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STONEWALL Veterans' Association
=2004= New York City Events
involving the S.V.A.

 

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"S-T-O-N-E-W-A-L-L   35"




S.V.A. 2004 Official Roster -- plus S.V.A. Assistant AnDre Christie

   

Thursday, January 1, 2004 -- NEW YEAR's "GREETINGS" from the S.V.A.


   

Sunday, January 25 -- S.V.A. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

S.V.A. Officers meeting at a very special venue:   the home of our late Treasurer, Terri Van Dyke.   Scheduled from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.   Officers confirmed to attend are:   Williamson Henderson, Jeremiah Newton, Electra O'Mara, Bert Coffman, Leigh McManus and Dave West plus dish server AnDre Christie -- and Bon Soir.   Food:  Chinese from Grincha's Take-Out/Home Delivery.


   

Monday, January 26 -- TERRI COMMITTEE MEETING @ 6:00 p.m.


   

Saturday, January 31 -- "STONEWALL 35" 1st MEETING of the NEW YEAR @ 4:15 p.m.

S,V.A. Officers confirmed to attend include:  Williamson Henderson, Jeremiah Newton, Bert Coffman, Electra O'Mara, Ray McCaffrey, Stormé DeLarverie and Rev. Magora plus non-officer AnDre Christie.


   

Tuesday, February 3, 2004 -- JASON RAIZE, ACTOR and S.V.A. FRIEND, DIES at 28

The talented, unique, young and handsome Jason, born on July 20, 1975 in Oneonta, New York, died suddenly. For three triumphant years, he played the original Simba in "The Lion King" Tony award-winning play on Broadway.  Many from the S.V.A. such as Williamson, Jeremiah, Terri V. and Dave West met the outgoing Mr. Raiza at a Gay pride event at City Hall a few years ago.  Several from the S.V.A. had met Jason backstage at his Broadway play.  This is an extremely tragic occurrence and very sad indeed.  


 

Saturday, February 28 -- S.V.A. MONTHLY MEETING at the GAY CENTER @ 4:15 p.m.

Congressmember Carolyn B. Maloney, S.V.A.'s Honorary Chairperson, is the special guest speaker.  Other guests include reps of the Heritage of Pride, organizers of the GLBT Pride Parade, the GLBT Pride Rally and other events during Gay Pride Weekend, to plan special inclusion events with the S.V.A.  Agenda includes many decisions for the forthcoming "Stonewall 35" in June.  The meeting is from 4:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.


   

Wednesday, March 3, 2004 -- TERRI COMMITTEE MEETING in TRIBECA @ 6 p.m.

Confirmed to attend at presstime are Williamson Henderson, Bert Coffman., Bill Murowski, Tommy Shanahan and our sister Eileen.  Afterward, we'll have Big Berti's Birthday Bash.


   

Wednesday, March 17 -- BON SOIR, S.V.A. MASCOT, DIES at 18

Bon Soir, the beautiful and brilliant blue-point Siamese cat who was the S.V.A. mascot, far outlived nearly all cats at 18.  He definitely has been in more Gay Pride Parades than most Gay people.  Starting with 1986 in his 1st year, Bon Soir was well-known for riding in the open "Stonewall Car" convertible.   He continued this until "Stonewall 25", when we knew Centarl Park (with 1 million) would be too dusty for a pet.  It was decided thereafter than the hot sun could be too much for a pet who was now several years old.  Nonetheless, the next year a Fire Dep't in Long Island had to be called for a very long ladder to get Bon Soir out of a pine tree about thirty feet in the air.  Since we had a choice, Bon Soir was then moved full-time to pine-less Manhattan.  Bon Soir eeked out a 20-story window in an Upper West Side high-rise -- and fell trying to turn around on a ledge.  Luckily, there was an overhanging terrace on the 19th floor.  In the mid-1990s, Bon Soir moved to a duplex in Chelsea with a backyard!   He was out in the snow for the Blizzard of 1996.  In a subsequent year, to check out the backyard of the Chelsea Hotel, he cut open a paw climbing over the back, high brick wall topped with rusty barbed wire.  Stormé DeLarverie found out from the hotel front desk!  Bon Soir needed surgery that time.  But, Bon Soir never had any disease; he was never sick.  In contrast to some advice, Williamson gave Bon Soir steak, pork chops, chicken, ham, bacon, etc. as special treats -- for 18 years!  Bon Soir attended his last S.V.A. Executive Committee meeting this year on January 25.  At Bon Soir's loud demand, Jeremiah Newton fed him Chinese roast pork.  Two days ago, Bon Soir got an unexpected air pocket in his lungs (something more likely for a human athlete) and it expanded cutting off his oxygen.  Bon Soir died at 18 after two days under constant round-the-clock care at an Upper East Side pet medical center.  Williamson and AnDre Christie visited him at the hospital both days.  Congratulatory meows for 9 lives to the "Bonse".



   
Wednesday, March 17 -- CONGRESSMEMBER CAROLYN MALONEY's "ST. PATRICK's DAY BREAKFAST"

It is held at T.G.I.F.'s Restaurant at 47 East 42nd Street between Madison Avenue and Vanderbilt Avenue in Manhattan, N.Y. from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.  Afterward, the S.V.A. members will be joining the Congressmember and many other public officials, including Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum, in the fabulous St. Patrick's Day Parade on Fifth Avenue.  Note:  We're not gonna be deprived of a great and festive New York tradition because of the discriminatory Ancient Order of Hypernians.  We don't want them in our NY Gay parade!


   

Wednesday, March 17 -- ANOTHER STONEWALL VETERAN DIES:  ED HEFFERNAN of BROOKLYN

Ed was a longtime member of the S.V.A. Executive Committee and always proudly joined the S.V.A. leading the annual Brooklyn Gay Pride Parade.  He will be sorely missed this year.


