Watermark Issue 20.26: Remarkable People

DAYTONA BEACH • ORLANDO • TAMPA • ST. PETERSBURG • SARASOTA • ISSUE 20.26 • DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 • WATERMARKONLINE.COM

ORLANDO EDITION

YOUR LGBT LIFE.

LOOKING BACK AT THE

TOP

STORIES OF

2013

DPR FLORIDA’S

PROPOSAL COULD SEE

NEW LIFE IN 2014

A REMARKABLE

IMPACT Mikael Audebert’s vision and leadership put LGBT Orlando on the map, inspiring us to name him our 2013 Remarkable Person of the Year in Central Florida

This issue features two covers!

In this issue we feature remarkable people from both Orlando and Tampa Bay.

DAYTONA BEACH • ORLANDO • TAMPA • ST. PETERSBURG • SARASOTA • ISSUE 20.26 • DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 • WATERMARKONLINE.COM

TAMPA BAY EDITION

YOUR LGBT LIFE.

A REMARKABLE

FEAT In 2014, 37% of the St. Pete City Council will be LGBT, making Amy Foster, Steve Kornell and Darden Rice our Remarkable People of 2013 in Tampa Bay

GULFPORT

GOES ‘BUTCH’ FOR NEW YEAR’S

PRISM PROGRAM OFFERS SHELTER, PROGRAMS TO

LGBT YOUTH

LOOKING BACK AT THE

TOP STORIES OF 2013

2

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

LOWEST PRICES • INCREDIBLE SELECTION • GREAT SERVICE Prices good thru 1/5/2014.

Get in the Spirits!

Over 3,000 Spirits at Unbelievably Low Prices

$32.99 MILLENIA PLAZA

www.totalwine.com

TotalWineAndMore

TotalWine

HOURS: Mon-Thurs 9am-10pm, Fri-Sat 9am-11pm, Sun 12noon-10pm

VISIT US ONLINE FOR OUR HOLIDAY HOURS.

$27.99 750ml

COLONIAL PLAZA

4

Millenia Plaza Way Conroy R d.

Total Wine Millenia Blvd.

MALL AT MILLENIA

Oak Ridge Rd. W FESTIVAL BAY MALL

e. pk aT rid Flo

Prices good thru 1/5/2014. Not responsible for typographical errors, human error or supplier price increases. Products while supplies last. We reserve the right to limit quantities. Total Wine & More is a registered trademark of Retail Services & Systems, Inc. © 2013 Retail Services & Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

Please drink responsibly. Use a designated driver.

Southbound From Orlando, Take I-4 West, Exit 78. Left on Conroy Rd. to Millenia Blvd.

Northbound From Lake Buena Vista, Take I-4 East, Exit 78. Right on Conroy Rd. Take First Left onto Millenia Blvd. then Left onto Millenia Plaza Way. On Right Next to Dick’s.

$35.99 750ml

1.75L

4625 Millenia Plaza Way Orlando, FL 32839 (407) 352-6330

Grand Marnier, G

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

2712 E. Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL 32803 (407) 894-6553

HOURS: Mon-Thurs 9am-10pm, Fri-Sat 9am-11pm, Sun 12noon-10pm

Enjoy the Total Wine & More Experience in 15 States.

Find them att www.totalwine.com

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

ORL-13-1209Lifestyle-TAB

1.75L

Patron S Silver,

John Young Pkwy. S

$19.99

1.75L

Jack Daniel’s Black,

Sr 40 0

$17.49

Captain Morgan’s S C Spiced Rum,

S. Kirkman Rd.

Smirnoff All Flavors, S

3

Navigator Ad 12.6.13.pdf 1 12/9/2013 3:02:04 PM

Navigator Ad 12.6.13.pdf 1 12/9/2013 3:02:04 PM

FOURTH AND FINAL SEASON SEASON!!

HOSTS PAUL KARLE AND RANDY STEPHENS INTERVIEW CELEBRITIES AND THE MOVERS AND SHAKERS OF THE LGBT COMMUNITY Saturdays starting January 4th, 2014, 1pm est

810am on your radio dial OR www.810CBSSports.com

LISTEN TO PAST SEASONS:

TheQiew.net

C

M

Y C

CM M

MY Y

CY CM

CMY MY

K CY

CMY

K

HEALTHY MIND, HEALTHY BODY HEALTHY MIND, HEALTHY BODY Have questions about health insurance and your in about the Federal Marketplace?

Haveoptions questions health insurance and your options in the Federal Marketplace?

Call our Certified Navigators for assistance atCall 1-866-468-9199. our Certified Navigators for assistance at 1-866-468-9199.

Tenemos asistencia en Espa単ol.

Tenemos asistencia en Espa単ol.

4

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

www.mentalhealthamerica.net www.mentalhealthamerica.net

DEPARTMENTS 6 // MAIL 13 // ORLANDO NEWS 17 // TAMPA BAY NEWS 20 // STATE NEWS 23 // NATION & WORLD NEWS 31 // ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 41 // EVENT PLANNER 43 // TAMPA BAY OVERHEARD 45 // ORLANDO OVERHEARD 46 // TAMPA BAY MARKETPLACE 47 // TRANSITIONS 48 // ORLANDO MARKETPLACE 53 // SPORTS

We have been doing a lot of work in Florida and we’re not just talking about equality for LGBT people.

PAGE

53

—DEENA FIDAS, DIRECTOR OF THE WORKPLACE EQUALITY PROGRAM FOR HRC

ON THE COVER

ORLANDO EDITION, TAMPA BAY PAGE 13 EDITION, PAGE 17 Mikael Audebert is photographed at ONE80 Grey Goose Lounge atop the Amway Center in downtown Orlando.

(L-R) Amy Foster, Steve Kornell and Darden Rice stand on the steps of St. Petersburg City Hall on 5th Street North.

Photo by Jake Stevens

Photo by Steve Blanchard

Preview

PAGE

31

LOOKING BACK AT A&E: It was a crazy year in the world of Pop Culture in 2013. So what better way to categorize it than alphabetically?

WATERMARK ISSUE 20.26 //DEC. 19, 2013 - J AN. 1, 2014

ORLANDO NEWS

TAMPA BAY NEWS

PAGE This year, Watermark

PAGE With the election of Darden

BUTCHLESQUE

SPORTS

Read it online!

SCAN QR CODE FOR

WATERMARKONLINE.COM

In addition to a Web site with daily LGBT updates, a digital version of each issue of the publication is made available on WatermarkOnline.com

13

recognizes Mikael Audebert as Central Florida’s Remarkable Person of the Year because of his involvement and leadership in Come Out With Pride, the Metropolitan Business Association and Converge; UCF cuts funding to Pride group.

17

Rice and Amy Foster to the St. Petersburg City Council, three-of-eight council members are LGBT, making the two women, and Steve Kornell, our Remarkable People of 2013 in Tampa Bay; Prism focuses on LGBT foster youth.

PAGE The women of Butchlesque

34

are back in Tampa Bay, and this time it’s to ring in the new year. Join the cast of women who celebrate the butch side of the lesbian community at the Gulfport Casino on New Year’s Eve.

PAGE Iconic Olympic diver and

advocate Greg 53 LGBT Louganis has some

words of encouragement for those supporting LGBT equality at the Sochi Olympics in 2014. We look at the top LGBT sports stories of 2013.

WIN TICKETS TO MOZART’S THE MAGIC FLUTE AT THE STRAZ CENTER. FIND OUT HOW AT WATERMARKONLINE.COM. DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

5

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR GUIDELINES FAIL TO PROTECT RUSSIA’S POTENTIAL VICTIMS

I

WANTED TO SHARE A COMMENT on the story about IOC guidelines for athletes in Sochi.

In his comments regarding the IOC letter to National Olympic Committees, IOC president Thomas Bach referred to his meeting with LGBT sports organizations on Nov. 30. As a participant in this meeting, we were indeed informed that the rule 50 guidelines would soon be published, and that the IOC expected that this publication would clarify matters for athletes.

We hoped these guidelines would clarify what actions would expose athletes to sanctions. Unfortunately, such clarity is not offered.

I do believe that Bach is sincerely acting to protect athletes from political pressures. And while that is possibly a good thing for those in Sochi, it ignores the thousands of LGBT athletes in Russia who remain potential victims of their country’s anti-gay laws.

As we stated, the lack of clear guidelines as to unauthorized behaviors encourages self-censorship, with athletes erring on the side of silence.

In any case, I hope that any action calling for the respect of the Olympic Charter’s principles of nondiscrimination and sport for all will be not only tolerated, but encouraged by the IOC. We do look forward to

“I hope that any action calling for the respect of the Olympic Charter’s principles of non-discrimination and sport for all will be not only tolerated, but encouraged.”

—MARC NAIMARK

further dialog with Bach and the Olympic Movement on Principle 6, on action for LGBT inclusion in sport, and speci�ic actions for Sochi.

MARC NAIMARK VICE PRESIDENT, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS FEDERATION OF GAY GAMES

VILIFYING GAY AMERICANS NO LONGER A GOP OPTION

T

HE GOP MAY NOT SUPPORT MARRIAGE EQUALITY ANYTIME SOON, but sooner or later they’ll have to come to grips with the fact that vilifying gay Americans is no longer a vote-getter for them. In 2009. a CBS News survey found that while only 18% of Americans over the age of 65 supported marriage equality for gay couples, 41% of American under the age of 45 supported it. That was four years ago, and the generational shift in attitudes among young people toward their gay friends and family members is accelerating.

Even conservative National

Review columnist Andrew Stuttaford grudgingly acknowledged this: “I fully understand those who argue that opposition to gay marriage is a fundamental principle too important to be abandoned for reasons of political expediency, but these �indings should, I reckon, at least be some sort of warning to those who assume that the GOP’s current position on this issue will continue to be a vote-winner.”

Thirty years ago most Americans were not aware of any gay friends, family members, or co-workers.

Today, most Americans are aware, and they have become dramatically more accepting and supportive of the gay people and gay couples in their lives. And social networking sites like Facebook have made the proverbial “closet” virtually obsolete.

The Republican Party ignores this growing acceptance at their own peril. Jobs and the economy are important, yes, but your friends and family members are personal.

POLISH BEAR VIA E-MAIL

PEOPLE ARE TALKING AT WATERMARKONLINE.COM

Silhouette Caribbean Cruise February 2-9, 2014 Celebrity Silhouette

Exotic Caribbean Cruise March 8-15, 2014 Celebrity Summit

Club Atlantis Cancun April 26-May 3, 2014 Club Med Cancun

6

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

All-Gay Cruises

Call your local Atlantis expert

John Layton Cruise Planners 407-456-0825

ON EDITH WINDSOR BEING NAMED RUNNERUP TO TIME PERSON OF THE YEAR: “Coming in as a runner up to Pope Francis is pretty damn good.”

—MARK CADY

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

“And she’s the honored guest at the 2014 Pinellas Equality Florida Gala on May 3. Watch for your opportunity to greet and thank her at the Mahaffey. Don’t miss this local historic event and help support Florida’s largest equality organization.”

—LARRY BIDDLE

ON FIVE FLORIDA COMPANIES RECEIVING PERFECT SCORES IN THE HRC’S CORPORATE EQUALITY INDEX: “Wonderful that such a large percentage of corporations accept LGBT principles. We are all for equal treatment for all Americans.”

—SANDYO

watermarkonline.com

CONTRIBUTORS MARY MEEKS

editor’s

Steve Blanchard EDITOR

SteveB@WatermarkOnline.com

W

Desk

HAT A YEAR!

The year that was 2013 seems to have come and gone in a �lash. In my brain, the past 12 months are a rush of images—from disappointing county commission votes and the jubilant celebrations of election results to soggy Pride costumes and festival �loats in St. Petersburg and insanely creative headdresses in Orlando.

But there was so much more to de�ine 2013 as a progressive and successful year for the LGBT community.

Athletes like Jason Collins and Britney Griner came out of the closet , LGBT-focused television shows were cancelled (no more Smash, thanks to NBC) and Hannah Montana grew up and I think had some kind of mental breakdown during the VMAs. The biggest news of the year,

WATERMARK STAFF

at least for American LGBTs, came in June. That month, just as cities around the country geared up for Pride celebrations, the United States Supreme Court struck down the part of the Defense of Marriage Act that speci�ically targeted same-sex couples and prevented marriage equality on a federal level. And several states passed marriage equality legislation at record speed to ensure same-sex couples can be protected under the law.

Publisher: Tom Dyer • Ext. 305 • Tom@WatermarkOnline.com Chief Financial Officer: Rick Claggett • Ext. 108 • Rick@WatermarkOnline.com Admin. Assistant: Stephanie Saylor • Ext. 100 • Stephanie@WatermarkOnline.com Editor-in-Chief: Steve Blanchard • 813-470-0899 • SteveB@WatermarkOnline.com Reporter: Susan Clary • 104 • Susan@WatermarkOnline.com Online Media Director: Jamie Hyman • Ext. 106 • Jamie@WatermarkOnline.com

As this year comes to a close, a total of 16 states, and the District of Columbia, offer marriage equality!

Of course, it wasn’t all good news.

This is the year that Mother Russia chose to make the “propaganda” of LGBT culture illegal, even though the supposedly welcoming Olympic Games will land in that country this coming February. And just recently, Australia took back its commitment to marriage equality and India made homosexuality illegal!

Hollywood, a bevy of LGBT support, saw the loss of some big names this year. We lost actors Paul Walker, Marcia Wallace, Cory Monteith and James Gandol�ini.

And, oh yeah, the federal government shut down for a while.

That’s just a small glimpse into the year that was.

It’s a challenge piecing together a “Year in Review” issue. As the staff at Watermark combs through our previous 25 issues of 2013, we realize just how much happens over this 12-month span. Whittling down major events into small sentences seems to belittle the impact of the stories.

But this gives us a chance to look in our own back yards and recognize those who have helped make our local communities better, or have inspired us to strive for bigger and better things in the upcoming year.

This year, we’re excited to honor four remarkable people, three representing Tampa Bay and one

representing Orlando.

Mikael Audebert is on the cover of our Orlando issue and was an easy choice for our editorial team.

His ongoing commitment to not only supporting Central Florida’s LGBT community but to focus on it as a way to pull business, events and positive publicity to Orlando is aweinspiring. We wanted to learn a little bit more about him.

On our Tampa Bay issue, we celebrate the historic ratio of LGBT members on the St. Petersburg City Council.

November saw Darden Rice and Amy Foster join Steve Kornell as elected members representing that city. The three were generous enough with their time— despite the hectic schedules of public life and the holidays—to answer a few question for us and pose in front of St. Petersburg’s City Hall for the cover photo.

This year is ending on a high note, but it doesn’t mean that advances in LGBT equality has been achieved or that greater strides can’t be made. In fact, 2013 was a monumental year full of momentum as we push into 2014.

And while the world continues to spin and pop culture fads come and go, our community will continue to change perceptions and change minds.

Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year! |  |

It’s a chance to recognize those who have helped make our local communities better, or have inspired us to strive for bigger and better things in the upcoming year.

Sales Manager: Mark Cady • Ext. 102 [Orlando] • Mark@ WatermarkOnline.com Tampa Bay Sales: Bill Jeffries Ext. 301 • 813-454-9064 • Bill@WatermarkOnline.com

ORLANDO OFFICE

Orlando Advertising Sales: Sam Rennels Ext. 103 • Sam@WatermarkOnline.com

P. O. Box 533655 Orlando, FL 32853-3655 TEL: 407-481-2243 FAX: 407-481-2246

Orlando Advertising Sales: Jeremy Williams Ext. 105 • Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com

TAMPA BAY OFFICE

Proofreading: Ed Blaisdell

Orlando Advertising Sales: Galen Hentzell Ext. 107 • Galen@WatermarkOnline.com

Art Director: Jake Stevens • Ext. 109 • Jake@WatermarkOnline.com

Nat’l Ad Representative: Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863

TEL: 813-655-9890 FAX: 813-849-2986

is an Orlandobased attorney who is also an LGBT activist.

