Metro Weekly

Three Cheers

Awards for two Metro Weekly editors fill me with pride for the magazine and dedicated staff who make it all possible

One philosophy that I’m lucky enough to share with all my co-workers at Metro Weekly is the idea that the work we do is more important than any compliments that may result. All of us were drawn to our work here because we share the same desire to tell the story of our community, whether through words, photos, video or graphics. It’s the sort of work that, if you do it to earn recognition for yourself, then you’re not focusing on the story.

That said, it’s still awfully nice when someone says, ”Good job!” So I’d like to call out two of Metro Weekly‘s staff who have recently earned particularly high kudos from our community.

First, D.C.’s Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance (GLAA) recently announced its 2012 Distinguished Service Award winners. Included among a stellar group is our managing editor, Will O’Bryan, who over the past seven years has played a crucial role in the growth and expansion of the magazine. While Will is certainly well-known in the community — a community he knows well in return, having interviewed and written about so many who make a difference in all of our lives — he’s not the type to seek the spotlight.

But I’m thrilled to see him honored because I’ve seen the level of commitment and drive he puts into guaranteeing that when we talk about ”LGBT,” we actually mean lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered. He makes sure our personal beliefs in diversity are reflected in our public pages. And he does it all with the driest, sharpest wit I’ve ever encountered. I’m looking forward to the April 26 GLAA 41st Anniversary Reception — it will be an honor for me to see him recognized publicly.

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