Watermark issue 18.22: Pets

yOUR LGBT LIFE.

ISSUE 18.22 | OCT. O 27-NOV. 10 , 2011 WATERMARKONLINE.COM

focus on

PETS

Citing discrimination, Pinellas Schools

rejects Boy Scouts grant

Florida’s pet theft problem Picking the right pet for your life Become an animal advocate

Orlando says goodbye to

John “Tweeka” Barber

Florida resident Scott Lope has made exotic animal advocacy his mission—both on and off camera D AY T O N A B E A C H

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ORLANDO

• TA M PA

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S T. P E T E R S B U R G

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S A R A S O TA

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| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

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watermark | preview

| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

issue 18.22

4

STANDING ON CEREMONY

28

PG.

Mad Cow Theatre in Orlando is the only local theater company participating in Standing on Ceremony: The Gay Marriage Plays on Nov. 7, which is a nationwide event bringing attention to the battle for marriage equality. The reading of several plays related to same-sex marriage is tied into a national movement similar to the Laramie Project.

Discovery Channel host and some-time Florida resident Scott Lope takes animal advocacy seriously both on- and off-camera.

8 | Orlando News The Orlando community said goodbye to philanthropist John “Tweeka” Barber, who passed away on Oct. 17; Fundraisers are underway to help alleviate financial strains put on the rescheduled Come Out With Pride;

12 / NATION+WORLD NEWS

more.

TAMPA BAy NEWS

8

10 | Tampa News

14 / TAMPA BAy MARKETPLACE

The Pinellas County School Board rejected a $50,000 grant from the Boy Scouts of America, citing the organization’s discriminatory practices

15 / ORLANDO MARKETPLACE

concerning gay men; TIGLFF attendance numbers were down in 2011, but partnerships and events helped make up the difference; more.

25 | Scene+Heard

25

In the newest incarnation of DC Comics’ Batwoman, the crime fighter gets a

SCENE+HEARD

20 / MAIL

32 / EVENT PLANNER

new look and a girlfriend. Writer J.H. Williams tells us what’s in store for the newest lesbian superhero.

34 / TAMPA BAy OVERHEARD

Orlando’s Mad Cow Theatre will participate in a nationwide reading of Standing on Ceremony: The Gay Marriage Plays on Nov. 7, to bring attention to the battle for marriage equality.

35 / ORLANDO OVERHEARD

The Footloose remake isn’t nearly as bad as you’d think and Anonymous is a conspiracy theory worth the price of admission.

KNOW+TELL

37

45 | Pets Scott Lope, who’s Wild Animal Repo debuted on the Discovery Channel

48 / TRANSITIONS

50 / CLASSIFIEDS

earlier this year, talks animal advocacy, his ties to Orlando and Tampa and why mixing people politics with the politics of pets is a tricky area to tread.

51 / SPORTS

Sheri-Lyn Traylor experienced first-hand the latest trend in dog-napping when her two chocolate labs were stolen, only to show up for sale on Facebook hours later.

52 / GOSSIP

Animal lover Lynda Shehan knows a thing or two about pet care—she’s a

64

founder of one of Gulfport’s largest street festivals for animals and a long-

GALLERy W

time pet sitter.

54 / GALLERy W

watermark | preview

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

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editor’sdesk T

In mid-October the family living next door moved. My partner and I only here is a reason so many people would rather spend time with pets rather knew the neighbors by casual waves from the vehicle as we’d navigate our than our fellow humans. For the few who can’t understand why, just neighborhood. But we knew their dogs, and we were surprised to see their watch an hour or so of reality television or the talking heads on any cable brown and white pooch scavenging for food in the front yard a day after the news show. Soon you’ll understand. move.

The unconditional love given by animals is unlike anything another human After she greedily enjoyed the dog food we offered, I carried her inside, can give—regardless of how strong a person’s relationship is with his or her where she was thoroughly investigated by our dogs and then transported to the partner or parents. bath tub for a much-needed cleaning. Soon after, she was clamoring to get back While human representatives from all over the political spectrum constantly outside and to her old home, where I was convinced there was nothing for her. judge, condone, disapprove or applaud specific segments of society, our pets I was wrong. simply sit, stay and wait to adore us.

The adorable dog managed to scramble through a window of her old home Our pets don’t care if we’re gay or straight, if we’re single or partnered, and where she had six newborn puppies awaiting dinner. After a quick conversation they don’t give us that shameful look after we do something we know in our with the homeowner, who contacted the former tenant hearts deserves such a gaze. Their focus, especially of and said animal control had been alerted about the dog, dogs, is on us and the time we spend with them. Cats, momma dog and the puppies were relocated to our admittedly, simply focus on our ability to keep their Our pets don’t care if extra bedroom. They’ve been there for two weeks and Steve Blanchard food dish filled. But that makes them no less loveable. are growing daily and making more noise with each No wonder so many LGBT people have pets, EDITOR we’re gay or straight SteveB@WatermarkOnline.com considering how judgmental the world can be feeding. or if we’re single All six pit bull mix puppies appear healthy and concerning LGBT equality. several friends and acquaintances have stepped forward According to a recent, online national survey by or partnered. to say they will happily give a lucky pup a happy, Harris Interactive, seven out of 10 LGBT adults said loving home. they own pets, compared to 60% of heterosexuals I am not an animal expert in the traditional sense. I who responded to the same survey. More than 90% of never studied animal behavior or the sciences associated with it, but I know dogs LGBT responses said those pets are considered members of the family and the are smarter than many of us give them credit for. The dog we found knows its number who claimed to be dog owners was statistically equal to self-proclaimed now in a better environment and you can see it in her expression. Undoubtedly, cat lovers. she has found a permanent home.

I come from a family of animal lovers. I watch my pets with rapt attention In a world that has become more divided by partisan politics, religious and I can tell when they’re feeling bad or are aging. Their mindset directly ties condemnation and heated debates over the mundane, I’m happy that at the end into mine—if they’re not happy, I’m not happy. When they’re content and my of the day I can curl up and simply experience unconditional love from beings dog’s tail wags or my cat paws at my arm as she greets me, my mood greatly that are happy to just know I'm nearby. They simply don’t care whom I love or improves.

So when I see an animal treated as property rather than as a part of the family, what my political affiliation may be as long as I return their love.

That’s a trait we should all try to learn. | l | it breaks my heart. I witnessed that treatment first-hand recently and it has effectively resulted in an increase of my monthly dog food bill.

staff

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| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

watermark | orlando news

Equality Florida eyes $75K goal for upcoming Gala david moran Orlando Equality Florida’s (EQFL) annual Greater Orlando Gala aims to break fundraising records at its Nov. 5 event, but the event’s steering committee is showing some caution in setting goals, shooting for $75,000 this year.

“We set a goal that we know we can reach,” said Joe Saunders, Field Director for Equality Florida. “We’re not stuck on that. I think it is everybody’s hope that we are going to exceed it.”

In its seventh year, the gala is the premiere Equality Florida fundraising event for the Central Florida region. Last year’s event raised a record $73,000, but Orlando’s gala lags behind similar events in comparably-sized cities. Galas in Jacksonville, St. Petersburg and Miami have raised $100,000 this year, while Tampa’s most recent gala raised more than $150,000. Broward is the biggest fundraiser in the state, with a goal of $250,000 this year.

Saunders is cautious about comparing fundraising goals amongst different LGBT communities in Florida because he said it’s not necessarily indicative of an event’s success. He said even though Orlando’s target fundraising goal may lower, the Greater Orlando gala has broken fundraising records each year the event has been held.

“Most of the communities that have broken the $100,000 mark this year have been in their sixth or seventh year,” he said. “The events have built momentum that, over time, has made this year’s incredible success possible.”

Saunders added that any community’s Gala could reach $100,000 when enough time and energy is put into teaching people about EQFL’s work.

“At the end of the day, our mission won’t be accomplished if there is no gas in the tank,” said Joe Saunders, who is also an Orlando resident. “We need the three Ts. We need people’s time, their talent and their treasure.” In regards to the success of the recent Headdress Ball, Saunders says the event has benefited from years of experience and developing a strong brand in the local community.

Saunders said that though it would be ideal for Orlando’s gala to out-raise nearby cities such as St. Petersburg or even Tampa, he emphasizes the importance of setting a fundraising goal that is achievable and allows for room to grow.

“The plan for Orlando is to make this a $100,000 gala. That kind of support is available in the community and we want to build the structure and organizing power to support that in the future,” said Saunders.

“I have no doubt that Orlando could hit the mark.”

This year’s gala will make Equality Florida history as the first ever to have both the mayor of Orange County, Teresa Jacobs, and the city of Orlando, Buddy Dyer, sitting on the honorary committee.

Equality Florida’s Greater Orlando Gala is Saturday, Nov. 5, at the Orlando Museum of Art. This year’s Greater Orlando Gala Steering Committee co-chairs are Danny Humphress and Kathryn Norsworthy. | l |

briefs HRC bus tour to make several stops in Orlando

Designer showcase benefits Hope & Help

The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) bus tour is making several stops in the Orlando area.

On Oct. 27, the HRC will host “On the Cusp of Equality: Are We at a Cultural Tipping Point?” at the Doubletree Orlando from 6–8:30 p.m.

On Friday, Oct. 28, the bus will visit Old Town Brokers from 5–8 p.m. for an open house and food truck pod before stopping at The Center for an adoption forum at10 a.m.–noon on Saturday, Oct. 29. On Sunday, Oct. 30, an HRC open house is scheduled from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at the Lake Eola Farmer’s Market.

The Hope and Help Center Designer Showcase Event will celebrate interior design, as designers decorate a 3,000-square-foot penthouse as a fundraiser for Hope and Help of Central Florida, Inc. The event runs from 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Nov. 5 and noon–5 p.m. Nov. 6 at The Vue on Lake Eola. Tickets are $15 and the event is open to the public. Valet parking is available and complimentary. To buy tickets call 407-244-0089 or email LEVEL@VueOrlando. com.

Third Thursday raises $1K for SPCA Watermark Media’s monthly networking event, the Third Thursday social, raised $1,000 for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) of Central Florida. More than 100 people attended the special, dog-friendly networking event on Oct. 20. The social also unveiled the new facility for Ranger’s Pet Outpost an.d Retreat.

Still seeking AIDS Quilt patches The Breakthrough Theatre of Winter Park is still accepting quilt panels sewn to honor friends and loved ones who have died from AIDS. Panels should be turned into Wade Hare at the Breakthrough Theatre by Nov. 11. The panels will be displayed during the theatre’s run of “Quilt: A Musical Celebration,” then sewn together and sent to the Names Project Foundation to be included in the national AIDS quilt.

watermark | orlando news

John ‘Tweeka’ Barber Remembered tom dyer Orlando | At a packed memorial service and downtown party, Orlando’s LGBT community mourned the loss of John “Tweeka” Barber, who died on Oct. 17 of a rare and aggressive form of cancer. He was just 38.

Barber was an award-winning hair stylist whose many clients included Karen Dyer, wife of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. But he was best known as “Tweeka,” the outrageous drag persona he developed in his youth.

“Tweeka is my other half… my other persona. She doesn’t compromise,” Barber said in Tweeka Graduates, which can be viewed on YouTube and shows his graduation from the University of South Florida in 1995.

Tweeka performed at numerous club and special events throughout Florida, many benefitting local non-profits and charities. But Barber was beloved by many for his generous spirit and high-energy approach to life.

“I am saddened by John’s passing. He and his family have been close friends of mine and my wife for over 20 years,” said Mayor Dyer.

“No one lived life to the fullest more than John. Anyone who knew him will carry his memory forever.”

Dyer was one of many notables who attended a standing-room-only celebration of Barber’s life at Church of the Messiah in Winter Garden on Friday, Oct. 21. Orange County Commissioner Scott Boyd and former

Commissioner Vera Carter were also present to pay their respects to the son of former Winter Garden Mayor Bob Barber.

“People like John… so full of life and love and joy… aren’t supposed to die. People like John aren’t even supposed to get sick,” said Pastor Billy Brath. “My gosh… if he went to bed before 2 a.m. people worried.”

Brath, Pastor at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, said that Barber asked him to speak at the service “because he wanted you all to know he is happy and at peace.”

“He’s gone… from cancer and pain, and also hatred and bigotry and all of the bad things of this world,” said Pastor Brath. “He’s gone to freedom.”

Sam Singhaus and Blue Starr sang “Over the Rainbow” as family and friends filed out of the church, many singing along.

Hundreds more celebrated Barber’s life at an “After” Party at Stardust Lounge near Lake Eola on Sunday, Oct. 23. Attendees joined in a candlelight vigil and watched a slide show of Barber’s life before Bobbi Jones sang Gospel music. Items were auctioned off for the John Barber Fund. Karen Dyer and Starr remembered their friend.

“He was such an amazing soul who touched so many people,” said Starr. “He had the ability to make every person he came in contact with feel special.”. | l | \

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Read Tom Dyer’s remembrance of John “Tweeka” Barber on p. 23

Fundraising underway for rescheduled Pride jamie hyman Orlando | Come Out With Pride (COWP) organizers are just under halfway to their goal of raising the money needed to carry out the rescheduled event.

Orlando’s annual pride event was to be Oct. 8, but rain and extreme winds forced a postponement to Sunday, Nov. 13.

Mikael Audebert, COWP’s executive director, said there are certain costs COWP will have to pay again to put on the rescheduled event. Those costs cover the rental of barricades, tents, tables and chairs. Fees for an Orlando Police presence will also have to be paid again. In all, the costs total nearly $16,000. As of press time, organizers had raised about $7,000.

“Pride will happen no matter what,” said Audebert. “If the funds don’t get raised, we’ll look at different options.”

Audebert said one possibility is a cover charge for the event, but he hopes to avoid that.

“We’re really focusing on fundraising and other alternatives to make sure the costs [of the event] can be paid before we start on Nov. 13,” he said.

