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Metrosource Gala Honors 'People We Love'

Had a wonderful time last night at Metrosource magazine's "People We Love" gala at 48 Lounge in Midtown. Not only was it an honor to be recognized as an "LGBTQ icon" by a publication I have been reading for more than 20 years -- I still have the first copy I picked up in 1998 that led me to the city's gay tennis league! -- it was a thrill to celebrate the moment alongside my love, Damian, and my friends Greg, Chad, Tim and blogger Matt, who arrived ready with his grownup camera. (His full report HERE.)

Metrosource says it picked its 22 main squeezes -- including actual icons John Waters and Adam Rippon -- by choosing individuals and organizations that made important contributions to the LGBTQ community through "philanthropy, service and building awareness." Honorees in attendance included Michael Musto, CNN’s Don Lemon, NYC & Co.’s Fred Dixon, drag queen Tina Burner, community leader Leo Preziosi, Jr., Dr. Evan Goldstein, as well as representatives from Lambda Legal, SAGE, and the Point Foundation. 

Also spotted were "Project Runway" alumnus Mondo Guerra, actor Ryan Raftery, and "Fire Island" cast member Justin T. Russo. 

Metrosource editors Paul Hagen and Kevin Phinney introduced CNN’s Don Lemon to speak at the event. 

“It was, indeed, an honor. It was very unexpected, but appreciated. Believe it or not, I don’t like being the center of attention in that way, but I do have to say this honor is amazing because of what it has to do with the issue of LGBT rights in this country,” said Lemon. 

Smile!

Read HERE.

A few more photos below. A big thank-you to Metrosource's Kevin Phinney and Ryan Christopher for thinking of me -- and for a night I won't soon forget. 

Read about all the people they love HERE!

With Tina Burner and Michael Musto -- the closest I've ever come to a drag queen!

Don Lemon is flanked by Metrosource's Ryan Christopher, right and Ryan's Cory

Hamming it up

Wiht Greg, Chad, Damian and Tim

 With Damian, Eric, Greg and Chad

With my "plus one" :-)

And speaking of people we love -- here I am with Kristina Villarini, digital director at Lambda Legal. She and I go back many, many years but haven't crossed paths in ages. I always knew she'd go far. But seeing her blossom into such an accomplished young woman made my night!

More photos HERE.

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