One Iowa

Heya. So as many of you know, I've been volunteering/working with a gay rights group called One Iowa since last summer fighting to keep marriage equality here in Iowa. I was apparently a really good volunteer/intern as they awarded me the John Karn award for volunteer service at the 2nd Anniversary Gala on Saturday. Here are pictures. They're mostly for my mom.

Caitlin, me, and Jason arrive at the gala with our super hip name tags from the reception earlier. I brought friends so I wouldn't have to talk to anyone. I'm not a good mingler.

Sarah saying nice things about me.

Me getting my award.

Me panicking and trying to figure out what I'm supposed to do. (Also, for the record, it's a shame this photo only goes to the knees as I am wearing some spectacular spats that you cannot see.)

Someone eventually pointed me towards the podium and I am told I said some nice, vaguely inspirational things. Go me. There might be a video of this. I will post it if/when it becomes available. Providing I don't look/sound too stupid in it.

Me and some of the other award recipients: Dean Genth, Courageous Six Award recipient; State Rep. Beth Wessel-Kroeschell, Sharon K. Malheiro Award recipient; State Rep. Kevin McCarthy, Sharon K. Malheiro Award recipient.

Mostly the same but with the addition of Carolyn Jenison, Oustanding Service Award recipient and former executive director of One Iowa.

There are more photos (of not me) here if anyone is interested. Also, while you're at it, congratulate Iowa on two years of marriage equality with the gift of cold, hard cash. Donate at OneIowa.org.

*All photos taken by the esteemed Matty Smith