Watermark Issue 22.26: Remarkable People

daytOna beach • OrlandO • taMpa • St. peterSburg • SaraSOta • iSSue 22.26 • deceMber 17 - 30, 2015 • waterMarkOnline.cOM

TAMPA BAY EDITION

Tristan Byrnes, a compassionate voice for the transgender community

e bl a e! rk u a SS M ei re l e Op th pe

Your lgbt life.

transpositiVe

thiS iSSue haS twO cOverS! Tristan byrnes in Tampa bay PHOTO BY LIZZIVANDESS.COM

carlos smith in Orlando PHOTO BY JAKE . STEVENS

daytOna beach • OrlandO • taMpa • St. peterSburg • SaraSOta • iSSue 22.26 • deceMber 17 - 30, 2015 • waterMarkOnline.cOM

e bl a e! rk u a SS M ei re l e Op th pe

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Your lgbt life.

e r i f fire with

House candidate and former orlando Democratic Party chairman carlos guillermo Smith comes out from behind the scenes swinging

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Central Florida’s LGBT health clinic providing medical (family practice, primary care, GYN, psychiatry, hormone replacement therapy, and disease management), mental health, and permanent hair removal for transgender women.

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

departments 6 // mail 7 // editOr’s desk 8 // OrlandO neWs 10 // tampa bay neWs 12 // state 15 // natiOn & WOrld neWs 21 // in-deptH 35 // cOmmunity calendar 37 // tampa bay Out+abOut 39 // OrlandO Out+abOut 40 // tampa bay marketplace 42 // OrlandO marketplace 46 // transitiOns/Wedding bells

PAGE

29

When I look back at 2015, there were so many more positives than there were negatives, so I think that it was a fabulous year.

—oRLanDo inTeRnaTionaL fRinGe TheaTeR fesTivaL execuTive DiRecToR GeoRGe WaLLace

On tHe cOver

PAGE

21

OrlandO editiOn fiRe WiTh fiRe (orlando)

House candidate and former Orlando Democratic Party chairman Carlos Guillermo Smith comes out from behind the scenes swinging..

Photo by Jake Stevens

scan Qr cOde FOr

WatermarkOnline.cOm

PAGE

27

tampa bay editiOn TRansposiTive

Tristan Byrnes, a compassionate voice for the transgender community, makes much needed waves in St. Petersburg.

You want to understand pride?

Just ask Tristan.

Photo by lizziVanDess.com

PAGE it’s gOOd tO be Queen: “This was a huge year

23

of expansion, and thank God for the staff, because you’re here to give me a most remarkable award, and you can only be remarkable by the people you surround yourself with, and I have surrounded myself with some of the most remarkable people.”

Watermark i ssue 22.26 //december 17 - december 3 0, 2015

draWing bOard

tampa prOud

tHe sOund OF silence a beautiFul liFe

PAGE Orlando’s LGBT chamber

PAGE Mark Bias and Carrie

PAGE

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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votes in new leadership for the new year.

23

West keep pride alive in Tampa.

After more than a decade of keeping the Orlando Phil in the black, executive director David Schillhammer steps down and back.

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PAGE

46

Ramelle Riley and Tina Rek tie the knot over a bottle of champagne. Lucky!

SubScribe tO Our e-newSletter fOr all the lateSt at waterMarkOnline.cOM watermark Your lgbt life.

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“Gay and Lesbian bars are still very relevant.

It would be like saying, ‘now that restaurants have burgers on the menu, there is no reason to have a burger joint.’

I am very comfortable being gay and somewhat affectionate in public, but even I have some reservations on my

behavior in straight bars.

I know the “younger Todd” was far more affectionate. Plus, I want the odds to be in my favor (of them being gay) when it is time to pick up a man. After all, I am not a heathen. Well...”

—Todd Kachinski Kottmeier

“I’m a bartender at a gay bar. Over the last few years, what we’ve seen is not that the bars have become less relevant, but that they’ve become more accepting, gay bars included. There was once a time that if a straight couple came into a gay bar, they would get some serious ‘side eye’ where people would assume they were either going out to laugh at the freaks, or they were looking to score a 3 way. These days, we think nothing negative of our straight clientele. They’re just as important to us as our LGBT guests. Our general rule is, everyone is welcome, as long as you leave your bulls--- at the door. I would estimate, because of our location in South Cape Coral that our clientele is about 70% gay to 30% straight, roughly. Gay bars aren’t irrelevant; they’ve just evolved over the years.”

—Ron Jakubisyn

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

From Facebook: On Boy Scouts ban on advocacy and its ability to hurt a Utah group’s bid for troop:

“It’s so sad that this is where Scouting has gone. Back when the dinosaurs roamed and I was a Scout, it was just a bunch of kids learning and having fun. Church involvement has all but destroyed what scouting is all about.”

—Chuck Strom

On St. Petersburg mayor banning Donald Trump in a tweet:

“Couldn’t agree more; keep the ego maniac out of our city. No buffoons allowed here!”

—McGinnis David “Love it! Love my mayor.”

—Rich Wallace On Marco Rubio saying he would overturn Obama’s anti-discrimination policies if he is elected president:

“This moron seems to forget that government is supposed to be for ALL the people!”

Photo by Robert Bartlett

editor’s

Billy Manes EDITOR

BIlly@WatermarkOnline.com

Y

Desk

es, it’s that time of year

when everything is filtered through its appropriate way-back machine and Vaseline and all things are bright and beautiful and all that, and if you read one more retrospective account of how life happens and why it matters, you’ll be coughing up eggnog clichés with your spilt milk.

Oh, we’ve all been there – wiry and wrought at the family gatherings, wishing sentimentality would find its deserved end at the ledge of the wet bar. But we’re also prone to appreciation of those who might have helped us and those who are helping others. We have to be buoyed by something other than gravity (which is really a downer, though), so it might as well be a brightly wrapped package of benevolence, right? Oh, come on.

Put on your holiday pants and play along.

watermark staff

As we have in the past, Watermark has assembled a gaggle of deserving folk from across Central Florida to highlight in their best lights. Our tributes aren’t eulogies, though. Quite the contrary: They are celebrations of lives that make our own lives better. This is one of my favorite issues of Watermark, actually. If you’ll forgive the seeming senility, stories about people who are improving lives and adding to our culture are things of beauty to this guy. Remarkable? Maybe, but that term doesn’t seem to do any

of our subjects justice. Incredible?

That suggests that these folks are things of fiction. Wonderful? Yeah, I’ll go with that for now.

The LGBT community is a diverse bunch that has endured and celebrated a fairly intense year. If you look back at 2015, it’s difficult to pin down how it is we made such historic leaps – OK, Jan. 6 and June 26 are helpful guides in terms of marriage equality, but there is so much more to our community than that pomp and that circumstance.

There is a connection, a brotherhood and sisterhood, and there will always be open arms awaiting those who live in the “other” space. Though it may feel like we’re racing through history, we’ve only just begun. That’s why we need advocates. That’s why we celebrate them in this issue.

In our Orlando issue (or, rather, on its cover … we’re not about to make two papers), you’ll find a profile in courage of one Carlos Smith, a former retail manager who has grown to encompass all things progressive in this community. As the former chairman of the Orange County Democratic Executive Committee and as a former legislative aide to both Rep. Joe Saunders and Rep. Scott Randolph, Smith has paid his dues, made the rounds and fueled a political momentum in a way that only he could. He’s running for a seat in the Florida House of Representatives next year, but he’s also running from the inherently divisive nature of politics in the Sunshine State.

He’s not running away, though.

Talk to the guy sometime; he’s pretty available and always on point.

Another “remarkable” favorite in these offices is Tristan Byrnes, our Gulf Coast cover man. Byrnes is a licensed mental health counselor and accidental activist.

He is also transgender and about the nicest guy you’ll ever meet.

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

Founder and Senior Contributor: Tom Dyer • Tom@WatermarkOnline.com Publisher: Rick Claggett • Ext. 110 • Rick@WatermarkOnline.com Admin. Assistant: Kathleen Harper • Ext. 100 • Kathleen@WatermarkOnline.com Editor-in-Chief: Billy Manes • Ext. 101 • Billy@WatermarkOnline.com Online Media Director: Jamie Hyman • Ext. 106 • Jamie@WatermarkOnline.com

Creative Assistant: Deanndra Meno Ext. 106 • AdProduction@WatermarkOnline.com Sales Manager: Danny Garcia Ext. 107 • Danny@WatermarkOnline.com

Tampa Bay Staff Writer: Jeremy Williams • Ext. 102 • Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com

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

Proofreading: Ed Blaisdell

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

He’s been on the front lines of the trans fight in Florida, because he is trans and he cares enough about other people walking through other transitional battlegrounds. We honor Tristan for his work with Metro Wellness and Tampa Bay Trans Pride, but we also honor him for his honesty and initiative.

Elsewhere, you’ll find tributes to some of the citizens doing the legwork in our community to keep things sane and safe.

It may feel like life has been corrected and equality is all around, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Without our soldiers – our advocates, our allies, our politicians,

Though it may feel like we’re racing through history, we’ve only just begun. That’s why we need advocates. That’s why we celebrate them in this issue. our activists – we would not have come half this far. This time, our time, dear readers, is the backlash. And without remarkable people like we’ve highlighted in this issue, our situation would be far more desperate.

So, happy holidays to you and yours, gracious appreciation to those looking out for us in the real world and please, please, please love when you want to not do so. They always said “hearts and minds.” Well, there are still hearts, and there are still minds.

Let’s celebrate what is and then work our asses off for what will be. Cheers, then.

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

contributors Jason Leclerc

is a near lifelong resident of the I-4 corridor, currently in South Tampa. He publishes poetry online at PoetEconomist.blogspot.com. His first book, Momentitiousness, was published in 2014. His new book, Black Kettle, will be published in 2016. Page 17

Krista DiTucci

is a freelance writer and family advocate for Manatee Children’s Services. She lives in Sarasota with her husband and children. Page 21

Samantha Rosenthal

attended University of Central Florida and is a former Watermark editorial assistant. She is currently a freelance writer and regularly covers Wedding Bells. Page 29 Aaron Alper, Scottie Campbell, Susan Clary, Krista DiTucci, Kirk Hartlage, Joseph Kissel, Jason Leclerc, Mary Meeks, Stephen Miller, David Moran, Gregg Shipiro, Greg Stemm, Dr. Steve yacovelli, , Michael wanzie

photography Brian Becnel, Nick Cardello, Angie Folks, Bruce Hardin, Julie Milford, Travis Moore, Chris Stephenson, Lee Vandergrift, Tinkerfluff

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.

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

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

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watermark Your lgbt life.

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central florida news

Local Planned Parenthood offers PrEP Billy Manes

O

rlando | With little fanfare – aside from some headlines from a Los Angeles public radio outlet earlier this month – Planned Parenthood appears to be stepping into the HIV prevention world. While the newest Planned Parenthood Los Angeles clinic, which just opened in West Hollywood, will be offering both PrEP and PEP (pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis) at their clinics, joining 27 other clinics nationwide, Central Florida and Southwest Florida Planned Parenthood affiliates are slowly rolling out their HIV prevention plans. Since July, Suzie Prabhakaran, Vice President of Medical Affairs of Planned Parenthood of Central and Southwest Florida, says local clinics have been prescribing the drugs..

“It’s been a service that I don’t think people are aware that we offer. I think, in part, because of that, we haven’t had a lot of patients coming in requesting it,” she says. “I want the word out that we can do that.”

