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THE SCENE
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OMAR GONZALEZ
If you reside in Miami Beach, his name doesn’t really need much of an introduction. Whether it’s an upscale art show, a cocktail reception, a trendy fashion show or a high-energy dance party, you are sure to have experienced the creativity and the talent of Omar Gonzalez, one of the most authentic and charismatic personalities of the community today. Not for anything, Omar recently won the Latino Press Awards Promoter of the year Award, and it just seems like such nomination has only encouraged him to keep on reinventing himself and to work diligently for the South Beach community and partygoers alike. Of Cuban heritage, Omar was born in Miami, raised in Kendall and he has lived within Miami his whole life before moving to the Beach five years ago. In this relatively short period of time, the adventurous event producer has already accomplished much more than many have ever dreamed.
Early on, Gonzalez went to Sunset High School and right after graduating he started college in pursuit of a degree as a mortician. “Almost immediately after completing those courses” - the sexy looking and proud South Floridian said - “I realized that business was the way to go for me. Since then, I have actively been seeking a double major degree in International Business and Marketing at Florida International University. I should be finished by 2009. It’s been a long road, but definitely worth it”, he continued.
When asked about how the charming Gonzalez got started in the always challenging nightlife industry, he responded: “It was years ago, when South Beach was a totally different place. I worked with Michael Tronn on the very successful Sunday party Anthem at Crobar. Since then, I’ve literally covered every inch of producing, promoting, marketing and planning different events and parties, to art installations to assisting fashion shows for the Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival”. As we were chatting with Omar G (as many of us call him), we could just clearly feel the enthusiasm and dedication that he puts into his work. About his immense and natural connection with the nightlife industry, the intense and multi-lingual entertainment mogul explained: “I just love the ride that this industry has to offer. The ups and down and the constant networking with people all over the globe. This business has allowed me to meet and work in different levels with some of the world’s biggest names in music/performance entertainment. I do not think I would have been able to accomplish that as a mortician”, he added with a broad smile.
As a man in the know of the party scene and the music industry, Gonzalez also agrees that the scene has changed a whole lot since his beginnings. “In the times of Warsaw, Amnesia, Salvation and Coliseum, you could not get people to leave the party. Clubs closed at 5 AM, and everyone was there until then. I think that part of the reason is because we are no longer just party monsters that only have retail or bartending jobs. So many of us work in the medical field, as doctors, and as attorneys, bankers, brokers, accountants, business owners. I would say that the vast majority of us hold high responsibilities and positions at work, which make us go to bed early and put us in the office bright eyed in the morning”. And he continued: “So the scene has evolved and it’s just different. Less drugs, less endless nights of parties. Don’t take me wrong, we still have the appetite to have a great time and to look for excitement, it’s just different”, the well-spoken socialite added.
Community involvement is also an important part of Gonzalez’s agenda. From fundraising in political events to being involved with the GLAAD Media Awards - prestigious organization that has recently asked him to join as one of their chairman, the confident producer’s work is gaining the respect and notoriety that he deserves. Among things that Gonzalez considers that most people do not know about himself, he expressed: “I’m a very good student with a high GPA and I am also a property owner. I own rental properties throughout Florida, which is very stressful these days. I have an enormous love for animals. My mom is my number one love and really deep down inside, I am a very sweet and simple guy”.
The athletic Gonzalez uses what little spare time he has to unwind and relax: “I like to hit the gym. I am obsessed with Play Station 2, and love watching Law and Order. But if I were to pick my favorite hobby, it would have to be traveling. I have been blessed to have the opportunity to travel a lot, and have been to almost every crevasse of the earth”. About his type of friends, he says quickly: “I like people who are nice, and not shady”. And he also shared with us his interest to manage a nightclub or be a marketing director of such. “This way, I can work to my up-most capability”, he concluded.
