Watermark Issue 18.24: Food+Spirits

The first rapid HIV test kit | 2009: Obama removes travel ban on HIV-positive people entering US | 2011: Success reported in microbiocide gel reducing HIV infection by 40%

itl created | 1987: AZT approved for treating AIDS | 1988: World AIDS Day established | 1996: AIDS Memorial Quilt displayed for the last time in D.C. | 1997: Combivir is approved | 2002:

D AY T O N A B e A C H • O R L A N D O • TA M P A • S T. P e T e R S B U R G • S A R A S O TA

1981: First cases of “GRID” | 1982: The name “AIDS” is created; safer sex programs begin | 1984: HIV identified as cause of AIDS | 1986: The first panel of the AIDS Memorial Qu

AIDS

years of ISSuE 18.24 | NOV. 23 - DEC. 7, 2011 WATERMARKONlINE.COM

watermark yOuR lGBT lIFE.

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| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

Walk for the Cure!

Saturday, December 3, 2011 at the New College of Florida Register Online www.TrinityCharities.org Call 941.355.0847 for information Funds raised at the Walk are used to support the HIV/AIDS Programs of Trinity Charities Inc., in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

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The multi-talented, very funny and often raunchy “girls” of The Kinsey Sicks return to Tampa to celebrate the holidays in their Oy Vey in a Manger. Lead singer “Winnie” tell us about their holiday production, and what we can expect when they perform at the Straz Center on Dec. 2.

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| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

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Illustration by Jake Stevens

More than 80,000 people descended upon Lake Eola for the rescheduled Come Out With Pride celebration on Nov. 13; On the morning of Pride, Mr. Sisters employees were surprised to learn that

14 / NATION + WORlD NEWS

the club had shut its doors suddenly; the University of Central Florida

THE BIG STORy

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is considering domestic partnership benefits for same-sex couples; more.

15 / TAMPA BAy MARKETPlACE

10 | Tampa News

17 / ORlANDO MARKETPlACE

Well-known Tampa activist and volunteer Bill Kanouff suffers serious injuries from a motorcycle accident; Tampa Catholics get a lesson in welcoming LGBTs to the table, just in time for the holidays; more.

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27 | Scene+Heard ORlANDO NEWS

Heavy Metal band Judas Priest is set to perform at the Ask Gary

22 / MAIl

34 / EVENT PlANNER

Amphitheatre on Nov. 30 nearly a decade after front man Rob Halford came out of the closet. We talk with heavy metal fans in the gay

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community to shed some light on the interesting relationship between gays and metal.

The Kinsey Sicks will share their a capella singing skills and drag

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fashion sense when they perform Oy Vey in a Manger at the Straz

TAMPA BAy NEWS

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Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa on Dec. 2.

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31 | Food+Spirits The food truck revolution has arrived in Florida, and both Orlando and

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Tampa Bay are reaping its benefits. We speak with food truck rally organizers and fans of the fare to see what makes dining out of a truck so appealing.

52 / GOSSIP

Orlando-based food critic Scott Joseph may no longer work for a local

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publication, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t still have his opinions.

He shares with us his tips for entertaining to your full potential this holiday season.

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watermark | preview

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

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editor’sdesk E

the support they need from the “Ls” and “Gs” within our alphabet soup. very year between Halloween and Thanksgiving, we find ourselves But that doesn’t mean we can ignore our differences, whether it be scratching our heads, wondering where the previous calendar year has our sexual orientation, gender identities or the holidays we elect to enjoy. gone. Eggnog arrives on shelves even before trick-or-treaters have Differences aren’t always a bad thing. a chance to finalize their costumes, and music declaring that we “Deck the I love Christmas. I’ll start listening to the music that symbolizes the season Halls” is piped through department store speakers the same day as those 50% around the first of December and I’ll decorate for the big day a week or so off Halloween candy sales. after. I put up a tree, have twinkle lights all over my front yard and display a It’s a fact of life, and with the current economic environment showing few hand-crafted knick-knacks depicting winter landscapes or Christmas icons sluggish signs of improving, it’s no wonder that some retail chains are pushing that were handed down to me from relatives over the year. shoppers to come through their doors literally within hours of inhaling that last I even put a white Christmas tree in my front yard, not a “holiday bush,” piece of pumpkin pie. which to me sounds more like a manscaping skill than Christmas is shoved in our faces earlier each a holiday symbol. year—which delights the children and stresses out This is not to belittle the other holidays that come us adults.