   

Saturday, March 20 -- OPENING CEREMONIES for the GAY BUSINESS EXPO

The opening ceremonies will be at 10:00 a.m. (an hour earlier than last year) in the main lobby of the Javits Center.   The Keynote Speaker will again be Congressmember Carolyn Maloney of Manhattan's East Side and parts of Queens.   The traditional Master of Ceremonies will be S.V.A.'s Williamson Henderson.  Setting up the S.V.A. displays is AnDre Christie.



   
Saturday, March 20 and Sunday, March 21 -- 11th ANNUAL GAY BUSINESS EXPO & ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL

See ad in the S.V.A.'s "STONEWALL Newzletta" and in the Business Ads section of the S.V.A. website at:   www.STONEWALLvets.org/businessadvertisers.htm.


   

Saturday, March 27 -- S.V.A.'s MONTHLY MEETING @ 4:15 p.m.



 
Wednesday, April 7, 2004 -- TERRI COMMITTEE MEETING in TRIBECA @ 6 p.m.

Confirmed to attend this 3rd T.C.M. are Williamson Henderson, Jeremiah Newton, Bert Coffman, Ray McCaffrey, Bill Murowski, Michael S. and Peter M.

   




Friday, April 9 -- S.V.A. COMPLAINT CONFERENCE at COMMUNITY BOARD #2 OFFICE

CB-2 didn't receive that number by coincidence, we don't think.  This matter involves a pre-planned streetfair.  We won't go into all of the details here (not yet) of the unprofessionalism, unwarranted spite and unleashed stupidity eminating from this #2 Bored.  However, their chairperson wrongly thought that the S.V.A. had applied for a "new" streetfair permit when in reality, we applied to take over a "pre-existing" approved streetfair.  Yet, upon being informed of his error and this huge mistake, he did nothing.  And, their orifice manager "Stricknine" didn't think that the STONEWALL Veterans' Association of the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion on Greenwich Village's most famous and Gayest street, Christopher Street, was based in Greenwich Village!  We began in Greenwich Village!  Our office is in Greenwich Village!  Our mailing address is in Greenwich Village!  Our telephone exchange is in Greenwich Village!  More of our members live in Greenwich Village than any other community in the world!  Do you notice two words keep repeating?  Greenwich Village!!  Where does he think that we are based, in Chinatown?  S.V.A.'s President Jeremiah discussed the meeting as obnoxious and stupid.  S.V.A.'s Vice-President Bert dished it as rude and dumb.  Oh, the committee involved is headed by the X-Prez (3 months) of S.V.A., Audrey Leeds.  What sheer coincidence?  Stay tuned, much more to come!

 


   

Monday, April 19 -- S.V.A. MEETING with N.Y.C. COUNCILMEMBER EVA MOSKOWITZ @ 4 p.m.

Bert Coffman will head up the S.V.A. representation at Eva's district office.




   
Tuesday, April 20 -- BROADWAY CARES PRESENTS the "18th ANNUAL EASTER BONNET COMPETITION"

This wonderful and worthwhile event is composed of competitive presentations by the casts of about 20 different Broadway plays such as "Hairspray", "42nd Street", "The Lion King", "The Boy From Oz" and "The Phantom Of The Opera".  This annual benefit and appreciation event for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS has multiple hosts, including Harvey Fierstein, Bernadette Peters and Joel Grey.  Officials of the S.V.A., including supportive Boardmembers, will attend.  The fabulous and entertaining "Easter Bonnet Competition" is held at The New Amsterdam Theatre on West 42 Street at Broadway off Times Square in Manhattan.  Showtime is at 3 p.m.  Contact S.V.A.'s AnDre C. at (212) 6-27-1969 for reservations.

   




Saturday, April 24 -- S.V.A. MONTHLY MEETING @ 4:15 p.m.

"Stonewall 35" is in only two months!  Williamson presides over this agenda-filled conference.  This month's meeting agenda includes:  planning for "SW-35"; the 1969 "Stonewall Car" (funds are needed to pay the overdue car garage bill, insurance, maintenance, etc.); the growing S.V.A. website, multiple telephone and fax bills; 3-Ps: publishing, printing and postage; the GLBT Pride Parade and the SW-Vetz' desire to have 5 beautiful, classic convertible cars (rather than a visually-challenged Noah's Ark of a half-baked float); Bert Coffman's report on public official contacts and correspondence; various requested interviews; speaking at the Gay Pride Rally; vehicle arrangements for parade unresolved with H.O.P.; "Papa" Jean DeVente to meet with HOP; "S.V.A. vs. McAnus" update (regarding the late Terri Van Dyke's wake and non-funeral); Electra O'Mara out of the hospital (again); memorial service for Bon Soir Armstrong, etc.  Guest visitor is Ryan D. Francis of Marymount College (re: 1969 Stonewall Rebellion).  The presiding officer is Jeremiah.  Voting on motion by Williamson for Jean DeVente to be the S.V.A. liaison to other Gay organizations such as the ambivalent H.O.P., when it comes to their cynical, disrespectful and rude attitude toward the GLBT "heroes" in the S.V.A.  (Note:  Motion approved!)

 




Thursday, May 6, 2004 -- S.V.A. OFFICIALS MEET with GLBT CENTER DIRECTORS @ 4 p.m.

S.V.A. Officials confirmed to attend are Bert Coffman (V.P.), Williamson Henderson (acting Treasurer), Dave West (Public Relationist) and Charles Snyder (Executive Committee).  We want this to be a concise group of SVA-ers.  The agenda includes advertising, the upcoming "Center Garden Party", mutual website linking, the 35th Anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion and more.  Representing The Center is Richard D. Burns (Executive Director) and Robert A. Woodworth (Deputy Director).

