Friday's Photo of the Week . 14 March 2008

El Mar Drive / Lauderdale By The Sea

P H O T O / V I D E O W A L K

Anglin's Fishing Pier

13 March 2008

2008 Fridays' Photos of the Week

Marc Furth's 'Underwater Photography' exhibit at St Lawrence Gallery to benefit Epilepsy Foundation of Florida

When interested in learning more about a particular community and that which I refer to as flaneurism but others refer to as 'a flaneur' I will embark on photo/video walks. Having captured last Friday's "Jazz On The Square" at Pelican Square in Lauderdale By The Sea and wanting to learn more about El-Mar Drive I began my Thursday, 13 March 2008 'El Mar Drive' flaneurism project at the Oriana By The Sea complex, just north of Pelican Square. While I first observed during my June 2007 visit to Fort Lauderdale.

Wanting to capture Oriana's ocean view I entered the beach at the 4300 El Mar Drive entrance and 'strolled' south along the beach, through the Anglin Pier / Beach Village complex, photographing and videotaping along the way. It was when I had exited the beach to capture the construction process of the Villas By The Sea complex along El Mar Drive that Marc Furth introduced himself to me.

After mentioning that as a tourist from WDC I was in the process of a photowalk through Lauderdale By The Sea, Mr. Furth informed me that not only was he a former Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Town Commissioner and that he and his wife, Cristie, own and operate the Blue Seas Courtyard seaside inn which was just yards from where we were standing ... but that as an underwater photographer the Town of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea had proclaimed him as "Town Marine Photographer Laureate".

Continuing our walk south along El Mar Drive, in the direction of Blue Seas Courtyard, he invited me to the Friday, 14 March 2008 (6 - 9 pm) 'Wine & Cheese' Opening Reception of the Marc Furth Underwater Photography Exhibit at the St. Lawrence Gallery.

Stunning underwater photography depicting local and international seascapes, on display through 10 April 2008, Marc Furth and the St. Lawrence Gallery will donate a portion of the sales to benefit the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida.

Come out and support a good cause while enjoying some beautiful work. There is a raffle and no door charge. Marc Furth will be there to share his passion and sign prints.

The St. Lawrence Gallery is located at 3556 N Ocean Boulevard in the Galt Mile Community of Fort Lauderdale. Telephone at 954.566.8011.

Like I said, it has been through my flaneurism projects that I not only explore communities but also meet interesting people.

Unfortunately, for me, a 50 something black male ... and as I mentioned to Mr. Furth and the ladies at the Kilwin's Chocolate & Ice Cream in the Village ... my photo walks and travels throughout the world are always tainted by the racism that I experience.

Josh Wood Productions & St. Ann's Warehouse 'IRAQ WAR' 5th Anniversary Benefit Concert SOLD OUT!

Josh Wood Productions 14 - 16 March Weekend: Joe Hickerson at Star Lounge / Chelsea Hotel & Lina at Socialista / Riverview Hotel

Rick Bauer Band performs at Jazz On The Square at Pelican Square / Lauderdale By The Sea

I believe it was a few weeks before Memorial Day Weekend last year that a friend who lives in Lauderdale By The Sea suggested that during my next visit to Fort Lauderdale I should check out the Friday evening Jazz On the Square at Pelican Square.

Though I missed the Friday evening Jazz On the Square at Pelican Square during my Memorial Day 2007 and November 2007 visits when joining two friends from New York during their 6 - 10 March weekend trip to Fort Lauderdale I made sure to stop in at the Jazz On The Square.

As I entered The Village along Commercial Boulevard from Ocean Boulevard a soulful rendition of "Sittin on the Dock of the Bay" reverberated through the Square as folks danced in the street and meandered about the Village to the sounds of the Rick Bauer Band.

Bruce Springsteen's "Everybody's Got a Hungry Heart", Johnny Cash's "Love Is a Burnin' Thing", Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet's "Old Town Rock and Roll" and Stephen Still's "Love The One You're With" followed before the band took a break.

At which time I headed back to the apartment on Ocean Boulevard to join friends for dinner which our guests from NYC had prepared.

May I suggest that if you are ever in the Lauderdale By The Sea area on a Friday evening that you check out Jazz On The Square at Pelican Square which, just yards from the Anglin Pier and beach, takes place from 6 until 10 pm on the streets just outside of The Village Grille and Village Pump at El Mar Drive and Commercial Boulevard.

And should you ever get the opportunity to catch the Rick Bauer Band, by all means do so.

To order cds or learn more about the Rick Bauer Band, visit their website or myspace.

In addition to founder Rick Bauer, drummer Rich Pistocchi and bassist Rick Bauer (known to all as Pops), a power trio that has garnished local an international acclaim as one of the most ecclectic and capable three pieces anywhere, on this particularly evening, the Rick Bauer Band also featured Richard Malfitano or "Malfie" on sax.

Here is video clip #2/5, from the event, of the Rick Bauer Band performing Bruce Springsteen's "Everybody's Got A Hungry Heart". Other clips and a compilation will be uploaded along with more photos once I get back to DC.

Friday's Photo of the Week . 07 March 2008

Demolition / Excavation . Waterfront Mall . SW WDC . 5 March 2008

Happy 46th Birthday, Leander

Today represents my nephew, Leander's, 46th birthday who was born on 6 March 1962. While in Fort Lauderdale I picked up a carrott cake from Publix at Sea Ranch Village. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, LEANDER.

