Watermark Issue 21.15: Truvada/PrEP

Daytona beach • orlanDo • tamPa • st. Petersburg • sarasota • issue 21.15 • July 17 - July 30, 2014 • watermarkonline.com

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watermark Your lgbt life.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

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It’s easy to be yourself in a place like St. Pete/Clearwater. Cut loose on wide-open beaches. Feel the pulse of our alluring arts and nightlife.

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

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4

watermark Your lgbt life.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

dePartMents 6 // Mail 8 // orlando neWs 12 // taMPa Bay neWs 16 // state 19 // nation & World neWs 27 // in dePth 35 // arts & entertainMent 39 // coMMunity calendar 41 // taMPa Bay overheard 43 // orlando overheard 45 // transitions 46 // taMPa Bay MarKetPlace 47 // sPorts 48 // orlando MarKetPlace

PAGE

47

I was like, ‘Oh, wow.

This momentous moment in my life is not that big of a deal anymore.’

—brad torson, former kansas offensIve lIneman who came out onlIne

PAGE

on the cover

PAGE Truvada is seen by many

a miracle drug. But the 27 asonce-a-day pill that helps

reduce HIV’s ability to be transmitted is not a replacement for condoms, despite what many gay men may think.

Preview

35 idol eyes:

American Idol veteran and Tampa native Melissa McGhee has returned to her music and is living out and proud for the first time since her appearance on the FOX reality show.

WaterMarK issue 21.15 //J uly 17 - J uly 3 0, 2014

orlando neWs

taMPa Bay neWs

PAGE A small but dedicated group

PAGE Hillsborough County

state neWs

looKing BacK

Illustration by Jake Stevens

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

08

of 2,000 or so attended the first-ever Outfest, which celebrated the modern family; George Wallace has been named the executive director of the Orlando Fringe Festival; Orlando will hear about transgender protections; more

12

Commissioner Kevin Beckner urged his fellow commissioners to add sexual orientation and gender identity to the county’s human rights ordinance July 16; Mark Nash launches a bid for a commission seat; St. Pete Pride announces parade winners.

PAGE At press time a Miami

16

judge had not yet ruled on the constitutionality of Florida’s same-sex marriage ban, but activists are prepared to celebrate; conservative group Liberty Council is not happy with AG Pam Bondi’s lackluster defense of the state’s samesex marriage ban; more.

PAGE In this issue, publisher

Dyer looks back at 53 Tom the years 2007 and 2008

as we get closer to Watermark’s big 20th Anniversary issue, coming out in September. Take a look at the big stories from those two years and see how people may have changed in seven years!

We’re Waiting For the ruling on Florida’s saMe-sex Marriage Ban. visit WaterMarKonline.coM to KeeP uP to date. watermark Your lgbt life.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

5

letters to the editor Bevan is the best choice

2304

ALOMA & ST. ANDREWS

I

enjoyed reading the July 3 issue of Watermark [Issue 21.14]. One thing on the story about Melanie Bevan as a contender for the Chief of Police in St. Petersburg: I heard that the “fix” was in and Mayor Rick Kriseman was picking (Goodyear, Ariz. Police Chief) Jerry Geier. Allegedly, Charlie Crist, Kriseman and Geier are all from the same fraternity. I don’t know if they were all from the same class or school or not. If so, that stinks since Bevan is by far the best choice.

Paul Dickens St. Petersburg

Kudos at night

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he St. Pete Pride night parade made this year’s pride celebration the best one by far. After reading Watermark’s story [Issue 21.14] about the incredible numbers at the festival and parade and the zero number of police incidents related to the event, we as a community have a lot to be proud of.

Congratulations to the board of directors

“The new breath of fresh air made a decade-old celebration seem brand new again.”

—Sam Gould

and everyone involved in creating this event. St. Pete Pride has always been a fun event, but this year it went to a whole new level. The new breath of fresh air made a decade-old celebration seem brand new again.

I’m already planning for 2015.

Sam Gould Tampa

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watermark Your lgbt life.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

bans, and there is no legitimate justification for them as shown in Loving v. Virginia. No attempts to spin this changes these facts.”

—brandon_71087

On the anti-gay Liberty Counsel pushing Florida attorney general Pam Bondi to more vigorously defend the state’s ban on same-sex marriage:

“She’s probably afraid after the Liberty Council is done persecuting the gays they’ll come after her thrice-divorced ass.”

—ScottInClearwater On whether Republican governors are evolving on LGBT issues:

“Yes they are evolving.

They are all helping by painting each other’s back in attempt to cover their spots. Remember a leopard cannot change its spots. Neither can a Republican governor who needs to get through the primary process.”

editor’s

Steve Blanchard EDITOR

SteveB@WatermarkOnline.com

L

Desk

ately, it seems like everyone

is focused on marriage equality.

It’s sweeping the country and state constitutional bans on same-sex marriage have fallen one after another, thanks to last year’s Supreme Court ruling invalidating the Defense of Marriage Act’s prohibition of marriage equality.

Now, it’s Florida’s turn. Any day now, a ruling will come out of Miami on two cases challenging our state’s 2008 ban on marriage equality. Equality Florida and six same-sex couples had their day in court on July 2. On July 7, a male couple from Key West had their case heard in Monroe County.

It’s widely expected that both cases will fall in the direction of equality, and deem the same-sex marriage ban in the Sunshine State unconstitutional.

That’s exciting and it will be

a happy day for our state. But we can’t forget that there are still many parts of our state that discriminate daily against LGBTs. Our local governments have an opportunity to put their stamp on history in a very big way— and it has nothing to do with marriage equality.

The City of Orlando and the Hillsborough County Commission will both take a close look at equality issues as they pertain to LGBTs. If they act quickly, they could be on the right side of history

watermark staff Publisher: Tom Dyer • Ext. 305 • Tom@WatermarkOnline.com Chief Financial Officer: Rick Claggett • Ext. 108 • Rick@WatermarkOnline.com Admin. Assistant: Kathleen Harper • Ext. 100 • Kathleen@WatermarkOnline.com Editor-in-Chief: Steve Blanchard • 813-470-0899 • SteveB@WatermarkOnline.com Reporter: Samantha Rosenthal • 104 • Samantha@WatermarkOnline.com Online Media Director: Jamie Hyman • Ext. 106 • Jamie@WatermarkOnline.com Proofreading: Ed Blaisdell Art Director: Jake Stevens • Ext. 109 • Jake@WatermarkOnline.com Creative Assistant: Patrick O’Connor • Ext. 109 • AdProduction@WatermarkOnline.com

Our local governments have an opportunity to put their stamp on history in a very big way—and it has nothing to do with marriage equality. and leaders in the fight for equality of their respective citizens. And while equality should start at the top, let’s not kid ourselves.

Governor Rick Scott has no interest in protecting LGBTs and Attorney General Pam Bondi is furiously defending the state’s ban on our right to marry.

As Watermark headed to press with this issue, no ruling had been made on the constitutionality of Florida’s ban on same-sex marriages and the Hillsborough County Commission was scheduled to hear a discussion about adding sexual orientation and gender identity and expression to its human rights ordinance. The simple fact that the commission was open to this discussion is amazing, given that less than a decade ago that same entity barred it’s employees and departments from recognizing or supporting LGBT Pride in any way. This is also the same commission that just last year refused to approve a domestic partnership registry for its unmarried, coupled citizens, bucking a trend that swept the entire state in 2013.

But our state is looking at marriage! Basic protections for citizens who happen to be LGBT should have been in place in Hillsborough long before now!

The City of Orlando seems to be ahead of Hillsborough County when it comes to equality, and

it has a chance to continue that forward motion July 28, when it hears an amendment to add gender identity and expression to its anti-discrimination ordinance.

If things go well, the changes could be cemented into place at the Aug. 11 meeting, when the City Commission will vote on the measure.

If history is our guide, the possibility of change coming to Orlando is more probable than in Hillsborough. But we’ve been surprised before. So I’m hesitant to count these as victories too soon.

Nadine Smith, Equality Florida CEO, has said that ban (and other actions) have put a “stain” on Hillsborough County.

It’s reputation as backwoods and pro-discrimination has only grown over the years. Orlando’s pro-LGBT equality stance has been impressive, and Orange County, despite the wavering and less-than-concrete views of mayor Teresa Jacobs, also tends to be supportive.

There are signs of progress in Hillsborough, however. I have to give credit where it’s due. The current commission voted to repeal that ridiculous so-called “ban” and that the seven commissioners are willing to even hear a discussion on protecting LGBT citizens is a huge step forward.

But hearing a discussion and acting to protect constituents are two very different things.

These seven elected officials have the opportunity to embrace equality and become leaders in the county and the state, rather than followers, as they’ve been for so long.

In Orlando, it’s high time our transgender neighbors get the protections they deserve as well.

It’s an exciting summer for our state. But change has to happen on the local level, and these governments have what should be very easy decisions before them in July. Let’s hope they both do the right thing.

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

contributors Richard J. Rosendall

is a writer and activist and the former president of the Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance. He can be reached at rrosendall@starpower.net. Page 21

Zach Caruso

is a musician and journalist from New Jersey who now lives in St. Petersburg. He has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and an MA in writing. Page 35

Greg Burton, Scottie Campbell, Zach Caruso, Susan Clary, 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 Mark Bias & Carrie West

own MC Film Festival in Ybor City and write “Dishing with Mark and Carrie.”

They are constantly roaming Tampa with their cameras in tow. Page 41

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.

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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.

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7

orlando news

Wallace naMed Fringe executive director Jamie Hyman

o

rlando | The Orlando International Fringe Festival has a new head honcho.

George Wallace, who has been general manager of Fringe since 2010, is now the executive director. Wallace said the newly-created position is part of a restructuring process after Board President David Baldree stepped down.

“This restructuring helps us streamline operations and gives the organization a clear leader,” said Baldree, in a media release.

“The Board has the fullest confidence that George will continue to be an excellent steward of Orlando Fringe’s mission, and a leader and advocate for artists around the globe. We recognize that he is a leader who, with several years’ experience with us, is the right person to lead the organization through its restructure and strategic planning process.”

Although he resigned man In charge: Fringe executive director the president position, George Wallace, and his Baldree will continue to best friend Dizzi Bone, serve on the board. enjoy a previous Fringe Wallace, whose Festival. education and PHOTO COuRTESy KRISTEn WHEElER professional background is in behavioral science and social work, worked his way up through the organization since he began as a volunteer in 2003. In 2008, he became Fringe’s volunteer coordinator.

“There’s always a level of nervousness when everything changes but I’m more excited than anything because this is such a wonderful organization and I just want to see it grow and be the best that it can be,” Wallace told Watermark.

As part of the organization’s restructure, all contracted Fringe employees will report directly to Wallace.

“I’m looking forward to working with our dynamic team and I want to stress the fact that Michael Marinaccio is still festival producer .His role as producer is unchanged,” Wallace said. “I’m looking forward to a great year.”

He said Fringe will continue to grow but not much will change in 2015. However, 2016 is the festival’s 25th anniversary and plans are already underway to commemorate “such a celebratory year,” Wallace said.

8

haPPIest Place on earth: A group

of families, including (center on ground) ABC Scandal’s Dan Bucatinsky, his husband writer/ director Don Roos and their two children, celebrate the Fourth of July at Magic Kingdom.

PHOTO By BRIAn GOuTHRO

Modern Family Fun First-ever Family Outfest draws crowds despite overcast weather Samantha Rosenthal

o

rlando | Family Outfest was held for the first time in Orlando, celebrating the modern family and creating a family-friendly atmosphere for the local LGBT community to celebrate diversity.

Despite overcast weather and rain, the first ever Family Outfest still brought a good crowd of families to Orlando July 1-7. The weekend included a family night at Fun Spot America Orlando, a Parent’s Night Out at King’s Bowling, Nick After Dark at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort, Fourth of July at Magic Kingdom, and the Red, Out & Equal event at Lake Ivanhoe, which ended the weekend with a festival and fireworks show.

