Rock 'n' Relief

The truly dedicated know that music is more than a means to good times and a little escapism -- at its best, it can be a powerful unifying force and a conduit for a community's conscience. This past spring, the local music scene came together to raise money and awareness in the wake of the South Asian tsunami; now it's doing so again for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Special thanks go out to the musicians and organizers of the following benefit events.These guys let us show our support and have a good time while we're at it:

Sweetleaf Syndicate, the SoSos, Teri Caitlin, Fourth Dimension, J.P. Soars and Billy Vasquez, and Joel Dasilva of the Hep Cat Boo Daddies play at 8 p.m. Friday, September 9, at the Culture Room, 3045 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale. The $10 suggested donation goes to the Red Cross Katrina Relief Fund. Call 954-564-1074.

Arsonist, Jorges, the Monday Photo, Nothing Rhymes with Orange, Brendan O'Hara and the Humble Ones, AKA, the #3 Pencils, and the Dyslexic Postcards play Miami Reaches Out at 8 p.m. Friday, September 9, at the Polish American Club & Community Center, 1250 NW 22nd Ave., Miami. A variety of food and retail vendors will be on hand. The show is free, and all proceeds and donations will go to the Red Cross. Call 305-635-2240.