SPOTLIGHT ON DJ, Producer, Remixer Tom Colontonio

In the launching of his new VANDIT Digital label, one of the artists that Paul van Dyk features in the VANDIT Newsletter dated Friday, 29 February 2008 is DJ Tom Colontonio, aka DJ Tommy Boy.

"After releasing his first commercial productions only 3 short years ago, Tom has entered the elite group of producers being acknowledged by the most acclaimed DJ’s and labels in the world. Each new release has consistently found its way to the playlists and charts of the best of the best – the type of recognition that speaks to both the quality and significance of his work."

After listening to Colontonio's "Looking Glass", "Bridge the Gap" and "Inspiration" I know exactly why Armin Van Buuren proclaims Tom as "... the man of the moment." and why John O'Callaghan regards Tom as "... one of the leading new artists in trance."

And why Paul van Dyk and staff has selected Colontonio as one of the featured artists of VANDIT DIGITAL.

Tom's websites are at tomcolontonio.com and myspace.com/djtommyboy.

And here is his discography.

Friday's Photo of the Week . 29 Feb 08

Collins Avenue . South Beach Miami, FL

Sunday Photo Walk, 4 March 2007

2008 Fridays' Photos of the Week

Food & Friends' 20th Dining Out Night - Thursday, 6 March 2008

There's only 1 week feft to make your reservations for Food & Friends' 20th Dining Out for Life.

Simply by dining at one of the more than 150 participating restaurants, YOU can make a critical difference in the life of someone facing HIV/AIDS, cancer or another life-challenging illness.

During Dining Out for Life, 25 to 100% of your bill will be donated to Food & Friends. View Our Full List of Participating Restaurants. The funds raised will provide home-delivered meals and nutrition services to the more than 2,800 men, women and children whom Food & Friends will serve this year alone.

And, as a special treat, stop in at the Dining Out for Life After-Party at Cobalt (17th & R NW) for an after dinner drink and celebrate all you've done to make Dining Out for Life 2008 a huge success for our clients. All Are Welcome!

Winter Party Festival kicks off tonight!

The 2008 Winter Party Festival gets under way tonight in Miami with our official welcome reception, Departure Lounge, presented by Showtime Networks. Held at our host hotel, the beautiful Doubletree Surfcomber at 1717 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach, the event features cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, prizes and a showcase of some of the most dynamic organizations serving the local community.

The reception kicks off six days of events, ranging from the most incredible dance lineups of any annual event in the world to art exhibits and gatherings geared toward LGBT youth, families and the transgender members of our community.

Go to www.winterparty.com for full details, including a schedule and how to purchase tickets and passes.

Here are Elvert Barnes' 2007 Winter Parry Festival photo collections and 2005 Manhunt Pool Party photo set at FLICKR.

End the Israeli Occcupation of Palestine Rally/ WDC . 10 June 2007

EndIsraeliOccupation.USC.WDC.10jun07
Video sent by ElvertBarnes

This video compilation includes 3 clips shot during the 10 June 2007 "End the Israeli Occupation of Palestine Rally" on the West Lawn of the US Capitol Grounds in Washington DC.

Though there were many speakers, I was only able to capture Ambassador Ed Peck (Former Chairman, Council for the National Interest Foundation), Andy Shallal of Iraqi Voices for Peace and George Friday (National Co-Chair of United for Peace and Justice).

Since on that particular day I also reported on the 2007 Capital Pride Festival I was not able to document much of the 'End the Israeli Occupation of Palestine' Rally which after assembling at the US Capitol's West Lawn then marched from the US Captiol grounds to the Washington Monument Grounds on the National Mall in WDC.

Elvert Xavier Barnes Videography

The 'Meatpacking District' Diner / NYC

I first ate at the diner at the 'triangle' intersection of 9th Avenue, Hudson and West 14th Street during the summer of 1980 when during a weekend trip to NYC that I visited Frank at an apartment that he shared with one or two other guys in the yellow brick apartment building located at the corner of Christopher and Hudson Street in The Village.

At the time, if my memory serves me correctly, the Hellfire was one of the 'sex clubs' located in the triangular building at the intersection just across the street from the diner. There always seemed to be at least two different clubs located in the building.

The back entrance which led down into a dungeon attracted more of a straight crowd. While the back room bar at the street level was strictly for gay men. Over the years, the names of the clubs would come and go. In 2004, after a few months of closure, the Hellfire Club would re-incarnated as the Fetish Warehouse in Brooklyn, which a year or so ago would go on hiatus.

So, sometimes after a weekend of partying and bar hopping at the many different gay clubs in the West Village / Chelsea area including the Mineshaft ... it was on our way home to the studio that we shared on West 21st Street in Chelsea that Frank, I and whoever he may have collected along the way ... would stop in at the diner at the corner of 9th Avenue and West 14th Street.

While the food was relatively cheap, it was not all that impressive. After my September 1980 move NYC and with the sharing of the 319 West 21st Street aaprtment we found much better eateries on 8th and 9th Avenues in the Chelsea area. In particular, the greek diner, which still remains at the corner of 9th Avenue and West 23rd Street.

