Lawton/Ft. Sill Pride springing forward

The Second Annual Rainbow Ball has been scheduled for Saturday, October 11 at 6pm in the Cameron University CETES complex. The event is a joint venture with Cameron University PRIDE.

“Cameron PRIDE is very excited to be involved with this joint effort and to bring the Ball to this community,” Cameron PRIDE adviser Jenn Castricone said. “Reaching out to the youth is good to foster that relationship so we can continue to build the community.”

Lawton/Ft. Sill Pride has also reestablished the Youth Group. The Youth Group is open to those youths aged 14 – 19 in Lawton, Ft. Sill, and the surrounding area. They meet every other Saturday, with meeting dates set for April 12 and 26, beginning at 12 noon.

“Southwest Oklahoma needs an outlet for the alternatively identified youth to come together and commiserate the experience of coming out in this area in this day and age,” President Amy Merchant said. “Lawton/Ft. Sill Pride hopes to provide that outlet.”

Because the group is still working towards 501(c) (3) status, membership guidelines are being established. At this time, one is considered a voting member upon signing a Code of Conduct. There are no dues to become a member of LFS Pride. The Board of Directors will determine any other requirements or consequences upon Code violations. They will update the group about any changes made.

“I’m very happy with the progress our group is making and getting our name out to the Lawton community,” Secretary Randy Corrales said.

Lawton/Ft. Sill Pride meets on every other Monday. The first meeting of the month will be held at 5:30pm on Monday, April 14 at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Lawton, 816 West Gore Boulevard. Meetings are open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend.

The group is also on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/lawtonpride. For more information, contact President Amy Merchant at (213) 761-LGBT (5428).

The Gayly – April 9, 2014 @ 9:10am