Watermark Issue 21.26: Remarkable

dAytonA beAch • orlAndo • tAmpA • St. peterSburg • SArASotA • iSSue 21.26 • december 18 - 31, 2014 • WAtermArkonline.com

orlando ediTion

your lGBT life.

MBA CONTINUES ITS INVESTIGATION

inTo alleGed mismanaGemenT

A REMARKABLE

LEGACY

While grieving The deaTh of her parTner and raising Their neWBorn, Joan rodriguez Will conTinue To fighT for The eQualiTy she and her parTner never had ALSO: counTry sinGer

TY HERNDON Talks candidly aBouT His cominG ouT

This issue features two covers!

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

dAytonA beAch • orlAndo • tAmpA • St. peterSburg • SArASotA • iSSue 21.26 • december 18 - 31, 2014 • WAtermArkonline.com

your lGBT life. tAmpA bAy ediTion

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REMARKABLY

COURAGEOUS garry Breul spenT much of 2014 BaTTling his oWn aggressive cancer, yeT remained commiTTed To raising money for local hiv paTienTs Through The suncoasT aids TheaTre proJecT

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deparTmenTs 6 // mail 13 // orlando neWs 17 // Tampa Bay neWs 25 // sTaTe 27 // naTion & World neWs 55 // communiTy calendar 61 // TransiTions 62 // Tampa Bay markeTplace 63 // sporTs 64 // orlando markeTplace

PAGE

20

The decision has created statewide confusion about the effect of the injunction, which is directed to only one of Florida’s sixty-seven clerks of court.

—pam Bondi

on The cover

orlando ediTion Tampa Bay ediTion page 35 page 41 Joan Rodriguez is photographed with her four-week old son, Liam, in her Orlando home. Her remarkable journey this year saw the loss of her partner to cancer and an emotional speech in Orange County that convinced the commission to support same-sex marriage.

Photo by Jake Stevens

scan Qr code for

WaTermarkonline.com

Suncoast AIDS Theater Project founder Garry Breul, photographed at Demens Landing in St. Petersburg, continued raising money for people with AIDS in 2014, despite a dire cancer diagnosis in April.

PAGE ouT WiTh a TWang: Shortly before Thanksgiving,

49

country singer Ty Herndon announced that he is gay and in a five-year relationship with his partner, Matty. We talk to Herndon about his decision to come out, his music and what he sees for his future as an out country singer in Nashville.

WaTermark i ssue 21.26 // decemBer 18 - 3 1, 2014

orlando neWs

Tampa Bay

remarkaBle people

gallery W

PAGE The man responsible for

PAGE The popular St.

PAGE

PAGE

Photo by Bruce Hardin

read it online!

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

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the murder of Ashley Sinclair, a popular local performer, has been found guilty of manslaughter; the MBA has not yet filed charges against Audebert; sormer State Representative Joe Saunders begins job with HRC; more.

17

Petersburg night club Georgie’s Alibi is for sale; The City of Tampa signs on as a cosponsor of Tampa Pride, offering a much needed boost; Metro Wellness and Community Center hosts the ribbon cutting for its new LGBT Welcome Center; more.

As 2014 comes to a close, Watermark recognizes 14 people who did remarkable things in 2014. Seven Central Florida residents and seven residents of Tampa Bay were selected from nominations submitted by our readers.

35

The annual Santa Speedo Run returned to Ybor City for the fifth year on Dec. 14, and this time incorporated Mrs. Claus in Bras. We, of course, had our photographers at the ready throughout the event, which featured a one-mile run and an after party.

70

See the full intervieWS With our 14 remArkAble people of 2014 At WAtermArkonline.com

watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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2014_holiday_Watermark_4.25x10.375 11/4/14 12:58 PM Page 1

TooJay’s spreads Challahday cheer! T

Thanks for the education

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Explore a wide variety of Challahday catering options to celebrate at home or office.

hank you for your recent indepth section on the area’s Leather Community. I admit that I have never approached a person in leather or understood their role in the community, so to say I learned something is an understatement.

It was a brave subject to tackle and I respect your paper for educating its readers. I hope those who are offended by the subject matter are in the minority.

S ’ Y A TOO

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Challahday shopping?

Come in for a delicious break from the hustle and bustle.

Have cautious optimism for marriage

A

CLU spokesman Baylor Johnson is right in cautioning against excessive optimism not only because, as he says, the State of Florida has tenaciously fought to defend the bans. A second reason not to count one’s chickens before they hatch is that one person, Clarence Thomas, who (rabidly?) opposes marriage equality, now has the legal power to stay execution of Judge Hinkle’s ruling beyond

READER FEEDBACK “Clarence Thomas, who (rabidly?) opposes marriage equality, now has the legal power to stay Judge Hinkle’s ruling.”

—Aron Sasportas

5 January 2015 and the question only he can answer at the moment is whether he will use it.

For details on how he has the power to stay the ruling after that date, see the section on Florida in Report 151 in Equal Human Rights and Civil Rights for All Persons, No Matter Their Gender, No Matter Their Sexual Orientation: An Interpretive Newsletter at HUMCIV.com.

Aron Sasportas

Via Facebook

TOP WEB COMMENTS (compiled from WatermarkOnline.com)

On Watermark’s indepth coverage of the leather community:

“Why am I not surprised that the cover shook people up? I am happy to see the Leather People coming out of the shadows, and stepping into the public light. Fear is created by ignorance,

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watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

ignorance is eliminated by education. Thank you for risking education over popular opinion.”

—Alan Swfl

On Rock it Red St. Petersburg:

“Brian Longstreth’s (GayStPeteHouse.com and Your Neighborhood Reality) financial support made this project happen. I cannot thank him enough.

Council Members Darden Rice, Wengay Netwon, and Carl Nurse should also be thanked for their support.

Thank you Saint Petersburg for letting me express myself. I love St. Pete!”

—Jim Buresch

On the city of Tampa sponsoring Tampa Pride:

“Seems like they’re just trying to steal from and compete with St Pete Pride.

What a joke.”

—Aarich Reistino

editor’s

Steve blanchard eDitor

SteveB@WatermarkOnline.com

i

desk

t’s not easy Being gay. it sounds

trite, but it’s true. And I’m assuming it’s just as difficult being lesbian, bisexual or transgender.

As we look back on 2014, we have a lot to celebrate. Marriage equality continued its sweep across the state, domestic partnership registries and human rights ordinances have finally protected some of our rights—even in the historically conservative counties— and more and more people holding elected offices have stepped out in support of their LGBT constituents.

But it’s also been a frustrating and exhausting year, especially in Florida. Too many anti-LGBT candidates won in the November elections. Pam Bondi—whether you think she’s just doing her job or not—continues to do everything she can to block access

WaTermark sTaff

to marriage for gays and lesbians while ignoring other crimes in the state, AIDS “cures” are announced and then redacted, and crimes motivated by hate still make it into the headlines It’s easy to forget the progress we’ve made over the last 40-plus years, even though change is happening rapidly right before our eyes. I’ve heard friends say on more than one occasion, “I’m tired and the fight seems to be never-ending. It’s time for me to step back and stop fighting.”

And I am ashamed to admit, I’ve said those words—or a similar phrase—more than once.

But for every struggle, every defeat and each disappointment, there is 10-times the amount of

Founder and Senior Contributor: tom Dyer • ext. 305 • tom@watermarkonline.com Publisher: 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 Editorial Assistant: 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

inspiration. That is what we must focus on as we move into 2015 and long into the future.

The people profiled within these pages of Watermark give me hope. Their stories inspire me.

And, most of all, they prove to me that no matter what is happening in the world, there are good people out there who are doing everything they can—against all odds—to leave the world a better place than where they found it.

This is the last issue of Watermark to have the year 2014 emblazoned on its cover. This issue is also the one that spans the entire holiday season. So our gift to you, no matter which holiday you celebrate, is a look at the “14 Most Remarkable People of 2014.”

Each individual has a story that inspires and, I know for me, seeing life from their perspective has helped renew my focus and energy for the continuing fight for equality.

Our two cover subjects—my personal friend Garry Breul of Bradenton on the Tampa Bay edition and Joan Rodriguez on the Orlando edition—were kind enough and brave enough to open themselves to our questions and to our photographers while sharing their struggles and triumphs. We asked for your suggestions for people to highlight and they came rolling in. Our editorial team debated on who to highlight and who to put on these two covers. So Joan and Garry didn’t land on that front page by chance. Their stories motivated us all, were the reason a few tears were shed and we are excited to introduce you to them this holiday season.

Sales Manager: mark cady ext. 102 [orlando] • mark@watermarkonline.com Tampa Bay Sales: bill Jeffries ext. 301 • 813-454-9064 • bill@watermarkonline.com Orlando Advertising Sales: Sam Rennels ext. 103 • Sam@watermarkonline.com Orlando Advertising Sales: Danny garcia ext. 107 • Danny@watermarkonline.com Nat’l Ad Representative: Rivendell media Inc. • 212-242-6863

watermark Your lgbt life.

That’s not to say those who aren’t on the cover are lesser.

In fact, all 14 of these people have gone above and beyond in the past year to improve the world around them, whether it’s politically, socially, medically, or through education or entertainment.

All of these amazing people are also featured on WatermarkOnline.com, and their stories are longer than what you may see in print, since word count isn’t an issue in cyberspace.

So if you feel inspired, share these stories online, hand an issue of

“There are good people out there who are doing everything they can—against all odds—to leave the world a better place than where they found it.”

the paper to a friend and remind those around you that true champions and inspiring people live all around us.

No matter what those who oppose us say, we don’t choose to be LGBT. Many of us—myself included—struggled with our sexuality early on and tried to wish or pray it away. It takes time to realize that it’s not a curse, but a gift.

What we do with that gift is up to us. And it’s my resolution, thanks in large part to these inspiring, remarkable people, to use this gift and make being LGBT easier for those who come after me.

Happy Holidays!

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

Tampa Bay office TEL: 813-655-9890 FAX: 813-849-2986

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

conTriBuTors greg stemm

lives in Gulfport, Fla., and has worked as a freelance writer for several local publications. He is a founding member of St. Pete Pride and politically active in Tampa Bay. Page 23

aaron aLper is a

photographer and writer in St. Petersburg.

He holds a Masters in English Education from the University of South Florida. Page 17

christaL hayes

is a former Watermark intern and current student at the University of Central Florida. She is a native of Bradenton and currently resides in Orlando. Page 38 greg BurTon, scoTTie campBell, zach caruso, susan clary, kirk harTlage, Joseph kissel, ken kundis, mary meeks, sTephen miller, david moran, gregg shipiro, greg sTemm, BreTT sTouT, dr. sTeve yacovelli, Jim Walker, michael Wanzie

phoTography nick cardello, angie folks, Tom eckerT, Julie milford, Travis moore, chris sTephenson, lee vandergrifT, Tinkerfluff, lonnie Thompson

disTriBuTion rJ puBlishing, lisa Jordan, ken caraWay, david krauss CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher.

Unsolicited article submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Although WATERMARK is supported by many fine advertisers, we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

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

WATERMARK is published every second Thursday. Subscription rate is $55 (1st class) and $26 (standard mail).

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

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

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watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

orlando news

The Top

5

sTories of The year

changes at the center

strength in numBers:

Friends of Ashley Sinclair, (L to R) Darcel Stevens, terrina winn, aisja brooks, lenny harris and chacha Davis, gathered to hear the verdict of Sinclair’s killer, Kent Louis.

Photo FRom bRookS’ Facebook Page

Justice served? o

rLando | The man responsible for the murder of Ashley Sinclair, a popular local performer, has been found guilty of manslaughter.

A jury delivered Kent Louis’ verdict Dec. 12.

Sinclair, who was also known as Mohagany Shylanda Singleton, was shot and killed in April 2013. The 30-year-old transgender woman’s body was found in a wooded area off of Nimrod Lane early in the morning on April 4, 2013.

Orange County deputies responded to a call of shots fired, and a witness said he saw a black car pull away.

There was an eight-month investigation to track down Sinclair’s killer and also to determine if Sinclair was murdered because she was transgender.

Louis, 22, was finally arrested eight months after the incident on a first-degree murder charge. Louis and Sinclair were acquaintances, but a motive for the shooting was

not released.

Darcel Stevens, entertainment director for the Parliament House, and other friends of Sinclair filled the courtroom to hear Louis’ verdict. Stevens, who performs in drag, said he’s been friends with Sinclair for 12 or 13 years. He called their group “a sisterhood” and said “when something happens to one of us it affects us all.”

“Most of the entertainers aren’t drag queens like myself who live as a man and perform professionally as a female,” Stevens said. “Most are transsexual and live their truth.

They aren’t 5’4” and don’t blend in easily. We stick together very tightly because there are people out there who don’t care very much for what we do and who we represent.”

Stevens complimented the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, stating that detectives kept on top of the long investigation.

Many of Sinclair’s friends and family took to the victim’s Facebook page to express dissatisfaction in the verdict and concern that Sinclair did not receive justice because of her race or because she

stiLL no gsa at cms The fight for a Gay Straight Alliance at Carver Middle School in Lee County kicked off way back in January of 2013, when a bisexual 8th grader fought for her right to a GSA. That student has moved onto high school, but other CMS students picked up the battle and the ACLU continued to push for their right to meet. A lawsuit moved forward in March and in August, attorneys asked for a judgment but as of press time, still no joy for CMS’ LGBT students and allies.

orLando and orange support marriage equaLity Orlando and Orange County both took steps supporting LGBT equality this year. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer stated his support for marriage equality in his State of the City address in April. Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs issued a confusing statement in July before unequivocally stating she supports marriage equality in an interview with Watermark in August. In June, Dyer filed an amicus brief in support of Florida’s marriage equality lawsuits. After much urging, the Orange County Commission agreed to follow suit in October.

Man found guilty of manslaughter of local transgender woman Staff Report

2014 was a year of change for The GLBT Center of Central Florida. In January, it shed the property next door that housed a Chinese restaurant and used the money to help pay debts. Over the summer, The Center saw the resignation of five-year executive director Randy Stephens.

In September, new ED Terry DeCarlo started and then at a gala event in October, it was announced that a $200,000 renovation will update The Center’s headquarters.

ashley Sinclair, right, enjoys a night out with friend Darcel Stevens. Sinclair was just 30 years old when she was gunned down in 2013. Photo FRom SInclaIR’S Facebook Page

was transgender.