She is a long-time contributor to Watermark. Page 25

KIRK HARTLAGE

is an Orlandobased journalist an DJ and a former full time employee of Watermark. He specializes in celebrity interviews. Page 31

GREG STEMM

lives in Gulfport, Fla., and has worked as a freelance writer for several local publications. He is a founding member of St. Pete Pride and active politically in Tampa Bay. Page 34

Greg Burton, Scottie Campbell, Zach Caruso, Amy Dees, Kirk Hartlage, Rev. Phyllis Hunt, Joseph Kissel, Ken Kundis, Mary Meeks, Stephen Miller, David Moran, Gregg Shipiro, Greg Stemm, Brett Stout, Jim Walker

PHOTOGRAPHY Nick Cardello, Angie Folks, Tom Eckert, Julie Milford, Travis Moore, Chris Stephenson, Lee Vandergrift, Tinkerfluff, Lonnie Thompson

DISTRIBUTION Debbie Oliver, Phil Garris, Ken Caraway CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher. Unsolicited article submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Although WATERMARK is supported by many fine advertisers, we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising, or listing in WATERMARK is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members of such organizations.

WATERMARK is published every second Thursday.

Subscription rate is $55 (1st class) and $26 (standard mail).

The official views of WATERMARK are expressed only in editorials. Opinions offered in signed columns, letters and articles are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the newspaper’s owner or management. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted for publication.

WATERMARK is not responsible for damages due to typographical errors, except for the cost of replacing ads created by WATERMARK that have such errors.

Watermark Media Inc. est. 1994

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

7

It’s all about pride!

• Specializing in Gynecomastia Reduction (Male Breast Reduction) • Rhinoplasty • Injectables & Fillers • Professional Skincare • Private, on-site accredited surgery center • Financing available

Through December 31, 2013: Receive a complimentary gynecomastia consultation with Dr. Pope! (Value $100)

Before gynecomastia surgery

After gynecomastia surgery

Actual patient of Dr. Pope

“There is really no way to say thanks that does justice to the fact that I am a completely new person. The past year has been the best of my adult life. I went from avoiding any social contact at all to a full date book. I know I have said it 1000 times, but I really don’t know how to thank you for changing my life”.--T.G.

407.857.6261 georgepopemd.com 3872 Oakwater Circle • Orlando, Florida 32806 info@georgepopemd.com

8

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

THE YEAR

MOST REMARKABLE PERSON OF 2013 FOCUSED AMBITION: The leadership of Mikael Audebert helped Orlando’s LGBT

ORLANDO

community thrive in 2013. PHOTO BY JAKE STEVENS

Stephen Miller

O

RLANDO | French transplant Mikael Audebert has made quite a distinct mark on the Central Florida LGBT community, especially in the last four years.

He has held the position of Executive Director of Come Out With Pride (COWP) the last three years, as the event ballooned from 80,000 to 120,000 attendees, making it a premiere national and international celebration. He is the president of Metropolitan Business Association, a group that helps build LGBT work equality and business. He also runs Converge, the of�icial LGBT conventions and visitors’ bureau for Orlando.

“It’s not always been easy here, and I’ve had lots of failures early on,” Audebert said.

Those failures include an economic downturn in 2008 that shuttered his travel business, forcing him to give up his home.

Even in 2011—his �irst year leading COWP—a torrential storm with extraordinary winds forced a decision to postpone the event. Audebert had to rally the LGBT community and the city of Orlando, asking them to help him reschedule everything— the parade, the entertainment, the �ireworks—for less than a month later.

“America is the land where you can turn a failure into a dream,” Audebert said.

It’s that tenacity that has lead Watermark to choose Mikael Audebert, 39, as Orlando’s most Remarkable Person of 2013, and we were surprised to learn that it wasn’t always smooth sailing for Audebert. In fact, he has considered permanently moving back to his hometown in provincial France several times.

We talked with Audebert about his journey and how he came to be such a prominent �igure in Orlando’s LGBT hierarchy.

ORLANDO GOES FOR THE GAY GAMES Cleveland is hosting Gay Games 2014 and the selection committee generally doesn’t select two U.S. cities in a row, but that didn’t stop Converge Orlando from submitting an application to host the Gay Games in 2018. Orlando made it pretty far in the process, but was cut when the committee narrowed the candidates from five to three. Along the way, Orlando’s bid had a number of local partners working together and even picked up an endorsement from President Barack Obama. Paris eventually won the hosting honor.

Making his mark The ambitious Mikael Audebert has made a remarkable impact on Orlando’s LGBT community

Openly bisexual (then) 8th-grader Bayli Silberstein wanted to fight bullying at her school, so she submitted an application for a Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) at Carver Middle School in Leesburg. School officials ignored Bayli’s request for months, so the ACLU got involved, and Bayli’s quest for a GSA hit the courts, was debated at nearly half a dozen Lake County School Board meetings and made national headlines. Bayli did eventually get her GSA, as a judge granted her permission to form the club for the remainder of her 8th grade year. That injunction has expired, Bayli has moved onto high school and now, the GSA no longer meets at Carver Middle School.

orlando

EPIC BATTLE OVER GSA

NEWS

5

TOP

STORIES OF

WATERMARK: HOW DID YOU SETTLE IN ORLANDO?

MIKAEL AUDEBERT: I’d actually come back and forth to America three times before, so there was no guarantee that I was going to stay here. These days, I have a permanent green card, but now I am applying for citizenship. So I’ve made up my mind. [Smiling.]

I am from Aix-en-Provence in France. I came from there to Richmond, Va., for the �irst time in 1992, as a foreign exchange student. It was really a culture shock, and I wanted immediately to go back to France. So I went home for my �inal year of school.

But once I was back in France, I just couldn’t stop thinking about the U.S. I worked in restaurants to make money to come back.

And when I turned 18, I moved to the suburbs of Washington D.C. But my big goal was California. A month later, I went out west, blew through all my savings in less than a month, and realized I was totally unprepared. I had to call my parents to bring me back to France. It was a complete failure.

I went back to Aix-en-Provence, worked very hard for six months, and then left France yet again.

I came to understand there Continued on page 14 |  |

HOPE AND HELP TURNS 25 Hope and Help of Central Florida, Inc. turned 25 in 2013, and it marked the occasion all year long with some recordbreaking events and new growth. One of their key annual fundraisers, The Headdress Ball, broke the $500,000 mark for funds raised. Hope and Help opened a second location, a downtown office to broaden its services area. The organization wrapped up the year as one of the beneficiaries of Smash Hits!, a tennis tournament fundraiser in November that brought Elton John, Billie Jean King, Andy Roddick and other celebrities to town and raised $700,000, part of which goes to Hope and Help.

EXODUS INTERNATIONAL SHUTS DOWN In June 2012, Exodus announced it would no longer practice damaging “ex-gay” or “conversion” therapy, where the goal is to “cure” gay people by turning them straight through prayer, isolation and other controversial methods. One year later, in June 2013, Exodus took things a step further, apologized for ever practicing conversion therapy, and announced its closure.

In September, the sale of Exodus’ headquarters was finalized.

COME OUT WITH PRIDE DRAWS GIGANTIC CROWDS Come Out With Pride has been a large, first-class event for several years now, but 2013 was a landmark. According to Orlando police, the parade and festival drew 120,000 people to downtown Orlando, a 20,000-person jump from the previous year and 10,000 more than organizers estimated before the event. More than 100 organizations participated in the parade, the festival packed the area surrounding Lake Eola and colorful fireworks ended the event on a festive note.

Do you agree with our list? Did we miss something?

Let us know at watermarkonline.com.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

13

orlando NEWS 14

|  | Mikael Audebert

UCF defunds Pride Coalition David Thomas Moran

O

RLANDO | The UCF Activity & Service Fee Budget Committee voted Dec. 16 to zero fund the University’s LGBTQ programming agency Pride Coalition. If the A&SF budget is approved as is, the Student Government Association (SGA)-af�iliated agency will have no money to operate during the 2014-2015 academic school year.

SGA Vice-President Jacob Kahn, who is openly gay, proposed the motion to defund all lines of Pride Coalition’s budget for the next �iscal year. He said that he didn’t think the SGA agency was sustainable and that the University should not be creating a culture on campus of valuing the needs of one minority group over all others.

In a 9-4-0 vote, SGA President Melissa Westbrook and seven other budget committee members voted along with Kahn to cut Pride Coalition’s entire budget.

Pride Coalition requested $76,355, which is considerably less than other agencies and departments who want approximately $300,000 (Sports Club Council) and $5 million (Recreation & Wellness Center).

Each UCF student pays a fee per-credit-hour to fund the A&SF operating budget which supports SGA and its af�iliated agencies.

The A&SF Budget Committee is responsible for allocating available funds as it deems appropriate, based on requests from SGA’s agencies and departments.

The committee meets annually the week after �inals before the University closes for the holidays to hear funding requests. It then submits a balanced budget recommendation to the Student Senate for �inal voting in the Spring semester.

“I’m very upset as a [LGBT] member of this campus,” said senior accounting major and former Equal president Amy Osiason. “It seems like Pride Coalition was targeted.”

Osiason feels like the A&SF budget committee is unfairly favoring other student programs and services while dismissing the needs of LGBT students. She also questioned the timing of the hearing, which took place when most students are away for winter break.

Pride Coalition Student Director Nicholas Simons and Graduate Assistant Cecilia Chik represented the agency at the budget hearing. During the presentation, Simons said the agency’s top priority was funding for staf�ing of the Pride Commons space, which is a popular among LGBT students and their allies.

With Pride Coalition defunded, the agency’s ability to effectively run the Pride Commons space seems up in the air. Pride Coalition Volunteer Director Gustavo Rico said Pride Commons will still exist.

“It’s funded through the Student Union. Pride Coalition is still an agency,” Rico said. “We just won’t have any money to do any programming.”

Though many were shocked and disappointed by the vote, Rico, a senior psychology major, said he hopes the budget committee’s recommendation is just the �irst step of many toward a �inal A&SF budget.

Budget cuts have been an ongoing issue since the A&SF budget saw a shortfall of $1.45 million due to students enrolling in less credit hours than originally projected for the fall term. Budgets were cut across the board for SGA-af�iliated agencies and departments. |  |

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

from pg.13

was no chance for someone like me, a young person with ambition, to get ahead and make a mark. That’s why I came back to America.

I worked around Alexandria, W.V., until 1996, and then I got a job managing restaurants in San Diego. One day, a Republican politician came into one of the restaurants, and he was organizing the Chad [Africa] Chamber of Commerce in Washington D.C. He actually hired me to be the �irst executive director of the Chad Chamber of Commerce, running the of�ice and translating. It didn’t work very well, because I was trying to create something where I had no previous experience whatsoever.

So, then I worked in a D.C. hotel for a while. And while there, I was the �irst person in a hotel room after a mom had shot her own child and herself. That was so upsetting. I didn’t think I was upset at �irst…the violence in America was something I’d heard of but never experienced �irsthand. I went home to France for three years. And then I �inally came back to American permanently in 2001.

Twelve years: I’m here for good now. I’m losing my accent.

I’m forgetting French words!

CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR HOME LIFE NOW?

Oh, let’s just say I’m happily single, but always open to options. Moving on! [Laughs]

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR WORK IN THE LOCAL LGBT COMMUNITY—COWP, MBA, GAY GAMES, CONVERGE.

Well, in 2008, my business went downhill, along with almost everyone else’s. For the �irst time, I didn’t know what to do, so I enjoyed a year of not doing anything. And then I joined MBA in 2008 and got more involved in 2009. The biggest story here is, really, “Look at you; you were in the mud, and now you’ve found something you really enjoy.”

Not everyone is made for business, and I’ve probably made some serious mistakes.

My business didn’t just collapse because of the recession; my business collapsed because it wasn’t strong enough. All of my decisions weren’t top-

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

notch and amazing, but all of those decisions got me to where I am today.

I got involved in COWP in 2009. In 2010, I became entertainment director. When Dr. David Baker-Hargrove decided he wanted to split COWP from MBA, we made the �irst executive director position. That was 2011, the year of the great monsoon.

IF YOU HAD TO MAP COWP SINCE YOU TOOK OVER, HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE GROWTH?

Besides adding 20,000 people each year? We’re now up to 120,000 people, according to the Orlando Police Department.

Well, we knew right from the beginning that, based on the economic impact this event had on the city—and what it could have—it needed to be really organized. I would say that’s probably one thing I pushed my team to do.

on our 10th anniversary. We’ve become a destination for people from around the world. We’ve grown each year, and I think I’m to the point where I want to enjoy it instead of organize it.

I want to focus on Converge, because I believe that’s where the future of changing the community is. It’s about to boom, and it needs a full-time executive director. I also want to focus on my role as President of MBA.

THROUGH CONVERGE, YOU APPLIED FOR ORLANDO TO BE THE HOST FOR THE GAY GAMES, BUT WE DIDN’T MAKE THE SELECTION OF FINAL THREE. WHAT DID YOU LEARN WITH THE GAY GAMES APPLICATION?

I learned that we had a great bid, and I’m not just saying that because we put it together. If you have the right group—and we did—you can get anything done. Orlando was ready to support an initiative like this, and it didn’t take two years to put it together like some people previously believed.

But there were politics involved; there were other things happening.

Obviously, there was a rotation issue. Orlando was bidding on the Gay Games following the one being held in Cleveland, so twice in the U.S. would have been dif�icult. And then the very day that we were submitting our bid, we found that Miami was getting the Out Games in 2017. So, it wasn’t necessarily bad politics, but they didn’t look at the merits of our bid over the perception of having games three times in a row in the U.S. I learned that it wasn’t hard to put the actual bid together. We just hadn’t really done enough in the past. Our engagement as a community and a city hasn’t been as strong as it needs to be.

That’s why I’m focusing on Converge in the future, because I believe that’s the way to do more. We’re already planning a family festival July 1-7. My big goal, though, is to make Converge the �irst LGBT organization to apply for public funding through the tourist tax.

I want to focus on making Orlando even more LGBT friendly, and not just around Gay Days, but year-round. |  |

“It’s not about hiding who we are; it’s really about marketing it the right way.”

—MIKAEL AUDEBERT It needed to go global; that’s another thing my team has really worked on.

Also, one of the �irst things I did—which was controversial at the time—was to start having conversations about the message our Pride Parade was sending.

I know it sounds sad, but when we’re lobbying to get bills passed for equality, we have to market to the larger community. For many locals—allies and such—Orlando Pride was previously seen as an uncomfortable event to attend.

So we had to ask how we could show our pride but still make it so kids could watch it and say, “I don’t have to be afraid of being gay.” And parents could say, “This is an event I can bring my kids to.”

It’s not about hiding who we are; it’s really about marketing it the right way. We really worked these last few years to show off the diversity: the churches, the soccer fans, the foodies and everyone—not just select groups.

WHAT ARE SOME CHALLENGES FACING COWP?

Well, I’m giving you a scoop.

Next year is going to be my last year with COWP. I’m going out

watermarkonline.com

Quadcab

Quadcab

164mo

Quadcab

188mo

196mo

Quadcab

208mo

245mo Quadcab Quadcab Quadcab Quadcab Quadcab

Quadcab Quadcab

Quadcab

Quadcab

Quadcab

186mo

Quadcab

239mo

Quadcab

258mo

Quadcab

Quadcab Quadcab Quadcab Quadcab Quadcab

228mo

278mo

Quadcab

THE

Follow us on FACEBOOK to track RAMINATOR! the RAMINATOR!

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14TH

p RAM Posner Park Chrysler Dodge Jee1:00! Stop by by

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13TH

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12TH

show show at Get up-close for a FREE car crushing merchandise! & hs grap auto os, all day for phot

Dodge Chrysler Jeep RAM of Win ter Haven Stop by all day for photos, autogr aphs & merchandise!

