Quiet Gay Pride march in Jerusalem

• Photo gallery | Jerusalem gay pride march

JERUSALEM (AP) — About 3,000 gays have marched through Jerusalem in their annual Gay Pride parade. The march was followed by a rally, both proceeding without incident.

Police said they had about 2,000 officers on duty to protect the marchers from protesters.

Past marches have been marred by violent demonstrations by ultra-Orthodox Jews, but there were only small-scale protests on Thursday away from the march route. Police said one protester was arrested.

Unlike the flamboyant atmosphere of gay pride parades in other cities, most of the marchers in Jerusalem wore everyday clothes and walked calmly down the city streets, a few holding banners or multicolored balloons.

One sign read, "Gay rights are Human rights."

Financial crisis forces Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival to dismiss Keith Cromley and Lisa Niven

News release:

An Important Message from your Board of Directors

Preparation is already underway, laying the groundwork for our 11th Annual Miami and Ft. Lauderdale Gay and Lesbian Film Festival's. As we all know, these are difficult economic times, and certainly our festival is not exempt from that reality.

As a pro-active Board we have been forced to take immediate action to cut significant dollars from our budget immediately. Our first financial upset was the loss of two of our major corporate sponsors.  Sundance and Avis shifted their marketing dollars away from the gay & lesbian market too late for us to replace them. Then, as many of you know, (and heard repeatedly during the festival), we attempted to raise additional monies earlier this year and throughout our festival by asking for donations to our Matching Cultural Challenge Grant.  Unfortunately, those fundraising efforts fell significantly short of our projections. Our membership while sustaining has also not met our hoped for growth. Combine all of that with what we think will be a difficult year at best to raise monies, and we knew immediate action had to be taken.

One immediate and significant (yet painful) action was to reduce staff.  We would like to take this opportunity to thank both [development director] Keith Cromley and [operations manager ]Lisa Niven for their wonderful hard work and contributions to the festival, and wish them both the best.  The Board has entrusted Carol Coombs and Kareem Tabsch to step up and do what is necessary to ensure the ongoing success of this very important South Florida Gay Cultural Institution.  We know they will take this trust and rise to the challenge.

We want you to know that your Board of Directors is meeting continually to come up with a variety of solutions to meet the current challenges we face, and are extremely confident that the festival will return this year and many years after.  We take the responsibility of managing this charter seriously and dedicate ourselves to making sure the festival remains intact, strong and vibrant.  Our supporter base is valued, and hearing this directly from us is the best way to get the word out. We encourage and ask for you to become involved in helping us meet our goals by joining, and if you are a member consider upping to a higher level, contributing, or helping out and becoming involved! Together we have no limits; together we can achieve our goals.  "It takes a community!"

Thanks for all your past support, and, with your help, we look forward to many more years of wonderful lesbian and gay films and events!

Your Board Of Directors
MGLFF FGLFF

Task Force 'applauds Congress for historic hearing on transgender discrimination in the workplace'

News release:

“Discrimination against transgender people is pervasive and current laws and employer policies are insufficient to protect their rights. For far too long, transgender people have lived with the fear of losing their job simply because of who they are. Today’s hearing marks a critical step in addressing this travesty once and for all.”
— Rea Carey, Executive Director, Task Force Action Fund

WASHINGTON, June 26 — The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund applauds the House of Representatives for holding its first-ever hearing today on transgender discrimination in the workplace. In addition to submitting written testimony documenting the urgent need for inclusion of gender identity in federal employment protection, the Action Fund has worked closely with the National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE) to prepare for the hearing.
Several studies have shown widespread employment discrimination against transgender people, as documented in the Action Fund’s written testimony. Later this summer, the Task Force Policy Institute will be adding to the existing body of research with the launch of the largest-ever study of transgender people’s experiences of discrimination in their daily lives, including within the workplace.

Statement by Rea Carey, Executive Director
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund

“Discrimination against transgender people is pervasive and current laws and employer policies are insufficient to protect their rights. For far too long, transgender people have lived with the fear of losing their job simply because of who they are. Today’s hearing marks a critical step in addressing this travesty once and for all.
“We applaud the House Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions for holding today’s hearing, and we urge lawmakers to pass federal employment protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity.”

