6854 or visit www.communityartsandculture.org.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures by educating individuals of all ages and social backgrounds through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities.

Prior to receiving non-profit status, the Arts at St. Johns served as a fiscal agent for CAC’s programs and development. For their 2003/2004 season, the Arts at St. Johns received funding through a DAN (Digital Arts Network) grant to serve as an incubator for emerging arts administrators. CAC also produces the Afro Roots World Music Festival, one of the longest-running events of its kind, as well as co-produces the Roots in the Schools program, which brings music to Miami-area at-risk children.

For more information, call 786.218.6854 or visitwww.communityartsandculture.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

 

 

Rand Marketing Hosts eCommerce Expo 2/17

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rand Internet Marketing to Host 2nd Annual eCommerce Expo South Florida February 17

 

South Florida-Based Online Marketing Company Eager to Present eCommerce Event in February 2016

 

Fort Lauderdale, FL, December 8, 2015 – Rand Internet Marketing will host the 2nd Annual eCommerce Expo South Florida on February 17, 2016 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

In addition, there will be three co-hosts this year: Avalara, a Washington-based software for automated tax compliance; Bongo, a cross-border enablement company providing globaleCommerce solutions for businesses; and Simple Helix, a Magento, PrestaShop andWordPress optimized hosting company.

We look forward to discussing a variety of eCommerce topics, along with making new business relationships and learning more about the latest technologies that eCommerce clients can benefit from.

SETH RAND, FOUNDER AND CEO, RAND INTERNET MARKETING

The eCommerce Expo South Florida is tailored to individuals that own or manage an eCommercewebsite; or, are a manufacturer, wholesaler, distributor, or retailer that is considering expanding into eCommerce.

Rand Marketing has put together a collection of leading eCommerce experts from around the world to join the event in South Florida at the Bahia Mar in Fort Lauderdale. Topic discussions will range from website design, web development, online marketing, security, hosting, payment solutions, ways to increase multi-channel efficiency, and more. They will speak on Magento Community Edition and Enterprise Edition, as well as other eCommerce platforms including Shopify and 3dcart, along with various extensions to increase efficiency.

The Registration Sponsor will be Listrak, and the Lunch & Refreshment Sponsor will be Springbot, an eCommerce marketing platforms that integrates with Magento and Shopify platforms.

Presenting Sponsors will include UPS, OroCRM, nChannel, Shopgate, Dotmailer, and Miva. Exhibiting Sponsors will include Total Tech Care, Restored Digital Solutions, Shopper Approved, DHL, One Payment, and Newswire.

Rand Marketing is excited to announce the South Florida Business & Wealth Magazine, a part of the Lifestyle Media Group, will be the Media Sponsor for this event. In addition, RutzRoberts Productions will participate as the MultiMedia Sponsor.

In addition, Rand Marketing will have a table at the event for all of their non-profit organization partners to put out some printed materials in order to help raise awareness.

“We are extremely excited to host the eCommerce Expo South Florida event this year,” said Seth Rand, Founder and CEO of Rand Internet Marketing. “We look forward to discussing a variety of eCommerce topics, along with making new business relationships and learning more about the latest technologies that eCommerce clients can benefit from.”

The eCommerce Expo South Florida is free to attend for qualified individuals. To qualify, you must own, operate or work for a manufacturer, distributor, wholesaler, or retailer; or, already have an eCommerce website. To register for the event, please visit http://ecommerce-expo-south-florida.eventbrite.com/.

Attendees can learn more about the South Florida eCommerce Expo.

To follow or join in on the social conversation, use the hashtag #EcommerceSFL.

ABOUT RAND INTERNET MARKETING

Rand Internet Marketing, named one of the largest and fastest growing internet marketing firms by the South Florida Business Journal, provides professional website design, web development and programming, and online marketing services to hundreds of national and South Florida based businesses.