And then, too, it was just a few weeks after my September 1980 move to NYC that the Saint opened.

Which, therefore, and for the most part our 'weekends of partying' took place at the lower east side on Saint Marks Place. Where after partying and dancing at the Saint followed by a visit to Saint Marks Bath House (now Saint Maraks Hotel) we sometimes stopped in at a diner on the Lower East Side / Bowery area.

When in NYC for the 2006 Black Party that I embarked on a Saturday evening photo walk I observed that the old diner at the corner of West 14th and 9th Avenue had gone more 'upscale'.

Though I did not stop in since I had already dined at the greek diner on 9th Avenue and West 23rd ... when taking a series of photos of what is now "The Meatpacking District Diner" I remembered the first time that Frank, in the summer of 1980, introduced me to the diner.

It was also the first time that I would become acquainted with the 'sex clubs' located in the triangle building at the intersection of West 14th, Hudson and 9th Avenue. It would became an area that, over the years, I would become very familiar with.

According to a PDF press release dated 14 October 2005, accouncing its opening "The Diner ... is a hip New York diner serving American, comfort food."

A September 2005 JoonBug Productions blog posting reports that "Along with seasoned restaurateurs Sergio & Mario Riva (Candela) and Marc Packer (Tao, Rue 57, Bolzano), and some of NYC’s biggest nightlife moguls, the Diner will bring modern interpretations of 30’s & 40’s American diner food like southern fried chicken, blackened catfish, and macaroni & cheese with or without chorizo – 24 hours a day, and at reasonable prices."

And here are some mostly favoritable reviews at Yelp.

Located at 44 9th Avenue at the corner of West 14th and Hudson, the next time that I visit NYC I'll make a point to stop in at The (Meatpacking District) Diner. Perhaps, for a spiritual reconnection with Frank who passed in May 1989.

Click the above image to view my Meatpacking District / NYC and March 2006 NYC photo sets.

My Election 2000 protest image featured on political book cover

It was in the spring or early summer of 2001 that I received an email from Ronald Hayduck requesting permission to use my December 2000 All We Are Saying Election 2000 Disenfranchised Protest photo as one of the images for the cover of an upcoming book that focused on the issues of the 2000 election.

Though I have sometimes wondered if I'd ever come across the result, when googling for Elvert Barnes, tonight, I came across a link to Democracy's Moment: Reforming the American Political System for the 21st Century By Ronald Hayduck, Kevin Mattson.

And, viola, there was my image featured amongst others on the front cover.

Thanks Ronald Hayduck and Kevin Mattson.

See the image, also, on my November 2004 Election webpage "Is History Repeatin' Itself?".

White Crane Editors' GAY WISDOM for Daily Living 22 February Tribute to Andy Warhol

In White Crane's GAY WISDOM for Daily Living posting for Friday, 22 February 2008 we are reminded that it was on this day in 1987 that Andy Warhol died at 6:32 am in NYC.

Read the complete 22 February 2008 THIS DAY IN GAY HISTORY at the White Crane's Gay Wisdom Yahoo Group.

After taking a quick glance at the daily messages you, too, may wish to join.

Click image of Andy Warhol's "Details of Renaissance Paintings; (Paolo Uccello, St. George and the Dragon)" to view other works by Warhol in the collection of Elvert Barnes.

Friday's Photo of the Week . 22 February 2008

PHOTOGRAPHS NEVER BEFORE SEEN

Alistair Millar . Washington Director of the Fourth Freedom

NATO's 50th Anniversary Washington Summit

De-Nuke NATO Rally & Protest Against NATO's Bombing of Yugoslavia

GW Monument Grounds . NW WDC . 23 April 1999

2008 Fridays' Photos of the Week

Larry Tee's Dizzy / Brooklyn NYC . Saturday, 23 February

Larry Tee's Dizzy!
Brooklyn's Most OUTrageously Fun Party!

Saturday, 23 February 2008
Alberto Cortes Video Art Show & B-Day Bash

Guest Performer: Geo Vaughn
Resident DJs/Hosts: Larry Tee & Kevin Graves
Curated by: Earl DaxDoor girl: Jordan Foxx

RVSP @ http://myspace.com/dizzynyc
Galapagos Art Space in Williamsburg

Here is NANYA BIDNESS video AT LAST WEEK'S DIZZY

Here's Larry Tee's Dizzy / Weimar NY Performance at Galapagos, Brooklyn.

Today is the 43rd anniversary of Malcolm X's assassination

Today, 21 February 2008, marks the 43rd anniversary of the assassination of Malcolm X. By clicking images and some highlighted text at 40 Years Ago Today (2005) Tribute to Malcolm X you can access various Malcolm X. projects.

Though I had contemplated releasing TODAY a photo / video montage of images and footage that I shot over the 2008 Presidents Weekend in WDC that would be sampled with several of Malcolm X's speeches, in particular "Field Negro vs House Negro" I decided that the "Field Negro / House Negro" projections project would be better suited for Malcolm X Day, 19 May 2008.