Task Force is a leader on transgender rights

In preparation for today’s hearing, the Task Force Action Fund and the National Center for Transgender Equality have provided to relevant congressional staff fact sheets covering the state and local nondiscrimination laws in their districts, employer nondiscrimination policies, data on employment discrimination and stories of discrimination from their respective states. The Task Force, NCTE, ACLU and the National Center for Lesbian Rights also worked with the transgender-identified witnesses to develop their testimony, go over potential questions that may be asked at the hearing and to prepare them for this historic day.
The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force Action Fund has been a leader in the fight to secure the rights of transgender people since 1999, when the organization vowed to oppose federal employment nondiscrimination legislation that failed to include gender identity.
The Task Force has remained steadfast and partnered with transgender, lesbian, gay, bisexual and allied activists and organizations to defend and secure transgender-inclusive legislation on the local, state and federal level.
In 2001, the Task Force established its Transgender Civil Rights Project, a groundbreaking project that provides legislative, policy and strategy assistance to activists and organizations around the country working to pass transgender-inclusive laws and policies. In April 2008, the Task Force and the National Center for Transgender Equality produced Opening the Door to Transgender-Inclusion, a “how-to” guide for organizations seeking to become fully transgender-inclusive.

Miami activists rally for arrested gay dissidents in Cuba

From left: Unity Coalition members Rachel Alfonso, Efren Martinez, Ron Brenesky and Arturo Alvarez. Photos by Steve Rothaus / Miami Herald Staff

By STEVE ROTHAUS, srothaus@MiamiHerald.com

Gay dissidents in Cuba report that a planned gay-rights rally Wednesday was canceled after government security officers detained nine organizers.

"The march was not able to take place because the government stopped our leaders," said Ron Brenesky, a Miami Cuban who heads the Unity Coalition, South Florida's largest Latin gay rights group.

"Our brothers and sisters in Cuba, they are not alone," said Brenesky, who spoke with gay activists in Cuba by cellphone Wednesday evening. Unity Coalition members gathered for the phone call at Club Azucar on Southwest 32nd Avenue in Little Havana.

Dissident Ignacio Estrada Cepero told Brenesky and the others that he was detained early Wednesday before the planned rally in Havana. Security guards told him he didn't have permission to leave his home province of Santa Clara, Brenesky said.

Cuban Aliomar Janjaque was put on house arrest after being warned not to gather in a park with other gay dissidents, he told Unity Coalition members.

The park was taken over by security forces, Janjaque said.

For more news about Cuba, read The Miami Herald's Cuban Colada blog.

Unity Coalition members speak to dissidents by cellphone on Wednesday.

Ex-Express Gay News editor LaPadula reflects on his real-world ouster

BY STEVE ROTHAUS, srothaus@MiamiHerald.com

Caught up in the Express Gay News controversy is Phil LaPadula, the Fort Lauderdale paper's editor-in-chief replaced by Real World's Dan Renzi.

"It's OK to say I had differences with the Express top management over the direction of the paper since that is the truth,'' LaPadula says, diplomatically.

LaPadula, 50, left the paper April 30.

"I want everyone to know there was no incident that led to my departure. Kevin Hopper is the publisher. Kevin Hopper told me I had done nothing wrong. He told me he needed someone else to take the paper in another direction,'' said LaPadula, a longtime reporter hired in 2002 by then-Publisher Norman Kent as a freelance writer and copy editor.

By January 2003, LaPadula had been promoted to full-time managing editor. In December 2003, Kent sold The Express to Unite Media, an affiliate of Washington Blade owner Window Media (then run by Crain in Washington, D.C.). In Jan. 2007, LaPadula became The Express' editor-in-chief.

"I always felt I had creative freedom there,'' LaPadula said. "The editorial integrity of the publication was never compromised. I was never told I couldn't write about anything.''

LaPadula said he worked an average of 45 to 50 hours a week at the paper. "I had only taken one day off in 2008. We had weekends off, but one vacation day. When I first became editor-in-chief, I had to do two jobs. They didn't replace me on my old job for nine months.''

He thanks Kent, Crain and Hopper "for the opportunities they gave me."

"I also want to thank the South Florida GLBT community, who gave me encouragement, compliments, criticism and news tips over the years. Their invaluable input was part of the reason I stayed at The Express for so long."

Not everyone was satisfied, though.

"There were some people who thought we should be a cheerleader for the gay community. I didn't think that was appropriate,'' LaPadula said. "We were a real newspaper. We had to report the good, the bad and the ugly.

"People who want The Express to be a cheerleader should ask themselves, would that really help to improve the lives of gay and lesbian people?''

"If you're going to respect diversity, you also have to respect diversity of thought,'' said LaPadula, who plans to write a column for David Wylie's GaySoFla.com.

LaPadula also would like to write and edit books. "I plan to write a book about my Express experience,'' he said. "I might also write fiction."

Phil LaPadula -- observations in his own words:

State of gay movement -- "I think the movement has been very successful at the local level -- as indicated by the recent passage of the domestic partner law in Miami-Dade -- but if gay leaders want to accomplish anything at the state and federal level, they may have to learn to compromise more. There also needs to be more of an education campaign regarding the transgender issue. Right now, it appears that the trans issue is an obstacle to passing GLBT rights bills at the state and federal level. The trans people need to get out there and make their case in a way that mainstream America can understand. The trans issue needs to be explained better."