Led by Seth Rand, founder and CEO, the Fort Lauderdale, FL-based firm has grown since its inception in 2010 to more than 20 in-house designers, developers and internet marketers specializing in responsive website design and programming, including WordPress; e-commerce web development, including Magento, WooCommerce, Shopify, and 3dcart;  search engine marketing including SEO (search engine optimization) and PPC (pay per click marketing); social media marketing; and, online content marketing, including blogging, article writing, and press release writing and distribution. Our services range from traditional services like logo design, graphic design, and commercial printing to email marketing and directory listing management, with newer services such as shopping data feed management.

Recently named to the Google Partners AllStars, Rand Internet Marketing is a Paypal Partner, and holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

For more information, call 888-707-7263 or request a free initial consultation online at http://randmarketing.com/request-consultation/.

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MEDIA CONTACT                                                                                                            
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Hialeah Park Presents the Spam Allstars 1/30

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hialeah Park Presents the Spam Allstars January 30

Ongoing monthly music series features prominent Afro-Cuban electronica act on the newly remodeled fountain terrace

Hialeah, FL – January 12, 2016 – Hialeah Park’s monthly live music series continues with Latin Grammy nominees the Spam Allstars, one of Miami’s best-known and most talented acts, on Saturday, January 30, 2016, beginning at 9 p.m.  The show is free and open to the public of all ages; must be 21 to enter the casino. The performance-driven initiative was launched in August of 2015 as part of a commitment to prove additional entertainment options for patrons, and to attempt to draw those who had not yet visited the historic park since reopening in 2013, after a multi-million dollar makeover.

“Given the success of past shows on our brand-new fountain terrace, we are excited about our featured performers in January, the Spam Allstars,” says Vice President of Marketing & Entertainment Frank Fiore. “The group is one of the most dynamic that the City of Miami has to offer, and I invite everyone to come enjoy them at our newly-renovated facilities.” Hialeah Park first opened in 1925 as the Miami Jockey Club and has been home to legendary horses and races, been featured in Hollywood films, hosted countless quinces photo shoots, weddings and special events.

Formed in 1998 by Andrew Yeomanson AKA DJ Le Spam, the Spam Allstars began their career together as an improvisational group performing live on a pirate radio station. This led to the release of a debut CD Pork Scratchings in 1999 and residencies at Snowwhite’s, Lola bar and Galapagos in Brooklyn, NY, as well as a weekly webcast on Eyeqradio.com.  In 2001, the group began a long-standing and profile-raising weekly party called Fuacata at Hoy Como Ayer in Little Havana, a residency that continues to this day. The Spam Allstars have totaled five releases so far and are busy working on a sixth.

They have been featured on Good Morning America, Mun2’s The Roof, CBSThis Morning, NPR’s All Things Considered, CBS4’s Making of the Latin Grammys, NBC 6’s Trendtrackers. Additionally, they’ve contributed music to the Miami HEAT, had a their original song “Ochimini” placed on MTV’s Advance Warning Compilation: Volume 5 Miami Edition, and have performed with Sammy Figueroa, Larry Harlow of the Fania Allstars, John Medeski of Medeski Martin and Wood, Clarence Reed AKA Blowfly, Page McConnell of Phish, the late Wildman Steve, various members of AntiBalas, Pee Wee Ellis of the JB Horns, Daddy Yankee, Jose Conde, Brimstone 127, Mr. Haka, Cabas and more.

Quarter horse racing resumed December 26 at Hialeah Park, which recently unveiled the new Private King’s Court VIP addition to its poker room, as well as the new Champion’s Simulcenter / sports bar on the second floor of the racetrack. The series resumes with an appearance by the Latin Grammy and Grammy nominees PALO!, an Afro-Cuban funk band, in February.

For more information, please visit www.HialeahParkCasino.com  or call 305.885.8000.

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MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

18th Annual Medical Marijuana Benefit Concert 2/6

MEDIA ALERT

Ploppy Palace Productions, Modern Galaxy TV & NORML of Florida host 18th Annual Medical Marijuana Benefit at Gramps 2/6

Who: Ploppy Palace Productions, Modern Galaxy TV & NORML of Florida

What: the 18th Annual Medical Marijuana Benefit Concert

When: February 6, 2016, 4:20 p.m.

