The Center Gala 2009: 40 Years After Stonewall
By Danny-Doan H. Nguyen
Are you up for an exciting and fun night that will also be memorable and historical? Then come support The Gay & Lesbian Community Services Center of Orange County, as the center proudly presents the 2009 Center Gala, which will be held on April 25 at the Hyatt Regency in Irvine.
The theme for this spectacular event is “Stonewall, 40: Back to the Streets,” and will feature a fun flashback to the ’70s, with a historical and forward look at Orange County’s gay community.
The Stonewall riots were a series of spontaneous, violent demonstrations against a police raid that took place in the early morning hours of June 28, 1969 at the Stonewall Inn in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of New York City. The riots frequently are cited as the first instance in American history when LGBT individuals fought back against a government-sponsored system that persecuted homosexuals. This became the defining event that marked the start of the gay rights movement in the United States and around the world.
“The Center OC is entering an exciting time of growth,” said Executive Director Ginger Hahn. “The Center OC is the only gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community services center in Orange County.”
The upcoming gala is the primary annual fundraising event for The Center and will include vibrant entertainment, fabulous food and both a silent and live auction.
The funds raised at the gala help The Center serve the more than 10,000 adults, families and youth who come to The Center for support, education, medical testing and counseling, and mental-health services.
Actor/writer/activist Peter Paige will be honored with The Center Torch Bearer Award. Paige became a well-loved icon and symbol of strength for the LGBT community through his amazing portrayal of “Emmett Honeycutt” on Queer as Folk.
His other credits include Will & Grace, American Dad and Grey’s Anatomy. In the summer of 2004, Paige starred in his feature directorial debut, Say Uncle, alongside Kathy Najimy, Anthony Clark, Melanie Lynskey and Gabrielle Union. He is also featured in Don McKellar’s Childstar with Jennifer Jason Leigh and Dave Foley.
Also an accomplished stage actor, Paige has appeared at theaters throughout the country. He has performed nearly every genre of play, from the Greeks to Shakespeare to contemporary American work.
The Torch Bearer Award is given to those who have gone bravely ahead, lighting the way for others in the community. Torch Bearers have helped the non-LGBT community see the humor and irony in the separation of LGBT people from the mainstream limelight. They have used comedy, film, theater or music to expose unfair and unjust practices, and to open doors for LGBT people who came after them. They have used their public personas to influence popular opinion and have raised funds and awareness for causes that affect us as a community.
Community leader Frank Schools will also be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. This award goes to LGBT community leaders who have contributed enormous energy and shown an ongoing commitment to our community.
The Center OC filled the house in 2008 as it honored Bruce Vilanch and Dr. Max Schneider. Last year’s gala set the bar high, making this year’s gala the LGBT event not to be missed.
Individual tickets are on sale for $175. Sponsorships and tables are still available, ranging from $1,750 to $10,000. Each table seats 10 guests and includes benefits such as VIP reception and printed ad in program.
For more information and details, call (714) 564-0862 or visit www.thecenteroc.org.