 




Monday, May 17 -- "MOTOWN 45" SPECIAL @ 8 p.m. on ABC-T.V.

Besides being a great and unique entertainment event, which would appeal to ages 5 to 105, it is very special for late 1960s Stonewall Veterans who actually went to the Stonewall Club -- most as teenagers and Gay youth -- from January 1966 to December 1969.  Remember, many Stonewall Veterans were not Stonewall patrons but were outside of the club on the five nights of the rebellion.  This is special for those who hung out at or danced in the Gay clubs during the Stonewall Era.

On this show, you will see perform:  The Supremes ("You Keep Me Hangin' On", "Stop!" and "You Can't Hurry Love"); The Temptations (a medley of their hits including "My Girl"); Martha Reeves & The Vandellas ("Dancing In The Street"); The Four Tops ("Reach Out, I'll Be There" and "Standing In The Shadows Of Love"); Nick Ashford & Valerie Simpson ("Ain't No Mountain High Enough" tribute to Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell); Smokey Robinson ("I Second That Emotion"); Gladys Knight & The Pips ("I Heard It Through The Grapevine"); The Funk Brothers ("What Becomes Of The Broken Hearted"); and many others.  The songs mentioned are only those that were at The Stonewall!  Many other "Songs of The Stonewall" will no doubt be shown via video clips such as Diana Ross ("Someday We'll Be Together"); Edwin Starr ("25 Miles"); The Marvelettes ("Don't Mess With Bill") and Michael Jackson & The Jacksons ("I Want U Back").  By the way, Jermaine will be on "M-45" performing.

   




Thursday, May 20 -- TERRI COMMITTEE's 4th MEETING @ 6 p.m.

This very special project committee has S.V.A. Officers Bert Coffman, Williamson and Ray McCaffrey confirmed as well as Tommy S. and Lucie B.  Meeting is at the regular Tribeca location (provided f.o.c.).

   



   
Monday, May 24 -- BROADWAY CARES PRESENTS SINGER HEATHER HEADLEY

This benefit for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS features songstress Heather Headley in "Home", yes, as in the Diana Ross song from "The Wiz" movie.   Miss Headley, of Broadway fame in "Rent", "The Lion King" and her Tony-award winning role in "Aida", provides an 18-song, one woman show -- except for separate duets with Norm Lewis, Adam Pascal and Clay Aiken.   Ironically, Heather's musical producer is openly Gay Michael McElroy, who was in the movie "Stonewall" (in drag as Ernestine the barmaid) and is a Friend of the S.V.A.   Michael McElroy himself is nominated for a Tony award next month for his performance in "Big River".  Location is the famed The New Amsterdam Theatre at Broadway on West 42 Street off fabled Times Square.  The STONEWALL Veterans' Association celebrates fifteen years of supporting and being associated with Broadway Cares.  We will have S.V.A. officials including Williamson Henderson and Ray McCaffrey and members in attendance.  For the S.V.A. contingency, contact AnDre C at (212) 6-27-1969.  For regular tickets, please visit:  www.BroadwayCares.org.   Showtime is 7 p.m.

 



Wednesday, May 26 -- S.V.A. MEETING with N.Y.C. COUNCILMEMBER LETITIA JAMES @ 3 p.m.

This private meeting takes place at the Councilmember's City Hall office (as they are called) at 250 Broadway in Manhattan.  Time of the rendezvous is @ 3 p.m..




Wednesday, May 26 -- STONEWALL VETZ MEETING with THE STONEWALL CLUB

35 years after the Stonewall Rebellion of 1969, it would be ludicrous for the STONEWALL Veterans' Association not to have an event at the Stonewall Club.   We've held many "Stonewall Showtymes" there in the past.  We will keep the G.L.B.T. community apprised of the progress in this project.  After all, the Gay people made the Stonewall popular not vice versa.   They benefit from what we did and they are a bit overdue in re-showing their appreciation.  Confirmed to attend from the S.V.A. are Williamson and Bert Coffman plus Steven Gradman of Friends-of-SVA and AnDre C of Youth-for-SVA and from the club, Josie Corcoran, the new manager of The Stonewall.  The rendezvous is @ 5 p.m.

   



Friday, May 28 -- MEMORIAL SERVICES for S.V.A. MASCOT BON SOIR at REGENCY PARK CEMETERY

Attending are Williamson, Bert, Ray, Steven and AnDre C, all of whom are driving out in the "Stonewall Car" to Middle Island, Long Island..  Departure time is @ 2 p.m.


 

Saturday, May 29 -- STONEWALL VETZ MONTHLY MEETING @ 4:15 p.m.

On the eve of the 35th anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion, S.V.A. has as its prime concern to raise sufficient funds to enable the survival of our organization.  We are the "Stonewall Survivors"; however, you need actual resources to pay the bills.  At this time of the year, so many people are soooo full of pride, let's all get out the message:  first support the STONEWALL Veterans' Association.  Also on the agenda is parade planning, attending the next H.O.P. meeting regarding unresolved matters, the "Stonewall Car", communications with public officials, the responsibilities of members at Gay Pride events, upcoming planned event at The Stonewall Club, "missing" proclamation from the City Council Speaker still not replaced (since 2003!), Queens Pryde Parade, Brooklyn Pride on stage, Mayor's Gay Pride event, citation from Congressmember Maloney, public speaking engagements and more.  This meeting features the nominations for the next S.V.A. President, which is held mid-year to overlap with the other officers elected at year's end. Candidates must be present.  You must be a member in good standing to vote!


   

Thursday, June 3, 2004 -- MANHATTAN BOROUGH PRESIDENT C. VIRGINIA FIELDS PRESENTS her ANNUAL "GAY PRIDE EVENT" at THE CENTER @ 5:30 p.m.