Though controversial due to perceptions that the medication encourages unprotected sex, PrEP has been proven to be radically effective in preventing the spread of HIV in many studies. But it’s not for everyone and it is a commitment, Prabhakaran says.

“There’s some blood work that needs to be done, some baseline HIV testing that needs to be done, “she says.

“There’s medical history that we need to have, especially about kidney function, we require. It’s actually a medication we offer where follow-up is really important. We want to be sure that patients are going to be able to follow-up.”

As for the stigmas that come with sexual activity, Planned Parenthood remains “free of judgment,” she says.

“I don’t think we’re at where we want to be about people being comfortable talking about their sexuality, but that said, we of all places want to be the place where people can be comfortable.”

LGBT protections on the table for Brevard Schools Jamie Hyman

Melbourne | The Brevard County School Board is moving toward adding sexual orientation and gender identity to the District’s existing non-discrimination policy.

Space Coast activists arrived at the Dec. 8 school board meeting wearing red, hoping to rally support for the expanded protections by testifying during the meeting’s public comments session.

“Two Board members addressed us after the public comments, stating that they are ready to move forward with making the change to add sexual orientation and gender identity to the non-discrimination policies for students and employees,” says Lexi Wright, president of Space Coast Pride.

“There is a meeting next week where the Board will unveil their plans for 2016 and they said this change is on the list.”

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The votes are in: Newly-

elected and reelected MBA Board members Mark Cady, Lu MuellerKaul, Michael Deeying, Kayla Bloomer, Cathy Keene, Mac Wren will help lead the chamber through the coming year.

Photo by J.D. Casto

Drawing board Orlando’s LGBT chamber votes in new leadership for the new year Jamie Hyman

O

rlando | The Metropolitan Business Association - Central Florida’s gay chamber of commerce - will greet the new year with some fresh faces.

The MBA has elected their new board members, including officially installing President Lu MuellerKaul, who was appointed to the role Nov. 1 after the resignation of Nayte Carrick, previous president.

“Nayte’s term was up by the end of the year, and the board felt that I was the right person to choose as the leader of the organization,” says Mueller-Kaul, who ran unopposed.

Carrick hasn’t left the MBA behind, however. He is fulfilling a newly-created role, interim executive director, on a contract basis that began Dec. 1 and ends June 30, 2016. Mueller-Kaul says they’re working on an agreement where Carrick earns $785 every two weeks.

watermark Your lgbt life.

“Gustavo Rico was our paid staff member but he got recruited away--so when we heard that he’s leaving, we had to figure out how to cover the work and have a smooth transition,” Mueller-Kaul says. “Nayte was the one who knew all procedures inside out, and he’s been on the board the longest, so it was a natural choice.”

Carrick right now the role is mostly administrative, but the goal is to make it a true, full time executive director position that pays a salary.

“For this we need both the nature of the position and the available funding for the position to grow,” Carrick says, adding that during his tenure, his goals are to find and train that future full-time executive director and build the memberships and sponsorships needed to fund the position.

“I’ve been in this position since November 1, but have so far volunteered to work unpaid until MBA’s reserve accounts are

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

more substantial,” he says. “While we have no difficulty covering expenses, having what I personally consider to be adequate reserve funds has not been something that’s been possible over the last few years, and this seems like a prime opportunity to continue putting MBA into a very solid position.”

The other newly-elected MBA Board members are Mark Cady, Mac Wren and Cathy Keen. Kayla Bloomer was re-elected to the board, and Michael Deeying was re-elected MBA Board secretary.

The newly-elected board members join existing board members Jeff Peterson, Ben Laube, Michael Thomas, Chris Stephenson, Erik Raymond and Daniel Wilson.

According to Carrick, the Board isn’t quite yet complete. He says they’ll appoint the final two board members after Jan. 1.

“Daniel Wilson and Gayle Owens, both of whom were elected last December, and whose terms end next December have resigned,” Carrick says. “Even being vacant during an election, only the designated positions are elected, while any vacated positions are nominated.”

Carrick says once the board is in place, they’ll attend a retreat Jan. 16-17 for training, planning and team-building.

watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

9

tampa bay news

tampa bay aids Walk and Fun run Has big turn Out Jeremy Williams

s

T. peTeRsbuRG | AIDS Service Association of Pinellas (ASAP) and Empath Health hosted the 12th annual AIDS Walk Tampa Bay at Vinoy Park in St. Petersburg Dec. 12.

More than 1,000 people participated in the walk, which began with a new Fun Run. Early reports from ASAP say they raised $135,000 and with donations still coming in that number will climb.

Once again, Joseph Brancucci was the individual who raised the most with a total of $9,150.00. The top team was GTE Financial with more than $18,000 raised.

ASAP’s Executive Director William Harper was impressed with the turn out and is moved by the community’s response every year they have had the AIDS Walk.

“On behalf of ASAP and our Board of Directors I would like to express our profound thanks for everyone’s support of the 2015 Tampa Bay AIDS Walk and Fun Run,” Harper said in an email to Watermark. “Our sponsors, volunteers, individual donors and walkers made the event successful and fun. Most importantly, we thank you for supporting our work and those we are privileged to serve on a daily basis.”

tampa pride annOunces plans FOr 2016

Joseph F. Morrissey filed a lawsuit against the IRS at the U.S. District Court in Tampa.

Photo CoURteSy oF FloRiDa.FiJa.oRG

birth and taxes St. Petersburg gay couple sues IRS after medical deductions denied

Jeremy Williams TaMpa | Pride has released information on the much anticipated parade and street festival that will invade Ybor City in March 2016.

While information on Tampa Pride’s grand marshals and celebrity entertainment will not be available until after the New Year, they have released the names of the 2016 Pride board members and several events leading up to Tampa Pride March 26, 2016.

Carrie West returns as the Tampa Pride president with Mark Bias as the secretary. Hamburger Mary’s owner, and one of last year’s grand marshals, Kurt King, has come on board as vice president. Howard Grater, Christi Van Os and Scott Kligmann also join as board members.

The Tampa Pride events kick off Jan. 17 with the Miss Tampa Pride Pageant at Honey Pot in Ybor, and Tampa Pride will host a gala for the grand marshals Feb. 22 at Cristino’sYbor.

The line-up for Tampa Pride weekend includes a VIP Sponsor party, the men’s and women’s circuit parties March 25, the parade and festival March 26 in Ybor City. The weekend concludes with a brunch and T-Dance March 27 at District 3.

For a full list of events and more information, visit TampaPride.org.

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suRRoGaTe JusTice:

Jeremy Williams

T

aMpa | The Internal Revenue Service believes being gay is a choice, according to a lawsuit filed by a St. Petersburg gay couple who claim that is the reason they were denied tax deductions for in-vitro fertilization and surrogacy.

Joseph F. Morrissey, a professor of law at Stetson University, filed for $36,538 in medical deductions for the 2011 tax year after several attempts to have a child using fertility treatments including surrogate mothers and egg donors.

The couple was successful in their final attempt and became parents to twin boys. The deduction was associated with their use of IVF and surrogacy for the pregnancy that resulted in the twins.

According to IRS.gov, individuals may deduct expenses paid for medical and dental care

watermark Your lgbt life.

for themselves, spouses and dependents. Taxpayers may deduct only the amount of total medical expenses that exceed 10% of their adjusted gross income.

“Bringing twin boys into the world took nearly four years, seven IVF procedures (including those scrubbed at the last minute for failed medical exams), three surrogates, three egg donors, two clinics and more than $100,000,” Morrissey says in the lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court in Tampa.

The IRS denied the deductions, stating that the medical services must be provided to the taxpayer, his spouse or dependent, according to the lawsuit.

Morrissey appealed the decision.

The IRS denied his appeal in December 2014 claiming that choosing to be homosexual is not the same as being infertile. “[Plaintiff] cannot engage in heterosexual intercourse to

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

conceive children and cannot do that with his chosen life partner.

Doing so would also require plaintiff to violate his monogamous relationship and marriage engagement,” the lawsuit says.

“Despite the IRS’s backward and archaic thinking, plaintiff is not homosexual by ‘choice.’ ” The couple moved to Florida in 2004 when Morrissey took his job at Stetson. His fiancé, who is unnamed in the lawsuit, was a middle school math teacher in Pinellas County until the birth of their twins when he became a stayat-home dad.

The tax code argument is just one of many LGBT activists have fought to gain equal rights within their relationships and families here in Florida. A law prohibiting adoption by gay people in the state of Florida until it was ruled unconstitutional in 2010 and samesex marriage was made legal less than a year ago.

Watermark reached out to Morrissey for an interview but he did not respond by press time.

An IRS spokesman stated that the agency could not comment on the pending lawsuit.

Morrissey is seeking a judgment from the IRS in the amount of $9,539, which is the amount of the tax refund he would have received, plus attorney fees.

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watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

11

state news

HRO discussions truck along in divided Jacksonville Jamie Hyman

A

bout 750 people packed a gymnasium at Edward Waters College on Dec. 3 for the second of three “Community Conversations” on a proposed human rights ordinance for the city of Jacksonville.

Attendees went through heightened security, with a metal detector and bag search, presumably because there was a bomb threat after the first meeting Nov. 17.

The discussion primarily focused on religious freedom, with a panel of four on both sides of the issue speaking and answering questions - two faith leaders for, and a faith leader and an attorney against, the HRO. The attorney speaking for the anti-gay side was Roger Gannam, who traveled to Jacksonville

HRO SRO: Jacksonville residents pack the house at HRO panel discussion on Dec. 3. Photo by Jimmy Midyette

from Longwood to represent Liberty Counsel, designated an official hate group by Southern Poverty Law Center. Liberty Counsel recently made headlines representing Kim Davis, the

Kentucky Clerk who refused to issue legal marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

According to Richard Salkin, a volunteer with the Jacksonville Coalition for Equality, the crowd was

split about 60/40 in favor of the HRO. Salkin says he almost didn’t attend the meeting because he didn’t want to “sit through another round of deranged, logic-defying insults from religious zealots who crave certainty on issues of faith,” but he was pleasantly surprised.

“Stupid things were said, to be sure, but they were said in retreat, almost with resignation.

At least that’s the vibe I was getting. I was also pleasantly surprised to note nobody trotted out the Bathroom Boogeyman this evening. Not even once.

Opposition forces get kudos for that,” Salkin wrote in a recap posted to Facebook.

Salkin added that one topic was continually repeated and shot down: The myth that an HRO would force churches to perform same-sex weddings or to hire LGBTs. In the afternoon leading

up to the meeting, a group of Jacksonville faith leaders met at Friendship Fountain to release a letter signed by 80 area faith leaders in support of the HRO. “As leaders representing a wide variety of spiritual expression in northeast Florida, we strongly support the full civil rights, including protections from discrimination in the areas of housing, employment, and public accommodations based on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. We see such support as being very consistent with our spiritual belief,” the letter reads.

Mayor Lenny Curry scheduled the Community Conversations and a bill is expected to be filed with the city council in early 2016. The third and final Community Conversation on the HRO is 6 p.m. Dec. 15 at Jacksonville University’s Public Policy Institute. That discussion’s focus will be on the legal and business impacts of the proposed HRO.

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

nation+world news

NBA referee Bill Kennedy says he is gay after player’s slur Wire Report

N

EW YORK | Veteran NBA referee Bill Kennedy has told Yahoo Sports he is gay after Sacramento Kings guard Rajon Rondo directed a gay slur at him during a game.

Kennedy tells Yahoo he is “proud to be an NBA referee and I am proud to be a gay man,” adding that he chose to come out in hopes of sending a message “that you must allow no one to make you feel ashamed of who you are.”