“It’s nice that places are opening

watermark Your lgbt life.

up to gay families,” said Tammy Lewis, who attended the Fun Spot event with her family.

“The primary goal was to try to bring all the communities together around one thing— and that’s equality,” said MBA Orlando president Mikael Audebert. “So we saw straight couples, gay couples, a lot of male couples—whom we didn’t know had kids—come out with their kids.”

Fourth of July was celebrated at Magic Kingdom, where families sporting red shirts spent the day at Disney enjoying the rides and the evening’s special Fourth of July firework show. Audebert said that families staying at the host hotel for Family Outfest—Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resort, which is inside Walt Disney World Resorts—and surrounding

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

hotels booked a total of 200 rooms with most booking a three-night stay. That’s about 80 rooms rented.

“We learned a lot and obviously with every event, especially the first time, you have to learn,” Audebert said.

“What we learned here is that most people that come to Orlando for an event like this want to stick together and enjoy the parks. So what we may do next year is offer less additional events on the side and focus more on the theme parks.”

Dan Bucantinsky, from ABC’s Scandal, attended the event along with his husband, writer/ director Don Roos, and their two children, Eliza and Jonah.

“Dan Bucantinsky, who was here as our special guest this year, loved it so much and found it be such a great event, with a great spirit and a great goal,” Audebert said.

Red, Out & Equal on July 5 brought to Lake Ivanhoe a variety of family activities, vendors and food trucks. The Hammered Lamb provided cash bars for the event and a zipline spanned the sky over the festival.

“We saw a really great diversity in the attendance continueD on Pg. 10 | uu |

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

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9

orlando news

orange county MoM charged in Murder oF her daughter Staff report

o

rlando | An Orlando woman is charged with the first degree murder of her 3-year-old daughter.

Maryanne Louise Schwartz, 22, was arrested by deputies while she was in the car of her live-in partner, Vanessa Morales. Morales also was arrested for driving with a suspended license and traffic charges.

Schwartz called 911 June 27 and reported her daughter was struck by a hit-and-run driver that evening. Yeliani Schwartz-Ojeda died in the hospital June 28.

Authorities said that when they arrived to the scene the victim was unresponsive. The 3-year-old was rushed to Arnold Palmer Hospital where she was pronounced dead, according to investigators.

Investigators said that Schwartz’s hit-and-run story was suspicious and began investigating.

Schwartz was first arrested on July 2 and held in jail for child abuse charges. Investigators said that Schwartz’s son, a 2-year-old boy, had multiple bruises on his body inconsistent with typical child activity.

She was charged later that same day for first-degree murder charges after an Orange County medical examiner said that the 3-year-old’s injuries weren’t caused by a vehicle. The medical examiner ruled the child’s death a homicide.

Morales has three children, who have been placed with family relatives. Schwartz’s 2-year-old son has been placed into foster care.

Scwhartz appeared in court July 4 with no posted bond.

PuBlic hearing set For transgender Protections Staff report

orlando | The first public reading of the amendment that will add gender identity and expression to Orlando’s anti-discrimination ordinance is scheduled for the July 28 Orlando City Council meeting.

The changes were originally introduced two years ago by the Orlando Anti-Discrimination Alliance and were recommended unanimously by the Chapter 57 Review Board, which is comprised of human and civil rights advocates for Orlando.

Gina Duncan, transgender inclusion director for Equality Florida, has been the pushing factor for the adjustments to the ordinance.

“It really had been a great experience, and it’s really great to see how far we’ve come for gender awareness and inclusiveness,” Duncan said.

After the July hearing, the next reading is Aug. 11, where the city council will vote on the amendment.

10

Pulse celeBrates 10 years Christal Hayes

o

rlando | Pulse is about to mark a decade in business.

The gay-centric bar, located on Orange Avenue, will host a week-long celebration through July 19.

Barbara Poma, one of the founders and owners of the nightclub said, “It honestly seems like yesterday,” when recalling the club’s opening night.

After Poma’s brother died battling HIV, she and friend Ron Legler founded the nightclub in 2004 in an effort to keep her brother’s spirit alive.

Poma and her brother, John,

grew up in a strict Italian family where being gay was frowned upon.

“When John came out to his family and friends, the family dynamic transitioned from a culture of strict tradition to one of acceptance and love,” Pulse’s website reads.

Poma grew up going to gay clubs with her brother, so after he passed it seemed only right to name the venture after him. Poma and Legler created the name Pulse after John’s heartbeat, which reverberates through the bass extended throughout the club.

Poma said that Pulse will continue on its current path for foreseeable future. No expansions are scheduled but renovations are never out of

the question.

“Every couple of years we renovate the club to keep things fresh,” Poma said.

The celebration will start on Thursday, July 17 and extend through Saturday.

Rose from the hit show “The L Word” will appear for Turnout Thursday July 17, hosted by Angelica Sanchez and presented

by East Coast Eden. Platinum Friday July 18 will be hosted

by Chyna Doll Dupree, Jasmine International, Jasmine Bonet, Angelica Sanchez and Chavelle Brooks. Pulse transformed into a Latin hotspot Coquito Saturday July 19, starring Jasmine International, Jessica Wild, Lisa Lane and Chavelle Brooks.

| uu | Family Outfest from Pg.8

as well as in the vendors and performers that we don’t always see at Pride,” Audebert said. “The reaction from those that were there and those who witnessed all of this was absolutely amazing. The diversity that we got on Saturday at Red, Out & Equal was definitely the one that we were looking for. “ Despite rainy weather, organizers did push forward with the scheduled fireworks.

“Fireworks went off but, because it was very wet, a few of the fireworks didn’t go off as expected, but the entire show was there,” he said.

Audebert acknowledged the lingering storm affected the turnout at the Red, Out & Equal event after 4 p.m., which brought out an estimated 2,200 attendees.

Audebert hopes to expand this event next year, and Fourth of July will fall on the corresponding Saturday of next year’s Red, Out & Equal.

“We are going to continue working on expanding water activities, where this year it was very minimal because it was a test. We are going to expand on the fireworks—rain or shine— and we are going to expand on this sense of community and

watermark Your lgbt life.

haPPy famIly: Tammy Lewis (left) and Teresa Gonzales(right), enjoy a night

out at The Fun Spot with their daughter, “Pickles” on July 2. PHOTO By VEROnICA BREzInA

“We saw a really great diversity in the attendance as well as in the vendors and performers that we don’t always see at Pride.”

—mIkael audebert togetherness,” Audebert said.

“We really want to continue focusing on this intimate, festival-type of atmosphere that we had with activities such as the zip lining, the volleyball and other types of activities.”

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

Audebert said his goal is for Family Outfest to be three to four times bigger in 2015.

Veronica Brezina contributed to this article.

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

11

tampa bay news

nash eyes hillsBorough’s district 7 countyWide seat Steve Blanchard

t

leadIng the way, agaIn:

amPa | Mark Nash is a familiar name in Hillsborough County politics. The Brandon native was a key strategist in Commissioner Kevin Beckner’s successful 2008 campaign and also Mark nash campaigned with Kathy Castor when she first sought her statewide position as Florida’s 14th District representative in 2007.

Now, two years after an unsuccessful bid for the District 4 seat in 2012, Nash, an openly gay Democrat, has his eyes set upon the countywide District 7 seat.

That seat is currently held by Mark Sharpe, who cannot seek re-election due to term limits.

“I ran in east Hillsborough (in 2012) for a couple of reasons,” Nash explained. “It started the conversation about my being involved in the commission and it’s where I’m from and where I grew up. It made sense to connect with the people who have been in my life since I was a child.”

This countywide seat gives a new set of opportunities to Nash, who had a successful career with the Gillette company and Publix Supermarkets before entering into the political realm.

“We have a commission that has consistently rubber-stamped growth and part of the developer community’s responsibility is to pay its fair share for infrastructure,” said Nash. “The county has lessened that amount of responsibility and the bulk of infrastructure has fallen on taxpayers.”

Nash estimates that the county is $10-$14 billion behind on its road needs, which he says is hurting the quality of life here.

“We’re at a perfect storm,” he said. “The Veterans is under construction, I-275 is under construction and there’s a disconnect of point A to Point B and the poor evolution of our neighborhoods.”

Transportation and transit, Nash said, is directly tied to economic opportunities and job growth. He mentioned Central Florida’s newly operational Sunrail system, which has already spurred a surge in new commercial construction and attracted the attention of developers and corporations.

“The community of central Florida is taking transit and the future seriously,” Nash said. “We haven’t taken that step here and the reason why there’s a roadblock here is poor leadership on transit—and Commissioner Al Higginbotham is exhibit A.” Higginbotham is currently serving his last

continueD on Pg. 14 | uu |

12

Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner, who successfully asked the commission to revoke it so-called ban on LGBT Pride last summer, planned to discuss adding sexual orientation and gender identity and expression to the county’s Human Rights Ordinance on July 16. PHOTO By nICK CARDEllO

Debating equality

Hillsborough discusses addition of LGBT protections to its HRO Steve Blanchard

t

amPa | It was just over a year ago that Hillsborough County Commissioners voted against the creation of a domestic partnership registry, bucking a trend of governmental organizations offering a handful of protections to unmarried partners, both gay and straight.

And it was nine years ago, in 2005, that the commission voted to ban gay pride in the county by preventing county employees and entities from supporting or sponsoring such events.

So many were surprised to see that at the July 16 County Commission meeting, the board was scheduled to discuss the expansion of the county’s human rights ordinance to protect LGBT people.

watermark Your lgbt life.

The measure was brought before the board by commissioner Kevin Beckner, who believes his counterparts will recognize inequality and want to correct it.

“I am cautiously optimistic,” Beckner told Watermark in an e-mail.

“The majority of my colleagues realize the discrepancies for LGBTs.” Beckner elaborated and said the timing is right for the expansion of the HRO because the commission wants to be more reflective of the community.

“This ordinance will highlight how important it is in our community for everyone to be treated equally,” Beckner added.

Surprisingly, four of the seven commissioners have expressed support for expanding the ordinance to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in hiring, housing and public accommodations, according to the

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

Tampa Bay Times.

The board has shown to be somewhat less conservative on social issues of late. Last summer, the board voted to unanimously repeal the gay pride ban it enacted in 2005, which many see as a sign of progress.

“We are taking small steps forward,” Beckner said, referring to that 2013 vote.

This isn’t the first time Hillsborough County has considered adding protections to the LGBT community. In fact, LGBTs were included in the Human Rights Ordinance at one time, until it was revoked by a severely social conservative commission in the 1990s.

A vote on the current HRO was not expected at Wednesday’s meeting but Beckner said the ordinance will highlight how important it is in the Hillsborough County community for everyone to be treated equally, regardless of their background, sexual orientation or gender identity.

The road to the amendment to the HRO becoming a reality had to start with a discussion and a vote on whether the county attorney should write a draft of the ordinance. Similar ordinances have passed in nearly 20 other cities and counties, including the City of Tampa and Pinellas County. continueD on Pg. 14 | uu |

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

13

tampa bay news

Petition pushes for Sarasota County HRO Staff Report

S

arasota | Julia Nowak, an openly gay realtor, hopes signatures on a petition will show Sarasota County Commissioners that its residents want a Human Rights Ordinance (HRO).

In October 2013, Sarasota County voted 5-0 to create a countywide domestic partner registry that would provide access to essential family protections for any couple that is registered, which also includes same-sex couples. The county, however, does not have a HRO that protects from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.

Nowak has posted a petition online to gather signatures to show the importance of a HRO for Sarasota County to counter this policy and provide protection from future discriminatory policies. For the link to the petition, visit WatermarkOnline.com.

St. Pete Pride announces 2014 Parade Awards Staff Report

S

t. Petersburg | The excitement of St. Pete Pride’s first night parade may finally beginning to fade, but that doesn’t mean the organization is done celebrating this year. On July 15, St. Pete Pride announced the winners of the St. Pete Pride Parade Awards.