 

Friday, June 4 -- NEW YORK BLADE NEWS STORY:  "THE 1969 STONEWALL COPS"

On the 35th anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion, this front-page story is such a surprise, so unique and so timely:  the Stonewall Gay Veterans and the Stonewall straight Cops.  Visit: www.NYBlade.com.


 

Sunday, June 6 -- 12th ANNUAL QUEENS BOROUGH GAY PRYDE PARADE @ 1 p.m.

For 411, see "Recent Past Events" from last June.  They still want the "Stoinewall Car" but after a dozen years, they still don't want to chip in a dollar to maintain the historic vehicle.  They -- some wreird guy with oine tooth -- had some disrespectful idea about the Stonewall veterans suddenly not 'leading' their paarade this year!?  Better bring back Danny Dee.  The S.V.A. is skipping this one this year.




Monday, June 7 -- HERITAGE OF PRIDE MEETING @ 7 p.m.

Heritage of Pride, the organizers -- not the creators, that was the Christopher Street Liberation Day Committee -- of the annual New York City Gay Pride Parade, has its first (but surely not last) meeting of "Gay Pride Month".  The S.V.A. actually believed that since the S.V.A. and H.O.P. have been regularly communicating that everything would be resolved by now.  However, it's not, including the rally, the parade, the cars, the listing, etc.  Happy 35th to the SW-Vetz!  S.V.A. members will rendezvous in front of The G.L.B.T. Center, where the H.O.P. board meeting is @ 7 p.m.  The S.V.A. will do its Gay lavender leafletting as distributed by AnDre C and Matthew S. General membership meeting starts at 8 p.m.  For more 411, call Berti at (212) 889-4262.





Thursday, June 10 -- NEW YORK CITY COMPTROLLER's "GAY, LESBIAN, BI and TRANSGENDER PRIDE CELEBRATION"

This event will again be held at the G.L.B.T. Community Center.  One of the honorees, whom the S.V.A. recently had a non-productive meeting with, is Richard D. "Burnsy" Burns, the Executuive Director of The Center.  Burnsy never tires of accepting awards for an overpaid job with endless benefits, perks, deals, etc.  That's worthy of a Gay Pride award?  We think not!  Event with some free food is from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  For further 411, visit:  www.GayCenter.org.




Saturday, June 12 -- 8th ANNUAL BROOKLYN GAY, LESBIAN, BI and TRANNY PRIDE PARADE @ 7 p.m.

This is New York's only nighttime parade!   The S.V.A. luvs it!!   The only classic car happening in any of the New York Gay Pride parades better than seeing the blue 1969 Cadillac convertible "Stonewall Car" in the daytime is to see the legendary vehicle at night with its six lights on.  For much more 411, call BGP:  (718) 670-3337.


   

Sunday, June 13 -- LONG ISLAND "14th ANNUAL GAY PRIDE PARADE & FESTIVAL"


   

Monday, June 14 -- NEW YORK CITY COUNCIL "GAY PRIDE CELEBRATION"

Under the shameful scam of Alan "Giffy" Miller, they pretend "Gay Pride" but use the occasion
to ignore the actual Stonewall history and all of the Stonewall Rebellion veterans present.  Instead, they shamefully promote a few tired and true self-servers namely Giffy "I'm married to a woman and have two children by a woman" Miller, Chrissy "Miss Gay" Quinn and Philis "La Loca Necia" Read.  The sham and self-promotion show schtarts @ 6 p.m. in the City Council Chamber.


   

Monday, June 14 -- G.L.B.T. CENTER "ORIENTATION"

This excellent program sponsored by The Center for nearly 20 years is an informative welcome and display by many G.L.B.T. organizations, particularly to those who are one or more of the following:   (a) singing Diana Ross' song "I'm Coming Out" (Gay Pride Month is the perfect time for "out"); (b) "new in town" (sounds like a good line to meet someone new); (c) seeking to connect with the New York City GLBT community; and/or (d) want to meet some of the Veterans of the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion and see and touch the 1969 "Stonewall Car" convertible on display in front of The GLBT Center.   Clearly, this is a GLBT community-building happening, which the S.V.A. endorses 100%.   This free event is held at The Center from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.   For more "411", call (212) 620-7310 or visit:  www.GayCenter.org.


   

Monday, June 14 -- TRIBUTE to MANHATTAN BOROUGH PRESIDENT VIRGINIA FIELDS

This tribute event is for Clara Virginia Fields, a longtime and vigorous supporter of the S.V.A.  It is a private, fund-raisng event and not held at the Gay Community Center.  If interested in attending and contributing, please contact AnDre Christie at (212) 6-27-1969.  Event starts @ 6 p.m.


   

Saturday, June 19 -- REHEARSAL for the STONEWALL COPS' PLAY "RPM-2499"

The Sixth Precinct Stonewall Cops have offered a very special invitation to the President of the STONEWALL Veterans' Association, Williamson Henderson, to attend the final rehearsals for their play about the NYCPD police in Greenwich Village in 1969.  To inspire the actors even more, they requested the 1969 "Stonewall Car" to be on display out front of the theater.  Tall, dark and handsome (and well-built) Stonewaller Matthew Samuelson will accompany Williamson and drive the classic car.  Rehearsal time at the theater is from 12 noon until 6 p.m.  For more 411, visit the Stonewall cops at their internet stationhouse at:  www.SixthPct.com.




Monday, June 21 -- THE G.L.B.T. CENTER's "21st ANNUAL GARDEN PARTY"

This outdoor festival event with entertainers, food, speakers, drinx and G.L.B.T. organization exhibit tables is the premiere fund raiser for The Center itself.  The S.V.A. always partakes in this networking and fun G.L.B.T. community party.  We also display the 1969 Cadillac "Stonewall Car" -- the only party vehicle!  For more 411, you can call The Center at (212) 620-7310 or visit:  www.GayCenter.org.


