May 7th, 2012

Posted on May 7, 2012 by Chuck

Greetings from Gita.

We hope everyone is doing well.  Another month has flown by and we’re into May already.   Hard to believe.  For the past 9 years we’ve been able to have Gita dinners 12 months a year.  This summer Juan and I are planning on doing some traveling so we will probably take a month or two off.  We’ll keep you posted.

We thank you all for your good wishes and continued support and hope to see you very soon.

GITA DINNER MEETING on Monday, May 14, 2012

The Gita Dinners for the past few months have been very well attended and we’ve had some fun.  We’re looking forward to seeing you at this month’s dinner on Monday, the 14h of May at 7 PM at Primavera Restaurant. Primavera is located at 830 E. Oakland Park Boulevard just west of Dixie and east of KMart. Cost is $20 payable at the door.  There is currently space available for this dinner. We’re now featuring “Singles” tables for those who’d like to meet new friends.  Hope to see you there.

RESERVING SEATS AT DINNER

We are now accepting reservations for parties of ANY SIZE.  Our largest  individual round tables seat a maximum of 12. When you make a reservation, please give me the names (both first and last) of those in your party. ALL seats are reserved.  You can make a reservation by simply responding to this email.  When you make a reservation by email I ALWAYS respond. If you don’t get a response I probably didn’t get your email.


PRIMAVERA has been very busy during the winter season.  Thanks to all of you who’ve chosen to avail yourselves of the restaurant’s flexible party configurations.

So, remember Primavera can provide a variety of banquet services.   When you’re planning a party plan on talking with Giacomo at Primavera – 954-564-6363.


OPERA GROUP

The Opera Group generally meets on the fourth sunday of the month at the Pride Center at Equality Park to view operas.   For more information or to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com


BALLET

The Ballet Group generally meets on the 2nd (second) Sunday of the month and the Opera Group meets on the 4th (fourth) Sunday of the month.  The Ballet Group also meets at the Pride Center at Equality Park.    

On Sunday, May 13th at 1 PM in the Pride Center in Wilton Manors we will present MAO’S LAST DANCER.

The current tension over personal freedom for a Chinese dissident between China and the USA which over powered the meetings scheduled for Secretary of State Clinton has inspired our choice for Sunday’s meeting.

Internationally acclaimed and award winning MAO’S LAST DANCER is the fascinating true and epic tale of Li Cunxin, a peasant boy from rural China who beats impossible odds to become a world-renowned ballet dancer.  Through breathtaking talent and sheer determination, Li makes his way to the United States, but when he falls in love with an American woman, he must risk everything to remain here.  The resultant political and cultural crisis of thirty years ago is echoed in today’s headlines.

Filmed on location in China, with surprising co-operation and help from China, you get a glimpse of the training that is providing so many of today’s brilliant Chinese dancers – including the film’s star.  It was also filmed in the real locales in Houston and Washington, D.C.

Add some exciting dance sequences from classic, modern and Chinese ballets to the real life drama and your are in for an afternoon that will stir your soul and leave you cheering.

 

R.S.V.P. to either Tony at tjartphotos@gmail.com or to Dominic at dbisignano@aol.com  

 

BRIDGE

Quick Tricks Duplicate Bridge Club meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 and Saturday afternoons at 12:30 at the Hagen Park Community Center in Wilton Manors.  All games are charity games, masterpoints are awarded and a portion of the entry fee for all games is donated to Tuesday’s Angels. Quick Tricks games are sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League and the entry fee remains $6.00. Come out and enjoy bridge, earn points and support Tuesday’s Angels all at the same time.  If you have any questions, please contact Jack De Crescente at 954-636-2050 or at jackdecrescente@comcast.net


ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES 

The GITA Italian Language class (Classe Italiano) continues to offer weekly sessions in the joy of learning to speak Italian. The classes are free to all students. In lieu of charging a fee, and because the lessons are provided by volunteers, the participants are invited to make a donation to Tuesdays Angels.

The classes meet Wednesdays at the home of our Maestro, Johnny Ritter, from 6:30PM to 8PM. Newcomers are always welcome.  For more details you may contact Bobby Caruso at bobby139@bellsouth.net.   

MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg anyone? this ancient game from China combines skill and luck and is played with tiles. If you like cards or board games and a challenge, you will probably enjoy it. Beginners welcome. Contact Keith at 954-446-5666.  

REAL ESTATE

We’re definitely seeing some positive movement in the real estate world.  While buyers have had all the best of it for some time now the decrease in real estate inventory has given sellers some encouragement.  Your home is probably worth a bit more than it was a year ago. 

 

It’s a great time to buy something or refinance something.  Let us help you.  We work with Castelli Real Estate Services for Real Estate and work with The Title Company of South Florida for all of our title work business.  And if you’re thinking of buying or refinancing find out if we can save you some money on your title insurance and closing.  

PICTURES

Pictures from practically all previous dinners since 2003 can be found on the GITA website.  From the home page select “Photo Gallery” then select GITA-Dinners. If you’d like prints, suitable for framing, of any of the photos on the website just let me know.

BUSINESS CARDS

We are hoping to add more member’s business cards to our website. If you’d like us to add your card you need to either send me a card or email me a scan of your card. The more the merrier.

DINNER RAFFLE

Each month at our dinners we have a raffle and give away extravagant prizes. There is no charge to participate in the raffle. Again this month we will be accepting modest raffle gifts from interested members who choose to promote their business in this most entertaining way.   

Thanks for your continued support. Hope to see you all on the 14th.

Chuck Murabito

Castelli Real Estate Services
The Title Company of South Florida

954-629-5525  

Posted in Newsletter | Leave a comment

April 5th, 2012

Posted on April 5, 2012 by Chuck

Greetings from Gita.

We hope everyone is doing well.  The Season seems to be winding down.  We can already see the reduced traffic on the highways.  We’re happy to note that the number of buyers has increased this Spring.

We thank you all for your good wishes and continued support and hope to see you very soon.


GITA DINNER MEETING on Monday, April 9, 2012

The Gita Dinners for the past few months have been very well attended and we’ve had some fun.  We’re looking forward to seeing you at this month’s dinner on Monday, the 9th of April at 7 PM at Primavera Restaurant. Primavera is located at 830 E. Oakland Park Boulevard just west of Dixie and east of KMart. Cost is $20 payable at the door.  There is currently space available for this dinner. We’re now featuring “Singles” tables for those who’d like to meet new friends.  Hope to see you there.


RESERVING SEATS AT DINNER

We are now accepting reservations for parties of ANY SIZE.  Our largest  individual round tables seat a maximum of 12. When you make a reservation, please give me the names (both first and last) of those in your party. ALL seats are reserved.  You can make a reservation by simply responding to this email.  When you make a reservation by email I ALWAYS respond. If you don’t get a response I probably didn’t get your email.

PRIMAVERA has been very busy during the winter season.  Thanks to all of you who’ve chosen to avail yourselves of the restaurant’s flexible party configurations.

So, remember Primavera can provide a variety of banquet services.   When you’re planning a party plan on talking with Giacomo at Primavera – 954-564-6363.


OPERA GROUP

The Opera Group generally meets on the fourth sunday of the month at the Pride Center at Equality Park to view operas.   For more information or to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com


BALLET

The Ballet Group generally meets on the 2nd (second) Sunday of the month and the Opera Group meets on the 4th (fourth) Sunday of the month.  The Ballet Group also meets at the Pride Center at Equality Park. 