I even put a white around this time of year. My Jewish friends know And yes, I did write the word “Christmas.”

Christmas tree in my that I find their menorahs beautiful and that while I Every December there is an ongoing battle over front yard, not a “holiday don’t fully understand Kwanzaa, I enjoy seeing my the politically correct way to refer to the season Steve Blanchard neighbors celebrate it each December. Those that don’t spanning Thanksgiving and the first day of the new EDITOR bush,” which to me SteveB@WatermarkOnline.com year. The generic “Happy Holidays” and “Season’s celebrate Christmas—or any holiday for that matter— sounds more like a certainly have every right to do so. But that doesn’t Greetings” covers everything from Christmas and impact my enjoyment of the Christmas season.

New Year’s to Kwanzaa and Chanukah. It’s been manscaping skill than Government buildings are always a point of banged into our heads that it’s the right way to greet a holiday symbol. contention among holiday revelers. The “should-theypeople throughout the month of December—so or-shouldn’t-they” game surrounding the display of much so that when we hear “Christmas” uttered, Christmas or Chanukah decorations makes a headline we’re taken aback. or two every single year. Should government buildings display decorations?

I celebrate Christmas but I have a diverse pool of friends. Some celebrate Honestly, I don’t care if they do or not. The advances in technology make the Chanukah and a few enjoy Kwanzaa. On those appropriate days I will wish need for trips to those establishments very rare anyway. them a happy holiday, but I will also offer up a “Merry Christmas.” Why? We must respect our differences but we tend to spend too much time Because it’s a holiday I’ve celebrated every year of my life. Whether a friend focusing on them. This time of year is about celebration, family and friends. or acquaintance labels himself a Christian doesn’t matter. I sincerely do hope That should be our focus, not controversy surrounding our favorite holidays. that on Dec. 25, people have an enjoyable day, whether they have a Christmas Thanksgiving is here and Christmas is fast approaching. I have a lot of tree in their home or if they believe the Flying Spaghetti Monster is responsible Christmas shopping to do, Christmas decorating to complete and Christmas for the world’s creation. parties to attend.

The LGBT community has always been at the forefront of acceptance. The And if I’m invited to a Chanukah celebration, I may just attend diversity within our own community requires that gay men play nicely with that too. | l | our lesbian sisters and that the transgender and bisexual communities receive

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watermark | the big story

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

From

GRID to AIDS

Few have seen the 30-year history of AIDS unfold like Dab Garner Steve Blanchard

I

n 1982, doctors told an 18-year-old Dab Garner that he was infected with Gay-Related Immune Deficiency, or GRID, the label given to AIDS before advances in research. The young man didn’t expect to live to see his 19th birthday six weeks later, much less to his late 40s.

But today, the muscular Garner is just months away from his 50th birthday and speaks at AIDS Walks and special conferences on the subject around the world. In September, he spoke at AIDS Walk St. Petersburg. Before that he participated in the St. Pete Pride parade in June.

“I’ve been speaking in major cities—and especially Washington, D.C.—since the 1980s,” Garner says from his home in Fort Lauderdale while packing for a trip to Pensacola’s AIDS Walk. “But it picked up in 2003 when the ADAP waiting list grew. That angered me so badly because I have lost over 10,000 friends before we had the medications to keep them alive. The fact that we allowed one person to be on a waiting list for life-saving medications angered me in a way I’d never experienced.”

And Garner has plenty in his life to be angry about.

Shortly before his diagnosis in 1982, Garner lost his first partner to AIDS in 1981.

“He was one of the first people to be quarantined because no one knew what it was,” Garner remembers. “It was such a shock and all we knew was that he had GRID. We didn’t know the virus didn’t care about sexuality.”

In 1989, Garner lost his second partner to AIDS complications within three months of the loss of his four-year-old goddaughter, who had been born with the infection.

“That definitely took the wind out of my sails,” Garner says. “But I promised my goddaughter and I promised my partner that I would keep on fighting.

I was raised in a Catholic family and was taught we should keep our promises, so here I am.”

with them,” Garner says. “From there it just grew.”

The comfort the bears brought was needed, given the impact of a positive diagnosis in the early days of the disease.