Recognize.HipHop.Graffiti.NPG.DWRC.WDC.16feb08

Recognize.HipHop.Graffiti.NPG.DWRC.WDC.16feb08
Video sent by ElvertBarnes

RECOGNIZE! Hip Hop and Contemporary Portraiture . www.npg.si.edu/exhibit/curex1.htm#hiphop . National Portrait Gallery . Smithsonian Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art & Portraiture . 9th & G Streets, NW, WDC . Saturday afternoon, 16 February 2008.

Elvert Xavier Barnes Videography

Winter Party Festival's 3rd Annual South Florida LGBT Family Pride Picnic

On Sunday, 24 February 2008, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and South Florida Family Pride invite parents, kids and their friends to the 3rd Annual LGBT Family Picnic at Hollywood's T-Y Park ... for an afternoon of food, games, face painting and more.

For more details on these events or the entire Festival line-up, please visit www.winterparty.

Click the above photo to view my 2007 South Florida Family Pride Picnic at TY Park photoset and 2007 Winter Party Festival collection.

Winter Party Festival Gold Passes Will Sell Out Soon!

LESS THAN 75 GOLD PASSES LEFT!

The most economical way to enjoy the Winter Party Festival line-up is with one of our multi-event passes, which can save you anywhere from $45 to more than $400. Our Gold Pass, which includes entry into six of our spectacular dance events, is selling fast. With less than 75 still available for sale, the Gold Pass will certainly sell out before the Welcome Center opens next Wednesday. If you're planning to go for the Gold, don't wait any longer to buy your pass: go to www.winterparty.com now! You should also consider our Platinum Pass for only $90 more, you receive entry into nine dance events!

Click the above image to view my 2007 Beach Party flickr set and 2007 Winter Party Festival flickr collection.

Glass 3 - Artist Receptions - Shops at Georgetown Park - Thursday, 21 February

An international studio glass exhibit featuring extraordinary glass artists from Toledo, OH (Home of the US Studio Glass Movement), Washington, DC and Sunderland, UK (Washington, DC Sister City) GLASS 3 will open to the public on Thursday, February 21, 2008 at the Shops at Georgetown Park at 3222 M Street, NW.

Through 9 March 2008, the exhibit will feature vibrant glasswork, glass blown sculptures, as well as narrative glasswork through etching, writing, and video projection.

Opening receptions will take place on Thursday, 21 February 2008, from 11 am until 1 pm and from 6 - 8 pm.

Admission to GLASS 3 is free. Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday, 12 pm to 8 pm, and Sunday, 12 pm to 6 pm.

Arts District Hyattsville's "Adams" rowhouse awarded 'Best Townhouse' in nation by NAHB

The Adams model rowhome at Arts District Hyattsville was just awarded the Best Townhome in the nation by the National Association of Home Builders' Sales and Marketing Council. This home is very similar to the Decatur model at Capitol Quarter.

The 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home was selected for its open layout, smart use of space, and unique design features, such as a lower level den and loft with rooftop terrace.

Prisons Foundation receives major grant from DC Government for mentoring of inprisoned artists

The Prisons Foundation is pleased to announce that they have received a grant from the DC Government to conduct a series of workshops for men and women who would like to work in correctional facilities, either as volunteers or paid staff.

As a result of the grant, you can become a mentor to imprisoned artists. Work either as a volunteer or paid staff member in a jail or prison.

Attend one of the upcoming one-day workshops to learn what it takes to work in a jail or prison to foster artistic development among inmates. You'll receive valuable training from experienced and effective correctional officials while also benefiting from the insights and knowledge of ex-prisoner artists who will be additional workshop leaders. They will all share their experiences with you in a relaxed and fun setting at the Prison Art Gallery in downtown Washington, DC. Everything you need for a productive and nourishing day will be provided.

This is a rare opportunity to make contacts and obtain important information. And it's absolutely free!

Whether you're looking for a one afternoon per month volunteer opportunity or a full-time paid career position, you will find these workshops a great door opener. Meet the people who make hiring decisions while finding out what it takes to be effective in the challenging setting of a jail or prison.

Please call 202-393-1511 or email at staff@PrisonsFoundation.org for more information. They are now setting up a schedule of workshops to accommodate everyone who may be interested. They would like to know what days and times would work best for you.

The Saint's 2008 BLACK PARTY - Save $15 thru 18 February

Special Presidents' Day Weekend Offer

Save $15 Online thru 2/18/08 Only

The ultimate fetish fag blowout - TimeOut NewYork

RITES XXIX: THE 2008 BLACK PARTY®
Roseland Ballroom - New York City
10 PM Saturday, 29 March until Sunday Afternoon

Music: STEPHAN GRONDIN (Montreal) & JONATHAN PETERS (NYC)

Encore: JOE GAUTHREAUX (NYC)

Balcony: DJS RICH KING and GUSTAVO (Snaxx)

FEATURING STRANGE LIVE ACTS

DRESS: HEAVY

USE PROMO CODE: PRES

CALOR's Presidents' Weekend Sunday Events

On Sunday, 17 February 2008, Bahia Productions / CALOR will host 2 events in celebration of Presidents Weekend.

The first, a 6 - 10 pm tea dance, so to speak, will be hosted at Halo at 1435 P Street, NW. 2 for 1 drinks.

And then, from 10 pm until 6 am, Bahia Productions Presents will host CALOR: Presidents' Day 2008 music by DJ Chad Jack, as DJ Chad Jack, one of NYC's star DJs, returns to CALOR to bring some warmth back to February - at the city's most classic and personal venue, Club Five.