“Going from first degree [murder] to manslaughter is unfathomable whether they had the weapon or not,” posted Tyjah Khan, a friend of Sinclair’s, to Sinclair’s Facebook page after the verdict became public.

“If Ashley was a white transwoman I’m sure the verdict would have been first degree no questions!”

Others expressed relief, stating that justice was served. Stevens noted that he’d have rather seen a murder one conviction but “I understand it would have been difficult to prove the intent.”

Sentencing for Louis is set for Dec. 18. Stevens said he and his friends plan to be in court for that, too.

watermark Your lgbt life.

dppac changes face of downtown Hundreds of people gathered in the Seneff Arts Plaza for the grand opening of the $514 million Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Nov. 6. It had a rocky road getting there, facing months of traffic-clogging construction and resistance from the local arts community who feared it would overshadow or fail to support local performers. Still, the show went on and so far, Orlando Ballet, Sheryl Crow and The Phantom of the Opera are among the performances that have taken the shiny new stage. Hotly anticipated for 2013? The Book of Mormon, Newsies, Sarah MacLachlan and Diana Ross.

rumBLe over mBa and cowp In November, the you-know-what hit the fan. In October, Mikael Audebert resigned his post as MBA president. In November, the Pride board voted to sever from MBA and soon after, Audebert was fired from COWP and the COWP board was suspended. Accusations of fraudulent bookkeeping, illegally altered bylaws, and an MBA that appeared to be in a financial crisis were soon in the headlines. Many emergency meetings later, there’s a new board set for the new year, COWP is back in the fold, and the MBA finances appear to have been evened out.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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orlando news

mBa sTill searching for ansWers Jamie Hyman

o local veTeran honored

Commissioner Patty Sheehan (L) and Commissioner Robert Stuart (R) assist Marie Noble in laying a wreath on the grave of her late son Steven Noble. The 2014 Wreaths Across America event honored Noble, a U.S. Marine Corps League Commandant. He brought Wreathes Across America to Central Florida and served as the chairman of Orlando’s first one in December 2010. More than 600 wreaths were placed in the American Legion/ Military section of the Greenwood Cemetery Dec. 13.

Photo by Danny Garcia

WiTh funding finalized, The cenTer’s renovaTion moves ahead Jamie Hyman

o

rLando | The GLBT Center of Central Florida is looking for a few good men (and women).

On Dec. 8, The Orlando City Commission gave final approval to a $146,500 to renovate The Center’s headquarters on Mills Avenue, paving the way for the bidding process to begin. Terry DeCarlo, executive director of The Center, said it is hiring roofers first because that has to be fixed before the board can move ahead with other renovations. DeCarlo said the architect plans are also almost complete.

“You’re going to see construction crews in there by the second to third week of January [2015],” DeCarlo said.

While working with contractors, DeCarlo and The Center staff and volunteers are also working on finishing some fundraising. The project cost is $200,000 and DeCarlo said The Center has to raise the difference.

“That comes through private, business donations,” he said. “We’re about 75% there.”

He said if work starts as planned in January, he’s hoping they can open the doors in March of 2015.

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rLando | The Metropolitan Business Association is in talks with police about pursuing charges against Mikael Audebert, its former president, but the organization has not yet made the move.

Audebert resigned from the MBA in October and was fired from his post as executive director of Come Out With Pride in November. Since then, the MBA Board and its subsidiary organizations have revealed a financial mess, blaming Audebert, and told Watermark Dec. 2 they planned to go to the authorities with their findings of alleged financial fraud.

Nayte Carrick, current president of the MBA, pointed to two suspicious transactions: a $1,300 transfer from the MBA account to Audebert’s personal business account, and a $2,000 transfer to an MBA escrow account.

Patrick Howell, Audebert’s attorney, told Watermark that the $1,300 was a reimbursement to Audebert for two Delta

Airline tickets to Las Vegas for an MBA event and the $2,000 was a transfer into a special joint account shared by the MBA and The GLBT Center of Central Florida, Inc. set up to handle expenses related to The Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast.

Based on Watermark’s report, Carrick said they were able to justify the $2,000 transfer and found Audebert did not do anything improper. However, he said they’re still looking into the $1,300 transfer and are still in talks with the Orlando Police Department.

“We’ve had an initial conversation just to verify what kind of information [police] would need and basically just to get the process moving,” Carrick said.

“They had confirmed for us that it is important to be thorough and accurate so we’re continuing to look into everything.”

The MBA held Board member elections Dec. 3 and all positions were filled.

“The new board members are aware [of the investigation], but for the most part everybody is focused on growing and getting better,” Carrick said.

He added that the new MBA

treasurer, Michael Thomas, would be appointed to the treasurer post for Come Out With Pride, as well.

The Come Out with Pride Board has been “meeting regularly,” Carrick said, and they’re looking at a plan for 2015 with a new, tighter budget.

“The goal was to streamline the budget and the events,” he said. “[The Pride Board] will be without an executive director for 2015 so it will be back to a working board.”

He said thanks to “a very careful and thoughtful budget,” things are in place for COWP to have a budget surplus, plus bring back Pride Gives Back, and local grant program, and scholarships for LGBT students.

“It’s going to be a bitch to pull it off,” Carrick said. “We’re really looking at giving back to the core mission for Pride, and that involves serving the community, providing a place and a time for us to celebrate our diversity and use that as a way to give back to the community, so I’m really focusing on that giving aspect of what we’re doing. Some of the things that had been production value previously, now we’re turning into a way to use the program to give back.”

heart is in the movement for LGBT equality. It’s just something I feel very passionately about.”

Saunders will help lead lead the nation’s largest LGBT civil rights organization with legislative and electoral efforts in the Southern states, which include Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, West Virginia, Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. He will be keeping his home base in Orlando and helping the HRC gain legislative support to pass the Florida Competitive Workforce Act (FCWA), which he sponsored during his two years in office and would change Florida’s employment discrimination law to include protections for the LGBT community.

Saunders said he’ll also work with Equality Florida to build momentum for a human

rights ordinance for the LGBT community in Jacksonville.

Saunders has been a part of Equality Florida’s staff for about 10 years, and said it was a bit of a bittersweet feeling to leave that family.

“This is a bit of a transition period into the HRC family, but I think the only way these campaigns work is if national, state and local partners are all sitting down together to figure out effective strategies,” Saunders said. “I think my time with Equality Florida has taught me a lot about how to do this work.

I’m really excited to take those lessons and that experience to the national stage and across state lines.”

Joe saunders Takes leadership role WiTh hrc Christal Hayes

f

ormer State Representative Joe Saunders has started his next gig.

Florida’s first openly gay legislator was ousted by opponent Rene “Coach P” Plasencia for the District 49 seat in the House in November. Since then, Saunders has been flooded with job offers and questions about what his plans for the future would hold.

On Dec. 8, Saunders announced he will be working with the Human Rights Campaign as the Southern Regional Field Director.

“I was surprised by how many people approached me with offers, and there were really a wide range of offers, which was great,” Saunders said. “At the end of the day though, I just think my

watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

tampa bay news

The Top

5

sTories of The year

LgBt weLcome center opens its doors It has taken a full year, but Metro Wellness and Community Center opened its St. Petersburg LGBT Welcome Center at 2227 Central Ave. in 2014. With the official ribbon cutting Dec. 12, the year-long project was open and ready to welcome the LGBT community, special events and, probably most importantly, LGBT youth.

hiLLsBorough evoLves on LgBt issues an LgBt icon: A large

crowd of people waits to get inside Georgie’s Alibi after the first-ever St. Pete Pride Night Parade on June 28.

Photo by SteVe blanchaRD

bye-bye Alibi?

Georgie’s is on the market for $595,000 Aaron Alper

s

t. petersBurg | If you are part of the LGBT community in St. Petersburg, you know Georgie’s Alibi and its history. The long island iced teas. The pride parties. The drag shows. Georgie’s is, without a doubt, a staple of the gay community.

It is also for sale.

While the staff at Georgie’s wasn’t available to comment (one anonymous source claimed the property was not for sale at all), Bob Barnum, the real estate agent who is responsible for selling the property (and who’s business is housed at the very same location next door to the bar) was happy to set the record the straight.

“We are making no secret about the bar being for sale,” Barnum said. “We’ve also got the building next door which used to be the old Metro Center that’s available.

The bar and restaurant is for sale for $595,000.”

However, the sale of Georgie’s isn’t one based on monetary gain. In fact, it’s based more on pragmatism, according to Barnum.

“I speak with the owner [Ron Gofrank] daily,” Barnum said.

“He was one of the original three partners but they all bought each other out. They sold [the] Wilton Manors [location] and Ron bought out the others. Now Ron lives out of town. As an absentee owner, it’s difficult for him. He’s got some health issues. He not old and he’s not dying—but as we get older we can’t do as much so he’s not able to be here. So it’s hard to run a business that far away.”

The sale, Barnum says, is not easy for anyone and it is, without question, an emotional process.

“What I really would like to stress that’s important is that the property doesn’t have a mortgage.

There is no debt. All the bills are

paid,” he said. “Georgie’s has been a community staple for 14 years. It has supported so many charities.

The Grand Central District, Historic Kenwood, the Metro Center. Georgie’s was a major sponsor of Pride when nobody was stepping up.”

Barnum hopes news of the sale won’t harm the business, but he’s already seeing some signs of that.

“You would be surprised.

People say ‘Well it’s for sale so I am not going there anymore.’ Or, ‘it’s for sale because Ron can’t do it anymore,’” Barnum said. “But he’s got employees that have been there for over 13 years and the entire time it’s been open. It would be easier to just close the building and not worry about it, but Ron is emotionally sick over the fact that he has to take care of those jobs. He has a responsibility to 40 employees. He doesn’t want to put them out of the street. He also feels close to St. Petersburg. He loves this town. “ Georgie’s is, without a doubt, part and parcel of most of our experiences as LGBT citizens of St. Pete. It is easy to feel betrayed but, according to Barnum, there is no reason to feel that way. In fact, hard

This was a year of growth for Hillsborough County. The notoriously conservative county commission approved both a domestic partnership registry and an amendment to its human rights ordinance to protect gay and transgender residents. Gays and lesbians were protected from discrimination once before—in 1991—but a previous commission striped those protections in 1995.

Even more shocking, yet extremely welcome, is both measures had the full support of the entire commission.

st. pete pride’s night parade sets record History is certainly made at night, and St. Pete Pride’s firstever night time parade did just that. More than 200,000 people attended the night parade the last weekend in June and nearly 40,000 returned the next day to celebrate the annual street festival. The parade also saw the first time a sitting St. Petersburg mayor marched in the parade when Rick Kriseman walked the seven-block route.

edie windsor speaks at st. pete gaLa One of the most historical figures in modern LGBT history stopped in St. Petersburg this spring to lend her star-power to Equality Florida’s gala at the Mahaffey Theater. Edith Windsor, who in 2013 sued the federal government and convinced the Supreme Court to overturn the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), spoke to the sold-out crowd.

“You guys thank me. I thank you for a community that’s full of love and joy,” she said at the gala.

tampa church canceLs gay man’s funeraL The pastor at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church made national headlines in 2014 when he canceled the already scheduled funeral of a gay man. Pastor T.W. Jenkins said he didn’t know that Julion Evans was gay until he saw the 42-year-old’s partner listed in an obituary. Since he saw the relationship as “blasphemous” he canceled the funeral—less than 24 hours before mourners were scheduled to arrive at the church in August.

continued on pg. 18 | uu |

watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

17

tampa bay news

ciTy of Tampa To co-sponsor Tampa pride Greg Stemm

T

open for Business!

It’s official, the new LGBT Welcome Center is open for business in St. Petersburg’s Grand Central District. Metro Wellness and Community Center celebrated the grand opening of the center with a ribbon cutting on Dec. 12.

Board members and elected officials cut the rainbow ribbon on the front porch of the historic building.

Pictured, left to right, are, Metro Board President Dr. Scott Strader, Realtor and St. Pete Pride founder Brian Longstreth, St. Petersburg Council members Darden Rice and Amy Foster, Metro Wellness CEO Lorraine Langlois, St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman and Pinellas County Commissioner John Morroni. Entertainment was provided by the hilariously talented Scott & Patti Show (Scott Daniel and Matthew McGee) before and after the ceremony. The center is housed within a relocated historic bungalow in the 22nd block of Central Avenue.

Photo by Steve Blanchard

ampa | The City of Tampa has signed an agreement to provide $35,000 worth of inkind city services to the new Tampa Pride celebration scheduled for March 28, 2015. The co-sponsorship is a real victory for Tampa Pride, Inc. not only because of the boon it will give the planning of the celebration, but because it’s the first sponsorship the city has given since a 2009 moratorium was placed on financially supporting new festivals.

Initially, the City denied Tampa Pride’s request for a co-sponsorship, but meetings with LGBT friendly mayor Bob Buckhorn made the support possible.

Total city fees to put on the festival is $64,000, which is half of Tampa Pride’s $128,000 budget.

Tampa Pride had originally asked the city for $38,000 in co-sponsored support, according to Carrie West, president of Tampa Pride, Inc. “Because the monies for sponsoring an event like this come from more than one part of the city budget, we had to do some shuffling around and literally take a little from here and a little from there to make it work,” said Ali Glisson, public affairs director for the city. “Mayor Buckhorn has long been a supporter of LGBT issues and he sees the new Pride celebration as a very positive

thing for the city,” said Glisson.

“So if there was any way we could help support it we were going to make it work.”

Glisson said the sponsorship money will help cover everything from police and fire protection and EMS services to traffic control and trash pick-up.

“We are ecstatic over the decision from the City of Tampa to sign on as a co-sponsor of the event,” said West. ”We’d like to thank Mayor Bob Buckhorn and many of his staff for their tremendous support.

This is yet another sign of Tampa’s commitment to diversity and to the dedication and support of the entire LGBT community.

West said he thinks that showing the city what an big economic impact an event like this can have was instrumental in swaying the decision to assist financially.

“We also pointed out that smaller governments like the City of Lakeland or Pasco County were stepping up to the plate to sponsor Pride celebrations in their communities and as the biggest metropolitan area in the region, Tampa should be on board too,” said West.

West said he is pleased with the way things are coming together in the planning for this inaugural event.

