Stanzas for Change

San Francisco, Seattle, New York City, Chicago. Of all of the top literary cities in the United States, Fort Lauderdale may not be one that immediately pops into the mind. Just look to the gigantic CVS that occupies the old landmark spot for Borders Books for proof and you’ll see we seem more concerned with securing a spot to buy sunscreen supplies, fruit-flavored prophylactics, and foam pool noodles than we do with keeping a bookstore (albeit corporate) in business. So, “literary haven”? No. But “spring-break destination of yesteryear in the midst of redefining itself as a literary destination”? Perhaps. With the help of some altruistic individuals with strong backgrounds in the written word, literary art of all forms is getting a much-needed boost with the creation of nonprofit organization Orange Island Arts Foundation, which launches tonight at World and Eye Arts Center (109 NW Fifth St., FAT Village, Fort Lauderdale) with complimentary drinks, music, and light bites provided by Cakes by Sarah. Meet the writers, photographers, and media specialists behind the organization, including Laura McDermott Matheric, Chelsea Greenwood, Caridad Moro, and hear about the future plans to link up with students, aspiring writers, and the community as a whole with forthcoming events, contests, and workshops. The launch will go from 6 to 7 p.m., and guests can stick around from 7 to 10 for “100 Thousand Poets for Change” — an annual one-day global event promoting poetry inspired by social, political, and environmental change with poetry performances by Eat Your Poem. Visit orangeislandartsfoundation.org.
Sat., Sept. 27, 7-10 p.m., 2014