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We knew something was up when the gym was
nearly empty—save for a few scattered blonds. And just where were
all the yummy cocoa bunnies? Why, primping and prepping with their
stylists—for the 2008 Latino Press Awards at the Lincoln Theatre on
Lincoln Road. Complete with paparazzi, press scrum, limos and
lights, the nominees, presenters, and performers preened on the red
carpet as the flashes popped. And can we talk about entrances?
Joan Rivers would’ve gaped at the glam gowns, leather tuxes, and
hair extensions whipped into coifs resembling cotton candy and
Christmas trees. Two police security kept the chattering hoi polloi
at bay. “We don’t got this in
Utah, Muriel.”
Meanwhile inside the theatre, the drinks flowed—as a pyramid of
crème-filled bomboloni ruined countless diets. The bell sounded;
the crowd took their seats: it was show time. And what a show it
was—a parade of the giddy and the gorgeous, the chiseled, the
nipped-and-tucked: it was
Hollywood
on the Sandbar. Hosted by the sassy Vixen and the whippet-thin and
chic Cachita, there were performances by Angelique Ali and Brazilian
songstress, Martha Luizza, as well as presenters such as Omar G,
Milancita, the Penny Back Boys,
the inimitable
Flavio, and Kid Madonny (who gave such an
emotional acceptance speech that Sally Field will never again have
to hear “YOU LIKE ME!”). Other winners included Discotekka,
Boardwalk, Robert Boo of GLCC, and Alex de Marchena for the “Thank
You For Making Us Smile” Award (which was nearly stolen by his
equally ebullient brother Daniel). As for Showgirl of the Year, the
winner was drop-dead gorgeous Erika Norell, who seems perfectly
ready to hold her own next to Candis Cayne on Dirty Sexy Money.
Think about it: the next Alexis and Krystle as played by Candis and
Erika. Ms. Norell, call your agent now!
At evening’s end, however, everyone was a winner—for as one honoree
said, it’s unity in the community that affords us strength. And as
the 2008 Latino Press Awards clearly showed, there’s room enough for
all of us to play in the industry we call night.
Best always,
Mark and Robert
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