Seven organizations were recognized for their creativity, spirit and participation and St. Pete Pride executive director Eric Skains released the list via email July 15.

“The paraders were better than ever this year,” Skains wrote. “However, there were a few standouts.

Congratulations to these folks for winning this year’s St. Pete Pride Parade Awards.”

The Aria Award went to the GaYborhood Coalition, which had spectacular sound. The “Fabulous Award” for best costumes as presented by New Hope Auto & Truck Services and the Rainbow Award for best lighting went to The Birchwood. The Birchwood also won the Spirit of St. Pete Award, which means it was selected as the “Best Overall” parade float.

Other winners included the Tampa Bay Outlaws, where given the “Ruby Slipper Award” for being the best walkers and General Electric Aviation, which took the “Pink Diamond Award” for being the Best for-profit entry.

The Best non-profit award, called the Priscilla Award, was given to the Stonewall Democrats of Pinellas.

This year’s St. Pete Pride Parade on the evening of June 28 attracted more than 175,000 people. The festival the following day produced 40,000 attendees, making the weekend long event the first LGBT Pride celebration in Florida to surpass the 200,000 attendance mark.

14

Reconsidering: (L-R) Commissioners Kevin Beckner, Sandra Murman, Mark Sharpe, Al Higginbotham and Victor Crist were scheduled to consider adding sexual orientation and gender identity to the Hillsborough County Human Rights Ordinance July 16.

Not pictured, Commissioner Ken Hagan. Photo courtesy Hillsborough County

| uu | Hillsborough HRO from pg.12

Since this issue of Watermark went to press before the meeting, read more about how the meeting went at WatermarkOnline.com.

Plenty of opposition was expected at the meeting.

Conservative activist Terry Kemple was rallying his base before the meeting and was expected to speak against the additions to the HRO. He told the Times that including

| uu | Mark Nash from pg.12

term as the county’s District 4 commissioner. The Republican is also seeking the District 7 countywide seat. Nash and Higginbotham could face off in the November election if they both win their respective primaries Aug. 26.

Nash is hopeful for his campaign this year.

“There are 61,000 more registered Democrats in this county than the other party, that’s an 8% advantage,” Nash said.

“But in these non-presidential election years, we lose turnout and Democrats tend to not show up. That’s a cycle we have to change if we want to elect capable, competent people.”

Nash will face Patricia Kemp in the August primary. Kemp is a local civic activist who is the founder of the Old Seminole Heights Neighborhood Association.

She, like Nash, is an advocate for LGBT equality. That’s refreshing for a county race with a less than

watermark Your lgbt life.

sexual orientation and gender identity in the HRO was “bad policy.

This puts government in the position of trampling on people’s religious liberties in favor of people’s sexual preferences.”

Kemple has been a long-vocal opponent of LGBT rights in Hillsborough County and Tampa. He has also consistently fought against Muslim-affiliated groups from speaking on local campuses and reaching out to students.

Beckner wasn’t surprised at

Kemple’s plan to oppose the measure.

“It’s unfortunate that in this time people don’t believe that all people should be treated equally,” he said, adding that the HRO update isn’t just an issue of fairness, but of economics as well.

“Many Fortune 500 companies have welcomed LGBTs and taken away discriminations,” he said.

“This is just one step forward to do the same.”

perfect record on LGBT issues, according to Nash.

“Diversity is a strength and we should embrace that and use it to our best ability,” Nash said, referring to not only the LGBT community, but ethnic minorities as well. Nash said he doesn’t expect his sexuality to be an issue in the race—in the primary or if he makes it through to the general November election.

“People are going to do and believe what they want to,” said Nash. “I had made it a point to allow my work and the results I’ve brought to this community be the speaking element of who I am as a person. I embrace who I am with regards to my sexual orientation, but I don’t go around saying I’m gay, or I’m this or I’m that.

“I happen to be a gay man, but it is probably the least important thing about who I am as a person.”

Nash is committed to improving Hillsborough County, he said, and while LGBT equality is definitely a part of that he hopes to serve the entire population of Hillsborough,

not just Democrats and not just the LGBT community.

“We have to put people in positions to make a difference,” Nash said. “I will continue to fight for everyone in this county. The LGBT community has a friend in me but I’m not just representing them or Democrats. We don’t drive on Republican roads or stop at Democratic stop signs. What we create works for everybody or it works for nobody. Hillsborough should be leading, not following.”

The District 7 seat is countywide, meaning all registered voters can participate.

Residents must be registered by July 25 and may do so by visiting VoteHillsborough.org.

“There is a big push this year to vote by mail,” Nash said. “And it’s important to remember we’re voting for more than just the governor of the state. I want to make sure voters vote all the way down the ballot and are educated on the candidates. It’s important.”

For more on Nash’s campaign, visit ElectMarkNash.com.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

Christal Hayes contributed to this story.

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state news

Liberty Counsel calls upon Pam Bondi to step down Staff Report

T

allahassee | Liberty Counsel, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting religious freedom, the sanctity of life and family, put out a press release saying if Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi won’t “present a vigorous defense, she owes it to the voters of Florida to step down and allow someone else to represent the interests of the State.”

This statement came from Liberty Counsel Founder Mathew Staver, who believes Liberty Counsel is carrying the weight of defending the Florida Marriage Amendment without much actual representation from Bondi herself.

“Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi is giving only window dressing to the Florida Marriage Amendment,” said Staver in the press release.

Staver himself was sent to the Florida Keys to intervene in the challenge to Florida’s Marriage Amendment in the Huntsman v. Heavlin case. Staver represented Florida Family Action, Florida Democratic League, and People United to Lead the Struggle for Equality in this case. Monroe County Clerk of Court Amy Heavlin, who is being sued by the Key West couple for not issuing them a license, took the stand holding a neutral position on the case and only addressed the court for two minutes.

For the other case filed by the Equality Florida Institute on behalf of six same-sex couples in Miami, Bondi only sent one of her staff attorneys to argue the constitutionality of the amendment—not going herself—and filed a short, 14-page brief only a week prior to the July 2 court date.

Atlantic Beach HRO passes first reading 3-2 Samantha Rosenthal

Atlantic Beach | Atlantic Beach is one step closer to finalizing a Human Rights Ordinance that includes protections for LGBT residents.

The City Commission passed—on the first of two required readings—the HRO with a 3-2 vote. The proposed ordinance would ban discrimination against people based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation and gender identity or gender expression within the city limits.

Before the City Commission voted at the July 15 meeting on the agenda item, the floor was opened for speakers. Thirty-nine people spoke in favor, four in opposition and two took neutral stances.

16

Florida LGBTs wait for marriage equality decisions Staff report

M

iami | Florida’s LGBT community and supporters are still waiting for the ruling that could change their lives.

A lawsuit was filed back in January by six same-sex couples and the Equality Florida Institute in the state courts of Miami, stating that Amendment 2 in the Florida Constitution banning same-sex marriages was unconstitutional.

Miami Dade Circuit Court Judge Sarah Zabel heard arguments in that case July 2 and as of press time, has yet to issue a ruling.

Zabel heard arguments from both sides on Pareto vs. Ruvin by six same-sex couples and the Equality Florida Institute challenging Florida laws barring same-sex couples from marrying.

During the hearing, which lasted an hour and 45 minutes, Zabel frequently asked questions of counsel on both sides. She brought up Loving vs. Virginia, the case that made interracial marriage legal, a number of times, but Matt Staver with the anti-gay Liberty Counsel said that case does not apply in this case because race is not what is being argued.

A representative from the State Attorney’s office argued on behalf of the defendant but Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi did not appear during the hearing.

The defendant in this case is Harry Ruvin, Miami Clerk of Courts, who did not issue marriage licenses to the plaintiff couples. The anti-gay arguments at the beginning of the hearing primarily focused on bureaucratic difficulties—how would clerks handle changing forms should the judge rule in favor of marriage equality immediately?

Jeff Cohen, attorney with Carlton-Fields arguing for the plaintiffs, responded, “We used to have something called whiteout, before computers,” stating that he’s confident the clerks can handle the change.

The anti-gay arguments focused heavily on Florida’s ban on gay marriage which was passed by 60% of Florida’s voters in 2008.

“Votes are fine,” Cohen said.

watermark Your lgbt life.

“But this country was founded by people and people are still coming from to this country to escape the tyranny of the majority. This law imposes on them secondclass citizenship and that is not tolerable.”

Mat Staver with the Liberty Counsel was on the stand for the longest time by far.

He argued that summary judgment at this stage is premature because he said the plaintiffs have failed to present the necessary evidence and affidavits.

In stating his case, he also cited the Regenerus study, an antigay study that has been widely debunked, which claims children in families with same-sex parents don’t do as well as children in heterosexual families.

“This is a huge cultural shift we’re on the precipice of deciding in this country,” Staver said.

Cohen was given time to rebut those arguments, and said, “They’re not worthy of serious consideration,” he said.

Another suit involves a gay couple in Monroe County who filed a similar lawsuit against Monroe County City Clerk Amy Heavilin for refusing to issue a marriage license because of the ban. Aaron Huntsman and William Lee Jones are represented by Bernadette Restivo, an attorney with Restivo, Reilly & Vigil-Farinas, who modeled their lawsuit after the one filed in Miami. Court arguments in that case were July 7 and again, no ruling as of press time.

Equality Florida and other LGBT organizations are organizing “Decision Day” gatherings across the state to celebrate the cases regardless of the decisions.

There are 11 gatherings planned across Florida on the day of the decision. Here is the list of locations as of press time:

WILTON MANORS When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: The Pride Center at Equality Park, 2040 North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors 33305

FORT MYERS When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: Unitarian Universalist Church, 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers 33912

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

GAINESVILLE When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: TBD, visit EQFL. org/DecisionDay

JACKSONVILLE When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: Blue Fish, 3551 St. Johns Ave, Jacksonville 32205

KEY WEST When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: Aqua Nightclub 711 Duval St, Key West 33040

MIAMI BEACH When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: The courtyard of the LGBT Visitors Center, 1130 Washington Ave., Miami Beach 33139

NAPLES When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: Celebration MCC, 3400 Radio Road, Unit 107 Naples 34104

ORLANDO When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: The Hammered Lamb, 1235 N Orange Ave, Orlando 32804

SARASOTA When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: Marina Jack’s, 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota 34236

ST. PETERSBURG When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: King of Peace MCC, 3150 5th Ave N, St Petersburg 33713

TALLAHASSEE When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: TBD, visit EQFL. org/DecisionDay

TAVERNIER When: 6 p.m., Day of Decision Where: Casa Mar Village by Fresh Press Cafe, Mile Marker 81, Oceanside, Tavernier, FL

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

nation+world news

WHO: Gay men should take antiretroviral drugs to combat exploding HIV epidemic Wire Report

G

eneva, Switzerland | Five key groups, including gay men, have stubbornly high rates of HIV that are threatening progress in the global AIDS battle, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported on July 11.

These people are most at risk of becoming infected with the human immunodeficiency virus that causes AIDS, yet are least likely to get HIV prevention, testing and treatment services, the Geneva-based United Nations health agency said.

“Globally we are failing certain populations that have the greatest

risk yet we know have universally poorer access to health services.

These are men who have sex with men, sex workers, transgender persons, specifically transgender women, persons who inject drugs and persons who are in prisons or other closed settings,” Gottfried Hirnschall, director of the WHO’s department, told reporters at a briefing.

“We are seeing exploding epidemics in some of these key populations,” he said, adding that these groups account for up to 50 percent of new cases of HIV infection.

For the first time, the WHO said it “strongly recommends” that men who have sex with men should consider taking antiretroviral AIDS

drugs as an extra way of protecting themselves against HIV infection, alongside using condoms.