The rescheduled event will vary some from the original plan. The rescheduled date is a Sunday rather than a Saturday. Audebert said

that is a temporary adjustment, and the plan is for the 2012 event to return to Saturday.

“The major difference is that it will get darker much sooner,” he said. “We’ve decided to keep the parade at 4 p.m., but it will start getting dark by the time it ends and that will create a party atmosphere by the stage.”

That means COWP will end at 8 p.m., rather than 9 p.m.

Audebert said the board is also working on keeping the fireworks over Lake Eola for the event’s close. However, covering the costs of the event takes priority over the festive fireworks.

The local community has rallied around the fundraising for the rescheduled event, especially local businesses.

“If businesses can’t come up with actual cash, they’re putting together fundraisers to generate cash,” Audebert said. “It has been an amazing rally and people definitely want to see their Pride happen.”

Those interested in donating can do so at ComeOutWithPride.com.

The peripheral events, such as a kickoff party and brunch, are also still in the works.

Audebert said the full schedule for the entire weekend should be finalized by Oct. 28.

More information will be released at WatermarkOnline.com as they become available. | l |

Justice Indeed

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watermark | tampa bay news

| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

briefs St. Pete thanks Rays for “It Gets Better” contribution During its early October meeting, the St. Petersburg City Council thanked the Tampa Bay Rays for contributing to the anti-bullying “It Gets Better Campaign.”

The Major League Baseball team recorded their submission in September and it featured popular players B.J. Upton, Johnny Damon and manager Joe Maddon.

Sounds of Pride Karmic Tattoo performed for more than an hour on the main stage of the second annual North Pinellas Pride in downtown Dunedin Oct. 23. Several hundred LGBTs and allies visited vendors and area merchants throughout the day.

Dinner discusses faith and sexuality A new, free program is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 14 at the Franciscan Center of Tampa to tackle the difficulties Catholic families face when a member comes out as LGBT. Father Jim Schexnayder of the Catholic Association for Lesian and Gay Ministry, will host “Setting the Table” at the center at 3010 N. Perry Ave. in Tampa beginning at 7 p.m.

FTM Fund event hits Gulfport Nov. 14 The fundraiser for the FTM Fund, benefitting female-to-male transgender people, returns with its annual fundraiser at the Gulfport Casino on Nov. 14. This year’s event takes on fashion with locals participating in four different categories.

The black tie fundraiser features food, drinks, live music and a special dance performance. Tickets are $30 and available at the L Train, 900 Central Ave,, St. Petersburg.

St. Pete Pride elects new officers St. Pete Pride’s board of directors elected new officers in October to serve during its 10th year. Elected were Stanley Solomons as president, Barry Parks, Jr., as Vice President, Christopher Tate as Treasurer and Thompson Kellett as Secretary. For more information on St. Pete Pride, visit StPetePride.com.

Photo by Steve Blanchard

Grand opening of new Metro Center set for Nov. 4 steve blanchard St. Petersburg | The staff and clients of the Metro Wellness and Community Center have used its new location for a month, but now it’s time to show off the new digs to the community.

The St. Pete Metro Center will hold a grand opening celebration—complete with tours—on Friday, Oct. 4, at its new facility at 3251 3rd Ave. N. The new location is across the street from its old building next to Georgie’s Alibi.

“It’s the building with the carports,” explained Lynne Mullen, Director of Grants and Development. “The new location has so much more space and will allow us to do so much more.”

The grand opening celebration is from 6-9 p.m. and staff will offer tours of the new location, which Mullen says will become an epicenter for the local LGBT community, thanks to its expansive community room.

“We had community space before but that space kept getting smaller and smaller,” said Mullen, who has been with the organization for almost three years.

“Now we’ll have a huge community room and we expect it will be available for all types of community events.”

Metro Wellness and Community Centers will lease the new building, just as it did at its old location. Currently the old location as a “For Lease” sign in front. Mullen said she was unsure what the old building would become.

“That has been a great building and we love this location and neighborhood,” Mullen said. “That’s why we wanted to stay as close as possible. The new location has the space we need and keep us in familiar territory. We’re also still close to the bus and trolley line.”

Entry into the new location is on 33rd Street near the corner of 3rd Avenue North between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Metro Wellness and Community Center began at the King of Peace Metropolitan Community Church in 1984 and has continuously serviced the HIV/AIDS population of Tampa Bay ever since.

Metro’s Tampa and New Port Richey offices will remain in their current locations and are unaffected by the changes in St. Petersburg.

For more information on the new St. Petersburg Metro Wellness and Community Center, call 727-321-3854 or visit MetroTampaBay.org. | l |

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watermark | tampa bay news

Clearwater | It’s been 11 years in the making for Pinellas County school board member Linda Lerner, who’s been objecting to a “character building” program that generates revenue from what she sees as the discriminatory Boy Scouts of America.

Instead of the “Learning for Life” program passing with regular minority dissent from Lerner and fellow board member Janet Clark, on Oct. 11 the proposal finally failed.

“I never got discouraged,” Lerner said.

“I knew a time would come when Pinellas County schools would take a stand.”

The school system was named a “District of Character” during 2007 in part because of its anti-bullying and non-discrimination policies regarding LGBT youth.

“We needed to do what’s right and send a strong message,” said Lerner, who has two sons, one gay and one heterosexual.

Others lauded the move as well, including Brian Winfield of Equality Florida.

“It was hypocritical to bring in an organization to teach ‘character building’ when they discriminate against LGBT youth,” said Winfield. “They are now living up to their own standards.”

Although “Learning for Life” has a nondiscrimination policy that includes sexual orientation, the program is still a subsidiary of the BSA. That parent organization discriminates against LGBT youth by requiring participants to be “morally straight” as well as “clean in word and deed.”

While taxpayer funds were accepted to support “Learning for Life” during the past decade, this year the difference was new board members Terry Krassner and Lew Williams, a former Scout who suffered discrimination as child when required to drink from a “blacks only” water fountain, Lerner said.

Be Yourself

Because of that, Williams has said he’s been opposed to discrimination of any kind.

Voting to accept the $54,838 grant were chairperson Carol Cook, vice chairperson Robin Wilke and Peggy O’Shea.

Following the vote rejecting the funds, Wilke asked board members to reconsider their stand, and Williams said he might.

However, a supermajority would be required to rescind the vote, which would mean two board members from the prevailing side would need to change their stance. Lerner said that’s happened but twice during her long tenure on the county school board.

If the grant was to come to a vote again, it would have been on Oct. 25, the day Watermark went to press.

Lerner said members of the community were welcome to speak.

“I would love to have some articulate people there to thank the board,” she said.

In the meantime, Lerner said she’s received 260 e-mails expressing support for the board’s stand on “Learning for Life.”

Eight other districts, including Hillsborough County, accepted funds from the Florida State Legislature, which earmarked the taxpayer money specifically for the BSA’s “Leaning for Life” program.

“I think this action is getting some attention,” Lerner said, with the story being reported by The Huffington Post, The Advocate website as well as on other sources, including at least one Christian media outlet, she said.

“So now I hope there will be pressure on the other school districts,” Lerner said.

Winfield also said this could help motivate the BSA to change.

“This is just the most recent reminder to the leaders of the Boys Scouts of America that its policies are detrimental to its reputation, and discrimination against any young men is a policy that needs to be revised.” | l |

“It’s a dog’s life in Gulfport: our own dog park, costume parties, treats, doggie dining at local restaurants, and even our own festival every February. People love us here! We’ll have another margarita, please.”

Hercules and Jackson

9

Hodges: TIGLFF was prepared for smaller crowds

Pinellas Schools rejects Boy Scouts’ grant joseph kissel

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

steve blanchard Tampa | The 22nd Annual Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival was deemed a success this year, even though attendance numbers were notably down.

Hard numbers weren’t available at press time because totals were yet to be finalized, but TIGLFF Board President Ken Hodges said the organization was prepared for smaller crowds.

“It’s no secret that the numbers were down,” Hodges said. “We were prepared because other festivals had shared that they experienced a downturn.”

Fortunately TIGLFF was able to make up some of its lost revenue with special events and through silent auctions powered by presenting sponsor ALandCHUCK.travel.

“This was the first time since 2005 that we’ve had a presenting sponsor and ALandCHUCK.travel are so supportive,” Hodges said.

A live auction on closing night helped raise $11,000 in 15 minutes and a silent auction during the TIGLFF Gala at the Don Vicente Resort in Ybor City secured nearly $6,000.

“The Gala was a beautiful and successful event with nearly 100 people attending,” Hodges said. “And the Sugar Party on closing weekend exceeded expectations.”

That party at the Honey Pot in Ybor City brought in close to 800 people, while the Surge Party at the Ritz Ybor counted between 500

TIGLFF Board president Ken Hodges is pictured with actress Harmony Santana during the opening night of the 22nd annual festival. | Photo by Nick Cardello

and 600 revelers.

Hodges added that the Taste of TIGLFF street festival presented by St. Pete Pride and the Tampa Bay Business Guild was a welcome addition to the 11-day festival, saying that vendors were happy with the new format.

“The board is pleased,” Hodges said. “We are going to have a post-Festival gathering in November to discuss this year’s event, but you can be assured we will be back in 2012.”

TIGLFF will continue it’s monthly film series in January, but Hodges said details weren’t ready to be released at press time. He did say that the film will be a “fourth sequel to a wildly successful comedy” that has shown at the festival in the past.

For details and information on upcoming TIGLFF events, visit TIGLFF.com. | l |

Circus McGurkis promotes peace daniel hodge St. Petersburg | Circus McGurkis celebrates 40 years of “peoples’ fairs” this year with its popular annual gathering in St. Petersburg. Circus McGurkis, described as a “Peace Education Celebration” in a festive community gathering of those committed to creating and sustaining peace and social justice within themselves, is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on

Gulfport Florida

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Saturday, Oct. 29 at Lake Vista Park, 1401 62nd Avenue South. Circus McGurkis is a free family-friendly, LGBT-friendly and petfriendly event.

“The turbulent political, social and economic issues affecting our society today are reminiscent of the atmosphere of the 1970’s from which Circus McGurkis was founded,” said event chair Gary Crosby.

For more on Circus McGurkis, visit WatermarkOnline.com. | l |

• Upcoming Events • Una Voce-The Florida Men’s Chorale

In Concert at The Catherine Hickman Theater Friday, October 28th, 7 pm

Fresh Market

Tuesdays, November 1st & 8th, 9 am - 3 pm

First Friday Art Walk

Friday, November 4th, 6 pm - 10 pm

Gulfport Citywide Yard Sale Saturday, November 5th, All Day

Free Clothing Swap

Tuesday, November 8th, 9 am - 1 pm

10

watermark | sarasota news

| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

Most noticeable at this year’s Sarasota Pride festival were the number of youths participating, including this couple who dressed as a princess and a unicorn to celebrate Pride. | Photo by Steve Blanchard

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Sarasota Pride festival breaks attendance records steve blanchard Sarasota | Sean Lundsford was pleasantly surprised by what he stumbled upon at J.B. Hamil Park on Oct. 22. The large tents, the numerous vendors and the friendly atmosphere was exactly what he was hoping to find when he moved to Sarasota in March.

“I had no idea Sarasota Pride existed before today,” the 25-year-old student said.

“I really only go out in St. Petersburg and Tampa because I didn’t know there was a gay community here. I’m thrilled. This is exciting.”

For the second year in a row, Sarasota Pride held its annual event outdoors at the park off of Main Street in downtown. With a few tweaks and changes from its inaugural event last year, organizer Cindy Barnes said attendance was up.

“We’re breaking records already,” Barnes said about halfway through the festival. “We’re counting numbers throughout the day and I’m happy with what we’re seeing so far.”

Barnes said that an estimated 3,000-3,500 people attended this year’s celebration, up from approximately 2,500 in 2010. More food and alcohol was also sold this year thanks to the increased crowds, and vendors reported record sales.

“We had people out the wazoo,” Barnes said. “We had so many people who just stumbled on us that were walking along the Bay front. They came over, had a beer and just enjoyed the party.”

The growth in the festival is due to the City of Sarasota’s cooperation, the community as a whole and City Mayor Suzanne Atwell, who not only welcomed festival attendees, but volunteered for the dunking booth to raise money for the Trevor Project.

“There is just not a better advocate for the LGBT community,” Barnes said, when asked about Atwell’s participation. “I spoke to her at the Harvey Milk Festival in the spring to ask her to read the proclamation and she agreed to it and also asked if she could participate in the dunking booth. She never flinched, even

The group Super Hits kept the crowds dancing at Sarasota Pride on Oct. 22 until 6 p.m. | Photo by Steve Blanchard

though it was cooler weather.”

More than $300 was raised for the Trevor Project, which is an anti-bullying campaign.

Others who volunteered for the dunking booth included Barnes, ProSuzy’s Suzanne Noe and Watermark editor Steve Blanchard.

Several changes were incorporated into this year’s Sarasota Pride Festival, most noticeable was that entertainment and vendors were on the same side of Main Street. All the vendors were under tents this year as well, which kept them cool and helped convince festival revelers to stay longer.

“People seemed to be beside themselves with the changes,” Barnes said. “It was just too spread out last year. I didn’t know I had all of the land in the park and it was great to keep everyone together.”

The large tents housing the vendors were within earshot of the main stage, which had bands performing on it until 6 p.m.

“People didn’t want to leave,” Barnes laughed. “I had to chase them out after 6 p.m. so we could close down.”

Police reported no incidents during the 2011 festival and one officer even commented to Barnes that the crowd was exceptionally wellbehaved, especially considering that alcohol sales were up.

“I told him, they call us gay for a reason,” Barnes laughed. “We’re always happy.”

For more information on Sarasota Pride, visit SarasotaPride.org. For more photos from the event, visit Watermark’s online gallery at WatermarkOnline.com. | l |

watermark | state news

Gay GOP presidential candidate threatens orange juice boycott staff report Tallahassee | The first openly gay Republican to run for president is threatening a boycott of Florida orange juice. Fred Karger’s goal is to get Florida to move its primary date from Jan. 31, 2012 to its original date in March.