   

Wednesday, June 23 -- N.Y.C. MAYOR MICHAEL BLOOMBERG's "GAY PRIDE MONTH" PARTY

This is Mayor Michael's third annual Gay Pride event.  It is a very significant celebration in honor of the entire Gay Pride Month.  Clearly, it is the commemoration held by the highest ranking City official and held at the best place:  Gracie Mansion.  The Mayor is expected to specifically acknowledge the STONEWALL Veterans' Association.  S.V.A. members confirmed to attend include:  Williamson Henderson, Bert Coffman, Ray McCaffrey, Meredith Nelson, Dave West, Cristina Hayworth, Clyde Meltzer, Judy Popso, Leigh McManus and Mark Zatlow as well as our legendary Legal Advisor Hal Weiner and Business Advisor Mark Grossbard plus Friends of the S.V.A. Bill Dickerman, Steve Wildt and Sanders Reynoso.  The event time is from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  Note:  This is a strictly verified invitation-only event and personal identification is required -- except for the "Stonewall Car".  

A very special "Tribute to Williamson Henderson Dinner" will be sponsored by the Pinnacle Choice at the popular York Grill on York Avenue, a block or two from Gracie Mansion.


   

Saturday, June 26 -- S.V.A. ANNUAL GAY PRIDE MEETING & STONEWALL VETZ REUNION @ 4:15 p.m.

S.V.A.'s annual Stonewall Vetz reunion meeting is here again!  On the agenda is, among many other items:  the N.Y.C. Gay Pride Parade tomorrow (final plans and arrangements); communications with Heritage of Pride in the last 24 hours; letter from H.O.P. confirming the S.V.A. as the Honorary Grand Marshal; the 1969 "Stonewall Car"; review of the recent parades in Queens (no-go), Brooklyn (great-go) and Long Island (half-go); the 6th Precinct Stonewall Cops' theatrical presentation; the Mayor's Gay Pride Party; Williamson on CBS-TV on Thursday and Bert on CBS-TV this Sunday; update on public officials -- which ones contacted or wrote S.V.A. with congratulations and appreciation and which ones (the "Gay Taliban") rudely and shamefully ignored the Stonewall Veterans (yet they pretend equality and inclusion); planned meetings with elected officials; S.V.A.'s great full-page announcent in the current New York Blade News issue; S.V.A. blurb in the New York Post's "Page Six"; S.V.A. informative letters to the editor published in the N.Y. Blade; S.V.A. website's continuing popularity (especially with so many additions); Treasurer's mid-year report; upcoming S.V.A. streetfair; tribute to the SW-Vetz whom we have lost in the past year (including Terri Van Dyke); and much more.


   

Sunday, June 27 -- 35th ANNUAL NEW YORK CITY GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, TRANSGENDER, QUESTIONING, TRISEXUAL, Et Al. PRIDE PARADE & MARCH

Special guests:  Congressmember Carolyn B. Maloney (with banner), the wonderful and lovely Female Honorary Chairperson of the S.V.A.; Geoffrey A. Davis (with a tribute banner), the brother of our late and unique Honorary Member Councilmember James E. "Jed" Davis; and Eddie A. Baca (with banner), S.V.A. gold sponsor and openly-Gay candidate for the New York State Assembly.  The S.V.A. Male Honorary Chairperson, the great and inspiring Mayor Edward I. Koch, will be out of town, however, he sent a terrific letter and we hope that he will join the S.V.A. in the parade next year!

S.V.A.'s annual "Stonewall Bruncheon" will again be held immeditaely after the Gay Parade at the Hudson Corner Cafe (with the white picket fence) on (Baby Jane) Hudson Street at the corner of West 11th Street.  There will be a lot of Baby Janes out today -- and But'cha-Are Blanches, too!  Look for the eye-catching metallic blue "Stonewall Car" convertible on display in front of the restaurant.  Bring your cameras!

For 411 on the S.V.A. "President's Post-Pride Parade Private Party" (a.k.a. "6-P") later in the evening, call AnDre Christie at (212) 6-27-1969 to be considered for the 6-P guest list.  (This 'function at the junction' is limited to S.V.A. members on a first-come basis.)


   

Sunday, June 27 -- S.V.A.'s ANNUAL "STONEWALL DUNCHEON" @ 2:30 p.m.

The STONEWALL Veterans' Association sponsors this wonderful, outdoor event for its veterans of the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion.  We will once again have this crowning event to Gay Pride Month for the SW-Vetz amidst all the excitement on Hudson Street (at West 11th Street) in Greenwich Village at the Hudson Corner Cafe.  Watch out if both Williamson & AnDre have greentinis!  Look for the =red= outfits on the SVA-ers and the =white= picket fence in front of the restaurant and the =blue= Cadillac convertible on display.  The festivities ignite @ approximately 2:30 p.m.


   

Wednesday, June 30 -- TERRI COMMITTEE MEETING @ 6 p.m.

Confirmed to attend this fifth meeting of the T.C.M. (in Terri's honor) are:  Williamson Henderson, Bill Murawski, Ray McCaffrey, Baron Morris, Dwayne McEachen, Tommy Shanahan, Sally S. and, university schedule permitting, Jeremiah Newton.  After the sesssion, most at the committee meeting will be having dinner in Little Italy's infamous Umberto's Clam House.  As Martha Reeves' new solo song is entitled and warns, "Watch Your Back".