Where: Gramps,176 NW 24th St, Miami, FL 33127

More: This event will raise funds for NORML of Florida’s (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws), Patients Out of Time and United For Care’s medical marijuana campaign, and the protection of patients’ rights. Currently there is a statewide campaign to change the medical marijuana laws in Florida that includes a statewide petition drive. As part of this three stage extravaganza, some of South Florida’s top bands, spoken word artists and community activists will join together for patients’ and physicians’ right to use medical cannabis.

Confirmed live music acts include Telekinetic Walrus, Johnny Dread, Nag Champayons, SunGhosts, The Oski Foundation, Purple?, Aaron Lebos Reality, Apache Dragon, The Galactic Effect, Kuyayky, The Tribe, Aura the Band, UOM, Fresh Air, Mr. Grim Reapa, Orion, Ellen Bukstel, Bobby Ingram, Orrin Bolton and more to be announced. The confirmed speakers at this time include Irvin Rosenfeld (legal medical marijuana patient and Director for Patients Out of Time), South Miami Vice-Mayor Walter Harris, Ric Margolius (Senior Circuit Court Judge), Karen Goldstein (NORML of Florida),  Elvy Musikka (legal medical marijuana patient), Eric Stevens (United For Care), Dr. Jeffrey Kamlet, Addiction Specialist, Ray Strack (Law Enforcement Against Prohibition – LEAP), Steven Machat, candidate for U.S. Senate, and Damian Doss (Students for a Sensible Drug Policy).

Tickets: $15 for 18 and over and available online at bit.ly/18thMMBC

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MEDIA CONTACT                                                                                                           
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

A Day at the Beach with Descemer Bueno 2/13

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Descemer Bueno Kicks off Community Arts & Culture’s 2016 Season on February 13

Cuban singer/songwriter to be joined by Guitars Over Guns mentor program kids for a special concert at the North Beach Bandshell

Miami Beach, FL – January 19, 2016 – Descemer Bueno, composer of the 2014 smash hit “Bailando,” will headline A Day at the Beach on February 13, 2016 at the North Beach Bandshell in Miami Beach. The all-ages concert also features performances by members of the at-risk youth program Guitars Over Guns Organization (GOGO) and marks the official start of the Community Arts & Culture (CAC) 2016 season of events. Pre-sale tickets are $25 and available at bpt.me/e/2471841; doors open at 4 p.m. The North Beach Bandshell is located at 7275 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139.

“We are very excited to have an artist of the caliber of Descemer headline our Day at the Beach concert,” says CAC Executive and Artistic Director Jose Elias. “This is a true sign of our festival’s growth and will be a tremendous platform to showcase the great work that Chad and GOGO are doing in our community.” Community Arts & Culture, winners of a 2014 Knights Arts Challenge Award and more recently a National Endowment for the Arts Challenge America grant, presents the arts as a tool for education and is a 501(c)3 charitable organization.

A classically trained Cuban guitarist born in the Alquizar neighborhood of Havana, singer/songwriter and producer Bueno founded the band Yerba Buena and is probably best known for his international hit collaboration with Enrique Iglesias. He’s written and arranged songs for artists such as Black Eyed Peas and Orishas, as well as worked with Earth, Wind and Fire, Dave Matthews Band and Siete Rayo. He is currently promoting his latest release Bueno and is hard at work writing and recording a follow-up.

Led by CNN Heroes recipient and local musician Dr. Chad Bernstein, GOGO provides mentoring to at-risk youth through music education and performance as an alternative to the negative and harmful influences that often dominate their environments. Their programs target the most vulnerable students, pairing them with professional musicians who use contemporary music to reach young people and teach them the skills necessary to unleash their potential to be leaders, both in and out of school. Founded in 2008, GOGO also operates a chapter out of Bernstein’s hometown of Chicago, IL, and will soon be featured on the Steve Harvey Show.

