OKC group creates great history

Has a great passion for giving back

by Jeffrey W. Askins and Antonio J. Hernandez
Special to The Gayly

More than 30 years ago, a group of like-minded friends looking to relax, get together and entertain separate of the bar scene began getting together. It was during a time when the ravages of HIV and AIDS was becoming more and more prevalent, so groups would gather together at a local restaurant or a monthly host’s home, to bring the party or “gay bar,” so to speak, to them. And so it began…

It was the beginning of what is now, “OKC Bloody Mary.”

Over the years other groups merged, some disbanded due to their size growing so large, members moved or unfortunately passed away. We were re-energized again over 15 years ago with guidance from some of the original members. Our name has changed a few times too, from the original Larry Crosby Group, The Double Z’s (creators of the celebrated “Have a Heart” annual charity auction at Tramps bar each February), to The Bloody Mary Saturday for Lunch Bunch to what’s now known as OKC Bloody Mary.

Our group meets monthly and has always had fun collecting items for our annual Christmas drive. For decades canned foods and toys have been brought by attendees to each December event where everything is donated to “Toys for Tots” and The Jesus House.

Our hosts last October decided to add another event that would not only be exciting but also find a way to give back. Members were asked to bring a child’s Halloween costume to our event and it was donated to the Children’s Hospital. A brilliant and rewarding day, collecting over 65 costumes and giving away numerous prizes! This year’s Halloween event looks to be even bigger and better!

This year we decided to bring back another past favorite, having a float in the Gay Pride parade. We planned, plotted, took donations and constructed, in collaboration with Tramps OKC, a remarkable float for the 2015 parade. A welcomed challenge that produced a first place winner! Our float was named “Finally” and two of our members, Che Lucci and Michael Steel, were married on it during the parade! It was a perfect fit with the Pride theme of “Together, Equal, Proud” – Finally! Marriage equality throughout the United States! (Big thanks to those who donated and worked on the float and most of all to Camille, Steve, Brad & TJ!) Watch out 2016!

Also, in 2014, we brought back an old favorite at Tramps, The Turn-About show, a charity event! It was a packed house and all were thrilled by the truly amazing entertainment. First time female impersonators, musicians, comedic performers, singers and dancers along with a few of 39th Street’s well known stars like Che Lucci and Jeremy Roush/Raven Delray each outdid themselves to create a wonderful evening of entertainment, laughter and generosity!

All proceeds from the show went to Other Options, Be the Change and Expressions. We donate to some amazing charities that do so much to support the community.

We invite everyone to attend this year’s Annual Larry Crosby Charity Turn-About show on November 5 at 9pm at Tramps, located at 39th and Barnes on the historic “OKC Strip.” All proceeds from this show will be benefiting Other Options and Be the Change.

A group of friends, motivation and a desire to give back is all it takes. And that’s how it all began.

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The Gayly – October 25, 2015 @ 11:55am.