   


   

Thursday, July 1, 2004 -- S.V.A. WEBSITE HAS BUSIEST MONTH in JUNE (GAY PRIDE MONTH) with NEARLY 69,000 INTERNET "VISITS"


 

Friday, July 2 -- NEW YORK BLADE NEWS:  "MILLION-PLUS PERSON MARCH (PARADE)"


 

Monday, July 12 -- STONEWALL THEATRICAL EVENT:  "MY MOTHER TOLD ME I WAS DIFFERENT:  VOICES OF THE STONEWALL"

Confirmed to attend from the S.V.A. are Williamson Henderson and Jeremiah Newton -- both of whom are Stonewall Era and Rebellion subjects in the play.  If you wish to attend, please contact the S.V.A.'s Assistant AnDre at (2112) 6-27-1969. 

   


 

Tuesday, July 20 -- S.V.A. CONFERENCE at CONGRESSMEMBER MALONEY'S OFFICE @ 4 p.m.

S.V.A. Officials confirmed to attend are Bert Coffman, Bill Salzman and Leigh McManus -- plus S.V.A. Assistant AnDre Christie.

 


 

Thursday, July 22 -- S.V.A. CONFERENCE at U.S. SENATOR CLINTON'S OFFICE @ 2 p.m.

S.V.A. Officers requested/confirmed to attend include:  Bert Coffman (Vice-President),`Bill Salzman (General Secretary) and Dave West (Public Relationist), who has a special S.V.A. Gay Pride media gift for Senator Hillary.  (I/D required to enter building.)

   


   

Thursday, July 29 -- TERRI COMMITTEE MEETING #6 in TRIBECA @ 6 p.m.

Confirmed to attend are Williamson, AnDre, Tommie S. and Deborah.  Dinner afterward at The Village Den Restaurant.

   


 

Saturday, July 31 -- POST-PRIDE MONTH MEETING of the S.V.A. @ 4:15 p.m.


   

Wednesday, August 4, 2004 -- S.V.A. RECEIVES LETTER ENDORSING the "STONEWALL STREETFAIR" from NEW YORK's SENATOR HILLARY CLINTON

"I am pleased to have the opportunity to send greetings to each of you attending the "Stonewall Streetfair" held by the STONEWALL Veterans' Association in continued celebration of the 35th anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion....  The tireless dedication of the Association's members is a reminder to all New Yorkers....  I send my congratulations and thanks for your ongoing commitment and exemplary service to New York".    

 


   

Saturday, August 7 -- "STONEWALL STREETFAIR" in GREENWICH VILLAGE, NY

The S.V.A.'s "Stonewall Streetfair", as we have named it, will appropriately be on Greenwich Avenue, known in the Stonewall Era as the "Avenue of the Queens".  Our 5-block stretch along the avenue starts at Seventh Avenue and, of course, includes crossing Gay-ly historic Christopher Street as well as Perry Street, Charles Street, West 10 Street and up to Avenue of the Americas!  The event opens up at 11 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. or so.  This will not be your usual "streetfair".  We are not the usual "suspects".

Political organizations confirmed to attend and table are:  PRIDE Democrats, the Village Independent Democrats and the G.L.B.T. Political Coalition.  Transgender organizations confirmed include: the Imperial QUEENS & Kings of New York and Girls' Night Out.  Also, the blue 1969 Cadillac convertible "Stonewall Car" will be on display.  (The straight car buffs will go crayzee.)

S.V.A. Officers confirmed to attend and "man" the S.S. Stonewall are:  Williamson Henderson, Bert Coffman, Bill Salzman, Dave West and Stormé DeLarverie -- plus non-Gay community activist Bill Murawski and Gay community activist Bob Kohler.  Volunteers and S.V.A. flyer distribution are coordinated by out-front AnDre Christie.  Special thanks to Clearview Festival Productions and their intelligent, creative, helpful and supportive owner, Todd Berman.  Media coverage:  the New York Blade News (N.Y.C.'s only Gay-owned newspaper).

 


   

Saturday, August 14 -- S.V.A. SUPPORTER EDDIE L. BACA's "POLITICAL PARTY"

For details and to join, por favor visit:  www.EddieBaca.com.  Gay festivities kick-off @ 6 p.m.  For the S.V.A. contingency, call AnDre Christie at (212) 6-27-1969.

 


   

Tuesday, August 17 -- S.V.A. SOCIAL COMMITTEE HOSTED by ANDRE CHRISTIE

This ultra-Summer outdoor get2gether has the meeting chaired by Williamson and the dinner part is hosted by young AnDre Christie.  Special guest is Liz Abzug!  The Greenwich Village venue is Papillon Restaurant on Hudson Street.  Greentinis are ordered @ 6 p.m.



Saturday, August 28 -- S.V.A. MONTHLY MEETING at THE CENTER @ 4:15 p.m.


   

Saturday, September 11, 2004 -- THIRD TRAGIC ANNIVERSARY of the CATASTROPHE at the WORLD TRADE CENTER in NY, the PENTAGON in DC and an OPEN FIELD in PA


   

Monday, September 13 -- S.V.A. SECRETARY ELECTRA O'MARA's BIRTHDAY

Unfortunately, Electra O'Mara will be spending her birthday in a hospice in Queens to facilitate her treatments in fighting pancreatic cancer.  For her birthday, we all wish E.O.M. fortitude in her fight for survival.  At a recent visit, Williamson presented Electra with a Supreme gift: "Diana Ross & The Supremes: The #1s" compact disc.  This instantly "electrified" Electra, reminding them of their great fun dance years at The Stonewall and beyond.  The S.V.A. is planning a group outing in the 1969 "Stonewall Car" to visit Electra.

 


   

Saturday, September 25 -- REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING of the S.V.A. @ 4:15 p.m.




   

Saturday, September 25 -- S.V.A. OFFICIALS STOP BY THE STONEWALL

Confirmed after the S.V.A. meeting to "stop by" The Stonewall are SVA-ers Jeremiah Newton, Tom Stevens and Bill Salzman.