The ultimatum was sent in a letter to Florida Governor Rick Scott, Florida State House Speaker Dean Cannon and Florida Secretary of State Kurt Browning. If the primary date is not moved, Karger said he will launch a national boycott, complete with a website featuring an orange countdown clock.

He wrote: “By violating Republican National Committee rules and choosing January 31, 2012, for Florida’s Presidential Primary, you have created havoc in the presidential selection process. Florida has gained nothing by moving its primary date forward and will remain the fifth contest.

You have caused tremendous disruption and uncertainty in Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina. Florida would rob voters of one of the most important tools they need to make an informed decision: time.”

It’s not the first attempt Karger has made at a boycott of Florida orange juice. He also participated in the 1978 boycott, which came after Florida Citrus Commission’s spokeswoman Anita Bryant dove into antigay activism. | l |

Janitor sentenced for killing his lover staff report Lake Worth | A Lake Worth janitor is getting 15 years in prison for stabbing a cross-dressing waiter with whom he was romantically involved. Juan Carlos Atenco Camacho, 25, pleaded guilty Oct. 19 to manslaughter in the death of Naum Rafael Mendez, 33.

Mendez was last seen in Feb. 2008 wearing a red dress and blond wig at a Boca Raton restaurant where he was a waiter. In 2010, Camacho confessed to the murder and told police he dumped the body west of Palm Beach Gardens, but Mendez’s remains were never found.

When he killed Mendez, Camacho was married and also having an affair with a 16-year-old girl. | l |

Dolphin Democrats honor LGBT leaders denise royal Dania Beach, Fla. | A publisher, a Wilton Manors bar owner, an attorney and two politicians were among the honorees at this year’s Dolphin Democrats Equality for All Awards Reception, held Sunday at the IGFA Fishing Hall of Fame in Dania Beach.

More than 400 people attended the event. The Dolphin Democratic Club is Florida’s oldest and largest LGBT political organization.

Each year the event recognizes outstanding leaders who have demonstrated the strength to lead and a vision to improve the lives of those in the LGBT community and all deserving citizens. A portion of the proceeds of this year’s event will be donated to the Children’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center (Children with AIDS), House of Hope and Stepping Stones.

“This year’s event brings together the many people who are determined to rediscover their focus and resolve in order to maintain the momentum for change engendered by President Obama, and to insure the election of those who support his agenda and the rights of the LGBT community,” said Dean Trantalis, co-chair of the event.

Jennifer Morales and Laurie Whitaker

were honored with the Jamie Bloodworth Award. The prestigious award goes to any self-identifying woman who has shown excellent leadership in improving community relations in the LGBT community.

Whitaker is the owner of Sidelines Bar in Wilton Manors and Morales handles public relations for the bar. Sidelines has contributed to many Wilton Manors charitable organizations and major fundraising events— including sponsoring the Florida AIDS Walk. In addition, both women have been instrumental in the Dolphin’s Get Out the Vote campaigns.

The Trailblazer Award was awarded to Patricia Windowmaker, counsel to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office. She worked for transgender rights on a national level and included it in the hiring at the BSO. Peter Clark, publisher of HotSpots Magazine, received the Media Award. Last year, HotSpots celebrated its 25th anniversary.

Other award winners were: Broward House, Community Service Award; Women in Network, Broward Leadership Award; Tim Ross, Distinguished Service Award; Salvatore Torre, Volunteer Award; and Michael A. Albetta, Dolphin of the Year. | l | Editor’s note: Denise Royal is a reporter with South Florida Gay News and this article is used with permission.

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

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watermark | nation+world news

| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

US House group files motion in gay marriage suit wire report

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San Francisco | Lawyers for a U.S. House of Representatives group said in a federal court filing that gays and lesbians are not entitled to the same heightened legal protection and scrutiny against discrimination as racial minorities and women. This is because they are far from politically powerless and have ample ability to influence lawmakers.

The Oct. 14 filing in San Francisco’s U.S. District Court comes in a lesbian federal employee’s lawsuit that claims the government wrongly denied health insurance coverage to her same-sex spouse. Karen Golinski says the law under which her spouse was denied benefits— the Defense of Marriage Act—violates the U.S. Constitution’s guarantee of equal protection.

But attorneys representing the House’s Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group counter that gays and lesbians don’t meet the legal criteria for groups who receive heightened protection from discrimination.

“A spate of recent news stories only confirms the conclusion that homosexuals are far from politically powerless,’’ the filing says, arguing that the court should

deny Golinski’s motion for summary judgment in her favor. “Accordingly, gays and lesbians cannot be labeled `politically powerless’ without draining that phrase of all meaning.’’

The filing cites a poll of Americans showing support for gay candidates, New York’s decision to legalize gay marriage, and the lifting of the ``don’t ask, don’t tell’’ policy that prohibited gays and lesbians from serving openly in the armed forces.

Golinski’s attorney, Tara Borelli, countered, “We don’t think that DOMA can survive a court review under any level.’’

In a brief filed in July that urged the court to find DOMA unconstitutional, the Obama administration argued that the law reflected Congressional hostility to gays and targeted an immutable characteristic— sexual orientation—that has nothing to do with someone’s ability to contribute to society.

The administration also characterized gays and lesbians as minorities with limited political power. It had previously said it would no longer defend the marriage act.

The House’s Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group stepped in to defend it. | l |

Gay marriage repeal bill clears N.H. House panel wire report Concord, N.H. | A bill that would repeal New Hampshire’s gay marriage law cleared a House committee on Oct. 25 with an 11 to 6 vote.

If approved, the bill, introduced by Rep. David Bates (R-Windham) would repeal the state’s gay marriage law. Gay couples already married would remain so, but going forward the bill would establish civil unions for any two adults competent to enter into a contract—including relatives.

“The Bates proposal is bad for freedom and bad for families,” said Craig Stowell, Republican co-chair of Standing Up for New Hampshire Families, a group opposed to repeal of the marriage law.

“We did not send lawmakers to Concord to revisit the marriage law. But a fringe group of lawmakers are squarely focused on taking away freedom and liberty from their constituents and fellow Granite Staters.”

In speaking to the Portsmouth Herald, Bates said his legislation was needed to

rectify a “bad policy decision.”

“I, and many people in New Hampshire, believe that those who pushed this law in 2009 simply did not have the right to redefine marriage for our entire society,” he said.

In comments to CitizenLink.com, Bates suggested that he would have preferred a bill that excluded gay couples entirely.

“While some people may want a complete restoration of marriage, and also having no civil unions or anything like mutual beneficiaries, the political reality is I don’t think that’s possible at this time,” Bates said.

Jim Splaine, the former lawmaker who sponsored the marriage legislation, called the effort “crazy.”

“We usually don’t take rights away from people once they’ve been given to them,” Splaine told the Portsmouth Herald. “That’s not the American way. It’s crazy. We need to be focused on jobs and restoring the economy.”

A poll released in mid-October shows little support for repealing the law. The full House is expected to vote on the law when it convenes in January. | l |

watermark | nation+world news

Prop. 8 backers lose CA campaign disclosure case wire report San Francisco | Supporters of the 2008 ballot measure that outlawed same-sex marriage in California have lost a lawsuit that sought to block their past and future campaign finance records from public view.

A federal judge in Sacramento on Oct. 20 ruled against ProtectMarriage.com and the National Organization for Marriage, saying the two groups failed to prove they should be exempted from the state’s campaign disclosure laws.

U.S. District Judge Morrison England Jr. ruled from the bench after a brief hearing and plans to issue a written opinion later, San Francisco Deputy City Attorney Mollie Lee said.

“The winners here are really the voters of California,’’ Lee said. “The First Amendment interest that the judge upheld in his ruling is the interest in having a robust democracy, an

informed electorate and vigorous debate.’’

The two groups, which between them raised the lion’s share of the $43.3 million spent in support of Proposition 8, claimed their donors were targeted for boycotts, hate mail and threats after their names appeared on the Secretary of State’s website as part of required campaign finance reports and filed a lawsuit in January 2009 to have them removed.

England refused at that time to grant an emergency injunction that would have taken the information down temporarily, saying campaign disclosure laws are designed to protect the public and are especially important during expensive initiative campaigns.

The California decision mirrors a ruling from a federal judge in Washington State who ordered the release of signature petitions that forced a vote on a 2009 domestic partnership law, saying supporters had failed to demonstrate that making the names of signers public would put anyone in danger. | l |

Roommate in Rutgers suicide says no to plea deal wire report New Brunswick, N.J. | A former Rutgers University student accused of using a webcam to spy on his roommate’s intimate encounter with another man turned down a plea deal on Oct. 20 that would have limited his time behind bars to five years and could have kept him out of prison altogether.

Dharun Ravi, 19, affirmed his decision to go to trial, at which a conviction could mean 10 years or more in prison. A judge set a trial date of Feb. 21 for the case, which helped set off a national conversation about bullying of young gays and lesbians.

Tyler Clementi, an 18-year-old violinist in his first weeks at Rutgers, killed himself in September 2010, just days after the alleged spying. Ravi faces 15 criminal counts in

all, including invasion of privacy and bias intimidation, a hate crime.

One key issue may not be resolved.

Berman reiterated his ruling of six months ago that Ravi and his lawyer, Steven Altman, should be given the name and birth date of the man who had the encounter with Clementi— but with the caveat that they not give that information to anyone else.

Altman contended that the name of the man—who is considered both a victim and a witness in the case—is necessary for his client, even though the man has said he does not want to speak with defense lawyers.

Prosecutors objected to the disclosure requirement last month and asked Berman to reconsider. Berman said he was sensitive to the man’s right to privacy, but believes that Ravi should know who his accuser is.

Prosecutors intend to appeal the ruling. | l |

Gay Scottish man beaten, set on fire in attack wire report Ayrshire, Scotland | Stuart Walker was beaten and set on fire in what is feared to be Scotland’s worst anti-gay hate crime.

Walker, a 28-year-old gay bartender from Cumnock in Ayrshire, suffered a brutal attack that took his life Oct. 23. Police confirmed the body had scorch marks and the victim had suffered horrific injuries. Walker’s partially clothed charred remains were found tied to a lamppost at the side of the road on Saturday.

Police said they could not rule out that Walker was the victim of a homophobic attack.

“Stuart had been out with friends in the Cumnock area earlier during the night and was last seen alive by a family friend around 2:30 a.m. on Saturday morning—nearly two and a half hours before he was found,” said Detective Inspector John Hogg, who is leading the inquiry.

Chief Superintendent John Thomson of Strathclyde Police added: “I can confirm it was a very violent and sustained attack on Stuart. I do not believe at this stage that this was a random attack. There may be the possibility he knew his attacker or attackers.”

Police described family and friends as “devastated” by their loss.

Colin Macfarlane, director of Stonewall Scotland, the LGBT support group, said it was important to wait until all the facts had been established in the case and appealed for anyone with information about Walker’s killing to contact the police.

Macfarlane said that in the past five years there had been a five-fold increase in hate crimes against LGBT people in Scotland.

“Every day people are targeted simply because of who they are and while some report this to the police many do not,” said Macfarlane. “We pride ourselves in thinking we’re a forward-thinking and tolerant nation but these figures clearly show that for many LGBT people this vision isn’t a reality.”| l |

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

13

briefs Turkish Cypriots agree to scrap anti-gay law In an Oct. 20 meeting with EU lawmaker Marina Yannakoudakis, Turkish Cypriot leader Dervis Eroglu agreed that the divided island’s antiquated anti-gay laws should be scrapped.

Yannakoudakis says north Cyprus is the last place in Europe where homosexuality is still illegal. The issue came to the fore after the arrest of a Greek Cypriot former finance minister in the north on suspicion that he tried to have gay sex.

Denmark to consider gay marriage The coalition Danish government has announced plans to introduce a bill in January that will allow gay and lesbian couples to marry and hold weddings in the Church of Denmark. In 1989, Denmark legalized registered partnerships for gay couples—the first country to do so—but such unions are not allowed to be celebrated in the church. Polls show that a large majority (69%) of Danes support church weddings for gay couples.

Plaque honoring Harvey Milk stolen San Francisco police are investigating the whereabouts of a missing bronze plaque honoring slain gay City Supervisor Harvey Milk. On Oct. 15, the plaque, created in the mid-1980s and valued at $10,000, was removed from its spot in the city’s Castro district. Police suspect that thieves may have chopped up the plaque to recycle the brass pieces for profit.

Senate confirms gay woman as federal judge Without Republican support, the Senate on Oct. 13 narrowly confirmed openly gay Alison Nathan to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. The 48-44 party-line vote made Nathan the third openly gay person confirmed to the federal bench.

Nathan has previously served as associate White House counsel and special counsel to the solicitor general of New York.

14

watermark | tampa bay marketplace

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watermark | viewpoint

| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

No. Still love Facebook and use it often.

I’m still on Facebook, but I don’t use it as often as I used to.

Yes. I use G+ or other social media instead of Facebook now.

40% 40%

Yes. I’ve stopped using social media altogether.

top web comments On Washington State’s release of anti-domestic-partnership petitions, including the signatures: “The purpose of anti-gay groups is to harass GLBT folks. Why are these harassers afraid of being harassed?”

—Listen Up

On the gay presidential candidate threatening a boycott of Florida orange juice if the state’s primary isn’t moved: “Openly gay and Republican…are you serious?”

10% 10%

—Ron Holmes

“Tropicana supports our community—do not support this man!”

—Stephen Warne

At WAtermArkOnline.cOm, We Asked yOu: Recent formatting and privacy changes are leading some people to leave Facebook.

Are you one of them?

A new poll will be posted to the homepage this week. Be sure to visit WatermarkOnline.com and let us know what YOU think!