 

April brings many things–especially holidays this year.  As a result, there will be no Ballet Group meeting on the 2nd Sunday.

 

All is not lost, however.

 

We will have a special treat for everyone on the 4th Sunday, April 22nd.  An opera which will be staged as a ballet, intermingling the singers and dancers in an incredibly beautiful experience.

 

Watch your email for further details.

 

In the meantime, enjoy your holiday.

 

Dominic, Tony and Arthur.

Here again, to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

 

BRIDGE

Quick Tricks Duplicate Bridge Club meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 and Saturday afternoons at 12:30 at the Hagen Park Community Center in Wilton Manors.  All games are charity games, masterpoints are awarded and a portion of the entry fee for all games is donated to Tuesday’s Angels. Quick Tricks games are sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League and the entry fee remains $6.00. Come out and enjoy bridge, earn points and support Tuesday’s Angels all at the same time.  If you have any questions, please contact Jack De Crescente at 954-636-2050 or at jackdecrescente@comcast.net


ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES 

The GITA Italian Language class (Classe Italiano) continues to offer weekly sessions in the joy of learning to speak Italian. The classes are free to all students. In lieu of charging a fee, and because the lessons are provided by volunteers, the participants are invited to make a donation to Tuesdays Angels.

The classes meet Wednesdays at the home of our Maestro, Johnny Ritter, from 6:30PM to 8PM. Newcomers are always welcome.  For more details you may contact Bobby Caruso at bobby139@bellsouth.net.   

MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg anyone? this ancient game from China combines skill and luck and is played with tiles. If you like cards or board games and a challenge, you will probably enjoy it. Beginners welcome. Contact Keith at 954-446-5666.  

REAL ESTATE

 

It’s a great time to buy something or refinance something.  Let us help you.  We work with Castelli Real Estate Services for Real Estate and work with The Title Company of South Florida for all of our title work business.  And if you’re thinking of buying or refinancing find out if we can save you some money on your title insurance and closing.

 

 PICTURES

Pictures from practically all previous dinners since 2003 can be found on the GITA website.  From the home page select “Photo Gallery” then select GITA-Dinners. If you’d like prints, suitable for framing, of any of the photos on the website just let me know.

BUSINESS CARDS

We are hoping to add more member’s business cards to our website. If you’d like us to add your card you need to either send me a card or email me a scan of your card. The more the merrier.

DINNER RAFFLE

Each month at our dinners we have a raffle and give away extravagant prizes. There is no charge to participate in the raffle. Again this month we will be accepting modest raffle gifts from interested members who choose to promote their business in this most entertaining way.   

Thanks for your continued support. Hope to see you all on the 12th.

Chuck Murabito

Primavera Restaurant
Castelli Real Estate Services
The Title Company of South Florida

954-629-5525  

Posted in Newsletter | Leave a comment

January 2, 2012

Posted on January 2, 2012 by Chuck

Greetings and Happy New Year from GITA

Here we are again and it’s time to wish you HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Our dinner this month falls on the 9th.  We hope you’ll be able to join us.

We thank you all for your good wishes and continued support and hope to see you very soon.

GITA DINNER MEETING on Monday, January 9, 2012

The Gita Dinners for the past few months have been very well attended and we’ve had some fun.  We’re looking forward to seeing you at this month’s dinner on Monday, the 9th of January at 7 PM at Primavera Restaurant. Primavera is located at 830 E. Oakland Park Boulevard just west of Dixie and east of KMart. Cost is $20 payable at the door.  There is currently space available for this dinner. We’re now featuring “Singles” tables for those who’d like to meet new friends.  Hope to see you there.

RESERVING SEATS AT DINNER

We are now accepting reservations for parties of ANY SIZE.  Our largest  individual round tables seat a maximum of 12. When you make a reservation, please give me the names (both first and last) of those in your party. ALL seats are reserved.  You can make a reservation by simply responding to this email.  When you make a reservation by email I ALWAYS respond. If you don’t get a response I probably didn’t get your email.

PRIMAVERA celebrated a very busy holiday season.  We had nice crowds for Christmas and New Year’s Eve and all the days in between.  Thanks to all of you who celebrated the holidays with us.

And remember Primavera can provide a variety of banquet services.   So when you’re planning a party plan on talking with Giacomo at Primavera – 954-564-6363.

OPERA GROUP

The Opera Group generally meets on the fourth sunday of the month at the Pride Center at Equality Park to view operas.  The group, is, however, taking a summer sabbatical and their opera viewing will resume in the fall. For more information or to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

BALLET

The Ballet Group generally meets on the 2nd (second) Sunday of the month and the Opera Group meets on the 4th (fourth) Sunday of the month.  The Ballet Group also meets at the Pride Center at Equality Park.  Here again,to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

     

H A P P Y   N E W   Y E A R ! ! !

 

Hope everyone enjoyed the Holiday Season.  We hope the New Year will bring health, wealth and FUN to all.

 

At 1pm on Sunday January 8, at the Pride Center in Wilton Manors, we are proud to start the year off with the stunning new production of Frederick Ashton’s ONDINE.

 

Partnered by Edward Watson, Miyako Yoshida dances the title role originally created for Margot Fonteyn in the hauntingly beautiful underwater world of ONDINE, vividly brought to life by The Royal Ballet.  Ashton’s shimmering choreography, Lila de Nobili’s ingenious designs and Hans Werner Henze’s specially commissioned, magical and vibrantly colored score memorably combine to evoke the ever-changing moods of the sea.  Filmed in High Definition we will be using the Blue-Ray Disc and big HDTV screen to maximize your enjoyment.

 

Bring your friends, say hello to fellow members, get caught up on the latest news and discover/re-discover the magic that is ONDINE.

 

R.S.V.P. to either Tony at tjartphotos@gmail.com or to Dominic at dbisignano@aol.com

  

BRIDGE

 

Quick Tricks Duplicate Bridge Club meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 and Saturday afternoons at 12:30 at the Pride Center at Equality Park, 2040 North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, Florida 33305.  All games are charity games, masterpoints are awarded and a portion of the entry fee for all games is donated to Tuesday’s Angels. Quick Tricks games are sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League and the entry fee remains $6.00. Come out and enjoy bridge, earn points and support Tuesday’s Angels all at the same time.  If you have any questions, please contact Jack De Crescente at 954-636-2050 or at jackdecrescente@comcast.net


ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES 

The Italian Language classes will take a short respite during the upcoming holidays and will resume in January. The last class in 2011 is Dec 14th. Classes will resume on Jan 11, 2012.  The GITA Italian Language class (Classe Italiano) continues to offer weekly sessions in the joy of learning to speak Italian. The classes are free to all students. In lieu of charging a fee, and because the lessons are provided by volunteers, the participants are invited to make a donation to Tuesdays Angels.

The classes meet Wednesdays at the home of our Maestro, Johnny Ritter, from 6:30PM to 8PM. Newcomers are always welcome.  For more details you may contact Bobby Caruso at bobby139@bellsouth.net.   

MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg anyone? this ancient game from China combines skill and luck and is played with tiles. If you like cards or board games and a challenge, you will probably enjoy it. Beginners welcome. Contact Keith at 954-446-5666.  