“Twenty-five or 30 years ago, the news of a positive diagnosis was devastating to people,” says Elisa Icaza-Webb, a nurse practitioner in St. Petersburg who has been at the forefront of the HIV/ AIDS crisis for more than 25 years. “Everywhere you looked, AIDS was there. It was in the news and people were dying like flies. It was awful.”

Today, most people realize that HIV/AIDS is not a “gay man’s disease” and that anyone, regardless of sexuality, gender or race, is susceptible to infection.

Three-decades-old battle This year marks 30 years since HIV/AIDS was first discovered in the United States. Over that time, Garner has watched literally thousands of friends die from the disease. In the beginning, AIDS patients were quarantined because healthcare professionals were unaware of the risks related to treating the disease, so Garner started giving his ill friends teddy bears.

“It was a way of giving them some kind of comfort when their friends couldn’t be in the room

An ongoing mission In 2011, HIV infection rates are back on the rise in Florida—mostly among young gay men and young African-American women between the ages of 18-26. The reasons for the increased infections can be linked to less education on the topic or the news that the disease is manageable by specific medications.

Finding the right medications is important, of course, and Icaza-Webb is thankful for the Continued on page 16 | uu |

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watermark | orlando news

| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

UCF offers domestic partner benefits Jamie Hyman Orlando | On Nov. 10, the University of Central Florida (UCF) board of trustees unanimously approved a plan to help the university’s gay employees pay for health insurance for their domestic partners.

According to UCF spokesman Chad Binette, UCF is the fifth of 11 Florida state universities to offer domestic partner benefits.

“State law prohibits UCF from offering benefits in the form of coverage through traditional health plans, so we will be providing stipends to employees,” he said.

“Stipends will be available beginning in early 2012.”

Binette said the school researched benefits that other universities provide to domestic partners and UCF’s plan is similar. Rollins College, Valencia College and Stetson University are among Central Florida’s schools that already provide these types of benefits.

“Eligibility requirements include that the employee and his or her samesex partner have shared financial responsibilities and that the partner is either not employed or not eligible for health benefits through his or her

employer,” Binette said.

That aspect is coming under criticism.

UCF faculty union’s chief negotiator, Jim Gildeson, told the Orlando Sentinel that that stipulation doesn’t apply to benefits for spouses of heterosexual couples, calling the UCF plan “inadequate.”

According to Binette, the projected cost for the plan for the first year is about $60,000, assuming estimates of 10 employees enrolled are correct.

The stipend amount is the difference between the university’s contribution for individual coverage of an employee under his or her health plan and the university’s contribution for family coverage under that same plan, or the actual cost of the partner’s health care coverage—whichever totals less.

“One other change is that employees will now be able to use sick leave to care for a domestic partner, as well as the partner’s parents and children,” Binette said.

He added that the current plan is a “first step” which will be reevaluated regularly going forward. | l |

Mr. Sisters employees wore black veils and sprayed “RIP” across their employee t-shirts as they marched in the Come Out With Pride parade hours after hearing that the nightclub had shut down and they lost their jobs.

Photo by Jake Stevens

Mr. Sisters shuts down Jamie Hyman

MARINE CORPS RESERVES

SPONSOR

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Orlando | Mr. Sisters, the gay-friendly bar located on Colonial Drive, has closed its doors.

In an email sent to staff the morning of Nov. 13, owner Don White said: “Effective today, Mr. Sisters is now closed for business and we are in the process of creating a new concept for that particular location.”

In the email, White stated that Mr. Sisters would not participate in the Come Out With Pride celebration as planned, Orlando’s gay pride event that was the same day the employees were laid off.

“Due to the legality of the matter, I’ve been advised by counsel not to be in contact with any of the staff members of Mr. Sisters,” the email stated, adding that the owners were also advised not to give any prior notice that employees would be let go. The email gave instructions for employees to pick up final paychecks.

Entertainment manager Russell Walker worked at the nightclub for a year.

“No explanation [for the closure] was given,” Walker said.

He said he saw some signs.

“There were some things, like taking the menu in a different direction and getting rid of the old stock of liquor, but we were always given an excuse or reason why it was happening,” Walker said. “We’re all sitting here wondering what to do next.”

General manager Scott Benson said they were assured by the owners that business was fine.