“CAC is our portal to a world of arts through many different cultures,” says Bernstein, who serves as GOGO’s president and CEO. “Our students broaden their perspective through exposure to the amazing artists and develop an understanding of how they fit into the fabric of the arts community. Performing can be intimidating for young students, but being vulnerable and taking chances on stage builds a sense of identity and pride. It’s invaluable for our students to be supported by the community in this way. These character-building experiences arm them with the confidence they need to be successful on the stage of life.”

A special Virginia Key GrassRoots Festival of Music & Dance preview happens the next day at the same venue; more details forthcoming. For additional information, call 786.218.6854 or visit www.communityartsandculture.org.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures by educating individuals of all ages and social backgrounds through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities. CAC also produces the AfroRoots World Music Festival, one of the longest-running events of its kind in South Florida.

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MEDIA CONTACT

Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Electric Piquete Open 2016 at Ball & Chain

Electric Piquete Open 2016 at Ball & Chain Friday, January 8

Miami, FL – December 22, 2015 – Electric Piquete, now considered one of Miami’s premiere Latin funk groups, open what promises to be a busy year with a return to Little Havana’s hottest spot Ball & Chain (1513 SW 8th Street, Miami, FL 33123) on Friday, January 8, 2016. The two-time “Best Latin Band” (Miami New Times) will perform as a septet and play (2) 45-minute sets. 21 and over are welcome and there is no cover; valet parking is available.

The band, co-founded in 2007 by drummer Ed Rosado and bassist MichaelMut, calls the gritty Miami suburb of Hialeah their home. Electric Piquete also features members Chris Correoso on guitar and Rich Dixon on trumpet and flugelhorn. That night, special guests will include percussionist Raymond Ayala, Charles “Chip” Gardner (keyboards) and Robert Smiley on tenor sax and flute. They also occasionally feature the talents of Jose Miranda on trombone and singer / songwriter Maco Monthervil, formerly of The Lovers Key, in a guest vocalist role.

Electric Piquete is currently recording a new single with Monthervil, a collaborative funk / soul effort. They released two singles in 2015 – the first is called “De Cara al Sol,” a blistering exercise in Latin jazz chops, inspired by Jose Marti and dedicated to the memory of the victims of the 1994 13 Marzotugboat sinking in Havana Harbor. The song was featured on CNN International’s CNNGo travel destination special about Miami this summer. The second single is a cover of the Mongo Santamaria standard “Sofrito,”a loving and faithful remake of the mid-60s classic. The band is offering its holiday single “Little Conga Boy” as a free download this month – click here for details.

EP’s music is available for sale on iTunes and Amazon.com.  For more information about the band, including sound and video clips, live dates and more, visit the new www.ElectricPiquete.com.

For more information about the venue and the upcoming event, clickballandchainmiami.com or call 305.643.7820.

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MEDIA CONTACT
Michael Mut
Mut Communications
Founder
info@mutcomm.com
786.426.2277

Hialeah Park Presents Jo Mersa Marley & Danay Suarez

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hialeah Park Presents Jo Mersa Marley & Danay Suarez December 19

Monthly music series features local Latin and alternative artist on the newly remodeled fountain terrace

Miami, FL – December 1, 2015 – Hialeah Park, long known for thoroughbred and quarter horse racing, and recently revitalized with an ongoing $60 million remodeling project, has now turned its attention to providing excellence in live musical entertainment. Beginning in August with local Latin funk group ElectricPiquete and continuing in October with Latin-Grammy nominees Locos Por Juana and most recently featuring ¡MAYDAY!, the series brings reggae roots heir Jo Mersa Marley, grandson of Bob Marley and eldest son of Stephen Marley, and Cuban Soul singer / songwriter Danay Suarez to the park on Saturday, December 19, beginning at 9 p.m. Show is free and open to the public of all ages; must be 21 to enter the casino.

