South Florida Businesses, Individuals to be Honored at MDGLCC Annual Gala

Now celebrating its 12th year, the Miami-Dade Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (MDGLCC) Annual Gala will honor three companies and people on June 22 at the Hilton Miami Downtown Hotel.

Each year, MDGLCC honors corporate and individual leaders in the community. Among the award recipients is Kaufman, Rossin & Co., P.A., which will be presented with the AT&T "Business of the Year" award. MDGLCC President Steve Adkins said the group's community involvement was a big part of their recognition.

"Community involvement plays an integral role in Kaufman, Rossin & Co.'s culture," Adkins said in a release last month. "You'll often find members of their firm out in the community volunteering, fundraising or participating in local events."

David Bromstad will be on hand to accept his "Business Person of the Year" award. Bromstad, who won the first-ever 'Design Star' on HGTV, owns his own design firm in Miami. MDGLCC annually recognizes "an individual who embraces diversity in all forms and demonstrates savvy business acumen and leadership skills," according to their release.

The "Non-profit Organization of the Year" award will be presented to Miami-Dade County Public Schools for their outreach to the LGBT communities.

"The School Board of Miami-Dade County adheres to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment and educational programs and activities while affirmatively striving to provide equal opportunity for both teachers and students," said Adkins. Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho will accept the award on behalf of Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

Along with the awards presentation, the MDGLCC Gala will also feature New York street artist Tyler Wallach who will be creating five art pieces during the gala that will be auctioned off after the dinner.

The gala will have both a live auction and silent one, with proceeds going to MDGLCC. The silent auction will feature a trip for two to Curacao, an Adam Lambert-autographed Fender guitar, and even IKEA furniture, among other prizes.

For attendees, tickets are $200 a person or $2,000 for a table of 10. Along with the presentation and auctions, admission includes a buffet dinner, an open bar, a VIP gift bag and admission to the after party that includes a performance by drag diva Tiffany Fantasia.

Visit gaybizmiami.com for more information on how to purchase tickets.

If You Go

Who: Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
What: 12th Annual Gala and Awards Presentation
When: Saturday, June 22, 6 p.m.
Where: Hilton Miami Downtown
1601 Biscayne Blvd. Miami, FL 33132
How much: $2,000 tables of 10 | $200 individual tickets