Rondo was suspended one game by the NBA for directing a derogatory and offensive term toward a referee in the Kings’ game against Boston in Mexico on Dec. 3. Rondo apologized Monday and the Kings said his comments were disrespectful and offensive.

Kennedy is in his 18th season as an NBA official, having worked more than 1,050 regular-season games and five in the NBA Finals.

“I wholeheartedly support Bill’s

decision to live his life proudly and openly,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.

“Throughout his 18-year career with the league, Bill has excelled as a referee because of his passion, dedication and courage. Those qualities will continue to serve him well both as a game official and as a positive influence for others. While our league has made great progress, our work continues to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and dignity.”

Kennedy worked San Antonio’s home game against Utah on Monday, receiving applause from fans when he was shown on the videoboard with the officiating crew and his name was announced.

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich criticized Rondo’s comments before the game.

“It’s unfortunate,” Popovich said.

“It’s disgusting, because Billy, he is a great guy. He’s been a class act on and off the court. And as far as anyone’s sexual orientation, it’s just nobody’s business. It just shows ignorance to act in a derogatory way toward

anybody in the LGBT community. It just doesn’t make sense.”

The league took more than a week before announcing a penalty for Rondo, who will sit out Sacramento’s game against Houston on Tuesday. Yahoo reported that Kennedy and another referee told league investigators that Rondo used profanity and anti-gay comments.

“Rajon’s comment was disrespectful and offensive, and we wholeheartedly disapprove of any language that discriminates or disparages others based on sexual orientation or anything else,” Kings general manager Vlade Divac said.

“Rajon has apologized and this is not the sort of behavior we condone nor is it representative of the Sacramento Kings organization.”

Owner Vivek Ranadive also apologized to Kennedy.

Rondo wrote on Twitter that his actions during the game “were out of frustration and emotion, period!”

“They absolutely do not reflect my feelings toward the LGBT community,” Rondo added. “I did not mean to offend or disrespect anyone.”

The referees union did not return a request for comment. Female official Violet Palmer came out in 2014, announcing that she was marrying her longtime partner.

Same-sex marriage plaintiff backs ex-Ohio governor for Senate seat Wire Report COLUMBUS, Ohio | The lead plaintiff in the landmark lawsuit that led to legal gay marriage nationwide is endorsing the Democratic challenger to Ohio senator Rob Portman, despite Portman’s dramatic position reversal in favor of same-sex unions.

James Obergefell told The Associated Press Dec. 14 he’s backing ex-Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland in next year’s closely watched U.S. Senate contest.

Obergefell said he appreciates Portman’s support for marriage equality but disagrees with Portman on the issue being decided stateby-state. He said Strickland and

the Democrats also align with him on other issues such as opposing gay-conversion therapy.

Strickland must win his party’s nomination to face Portman, who alienated some conservatives with his 2014 decision to support same-sex marriage after learning a son is gay.

Portman’s campaign said he’s still the better candidate for Ohio.

Court challenging the constitutionality of the rarely-used 1864 laws that ban anal sex and anything interpreted as “gross indecency” between men.

In a Dec. 9 statement from the Canadian HIV/AIDS Legal Network, Tomlinson said longstanding laws are a “gross violation of my human rights” and those of all LGBT people in Jamaica.

Tomlinson believes the laws infringe on a charter of human rights Jamaica adopted in 2011

that guarantees islanders the right to privacy, among other things. He asserts the 151-year-old laws hinder efforts to fight HIV in Jamaica while fueling homophobia and “horrific violence.”

Another Jamaican gay rights activist made headlines in 2013 after initiating a similar constitutional court challenge to the anti-sodomy laws. But that activist, Javed Jaghai, withdrew the case last year because of safety concerns.

Jamaican activist challenges anti-sodomy laws in court Wire Report Kingston, Jamaica | A Jamaican gay rights activist has brought a rare legal challenge to the Caribbean island’s anti-sodomy laws that criminalize consensual sex between men, according to the Canadian advocacy group he works for.

Gay rights campaigner and attorney Maurice Tomlinson recently filed a claim in Jamaica’s Supreme

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in other news Trans woman sues North dakota hospital for discrimination Faye Seidler, a transgender employee at a Fargo hospital, filed a federal lawsuit alleging discrimination by management. Seidler says in the lawsuit she began working for Sanford Health as a technician in spring 2014 and notified managers during her 90-day review that she would be telling people who considered her to be male of her actual sex and gender. Seidler says she asked for access to the women’s locker room but the hospital refused. She says she was forced to put her coat in the break room and in one case her $300 down jacket was damaged or vandalized with ink. Sanford spokesman Darren Huber said the company “will respond and defend against” the suit.

court grants first same-sex adoption in Puerto Rico A Puerto Rico court has for the first time allowed a samesex couple to adopt a child. The Dec. 9 ruling involves a woman whose longtime partner gave birth to a girl through artificial insemination. The woman had been fighting to adopt the girl for two years. Justice Secretary Cesar Miranda calls it a historic decision and says it represents a new civil rights achievement. Puerto Rico until recently prohibited same-sex marriages and the recognition of such marriages. However, the government struck down those laws after a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision in late June that required every state to recognize such marriages.

Member of Philly gay-bashing trio kicks off her fight in court A police chief’s daughter accused of a vicious group attack on a gay couple went on trial Dec. 10 to fight felony charges. Two co-defendants who pleaded guilty got probation – and were barred from downtown – but Kathryn Knott is fighting the charges. The defendants were tracked down after images of the September 2014 attack were shared by news outlets and on social media. Knott’s group was celebrating a birthday when they crossed paths with the couple. After profanity-laced taunts ensued, the couple were punched and pummeled. One suffered a broken jaw and severe facial injuries. Knott, 25, of Southampton, faces several years in prison if convicted of aggravated assault, conspiracy and other charges.

Gay Iranian poet flees to Israel Payam Feili, a gay poet, fled his native Iran last year because of the persecution he faced over his sexuality.

Now, he has made a years-long dream come true – he is visiting Israel, Iran’s archenemy and a country known for its tolerance toward gays. Feili, who has written nine books, many of them openly discussing homosexuality, escaped to Turkey last year when the Iranian government’s threats against him and his family became unbearable.

He is in Israel to see his latest novella, “I Will Grow, I Will Bear Fruit … Figs,” staged as a play in Hebrew in a Tel Aviv theater. While his always supportive family remains in Iran, he said he hopes to stay in Israel permanently.

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

viewpoint

Jason Leclerc

The other side

of life Remarkable tidings

R

ecently, in a storied,

New England Museum of Art, I stood in front of a painting of Christ on a cross. Beside me, a beautiful Reform Jewish family punctuated by twin girls fought to gain control of voice volumes and squeaky, scampering feet.

When at last, the first-grade bundles of energy were wrapped, I heard them cry out to their yarmelke-topped father, “Tell the story again.” I listened hopefully as they stood—innocent and excited—beside me, eyeing the same ab-perfected, long-haired, halo-sporting figure. I tried to not overhear. Of course, I listened with every bit of my heart.

After an elaborate dance—Na’ale Na’ale, or was it a cha-cha—around the subject, the uncomfortable father began his story, “So this baby was born in a barn,”only to be cut off by the boisterous inquisitors, “No, tell it like Mommy did.”

With every ounce of frustrated energy, I clenched my palms: self-induced stigmata.

What about the story of Jesus—the man to whom this gallery was dedicated—made this handsome and otherwise articulate father of two uncomfortable? Was it the concept of savior or virgin birth? Was it a liberal bias against religion (yarmelke-as-fashion-piece) or, more specifically, disdain for modern Christian boogeymen?

He had married, I intuited from my righteous eavesdropping, outside of his “faith,” and although he may have required his wife to take part in a “traditional Jewish” marriage celebration, he never bothered to learn about the faith that she continued to carry in her bosom.

I granted that this young, progressively minded father simply did not know the story of Jesus. Then it occurred to me that perhaps not everybody does.

In this, the season set aside to celebrate Jesus and Judaism, allow me a moment to share this story of love and understanding for those who—for whatever reason—have never heard about Jesus: a remarkable man

highlighted in the story of his birth, life, and resurrection.

A woman claimed to be a virgin in a time when a woman could be killed—or at best ostracized—by a husband who discovered otherwise on his wedding night. She was pregnant but he believed her—goaded, perhaps, by a dream of an angel who identified the fetus as divine.

Trust and love.

A superstitious and jealous territorial warlord, fearing that a prophecy was being fulfilled, sought to murder the child who was born to the virgin; he sent spies to ferret the child out so he could be killed. Three Wise Men found the baby Jesus and instead praised his special place among men—predestined for greatness. They kept the location of the baby secret so that he could escape the wrath of the spiteful king. Hope and protection.

The baby was carried by his birth-mother and earthly father to a foreign land where they would be protected from the evil forces that wanted to destroy him. To his parents, he was but a child. Some recognized him, even as an infant, as able to become a king. Refuge and promise.

The baby grew into a man, the son of a carpenter, to become a carpenter. Inspired by love, he spread a message of peace. He ministered to the poor and underprivileged in a way that was anathema to traditional religion of his day.

He transformed religion by empowering common people; he shared a path to paradise that resided in the heart-andmind instead of ritual-andsacrifice. Generosity and faith.

He transformed from carpenter to teacher to leader.

He was always the life of a party, a master storyteller with a power to perform— magic—what some might call miracles. He surrounded himself with young, energetic, sometimes broken men who traded their sinfulness for his vision of hope and egalitarian love. He respected the sanctity of a woman’s body. He made the boundaries between heaven and earth less clear; he

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redefined what a god should be by granting clemency in the name of what he allowed to be a collective, “Our Father.”

Brotherly and Rabbinic.

Ultimately, he became popular among his tribe for the gospel of hope he shared among a conquered

he continued to inspire the best in people. He became a beacon of goodness, a symbol for salvation, a way to touch the divine by embracing the weakness of flesh with forgiveness, healing, and love.

Life and paradise.

The story of his birth and

ninth century woodcutting in a New England art museum, in front of a Christmas tree at a sprawling Mall at Millenia, an altar at midnight on December 25th, or in the living room of Muslim, Jewish, or atheist friends any day of the year, this story and this man—from

people. The prevailing power structure, threatened by his teaching that undermined established governmental and religious institutions, tortured and murdered him as a caution against insurrection.

Truth and sacrifice.

After his mob-sanctioned murder by the state, he was found to be alive—and elusive.

He rose from the dead a far more powerful force than when he was alive. Whether a myth or ghost or saintly spirit,

life and death gathered the power of myth—though to many it was as true as the sun rises—and he became an inspiration for humankind. If he is not god, or the son of god, or part of some ecclesiastical theory, he is remarkable for his impact upon the world. If he is god, or son of god, or part of some ecclesiastical theory, he is remarkable for his impact upon the world. Myth and reality.

Whether standing before a

conception to crucifixion to resurrection—inspires. Praise and thanksgiving.

Through my clenched teeth and under the cloak of my museum voice, I wish I had shared what I knew with this family for whom a picture was worth at least these thousand words. This Jesus is not a religion, he is a template for the American story. This Jesus stands for all the good and resilience that resides in all of us.

The story of his birth and life and death gathered the power of myth—though to many it was as true as the sun rises—and he became an inspiration for humankind.

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talking points

HIV CASES

It is a document of limitation that’s supposed to be interpreted and applied based on its original intent, and there is no way that you can read that constitution and deduce from it that there is a constitutional right to an abortion or a constitutional right to marry someone of the same sex.