There were over 50 people at the last planning session and representatives from groups like the Tampa Chamber of Commerce, the Metro Center, PFLAG, and St. Pete Pride.

Tampa Pride is already attracting some big name sponsors. West said the Tampa Bay Buccaneers recently signed on as a major in-kind sponsor “We have about a third of the money we need so far,” said West.

He added that Tampa Pride has collected a number of letters of intent from bigger sponsors like liquor companies, bars, banks and other corporations and he expects much of their sponsorship dollars will arrive in the two months leading up to the event. He noted some companies are not able to make commitments until after the first of the year. Right now West said Pride is focusing on smaller donations from individuals.

Tampa Pride will be different than some other local events in that there is a limit of 100 participating groups for both the parade and street festival. West said the group has about 40 registered so far for both events, including more than a dozen not-for-profit organizations.

He noted that some tourism promotion people are getting ready for what they hope will be an influx of visitors similar to what St. Pete Pride has seen in recent years.

“The Westshore Marriott already is offering special Pride discounts for that weekend and has plans to include a free shuttle from their location to Pride events in Ybor,” said West. “We expect other hotels to follow. ” For details or to donate, visit TampaPride.org.

the Year category, CASA, Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, Love the Golden Rule Inc., Metro Wellness and the Suncoast Softball League are all up for the award.

Business of the Year nominees include Carlton Fields Jorden Burt, Georgie’s Alibi, PNC Bank, The Hotchkiss Group of Keller Williams and Watermark Media Inc. There are also five nominees for the title of Community Champion of the Year. That category includes Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner, Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman, Mark Bias and Carrie West of Tampa Pride and the GaYbor Coalition, and Joy

Winheim, the executive director of the Francis House.

The final category for a diamond award is the LGBT Business Person of the Year. in that category, nominees are Watermark editor Steve Blanchard, HI Development general manager Kim Cason, Brandon Family Law managing attorney Mary Greenwood, Carlton Fields Jorden Burt COO Annie Hoitis and PNC Bank senior vice president Dianne Jacob.

Reservations for the Awards dinner are required. Tickets are $50 for chamber members and $75 for non-members. Tickets may be purchased at TBGLCC.org.

chamBer seT To recognize Business leaders WiTh diamond gala Staff Report

| uu | Georgie’s Alibi from pg.17 work continues to keep the tradition of Georgie’s alive.

“We are reaching out to people who have an affinity for the community,” Barnum said. “We are not marketing to corporate buyers. We are looking for people who will own and operate it and want to be in the area and know what Georgie’s means to the community. The Suncoast Resort took the opportunity to sell to Home Depot and they just walked away [in 2007]. Ron isn’t walking away.

“He is trying to do the best thing for himself, as well as the community. Georgie’s is an institution. He’d like to keep it open and strong.”

Through it all though, Barnum encourages patrons to continue visiting and help Georgie’s through what inevitably will be a difficult transition.

“It’s painful, all the way around,” Barnum said. “But it’s better to be for sale then just be closed.”

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c

Learwater | On Jan. 17, the Tampa Bay Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce will hold its first-ever Diamond Award Ceremony. There, the organization will honor Tampa Bay community and business leaders with an awards ceremony at the Holiday Inn on Ulmerton Road.

Those considered for the award have shown specific interest in working with the LGBT community by expanding economic opportunities or supporting equality in a direct way. There are four categories.

In the Non-Profit Business of

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Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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(left) Dawoud Bey The Birmingham Project: Janice Kemp and Triniti Williams, 2012 (left) and Fred Stewart and Tyler Collins, 2012 (above), Archival pigment prints mounted on dibond, Courtesy of the artist and Rena Bransten Gallery (right) Goshka Macuga Anti-Collage (Julita Wojcik), 2011 Silkscreen on handprinted photograph, Courtesy of the artist and Andrew Kreps Gallery, New York

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FREE ADMISSION Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

state news

Florida clerks warned against issuing same-sex marriage licenses Wire Report

M

iami | The association representing Florida’s 67 court clerks warned Dec. 16 that a federal judge’s ruling overturning the state ban on samesex marriage only applies now in one Panhandle county.

Lawyers for the Florida Association of Court Clerks and Comptrollers said in a statement that Washington County is the only place named in the federal lawsuit. Clerks in all other counties, according to the association, aren’t bound by U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle’s ruling in August that the gay marriage ban is unconstitutional.

In addition, the association said Florida’s same-sex marriage ban enacted by voters in 2008 is unique because clerk employees who issue a marriage license to a gay couple

without authorization could face misdemeanor criminal charges.

“At this time of uncertainty, the Florida Court Clerk and Comptrollers have been advised by the association to follow the advice of our legal counsel and not issue same-sex marriage licenses until a binding order is issued by a court of proper jurisdiction,” said Kenneth A. Kent, executive director of the clerks association.

Hinkle put a hold on his ruling until the end of the day Jan. 5, which the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals refused to extend. That led many gay marriage advocates to proclaim that icenses could be issued around the state beginning Jan. 6.

The clerk’s association legal counsel, the Greenberg Traurig law firm, disagrees with the FCCC’s advice.

“Our review of the law indicates that an order and injunction issued

at the federal trial level is not binding on any person, including a clerk of court, who is not a named party in the action,” the memo says. “Nor does such a ruling bind any other court.”

Howard Simon, executive director of the ACLU of Florida said it’s highly unlikely any clerk would face arrest for issuing a marriage license to a gay couple. He also said it would be impractical to file identical lawsuits naming all 67 court clerks as defendants.

“When a federal judge declares a law unconstitutional, all public officials should cease enforcing that law. Period,” said Simon.

Attorney General Pam Bondi has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to extend Hinkle’s stay past Jan. 5, citing confusion over the impact statewide of his ruling. On Dec. 16, US Justice Clarence Thomas requested the plaintiffs to respond by Dec. 18.

Judges in four South Florida counties have also declared the gay marriage ban unconstitutional, but all of those decisions have been appealed and remain on hold.

For up-to-date information, visit WatermarkOnline.com.

THE TOP

5

STORIES of the year

Lawsuits challenge marriage ban In all five lawsuits filed in 2014 against the state’s ban on samesex marriages, judges have ruled the ban unconstitutional.

Pam Bondi’s ongoing appeals Each time a judge ruled against Florida’s ban on same-sex marriage, Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi filed an appeal requesting a stay on the decision.

Charlie Crist apologizes In Watermark’s first issue of 2014, former governor Charlie Crist apologized for supporting the same-sex marriage ban back when he was governor. The story made national headlines.

Scott and Bondi re-elected Governor Rick Scott and Pam Bondi were both re-elected in November after a contentious campaigns.

Miami-Dade adds gender identity In November, after eight hours of public comments, MiamiDade County approved protections for transgender residents.

The county is the largest in the state.

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Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

nation+world news

Vatican says bishops should let pope lead on family Wire Report

V

atican City | The Vatican urged bishops on Dec. 9 to be guided by Pope Francis and the “turning point” of a recent meeting on family issues that sought to provide better pastoral care for gay and divorced Catholics and those living in civil unions.

The Vatican recently sent a new questionnaire to bishops’ conferences around the world seeking input on a host of family issues. Their responses will help form the basis of debate for the next stage of Francis’ agenda: A big October meeting of top churchmen who will make final recommendations to Francis about

how the Catholic Church can better tend to its families.

Among other things, the questionnaire asked how the church can care for families with gay children, and discern “positive and negative elements” in heterosexual civil unions.

It asked how the church can better provide sacraments for Catholics who divorce and remarry outside the church to avoid “unnecessary” impediments.

Church teaching holds that without an annulment—a church decree that the first marriage was null—these Catholics are living in sin and thus ineligible to receive communion.

Francis has sought to end what he calls “de facto excommunication”

for these Catholics, and the issue was a source of debate during the first family synod last October.

Progressive bishops want an opening in current practice, while conservative ones don’t want to see any change.

The new questionnaire urges bishops to “let yourselves be guided by the pastoral turning point that the extraordinary synod began to sketch out, rooting itself in Vatican II and the magisterium of Pope Francis.”

The October 2014 synod was marked by deep divisions over how to welcome gays and Catholics not living in sacramental marriages while also insisting on church teaching on the indissolubility of marriage between man and woman.

profane or vulgar messages, Alabama Department of Revenue spokeswoman Amanda Collier said.

The three-member review panel looks at about 4,000 requests a month for personalized plates, and this was a case of human error, Collier said.

The department has sent a letter to the vehicle owner to recall the tag, Collier said. If the owner chooses, the department’s decision can be appealed, she said.

The license plate, registered in Montgomery County, was first issued in 2010, she said. The

department became aware of it after a photograph of it began circulating on social media Monday.

Collier said the screening panel uses a dictionary with the latest slang and other tools to scrutinize tag requests, and a recall is rare. Department officials could not remember the last time it happened.

This isn’t the first time the slang has made it into the news.

In 2013, the NBA fined Indiana Pacers center Roy Hibbert $75,000 for using the same slur and cursing at a news conference.

Nearly two years later, five Word of Faith Fellowship church members have been indicted for kidnapping and assault in connection with Fenner’s beating.

But the case has opened new wounds in the rural North Carolina community where the church has been a lightning rod of controversy.

Now a student at the University of North Carolina, the 21-year-old Fenner told The Associated Press that he believed his life was in danger that night.

He said he had to press authorities to investigate his allegations because of the church’s influence in the community.

“The line between religion and abuse, they are crossing it quite severely. That’s why I’m doing this.

They have to know you cannot hurt people,’’ he said.

But Joshua Farmer, whose law firm is representing the five church members, said that was nonsense. ``In short, this stuff is an absolute complete fabrication,’’ Farmer told the AP. ``They are innocent of the charges.’’

The church, which has 750 members and operates a 35-acre complex in the rural community of Spindale, has been accused for years of enforcing extensive control over its congregation.

Alabama recalls ‘NOHOMO’ vanity plate Wire Report Montgomery, Ala. | A personalized license plate with a gay slur slipped past a review panel in Alabama, and the state said it’s recalling the tag, which showed up in social media on photos of a black Mustang.

The license plate has the saying “NOHOMO,” a slang phrase used when the speaker does not want to appear gay. The state prohibits personalized tags with

Church members face charges in gay assault case Wire Report spindale, N.C. | For Matthew Fenner, a crowd of parishioners gathering around him in a church sanctuary after a prayer service was a sign of trouble.

Within minutes, he said they began to berate him because he is gay. One woman told him he was ``disgusting.’’ Then for two hours, they pushed and hit Fenner, screaming at him as they tried to ``break me free of the homosexual `demons,’’’ he said in a police affidavit about the Jan. 27, 2013, attack.

watermark Your lgbt life.

THE TOP

5

STORIES of the year

Marriage equality swells to 35 states 2014 was a banner year for marriage equality. At this writing, 35 states have full marriage rights for same-sex couples. In an additional 10 states, judges have issued rulings in favor of the freedom to marry. Those states on the pending list include Arkansas, Florida, Kentucky, Missouri, Michigan, Mississippi, Texas, Louisiana, Ohio and Tennessee.

Many fighting the battle, on both sides, believe U.S. Supreme Court will ulitmately have to rule on the legality of same-sex marriage in this country.

NYC Mayor sits out St. Patrick’s Day Parade New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio became the first mayor in decades to sit out the nation’s largest St. Patrick’s Day parade, deciding to skip one of his city’s signature celebrations because the event organizers refuse to let participants carry pro-gay signs. “I will be participating in a number of other events to honor the Irish heritage of this city,’’ said de Blasio. “But I simply disagree with the organizers of that parade.’’

Obama expands government benefits for same-sex couples On June 20, President Barack Obama granted an array of benefits to same-sex couples a year after the Supreme Court struck down a law barring federal recognition of same-sex marriages. The new measures range from Social Security and veterans benefits to work leave for caring for sick spouses.

Uganda tabloid prints list of ‘top’ homosexuals One day after Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni enacted a harsh anti-gay law, a national newspaper on Feb. 25 published a list of what it called the country’s “200 top” homosexuals, outing some Ugandans as gay. Many of those named feared violence, and some left the country. The law made homosexuality an offense punishible by life in prison, a lesser punishment than death, which was in the original draft of the law.

Arizona vetoes anti-gay bill Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer vetoed a bill in February that would have allowed businesses that asserted their religious beliefs the right to deny service to gay and lesbian customers. The controversial measure faced a surge of opposition from large corporations and athletic organizations, including Delta Air Lines, the Super Bowl host committee and Major League Baseball.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

viewpoint

Kirk Hartlage

Guest column The ABCs of 2014

A

nother year has

wrapped, and that means it’s time to look back at what made 2014 memorable in pop culture.

Ass: Kim Kardashian got cheeky for Paper magazine, Charlie Hunnam’s backside went front and center on Sons of Anarchy, and Ben Affleck even flashed moviegoers in Gone Girl. But getting the most tail this year was everyone’s ears, thanks to Meghan Trainor (“All About That Bass”).

Buccaneers: The Tampa Bay Bucs hosted the firstever LGBT Community Game Day in October at Raymond James Stadium.

Country Comes Out: Ty Herndon and Billy Gilman each came out this year. Herndon said both his ex-wives knew he was gay and that his marriages were used to hide his true sexuality.

Demi Lovato: How did Demi Lovato “Let It Go” when her version of the Frozen track was bypassed by Disney execs over Idina Menzel’s original? She released “Really Don’t Care” as a single and filmed the video at the LA Pride Parade.

Ellen Page: Not only did PETA name her this year’s sexiest vegan (along with Jared Leto), she also came out as a lesbian. Coincidence?

Film Festival: The Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival celebrated 25 amazing years at the Tampa Theater in October.

Grammy Awards: Adele’s openly gay male alter ego Sam Smith was poised to follow in his fellow Brit crooner’s footsteps with numerous nominations, and not just because his In The Lonely Hour re-opened flood gates of tears from people who’d finally stopped sobbing after listening to 21 for the past three years.

How To Get Away With Murder: Bringing Queer As Folk-styled gay sex scenes (circa early 2000’s, via Showtime) to mainstream network television in 2014.

Idina Menzel: We’ve known—and loved—Menzel since her work in Rent and Wicked on Broadway. And even if “Let It Go” now sends shivers down the spine in a bad way, it’s hard to deny Menzel’s success with the song.

Joan Rivers: The LGBT community lost one of its best

straight allies with Rivers’ passing in September.