Anti-bullying legislation -- "The fact that school bullying legislation died in the Florida Legislature several years in a row because conservative groups objected to including protections for gay and lesbian students is a sad commentary on our society. If the two sides in the so-called "culture war" can't even find enough common ground to protect children from violence and harassment at school, I don't know where we are headed. I was a little encouraged this year when the Florida Legislature finally did pass an anti-bullying bill, though it conspicuously omits any mention of gay and lesbian students. The bill, however, does prohibit "racial, religious and sexual harassment." I would think that "sexual harassment" could be -- or should be -- interpreted to include harassment based on sexual orientation. But I guess that's up to the courts to decide."

Jamaica initiative and Ahmadnejad -- "I’m glad to see the members of the Metropolitan Community Churches and others speaking out against the cruel persecution and murder of gay and lesbian people in places like Jamaica and Iran. Ahmadenijad compared gay people to illicit drug dealers and “microbes” that are removed from the body in medical procedures. The real “microbes” are the fundamentalist extremists who have infected this planet and are determined to spread their mental illness masquerading as religion all over the world. I don’t think we have to respect the rights of foreign dictators and cultural despots to abuse and murder gay people and others just because it’s happening within their borders. I think we should meddle more in their internal affairs."

Car culture -- "Florida’s mindless car culture is an example of an issue that affects everyone, but gay people in places like Wilton Manors are particularly vulnerable because of all the nightlife activity surrounding the gay bars. I sppoke out in editorial after the death of Steven Klein, 29, who was hit by a car while crossing at the Five Points intersection. Cars have more rights than people in Florida. It’s time to build a community for people, not cars."

Drug culture -- "Have you ever tried to date someone who was using illegal drugs. He won’t be interested in you; he’ll only be interested in the drugs and how to get more of them. Drugs are the reason that the so-called 1960s revolution was a failure, and we’ve had 40 years of conservative dominance since then. People on drugs don’t change the world; the drugs just change their perception of the world."

Sex offender laws --"If I had been on the jury in the case of John Cooey, the scumbag who killed the little Florida girl, I would have voted for the death penalty in a minute. But I’m concerned about the national obsession with sex offenders and the far right using sex-offender laws as a backdoor way of persecuting gay people. The excessive, overkill aspects of these laws is a glaring example of the excesses of the right-wing movement in America. I find it deeply disturbing that children are being put on Internet sex offender lists to be publicly humiliated for the rest of their lives over something they did when they were 11 years old, which years ago would have been regarded as harmless experimentation . To hold children to the same standards as adults is profoundly flawed public policy. And even child advocacy leaders, such as Don Ryce (the father of Jimmy Ryce), have said that sex-offender residency laws are ineffective and counterproductive. Prohibiting all sex offenders from living within 1,000 feet of a park, school or in an apartment with a swimming pool is cruel. Moreover, it makes their living situation unstable, which makes it more difficult for law enforcement to monitor these people. 

"When a 17-year-old is sentenced to 10 years in prison for having consensual sex with a 15-year-old girl, something is wrong. I would suggest that the current draconian sex-offender laws are motivated by right-wing hatreds of sexual deviants -- all sexual deviants -- not by sound or rational public policy.

"Rep. William Snyder’s bill would make it a felony to engage in an “unnatural and lascivious acts” within 1,000 feet of a public park, school or day-care facility. The bill doesn’t define “unnatural and lascivious.” Would it include two guys kissing or holding hands in a park? The John Lloyd Park arrests were the most blatant examples of abuse of authority that I’ve ever seen. One man was arrested for “attempted lewd and lascivious act” for looking at a naked man in a changing room. I saw the police report. No one was even accused of touching anyone or of soliciting for sex. Claude Lessard is suing state of Florida for false arrest. He was arrested and charged with “obstruction of justice” just for telling an undercover officer, whom he thought was a park patron, “Watch out. They’re arresting someone over there.” Lessard had read the articles in the Express about alleged harassment and false arrests of gay men, and he was just trying to warn the park patron to stay away from that area.

"Public sex is a declining phenomenon because of Internet chat rooms that allow closeted people to seek out anonymous encounters. But that hasn’t stopped the right wing from using this issue as a cynical ploy to scapegoat gay people in an election year. What they do is create a hostile environment in areas that they want to ethnically cleanse of gays.

"The current sex offender laws violate basic Judeo-Christian principles because they don't allow the offenders ever to be forgiven, no matter how minor their offenses. They are subjected to lifetimes of public humiliation by having their profiles on Internet sex offender lists. Why aren't drunk drivers or people who beat their kids put on Internet offender lists? Drunk drivers kill far more children than sex offenders. Many sex offenders, even those who never actually touched a child, are subjected to years of "house arrest," unable to leave their homes between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. due to the terms of sex-offender probation. These laws are an indication that America is becoming an increasingly compassionless society.

