Archives
Pines Profile - Gil Neary 1957-2024
Gil Neary was one of the Pines’ most beloved. His life was defined by joy, generosity, and unapologetic pride. A visionary real estate broker and community builder, he helped shape Fire Island Pines into the vibrant haven it is today through his warmth, charisma, and boundless embrace of people. He championed gay life and culture with unashamed exuberance, celebrating every moment to the fullest. There is no doubt, Gil made the world brighter, bolder, and better.
Pines Profile - Hal Rubenstein (b. 1950)
Hal Rubenstein is a rare talent. His career stands as proof of what’s possible when ability meets opportunity and courage. A formidable and deeply creative presence, his command of language, spoken and written, allows people to connect with his ideas almost viscerally. Over time, he has become an interpreter of glamour, a custodian of culture, and an agent of change, reshaping how people think not only about fashion and dining, but about life itself. Check out: https://thehappygrownup.substack.com
The Pines Party - A Conversation With Allan Baum and Frank Liberto
Pines Party is an internationally renowned event that follows in the tradition of legendary parties like Beach and the GMHC Morning Party. For a dozen years, FIPPOA Vice President Allan Baum and his husband Frank Liberto have been at the helm. Pines Historical Society sat down with the for a candid and entertaining discussion as the prepare to pass the reins to a new generation of leaders.
The Red Party (1976)
Sun-soaked 1970s Fire Island Pines beach culture radiates effortless glamour, where artists, designers, celebrities, and locals mingled freely. Gustavo Novoa’s legendary 1976 Red Party epitomized this golden era—bold, sensual, and visually stunning, blending high style with carefree hedonism, communal spirit, and an unpretentious chic that defined the Pines at its dazzling peak. A very visual event set on the Pines beach, it is remembered as one of the all time great parties in the community.
The Pines and the Fight Against AIDS
The Pines was Ground Zero for both the start of the AIDS epidemic and the world’s response to it. As we mark World AIDS Day on December 1st, we look back on the journey that brought us to the point that AIDS is no longer a fatal disease, and on the profound role members of the Pines community played in making that possible. These warriors banded with others from across the country to overcome immense resistance and reshape how medical research is conducted and expand the social-service systems we rely on today. In this way, they improved the lives for millions of people. Today, with the LGBTQ+ community once again under siege, it is essential that we honor and carry forward the stories of some of America’s greatest heroes..
Pines Profile - Eric L. Sawyer (b. 1954)
“Eric is a true hero. What he did – and still does -- the sacrifices he makes and what he has accomplished for our community, is simply remarkable.”
- Jim Pepper, Former Board Member GMHC, and Founder of Stonewall Community Foundation.
Boardwalk Talk 2017 : Fashion of the Pines- Pat Cleveland.
In the 1970’s Fashion came to the Pines in many forms, and with that came the models. Most famously among them was model Pat Cleveland. Not only for her beauty, but for involvement in the community fashion shows.