REAL ESTATE  

On the local level there are deals all over the place.  If you’re buying, selling or renting, let us know if we can help.

 

And if you’re thinking of refinancing find out if we can save you some money on your title insurance and closing.

 

 PICTURES

Pictures from practically all previous dinners since 2003 can be found on the GITA website.  From the home page select “Photo Gallery” then select GITA-Dinners. If you’d like prints, suitable for framing, of any of the photos on the website just let me know.

BUSINESS CARDS

We are hoping to add more member’s business cards to our website. If you’d like us to add your card you need to either send me a card or email me a scan of your card. The more the merrier.

DINNER RAFFLE

Each month at our dinners we have a raffle and give away extravagant prizes. There is no charge to participate in the raffle. Again this month we will be accepting modest raffle gifts from interested members who choose to promote their business in this most entertaining way.   

Thanks for your continued support. Hope to see you all on the 12th.

Chuck Murabito

Primavera Restaurant
Castelli Real Estate Services
The Title Company of South Florida

954-629-5525  

Posted in Newsletter | Leave a comment

December 6, 2011

Posted on December 6, 2011 by Chuck

Greetings from GITA

Here we are again and it’s time to wish you HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Our dinner this month falls on the 12th.  We hope you’ll be able to join us.

We thank you all for your good wishes and continued support and hope to see you very soon.

GITA DINNER MEETING on Monday, December 12, 2011

The Gita Dinners for the past few months have been very well attended and we’ve had some fun.  We’re looking forward to seeing you at this month’s dinner on Monday, the 12h of December at 7 PM at Primavera Restaurant. Primavera is located at 830 E. Oakland Park Boulevard just west of Dixie and east of KMart. Cost is $20 payable at the door.  There is currently space available for this dinner. We’re now featuring “Singles” tables for those who’d like to meet new friends.  Hope to see you there.

RESERVING SEATS AT DINNER

We are now accepting reservations for parties of ANY SIZE.  Our largest  individual round tables seat a maximum of 12. When you make a reservation, please give me the names (both first and last) of those in your party. ALL seats are reserved.  You can make a reservation by simply responding to this email.  When you make a reservation by email I ALWAYS respond. If you don’t get a response I probably didn’t get your email.

PRIMAVERA  Once again Primavera will be providing a fabulous Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day.

And remember Primavera can provide a variety of banquet services.   So when you’re planning a party plan on talking with Giacomo at Primavera – 954-564-6363.

OPERA GROUP

The Opera Group generally meets on the fourth sunday of the month at the Pride Center at Equality Park to view operas.  The group, is, however, taking a summer sabbatical and their opera viewing will resume in the fall. For more information or to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

Hard to believe, but here it is Holiday Time again and, once again, due to heavy commitments and resultant scheduling conflicts The Opera Group will suspend their meetings in December. We will resume our regular schedule in January.

We would like to thank everyone for your continued support and look forward to providing you with many more afternoons of excitement, enlightenment and enjoyment in the coming year.

 

In the meantime, have a happy and healthy holiday season and party with a few thousand of your closest friends.

 

Dominic, Arthur and Tony

=

BALLET

The Ballet Group generally meets on the 2nd (second) Sunday of the month and the Opera Group meets on the 4th (fourth) Sunday of the month.  The Ballet Group also meets at the Pride Center at Equality Park.  Here again,to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

   

 

BRIDGE

 

Quick Tricks Duplicate Bridge Club meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 and Saturday afternoons at 12:30 at the Pride Center at Equality Park, 2040 North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, Florida 33305.  All games are charity games, masterpoints are awarded and a portion of the entry fee for all games is donated to Tuesday’s Angels. Quick Tricks games are sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League and the entry fee remains $6.00. Come out and enjoy bridge, earn points and support Tuesday’s Angels all at the same time.  If you have any questions, please contact Jack De Crescente at 954-636-2050 or at jackdecrescente@comcast.net


ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES 

The Italian Language classes will take a short respite during the upcoming holidays and will resume in January. The last class in 2011 is Dec 14th. Classes will resume on Jan 11, 2012.  The GITA Italian Language class (Classe Italiano) continues to offer weekly sessions in the joy of learning to speak Italian. The classes are free to all students. In lieu of charging a fee, and because the lessons are provided by volunteers, the participants are invited to make a donation to Tuesdays Angels.

The classes meet Wednesdays at the home of our Maestro, Johnny Ritter, from 6:30PM to 8PM. Newcomers are always welcome.  For more details you may contact Bobby Caruso at bobby139@bellsouth.net.   

MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg anyone? this ancient game from China combines skill and luck and is played with tiles. If you like cards or board games and a challenge, you will probably enjoy it. Beginners welcome. Contact Keith at 954-446-5666.  

REAL ESTATE  

On the local level there are deals all over the place.  If you’re buying, selling or renting, let us know if we can help.
And if you’re thinking of refinancing find out if we can save you some money on your title insurance and closing.

 PICTURES

Pictures from practically all previous dinners since 2003 can be found on the GITA website.  From the home page select “Photo Gallery” then select GITA-Dinners. If you’d like prints, suitable for framing, of any of the photos on the website just let me know.

BUSINESS CARDS

We are hoping to add more member’s business cards to our website. If you’d like us to add your card you need to either send me a card or email me a scan of your card. The more the merrier.

DINNER RAFFLE

Each month at our dinners we have a raffle and give away extravagant prizes. There is no charge to participate in the raffle. Again this month we will be accepting modest raffle gifts from interested members who choose to promote their business in this most entertaining way.   

Thanks for your continued support. Hope to see you all on the 12th.

Chuck Murabito

Primavera Restaurant
Castelli Real Estate Services
The Title Company of South Florida

954-629-5525  

Posted in Newsletter | Leave a comment

November 11, 2011

Posted on November 11, 2011 by Chuck

Greetings from GITA

Our dinner this month falls on the 14th.  We hope you’ll be able to join us.

If you have any interest in the economy and would like a bit of an education I highly recommend the following:  Quantitative Easing Explained

We thank you all for your good wishes and continued support and hope to see you very soon.

GITA DINNER MEETING on Monday, November 14, 2011

The Gita Dinners for the past few months have been very well attended and we’ve had some fun.  We’re looking forward to seeing you at this month’s dinner on Monday, the 14th of November at 7 PM at Primavera Restaurant. Primavera is located at 830 E. Oakland Park Boulevard just west of Dixie and east of KMart. Cost is $20 payable at the door.  There is currently space available for this dinner. We’re now featuring “Singles” tables for those who’d like to meet new friends.  Hope to see you there.

RESERVING SEATS AT DINNER

We are now accepting reservations for parties of ANY SIZE.  Our largest  individual round tables seat a maximum of 12. When you make a reservation, please give me the names (both first and last) of those in your party. ALL seats are reserved.  You can make a reservation by simply responding to this email.  When you make a reservation by email I ALWAYS respond. If you don’t get a response I probably didn’t get your email.

PRIMAVERA

  The big news is that “Dine Out Fort Lauderdale” which began in October has ended at most restaurants.  Primavera is extending the program through the end of November.  This is a promotion sponsored by the local tourism board and included 33 of the best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale.  Each restaurant offered a special $35 menu.  Our offering at Primavera is the best of all.  Check out the choices at:  Dine Out Fort Lauderdale

And remember Primavera can provide a variety of banquet services.   So when you’re planning a party plan on talking with Giacomo at Primavera – 954-564-6363.