"In fact, sex offender laws, drug laws and immigration laws are all responsible for turning America into a prison state. It’s why we have 2.3 million people behind bars in this country. We incarcerate a greater percentage of our population than communist China. I call it the Gulag America, and I think it’s a disgrace.

Here are links to some of LaPadula's stories:

http://www.expressgaynews.com/2005/6-24/news/localnews/ 

http://www.washblade.com/2006/5-18/news/worldnews/islandtravel.cfm 

http://www.washblade.com/2005/10-21/news/national/immigration.cfm

GayWired.com: Pissing match leaves Real World-er Dan Renzi of South Florida soaking wet

From GayWired.com:

By ADAM HIGGINS

Former Washington Blade editor turned political blogger Chris Crain has taken to the Web to take a pot shot at Real World alum Dan Renzi (pictured), who has taken over as Managing Editor of Express Gay News, a publication Crain used to oversee.

Crain left the publication in 2006, turning his attentions instead to the “independent gay blog” Citizen Chris.

He appointed long-time gay journalist Mubarak Dahir to the editor’s seat, who was replaced a year later by Phil LaPadula and, most recently, Renzi, who made a name for himself as one of the first openly gay cast members of The Real World and, later, as a model and sometimes writer.

Crain chalks his bitchy banter and subsequent stints on many a Real World/Road Rules Challenge up to his being “a kid back then”, but goes on to say his journalism credentials—a few freelance articles and a stint at Queerty.com—are certainly unusual.

Queerty, of course, fired back, referring to Crain as a homo blowhard and calling him a dick. However, they support Crain’s assessment of Renzi’s abilities to edit the South Florida gay news source, saying: "We know Renzi once edited this very blog, but he doesn’t anymore—one guess why."

So what got Crain all fired up in the first place? Renzi’s online call for a writer to “write a story for me about the whole gay marriage thing,” going on to say, “I'm thinking it will be more interesting as a column, that is not just a regurgitation of facts. Great, gay people can get married in California now. That's it for the facts.”

No response from Renzi yet on his blog, though if his assessment that “as the ‘editor,’ I never have time to write my own stuff” holds true, this pissing match may well continue without ever hearing a peep out of the third party.

Changes at SAVE: Heddy Peña becomes political director to focus on marriage amendment

News release:

SAVE REALIGNS STAFF TO DEFEAT AMENDMENT 2 AND STRATEGICALLY POSITION ORGANIZATION FOR THE FUTURE

To strengthen its bid to defeat a discriminatory ballot measure this fall, SAVE (Safeguarding American Values for Everyone) today announced a realignment of its top-level staff. Additionally, the change supports the future long-term strategic plan set forth by the board of directors of the organization.

Longtime executive director Heddy Peña will assume the new position of political director to focus SAVE in helping defeat Amendment 2 at the polls on Nov. 4. The so-called "marriage protection" amendment to the Florida constitution would roll back hard-won protections for gay and heterosexual couples in communities across the state.

In addition Heddy will head SAVE's communication and marketing efforts, and continue to lead the political endorsement process. "With this realignment SAVE will be able to focus more on its endorsement process, and increase its lobbying efforts," said Board Chair Juan B. Talavera.

SAVE board member and businessman Orlando Gonzales will assume responsibility for the organization's day-to-day operations. Concurrently, SAVE's board of directors will launch a search for a permanent executive director. SAVE welcomes support from the community regarding this search.  Please go to our website www.savedade.org on July 1st for more details. With your help we hope to conclude this process by summer's end.

"We want to capitalize on Heddy's strengths as a political strategist. This frees her up to do what she does best when we need her expertise most," added Juan. "Orlando is an amazing administrator, ready and more than able to build on our history of success. With Orlando's and Heddy's leadership, we will defeat Amendment 2 on Nov. 4 and strengthen the organization moving forward."

"This is an important election year, the most important many of us have seen in our lifetimes," Heddy said. "I'm eager to focus my talents and passions where they can make the biggest difference."

SAVE is spearheading the get-out-the-vote drive in Miami-Dade and Broward counties, working closely with Florida Red and Blue and other organizations to persuade voters to "Say No to Amendment 2."

The realignment is the latest in a series of moves to strengthen SAVE for the November fight and beyond. The board recently hired field director Kelly Anthony to recruit and direct SAVE's growing volunteer force and hired associate director Carlos Hernandez to help oversee administration.

SAVE is Miami-Dade County's premiere organization dedicated to protecting gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals from discrimination on the basis of their actual or perceived sexual orientation.