All Advertised offers require financing through Lake Wales/Winter Haven/Posner Park’s preferred banks

p RAM Lake Wales Chrysler Dodge Jee 4:30! Stop by

show at Get up-close for a FREE car crushing merchandise! & hs grap all day for photos, auto

Cars Provided By:

Late Model Truck Truck and Car Salvage with Over 30 Acres of Salvage to Sell From!

WIN A 2014 DODGE DURANGO

WIN A 2014 DODGE DURANGO!

Test drive the All-New Dodge Durange and play our RON BURGUNDY GAME!

Come in and test drive a Dodge Durango for a chance to and you’ll drive play our RON BURGUNDY GAME! Win the gameWin and you’ll win a New 2014 Dodge Durango! away VERY HAPPY!

Greek, Mediterranean, and Vegeterian Cuisine

WE HAVE A LOT TO THANK THE GREEKS FOR...

Huge selection of

NewCOOLEST 2014 RamCARS IN AMERICA UNDER 16,000 THE TWO

0 195

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES!

1500 ALL NEW Quadcab Due at Own 2013 DODGE Signing @ Only DART

45,800

84 mo at 3% APR with approved credit. State and Dealer fees extra. All rebates and incentives included. Cannot be combined with 0% financing. Expires 12/31/13.

2014 Superbird Challenger $

MEDITERRANEAN BLUE IS JUST ONE MORE.

• PISTOL GRIP • CUSTOM FLOOR MATS • DASH BEZELS PAINTED TO MATCH EXTERIOR • SERIALIZED DASH PLAQUE • DAYTONA OR SUPERBIRD LOGO GRAPHICS

OVER 1,300 NEW & USED CARS, TRUCKS, VANS, & SUVs at

We Will Show You the Carfax On Every Pre-Owned Vehicle in Stock.

LowPaymentKings.com

LakeWalesChrysler.com

LOADED WITH LEATHER AND MUCH MORE!

POSNER PARK

LAKE WALES Lake Wales, One Mile South of Eagle Ridge Mall 855-823-7676 855-896-7676

NOT A LEASE!

“YOU CAN TRUST THE LOW PAYMENT KINGS!”

LW

435 E. Michigan St.,Orlando, FL 32806 www.mediterraneanblue.net 407-422-2583

ALL NEW per 2014 JEEP month PATRIOT

299 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven 855-644-2836 888-416-2855

WHDodge.com

Davenport, One Mile South of I-4 on HWY 27 855-717-6763 888-416-3466

PosnerParkChrysler.com

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

15

Expires 2/15/14

Botox Juvederm Ultra Restylane and Perlane Sculptra Radiesse Belotero Balance Latisse

Chemical Peels eMatrix for Skin Lightening, Brightening & Tightening CO2RE Laser Hair Removal Skin Resurfacing

Hair Restoration SmartLipo Eyelid Lift, Mid Facelift, Brow Lift Roscea Laser Treatments Skin Care ProductsObagi & SkinMedica

Lighten, Brighten, and Tighten!

MULTIPLE COSMETIC SERVICES AVAILABLE. SERVICES PERFORMED BY LICENSED AND EXPERT HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS.

SEE THE RESULTS YOURSELF: BEFORE

AFTER

Buy 2, Get 1 free!

Purchase any 2 of the above listed services and, as a show of our appreciation, recieve 1 additonal service free of charge!

TampaDermatology.com

Join

OFFER EXPIRES 2/15/14

5210 Webb Road, Tampa, FL, 33615 • 813.882.9986

16

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

5

THE YEAR

MOST REMARKABLE PEOPLE OF 2013 THE 37%: Amy Foster, left, and Darden Rice, who both handily won in the November election, flank Steve Kornell, and will join him on the St. Petersburg City Council on Jan. 2. PHOTO BY STEVE BLANCHARD

TAMPA BAY

A Remarkable Trio Foster and Rice join Kornell on St. Pete’s City Council, making 37% of that board LGBT in 2014.

Steve Blanchard

S

T. PETERSBURG | The Sunshine City made history in 2013 when its residents elected two openly gay candidates to sit on its City Council. Darden Rice and Amy Foster handily won their campaigns in November in districts 4 and 8, respectively, and join sitting district 5 councilmember Steve Kornell— who won his campaign back in 2009—behind the dais.

Of course, there are �ive other members of the St. Petersburg City Council, and those �ive straight, elected of�icials are allies to the LGBT community. But having three openly gay, seated of�icials is monumental for the city, and for Florida.

That’s why Watermark chose Rice, Foster and Kornell as our “Remarkable People of 2013.”

We gathered the three elected of�icials, all of whom are partnered, to chat about its signi�icance.

WATERMARK: WHAT DOES IT

MEAN FOR POLITICS IN FLORIDA AND THE COUNTRY TO HAVE THREE OPENLY GAY ELECTED OFFICIALS ON ONE COUNCIL?

DARDEN RICE: This says something special about St. Pete.

On the campaign trail this past year it was often said that it’s not really a big deal. I emphasized that people will look past labels and will elect us to work for everyone and represent on issues relevant for all citizens. All of that is true, but let me say here, it is a big deal; as Vice President Joe Biden would say, “It’s an ef�in’ big deal.”

Visibility saves lives and strengthens communities.

AMY FOSTER: We have made signi�icant progress, but there is still work to be done for all groups that have faced oppression and marginalization in our country.

I’m happy that people chose the most quali�ied candidates and focused on the whole person than one small part of my identity.

Steve, Darden and I are all very different individuals with varied

The commission inspired one of our more powerful covers in 2013 when it voted 4-3 on Jan. 24 to reject a domestic partnership registry that would have granted a handful of rights to unmarried couples living within Hillsborough County. The same commission, however, voted June 5 to repeal an 8-year-old ordinance that prohibited county officials from recognizing LGBT Pride celebrations. It was a one step backward, one step forward kind of year for the controversial commission.

PINELLAS COUNTY COMMISSION PASSES DPR With only one dissenting vote, the Pinellas County Commission voted overwhelmingly in favor of a countywide domestic partnership registry on Jan. 15. Newly elected commissioners helped push the majority vote, which was made after residents debated both sides of the issue for several hours. The one commissioner not in favor of granting a handful or rights to cohabiting, unmarried couples in the county was Norm Roche.

tampa bay

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY COMMISSION

NEWS

TOP

STORIES OF

ARSONIST, MURDER GETS LIFE SENTENCE

backgrounds and interests and we bring unique skill sets to the table that will help move our city forward.

STEVE KORNELL: It certainly is a milestone. This local election demonstrates how out of touch our leaders in Tallahassee are with the will of their constituents, because the state does not have crucial statewide protections for LGBT citizens. Clearly the overwhelming majority of St. Petersburg citizens do not feel that someone should be �ired simply for being a member of the LGBT community.

IS IT FRUSTRATING THAT PEOPLE CELEBRATE THREE GAY OFFICIALS WHEN THE COMMUNITY IS ALSO SAYING WE’RE JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE?

SK: I do not �ind it frustrating at all. Election night was a joyous night and we should celebrate.

We are celebrating that as the straight community has gotten to know us they have come to realize that the LGBT community is just like everyone else. A candidate should be judged by his or her quali�ications.

DR: Sometimes we don’t get to

Continued on page 18 |  |

Five months after he murdered two gay men and set a home ablaze in the Historic Kenwood neighborhood of St. Petersburg, Michael Scott Norris pleaded guilty to murder Feb. 25 and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. Norris confessed to killing Bruce Johnson and Arthur Regula in September 2012, and setting on fire the home they were renovating to cover his crime. His guilty plea was part of a deal with prosecutors who agreed to no longer pursue the death penalty. In July, the homeowner, Mitch Harrison, moved into his newly built home on the same lot.

MISS WANDA SHOT AND KILLED The two unidentified men responsible for the shooting death of popular drag performer “Miss Wanda” on May 28 took away more than a performer. They took away a mentor, mother and a friend. Tampa Police believe that Miss Wanda, whose real name was Anthony Jerome Lee, was an unintended target in a shooting at a home in the 3900 block of Genessee Street in East Tampa.

Reports say Lee was in the home when he answered a knock at the door and two suspects fired their guns.

Lee was rushed to Tampa General Hospital where he later died from his injuries. The case is still open.

ST. PETE PRIDE GETS WET The 12th annual St. Pete Pride was a wet one in 2013, with record rainfall drenching the tail end of the parade and causing city officials to cancel the street festival an hour earlier than scheduled. The wet weather didn’t dampen spirits, however, as St. Pete Pride’s crowd swelled to more than 120,000 revelers in the Grand Central District of St. Petersburg. The sun did manage to make a few appearances throughout the June 29 festival, but didn’t remain a permanent fixture until nearly 6 p.m., long after the festival and parade wrapped for the year.

Do you agree with our list? Did we miss something?

Let us know at watermarkonline.com.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

17

tampa bay NEWS 18

|  | St. Pete Three

Prism program to offer shelter, programs for LGBT homeless teens in St. Pete Zach Caruso

S

T. PETERSBURG | Family Resources, Florida’s crisis counseling agency and shelter for runaway and homeless teens, is about to make history.

“We’ve talked to our foster system, and we know that there have been kids who were almost adopted, but the thing that kept them from being adopted was that they came out as gay,” said program director Nicole Leslie. “That’s so heartbreaking that it’s something that would determine whether or not a kid has a home.”

But Leslie and case manager and family counselor Richard Pippinger are seeking to change that with their new project—the Prism Transitional Living Program (TLP), based in St. Petersburg. Aimed at LGBT youths 16-17 years old, the program seeks to offer a safe environment for teens who may not have family situations to return to, and are in need of independent living skills. According to the program’s factsheet, teens are provided with shelter, food, clothing, educational opportunities, individual and group counseling as well as the training and education necessary to function as independent persons.

Furthermore, Prism offers life skills classes, assistance with �inding employment, recreational activities, and volunteer and community advocacy experience.

“Family Resources has been around since the ‘70s, and the main focus has been shelters for community and foster kids,” explained Leslie. “Then it expanded and had the TLP programs for foster kids, teaching them to live independently once they age-out. Now we have this TLP Prism program which takes the same idea but adds the piece of speci�ically working with LGBT foster youth.”

It is a demographic that has not been focused on in the past, and Pippinger explained that the issues these youths deal with are two-fold.

“What we are �inding in the research is that there is a lot of disruption within their placements in foster families or in group homes, due in large part to lack of education,” said Pippinger. “There are high instances of risky sexual behavior, depression issues, all stemming from the trauma of just being a foster kid, and then you add in the LGBT factor, and the fact that your group home or foster family may not be accepting.”

It’s a scenario that is rarely addressed.

“We know these kids are at a higher risk of suicide, running away, and being disrupted in various placements because they aren’t getting the opportunity to be who they are,” said Leslie.

The program has been active since late November, with full-time employees working around the clock.

For eligibility criteria, and to learn more about the Prism TLP program, contact Stacey Welton at 727521-5203 or Nicole Leslie at 727-552-1011. |  |

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

from pg.17

live long enough to cross the bridges we try to build, and yet here we are crossing one of them.

How we would love for Harvey Milk to have lived to see his legacy in action in this country.

So the fact that three gay people have been elected to represent the broader community in St. Pete says a lot.

THE MEDIA TENDS TO REFERENCE THE SEXUALITY OF OUT ELECTED OFFICIALS. HOW DO YOU HOPE IT REFERS TO YOU AS A REPRESENTATIVE OF ST. PETERSBURG?

AF: I hope the media recognizes the vastness of diversity represented. I set out to be a voice of the people—that includes all citizens of St. Petersburg. I am particularly passionate about bringing forward issues that impact at-risk groups and want to make sure our policies re�lect the needs of working families. I hope I will be known as a champion for all families in this great city.

DR: I try not to take it personally when I’m gratuitously identi�ied as openly gay whether or not it is relevant to the issue at hand.

The media is starting to get it better these days, but there is still a tendency for journalists to shoehorn a person into a story and will use whatever handy phrase or stereotype to �it their narrative. And if you are LBGT, well, that’s the one-dimensional narrative that may be used to paint you.

SK: The media would never talk about an “openly straight” candidate or of�icial, and I believe the same respect should be afforded to LGBT of�icials.

WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WANTED TO SEEK PUBLIC OFFICE?

SK: It was never one decision, or one moment. It certainly frustrated me when I felt that elected leaders were ignoring their constituents on a host of issues, including gay rights and funding for children’s services.

AF: I have spent my life dedicated to helping people and solving problems—so this is another way to extend that work and make a lasting impact. I’ve spent the majority of my career focused on gender equity and it became very

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

clear to me that women bring both a different perspective and skills to the table.

DR: When I was 12, Mom took me with her on the volunteer campaign trail, giving me a taste of the value of volunteerism, civic participation, and public service. When St. Pete City Council Member Karl Nurse and others asked me to consider a run in 2005, it resonated as the right path for me.

IS THERE MORE THE LGBT COMMUNITY CAN TEACH THE OTHER MEMBERS OF THE COUNCIL, AND THE CITY OF ST. PETE?

DR: There is a lot to be learned.

We still have signi�icant challenges in St. Pete with racial issues and inequities caused by poverty. As for LGBT issues, we still have a way to go to fully

WHAT IS YOUR FONDEST MEMORY OF 2013?

SK: I enjoyed time with my partner, Bobby, and our two dogs, Harvey and Hedwig, at the Fort Desoto dog beach. I was also very proud to see the city spend an entire year looking at redeveloping 34th Street South and branding it the “Skyway Marina” District.

DR: It is bittersweet, but I have lost both of my parents. I miss them and think of them every day. Mom always encouraged my activism. My father always encouraged me to think big.

He knew I was running for city council, but did not survive his battle with cancer to see me �inish. I often felt that they were with me in spirit.

AF: On election day, I was at a polling location and a woman approached me and told me about herself. She shared she was overcoming brain cancer and her concerns for her neighborhood in South St. Pete.

She held my hand the entire time she talked to me and left me with these words, “I’m voting for you because I believe you will remember people like me when you make decisions.”

I will work hard to live up to those expectations.

“The fact that three gay people have been elected to represent the broader community in St. Pete says a lot.”

—DARDEN RICE realize equal rights for gays and lesbians, as well as embracing the transgender community.

SK: The current City Council signed the Pride proclamation and also voted 8-0 in favor of the Domestic Partner Registry that was enacted last August.

It is important for everyone to know that this City Council has been very supportive of the LGBT community and we could not enact any legislation without the votes of the straight members. In the new year I hope to see our city become more inclusive of transgender people and enact stronger policies that are supportive of our transgender citizens.

AF: There is an African author who did a TED talk on “The Danger of a Single Story” and it is a good reminder that we cannot possibly understand someone or a group based on a single facet of their life. I am gay and I am a woman. I’m a mother, employee, sister, daughter. I am not a native of our city—all of these things and many more are part of the lens I look through when experiencing the world.

watermarkonline.com

DO YOU HAVE ANY WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT TO CITIES THAT MAY NOT HAVE MUCH LGBT SUPPORT ON ELECTED BOARDS/COUNCILS?

AF: Don’t be afraid to get involved and use your voice. I �irmly believe that stories change people’s hearts and minds. If you are interested in running, �ind a mentor to reach out to and ask about their experiences.

DR: Keep pushing forward. The more people push forward, the closer you get to the tipping point. There is momentum. Cities around the country are changing.

2013 was St. Pete’s year. If you are in a place where you can’t wait long enough for that, move to St. Pete!