OPERA GROUP

The Opera Group generally meets on the fourth sunday of the month at the Pride Center at Equality Park to view operas.  The group, is, however, taking a summer sabbatical and their opera viewing will resume in the fall. For more information or to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

BALLET

The Ballet Group generally meets on the 2nd (second) Sunday of the month and the Opera Group meets on the 4th (fourth) Sunday of the month.  The Ballet Group also meets at the Pride Center at Equality Park.  Here again,to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

  

On Sunday, November 13th at 1pm in the Pride Center in Wilton Manors The Ballet Group will present, in High Definition on Blue Ray Disc, THE FLAMES OF PARIS recorded at the BOLSHOI in March, 2010 and starring Natalia Osipova and the incredible Ivan Vasiliev (whose performance will leave you gasping!).

 

This is an entirely new production with new choreography.  This is NOT the old Stalinist version with all of its propaganda.  

 

Beautifully photographed and well edited (no MTV style video quick-cuts) you’ll be able to enjoy the lavish sets, costumes and exciting dancing.

 

Mark your calendar, bring all your friends and be ready for an afternoon out of the ordinary!

 

BRIDGE

 

Quick Tricks Duplicate Bridge Club meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 and Saturday afternoons at 12:30 at the Pride Center at Equality Park, 2040 North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, Florida 33305.  All games are charity games, masterpoints are awarded and a portion of the entry fee for all games is donated to Tuesday’s Angels. Quick Tricks games are sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League and the entry fee remains $6.00. Come out and enjoy bridge, earn points and support Tuesday’s Angels all at the same time.  If you have any questions, please contact Jack De Crescente at 954-636-2050 or at jackdecrescente@comcast.net


ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES   The GITA Italian Language class is returning from its summer sabbatical and will re-commence the free language classes shortlly. Final details regarding the class date, time, meeting location and student text are being made with Maestro, Johnny Ritter and our regular cadre of studenti. Check your email for details.  As usual, the lessons are free, however, we do solicit donations for Tuesdays’ Angels, 100% of which goes directly to that truly extraordinary organization.

Newcomers are always welcome. However, since many studenti have been participating since the year 2006, the lessons, this year, will have a more advanced grammatical flavor.  Join us, listen and learn our beautiful, melodic language in a warm, friendly and comfortable environment with a cast of peers from your GITA community.

For more information, contact Bobby Caruso at bobby139@bellsouth.net   

MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg anyone? this ancient game from China combines skill and luck and is played with tiles. If you like cards or board games and a challenge, you will probably enjoy it. Beginners welcome. Contact Keith at 954-446-5666.  

REAL ESTATE

Gita member Sandro Olgiati has a beautiful house in Asheville.  He’s looking to rent a portion of it.  Here’s the info: http://www.vrbo.com/380885

On the local level there are deals all over the place.  If you’re buying, selling or renting, let us know if we can help.

And if you’re thinking of refinancing find out if we can save you some money on your title insurance and closing.

PICTURES

Pictures from practically all previous dinners since 2003 can be found on the GITA website.  From the home page select “Photo Gallery” then select GITA-Dinners. If you’d like prints, suitable for framing, of any of the photos on the website just let me know.

BUSINESS CARDS

We are hoping to add more member’s business cards to our website. If you’d like us to add your card you need to either send me a card or email me a scan of your card. The more the merrier.

DINNER RAFFLE

Each month at our dinners we have a raffle and give away extravagant prizes. There is no charge to participate in the raffle. Again this month we will be accepting modest raffle gifts from interested members who choose to promote their business in this most entertaining way.   

Thanks for your continued support. Hope to see you all on the 14th.

Chuck Murabito

Primavera Restaurant
Castelli Real Estate Services
The Title Company of South Florida

954-629-5525  

Posted in Newsletter | Leave a comment

October 5, 2011

Posted on October 5, 2011 by Chuck

Greetings from GITA

Our dinner this month falls on the 10th which is Columbus Day.  It’s the official Italian Holiday.  Hope you’ll be able to join us for the festivities.

We thank you all for your good wishes and continued support and hope to see you very soon.

GITA DINNER MEETING on Monday, October 10, 2011

The Gita Dinners for the past few months have been very well attended and we’ve had some fun.  We’re looking forward to seeing you at this month’s dinner on Monday, the 10th of October at 7 PM at Primavera Restaurant. Primavera is located at 830 E. Oakland Park Boulevard just west of Dixie and east of KMart. Cost is $20 payable at the door.  There is currently space available for this dinner. We’re now featuring “Singles” tables for those who’d like to meet new friends.  Hope to see you there.

RESERVING SEATS AT DINNER

We are now accepting reservations for parties of ANY SIZE.  Our largest  individual round tables seat a maximum of 12. When you make a reservation, please give me the names (both first and last) of those in your party. ALL seats are reserved.  You can make a reservation by simply responding to this email.  When you make a reservation by email I ALWAYS respond. If you don’t get a response I probably didn’t get your email.

PRIMAVERA

  The big news is that “Dine Out Fort Lauderdale” began last Saturday and runs through November 10  This is a promotion sponsored by the local tourism board and includes 33 of the best restaurants in Fort Lauderdale.  Each restaurant offers a special $35 menu.  Our’ offering at Primavera is the best of all.  Check out the choices at:  Dine Out Fort Lauderdale

And remember Primavera can provide a variety of banquet services.   So when you’re planning a party plan on talking with Giacomo at Primavera – 954-564-6363.

OPERA GROUP

The Opera Group generally meets on the fourth sunday of the month at the Pride Center at Equality Park to view operas.  The group, is, however, taking a summer sabbatical and their opera viewing will resume in the fall. For more information or to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

BALLET

The Ballet Group generally meets on the 2nd (second) Sunday of the month and the Opera Group meets on the 4th (fourth) Sunday of the month.  The Ballet Group also meets at the Pride Center at Equality Park.  Here again,to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

  

At 1pm on Sunday, October 9th, the Ballet Group will present a tribute to the late Roland Petit and present a few of his most famous ballets.  Featured will be performances by Nureyev, Baryshnikov and Zizi Jeanmaire as well as a surprise or two.

 

BRIDGE

 

Quick Tricks Duplicate Bridge Club meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 and Saturday afternoons at 12:30 at the Fort Lauderdale Bridge Club located in Holiday Park at 700 NE 6th Terrace in Fort Lauderdale. Mike Donnelly continues to direct on Tuesdays and Carl Cronrath, Manager of the Fort Lauderdale Bridge Club, directs on Saturdays.   All games are charity games, masterpoints are awarded and a portion of the entry fee for all games is donated to Tuesday’s Angels. Quick Tricks games are sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League and the entry fee remains $6.00. Come out and enjoy bridge, earn points and support Tuesday’s Angels all at the same time.  If you have any questions, please contact Jack De Crescente at 954-636-2050 or at jackdecrescente@comcast.net


ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES   The GITA Italian Language class is returning from its summer sabbatical and will re-commence the free language classes within a few weeks. Final details regarding the class date, time, meeting location and student text are being made with Maestro, Johnny Ritter and our regular cadre of studenti. Check your email for details.  As usual, the lessons are free, however, we do solicit donations for Tuesdays’ Angels, 100% of which goes directly to that truly extraordinary organization.