Report: Organizers of first gay pride march in Cuba arrested this morning in Havana

News release:

Unity Coalition/Coalición Unida, AMBIENTE Magazine & Club Azúcar organize a Support Rally and Press Conference today  in Miami

HAVANA -- Today, June 25^th, starting at ten o'clock, the first ever Cuban Gay Pride march under the slogan "You are not alone" attempted to take place in Havana for the liberation and respect of sexual diversity in Cuba, but as organizers arrived at the scheduled starting point, several of them were met by Cuban police, who beat & arrested several of them.

Unity Coalition/Coalicion Unida and Ambiente Magazine, who were supporting the efforts of the First Gay Pride March in Cuba with an information center located at Miami's Club Azúcar -  2301 SW 32nd Avenue in Miami-  will serve as a central point for South Florida's Gay Community to join in solidarity with their Cuban brothers, sisters & independent organizations. 

At 5:30 pm at Azúcar there will be a Press Conference to report the latest on the Cuban March, its organizers and their arrest. 

For more information about the event in Miami or media credentials, please contact Ron at 786-356-1665 or www.unitycoalition.org, www.coalicionunida.org or www.ambiente.us

The Cuban Commission on Human Rights for people with HIV and Sexual Races, the Cuban League against AIDS, Elena Mederos Foundation, The Foundation LGTB Reinaldo Arenas in Memoriam, Elena Mederos Foundation, the Cuban Movement for Gay Liberation, the Havana Transsexual Collective, Havana LGTB Cultural Center and the Organization of Gay Political Presidio Reinaldo Arenas were all expecting to participate in this march.

These independent Cuban civil society organizations began to gather at the central park "Don Quixote" in the neighborhood of Vedado, located at 23 and J streets, a place frequented by Havana's gay community. From there they planned to depart to the Ministry of Justice with the goal of delivering their demands to the Castro government. These include the cessation of violence and repression against Cuban homosexuals.
They hoped to have also asked that the current agent Raúl Castro apologize to the Cuban people for the introduction in the 60's of UMAP concentration camps (Military Units to Aid Production) that were created by the dictator Fidel Castro, to suppress and punish homosexuals and the religious youth who opposed his Marxist ideology.

They also demand the recognition of expulsions of many from educational think tanks and jobs simply because of their sexual orientation and a review of court cases against homosexuals in prison for the offence of Dangerous Levels. It is also known that it is common practice to arrest and fine the gay community across the country.

Another of claims that will make these young people in the Ministry of Justice is to ask for the improvement of the appalling conditions for patients who survive HIV AIDS and prisoners with the disease concentrated in four prisons throughout the country.

Moreover, they want to draw attention to the political prisoner Jordanys Tamayo Aldama jailed in the Kilo 7 prison in Camagüey for upholding the right to freedom of association in public spaces.

Tamayo Aldama, is serving a sentence of seven years' imprisonment for the crime of contempt towards the figure of Fidel Castro, because he dared to say publicly that the dictator is homophobic.  The latest information on this political prisoner is that he is on a hunger strike.
The marchers seek to demonstrate the political character of the project of the National Center for sex education in Cuba, led by Mariela Castro.
After presenting their demands those attending the march planned to proceed to a diplomatic residence where they were to conduct a press conference followed by a musical concert.  All of this is on hold due to their arrest this A.M.

Other Miami organizations, including those of Cuban exiles are also supporting the gay community on the island.

Organizations defending the rights of homosexuals and transsexuals are common in many countries around the world, like the celebration of festivals and parades of "gay pride". But the Cuban government does not allow the emergence of groups or allow conducting events that are not under their control.

Cuba's Catholic Church protests support for gay rights

Associated Press

HAVANA -- Cuba's Roman Catholic Church on Tuesday protested the communist government's growing support of gay rights, including a daylong event raising awareness against homophobia and a law allowing sex-change operations.

"Respect for the homosexual person, yes," said an editorial in Palabra Nueva, the monthly magazine of the Archdiocese of Havana. "Promotion of homosexuality, no."

The editorial signed by magazine director Orlando Marquez referred to activities held May 17 by Cuba's Sex Education Center, which is directed by Mariela Castro, daughter of President Raul Castro.

The center also announced this month that the health ministry has approved a law authorizing government-paid sex changes for 28 people who have undergone extensive study after requesting the surgery.

Prejudice against homosexuals remains deeply rooted in Cuban society, as in much of Latin America. But the government has steadily moved away from the intolerance of the 1960s and 1970s, when homosexuals hid their sexuality for fear of being fired from work or even imprisoned.

Cuba's parliament also is studying proposals to give gay couples the same benefits as married couples.

