SMPD LEGEND RETIRES

Assistant Chief Larry Corbin, who has spent 39 years of continuous service to the City of South Miami and the South Miami Police Department has retired. On May 19, the city commission adopted a resolution naming the city’s new police station (yet to be built) in his honor. A retirement ceremony and reception took place on May 29.

In presenting Corbin with an engraved block for the new building, SMPD Chief Reo Hatrield noted that Assistant Chief Larry Corbin began his law enforcement career with the South Miami Police Department in 1987, beginning what would become the longest continuous employment record in the history of the department.

Over nearly four decades, he rose through the ranks from patrol officer to Assistant Chief of Police, becoming the only employee in departmental history to achieve this distinction entirely within the City of South Miami. Throughout his career, he served honorably under eight chiefs of police, earning recognition for his professionalism, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the safety and wellbeing of the community. It was noted that Assistant Chief Corbin’s personnel file reflects an exemplary career defined by integrity, courage, and service, including over 200 commendations and awards and zero disciplinary actions. His recognition includes multiple Officer of the Month awards, Meritorious Service Awards, Unit Citations, a Chief’s Award, and the Florida Police Chiefs Association Outstanding Command Officer of the Year (2022). Among his most notable acts of bravery is the Silver Medal of Valor (1997), awarded following a three-way shootout involving armed robbery suspects which resulted in the recovery of more than $50,000.

And to applause from those at the meeting, it was noted Assistant Chief Corbin will be inducted into the Florida Law Enforcement Officers’ Hall of Fame, one of the highest honors bestowed upon a law enforcement professional in the State of Florida.

Chief Hatfield noted that naming the new police station as the “South Miami Police Larry Corbin Headquarters” would serve as recognition of Assistant Chief Corbin’s exceptional dedication, leadership, and contributions to the City of South Miami and the policing profession.

As the City evaluates and plans development of a new police facility, the recognition approved by the commission will initially be displayed through a commemorative plaque installed at the current police station located at 6130 Sunset Drive. Upon completion of the City’s future police facility, the designation and recognition will be permanently incorporated into the new police building to ensure Assistant Chief Corbin’s legacy remains a lasting part of the South Miami Police Department. This recognition commemorates a career that has profoundly shaped the department, mentored generations of officers, strengthened community relationships, and elevated the reputation of the City of South Miami throughout the State of Florida.

Chief Reo Hatfield noted that Corbin’s impact in the police department goes “far beyond time, rank and service. He changed lives with humility and compassion.” A man of few works and touched by the moment and honor, Asst. Chief Corbin commented “I’ve given my life to this place, and I appreciate what you’re giving me.”

Photos: SOMI Magazine

MOTORING ARCHIVES OPENS

Located at Sunset Place in South Miami, Motoring Archives represents a new approach to the modern automotive dealership experience. More than a traditional showroom, the space operates as a curated archive of automotive culture, blending investment-grade collector cars, enthusiast-driven inventory, and lifestyle-focused presentation under one roof.

As a part of the Zweck and Store Auto collective, Motoring Archives reflects a broader platform built around preservation, performance, and collector car culture. Zweck serves as the backbone of the entire operation, an exclusively Porsche-focused company specializing in service, performance, restoration, and motorsports. Behind that foundation is Store Auto, the collector car concierge, storage, and management arm supporting the larger network and housing some of the most significant vehicles within the city. Together, the three brands create a vertically integrated automotive platform centered around enthusiasts and long-term custodianship.

What makes Motoring Archives unique is its bandwidth. On any given day, inventory can range from a Prodrive P25 or BMW M1 to a classic Volkswagen Beetle or vintage BMW Bavaria. That diversity reflects the philosophy behind the brand: automotive significance is not defined strictly by price or rarity, but by story, engineering, design, and emotional connection.

Motoring Archives is also an official Meyers Manx dealer, where visitors can test drive, spec, and order their own Manx, adding another layer of personality to the showroom with vehicles built around open-air driving, simplicity, and fun.

Now based in Sunset Place, visitors can experience the entire collective in one place; stopping by Zweck and Motoring Archives, grabbing a coffee, exploring the showroom, and joining the Early Risers Cars & Coffee gathering every Friday morning at 7:30. More than a dealership, Motoring Archives has become a community-driven space where enthusiasts can connect through every corner of automotive culture.

Photos: SOMI Magazine

DRESSING FOR CHARITY

Tupelo Honey’s Jordan Blum couldn’t have been more ecstatic with the success of his annual spring benefit. A first in business for over forty years, Jordan reports there were “lines to try on clothes, and lines to pay!”

Tupelo Honey has been at the corner of SW 57 Avenue (Red Road) and 73 Street for the past 14 years, after moving from The Falls where the store was located for 17 years. “South Miami is a neighborhood and there is a special presence than being in a mall.” With Mother’s Day approaching and spring/summer fashions on the racks, a late April event is an ideal time for Tupelo Honey’s annual charity event. Ladies make this a day to have together in SOMI where they meet and network, patronize our cafes and restaurants, and enjoy the charity event.

Two signature brands, L’Agence, Frank & Eileen were showcased, and ladies could have custom embroidery on their purchases.

Jordan reports a “very big number” being contributed to Breakthrough Miami. Breakthrough Miami uses a unique “students-teaching-students” model to create a rigorous, vibrant learning community, where highly motivated, traditionally underrepresented 5th-12th grade students are supported to achieve post-secondary success and emerging leaders are inspired to become the next generation of educators and advocates.

Photos: SOMI Magazine