Written Works
Learning the art of writing long-form features in the pre-Internet era, Gary retains that ability while adapting to the online and social media voice that many readers expect. He has written hundreds of features which appeared in print and online through AOL, Rand-McNally, the United States Travel Association, USA Today, People, National Geographic Traveler, US News & World Report, Washington Post, Harley-Davidson, Spy, Orlando magazine, Florida magazine, Xanterra (National Park Service), Visit Florida, Experience Kissimmee, St. Pete-Clearwater, Visit Jacksonville, Chicago Tribune, Atlanta Constitution, Miami Herald, Denver Post, Orlando Sentinel, Ft. Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel, Lake-Sumter Style, Chicago Tribune, New Orleans Times-Picayune, Continental Airlines’ Profiles and United Airlines’ Hemispheres.
The next day, he wrote even more.
Below are feature stories reflecting a range of topics he has covered throughout the years, followed by articles highlighting his civic involvement.
Mabel Norris Reese: Pressing Forward in the Face of Fear
One of the most courageous women in Florida history received national attention in this feature story detailing how she stood up to a racist, murderous sheriff -- a stance that continually placed her life at risk.
Driven to Adventure
On assignment for Visit Idaho, this travel feature details highlights to be discovered while exploring the state's most scenic roads.
The Cruel Saga of the Groveland Boys
Awarded top honors by the Florida Magazine Association, this feature tells the shockingly true story of the Groveland Boys -- four Black men who were falsely convicted of rape. Despite being represented by the legendary Thurgood Marshall, mobs and lawmen would kill two defendants before they could stand trial.
My Old School
When the elementary school he attended was destined to be razed and replaced by a more modern version, Gary revisited his past and recalled the highlights of his childhood.
A Race Through History
In post-WWII Florida, a visionary created a new use for a little-used airfield. What took its place established one of the world's most recognized race tracks and attracted such drivers as Mario Andretti and Paul Newman.
Easy Rider: Death Valley by Motorcycle
One of the world's most challenging rides was recounted in this feature for Xanterra, the official publication for America's national parks. Not a ride for the faint-of-heart, the 200-plus miles can test even the most skilled motorcyclists.
Desi Arnaz is Getting a Much-Deserved Historic Marker in Miami Beach
Noticing Cuban refugee Desi Arnaz remained largely unknown in his adopted hometown of Miami Beach, Gary launched a drive to recognize the formative years he experienced after fleeing Cuba for South Florida; a project Smithsonian magazine felt worthy of a national audience.
Music and the Mouse
As a Florida Humanities speaker, the organization chose to profile Gary for his presentations on the famous musicians of Florida and the incredibly fascinating story of how Walt Disney chose Orlando as the home of what he called 'The Florida Project'.
How to Handle an Electoral Loss
Defeated in his race for Florida Senate, Gary was heartened by the support he had received and the decency with which he had run his race. By conceding with dignity, he caught the attention of an Orlando Sentinel reporter who recognized his integrity -- traits she felt were sorely lacking in a new breed of politician.
Marking the Spot Where Desi Arnaz Played the Conga
The nation's fascination with 'I Love Lucy' became clear when The New York Times chose to cover the dedication of the Florida historic marker and recognize Gary's efforts to note Desi's role in the development of American television.