Presidents' Weekend 2008 / Delirium Sundays at Pasha

In celebration of Presidents Weekend 2008 Bill Alldredge of Atmos Events will host 2 parties on Sunday evening, 17 February at Delirium Sundays / Pasha.

Presented by LOVE Benefit Committee, CAMP Rehoboth, Atmos Events, Gayzillion.com and Rehobus.com the first event, from 5 until 9 pm, as the one and only official Beach House Rush & Reunion for 2008 will features features great music, happy hour throughout the party and great prizes from both Rehoboth and Washington, DC merchants for lucky prize winners.

Special guests include the Rehobus models and sexy "Atmos Boys" cocktail servers. But the stars of the event are the attendees who get to mix and mingle and make plans for this summer at the beach!

Whether you are looking for a house to rent for the summer, have a beach house for rent for the summer, or are looking to fill the shares in your house with guys there to find a beach house share, this is the time and place to get things started!

Immediately following the BHR&R, the venue hosts their regular holiday weekend dance event. For President's Day Sunday night the "Circuitry" party is a Cherry Weekend preview party featuring sexy male dancer, cocktail servers, and the Sunday night dance space featuring DJ Josh Gram at the turntables! Make a fun night of it all in one great space!

Friday's Photo of the Week . 15 February 2008

Peacocks and Peonies I & 2 . John LaFarge Stain Glass Windows

American Art through 1940

Smithsonian American Art Museum

Donald W. Reynolds Center

Between F and G Streets & 7th and 9th Streets, NW,

Washington DC

Sunday at the Museums, 11 February 2007

2008 Fridays' Photos of the Week

Jane Lynch, Grand Marshall at 20th AIDS Walk / Miami

Care Resource announces that the 20th Anniversary AIDS Walk Miami Grand Marshal is Jane Lynch. Star of stage and screen, Jane's film credits include Alvin and the Chipmunks, Walk Hard, Little Big Men, Another Cinderella Story, The Rocker, For Your Consideration, A Mighty Wind, Best in Show, Talledega Nights, The 40 Year old Virgin, Lemony Snickets, Surviving Eden, just to name a few.

The 20th Annual AIDS Walk Miami is scheduled for Sunday, 20 April 2008 on Miami Beach.

Dana Ellyn's Open Studio: "The Year of Presidents" - Saturday, 16 February 2008

In celebration of the 2008 Presidents Day Weekend the always provocative and evocative artist Dana Ellyn will hold an open studio featuring her current series "The Year of Presidents".

You're invited to drop by Dana Ellyn's Open Studio this Saturday, 16 February any time between noon and 6pm. Her current series, "The Year of Presidents", is well underway; her colossal new painting "A Day on the Ark" has just been completed; and her studio is adorned wall-to-wall-top-to-bottom with copious new paintings. For a preview, you can always visit http://www.danaellyn.com/. Please feel free to spread the word and bring your friends.

Dana's studio is located at 916 G Street, #304 in NW Washington DC. Telephone at 202-737-6161.

Civilian Art Projects Friday's Opening: You Won't Believe Your Eyes

The 2008 Corcoran Print Portfolio Show

You Won't Believe Your Eyes:

The 23rd Annual Printmaking Portfolio

OPENING RECEPTION
Friday, 15 February 2008 from 7 til 9 pm

Civilian Art Projects

406 7th Street, NW, 3rd Floor

Washington DC

Josh Wood's Presidents Day Weekend 2008 Events

There are two Josh Wood Productions events this Presidents Day Weekend, in NYC, that you do not want to miss.

On Friday night, 15 February 2008, DJ Corey Craig will spin from 10 pm until 4am at Josh Wood / Matt Tratner / Nick Van Bremen Fridays Under the Chelsea Hotel at Star Lounge at 222 West 23rd Street. Open V2 vodka Bar from 10pm to 11pm. Free all night.

On Sunday, 17 February 2008, Josh Wood along with GBH, Nick Van Bremen, and Darrell Elmore will host the Opening Party for his new "Sundays at Socialista".

Owned by Sting, Harvey Weinstein, the Ciprianis and the past doorman at Bunglow 8, it's "the" hot spot right now. Madonna partied there this week with Ashton and Demi. So can you. Tucked underneath the historic Riverview Hotel on Jane Street and the river, Socialista recreates the look, food and drinks of colonial Cuba.

Josh Wood, GBH, Nick Van Bremen, and Darrell Elmore, we will host drinks, dancing and dinner every Sunday from 7pm to midnight. Think the Garden of Ono or Bowery Bar with a fashionable Cuban edge. Extended hours for the opening and it's a three day weekend. Lina will spinfrom 7pm to 1am. Please arrive early.

The Socialista Cafe & Lounge at Riverview Hotel is located at 505 West Street (West Side Highway) at Jane Street and the corner of 10th Avenue.

Josh Wood Productions & St. Ann's Warehouse Present IRAQ WAR 5th Anniversary SPEAK UP Benefit Concert

On Tuesday, 18 March 2008, in commemoration of the 5th anniversary of the Iraq war Josh Wood Productions and St. Ann's Warehouse will present a BENEFIT CONCERT for Peace in Iraq and Justice at Home.