“The Brunetti family has put quite a bit of stock into reviving the legendary national treasure that is Hialeah Park,” says Vice President of Marketing & Entertainment Frank Fiore. “This musical series is just another example of their commitment to providing the best possible entertainment to patrons.” The track, which first opened 1925 as the Miami Jockey Club, has been home to legendary horses and races, been featured in Hollywood films, hosted countless quinces photo shoots, weddings and special events, and recently unveiled the new Private King’s Court VIP addition to its poker room.

Jo Mersa Marley is descended from a rich history of Jamaican reggae roots and grew up surrounded by music. By the time he was four, Jo was appearing onstage alongside his father, uncle Ziggy and aunts Cedella and Sharon (a.k.a. Ziggy Marley and The Melody Makers) and their children as part of the group’s rousing concert finales, with Jo often taking the mic and chanting the lyrics to the Melody Makers’ biggest songs. Born in Kingston, Jamaica on March 12, 1991, he moved to Miami at age 11 where he keenly observed his father and his uncle Damian as they created music in Stephen’s Lion’s Den studio. The artist is currently promoting is latest release, the Comfortable EP.

Suárez, originally from La Habana, Cuba, has been generating a buzz throughout Latin America and Europe with her soulful voice, razor sharp lyrics, and innovative musical style.  Performing since the early age of 15, Danay formed part of Havana Cultura series collaborating with various artists throughout the years and has performed in Europe cities such as London, Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Istanbul and in Latin America, Mexico, Panama and Colombia. She’s released Polvo de la Humedad in 2008, Havana CulturaEP in 2010, and will issue Palabras Manuales in early 2016.

The night is being hosted by Kulcha Shok Muzik featuring Lance O. The series will resume with an appearance by the Spam Allstars in January and PALO! in February. Hialeah Park is located at 2200 East 32 Street, Hialeah, FL 33013.

For more information, please visit www.HialeahParkCasino.com  or call 305.885.8000.

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MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

10th Annual Moksha Art Fair “Entheosis”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

10th Annual Moksha Art Fair “Entheosis” Takes Place in Wynwood During Art Basel December 2-6

Events to feature gallery receptions, multimedia displays, lectures, panel discussions, DJ sets, live music and more

Miami, FL – November 11, 2015 – Miami’s Moksha Family Arts Collective, produced by visionary and arts patron Ray Orraca, has for more than a decade fostered cultural and artistic expression from their long-standing home base in Little Haiti (the previous location of 7th Circuit Studio). This year, the organization’s annual Moksha Art Fair will largely be held at Delinquent Designs Gallery (122 NW 25th Street, Miami, FL 33127), in the heart of the Wynwood Arts District December 2-6, 2015.

The gallery will feature original works from a bevy of artists, two high-profile lectures by Alex Grey (artist, author, teacher) and Bruce Pavitt (Sub PopRecords), a panel discussion, several showcases and the Main Event Celebration on Saturday, December 5.  Admission varies by event; early bird tickets for the Saturday’s Celebration are $40 and available online at bpt.me/e/2462023.

“This year the Moksha Art Fair will be a celebration of the artistic and spiritual rebirth of the Moksha Family Arts Collective during one of the most important events in the world of fine art,” says Orraca. “Every year we strive to take the production and quality of artwork to another level.  As the premier innovative art showcase during Art Basel Miami Beach, the Moksha Family is excited about having this year’s event take place in Wynwood’s artistic hub.”

The Moksha Family Arts Collective and Delinquent Designs Gallery will open the main exhibition on Wednesday, December 2 at 6 p.m., featuring artists Alex Grey, Allyson Grey, Mark Henson, Chris Dyer, Scott Sterling, Olivia Curry(commissioned to produce this year’s new Moksha Family Symbol, which will be unveiled December 4), Reinier Gamboa, Eva Ruiz, Johnny Robles, AnyaNadal, Cory Hunter, Donna Torres, Dizzy Delinquent, Luis Valle, RobertAura Freitag, Zak Holley, Melissa Mellymel and more TBA.  The full line up will be posted online at www.mokshafamily.org andwww.facebook.com/mokshafamily. Admission to the exhibition opening is FREE and for all ages.