On the NJ teacher who decided to use her Facebook page to make anti-gay posts:

“Let them post…lets get them out of our schools! Education and acceptance starts with our youth.”

—Joshua Beadle

Don’t be left out of the community conversation!

Head over to WatermarkOnline.com, register and start telling us what YOU think!

Bears...& Their Toys!

mail We must be counted

gay man and a lesbian and their respective partners. It proves that what makes up a family is love, not traditions. I wish more families—both gay and straight—were like Thomas’.

Founding a family on friendship and love makes much more sense than creating a family because it’s what’s expected of you.

I thought Steve Blanchard’s Editor’s Desk on Matthew Shepard was one of his best opinion articles I have read in a long time (Issue 18.21). It’s a good reminder to many of the younger generation on how far we have come and far we have to go. It is also a great reminder to all of us in the gay Candace Miki community that we must stand up for our Via e-mail rights in some way.

Join HRC or Equality Florida. We must be counted in ways that involve more than going to bars on a Saturday night. Too many young people don’t understand that Too many of us took for granted the people have died for the right so two teen ongoing support shown boys could hold by former mayor Pam hands together, as I Iorio. I, like many others, recently saw at the were afraid that once her Millennia Mall. Being two terms expired, the openly gay means LGBT community would more than just fun face an uncertain political and games. future.

It’s vital everyone Luckily for us, there’s come out and join a lot to be said for Tampa together. There is Mayor Bob Buckhorn’s power in numbers. support for the LGBT We must flex our community, and he numbers to demand proved it by speaking at our rights.

—GARy RODMAN TIGLFF’s opening night.

Thanks for a By showing his face and great column. speaking from the stage Gary Rodman of the Tampa Theater, Winter Park he vowed to continue Tampa’s legacy of celebrating diversity.

That’s something we can all celebrate.

Jim Tiffani Thank you for sharing the story of Tampa Thomas Gilliam-Baber and his family in your recent issue of Watermark (Issue 18.21) It was nice to read about a young man with such a promising future brought up by a

Thankful for Buckhorn’s support

“We must be counted in ways that involve more than going to bars on a Saturday night.”

Love makes a family

Send all correspondence to Editor@WatermarkOnline.com. Letters may be edited for space or clarity. Opinions expressed in reader mail do not reflect those of Watermark’s staff.

YES, Domestic Partners CAN Buy Together!

Talk to Fred.

He understands.

242

watermark | viewpoint

livingloud

before making assumptions.

I made a huge assumption misfire during last year’s campaign for Orange County mayor. The technically nonpartisan mayoral race featured a Democrat versus a Republican.

Of course, the conventional wisdom is that Republican politicians are anti-gay and Democratic politicians are pro-gay. In this case, the Democratic candidate had openly courted the local gay community, while the Republican candidate, Teresa Jacobs, was widely reputed to be anti-gay.

Knowing very little about Jacobs, and in line with the conventional wisdom, I subscribed to this view. Then-Commissioner Linda Stewart invited me to a meeting with other leaders in the community to discuss how to advance the human rights ordinance that Try talking had been blocked by then-Mayor Rich Crotty. first We were shocked when Jacobs arrived (at Stewart’s invitation) and joined the meeting, listened to us, and offered her advice on how Mary Meeks we should proceed.

Iwent on to have several conversations with Stewart about LGBT issues. She did not say everything I wanted to hear, but it was clear she was no homophobe. She expressed personal compassion for our community and a willingness to address our concerns if elected.

Jacobs turned out to be very instrumental in helping us get the HRO passed before she took office, and then worked with us to implement domestic partner benefits for gay employees as one of her first priorities in office.

And now, we are on the verge of getting a countywide domestic partner registry. My assumption about Jacobs was wrong. I’m glad t has been an amazing year for the LGBT I talked to Jacobs (with an assist from Linda community here in Orange County. Plenty Stewart), and that she talked to me. of good news to celebrate and valuable I made another big assumption misfire lessons learned along the way. The good news during the HRO battle. We were desperate to is that we are on the cusp of a truly great get the HRO passed last year because our two achievement here in Orlando and Orange biggest supporters on the County Commission, County. City and county commissioners are Democrats Linda Stewart and Bill Segal, expected to vote soon to implement a joint Domestic Partner Registry, which will be the were leaving office, likely to be replaced by Republicans Jennifer Thompson and Ted first of its kind in Central Florida and a model Edwards. Knowing nothing about the views of for other communities to follow. these two on gay rights issues, I again followed That historic achievement will come on the heels of the recent passage by Orange County the conventional wisdom and assumed they would not be gay-friendly. of an LGBT-inclusive human rights ordinance, As a constituent in and domestic Thompson’s district, partner benefits for the county’s I sent an email to the It is easy to fall into campaign websites gay employees. of all four candidates (Orlando already had the trap of making asking for their these provisions.) assumptions about At least one of the positions on certain gay rights issues— important lessons people based Thompson’s did not to be learned is that solely on their answer, feeding my it might never have political affiliation. happened if members assumption. Then I ran into her campaign of our community manager (and now and members of those aide) at a luncheon, and told her that I didn’t elected commissions had not bothered to talk, and listen, to one another. think I could support her candidate because she didn’t support gay rights.

In this day and age of hyperpartisan Thompson’s campaign manager, who politics, it is easy to fall into the trap of making assumptions about people based solely on their happened to be gay, was shocked by my assessment, and encouraged me to talk to political affiliation. So after some “assumption Thompson about her views. Skeptically, I did misfires” on my part, I have decided that email Thompson and asked her to contact maybe the better policy is to try talking first,

I

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

Mayor Crotty to encourage support of the HRO. To my surprise, she did. After she was elected, we met and talked for an hour at a Starbucks, and she vowed to support the proposed domestic partner benefits. When the County Commission voted, she not only voted “yea,” she spoke very eloquently in support of our community and challenged her colleagues to proceed with a domestic partner registry.

She has become our strongest ally on the board. My assumption was wrong! I’m glad I talked to Thompson, and that she talked to me.

I have had similarly positive experiences after talking with other local Republican leaders, like County Commissioners Ted Edwards and Scott Boyd, City Commissioner Tony Ortiz, and County Comptroller Martha

21

Haynie, all of whom have become LGBT allies.

On the flip side, I am happy to say that the conventional wisdom has been entirely correct about our local Democratic leaders, all of whom have been consistently rock solid in their support of LGBT rights. (Independents too—thank you Commissioner Damiani!)

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, in particular, has demonstrated amazing leadership in advancing LGBT rights, even exceeding expectations.

(I should have talked to him sooner!) So, my point is, you never really know where someone stands until you ask, and listen. Don’t make an assumption misfire—try talking first!

Mary Meeks is an Orlando-based attorney.

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watermark | viewpoint

Tweeka knew Jesus Tom Dyer Tom@WatermarkOnline.com

38. We weren’t close, but I thought I knew John well enough to “get” him. That was until I attended a celebration of his life at the Episcopal Church of the Messiah in Winter Garden last Friday.

Tweeka knew John “Tweeka” Barber, Jesus. And his memorial was a glimpse into the Norman-Rockwell-in-anorange-grove world that produced one of Central Florida’s most exotic creatures.

I have other sheep, which are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will hear My voice; and they will become one flock with one shepherd.—John 10:16

Winter Garden is a sleepy, courtly town west of Orlando. The well-kept houses have big yards with sprawling oak trees that drip Spanish moss. John grew up there, conspicuously. His father was mayor, and head of a household that included a lovely and industrious mom, two beautiful blonde daughters and one attention-grabbing son.

The Barbers knew everyone, and it seemed like most of Winter Garden came to say goodbye to John. Inside the SRO worship hall, church-going locals sat shoulder-to-shoulder with Tweeka’s colorful downtown friends. met John Barber when he performed at “Grannies and trannies,” said one Facebook the first Beach Ball in 1997. I’d heard post. stories about “Tweeka”—the outrageous Knowing that his death was rapidly drag character he created for the stage—but approaching, John asked Pastor Billy Brath of I wasn’t prepared for that dazzling smile, Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church to deliver those electric crescent moon eyes and a the sermon at his memorial. The theatrical personality even bigger than the looping Marcy Pastor Brath, who would be a hit at Bear Bust, Singhaus costume he wore. There were lots of touched everyone in the crowd. distractions that night, but I tagged along with “People like John, who was so full of Tweeka. Even at Typhoon Lagoon, a 60-acre life and love and joy, aren’t supposed to die. water park, he created energy.

People like John aren’t even supposed to get I saw him perform many times after that, sick,” Pastor Brath said. “My gosh… if he most often for charities or non-profits. When I went to bed before 2 a.m. people worried.” heard stories fueling Pastor Brath his reputation as described his first visit a charismatic, to the hospital after he Tweeka’s memorial never-ending party, learned John was sick.

I thought, “Who “I knelt down and was a glimpse into the would be more fun told him, ‘A lot of Norman Rockwell-into party with than people are worried Tweeka?” about you.’ And an-orange-grove world Years later, when John wrinkled up his that produced one of he moved his salon nose and gave me an to a location not far Central Florida’s most incredulous look and from Watermark’s said, ‘Why are they exotic creatures. offices, John cut worried about me? my hair and I got I know Jesus! Don’t to see his serious, they know I’m going to sensitive, super-intelligent side. Watching him heaven? I’m sick right now, but big deal. So multi-task in the salon mirror, it seemed to what.” me that Tweeka was in many ways the truer As Pastor Brath and others described manifestation of this vividly hyperkinetic the John they knew, I understood that my person. conception of him had been limited and twoJohn died two weeks ago of a particularly dimensional. He was not just a gay fantasia insidious and rare form of cancer. He was just of hedonism in high heels. He was also a

I

small-town boy from a close-knit family who believed in a loving God. The hybrid was spectacular to behold.

Outside the worship hall there was a table with pictures of John at different times in his life. One, taken when John was an infant, struck me because all that irreverent, exuberant joy was clearly present in him even then. A little eyeliner and it was Tweeka.

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

23

Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.—Psalm 139 I’m not religious, not Christian. The scripture quoted here was read at John’s memorial, at John’s request.

Skeptics—and I count myself among them—rely too much on observation and provability. The proof of John’s spirituality was the power of his belief, and the way it helped him create a life that touched so many.

“John asked me to speak at this celebration of his life because he wanted you all to know he is happy and at peace,” said Pastor Brath.

“Honor John the rest of your life by loving each other with the same passion he showed all of us.” | l |

24

| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

watermark | books

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

BATWOMAN BEGINS–AGAIN DC COMICS RE-LAUNCHES THE CRIMEFIGHTING LESBIAN lawrence ferber

F

ollowing a hugely successful, starring storyline in DC Comics’ Detective Comics title, the openly lesbian Batwoman began her own titular, monthly series in September.

Part of DC Comics’ reboot and re-launch of its entire line of titles—with 52 all-new #1 issues, including Stormwatch featuring superpowered gay couple Apollo & The Midnighter—Batwoman follows the adventures of Kate Kane, a flame-haired, former U.S. Military Academy cadet discharged under “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell.”

First introduced in 2006’s 52 miniseries as the ex-lover of lesbian policewoman Renee Montoya (a character from the excellent, GLAAD-nominated Gotham Central series), Batwoman went on to star in DC’s Detective Comics between 2009-2010, written by Greg Rucka and superbly illustrated

by J.H. Williams III, which saw her go up against a Lewis Carroll-quoting, Tim Burton-worthy Goth nemesis, Alice, while revealing Kane’s origin story. This critically acclaimed arc was later collected in the Batwoman: Elegy trade hardcover/paperback.

November 2010 saw a prelude to Batwoman’s solo series with a “Zero Issue,” co-written by new series team J.H. Williams—also returning as an artist— and H. Haden Blackman, blending illustration styles within an inventive, sophisticated narrative approach. Here Williams discusses the new and past series, how the DC line’s reboot affects Batwoman (the series was originally slated to kick off in 2010 but was held up to be part of the event), and whether a girlfriend is in Kate’s future.

WATERMARK: What’s the biggest difference between this new Batwoman series and her initial Detective Comics run?

J.H. WILLIAMS: The type of story we’re leading off with. Her last stint was boiled down to her origin and the basic superhero versus ultimate nemesis sort of thing. We wanted to expand on that because she needs a pantheon of villains, so we set out to do that in ways that are fun. We do it in the art a lot, mixing styles, and we brought that Continued on page 30 | uu |

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| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

• PAID ADVERTISEMENT •

watermark |film

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

27

Footloose | Starring Kenny Wormald, Julianne Hough, Miles Teller, Dennis Quaid, Andie McDowell

Vanessa Redgrave and Rhys Ifans are “The Virgin Queen” and her attentive subject Earl of Oxford in Anonymous.

Screened Out CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO

stephen miller

Stephen@WatermarkOnline.com

Anonymous | Starring Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave, Sebastian Aermest, Rafe Spall)

D

are extraordinary, and the acting—especially the underrated Ifans—is delightfully over the top.

The tale turns ridiculous—particularly, tragically Greek—but it’s just sick enough to be entertaining. That’s a good thing, because the script confuses King John III for John II, and they get the order of the plays wrong, ignoring the fact that Shakespeare was writing for almost a decade before this story starts.

But then, Emmerich is not an expert. He still does a commendable job transitioning from destroying our planet to ably presenting this pantaloon-and-corset affair.

rAting guide

isaster-flick director Roland Emmerich is not a scholar. He’s just pretending to be one for this deliciously silly, costume melodrama. Especially in this last The Big Year century, academic debate has heated up over | Starring Steve Martin, whether Shakespeare wrote his own stuff. Now Owen Wilson, Jack Black the director of Independence Day and 2012 This feathery film is supposedly about puts forth this overwrought and nearly people passionate for bird watching. Yet impossible conspiracy theory. The it wastes a lot of hot air before we surprise here is that the goofy get to get to know the three lead film is actually pretty good. characters or pick their brains Ifans is the Earl of Oxford, about their favorite subject. They an orphan gentry raised are passionate about spotting the by controlling Puritans. most species in a year, but their They also influence Queen one-upmanship with each other Elizabeth (Redgrave). Ifans overshadows everything. has always wanted to write In the early 1900s, someone plays to counter the power at the Audubon Society of the Puritans. So he uses Dancer Kenny Wormald brings suggested a friendly contest for Shakespeare (portrayed as home the Bacon in Footloose. the most avian species spotted a total boob by Spall) as in a year. So, avid birdbrains his nom de plume. Much plan elaborate strategies to beat backstage drama ensues, lightly tied to The each other out.