Gonzalez has proven with his accomplishments and his well-earned reputation to have the energy, the intensity, the creativity and the passion for the nightlife industry, hence his success. He faces challenge with skill and talent, and his supporters and followers appreciate his efforts and keep growing. Gonzalez ended our lively conversation saying: “It’s hard to categorize me or label me in a way or another. I’m very autonomous and versatile. I’m constantly rolling with the punches and adapting to every situation. I’m no where near being done or reaching my goals, so I am pretty sure that there is a lot more of me to come”. Next time you see his name associated with a party, make sure to give him total support. At the end of the day, the always sharp Omar Gonzalez is working very hard for the community and to entertain us. www.oagproductions.com
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OUT AND ABOUT
Last Thursday, August 7, the airplane-looking and sophisticated Aero Bar, at 247 23rd Street in Miami Beach, was hosting the official premiere of Absolut Los Angeles, and what a great turn out it was. The two-room 5,000 square foot playground designed by Matt Peterson was filled with a mixture of elegant personalities, model types and movers and shakers who networked, danced, mixed and mingled. After the warm and personable welcome of Aero Bar’s brainchild Tony Guerra, the VIP crowd couldn’t help but have a fantastic time enjoying speciality Absolut cocktails, the vary images projected on the sleek walls, the sultry entertainment and the different vibe created by the venue’s concept. Spotted in attendance: Collins Park neighborhood activist Ray Breslan, ECOMB Chairman Michael Gongora, the always vivacious Jessica Londono and her friend Kim Castellon, Luis Morais’ operations manager Bruce Negron, celebrity photographer Dale Stine, Cameo GM Paolo Pincente, Give Me A Beat’s president Arnold Matteson, 944 Magazine’s Alan Roth, Miami Beach realtor Thereza Brunellas, property manager Hector Arencibia, personal trainer Roberto Becchi and business owner Claudia Smith among many others. As it mantra explains, Aero Bar will continue to line up special parties that will create a new recreation as it marks the beginning of a new era in nightlife in Miami. We can’t wait to come back! www.aerobarmiami.com
Talking about amazing feedback and upcoming grand openings, South Florida is all exited about the grand opening of Living Room Nightclub, the multi-room, multi-million dollar venue that will be opening its doors during this Summer season in Fort Lauderdale. We have been receiving endless e-mails requesting information and details about the venue, and as of right now, we can share with you the following: the mega-club will offer different rooms (indoors and outdoors) and different formats of music. The design is classy, sophisticated and revolutionary. One of the room is called the Opal Room, a white and clean water based mood space. Then you have Meditation, which is an industrial loft with an elevated VIP area that will be overlooking the yachts and the Intercoastal Waterway. The third indoor room, The Gate, is the main dance floor, which is darker, sexier, opulent and perfectly suited for hardcore dancing. Living Room Nightclub has pure cyber-based technology and the most impressive sound system that Fort Lauderdale has ever seen. Interior designer and nightlife impresario Mark Lowe (owner of the venue) stated in one of the latest press releases: “If I don’t blow your head off when you walk in Living Room, then I didn’t do my job”. More details yet to come..getting ready? www.livingroomnightclub.com
Last Saturday, August 9, The Setai was the in place to be, as PR guru Nick D’Annunzio celebrated his birthday, along with his loving fiancee Tara Salomon, who just recently celebrated hers at the Miami Beach landmark The Forge. As the Asian appetizers were served along with Veev cocktails, the who is who was in attendance (very Tara Ink’s style), enjoying the evening, chatting it up, zipping into the organic drinks (no hang over next morning) and enjoying the beautiful Oriental themed hotel and its outdoor courtyard. The list of well-dressed attendees included: activists Merle and Danny Weiss, party promoter Mikel Stevens, New Concept Videos owner Dan Sehres, performer Kitty Meow, party couple Michael Gongora and Jessica Londono, the always uplifting Dale Stine, entrepreneur Eugene Rodriguez, Miami Institute’s Lauren Foster, celebrities Trend Tracker and Tara Gilani, professional dancer Valentina Monaco, flight attendants Ricky Salazar and David Staiano, real state broker Liza Mercado, Majestic Properties’ Jeff Moor, Ocean Drive’s Jaqueline Powers and entertainment photographer Zoltan, among a few hundred more. Happy birthday to Nick again! After all, summer doesn’t seem that slow with so many fancy celebrations. Well, as long as you get the invite, of course. www.taraink.com