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SaM SMith getS new tattOO tO celebrate Marriage equality

s

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Smith posted pictures of the new tattoos—four in total—on Instagram Dec. 8. One, on his left ring finger, is the equal sign used as a symbol for equality during the fight for same-sex marriage. The other three are the words “honesty” and “alone” on each of his biceps and the inverted equal sign on his other ring finger which is a replica of the oldest tattoo found on a mummified body. Smith recently announced he is taking a brief hiatus from music to look for a boyfriend.

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The reality series follows the life of the 15-year-old transgender teen as she balances school, family and her newfound fame. As in the first season, the cast will consist of Jennings, her parents, her sister and twin brothers. In 2015, Jennings was named one of the “25 Most Influential Teens” by TIME for the second year in a row, co-authored the book I Am Jazz and started the non-profit Transkids Purple Rainbow Foundation with her parents. I Am Jazz, season 2, will premiere on TLC in 2016.

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

X-MEN actOr wOuld like tO play iceMan gay

T

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

reMarkable peOple: TAMPA BAY

Photo by lizziVanDess.com

a

Krista DiTucci

MiDsT The TRansGenDeR

community’s tragedies and struggles in 2015, local hero Tristan Byrnes has been fighting to raise awareness and celebrate the community’s victories.

transpositiVe Tristan Byrnes, a compassionate voice for the transgender community

Byrnes, licensed mental health counselor, provides assistance in gender issues through his private practice, New Transition Therapy. But he feels his advocacy for the transgender community should extend beyond oneon-one work in order to make a real difference.

“I do great work helping one-on-one, but I see the systematic issues going on as well,” Byrnes says. “To help the individual, I have to bring awareness or else I’m only doing half my job. We have to fix the rest of it to make everything else okay.”

Byrnes says he feels strongly about trans issues because he is transgender himself. He completed his transition ten years ago under Dr. Kathleen Farrell’s wing.

“She (Farrell) is my mentor and pseudo mom,” Byrnes says. “We had the conversation of ‘Are you doing what you want to do or not?’ and, if not, let’s face that and see how you can better your life. I told her I wanted to be a counselor and she gently pushed me to go back to school after my transition.”

Byrnes went on to receive his master’s degree in mental health from USF-Tampa, through which his roots in activism were planted. Byrnes often brought up transgender issues in the classroom, and several of his peers said they would not have known about transgender issues if it wasn’t for him. Byrnes returns to USF at least once a semester to lead guest lectures on transgender issues.

“I ended up becoming an activist unbeknownst to me, but that’s okay,” Byrnes says, laughing.

Byrnes is renowned in Tampa Bay for his expertise in transgender medical issues. In 2015, he organized the second annual Metro Wellness Tampa Bay Trans Pride, as well as several Metro Wellness transgender panels. Byrnes originally launched the panels as a

cOntinued On pg. 25 | uu |

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

Photo by Jake Stevens

Photo by Jake Stevens

turn to the Left

taMpa proud

T

Progressive caucus leader Susan Smith is fighting for your rights, remarkably

Mark Bias and Carrie West keep pride alive

aMpa Does noT have anyone cLoseR To LGbT RoyaLTy than Carrie West and Mark “Tea Cup” Bias. Any given day you can catch up with them in Ybor City, mingling with their subjects and bestowing their grand wisdom to the new generation.

“Everything we do we try and do in a positive direction,” West says.

For Mark and Carrie, 2015 was a rollercoaster.

After 26 years at the corner of 8th and 15th, MC Film Festival permanently closed its doors. The shop opened in the pre-internet days and was one of the only places in town, and for some in the country, where you could get LGBT cinema.

“We collected videos and films that were LGBTthemed and got them out to people,” West says.

“We advertised in the Advocate, too, and were sending gay films all over the country. It was the only way some people were able to get them.”

MC Film Fest wasn’t only a video store but a place to come and talk with others in the community. It became a piece of the LGBT culture in Tampa.

The grand sendoff came just as Mark and Carrie kicked off the resurgence of Tampa Pride this year to record crowds.

“When we started, they asked us if we thought it was going to be a big crowd,” West says. “We said 12,000 to 15,000 people, but in our minds we were thinking maybe even 20,000. We had 40,000.”

The inaugural Tampa Pride was the first Pride Parade in Tampa since 2002. While there have been other smaller Pride festivals over the years, this was the first time that a large, public LGBT Pride celebration was held in more than a decade.

“We were blown away,” West says. “But next year is going to be bigger with lots more people. We are the first of the big city Prides in the nation so we have to do it big, for all the community and for all of Tampa Bay.” —Jeremy Williams

Photo by Jake Stevens

s

usan sMiTh is noT afRaiD To speaK heR MinD, eveR. As a staunch ally for the LGBTcommunity (via her longtime work with the Democratic LGBTQA caucus, or whatever acronym you prefer) and as president of the Democratic Progressive Caucus of Florida, she’s been pounding the pavement for human rights issues for years, talking political ears off until those ears can’t hear anymore.

Why? Because a lot of the political process doesn’t make much sense, she says.

“The party itself is very progressive, the activists, but I think we don’t have that platform, so that really is a problem,” she says. “The biggest fight – and I think we’re seeing them on the national stage, too – is pushing back against an establishment that we think is ineffective: the establishment within the Democratic Party. And I don’t even know how it’s grown or where the dysfunction has come from. I get in trouble for calling it the donor class, the people who pull the strings, whoever they are. And I think we’re seeing that pushback from both sides.”

She should know. Since 2003, Smith has been raising hell within her own party to keep voters motivated. That’s no small task, she says.

“I don’t think we’re ready for revolution, but sometimes I think that’s what it’s going to take for us to get things to move on the ground. Well, not so much on the ground, because that’s already happening,” she says. “It takes all kind of voices. When we started the caucus, we felt the party needed an extra push to the left. There’s the saying that voters would rather take strong and wrong than weak and right, and the Democrats are weak.”

But given Florida’s generally uncomfortable reaction to leftward lurches, Smith, who spends a lot of time in Tallahassee when not residing on the Gulf Coast, is a realist who is willing to keep up the fight, even if that means waiting it out for a bit.

“I think [workplace discrimination] is one of the issues that we have to wait for the rest of the nation to carry us through, because we will not get to that point in this state,” she says. “I’m hoping there are other issues that get carried through that way, too, like Medicaid expansion and guns [control] and medical marijuana. I’m just hoping that the national trends take over. I think that’s what happened with the marriage issue.”

—Billy Manes

watermark Your lgbt life.

Queen of our worLd Lorraine Langlois is a st. Pete superhero

L

oRRaine LanGLois is The cuRRenT ceo of MeTRo TaMpa bay and has been with the organization since the beginning when it all got started at King of Peace Church in St. Petersburg.

“That first year I think we had a budget of $43,000, and here we are, 23 years later, and it’s going to be a little over $6 million,” Langlois says. “We started off with 14 or 15 clients and now we are serving about 15,000 in the Tampa Bay area.”

The expansion of Metro was not overnight, nor was it the work of just one person, Langlois says.

“This was a huge year of expansion, and thank God for the staff, because you’re here to give me a most remarkable award, and you can only be remarkable by the people you surround yourself with, and I have surrounded myself with some of the most remarkable people, people like Priya [Rajkumar] and Chris [Rudisill], because I can dream it, but these are the people who make it happen,” she says.

And expand they have. Metro now employs 102 personnel in five locations; three HIV/LGBT Centers, the LGBT Welcome Center and the Metro Thrift Store.

“There are always times where there’s huge growth then you level out for a while to make sure everything is solid and then it spurts up again and that has certainly been our history,” Langlois says.

2015 turned out to be a growth year for Langlois and Metro. They branched out to include behavior health, brought on mental health therapists and began primary care.

“As it worked out, Dr. Lyter talked with Kevin Beckner saying how he wishes there was a place to do just LGBT healthcare, and he said talk to Lorraine at Metro,” Langolis says. “We got along so well, and he has helped us develop that program and has been on staff since July as a full time doctor. With him we have developed STD screening, primary care and transgender health.”

With the addition of these services, Metro has become a one stop shop for LGBT healthcare.

“People like to have everything they in one place, we have our pharmacy that will be opening in the next month or two, so everyone can get everything all at the same place,” Langlois says.

—Jeremy Williams

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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not readY to Back down st. Petersburg commissioner Steve Kornell fights the power and wins

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uRinG a cRiTicaL yeaR foR The sT. peTeRsbuRG ciTy coMMission, where the shadow of the Tampa Bay Rays loomed over the election, Steve Kornell was able to retain his seat against all odds and without an endorsement from the area’s largest newspaper.

The Tampa Bay Times wrote many articles about Kornell this past year as he was fighting to get re-elected in District 5. Kornell opposed the deal by St. Petersburg mayor Rick Kriseman that would allow the Rays to look for stadium sites outside of St. Petersburg, but within the region.

The Times hurled attacks and insults and ultimately endorsed Kornell’s opponent in the race.

“There was no dialogue brought to the table; it was do what we say or else,” Kornell says. “I’m never going to cave into that.

In a year dominated by the coverage of the Rays, Kornell has been fighting for equal rights, against conflict minerals and defending the environment. Along with being named one of Watermark’s most remarkable, he was also awarded the Black Bear Award this year for his work on environmental issues in St. Pete.

“I care about a variety of issues. If you only care about one issue then this is probably not the job for you,” Kornell says.

—Jeremy Williams

eVerYBodY knows his naMe Brian Longstreth was Grand central’s go-to guy in 2015

b

Rian LonGsTReTh, 54, has been one of The MosT visibLe faces in sT. peTe’s LGbT coMMuniTy since moving to the vibrant beach town 32 years ago. He has also been a driving force in LGBT business.

Longstreth started Your Neighborhood Realty in 1999, Photo by Bruce Hardin opened Gay St. Pete House in 2008 and was one of the original organizers of St. Pete Pride.

When Georgie’s Alibi closed in September, Longstreth saw yet again something missing in the LGBT community in St. Pete. It needed that go-to hangout spot where everyone knew your name.

Punky’s Bar and Grill was born, or at least is in the process of being birthed. A new restaurant on Central Avenue in St. Pete, Punky’s looks to partly fill that void left by Georgie’s closing. You may even see a few familiar faces there.

“We have the ability to help some people get back to work,” Longstreth says. Several of the management and staff are former Georgie’s employees. For Longstreth, the community is what it has always been about.

“I always try to give back to the community,” he says. “Very early on I realized that the LGBT market was a niche market that people weren’t serving, and I wanted to try and make that a reality for a lot of people.”

—Jeremy Williams

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Photo by Courtesy Durbin’s Facebook

Like a praYer

suncoast mcc pastor Gina Durbin opens the doors and opens minds

Photo by Steve Blanchard

heLp is here

William Harper and AsAP lead the way in Pinellas HIV/AIDs care

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—Ciara Varone

—Ciara Varone

ina DuRbin Was faceD WiTh a chaLLenGe when she was appointed as interim pastor for Suncoast MCC in August, after the church experienced the death of its beloved pastor, Rev. Dr. Sherry Kennedy in March - the only pastor Suncoast had ever know. Durbin has been working to help the church heal ever since.

“It’s been quite amazing to get started working here and to get to know this congregation and to love them as their interim pastor,” Durbin says. “[I’ve been] allowing them to begin to heal from the grief that they have and to begin to think about not only investing in the future, but investing in themselves,” Durbin adds, “in their spiritual lives, in the congregation and the community outside of the walls and to really connect and begin living out what we are called to do as followers of Christ.”