Give Me A Beat Productions weekly newsletter - June 25, 2008

From George Maiko Coronado, director of marketing and business development, Give Me A Beat Productions:

OUT AND ABOUT

Tonight, Eros Productions' Nicole Duguay and Chris Rodriguez, along with South Beach party promoters Omar Gonzalez and Dustin Reffca, cordially request the honor of your presence for the grand opening of Glow Wednesdays at the ultra-sexy and buddha-decorated loft-style venue Indra Lounge, at 841 Washington Avenue. With a mantra of "a radiating paradise of black lights, wear white, and illuminate the night", the chic soiree promises plenty of entertainment throughout the night and great high-energy beats from resident DJ/Producer Oren Nizri. The opening blast will offer complimentary admission and complimentary vodka cocktails from 10 PM to midnight, as a treat to the locals. Nicole and Chris visualize their concept as a different and fresh alternative in the middle of the week, and of course, in a different, intimate and comfortable venue. For additional information, e-mail Nicole at nicole@boytoyevents.com. Miami socialites and hip locals, I know I will see you all tonight! www.indralounge.com

On Saturday, June 14, Executive Director of The Environmental Coalition of Miami Beach (ECOMB) Luiz Rodrigues and our dear friend and long-time activist Michael Gongora, directed "The Big Sweep", a beach clean-up competition designed to reduce litter along Miami-Dade's garbage-laden beaches. From 8 AM to 2 PM, hundreds of volunteers targeted the section between South Pointe and 14th Street Beach, collecting the rubbish along South Beach's most heavily populated strip. From Miami authorities such as Miami Beach Mayor Matti Bower and Commissioner Richard Steinberg to South Florida's most important community leaders and personalities including Channel 7's Craig Stevens, Mr. Alberto Gongora, PR guru Brian Guertin, Yacht Charter's Jessica Londono, celebrity photographer Dale Stine and City of Miami Building Dept. Christine Morales along with the large number of volunteers and companies involved did an amazing job cleaning an important section of our island in only a few hours. At the end of the long job at approximately 6 PM that day, Gongora told us: "It was exhausting, but very worthwhile. We were very happy with the turn-out. The beach looks spotless". With all justice, Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez and Chairman Bruno Barreiro declared June 14, 2008, as "The Big Sweep Day". Congratulations to Luis Rodriguez and Michael Gongora for continuing to raise awareness about the City's ecosystems and for all your efforts that contribute to having a better place to live for all of us. www.ecomb.org

This past Thursday, June 16, Canadian transplant promoter Dustin Reffca hosted Hot Mess at Bed Miami, with a wonderful dinner gathering which continued with a dance celebration, at the recently renovated and long-time running SoBe hotspot. From Miami celebrities to beautiful out-of-towners, the uplifting crowd grooved to the eclectic beats of experienced DJ Shannon. Among those in attendance: realtor Mark Urbina, restaurateur Flavio Nisti, photographer Dale Stine, party promoters The Penny Back Boys, Ritz Carlton's Sean Brady, Give Me A Beat's Arnold Matteson, personal shopper Lesley Hamilton, performers Adora and Ebonee Excell, MTV's Eric Vasallo and Carlos Paredes, party girl Vivi De Santos, hair stylist and make-up artist Lymari Veloz, recording artist Alan T,and personal trainer Marisol Verdugo, among others. Congrats to Dustin for the good turn-out and for his great efforts to produce different and successful ventures on our island. We know that this is just the beginning of a fun summer! www.bedmiami.com

And this upcoming Thursday, June 26 from 8PM to 11PM (before Hot Mess) clothing stores Miss Sixty, Energy and 944 Magazine present The Fall Fashion Preview at the Miss Sixty Store at 845 Lincoln Road. This high-end gathering and networking event will delight the guests in attendance with the live performances by Kon Live Records recording artist Lady Gaga and the musical talents of Miami Beach DJ Craig Demo. Also, the store will offer very special discounts throughout the evening in all their selection. Sounds like a different option to start the weekend festivities. Kindly RSVP at 305.695.990 EXT.2526 by noon June 26. For additional information, feel free to contact www.myspace.com/djcraigdemo

Talking about grand openings and fresh new upcoming venues, interior designer extraodinaire and nightlife impresario Mark Lowe of KA, party promoter Elon of KA and Christian Leonard of KA, are working hard and getting ready to launch their fantastic brand new venue, Living Room Nightclub, in Fort Lauderdale. The grand opening will take place in July 2008, (exact date to be confirmed soon) and the multi-room and futuristic concept of the club promises to take the nightlife in Broward County to the next level. Nothing will compare to the sophisticated decor, over the top entertainment and the most incredible sound system in Fort Lauderdale, and beyond. We cannot disclose more details at the moment, but get ready for the grand opening of the year, with no doubt. Meanwhile, Mark, Elon, Chris and their team are recruiting contortionists, aerialists, jugglers and acrobats, as part of the entertainment. Even though the website it's still a work in progress, feel free to visit it. It will certainly give you a clearer idea of the revolutionary concept of Living Room Nightclub. www.livingroomnightclub.com