“They were just talking this [the previous] week about how well things were going,” he said. “There were some things that looked funny, like they told us to cut back on spending and ordering, but the owners said things will be fine. They said we’d open up another one in a year.”

Alicia Markstone, show director, said the timing of the closure is unfortunate.

“The only thing I thought was really nasty and ugly is that they did it on gay pride,” Markstone said. “They could have waited till tomorrow morning.”

Markstone, Benson and Walker all emphasized that the staff—aside from the owners—were wonderful to work with.

“We are all in a state of shock the same way [the rest of the staff] are,” Walker said. “We all have bills and families and we are all in shock but very thankful we have worked with these people.”

Since its grand opening in December 2010, the nightclub was no stranger to controversy.

Not even six months after Mr. Sisters opened its doors, in May of 2011, working equity partner Brian Humphries was dismissed.

Humphries had ushered Mr. Sisters toward its opening and was seen by many as the face of the establishment.

Neither Humphries nor White returned calls for comment. | l |

watermark | orlando news

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

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85K celebrate at rescheduled COWP David Moran Orlando | “Ladies and gentleman, it is 12:06 p.m. and we are open for business,” announced a Come Out With Pride (COWP) staff member over the loudspeaker on Nov. 13. Sunshine, blue skies and crowds of rainbow-clad people gathering at Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando were a welcome change for COWP Executive Director Mikael Audebert after having to reschedule last month’s Pride event due to bad weather.

This time around nothing rained on Orlando’s gay Pride celebration. The vendor festival around Lake Eola went off without a hitch. The GLBT History Museum mobile exhibit showcased its new display about Iranian gay activist and poet Saviz Shafaie. The UCF student-produced play Break Through: Bringing Down the Barriers performed at 2 p.m. Two hours later, the parade with its grand marshal, LOGO star Jonathan Lovitz, began to make its rounds through the streets of Downtown Orlando.

According to Orlando Police, an estimated 85,000 people showed up at Orlando’s Pride 2.0 celebration on Nov. 13. Attendance numbers were 20,000 less than expected, but COWP’s profits still managed to break even in spite of a whopping $15,000 debt incurred from postponing the event.

Audebert attributes the lower-thananticipated attendance numbers both to having to reschedule the event and moving the event from a Saturday back to a Sunday, as in previous years.

2011 was supposed to be the first year that Orlando Pride took place on a Saturday to encourage visitors to make Come Out With Pride a four-day weekend celebration. Audebert and his team had no choice but to move the rescheduled event back to Sunday because a Saturday date was not available in November.

COWP 2011 drew 10,000 more people than in 2010 and the organization is “back in the black” thanks to the Orlando LGBT community’s tireless fundraising over the past month.

COWP did not reach its goal of netting a $15,000 profit, but Audebert said he knew that was not possible going in. He and his team were most concerned with getting out of the red and putting on a flawless event the second time around.

Lovitz also spoke at the event, praising the organizers and the LGBT community in Orlando for maintaining their energy and making it possible to celebrate Pride six weeks after the Oct. 8 rain out. Other Pride speakers included activist Mary Meeks and City Commissioner Patty Sheehan.

Meeks addressed Orlando’s proposed domestic partnership registry. Sheehan reflected on the positive changes that have taken place in Orlando since her historic election as the

first, openly gay city commissioner 11 years ago. She also later told Audebert that she was amazed at how seniors from a downtown retirement community came out to watch the parade. Sheehan said that not only did they participate in the parade, but they also stuck around for the fireworks. In all of her years of living in Orlando, she said she had never seen that happen before.

As Audebert ran the event from behind the scenes, he said he felt a new kind of celebration in the air. People stuck around longer than they have in the past. He also noticed the diversity of the crowd.

“In previous years, we have always seen a lot of gay males,” he said. “Here you could see a diversity of teenagers, seniors, men, women, straight, gay, and so on. I’ve never seen that before. It was a great energy.”

He also noted that approximately 25-30% of the event’s attendees were straight allies.

Out and proud gay parents participated in the parade for the first time since the end of Florida’s gay adoption ban last year. A baby zebra named Keena greeted visitors at the Zebra Coalition booth raising awareness about LGBTQ youth issues. The full day of festivities climaxed with the Lake Eola fountain illuminated by rainbow lights and an unforgettable fireworks spectacular over the lake.

Pride 2.0 had a few bittersweet moments.