Such an approach, known as pre-exposure prophylaxis or PrEP, is a way for people who do not have HIV but are at risk of getting it to protect themselves by taking a single pill, usually a combination of two antiretrovirals, every day.

PrEP, when taken consistently, has been shown to cut the risk of HIV infection in high risk people by up to 92 percent.

AIDS experts estimate that globally, HIV incidence among gay men could cut by 20 to 25% through PrEP. For more on PrEP and the drug Truvada, specifically, see page 27.

The girl is now nearly 4. As recently as March, doctors had said that she seemed free of HIV though she was not being treated with AIDS drugs. That was a medical first.

But on July 10, doctors said they were surprised to find the virus in her blood, and there were signs that it was harming her immune system.

She is now back on treatment and is responding well, they said.

The news is ``obviously

disappointing’’ and will affect a federal study that had been about to start testing early, aggressive treatment in such cases, said Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Doctors had been considering stopping treatment if no signs of infection could be detected after two years. ``We’re going to take a good hard look at the study and see if it needs any modifications,’’ Fauci said.

Mississippi girl allegedly cured of HIV has relapsed Wire Report Washington, D.C. | A Mississippi girl born with the AIDS virus and in remission for more than two years despite stopping treatment now shows signs that she still harbors HIV—and therefore is not cured.

The news is a setback to hopes that very early treatment with powerful HIV drugs might reverse an infection.

Colorado judge refuses to halt same-sex unions in Denver Wire Report Denver | A judge on July 14 refused to stop a Denver clerk from issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples, despite a still-active ban against the practice.

District Judge C. Scott Crabtree on July 9 ruled that the state’s 2006 voter-approved same-sex marriage ban was unconstitutional. But he put that ruling on hold pending appeal, meaning the Colorado ban remains in place. The next day, a separate judge in Boulder rejected a request

by Colorado Attorney General John Suthers to stop the clerk in

that county from issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

In the wake of the second ruling, Denver Clerk and Recorder Debra Johnson began to issue licenses to gay and lesbian couples. Because some of the couples who had sued to overturn the ban hailed from Denver, Johnson was technically a party to the case Crabtree ruled on and required to honor the stay.

Suthers’ office late last week asked Crabtree to order Johnson to stop the marriages, saying that allowing the licenses to be issued despite the court’s stay ``will undermine Coloradans’ confidence in their government.’’

On Monday, Crabtree refused. He noted the licenses were not issued in response to his ruling and said he had no jurisdiction to suspend them.

More than 200 same-sex couples have been married since Boulder County Clerk and Recorder Hillary Hall began to issue licenses in the wake of yet another ruling for gay marriage last month, that one from a Denver-based federal appeals court that struck down Utah’s same-sex marriage ban but also stayed its order. Pueblo County has joined Boulder and Denver in issuing the documents.

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in other news Pennsylvania clerk loses bid against same-sex marriage A U.S. Supreme Court justice has rejected a Pennsylvania county clerk’s bid to stop same-sex marriages in the state while she tries to get standing in a legal case to stop them permanently. Justice Samuel Alito on July 9 rejected an appeal by Schuylkill County Orphans’ Court Clerk Theresa Santai-Gaffney. Same-sex marriage became legal in Pennsylvania on May 20.

Archie to be shot saving gay friend in comic book Archie Andrews will die taking a bullet for his gay best friend. The famous freckle-faced comic book icon is meeting his demise in this week’s installment of ‘‘Life with Archie’’ when he intervenes in an assassination attempt on Kevin Keller, Archie Comics’ first openly gay character.

Andrews’ death will mark the conclusion of the series on grown-up renditions of the Riverdale pals.

Indiana: 10 judges should rule on marriage ban Indiana’s attorney general wants more than three appellate judges to decide the fate of the state’s same-sex marriage ban. Attorney General Greg Zoeller filed a motion July 11 asking the entire 10-judge 7th Circuit Court of Appeals to hear Indiana’s appeal of a judge’s order that struck down the ban. Cases are ordinarily heard by a panel of three judges.

Wisconsin marriage equality case gets fast-tracked The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals on July 11 put Wisconsin’s fight over same-sex marriage on a fast track and combined it with a similar case from Indiana. The court could decide the issue as soon as November. U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb ruled last month that Wisconsin’s same-sex marriage ban is unconstitutional.

Trans women claim mistreatment at West Virginia DMVs Two transgender women say they were ordered to take off their makeup, jewelry and wigs at West Virginal Division of Motor Vehicles offices or they would not get new driver’s license photos. Kristen Skinner, of Ranson, and Trudy Kitzmiller, of Mount Storm, say they were belittled and dehumanized.

Singapore backs call to destroy gay-themed books A children’s book inspired by a real-life story of two male penguins raising a baby chick in New York’s zoo and two other children’s titles have been deemed inappropriate by state-run Singapore libraries. The conservative city-state’s information minister, Yaacob Ibrahim, says he supports the decision because the prevailing norms in Singapore support teaching children about conventional families. The National Library Board, which runs 26 public libraries in Singapore, says it will destroy the books.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

viewpoint

“I need some of you to cut it the hell out. … I don’t care … how cute you think it is to call yourself a strong black woman, who taught you to twerk, how funny you think it is to call yourself Quita or Keisha or for which black male you’ve been bottoming — you are not a black woman, and you do not get to claim either blackness or womanhood.”

Someone was looking for a throw-down. She talked about Beyoncé, white privilege and the legacies of racism and sexism. She made some

you, I tried that for the first twenty years of my life, and it came very close to killing me. I can’t hide who I am, nor should I.” And: “[M]any of the expressions, sayings, mannerisms, and culture that you claim white men have appropriated from black women ... well a lot of it never really belonged to straight women to begin with. It originated from LGBT culture, and predominately the Black and Latino Gay scene. Do a little research and look into Ball Culture. Watch Paris is Burning or Tongues Untied.

Learn where all those expressions come from.”

I hope Mannie takes Mariner’s letter in a constructive spirit. Cultural appropriation works in multiple directions. Also, when a member of one group claims exclusive ownership of a particular bit of turf regarding oppression, he or she commits a falsification by omission.

Ranking oppressions can blind us to one another’s experiences and get in the way of justice. Looking at me or hearing me at a given moment does not tell you everything about me.

It doesn’t show all I have stood for, whom I have fought beside, or the price I paid. This works both ways.

When we are too quick to judge, we erect obstacles

valid points. She also said that black women “cannot hide their blackness and womanhood to protect themselves the way that you can hide your homosexuality.”

Let’s pause there.

David Mariner, Executive Director of The DC Center for the LGBT Community, posted a response on Tumblr. He did not imitate a black woman saying, “Oh no you dih-int.” He was conciliatory and thoughtful: “I can’t change who I am. I know you may suggest, as you did in your article, that gay men can simply ‘hide’ who they are. Perhaps I should lower the pitch of my voice artificially? Butch it up? Let me assure

to cooperation. That chip on your shoulder is a form of aggression.

Diversity is no mere slogan, but a challenging reality. Respect that is not reciprocated is subservience. As I would not have your beliefs imposed on me, so I must not impose mine on you.

This is part of the social contract. It is why the Supreme Court’s Hobby

Richard Rosendall

guest coluMn Diversity requires mutual respect, not jealous ranking of oppressions

s

Ierra mannIe, a

University of Mississippi senior, wrote a commentary picked up

by Time earlier this month titled, “Dear White Gays: Stop Stealing Black Female Culture.” Here’s a portion:

someone was looking for a throw-down; she talked about Beyoncé, white privilege and the legacies of racism and sexism.

Lobby ruling is reckless, and why many have urged the President not to weaken his promised executive order protecting LGBT employees of federal contractors. A broader religious exemption for anti-LGBT discrimination than that in Title VII marks us as lesser citizens.

Allowing the religious imperatives of shop owners

to trump those of their employees or customers invites a chaos of competing prohibitions. A pluralistic society can hardly function if every business becomes a law unto itself.

With Christianist bullies resurgent, nativist bigots inventing diseased hordes at our southern border, and assorted other brazen ignorance on parade,

America’s leading targets of bias ought to resist fighting one another and gain strength by doing something the radical right stoutly rejects: learning from those unlike us.

Richard J. Rosendall is a writer and activist. He can be reached at RRosendall@StarPower.net.

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

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ely is. The research e album ArtPOP is ong her fans. So ady Gaga also seems ga gave them strength or were the focus of cipating in the study ollowers to embrace wn differences and rchers found that ho follow the wkward” feel more ial media presence y of mIssourItudy from the

SS OKAY A MAKES

talking points

THE Roger, AVERAGE Marry Me! PERSON KNOWS l —an aPPrecIatIve male fan to tennIs great roger federer durIng hIs wImbledon fourth round match

5 GAY MEN 3 LESBIANS. AND

—According to research and consulting organization YouGov

ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK actress

breaks barriers who woulD make your toP 10 hottest list?

c

nn’s anderson cooPer, actor matthew bomer and sInger rIcky martIn are among the gay celebrities you might guess would top Hot or Not’s list of the “Top Ten Hottest Gay Male Celebrities.” Instead, lesserknown actor Jonathan Bennett, who appeared in Mean Girls and now hosts MTV’s Copy Cat, was named number one. Bennett was followed by Glee’s Chris Colfer, Bomer, Big Bang Theory’s Jim Parsons, champion diver Tom Daley, Kyle XY’s Matt Dallas, Cooper, Books of Mormon’s Andrew Rannells, X-Factor UK’s Joe McElderry and Modern Family’s Jesse Tyler Ferguson.

watermark Your lgbt life.

averne cox was nomInated for her fIrst emmy award. Who is that you ask?

Cox is the amazing actress who portrays Sophia Burset, a prison inmate who committed fraud trying to collect money for a sex change operation, on the hit Netflix show Orange is the New Black. Why should you care? Because Cox is transgender—and she has become the first-ever transgender person to be nominated for TV’s top award. Cox was nominated for “Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series,” even though the hour-long show is as much drama as it is comedy, and Cox is a regular with a storyline. Last month, Cox was the first transgender person to appear on the cover of Time magazine.

Joan rivers suggests michelle obama is trans

P

lastIc surgery’s favorIte comedIan Joan Rivers had just officiated a same-sex wedding over Fourth of July weekend when a photographer asked if she believed the United States would first see a gay president or a female president. “We already have it with Obama, so let’s just calm down,” she said. “You know Michelle (Obama) is a tranny.” When asked to explain Rivers said, “A transgender.

We all know it.” When CNN asked Rivers about her remarks, she said: “I think it’s a compliment. She’s so attractive, tall, with a beautiful body, great face, does great makeup. Take a look and go back to La Cage Au Follies (sic). The most gorgeous women are transgender.” No comment from the White House.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

seXiest vegetarians

o

ut actress ellen Page and oscar-wInner jared leto have been named “People for the Ethical Treatment of Animal’s (PETA) Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrities” for their choice of a healthy and harmless lifestyle. Leto beat out Joaquin Phoenix, Peter Dinklage, Woody Harrelson and Samuel L. Jackson for the title. Page triumphed over Jenna Dewan-Tatum, Kate Mara, Laura Prepon and Jessica Paré. Leto, 42, said his youthful appearance comes from his 20 years as a vegan. Page, 27, said she “used to eat a lot of crap.” Now she snacks on fruits or vegetables. Page came out earlier this year while appearing as a keynote speaker at the Human Rights Inaugural event in Las Vegas.

25

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watermark Your lgbt life.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

watermark

IT’S NEW! IT’S EASY! IT’S REVOLUTIONARY!

IS IT...THE

in dePth truvada/PreP

NEW

SAFE SEX? Not quite.

truvada helPs Prevent hiv, But doesn’t rePlace condoM use

s

Steve Blanchard

uddenly, truvada Is gettIng a lot

of attention. But that’s not because it’s a new drug.

It’s because new studies have shown the HIV drug helps inhibit the transmission of HIV, meaning it can help reduce infection in those who are negative.