Kevin Spacey: House of Cards gave Netflix viewers a threesome between Vice President Frank Underwood (Spacey), Second Lady Claire Underwood (Robin Wright), and their Secret Service bodyguard Edward Meechum (Nathan Darrow), while reigniting the debate on Spacey’s sexuality.

Laverne Cox: The actress became the first openly trans person to be nominated for an Emmy, and was the first trans person to appear on the cover of Time magazine.

Michael Sam: With a kiss seen around the world, the defensive end celebrated being drafted by the Saint Louis Rams on live television by kissing his boyfriend.

Neil Patrick Harris: He wrapped up a five-year run on How I Met Your Mother, won a Tony for Hedwig and The Angry Inch, surprised moviegoers in Gone Girl, published Neil Patrick Harris: Choose Your Own Autobiography, and was selected to host the 2015 Oscars. Oh, and he married his longtime partner David Burka, with their twins in attendance.

Olympics: Though host country Russia was taken to task for its abysmal human rights policies toward gays and lesbians, the Sochi Winter Games were a not-to-bemissed spectacle.

Purple: It’s especially appropriate that it’s the official color of both the anti-bullying campaign and Major League Soccer’s newly anointed Orlando City Soccer Club. In attempting to use claims of eminent domain against the Faith Deliverance Temple—sitting smack-dab in the middle of its plans for the team’s new stadium—the City of Orlando was hit with charges of bullying the church.

So, instead, the City moved the stadium one block West, putting it right next door to the more welcoming arms— and eyeballs—of Stonewall Bar and its patrons.

Remakes: While radio played a nonstop mix of musical up-starts and

destined-to-become one-hitwonders, a trio of legendary divas each released cover albums showcasing their vocal talents with classic songs. Aretha Franklin Sings the Great Diva Classics, which, by her take, included the likes of Gladys Knight, Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Alicia Keys and Adele. Nostalgia

How To Train Your Dragon 2, X-Men: Days of Future Past, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, Transformers: Age of Extinction, Muppets Most Wanted, Penguins of Madagascar, Rio 2, Dolphin Tale 2, Anchorman 2, Horrible Bosses 2, Dumb and Dumber To, 22 Jump Street , Think Like A Man Too, The Purge: Anarchy,

was Annie Lennox’s haunting take on the Great American Songbook. And Lady Gaga went Cheek to Cheek with Tony Bennett for an album of jazz standards. Remakes at the box office were generally less well-received, thanks to re-dos of Robocop, About Last Night, Endless Love and Annie.

Sequels: Serialized storytelling on the silver screen was seen in The Hunger Games—Mockingjay Part 1,

Step Up: All In, Sin City: A Dame To Kill For, The Expendables 3, The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies, and Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb.

Transgender people: Often relegated to the background in LGBT issues and causes, the transgender community took center stage this year in entertainment thanks to Amazon’s Transparent series with Jeffrey Tambor, Broadway’s Hedwig

and the Angry Inch with Neil Patrick Harris, and Netflix’s Orange is the New Black with Laverne Cox. Weir, Johnny: While the opening and closing ceremonies of the Sochi Games both had pyrotechnics, NBC’s ice skating commentators Johnny Weir and Tara Lipinski provided their own

Getting the most tail this year was everyone’s ears, thanks to Meghan Trainor.

watermark Your lgbt life.

fireworks. Their accessible analysis, made in chic fashion statements, led to future gigs at the Kentucky Derby and numerous red carpets. By year’s end they were named NBC’s lead Olympic Figure Skating broadcast team for the 2018 Winter Games in PyeongChang, South Korea.

Open hearts, open minds, open doors… the people of Reeves and Broadway United Methodist Churches Children’s Choir of Orlando Christmas Concert Thursday, December 18 at 7pm Reeves UMC Christmas Eve Worship (Lessons, Carols, and Candlelighting) Wednesday, December 24 at 7pm Reeves UMC

Christmas Cantata Sunday, December 21 at 130pm Broadway UMC Blue Christmas (Remembering Those We Miss) Sunday, December 21 at 6pm Broadway UMC Christmas Eve Worship (Lessons, Carols, and Candlelighting) Wednesday, December 24 at 5pm Broadway UMC

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A Catered Event

S E E S T O R E F O R D E TA I L S

viewpoint

Jamie Hyman

online mediA director

ally agenda Pam Bondi is not a whore

E

very time

WatermarkOnline.com posts a story about Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi’s defense of the state’s ban on same-sex marriage, readers sprint to their keyboards and anxiously pound out the same brand of sexist insults, over and over.

This is a problem. This is the kind of dangerous problem that can kill progress, and the LGBT community needs to address it immediately.

Here is a true, real sampling of some actual comments left on WatermarkOnline.com and our Facebook page, in response to articles about Bondi: “Someone needs to murder that cunt.” “She’s a fucking hag,” “This one is for you, you female dog, AKA: Bitch” (that one was followed by a jpg of a hand with middle finger raised), “Can I just SLAP her once....I’m not gonna ever be playin’ in the NFL anyway!!!,” “I hate this word but if you look it up in the dictionary her pic would be there! CUNT!!!!!!!,” “Bondi is a bimbo and needs to go,” “Fire this Bitch, she needs to know she is not wanted in Florida. We need to get rid of this trash!!!” “This fucking bitch will probably try to appeal the Supreme Court ruling once it’s made. She’s an arrogant stupid C___.”

“She is just so slick. How do people not see through this C*nt,” “Someone needs to drop a house on that filthy cum guzzling whore,” and let’s not forget the commenter who has decided that a Someecard that reads “I’m not a gynecologist, but I know a cunt when I see one” is such a clever, spot-on response that this reader is pathologically dedicated to posting the image on every single Bondi link we post.

So what, right? She deserves it! Bondi is infringing on LGBT marriage rights! She’s actively fighting equality!

Those are solid points, and the frustration targeted toward Florida’s attorney general is understandable.

However, when that frustration is expressed through misogynistic, gendered language, it harms women, it harms progress, and it harms the LGBT community.

You’re fighting oppression by participating in an oppressive system.

Discrimination is rooted in bigotry, judging a group by outward characteristics, expression or appearance, rather than as humans deserving of equality.

Whether the justification is religious or “Eww, gays are gross,” all of those who oppose marriage equality are bigoted against LGBTs in this way.

At the root of anti-gay sentiment is the belief that this population, who are different in a way the bigot doesn’t approve, is not deserving of the same rights, privileges and protections enjoyed by the majority.

The same goes for sexism. The language used against Bondi by Watermark commenters doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Its source is the patriarchy, a system propagated by the belief that women are the “other,” different in a way that makes them inferior to men, and therefore are not deserving of the same rights, privileges and protections enjoyed by men. The comments above are both a byproduct of that system, and the grease that keeps its patriarchal wheels turning.

It makes no sense for LGBTs to attempt to fight a broken, bigoted system by employing the tools of another broken, bigoted system. At best, it makes the community look too dumb to understand their own words. At worst, it makes the community look like hypocrites who demand equality but are unwilling to extend equality to women.

confident that no one who reads those comments walks away thinking, “My, what a well-reasoned, intelligent point of view. I feel a sense of pride and solidarity, knowing that such captains of intellect are out there on the internet, using the power of their words to change hearts and minds.”

Commenters who casually, regularly toss around words

commenters jump right to the hate, rather than employing the multitudes of legit, powerful arguments in favor of equality that already exist.

It also makes the commenters sound dumber than a bag of hair.

like “whore” and “cunt” in an attempt to undermine a powerful woman like Bondi undercut their own points of view. She’s blond, she’s a bigot, she’s a woman, and misogyny is low-hanging fruit. Smart readers with open minds can’t help but wonder why the sexist

a sexist moron, you alienate women, and I’ve got news for you —LGBTs need women.

We’re half of the population.

And no, if a woman is the one trotting out the gendered insults, it doesn’t make them any less sexist.

It just demonstrates how deeply and dangerously the

It’s insulting to women.

Women are members of the LGBT community. Women are allies. When you act like

patriarchy is ingrained.

It is super boring.

Watermark readers are clever, witty and brilliant.

I’ve read some remarkable arguments in favor of equality. I’ve used quotes that are so original and smart they’ve made me fist pump at my desk. We need more arguments like this on public forums,

It makes no sense for LGBTs to attempt to fight a broken, bigoted system by employing the tools of another broken, bigoted system.

and when I read a tedious laundry list of ways to say “bitch” and “whore” it is so disappointing because I know for a fact that it is beneath the LGBT community.

Calling someone a “cunt” isn’t fresh or edgy. It’s a yawn.

We can do better.

It weakens your argument.

Read through that paragraph of examples again. What do you think when you’re done? Maybe you’re embarrassed. Maybe you empathize with the frustration. Maybe you find the language distasteful but can’t help but admire the passion.

There is a spectrum of possible replies, but I am

watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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talking points

It was off-brand, off-belief and off-mission;

%

of gay gamers want regular games with fully developed LGbT characters.

18

there was a lot of blowback.

—keLLi trinoskey, a saLvation army spokesperson referring to a statement By an empLoyee in 2012 condemning gays.

THe clean selfie

XXX

cHallenGe w

orLd aids day has come and gone, but one thing that remains from this year’s commemoration of the disease is a collection of sexy shower selfies aimed at erasing the HIV stigma. Tagged #WeAreAllClean, the campaign asks men to take soaped up selfies while in the shower, and gay men far and wide jumped on board. The project was the brainchild of HIV activist Mack Mackenroth, who tired of the HIV-related question, “Are you clean?” That question, he says, adds to the stigma. This sexy campaign was aimed at battling that—and eye candy definitely helped get the point across in 2014.

%

didn’t care about the characters’ sexuality

—According to a December poll by The Escapist Magazine

vogueing phenom iS noW A model

w

hen Brendan Jordan reached internet superstardom following his clandestine dance routine to Lady Gaga, many probably thought he was just a flash in the pan. But that’s not so... especially after an appearance on the now-cancelled Queen Latifah Show earlier this fall. The 15-yearold Las Vegas phenom is now a model for American Apparel, who highlighted him for his enthusiasm and commitment to diversity. His goals in life? His own television show and clothing line.

watermark Your lgbt life.

50 cent joinS lAuper to Support lGBT youTH

c

yndi Lauper is one of the LgBt community’s Biggest fans and supporters. So it was surprising to hear that she welcomed performer 50 Cent on board to help raise awareness of homeless LGBT youth. The rapper once suggested online that gay men should just kill themselves. But Lauper says he has evolved, and his involvement in her True Colors Fund benefit concert demonstrates his commitment. “You change the world when you change your mind,” she said.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

AllieS hold kiSS-in At madrid BurGer kinG

a

fter a security guard asked a gay coupLe to Leave because their kissing disturbed a fellow diner, allies and other gay couples showed up and held a massive kiss-in—all while restaurant employees and other diners applauded. According to accounts, the guard asked the couple to leave without first discussing it with management. Burger King celebrates Pride each year and the company says it supports diversity.

It apologized for the guard’s action and local management invited the couple back.

33

34

watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

in-depth:

stiLL a famiLy:

remArkAble people

Joan Rodriguez holds her 4-week old son, Liam Jaxon. Next to Rodriguez is the urn containing the ashes of her late partner, Liz Molina.

e

or geT m

! e n i l on

Photo by Jake SteVenS

m To .co ver do inended l Hea n rko eXTer mA nus terread Bo T on oue A W nd Bl Ten a con marka . re ple o e p

REMARKABLY

STRONG

The love sTory of Joan rodriguez and The laTe liz molina is proof ThaT lgBTs need marriage eQualiTy—noW

o

Jamie Hyman

rLando | when Joan rodriguez

talks about her late partner, Liz Molina, she describes her lost love as strong, righteous and brave. Joan [pronounced Jo-Ann] talks about how Liz was as committed to fighting for LGBT equality as she was to making sure Joan always felt loved and beautiful. When Joan tells these stories, she gets a teary smile on her face and says, “That’s just the person she was.”

But what kind of person is Joan?

On the day Liz died, Joan had about an hour alone with her partner’s body before the funeral home came to pick her up. She bathed Liz, and dressed her in what she knew she’d want to wear. When the funeral home transport arrived, Joan was the one who physically picked up Liz’s body and placed her on the stretcher.

And she did all of these things nine months pregnant. She gave birth to the couple’s son a mere

watermark Your lgbt life.

nine days later.

What kind of person is Joan?

She’s a survivor who has faced unspeakable obstacles. She’s a mother who is grieving her love who died far too young while raising their newborn all alone, without any of the recognition or benefits marriage would provide.

At Liz’s urging, when eight months pregnant, Joan pulled herself away from her dying partner’s side to appear before the Orange County Commission to tell their story

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

continued on pg. 38 | uu |

35

MAYOR BUDDY DYER: REMARKABLE ALLY

o

rLando | Since 2003, Mayor Buddy Dyer has served as the mayor of Orlando. But even before he took office, he was an ally for the LGBT community.

“I think Orlando is one of the most diverse and inclusive cities, and from a city government level we have strived for that,” Dyer says.

This year, Dyer took many strides to put Orlando on the map as a city in Florida, and the nation, that is LGBTfriendly. Since January, he made it clear that Orlando was a city where everyone was included.

Dyer, along with Tallahassee Mayor John Marks and St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman, wrote a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin about gay rights amidst the criticism surrounding that country’s LGBT policies during the Sochi Winter Olympics.

“I’ve always been supportive, but I think the issue is at a point where it’s important for people that have influence in their community to stand up and take a position on that issue,” Dyer says.

In April, Dyer publicly shared his support for marriage equality during his State of the City address. Dyer also filed an amicus brief in June after a 5-2 vote of support from the City Council.

“We were asked by several organizations to get involved in that manner and I feel like our city is a progressive city,” Dyer reiterates. “If we take the leadership in that regard, other cities and counties would follow.”

In November, that progress was noted by the Human Rights Campaign. Orlando scored a perfect 100 on that organization’s 2014 Municipal Equality Index.

Dyer said he hopes in the upcoming year he can utilize his new LGBT liaison positions to help reach out and better work with the local LGBT community. The city has also partnered with the Zebra Coalition and the Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center to provide an anti-bullying curriculum for young people in public schools.