Impoverished loser Black and Bard’s actual history. tycoon Martin are trying to oust champion Details sometime overwhelm this soap Wilson, who previously set what seems to be opera; the first few minutes are all-out an unreachable number. confusing. The costuming and sets, however,

Overflowing with glittery fabulousness

Pretty damn good, but it’s no Sunset Boulevard

An entertaining enough flick with perhaps a few holes

Ever so slightly watchable, just for that hot actor

Two hours of your life you’ll never get back

There are shining moments of insight, but these are too little too late. When these lovely scenes happen—deep into the film—they only show us what we’ve been missing from the beginning: character development and focus on our feathered friends.

Despite amazing actors and sumptuous scenery in every shot, we don’t care about the birds or the men watching them. These three seem more interested in their pointless, machofree competition. It’s this uninteresting cage The Big Year can’t seem to break out of.

People lining up to see this remake of Footloose understand that the core story is extremely corny: a sleepy burg bans public dancing to protect its children from unspeakable evil.

After losing his mom to leukemia, orphan Wormald rolls from Boston into small-town Georgia to live with his uncle’s family. What he finds is a community in grief, upset over the loss of five young kids after a drunken dance. The town council has banned boogying.

So rebel Wormald challenges the ordinance written by reverend and overprotective father Quaid. In the meantime, Wormald also woos the preacher’s misbehaving daughter Hough.

Many of the iconic original songs are here, often remixed or updated. The dancing is particularly fantastic, energetic and even organic. Wormald, a talented backup dancer for Justin Timberlake, and the other kids don’t quite have the acting chops. Quaid, McDowell and the other adults pick up the slack here.

Less easy to buy is the Disney-fied racial Utopia that this small town represents, one where—even though dancing is illegal—so many kids can bust a move. Even harder to buy is that a town could be so backwards in the age of the internet and iPhones. Next, they’ll ban horseless carriages and scissors with pointy ends. | l |

28

watermark | theater

| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

Thomas Ouellette and Christopher McIntyre will star in Mad Cow Theatre's Next Fall.

| Photo courtesy Zac Alfson

advocacy Goes Global MAd COW pARTICIpATES IN STANdINg ON CEREMONy: THE gAy MARRIAgE plAyS

erik r. caban

O

n Monday, Nov. 7, curtains will rise at dozens of theaters across America, including Mad Cow Theatre in Orlando, for simultaneous performances of Standing On Ceremony: The Gay Marriage Plays, a collection of nine short plays that all deal with gay marriage. Participating theaters are presenting the play to raise awareness and funds in support of marriage equality.

Mad Cow is expecting a sold-out house in their Stage Left Theatre for this one-night only reading.

“This is the first time the event is taking place in Florida,” said Zac Alfson, Marketing Manager for Mad Cow Theatre.

Rollins professor Thomas Ouellette will direct local actors in Mad Cow’s reading.

Beforehand, audience members will be able to watch a live streaming introduction, as well as a post performance Q&A from the Minetta Lane Theatre in New York City, where Standing on Ceremony begins previews that night.

Attendees will be able to participate in the Q&A, regardless of their locale, by submitting questions via Twitter in real time. In addition to contributing to the conversation, a portion of the proceeds of the evening will benefit Equality Florida.

“Equality Florida is honored to be the beneficiary of this event,” says Equality

Florida Field Director Joe Saunders. “The international movement that’s being sparked by “Standing on Ceremony” is one more way for us to communicate to Orlando and Orange County that legal recognition of our Thomas Ouellette directs Mad Cow's Standing On Ceremony: The Gay Marriage Plays. | Photo courtesy Zac Alfson families is paramount to us leading happy universities in 19 states are confirmed to and successful lives. “Saunders went on to after Matthew Shepard’s death. participate including: Texas, North Dakota, stress how important conversations like this “After the success of The Laramie Project: Florida, Kansas and Michigan, where are for the Orlando community to be having, Ten Years Later, we are thrilled to partner both gay marriage and civil unions are especially this month as the City of Orlando with Standing On Ceremony to facilitate banned; North Carolina, where the vote and Orange County discuss the creation of a another national convening with this on a constitutional amendment to ban gay domestic partnership registry. Saunders will beautiful collection of plays about a timely marriage was moved up to 2012; California, also be participating in a panel discussion and urgent issue,” Moisés Kaufman, Artistic where gay marriage was legalized and then post-reading with the audience.

Director of the Tectonic Theater Project overturned by the passage of Proposition 8 “As part of our mission of ‘promoting, and contributing Standing On Ceremony in 2008; and many states where marriage enhancing, and celebrating the human playwright said in a press release. Alfson equality is not yet a reality. condition through said the theater’s Beyond America, theatres as far flung art,’ we think it is relationship with as Sydney, Australia, will also participate, important to be Tectonic spawned the “When it comes involved in this invitation to participate making this a truly international event.

For more information, visit dialogue,” said in the one-night down to it, this is an StandingOnCeremony.net. | l | Alfson. “When it reading. advocacy piece.” comes down to it, “Tectonic is a very this is an advocacy politically forward —Zac alfson piece.” theatre company of Mad coW TheaTre The Tectonic committed to fostering WHAT: Standing On Ceremony: Theater Project in an artistic dialogue The Gay Marriage Plays New York did a with our audiences on WHERE: Mad Cow Theatre, Orlando similar event for The Laramie Project: 10 the social, political and human issues that WHEN: Monday, Nov. 7 at 8 p.m.

Years Later, to premiere a play they wrote affect us all,” Alfson said.

TICKETS: MadCowTheatre.com when they revisited Laramie, Wyo., 10 years To date, more than 25 theatres and

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watermark | books

| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

| uu | Batwoman from p.25

into the writing, too. The lead story deviates in that way—even though it’s very much a continuation of what came before and what’s motivating her now, the foe she faces is a very different one [from last time]. The first arc is a very much supernatural horror story and what that’s like for a costumed or uniformed vigilante who doesn’t have superpowers per se.

It’s pretty intriguing, but it’s just one piece of a bigger picture we are going to expand upon over the first three arcs.

What’s the name of this first arc’s villain?

The Weeping Woman, and she’s based on Mexican folklore, which goes into a lot of cultural stuff. Everything developed for the new villains is based on urban legends. It’s key, making them have a logical point of origin, so we’re not just throwing random characters in, and hopefully have them be strong enough to hold their own outside the story we’re telling.

Can you elaborate on the story arcs that follow?

The first one dovetails into a James Bondian espionage plot, then to an epic fantasy kind of plot. Even though those are very different from one another, we have figured out how to make them be a bigger whole and form one giant story. Instead of trying to pigeonhole the kind of series we’re doing to one thing, I want to pursue how far we can take things and how

we can work in unison when all is said and done. When people go back and read Elegy and see what’s upcoming they’ll see the sense of diversity in the types of stories can be told.

character as much as we can. The key to any character is no matter where they come from, sexual orientation, whatever, they need to be relatable as human beings.

What will Kate’s love life be like? We saw What did you think of the mainstream her hook up at a nightclub in the Zero Issue. media hubbub about Batwoman being a She’s openly dating, but fun dating. With the lesbian when the news first hit in 2006?

The way DC announced the character way start of the new series we show that she wants back when put people to take a turn for on their heels a little something different, bit. There wasn’t any a normalcy, because “We’re going to solid plan behind the her life as Batwoman character yet, so some is an extreme one. build toward a solid took it as a publicity Superheroes today relationship with stunt—and it wasn’t at can never make all. As people started to their personal somebody. She see there was potential relationships work. wants that person for this character as a But we’re going to come home to.” deep-rooted one you to build toward a can believe in, some solid relationship —BATWOMAN WRITER of that hubbub went with somebody. She J.H. WILLIAMS away. She’s a legitimate wants that person to character people can come home to. relate to. We’re not being exploitative with her being a lesbian.

You’ve included many queer characters in We’re treating it as with any other character your previous work including Promethea, regardless of their sexual orientation—that’s written by the very pro-gay Alan Moore, a small part of who they are as a person. It’s and 1994’s Deathwish, which featured a not all about her being a lesbian and I think transgendered protagonist. Did you base that’s made her a bit of a beacon for people any element of Kate on a real woman or to get behind instead of it being a publicity lesbian you have met or known? grab or something that doesn’t sit as a threeNo, not really. Her sense of realism comes dimensional person. from the fact we want to humanize this

WRITER’S PICK

NOW SHOWING:

What sort of feedback have you personally received from the lesbian community since Elegy? Any anecdotes to share?

I remember one moment doing a signing in New York City. One of the girls standing in line came up to get her book signed and she said, ‘Thank you for drawing a real lesbian and not a stereotypical one.’ And then she said, ‘Like me!’ and waved her hand across her forearm. That was fantastic. It gave me a sense that we’re definitely doing things the way they should be done.

The relaunch of DC comics’ entire line in the wake of its ‘Flashpoint’ event sees a lot of characters reconceived, rebooted, and many stories and series go back to one. How will this affect Batwoman and her past?

We have to acknowledge the new, post‘Flashpoint’ continuity, but we worked on this series for such a long time and so far headway into the story we didn’t have the luxury of going back and disregarding what came before—and I didn’t want to. So although she exists in the new DC status quo, those previous events still happened, which is good.

The Batwoman character is so new, anyway, it would be a real disservice to disregard her roots this early on. | l |

Visit WatermarkOnline.com to read the full interview with J.H. Williams.

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watermark | event planner

| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

Addams Family:

Josh Groban

The Musical

Singer and Glee actor Josh Groban will bring his unique sound to both the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa and the Amway Center in Orlando this month.

The Annual Hyde Park Village Art Festival celebrates 22 years as one of the nation’s top arts festivals the weekend of Oct. 29-30. Hyde Park Village’s shopping and dining experience will welcome 150 exhibitors displaying artwork ranging from life-sized sculptures to photography. The fair is free to visit at 1622 Snow Ave., in Tampa and opens at 10 a.m. both days.

music [TAMPA+ORLANDO] Josh Groban For years Josh Groban has wowed audiences with his unique voice and talents. Now, locals will get a chance to hear him first-hand at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa on Friday, Oct. 28 and at the Amway Arena in Orlando on Saturday, Oct. 29. The performer, who says he supports the rights of same-sex couples to marry, has been a long-time advocate for the LGBT equality movement. For tickets and information, visit StPeteForum.org or CenterOrlando. com.

Mr. Broadway himself, Michael Walters performs Broadway hits at the Golden Apple Nov. 5-6.

The Addams family sing their way into the Bob Carr Center in Orlando Nov. 1-6.

art [TAMPA] Hyde Park Village Art Fair

Michael Walters

[WINTER GARDEN] Little Shop of Horrors

film [ORLANDO] Movies Out Loud: The Towering Inferno Oh no… so many “flaming” jokes!

Watermark’s signature, monthly film event, Movies Out Loud, takes on The Towering Inferno for November. Hosts Miss Sammy, drag legend, and Jeff Jones, comedian, will send up the fiery skyscraper, providing their hilarious commentary over the cult classic film.

Showtime is 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10 at the Plaza Cinema Café, with happy hour at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 at WatermarkOnline.com.

theater [SARASOTA] Mr. Broadway Michael L. Walters presents a one-man journey through the world of Musical Comedy as seen through the eyes of an actor who lives to entertain on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 5 and 6 at The Golden Apple.. Michael sings classic Broadway tunes from his favorite shows, and re-enacts some of his favorite roles.

This fast-paced journey is peppered with stories of special celebrity encounters, offstage mishaps and hilarious tales about his family, who were never quite sure what to do with a show-biz kid.

Tickets are $38 and include a full buffet.

For details visit TheGoldenApple.com.

[TAMPA] Quills Jobsite Theater takes on the dark and disturbing award-winning Quills through Nov. 6. The story follows Dr. Royer-Collard, the head of Charenton Asylum, who is visited by Renee Pelagie, wife of the asylum’s most notorious inmate. Furious that her husband’s sadomasochistic pornography has tarnished her reputation, she offers the doctor any amount of money, if only her husband can be kept from writing. The play comes with a warning, explaining that the audience will see and hear sexual imagery that may not be suitable for everyone. That’s enough to get our attention! For tickets and details, visit JobsiteTheater.org.

You Have the Right to Remain Dead If you’ve ever watched a murder mystery on television and said, “I know who did it!” then the Carrollwood Players’ You Have the Right to Remain Dead is for you.

In this interactive, audience-participation comedy mystery, the narrator takes the audience on a tour of a small theater group staging a play in the Deep South.

But when someone is killed, the narrator and local police sleuth Officer Bainbridge looks at all the clues—and may ask for the audience’s help in solving the mystery. The play runs through Nov. 5. For tickets and information, visit CarrollwoodPlayers.org.

[ORLANDO] The Addams Family: The Musical The classic, creepy—and funny—family of television and Hollywood legend has a new tale to tell with The Addams Family: The Musical, when it arrives at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center in Orlando Nov. 1-6. In this tale, young Wednesday is all grown up and has brought her fiancé and his straight-laced parents to a celebratory dinner at the Addams Mansion. For tickets and show times, visit BobCarr.Performing-Arts-Center.org.

The Pajama Game The dangers of a workplace romance are explored to hysterical effect in The Pajama Game, a romantic comedy musical from the creators of Damn Yankees, now playing at Main Stage Theater at UCF. Final shows are 8 p.m.