SK: The LGBT community needs straight allies. Things will only change when people are willing to ask their elected of�icials to do the right thing, and to educate them as to why LGBT friendly policies are important. |  |

Introducing New

Talk to your doctor to learn more or visit www.tivicay.com

Š 2013 ViiV Healthcare group of companies. All rights reserved. Printed in USA. DGV014R0

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

19

state NEWS

TOP

Statewide domestic partner registry bill in the works

5

STORIES OF

THE YEAR

FREE KATE… MAYBE? Katlyn Hunt’s arrest, visits to jail and eventual plea deal captivated the nation and sparked debate about statutory law. Hunt was in trouble for having sex with a 14-year-old schoolmate when she was 18. The younger girl’s parents turned Hunt in, and Hunt’s father alleged that their motivations were anti-gay. In the end, Hunt pleaded no contest to battery, interference with child custody and contributing to the dependency of a child. Her attorney stated that Hunt’s goal is to change the law so that teens attending the same school can’t be prosecuted for having sexual relationships, regardless of sexual orientation.

STATEWIDE DOMESTIC PARTNER REGISTRY FAILS The “Family First Bill” survived five months before it died in committee. The bill was filed in January by Sen. Eleanor Sobel (D-Hollywood), and cleared the Florida Senate Committee on Children, Families and Elder Affairs by a 5-4 vote on April 1.

Before it died in the Judiciary Committee in May, it survived a rewrite, a key supporting Senator unable to vote because she was taken to the hospital (she’s ok), and a long, strange speech by notorious anti-gay pundit John Stemberger, who claimed marriage rates fall in areas with domestic partner registries, but was unable to summon any proof.

RUBIO TURNS UP ANTI-GAY RHETORIC Sen. Marco Rubio made it clear he’s against the LGBT community this year. In June, he threatened to pull his support from the immigration bill he co-authored if an amendment passed that allows gay unauthorized immigrants to apply with same-sex partners as family. He declared that it shouldn’t be illegal to fire someone for being gay and LGBT activists protested with a sit-in in Rubio’s office and three of them were led away in handcuffs. In September, Rubio blocked the appointment of William Thomas, who would have been the first openly gay judge to the federal bench in South Florida despite supporting the initial nomination.

COMPETITIVE WORKFORCE ACT FILED TWICE Florida legislators Rep. Joe Saunders (D-Orlando) and Rep. Holly Raschein (R-Key Largo) crossed party lines twice this year to file the Competitive Workforce Act, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity or expression. A version of the bill has been introduced in some form every legislative session since 2007, but it has always died in committee, as did the version filed in February 2013.

Saunders is optimistic for the latest version of the bill’s chances in the 2014 session.

MORE SUPPORT FOR MARRIAGE EQUALITY The Sunshine State came out for marriage equality stronger than ever before in 2013. A poll released in March showed 75% of Floridians are in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage, and two prominent politicians—Sen. Bill Nelson and former Governor Charlie Crist—went on record as supporting marriage equality. Crist represented a turnabout on the issue. In 2010, he expressed opposition to marriage equality but changed his tune with a Facebook post in May of this year.

Do you agree with our list? Did we miss something?

Let us know at watermarkonline.com.

20

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

Susan Clary

O

RLANDO | State Rep. Linda Stewart (D-Orlando) is working on resurrecting a bill in 2014 that would implement a statewide domestic partner registry.

It was submitted to bill drafting in mid-December, and she hopes to secure a Republican co-sponsor.

Last year’s bill, sponsored by Mark S. Pafford (D-West Palm Beach), died when not one Republican committee chair would consider it. A companion senate bill passed one senate hearing,

Children, Families and Elder Affairs, a committee chaired by Democrat Eleanor Sobel (D-Hollywood).

A month later, it died in the Judiciary Committee, despite the fact that a poll earlier this year showed that 75 percent of Floridians support either gay marriage or civil unions, according to the Bob Graham Center for Public Service.

Since then a handful of local municipalities passed their own LGBT civil protections, but nothing exists on a statewide level.

Stewart’s bill is modeled after the senate bill, which received one Republican swing vote last year. It

was written by Orlando attorney and LGBT activist Mary Meeks.

“We have to come up with a model that works across all counties from Pensacola to the Keys,” said Matt Alford, Stewart’s legislative aide.

Bill drafting is a preliminary step before a bill is �iled to ensure it meets all the legal requirements.

With the domestic partnership bill, of�icials are checking with stakeholders like local sheriffs, jails of�icials, assisted living advocates, hospital executives and funeral directors to ascertain whether it meets all guidelines.

earned for various benchmarks like having a non-discrimination policy, demonstrating a public commitment to diversity and offering equal bene�its for same sex partners and spouses.

For 2013, a record 304 businesses earned a top score of 100 and the distinction of being listed as a “Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality.” That compares to just 13 in 2002, the �irst year of the index.

New Florida businesses that joined the list this year are: Outback Steakhouse in Tampa, Home Shopping Network in Clearwater and Winn-Dixie in Jacksonville.

“We have been doing a lot of work in Florida and we’re not just talking about equality for LGBT people,” said Deena Fidas, director of the Workplace Equality Program for the HRC. “Inclusive employers have a broader appeal and, with changing public opinion, workplace fairness is key.”

Of Fortune 500 companies, 91 percent provide explicit protections on the basis of sexual orientation and 61 percent on the basis of gender identity, 67 percent offer

same-sex partner bene�its and 28 percent offer health care bene�its for transgender employees.

“Tech Data is proud to earn a perfect score for the ninth straight year,” said Caryl Lucarelli, vice president of Human Resources at Tech Data. “We are recognized as the only distributor in the IT channel with a perfect score on this important list, we strive to set an example for the industry as well as our local community.”

By industry, law �irms dominated the list with 81 scoring 100 percent, followed by 36 in the category of banking and �inancial services. Industries with just one company earning a perfect score include: oil and gas, real estate, publishing, mining and metals, home furnishings, transportation and travel.

This marks the eighth time the Fortune 1000 list of largest publicly traded companies was invited to take part in the Corporate Equality Index survey. The Fortune 500 list has been invited each year since 2002. For a link to the full list, visit WatermarkOnline.com. |  |

unmarried couples, both gay and straight, to register as domestic partner for a small fee.

The ordinance will give registered couples a number of small, but important rights. Those include: the ability to make medical and funeral decisions for each other, visit one another in the hospital

or prison and participate in the education of mutual children.

Registered domestic partners will be automatically noti�ied in case of an emergency.

“This ordinance will enshrine into law equal protection,” Councilwoman Sherri Myers said. |  |

Five Florida companies receive perfect scores for LGBT equality Susan Clary WASHINGTON, D.C. | Five Florida companies top the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) 2014 Corporate Equality Index, which ranks Fortune 1000 companies on their broad commitment to LGBT equality.

Tech Data Corporation in Clearwater, Carlton Fields law �irm in Tampa and Darden Restaurants Inc. in Orlando all scored a perfect 100. Rounding out the list of perfect scores for Florida companies are Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida Inc. in Jacksonville and Of�ice Depot Inc. in Boca Raton.

“We are proud to be a place where we try to treat everyone equally,” said Nancy Faggianelli, Chief Diversity Of�icer for Carlton Fields. “We think diversity leads to better work product, bene�its our clients and bene�its us as employees of the �irm.”

Every year, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) measures hundreds of businesses around the country for their corporate commitment to equality. Points are

Pensacola approves domestic partner registry Staff Report PENSACOLA | In a historic vote, the Pensacola City Council approved a domestic partnership registry at its Dec. 12 meeting. It is the �irst city west of Tallahassee to pass an ordinance, offering cohabitating,

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

21

It’s all about pride!

• Specializing in Gynecomastia Reduction (Male Breast Reduction) • Rhinoplasty • Injectables & Fillers • Professional Skincare • Private, on-site accredited surgery center • Financing available

Through December 31, 2013: Receive a complimentary gynecomastia consultation with Dr. Pope! (Value $100)

Before gynecomastia surgery

After gynecomastia surgery

Actual patient of Dr. Pope

“There is really no way to say thanks that does justice to the fact that I am a completely new person. The past year has been the best of my adult life. I went from avoiding any social contact at all to a full date book. I know I have said it 1000 times, but I really don’t know how to thank you for changing my life”.--T.G.

407.857.6261 georgepopemd.com 3872 Oakwater Circle • Orlando, Florida 32806 info@georgepopemd.com

22

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

Wire Report

Supreme Court decision or that Parliament could enact a new law. ``We need to take quick and �irm action,’’ he told reporters, noting that millions of people in India do not want homosexuality to be a criminal offense.

Sonia Gandhi, chief of the governing Congress party, also lent support to the activists. ``I hope Parliament will address this issue and uphold the constitutional guarantee of life and liberty to all citizens of India, including those directly affected by this judgment,’’ Gandhi said.

The ruling dealt a blow to LGBT activists who have fought for years for the chance to live openly in India’s deeply conservative society. |  |

unanimously ruled that the ACT’s law could not operate concurrently with the federal Marriage Act, which was amended in 2004 to de�ine marriage as between a man and a woman. ``The Marriage Act does not now provide for the formation or recognition of marriage between same-sex couples. The Marriage Act provides that a marriage can be solemnised in Australia only between a man and a woman,’’ the court said in a statement issued alongside its ruling. ``That Act is a comprehensive and exhaustive statement of the law of marriage.’’

For Ivan Hinton and Chris Teoh, who married Dec. 7, the result was

heartbreaking. The couple received their marriage certi�icate Dec. 10, two days before the ruling. Still, Hinton said he doesn’t regret going through with the wedding, and will always consider Teoh his husband.

“This was an unprecedented and historic opportunity,’’ Hinton said. ``I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.’’

Rodney Croome, national director of the advocacy group Australian Marriage Equality, said his group knows of about 30 samesex couples who had married. The court decision essentially nulli�ies their marriages, as it means the ACT law under which they were wed was invalid. |  |

put in charge of all the resources of the former RIA Novosti, which was renamed Rossiya Segodnya (Russia Today).

The appointment makes Kiselyov the chief executive in a company of 2,300 employees, removable only

by Putin himself. That promotion has come as a shock to many who previously derided the pro-Kremlin pundit as an irrelevant lackey.

Kiselyov has proven an avid attack dog on the issue of homosexuality, as international criticism over a Russian law banning gay ``propaganda’’ reached a fever pitch this summer. The TV

anchor said that homosexuals’ hearts should be buried or burned, and that gays should be banned from donating blood or organs, which were ``unsuitable for the prolongation of anyone’s life.’’

While of�icials have claimed that the move is simply an attempt to make the company run more ef�iciently, Kremlin chief of staff Sergei Ivanov asserted the importance of the company’s new political message on Dec. 9: ``Russia ... strongly defends its national interests: it’s dif�icult to explain this to the world but we can do this, and we must do this.’’ |  |v

Australian court rejects law allowing same-sex marriage Wire Report SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA | Australia’s highest court on Dec. 12 struck down a landmark law that had begun allowing the country’s �irst same-sex marriages, shattering the dreams of more than two dozen lesbian and gay newlyweds whose marriages will now be annulled less than a week after their weddings.

The federal government had challenged the validity of the Australian Capital Territory’s (ACT) law that had allowed same-sex marriages in the nation’s capital and its surrounding area starting Dec. 7.

Five days later, the High Court

Russia state news agency gets homophobic chief Wire Report MOSCOW, RUSSIA | President Vladimir Putin on Dec. 9 appointed a controversial news anchor to head a restructured state news agency, a move signaling the Kremlin’s intention to tighten control over the media and use it increasingly for propaganda of ultraconservative views.

Dmitry Kiselyov, who spent much of his weekly news program on state Rossiya television maligning homosexuality and speculating about Western-led conspiracies, was

TOP

5

STORIES OF

THE YEAR

SUPREME COURT OVERTURNS DOMA On June 26, the U.S Supreme Court struck down as unconstitutional the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), the 1996 law blocking federal recognition of marriage.

DOMA had denied federal benefits to same-sex couples who were legally married in their states, including Social Security survivor benefits, immigration rights and family leave. In his majority opinion, Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote, “The federal statute is invalid, for no legitimate purpose overcomes the purpose and effect to disparage and to injure those whom the state, by its marriage laws, sought to protect in personhood and dignity.”

8 MORE STATES SEE SAME-SEX WEDDINGS In a sea change of support for marriage equality, eight states began issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples in 2013. Maryland started in January, and California resumed issuing licenses in June after the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated Proposition 8—the state constitutional ban on same-sex marriage. Gay and lesbian couples began marrying in Delaware in July, and in Minnesota, New Mexico and Rhode Island in August. New Jersey adopted same-sex marriage in October and Hawaii followed in November. Illinois also passed marriage equality legislation in November, with same-sex marriages beginning there June 2014.

nation+world

N

EW DELHI, INDIA | Hundreds of LGBT rights activists gathered in India’s capital and other cities across the country on Dec. 15 to protest a decision by India’s top court to uphold a law that criminalizes gay sex.

India’s Supreme Court on Dec. 11 reversed a landmark 2009 lower court order that had decriminalized gay sex. The court ruled that only lawmakers could change the law that bans gay sex and makes it punishable by up to a decade in prison.

About 800 protesters in New Delhi, the capital, wore black arm

bands and waved rainbow-colored �lags and banners. They said the Supreme Court’s ruling had evoked anger and dismay across the country. ``It’s my fundamental right to decide who I should love,’’ said Rohan Mehta, a New Delhi-based businessman. ``I will not let the court deprive me of my rights.’’

India’s law minister, Kapil Sibal, said that the government has not abandoned efforts to make homosexuality legal, and that the country must take swift action to challenge the Supreme Court decision.

On Dec. 12, Sibal said he is for decriminalizing homosexuality, hinting that the government could seek a judicial review of the

NEWS

Indian LGBT activists protest top court’s ruling

FRANCE, ENGLAND APPROVE SAME-SEX MARRIAGE France legalized same-sex marriage and adoption by same-sex couples in May after a wrenching national debate and violent protests that flooded the streets of Paris. In a historic ceremony broadcast live on French television, the first gay couple married in France on May 29. Across the Channel, Queen Elizabeth II approved a bill legalizing marriage equality in England and Wales on July 17, one day after the bill cleared Parliament. Same-sex marriages in England are scheduled to begin March 2014.

INDIA, AUSTRALIA BACKSLIDE ON EQUALITY Despite gains in the U.S. and around the globe, some countries regressed on LGBT rights, none more surprising than India and Australia. India reverted to colonial-era law when its supreme court in December overturned a 2009 ruling decriminalizing homosexual relations, holding that it was constitutional to ban “carnal intercourse against the order of nature.” In Australia, lesbians and gays began marrying in the Australian Capital Territory on Dec. 7, only to have their unions invalidated five days later when the High Court struck down the October law authorizing marriage equality.

SCOUTS ACCEPT OPENLY GAY BOYS The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) in May opened its ranks to gay Scouts but not gay adult Scout leaders. The BSA National Council vote result was welcomed by many gay rights groups, but many religious institutions—which charter about 70 percent of the more than 100,000 U.S. Scouting units—were upset and threatened to defect.

Do you agree with our list? Did we miss something?

Let us know at watermarkonline.com.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

23

1681 Providence Blvd, Deltona (386) 860-5900 CELEBRATING LIVES~PROMISING EXCELLENCE

14 locations in Central Florida. Preneed and At Need Services.

Steve Rader Family Service Counselor Jason Gulley Funeral Director in Charge Se Habla Español

“Continually Voted Best All Around Funeral Home In The Area” D AY T O N A N E W S J O U RN A L - RE A D ER’ S C H O I C E

Imagine the possibilities of a brand new year Wishing you New Year’s blessings — Trinity Metropolitan Community Church of Gainesville and Rev. Dr. Jim Merritt

11604 SW ARCHER ROAD, GAINESVILLE, FL 32608 • 352-495-3378 • MCCGAINESVILLE.COM TRANSFORMING OURSELVES AS WE TRANSFORM THE WORLD.

24

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

livingloud

Resolve to �ight for a statewide DPR in 2014

Mary Meeks MEEKS@WATERMARKONLINE.COM

L

IKE RALPHIE IN A

Christmas Story who yearned for his perfect present, I yearn for mine: equal protection under the law. The thought of it consumes me daily, just as the BB gun consumed Ralphie. And although this past year saw some exciting advances for LGBT equality across the nation, here in Florida we could only watch from the sidelines.

