American Children’s Orchestras for Peace, Inc (ACOP), a non-profit organization, had a special event “Mingle Under the Stars” at Badrutt’s Place in South Miami Avenue. Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Alvarez and Commissioner Bruno Barreiro presented a Proclamation to ACOP’s Chairman of the Board, Dr. Michael Nobel. Dr. Nobel, who is great grand nephew of Alfred Nobel of the Noble Prizes, came to attend and accept the Proclamation on behalf of the organization. Board members Dr. Rafael Diaz-Yoserev, Jorge Carlos Gachassin and Maida Santander accompanied Dr. Nobel at the reception.

The Proclamation stated that December 11th, 2008 would be considered “Dr. Michael Nobel Day” because of the dedication and willingness he has given to promote peace throughout the organization.

The goal of the American Children’s Orchestras Program is to provide disabled, underprivileged, and at-risk children in hard-to-reach communities an alternative to poverty and violence through music. Providing disadvantaged children with instruments, free music lessons, and a positive role model on a daily basis our vision caters as much to the children’s artistic development as it does to the idea of music as a tool for social change. Developing musical skills offers student’s career options and improves the quality of their life.

American Children’s Orchestras for Peace Instructors Otto Avalos, Fabian Alvarez, Jorge Carlos Oviedo, Alain Ortiz, and Aliana Ochoa, who have an orchestra known as "The Bridge String" performed the entire night to the guests that attended the event.

With the support of The Children’s Trust and Cultural Affairs the organization provides opportunities to build cultural understanding and good will throughout the community. ACOP is creating a variety of ethnically enriched communities in order to include and embrace all the people of the City of Miami.

For more information, visit www.americanchildrensorchestras.org or call 305-285-2303.