Oct. 27 – 29 with a 2 p.m. matinee Oct. 30. Tickets are $19 for adults, $17 for seniors and $12 for students at the box office by calling 407-823-1500.

The Crack Rock Opera A 59-minute rock-n-roll musical, scored with psychedelic garage punk tunes will take the stage at the Footlight Theatre at Parliament House for three nights only.

The Crack Rock Opera kicks off 8 p.m. sharp on Nov. 5, 12, and 19. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door, with advance tickets available by calling 1-800691-5131.

Seymour, Audrey and the famously bloodthirsty plants contained inside the Little Shop of Horrors are singing and storytelling at the Garden Theatre. Shows run weekends through Nov. 6, with 8 p.m. showings Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. matinees Sundays. Tickets are $26, $22 for seniors and students and are available at GardenTheatre.org.

special events [ORLANDO] Gloria Steinem Feminist Icon Gloria Steinem makes a rare Central Florida appearance at Rollins College on Friday, Oct.28 at 7:30 p.m. to talk about the women’s movement and its priorities today. Ms. Steinem will be joined by former Congresswoman and activist Pat Schroeder on Saturday, Oct. 29 at 2 p.m. to talk about the early days of feminism, and the challenges that remain in reshaping the patriarchal landscape. Both free events are at the Tiedtke Concert Hall.

Shoemania Got a thing for famous feet? Bid on the shoes of celebrities, including Justin Beiber, Britney Spears, Russell Brand, Sylvester Stallone and Charlie Sheen, to raise money for the Orlando Ballet. The main event runs from 6–8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9 at DSW Millenia Center, but the shoes can be bid on ahead of time at ProfilesInHistory. com. Tickets for the auction run $35, call 407-426-1739 or visit TicketMaster.com to purchase. Hor d’oeuvres, wine & cocktails provided by Buca Di Beppo.

Got an event you’d like to see listed in Watermark? At least two to four weeks in advance, send all pertinent info—date, time, place, cost, contact information for readers to get more details, and what the event is about—to Editor@WatermarkOnline.com, and we will feature it in the paper on a space-available basis.

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

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| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

watermark | tampa bay out+about

shot on site

Photography | Steve Blanchard and Carrie West 1- Dee Ringgold, right, celebrates North Pinellas Pride with a new friend in Pioneer Park in downtown Dunedin Oct. 23.

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2- The hosts of “Sugar” at the Honey Pot kept the festivities going well into the night during the closing weekend of the Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival Oct. 15.

3- Merrell Dickey and Arica Love share some love while out at Bradley’s on 7th in Ybor City recently.

4- Partners Renee Cossette and Kathie Michael enjoy a brief moment together during the Taste of TIGLFF street festival outside the Tampa Theater on Oct. 15.

5-Sarasota Mayor Suzanne Atwell takes a plunge into the dunk tank during Sarasota Pride at J.B. Hamil Park on Oct. 22.

6- North Pinellas Pride committee president Randy Amiscaray draws raffle tickets from the main stage of Pioneer Park during the Oct. 23 celebration in downtown Dunedin.

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On the heels of was undoubtedly a wildly successful Sarasota Pride, organizer Cindy Barnes is already considering expanding her role in the LGBT community. While sharing her thoughts on the 2011 festival that was held Oct. 22, she said the City of Sarasota approached her and asked if she would be interested in organizing a summer festival.

Barnes was quick to point out that any secondary event would not compete with St. Pete Pride or other Prides in the state and that it would strictly be an indoor affair. “Air conditioning would be key,” she told us. While her “mini-festival” is in the preliminary stages, she did share that in February she hopes to hold a sort of town hall forum for different LGBT organizations to create a network for change. Details will be released later in the winter, she said.

Leather and Fetish Pride arrives at Flamingo For the first time, the Tampa Bay area will have what’s described as an event for the “Leather, Fetish, Kink, BDSM, SM Lifestyle for all.” Not coincidentally, the celebreation at the Flamingo Resort is on Nov. 11 (11/11/11)

and is affiliated with Tampa Leather Sir n boy 2012. As with most leather events, Leather and Fetish Pride will benefit charities—namely the Francis House, Mr. Friendly, Tampa Metropolitan Community Church and the AIDS Service Association of Pinellas. The weekend long celebration will incorporate a salute to veterans and sounds by DJ Phil DaBeatz and Cyon Flare. For details and information, visit TampaBayLeathernFetishPride.com.

Familiar territory, new names Watermark enjoys sharing breaking news, so asking us to sit on something is incredibly difficult. But out of respect, we won’t share all of the details of two major developments coming to Pinellas County in the next month.

What we can share is that there are two LGBT destinations currently negotiating contracts in some high-traffic and familiar territories in two southern areas of the county. Once finalized, LGBTs will have even more options when celebrating Pinellas County’s LGBT community and we’ll once again do our part to revitalize a part of our community and add even more culture to another. We’ve been told details on both businesses will be official in mid-November.

Got juicy gossip or amazing event photos? E-mail the dish or your photos (with full names of everyone pictured and event details) to Overheard@WatermarkOnline.com

watermark | orlando out+about

shot on site

Photography | Mark Cady, Scott McCauley, Randy Stephens, Jake Stevens and courtesy of the Orlando Psycho City Derby Girls

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Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

3 4

1- Parliament House owner Don Granatstein (left) got into the spirit—and a dress!—for this year’s Miss OBTA Pageant on Oct. 20 at Parliament House, benefiting Genesis Community Program.

2- The Florida Theatrical Association opened Altar Boyz, the musical hit about a heavenly boy band trying to save the world, on Oct. 13 at The Abbey.

3- Watermark sales representative Don Williams got some puppy love at Watermark’s Third Thursday event, Oct. 20 at Ranger’s Pet Outpost and Retreat.

4- The Sunnyland Slammers, one of the Orlando Psycho City Derby Girls’ teams, dressed up and celebrated at the League’s Halloween Party Oct. 21.

5- Sue-Bee Laginess, MaryAnne Metaxas and Jennifer Foster set sail on the Pride of the Seas Cruise Oct. 14–17, a fundraising trip for Come Out With Pride.

6- Evan Kiggen peddled Mushroom Gardens at the Central Florida Veg Fest, Oct. 22 at Loch Haven Park.

orlando overheard CFSL games will go on Due to the rescheduling of Come Out With Pride to Nov. 13, many organizations have had to regroup and rearrange events of their own. Because Nov. 13 lies on what was supposed to be the end of season celebration and make-up day for rained out games for the Central Florida Softball League, there’s been much speculation as to whether the league would postpone its games. The decision has been made and the show will go on—games will be played that day. According to Norm Gentry, who plays on team MyOptics, the fields are only available that weekend. The CFSL website says that games will begin at 9 a.m. and “these changes should allow us to complete games in plenty of time for you to make it downtown for the festivities and 4 p.m. parade.” Come Out With Pride festivities are scheduled downtown from noon–8 p.m. In addition, the CFSL Beefcake & Babes Auction at Parliament House has been rescheduled for the night of Nov. 13.

Hope & Help is on the LEVEL The VUE at Lake Eola, along with some of Orlando’s top designers, are taking fundraising to new heights. On Nov. 5 and 6, The Hope & Help Center Designer Showcase

2011 will take place on the 36th floor of The Vue. This premier event celebrates exceptional interior design in an urban setting.

Level is a 3,000-square-foot penthouse located in the VUE and the interiors will be transformed by some of Orlando´s best design firms. Each room will feature work from different area designers, including Michael Duvall and Steted Interiors. All proceeds from the event benefit Hope & Help of Central Florida. For more info and tickets, visit HopeAndHelp.org

Complimentary Namaste Whether or not you’re ready to admit it, the holidays are fast-approaching, which means stress and more stress are around the corner.

Fortunately, there’s a fun and free way to de-stress before the insanity thanks to a free yoga class presented by Karam Yoga Orlando.

On Sunday, Nov. 20, the free class will be held on the Da Vinci Lawn of the Ritz Carlton Orlando. No prior yoga experience is needed but participants should bring their own yoga mat. Local yoga guru Greg Duke will teach the class and any donations will help raise money for Hope and Help of Central Florida.

For details and to secure your spot, search for Karma Yoga Orlando on Facebook.

Got juicy gossip or amazing event photos? E-mail the dish or your photos (with full names of everyone pictured and event details) to Overheard@WatermarkOnline.com

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{

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

animal warrior

}

Fl o r i d a’s S c ot t Lo p e t a l k s h i s p a s s i o n f o r a n i m a l r e sc u e , h i s n ew p e t p r o j e c t a n d t h e f u t u r e of h i s D i sc ov e r y C h a n n e l s h ow.

steve blanchard

W

hen Scott Lope was growing up in rural Pennsylvania, he always came home with an assortment of new pets. Every turtle, snake, frog, possum or dog he passed was a potential pet.

So it’s no wonder that the military veteran pursued a career in animal activism.

Lope, who was stationed at MacDill Airforce Base in Tampa and still visits friends in Orlando, appears on CNN as an animal expert and debuted Wild Animal Repo, his own show on Discovery Channel, earlier this year.

“I knew as a kid I wanted to work with animals,” the handsome television star says. “I wanted to grow up to be a zookeeper or a vet.

But it’s always much harder than you think to get into those fields. So when I got out of the military in Tampa I started volunteering at a local rescue sanctuary.”

That’s where Lope discovered the ugly

side of the animal industry. Animals that were injured or abandoned had few resources available, and oftentimes their owners were simply in over their heads.

“There’s a lot of help needed everywhere— from our dog and cat shelters up through the exotic pet problems we face,” Lope says. “In Florida there are so many abandoned pets: dogs, cats, horses, goats, chickens. It’s amazing and there’s a need to help all kinds of animals.”

Where to start On his Discovery Channel show Wild Animal Repo, Lope helped relocate dog/wolf hybrids, bears, lions, tigers and monkeys. But you don’t have to have a television show or a knack for exotic wildlife to help animals.

“I think more people than not would like to help animals b don’t always know how,” Lope says from his temporary home in North

Carolina, where he’s starting a new animal rescue organization. “They don’t realize how easy it is to help just with the choices they make.”

For those wanting to add a dog or cat to the family, Lope suggests adopting from shelters rather than buying from stores or breeders. If someone is unable to have a pet or is unsure what kind of animal to get, there are plenty of volunteering opportunities throughout Florida.

“Go volunteer at a shelter,” Lope says. “Go out and get a hands-on experience with the animals.”

Many shelter dogs appear ill-behaved when potential parents visit because they’re starved for attention. Their barking and jumping can be a turn-off for would-be owners. Cats, Lope says, are the opposite. When a cat gets out of the shelter it typically turns shy or shrinks Continued on page 45 | uu |

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watermark | pets

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

39

WATERMARK: It’s been said that people with pets live longer, healthier lives. Do you agree?

LyNDA SHEHAN: Absolutely—and there has been extensive research to prove that.

You are an organizer of Gulfport Gets Rescued. What was the inspiration behind that festival?

Gulfport’s Get Rescue was a way to bring small rescue groups so together they can be in contact with a larger audience, plus Gulfport is such a pet loving city and shows tremendous support for this event.

Gulfport is an incredibly pet-friendly city.

Have you experienced cities with a similar pet tolerance?

I have never been in a city that loved and was as tolerant toward pets as Gulfport. I have hopes that Gulfport is more the norm than not. The pet industry is a $60 billion industry. I don’t feel that cities can take that lightly.

A minute with …

Lynda Shehan P E T

S I T T E R

G

steve blanchard

ulfport | For as long as Lynda Shehan can remember, she’s had pets. The North Carolina native moved to Gulfport 12 years ago and is well known in Pinellas County for her animal advocacy, her pet sitting skills and her involvement in several pet festivals, including Gulfport Gets Rescued, an annual February street festival that introduces rescue groups to the community.

The proud mother of several Chihuahas and, until recently, her beloved poodle Gracie, took a few moments to answer some questions about how to prepare for an extended time away from your pet and how to choose the right pet for your situation.

Many in the LGBT community and beyond view their pets as their children. What advice do you have for parents-to-be who are looking for that perfect pet?

Research, research, research. What is the best breed for your situation? How much time will you have to spend exercising them?

Consider the space you have and if there are children in the home. Choosing a pet for children, especially young kids, should be taken into consideration.

Also consider the size of your yard and if it’s fenced.

It’s also important to find a pet that’s ageappropriate. If you are an elderly person, a puppy is not the dog for you. Never adopt a pet that is going to out-live you. Small dogs live 15 to 17 years.

Do you consider yourself a dog person or a cat person? Why? Both, as all animals are my kids. Dogs are harder to care for and more active. If you travel often, cats are a little easier to fit within that lifestyle.

As an animal advocate, what would you say is one of the more common mistakes pet owners make regarding their animals?

People make the mistake of not choosing to spay or neuter. This greatly determines the health and temperament of the pet. They also choose the wrong breed and age for their lifestyles.

What should people do to prepare their animals for an extended absence?

If you are leaving for vacation, please contact a professional pet caregiver weeks before your trip. That caregiver can meet with you and together you can determine

exactly what your pet will need while you are away. This is especially important if your pet isn’t in good health.

Are there any types of animals that make you uncomfortable?

Snakes, because they need to be fed live rats, etc., and I cannot do that. But for the right people snakes are good pets. I certainly have nothing against people who want snakes as pets.

In this tough economy, pet abandonment is on the rise. What resources would you recommend to those who may be struggling with raising a pet?

If you own a pet and are falling on hard times, let other people know. Many times they can help you through these times by providing food. You can also contact your local SPCA and Humane Society. They will do what they can to help you keep your pet in your home, especially considering so many shelters are overcrowded. Just don’t be afraid to ask for help because your pets cannot speak for themselves.

What should people know before deciding whether or not to bring their pet to an open air event?