— Samantha Lena Rosenthal

36

A REMARKABLE

LEADER

2014 was a year of gains for the trans community, and Gina Duncan led the way in Florida

PUTTING UP A

REM ARKABL E FIGHT Mary Meeks’ activism has directly impacted LGBT equality in Florida

o

o

— Samantha Lena Rosenthal

— Jamie Hyman

rLando | Gina Duncan has had one busy year. In June, Duncan became Equality Florida’s transgender inclusion director. She was, of course, already familiar with the statewide organization. She joined as a board in December 2013.

“After I had the good fortune of meeting with Nadine Smith, we were brainstorming about what I was doing and her goals to increase Equality Florida’s focus on representing the entire LGBT spectrum, and it just was a perfect fit,” Duncan says.

In February, she helped launch an initiative aimed at educating employers about the dynamics of the transgender community. It also directed those employers on how to embrace trans employees’ presence in the workplace to help increase productivity and economic development.

Her advocacy began when she was in transition and still a regional manager at Wells Fargo. There, she was asked to become involved with the Wells Fargo LGBT Pride Network and she was the East Coast Chair for Wells Fargo’s Pride Group.

In 2014, she has been in the forefront of every initiative to amend Human Rights Ordinances to include gender identity and expression, allowing for full inclusion for all people.

“It’s been one of the most gratifying years of my life, and it’s been very rewarding that, with the support for Equality Florida, we’ve been able to increase the education, the scope and the awareness of what it means to be transgender and working toward transgender equality across the state of Florida,” Duncan says.

With the help of many others, Duncan said amendments have been passed in the City of Orlando, Sarasota and Miami-Dade County to include transgender protections. Those are just a few of the many Florida municipalities to do so in 2014.

watermark Your lgbt life.

rLando | If you have exercised any of your existing rights to equality as an LGBT in Central Florida, chances are Mary Meeks had a hand in it.

Meeks, an Orlando attorney and LGBT activist, has been involved in the fight for equality since the early 2000s, when Orlando passed Chapter 57, the city’s human rights ordinance. Since then, Meeks has been a key player in the fight for an Anti-Discrimination Ordinance, Orlando and Orange County’s domestic partner registries, and is a member of the legal team working to legalize same-sex marriage in the state of Florida.

Meeks has a reputation for stubbornness when it comes to politicians who drag their feet on LGBT equality.

“That’s the misconception, that I yell at politicians,” Meeks says. “Everything I’ve ever done...we always in the beginning utilized the kinder, gentler approach.

Ask nicely behind closed doors. If you do all those things repeatedly and get rejected, you have to make a decision to either elevate the activism or walk way. If that is what makes me controversial— not willing to walk away—then I’ll take that.”

She said when politicians do respond to a private, discussion-based strategy, it doesn’t make headlines.

“Those that say no and take steps that are harmful to the community, I will not put up with that,” Meeks adds.

“I will campaign, use the media to make sure they do the right thing. What’s your alternative? Tuck your tail and walk away? No, I’m not going to do that.”

Her most high-profile case is the lawsuit on behalf of Equality Florida Institute, Inc., and six gay couples in Miami-Dade. The lawsuit claims that the state’s same-sex marriage ban violates the U.S. Constitution’s guarantee of equal protection. Oh, and all the attorneys working on that lawsuit are doing it for free.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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ONE REMARKABLE

LOVE

Blue Starr’s commitment to John ‘Tweeka’ Barber motivates her to help those battling cancer

o

rLando | Blue Starr is famous among Orlando LGBTs, having been an active member of the community for well over 10 years. She has created, produced, directed and performed in countless shows in Central Florida.

But perhaps her biggest accomplishment is maintaing the long-lasting legacy of her friend, John “Tweeka” Barber, who died in 2011 from cancer.

The Barber Fund helps those battling cancer pay for a variety of things—mortgages, power bills, medical bills, phone bills, groceries—and even helps families with pet sitting during a loved one’s illness. In 2014, under Blue’s leadership, the Fund hit a remarkable milestone—501c3 status, meaning it is officially classified as a nonprofit.

“We created the fund when Tweeks was still sick,” Blue recalls. “He wanted to be able to continue to help people and I thought it was a way to allow him to live on and continue his legacy. We aren’t trying to cure cancer.

We want to help families and caregivers and provide assistance with therapy and treatment.”

Barber and Blue met 22 years ago in Atlanta. The two grew close and were inseparable until his death.

“We performed there, threw parties together and most importantly did a lot of fundraisers together,” she says.

“John was a philanthropist at heart and loved politics.”

Through the Barber Foundation, Blue says nine people living with cancer have been assisted financially.

“We like to step a little outside of the box with our fundraisers,” she says. “Our fundraisers are ridiculous. We have a good time and make light of a bad situation. I always say, ‘The answer is yes.’ Can we do it? Yes.” When she isn’t fundraising, Blue is running The Venue, her own performing arts center in Ivanhoe Village. Many of the shows housed in The Venue give partial proceeds to The Barber Fund.

Visit TheBarberFund.org for more information.

— Christal Hayes

38

GIVING BACK, REMARKABLY

Jason Lambert has used the success of The Hammered Lamb to help LGBT charities

o

rLando | Growing up, Jason Lambert had his fair share of nicknames—Lamb Chops, Lambskin, J-Lamb, Lambo, Lambertini. The list goes on and on.

Lambert knew when he opened his restaurant two-and-ahalf years ago—The Hammered Lamb in Ivanhoe village— it had to have ‘Lamb’ in the name.

But even before the Hammered Lamb opened, Lambert was well established in Orlando, and not just in the restaurant scene. Lambert was on the board of governors as well as the local steering committee for the Human Rights Campaign for more than six years.

Lambert also supports Equality Florida, The Center, Come out with Pride, MBA, Planned Parenthood and is currently the president of the Ivanhoe Village Main Street program and on the board of directors for The Barber Fund.

Lambert supports these charities through financial giving and uses the Hammered Lamb whenever he can.

“We have offered free space to hold fundraisers for many of the organizations in town,” Lambert says. “When possible, we try to also sponsor events through food and alcohol donations.”

It’s a business he loves, and the restaurant business has been in his blood his entire life, he says.

In addition to The Hammered Lamb, Lambert has also branched out into catering.

“We have done small caterings and events since the Lamb opened, but we never really had the systems in place to execute them on a large scale, so my general manager, Nikki, and I decided to go for it,” Lambert said.

After he was asked to handle wedding receptions and rehearsal dinners, Lambert reconsidered the restaurant’s name for the catering branch. It became “Little Lamb Catering and Events.”

Lambert has always invited visitors from all backgrounds to visit his establishment and his staff welcomes everyone, no matter what part of the community they may represent.

— Dylan Drobet

watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

in the hopes that it would encourage the commissioners to sign onto an amicus brief stating their support of marriage equality.

But Joan didn’t want to go. She didn’t want to leave Liz, even for a few hours.

“You have to go talk, you have to tell our story because it doesn’t have to be too late for other people if we can make a difference,” Liz told Joan that day. Joan adds, “That’s just the person she was.”

Joan and Liz have been in each other’s lives for 13 years. They were in a longdistance relationship for three years, then split up for about 7 years. When Joan moved to Orlando in 2011 to be closer to her mother, she knew Liz had ties to the area and decided to track down her ex.

“We talked on the phone for about nine hours straight that night and just kind of picked up where we left off,” Joan says. “It was the first time that we were both in the same place—in the right place at the right time. We just moved forward from there. She moved [to Orlando] within a week, and that was it. She never left.”

They reunited in 2012, and Liz was diagnosed with cancer in 2013. She started radiation and chemotherapy but had to stop after four rounds because her body couldn’t handle the treatments. Her doctor told her the treatments were working to the point where she could take a break for the holidays. They traveled to Puerto Rico and “just did not think about cancer,” Joan says.

“We truly lived.”

In January 2014, they were scheduled for a PET scan. They didn’t make it— Liz’s insurance was cancelled and Joan’s employer does not recognize domestic partnerships. They turned to Medicaid but faced some resistance getting coverage.

During that time, believing Liz to be cancer-free, they decided to seize their newfound appreciation for life and expand their family. Liz proposed in January and Joan got pregnant in March—on their first try. It ultimately took them four months to get Liz insured and in front of a doctor.

They had a scan in April, and found some suspicious spots in Liz’s cervix and lymph nodes. She had her lymph nodes removed and had a hysterectomy, followed by a few more rounds of brutal chemotherapy. Liz lost her hair and her appetite, then they discovered the worst—the cancer had spread everywhere. Doctors found it in Liz’s kidney, abdominal walls, liver, intestines and spleen. Because of the gap in Liz’s medical care, Joan says there’s no way to know exactly when or how the tumors got out of control.

“Do I feel that if we would have been able to go in January we may have had more time?” Liz asks. “Yes, I do feel that way, because I think timeliness is key.

Having no insurance for four months was really detrimental to her. There is no way that in that four months that cancer didn’t continue growing, whether it was in her

FUNDING THE

REMARKABLE

VALUE OF EDUCATION By setting up a scholarship, Karen Castelloes reached out directly to LGBT Youth in 2014

o I wish we would have [been able to marry in another state], because things would —Joan rodriguez have been different for me. bloodstream, whether it was undetected, we don’t know. That’s what the doctor said, it was probably in her bloodstream. When we removed everything, at that point it didn’t matter, it was in her bloodstream so it just kept popping up in various organs.”

Joan continued to grow life inside of her while Liz’s life slipped away. In July, Liz entered hospice care, was determined terminal, and was given two to six months to live.

Liz dreamed about the unborn Liam. In the time before she died, she wasn’t very verbal, so if she said something, it was important and meaningful.

“Every time she had a dream about him, he had reddish brown hair, blue eyes, fair skin,” Joan says, and of course, he does. “She met him in spirit.”

Anti-gay activists declare that marriage equality is a states’ issue, and same-sex couples always have the option to travel to another state where marriage is recognized to tie the knot. For Liz and Joan, there simply wasn’t time.

“I wish we would have [been able to], because

things would have been different for me,” Joan says. “Right now, it’s just as if I’m a single mom.

[Their son, Liam] doesn’t get anything. No recognition at all that he’s her son.”

Liz told Joan she was ready to die except that she worried about her love and their unborn son.

“I said it’s okay, you’ll get to see him before I do and you’ll get to bring him to me when it’s my turn,” Joan says she told her dying partner.

Joan believes Liz is still around, and sometimes when she’s occupied far from Liam’s cradle, she sees it rocking and thinks Liz is pitching in. Joan is making plans to travel with Liam, to do the things Liz never got to do.

“Now I think my strength comes from that little miracle, just every day seeing him and watching him,” she says. “He reminds me so much of her and they don’t have any DNA [in common].”

When Liam is old enough to understand, what will Joan tell him about Liz? “Everything,” she says. “I’m going to tell him about his amazing, brave mother and how we made him together.”

watermark Your lgbt life.

rLando | If Karen Castelloes could describe her year in one word, it would be “rewarding.”

Castelloes, an exiting board member of Joy MCC and the co-founder of the Jeff Voss Education Fund, volunteers her time to a variety of organizations and people to help give back.

“I feel a little guilty sometimes because I wasn’t really active 20 years ago when it was a little more difficult to come out in the community and try to improve it and stand up for your rights,” Castelloes says.”

Earlier this year, Castelloes and Amanda “Mandy” Kimmer reached out to the Zebra Coalition to help start a scholarship fund. She expects to award the first scholarship in August 2015.

“There are some very sad and difficult stories about the youth that have come out in the community, and some of them have even had to leave their homes,” Castelloes says. “A lot of them would like to continue their education, but financially they can’t.”

As of now, the scholarships are focused on the University of Central Florida, Valencia Community College, career and technical schools in Orange County, and students who want to finish or get their GEDs. “I felt the most excited when Mandy was able to contact people over at UCF and explain what we wanted to do for our foundation and our scholarship,” Castelloes recalls. “We didn’t have to start from ground zero, and we knew that our dream was going to come to a reality.”

Castelloes was on the host committee for the 2014 Orlando Equality Florida gala, and also personally hosted in her condo three political candidates who are also supportive of the LGBT community—Joe Saunders, Linda Stewart and Karen Castor-Dentel.

But with a fundraiser Feb. 27, 2015, to help gain more support for the scholarship fund and the first scholarship being given away in August 2015, Castelloes has a lot to look forward to in the upcoming year. She hopes that in the future the scholarship fund can expand to Seminole State College and elsewhere outside of Orange County.

— Samantha Lena Rosenthal

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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in-depth:

remArkAble people

Photo by bRuce haRDIn

ore

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! e n i l on

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Steve Blanchard

arLy on in his career, whiLe

working for the Experience Theater Company in Milwaukee, Wis., Garry Breul was faced with the plague that was later termed AIDS. He lost a good friend who was only 18 years old at the time, and Breul’s life path changed forever.

watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

“John, an actor there, got it.

He had it and he was the first person I knew who had it,” Breul recalls during an interview in the American Stage lobby. “I saw him get sicker and sicker, break out into lesions and rashes. I remember going to the hospital and sitting by him for what

continued on pg. 47 | uu |

41

LEADING A REMARKABLE

A REMARKABLE

WIN

L

Re-election was even sweeter for Largo’s Michael Smith

argo | Considering everything, it wasn’t even close.

With nearly 65% of the vote, incumbent Michael Smith smartly turned away “family-values” candidate Bronson Oudshoff from Largo’s council chambers in November.

“They went after me,” Smith says of the anti-gay forces that helped fund his opponent’s campaign.

But Smith says we are entering a period of local politics where being an LGBT candidate can actually be an advantage. That is, if you do what Smith did and stay above the fray, keeping his campaign positive and focusing on his accomplishments during the past four years.

“People get turned off by the attacks,” he says.

Smith says he’s confident he’s up to the task of making sure all of his constituents are represented. He’s also encouraging LGBT people he knows to pick up the mantle and run for local government.

“A lot of what being an elected politician is about is working relationships,” he says. “If you have a set viewpoint you need to realize you were elected to work with others you may not always agree with.

“I’m not just the gay commissioner;” he says. “I am a Largo commissioner, and I will help my constituents as best I can.”

But there is still work to do for his fellow LGBTs, he says.

“There are still ways we need to be recognized,” he said, “like an employee of the city who doesn’t get domestic partnership benefits.”

Smith is also closely following news related to marriage equality in Florida. But even if that happens, he says there’s more work to be done, like with with Florida’s LGBT youth.