On Tuesdays and among delicious sushi rolls, generous sambatinis, the young and hip and high-energy beats, the sexy crowd works itself into a frenzy at Cosplay Tuesdays at Sushi Samba. Located on 600 Lincoln Road and with a new spin on fusion cooking, Japan meets South America in the restaurant become lounge that offers unique characters, oriental costumes and uplifting beats on its weekly soiree. As dinner time starts slowing down by midnight, eclectic partygoers take over the colorful and trendy hotspot and party until closing time (Yes, close to 5 AM) on Tuesday nights. It’s fun, unpretentious and refreshing as its menu, and definitely worth a stop by. You will feel in the middle of season on Tuesdays. www.sushisamba.com
On Thursdays, the sensational rooftop of the Gansevoort South at 2377 Collins Avenue, is the hip venue that hosts Michael Capponi’s weekly Thursday soiree that has been running for over two years now. Join the glamorous and the beautiful people as you enjoy incredible views of the ocean and great cocktails and cabanas with sophistication. The Gansevoort South is ostensibly an export from New York City, but in truth, it carries the grandiosity of a Vegas resort with a 50 foot shark tank, and the signature trappings of luxury Miami hotels like an ocean-beach front beach club and spa. The only noticeable nod to New York chic is the magnificent rooftop Plunge Lounge, which is a perfect place to start the party on Thursdays. If you didn’t know, the brand new David Barton Gym will also open its doors in this same building, and the Gansevoort promises to be one of the hottest entertainment complex in the upcoming high-season in Miami Beach. For more information on its gatherings and services, click on www.gansevoortsouth.com
Tamara, located inside the historic National Hotel on 1677 Collins Avenue, is a perfect place for any dining occasion. Whether entertaining clients for a business lunch or spending a romantic evening with a special someone, Tamara, named after Tamara de Lempicka, whose artwork appears throughout the hotel, offers breathtaking ambiance, consistent service and unforgettable food. Executive Chef Frederic Delaire prepares a tantalizing French Mediterranean bistro menu, combining the traditional french school of cuisine with contemporary international and local Floridian flavors to create a delicious and unique culinary experience. Entrees include filet de Mahi-Mahi in Provencale, grilled ribeye with green pepper corn sauce and poulet fermier roti, a double free-range chicken breast marinated in fresh thyme with pommes frites. Before or after dinner, make sure to enjoy the National’s signatures cocktails either outdoors at the poolside oasis, Zee Pool Lounge, or inside at the vintage and chic D’Lounge. To make reservations, click on www.nationalhotel.com
Since October 2005, Fratelli La Bufala, the authentic Neapolitan based restaurant has been pleasing diners with the best of what Naples has to offer in Miami’s own backyard. Located on 437 Washington Avenue, the three “La Bufala” brothers originated the concept of Fratelli La Bufala after dreams of opening an Italian restaurant. After the success of their first pizzeria in Rio De Janeiro, they returned back home and now have eateries all over Italy and other countries. The bright open South Beach location is very inviting and besides a succulent menu that features a selection of cheeses, meats and vegetables, it also offers a wonderful outdoors patio, modern art, a wood-burning oven and reasonable prices. To take a look at the menu and to make reservations, click on www.fratellilabufala.com
Marriott South Beach at 161 Ocean Drive has to be one of the most chic hotels in our island with a very exquisite Miami flavor to it. The art deco vibe of its art and decor along with the high-end yet very inviting ambiance of the property makes it one of the preferred places to stay and enjoy the weather on the Beach. Not only that, but the Deco Blue Terrace restaurant and outdoor lounge overlooks the beautiful pool area and is located 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 a very 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. For more information, click on www.marriottsouthbeach.com
On Fridays and in spite of the tough economy, you can still see the long lines of partygoers lined-up at SET Miami, at 320 Lincoln Road. The beautiful crowd seems to be always anxiously waiting to cross the velvet ropes and to party into the wee hours with the European house music beats of its resident, French transplant DJ Pedro, and guests. The decor is almost as sexy as the foreigners and the locals who have made SET literally a “set” venue on Friday nights. Filled with glamour and the anticipated South Beach drama, SET Miami serves as a perfect example of the Miami Beach and celebrity oriented hang out place, which is all about who you know and see and be seen. However once you are in, a great time is almost guaranteed! It’s all about being in the right mood for it, you may think. For more information about its upcoming events and to experience a SET night out, click on www.setmiami.com