Featuring Laurie Anderson, Norah Jones, Antony, Moby, Blonde Redhead, Lou Reed, David Byrne, Damien Rice, Bill T. Jones, Scissor Sisters and more ... there will also be an exhibition of photos from “Alive Day Memories," portraits of soldiers injured in the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders.

Online tickets are available for General Admission Floor standing at $65 and Reserved VIP seating at $125.

New Yorkers have always been visionaries. SPEAK UP is a way to begin to reclaim the voice of our city as revolutionary, awake, and democratic. SPEAK UP is meant not only to encourage empathy and compassion, but also to provide New Yorkers with concrete options for action. In this benefit concert, New York musicians will be joined by speakers from the worlds of politics, media, war and social justice in a call for action. Join us for a powerful evening of music and activism on the eve of the 5th Anniversary of the War in Iraq.

The concert will began at 8pm. St Ann's Warehouse is located at 38 Water Street in Brooklyn NY. Telephone at 718.834.8794. Box Office at 718.254.8779.

Photo of John Jones by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders.

Today is 15th Annual BLACK LOVE DAY

Winter Party 2 CD sets on sale for $9.99 at Centaur Music until 15 February

Centaur's Party Groove mixes have highlighted music from the nation's biggest dance events for the past seven years. Here are a few mixes you shouldn't miss out on - now only $9.99 for these 2 CD sets.

Volume One - Dj Julian Marsh
Volume Four - Djs Tracy Young & Warren Gluck
Volume Five - Djs Manny Lehman & Lydia Prim

OFFER VALID UNTIL 15 FEB. ONLY.

This offer is valid until 11:59pm on 15 February only. No coupon code is necessary to take advantage of this offer.

View the entire Winter Party series.

Hitler's Almost Forgotten "Rhineland Bastards"

Always interested in learning more about the history of the world I take my hat off to my Flickr contact Alexander who greeted me this morning with an email who after watching a documentary on French TV last night ... inquired if I had ever heard of an author [who] wrote a book on the story never told [of] blacks inconcentration camps in Europe during the second world war.

Not having heard of the author nor the story I searched the internet before replying to Alexander. Thanking him for his 'morning greeting' which is something that I often receive from Alexander I told him that the story interested me so much that after searching the intenet, as a result of his 'morning greeting, to no avail ... that, in the next few days, I probably would make a trip to the Holocaust Museum to learn more about Hitler's black concentration camps.

After sending the first email to Alexander but wanting more info before treking off to the Holocaust Museum, and having already searched Yahoo, I entered the same info onto Google Search. And found several links pertaining to Black Holocaust Victims.

I always find Google a much better search engine than any other source, including Yahoo. Which sheds light on why Microsoft is trying to buy Yahoo.

Perhaps, what Alexander saw on Canadian French TV last night was Hitler's Forgotten Victims which, in America, is entitled "Always Remember: Black Survivors of the Holocaust" (1997).

Thanks to Alexander, I may will visit the Holocaust Museum, sometime this week, to view the Blacks During The Holocaust and other Black History Month exhibits.

And I'll keep my eyes and ears open for the Always Remember: Black Survivors of the Holocaust (1997) or any productions pertaining to the almost forgotten Rhineland Bastards.

Gay American Heroes 'National Memorial' to Unveil at the Winter Party Festival

I'm pissed that I did not read Calor's Thursday, 7 February email until this morning which informed me not only of Presidents Day Weekend events featuring DJ Chad but also of the 7 - 8 February Gay American Heroes National Memorial fundraiser event at Halo/ DC.

I would liked to have attended the 7 February Halo / DC event.

Learn more about the Gay American Heroes National Memorial by visiting sites at MySpace or FaceBook or Gay, Lesbian & Everyone Else.

If you are attending the 2008 Winter Party Festival in Miami Beach you may wish to know that there will be a 6 - 8 pm Unveiling of the Gay American Heroes National Memorial on Thursday evening, 28 February 2008 at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens at 2000 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach.

Herbert Gentry at N'Namdi Gallery / Chelsea NYC . 15 February 2008

For Immediate Release / Contact Information
Alaina Simone (alaina@grnnamdi.com)
526 W. 26th St. #316
New York, NY 10001
voice(212) 929-6645
fax (212)929-1661

The Man, The Master, The Magic”
Paintings and Drawings by Herbert Gentry (1919-2003)

New York, NY (January 24th, 2008) - G.R. N’Namdi Gallery is pleased to announce the Opening Reception for Herbert Gentry’s retrospective exhibition, entitled “The Man, The Master, The Magic” celebrating over forty years of work on February 15th, 2008 from 6 until 10 pm. This retrospective exhibition runs from 15 February thru 12 April 2008. The opening reception is sponsored by Uptown Magazine and Martell.

The paintings and drawings in this retrospective exhibition vary in size and range from 1964 until 2003. Gentry’s formation as a painter should be considered in light of the passion he brought to his identity as a painter, “A painter paints, a fighter fights, a writer writes,” he would say. Gentry painted his world on canvas, alluding to his fascination with the power of social relationships and the allure of the journey. His aesthetic speaks through decisive lines and a strong sense of composition. His canvasses are intuitively descriptive of his international experiences living in Harlem and throughout Europe. He stated: “Painting is very much about sex, it’s about love, it’s about putting things together”. The drawings featured in this exhibition, although as extemporaneous as his paintings, are more laid-back and lovely. They're filled with sinfully sinuous lines forming erotic shapes inspired by the curvaceous form of the female body.