Durbin says that people often put pastors on pedestals, but she works to show her flock that she is just like them.

“Pastors are real people too,” she says. “I still place my trust and my hope in God.” In addition to connecting to her congregation, Durbin is working on preserving the history of the church while some of its founding members are still around. She is organizing workshops to videotape its members and record the church’s history through their stories. She says she hopes to attract a younger audience, so the church can assure its longevity.

Durbin says she received her calling from Christ when she was 15, but was later attracted to Metropolitan Community Churches, originally in St. Louis, because of their acceptance of the LGBT community. She’s been affiliated with MCC in the 15 years since.

“We are a human rights church. We certainly believe in social justice,” says Durbin. Showing she practices what she preaches, Durbin spoke at North Port’s city committee meetings for the human rights ordinance, helping it get passed in October.

“Anyone who fits in the category of ‘other’… where they feel like they are not able to go to church or wouldn’t be welcome, they’re welcome at our church,” Durbin says. “We all come together as being a part of god’s creation and children of god and know that we are loved and that we are cared for.”

watermark Your lgbt life.

iLLiaM haRpeR, execuTive DiRecToR of DiRecToR of aiDs seRvice associaTion of pineLLas, will celebrate 20 years with ASAP in May. During his tenure, he has served in different positions, but all with the same goal: helping those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. “I don’t come from my position of executive director as just strictly a business person. I come to it as a person who understands all of the needs of the organization and the community we serve,” Harper said.

But being in charge hasn’t changed Harper’s personal approach to working with ASAP’s clients and staff.

“I take time with people. Everybody is important to me,” he says. “I feel my leadership style is definitely more of a partner than a superior type of thing. “ Harper’s leadership has led ASAP to new heights in a time when smaller AIDS service organizations are losing funding left and right.

“For ASAP, we’ve actually grown over the last several years, even through this rough time,” Harper says.

ASAP has added behavioral health services and counseling services, and grown its food and personal needs pantry, as well as its financial assistance program for clients.

By utilizing EMPATH’s pharmacy and the 340B Drug Discount Program, which allows eligible pharmacies to purchase drugs at significantly lower prices and then bill insurance companies at the normal rates, Harper has helped ensure ASAP’s financial security for years to come.

“The great part is, God forbid, we lose one of the grants or something that we have, we don’t have to lay off people. We don’t have to tell clients, ‘so sorry we can’t serve you anymore.’” Harper says.

ASAP has also used the pharmacy’s funds along with donations from the community to partner with Pinellas Care Clinic, working on its Home 3050 expansion, which is expected to open debt-free in the spring of 2016. It was Harper’s idea to bring this all-inclusive center to Pinellas County, where service locations are currently scattered.

“Your commitment must be that you reinvest your earnings back into the program and to the clients and services. So that’s exactly what we tried to do,” he says.

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

| uu | Tristan Byrnes frOM pg.21

result of the “bathroom bill.”

“Everyone was super scared about it, so I thought, ‘Let’s come together and face it and see how we will handle it.’” Byrnes says.

Additionally, Byrnes serves on the board of Trans Action Florida, allowing him to receive insider political information which he is able to share with the community.

Byrnes says being on the board has given him a “little arsenal” of forces through which members can support each other and tap into each other’s resources. He often joins forces with fellow Trans Action board member Nathan Brenner and says they are a powerful duo because Brenner’s strength is education and Byrnes’s is medical.

Additionally, because of his occupation, Byrnes knows who to ask for help and what information is needed to rally people for a cause. Through Byrnes’s help, many transgender individuals showed up in Tallahassee last spring for Lobby Days.

“We needed a lot of trans men to go to Lobby Days to lobby against the bathroom bill,” Byrnes says. “We wanted to prove that if you pass this bill, you’re saying people like me have to go into the women’s room which defeats the purpose.”

After launching the transgender panels, Metro Wellness employees decided to hold quarterly Transgender Town Hall meetings to keep people abreast of what was happening in the trans community.

From there, Byrnes started leading diversity panels.

“I heard there was somewhat of a disconnect between the ‘LGB’ and ‘T’ communities,” Byrnes says. “I was trying to open up awareness, and it was very well received which made me happy.”

Byrnes says he thinks conditions are improving for the trans community considering the number of community members and allies who have shown up for the diversity panels. To thank allies for their support, Byrnes honors at least one ally each year at Trans Pride.

“A lot of the issues that come up involve a lack of knowledge from people, and that’s why the diversity panels come up,” Byrnes says. “If I can get others to hear stories and get some knowledge, we at least get some allies. We

aren’t a big enough community to do it on our own.”

Additionally, Byrnes says the 2015 Trans Pride celebration attracted a larger crowd than last year. He witnessed two powerful stories from teenagers at the celebration: one asked intelligent questions to help him figure out his own place in the community, and the other shared his experience in turning a bully around by simply being himself and reminding him that he’s a normal guy.

“Scott (Turner Schofield) said, ‘I think I’m feeling a feeling I’ve never felt before – hope.’” Byrnes says. “Those connections matter more than how many people are there.”

Byrnes says he is hoping to hold more panels next year and continue Tampa Bay Trans Pride annually. He says he would like to address employment issues since findings in his recent transgender needs survey revealed that employment and underpayment were the largest needs. Byrnes says more than half of participants reported making less than $30,000 annually. He would like to figure out how the community can bridge the gap and whether employment issues are transgender-specific.

When Byrnes isn’t counseling patients or raising his voice in the community, he is counseling full-time through the Employee Assistance Program, leading support groups and community education, and spending time with his family. Byrnes has a 19-yearold daughter who he adopted when she was 16 years old. He also has a partner, a dog, and maintains a close relationship with his mother.

Byrnes says he feels one of the most rewarding aspects of his job is watching clients finally feeling comfortable in their own skin and seeing their families becoming supportive.

“It’s cool because I can watch at a distance and I don’t have a direct influence on that,” Byrnes says. “It’s just really that the client is stepping into themselves, and other people are seeing that, and knowing that through my direct contact with them, I’m kind of making that happen. That’s how change happens.”

watermark Your lgbt life.

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

Photo by Jake Stevens

reMarkable peOple: OrlandO

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fire withfire House candidate and former orlando Democratic Party chairman carlos guillermo Smith comes out from behind the scenes swinging

Billy Manes

hen caRLos sMiTh WaLKs

into the room, he does so with purpose, a smile, a brisk bit of wit and, generally, a jacket. Even early in the morning. Call it confidence, call it politics, call it whatever you need to, but there’s no getting around his charm or his smirks made relevant by the political knowledge holding up their corners. He’s the real deal.

We grabbed a gab and some coffee with Smith to talk about how he got from where he was – riding a backstage rollercoaster as fast-talking legislative aide to former Democratic state representatives Scott Randolph and Joe Saunders (seriously, it’s a lot of fast-talking and typing work) – to where he is today. Smith stepped down from his position as Orange County Democratic party chairman this summer to pursue a higher rung on the political ladder as a progressive state representative for District 49. He also stepped up off the (oft-lacking) liberal candidate-bench and into the dust of the Floridian political limelight.

“I’ve always been the person working behind the scenes,” he says.

Well that’s about to change.

WATERMARK: SO, what eXactly Made yOu leap at thiS pOtentially futile pOlitical OppOrtunity?

carlOS SMith: Just to backtrack a little bit, this wasn’t my profession. This wasn’t my career path; I wasn’t supposed to work in politics. You know, after I graduated from UCF in ‘03, I managed a Men’s Wearhouse store for eight years. That was my thing, you know: I graduated with a business degree with a marketing specialty track, and I had worked that job part-time in college. So as soon as I graduated, I instantly started the management track. And then, 2008 happened, and President Obama was elected. And that was a big deal, because to me, I felt a personal connection to his candidacy; it made me open my eyes and realize that he was the type of candidate that I wanted to help get elected to office. OK, so you know, we checked the box. We got him elected. Now what, right? That was when I kind of tried to change course, which is really hard, because if you’re in your mid-to-late 20s, you’ve already set on a career path. I kind of felt a little bit like that, but I was trying to figure out a way, “Well how do I switch out one entire profession and career for something else?” and I didn’t even know what that something else was. cOntinued On pg. 33 | uu |

watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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The place to be for holiday gifts!

Check out THE MUSEUM STORE at the MFA for wonderful and unique gift ideas such as jewelry, toys, mens gifts, books, home goods, local & international art and so much more. Don’t forget to pick up your copy of the brand new cookbook Food+Art, Cooking Around Tampa Bay with the Museum of Fine Arts.

Cooking around Tampa Bay with

the MUSE UM OF FINE ARTS S T. PETERSBUR

G , F LO R I DA

FOOD +

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.

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watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

Photo by Jake Stevens

Photo by Jake Stevens

caterinG to our needs Michael Thomas cooks up a culture of giving among his staff and the community through his company, John michael catering

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he WoRD “LiTeRaLLy” is oveRuseD anD abuseD These Days, but there is literally not enough space on this page to list all of the organizations who receive donated catering from John Michael Catering, owned by Michael Thomas, whose relentless generosity makes him a 2015 pick for Watermark’s Most Remarkable People.

Thomas’ company closed out 2014 with more than $100,000 in catering donated to more than 50 events, mostly fundraising events for non-profit organizations.

They’re on track to top that in 2015, the company’s 20th year in business, with Thomas predicting they’ll donate about $125,000 in catering toward 60 events.

“As a company, philanthropy is huge,” Thomas says.

“Of course I’m the spearhead behind that but all of our management and staff fully embraced that philosophy. We have a mantra here at John Michael: the more you give the more you’ll receive.”

John Michael Catering was #14 on the Orlando Business Journal’s list of Top Philanthropic Companies, appearing alongside Darden Restaurants, Orlando Magic and Panera Bread. Not bad for a company that employs 85 people.

Thomas doesn’t just donate catering - he also donates his time, serving on board for Come Out With Pride, Wedding Alliance, Pet Alliance and Metropolitan Business Association. He says his husband of three years, Rustan Davis, calls him a “board junkie.”

It isn’t just his giving that makes Thomas remarkable.

It’s his dedication to creating an environment of generosity within his company.

Joel Wood, John Michael Catering CEO, says Thomas’ giving is “contagious,” and that he himself served three years on the Come Out With Pride board with Thomas’ encouragement.

“It breaks up the whole idea that a company’s purpose is just to make money,” Wood says. “It’s nice to know there’s a more human side, that we have a responsibility to give to our community, to give back.”

2016 will bring more opportunity for Michael Thomas and John Michael Catering, as they recently rebranded, moved operations into its own separate, dedicated office space and branched out into the venue side of events with their own facility in Winter Park’s Celebration Gardens.

—Jamie Hyman

Photo by Jake Stevens

adVocate and teacher

the Man in the winGs

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Lindsay Kincaide leaves a legacy of care

inDsay KincaiDe is LeavinG heR posiTion as director of clinical services at the Center this month after a 15-month tenure, but the body of work that she has done for Central Florida’s LGBT community remains.

“The Center was the first community-based organization in this area offering free Hepatitis C testing, which I brought in,” Kincaide says.” I’m trying to make sure that our programs here in Orlando are cutting edge, that they provide the best services possible to clients, and that was providing them with more than just HIV screenings. They needed Hep C. They needed STIs.” Kincaide applied for a grant and partnered with the Florida Department of Health to serve this need. Thanks to her efforts, The Center now offers free Hepatitis C testing seven days a week. In addition, it provides free STI testing on Mondays.

She also brought in an Affordable Care Act health care navigator, who can help clients enroll in health insurance on Thursdays.

