For the first time ever, transgender people living in the Sarasota area will have an opportunity to celebrate Valentine’s Day openly and honestly with their significant others. The first-ever “Be My Valentine Ball” focuses on the transgender community and is organized by the Florida West Coast Transgenders.
“We provide transgenders, their families and their friends with support groups, one-on-one counseling, family counseling, monthly gatherings and events,” said FWCT executive director Bryon Endy.
The first annual ball is slated for 7 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 13, at the Homewood Suites Hilton at 3470 Fruitville Road in Sarasota. The $89 rooms include breakfast, according to a press release. Tickets to the ball are $15.
The ball will last until midnight and will offer dinner, hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. All attendees must be 18 years old to enter. There’s also a dress code. No t-shirts or jeans are allowed.
“We want to offer a nice event for the community that we’ve never really had before,” Endy said. “This is going to be a fun night with a chance for people to meet others in similar situations.”
Endy said he expects a large crowd, but he didn’t have any specific numbers as of press time.
“We do have limited tickets so we’re encouraging people to buy in advance,” Endy said. “And this is more than just a dance. We’re offering commitment ceremonies as well.”
But those will actually occur before the doors open to the ball. According to Endy, Rev. Lisa Heilig will perform the commitment ceremonies upon request beginning at 6 p.m. The ball itself will feature several different contests, including a King and Queen competition.
For more information on the ball and the Florida West Coast Transgenders group, visit their web site or call Endy at 941-879-4888. To book a room at the Homewood Suites, call 941-365-7300.