Newcomers are always welcome. However, since many studenti have been participating since the year 2006, the lessons, this year, will have a more advanced grammatical flavor.  Join us, listen and learn our beautiful, melodic language in a warm, friendly and comfortable environment with a cast of peers from your GITA community.

For more information, contact Bobby Caruso at bobby139@bellsouth.net   

MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg anyone? this ancient game from China combines skill and luck and is played with tiles. If you like cards or board games and a challenge, you will probably enjoy it. Beginners welcome. Contact Keith at 954-446-5666.   

PICTURES

Pictures from practically all previous dinners since 2003 can be found on the GITA website.  From the home page select “Photo Gallery” then select GITA-Dinners. If you’d like prints, suitable for framing, of any of the photos on the website just let me know.

BUSINESS CARDS

We are hoping to add more member’s business cards to our website. If you’d like us to add your card you need to either send me a card or email me a scan of your card. The more the merrier.

DINNER RAFFLE

Each month at our dinners we have a raffle and give away extravagant prizes. There is no charge to participate in the raffle. Again this month we will be accepting modest raffle gifts from interested members who choose to promote their business in this most entertaining way.   

Thanks for your continued support. Hope to see you all on the 10th.

Chuck Murabito

Primavera Restaurant
Castelli Real Estate Services
The Title Company of South Florida

954-629-5525

Posted in Newsletter | Leave a comment

September 6, 2011

Posted on September 6, 2011 by Chuck

Greetings from GITA

Hope everyone had a pleasant Labor Day.  It is now official that we’re in the waning months of the year and fall and cool weather are right around the corner.  Just be patient.

Thanks to all of you who have made our summer Gita Dinners so successful.  We seem to have had less of a summer drop-off than in the past.  Hope you can make it to next Monday’s dinner.

We thank you all for your good wishes and continued support and hope to see you very soon.
GITA DINNER MEETING on Monday, September 12, 2011

The Gita Dinners for the past few months have been very well attended and we’ve had some fun.  We’re looking forward to seeing you at this month’s dinner on Monday, the 12th of September at 7 PM at Primavera Restaurant. Primavera is located at 830 E. Oakland Park Boulevard just west of Dixie and east of KMart. Cost is $20 payable at the door.  There is currently space available for this dinner. We’re now featuring “Singles” tables for those who’d like to meet new friends.  Hope to see you there.

RESERVING SEATS AT DINNER

We are now accepting reservations for parties of ANY SIZE.  Our largest  individual round tables seat a maximum of 12. When you make a reservation, please give me the names (both first and last) of those in your party. ALL seats are reserved.  You can make a reservation by simply responding to this email.  When you make a reservation by email I ALWAYS respond. If you don’t get a response I probably didn’t get your email.

PRIMAVERA

Primavera is continuing it’s Special $15 “Taste of Primavera Menu” through September.   This menu features a variety of appetizers and entrees available for a special price.  This special menu is available every night but only ’till 6 PM on Saturdays. Hope you’ll take advantage of these great deals.

And remember Primavera can provide a variety of banquet services.   So when you’re planning a party plan on talking with Giacomo at Primavera – 954-564-6363.

OPERA GROUP

The Opera Group generally meets monthly at the Pride Center at Equality Park to view operas.  The group, is, however, taking a summer sabbatical and their opera viewing will resume in the fall. For more information or to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

BALLET

The Ballet Group generally meets on the 2nd (second) Sunday of the month and the Opera Group meets on the 4th (fourth) Sunday of the month.  The Ballet Group also meets at the Pride Center at Equality Park.  Here again, to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

 

BRIDGE

Quick Tricks Duplicate Bridge Club meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 and Saturday afternoons at 12:30 at the Fort Lauderdale Bridge Club located in Holiday Park at 700 NE 6th Terrace in Fort Lauderdale. Mike Donnelly continues to direct on Tuesdays and Carl Cronrath, Manager of the Fort Lauderdale Bridge Club, directs on Saturdays.   All games are charity games, masterpoints are awarded and a portion of the entry fee for all games is donated to Tuesday’s Angels. Quick Tricks games are sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League and the entry fee remains $6.00. Come out and enjoy bridge, earn points and support Tuesday’s Angels all at the same time.  If you have any questions, please contact Jack De Crescente at 954-636-2050 or at jackdecrescente@comcast.net


ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES  The GITA Italian Language class is returning from its summer sabbatical and will re-commence the free language classes within a few weeks. Final details regarding the class date, time, meeting location and student text are being made with Maestro, Johnny Ritter and our regular cadre of studenti. Check your email for details. As usual, the lessons are free, however, we do solicit donations for Tuesdays’ Angels, 100% of which goes directly to that truly extraordinary organization.

Newcomers are always welcome. However, since many studenti have been participating since the year 2006, the lessons, this year, will have a more advanced grammatical flavor.  Join us, listen and learn our beautiful, melodic language in a warm, friendly and comfortable environment with a cast of peers from your GITA community.

For more information, contact Bobby Caruso at bobby139@bellsouth.net

MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg anyone? this ancient game from China combines skill and luck and is played with tiles. If you like cards or board games and a challenge, you will probably enjoy it. Beginners welcome. Contact Keith at 954-446-5666.
BOOK BEAT

THE RULES OF CIVILITY by Amor TowlesOne is one of the most enjoyable books I’ve read in a long time.  It’s one of those books that you didn’t want to end and can even withstand a second reading.  The writing is crisp and the characters are bright and clever and very well developed.  This is a first novel set in a very different New York City at the end of the depression in 1938    This book is elegant and captivating.  I Loved it.

SWAMPLANDIA! by Karen Russell came highly recommended and almost lived up to its advanced billing.  The Bigtree alligator-wrestling dynasty is in decline, and Swamplandia!, their island home and gator-wrestling theme park in Florida, formerly number-one in the region, is swiftly being encroached upon by a fearsome and sophisticated competitor called the World of Darkness.  The mother of the family and star alligator wrestler has just passed away and the rest of the family has to cope as best they can.  How each of them behaves is the basis for the story.

Dick Francis, one of my favorite writers, passed away in 2010.   One of my favorite memories was my giddy delight when he came to lunch at the Grand Central Cafe, my former restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, and I had the opportunity to chat with him.  I had, of course, read every one of his books since his first in 1962.  His son Felix co-wrote several books with his father in recent years and has now come out with one of his own.  The mysteriously titled DICK FRANCIS’S GAMBLE is son Felix’s first effort and not a bad beginning.  The race track  world and life of the steeplechase jockeys continue to provide fodder for entertaining stories.

My other favorite writer, Donna Leon, has come out with A SEA OF TROUBLES.  Enough said.  For me that pretty much describes the effort.  I don’t recommend anyone bothering to try to navigate this watery mess.  The book is more an essay on ecology, sea life, and food choices.  It involves clam fishermen and some of her stock characters in new roles.  I think this is her first clunker.

PICTURES

Pictures from practically all previous dinners since 2003 can be found on the GITA website.  From the home page select “Photo Gallery” then select GITA-Dinners. If you’d like prints, suitable for framing, of any of the photos on the website just let me know.

The Gita website is undergoing some face lifting and may, at times, be unavailable.

BUSINESS CARDS

We are hoping to add more member’s business cards to our website. If you’d like us to add your card you need to either send me a card or email me a scan of your card. The more the merrier.