La Piaggia, at 1000 South Point Drive in Miami Beach, it’s considered by The Sun Post as “the best beach club in Miami”. This beach haven restaurant and club overlooking the legendary Fisher Island, has quickly become a favorite of the “jet setting” crowd on our island. With its tropical essence and fantastic international, French and Mediterranean menu, La Piaggia is the ultimate escape for a picture perfect afternoon in Miami. The style is European and designed just like the resorts in the French Riviera. “Great food, full bar, a saltwater lagoon, table and chair massages and waterfront view”, is how The Sun Post describes La Piaggia, with all due justice. The highlights of the brilliant menu include fresh seafood - such as the poached salmon and French mussels served in white wine and cream sauce - along with classics like The Tartare du Gorille, a tartar steak. Miami’s elite are flocking to this secret hideaway where every member is treated like royalty. www.lapiaggiabeach.com
This Friday, August 15, join Wire Magazine’s Thomas Barker for his birthday extravaganza at one of his favorite hang out places on the beach, The Palace, on 1200 Ocean Drive. With a theme of “Pink Trash Hoe Down”, Thomas is planning a laid- back and fun celebration filled with surprises and very much his style. Festivities will start at 8 PM until Midnight. Open bar from 8 PM to 9 PM will be served, and our friend DJ Fr8-O will be providing the beats throughout the party. You bet we will be there, having a cocktail or two with our dear Thomas. After the party, get ready to shake it all night as NYC based DJ Randy Bettis will be bringing his Gay Days Tour to South Beach at Score, dance party that will feature his signature high-energy beats and some great give-aways, as a taste of what Randy will be doing next November during White Party Week. If you think there is nothing much to do this weekend, you are wrong! With birthday parties in front of the ocean, birthday cake, surprise performances, great music and Randy Bettis in South Beach, how can you go wrong? www.myspace.com/wiremagazine
And on Sunday, August 17, Omar Gonzalez and Dustin Reffca will host the birthday party of recording artist and nightlife personality Michael Mat Click. The evening will rock with the sounds of DJ George Carrasco and DJ Kidd Madonny, a special performance by Enestra, and “Dear Diary” CD give-aways all night long. Even though I am quite sure that you know Michael M, if you do not by any chance I have to tell you, he is one of the sweetest guys in the industry. He has great energy and is a lot of fun to hang out with. Definitely join Michael M on Sunday and celebrate with him at the Best Party of the Summer, as The New Times would say. See you then! www.myspace.com/therealmichaelm
If in the mood to dance into the wee hours and as the sun comes up, make plans to attend superstar Victor Calderone’s performance on Saturday, August 23. He is schedule to do his first time ever appearance at Miami megaclub Space, located at 34 NE 11 Street in downtown Miami. Victor is not the kind of artist to rest on his laurels. As a producer and a DJ, he is set apart from his contemporaries by his constant desire to push the boundaries of his ever evolving sound. We know that doors will open at 10 PM, hard to know what time they will close! Mark it in your calendar. www.clubspace.com
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BEST BETS
One of our favorite dining extravaganzas started at the beginning of this month, Miami Spice 2008! Join The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau and savors Miami’s eclectic and fine cuisine during Miami Spice, the summer mouth-watering restaurant promotion that invites you to experience South Florida’s most refined restaurants and chefs from all over the world. During the next two months, Miami’s hottest eateries offer three-course meals (Lunch 23$, Dinner 36 $) featuring exquisite dishes at really affordable prices. A real treat and opportunity for the locals during this Summer season to experience the magnificent dining spots and innumerable cuisines in Miami-Dade County. For more information about Miami Spice 2008 and the participating restaurants, visit its web site www.ilovemiamispice.com
On Saturday, September 27, Pridelines Youth Services “Welcomes to the Jungle”, and invites you to their annual dinner and dance function at Parrot Jungle Island, starting at 7 PM. The evening will feature great music, entertainment, food and friends in grand style and in the special surroundings that Parrot Jungle has to offer. If you didn’t know, Pridelines Youth Services is dedicated to educating, empowering and improving the lives of South Florida’s GLBTQ youth and their straight allies in a safe and diverse environment. For more information about the organization and to purchase tickets to the event, contact Frank Avila at frank@pridelines.org, or visit the web site www.pridelines.org
