BUSINESS NEWS

Child Advocates benefited from the November 7 grand opening party at Cities (2411 West Alabama). Bill Burge, Cities owner, is a volunteer for that organization, and donated 20 percent of the day's sales. Farrago World Cuisine and La Strada provided hors d'oeuvres, accompanied by martini blends prepared by Citadel Gin & Vodka. Neil Hamil models wore fashions from Wink and Davis Clothing throughout the new 4,600-square-foot space. The Cities telephone number is 713/528-2662. The website is www.shopatcities.com.

Psychotherapist Tony Carroll, LMSW-ACP, has announced the 2003 schedule for his workshop series "Love Relationships: Finding and Keeping the Right Partner." For single individuals, Carroll will offer workshops on different weekends designed for gay men (March 9-10 and September 27-28), lesbians (October 25-26), and nongay people (May 17-18). Carroll will offer different workshops for gay/lesbian couples (February 8-9 and August 23-24) and nongay couples (October 11-12). The fee for the singles workshop is $115 per person, and the fee for the couples' workshop is $145. Information and reservations: 713/527-0000 or Tony@HoustonTherapist.com.

Lilly Roddy, professional astrologer (and OutSmart contributor), begins teaching two new class series this month. A February 15-16 class on natal aspects is the second in Roddy's series of astrology classes for beginners. The cost is $65 for new students, $35 for students who wish to repeat the class. A class on phases of the month, intended for individuals with some basic knowledge of astrology, begins February 19 and continues through April 9. The cost is $60. Classes take place at 920 West Main. For details or registration, contact Roddy at 713/529-5842 or Lillycath@aol.com,

The Briar Patch, one of the oldest gay bars in Houston, moved last month from its long-time location on Greenbriar to 2312 Crocker, near Fairview. That site was previously the location of the club Paradise. The Briar Patch telephone number remains 713/665-9678.

After four years in business at 1009 Missouri, Loft & Home recently closed that Montrose location. The firm, which operates a retail store in Toledo, Ohio, continues to sell merchandise through the website www.loftandhome.com.