obama-smile-web.jpgMIAMI – As Americans descend upon Washington D.C. for the second term inauguration of President Barack Obama, South Floridians once again will gather at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County for a special Community Celebration and Live Television Simulcast of the inauguration.

Reservations can be made in advance at arshtcenter.org. Admission will be free of charge at the center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. Miami. Parking will be available for $5 at the Miami Parking Authority’s Lot C, located on Northeast 13th Street and Biscayne Boulevard.

The Jan. 21 event will feature a simulcast of the president’s address and inauguration parade, presentation of the colors by Homestead Senior High School Air Force JROTC Color Guard, live musical performance by the New World School of the Arts Concert Choir, and guest appearances by local elected officials.

Inauguration Day 2013 also marks a National Day of Service honoring the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Event attendees are encouraged to bring school supplies, toiletries, new socks, and new undergarments to be donated to the Chapman Partnership, which operates a Homeless Assistance Center in downtown Miami.

“As Miami’s new Town Square, the Arsht Center is a natural place for our diverse community to come together every four years when the nation turns its eyes to Washington D.C. for the Presidential Inauguration,” said John Richard, president and CEO. “With school out on Inauguration Day this year, we’re encouraging the entire family to come out in celebration of democracy.”

Alan Fein, who serves as chair elect of the Performing Arts Center Trust, is spearheading fundraising efforts for the free community celebration. “This is a great opportunity for Miami’s business and philanthropic community to support what is becoming an historic community tradition,” he said. “We filled both halls in our town square for our first Inauguration Simulcast in 2009, and we expect the same energy and enthusiasm this Jan. 21.”

Organizations and individuals interested in offering sponsorship support can contact the Arsht Center Advancement Department at 786-468-2243.