The temperature. Do not take dogs to outside events during the heat of the summer, please leave them at home. Imagine walking on your hands and knees around lots of people. What is the temperature down there?

Also, temperature test by sitting in your car, windows closed, for five minutes.

If you think it is too hot, it is too hot for your pet. Gulfport’s Get Rescued is always the last Saturday in February because the weather is comfortable for pets.

How would you recommend someone handle a situation where they see an animal in a difficult circumstance?

Contact a local SPCA, Humane Society and Animal Services and don’t stop calling until someone responds. Please do whatever you can do to help. Many times a local police department can take possession of an animal until Animal Services can pick them up. The City of Gulfport’s police officers will do this.

Remember the distressed animal is probably someone’s pet. | l |

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“One of our rescue group friends got a call adding that she assumed the two dogs had ran reasure Island, Fla. | Don’t to check out the contents of a nearby dumpster. from someone saying that they thought they let Fido get too far out of your sight. had seen one of our missing dogs roaming the “I put the other dogs up and went to find Dog theft is up this year, according street,” Traylor recalls. “That friend called us them. It took me about five minutes to start to the American Kennel Club, and the tough looking for them. We got on bikes and rode the immediately and we quickly drove to the area. economy could be the reason why.

There was Caya. When I got her in the car I neighborhood until 5 a.m. looking for them.

According to the AKC’s database, there’s examined her paws. Her pads and nails showed But there was no sign of either.” a more than 32% jump in dog thefts this year. no signs of wear so I knew wherever she had Traylor, who recently launched Pet Pride In the first seven months of 2011, 224 pets been was close by.” magazine for an LGBT audience, knew her had been reported stolen to the organization.

But the second lab, Cam, That’s a significant jump from the 150 was still missing. reports from the same time period the “The people who messed with my “Our friends were urging year before. us to post a $500 reward for “Some are taken out of homes, some dogs picked the wrong person Cam,” she says. “I told them are taken out of cars, some are taken out to have to deal with.” we didn’t have that kind of of pet stores,” said AKC spokeswoman money to offer, but our friends Lisa Peterson. “I’ve seen them taken out — S H E R I - LY N T R AY L O R said they’d come up with it.” of a child’s arms on a park bench.”

Reward posters went up Treasure Island resident and two four-legged family members had not everywhere and nearly a week later Traylor publisher of BellaDOG Magazine Sheri-Lyn just run off. Traylor and her husband, Scott, got a call from a young man who simply Traylor experienced first-hand the tactics of contacted the local police and posted photos of stated, “We have your dog.” dog thieves. Her two Labs were swiped during the missing dogs on Facebook. She also alerted “Those words told me a lot,” she said. “He an early morning walk in July. several rescue groups about the disappearances did not say, ‘We found your dog.’ He said, ‘We “As I was headed home I realized that and distributed posters with the Labs’ photos.

Cam and Caya had run off,” Traylor recalls,

Continued on page 43 | uu |

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According to Peterson, stolen dogs are often resold over the internet. The dognapper may also wait to see if the owner will post a reward for the safe return of the dog, then collect the cash while making up a story about where the dog was located. That’s an easier crime to pull off than alerting the owner about an official dognapping and demanding a ransom.

Other thieves just want a dog for their kids or themselves and don’t want to purchase or adopt one.

Peterson says that Yorkies, Pomeranians and other smaller breeds are the most likely dogs to be stolen because of their tiny size.

They’re much easier to hide.

Traylor was suspicious of the caller who reported her dog was found. But she went to meet him anyway in hopes of reuniting with Cam. Traylor said that after meeting the caller, another man came out with Cam and handed her over. She immediately put the Lab in the vehicle.

After Traylor put Cam in the vehicle, one of the men asked about the reward so Traylor wrote out a business check, knowing the men could not cash it without approval. She left the "pay to" line blank.

“The next day we got a call from the man saying the bank wouldn’t cash the check,” Traylor said. “He gave me their names and I immediately went on Facebook and found their profiles.”

There, Traylor saw that one of the men had posted about two adult labs available for $150 each on the same day that Cam and Caya disappeared.

Included on the Facebook wall was an exchange between the man and a friend, who asked, “Where are you getting these dogs?”

The man’s response: “I have my ways, let’s leave it at that.”

Charges are pending against those who claimed the reward.

Traylor says that both of her dogs are microchipped, but that is only helpful if the lost animals are returned to a vet or a shelter, where volunteers and employees know to scan for owner information.

If someone steals a pet, they won’t care who the proper owner is, Traylor says.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), the best way to protect your pet is to keep him or her in your sight at all times. Also, like when watching children, be aware of inquisitive strangers asking about the dog, especially if they are interested in its value.

While financial gains are the most popular reasons for pet theft, Traylor says that others are stolen to be used as bait for fighting dogs.

“The people who messed with my dogs picked the wrong person to have to deal with,” says Traylor, who admits she learned a valuable lesson this summer. “The only way to keep them safe is to make certain that they are never alone outside of your sight.” | l |

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watermark | pets

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

45

| uu | Scott Lope from p.37

Dollars and sense Not surprisingly, Lope has pets of his own.

His dog Daizy was a rescue and he adores his cat, Cubby.

He’s involved with Florida Boxer Rescue, but the exotic pet problem facing America has his professional attention.

“There are a lot of traveling exotic animal shows that you’ll see at places like the Florida State Fair in Tampa each year that features tigers or sea lions,” Lope says. “When people go to that and they pay their money, they condone it, they allow it to happen. As people become more aware they realize that these sea lions don’t need to be in a tank sitting in the hot sun. We have to get to the point of saying we’re not going to pay $5 to get my child’s picture with a tiger cub. Like anything, it’s important to consider what you’re spending your dollars on.”

Lope has similar views on circuses—an antiquated form of entertainment in his view.

“The only reason they’re still around and animals are carted around and kept in chains is because people still pay to go see it,” he says. “They know it's bad for the animals and everyone cringes when they see them in their cages, but people continue to pay tons of money to see that kind of thing happening.”

Being active in animal rights is challenging, especially considering today’s political climate.

Lope, who is for marriage equality and LGBT rights, says he doesn’t enter that political arena often because he doesn’t want to alienate lawmakers who he needs to support animal rights legislation.

“I’d hate to write off a congressman because he’s anti-gay because I may need him to pass a law for animals,” Lope says. “Luckily I’ve never had to compromise my integrity to go for something I believe in.”

America’s exotic pet problem Through his work, Lope has seen many kinds of exotic animals kept in subpar conditions. Florida and Texas, he says, are two

 Left: Scott Lope has made it his mission to help exotic animals that have been kept domestically.

Below:On Wild Animal Repo Scott Lope has rescued a growing list of exotic animals kept as pets, from lions to grizzly bears.



to the back of its cage because it’s wary of people.

“Volunteering to pet the animals or walk the dogs keeps them friendly and more likely to be adopted,” Lope says. “Volunteering at a shelter is about a lot more than just picking up poop.”

It’s also important to know what kind of animal will suit your lifestyle, Lope says, and volunteering can help facilitate that education.

A Great Dane, for example, is a large dog that’s good for someone who isn’t real active because, as Lope says, “they’re couch potatoes.”

It’s also important to realize that while a small dog like a Jack Russell Terrier may seem cute, they are balls of energy that require an enormous amount of attention.

“Nothing beats volunteering at a shelter because you can make so much of a difference and you can learn about what kind of pet fits your lifestyle,” Lope says. “You can find your perfect match.”

Channel. He admits he doesn’t know what the project, Animal Warriors, an animal welfare of the states with the most exotic pets, but at future holds for the show, but others are in the organization with its own rescue facility that least both states have laws concerning those can and he still plans on filming more. will unite different rescue organizations across animals.

“It’s an expensive show to make compared the country.

“It’s good and bad that they have laws on to other so-called reality shows,” Lope says.

“I want to create a network so these the books governing how people can keep different groups can pool their resources and exotic pets,” he says. “I’d like to see those laws “It’s easier to throw cameras in a pawn shop and watch people fight with each other. On create a good information database,” Lope tightened up a bit to make it even more strict. our show we rescued 22 bears from Texas and says. “They don’t have to reinvent the wheel The big problem is there are 13 states with no moved them to Colorado. That cost a fortune.” each time. They can be on the same page and laws for exotic animal ownership, and Ohio is Wild Animal Repo has aired internationally, not competing against each other.” one of those.” including in Australia, South Africa and Lope says North Carolina is a good location The day before Watermark interviewed Europe. So there is a fan base out there, but for his new project because land is less Lope, an Ohio exotic animal keeper killed expensive and the climate is himself after opening the more accommodating. gates to his exotic animals’ “Here we won’t be cages. That act resulted “ We h a v e t o g e t t o t h e p o i n t o f s a y i n g competing with other shelters in the killings of more w e’ r e n o t g o i n g t o p a y $ 5 t o g e t m y and its more centrally located than 40 exotic animals by than Florida,” he says. authorities. c h i l d ’s p i c t u r e w i t h a t i g e r c u b . ” He may spend time in North “Florida and Texas have Carolina getting his newest a surprising number of —SCOTT LOPE project off the ground, but people with tigers,” Lope Lope still considers Florida says. “Even though we have Lope says that the world of television is his home. In fact, both of his own pets stay in laws in Florida, there are many places exotic unpredictable.

Florida with a former partner most of the time animals can still be bred. If you have a permit “Right now my big focus is filming that and he visits them often. for a tiger, you can own a lot of them. It’s a show, which we’ve done all over the country “Filming will bring me back to Central very difficult thing to manage.” because so many animals need help,” he Florida as will my work with the Florida Boxer And since the permitting is regulated by the says. “What I’ve learned in the filming is Rescue,” Lope says. “But right now, I’m living understaffed Fish and Wildlife Commission that owners are overwhelmed. They aren’t my dream.” | l | and rural permits are difficult to find, some necessarily bad people. I’ve also seen that exotic pet owners are never inspected.

For more information on Lope and his Animal Warriors rescue organizations are out of money, project, visit ScottLope.com. undermanned and out of resources or filled to Remaining an ‘Animal Warrior’ capacity.”

So far only two episodes of Lope’s Wild That’s what truly inspired Lope’s new Animal Repo have aired on the Discovery

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| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

Orlando Gala Saturday, November 5th 7:00 to 9:00pm

J

The Orlando Museum of Art’s beautiful Grand Gallery 2416 N. Mills Avenue, Orlando, FL 32803

celebration

oin us for a wonderful event with drinks, fabulous hors d’oeuvres, and an exciting program – including a State of the State Address by our Executive Director, of our Nadine Smith and a Award Honorees;

2011 Voice for Equality

watermark

Orlando Sentinel Columnist Scott Maxwell

As a reporter and columnist for the Orlando Sentinel, Scott has frequently and consistently advocated on behalf of the LGBT community. His efforts to educate the public about adoption by gay parents played a critical role in ending Florida’s adoption ban.

Jefferson Voss & Bryan Stevens

Kissimmee City Commissioner and Mayor Pro-Tem Cheryl Grieb

David Baldree Ted Bradford Larry Glinzman & Carlos Murphy Brad Grosberg & Phil Kean Kathryn Norsworthy & Deena Flamm Pat Padilla

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2011 Orlando Honorary Host Committee State Representative Scott Randolph State Representative Darren Soto State Representative Geraldine Thompson Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer Orlando City Commissioner Patty Sheehan Orange County Comptroller Martha Haynie

Orange County Commissioner Jennifer Thompson Orange County Commissioner Lui Damiani Orange School Board Member Darryl Flynn Orange County Sheriff Jerry Demings Kissimmee City Commissioner Cheryl Grieb

Tom Dyer Michael Farmer Allie Garcia & Denise Gentry David Harrington & Scott Guthrie Dr. Scott Hewit & Sally Hewit Patrick Howell Kym Merrill Michael Slaymaker

Your 2011 Greater Orlando Host Committee David Baldree Jim Blumenfeld & Chris Cooney Ted Bradford Brian Braswell Lisa Coons Kenny Daniels Gina Duncan Tom Dyer Brian Fenn Jason Fox Holstein

Russell Glotfelty & James Sandidge Lisa Gray Brad Grosberg & Phil Kean David Harrington & Scott Guthrie Jason Holstein Patrick Howell Danny Humphress & Enrique de la Torre

Sue Idtensohn Nancy Jacobson Leah James & Judy Hines Margot Knight Martha Marinara Jose Marrerro Mary Meeks & Vicki Nantz Kathryn Norsworthy & Deena Flamm

Joe Royals & Kent Ouellette Richard Russell & Thomas Ouellette Joe Seagle & Phillip Richardson Michelle Stecker & Carol Bresnahan Mark Van Arnam

Vicki Nantz & Mary Meeks Joe Saunders & Donald Rupe Matina Saltsman Sam Sanabria & Andrew Lassiter Beth Tuura Diane Webb Drew Weinbrenner Judy & Phil Wood

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Charlie Orden Pat Padilla Will Perry Jen Pewitt Laura M. Pichardo Fred Potvin & Brent J. Kelleher Joe Royals & Kent Ouellette Richard Russell & Thomas Ouelettee

Sam Sanabria & Andrew Lassiter Dean Sant Michael Slaymaker Carlos Smith Linda Stewart Beth Tuura Mark Van Arnam Nathan Vanags Edward Woodill & Edwin Wilson

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

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watermark | transitions

| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

Drag performer and Orlando philanthropist John “Tweeka” Barber died Oct. 17. For more, see this issue’s Orlando News page.

transitions

Passings

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JoAnn “Jo” VanDenHeuvel, 61, passed away on Monday, Sept. 5, 2011, at Tampa General from liver failure. She was surrounded by her family. Jo was active at Largo AA, GLBT/ Interweave at Unitarian Universalists of Clearwater, St Pete Pride, Stonewall Democrats and dog rescue work. She was a certified horticulturist at Lowes before her retirement.