Also on Wednesday, December 2, Delinquent Designs will host an after-party featuring a selection of DJs and electronic artists from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m.  Admission cost TBA; event open to 18+ with ID.

Alex Grey will present a lecture through Florida International University’s Program in the Study of Spirituality at the Patricia and Phillip Frost Art Museum Thursday, December 3, at the Modesto A. Maidique Campus (10975 SW 17th Street, Miami, FL 33199), in room 105 at 7 p.m. This will be a continuation of his CoSM series.  Chapel of Sacred Mirrors is an art sanctuary and trans-denominational interfaith church, founded by Alex and Allyson Grey in Wappinger, NY. Admission is free and open to all ages.

Massive Ideas will host an after-party featuring a selection of DJs and electronic artists Thursday, December 3 from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. at the Delinquent Designs Gallery. Admission cost TBA and the event is open to 18+ with ID.

There will be a special lecture presentation and panel discussion at Delinquent Designs Gallery moderated by Dr. Manolo Torres on Friday, December 4, featuring short lectures by Alex Grey, Pavitt and Michael “Zappy” Zapolin(filmmaker of “Reality of Truth” and co-author of “Ask The Kabala”).  In addition, there will be a panel discussion with the Greys, Dyer, Pavitt, Zapolin, Torres and a selection of other artists. Admission is $20 and open to all ages. Afterwards, Envision will host an after-party featuring a selection of DJs and electronic artists from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. Admission cost TBA and will be open to 18+ with ID.

The Main Event Celebration on Saturday, December 5 will feature art displays, interactive exhibits, live painting, live music from two stages, vendors and much more. The Moksha Art Fair’s closing party will feature live painting by the Greys, Dyer and a selection of painters, music by An–Ten–Ae, Drumspyder,Subsqwad, the Moksha All–Stars curated by Monkey Village, the MokshaRoots All–Stars and Rhythm Flow. In addition, there will be an art installation by Funktion Forms and more TBA.  Admission is $50 at the door; early bird tickets are $40 and available online at bpt.me/e/2462023; event is open to 18+ with ID.

Gallery hours:
Wednesday, December 2, 6 – 10 p.m.
Thursday, December 3, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Friday, December 4, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday, December 5, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, December 6, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Lecture schedule:
Thursday, December 3 – speaker presentation with Alex Grey at F.I.U., 7 p.m. (free)
Friday, December 4 – lecture presentation and panel discussion at Delinquent Designs, 7 – 10 p.m. ($20)

After-Parties:
Wednesday, December 2 – Delinquent Designs Music Showcase, 10 p.m. – 3 a.m. (cost TBA)
Thursday, December 3 – Massive Ideas Music Showcase, 10 p.m. – 3 a.m. (cost TBA)
Friday, December – Envision Music Showcase, 10 p.m. – 3 a.m. (cost TBA)
Saturday, December 5 – Main Event Celebration, 7 p.m. – 3 a.m. ($50 day of; $40 pre-sale at bpt.me/e/2462023)

For more information, please visit www.mokshafamily.org or www.facebook.com/mokshafamily or call305.757.7277.

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ABOUT MOKSHA FAMILY ARTS COLLECTIVE

From its inception, the artistic collective known as Moksha Family has been a nexus of cultural and artistic expression.  Comprised of artists, musicians, technicians and visionaries, we celebrate the mystery that unites us with an eclectic mix of performances by individuals and groups from the local and international communities.  “Moksha” is the Sanskrit term for enlightenment and liberation.  Moksha Family believes the arts bring us closer to cultural and spiritual freedom.  Some performances are contemporary. Some traditional and sacred.  All are magical, meant to explore the inner landscape on the quest for universal oneness.  Moksha Family gatherings are celebrations of cultural harmony and higher consciousness; they are not your average events.

The Moksha Family Arts Collective is currently running a GoFundMe campaign at www.gofundme.com/mokshafamily – contributions provide the resources to help the organization continue producing events like these.  As a not-for-profit organization, they re-invest all proceeds into creative outlets for people in their community.