“My big push was to help people in our community, LGBT people, get access to healthcare,” she says.

Another push for Kincaide was education.

“I was very proud that myself and [former executive director of the Center] Russell Walker planned the first community PrEP forum last February,” Kincaide says. “I’m working on another forum for next February that’s going to focus on physicians in the area because we’re really getting the community up to speed on what PrEP and nPEP is, but we need more providers to be aware of it too. The physicians will be my next target.”

Kincaide is stepping down from her position in order to complete her master’s in clinical mental health through an internship with Healing Tree, which provides counseling for abused children, but she will still be involved doing work for Impulse, Hope and Help and, of course, The Center.

“The Center will always be my home; I love it. I will never stop being a part of the Center. But I am excited that in my new positions, I’m going to get to do work that is still directly related to HIV,” Kincaide says. “Children and young adults who experience violence are at a higher risk of HIV, so I feel by doing therapy with this population, I’m in fact also doing HIV prevention.”

Kincaide says she is most proud of “reinvigorating the program and letting the community know, the volunteers know and my predecessor know what this program is capable of, so that they know that the sky’s the limit, that there’s nothing that they can’t do if they have the vision.”

George Wallace flies high with Fringe.

hiLe Many peopLe KnoW hiM foR his WoRK WiTh The oRLanDo inTeRnaTionaL fRinGe fesTivaL, George Wallace has a lot more going on behind the scenes than what many people know about.

“When I look back at 2015, there were so many more positives than there were negatives, so I think that it was a fabulous year,” Wallace says.

Not only is Wallace the executive director of the Orlando Fringe Festival — the longest running consecutive Fringe Festival in the U.S. — but he is also a board member for The Center, the owner of Supports of Central Florida, and an onair personality for WPRK 91.5FM’s “Local Heroes” show.

With Orlando Fringe’s upcoming 25-year celebration, Wallace has had his hands busy with the rebranding of the festival and moving into their new permanent home in the old Orlando Philharmonic space on the second floor of the Lowndes Shakespeare Center in Loch Haven Park.

“The move was very trying,” Wallace says. “We went without internet and phones for three weeks, but we’re in this beautiful 5,000-square-foot space.”

And while Wallace has been involved with Orlando Fringe since 2003 in some capacity, he is dedicated to helping all aspects of the entire Central Florida community.

President of The Center’s board Timothy Vargas says Wallace is someone you can count on to talk to and to be an idea generator.

“His relationship with me, with our organization, his role with The Center and, even further, his role with Fringe, I think is invaluable to the entire Central Florida community — and not just the LGBT community, but the entire arts and cultural community in Central Florida,” Vargas says.

Wallace was also recognized by the Orlando Sentinel as one of this year’s “O-Mazing Unsung Heroes” in Central Florida.

“Whenever you sit down with George, whether you’re having a business meeting or having a cocktail, you always feel like you’ve known George for 20 years,” Vargas says.

“You can talk about anything and find common ground with George on just about any level, and I think that makes him extremely remarkable.”

—Samantha Rosenthal

—Ciara Varone

watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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Photo by Jake Stevens

A new life

Ken Terrell gives LGBT seniors a voice and connects them with the community and each other through his role at the GLBT Center

A

t the end of 2014, shortly after he was named the new executive director of The GLBT Center of Central Florida, Terry DeCarlo sat with the organization’s volunteer coordinator, Ken Terrell, and gave him some unwelcome news.

Terrell was going to have to accept a salary for his hard work.

It wasn’t the first time leadership at The Center had this conversation with Terrell, urging him to accept payment for his time and energy toward organizing The Center’s volunteers. Terrell had been doing the work on a volunteer basis while surviving off of a pension he received from Wendy’s.

“I felt The Center needed the money more than I did,” Terrell says.

He came here to work for the fast food chain after the locations he managed in Alabama were wiped out by a tornado seven years ago. Things with Wendy’s didn’t work out, so Terrell began volunteering at The Center, and now they were insisting he be paid fairly.

“I don’t really like it,” Terrell says. “I take it. [DeCarlo] told me I deserve it.”

Terrell does deserve it. He’s remarkable not just for his volunteer efforts, but because he has spent 2015 building, developing and growing The Center’s senior program, connecting with and serving an LGBT population that is too often overlooked.

The Center has always had a program for seniors, but until Terrell got involved, there were fewer than five participants. Now, 80-plus LGBT seniors enjoy a packed calendar of events including coffee chats, game nights, outings and niche support groups. Terrell named the group OWL (Older, Wiser, Learning), and he isn’t just their social director. He’s their advocate.

“I’m actually really good at working with older people and I’m somewhat of a good listener,” Terrell says. “When they have concerns, I take their concerns at heart.

“Ken is relentless in his pursuit of excellence, he is never happy with the status quo and is always looking for bigger and better ways to help the community,” DeCarlo says.

Terrell is anxiously waiting for a major renovation of The Center to be completed, so he can expand OWL further.

His upcoming goals include computer classes and a GED program, after he conducted a survey and learned a large proportion of LGBT seniors didn’t graduate high school.

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Photo by Jake Stevens

Photo by Jake Stevens

Leader of the pack

The sound of silence

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Orlando Commissioner Patty Sheehan continues to make remarkable waves as she launches her fifth term

istrict 4 Commissioner Patty Sheehan hasn’t had the easiest of years, but she’s made certain to make it easier for much of Orlando’s LGBT population. In addition to being out, loud and proud, Sheehan has tackled all of the issues, from marriage equality to sidewalks and back again. By now, most Orlandoans know of Sheehan’s attention to detail – don’t even try to take away her giant binder of ordinances and research; she will attack, and you won’t like that.

She’s got the power.

“The Jan. 6 wedding at City Hall was amazing of course. That was such an amazing way to start the year. Everything from Constitution Green to the election, really,” she says, forming her own list of remarkable 2015 events in her head. “It’s just been one great thing after another.”

Sheehan, who rose from activist to political icon (and, let’s be honest, sometimes political pariah) nearly two decades ago is a changed woman who is making change.

She’s not at all secretive about her public, romantic breakup – one that followed her adamant support of Orlando’s domestic partnership registry and gay marriage – nor does she hide the fact that she’s recently recovering, as much as one does, from alcohol abuse. Instead of falling into the usual tropes of just giving up, she stuck her hair up in glory, turned on her smile and started making things happen.

Some of those things are more pleasant than others. On the one hand, Sheehan has taken on a youth leadership summit with the Zebra Coalition (or “Zebra Kids,” as she calls them), on all of the fingers of the other hand, she deals with the less marquee-worthy elements of municipal duty. To wit, she’s a big fan of Orlando’s compost program, a fragrant example of her willingness to get her hands dirty. She’s also a proponent of murals, bus shelters, trees and all other things green.

“I want to be commissioner cool,” she says. “I want people to come to me with ideas that they think aren’t possible, and I want to make them possible. … I prefer to think about positive things. My whole mantra this year was to be more positive.”

And she has.

—Billy Manes

watermark Your lgbt life.

After more than 15 years of successful seasons, Orlando Philharmonic’s David Schillhammer takes his bow

here’s a rhythm to exiting Orlando Philharmonic executive director David Schillhammer’s seemingly nervous (but ultimately correct) conversational chorus. For more than a decade, Schillhammer has seen the Phil grow from next-to-nothing to ultimately becoming the most viable of Orlando’s cultural operations.

Last year, the Phil made a bold move and transferred its operations to the Plaza Live on Bumby Avenue, eschewing expectations entirely (the Phil was supposed to have a home in the new Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, per publicly available documents explaining the center’s mission). This year, Schillhammer has decided to step down – not because of organizational chaos; just the opposite, really.

“It was time for me to, sorry to use the phrase, ‘Exit stage right,’ and to make room for the next voice,” he says. “And I’ve decided that there’s no shame in this. Though I am sad every minute, and I could cry at the drop of a hat, or with every email I receive from a patron or a volunteer, it doesn’t change my decision or my pride in what we’ve accomplished. And it certainly doesn’t change my unwavering love of the Orlando Philharmonic.”

That pride and love have resulted in a strong endowment, especially by Orlando standards, of $4.5 million, though Schillhammer obviously wishes that were a higher number.

He waited to make his exit announcement until the Phil drafted impressive new music director Eric Jacobson, a task that was palpably close to his heart.

“I think we’re part of the fabric of the community,” he says. “We’re strong artistically. I can’t believe it. I pinch myself every day that we have Eric Jacobson as our new music director. He’s a world-class musician and cellist, a conductor and he has this amazing musical ability. It’s a chemistry that can’t be matched.”

A similar chemistry led Schillhammer to marry his husband in May, you might say. As for what’s next?

Schillhammer is keeping his options open. But looking back, he’s fairly certain – and teary-eyed – about the symphony he helped to build in a town desperately in need of one.

“I was asked if I had a legacy, and that word is hard, but I know that my passion and drive on behalf of the Orlando Philharmonic has made a difference,” he says.

—Billy Manes

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

Also on view through January 3, 2016 Fashionable Portraits in Europe Enduring Documents Selected Photographs from the Permanent Collection

Jess T. Dugan Every breath we drew

Conversations Selections from the Permanent Collection

Free Admission Courtesy of Dale Montgomery ‘60 Tuesday–Friday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Saturday–Sunday noon–5 p.m.

Closed Mondays

JESS T. DUGAN, Jillian, 2014 Pigment print, ©Jess T. Dugan

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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| uu | Carlos Guillermo Smith from pg.27

I just knew that I wanted to be involved, and I wanted to be part of the political process.

It wasn’t so much idealism as realism, then?

I’ve seen, I’ve seen what people go through from several different vantage points. And that’s really helpful, not just being able to understand what working class people go through, the struggles that they live every day, but also the different vantage points in the process, you know the process of lawmaking is a very complicated, very… yeah, it’s really convoluted. You know, it is kind of a rich system. But I understand the system and I know how to work it to the advantage of the people we are advocating for. Of course, real working class people who don’t have a voice in government. Intersectionality is such a big deal to me. It’s such a big deal to me because when you look at Florida’s changing demographics, you see that minority voices are not represented in state government, or local government for that matter. You know, Florida is becoming more Hispanic, is becoming a bit younger, more educated, a lot of millennials [relocating], especially in my district. You don’t really get to see that in government. I’m sure you can say it’s getting more gay. I don’t know that that’s true, but people are out. And I think minority representation in government is important, because we are the communities that are affected the most by policy that is being passed in Tallahassee.

And these are exactly the people being targeted by our Republican Legislature.

Well, we have some work to do – progressives, Democrats have work to do be in the majority in the House or the Senate, or obviously have a Democrat in the Governor’s mansion. That will make a huge impact in what policies determine and set for the people of Florida. In the meantime, we have a seat at the table, and we influence policies, but, a lot of the time, our job to be effective, is to stop bad policies.

Do you think that Tallahassee is becoming more amenable to the inevitability of gay rights, especially in the wake of the marriage equality decision?

Well, let me give you one anecdote. This year, this session, you know, after winning the most historic Florida Supreme Court ruling that recognized the freedom of marriage for same-sex couples, people started getting married in January. But then when all of the champagne was put away, when the confetti was swept up,

we faced real backlash in Tallahassee. It was serious. It was real. It was aggressive.

You know our opponents were ready and willing to lash out at us. And the odds were stacked against us. You know, the Republicans have a super majority in the House. They have a majority in the Senate. They occupy the Governor’s mansion. The conventional wisdom is that they get what they want. They wanted to make it a crime for a transgender person to use a public restroom. They wanted to reinstate the ban on gay adoption with a backdoor religious exemption to allow adoption agencies to deny child placement to same-sex couples, and bring us back to 1977.