Earlier in her life she was a popular bartender at the Lighted Tree on Pass-A-Grille beach. Jo is survived by her life partner, Lynette Wood, sister, Dottie Willson, daughter, Noelle Russo and beloved Chihuahua, Spikey. A celebration of life service was held on Saturday, Oct. 22.

Congratulations Attorney Shelbi Day has left her position with Equality Florida to begin work at Lambda Legal in California. Day, who also worked for the ACLU and the National Center for Lesbian Rights, was the only full-time organization attorney in Florida dedicated to LGBT issues and was a real asset in the courtroom.

Happy third anniversary to Terry Hummel and Nector Collazo, who were legally married Nov. 3, 2008, in Palm Springs, Calif.

Eggplant $3

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Flowers $7

Corn $5

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Ronnie Fox and William Moss of Tampa celebrated 15 years together on Oct. 24.

Local Birthdays Tampa vocalist David Valentine and Orlando MyOptics sotballer and occupational therapist Sarah Bapst (Oct. 28); Orlando accounting whiz Norm Gentry and Orlando attorney

Michael Morris (Oct. 29); Lakeland leather man Jerry Miller (Oct. 30); Orlando stealth artist and green leader Brendan O’Connor, Sarasota HIV/AIDS activist Michael Kehoe, State Farm agent John Psomas, Tampa Bay Sister of Perpetual Indulgence Shelita Cra-k and Tampa boating enthusiast Jamie Paul (Oct. 31); The St. Pete Bears’ Wendell Wilson and Orlando Diva Invasion’s Peter Gaspar (Nov. 1); Tampa organizing coach and personal assistant Tracy Miller and USF Grad student and retired political activist Rand Snell (Nov. 2); Winter Garden Library Manager August Calabrese and St. Pete’s Canaan Band singer and pianist Melanie Wilkinson (Nov. 3); Gulfport everyman and Watermark contributor Daniel Hodge, Massage therapist and framer at Framing of Central Florida Kirk Johnston, St. Pete Pride volunteer Rich Runyan, and St. Petersburg cowboy Winston Haws (Nov. 4); Orlando realtor Cindy Gregory, Orlando Verizon Wireless employee and super dad Ryan Lopez and Paradise Orlando and Savoy co-owner Randall Lambright (Nov. 5); Tampa signing interpreter Steve Hammond, St. Pete Bears founder Grahame Harte, and former TIGLFF programming director Kelly Fry, Equality Florida’s Michael Farmer, Women In Film & Television Florida President Robin Wright, TIGLFF supporter Timothy Thomas and Lake Wales massage Therapist John Waldorf (Nov. 6); St. Pete Pride executive director Chris Rudisill, and St. Petersburg-based actor Ernesto Camara (Nov. 7); St. Pete LGBT advocate and singer Kristen Hernandez, St. Pete pharmacist Mark Mann and St. Petersburg veteran and performer Steve Bryant (Nov. 8); Orlando bear Mike Lekich, St. Pete publisher and editor Sterling Powell, Orlando resident and St. Pete church musician Eland Wilson and student and vocal powerhouse Danielle Hollobough (Nov. 9).

Send news about birthdays, passings, anniversaries, promotions, commitment ceremonies—and whatever you commemorate—to Editor@WatermarkOnline.com.

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Watermark does not knowingly print advertisements for sexual services. Beyond printed content, Watermark does not inquire into the nature of personal or professional services advertising. Payment for sexual services is illegal in the State of Florida, and respondents to classified advertising should govern themselves accordingly. As required by law (Florida Statute 480.0465), Licensed Massage Therapists include their license number in all advertising.

watermark | sports

Aussie field hockey star Gus Johnston comes out wire report Champion Victorian field hockey goalkeeper Gus Johnston has publicly come out via a brave and emotional YouTube video, just months after his retirement.

Titled “The Reality of Homophobia in Sport,” the video has prompted a surge of new media interest about exactly what the landscape is for LGBT people.

Johnston’s filmed revelation comes just months after the elite player’s official retirement from hockey. In it, he says that retiring from the sport freed him from the pressures of being a professional athlete and helped him realize the bigger picture—that hockey players aren’t just athletes, they are people.

“That perspective has motivated me to share my story, because I see such great value in how it might potentially help people,” he says in the video. “It’s really important for me to send a message to everyone else, to let them know that what they perceive to be or think of as harmless or iniquitous, really hurts… and it contributed an incredible amount of pain and hardship to my life.”

He continues to say that when someone is 25, they are afraid, lonely and with very few

resources.

“And you feel like there’s no escape from that,” he added.

“For a long time, there would barely be a week that would go by where I wouldn’t contemplate taking Retired field hockey star my own life.”

Gus Johnston announced Johnston this month that he was says that it’s not gay via a 12-minute video surprising to find posted on YouTube. a high level of discrimination and homophobia ingrained in society when governments actively discriminate against gay and lesbian people in law, and its leaders are reinforcing that message.

The hockey star now joins a very small elite number of publically out Australian athletes that include Matthew Mitcham, Daniel Kowalski (retired) and Ian Roberts (retired).

Hockey Victoria congratulated Johnston on his “selfless act of courage” and highlighted the work of the Fair Go, Sport project, set up to better understand and respond to the challenges faced by LGBT athletes | l |

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

Gay Games and Outgames feud over potential merger wire report

a continuation of the Gay Games sports and cultural program as is, retention of site selection, and exploration of a possible small external conference component. That should have been the blueprint for the 1QE [one quadrennial event] working group mandated in 2010. And yet, one year later, we have seen and heard little to indicate that it is.

FGG spokesperson Kel Stevens said a letter from an FGG member group does not speak for the entire General Assembly.

“The FGG 1QE working group is committed to a united 2018 event with our friends in GLISA,” he said. “We are still very active in our work together.”

The General Assembly considered 10 motions regarding the one quadrennial event, most of which aim to limit the impact GLISA can have on the event and reaffirm the Gay Games as the premier global quadrennial LGBT sports event brand.

The motions ranged from the forced naming of the event, the core sports of the event, the scope of the opening and closing ceremonies, and exclusive site selection for the FGG. | l |

Toronto, Canada | As the Federation of Gay Games met the weekend of Oct. 21 in Toronto, the hot topic was the potential merger of quadrennial events between the Gay Games and Outgames in 2018. While a combination of events is being discussed, no merger of organizations was on the table.

Eight years after the Outgames separated from the Gay Games and formed GLISA, the Gay and Lesbian International Sports Association, the two organizations are internally discussing the creation of one quadrennial event, instead of each hosting their own event one year apart.

According to OutSports.com, one key organization, Team San Francisco, is drawing a line in the sand, requesting that the Federation of Gay Games maintain control over its quadrennial event and relegate the Outgames to regional events in South America, Asia and Africa.

In a letter to FGG, Team San Francisco said: “In 2009, the General Assembly discussions and the town hall discussions that followed clearly indicated a desire for

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watermark | gossip

| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

billymasters

52

“We’re judging the jive here, me ole sausage.”

—Len Goodman chastises Derek Hough after his dance last week with Ricki Lake.

A Damage control Billy Masters Billy@BillyMasters.com

fter a straight celebrity makes a statement that can be perceived as anti-gay, they always give one of those interviews where they invariably say something like, “I love gay people. Many of my close friends are gay.” But this week, we had a variation on that ole chestnut. It all started a couple of weeks ago when someone asked Thomas Jane if we’d see his character on Hung get it on with a dude. “I told HBO, the year I end up with a penis in my mouth is the last year of the show.” Immediately the homophobic word was being bandied about.

Damage control was obviously needed. An interview was set up with the LA Times. When Jane talked about trying to break into the business, he said it—the new quote everyone’s talking about. “When I was a kid out here in LA, I was homeless. I didn’t have any money and I was living in my car. I wasn’t averse to going down to Santa Monica Boulevard and letting a guy buy me a sandwich. Know what I mean?” Oh, I know what you mean.

Continuing the sex vis-à-vis food topic, he added, “Until you’ve tasted the food, you don’t know whether you’ll like it or not, as my mom always said.” It sounds like for a while he was going back for seconds!

I’ve been thinking for months—how can I help fill the void in the world that has been left by Oprah Winfrey? This weekend, I

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found my answer while West Hollywood mayor John Duran gave me a tour of our brand new library. To fill Oprah’s void, I’m going to regularly recommend books for you to read, because if I know nothing else, I know you can read. So why not share the work of some of my more prolific friends? I’ll be including some celebs like Jackie Collins, Julie Newmar, Dyan Cannon and Florence Henderson. And I’ll also be spotlighting books from some of our gay scribes like Corey Spears, Derek Hartley, and Ken Howard.

Nothing too trashy, nothing too prurient, but something for everyone.

Since I don’t want to shock your system, we’ll start with one of the most titillating books I have ever read. The HardBody Chronicles was penned by my pals Jake Smyth and Luca Barbieri—not their real names. In fact, the names you’d know them by aren’t their real names either. They might be familiar to you in several ways. You may know them from their extremely popular photos taken by Jeff Palmer which likely adorn many of your walls and/or coffee tables.

Or you may know them from their HardBody Parties which were legendary in South Beach for the standards of physical beauty that were required to get in. This is not a tell-all. Or is it?

It actually falls into the category of a “roman à clef”—the kind of book that got Truman Capote drummed out of society. But it’s more than that. Between each bitchy and dishy line is a story of real people traversing the 90s and straddling the line between fear and abandon, between pleasure and pain. And, at least for these two, it’s a story about survival. If you lived through this era, a lot of the material will hit home. In between guessing who’s who in the book, you’ll be aroused, you’ll be moved, you’ll wish you were there, and you may be glad you weren’t. But one thing’s for sure—you’ll enjoy yourself!

You

Hung’s Thomas Jane says he wasn’t adverse to “working” out deals with other men for a meal when he first landed in L.A.

can buy the book and get more info at TheHardBodyChronicles.com.

Most of you enjoy seeing every inch of sexy Chris Evans. Alas, I have to break some sad news to you. I’m sure you’ve seen the footage on BillyMasters.com of him walking around completely nude in What’s Your Number. And, sure, for the most part that is him. But one part isn’t. Chris decided that he needed a butt double. As someone who has spent time with Chris, let me assure you there’s nothing wrong with his ass. But for whatever reason, he enlisted the aid of Zach, his former roommate—because if there’s one thing roommates know, it’s each others’ asses! Adds Chris, “He’s got a great ass.”

Our “Ask Billy” question comes from Donny in Michigan: “I just saw American Horror Story. Wow, Dylan McDermott sure is hot! And he was walking around naked. Do you have any outtakes or photos?”

There certainly was a lot of naked Dylan in the premiere—but I’d expect nothing less from creator Ryan Murphy Murphy.

And I’m told there’s more where that came from. Dylan’s always looked good, but this took it to a whole new level. Bravo to FX for letting it all hang out.

When there’s anything wrong with Chris Evans’ body, it’s definitely time to end yet another column.

Send your questions to Billy@BillyMasters.com and I promise to get back to you before Thomas Jane gets a hankering for another sandwich! Until next time, remember, one man’s filth is another man’s bible. | l |

Chris Evans may seem to have the perfect body, but he admits he used a butt-double for his nude scene in What’s Your Number.

he perfect utt-double r Number.

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

ROAD TO EQUALITY HRC BUS TOUR COMES

JOIN THE HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN, THE NATION’S LARGEST LESBIAN, GAY, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER ORGANIZATION DEDICATED TO EQUAL RIGHTS, IN ORLANDO THIS MONTH.

TO ORLANDO PLEASE JOIN US! Friday, October 28

THE OUT ‘N ABOUT FOOD TRUCK & HRC BUS TOUR OPEN HOUSE

5 – 8 P.M. | The Closing Agent, Inc & Old Towne Brokers | 11 North Summerlin Ave., Orlando Join HRC for The Out ‘n About Food Truck & HRC Bus Tour Event, a community celebration right in the heart of the Thornton Park gayborhood. Join HRC’s President, Joe Solmonese, get an up-close look at the HRC bus, taste what’s hot on the food truck scene and enjoy the sounds of DJ Bootylicious. Cash bar and valet parking available.

Wednesday, October 26 OPEN HOUSE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA 9 A.M. | University of Central Florida Student Union Join us as we make a stop at the University of Central Florida! The University’s Market Days will host the Equality Bus as we bring the message of fairness and equality to LGBT and allied Knights.

Thursday, October 27 ON THE CUSP OF EQUALITY: ARE WE AT A CULTURAL TIPPING POINT? 6 – 8:30 P.M. | Doubletree Orlando Sumpter-Seminole Room | 60 South Ivanhoe Blvd., Orlando Are we at a cultural tipping point with respect to the acceptance of LGBT people and the issues critical to their equality? What will it take to ensure that all Americans are treated equally in all aspects of American society? We invite you to question this important issue with us. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cash bar available. RSVP required. Co-hosted by MBA Orlando.

Saturday, October 29 AN ADOPTION FORUM FOR THE LGBT COMMUNITY 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

The GLBT Community Center of Central Florida 946 N. Mills Ave., Orlando Join HRC and Project Patchwork, Inc. for this free workshop and panel to learn about opportunities to adopt and how to navigate the complex adoption laws for LGBT couples. Light breakfast will be served.

Sunday, October 30 HRC OPEN HOUSE 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | The Orlando Farmer’s Market SE corner of Lake Eola at the corner of East Central Boulevard and North Eola Drive Last chance to see HRC at the Orlando Farmer’s Market.

Get an up-close look at the bus and the work of the largest civil rights organization for LGBT equality.

For more information and to RSVP for these events, please visit WWW.HRC.ORG/BUSTOURFLORIDA

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| Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011

watermark | photography

galleryw Photography | Jake Stevens

Third Thursday Watermark Social Thursday, October 20 | Ranger's Outpost, Winter Park

Plenty of animal lovers were eager to have their photos taken with their dogs during Watermark's Third Thursday Social at Ranger's Outpost.

Oct. 27 - Nov. 10 , 2011 |

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