Sure, 16 states plus D.C. now have full marriage equality, covering approximately 37% of the U.S. population. And sure, the married same-sex couples in those states now are entitled to all of the federal rights and benefits attached to marriage, thanks to the Supreme Court striking down Section 3 of DOMA. So yes, let’s spike the eggnog and drink a toast to them— but what about Florida?

There are still 34 states (including ours), and 63% of the population (including us), that do not have marriage equality. Florida has both a statutory and constitutional ban prohibiting same-sex marriage,

and neither will be easily or quickly overturned, although great minds are strategizing now on how to accomplish that.

Florida’s same-sex couples could be denied the 1,100-plus federal marriage rights and benefits, as well as the additional hundreds of marriage rights and benefits afforded by state law, for years to come.

(Florida same-sex couples married in other states have gained limited access to some federal rights, like jointly filing income taxes.) The Sunshine State’s elected government in Tallahassee has steadfastly refused to recognize same-sex relationships whatsoever, or provide any legal protections to our families.

So while equal protection under the law remains as elusive as ever this holiday season, we can wallow on the sidelines for several more years—or we can join the fight to force constructive change in this state right now. There is something we can accomplish, short of our ultimate goal of marriage equality, which will help thousands of couples and their families in 2014. We must demand statewide recognition of domestic partnerships.

Many of us have dedicated the last several years to advocating for the immediately tangible legal protections available through local Domestic Partnership Registries (DPRs). Currently, eight of Florida’s 67 counties, and a handful of cities, provide DPRs which offer a limited bundle of six or seven rights for gay couples and their families. Those protections—like hospital visitation and medical decisions, emergency notification, and the right to bury a deceased partner—vary among jurisdictions and are only available within the boundaries of the specific county or city that issued the DPR. We must fight to protect the families in the other 59 counties who have no protections, and to eliminate the existing patchwork of conflicting protections by supporting a statewide DPR. Your protections should not be limited by where in Florida you live or happen to be on a particular day when a crisis strikes.

Supportive legislators have introduced bills for a statewide DPR for the past several years, but they have always been summarily “killed” without even a hearing. That changed this past year, when Senator Eleanor Sobel asked me to draft a completely new DPR bill, which she sponsored and was able to procure a historic first-ever Committee hearing (on any LGBT issue), where the bill was approved by a bipartisan vote just before the Legislative

session expired.

Next session, we are going back to Tallahassee, with Senator Sobel sponsoring the Senate bill and Representative Linda Stewart sponsoring the House bill. There is real momentum behind these bills, but it will still be an uphill climb, and we will need your help in Tallahassee.

Let’s tell our government why this is urgently important.

Remember Orlando writer, Billy Manes, who endured heartbreaking injustices when his partner of 11 years died, and his homophobic in-laws swooped in and took Alan’s body—and tried to take virtually everything Billy owned. Remember Joyce Ducas, who had all of the recommended contractual documents when her longtime partner, Claudia, entered the hospital with lymphoma, where hospital personnel refused to honor the documents. When Claudia died seven months later, the funeral home refused to deal with Joyce in making

Claudia’s funeral arrangements.

There are Billys and Joyces living throughout Florida who are suffering, or about to suffer, these injustices every single day. They need help now, not five years from now.

LGBT advocates are laying the groundwork and are fighting for full marriage equality nationwide even as we speak. But in the meantime, we must fight for the very critical legal protections afforded by a statewide DPR. We need every one of you to join us in this fight. We must stand together, speak to our legislators and drive to Tallahassee when needed for committee hearings.

(Don’t think the anti-gay extremists won’t already be there talking to those same legislators. They will be.)

So clink your glasses to the recent advances, but please join this DPR fight and resolve to make 2014 a Happier New Year for the 1 million LGBT people living in Florida. |  |

Your protections should not be limited by where in Florida you live or happen to be when a crisis strikes.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

25

26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

perspective

PUBLISHER’S

O

Accessorize for life

Tom Dyer TOM@WATERMARKONLINE.COM

THER THAN A WATCH,

I’ve never worn jewelry of any kind. But when I was on vacation in the Catskills last summer I bought a bracelet. I hoped it would change my life.

My friend Matt and I had stopped in to visit his friend, Pedro, on the way to dinner. Pedro was just closing his jewelry shop on Narrowsburg, New York’s charming Main Street overlooking the Delaware River. It had been a slow day, and Pedro jumped at the chance to show us his creations as he removed them from their Plexiglas display cases.

Tall, bald, with a thick German accent and dressed in black jeans and turtleneck—“Now is ze time on Sprockets vhen ve dance.”—Pedro was con�ident in his talent. He had settled in Narrowsburg after creating jewelry for Tiffany, Paloma Picasso and Elsa Peretti in London and New York.

Pedro is a master at shaping metal. His pins, bracelets and necklaces featured magni�icent jewels, but their beauty was overshadowed by the surrounding metalwork: original, con�ident and delightfully sculptural. Most striking of all were some pieces—including one worn by Pedro—that looked like they came from Tiffany’s S/M dungeon.

I admired a bracelet of stainless steel loops with pointed edges, and Pedro slipped it on me. I liked

the way it looked and the way it made me feel—masculine, edgy, with a back story worthy of a magazine model.

“Something about you changed when you put that bracelet on,” Pedro said. “Did you feel it?”

On impulse I bought the budgetbusting bracelet, hoping it would serve as a talisman that would connect me with the way I felt that evening after a week in New York City followed by a week meditating in the mountains. If the bracelet empowered me, it would be worth the price.

I’ve used clothing this way before. (At the risk of sounding like Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada, isn’t that what fashion’s all about?) In college I grew my hair to reject my straightlaced high school self. A decade later I switched to suspenders and a bow tie as a shortcut to maturity. Two decades after that I started wearing a dashiki (Asian full-length shirt-robe) around the house to inhabit a budding Eastern-in�luenced spirituality.

It drew curious looks from the neighbors when I walked my dog.

I wore my sexy, Gothic manbracelet religiously for a few weeks, then it tapered off to evenings and weekends and now I most often forget it as an option.

But I’m not remorseful. Clothing and accessories are no shortcut to metaphysical maturity. But there’s nothing wrong with stroking that impulse from time to time.

In fact, as we look back at the most memorable moments of 2013, it’s also important to consider markers on our internal journey.

2013 has been extraordinary, and this “Year In Review” issue of Watermark takes note of signi�icant political and cultural events. But when I started Watermark 20 years ago, I hoped it would also re�lect the rich internal lives of our readers. In driving change, this very personal process is just as important as any rally or court decision or election. It’s just harder to see, and sometimes more dif�icult to monitor.

As members of the LGBT community, we get a head start on that all-important journey towards self-actualization. Our difference forces us to reconsider our lives; to

evaluate what’s working and what isn’t. Hopefully, this begins a lifelong pattern of self-analysis and improvement. As a result, we’re changing the world.

It’s fun to set goals at the beginning of a new year. Next November we could elect the �irst Democrat as governor of Florida in 16 years. An increasingly moderate state legislature could pass a statewide Domestic Partner Registry. Important court cases loom. And organizers of local Pride events and non-pro�its have ambitious plans to expand on recent successes.

But none of this is sustainable without the kind of internal progress that makes us more open, optimistic, con�ident and connected. So as you look ahead, remember to evaluate what’s working in your life and what isn’t and set individual goals accordingly.

If you have to buy some clothes as a kick start, go for it. As for me, I intend to put my bracelet back on and see where it takes me. |  |

Memories Antique Mall VOTED BEST NEW ANTIQUE MALL IN CENTRAL FLORIDA Vintage Antiques • Upscale Collectibles • Gifts

246 SR 436 Just East of 17-92 in Oxford Square Plaza by Old Time Pottery

Casselberry, FL 32707 (407) 960-2380

info@memoriesvintageantiquemall.com www.memoriesvintageantiquemall.com

Dealers Wanted • Open 7 Days • Mon, Tue, Wed, Th, Sat 10–6, Fri 10–9 Sun 12–6 TABLE RENTAL $15.00 EACH

SIDEWALK SALE

Most striking of all were some pieces that looked like they came from Tiffany’s S/M dungeon.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

ANNOUNCE IT. RENT IT. SELL IT. POST IT.

watermark

classifieds watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

27

Erase A Few Old Years Before New Years Get Ready For The Holidays

50 Units Botox for $499 2 Syringes Juvederm $999 Thermage Skin Tightening $1599 Vitalize Peel or Microderm Only $99 (reg $150) or Buy 6 Vitalize Peels or Microderms for $900 get 6 FREE! (save $900!)

Radiance Medspa is the #1 BOTOX and Juvederm Facility in all of Pinellas County.

Expires 12/31/13 All specials may be banked for future use.

Complimentary Consultations

2894 West Bay Drive 727-518-7100 radiancemedspa.com Open Saturdays Complimentary Consultations

28

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

TALKING POINTS

[A headline read] ‘George Clooney’s Gay-Gay-Gay.’ And I said, ‘I’m gay-gay.

The third one’s pushing it.’

66

%

of Americans want to make it illegal for workplaces to discriminate against workers on the basis of sexual orientation.

—National Journal Congressional Connection Poll

LGBT

MURALS COMING TO A WELLS FARGO BANK NEAR YOU

N

OT ONLY DID WELLS FARGO SCORE A PERFECT 100% on the newly released Human Rights Campaign 2014 Corporate Equality Index, but the bank is publicly showing its LGBT support. Executives are traveling around to various cities to unveil LGBT-themed murals in its branches. One honoring LGBT icons, including Harvey Milk, was unveiled Nov. 27 at the Castro Branch in San Francisco. Another depicting gay rights pioneer Frank Kameny and lesbian photographer Francis Benjamin Johnston was unveiled in the Logan Branch near Washington D.C. Wells Fargo plans to add more cities. We’ll let you know when they come to Florida. |  |

—GEORGE CLOONEY ON PERSISTENT RUMORS THAT HE IS GAY

MOVE OVER TRIVIAL PURSUIT

J

UST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS, something to add to your Christmas list.

Chicago-based LGBT newspaper Windy City Times has produced a board game featuring thousands of questions on LGBT history and current events. “That’s So Gay!” can be played by two or more people. The game piece is a rainbow �lag with colors corresponding with categories. They are— RED: Celebrities, Athletes and Historical Figures; ORANGE: Politics, Protest and the Courts; YELLOW: Movies, Television and Media; GREEN: Music, Theater and Dance; BLUE:

Literature, Art, Fashion and Culture and; PURPLE: Science, Spirituality, Health and Grab Bag. Developers say the game’s title phrase has been used mostly in a negative context and they are “reclaiming the word and turning it into a positive opportunity to educate LGBTs and allies.”

The game can be ordered at ThatsSoGayGame.com. |  |

‘FAMILY TIES STAR’ MEREDITH BAXTER

TIES THE KNOT

W

EDDING BELLS CHIMED FOR FAMILY TIES STAR MEREDITH BAXTER and her longtime partner this month. Baxter, 66, married contractor Nancy Locke, whom she has been dating for seven years, in Los Angeles on Dec. 8. The two were surrounded by family and friends when they exchanged vows. Baxter has been married three times before, to men. She came out in 2009 on the Today show. “I thought it was going to be the end of my career,” she told AOL last year. “I thought it was the end. And it turned out to be the best possible thing I could ever have done.” |  |

WANTS YOU

ACTOR IAN MCKELLEN

W

TO STAY OUT OF RUSSIA

RAPPER MACKLEMORE

TO BE A CARD-CARRYING MEMBER

E DON’T NORMALLY THINK OF RAPPERS AS ADVOCATES FOR EQUALITY, but Ben Haggerty, better known as Macklemore, has used his fame to bring attention to the LGBT community. His straightpenned gay-rights anthem “Same Love” has brought attention to the same-sex marriage �ight. He’s highlighted that song in performances at events like the Preakness and the MTV Video Music Awards. Now, he’s using his popularity to urge people to become card-carrying members of the American Civil Liberties Union. In a new video, Macklmore explains that he carries the card because it “lets my gay friends marry the hell out of each other” and “says ‘Hey girl, it’s your vagina, and you should be able to do what you want to.’” |  |

WARNED

O

PENLY GAY BRITISH ACTOR IAN MCKELLEN SAYS THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT WARNED HIM not to travel to Russia because of anti-gay legislation there.”That’s why I can’t go … they couldn’t protect me from those laws,” said McKellen, 75, who is known for his role as Gandalf in the “Lord of the Rings” movies. Russia passed a law earlier this year banning the promotion of non-traditional relationships to minors, which has been widely criticized as homophobic.

The Kremlin maintains the law does not restrict the freedom of adults to make their own sexual choices. |  |

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

ORGANIZATION CREATED TO

FIGHT FOR

EQUALITY IN RUSSIA LONG AFTER THE SOCHI OLYMPICS

T

O ENSURE THE RIGHT FOR EQUALITY IN RUSSIA CONTINUES BEYOND THE SOCHI OLYMPICS, a movement called Uprising of Love launched on Dec. 10.

The organization’s mission is to give Russian LGBT activists a voice and provide �inancial resources to help groups work to roll back legislation that penalizes anyone who spreads “propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations” to minors. Singer Melissa Etheridge released Uprising of Love, in conjunction with the initiative. The coalition is co-founded by AcademyAward winning screenwriter Dustin Lance Black. |  |

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

29

The Festival of

Chocolate

Jan. 18-20, 2014

The Ultimate All-Chocolate Shopping, Interactive, Educational Event is back at MOSI! Dive into the fourth annual Festival of Chocolate, Florida’s largest all-chocolate themed event as seen in Southern Living Magazine and on ABC’s The Chew.

The event features the area’s best chocolate and confection companies selling tastes and treats of everything chocolate from truffles, cakes and cupcakes to cookies, brownies and ice creams. Award-winning pastry chefs and chocolatiers will host interactive demonstrations, live cake decorating competitions and a chocolate-wrapper fashion show for the couture crowd.

MOSI member pricing for this special engagement event is $10 for adults and FREE for MOSI member children 12 and under. The Festival of Chocolate is INCLUDED with paid admission to MOSI for non-members.Tickets on sale now! Advance ticket purchases are available at tampa.festivalofchocolate.com.

Excludes special engagement films, events, Sky Trail® Ropes Course and Zip Line.

The Bank of Tampa

Call now to purchase tickets.

Print Media Partner:

The Bank of Tampa Supported by:

The Bank of Tampa

4801 E. FOWLER AVE., TAMPA, FL 813-987-6000 • MOSI.ORG

MOSI is a non-profit, community-based institution and a leader in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) education dedicated to making a difference in people’s lives by making science real.

this holiday

think baubles as unique as you a selection of designers you won’t find anywhere but here... men’s and women’s contemporary fine jewelry at every price point only at...

30 BEACH DRIVE, ST. PETERSBURG next to Bella Moda 727.803.6815 | BAUBLESANDBUBBLES.BIZ

30

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

AARTS RTSS & RT

ENTERTAINMENT

GAYTO GAY TOZZ WATERMARK’S ANNUAL LOOK BACK AT ALL THINGS POP CULTURE IS AS EASY AS A—B—C!

A

THLETES | Professional team sports have not always been the most accepting of environments for coming out. That changed signi�icantly this year thanks to NBA center Jason Collins, MLS winger Robbie Rogers and WNBA center Brittney Griner, each of whom came out this year.

B

C

F

D E

G

Kirk Hartlage

IG BROTHER | Alec Baldwin used gay slurs when harassed by the paparazzi and Oprah claimed charges of racism against a Swiss handbag store, but the most enlightened racist and homophobic comments were being made all summer long by the contestants on CBS’ popular reality competition series.

HER | The music icon— who previously claimed her “Farewell” concert tour would be her last—announced she’d be touring in 2014 to promote her new album, ironically titled Closer To The Truth.