DINNER RAFFLE

Each month at our dinners we have a raffle and give away extravagant prizes. There is no charge to participate in the raffle. Again this month we will be accepting modest raffle gifts from interested members who choose to promote their business in this most entertaining way.

Thanks for your continued support. Hope to see you all on the 12th.

Chuck Murabito

Primavera Restaurant
Castelli Real Estate Services
The Title Company of South Florida

954-629-5525

Posted in Newsletter | Leave a comment

August 2, 2011

Posted on August 3, 2011 by Chuck

Greetings from GITA

Here comes Emily.  That means it must be August.

Last night Juan and I spent a rare evening away from the restaurant.  We discovered a new movie theatre in Boca Raton.  It’s called the Living Room Theatre and it’s on the campus of FAU at 777 Glades Road.  http://fau.livingroomtheaters.com/ It’s really a terrific place.  They serve wine and beer and food, some of which you can take into the theatre.  The four theatres are very fresh and clean and have large comfortable seats.  And when I went to pay I was shocked to find that it was $10 for the both of us.  (That was a Monday – Tuesday Special.  Regular Price is $9.50)  They’ve been open since November and the staff couldn’t have been nicer.  One wonders if it is designed as a money making endeavour.  There were two other people in our theatre for the 9:30 show.

The four films currently playing come from Argentina, The Netherlands, Italy and the UK.  Not a Super Hero Spectacular movie among them.  We saw the Italian Film called La Doppia Ora, The Double Hour.  It was a pretty interesting film.  All in all a great experience.

The Gita Dinners have been very well attended during the summer.  Many of our members choose to return in the summer when things are quieter.  We’re always pleased to see old and new faces.  Hope you can make it next week.

We thank you all for your good wishes and continued support and hope to see you very soon.

GITA DINNER MEETING on Monday, August 8, 2011

The Gita Dinners for the past few months have been very well attended and we’ve had some fun.  We’re looking forward to seeing you at this month’s dinner on Monday, the 8th of August at 7 PM at Primavera Restaurant. Primavera is located at 830 E. Oakland Park Boulevard just west of Dixie and east of KMart. Cost is $20 payable at the door.  There is currently space available for this dinner. We’re now featuring “Singles” tables for those who’d like to meet new friends.  Hope to see you there.

RESERVING SEATS AT DINNER

We are now accepting reservations for parties of ANY SIZE.  Our largest  individual round tables seat a maximum of 12. When you make a reservation, please give me the names (both first and last) of those in your party. ALL seats are reserved.  You can make a reservation by simply responding to this email.  When you make a reservation by email I ALWAYS respond. If you don’t get a response I probably didn’t get your email.

PRIMAVERA

Primavera is continuing it’s Special $15 Taste of Primavera Menu for July which features a variety of appetizers and entrees available for a special price.  This special menu is available nightly  and Saturday ’till 6 PM. Primavera is also offering daily special Happy Hour drink prices at the bar until 7 PM. Hope you’ll take advantage of these great deals.

And remember Primavera can provide a variety of banquet services.   So when you’re planning a party plan on talking with Giacomo at Primavera – 954-564-6363.

OPERA GROUP

The Opera Group generally meets monthly at the Pride Center at Equality Park to view operas.  The group, is, however, taking a summer sabbatical and their opera viewing will resume in the fall. For more information or to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

BALLET

The Ballet Group generally meets on the 2nd (second) Sunday of the month and the Opera Group meets on the 4th (fourth) Sunday of the month.  The Ballet Group also meets at the Pride Center at Equality Park.  Here again, to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

 

 

BRIDGE

Quick Tricks Duplicate Bridge Club meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 and Saturday afternoons at 12:30 at the Fort Lauderdale Bridge Club located in Holiday Park at 700 NE 6th Terrace in Fort Lauderdale. Mike Donnelly continues to direct on Tuesdays and Carl Cronrath, Manager of the Fort Lauderdale Bridge Club, directs on Saturdays.   All games are charity games, masterpoints are awarded and a portion of the entry fee for all games is donated to Tuesday’s Angels. Quick Tricks games are sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League and the entry fee remains $6.00. Come out and enjoy bridge, earn points and support Tuesday’s Angels all at the same time.  If you have any questions, please contact Jack De Crescente at 954-636-2050 or at jackdecrescente@comcast.net


ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES  The Italian Language class is taking a break for the summer but classes will resume in the Fall. The classes are still free to all under the GITA patronage. Instead of a fee, we invite participating students to make a donation, 100% of which goes to Tuesdays Angels. Since we revived this class in Oct 2009, we have donated over $700 to Tuesdays Angels due to the efforts of our volunteer teacher, John Ritter, and the generosity of our students. For more information or If you’re interested in attending classes please contact Bobby Caruso at bobby139@bellsouth.net

MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg anyone? this ancient game from China combines skill and luck and is played with tiles. If you like cards or board games and a challenge, you will probably enjoy it. Beginners welcome. Contact Keith at 954-446-5666.

REAL ESTATE
The July Real Estate Statistics for the month of June show that home sales rose again in June, while prices were more uneven.  Broward County had 1,274 existing homes change hands in June,  up 6 percent from a year ago.  The County’s median has been up and down so far but shows a 9 percent increase from June 2010.

Sales in Broward and Palm Beach Counties have increased in every month since January.  Broward’s median price in June was $196,000, up 26 percent from a year ago.  The county’s median has been up and down so far in 2011, while Palm Beach County’s median has been down consistently during the first half ot this year.

Palm Beach County’s median price was $204,900 in June, down 12 percent from a year ago.
Statewide, sales rose 4 percent from a year ago, while the median price of $138,000 was off 2 percent.  The median means half the homes sold for more and half for less.

Mortgage rates are at rock bottom.  Rental rates are rising.  Inventory of single family homes is very low.  Banks are now required to respond promptly to short sale offers.  It’s time for you to buy something. Call me.

BOOK BEAT

I read a couple of very good books in last month.  The first was LAST TRAIN TO PARADISE: Henry Flagler and the Spectacular Rise and Fall of the Railroad that Crossed an Ocean.

The paths of the great American robber barons were paved with riches, and though ordinary citizens paid for them, they also profited. The author, Les Standiford, has written a book that reads like a novel.  This is a remarkable story about a remarkable man who was determined to perform the almost superhuman feat of building a railroad from the mainland to Key West at the turn of the century. An extraordinary man and partner of John D. Rockefeller in the Standard Oil Company, Flagler had the vision to build railroads to link this backward territory with the rest of America. LAST TRAIN TO PARADISE shows how he masterminded the nearly impossible engineering feat of spanning more than 100 miles of ocean and islands to reach the southernmost tip of the Eastern Seaboard.  When asked how he intended to span the miles of open water for his railroad he suggested that, as with the Roman Aqueducts, they first build an arch, and then another arch, and then another, and eventually they’d end up in Key West.  And in spite of incredible obstacles, not the least of which were a couple  of hurricanes, they did.  The book even includes a bit about Hemingway when he was in Key West during the famous Labor Day Hurricane of 1935; the most powerful storm ever to hit the US. A really well written adventure yarn.

