Remembering Two Extraordinary Members Of Our Community
There are moments as a publisher when finding the right words feels almost impossible. This is one of those moments.
This week, our community lost one of its true treasures, Tony Nazzaro. While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a remarkable life dedicated to bringing joy, laughter, music, and love to generations of people throughout South Florida.
I had the privilege of working with Tony Nazzaro and Gloria McMichael many times over the years. I always knew that if Tony and Gloria were involved, the event would be something special. They didn’t simply perform—they created experiences. They had a rare ability to make every person in the room feel welcomed, appreciated, and connected.
For decades, Tony and Gloria became more than entertainers. They became an institution in Wilton Manors and throughout our LGBTQ+ community. They represented the joy, resilience, and spirit that have defined our community through both celebrations and challenges. Their dedication to supporting local nonprofits, businesses, and community events helped shape the culture and history of the place so many of us proudly call home.
Beyond the spotlight, Tony was a genuinely kind man whose warmth was as authentic as his talent. His smile was contagious, his generosity was heartfelt, and his love for people was unmistakable. He leaves behind not only an incredible legacy but also countless friendships that will endure for years to come.
To my friend, Gloria McMichael, I want you to know that our hearts are with you. No words can lessen the pain of losing your partner, your teammate, and your best friend. Please know that you are surrounded by a community that loves you deeply and stands beside you during this difficult time.
On a personal note, I want to say something simple but deeply meaningful: I will always treasure the times we shared, the laughter we enjoyed, and the memories we created together. I know I am only one of thousands whose lives were made richer because Tony was part of them.
On behalf of everyone at HotSpots magazine, thank you, Tony Nazzaro, for sharing your extraordinary life with all of us. Your music, your laughter, your kindness, and your spirit will forever be part of the story of our community.
Rest peacefully, my friend. You will always be remembered, and you will always be loved.
A Legacy That Will Live Forever: Remembering Frank A. Ribaudo
There are people who leave behind successful businesses. There are people who leave behind charitable accomplishments.
Then there are rare individuals like Frank A. Ribaudo, who leave behind an entire community that is stronger, kinder, and more united because they lived.
Frank’s passing on July 7, 2026, after a courageous 2½-year battle with Glioblastoma, is an immeasurable loss for the LGBTQ+ community. Yet his remarkable legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
More than 40 years ago, Frank helped create something that would become far greater than a restaurant. After experiencing discrimination at a nearby gym in 1983, he and his friends chose action over acceptance. They opened an LGBTQ+ gym where everyone could feel safe, respected, and welcomed. Soon afterward came Club Café—a place that quickly evolved into one of the most beloved gathering spaces in our community.
Frank understood that true leadership meant showing up when people needed you most. During the darkest years of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, Club Café became a refuge, hosting community dinners, fundraisers, and meetings that united people, educated the public, and helped change policy. His commitment never faded. Alongside his dear friend Michael Tye, Frank helped establish the Harbor to the Bay AIDS Benefit Bike Ride, dedicating more than two decades of service as treasurer, organizer, and volunteer.
Frank also believed community extended far beyond social gatherings. He famously encouraged getting LGBTQ+ people “out of the bars and onto the fields,” knowing that sports build friendships, confidence, and lifelong support systems. Through the Club Café Community Support Fund, he helped provide more than $30,000 annually to LGBTQ+ sports organizations, creating opportunities that continue today.
For more than 25 years, Frank shared an extraordinary love story with his husband, Joe Posa. While Joe brought joy to audiences through his remarkable talent, Frank quietly provided the love, encouragement, and unwavering support that helped make so much possible.
Together, they became one of our community’s most admired couples, always giving more than they received.
Joe lovingly called Frank “the love of my life,” and anyone who knew them understood exactly why.
On behalf of everyone at HotSpots magazine we extend our deepest condolences to Joe, Frank’s family, and the countless friends whose lives he touched. Frank Ribaudo proved that courage is found in kindness, leadership is measured by service, and a life dedicated to lifting others is a life truly well lived.
Rest peacefully, Frank. Your vision, your generosity, and your heart will forever remain woven into the fabric of our community.
Bobby Blair
Publisher, HotSpots Magazine