“We need to address why a young person commits suicide,” he says.

As Smith embarks on his second term, he has proven that he is a strong commissioner for all citizens. Just by being himself.

—Joseph Kissel

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REMARKABLY

EVOLUTION

OPTIMISTIC AND IMPATIENT

T

s

Kevin Beckner led the way in Hillsborough’s progress toward LGBT acceptance

ampa | With remarkable leadership by Commissioner Kevin Beckner, Hillsborough County took steps in 2014 to distance itself from the awkward socially conservative stereotype it had held near and dear for more than two decades.

At Beckner’s request, the commission voted unanimously to approve a domestic partnership registry, add gender identity and sexual orientation to its human rights ordinance and provide healthcare benefits to samesex partners of county employees.

Those changes, Beckner contends, came through a different approach than before.

“There was a lot of research, and work and outreach within the business community,” Beckner says. “What was always absent before was the business community, These measures would fail on the sole platform of equality and what would happen is the LGBT activists would come out and so would the Christian Right.”

Presenting things in an economic development light was the missing piece, and Hillsborough County is suddenly progressive in a way that was unimaginable for many when Beckner first took office in 2009. With 2015 fast approaching and with equality issues finally settled in Hillsborough County, Beckner hopes to focus on the county and region’s transportation woes, and initiatives for at-risk youth.

“We have to solve this transportation crisis,” Beckner says. “It’s a crisis in the county and in the region. I also have a violence prevention initiative called Safe and Sound Hillsborough that is a five-year pilot. It’s to make the county a safer place.”

When asked about marriage equality possibly coming to Florida in January, he was optimistic. If marriage is legalized, he and his spouse, Gil Sainz, will finally be legally recognized. The two were married in Canada in 2005.

“With the Windsor case in 2013, we were kind of swept in with everyone else,” says Beckner.

—Steve Blanchard

watermark Your lgbt life.

In 2014, Nadine Smith and Equality Florida made marriage equality a very real possibility for 2015

t. petersBurg | A long list of people worked tirelessly in Florida this 2014 to bring marriage equality to the Sunshine State. But Equality Florida CEO Nadine Smith has been at the forefront for more than a decade.

In January, Equality Florida filed the first lawsuit against the state on behalf of six same-sex couples demanding marriage equality. By doing so, marriage equality suddenly had multiple faces demanding equal rights.

“We’ve invested really deeply in telling our stories in a human way,” Smith says. “When it came to marriage, we stopped talking about the technicalities and legalities of marriage and focused on the very human stories of people who love and care for the most important people in their lives. We showed why marriage matters.”

In 2014, a dramatic shift in public opinion appeared, showing that 57% of Floridians support marriage rights for same-sex couples. That’s impressive, especially since it was only six years ago that 62% of voters approved the state’s constitutional ban on same-sex marriage.

Equality Florida’s lawsuit was soon joined by multiple other suits against the state, and Smith is optimistic the suits will end in our favor. But there is still plenty to tackle moving forward, including transgender and LGBT youth issues, says Smith, who turns 50 in 2015.

Her personal goals for the New Year are as large as her professional and activism goals, and maybe even more admirable.

“My goal is to continue to heal,” she says. “This work is as much about changing me as it is changing the laws and the culture. For me, it’s been a beautiful challenge to excavate that poison I was fed very early—intentionally and unintentionally from people who were supposed to protect me the most.

“So my goal for 2015 and beyond is to be the adult I wish had been there for me.”

—Steve Blanchard

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

Photo by nIck caRDello

Photo by bRuce haRDIn

REMARKABLY

RAISING THE BAR Ashley Brundage raised the participation of Tampa Bay’s trans community in 2014

T

ampa | Anyone affiliated with the LGBT community who hasn’t met Ashley Brundage has surely seen her at events. The 34-yearold relationship banker with PNC Bank is the vicepresident of the Tampa Bay Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, part of the advisory board for the Ybor Youth Clinic and a volunteer with Equality Florida in several capacities. She’s also a board member of the Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival.

But what makes Brundage truly remarkable is that she burst onto the LGBT scene almost immediately after transitioning and has been a figurehead in the transgender community—especially in 2014.

“I really found the transgender community was underrepresented,” Brundage says. “My goal was to make it easier for other transgender people to have easier involvement.”

While achieving acceptance went extremely well for Brundage, she says she had more difficulty reaching out to fellow transgender people, many of whom prefer to live in “stealth” after transitioning. But things are getting easier.

When Brundage isn’t working for PNC or volunteering on the board of an LGBT organization, she enjoys her role as a parent. She and her wife of 12 years are raising two boys, 9 and 7.

So how does Brundage juggle home life, business life and her activism life?

“I put together a great schedule,” she laughs. “I like to plan things in advance. Fortunately I get a lot of support through PNC and its initiatives and diversity inclusion.”

In 2015 she wants to continue growing the transgender community by getting fellow trans people involved in LGBT organizations. She also has aspirations to advance in her career at PNC. For those who want to become as active as she is, Brundage has one piece of advice.

“Take baby steps,” she says. “Get involved on a small, local level and plug into something that is important to you.”

—Steve Blanchard

REMARKABLY

INVOLVED

Through her ongoing volunteerism, Cindy Barnes reaches beyond Sarasota Pride

ON A REMARKABLE

TRAJECTORY Eric Davis continues to lead freeFall Theatre Company on a rapid ascent

s

s

—Steve Blanchard

—Joseph Kissel

arasota | Before she was the face of Sarasota Pride, Cindy Barnes was a landscaper, a motorcycle dealership manager, a DJ and now, a property manager.

But it’s Barnes’ reimagining of Sarasota Pride and her volunteerism that has landed her on this year’s Most Remarkable list.

“I pretty much volunteered ever since I was a child,” she says. “It was just something our family did.”

In 2014, Sarasota Pride celebrated its 25th anniversary. Five years ago was its first time as a free, outdoor event.

“I went to that first Pride at Trinity MCC and honestly I remember being disappointed that there wasn’t more of a community then,” she says. “It wasn’t until 2006 that I did my first volunteer gig with Pride and I was the beer babe at the beer booth.”

In 2009 she joined the board; in 2010, she introduced Sarasota to its first Pride at JD Hamel Park, along the downtown waterfront. From there, the event has grown to more than 5,000 participants.

While she organized Sarasota Pride in 2014, Barnes also remained active in fighting for political victories.

She was a voice for the Sarasota Domestic Partnership Registry and has helped raise money for Equality Florida.

“When we win a fight like the domestic partnership registry, the word ‘gratifying’ doesn’t even touch it,” Barnes says. “When you see that much happen so fast, it’s just amazing. As much struggle as there has been, it’s suddenly happening so easily. The registry is an example.

Once we got it over the top it was just slam-bam, done.”

As far as 2015 goes, Barnes has a lofty goal: she wants to create a community rainbow flag.

Barnes plans to approach community groups early in the year to fund it, so as to not directly conflict with fundraising for Sarasota Pride 2015.

“It’s better to hit the sponsors up twice a year than twice a week,” she jokes. “So I want to hit this early.”

watermark Your lgbt life.

t. petersBurg | Define the word “freefall.”

It’s certainly not winning multiple awards and strong audiences for 2014’s diverse line-up of shows, including Larry Kramer’s The Normal Heart and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, and the upcoming The Buffalo Kings.

Eric Davis is the founder and artistic director of freeFall Theatre in St. Petersburg, and while he’s quick to spread the praise, his remarkable spirit is providing the fuel to the company’s rapid ascent.

“I am inspired by great writing and stories that are thrilling and speak to a universal poetic sense about the human experience,” Davis says.

During the summer, he directed and starred in The Normal Heart, a story he credits for taking gay theater from an underground movement to a wider audience that would see later hit projects like Angels in America.

“It’s a powerful story that chronicles a dark moment in American history,” he says. “But it also gives lots of hope in dark times that a hero will come and lead a way out of the darkness.”

For theatergoers in St. Pete—and the broader LGBT community—that hero could be Davis.

“We live in a very different world than what takes place in that play,” he says.

While far-out, far-right Christian pastors may still openly call for extermination of LGBT people due to the “Word of God,” Davis says these forces don’t represent the mainstream anymore.

Davis is quick to credit his freeFall staff with the success of 2014, saying that it creates “the illusion of a much bigger company by having such an amazing staff,” he says.

Davis also gives credit to the great atmosphere for the arts in St. Pete.

“St. Pete has really knocked it out of the park in prioritizing the arts,” he’s said.

And Davis, no doubt, is an MVP.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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There are people with AIDs who can’t do anything; I have this cancer thing but I can still do things.

—garry BreuL

standing strong: Gary Breul stands along the shoreline of Demens Landing in St. Petersburg where he stage managed American Stage in the Park’s spring production of The Wiz. Photo by bRuce haRDIn

| uu | Gary Breul from pg.41

seemed like the longest time. I was there when he passed away.

“I said from there on in, it’s for them.”

And that’s exactly what he has done ever since—raised money for people with AIDS, or PWAs. He says he’s driven by his faith and adds that he’s always been “a gay Christian boy.” But in 2014, Breul, 63, faced a new, deeply personal challenge.

In April, he was diagnosed with

adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that attacks mucus-secreting glands throughout the body. Breul’s cancer started in his lung, and eventually made its way to his brain.

After battling what he thought was an ear infection for weeks, Breul visited his doctor. While the doctor asked about his condition, Breul shared that he had noticed trouble with his memory, especially names of people he knew quite well.

“He asked me some simple questions,” Breul recalls. “He asked me where I was from, and I told him Milwaukee. He asked what state

that was in and I couldn’t think of it. Then he asked me what 5 plus 5 was. I told him, ‘I don’t know. I know, but I just can’t come up with it.’”

Breul was diagnosed soon after, and was delivered the news while preparing for American Stage’s spring production of The Wiz, held at Demens Landing on St. Petersburg’s waterfront.

“As I was driving to do the second preview of The Wiz, the doctor called me and told me, ‘You don’t have an ear infection, you have cancer,’” Breul says. “’Drive home now because you could have

watermark Your lgbt life.

a seizure.’ I told him, ‘You have the wrong guy, buddy. I don’t drink, I don’t smoke—I can’t have cancer!’”

After follow-up tests the next day, Breul returned to Demens Landing for the opening of the show.

Thirty minutes before show time, the doctor called again, confirming that the cancer was there, and more aggressive than expected.

“I broke down,” Breul recalls.

“I was crying like a baby. Karla Hartley and Todd Olsen came over. I just said, ‘I can’t do this. I’m destroyed. I’m dead.’”

Doctors estimate that Breul has three to five more years on the planet. Since April, Breul’s life has consisted of regular visits to the doctor and he has undergone chemotherapy and radiation treatments. His doctors are confident that the radiation has helped shrink the tumors in his brain. But so far, chemotherapy has yet to have an effect on the cancer in his lung.

Breul has had to quit work and is currently on disability. But that doesn’t mean he’s lost his passion for theater or for people battling HIV and AIDS. He also hasn’t lost his faith. He says he knows he’s on the Earth for a reason and adds that there is a reason for his cancer, even though he has not yet figured out what that reason is.

“After I found out about the cancer, I realized the Prelude to Pride benefit was already set for June, so I went ahead with it,” he says, referring to the production of All About Steve, starring Scott Daniel and Matthew McGee. “I also went ahead with the RENT concert we just had in Sarasota.”

He also presented the World AIDS Day performance of As Is, held at American Stage on Dec. 1.

Even though he didn’t always feel well during 2014, Breul kept focused on the path he set for himself back in Wisconsin when he lost his good friend to AIDS. “I am able to do this and there

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

are others worse off than me,” Breul says. “There are people with AIDS who can’t do anything. They can’t even get up. I have this cancer thing but I can still do things. I’m also overwhelmed by the support for me. I knew I had friends, but I didn’t know so many people cared.”

There have been multiple fundraising events for Breul and he’s collected several honors this year—including a “Best Theater Humanitarian” award from Creative Loa�ing and a World AIDS Day recognition from GAIN, a religious organization in Sarasota.

“That is such a motivating force,” Breul says. “If I don’t do these things, who will? I haven’t met anyone yet to succeed me. The right person has to be able to talk to actors and it’s someone who really cares about the people we’re helping here. That has gotten so big in me. I just haven’t met that person yet. When I do, I’ll hand it over. But not before then.”

With 2015 right around the corner, Breul is already focused on what’s next for him—and it involves more productions and benefits for HIV patients.

“I’m working on something for April, I’d like to bring the RENT concert to St. Pete,” he says. “If that doesn’t work, I’ll figure out something. I can’t sit still until June when we do the next Pride event.

In fact, we’re working on that this week, figuring out what kind of show we can pull together.”

Retirement isn’t something Breul even wants to consider. In fact, he’s determined to be back working as a paid staffer for theater companies in 2015, once he beats his “incurable” cancer.

“I love what I do and I’m going to try to get well and come back,” he says. “And everyone has said they would bring me back. I have been doing theater my whole life and I just love it so much. It kills me that I can’t do it right now.”

47

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arTs and enTerTainmenT

country proud: Country singer Ty Herndon came out a week before Thanksgiving, and is gearing up for a tour in 2015.

c

Gregg Shapiro

ountry singer ty

Herndon, who began topping the country music charts nearly 20 years ago, came out publicly as a gay man a week before Thanksgiving 2014. That’s something for which country music fans, gay and straight, can be thankful. A country charttopper in the 1990s, Herndon’s hits include “What Matters Most,” “Living In A Moment,” “It Must Be Love” and “Loved Too Much,” to mention a few.

Nothing but

the truth Ty herndon Talks aBouT Being ouT and proud in counTry music watermark Your lgbt life.

Now an out and proud gay man, with a partner of five years named Matty, Herndon is one of the LGBT artists in Nashville working to make the country music capital a safe and productive place for out musicians and LGBT followers of the popular musical genre. We spoke with Ty about coming out, his career and more in late November 2014.