In a controlled study with strict adherence by participants, Truvada was nearly 96 percent effective in reducing HIV transmission rates. However, another study shows that healthy gay men who use condoms can

lower their risk of becoming infected up to 42 percent. That second study incorporates realworld factors like forgetting to take the medication, not using condoms and other factors.

Surprisingly, many

doctors aren’t even aware of Truvada as a PrEP. “That’s the sad part,” says Saul Leon, a Certified Clinical Research Coordinator with the Orlando Immunology Center. “It’s a lack of education. Guidelines on prescribing Truvada were released by the Centers for Disease Control in May. As doctors and providers become more familiar with these guidelines, they’ll be more willing to release the medication to their patients.”

Fortunately for Lance T. of

watermark Your lgbt life.

continueD on Pg. 30 | uu |

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| uu | Truvada from Pg.27

The special commemorative 20th anniversary edition of Watermark arrives on newsstands September 11, 2014.

Don’t be left out of the celebration!

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30

Tampa Bay, his doctor was well aware of the medication, and when he visited his doctor, he made sure he had the information he needed to ask the right questions.

“I saw articles posted on Facebook by friends and researched what the benefits were and what the side effects might be,” says Lance, who asked to remain anonymous for this story. “After about a year I went to my doctor, who has a lot of gay and lesbian patients. He strongly suggests his patients get on Truvada if insurance will pay for it.”

The pill is extremely expensive and can cost close to $14,000 a year.

Without insurance, a 30day dose runs close to $1,400. Luckily for Lance, his co-pay is only about $100, and he participates in a co-pay assistance program through Gilead Sciences, the company that makes the drug.

“My insurance covers most of it and Gilead takes care of the co-pay, so there’s no direct cost to me,” Lance explains.

“Otherwise, there’s no way I could afford it.”

Unfortunately, there are no plans to release a generic, less-expensive form of Truvada in the United States until at least 2017, according to Leon. There are several programs available to help with the cost, such as the one Lance participates in. Leon suggests downloading the assistant forms from the Truvada website.

how it works

It’s important to remember that Truvada is not a new drug, explains Lorraine Langlois, CEO of Metro Wellness and Community Centers in Tampa Bay. In fact, it’s been around for years and has been used in the protocol, or lineup of drugs, for HIV-positive patients for years.

“But new studies have

watermark Your lgbt life.

shown that it helps prevent transmission, which has boosted its appearance in the headlines,” Langlois says.

According to the Food and Drug Administration, Truvada gained its approval as PrEP due to two large clinical studies.

In one study, 2,500 HIVnegative MSM from Latin America, Thailand, and the U.S. took either Truvada or a placebo pill once a day. The study found that Truvada reduced the risk of HIV by 44 percent. But many people assigned to Truvada missed doses or never took it at all.

In people who took it consistently, the reduction was 73 percent. It’s estimated that people who took two doses a week reduced their risk by 76 percent. Taking four or more doses a week might have reduced risk by over 95 percent—but these are only estimates.

The Partners PrEP Study enrolled over 4,700 couples in Uganda and Kenya, with one negative and one positive partner.

Those who were negative took Truvada, Viread or a placebo. Viread reduced infections by 67 percent and Truvada by 75 percent.

In people who were found to have drug in their systems, Viread reduced infections by 86 percent and Truvada by 90 percent.

“Truvada is actually a combination of two HIV medications,” Leon explains. “What they do is inhibit HIV’s ability to reproduce and gives the immune system a better chance of killing the virus.”

Leon says that although it only takes one encounter to get infected with HIV, it’s more likely to become positive after multiple encounters with the virus.

“When you provide the medication and it’s in the system, it can get in contact with the virus and prevent its reproduction,” Leon explains. “It then allows the immune system to kill it and remove it from the body.”

Like most medications, the side effects of Truvada

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

vary by patient. However, the most common side effects are a build-up of acid in the blood and serious liver problems.

a tool in the hiv arsenal

According to William Harper, executive director of the AIDS Service Association of Pinellas, many doctors want more information on Truvada or aren’t comfortable with prescribing it as a PrEP. “Many doctors don’t like the liability of it,” Harper says. “Many fear they will prescribe it to a young guy who suddenly thinks, ‘Hey, I don’t have to use a condom!’ But it’s like other medications. You have to use it stringently.

If you miss a dose or a few doses, you’ve got a lull in your system and you’re susceptible and you could get infected.”

Lance said his doctor was very clear that condom use is still required to protect against HIV infection, even while he’s on Truvada.

“This is just a supplement to practicing safe sex and help you in case something happens,” Lance says. “He even suggests I still get tested for HIV, but to do it annually rather than every three months. That’s kind of unusual. I agreed to that since the instances of infection are so small.”

Lance doesn’t see the use of Truvada and condoms as redundant.

In fact, he says that since he’s been on Truvada, he’s had encounters with other men where a condom has broken.

“I don’t freak out anymore,” Lance says.

“Condoms have broken and there are incidents where I haven’t practiced safe sex.

It used to be, ‘Oh my God, oh my God, I need to go get tested right away!’ Now I don’t freak out and don’t rush to get tested. There’s a sense of relief.”

Leon says that Truvada has a half-life of seven days, meaning the continueD on Pg. 32 | uu |

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31

what you shoulD know about truvaDa:  Truvada can be used as a Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP).  It is a once-a-day pill recommended for HIVnegative men who have sex with men and heterosexual couples where one is positive and the other is not.

PRICE: A 30-day supply of Truvada can start at $1,600.

 Those taking Truvada must get tested every three months.  Condoms are still a must. Truvada is considered part of a comprehensive HIV prevention plan.

 Side effects include a build-up of acid in the blood and serious liver problems.  Take only one dose a day.

INSURANCE DOES COVER TRUVADA: UnitedHealthcare, Aetna and Florida Medicaid all require prior authorization when Truvada is prescribed without a third agent or in the absence of HIV.

These providers, and others, may require an HIV test before covering the prescription.

hiv statistics toP five states with hiv Diagnoses in 2011: United States: 49,081 California: 5,965 Florida: 5,394 Texas: 5,044 New York: 4,944 Georgia: 2,520

CDC estimates that in 2010 (the most recent year that data are available), there were an estimated 47,500 new hiv infections. Nearly two thirds of these new infections occurred in gay and bisexual men. In 2011, the number of new infections rose to 49,273.

Diagnoses by age, u.s. 2011: most common— Ages 20-24: 8,054 Ages 25-29: 7,484 Ages 30-34: 6,209 Ages 35-39: 5,285 Ages 40-44: 5,753 Ages 45-49: 5,564

in 2011, the estimateD number of Diagnoses of hiv infection in the uniteD states was as follows: African Americans made up the largest group of new infections in 2011 at 23,168. New infections in Caucasians were 13,846.

Hispanics showed 10,159 new infections in 2011.

In 2011, 30,573 HIV transmissions occurred through male-to-male contact. 13,402 HIV transmissions were through heterosexual contact.

At the end of 2010, an estimated 872,990 persons in the United States were living with diagnosed HIV infection.

In 2011, the estimated number of persons diagnosed with AIDS in the United States was 32,052.

32

It used to be, ‘Oh my God, oh my God, I need to go get tested right away!’ Now I don’t freak out and —lance t. don’t rush to get tested.

At the end of 2010, an estimated 487,692 persons in the United States were living with an AIDS diagnosis.

In 2010, the estimated number of deaths of persons ever receiving a diagnosis of AIDS in the United States was 15,529.

The cumulative estimated number of deaths of persons with an AIDS diagnosis in the United States, through 2010, was 636,048.

2.5 million new cases of HIV worldwide were reported in 2011.

30 million people with AIDS have died worldwide since the epidemic began.

| uu | Truvada from Pg.30 medication is still in the system for a week after the pill is taken.

However, it is still recommended that the pill is taken daily for maximum protection.

“If someone forgets to take it for a day, it’s kind of okay,” Leon says. “The problem is when they forget multiple times in the same week. We have to educate people.”

The best way to look at Truvada, according to Harper, is as a way to make safe sex even safer.

“It’s another tool in your toolbox of safer sex options,” Harper says. “It raises your ability to stay negative by another level. But for God’s sake, if your insurance won’t cover it, how can you afford it?”

Truvada as a PrEP, or prevention tool, falls into a different category with the Centers for Disease Control and insurance companies, according to Priya Rajkumar, V.P. of Metro Wellness.

“When an HIV medication becomes a prevention tool, it falls into a whole different category and that affects whether funding is available to pay for it,” Rajkumar explains.

“There’s more money for care than for prevention.”

still more to learn

Harper adds that Truvada is by no means the Holy Grail of HIV prevention. But it does give hope to someday eradicating the disease or at least bringing infection rates way down.

“We’re happy about it,” Harper says of Truvada. “It shows to be effective, but not all of the research is in yet.”

Langlois says she’s happy about Truvada as well and sees it as a step forward. She is concerned, however, that those

watermark Your lgbt life.

at risk of infection—especially gay men—will miss the details and only read the headlines.

“The problem is the information and the cost. I also have not heard where Truvada can be paid through a government program yet,” Langlois says. “We’re actually very lucky in the HIV/gay community. There is a law of government funding for HIV, but it’s not enough. It’s very costly and it’s a political issue.”

According to Leon, there is truth to the rumor that a version of Truvada could become a once-a-month medication, but the research is still out on that study.

“In Europe there’s a study on a monthly injection that’s an inhibitor—it’s another class of HIV medication,” Leon explains.

“That medication prevents HIV from entering the cell, but that’s still ongoing research.”

The ultimate goal in research, of course, is to find a vaccination that could eradicate HIV. Unfortunately, Leon doesn’t expect that major headline news for at least a decade, if not longer.

“The vaccine is going to take a while,” he says. “A recent study found the current vaccination isn’t effective, so it’s set us back another 15 years or so.”

But Truvada is a step in the right direction for those who are able to obtain it. But there’s a stigma related to Truvada use.

aDDing to the stigma

Lance is very careful about who he tells about his Truvada regimen. He has no trouble remembering to take it each morning since he takes vitamins and other supplements as well.

But if word gets out that he takes the HIV prevention pill, his reputation could take a hit.

“I’ve told maybe three or

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

four friends that I’m on it, and they’re okay with that,” Lance says. “But I’m afraid to tell everyone in the world because there is a perception that if you’re on Truvada, you’re a whore.”

That’s exactly what happened when the birth control pill was released in 1961.

“It took a few years to get over that stigma,” Lance recalls.

“But eventually it was seen as a medical option, nothing more.”

The term “Truvada Whore” is making its way through the LGBT community. In fact, a group enjoying St. Pete Pride in June were spotted wearing shirts with that phrase on it. It may have been a way of advertising the pharmaceutical.

But that doesn’t make it acceptable, Harper says.

“I think it’s an abhorrent term,” Harper says. “I know that it was probably meant as tongue-in-cheek to be cutesy.

But I don’t think it’s cute or something that should be laughed at or taken lightly. It’s not cool to add another stigma to a disease that has enough stigma on top of it.”

And the stigma in Tampa Bay is higher than in other places, Langlois believes.

“It’s tough getting people to come to education things and getting people to know their status,” Langlois says.

“It’s a dated way of looking at the world.”

It also makes it difficult to recruit educators and participants for support groups, Rajkumar adds.

“By coming to a group, they are disclosing their status and they don’t want their friends to know they are positive,” Rajkumar says. “Even if it’s a generic group discussion about sex and relationships.

They’re terrified of getting that stigma.”

watermark Your lgbt life.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

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watermark Your lgbt life.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

arts &

entertainMent

PHOTO By DIAnA PRICE

idol vet Melissa Mcghee re-eMerges in taMPa Bay’s Music scene With a neW voice, a neW Band and neW oPPortunities

s

Zach Caruso

t. Petersburg | If you

see Melissa McGhee walking down the street, and swear you’ve seen her somewhere before, you’re not alone.