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But they failed.

Here’s what’s so remarkable. Consider all we’ve just said. Consider the political barriers. No one would have believed you had you been told in advance, this is going to be the year that we will appeal the 1977 ban on adoption put in place

by Anita Bryant. That Rick Scott would be the governor signing that bill into law, and that this legislature would be the body that handed him that bill to sign. You wouldn’t have believed me if I’d told you that the same time, they also would have pushed hard to impose this bathroom bill to make it a crime for a transgender person to use a public restroom, and that the pushback would have been so much harder that it killed the bill and now made it dead, dead on arrival, as a policy proposal in 2016. The same with the adoption-discrimination bill. No one would have believed that you’d have, had you had told them that all of those things would happen in the period of a few months in the legislature.

That environment, being able to do all of those things in that political environment in particular is what inspires me and keeps me optimistic that we can do a lot of really incredible things in the future, even under difficult circumstances.

Not to toot your horn too much, but it’s been remarkable watching your rise in the Democratic ranks of Orange County. What’s been most remarkable for you, Mr. Remarkable?

Seriously? I mean when you called me and told me that Watermark had decided to do this, and feature me in this way, feature my story in this way, it was really humbling. And I was kind of taken aback, and it made me – it made me appreciate this year. It made me appreciate the path that we’ve all kind of taken together as a community, because there’s a lot of people around us, a lot of people around me, who have helped to make all of this happen. That they worked; that they worked hard.

watermark Your lgbt life.

The Emporium in the History Center’s first-floor Atrium is always free and accessible to the public. Specializing in nostalgic gifts that reflect the cultural history of Central Florida, the store offers rare vintage photographs, quirky Florida souvenirs, delicious treats, classic toys, books, and more.

65 EAST CEnTrAl Blvd.

OrlAndO, Fl 32801 407-836-8594 • thehistorycenter.org

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

event planner

arts+entertainment

cOmmunity calendar

OrlandO 8 Annual Broadway Christmas, Dec. 17, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; SouthernNightsORL.com th

Joe Rogan, Dec. 18, Bob Carr Theater, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org Get Your Jazz on concert, Dec. 18, Alfond Inn Courtyard Lawn, Winter Park. 407-998-8090; TheAlfondInn.com Guaco, Dec. 18, House of Blues, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com Leon Rusell, Dec. 18, The Plaza Live, Orlando. 407-228-1220; PlazaLiveOrlando.com Footlight Players present STAR WARS: A Tribute, Dec. 19, Parliament House, Orlando. 407-425-7571; ParliamentHouse.com #GirlTheParty: STAR WARS Special Edition, Dec. 19, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; SouthernNightsORL.com Joy – an irish Christmas, Dec. 19, Bob Carr Theater, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org Benji Watson Cancer Foundation Fundraiser, Dec. 19, The Abbey, Orlando. 407-704-6261; AbbeyOrlando.com 20th annual Merry Tuba Christmas, Dec. 19, Central Park Main Stage, Winter Park.

GailRobertson.com The Outlaws with Special Guest The Henry Paul Band, Dec. 19, The Plaza Live, Orlando. 407-228-1220; PlazaLiveOrlando.com A Well-Strung Christmas, Dec. 20, The Abbey, Orlando. 407-704-6261; AbbeyOrlando.com Power Chords – A Not So Silent Night, Dec. 21, The Abbey, Orlando. 407-704-6261; AbbeyOrlando.com Christmas Night featuring Trina Live!, Dec. 25, Parliament House, Orlando. 407-425-7571; ParliamentHouse.com Holiday Open House, Dec. 26, The Mennello Museum of American Art, Orlando. 407-246-4278; MennelloMuseum.com

OrlandO

frOM ruSSia with lOve

squareLando Instashow ThuRsDay, Dec. 17, 5:00- 10:00 p.M. ciTyaRTs facToRy, oRLanDo CityArts Factory launches a new gallery and is bringing some of Orlando’s best and brightest together to welcome its debut. The new “Pop Up Gallery” will host the “SquareLando InstaShow” in which all pieces In the gallery must have a square aspect ratio. There will be art of one shape and all sizes, and all pieces will be available to purchase and take home the night of the show. More than 40 local artists will have their work on display and pieces start as low as $5.

christmas roll 2015 saTuRDay, Dec. 19, 6:00 p.M. WhoLe fooDs MaRKeT, WinTeR paRK

The Moscow Ballet performs the Great Russian Nutcracker at the Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg Dec. 26 and at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center in Sarasota Dec. 28.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NUTCRACKER.COM

Jake & Elwood Blues Revue with Derek & The Slammers, Dec. 29, House of Blues, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com Corey Smith, Dec. 30, House of Blues, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com Butch Trucks & The Freight Train Band’s Holiday Show, Dec. 30, The Plaza Live, Orlando. 407-228-1220; PlazaLiveOrlando.com

TAMPA BAY December Porch Party, Dec. 17, Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg. 727-896-2667; Fine-Arts.org Steam Friday’s Christmas Party, Dec. 18, Honey Pot, Tampa. 813-247-4663; Facebook.com/Honey-Pot Holiday Stroll, Dec. 19, Largo Central Park, Largo.

727-587-6775; PlayLargo.com holiday Pop Up Market, Dec. 19, Station House, St. Petersburg. 727-895-8260; StationHouseStPete.com

Downtown Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, Dec. 19, The Tampa Riverwalk, Tampa. 813-221-1539; TheTampaRiverwalk.com Glow Party in Code, Dec. 19, Flamingo Resort, St. Petersburg.

727-321-5000; FlamingoFla.com Tampa Bay for Bernie: Rally and Debate Watch Party, Dec. 19, Edge of 9, St. Petersburg. 727-843-3343; TampaBayForBernie.org It’s A Wonderful Life: a live Radio Play, Dec. 19- 27, American Stage Theatre Company, St. Petersburg. 727-823-7529; AmericanStage.org Next Generation Ballet’s Nutcracker, Dec. 19, 20, Carol Morsani Hall, Straz Center, Tampa.

813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org The Family Blessing, Dec. 19, 20, The Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-893-7832; TheMahaffey.com Queen of the Night Contest, Dec. 20, Liquid Tampa, Tampa.

813-248-5043; LiquidTampa.com The Sound of Music, Dec. 22 – 27, Carol Mosani Hall, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org

Grand Central District Customer Appreciation Day, Dec. 23, Grand Central District, St. Petersburg. 727-828-7006; GrandCentralDistrict.org Dean Johanesen - Live & Local, Dec. 26, Straz Riverwalk, Tampa.

813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker, Dec. 26, The Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg.

727-893-7832; TheMahaffey.com

SaraSOta A Christmas Carol, Dec. 1721, Venice Theatre, Venice.

941-488-1115; VeniceStage.com

TAMPA BAY

Pinellas equality connection ThuRsDay, Dec. 17, 6:00- 8:00 p.M. punKy’s baR anD GRiLL, sT. peTeRsbuRG Equality Florida invites everyone to a free event at the brand new Punky’s Bar and Grill in St. Petersburg.

Pinellas County leadership team will be joining the event for an update on what is next in the fight for full equality, including a recap on Florida’s most recent legislative session. The event will also be joined by Florida House candidate Mike Reedy. This exciting informative event will have complimentary hors d’oeuvres and will be a great networking event. Make sure to RSVP at EQFL.org.

ALSO Youth Holiday Party, Dec. 18, ALSO Youth Center, Sarasota.

941-951-2576; ALSOYouth.org A Christmas Carol, Dec. 23, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota. 1-800-826-9303; VanWezel.org Moscow Ballet: Great Russian Nutcracker, Nov. 28, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota.

1-800-826-9303; VanWezel.org The Producers, Dec. 30, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota. 1-800-826-9303; VanWezel.org

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

watermark Your lgbt life.

The Central Florida Trail Bladers are leading skaters and cyclists on a guided tour through some of the most richly decorated neighborhoods around Baldwin Park and Winter Park. The 14-mile tour will incorporate both residential streets and bike paths. The tour starts at the Whole Foods in Winter Park and lasts for 2 hours. Be sure you are comfortable maintaining 10 mph. While the houses are sure to be lit with thousands of Christmas lights, make sure to bring personal lighting as some of the paths may get quite dark. For more information check out the Central Florida Trail Bladers Facebook page.

G2H2 st. Pete December event fRiDay, Dec. 18, 5:00- 9:00 p.M. panTanGRa Tapas baR & ResTauRanT, sT. peTeRsbuRG It’s the final Gay Guy’s Happy Hour for 2015 and G2H2 St. Pete is sending the year out in style in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg at Patanegra. Join them as they celebrate the season with a holiday social sure to get those Jingle Bells jangling and that will have you Rockin’ Around the Clock, or at least until 9 o’clock. Special prices have been set on food and drinks until 7:00 P.M. and whether you have been naughty or nice will you still have a chance to win one of many gifts from Santa’s bag. The event is free and open to the public so bring some friends.

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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Thank you To the participants and sponsors of the 2015

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watermark Your lgbt life.

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

overheard

TAMPA BAY Out+abOut

Mary’S lOveS SpOrtS

Y

ou May have noTiceD ThaT if you noW heaD To haMbuRGeR MaRy’s in Ybor City Monday through Friday afternoons that the restaurant’s doors are locked up tighter than the Krusty Krab formula. Don’t worry though, everyone’s favorite burger joint has not been closed down, but it will only be opened in the evenings as weekday lunch time is moving next door to the all-new Hamburger Mary’s Pub House. HM Pub House opened their doors last month and since then is becoming THE place to catch the latest Bucs or Lightning game while enjoying a variety of beers and wing flavors.

Monday Night Football won’t be the same when you’re watching the game on the big screen with tons of Ybor friends and unlimited chicken wings.

They also got you set with a late night breakfast menu, full bar and delicious eye candy. See ya on game day!

award winning activiSM

a

nyone Who has MeT ashLey bRunDaGe KnoWs that she is absolutely remarkable. Not to brag but we have known it for some time, naming her one of Watermark’s Most Remarkable People in 2014 and it seems like the city of Tampa realizes how amazing she is as well. On November 19, the Tampa City Council unanimously voted to award Brundage a commendation from the city of Tampa. The motion was made by Councilman Guido Maniscalco of District 6 and seconded by Councilwoman Lisa J. Montelione of District 7. The honor is in recognition of Brundage’s community volunteerism and her being presented with the 2015 Performance Award PNC Bank this past November. Brundage not only is a community activist for transgender rights but she is also the president of the Tampa Bay Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, on the board of directors for the TampaBay International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival and by large one of the nicest people you will ever meet. A ceremony will be held at Tampa City Hall Dec. 17. Congratulations Ashley!

it’S a wOnderful ShOw

i

n ToDay’s Day anD aGe We soMeTiMes GeT so boGGeD DoWn in our Netflixing and smart phoning that we forget how simple things use to be back in the day gathering around the old radio, listening to our favorite shows while mama knitted and daddy smoked his pipe and read the paper. Ok, so that was more back in the day for your grandparents but you can relive the magic that Granny and Pop Pop enjoyed with It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play. Imagine watching a live 1940’s radio broadcast with a handful of voice actors performing dozens of characters on stage complete with live, on-stage sound effects. Oh boy! So gather the family and perk up them ears as you hear one of the most beloved Christmas classics and don’t forget to drink your Ovaltine.