WAtermArk: iT’s Been aBouT five days since your coming out Story rAn on people.com And you Were diScuSSed on cbS’S THE TALK, CNN And intervieWed on ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT. hoW hAS the eXperience been So fAr? Ty Herndon: I feel so incredibly blessed. I have struggled with being gay my entire career and life. Of course, I’ve had so much support from my friends and close family that supported me, that knew I was gay. But it’s been so freeing for the fans to know; the fans in country music, especially. They have really been supportive and awesome. There are always going to be the naysayers and we’ve had a few of those. 99% of the feedback from the fans and in Nashville has been incredibly supportive. It’s blown my mind, to be honest with you. I feel extremely happy. And I feel extremely excited about the future because, really, at the end of the day I just want to be authentic and continue to make great music. That’s what I was put on this planet to do, that’s my gift. I’m singing better than I ever have. There’s lots of music coming in the new year. That really makes me happy.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

continued on pg. 52 | uu |

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from pg.49

did you consult with other out country artists?

Chely Wright and I have been friends for many years.

Our paths are so similar in country music. We went to great lengths to hide the fact that we were gay. Five or so years ago when Chely came out, I was so incredibly blown away by her bravery and courage. About six months later, we started talking about it. I didn’t want her to be alone out there. It took a while for me to get my courage up, just to wrap my brain around it. I was really fearful about being able to continue working and doing my job, working 200 tour dates a year.

That was my main fear. If I don’t get to continue to do my job that I love, my passion, I don’t know what I’d do.

Through Chely, I was able to get educated about all of the fans out there and the new landscape of what my life would be like. I became very comfortable with the fact that I wasn’t going to let who I authentically am stop me from making the music I love.

God gave me great courage and Chely was my godsister through all of it and we did it together.

Billy Gilman credits you with helping him with the coming out process.

What does that mean to you?

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| uu | Ty Herndon

I have known Billy since he was 12. We were on the same record label, Epic/Sony. I had a few hit records when they signed Billy. He has been like a kid brother over the years.

We had lost contact and all of a sudden he’s 26 years old. Last year, he reached out to me and we started talking about his sexuality. I began mentoring him a small amount because I was also mentoring myself, actually Chely was mentoring me. I was trying to pay it forward.

It’s a big decision to take that step. I was really happy that he chose to do that— two hours after I did. That we could take this journey together and be a support

watermark Your lgbt life.

system is pretty awesome.

Between Billy and Chely and me, who knows, maybe we’ll do us a little world tour next year.

How much influence did your religious background have in the process?

I grew up in a great church, with a lot of affirming people.

I never had to worry about being kicked out of anything.

I grew up in bluegrass

record. I actually went to my record label and talked about it. But when you’re a country artist through and through and it’s in your blood, all you accomplish is a pop sounding record with a country singing fella. It just didn’t fit for me. I just had to buckle down and fight harder.

The harder I fought, the more lies I created and it was uncomfortable to be in my own skin. At that point, I made a lot of mistakes,

I know one of the things I would love to see happen is starting a better coalition here in Nashville of affirmative hearts so we can get an LGBT center open.

—Ty Herndon and gospel and country music. I had this amazing grandmother who had her own radio show on WPRN in Alabama. I have these strong women in my family.

My grandmother was broadcasting live from the senior citizens’ center at 90 years old, talking about controversial things. She was awesome. You didn’t mess with Grandma Myrtle.

But I had no one to talk to about my feelings of being gay at 10 years old. I was 20-something when I came out to my mom. I think moms always know. My mother was more concerned about the profession I had chosen to be in. Her main concern was that I live an authentic, good life and that I was healthy.

Of course, I went down some roads and that was not the case. She was right to worry about that. But, to answer your question, I grew up with a very loving God in my life and that’s something I want to pass on to these kids that don’t have that.

Have you considered recording and performing in a genre, where there are more openly LGBT artists?

I considered doing a pop

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

a lot of bad choices, and I take full responsibility for those choices.

God bless the broken road that has led me to sit here talking to you today. If it’s fair to say, sometimes I’m grateful for my mistakes because I don’t think I’d be the man I am today if it wasn’t for them.

If there was a movie version of your life story, who would you like to portray you?

I think Hugh Jackman or Neal Patrick Harris would do a great job playing me. We would have to bring them to Nashville and teach them the cowboy ways [laughs]. if you and your boyfriend were to marry, to what song would you like to walk down the aisle?

That’s an easy question for me. There’s a Rascal Flatts song that I referred to, “God Bless The Broken Road That Has Led Me Straight To You.” That would be our wedding song. And if I had my wish, I would have my friend LeAnn Rimes come and sing it.

TBGLCC.ORG

On view now through January 18, 2015 Sponsored by

Jamie Wyeth, Nureyev – Don Quixote (detail), 2001, combined mediums, Collection Brandywine River Museum of Art. Purchase made possible by the Robert J. Kleberg, Jr. and Helen C. Kleberg Foundation, the Roemer Foundation, the Margaret Dorrance Strawbridge Foundation of PA I, Inc., and an anonymous donor, 2006 Work by Jamie Wyeth copyright © Jamie Wyeth

On view now through January 11, 2015 James Rosenquist (American, born 1933), Welcome to the Water Planet, 1987, Aquatint on paper. Gift of Iris and E. Stan Salzer, Published by GraphicStudio, University of South Florida, Tampa

THE DIAMOND DINNER

Saturday January 17th. 730pm to 10pm

A special event to recognize business leaders in the Tampa Bay community.

Title Sponsors

Diamond Sponsors Fifth Third Bank The Hotchkiss Group

Table Sponsors Brandon Family Law Center, LLC Out & Equal Greater Tampa Bay Affiliate PNC Bank St. Pete Pride

UPCOMING EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT THE MFA Saturday, January 3rd

Kidding Around Yoga – 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Make & Take Paint a Piggy Bank – 11:00 a.m.to 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, January 8th

Drumming at the MFA – 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Saturday, January 10th

Gallery Talk on Jamie Wyeth’s Portraits of Rudolf Nureyev

by Hazel and William Hough Chief Curator Jennifer Hardin – 3:00 p.m.

Saturday, January 10th

Take a Chance Dance Workshop – 11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Tickets: $50.00 Members, $75.00 Non - Members

Order tickets at TBGLCC.org or call 813-362-6203.

watermark Your lgbt life.

This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council of Arts and Culture and the State of Florida (Section 286.25, Florida Statutes)

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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eventplanner event planner

arTs+enTerTainmenT

communiTy calendar

orlando

orlando

Spotlight cabaret Series: heather alexander & christopher leavy, Dec. 18, Winter Park Playhouse, Winter Park. 407-645-0145; WinterParkPlayhouse.com

Holiday sing-a-Long 6 p.m. sunday, dec. 21 parLiament house resort

The Nutcracker with the orlando Philharmonic orchestra, Dec. 19-21, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org

Get into the festive, holiday spirit with a singa-long with Orlando’s premiere piano man, Kelly Richards, and your host, Michael Wanzie.

Guests are invited to sing some holiday songs with the live piano as the soundtrack, and the first 10 guest singers get a free drink! There is no cover and door prizes will be handed out throughout the evening.

The Nutcracker Family Series, Dec. 20 and 21, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org

billy Joel

A Christmas Carol, Through Dec. 21, Moonlight Players, Clermont. 352-243-5875; MoonlightPlayers.com A Christmas Carol, Through Dec. 22, Theatre Downtown, Orlando. 407-841-0083; TheatreDowntown.net The Book of Mormon, Dec. 26-Jan. 4, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando. 844-513-2014; Drphillipscenter.org A Christmas Carol, Through Dec. 28, Orlando Shakespeare Theater, Orlando. 407-447-1700; OrlandoShakes.org Billy Joel, Dec. 31, Amway Center, Orlando. 407-440-7000; AmwayCenter.com ICE! at the gaylord Palms feat. The Nutcracker!, Through Jan. 4, Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando. 407-586-2000; ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com James Joyce’s The Dead, Through Jan. 4, Mad Cow Theatre, Orlando. 407-297-8788; MadCowTheatre.com

tAmpA bAy neil Simon’s Laughter on the 23rd Floor, Dec. 1721, American Stage, St. Petersburg. 727-823- 7529; AmericanStage.org gregory Porter: liquid Spirit, Dec. 18, Ferguson Hall, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-228-7827; StrazCenter.org

8 p.m., wednesday, dec. 31 amway center

THe

SANTALAND diaries

Meet Crumpet, the unemployed writer who takes a job as a “helper elf” at Macy’s Santaland, played by St. Petersburg’s own brian Shea Dec. 22-28 at American Stage. This one-man play has some adult humor and features situations that truly reflect the insanity of the season. Tickets are $19 and available at AmericanStage.org.

mIx 100.7 mistletoe Show feat. Train, Mary Lambert and Matt Nathanson, Dec. 19, The Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-893-7832; TheMahaffey.com The Family Blessing, Dec. 20 and 21, The Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-893-7832; TheMahaffey.com holiday Series: Santaland Diaries 2014, Dec. 22-24 and Dec. 26-28, American Stage, St. Petersburg. 727-823- 7529; AmericanStage.org

A Christmas Carol, Through Dec. 24, FreeFall Theatre, St. Petersburg. 727-498-5205; FreeFallTheatre.com moscow ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker, Dec. 28, The Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-893-7832; TheMahaffey.com The Phantom of the Opera, Through Jan. 4, Carol Morsani Hall, Straz Center, Tampa.

813-228-7827; StrazCenter.org

Say goodbye to 2014 with living legend Billy Joel at the Amway Center on New Year’s Eve. The Piano Man himself will make his only appearance in our coverage area that night, and expect a very large, very diverse crowd filling up the downtown venue. For tickets, visit AmwayCenter.com or call 407-440-7000.

St. peterSburg

Ho! Ho! Ho! Holiday Party 6 p.m., thursday, dec. 18 gay st. pete guest house

It’s back! HO HO HO! is one of the biggest poolside holiday parties of the year in St. Petersburg. Host Brian Longstreth of the Gay St. Pete House says there’s a Cuban menu again this year and it’s all catered by Smiley’s Deli. DJ L Mo will spin that night and entry only requires a small donation. Money raised goes to local charities.

tAmpA

sarasoTa

The Phantom of the Opera

langston hughes’ Black Nativity, Through Dec. 21, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, Sarasota.

941-366-1505; WBTTSRQ.org

through Jan. 4 straz center

The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical, Through Dec. 21, Venice Theatre, Venice. 941-488-1115; VeniceStage.com South Pacific, Through Dec. 28, Asolo Rep Theatre, Sarasota.

941-351-8000; AsoloRep.org

Following an acclaimed sold-out tour of the United Kingdom, Cameron Mackintosh’s spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s phenomenal musical success, The Phantom of the Opera, will come to Tampa as part of a brand new North American Tour.

Critics say it’s “bigger and better than ever before.” A cast and orchestra of 52 also adds to the feel if the iconic production. For tickets, visit StrazCenter.org or call 813-228-7827.

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

watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

55

E Z A D I THE L T A O H STARS OF TODAY MEET THE STARS OF TOMORROW

Z A R ST

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Events, days, dates, times, performers and prices are subject to change without notice. Handling fees will apply.

56

Gift cards now available!

Gift cards can be used for tickets, s, Straz Center Memberships, classes at the Patel Conservatory and at any Maestro’s restaurant.*

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*

Gift cards not valid at bars. ars.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

shotonsite 4

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Tampa Bay 1- ready to go: Volunteers with the Santa Speedo Run give the thumbs up as they prepare to register runners Dec. 14 at Centennial Park in Ybor City. Photo by bRuce haRDIn 2- group outing: This group of friends enjoyed a night out at Steam Fridays at the Honey Pot in Ybor City on Dec. 5. Photo couRteSy caRRIe weSt 3- BuiLd a trophy case!: John and nancy Desmond of Tampa PFLAG take a selfie with their new Hero Award, given to them at the Hillsborough County Human Rights Council Awards Breakfast held at the Westshore Doubletree on Dec. 12. Photo couRteSy John DeSmonD

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4- parties for hosting: St. Pete Pride executive director eric Skains and board president Scion Provenzano take a break from hosting duties during the 2014 Red & Green event at Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg Dec. 6. Photo by SteVe blanchaRD 5- tidings of Joy: (L-R) TBGLCC Vice President ashley brundage and Francis House Executive Director Joy winheim take a break from collecting raffle tickets at Crumb and Cork during the LGBT Chamber’s Holiday Social Dec. 4. Photo by SteVe blanchaRD 6- famiLy affair: Scott & Patti (Scott Daniel and matthew mcgee) entertained a packed LGBT Welcome Center during the St. Petersburg facility’s grand opening and ribbon cutting held Dec. 12. Photo by SteVe blanchaRD 7- powerfuL tripLe-threat: Metro Wellness and Community Center CEO lorraine langlois stands between St. Petersburg Mayor Rick kriseman, right, and Pinellas Commissioner John morroni at the LGBT Welcome Center ribbon cutting Dec. 12. Photo by SteVe blanchaRD

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8- ceLeBrate earLy: (L-R) Partners michael Dailey and Rob wertz of St. Petersburg celebrate the holidays at St. Pete Pride’s Red & Green fundraiser at Sunken Gardens on Dec. 6. Photo by SteVe blanchaRD

overheard Tampa pflag recognized again

i

t’s Been a Big year for nancy and John desmond. The couple who rebooted the Tampa chapter of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG), received a Hero award from the Human Rights Council of Hillsborough County on Dec. 12. If the two look familiar (pictured above) they should—they were also grand marshals in the 2014 St. Pete Pride Parade in June. The couple have a gay son who lives out of state, and have helped expand PFLAG’s influence around Tampa Bay and in multiple counties. The 41st Annual

Awards Breakfast was held at the Westshore DoubleTree hotel in downtown Tampa.

dogs and drag? This Bar says yes To BoTh

T

here’s a new LgBt estaBLishment in town—right on Memorial Highway in Tampa.

Dachshunds Bar and Grill is open for business and has given long-time performer Stephanie Shippae her newest starring gig.

Shippae (Hey Everybody!) is the emcee and headliner of the Friday night drag shows at the club, located at 5915 Memorial Highway. The shows start at 8:30 and features a recurring

cast of special guests. The club, which opened in August, is LGBT friendly, obviously, and also welcomes our four-legged kids since it neighbors a dog park.

Visit Dachshunds.bravesites.com or find them on Facebook for more details.

a very chamBer holiday

T

o commemorate the hoLiday season, the Tampa Bay Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce held a special cocktail mixer at Crumb & Cork in downtown Tampa on Dec. 4. The large crowd helped raise money through raffle tickets for Francis

watermark Your lgbt life.

House, which assists HIV positive clients in Hillsborough County.