FINDING HER

FREEDOM

“I get a lot of, ‘You look so familiar,’” she says with a laugh.“I’m not the boastful type so I usually just end up saying ‘Oh yeah, I don’t know why,’ but then I have friends that will start yelling, ‘She was on Idol!’ Leave it to a friend to call you out.”

The 29-year-old has the voice, the looks, and the charisma to knock anyone’s socks off, and in 2005 she did just that when she appeared on Fox’s mega-hit reality singing series, American Idol.

While her success on that season gave her many opportunities—she finished 12th—she took time off and re-emerged in Tampa’s music scene last year. Many have been surprised to learn that she is gay.

Since her return to the world of music, McGhee has been active in supporting Tampa Bay’s gay community, having performed at various events for 2014’s Pride celebration. While she has never sought to hide her sexuality and who she is, she admits her time in the spotlight put a degree of strain on her personal life.

“I didn’t come out until after Idol,” she says.

“It was not a very accepted thing, so it was very hard. I had a manager at the time who basically said they didn’t want anyone to know. I’ll never forget, I had a gig down in Key West, and I’m going to be in Key West for a week so of course I want my girlfriend there with me, and my manager had told me ‘No,’ that I need to appear available.

“Even when I did come out it wasn’t widely known because of everything going on around me telling me ‘No, you can’t do that, you can’t be that continueD on Pg. 37 | uu |

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

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| uu | Melissa McGhee from Pg.35

person.’ I had producers when I was in Alabama, and I was talking to them about doing albums and such, and their answer was basically I had to choose either my ‘lifestyle’ or my career. It was hard to deal with, and obviously things have evolved a lot since then, but eight years ago it was not nearly as accepted.”

As far as her music career goes, McGhee began long before she was discovered on Idol.

“I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember,” says the Tampa native. “I did pageants when I was little and my favorite part was always the talent portion because I got to sing. I did that for a while and I spent a lot of my high school career going to Orlando, Nashville, places like that, doing showcases.”

While McGhee ended up as a top-12 finisher in the 2005 season of American Idol, few know that she already had a bit of Idol experience. She tried out for Season Two. “I went to Miami for the audition, just packed up my Mustang and headed down that way. I only had one night booked at a hotel because I figured I could get a little sleep then audition the next day.”

But Idol wasn’t built in a day.

“That’s not how it works at all,” she says with a laugh. “I was in line forever, and what I didn’t know was, what we were waiting in line for was actually to get a wristband to come back again the following day for the audition.”

McGhee didn’t advance beyond the early rounds, and when she returned home, she decided to take some time to reevaluate.

“I was honestly getting burnt out with singing because I had been doing it for so long with the pageants and showcases and all,” she says. “So I took a break.”

But two years later, she would find herself maneuvering the Idol audition process once again after a gentle nudge from her mother.

“My mom convinced me to try again,” says McGhee.

“She said ‘Why don’t you give it a shot? I’ll buy you the plane ticket, I’ll fly you to Denver, you can stay with family out there, and you can go audition.’ So I said, ‘Sure, why not?’”

McGhee’s impressive pipes advanced her further and further through the audition rounds.

I didn’t come out until after Idol; it was not a very accepted thing.

—melIssa mcghee

lIvIng out loud: Melissa McGhee couldn’t be out during her stint on Idol, but now enjoys the freedom to be herself and appear at LGBT establishments in Tampa Bay. PHOTO By DIAnA PRICE “The way it works, at least when I was on, was that you didn’t see the main judges until the third round. You go through associate producers, then the executive producers, and then if you make it through to the third round that’s when you were in front of Simon, Paula, and Randy.”

She admits that her nerves almost got the best of her, but the judges saw star potential.

“I was a nervous wreck,” she says. “I almost blew it. I was so nervous, but Randy and Paula actually pushed me through.”

And from there, the contestants hit the ground running, a fact McGhee admits she wasn’t totally prepared for.

“You don’t think it’s going to be as exhausting as it is,” she says.

“You know it’s going to be a lot of work, but you’re going through

watermark Your lgbt life.

days of singing for 14-16 hours.

Rehearsals, commercials, it’s an on-going process and you don’t get a lot of rest. But we got to stay in this amazing Beverly Hills hotel for a month or so, things like that.

It really was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

McGhee continued to wow the judges and audiences of the 2005-2006 Idol season, and ended up the 12th place finalist,

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

an honor that brought a slew of opportunities her way.

“The top-12 are all featured on the American Idol album that they record,” she says.

“I toured a lot, did a lot of charity work. I spent about three years on the road.”

When things slowed down and she returned to Tampa Bay, McGhee decided to take a breather and, as she had in 2003, reevaluate things. However this time, she was thrown a curveball.

“I unfortunately had to have vocal cord surgery,” she explains.

“I had papilloma, or vocal nodules, on my vocal cords. They were able to laser it off, and everything was fine, but I had to relearn how to sing and I ended up having a completely different voice. After the surgery, combined with fact that I had been on the road so much, I took a break for about four years.”

It wasn’t until she walked back onto a stage last year at a music festival in Kenwood that she felt the spark to perform once again.

“I sang a few songs and it worked out and gelled and I realized ‘You know what, this is what I want to do,’ so it really re-lit that fire in me. When I first got back into it, I was approaching it as more of a part-time thing; I just missed getting out there and singing. And the minute I started singing again I thought ‘Nope, I don’t want this to just be part-time.’”

McGhee has been hard at work assembling a new band and writing new music.

“I’ve been writing with the goal of producing an EP, and then getting out there and traveling a bit,” she says. “My goal right now is really straightforward: to write good music and record an EP and hopefully down the line end up getting signed.”

Now McGhee says she is back in full swing and feeling better than ever about her music, her life, and her path. She currently performs regularly at Enigma in downtown St. Petersburg and hosts a weekly singing contest at the new bar every Tuesday at 9 p.m.

“The community, my friends, family, everyone has been so unbelievably supportive. It’s what’s really pushed me to start singing again,” she says.

“I never hid who I was, but now not having that pressure on me about it, it makes it so much easier to just be who I am.”

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

coMMunity calendar Re-TROS Concert, July 17, Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg. 727.822.1032; Fine-arts.org Hed PE, July 17, State Theatre, St. Petersburg.

(727)895.3045; StateTheatreConcerts.com

Gay/Sex/Life

Back by popular demand and recreated with a new set at a new venue, catch the hilarity of Gay/Sex/Life in the Flamingo Resort’s Blu Room July 19 and 20 in St. Petersburg. The story follows a gay couple on the verge of a break-up and the dinner party they throw with more mishaps than cocktails. Shows are Saturday, July 19, at 3:30 p.m. and at 7:30 p.m. And Sunday, July 20, at 2:30 p.m. Get tickets at 727-321-5000.

Ladies of Eola Heights, July 10 to July 28, Thursday through Sunday, The Abbey, Orlando. 407-704-6261; AbbeyOrlando.com Silvestre Dangond, July 17, House of Blues, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando Twerk Du Soleil Starring To Drick Hall, July 18, Hard Rock, Orlando.

407-351-LIVE (5483); Hardrock.com/live/ locations/Orlando The Orlando Comedy Show,The MEZZ, July 18, The Abbey, Orlando. 407-704-6261; AbbeyOrlando.com

Kirk franklin Presents Tye Tribbett, July 20, House of Blues, Orlando.

407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando There’s Nothing Like a Dame!, July 21, The Plaza Live, Orlando.

407-770-0071; OrlandoPhil.org

freelow, July 25, St. Petersburg.

(727)895.3045; StateTheatreConcerts.com

Graceland Ninjaz, July 25, House of Blues, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando

Gavin DeGraw and Matt nathanson, July 29, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando

Classic Albums live featuring fleetwood Mac’s Rumours, July 25, Hard Rock, Orlando. 407-351-LIVE (5483); Hardrock.com/live/ locations/Orlando

MKTO-The American Dream Tour, July 30, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando

American floyd: Pink Floyd Experience, July 26, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando

WWE Smackdown, July 22, Amway Center, Orlando. 407-440-7000; AmwayCenter.com

Claes De Teato, July 26 to July 27, Mad Cow Theatre, Orlando. 407-297-8788; MadCowTheatre.com

The Fray, July 23, Hard Rock, Orlando.

407-351-LIVE (5483); Hardrock.com/live/ locations/Orlando

Don’t Scare the Dog, July 28, The Abbey, Orlando. 407-704-6261; AbbeyOrlando.com

Marly Music Chamber Series: Scott Kluksdahl, cellist, July 20, Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg. 727.822.1032; Fine-arts.org

Johnnyswim, July 26, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; JobSiteTheater.org

arts and entertainMent Vilma Palma e Vampiros y Los Pericos, July 18, House of Blues, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando

Bobaflex, July 18, St. Petersburg.

(727)895.3045; StateTheatreConcerts.com

Dinner & Jazz: Phil Magallanes, July 25, Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg. 727.822.1032; Fine-arts.org

eventPlanner orlando

Dinner & Jazz: Rio Bossa, July 18, Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg.

727.822.1032; Fine-arts.org

Dirty Heads and Pepper, July 31, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando

taMPa Bay Inventing Van Gogh, July 17, Shimberg Playhouse at the Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org

Hank3, July 26, St. Petersburg.

(727)895.3045; StateTheatreConcerts.com The Summer Slaughter Tour, July 29, St. Petersburg.

(727) 895.3045; StateTheatreConcerts.com

sarasota American Idol live, July 17, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota. 813-826-9303; Vanwezel.org Rachel feinstein, July 17 to July 20, McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, Sarasota.

(941) 925-FUNY (3869); MccurdysComedy.com

Bill Belamy, July 17, Improv Comedy Theater, Tampa. 813-864-4000; ImprovTampa.com

orlanDo

Loose Slots Ahoy!

3 P.m., saturday, july 19 ParlIament house resort Come Out With Pride hosts a fun casino night at sea, beginning with a pre-party at the Parliament House, on July 19. After the party, which does not require attendance with purchase, guests will head to a Victory Casino cruise ship for an evening of gambling on the Atlantic. Tickets are $35 and gets you transportation to and from the ship as well as $20 of gambling tokens.

For details, visit ComeOutWithPride.com or call 321800-3944.

Anime Festival frIday, july 25-sunday, july 27 wyndham orlando resort 8000 InternatIonal dr., orlando This is the 15th year for Orlando’s anime festival, which celebrates Japanese culture and entertainment.

Expect costumed fans and many familiar LGBT faces, given the art form’s cultural influence. Visit AnimeFestivalOrlando.com to purchase tickets.

Vans Warped Tour 2014 july 27, 11 a.m. central florIda faIrgrounds 4603 w. colonIal dr., orlando Bands include Less Than Jake, Yellowcard, We The Kings and many more. Visit VansWrapedTour.com or call (407) 295-3247.

tamPa

Hurricane Tea Dance 2 P.m., sunday, july 20 the dogs bollocks, 1704 e.

7th ave., ybor

Join the GaYbor District Coalition as it throws its third official Tea-Dance, this one with a hurricane theme, on July 20. The social event begins at 2 p.m. and a $5 donation is requested at the door. The party is open to everyone (of legal age, of course) and is not limited to only GaYbor members.

Watermark Wednesday 6 P.m., wednesday, july 23 stageworks theater.

1120 e. kennedy blvd., tamPa After taking a month off in honor of St. Pete Pride, Watermark returns with its monthly social that includes a free drink and a ton of raffle prizes that raise money for great causes. This month’s beneficiary is Balance Tampa Bay, which does charitable work on both sides of the water. The free event is a great way to mingle and meet new friends and win some great swag! There may even be a special performance in the works...

