| |
|
|
Good afternoon;
Some stories are harder to write than others. Today, we're remembering Connor Blais, a beloved member of our community who was killed in a hit-and-run while heading home from work.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched.
Thank you for reading.
— Jason Parsley
Publisher, OutPBC
If you enjoy this newsletter, please forward it to a friend, share our stories on social media, and encourage others to subscribe. Make sure to contact us if you wish to advertise your event, or business. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram. Keep this newsletter going, donate here.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Community Mourns After Popular Bartender Killed in Hit and Run
Police ask for help in locating suspect
|
|
|
|
Connor Blais, a popular bartender at O'Shea's in downtown West Palm Beach, was killed in a hit-and-run early July 6. The West Palm Beach Police Department is searching for the driver responsible and is asking for the community’s help.
Police said officers responded around 1:50 a.m. to the 4900 block of South Olive Avenue near East Lakewood Road, where they found Blais dead in the roadway. An electric scooter was discovered nearby, and investigators say the driver fled without stopping to render aid or report the crash.
Detectives believe Blais, 28, was heading home after finishing his shift at O'Shea's Irish Pub, where coworkers described him as friendly and energetic.
In a heartbreaking Facebook post, Blais' partner, Lawrence Cassenti, said he became concerned when Connor had not returned home. After checking his phone's location around 4:30 a.m., Cassenti wrote that he drove to the location and realized he would "never see him again."
"He was so happy. Such a breath of fresh air. Loved his trains, traveling, and Lilo and Stitch. So kind. And he made a very big impact on my life and so many others adored him," Cassenti wrote. "I miss you and love you Connor."
Investigators believe the suspect vehicle may have damage to its front end or passenger side. Residents with security cameras along South Olive Avenue between Russlyn Drive and Pilgrim Road are asked to review footage recorded between 1:20 and 1:50 a.m.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Hatfield of the West Palm Beach Police Department at 561-822-1784 and reference case number 20260009954. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County.
📝 story by Jason Parsley 📸 photo via social media
|
|
|
|
|
|
THURSDAY
Pool Tournament @ Roosters
Weekly pool tournament every Thursday, with a $10 buy-in and a cash prize for the winner. Sign-ups begin at 7 p.m. and the first game starts at 8 p.m. @ H.G. Roosters.
FRIDAY
Lambda North Weekly AA Meeting
Lambda North hosts its weekly AA meeting in Delray Beach, offering fellowship, support, and recovery in an LGBTQ-inclusive space. @ the Crossroads Club. 7 p.m. SATURDAY Saturdays w/ Melissa St. John
Melissa St. John lights up the stage with unforgettable performances and fierce glamour every week. @ H.G. Roosters in West Palm Beach. Showtimes at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m.
Book Club: Lucy
Discuss Lucy by Jamaica Kincaid with BLAST (Bi, Lesbian and Straight Together) Women of West Palm Beach. The group explores Kincaid's acclaimed semi-autobiographical novel about identity, sexuality, and belonging. @ private home in Lake Worth Beach. More info HERE.
MONDAYNight Runners Run/Walk
Join the Night Runners for their twice-weekly run/walk. Mondays & Thursdays @ Howard Park in West Palm Beach. 8 p.m.
TUESDAY Left-Right-Center Tournament
Try your luck at BLAST's Left-Right-Center tournament in Lake Worth Beach. Beginners are welcome for this fast-paced dice game, with cash and a trophy going to the winner. @ Mad Hatter Lounge. Warm-up begins at 6:30 p.m., tournament starts around 7 p.m. Admission is $10.
|
|
|
|
PBCHRC Summer Soirée
The Palm Beach County Human Rights Council's biennial Summer Soirée returns July 25, bringing together elected officials, community leaders and supporters for an evening of networking. Passed hors d'oeuvres, an open bar and Palm Beach summer casual attire round out the event.
Held at the National Croquet Center in West Palm Beach, the event features passed hors d'oeuvres by Sandy James Fine Food & Productions, an open bar, and Palm Beach summer casual attire. Tickets are $150, with host committee opportunities also available. Tickets Here. |
|
|
|
Slice of Life Comes Home
Church of Our Savior MCC in Boynton Beach will host a special screening of the award-winning documentary Slice of Life: The American Dream in Former Pizza Huts on July 18 at the Lake Worth Playhouse. The church, housed in a former Pizza Hut, is prominently featured in the film, which explores how the iconic buildings have been transformed into everything from an LGBTQ+ church in Florida to a karaoke bar in Texas and a cannabis dispensary in Colorado. Proceeds from the $25 screening will support the church's outreach programs, including food assistance, recovery groups, and other community services. Buy tickets here.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Like this newsletter? We’re now offering newsletter management and email marketing services to our advertisers and business community. Email Jason@outsfl.com for more information.
Independent journalism doesn’t run on clicks — it runs on community. If our work matters to you, help sustain it through advertising or contributions. Partner with OutPBC and put your brand in front of readers who show up, pay attention, and trust what they see. |
|
|
|
Our mailing address is: OutPBC |
PO Box 23817 • Oakland Park, FL 33307
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