 


 

Wednesday, September 29 -- ELECTRA O'MARA, S.V.A. RECORDING SECRETARY, DIES

This is very sad news to have to report.  Electra O'Mara was a charter member ion the S.V.A and she has been an inspiring force in the S.V.A. since the organization started in the Summer of 1969.  She has served as an active S.V.A. officer.  Although Electra has been dealing with an illness, the fact is that we were just recently celebrating her birthday.  Electra will be missed in many ways.

 


   

Tuesday, October 5, 2004 -- S.V.A. PRESIDENT WILLIAMSON HENDERSON'S BIRTHDAY

Who else but Williamson could have or has run an organization or anything else in the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender ("GLBT") community for 5-10-15-20-25 years much less for 35 years!?  No one but the Will!  Williamson's birthday dinner will be after this evening's special "Stonewall Panel".  How magnanimous and unselfish of Williamson to once again "work" for the Gay community even on his birthday -- and, once again and again, for free!  For details on the W.L.H. dinner, contact AnDre Christie at: (212) 6-27-1969.

 


   

Tuesday, October 5 -- "STONEWALL REBELLION PANEL" SYMPOSIUM

This "Stonewall Panel" of Stonewall Veterans of the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion will discuss those late June and early July events.  Like the #1 Stonewall song goes, "Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing".  Stonewall panelists include:  Williamson Henderson, Jeremiah Newton and Bill Salzman.  The event is sponsored by New York University and their Gay Student Union.  N.Y.C. community activist and Independence Party candidate Tim I. Neiman will be the moderator.  It is to be held at N.Y.U.'s Kimmel Student Center in Greenwich Village, New York, at 60 Washington Square South in Forum Room 802 @ 7 p.m.  Pre-event music will be actual 1969 "Songs of The Stonewall", compiled and copyrighted by Williamson.  N.Y.U. will present an Honorarium for the S.V.A. to its Vice-President, Jeremiah.  Information distributed about the S.V.A. will be coordinated by AnDre Christie.  He will also distribute the S.V.A.'s new orange meeting notice flyers.  S.V.A.'s Community Liaison, Bill Murawski, has arranged for the forum to be videographed by Joseph Friendly for an upcoming cable t.v. show.  Ironically, this Stonewall history event is happening on the birthday of the STONEWALL Veterans' Association's President, Williamson.

 


   

Saturday, October 9 -- FUNERAL of STONEWALL VET ELECTRA J. O'MARA

Electra's funeral mass will be at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church at 62-81 60th Place at Bleecker Street (how ironic, Electra loved G.V.'s Bleecker Street) in Ridgewood, Queens.  To reach the church via automobile, take the Long Island Expressway to Maurice Avenue, go South to 69th Street.  Turn right to Metropolitan Avenue and go right on Fresh Pond Road.  Via subway, take the "M" (as in "Mary" -- to quote the church secretary) to the Forest Avenue station.  Spiritually and literally, walk up the hill!  The internment is at St. John's Catholic Cemetery in Middle Village, Queens, New York, where Electra's paternal grandparents are buried.   The famous and huge cemetery is located at 80-01 Metropolitan Avenue at 80 Street.   There will be a special tribute to Electra at the next S.V.A. meeting on October 30th.

 


   

Wednesday, October 13 -- S.V.A. PRESIDENT'S MOTHER ARRIVES from FLORIDA

Williamson Henderson's mother, Helen, a Native New Yorker, arrives from Florida today and will be met Williamson and Andre Christie and by a few Vetz from the S.V.A.  How many parents of Stonewall Vetz do we have left?  Not many!  One of the special events will be an S.V.A. dinner for Mrs. Henderson with the S.V.A.'s late Treasurer Terri Van Dyke's father Robert, the S.V.A.'s late Recording Secretary Electra O'Mara's sister Joan, assistant AnDre Christie, among some special others.

   


   

Friday, October 15 -- S.V.A. MEETING with FORMER N.Y.C. MAYOR ED KOCH

 The private meeting is held at Mayor Ed Koch's panoramic office in midtown Manhattan.  The get together is @ 3 p.m.


   

Tuesday, October 19 -- CITY CAMPAIGNING with CONGRESSMEMBER CAROLYN

Anyone who is interested should join S.V.A.'s Honorary Female Chairperson Carolyn B. Maloney -- who happens to be a candidate for re-election -- at Lexington Avenue and East 96th Street near the IRT uptown subway station in Manhattan @ 5:30 p.m. until 7 p.m.  Other public officials who will be present are N.Y.S. Senator Liz Krueger and N.Y.S. Assemblymember Jonathan Bing.  This is an individual, volunteer campaign project.  To confirm your attendance, call Matthew Samuelson at (212) 613-6039.

 


   

Saturday, October 30 -- S.V.A. MONTHLY MEETING at THE CENTER @ 4:15 p.m.

A special tribute to the late S.V.A. Recording Secretary Electra O'Mara will be presented from the Stonewall Veterans who knew her best and longest.  There will be a poignant appearance and family photo album exhibit by Joan O'Mara, the sister of Electra.

 


   

Sunday, October 31 -- 31st ANNUAL "GREENWICH VILLAGE HALLOWEEN PARADE"


   

Tuesday, November 2, 2004 -- AMERICAN "ELECTION DAY":  VOTE!

The first organization in the Gay Community to organize G.L.B.T. people to vote was -- no, not ESPA, they didn't begin until over twenty years after -- the STONEWALL Veterans' Association.  The S.V.A. is not a political club and does not endorse candidates per se such as PRIDE Democrats nor are we a money-making business organization under the pride umbrella of "rights" such as ESPA.  Our tools are unique and non-published.  On "Election Day" we say one word:  Vote!