To submit your upcoming event, concert, performance, or fundraiser visit watermarkonline.com.

watermark Your lgbt life.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

39

Adult Boutique GRAND OPENING

Lingerie Novelties DVDs Lounge, Theatre & Arcade Over 60 Private Booths Pay One Price for all 3 $10 Unlimited Viewing

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SPONSORED BY:

Order tickets at ASAPServices.org *Open bar from 4p-6p

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

Your

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ShotonSite

Tampa Bay

1- Ice breaker: Pasco County resident Joey tries to break open a frozen T-shirt poolside at the Flamingo Resort July 13 as part of a contest. Photo by Steve Blanchard 2- Dinner meeting: Members of the Tampa Bay Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce enjoy dinner before the Greenlight Pinellas presentation at the Holiday Inn in Clearwater on Ulmerton July 8. Photo courtesy Sharon Herman

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3- Red, white and blue: Miss Samantha shows her patriotic pride while out in Ybor City over the July 4 holiday weekend. Photo courtesy Carrie West 4- Birthday surprise: 6-Pak, left, comes out of retirement to perform a duet with birthday girl Kori Stevens at Georgie’s Alibi July 2. Photo courtesy Sasha Citino 5-Leather-ready: Alexis De La Mer welcomes the leather crowd to the Flamingo Resort’s T-Dance on July 13, where she emceed several contests and games that helped raise money for ASAP through the Mr. Code Leather group. Photo by Steve Blanchard 6- Ready to go: The Southern Comfort Team and friends gather in Ybor City for the annual GaYbor Pub Crawl over the July 4 weekend. Photo courtesy Carrie West 7- Spotted!: Arica Love enjoys a night out at Steam Fridays in Ybor City July 4 with a friend. Photo courtesy Carrie West

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8- Welcome wagon: (L-R) Sisters DiDi Daytripper, Merry Widow and Monica Muffdiver of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence meet and greet those attending the leather weekend at Flamingo Resort the weekend of July 11. Photo courtesy Jack Butera

Overheard Lesbians reunited!

T

he folks behind the G2H2 (Gay Guys Happy Hour) in Sarasota are bringing back its lesbian counterpart, L2H2 (Lesbian Ladies Happy Hour) this month!

On Thursday, July 17, the grand re-opening of the group cascaded upon Tsunami Sushi and Hibachi Grill for a reunion of sorts. The women-only event gives lesbians a chance to meet and mingle in a business-style atmosphere and make business connections and new friends in Sarasota. The free event featured a 50/50 raffle, door prizes and complimentary appetizers. For more info on

future events, visit the L2H2 Facebook page, where updates are provided monthly.

The prom you wanted comes back

R

emember your high school prom? The awkward photos and the faked interest in your opposite-sex date made for some painful memories. Well, thanks to Quench Lounge, you can recreate that night with the date you wished you had on Saturday, July 26.

The Second Annual Prom You Wished You Had returns after an amazing successful first run last summer, and expect it to

be bigger and better in 2014.

Attendees are encouraged to dress in their prom best for a chance to be crowned prom king or queen at midnight. Food, an amazing show and drink specials all begin at 9 p.m. and the nearby Holiday Inn will offer special room rates and a shuttle to make sure attendees arrive home safely after a night on the town. The hotel has recently jumped on board with several LGBT-friendly organizations, including Balance Tampa Bay and the Tampa Bay Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.

Visit QuenchLounge.com for more details on the prom and for a link to the special hotel rates.

watermark Your lgbt life.

Dunk tank, games raise money for ASAP

T

he Flamingo Resort was the home of several unique fundraising opportunities for the AIDS Service Association of Pinellas (ASAP), thanks to the Tampa Bay leather community. During the weekend of July 11, the resort’s Wet and Wild Weekend featured performances by show staff and guests, boot blacks and leather contests Friday and Saturday night. On Sunday, the resort provided a dunk tank where members of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, DJs, and other notables in

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

the community took turns to get soaked for charity. It cost only $5 for three throws, and if anyone hit the target, the unlucky volunteer fell into five feet of chilly water, which was actually refreshing considering the temperatures reached the 90s on July 13. There was also an Andrew Christian underwear contest, which somehow managed to incorporate waterbaloons into the modeling portion of the day. More than $500 was raised for ASAP, and Mr. Code 2014 Woodie Barnes welcomed attendees and thanked them for their generosity from throughout the weekend.

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

ShotonSite 1

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orlando 1- GOOD NEIGHBORS: (L to R) Wadeview Park Neighborhood Association president Genie Tuten, VP Eric Rollings, state representative Linda Stewart, City Councilwoman Patty Sheehan and Orlando police officer Karen Long are all smiles after talking safety at the Association’s July 14 meeting. Photo courtesy City of Orlando Greenworks 2- TWO MEN AND A BABY: Lila Grace SmithRodriquez enjoys a day out with daddies Paul Smith (center) and Jose Rodriquez July 5 at Ivanhoe Village for Red Out and Equal. Photo by Veronica Brezina

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3- SINGING IN THE RAIN: After their festival performance got rained out, drag performers Chrysanthemum, left, and Lacie Browning take their show indoors to the Hammered Lamb July 5. Photo by Jamie Hyman 4- COMEDY QUEENS: The Ladies of Eola Heights take a bow on opening night, July 3, at The Abbey. Photo by Mark Cady

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5- Mixin’ it up: (L to R) Bob Azzarito, Don Williams and Stephen Watkins rub elbows at the MBA’s Monthly Mixer, July 9 at NY Life offices downtown. Photo by Danny Garcia 6- STAYING COOL: Zebra Coalition executive director Dexter Foxworth and Outreach Manager Tairi Perez test out the waterslide in the Kidz Zone at Red, Out and Equal July 5. Photo courtesy Zebra Coalition 7- FAMILY FUN: (L-R) Sue-Bee Laginess, Zane Strait and Julie Textor “having a blast” at Fun Spot for Family Outfest July 3. Photo by Veronica Brezina

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8- DOUBLE DIRECTORS: GLBT Center of Central Florida assistant executive director Russell Walker and Ivanhoe Village executive director Scottie Campbell stop by Watermark’s tent at Red, Out and Equal July 5. Photo by Jamie Hyman

Overheard Hunter, RBarr part ways

I

n a sudden shake up of their entertainment line-up, RBarr general manager Daniel Vega has confirmed that “Unfortunately, Danielle Hunter is no long with us.” Hunter was hired as RBarr’s resident host and emcee and was formerly on the entertainment staff of Funky Monkey Wine Bar and Bananas. The new gig was a homecoming of sorts, since she once performed at Revolution, which once occupied the RBarr building. Tasha Long is now manning the heels at RBarr as the new host and

emcee. Hunter is rumored to be negotiatingwith her former employers and could return to her old post soon.

Pride on Wheels!

C

ome Out with Pride hopes to take care of all your downtown transportation and parking hassles! It’s known that COWP hopes to partner with SunRail to provide a Saturday Run on Oct. 11. Now, despite Uber’s controversy with the city of Orlando and local taxi service giants like Mears, COWP has announced the ride sharing service as an official partner to COWP. With the major success many riders experienced with

Uber’s low rates and quick and clean service during Gay Days weekend, the service has only grown since it’s early June launch.

Brink is the new Clink

O

n July 26 Brink Orlando capitalizes on the continued success of Orange is the New Black by playing host to an arresting duo: Taryn Manning, who plays religious meth-head Tiffany ‘Pennsatucky’ Doggett, and Dascha Polanco, who plays Dayanara Diaz, the girl behind bars expecting the guard’s baby!

The popular NetFlix series is a huge hit with the LGBT community due to its comedic

watermark Your lgbt life.

take on life behind bars, lesbian themes and a transgender actress and character. Aside from the two ladies making a special appearance at Brink, Manning has been locked down as a guest DJ, since she’s an accomplished musician and DJ.

Celebrating a legend

T

he Carousel Club.

The Palace Club.

The Diamond Head.

They’re all part of Orlando’s LGBT nightlife history, and soon, one of its legendary performers will be too. Lorrie Del Mar, preeminent drag artist and multiple titleholder, has announced her retirement from the stage.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

Known for her extreme overthe-top performances (she once famously rode a horse into Miami’s Fountainebleau ballroom during a pageant), Del Mar’s triumphs in the spotlight took a tragic turn in 1984 when a car accident left her partially disabled. Del Mar’s career will be celebrated in “A Farewell Tribute,” Monday, July 21, at The Parliament House.

An all-star cast of presenters and performers, including several of her former fellow Footlight Players costars, are scheduled to appear in the 9 p.m. show. Advance tickets are $8 at Wanzie.com or $10 at the door.

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

Transitions

Strike Out For

change-oF-liFe coMMunity announceMents

sayIng ‘I do’: Orlando couple Thomas Cail-Collin, who many remember from his days as a

bartender at the Parliament House, and Jerry Collin, of Kay Green Design, were legally married on July 4 at the Fairmont Battery Wharf in Boston, Mass.

August 16, 2014 6-9pm at Pinchasers

visit www.StrikeOutforAIDS.org for more details

Francis House Fundraiser

For details on how you can win $10,000 Call 813-237-3066

newly aPPoInted: Congratulations lots to celebrate: St. Petersburg’s

newly appointed LGBT liaison, Robert Danielson, pictured, left, with St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman, celebrates his birthday July 18.

to George Wallace, who after four years as general manager, was named executive director of the Orlando Fringe Festival this month. Read the full story of the newly created position on the Orlando News Page (Page 8).

congratulations

local Birthdays

Concept Bait owner frank Clemente and long-time partner Toby Anderson of St. Petersburg were legally married in Boston on July 14.

St. Petersburg artist James Michael McCracken, St. Petersburg IT wiz frank Meekins (July 17); Seminole business owner David Verdi and St. Petersburg LGBT liaison Robert Danielson (July 18); St. Pete Pride board member Robert Shaffer, Tampa Bay bear Mike Tobias (July 19); Orlando entertainer, Sam Singhaus, Karmic Tattoo guitarist and vocalist Pam Green (July 20); Tampa Bay performer and singer Jennifer Real (July 21); St. Pete Air Canada employee Bob Thayer,

Clearwater couple Wayne Whitney and Paul Gonya were legally married in Northeast Harbor, Maine, on July 7.

MBA Membership Director Charlene Bell (July 23); teacher, Orlando Gay Chorus member Bill yahner (July 24); Beth Shalom Memorial Chapel Associate Executive Director Sammy Goldstein (July 26); Regional Manager for Grey Goose vodka David Chase Harding III (July 28); House of Adonis’ Josh Walker (July 29); St. Pete Bears’ Buddy Chapman (July 29); Orlando’s House of Adonis’ Joey Clupper (July 30); Watermark founder and publisher Tom Dyer (July 30); Orlando realtor Danny Veal (July 31).

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!

watermark Your lgbt life.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

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watermark Your lgbt life.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

sports

Former KU player, NFL prospect comes out Staff Report

T

opeka, Kan. | Former Kansas offensive lineman Brad Thorson had a direct message to share on his personal blog on July 4.

“I’m gay,” he wrote. And with those two words, Thorson became the first former University of Kansas football player to announce publicly that he is gay.

“I was insanely nervous for potential backlash or something like that,” Thorson said in an interview with the Capital-Journal.

“But really after I hit send, I just remembered the great place I’m in and that nothing’s changed a minute before and a minute after. It became easy to do.

“After that was over, I was like, ‘Oh, wow. This momentous moment in my life is not that big of a deal anymore.’”

Thorson, who played at KU from

2008-10 and started all 24 games during his final two seasons, received immediate response following his announcement.

Former KU teammates— including Tim Biere and Ted McNulty—have contacted him in recent days, along dozens of other athletes both gay and straight.

“It’s honestly the opposite of what I expected,” Thorson told the newspaper. “Not that I thought that I’d have teammates come out and say really negative things, but I expected a lot of silence, and it’s been the exact opposite. The fact that I can’t even recall all the people today alone who have just sent congratulation-type messages is overwhelming.”

