On the evening of March 4, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center kicked off the celebration of its 25th anniversary with a record haul from its annual Gala Center Dinner.
On the evening of March 4, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Community Center kicked off the celebration of its 25th anniversary with a record haul from its annual Gala Center Dinner. The Center, which is located on West 13th Street, plays host to thousands of gatherings, celebrations, meetings, forums, and lectures each year, and provides critical social and recreational services to diverse segments of the community, raised a record $520,000, more money that than pulled in from any single event in its history.
With tennis great Billie Jean King serving as honorary chair, the evening, held at Capitale on the Bowery in the East Village, was hosted by comedian and writer Bruce Vilanch. City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, an out lesbian who represents Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen, spoke, as did city Comptroller William Thompson. Quinn and Thompson are both widely expected to toss their hats in the ring next year as mayoral candidates.
Vilanch, center, is pictured with F. Bruce Anderson, president of the Center board of directors, and Richard Burns, who has served as executive director for more than 21 years.
