This weeks column is about a very exciting event that happens only once a year, and unlike past years will benefit two of Broward Counties longest operating HIV/AIDS service organizations. Those organizations are Broward House and the Poverello Center Food Bank.
Once again the bartenders and staff at Georgie’s Alibi will take their turn in front of the mirror and don their wigs and high-heels for the Annual Miss Alibi Turnabout Pageant. This year the theme is “War of the Wigs.”
In choosing the two recipients’ organizers realized that Broward County has the dubious distinction of having the most cases of new HIV infections in the United States per year.
Broward House, one of the oldest and largest HIV organizations provides services to those living with HIV/AIDS ranging from assisted living facilities, substance abuse, outreach and education, intervention, transportation and related medical services. The organization serves more that 6,000 men, women and children through their many services.
Can this years Georgie’s Alibi bartenders look more fabulous than last year? (photo by Pompano Bill)
The Poverello Center Food Bank, founded 24 years ago by Father William “Bill” Collins, O.F.M. provides nutritional needs to men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS. 100% of all funds raised are used to purchase food for these clients. With a base of 12,000 clients the Center now provides food to prepare over 1 million meals per year.
I work for the Poverello Center and we are so appreciative of the support of Georgie’s Alibi in selecting our agency to be one of the recipients of this year’s pageant. Due to the economy, donations are down nearly 60% from last year, so this will really help out, especially with the client load at an all time high.
This year’s event is slated for Monday, June 14 with the evening kicking off at 8 p.m. with the glamorous Nikki Adams from Broward House hosting the red carpet to greet all of the arriving dignitaries.
Showtime is 9 p.m. The pageant will be hosted by Scot Newell and yours truly.
Ultimat Vodka is once again the presenting sponsor for the evening. The event has grown over the years to a point of nearly standing room only and one of the most successful fund raising events held at the popular bar.
Newell stated “The staff really get into this event and put a lot of time and money into creating not just their costumes but also the routine that they perform.”
Last years beneficiary was AIDS Healthcare Foundation (Out of the Closet Thrift Store) and monies raised went towards the purchase of a van for on the spot free HIV testing, which is used at a number of local LGBT events.
