Tampa police detective MICKIE MASHBURN: "It's my time to grieve."

TAMPA -- In a dramatic show of community support, more than 1,000 people gathered at an Aug. 4 benefit to honor the life of slain Tampa police officer Lois Marrero. With Halcyon as headliner, the event also raised money to help Marrero's partner of ten years, Tampa police detective Mickie Mashburn.

Marrero's July 6 shooting death at the hands of armed bank robbers shocked Tampa, and particularly members of the gay and lesbian community who were celebrating Pride that weekend. Sadness turned to anger when it was discovered that Mashburn would be ineligible to receive Marrero's pension benefits. The Tampa City Council is currently considering revisions to that policy.

Mashburn was visibly overwhelmed by the turnout at the Aug. 4 concert, held at Skipper's Smokehouse and Oyster Bar. While those around her enjoyed the music and camaraderie of friends, Mashburn was clearly remembering her lost partner.

"It's my time to grieve," she said, taking the stage briefly. "It's up to you to be my voice now." Hundreds were unable to gain entrance to the sold out event, but contributed money and remained lined up outside in a touching show of support.

Halcyon's DEB HUNSEDER raises a contribution jar: "We'll be there for each other."

"The turnout tonight makes me proud to be a member of this community," said Halcyon's Deb Hunseder, holding up a contribution jar that was filled to the brim. "What this tells me is that if I - or if any of us - needs help, we'll be there for each other."

After the event, Mashburn and friends released a statement expressing support for initiatives that will lead to changes in Tampa's domestic partner laws.

"It is our mission to make sure that Lois Marrero is not remembered as a victim," the statement read. "Instead, we want her to be remembered as a fighter, a leader, a hero, and a person who was the catalyst for change."

The most touching moment at the fundraiser came when Mashburn, holding the stage microphone gingerly, looked up at the sky and said, "I know Lois is up there looking down, and I know that she's saying, 'Way to go.'"