On Tuesdays, celebrity promoters Tommy Pooch and Alan Roth of TAI Entertainment continue with their traditional weekly soiree at the quintessential Delano Hotel in South Beach. Delano Tuesdays takes place at the gorgeous pool side area (with under-water music) of the elegant and minimalist white-modern design hotel. Expect to party with some of the most powerful scenesters in Miami, beautiful models and celebrities of all sorts, as Tommy and Alan work the room, bringing together lots of eye candy and a very stylish option to spend a Tuesday night. Treat yourself and feel like royalty in the Italian-inspired outdoors decor, overlooking the ocean and inside the sultry white cabanas. This is what South Beach is here for! www.morganshotelgroup.com

On the weekends, The News at the 55th Street Station at 5582 NE 4th Court in Miami, is a great alternative off the Beach for a laid-back and unpretentious night out. Right next to the classic Soyka Restaurant, the Soyka family opened up The News lounge only a few weeks ago, and in the best tradition of the Soyka ventures, the reviews are already amazing. And, with such a delicious tapas-oriented menu, wonderful cocktails, a friendly and knowledgeable staff and a sophisticated yet very homey ambiance, how can you go wrong? It also makes a perfect place to relax, socialize and to enjoy the Miami weather, as you can hang out and mingle in this beautiful indoor-outdoor venue. You will just have a Lincoln Road deja vu, as you walk in through its courtyard filled with artsy decorations, palm trees and great energy. You bet we will be there this weekend! For additional information, visit its website www.the55thstreetstation.com

Marriott South Beach at 161 Ocean Drive has to be one of the most chic hotels in South Beach with a very exquisite Miami flavor to it. The art deco vibe of its decor along with the high-end yet inviting and comfortable ambiance of the property makes it one of the preferred places to stay and enjoy the weather on the Beach. Not only that, but have you heard about the Deco Blue Terrace restaurant and outdoor lounge? Overlooking the beautiful pool area and only a few yards away from the ocean, the Terrace is a fantastic place for frozen drinks in the afternoon, for a casual dinning experience throughout the day and even brunch on the weekends. A venue that offers personalized service for locals and visitors alike, it's just perfect as a different hang-out place to experience in the South of Fifth area, especially during the upcoming summer season. For more information, click on www.marriottsouthbeach.com

On Saturdays, Opium Group's Mansion and Michael Capponi present their weekly dance party at the 2,500-people South Beach megaclub that is by far, the largest dance club on our island. If you didn't know, this SoBe institution has 2 levels, 4 rooms, 5 dance floors and 5 fairly big bars. If dancing is what you crave, this state-of-the-art complex offers an amazing lighting and sound system as well as a steady stream of performers and DJs weekly. Everyone from Jay-Z to former President Bill Clinton has walked through Mansion's doors and graced VIP. The lines to get in to Mansion can be ridiculous, so our biggest recommendation is to get there early! Or get hooked up by a friend who knows people; otherwise the wait can be tedious. Nothing is easy in paradise, you may think! Worth the wait? You let us know. www.theopiumgroup.com

When it comes to a combination of magnificent Italian dining and glamour, Ago Restaurant South Beach, at the Shore Club Hotel at 1901 Collins Avenue, is a favorite hotspot for celebrities from all over the world. Partially owned by Robert DeNiro and chef Agostino Sciandri (hence the name), Ago exudes not only maturity and elegance but also laid back refinement. The Tuscan-style indoor-outdoor eatery presents simple yet exquisite fare that includes entrees such as homemade ravioli and the signature bistecca alla Fiorentina - often served family style - for an authentic Italian experience. The breathtaking pool and ocean views area is perfect for lunch meetings and even for after beach drinks. Also, Ago is well known for its enticing Italian continental breakfast and its breakfast buffet over the weekends. Trendy and casual by day, sophisticated by night, Ago is a true South Beach star. www.agorestaurant.com

If in the mood for French cuisine, A La Folie Cafe at 516 Espanola Way provides a window to Europe. Nestled at the end of the historic South Beach street, its dark wooden motif, wrought-iron chairs and wooden tables, remind you of Paris's so-called "brown bars". Looking at the menu, enjoying the candles, lamps and lush shrubbery and watching the whole scenery almost transports you to the old continent. Of course, a delicious menu filled with affordable and traditional French dishes help to keep devoted patrons coming back for more than just the ambiance. Serving dessert crepes with fresh fruit, ice cream and chocolate, A La Folie is the place to forget the diet. A perfect setting for a romantic dinner, a first date, an anniversary or even a group gathering. There is no better refuge from Miami's restaurants fast pace than this charming hidden gem. www.alafoliecafe.com