Visit www.mokshafamily.org or www.facebook.com/mokshafamily for information about upcoming events and how you can get involved.

ABOUT MOKSHA ART FAIR

This annual event takes place during the week of Art Basel Miami Beach, the biggest and most prestigious art expo in North America.  Since its debut in 2005, the Moksha Art Fair has become the premier visionary art showcase during this world-class, city-wide event.  Previously featured artists include Alex Grey, Allyson Grey, the late Robert Venosa, Martina Hoffmann, Mark Henson, Amanda Sage, Carey Thompson, Chris Dyer, Luke Brown, Randal Roberts, Autumn Skye Morrison, Adam Scott Miller, Alex Sastoque and many more.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Guitars Over Guns Benefit Concert 11/21

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Guitars Over Guns Holds 2ndAnnual Benefit Concert to Raise Funds for Music Education and Mentoring Initiative

MIAMI, Nov. 5, 2015 — Guitars Over Guns, a Miami-based nonprofit that provides mentoring to at-risk youth through music education and performance, announced today that it will hold its second annual Choose Your Sound benefit concert on Saturday, Nov. 21st from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM at the Gleason Room backstage at the Fillmore (1700 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139). Tickets are available for $100 General Admission and $175 w/ VIP After Party and can be purchased at http://bit.ly/GOGOCYS2015
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Guitars Over Guns (GOGO) president and co-founder Chad Bernstein launched the organization in 2008 to formalize the ad-hoc mentoring that he and other members of the Miami band Suenalo were providing to local middle-schoolers. In partnership with Communities in Schools, the country’s largest dropout prevention organization, GOGO delivers a results-based, scalable model for bringing the joy and discipline of music-making to young people facing adversity in high-risk environments. Through its weekly programs, professional musicians forge positive relationships with students through one-on-one mentoring and instruction in music theory and performance.

“Our program is making meaningful changes in the lives of kids who don’t have the same opportunities that many of their peers enjoy,” said Mr. Bernstein. “Not only does Guitars Over Guns develop musical ability, but it helps our kids establish self-confidence, leadership and the ability to connect with others in an extremely positive way. The Choose Your Sound benefit concert helps raise money for our cause so that we can spread the transformative power of the arts to more students and schools in South Florida and beyond.”

Currently GOGO serves 125 students in Miami at Georgia Jones-Ayers Middle School,Citrus Grove Middle School and North Miami Middle School, including new young talents in the recently instituted art and dance programs. GOGO also has a presence in Chicago, with 26 kids participating at UCAN Academy, an alternative therapeutic day school for children who have suffered severe trauma. GOGO is also providing music mentorship at Evergreen Academy Middle School, where enrollment is 13 students and growing. “Some of Miami’s most talented acts will lend their support to our mission and join us for what promises to be an amazing evening of entertainment,” said Mr. Bernstein.

Presented by the Miami Marlins Foundation, and with support from Somos TV, the Choose Your Sound benefit concert will feature an open bar sponsored by Afro Head Rum, Tito’s Vodka, Bombay Sapphire and Lagunitas Brewery. Musical entertainment will be provided by local bands Locos Por Juana and Tony Succar with appearances from special guests and student musicians from the GOGO program. Roxanne Vargas of NBC 6 South Florida will host the event.

“GOGO isn’t just about becoming a better musician – it’s about being a better person,” said Santamarie Arocho, a student in the Guitars Over Guns Program. “I changed a lot throughout the years I’ve been in GOGO, and the person I am today is nowhere near the person I was three years ago.”

For more information on Choose Your Sound and to purchase tickets, visit http://bit.ly/GOGOCYS2015. To inquire about sponsorship opportunities for the event, please contact: Chad Bernstein at chad@guitarsoverguns.org or at 847.420.6327. Follow GOGO on Twitter @guitarsoverguns and join the conversation by using #chooseyoursound.