Thorson, who works now in publisher relations for an advertising startup in San Francisco, said he had yet to come to grips with his sexuality during his playing days at KU. “Not until football came to a halt

Announcement: Former KU

offensive lineman Brad Thorson came out on his blog on July 4 by simply writing, “I’m gay.”

did I have the impetus to look at my life and say, ‘Who am I? Who do I want to be?’” Thorson said. “And so the fact that I kept repeating my ... I don’t know if it’s an excuse or my reason for staying in the closet was a lack of role models, it became pretty evident that I was doing a disservice to my half-self who was uncomfortable with who he was by not coming out.”

Though unsure of his sexuality at the time, Thorson still spent many hours at KU in a locker room setting—a place that has been long thought to be a location where gay athletes might not be welcome.

Thorson watched with admiration when Missouri linebacker Michael Sam announced he was gay before the 2014 NFL draft. Sam later was taken in the seventh round by the St. Louis Rams.

“I thought that anytime I heard people say, ‘Oh, it’s not a big deal.

This is 2014.’ It is a big deal. It’s a huge deal. And I think it does pain me a little bit to say such great things about a Missouri Tiger,” Thorson said with a laugh, “but I think his strength was something that made me feel like, ‘I need to stop waiting. I need to get over my fears a little bit.’

“His decision, I’m still in awe of it. It was instrumental in me coming to accept myself over the past six months.”

Thorson says the biggest reason for going public about being gay was for himself.

“It’s just been a journey,” Thorson said. “I got to a point where I started to tell myself, ‘I don’t need to do this. I don’t owe anybody anything.’ And I started to meet a lot of people involved in the LGBTQ movement. And one of the common things that I kept hearing myself say is that the biggest part for me is that I never felt like I had the right role models or people to look up to. If I could have just seen somebody else be like me, it would have helped.

That would have made all the difference.”

Going forward, Thorson plans to respond to those who have emailed him in the last week.

And though he’s been liberated by his blog post, he also hopes others might be changed by it as well.

“I don’t see myself converting lots of people into changing their negative opinions about homosexuality, but helping one kid, changing one person’s mind is enough of a success. That would be success enough for me. I hope I’ve already done that.”

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

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July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

Photo caPtions

2007

1- Conservative Sen. larry Craig (R-Idaho) was arrested in June for soliciting sex from a police officer in a Minneapolis airport. For the rest of the year, he didn’t leave his house without holding his wife’s hand.

2- During an interview, Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling casually mentioned that she’d always envisioned powerful, admirable Hogwarts headmaster Albus Dumbledore as a gay man. For fans of the series, it made sense.

1

2

7

3- Sleepy Largo received national media attention when it fired 17-year city manager Steve Stanton after he announced plans to transition to life as a female. A resilient Susan Stanton was celebrated as St. Pete Pride’s grand marshal.

4- 25-year-old Ryan Skipper was murdered in Polk County in March. The killers stabbed him 20 times and were charged, and ultimately convicted, of a hate crime.

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5- At a public hearing in Largo concerning the future of transitioning city manager Steve Stanton, EQFL executive director nadine Smith was arrested for handing out a “Don’t Discriminate” flyer and forcibly thrown to the floor. Charges were dropped.

6- The much-loved Suncoast Resort held its final T-Dance on June 18 -- just a week shy of its ninth anniversary in St. Pete. The 9-acre resort was home to five bars and lots of memories.

7- The Orlando chapter of the Human Rights Campaign won the organization’s coveted Federal Club of the Year award. HRC president Joe Solmonese is flanked by HRC Orlando’s Jennifer foster and John Ruffier.

5

ON THE COVER Watermark turns 20 this coming Labor Day. In the issues between now and then, founder and publisher Tom Dyer looks back at a remarkable two decades.

On this page, he returns to 2007.

VOLUME 14, ISSUE 11

By 2007, red t-shirts in front of Cinderella’s Castle no longer captured the fabulousness that is Gay Days Weekend. In its 16th year, the gathering included five days of events at multiple venues and filled more than a half dozen big hotels with LGBT partiers from around the world. So we offered up dueling interviews with two divas of comedy, Lisa Lampanelli (appearing at Hard Rock Live) and Kathy Griffin (headlining One Mighty Party at Disney-MGM Studios).

6

w

Ith brutalIty

manager Steve Stanton, who was fired when he announced that he was transitioning to life as a female. Susan Stanton’s battle became national news, shedding light on transgender rights. St. Pete’s Suncoast Resort closed in June, and focus shifted to Ybor City. More than 40 businesses joined the GaYbor Coalition.

St. Pete Pride’s growth continued when it attracted 50,000. Four protestors with were arrested. To the south, Sarasota PrideFest was canceled for the first time in 20 years. TIGLFF rebranded as the Clip Film Festival. And activist Joe Redner ran unsuccessfully for Tampa City Council.

In Orlando, GLBCC appointed

watermark Your lgbt life.

8- Tampa’s All Hallows Ball continued to attract the best Halloween costumes in Tampa Bay, as demonstrated by these zombie pilots.

9- Former Orlando Magic player John Amaechi became the first NBA player to come out of the closet. The articulate Brit became a respected voice for LGBT equality, including at Orlando’s Come Out With Pride.

looKing BacK

reminiscent of Matthew Shepard, 25-year-old Winter Haven resident Ryan Keith Tom Dyer Skipper was murdered in March.

PUBLISHER

The perpetrators, two locals, stabbed him 20 times and left his body at the side of the road.

William David Brown and Joseph Bearden were sentenced to life in prison. Throughout 2008 the LGBT communities in Orlando and Tampa Bay grieved with Skipper’s parents, Lynn and Pat Mulder. A documentary by filmmakers Vicki Nantz and Mary Meeks debuted in 2008 and was shown at TIGLFF. Statewide, supporters of a statewide constitutional ban on same-sex marriage gathered signatures to place the measure on the 2008 ballot. Fairness for All Families and Florida Red & Blue formed to battle the ban.

In Tampa Bay, activists rallied behind Largo city

10

Michael Vance executive director and resurrected the Spectrum Awards. Come Out With Pride brought 30,000 to Lake Eola Park. Orlando City Commissioner Patty Sheehan announced for a second term, and ran unopposed.

And State Rep. Bob Allen (R-Merritt Island) was found guilty of soliciting sex from an undercover officer at a Titusville park.

Elsewhere, HRC and Logo sponsored a historic debate between Democratic presidential candidates.

Washington, Oregon and New Hampshire legalized civil unions. Rosie O’Donnell resigned from The View.

Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad told a New York audience that, “We don’t have homosexuals...”

And we said goodbye to Tammy Faye Bakker Messner, Rev. Jerry Falwell, Charles Nelson Reilly and Merv Griffin.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

10- In its 18th year, Headdress Ball proved that it had lost none of its drama and luster.

By 2007, the fundraiser for Hope & Help Center had also become a key fixture in Orlando’s fall social season.

most PoPular song

Irreplaceable by Beyonce most PoPular album

Noel by Josh Groban

most PoPular tv show

American Idol

highest grossing film

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End best Picture oscar

No Country for Old Men average cost of a new home

$314,000 (height of the real estate boom) out celebrities

Suze Orman, David Hyde Pierce, NBA basketball player John Amaechi states with marriage eQuality

Massachusetts

53

Photo caPtions 1- In its last year as Clip, Tampa’s LGBT Film Fest presented comedian Bruce Vilanch at a screening of his movie. He’s pictured with (L-R) Chuck Henson, Mariruth Kennedy and Chris Constantinou.

2008

2- When MC Film Fest owners Mark Bias and Carrie West relocated their iconic retail outlet to Ybor City, they fueled an LGBT renaissance in Tampa’s historic nightlife district.

3- LGBT’s in Florida were outraged when voters overwhelmingly passed a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage.

Protests like this one at Orlando City Hall erupted throughout the state.

1 9

4- Many Democrats had a difficult time choosing between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. But the LGBT community—like these St. Pete Pride marchers—got firmly behind Obama’s historic candidacy.

5- The Parliament House drew record numbers with headliner RuPaul during Gay Days Weekend.

6- Directed by Gus Van Sant, Milk featured a stunning performance by Sean Penn as activist Harvey Milk. Penn was rewarded with a Best Actor Oscar.

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3

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7- As the outspoken face of Amendment 2, attorney and religious right activist John Stemberger became Central Florida’s Ronda Storms—both faces of prejudice.

8- Martin Gill adopted his foster children, and proved the beginning of the end for Florida’s ban on adoption by gays.

9- The Rachel Maddow Show debuted on MSNBC in September, and her commentary during the historic 2008 presidential campaign made the out Rhodes Scholar a household name.

10- Parties cornered press, but this family went to the roots of Gay Days Weekend with their red-shirts at the Magic Kingdom 11- Hamburger Mary’s was a breakout success on Church Street. In addition to good food, the restaurant provided a showcase for some of Orlando’s best LGBT entertainers, including Carol Lee (Matthew Arter) and Miss Sammy (Sam Singhaus).

4

ON THE COVER

most PoPular song

Watermark turns 20 this coming Labor Day. In the issues between now and then, founder and publisher Tom Dyer looks back at a remarkable two decades. On this page, he returns to 2008.

most PoPular album

VOLUME 15, ISSUE 22

6 YEARS AGO Low by Flo Rida

Tha Carter III by Lil Wayne most PoPular tv show

American Idol

highest grossing film

The Dark Knight

best Picture oscar

Slumdog Millionaire out celebrities

Wanda Sykes, Clay Aiken, author Maurice Sendak (Where the Wild Things Are), Rep. Jared Polis (D-CO)-the first openly gay man elected to Congress states with marriage eQuality

Connecticut, Massachusetts and California (until Prop 8 passed)

54

WAINWRIGHT GAY LATINOS

Hit the Tampa Stage

County Commission Candidate

KEVIN BECKNER Hillsboroughʼs Great Gay Hope

With their reversal on rights protections and ban on pride displays, the Hillsborough County Commission was a source of frustration for years. But that changed with the election of openly gay financial planner Kevin Beckner in 2008. Beckner easily defeated Republican incumbent (and ex-pro wrestler) Brian Blair, and won re-election in 2012. This cover of the fresh-faced and handsome Beckner is my favorite of the year.

5

2

looKing BacK

008 wIll be remembered

for the historic election of Barack Obama, not only the first African American President, but also Tom Dyer the most supportive of our community.

PUBLISHER Thousands of LGBT volunteers helped Obama carry Florida— including Orange, Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties.

Congress also lifted the ban on HIV-positive travelers.

Connecticut became the third state to legalize same-sex marriage by court order. But California voters stripped same-sex couples of their marriage rights.

Likewise, Floridians overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage.

Some pointed to unfocused campaigns by two separate and often conflicted opposing groups—Focus for All Families and Florida Red & Blue. Protests

watermark Your lgbt life.

erupted throughout the state, many targeting Gov. Charlie Crist, who expressed support for the amendment prior to Election Day. But in South Florida, a judge ruled that the state cannot prevent openly gay Martin Gill from adopting his foster children. And after eight years, a Safe Schools bill passed the Florida legislature with protections based on gender identity and sexual orientation.

Orlando extended domestic partner benefits to city employees. Among those

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

voting for the change was out Commissioner Patty Sheehan, just elected to a second term.

Elsewhere in the city, there was outrage when WFTV exposed a subdivision that excluded gay renters.

Tampa celebrated the election of Kevin Beckner to the hostile Hillsborough County Commission. And across the bay, Pinellas voted to include sexual orientation—but not gender identity—in its human rights ordinance. St. Pete Pride drew a whopping 70,000, securing its position as the largest Pride event in the state. In Tampa, Winter Pride was canceled due to severe weather and never returned. Sarasota PrideFest was back, this time at Van Wezel. And the influx to GaYbor continued with the opening of restaurants and retail.

We also said goodbye to Estelle Getty (The Golden Girls), Heath Ledger (Brokeback Mountain) and designer Yves Saint Laurent.

watermark Your lgbt life.

July 17 - July 3 0, 2014 // Issue 21.15

55

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