A Lifetime of Photographic Achievement

“It was a first class production. It was a thrilling night for me,” said Hotspots' photographer, Pompano Bill, concerning receiving a “Lifetime Achievement Award” on May 12th at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Pompano was honored along with other community leaders, George Kessinger (Georgie's Alibi) and Carol Moran (New Moon Lounge).

Pompano Bill retired to South Florida in 1987 along with his love of photography. He would often go to various gay venues and events taking pictures of the people in attendance. One of his favorite locations was the former Club Caribbean Resort which was also the location of the former Scoop Magazine. In 1993, Pompano Bill approached Scoop Publisher Brad Casey to ask him if he needed any pictures to publish and the rest is history. Pompano Bill now calls Hotspots his home and is proud to be part of the Hotspots family.

On hand to introduce Pompano Bill to receive his award were Brad Casey, Father Bill Collins of Poverello and Robert Joshua of The Joshua Tree, a home decorating store. “Brad, Father Bill and Robert made me feel humble,” said Pompano Bill. “Brad and Father Bill said so many nice things about me that evening they had me believing it myself.”

But it was Robert Joshua who brought the audience down when he asked the audience to raise their hands if Pompano Bill had ever taken their picture. All hands went up. Then Robert asked how many in the audience had been 'touched' by Pompano Bill. Again, all hands went up, even George Kessinger's mother, Lois.

“It was a fantastic evening for me,” said Pompano Bill. “It was so gratifying to me to see so many dear friends who turned out to support me and cheer me on. I had a wonderful cheering section,” Pompano Bill said while laughing.

In conclusion, Bill said that he was overwhelmed by the affection he received and really felt the outpouring of affection that he says has become the highlight of his twenty years in South Florida.