Herbert Gentry (1919-2003) was born in Pittsburgh and raised in New York City during the Harlem Renaissance. His mother, originally from Jamaica, was a dancer and Ziegfeld Follies showgirl, fostered his artistic sensibilities by exposing him to art museums, jazz music and the theatre. ”Harlem prepared me for Paris,” Gentry confirmed when he arrived in 1946 to study painting on the G.I. Bill. Following his Service in the U.S. Army during World War II, Gentry moved to Paris, and studied at L’Academie de la Grande Chaumiere and remained there to hone his talents in a freer and more accepting racial and cultural environment.

An exhibition catalogue featuring texts and photographs of the artist and his work will be available. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11-6pm or by appointment. Please contact alaina.grnnamdi@gmail.com for additional information.

View the entire press release at my Google Documents.

Friday's Photo of the Week . 8 February 2008

10 YEARS AGO / February 1998

"From the Mouths Of" . Rami Elamine / Washington Peace Center

Don't Bomb Iraq / Speak Out Rally

Dupont Circle, NW . WDC

Saturday, 21 February 1998

2008 Friday Photos of the Week

February Second Saturday at the GallAerie: Dana Ellyn (Paintings)

As mentioned in my last weeks posting, this Saturday, 9 February 2008, Dana Ellyn will be holding a one night only solo show at The GallAerie, a small grassroots showing space in Mt. Pleasant.

Click the image to view Dana's Evite for details.

Arena Stage Temporarily Relocates to Crystal City

Last fall, Arena Stage temporarily relocated to Crystal City while its 6th Street, SW, WDC location undergoes renovation. Future plans also include stage performances at the Lincoln Theater on U Street in NW WDC.

Arena Stage renovated the Crystal City theater specifically to accommodate patrons and productions for the next two and a half seasons while Arena’s new home is being built. The theater itself is roughly the same size as the Kreeger, though the lobby is larger than the former space.

Productions began in Crystal City with Ella starting on December 28, 2007 with no anticipation of changing any existing performance dates for the rest of the 2007/2008 season except for The Mystery of Irma Vep which will now run from June 6, 2008 through July 13, 2008. Production dates for Kiki & Herb: Alive on Broadway may also change, but you will be kept informed. In the interim, please see the "Plan Your Visit" section of the website for Frequently Asked Questions, directions and other relevant information.

Situated in the heart of Crystal City, Arena Stage is NOW temporarily located at 1800 S. Bell Street in Crystal City / Arlington VA.

Julio's Barber Shop / Crystal City Mall

After my 5 February 2008 visit at the Crystal Flight Artists Studio Viewing Window I stopped in at Julio's Barber Shop, which is just a few feet away, for a much needed haircut.

At $13 (not including tip) and such quick, efficient and polite service ... may I suggest that if you are in the Crystal City area and are in need of a trim ... why not take a stroll over to the Shops At Century / 2461 S. Clark Street Building to get a peek at the Crystal Flight artists in action. And then stop in at Julio's Barber Shop.

Yes We Can Can

Upon receiving an email from my friend Billy Warhol linking to the Yes We Can - Obama video ... would it not be an excellent idea if a similar video was made using the Pointer Sisters' "Yes We Can Can".

Colin Powell's Fateful Lies ... 5 Years Later

Five years ago, the final path to war in Iraq was paved with lies from then-Secretary of State Colin Powell. This excerpt from Neck Deep examines the oratorical techniques that Powell used to sell his false United Nations testimony as truth.

My Crystal Flight / Artists Studio Viewing Window Photos & Video

Here are my 5 February 2008 photos and video compilation from yesterday's visit to the Crystal Flight Artists Viewing Window in Crystal City.

Unite: SLDN's 16th National Lobby Days & Gala

With your help, SLDN will hold 2 Lobby Days and a Rally on Capitol Hill, on Thursday & Friday, 6 - 7 March 2008 to draw attention to the urgent need to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell."

Register today!

If you can't join SDLN for Lobby Days, be a part of the high-impact Friday, 7 March 12:30 - 1:30 pm Rally on the US Capitol's West Lawn to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell!" ... when energizing speakers with advocates from around the country call on Congress to lift the ban. Take an hour out of your day to add your voice to this high-visibility event.

And then on Saturday evening, 8 March, Unite: SLDN's 16th National Dinner & Silent Auction will be held at the National Building Museum featuring guest speaker Tipper Gore and Army Sergeant Darren Manzella.

RSVP NOW!

Crystal City BID Launches Crystal Flight with A Colorful Opening Party

On Jan. 29. Sponsors, artists, and other VIP guests attended the artful event receiving a sneak peek of the planes, before the artists inject their color and vibrant designs starting February 1. The artist will work through the winter in time for them landing on the streets in April.

Lowe Enterprises Real Estate Group generously provided the workshop space to store and decorate the planes, Miller and Long donated the concrete bases to have them installed on the streets, and JK Moving and Storage, Inc. provided the critical technical support for the handling of the planes and will put them on the streets in April. For a list of participating sponsors and artists click here.