ABOUT GUITARS OVER GUNS
Guitars Over Guns is a Florida-based non-profit organization that was launched in 2008 by musician Dr. Chad Bernstein to formalize the ad-hoc mentoring he and other members of the Miami band Suenalo were providing to local at-risk middle-schoolers. Our mission is to help young people living in negative and dangerous environments to discover the life-changing power of music through a structured program of music instruction and strong mentoring relationships with professional musicians.

MEDIA CONTACT
Michael Mut
Mut Communications
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Profile: DogsGoWalking’s Owner Wohlstein

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

DogsGoWalking’s New Owner Daniel Wohlstein Sought Change of Pace

 

Purchase of company completed transformation from nightlife and lending impresario to home-based business owner

Miami Beach, FL – October 27, 2015 – This year, new owner Daniel Wohlstein leapt at the chance to spend more time near home in purchasing DogsGoWalking, the largest dog walking and pet sitting service in South Florida. Ownership of a lending business in Peru kept him traveling abroad frequently during the last four years. Founding and running the long-time Miami Beach live music venue Jazid for the better part of two decades had him spending late nights and early mornings on South Beach, managing, promoting and tending to the day-to-day operations of a venue that offers entertainment every night. Now, Wohlstein gets to spend more time at home with his wife Carolina, two children aged three and five, and their Yorkies named Pipi and Harry.

“The best part about this new venture is that I get to be with my kids at all the time,” says Wohlstein. “I love being home and enjoying the simple things in life like going to the park with the kids. I missed out on most of first five years of my oldest while traveling and working in Peru.” A far cry from long flights to South America and long nights on Washington Avenue, DogsGoWalking now allows Daniel the opportunity to provide excellent services to small animal owners and even help out the humane dog-loving community. Five percent of the company’s net proceeds are now being donated to theBig Dog Ranch Rescue.

Born and raised in Caracas, Venezuela, Daniel’s undergrad studies led to bachelor’s degree in accounting from the Universidad Católica Andrés Bello in Caracas. Then after emigrating to the U.S. in 1993, he earned an M.B.A. from the University of Miami. A tennis enthusiast, he now lists cooking as his primary hobby. Does walking his toy dogs qualify as a hobby?

During it’s nearly 20 year history, Jazid has helped incubate the careers of countless prominent Miami music acts (Spam Allstars, Suenalo, Locos Por Juana, Xperimento, Electric Piquete and more), has  been featured in numerous local and regional publications and garnered many awards, including the Miami New Times’ “Best Reggae Night” (2007) and “Best Small Music Venue” (2013). Of all the wonderful musical moments during the last two decades, none is sweeter than the one when Daniel met Carolina there one night back in February of 2009.

Since 2004, DogsGoWalking has helped thousands of South Floridians give their pets the loving care their animals need while they are away or travelling. Apart from continuing to expand DogsGoWalking’s services throughout the South East, the previously nomadic Wohlstein expects to be at his brand-new Wellington home in five years.

And that suits the stay-at-home, full-time family man Wohlsten just fine.

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ABOUT DOGSGOWALKING

DogsGoWalking is a home-based company founded in 2004 offering services such as pet walking and sitting, private boarding, transportation and more. They come to your pet at your home, pick them up and transport them to and from wherever needed, take them to pet-friendly parks or beaches and even clean up after them. Dog training services are also available.

Plans to expand throughout the entire state of Florida within 12 months are underway, and when complete, will add approximately 45 jobs.  The company’s carefully-vetted and contracted pet specialists also watch over and care for cats, lizards, rabbits, turtles and just about any other domesticated small animal, in addition to larger pets such as horses.

The company is always looking for new contracted sitters – an online application is available here. DogsGoWalking’s website hosts a fair amount of client testimonials, many of them superlative, using complements such as “conscientious”, “caring”, “reliable” and “outstanding.” Advanced GPS integration is also in the works, allowing pet owners can track their furry and scaly friends while away from them.

For more information, please visit www.DogsGoWalking.com, emailinfo@dogsgowalking.com or call 305.877.4061.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com