The second  book was written by Patti Smith and titled JUST KIDS.  Both Patti Smith and Robert Mapplethorpe were born in 1946 and met in New York City in the 60′s.  They  shared a loving and poverty wracked life together in Brooklyn and Manhattan and eventually moved into the  legendary Chelsea Hotel, where so many artists lived and thrived.  This is the book that Smith promised Mapplethorpe she would write about their life together  It is a fascinating account of his evolution as an artist and ultimate discovery of his amazing talent as a photographer.  Patti, meanwhile, transformed herself from a modest poet to an international rock star.  It’s an interesting account of what the crowd that I was not a part of was doing in Manhattan in the 70′s.  Wild times.  Good book.

PICTURES

Pictures from practically all previous dinners since 2003 can be found on the GITA website.  From the home page select “Photo Gallery” then select GITA-Dinners. If you’d like prints, suitable for framing, of any of the photos on the website just let me know.

The Gita website is undergoing some face lifting and may, at times, be unavailable.

BUSINESS CARDS

We are hoping to add more member’s business cards to our website. If you’d like us to add your card you need to either send me a card or email me a scan of your card. The more the merrier.

DINNER RAFFLE

Each month at our dinners we have a raffle and give away extravagant prizes. There is no charge to participate in the raffle. Again this month we will be accepting modest raffle gifts from interested members who choose to promote their business in this most entertaining way.

Thanks for your continued support. Hope to see you all on the 8th.

Chuck Murabito

Primavera Restaurant
Castelli Real Estate Services
The Title Company of South Florida

954-629-5525

Posted in Newsletter | Leave a comment

Posted on July 5, 2011 by Chuck

July 5, 2011

Greetings from GITA

Hope you made it through the Fourth of July without serious injury.    Hard to believe it’s the middle of the summer already.  The All Star Game is next week.  And so is our July dinner next Monday.  Hope you’ll be able to join us.  We have some surprises coming up at this month’s dinner.

And special congratulations to my wonderful partner Juan for earning his latest degree as a  Home Health Care Professional.  Remember, if you know someone in need of professional Home Health Care give him a call at 954-224-5056.

We thank you all for your good wishes and continued support and hope to see you very soon.

GITA DINNER MEETING on Monday, July 11, 2011

The Gita Dinners for the past few months have been very well attended and we’ve had some fun.  We’re looking forward to seeing you at this month’s dinner on Monday, the 11th of July at 7 PM at Primavera Restaurant. Primavera is located at 830 E. Oakland Park Boulevard just west of Dixie and east of KMart. Cost is $20 payable at the door.  There is currently space available for this dinner. We’re now featuring “Singles” tables for those who’d like to meet new friends.  Hope to see you there.

RESERVING SEATS AT DINNER

We are now accepting reservations for parties of ANY SIZE.  Our largest  individual round tables seat a maximum of 12. When you make a reservation, please give me the names (both first and last) of those in your party. ALL seats are reserved.  You can make a reservation by simply responding to this email.  When you make a reservation by email I ALWAYS respond. If you don’t get a response I probably didn’t get your email.

PRIMAVERA

Primavera has launched a new Special Taste of Primavera Menu for July which features a variety of appetizers and entrees available for a special price of $15.  This special menu is available nightly  and Saturday ’till 6 PM. Primavera is also offering two for one entrees nightly until 6 PM. Hope you’ll take advantage of these great deals.

And remember Primavera can provide a variety of banquet services.   So when you’re planning a party plan on talking with Giacomo at Primavera – 954-564-6363.

OPERA GROUP

The Opera Group generally meets monthly at the Pride Center at Equality Park to view operas.  The group, is, however, taking a summer sabbatical and their opera viewing will resume in the fall. For more information or to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

BALLET

The Ballet Group generally meets on the 2nd (second) Sunday of the month and the Opera Group meets on the 4th (fourth) Sunday of the month.  The Ballet Group also meets at the Pride Center at Equality Park.  Here again, to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

 

 

BRIDGE

Quick Tricks Duplicate Bridge Club meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 and Saturday afternoons at 12:30 at the Fort Lauderdale Bridge Club located in Holiday Park at 700 NE 6th Terrace in Fort Lauderdale. Mike Donnelly continues to direct on Tuesdays and Carl Cronrath, Manager of the Fort Lauderdale Bridge Club, directs on Saturdays.   All games are charity games, masterpoints are awarded and a portion of the entry fee for all games is donated to Tuesday’s Angels. Quick Tricks games are sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League and the entry fee remains $6.00. Come out and enjoy bridge, earn points and support Tuesday’s Angels all at the same time.  If you have any questions, please contact Jack De Crescente at 954-636-2050 or at jackdecrescente@comcast.net


ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES  The Italian Language class is taking a break for the summer but classes will resume in the Fall. The classes are still free to all under the GITA patronage. Instead of a fee, we invite participating students to make a donation, 100% of which goes to Tuesdays Angels. Since we revived this class in Oct 2009, we have donated over $700 to Tuesdays Angels due to the efforts of our volunteer teacher, John Ritter, and the generosity of our students. For more information or If you’re interested in attending classes please contact Bobby Caruso at bobby139@bellsouth.net

MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg anyone? this ancient game from China combines skill and luck and is played with tiles. If you like cards or board games and a challenge, you will probably enjoy it. Beginners welcome. Contact Keith at 954-446-5666.

REAL ESTATE

Mortgage rates are at rock bottom.  Rental rates are rising.  Inventory of single family homes is very low.  Banks are now required to respond promptly to short sale offers.  It’s time for you to buy something. Call me.

BOOK BEAT

I recently finshed the book I talked about last month titled The Secret Historian: The Life and Times of Samuel Steward, Professor, Tattoo Artist, and Sexual Renegade by Justin Spring.  This book is drawn from the secret, never-before-seen diaries, journals, and sexual records of the novelist, poet, and university professor, Samuel M. Steward.  This is an amazing account of one of the more extraordinary hidden lives of the 20th century.  Steward was an intimate friend of Gertrude Stein, Alice B. Toklas, Thornton Wilder, and you name it.  He seems to have known and slept with every gay writer, artist, and personality in Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Paris and Rome.  He documented his social and sex life in elaborate detail and kept 3 by 5 cards on all of his hundreds of sexual partners from his earliest days.  He bacame intimately involved with Kinsey’s research in the 50′s and in his later years became the famous gay pornographer ,Phil Andros.

After finishing the book I happened to see the new Woody Allen movie, MIDNIGHT IN PARIS.  The movie, while a bit silly, was most enjoyable partly because it included some of the characters from the SECRET HISTORIAN in Woody Alllen’s rendition of the 1920′s in Paris.  And here again was the Stein/Toklas household in Paris portrayed as a popular meeting place for  most of the artists  and writers of the time, including most of the expatriate Americans.

A few days after seeing the film we went to St. Petersburg for the weekend to watch the Florida Marlins baseball team lose to the Tampa Bay Rays.  While in St. Petersburg cousin Susan suggested a visit to the newly opened Dali Museum.  Having just seen Dali in the  new Woody Allen movie and having lived through a lengthy period of time reading about and watching characters from this period in Paris, I was delighted at the prospect.  The Dali collection in St. Petersburg is the most comprehensive in the world.  It is a dazzling museum and the 96 or so oils (dating from from 1917 to 1970) are presented in a stunning display.  If you happen to find yourself on the Gulf Coast you ought not miss it.

Shortly after our museum tour began I asked our guide whether she knew that Dali was in the new Woody Allen film.  Her face lit up and and she became super animated.  “We just saw the movie last night,” she gushed, “and we wished it would never end.  It was marvelous! “  She said that the staff in the museum were unable to talk of anything else that day except for Dali and The Film.