 


 

Monday, November 15 -- GAY COMMUNITY CENTER's "ORIENTATION" @ 7 p.m.


   

Sunday, November 21 -- STONEWALL/MOTOWN LEGEND DIANA ROSS CONCERT @ 7 p.m.

Several supreme members of the S.V.A. from throughout America have mobilized -- and already have the tix -- to Diva Diana Ross' concert at the Mystic Lake Celebrity Casino Theater in the North Mid-West.  S.V.A. members already confirmed include:  Williamson Henderson from New York, Bobalu Candelaria from Florida, Rachael Woodhouse from Minnesota and Mark Zatlow from California -- plus S.V.A. staffer AnDre Christie from da Bronx!  We don't know which Supremes' songs from the original Stonewall Club that Queen Ross will be performing but we are guaranteed that there will be some such as "My World Is Empty Without You", "You Can't Hurry Love", "You Keep Me Hangin' On", "Reflections" and "Love Child".

   


   

Saturday, November 27 -- MONTHLY MEETING of the S.V.A. @ 4:15 p.m.

Yes, after the S.V.A. meeting, we will be going out to a restaurant for a turkey dinner.  Thanksgiving thoughtful Williamson has already arranged for a sponsor of the holiday feast.

   


   

Tuesday, December 7, 2004 -- "GYPSY-OF-THE-YEAR" BENEFIT for EQUITY FIGHTS AIDS @ 2 p.m.

Stonewall Veterans confirmed to attend this wonderful and worthwhile special production are:  Williamson Henderson (native NYer), Mark Zatlow (in from CA) and Lucie Santiago (up from PR), plus AnDre Christie, the deserving and excited Assistant to the S.V.A. Director.  Many celebrities such as Joan Rivers, Brooke Shields and Dame Edna shall be on stage partaking in some of the many performances.  Confirmed Gay audience members include Rosie O'Donnell, Ellen Degeneris and Cherry Jones, among many others.

 


   

Friday, December 16 and Saturday, December 17 -- RONNIE SPECTOR's "XMAS PARTY CONCERT" at B.B. KING's NIGHTCLUB @ 9 p.m.

 


   

Monday, December 20 -- COMMUNITY "ORIENTATION" @ 7 p.m. at the GAY CENTER


   

Saturday, December 25 -- CHRISTMAS DAY NATIONAL HOLIDAY:  "NOW WE DON OUR GAY APPAREL"

This is one of those extremely rare times when the S.V.A. meeting date falls on a national holiday.  In other words, a very special and highly earned treat from Santa to Williamson Henderson, the President of the STONEWALL Veterans' Association.  We hope to see most of you in 2005!

 


 

Tuesday, December 28 -- TWO SPECIAL STONEWALL BIRTHDAYS  

Mary Weiss, the lead singer of The Shangri-Las, as the "Sweetheart of The Stonewall", celebrates her musical birthday in Long Island.  AnDre Christie, the Assistant to the S.V.A. Executive Director, lobsters his birthday with SVA-ers in Manhattan and.... den layta Birffday Boi partys hiz b-day wit palz in da Bronx!  We're "wishing well" for the both!!
 
   


   
Friday, December 31, 2004 -- NEW YEAR'S EVE PRIVATE PARTY

The head of the S.V.A. is hosting and mosting a private New Year's Eve party just for active and helpful S.V.A. members.  The secret location is at the S.V.A. head and his partner's home.  The Gaytivities ignite @ 9 p.m.  Expect quality foods, lots of fun and songs of The Stonewall!  BYOB -- they don't drink!  If you are invited, you would already know.  Happy and healthy new year to all of the members, supporters, friends, sponsors, and advertisers of the S.V.A..
 





S.V.A. 2004 Website Statistics


S.V.A. Website Busiest Month:  June 2004 - nearly 69,000 successful website "visits" in one month!

S.V.A. Website Busiest Week:  June 21 to June 27, 2004 - nearly 19,000 successful "visits" in one week!

S.V.A. Website Busiest Day:  Monday, June 28, 2004 - nearly 5,000 successful "visits"
Website 2nd Busiest Day:  Tuesday, June 29, 2004 - over 4,000 successful "visits"
Website 3rd Busiest Day:  Wednesday, November 17, 2004 - nearly 3,900 successful "visits"
Website 4th Busiest Day:  Wednesday, June 30, 2004 - nearly 3,600 successful "visits"
Website 5th Busiest Day:  Friday, March 28, 2003 - over 3,550 successful "visits"
Website 6th Busiest Day:  Sunday, June 27, 2004 - over 3,500 successful "visits"
Website 7th Busiest Day:  Friday, August 1, 2003 - nearly 3,400 successful "visits"
Website 8th Busiest Day:  Saturday, November 12, 2004 - nearly 3,300 successful "visits"
Website 9th Busiest Day:  Friday, July 12, 2003 - over 3,275 successful "visits"
Website 10th Busiest Day:  Wednesday, October 1, 2003 - over 3,250 successful "visits"

S.V.A. Website Busiest Month for Request for Pages:  June 2003 - about 14,000 requests for S.V.A. website pages



2004 S.V.A. Website Credits

S.V.A. Editor:  Leigh P. McManus

Webmistress:  Babsala R. Lynne

Stonewall Newz Reporter:  Vito J. Abzuzzoluccione

Herstorian:  Rachael L. Woodhouse

Advertising:  Jon M. Buenatesta (212) 613-6039

Computer Gyrl:  Brooke Lynn

Assistant-to-the-SVA President:  AnDre M. Christie
www.STONEWALLvets.org/AnDreChristie.htm


11th September
2011 
=====Remembrance=====  
10th Anniversary of the 2001 Attacks on America!!!!

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