Mr. Sisters’ staff mourned the gay bar’s abrupt closure announced just that morning through an email from management. Laid off staff somberly marched in the parade in solidarity fronting an impromptu facade of black masks.

Audebert said that the closing of Mr. Sisters also reminded him of the importance of supporting one another and serving our own community.

“The week after Pride, I sent out a message encouraging people to hire the staff who lost their jobs from Mr. Sisters. Three people have already been hired,” he said.

When Audebert and the COWP team made the decision to cancel Pride 1.0 they faced a seemingly impossible series of obstacles to overcome.

They had to communicate to thousands of anticipated visitors that Pride 1.0 was canceled, and, in the pouring rain, break down the event that they had just spent hours setting up. The event staff divided and conquered with MBA president Gina Duncan leading a phone bank in the MBA office that got the word out to the media and the public while Audebert led a second team to tear down and pack up all of the event equipment.

COWP and the MBA had to quickly identify another date with Orange County Parks and Recreation to reschedule Pride. Audebert also hammered out a budget to pay for the duplicate expenses from essentially putting on two Pride events back-to-back.

“There should be huge accolades to Mikael.

Orlando mayor Buddy Dyer made history by participating in the Come Out With Pride Parade for the first time.

Photo by Jake Stevens

He absolutely eats, lives and breathes this event," said Duncan. “His efforts to making this happen are so appreciated.”

Duncan said going into Pride, the event was financially further ahead than it had ever been.

She credits this as one of the factors that helped the COWP operation land on its feet. Audebert pointed out that last year’s Pride event lost money, without the challenges of a weather postponement.

Another saving grace for Pride, said Duncan, were the businesses and community members who rallied to raise funds to pay COWP’s $15,000 plus debt. Duncan saw COWP’s financial crisis as an opportunity to test Orlando’s commitment to Pride and the local LGBT community.

In addition to the fundraising efforts of local businesses in Thornton Park and the surrounding community, The Walt Disney Company, Darden Restaurants, Universal Studios Orlando, Wells Fargo, Sun Trust, and Chase were among some of the event’s biggest supporters. Disney provided equipment and production support for the main stage and the parade. ADT Security Systems was the largest financial donor, followed by Coors Light.

Though many companies from Orlando’s tourism business were sponsors or participated in Pride, Audebert said he was disappointed not to see Sea World Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa or Rosen Hotels participate.

Duncan said Pride is now back on track financially and the MBA is able to resume its community grant and scholarship programs.

“There were two weeks where we had a fundraising event every night,” said Duncan.

“Everybody truly came together. It shows that Pride means something. It makes Orlando a better place to live.”

Echoing Duncan’s sentiment, Mayor Buddy Dyer, said, “One of the reasons I love Orlando is that we celebrate the diversity of the people who live here.”

Dyer was the first Orlando mayor to ride in the city’s pride parade.

To Dyer, this also shows in the city government’s push to establish a domestic partner registry.

“To be a proudly diverse city, you have to be pro-active,” he said. “Orlando was the first city in Central Florida to provide domestic partner benefits to city employees, and we’ll be the first to offer a Domestic Partner Registry to residents.”

Even with such change, the annual Pride event is a reminder that there is still work to be done. The week Pride took place Florida House Representative Scott Randolph announced he was introducing legislation to the Florida House of Representatives to make fair employment the rule throughout the state.

“I’ve filed a bill called the Competitive Workforce Act. It if passes, we will no longer let the fear of discrimination prevent anyone from bringing their business, their family, their talent and their money to our state, ” said Randolph.

Audebert, Duncan and the rest of the COWP team are already getting ready for next year’s Pride slated for Saturday, Oct. 6, 2012. They are also running a “Pride for Tots” toy drive with the local LGBT community to provide toys to local shelters this holiday season.

The COWP team is working on developing a contingency fund to self-insure Pride, in case of another rain out in the future. Audebert said that COWP has event insurance, but it does not cover weather.

“There is weather insurance but the premium is not worth the cost and does not account for any loss of sales,” said Audebert.

He said the event went “fantastically” well.

“I keep hearing people say it was the best one yet, it was flawless, it was tasteful and family-friendly,” Audebert said.

“Commissioner Sheehan said her phone has been ringing off the hook all week with compliments.”

