Authors and activists at La Shed du Fred

CALLICOON, NY—There will be a special presentation, “Same-Sex Marriage: A Community Takes a Stand,” with Jason West, Erin Quinn and Jeffrey McGowan, and special guest Joe Freda, on Saturday, October 8 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at La Shed du Fred.

Jason West is the mayor of New Paltz who performed a number of same-sex marriages in 2004, sparking off a national controversy. In addition to his political credentials, he has written “Dare to Hope” (Miramax Books), in which he offers a blueprint for everyday activism and engagement in the community. He sees the issue of gay marriage in the context of civil rights and basic equality under the law, which he extends to fair housing, property taxes and energy use.

Quinn, the author of “Pride & Politics: The Tale of a Big Story in a Small Town” (Mix Multimedia) is the award-winning reporter for the New Paltz Times who had unprecedented access to the elected officials, activists, same-sex couples and the townspeople who became entwined in the events surrounding the marriages performed by West.

McGowan is author of “Major Conflict: One Gay Man’s Life in the Don’t-Ask-Don’t-Tell Military” (Broadway Books). After rising to the rank of major, in the military, McGowan’s same-sex marriage was the first on the East Coast performed by Jason West.

Joe Freda, award-winning author of “The Patience of Rivers” and “Suburban New Paltz authors.

The Mayor of Nyack, Joe Shields, will also be present. As well as reading and discussion, there will be a book signing, with proceeds going to the Day to be Gay Foundation and Catskill Adolescent Treatment Services (C.A.T.S.).