50 planes, 50 artists, 50 sponsors - all symbolizing that Crystal City is truly taking off.

Crystal Flight – See the Planes, See the Progress – Online or Live! Keep up with the excitement around this project by visiting the Crystal Flight Blog, which will regularly capture the activity from the sponsors, artists and the community impact. You can also view the artists in action via a studio viewing area located at 2461 S. Clark Street.

Click image to view Crystal City BID's article in the February 2008 Spotlight Crystal E-Newsletter pertaining to Crystal City Flight.

3 Weeks Until the 2008 Winter Party Festival / South Beach

There are just 3 weeks left before the 2008 Winter Party Festival at South Beach.

Launched in 1994 as a one-time charity dance event on the sands of beautiful South Beach, Winter Party Festival has evolved into a six-day festival benefiting the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community on the national and local levels. Over 10,000 guests from all over the United States and abroad attend at least one of the 20 events - including music, fashion, art, comedy and more -- that take place in Miami and Miami Beach.

The Festival climaxes with the Winter Party Beach Party, a dance event on the sands of South Beach that draws a crowd of more than 5,500 revelers. The 15th Annual Beach Party will be the centerpiece of the 2008 Winter Party Festival.This fabulous celebration, benefitting the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, is also an important fundraiser for the LGBT community. To date, the Festival and its sister event, the Miami Recognition Dinner, have raised over $1.6 million for organizations serving the South Florida LGBT community. No matter where your interests lie, the Festival offers something for you. Winter Party Festival - it's MUCH more than a day at the beach.

Opening on Saturday, 23 February, here is the schedule for the 2008 Winter Party Festival. Which will close on Monday, 3 March.

Click the above image of Steve Lee dancing with a friend at the 2007 Beach Party to view my 2007 Winter Party Festival flickr photo collection.

Keith Boykin launches The Daily Voice - Black America's Daily News Source

Today, Monday 4 February 2008, marks an important day in the history of the black press as Keith Boykin launches The Daily Voice newspaper.

In its debut issue, prominent black women take center stage.

Boykin says in his final blog posting "The Daily Voice is not a gay site. Or a straight site. But rather it's a place for all of us to come together in the African American community. Whether you're male or female, gay or straight, young or old, Republican or Democrat, we want to hear your voices. I see this as a space where Rev. Jesse Jackson may contribute one day and then Clarence Thomas the next. (And you all know what I think about Clarence Thomas.)".

Hallelujah! This, indeed, is a most important day in the history of black press.

DJ's picked for 2008 Heritage Pride 22nd Dance On The Pier

In the Thursday 31 January 2008 Weekly Newsletter Mark Nelson Events informs us that under the banner/theme of "Live Love Be" the NYC Heritage Pride organization has selected djs Joe Gauthreaux & Tracy Young for the 22nd Annual Dance On The Pier which will take place on Sunday, 29 June 2008, from 4 - 10:30 PM.

Though the website is currently under reconstruction NYC's 2008 Pride Week is 22 - 29 June.

I, particularly, like the NYC Heritage Pride 2008 "Live/Love/Be" artwork. I wonder who the artist(s) was/were who designed it. I always like to keep up on these kind of things.

Mark Nelson Events is one of two NYC gay oriented events businesses/organizations that I suggest gay event coordinators keep abreast of.

Winter Party Festival 3rd Annual South Florida LBGT Family Pride Picnic - TY Park / Hollywood FL . 24 February 2008

This year, the Winter Party Festival's 3rd Annual South Florida LGBT Family Pride Picnic will be held on Sunday 24 February 2008 at TY Park, Pavillion #8, in Hollywood FL.

The 12 noon 'til 5 pm free event for parents and kids, new friends and old, complete with food and festivities ... TopeeKeegee Yugnee (TY Park) is located at 3300 North Park Road (just off I-95 at Sheridan Street) in Hollywood FL. Here is a map.

Click the image to view my 3 March 2007 2nd Annual South Florida LGBT Family Pride Picnic at TY Park photoset (some which may be viwed at the Winter Party Festival website). And my 2007 Winter Party Festival photo collection.

WDC's St. Patrick's Day Parade - Sunday, 16 March 2008

Scheduled for a 12 noon step off at the corner Constitution Avenue and 7th Street, NW, the theme of this year's WDC St. Patrick's Day Parade which will take place on Sunday, 16 March 2008, is "A History of Strength".

With no entry fee for marching units, inquiring participates must apply by completing one of three applications, available for download from the website.

Whether submitted electronically or by regular mail, your application must be received before February 15, 2008. It is very important that your application include a brief one-paragraph description of your unit. If you are submitting a paper application, use the back of the form; if by email, include the description in the message. What you write will be announced to all who are watching the parade from the reviewing stand. If you have an email address, please include it on your application.

There are three ways to register your unit for the 2008 parade:

1. Fill out the online registration form

2. Download and follow instructions on this pdf form (Acrobat reader required)

3. Download and follow instructions on this Microsoft Word® form (Allows for emailing filled-out application)

Please review the Parade Policies and Rules. Violation of these policies will result in immediate ejection from the parade.

Click the above image to view my WDC 11 March 2007 St. Patrick's Day Parade photo set, which is still under construction.