Most of all, Audebert is proud of the hard work of COWP members who came back after Oct. 8 and said “We’re not done yet.” | l |

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| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

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Discussion focuses on LGBT issues in Catholic families Greg Stemm Tampa | For many American Roman Catholics, both gay and straight, there is a constant struggle between loving their nonLGBT supportive church and their own LGBT family members and friends. That conflict often causes pain and confusion for many as they attempt to balance their individual realities with those presented to them by their faith.

This dichotomy was explored recently at an open discussion and support meeting called “Welcome to our Table: An Evening for Families of Gays and Lesbians” held by the Franciscan Center of Tampa Nov. 14.

The program was facilitated by Maureen Connors, PhD, the center’s co-director of programs. The discussion centered around a new book by Father Jim Schexnayder, Resource Director for the Catholic Association for Lesbian and Gay Ministry (CALGM.org), “Setting the Table: Preparing Catholic Parishes to Welcome Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender People and Their Families.”

Among those attending were a straight mother of two gay children, a lesbian mother, a concerned older woman with gay relatives and two employees of the Catholic Church.

Most of those in attendance requested their real names not be used in this story. In fact, the

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employees of the Church were fearful of their jobs if word got out they had even attended this discussion.

“I am often conflicted by what my church tells me and what I know from my experience with my own children, who I know are good people,” said Cindy, the mother of a lesbian daughter and a gay son who says her Catholic faith is very important to her. “I believe that if there is any judgment from God on them that he will base his judgment on them being good people rather than their sexuality.”

Cindy went on to say she was shocked at how few resources there were from the church for parents of lesbians and gays.

“I was told to visit a website to get the church’s official position on LGBT issues,” she said. “When I visited that site I couldn’t disagree more with it. It basically told me to try as hard as I could to change my kids and that they were living outside of God’s love because of their sexual orientation. I just can’t accept that.”

For Connie, the lesbian parent of straight children, it was her kids who had a significant role in her leaving the church entirely. She and her family now attend Tampa Metropolitan Community Church.

“My kids were like, ‘Why would we go to the Catholic church? They don’t want you and they don’t want us,’” she shared. “I felt like I couldn’t really argue with that, although

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I am deeply disappointed in it.”

Those in attendance did see cause for hope however.

“I personally believe that if all the gay people in the Catholic church left, we’d have to The discussion on LGBT close our doors,” issues was inspired by the said Betty, who was new book Welcome to Our raised Southern Table, written by Fr. James Baptist but is now Schexnayder. an administrative coordinator for the Catholic Church.

“The church moves slowly on these issues,” said Deborah, who has worked for the Church for more than three decades. “For heavens sake we just apologized to Galileo for ostracizing him over whether the earth was flat or round.”

She added that she was afraid that if coworkers learned she attended the discussion, she could lose her job.

Connors has previously facilitated two weekend retreats on LGBT spirituality and there is another planned for June 2012 to coincide with St. Pete Pride. For the past 35 years the Center has offered a special mass for LGBT people on Sunday evenings.

The Center is located at 3010 Perry Street in Tampa. To get more information, visit FranciscanCenterTampa.org. | l |

The Gathering Place at Suncoast Hospice 5771 Roosevelt Blvd., Clearwater, Florida Please join us for a time of reflection and renewal as we share a special preview of the upcoming documentary SCARLETT: Our Positive Youth by Director Charlie David Also at the luncheon: The AIDS Memorial Bells Tickets: $20.00 per person or $125.00 per table of 8.

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watermark | tampa bay news

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

11

Tampa activist, volunteer seriously injured in motorcycle accident Steve Blanchard Tampa | Tampa LGBT activist, volunteer and former business owner Bill Kanouff was seriously injured the evening of Nov. 11 when a vehicle pulled into the path of his motorcycle at the intersection of Henderson Boulevard and S. Himes Avenue.

Kanouff, 53, was transported to Tampa General Hospital’s trauma unit with serious injuries and has undergone numerous surgeries, but he is expected to survive.

According to Jan Heimrich, Kanouff’s sister, Kanouff broke both arms and both legs in the accident and doctors found a severe blood clot near his heart.

After surgery, both arms and one leg were repaired and the clot was cleared.

The other leg, however, could not be saved after multiple surgeries and was amputated, according to Rose Cleveland, who is the aunt of Kanouff’s partner.

