All that hard work only to be shot down

We worked so hard on the bond to support the expansion of North Miami's MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) and for what, to be shot down at the polls. The articles reported it was by the narrowest margin which made it sting even more. For hours our team of volunteers sat at Publix informing people about the great programming at MOCA and our free family membership for North Miami residents. Then came the countless phone calls encouraging people in the community to get out to the polls and vote.Most of it fell on deaf ears though because unfortunately, this community doesn't realize the value and worth that MOCA provides. We've got a world-class museum right in our downtown where provocative exhibitions and programs are presented and major art collectors and dealers gather on a regular basis. During Art Basel, MOCA's buzzing with artworld heavy hitters who are spending money at our restaurants and especially at our high-end furniture stores.Yet when something so valuable as a much-needed expansion was presented, the support just wasn't there. All hope is not lost though, given the City of North Miami has recently acquired funds that could be thrown toward MOCA's expansion. I'm hoping there's still a glimmer of hope. I love MOCA and know what it brings to my city where I've lived for 18 years.  I just wish more of my fellow North Miamians felt the same way.