Thursday, June 08, 2006

About our Hero

John was born in a clinic over a hardware store in northeast Texas. His mother was a seamstress and his dad was a carpenter. His grandfather was one of the last blacksmiths in West Texas. Highpoints of his high school career were winning best actor in a regional high school competition and portraying Leo the Lion, the costumed school mascot. He was Mr. School Spirit in his senior class. John has a long career as a social activist.
In 1978 he served as Co-Chair of the Gay Pride Parade. His editorial cartoons have appeared in the San Diego City College FortKnightly newspaper.
He served as President of the San Diego Veterans Association. With other gay veterans led the revival of San Diego’s Veterans Day Parade after its 40 year absence. He coordinated the first years parade.
He has worked as a Benefits Counselor at the Center for Social Services. He has also served a Vice-Chair and Quality Assurance Chair of the HIV Consumer Council.
He has coordinated the Scott Carlson Thanksgiving Dinner several times.
In 2002, John received a Special Commendation from City Councilmember Toni Atkins for being named Volunteer of the Year by the Consumer Council.
He has been a member of the staff of the Strength for the Journey retreat since 1992 and served as their Dean for three years. He is currently a volunteer Peer Advocate at Being Alive.
This summer, John is a Co-Coordinator of the Art of Pride Exhibition and a planner of the Interfaith Pavilion, both venues inside San Diego’s LBGT Pride Festival.

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