Naturally, all of this prompted a re-reading of Hemingway’s A MOVEABLE FEAST.   In this memoir, Hemingway’s homage to Paris in the ’20′s,  the same cast of characters reprise their roles once again.  Worth another read.

My advice: Imerse yourself in the period.  Read A Moveable Feast and the Secret Historian (although admittedly not for everybody), watch Midnight in Paris, and visit the Dali Museum.  You will be amply rewarded by this Grand Slam.

PICTURES

Pictures from practically all previous dinners since 2003 can be found on the GITA website.  From the home page select “Photo Gallery” then select GITA-Dinners. If you’d like prints, suitable for framing, of any of the photos on the website just let me know.

The Gita website is undergoing some face lifting and may, at times, be unavailable.

BUSINESS CARDS

We are hoping to add more member’s business cards to our website. If you’d like us to add your card you need to either send me a card or email me a scan of your card. The more the merrier.

DINNER RAFFLE

Each month at our dinners we have a raffle and give away extravagant prizes. There is no charge to participate in the raffle. Again this month we will be accepting modest raffle gifts from interested members who choose to promote their business in this most entertaining way.

Thanks for your continued support. Hope to see you all on the 11th.

Chuck Murabito

Primavera Restaurant
Castelli Real Estate Services
The Title Company of South Florida

954-629-5525 

Posted in Newsletter | Leave a comment

June 8, 2011

Posted on June 8, 2011 by Chuck

Greetings from GITA

We’d like to wish everyone a Happy June and especially those wonderful  Gita members who have chosen to stay here for the summer to keep us company.  The joys of summer in Fort Lauderdale are too many to count.

We thank you all for your good wishes and continued support and hope to see you very soon.

GITA DINNER MEETING on Monday, June 13, 2011

The Gita Dinners for the past few months have been very well attended and we’ve had some fun.  We’re looking forward to seeing you at this month’s dinner on Monday, the 13th of June at 7 PM at Primavera Restaurant. Primavera is located at 830 E. Oakland Park Boulevard just west of Dixie and east of KMart. Cost is $20 payable at the door.  There is currently space available for this dinner. We’re now featuring “Singles” tables for those who’d like to meet new friends.  Hope to see you there.

RESERVING SEATS AT DINNER

We are now accepting reservations for parties of ANY SIZE.  Our largest  individual round tables seat a maximum of 12. When you make a reservation, please give me the names (both first and last) of those in your party. ALL seats are reserved.  You can make a reservation by simply responding to this email.  When you make a reservation by email I ALWAYS respond. If you don’t get a response I probably didn’t get your email.

PRIMAVERA

Primavera has launched a new Special Menu for June which features a variety of appetizers and entrees available for a special price of $15.  This special menu is available nightly except Saturday.  Hope you’ll take advantage of this great deal.

And remember Primavera can provide a variety of banquet services.  So when you’re planning a party plan on talking with Giacomo at Primavera – 954-564-6363.

OPERA GROUP

The Opera Group generally meets monthly at the Pride Center at Equality Park to view operas.  The group, is, however, taking a summer sabbatical and their opera viewing will resume in the fall. For more information or to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

BALLET

The Ballet Group generally meets on the 2nd (second) Sunday of the month and the Opera Group meets on the 4th (fourth) Sunday of the month.  The Ballet Group also meets at the Pride Center at Equality Park.  Here again, to get your name on their email list you need to get in touch with Dominic Bisignano at DBisignano@aol.com or Tony Janik at tjartphotos@msn.com

 

 

BRIDGE

Quick Tricks Duplicate Bridge Club meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 and Saturday afternoons at 12:30 at the Fort Lauderdale Bridge Club located in Holiday Park at 700 NE 6th Terrace in Fort Lauderdale. Mike Donnelly continues to direct on Tuesdays and Carl Cronrath, Manager of the Fort Lauderdale Bridge Club, directs on Saturdays.   All games are charity games, masterpoints are awarded and a portion of the entry fee for all games is donated to Tuesday’s Angels. Quick Tricks games are sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League and the entry fee remains $6.00. Come out and enjoy bridge, earn points and support Tuesday’s Angels all at the same time.  If you have any questions, please contact Jack De Crescente at 954-636-2050 or at jackdecrescente@comcast.net


ITALIAN LANGUAGE CLASSES  The Italian Language class is taking a break for the summer but classes will resume in the Fall. The classes are still free to all under the GITA patronage. Instead of a fee, we invite participating students to make a donation, 100% of which goes to Tuesdays Angels. Since we revived this class in Oct 2009, we have donated over $700 to Tuesdays Angels due to the efforts of our volunteer teacher, John Ritter, and the generosity of our students. For more information or If you’re interested in attending classes please contact Bobby Caruso at bobby139@bellsouth.net

MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg anyone? this ancient game from China combines skill and luck and is played with tiles. If you like cards or board games and a challenge, you will probably enjoy it. Beginners welcome. Contact Keith at 954-446-5666.

REAL ESTATE

Mortgage rates are at rock bottom.  Rental rates are rising.  Inventory of single family homes is very low.  Banks are now required to respond promptly to short sale offers.  It’s time for you to buy something. Call me.

BOOK BEAT

I’m just finishing a book called Secret Historian: The Life and Times of Samuel Steward, Professor, Tattoo Artist, and Sexual Renegade by Justin Spring.  This book is drawn from the secret, never-before-seen diaries, journals, and sexual records of the novelist, poet, and university professor, Samuel M. Steward.  This is an amazing account of one of the more extraordinary hidden lives of the 20th century.  Steward was an intimate friend of Gertrude Stein, Alice B. Toklas, Thornton Wilder, and you name it.  He seems to have known and slept with every gay writer, artist, and personality in Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Paris and Rome.  He documented his social and sex life in elaborate detail and kept 3 by 5 cards on all of his hundreds of sexual partners from his earliest days.  He bacame intimately involved with Kinsey’s research in the 50′s and in his later years became the famous pornographer Phil Andros.  Quite a fascinating, if not exhausting, life.

PICTURES

Pictures from practically all previous dinners since 2003 can be found on the GITA website.  From the home page select “Photo Gallery” then select GITA-Dinners. If you’d like prints, suitable for framing, of any of the photos on the website just let me know.

The Gita website is undergoing some face lifting and may, at times, be unavailable.

BUSINESS CARDS

We are hoping to add more member’s business cards to our website. If you’d like us to add your card you need to either send me a card or email me a scan of your card. The more the merrier.

DINNER RAFFLE

Each month at our dinners we have a raffle and give away extravagant prizes. There is no charge to participate in the raffle. Again this month we will be accepting modest raffle gifts from interested members who choose to promote their business in this most entertaining way.    We’d like to thank David Malatesta and his Grand Estates Property Management Company for the bottle of wine they donated at last month’s dinner.

IN MEMORIUM
We mourn the recent passing of Gita member Richard Mineo.  In addition to being a long time Gita member Richard was my very entertaining instructor when I took the Real Estate Broker’s course.  Our sincere condolences go out to Pedro and Victor and all of Richard’s family.
Thanks for your continued support. Hope to see you all on the 13th.

Chuck Murabito

Primavera Restaurant
Castelli Real Estate Services
The Title Company of South Florida

954-629-5525

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