The festive atmosphere was boosted by the addition of a large Christmas tree in the upscale bar and the inter-mingling of several other groups holding celebrations as well. The raffle raised $400. Not bad for a twohour event!

suBTly, sT. peTe pride reveals iTs neW logo

w

hiLe supporters of st. pete pride ceLeBrated the hoLidays at the ever-growing Red & Green fundraiser held at Sunken Gardens, the organization quietly unveiled its

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

brand new logo—without one direct mention of it. On display boards lit and mounted on easels along the entry path to the park, the new St. Pete Pride logo was shown along with facts and figures about the 12-year-old Pride. Those who noticed the design change—which features two interlocking six-sided, white diamonds—seemed confused by the change. All will be revealed soon, however, according to executive director Eric Skains and board president Scion Provenzano. They’ve both agreed to speak to Watermark to discuss the new logo and 2015 St. Pete Pride plans in our Jan. 2 issue.

57

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orlando

1- LIGHT UP THE NIGHT: The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence pose with their sign “You are accepted by The Orlando Sisters” at Parliament House’s annual festival of holiday lights on Dec. 6. Photo by Pat O’Rourke 2- CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAYS: WFTV Channel 9 anchor Jorge Estevez, left, and Watermark founder Tom Dyer celebrate at Watermark’s annual holiday party. Photo by Jamie Hyman 3- THE GIFT OF FRINGE: (L-R) Janine Klein, Timothy Vargas and Ben Johansen enjoy Merry Fringein’ Xmas, the holiday kick-off party and holidaythemed show ithat’s part of “Fringe Year Round,” at the Margeson Theatre. Photo by Rick Claggett

7

4- VACATION TIME: (L-R) David Dorman and Scott Penyak enjoy a cruise at the beginning of December that went to the Cayman Islands. Photo by Christopher Funky 5- WATERMARK GRADUATION: Watermark’s Editorial Intern Dylan Drobet, left, and Watermark’s Editorial Assistant Samantha Rosenthal pose for a selfie on Dec. 12 as they wait for their commencement ceremony to start. Both women graduated from the University of Central Florida’s journalism program. Photo by Dylan Drobet

4

6- MIX IT UP: (L-R) MBA Director of Small Business Development Lu Mueller-Kaul and her wife Deb Ofsowitz pose for a picture at MBA Orlando’s Monthly Networking Mixer on Dec. 3. Photo by Rick Claggett 7- AROUND THE WORLD: (L-R) Dexter Foxworth, Michael Deeying and Brennan McNell enjoy a day at Epcot on Dec. 9. The group stopped for a selfie at the UK Pavilion. Photo by Dexter Foxworth

5

6

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8- REINDEER GAMES: Doug Ba’aser sits on top of a reindeer, decked out in Santa attire, as he hosts Hamburger Mary’s trivia night in Dec. 10. Photo by Jamie Hyman

Overheard Savoy threesome sees a split

C

hris “Tadpole” Hanay is no longer part of the “new” Savoy. The former owner announced on Facebook that he was moving onto the next chapter of his life and referenced some new “opportunities” ahead of him.

He didn’t elaborate on why he split from the other two owners, Patrick Razo and Brandon Llewellyn. A lot happened at the bar when the three took it over.

They added a new dance floor and lighting, changed the name and theme of the adjacent tattoo lounge to the Locker Room.

Last weekend, Hanay was seen bartending at Latitudes Bar. His former business partners have remained quiet about the split.

Set your DVRs for ‘Front Porch Chat’

O

rlando resident Randy Ross is back on television. This time, however, he’s not going after a reality show dream. He’s hosting a talk show. From the description shared by him on Facebook, Front Porch Chat with Randy & Friends sounds like a down-home local version of The View or The Talk, although

not starring any comedians or seasoned journalists. The show is scheduled to premiere on CW18 in March.

What’s a good ride worth?

R

ide sharing services took off like a rocket at the KSC this year and but local Taxi services like Mears were Uber-mad at being undersold and overperformed. The city threatened to only allow Uber and Lyft to operate as long as each charged a 125% fare rate or else face large fines. The petitions soon went up, Lyfting the support

watermark Your lgbt life.

for these ride-sharing services and urging the city to go back to the drawing board. After some negotiations, the city will allow the ridesharing services to operate legally, as long as they charge the traditional $2.45 per mile and drivers pay a $250 license fee. The rules go into effect in February.

Sisters are doin’ it

M

iss Darcel Stevens and others came out in droves to support the mother of a slain sister in the trans-community.

Thirty-year-old Ahsley Sinclair, also known as Mohagany

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

Shylanda Sinclair, was found murdered in April 2013. After several months of investigation the arrest of Kent Louis was made. The case for Ashley’s murder went to trial and the courtroom was filled with Darcel and several others in the LGBT community were there to honor their friend and to show support for her mother. On Dec. 12, Louis was found guilty of manslaughter. On Ashley’s Facebook page, many were relieved to see there was justice for her. See more on this in the Orlando News section of this issue of Watermark.

59

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property maintenance

transitions

community Announcements congraTulaTions

congratuLations: Barry Miller was invited Dec. 2 to serve on the National Legal Industry Council for the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC). Miller, a local attorney, is known for his involvement in the LGBT community, including working with MBA Orlando.

greg weber and Rich Kennedy of Orlando celebrate their 28th anniversary Dec. 24.

The metropolitan business association of orlando held elections Dec. 3.

Congratulations to all newly elected and returning members: VP Development chris Stephenson; VP Operations michael thomas; Director of Programs lisa Brown; Director of Social Engagement michael Deeying; Director of Marketing Daniel wilson; Director of Small Business Development lu mueller-kaul; Director of Diversity and Inclusion: Jeff Peterson.

gone too soon: St. Petersburg EMT and marathon enthusiast

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1. Provide managerial oversight and delivery of event development activities to include Sponsorship sales and delivery, Marketing, Allied events, Fundraising events, Pride Guide and Customer Relations.

MEDITERRANEAN BLUE IS JUST ONE MORE.

2. All other duties as assigned by the board.

3. Follow the guidelines and procedures as described in the Come Out With Pride production manual

brandon walters lost his battle to lymphoma on Dec. 8. He was also an employee of A Touch of Oz within the Flamingo Resort. He is survived by his parents and his fiancé, Christopher DeMarchi.

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

Please e-mail resumes to board@comeoutwithpride.org

adam conrad recently was hired

by Public Works for Orange County. george alan wallace announced on Facebook that kids Fringe was named the “BEST FAMILY FESTIVAL OF 2014”

by PLAYGROUND Magazine.

hoLiday BaBy:

Miss Comedy Queen National 2014, kathryn nevets of Lakeland, celebrates her birthday Dec. 21.

The Orange County Democratic Executive Committee re-elected carlos guillermo Smith to a two-year term as party chairman at their biennial organizational meeting on Dec. 8. thearon Scurlock was promoted to general manager of the new 1.1 millionsquare-foot shopping attraction Artegon Marketplace Orlando.

ceLeBrating siLver:

St. Petersburg couple and Spathose artists Scott Durfee, left,and george medeiros celebrate 25 years together on Dec. 24. The couple’s art has gained national attention this year and even caught the eye of Martha Stewart.

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local BirThdays Handsome St. Petersburg caterer Steve gallo (Dec. 20); Tampa Bay entertainer kathryn nevets, Orlando’s Hamburger Mary’s co-founder tom Schneider (Dec. 21); nerd candy and ally katetorrence (Dec. 22); Brandon salesman and bear fan walter tart, Watermark contributor chris azzopardi, Gulfport photographer and owner of Creative Design Weavers amy oatley (Dec. 24); marching band dork Jeremiah catherwood, UCFGLBT.com webmaster hank lewis (Dec. 25); St. Petersburg bartender Jeff nicolaus, puppeteer and gay rights activist hannah miller, sexy Parliament House bartender Jeff Munzing (Dec. 26); Clearwater realtor and Suncoast softballer keith gill, Serial Thrillers bench coach extraordinaire lisa cason (Dec. 27) Watermark contributor and Gulfport activist Greg Stemm, Phish Phest phenom and realtor Sue-bee laginess (Dec. 29); Hope and Help development diva Duane Hoyle, Tampa ROTC member Steve Deal, What’s Happening magazine owner/publisher Frank garcia (Dec. 30); Mr.. Ybor Eagle 2010 carlos “wolfy” Diaz, Tampa massage therapist Russell Fox, St. Pete Pride volunteer and Tarpon Springs native Paul lecouris, Fringe ED george wallace, Orlando bear Justin Homer (Dec. 31); teacher and activist clinton mccracken (Dec. 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!

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Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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sports

IOC makes Olympic-sized move on LGBT issues Staff Report

M

onaco | The International Olympic Committee approved a new Olympic bidding process this month to make the system less costly and more flexible to attract future candidates—including adding sexual orientation to its non-discrimination policy.

Under Principle 6, the new clause states there should be no discrimination “of any kind, such as race, color, sex, sexual orientation, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status.”

Many human rights activists, leaders and athletes slammed the Sochi games and the Olympic organizers for turning a blind eye to a 2013 law signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin that bans the “propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations.” Public displays

of affection on the streets, pride rallies, being gay or being suspected of being gay could potentially land citizens and tourists in prison. In return, many critics called for a full-fledged boycott of the Olympic Games.

The move was part of President Thomas Bach’s 40-point “Olympic Agenda 2020” reform package, which is the biggest shake-up in the organization in decades.

The votes come at a time when many countries have been scared off by the costs of hosting the Olympics, including the reported $51 billion associated with the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi. Several cities withdrew from the bidding for the 2022 Winter Olympics, leaving only Beijing and Almaty, Kazakhstan in the running.

The system approved in December will make the process more of an ``invitation’’ and allow prospective candidates to discuss their plans in advance with the IOC

to tailor games to their own needs— and keep them affordable.

To cut down on costs and avoid white elephants, cities will be urged to make maximum use of existing and temporary venues.

Bach invited feedback from across the OIympic world over the past year, laying the groundwork for what should be approval on all the proposals.

Bach has moved swiftly since his election in September 2013 to put his stamp on the presidency and rally support for the most sweeping change since the IOC enacted a series of reforms in 1999 after the Salt Lake City bid scandal.

Under one of the proposals, the IOC would abolish the cap of 28 sports for the Summer Games and move to an ``events-based’’ system that would allow new events to come in—a process that could clear the way for baseball and softball to be added to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

watermark Your lgbt life.

THE TOP

5

STORIES of the year

Michael Sam in, out of NFL Michael Sam became the first out gay player to be drafted by an NFL team. He was released in the fall.

The anti-gay Winter Olympics In February, all eyes were on Russia—and its anti-LGBT policies. The country’s ongoing intolerance toward its LGBT citizens took center stage.

Collins is NBA’s first out player The Nets’ Jason Collins came out and was the first active openly gay NBA player in history. After 13 seasons in the league, Collins announced his retirement in November.

Kluwe vs. Vikings Punter Chris Kluwe accused his former employer of firing him because of his vocal support of marriage equality.

high school coach fired Officials fired assistant basketball coach Fran McGlinn of Archbishop Wood High School after video showed his involvement in the beating of two Philadelphia gay men.

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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O R L A N D O

accounTanT

M A R K E T P L A C E

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Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

O R L A N D O

aTTorney

M A R K E T P L A C E

chiroprActor

counselor

DR. JARED SILBERSTEIN Chiropractic Physician

SOUTH PARK

CHIROPRACTIC “DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE”

Please join us for our patient appreciation day May 29,2014 10 AM - 6 PM

Morris & HanCoCK, P.a.

Attorneys at Law

Adoption, Family Law, Immigration Law & Estate Planning specifically directed for LGBT people.

WWW.FCWONLINE.COM

Michael E. Morris, Esquire Christopher P. Hancock, Esquire Dennise Hernandez Gruber, Esquire Amber L. Humphries, Esquire

South Park Chiropractic

(Off of John Youn Pky near Sand Lake Road)

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

Se rv ic e S ava i l a b l e i n O r l a n d O & Ta m pa

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Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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orlando

garden/nursery

CIT Y OA SIS

Full Service Interior Plantscaping Design & Maintenance Sales - Leasing - Maintenance

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property maintenance Commercial and Residential Licensed specializing in:

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Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

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photography

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m

en and women in skimpy attire returned to Ybor City’s Centennial Park for The Santa Speedo Run and Mrs. Claus in Bras on Dec. 14. This is the fifth year for the event and the contingent of runners was slightly larger than last year.

The new female-directed aspect of the charity run brought out some new, more feminine faces this year. Money raised went directly to the AIDS Service Association of Pinellas’ Brighter Seasons for Children charity.

watermark Your lgbt life.

2014 Santa Speedo Run SundAy, dec. 14, centenniAl pArk, yBor ciTy

Photography by Bruce Hardin

Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

IT’S THE GIRLS! • NEW ALBUM IN STORES NOW

ON TOUR IN 2015 ON SALE MONDAY, DECEMBER 8 AT 10AM!

MAY 11

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Charge By Phone: 800-745-3000. All dates, acts and ticket prices subject to change without notice. Ticket prices subject to applicable fees.

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Decemb er 18 - 31, 2014 // Issue 21. 26

71

BRING JOY TO YOUR DRIVEWAY THIS HOLIDAY AT FIELDS FIAT.

The Fields Wrap It Up Sales Event is going on now at Fields FIAT. Take advantage of the lowest prices of the year on all vehicles in stock, and incentives to help you cross someone off of your gift list this holiday season!

0% Financing for 60 months on all New 2014 & 2015 FIAT models^!

Up to $3,500 in factory rebates available on 2015 models!

The New 2015 FIAT 500 Sport: Lease for only $239 a month for 36 months* $0 Down!

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Every Fields FIAT customer is automatically enrolled in the Fields Matters Advantage program. With this program, you receive: • • • •

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All offers are plus tax, tag, title and $489 dealer fee. Must approve with Chrysler Capital Tier 1 or 2. ^Must qualify. All finance offers subject to credit approval Tier 1-3 through Chrysler Capital. *Must be a current lessee and qualify for $1,000 lease conquest cash. Offer ends 12/31/14. See Fields FIAT for full details. © 2014 Chrysler Group LLC. FIAT is a registered trademark of FIAT Group marketing & corporate communications SpA, used under the license by Chrysler Group LLC.