If you jot notes with a Bic, glance at your Timex to get to the movies on time, and use your Swiss Army knife to pare your nails, you probably won't get off on this weekend's "International Pen, Watch & Knife Show" at the Embassy Suites Hotel (1100 SE 17th St., Fort Lauderdale). You're probably scratching your head trying to figure out what the three items even have in common. One theory is that the Miami Pen and Watch Club and the Gold Coast Knife Club have the same president. Collector Pauline Russell sees the items not as functional tools but as works of art and pieces of history. "Art Deco pens are like Art Deco buildings: They're brash and squared off, two-toned, in bright colors," she explains. "Fabergé pens are layered with 17 coats of enamel." The pens, in other words, are created with the same process and at the same workshop as the famous jeweled eggs. Unlike the merchandise at gun and knife shows, the high-end, custom-crafted blades at this show are designed to be admired, not bloodied. The watch people probably can't do anything about getting you to places on time, but a good knife will stop people from complaining about it so much. Admission is free on Friday, $6 Saturday or Sunday, or $10 for the weekend. Call 954-527-2700. --Karen Dale Wolman
FRI 7/11
Meet Me Downtown
Delray heats up the weekend
Delray Beach sure loves its outdoor festivals, and why not? After the success of the "Delray Affair," the two-time "All-American City" winner should have no problem playing host to a month's worth of block parties. Every Friday night through August 29, downtown Delray presents "Summer Nights on the Avenue." Visitors can stroll down breezy Atlantic Avenue, browse various shops, enjoy food from a variety of restaurants, and take in some live entertainment, all for free. That's right, free. This week, enjoy an antique-car show and live entertainment from Boogie Bob. Upcoming weeks include parking-lot parties, Latin and country-themed dances, and a tribute to Elvis. Who says Delray's boring? The festivities start at 7 p.m. Call 561-279-1380, or visit www.downtowndelraybeach.com. -- Audra Schroeder