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TheRe is no “i” in “ey”: The Ernst & Young (ey) team joined over 1,000 walkers at the 12th Annual Tampa Bay AIDS Walk at Vinoy Park in St. Petersburg Dec. 12.

PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

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use The foRce: These were the Jedi we were looking for as the crew from Emerald City Comics celebrates the upcoming release of The Force Awakens with a Star Wars Day in Clearwater Dec. 12. PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

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auf WieDeRsehen: Jacob hamm (L) and Chris Rudisill say so long, farewell at their going away at Metro Tampa Bay in St. Petersburg Dec. 3.

PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

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bRain GaMes: Watermark’s editorial team and the tampa Pride board get together to discuss the contents of the Tampa Pride Guide at Hamburger Mary’s in Ybor City Dec. 7. Photo by RiCK ClaGGett

5

you GoT a fRienD in Me: eric Skains (L) and lorraine langlois catch up at Metro Tampa Bay during Chris Rudisill’s going away at Metro Tampa Bay in St. Petersburg Dec. 3.

PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

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MaKe eM LauGh: Funny lady Suzanne Westenhoefer (center) met with fans (and signed copies of Watermark) after her show at The Palladium in St. Petersburg Dec. 13.

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PHOTO BY NICK CARDELLO

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chRisTMas pRiDe: (L-R) Miguel Fuller, Alexander Tripp, Nick Janovsky and Jay aller attend St. Pete Pride’s Red & Green Party at the Sunken Gardens in Tampa Dec. 5.

PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

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beaRD envy: Steve blanchard got festive with a glitter beard at St. Pete Pride’s Red & Green Party at the Sunken Gardens in Tampa Dec. 5. PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

watermark Your lgbt life.

8 7 Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

overheard

OrlandO Out+abOut

all thingS pOinte tO Staying Open

T

he ORLANDO SENTINEL RecenTLy RepoRTeD ThaT The ReMaininG ResTauRanT foR fMi, Funky Monkey at Pointe Orlando, wanted out of their lease, which was set to expire in 2019. Claiming that the construction walls that temporarily went up last year as part of an improvement overhaul of Pointe Orlando hurt their business, FMI balked.

Of course, FMI had also filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy in December of last year. Despite the high International Drive convention and tourist traffic, often boasted on their Facebook page that packed the restaurant, Eddie Nickell said that he and Nick Olivieri (who co-own FMI) were looking to move their business elsewhere plan to expand into a larger space. As of last week, Eddie Nickell said they were in the final stages of having a plan of reorganization approved by the courts and, despite the Sentinel’s story, Eddie said all of their creditors are on board with them. The plan will be to continue at full operation until June.

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give & receive

T

Was The season of GivinG anD aLL ThRouGh The LanD, people were providing, but mostly to a bigoted red can. But in its place there are other diverse people with needs. Like GLBT Center and Hope and Help with a pantry that feeds. With a call put out to all the helpers out there, folks from Brighthouse to the Prime Timers showed up with good tiding to share. Bikes were delivered for children to ride and even basic toiletries to help those on the side. You see, this season is about love and community and helping those that help others that let live and be judgment free.

fred’S nOt dead

T

he hoLiDays bRinG MaGic anD MysTeRy and even ghosts of Christmas past, which is probably why there was some confusion when the Watermark offices were called asking for an obituary for (the lovable) Fred Berliner. Fred, the go-to salesman at Don Reid Ford, is very much alive and performed with the Orlando Gay Chorus this past weekend. His appearance shocked a very spooked and confused audience member who quickly called his friend out west and said “FRED’S NOT DEAD!” According to the caller from out west, they were under the impression that Fred had passed a few years ago. After some research, it seems a few years ago a story was written, where Fred was mentioned as coming to the aid and comfort of a friend after someone had passed. But nowhere near an obituary, let alone Fred’s! This was much to the relief of the caller and Fred Berliner when we notified him. Perhaps someone had a little too much nog with their egg?

4

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heLp foR The hoLiDays: Members of the Metropolitan Business Association’s three RED groups collect nearly 100 toys for the Central Florida Toys for Tots initiative. Representatives from each group - (L to R) Joann Polley, Mac Wren, Viki hamilton, Mark Cady, Marine Corporal Scott, Lisa Brown, and Rich Crabtree - drop off the toys Dec. 3.

2

DecK The haLLs: Orlando Science Center employees (L to R) Russell Parker, Stephanie Williams, Ryan Hughes, Scottie Campbell trim a tree to get the museum ready for the holidays. PHOTO BY JENNINE MILLER

3

ReaDy foR hiLaRy: Presidential hopeful hillary Clinton speaks at a fundraising party at the Windermere home of Bill Kitchen Dec. 2. PHOTO BY BILL KITCHEN

4

one Man’s TRash: Orlando Museum of Art first Thursday attendees get a sneak peek at this year’s Trash 2 Treasures Recycled Fashion Show. The main event is Feb. 6 but on Dec. 3, this “Festive Frock” made by Debbie Wasaylik from bottle caps, a hula hoop, soda cans and other materials was on display. Photo by eRiKa ReCh

watermark Your lgbt life.

5

TaLKinG business: Walt Disney World president George Kalogridis speaks to members of the Metropolitan Business Association at their annual meeting and networking mixer Dec. 2 at Contemporary Resort. PHOTO BY DANNY GARCIA

6

senioRs WiTh souL: President Ken barnard (right) of Prime Timers of Central Florida presents Duane hoyle, volunteer coordinator with Hope and Help Center of Central Florida, with toiletry items donated by club members attending the club’s annual Christmas dinner. Barnard delivered the items Dec. 7.

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PHOTO BY KEN BARNARD

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TeaM caRLos: Florida House district 49 candidate Carlos Guillermo Smith addresses supporters during a Dec. 8 fundraiser reception at a private Winter Park home. PHOTO BY ALI KURNAZ

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you’Re a Mean one: The cast of The Grinch Who Stole Christmas takes a bow Dec. 8 during the show’s opening night at Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center. PHOTO BY JAMIE HYMAN

Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

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announcements

cOngratulatiOns

wedding bellS

ramelle Riley, 41, and Tina Rek, 45 from Orlando, Florida

Greg Weber and Rich Kennedy of Orlando celebrate their 29th anniversary Dec. 24.

years tOgetHer:

Miss Comedy Queen National 2014, Kathryn Nevets of Lakeland, celebrates her birthday Dec. 21.

5 years

engagement date:

St. Petersburg couple and Spathose artists Scott Durfee and George Medeiros celebrate 26 years together on Dec. 24. The couple’s art has gained national attention this year and even caught the eye of Martha Stewart.

February 14, 2014

Wedding date:

lOcal birtHdays

OWL hero to the Center in Orlando Ken terrell (Dec. 17); Mr. Wonderful (and Mr. Bob Poe’s husband) Kenneth Brown (Dec. 18); Gay Days founder Chris Manley, Honey Pot owner Stephen Moss, IBEX puppetmaster heather henson (Dec. 19); handsome St. Petersburg caterer Steve Gallo, Parliament House drink slinger tish (Dec. 20); Tampa Bay entertainer Kathryn Nevets, Orlando’s Hamburger Mary’s co-founder tom Schneider (Dec. 21); St. Pete Realtor Gabe Alves-Tomko (Dec. 22); Brandon salesman and bear fan Walter Tart, Watermark contributor Chris azzopardi, Gulfport photographer and owner of Creative Design Weavers Amy Oatley, Tampa writer Caitlin Jones (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, Darden’s Boyd Geary, Southern Nights General Manager Danny Vega (Dec. 26); Clearwater realtor and Suncoast softballer Keith Gill, Sideshow bartender Marissa Gray (Dec. 27); Lee Vandergrift’s husband (and beard!) tim hinton (Dec. 28); Watermark contributor and Gulfport activist Greg Stemm, Phish Phest phenom and realtor Sue-Bee Laginess, portrait of beauty and former Miss America Ericka Dunlap (Dec. 29); Hope and Help development diva Duane Hoyle, Tampa ROTC member Steve Deal (Dec. 30).

dO yOu Have an annOuncement? Having a birtHday Or anniversary? did yOu get a neW JOb Or prOmOtiOn? See your news in Watermark! Send your announcement to Editor@WatermarkOnline.com or go to WatermarkOnline.com/Submit-a-Transition.

it’s tHat easy!

november 20, 2015

Wedding venue:

Photo by Kathy Thomas Photography

“f

oR ThaT MoMenT, foR us To

exchange rings and then say we’re committed as wives together and married, it was just beyond words,” Ramelle says.

Ramelle Riley, who works in national sales for Higher Education Software, and Tina Rek, who works in sales for Progressive Waste Services, met through Tina’s twin sister, Lisa. Lisa and Ramelle had mutual friends in Fort Lauderdale, and Lisa introduced Ramelle to Tina when she was visiting from Peru.

Surprisingly, they did not hit it off with each other when they first met because they had very similar personalities, but Ramelle’s interest was still piqued to the point where she text Lisa saying it was nice meeting Tina. The next day they ended up hanging out again at a mutual friend’s barbeque, and that’s they really had a connection.

At the time, Tina was living in Peru, so nothing happened right away. But the two stayed in very close contact over the next couple of months, and they eventually started dating.

“We talked on the phone and Skyped each other and stuff like 10 or 15 hours a day,” Ramelle recalls. “It was ridiculous.”

Tina came back to the United States for her birthday, and the two were inseparable. At the time, she was planning on moving to the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area in the next couple months until Ramelle asked her to move to Orlando with her—and Tina said yes.

“It was definitely a learning experience through the first year, a good learning experience and a good loving experience,” Ramelle says. “As far as our love evolving, it is definitely the strongest it’s been at five years and it continues to evolve.”

Ramelle says she knew that she wanted to marry Tina after a year of them being together, but she wanted to wait for the perfect moment. So for Valentine’s Day weekend in 2014, Ramelle pretended she was going to take Tina out for lunch but ended up asking her boss for time off for Tina for a weekend trip to Savannah—where she would propose.

“She had no idea I was taking her to Savannah until about 45 minutes to an hour into the

drive, and then she is like ‘Where are we going? Because this is taking long just to get to lunch!’”

Ramelle jokes.

Ramelle had flowers and champagne waiting in the room, along with the ring. They had their Valentine’s Day cards with them that they already written to each other, and at the end of Ramelle’s card she asked Tina to marry her.

“The first date that we went out on and she actually held my hand, in Fort Lauderdale, I knew she was going to be the one forever,” Tina says.

Since they both have a lot of the same tastes and style, planning the wedding was easy, but it did take them a very long time to figure out which venue they wanted to host the wedding. They ended up choosing historic Casa Feliz.

Both of their moms walked them down the aisle during the ceremony, and they both said the wedding day couldn’t have been more perfect.

“She’s very, very charming,” Tina says. “She’s kind and generous—such a giver and loving. I just feel that I have a perfect home and family.”

They plan on going to Lima, Peru, in February 2016 for their honeymoon.

—Samantha Rosenthal

Do you have an interesting wedding or engagement story you’d like to share with Watermark readers? If so, email the details to Editor@WatermarkOnline.com for consideration as a future feature on this page.

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Decemb er 17 - Decemb er 3 0, 2015 // Issue 2 2. 26

Casa Feliz in Winter Park, Florida

Wedding planner:

They had the help of Casa Feliz and Arthurs Catering team.

Wedding caterer:

Arthurs Catering

Wedding tHeme/cOlOrs: All white

First sOng:

“Make You Feel My love”

by Adele

interesting Fact:

Ramelle met Tina in South Florida while she was on vacation.

Tina lived in lima, Peru, at the time.

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