The 12th Annual Miami Recognition Dinner is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 18th at the elegant Intercontinental Hotel in downtown Miami. Presented and produced by the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force (producers of Winter Party), this dinner celebration is one of the most prestigious annual events that has as a goal to continue unifying the community and to honor its most hard-working community leaders and heroes. The fantastic evening will start with cocktails and a silent auction at 6:30 PM, immediately followed by the dinner and ceremony at 8 PM and the dance party starting at 10 PM. For detailed information regarding sponsorship opportunities, to become a host of the event and to purchase tickets, click on its web site www.miamirecognitiondinner.org
One of the largest HIV/AIDS fundraisers in the world, White Party Week Miami, is scheduled this year from November 26th through December 1st 2008. Care Resource announced the theme of “Mount Olympus” for this year’s festivities. At the moment, Florida Resident Passes are available for 150 dollars, which gets the holder admission to both the 24th Annual White Party at Villa Vizcaya on Saturday, November 29th, and Poseidon’s Muscle Beach party on Sunday, November 30th. This limited offer is available to Florida residents only with proof of residency. We will keep you updated with the entire line-up of exhilarating parties and world-renowned DJs who will be headlining the weekend. There is already some great information posted in its web site www.whiteparty.org
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THE LATEST BUZZ
BY ARNOLD MATTESON
Word is out that it will be the Grand Finale for Laundry Bar on Sunday, August 31. Not the end of the place, we are told, but closing for major renovations and a name change. Work should be done in a few weeks. The owner promises this is not the end; simply time to update with a new image and prepare for what should be a hot season. No word on whether you will still be able to do laundry while listening to some of the hottest sounds in Miami, but if you want to get one last feel of a Miami Beach institution, stop in soon before the changes are made. And this Thursday night may be just the right time, when our good friend DJ Lee Or takes over the turntables with his unique sounds starting at 9 PM.
Meanwhile, more changes in the works close by on Lincoln Road. Signs in the windows of the space that used to house Johnny Rockets promise a fall opening for Sosta Pizerria/Enoteca, an Italian fast food place. We’re told that Sosta in Italian loosely translates to “a quick stop for a bite along the way” , and that’s just what the place promises. It’s brought to you by KRM Restaurant Group. the masterminds behind both Quattro Gastronomia Italiana, the lavish and hugely successful upscale Italian eatery across Lincoln Road from the new spot, and Mokai, one of the hottest night spots on South Beach! Can’t wait for the birth of the third baby….knowing these folks, it should be a charm!
On Bay Road, Ouzo’s Mediterranean Bistro has failed to survive its move from Normandy Circle into the one time Jade and more recently Madiba space and has closed it’s doors. Construction on Bay Road certainly didn’t help the Greek eatery. On the other hand, Joe Allen’s and Sardinia on Purdy Avenue, just a stones throw away from the now vacant place seem to be thriving in spite of it all.
Fast cut to Michigan Avenue….Halo owner and Washington politico Babak Movahedi is on the fast track…literally. One of the masterminds behind the recent Generation Obama Victory Fund Benefit which brought Matt Damon and Ben Affleck along with their respective better halfs to Lincoln Road’s Set on a recent Saturday Night for a hugely successful fundraiser, Babak was off the next morning to DC to oversee the renovation of the second floor of the original Halo, which he promises will take place in just 10 days. When that’s complete, its back to Miami for a few days and then on to Denver by August 25 for the Democratic National Convention, where he plans to introduce nephew Darius Ferdows to the American political process. Makes us tired just thinking about the whirlwind month…but such is the life of a major player.
At Michael Caponni’s soiree at the Gansevoort South last Thusday we ran into Elad Zvi who was named by the “Miami Herald” last year one of Miami’s sexiest bartenders. He was plying his trade as a mixologist extraordinaire at one of the several bars set up around the pool. Elad tells us he has been spliting his time between keeping the drinks flowing at high profile events. consulting with local clubs and eateries under the moniker Bar Lab, and opening his new high end full service catering and bar service business known as Global Pairing. Talk about life in the fast lane!
Finally, if you can’t be with her on August 16, the best way to celebrate Madonna’s big 50 may be to pick up a copy of Christopher Ciccone’s tell all book “Life with My Sister Madonna”. Although some say it’s a rehash of old tales with not much new, it’s currently number 3 on The New York Times Best Seller List, definitely puts lots of info about the Material Girl between two covers, and is a quick and juicy summer read. Word is the Chris has more juicy stories to tell about celebs associated with sister Madonna…some even from SoBe…so keep your eyes and ears open.
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