Times and was the guest chef for the
Obama Administration’s first state
dinner. churches (four of which are over 100
years old), through grants to protect
against their decay and deterioration.
He has won multiple James Beard
Foundation Awards, including Best
Chef: New York City. For decades, the Overtown
community was ignored. Since taking
office, Commissioner Hardemon has
worked tirelessly to change that.
In addition to affordable housing and
economic development, the CRA
works to protect the history of this
once vibrant community.
In doing so, it has issued grants to
preserve the Dorsey House (home
of Miami’s first black millionaire and
philanthropist), The Historic Lyric
Theater, and the Ward Rooming
House.
The CRA has
also assisted in
preserving historic
He created the Overtown Music & Arts
Festival, to promote and celebrate the
vast improvements in the redevelopment
area and to attract thousands of visitors
and celebrities to the community to
educate them on opportunities for
housing, business, and fun.
Some artists who have performed at
this festival include Mario, Keyshia
Cole, Ne-Yo, K. Michelle, and great
number of others. The Commissioner
also sponsors events such as Soul
Basel and The Art of Conversation.