UCK DYNASTY It’s like the “Real Housewives” franchise, but for bears.

DM | Taking electronic dance music out of the underground and into the mainstream, music producers and DJs headlined as recording artists, including Avicci (“Wake Me Up”), Daft Punk (“Get Lucky”) , David Guetta (“Play Hard”), Calvin Harris (“Sweet Nothing”), Zedd (“Clarity”), Swedish House Ma�ia (“Don’t You Worry Child”) and Armin van Buuren (“This Is What It Feels Like”).

OX | Soon enough, no one will care what you say. Just ask Psy, the Disco Duck, anyone who’s done the Harlem Shake, and Jordy, that French baby who had the 90’s hit “Dur dur d’être bébé.”

AGA | Though her latest release Artpop is still �inding its audience, the performance artist’s Thanksgiving special with the Muppets—which included special guests Elton John and Rupaul—couldn’t seem to �ind one at all.

H

ARRIS, NEIL PATRICK Of�icially the hardest working man in show business, thanks to hosting the Emmys, the Tonys and EPCOT’s Candlight Processional; kicking off the �inal season of How I Met Your Mother; appearing in The Smurfs 2; and starting pre-production

on next year’s Broadway debut of Hedwig and the Angry Inch… and that was just this year alone!

I

TUNES | Not only did Mackelmore & Ryan Lewis’ “Same Love” and Kacey Musgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow” (plus lesbian twins Tegan & Sara) top sales charts, the songs also ruled radio airplay.

J

ENNIFER LAWRENCE We’d gladly watch the actress trip and fall over and over again (like she did en route to accepting the Best Actress Oscar for her role in Silver Lining Playbook) if it meant more awards for her performances in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and American Hustle.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

Continued on page 38 |  |

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

31

CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH SPECIAL HOLIDAY OFFERS! FOR NEW 2013 MODELS RECEIVE UP TO $4,300 DEALER CASH OR 0% FINANCING FOR 60 MONTHS* AND $500 DEALER CASH FOR NEW 2014 MODELS RECEIVE UP TO $2,500 DEALER CASH OR 0% FINANCING FOR 60 MONTHS*

420

MILES OF FREEDOM

Fields FIAT always beats our competitors’ out-the-door price!

FREE CAR WASHES • FOR WATERMARK READERS!! †

Fields FIAT of Orlando 131 N. Orange Ave. • Orlando, FL 32801 • (407) 674-8830 /

FIELDSFIAT.COM

Plus tax, title and license fees. Actual mileage varies. MPG available on manual transmission only. Your actual mileage may var y depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle. *Must qualify. All f inance offers subject to credit approval Tier 1-3 through Chr ysler Capital. Other restrictions apply. †Reader entitled to one complimentar y hand car wash at the downtown studio. See dealer for details on all offers. Offers end 12/31. ©2013 Chr ysler Group LLC . FIAT is a registered trademark of FIAT Group marketing & corporate communications SpA , used under the license by Chr ysler Group LLC .

32

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

33

BUTCH ON A BALCONY: Contestants from last year’s Butchlesque pose for a group photo outside the historic Gulfport Casino.

New Year’s Butch ENTERTAINMENT

Butchlesque brings in 2014 with Gulfport show

G

Greg Stemm

ULFPORT | EVERY YEAR WE FACE

the same challenge: How do we say goodbye to the old year and welcome in the new in a different and unique way. For those in Tampa Bay and Sarasota, there’s a new option that also helps support the LGBT community.

“Butchlesque” is a showcase of participants displaying their individual perceptions of the “butch identity.” Through these interpretations, those participants

34

open the door to possibilities that does not require renouncing one’s self in order to feel desirable and accepted. As the women display their personal choices of attire

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

and swagger, they re�lect the spirit that has moved them to step out of expected roles and into their authentic lives.

The show and contest is Tuesday, Dec. 31, at 9 p.m. Doors open an hour earlier.

“I was booted out of the military for being a gay woman who identi�ied with a butch identity,” says Lisa Newlin, associate producer of Butchlesque. “This production helps me feel that we can reclaim the word ‘butch’ without fear of ridicule or discrimination.”

Unfortunately, the discrimination Newlin experienced isn’t isolated

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

among just a few women. The butchidenti�ied lesbian has historically experienced signi�icant and persistent discrimination. But by providing a forum for exploration of “butch” perceptions, organizers say they are working to not only dispel old stereotypes of lesbians—and butches in particular—but to also allow butch-identi�ied individuals an evening to feel the community’s appreciation for their roles in the LGBT community.

And that appreciation is growing.

Newlin said the event has become so popular that she expects participants and spectators from at least 11 different states on New Year’s Eve. She said the event is promoted widely on social media and attracts not only butch lesbians interested in participating, but the “femmes” that �ind them attractive.

There are 20 con�irmed participants and Newlin said there is also a waiting listing in case one of the women is unable to attend. She was quick to say the event is open to everyone—including men—and that family members of the cast are often in the crowd.

This is the third year for the event and its second at the Gulfport Casino. The organizers were also included in the 27-82 concert at the

watermarkonline.com

State Theatre that was part of last year’s St. Pete Pride celebration.

“The age range for contestants in this next show is 30 to 65 years old. Interestingly, they range in height from 5-foot-1-inch to 5-foot11-inches,” Newlin says. “So as you can see, our participants do not meet society’s typical idea of runway models. That is another way that we differ from fashion shows that are geared toward the masculine-of-center/butchidentifying lesbian. Our ‘models’ are not hired; they volunteer directly from the butch community and they provide their own personal wardrobe perceptions (as opposed to having attire provided by clothing designers).

“That means that audience members are highly likely to see individuals who they can relate to.”

While Butchlesque celebrates the masculine side of women, it is also a competition. Newlin said contestants compete for titles in three categories: Dapper, Beefcake and Crowd Favorite.

Newlin explains that “Dapper” and “Beefcake” titles are determined by three judges who remain unidenti�ied until the start of the show. “Crowd Favorite” is selected by audience participation. Since each

This production helps me feel that we can reclaim the word ‘butch’ without fear of ridicule or discrimination.

category is judged per ticket and a VIP independently, swag bag. Tickets it is possible for are available at one contestant Butchlesque.

—LISA NEWLIN, to win all three com. A portion BUTCHLESQUE PRODUCER “butch” categories. of proceeds from Newlin says the Butchlesque there were dozens of stories of how NYE show will bene�it St. Pete Pride’s the competition affected each of the Community Grants Program. participants.

This will be in the form of monies As an example, she mentions collected by the contestants during Blanche Badran, who has signed up to the show. The contestant collecting participate this year. Badran �led her the most money for St. Pete Pride will homeland of Lebanon in the mid 1980s receive a special title and designation. and came to the United States so she That title designation is separate from could live her life openly. Participation the Beefcake, Dapper, and Crowd in Butchlesque is literally a lifelong Favorite categories. dream come true.

“There’s never been a New Year’s Newlin and the organizers of Eve in Florida as hot as this one will Butchlesque are looking forward be on Dec. 31, 2013,” claims Newlin. to returning to Gulfport because “While you’re ushering in 2014 with of its openness to the LGBT your friends and loved ones, you’ll community, she says. also be supporting great LGBT arts “The shop owners are more than and recreation, education, advocacy willing to put up our promotional and outreach, health and community �lyers and all of us are made to feel services, and youth and family very comfortable in the restaurants services.” |  | and pubs that are within easy walking distance to the Casino,” she says. “We MORE INFORMATION genuinely feel like we are coming ‘home’ when we’re in Gulfport.”

WHAT: Butchlesque NYE General admission tickets to WHEN: 8 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 31 Butchlesque NYE are $25, while VIP WHERE: Gulfport Casino, Gulfport, Fla. tickets are $75. VIP tickets include TICKETS: Butchlesque.com seating along the catwalk, two drinks

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

35

36

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

37

|  | Gay Pop Culture

A to Z from pg.31

K

INKY BOOTS | When the cast of this year’s Tony award winner for Best Musical performed during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, conservatives blasted NBC for broadcasting it. (Or, hiding behind the anonymity that only social media can provide, could it have been parents of all those Matilda and Annie kids, still bitter about their show’s losses?)

L

IBERACE | Mr. Showmanship lived on this year, not only with the award-winning HBO �ilm Behind The Candelabra, but also as the inspiration behind the equally�lamboyant Las Vegas-residency show “CeeLo Green is Loberace.”

M

RS. CARTER | Beyonce kicked off her year of domination by singing at the inauguration….or did she?!? Then her halftime performance literally caused the power to go out at the Super Bowl (allegedly). Despite getting her weave caught in one of her signature fan machines during a summer concert, Jay Z’s wife was still

able to land a sponsorship for L’Oreal Feria hair color. She then closed out the year by outselling nearly every other 2013 album when she surprise-released her latest project with zero advance notice.

N

ETFLIX | With original series Orange is the New Black and House of Cards, plus the return of Arrested Development, Net�lix is the new… well, whatever it is you wanna call this type of program content provider.

O

RCAS | While Universal Orlando opened a new attraction based on the toy-turned-movie franchise The Transformers (and not, as we were hoping, a thrill ride exploring preto post-op transgender issues), SeaWorld was left managing the negative publicity generated by the documentary-turned-concert series killer Black�ish.

P

EACOCK NETWORK NBC took some color out of its rainbow when it cancelled The New Normal and Smash, but then attempted to put some back in with Sean Saves The World and The Sound of Music: Live, bless their hearts.

Q

UEER CINEMA LGBTQ �ilm dominated art houses with a riveting performance by Jared Leto as a transsexual living with AIDS in Dallas Buyers Club and the three-hour (Three!)-long lesbian exploratory �lick Blue Is The Warmest Color.

R

OYALS | Lorde sang about them and Boy George became one! Well, not the former Culture Club singer, but rather Prince William and Kate Middleton’s baby.

S

URVIVAL MOVIES In perhaps the cruelest joke of all, 12 Years A Slave, Captain Phillips, All Is Lost and Gravity—�ilms that share a similar narrative—will compete against each other to see who survives this year’s race for Best Picture.

T U

Depot in this Western state…or, considering its location, that it wasn’t a lesbian couple?

V

ODKA | Backlash against a rise of state-sponsored homophobia in Russia turned bottles of Stolichnaya into collateral damage in the global �ight for equality. (For the record, Stoli’s main ingredient—raw alcohol distilled from grain—is made in Russia; the �inal product is �iltered and blended in Latvia, with water from Latvian springs.)

But not everything associated with Mother Russia was deemed bad. The Americans, an FX series about two KGB spies posing as a married couple living in Washington, D.C., in the 1980s, saw ratings success; season two is expected to debut during the Sochi Olympics this February.

W ���

WERK | Miley, did you realize your signature dance move is but one letter away from “twerp?”

TAH | Were you more surprised that the gay marriage proposal video that went viral was staged at a Home

by the Russian government” unacceptable.

X

Sure gay marriage is all the rage, but what about gay divorce and break-ups? If couples like Zachary Quinto and Jonathan Groff and Jane Lynch and Lara Embry can’t make it work, what chance do the rest of us have?

(Yes, we know technically it’s “ex,” but give us a break; there’s a reason the letter’s worth eight points in Scrabble.)

Y

OUNG GAYS | Maybe Whitney was right; if we teach them well, they’ll lead the way…like Jack Andraka, a gay 15-year-old science prodigy who developed a low-cost dipstick-type test for quick and early detection of certain cancers; and Cassidy Lynn Campbell, a 16-year-old transgender student who documented her transition on YouTube and was voted Homecoming Queen of her Orange County, Calif., high school.

��� ��� ���

ENTWORTH MILLER Not only were we elated when he came out (yeah, we know those tattoos were fake, but did you see him on Prison Break?), but we were more impressed with the “how.” The actor declined an invitation to appear at a Russian �ilm festival, calling “the current attitude toward and treatment of gay men and women

Z

OMBIES | Still in vogue, thanks to the continued success of The Walking Dead coupled with box of�ice faves World War Z and the �irst ever zom-com, Warm Bodies. |  |

FEB 5 7:30PM

FEB 5 – 7:30PM FEB 5

– 7 FEB 5 – 7 FEB 5 – 7:30

TICKETS: PEABODYDAYTONA.COM PEABODY BOX OFFICE TICKETMASTER OUTLETS TICKETS: PEABODYDAYTONA.COM, OR PEABODY BOX OFFICE, TICKETS: PEABODYDA 1-800-982-ARTS TICKETMASTER OUTLETS OR 800-982-ARTS

TICKETS: PEABODYDAY TICKETS: PEABODYDAYTONA. PEABODY BOX O PEABODY BOX O PEABODY BOXOUTLETS OFFICE, TICKETMASTER TICKETMASTER OUTLETS O TICKETMASTER OUTLETS OR 800

38

FEB 5 – 7:30PM watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

DEC. 28TH & JAN. 1ST

FOOTBALL

PREGAME PARTIES STARTS 3 HOURS BEFORE KICKOFF

$2.95 PINT DRAFTS $5 MARGARITAS

PREGAME PARTY STARTS 2 HOURS BEFORE GAME TIME

eyeglasses contacts sunglasses

Tuesday Dec. 31st, 10pm

$2.95 PINT DRAFTS $5 MARGARITAS

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Spectacular

703 n. orange ave. | downtown orlando

(407) 245-7800

with Ms. Sammy & Carol Lee RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

Saturday Dec. 21st & 28th STARRING COMEDIAN

LEIGH SHANNON WITH

PAGE KING CRYSTAL CHAMBERS AYSIA BLACK

Sunday 11-3pm

AND SPECIAL GUESTS

8:30PM RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

Thursday December 19th

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE

PRE-CONCERT PARTY 5-8PM

$2.50 MIMOSAS • $6 BLOODY MARYS $2.95 DRAFTS

$2.95 PINT DRAFTS $5 MARGARITAS

Mary’s Gift Cards NOW AVAILABLE Buy $50 get $10 card free

BINGO & TRIVIA TAKE HOLIDAY BREAK AND RETURN JANUARY 6TH!

ORLANDO 110 W. Church St. Orlando, FL • HamburgerMarys-Orlando.com • 321-319-0600 DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

39

40

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

ARTS &

ENTERTAINMENT EVENT PLANNER

The

Nutcracker

QUICK PICKS Clearwater

Ballet

A Christmas Carol DEC. 23 Ruth Eckerd Hall 727-791-7400 RuthEckerdHall.com

St. Petersburg Seasonal Sparkle DEC. 21-22 St. Petersburg Opera 727-822-3590 StPeteOpera.org

Best Christmas Pageant Ever THROUGH DEC. 22 Manatee Players 941-748-5875 ManateePlayers.com

The Moscow Ballet will bring its tour of The Nutcracker to Central Florida. Shows are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 27, at the Lakeland Center in Lakeland; Saturday, Dec. 28, at the Mahaffey Theater in

Lakeland

West Side Story DEC. 22 The Lakeland Center 863-834-8100 TheLakelandCenter.com

Winter Haven The Miracle Worker

For more events or to submit your upcoming show, concert or performance, visit

watermarkonline.com.

T

up there with A Christmas Carol and It’s A Wonderful Life for favorite holiday entertainment in December. The story of a young girl and her magical nutcracker was adapted from E.T.A. Hoffman’s story The Nutcracker and the Mouse King. It premiered, with the score by Tchaikovsky, in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1892.