Even though this past weekend seemed a little slow on the beach, a bunch of politicians were in town working and playing in the tropical weather of South Florida. For instance, the buzz is out that Miami Mayor Manny Diaz had dinner with Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa at the trendy downtown Miami steakhouse Prime Blue Grille last Friday, June 20. On that same evening, Halo Lounge owner Babak Movahedi told us that he had a visit from his friend and Washington DC Mayor Adrian Fenty at his Michigan Avenue branch. We also learned from Miami Herald's columnist Lesley Abravanel that very early the next morning on Saturday, Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama worked out at Equinox South Beach in plain clothes and followed by some secret service men. So in spite of the slow weekend, we got some important personalities to hang out in some of the usual spots in our backyard.

NYC based artist and journalist Samara Riviera launched only a few weeks ago, the premiere resource for insight into the transgender and transsexual community, her entertainment and very informative web site VivaLaRiviera.com. As the press release stated, the nationally renowned journalist and writer expressed: "As a transgender person, it was easy to identify the need for more resources for our community, but also to build awareness of those outside of it", said the classy and well-spoken personality. And she continued: "As the publisher and editor-in-chief, my first most important mission statement is to fill that void with positive images of hard-working and talented transgender individuals in the industry". I should say, Samara Riviera is a very bright, passionate and skillful professional of many talents. At launch, the site started with content from Los Angeles, New York and Miami, that includes video commentaries, event pictures, red carpet events, celebrity interviews and community involvement notes. The web site is dynamic, very user friendly and it promises to be one of Samara's most acclaimed creations. We know first hand that whenever Samara starts a project, it always becomes a resounding success. Samara, we wish you the best of the best in your new venture from Miami! To visit her web site, click on www.VivaLaRiviera.com

Tony Guerra and Joseph Boyd's latest creation, Aero Bar at 247 23rd street, reopened its doors a couple of weeks ago, and has a bunch of interesting parties scheduled for the upcoming few weeks. Imagine partying in a futuristic airport. Clean ambiance, a contemporary vibe and a more laid-back crowd with still a South Beach flavor. No creepy lurkers or too-drunk couples hanging out in the corner because curved walls mean no corners. Less attitude than the usual, stiff drinks, exceptional sound system and eclectic partygoers. Mokai doesn't own this not-so-south South Beach neighborhood anymore. Try Aero Bar. Ready to take off? www.aerobarmiami.com

BEST BETS

This Friday June 27, join the Miami Beach Latin Chamber of Commerce for a Business Networking Reception at the beautiful Marriott South Beach, at 161 Ocean Drive. This high-end networking event will take place from 6 PM to 9 PM at the hotel's breathtaking outdoor setting. Enjoy hors d'oeuvres and vodka cocktails as you mingle with important business owners and professionals of the Latin community in South Beach. Chamber members have complimentary admission, and non-members and guests pay 10 dollars to participate. RSVP is a must by June 26 at 305.674.1414. An excellent and fun way to network, increase your business and meet successful people on our island. For more information, click on www.miamibeachorg.org

The Miami Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, the largest not-for-profit corporation in the country for gay and lesbian businesses, is presenting its 7th Annual Gala Awards Dinner at the Hilton Miami at 1601 Biscayne Blvd., on Saturday, June 28. The high-end festivities will serve to honor corporate and individual hard-working leaders in our community. Tickets are on sale for $140 each which includes a cocktail reception, silent auction, cabaret and entertainment, dinner, and the valet parking. For tickets and additional information on this fantastic event, visit its web site www.gogaymiami.com

This year, the choices for a fun Independence Day will be better than ever. We have probably made our early side of the night choice, which will be the traditional City of Miami Beach Fourth Of July Celebration. This is always a unique and very touching demonstration of the American Independence. Beginning at 7:30 PM, music by DJ Irie will bring the crowd to its feet. Fireworks are scheduled to start at the beginning of nightfall. All festivities will take place on the beach at 10th Street and Ocean Drive. Hard to think of a more patriotic or more purely Miami way to celebrate and start the night! For more information, call the Miami Beach Tourism Center at 305.673.7400, or click www.aboutmiami.com

Miami Beach Bruthaz 2008 is a four-day event that constitutes one of the world's largest gatherings of African-American and Latin gay prides. This year, Miami Beach Bruthaz is scheduled to take place from July 17-20, 2008 in South Beach. The Bentley Beach boutique hotel on Ocean Drive and 1st Street and its sister venue, the Bentley Hotel on Ocean and 5th street, serve as the host hotels of this amazing weekend of networking events, workshops, fashion shows, dance parties, shopping, fine dining and celebrity appearances. For detailed information about this spectacular weekend and to book rooms and make reservations, visit the web site www.miamibeachbruthaz.com.