Bradenton

THROUGH DEC. 22 Theatre Winter Haven 863-294-7469 TheatreWinterHaven.com

ST. PETERSBURG/SARASOTA/LAKELAND

P

ORLANDO Light Up UCF

RETEND THAT YOU’RE GLIDING ON THE ICE IN ROCKEFELLER CENTER AT LIGHT UP UCF, even if it’s a balmy 80 degrees outside. The event features an 8,000-square-foot outdoor skating rink, holiday movies, rides, music and a seasonal light show, and it snows every evening. In its sixth year, the

festival runs nightly nonstop from 5 to 10 p.m. through Jan. 5, including Christmas Eve, Christmas and New Year’s Eve, at the University of Central Florida CFE Arena. Light Up UCF is free with varied prices for ice skating and rides. For information, visit LightUpUCF. com or call 407-823-3070. |  |

C

St. Petersburg; and Sunday, Dec. 29, at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center in Sarasota. For more information, visit TheMahaffety.com, TheLakelandCenter.com and VanWezel.org. |  |

TAMPA Holiday Cabaret

ELEBRATE THE HOLIDAY WITH AN ECLECTIC MIX OF SONGS, from every religious holiday, served up with champagne and cookies.

Stageworks Theatre will host its Holiday Cabaret for two shows at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21, and 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 22. Voices for the evening

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

will be provided by local favorites Heather Krueger, Alison Burns, Ricky Cona and Gabe Saienni. The cabaret is a bene�it for Stageworks. If you haven’t found that holiday spirit yet, make sure this show is on your to-do list between stops at the stores for gifts. For tickets visit StageworksTheatre. org or call 813-727-2708. |  |

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

41

CELEBRATE THE DEATH OF D.O.M.A.!

PROOF

L.G.B.T. IMMIGRATION EQUALITY IS HERE NOW IGUALDAD PARA TODOS DE NUESTRA COMUNIDAD AHORA!

SAME SEX MARRIAGE SPECIALISTS:

• Asylum • Business Immigration • Citizenship • Deportation/Removal • Family Immigration • Permanent Residency • Waivers

ATTORNEY John C. Miotke

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK

DEHRA MIOTKE, LLC www.dmimmigration.com Abogado que habla Espanol

Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, Gujarati are also spoken

5404 Hoover Bld, Suite 26, Tampa, FL 33634 5401 S. Kirkman Rd, Suite 310, Orlando, FL 32819 T: 727.565.4405 T: 813.221.0733 T: 407.965.2455

CALL THE IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY WHO UNDERSTANDS YOUR FAMILY

42

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

4 1

ShotonSite

Tampa Bay 1- HOLIDAY TUNES: Singers from the St. Petersburg Opera provide some holiday carols during Red and Green at Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg on Dec. 7. PHOTO BY STEVE BLANCHARD 2- FESTIVE BEARS: A large group of bearish friends pose for a festive photo at Sunken Gardens during St. Pete Pride’s Red and Green holiday party Dec. 7. PHOTO BY STEVE BLANCHARD

2

5

3

3- A ROYAL HOLIDAY: (L-R) Rico M. Taylor, Muffy Van Beaverhausen, and Akylis, St. Pete Pride’s royal family of 2013, share a moment during Red and Green at Sunken Gardens Dec. 7. PHOTO BY STEVE BLANCHARD 4- SINK-SATIONAL: Congressional candidate Alex Sink addresses the crowd at Georgie’s Alibi during the Stonewall Democrats’ victory party Dec. 9. PHOTO BY STEVE BLANCHARD 5- NOT YOUR MOTHER’S TOUR GUIDES: Eartha Quake, left, and Velvet Disaronno, entertain guests during the Dec. 12 Drag Queen Trolley Follies in Sarasota. PHOTO COURTESY VELVET DISARONNO 6- LEGENDARY LINEUP: Hillsborough Human Rights Council president Mark Nash honors Hall of Fame inductees—all of whom participated in the March on Washington—during the organization’s awards breakfast at the Tampa Doubletree Westshore Dec. 13. PHOTO BY STEVE BLANCHARD 7- WORTHY RECIPIENTS: Mark Nash, left, and Norma Reno, right present a Human Rights Award to Pat and Lynn Mulder, at the Tampa/ Hillsborough Human Rights Council’s 40th Human Rights Awards Celebration breakfast at the Tampa Doubletree Westshore Dec. 13. PHOTO

BY STEVE BLANCHARD

6

7

8

8- POWER PLAYERS: St. Petersburg mayor-elect Rick Kriseman, center, stands with St. Pete Pride executive director Eric Skains, left, and pride president Aaron Horcha at Georgie’s Alibi during the Stonewall Democrats victory party Dec. 9. PHOTO BY STEVE BLANCHARD

OVERHEARD CLAUS GOES TO OZ

U

NA VOCE: THE FLORIDA’ MEN’S CHORALE, pulled off an entertaining and hilarious holiday show this year by incorporating everyone’s favorite movie musical, The Wizard of Oz into the Christmas season.

Audiences followed Dorothy and the men of the chorus on a magical trip through a winter wonderland that looked an awful lot like the Land of Oz. The popular chorale group played to several packed houses over the weekend of Dec. 15 and had audiences begging for more, especially when the purplehaired, green witch made his, uh, we mean “her,” appearance. “The Wizard of Claus” played in both Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.

SNYMAN SINGS AGAIN

W

ELL, HE NEVER STOPPED SINGING, but he will be singing again in Tampa Bay. Counter tenor Jacques Snyman is coming back to St. Petesburg to show off his acrobatic voice, and this time, he’s expecting a big crowd. Snyman, a former Rugby star, bodybuilder and model, recently toured Europe and auditioned for some pretty classy directors. Since discovering his ability to hit notes several octaves above his speaking voice, he’s performed around the globe, all while bringing a message of anti-bullying. He’s back in the states after the holidays and will perform Jan. 26 at the Studio@620 in St. Petersburg. Check out the

mid-January issue of Watermark for our interview with the sexy and talented performer. In the meantime, check out details at TheStudioAt620.org.

HONORING HUMAN RIGHTS HEROES

I

F YOU MISSED THE EARLY MORNING BREAKFAST put on by the Hillsborough/Tampa Human Rights Council Dec. 13, you missed an inspirational Friday morning at the Tampa Doubletree Westshore. The organization honored several members of the community and their works involving human rights, including Pat and Lynn Mulder, the parents of Ryan Keith Skipper, who was

murdered in 2007 in Polk County because of his sexual orientation.

The Mulders were gracious when accepting their award and Pat, Skipper’s mother, was teary eyed as she looked out at the applauding crowd. Another inspirational moment came when HRC president Mark Nash invited those who participated in the 1963 March on Washington to come to the stage, and presented each with a Hall of Fame medal.

WHO’S YOUR MUSE?

W

E ALL NEED INSPIRATION ONCE IN AWHILE, but that especially holds true for the artists among us—and let’s admit it, a large percentage of artists are

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

LGBT or at least LGBT-friendly. So the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance is looking for a unique way to honor those who in�luence the vibrant artistic culture within the community by asking the public to nominate their muse—really!

The Celebrate Artistic Inspiration event will bene�it the arts on Friday, Jan. 21, at the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, where two MUSE Arts Awards will recognize St. Pete artists who are stellar representatives of the city. The Arts Alliance has a website devoted to nominations for the recognition and candidates can me artists, actors, dancers, singers, musicians or writers. To submit your nomination, visit StPeteArtsAlliance.org.  |

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

43

NOVELTIES • MOVIES • EROTIC WEAR

DVD SALE! 6 DVDs FOR ONLY

$

19.98

A GROWING

MEN’S SELECTION

NEW

PRODUCTS! SKIVVIES • PETIT Q • CANDYMAN • PPU • PLUS MANY MORE BRANDS

2031 Saxon Blvd. Plaza, Suite 104, Deltona FL • From I-4, Exit 111A Deltona, 1/4 mile on the left.

386-532-0201 • OPEN DAILY 9AM-MIDNIGHT

Because You Never Get a secoNd chaNce

To Make A First Impression Dr. Palceski is Central Florida’s top physician injector of Botox Cosmetic and is the area’s only national trainer for Sculptra Aesthetic. His expertise in the field of injectables is beyond compare. When it comes to the care of your skin, choose wisely. Choose the expertise of Dr. Palceski.

dr. dimitry Palceski Board Certified Dermatologist

call today… Look Better tomorrow! $50 off Botox | $75 off Juvederm | $100 off sculptra

407-895-8818

Office of Dr. Palceski 875 Outer Road Orlando (in Baldwin Park), FL 32814 reflectionsdermatology.com Offer subject to change at any time. May not be combined with any other offers or discounts. Further restrictions may apply.

44

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

ShotonSite 1

2

ORLANDO

3

1- HARD KNOCK LIFE: Broadway performer Andrea McArdle (second from left) at the Parliament House Dec. 16 with (L to R) Gidget Galore, Tommy Wooten, Doug White and Michael Wanzie.

PHOTO FROM WANZIE’S FACEBOOK PAGE

2- GENEROUS GIFTS: Duane Hoyle (left),of Hope and Help Center of Central Florida, receives boxes of toiletry items from Ken Barnard of Prime Timers of Central Florida Dec. 9. PHOTO BY RON BUSH 3- GOOD DOGGIE: Jason Lynn and Michael Gadsby, of Blackpool, U.K., show off Champion Afterglow Maverick Sabre “Ricky” just after winning the 13th Annual AKC/Eukanuba National Championships Dec. 15 at the Orange County Convention Center. PHOTO BY LONNIE THOMPSON

4- MERRY AND BRIGHT: Eatonville Town Councilman Alvin Moore, Stacey McPherson and Eric Rollings network at the MBA Orlando Holiday Party on Dec. 6. PHOTO BY LONNIE THOMPSON

7

5- EARNING THEIR STRIPES: (L to R) Samantha McHarg, SueBee Langiness, Catherine Reynolds and Dexter Foxworth, executive director of the Zebra Coalition, celebrate the Zebra House’s one year anniversary at the drop-in center’s open house Dec. 5. PHOTO

4

BY MARK CADY

6- JINGLE BEARS: Chantal Reshae and Pat O’Rourke get furry and festive for A Very Beary Christmas, Dec. 16 at Parliament House.

PHOTO BY BRYAN PITTARD FOR BEARS IN THE CITY

7- TAKING CHARGE: Vivian Rodriguez, vice chairwoman of the Orange County Democratic Executive Committee, stands by as Carlos Smith, newly elected chairman, takes the gavel for his first order of business Dec. 16 at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Union Hall. PHOTO BY RANDY STEPHENS

5

6

8- LIGHT IT UP: (L-R) George Wallace and his partner Joe Folsom deck the halls at the Parliament House’s Light Up! The Courtyard on Dec. 7. PHOTO BY LONNIE THOMPSON

8

OVERHEARD A NEW TWIST ON THE NUTCRACKER

T

HE DANCE OF THE SUGAR PLUM FAIRIES is nothing new when you attend a holiday pageant during this festive time of year, but at the Orlando Gay Chorus’ “Eat, Drink and Be Merry” show on Dec. 14 at Plaza Live, the traditional dance took an untraditional turn. Instead of sweet, darling ballerinas dancing out in adorable pink tutus, four big and beefy guys, along with one tall and furry guy danced out… in adorable pink tutus. The chorus hummed along as the bear-lerinas attempted to dance and pirouette their way to be prima ballerina, but instead had to settle on being the most memorable part of the holiday show.

LGBT ACTS FARE WELL IN FRINGE LOTTERY

L

GBT ACTS FARED WELL IN THE LOTTERY FOR A SPOT in the 2014 Orlando International Theatre Fringe Festival on Dec. 2 at the Orlando Shakespeare Festival.

Of 100 shows chosen, about 20 are known to have LGBT themes or were written by an LGBT playwright. “We are always excited to have LGBT talent from all over the world,” says general manager, George Wallace. “While Fringe is not a ‘gay festival,’ about 30% of our patrons identify as LGBT and we are known on the international touring circuit as ‘the Gay Fringe.’” Fringe is scheduled for

May 14-27. To see a list of lottery winners, visit OrlandoFringe.org.

ANNIE MAKES A SURPRISE VISIT TO MICHAEL WANZIE AT THE PARLIAMENT HOUSE

A

NDREA MCARDLE WAS A CHILD ACTRESS IN 1977 and performing in a chorus of orphans when she was asked to play the lead in Annie on Broadway. The show was a smash and she went on to become the youngest performer ever to be nominated for a Tony Award as Lead Actress in a Musical.

McArdle, now 50, made a surprise visit to the Parliament House on Dec. 16 to see Michael Wanzie’s

Trailer Trash Christmas. McArdle, who was in town to perform in Sounds of the Season at the Abbey Dec. 17-18, had her picture snapped with fans.

BACK HOME IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAY

G

AY ACTIVIST RANDY ROSS, 48, who handles marketing for the Orlando Museum of Art, and 96-year-old Elizabeth Smith are unlikely friends. But the two crossed paths a few months ago when Ross heard Smith was in need.

Her Carver Shores home was plagued with problems—the bathtub had fallen through the �loor, the roof leaked and the house was full of termites. Calls

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

to the city and county for help went unanswered. Her neighbors were worried. Working with a small group of volunteers, Ross raised money and in-kind donations to renovate Smith’s home. Everything from paint and tile to appliances and furniture have been donated in recent months, including professional labor through contractor Eugene Roberson, Jr. All the hard work will culminate in “24 Hours for Mrs. Smith,” at noon on Dec. 22 at 4643 Raleigh St. when Mrs. Smith will return home. The Council of 101 will give her a decorated Christmas tree. If you would like to contribute to the project or volunteer your time, call Ross at 407-401-4409. |  |

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

45

counselor

accountant

lawn care

Arie Groen’s

property maintenance Commercial and Residential Licensed specializing in:

installation of sod Ornamentals Trimming Elevating Palms Trees Mulch Irrigation pressure washing

attorney DOMA IS DEAD: EQUALITY FOR ALL MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY IS HERE NOW! CALL US NOW TO SHOW HOW WE CAN HELP YOU. • Business Immigration • Citizenship • Family Immigration • Permanent Residency • Asylum • Deportation/Removal Specialists

s e r v i c i n g

ATTORNEY John C. Miotke

o r l a n d o

t a m p a

NOW HIRING EXPERIENCED LANDSCAPERS

5404 Hoover Bld, Suite #26, Tampa, FL 33634 T: 727.565.4405 T: 813.221.0733 T: 407.965.2455

DEHRA MIOTKE, LLC www.dmimmigration.com

Arie Groen’s Property Maintenance

Portuguese, German, Hindu, Punjabi, Urdu, Gujarati are also spoken

(727)505-0205 • agroen33@yahoo.com

ABOGADO QUE HABLAN ESPANOL

counselor

attorney

massage+bodywork

DESIGN YOUR OWN LIFE Anthony Quaglieri, Ph.D

community

realtor

Licensed Psychotherapist MH 486

1006 West Platt Street ■ Tampa, FL 33606

813-258-4252

aqphd@tampabay.rr.com 35 years experience

if this were your ad,

internet

web site

thousands of readers

would have just seen it.

Call for rates

813-655-9890 46

&

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com tampa bay marketplace

Transitions CHANGE-OF-LIFE COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS Congratulations Greg Weber and Rich Kennedy of Orlando celebrate their 27th anniversary Dec. 24.

Local Birthdays Handsome St. Petersburg caterer Steve Gallo (Dec. 20); Tampa Bay entertainer Kathryn Nevets, Orlando’s Hamburger Mary’s cofounder Tom Schneider (Dec. 21); nerd candy and ally Kate Torrence (Dec. 22); Watermark contributor Chris Azzopardi, Gulfport photographer and owner of Creative Design Weavers Amy Oatley (Dec. 24); marching band dork Jeremiah Catherwood, UCFGLBT.com webmaster Hank Lewis (Dec. 25); St. Petersburg Applebee’s bartender Jeff Nicolaus, puppeteer and gay rights activist Hannah Miller, sexy Parliament House bartender Jeff Munzing (Dec. 26); Clearwater realtor and Suncoast softballer Keith Gill, Serial Thrillers bench coach extraordinaire Lisa Cason (Dec. 27) Watermark contributor and Gulfport activist Greg Stemm, Phish Phest phenom and realtor Sue-Bee Laginess (Dec. 29); Hope and Help development diva Duane Hoyle, Tampa ROTC member Steve Deal, What’s Happening magazine owner/publisher Frank Garcia (Dec. 30); Mr. Ybor Eagle 2010 Carlos “Wolfy” Diaz, Tampa massage therapist Russell Fox, St. Pete Pride volunteer and Tarpon Springs native Paul LeCouris, Fringe GM George Wallace, Orlando bear Justin Homer (Dec. 31); Teacher and activist Clinton McCracken (Dec. 31).

NEW POST: Carlos Smith, of Orlando, was elected Chair of the Orange County Democratic Executive Committee on Dec. 16 replacing Scott Randolph, who resigned.

Arie Groen’s property maintenance Commercial and Residential Licensed

specializing

■ installation

NEW YEAR, NEW BOARD: MBA Orlando has announced

its new board members for 2014. They are President Mikael Frank Audebert, featured on this issue’s cover; Vice-President of development Nayte Carrick, at right; Secretary Eric Rollings; Vice-President of operations and treasurer Russell Mann; Director of Corporate Development Colte Suggs; Director of Diversity and Inclusion Andrea Hays; Director of Social Engagement Michael Deeying, pictured at left; Director of Programs and Events Michael Thomas, center; and Director of Small Business Initiatives Dawn Kallio.

Are you making a Transition? Having a birthday or anniversary? Did you get a new job or promotion? See your news in Watermark! Send your Transition to Editor@WatermarkOnline.com or go to WatermarkOnline.com/Submit-a-Transition - it’s that easy!

of sod ■ Ornamentals ■ Trimming ■ Elevating Palms ■ Trees

in:

■ Mulch ■ Irrigation ■ pressure

servicing

washing

orlando

&

tampa

Arie Groen’s Property Maintenance (727)505-0205 • agroen33@yahoo.com DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

47

accountant

attorney

attorney

attorney

attorney

accountant

accountant

“Part of the community for the community”

TOO BUSY FOR TAXES? WE HAVE OPTIONS! PERSONAL/BUSINESS TAX PREPARATION, e-file QUICKBOOKS ADVANCED PROADVISOR ®

f r e e

c o n s u l t a t i o n s

Leah G James, CPA, MSTax Judy L Hines, IRS Registered Tax Return Preparer 407.478.4513 • ContactUs@geckoCPA.com

air conditioning daniel valdivia mba jd former prosecutor

READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS?

•criminal defense

Don’t let your A/C spoil the fun…

Call us for a tune up TODAY!

dui • drug charges • sex offenses • battery theft & fraud charges • violation of probation

•PERSONAL INJURY

www.4seasonsair.net .net

407-295-9231

no cost / fees unless we recover auto accidents • slip & fall • wrongful death

•immigration

FL License#: CAC056308

attorney

including same sex partner petitions

attorney

•bankruptcy- chapter 7& 13 •civil litigation

The Valdivia Law Firm 319 Park Lake Circle, Orlando, Fl. 32803 407-222-4606 fax 407-999-8966 daniel@valdivialaw.com www.valdivialaw.com

H a blo E spa ñol

48

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com orlando marketplace

catering

attorney JOHN B. DORRIS ATTORNEY AT L AW

Corporate Bankruptcy Commerical Litigation Family Mediator 111 NORTH M AGNOLIA AVENUE SUITE 1400, ORLANDO, FLORIDA 32801 DIRECT LINE: (407) 481-5868 FAX: (407) 481-5801 jdorris@lseblaw.com WWW.LSEBLAW.COM

cleaning service

Catering & Event Planning

We are proud to

Mediator #24369F

attorney Injured? Call Family!

627 Virginia Drive Orlando FL 32803

407.894.6671

BILECKI LAW, P.A. Personal Injury Lawyer

JohnMichaelEvents.com chiropractor

attorney

counselor

DR. JARED SILBERSTEIN Chiropractic Physician

FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC WORKS “DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE”

WWW.FCWONLINE.COM Two Great Locations!

South Park Chiropractic

North Orlando Location

8865 Commodity Circle Suite 3 Orlando, FL 32819 407-354-0009 Fax: 407-354-4882

10882 West Colonial Drive Ocoee, FL 34761 407-654-2575 Fax: 407-654-6027

(Off of John Youn Pky near Sand Lake Road)

(Hwy 50 and Maguire Road)

counselor

Read It Online!

Head to WatermarkOnline.com and click on the Digital Publications link to a read a digital version of the printed newspaper!

orlando marketplace

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

49

counselor

health care

Compassionate

Care

for your peace of mind

lawn care

O

coee Health Care Center provides short-term, postacute medical care, rehabilitation, and long-term skilled nursing care. We offer: • Skilled nursing, RN/LPN care • Physical therapy • Occupational therapy • Speech and respiratory therapy • Orthopaedic programs • Stroke recovery programs • Wound and amputation care • IV and pain management • Hospice and respite care • Restorative nursing program • Cardiac programs • Strengthening and gait training • Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance accepted!

407-877-2272

www.OcoeeHealthCare.com 1556 Maguire Rd • Ocoee, FL 34761

home improvement

counselor

Arie Groen’s

property maintenance Commercial and Residential Licensed specializing in:

installation of sod Ornamentals Trimming Elevating Palms Trees Mulch Irrigation pressure washing s e r v i c i n g

o r l a n d o

&

t a m p a

NOW HIRING EXPERIENCED LANDSCAPERS Arie Groen’s Property Maintenance

(727)505-0205 • agroen33@yahoo.com

non-profit organization • Free Business Workshops • Business Discounts • Online Membership Directory…and much more!

MBAOrlando.org J O I N O r l a n d o’s P R E M I E R LG B T B u s i n e s s e s & A l l i e s !

insurance

non-profit organization

407-435-9995

MetroSurance inc

Call Us For All Your Insurance Needs!

garden/nursery

CIT Y OA SIS

“Your Downtown Garden Shop”

Auto • Home • Life • Business

thousands of readers

Sales - Leasing - Maintenance

Exotic Orchids Bonsai Plant Rentals

50

1214 N. Mills Ave. (17-92) Orlando, FL 32803 (407) 898-8101

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

if this were your ad, would have just seen it.

Let Us Help Secure Your Future CRAIG GOODMAN (407) 362-1600 or (888) 683-1159 WEB: www.metrosurance.com EMAIL: craig4insurance@gmail.com

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com orlando marketplace

Call for rates

407-481-2243

physician

religious A DIVERSE CONGREGATION GATHERING TO SHARE GOD’S ALL INCLUSIVE LOVE.

Joy Metropolitan Community Church Reverend Terri Steed, Senior Pastor Wednesday Evening Spiritual Transformation Classes 7:00 P.M. Sunday Morning Worship 9:00 A.M. and 10:45 A.M. 2351 South Ferncreek Ave. | Orlando, FL 32806 Office: 407.894.1081

religious Holy Angels Catholic Community INDEPENDENT CATHOLIC CHURCH OF THE AMERICAS

Sunday Mass 12:30 pm

worship at: First United Church of Christ 4605 Curry Ford Rd., Orlando, FL 32812 407-677-0072 www.HACC-FL.org

All Are Welcome Here!

MAKING GOD’S LOVE KNOWN IN CENTRAL FLORIDA

web site

plastic surgeon

407.857.6261 Trust your face and body to a board certified plastic surgeon

George H. Pope, MD, FACS

• Gynecomastia reduction • Liposuction • Laser hair removal • Sculptra®, Botox®, Radiesse®, Juvederm® • Laser skin rejuvenation • Rhinoplasty • Facelift & eyelift • Cosmetic breast surgery • Professional skin care • Accredited in-house surgical suite

youth services Serving Central Florida's LGBTQ youth for over 20 years New meeting location at Reeves United Methodist Church 1100 N. Ferncreek Ave.

Voted Best Plastic Surgeon by Orlando Magazine readers

www.OrlandoPlasticSurgeryCenter.com 3872 Oakwater Circle at South Orange Avenue

Peer-to-peer support group and social activities for LGBTQ youth ages 13 – 24.

info@OrlandoYouthAlliance.org

Read It Online!

Head to WatermarkOnline.com and click on the Digital Publications link to a read a digital version of the printed newspaper!

Call 407-481-2243 FOR MORE INFORMATION

orlando marketplace

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

51

[CLASSIFIEDS] central florida

tampa bay

personal services

personal services

ENJOY A RELAXING MASSAGE BY CAESAR - Deep tissue, light tissue.

Great rates on weekends. $40 Special. 1600 Lee Rd., Winter Park.

In & Out, Hotels. (321)527-8513.

MAN-TO-MAN - Very friendly, masculine, good looking man with solid athletic body. Total relaxation & stress reduction.

Rick (813)546-8220. No texts.

real estate for rent CURRY FORD/ CRYSTAL LAKE AREA ***HOLIDAY SPECIAL*** ST MONTH IS HALF OFF! 1 BR apts. NO app fee. Pool/ Laundry; Water included.

Close to downtown & airport.

Call Levi: 407-580-3403

roommates Male Looking for Roommate Share 3 bedroom home, south of downtown. $400/mo. includes 1 bed/1 ba & all utilities. Non-smoker preferred. (407)383-7107

daytona

BODY SENSATIONS...”WHERE YOUR KNOTS...BECOME NOT!” DON’T LET THE HOLIDAYS HAVE YOU IN KNOTS. Providing a tranquil setting for those healthy in ( MIND & BODY ). Minutes from Tampa Airport. Hot towel aromatherapy relaxation to rejuvenation sessions.

Evening availability. RECEIVE $15 OFF A 90 MINUTE MASSAGE $70.

ONE HOUR $50. Tim MA-56731 813-352-7814

real estate for rent

accomodations

DAYTONA BEACH - Beachside, Elegant 1929 Historic mansion, Private walled pool area. Located 4 blocks to beach in tourist area. booking events: Wedding, receptions commitment ceremonies. 386-2482020, www.thevillabb.com

52

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

Sawmill Weekend Getaway! $9,900.00. Skylark park model 31’ RV on a permanent site. Full bathroom/bedroom. Plenty of storage.

Lot rent paid through February 2014!

Sold As Is. Call Dan 727-542-2000.

More pics at: www.flsawmill.com/ for-sale.html

Louganis: Olympians should dedicate performances to gay relatives and friends

THE TOP

5

STORIES OF THE YEAR

W

ASHINGTON, D.C. | When Olympic gold medalist Greg Louganis competed as a diver, he traveled the world, but experienced little of it.

“I went to countries and I saw the pool and the hotel,” he said.

“That’s all I saw.”

Decades later as an advocate for gay rights, Louganis sees much more.

On Dec. 13, Louganis went to Capitol Hill to help shed light on anti-gay legislation and the hostile environment faced by LGBTs in Russia.

With the Winter Olympics beginning Feb. 7 in Sochi, Louganis and other activists are urging the United States and the International Olympic Committee to challenge a Russian law, passed in June, which bans “gay propaganda” among minors and has been denounced as

discriminatory in the West.

“I can’t imagine being born in Russia and having my government say that there was something wrong with me, or I’m not of value,” Louganis said.

In the session at the Rayburn Building, hosted by Rep. David Cicilline, (D-R.I.), Russian activists described an atmosphere of intimidation where hate crimes go unpunished and equal rights supporters are sti�led. They said the situation has deteriorated since the propaganda law was passed and that similar legislation is gaining support in bordering countries such as Armenia, Belarus, and Ukraine.

Louganis recognizes that American Olympians could run afoul of the new law by making political statements in support of the LGBT movement, even by wearing rainbow pins or �lags. He asked, instead, that athletes make their expressions of support personal.

“Most every one of them has a

gay aunt, a gay uncle, a gay cousin, a gay friend, a gay somebody,” Louganis said. “But to dedicate their performance to that main individual who supported them.

This is a personal support of the LGBT community on a personal level that I don’t know that the IOC can argue with.”

Louganis said he received “a lot of hate mail from the LGBT community” when he came out against a boycott of the games.

But Louganis has experience with boycotts, as part of the U.S. Olympic team that skipped the 1980 Moscow Games.

“Most athletes have a very short window of opportunity,” Louganis said. “When it comes to the Olympics you’re hurting the wrong people, and kids who may not be aware of what’s going on in the world because they’re so focused on their training, on their journey, on their goal.” |  |

SOCHI OLYMPICS SUBJECT TO ANTI-GAY LAW The upcoming Sochi Olympics came under fire thanks to Russia’s new legislation making pro-LGBT propaganda illegal.

COLLINS, CRUZ, GRINER AND DALEY COME OUT Basketball players Brittney Griner and Jason Collins came out in 2013, along with Puerto Rican boxer Orlando Cruz and British diver Tom Daley.

TAMPA SOFTBALLERS SHINE Tampa’s softball teams took titles at both the Orlando Meltdown and Tampa Gasparilla tournaments.

TRANS MMA FIGHTER COMES OUT Mixed Martial Arts fighter Fallon Fox revealed that she is transgender on the Sports Illustrated website this summer.

NYAD MAKES HISTORIC SWIM Diana Nyad swam the 100-plus miles from Cuba to Key West in September, becoming the first person to make the swim without any kind of shark cage for protection.

Do you agree with our list? Did we miss something?

Let us know at watermarkonline.com.

open 24 hours certified trainers with real world certification. smoothie bar • spinning • bootcamp zumba • kickboxing • yoga and more included with membership

sign up by dec 31, 2013 for just $25/mo and no enrollment fee, no contract

Hot ’n horny hookups.

LAPTOP OR MOBILE

WE’RE

join now and

get 1 month free tanning

sports

Wire Report

VERSATILE

save

133 e. robinson st. orlando 32801 • 407.841.4199 • www.thegymdowntown.com

Join for FREE

Free HIV Testing

Get 5 Days Unlimited access

Testing 7 Days a Week The Risk is NOT Knowing 946 N. Mills Ave Orlando, FL 32803 407.228.8272 www.thecenterorlando.org

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

53

New Year’s Eve Premiere Party at the Straz Center Tuesday • Dec. 31, 2013

Ring in the New Year with true Crawley family style and elegance.

Dance the night away to a live band — Late Night Brass; enjoy an exciting themed menu, a champagne toast at midnight, and best of all — a sneak peek of season four of Downton Abbey.

1920s era attire is encouraged!

@

7:00 – 8:00 p.m. | Cocktail party (Cash bar) 8:00 – 9:15 p.m. | Season 4 preview screening, Ferguson Hall 9:30 – 1:00 a.m. | New Year’s Eve Celebration, Carol Morsani Hall Downton Abbey Season 4 on Masterpiece premieres January 5 at 9 p.m. on WEDU, West Central Florida’s primary PBS station.

STRAZ CENTER IT’S MORE THEN JUST A SHOW.

54

Tickets: 813.229.STAR (7827)

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

• STRAZCENTER.ORG • Outside Tampa Bay: 800.955.1045

Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice.

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermarkonline.com

DEC. 19, 2013 - JAN. 1, 2014 // ISSUE 20.26

watermark YOUR LGBT LIFE.

55

HOMES. MADE YOUR WAY.

nEAR DOWntOWn ORLAnDO

LUxURY, DOWntOWn Living FROM tHE HigH $200S Low-Maintenance townhomes in the SoDo Area the best restaurants, shopping, and entertainment are all just steps away from Copley Square, Ashton Woods’ vibrant, new townhome community in downtown Orlando. Our luxury townhomes offer high-end designer finishes, 2-car attached garages, and an ideal SoDo area location. Make the most of the city with maintenance-free homes designed for the way you live.

CoPLey SqUARe 2595 Joslin Place, Orlando, FL 32806

SCAn QR CODE FOR DiRECtiOnS.

407-704-8939

ashtonwoodshomes.com/orlando

©2013 Ashton Woods USA L.L.C. Plans, specifications, prices, and other items are subject to changes without notice and/or may vary by elevation. Images are only the artist’s conception. Square footage is approximate. See Sales Agents for details. CRC # 1517613. Printed 09/2013