Friends close to Kanouff said that he is in good spirits, however, and has already started physical therapy.

The accident happened shortly after 10 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 11, when a 2010 Dodge Charger driven by Charles Lawton, 69, attempted to make a left hand turn from Henderson Boulevard onto S. Himes Avenue. A synopsis of the incident

from the Tampa Police Department says that Lawton pulled out in front of Kanouff, who was traveling westbound on Henderson on his 2005 Honda motorcycle.

Kanouff struck the right front quarter panel of Lawton’s vehicle and was thrown from his motorcycle.

The accident is still under investigation and it is unclear if Lawton was under the influence of alcohol. Andrea Davis, public information officer with the Tampa Police Department, said that no tickets or charges have been issued, but that could change depending on the results of the investigation.

Kanouff is a long-time volunteer with the Tampa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival and ran Tomes and Treasures bookstore in Hyde Park for more than 20 years. Most recently, Kanouff helped coordinate a fundraiser for an LGBT Youth Clinic (YYC) in Ybor City.

“The YYC is filling a long-recognized, yet unmet need in the Tampa Bay Area,” Kanouff told Watermark in an August interview. “We are reaching out to provide care to youth in Tampa Bay that have been ignored, underserved, or have not felt welcomed or comfortable in traditional health care settings. This population includes HIV positive and high-risk youth; LGBTQ youth; homeless and street youth; and sexually exploited youth.”

Kanouff was not taking phone calls at

briefs Georgie’s to host Toys for Tots benefit Georgie’s Alibi will host a Toys for Tots benefit on Tuesday, Dec. 6, at 9 p.m. to encourage donations to the popular holiday charity. Kori Stevens and St. Pete Pride will host the benefit and those attending are encouraged to bring unopened and unwrapped toys to donate.

Several local entertainers are slated to perform throughout the night. For details, visit StPetePride.com or search Georgie’s Toys for Tot Benefit on Facebook.

Santa Speedo Run benefits ASAP children’s charity The Second Annual Santa Speedo Run benefitting ASAP’s Brighter Seasons for Children program will take place in Gulfport on Saturday, Dec. 17.

Registration is at 3 p.m. and the fun

run begins at 4 p.m. The mile-long run stretches from Clymer Park at 22nd Ave. South and Beach Boulevard to O’Maddy’s Pup on Shore Drive. To donate or register, visit ASAPServices.org.

St. Pete Pride celebrates the season at Sunken Gardens St. Pete Pride will hold its second holiday fundraiser when Red and Green arrives at Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg on Saturday, Dec. 10, at 6 p.m. Proceeds from tickets directly benefit the organization and include admission into the meandering gardens of the historic location. Food, an open bar and valet parking are all included with each ticket. For more information, visit StPetePride.com.

Tampa Bay activist and volunteer, Bill Kanouff, is pictured with his motorcycle, “Big Red,” in 2009.

press time but Facebook posts by his friends and family members indicate that he is continuing to heal and that he will be transported to a rehabilitation center once released from the hospital.

Davis said that the police department’s investigation into the Nov. 11 incident could take up to a month to complete. No more information could be released, she said, because of the ongoing investigation. | l |

12

watermark | sarasota news

| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

Sarasota/Manatee AIDS Walk eyes 6th year Staff Report

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Sarasota | For the sixth year in a row, Trinity Charities will hold its annual AIDS Walk on the campus of New College. The twomile walk on Saturday, Dec. 3, raises funds for the charity, which assists those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS in the Sarasota and Manatee county communities.

The walk is co-chaired jointly by Trinity Charities and New College.

Teams are now forming and organizers say they expect more than 500 walkers at this year’s event. Registration is at 7:30 a.m. and the walk is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m.

Closing ceremonies should wrap by 11 a.m.

Partners in this year’s walk include the Manatee County Health Department, the Michael Bach Health Center of Manatee County Rural Health Services, Temple Sinai and the Comprehensive Care Clinic.

Food, raffles, music and prizes will be available throughout the morning for participants and volunteers. Those who cannot participate are encouraged to donate to the walk to benefit the many programs at Trinity Charities.

Programs benefiting from the walk include the Thelma Boyce Boston Food Pantry, which is open on the second and fourth Wednesday

Organizers hope that participants in the 2011 Sarasota/ Manatee AIDS Walk won’t have to dress in layers like 2010’s participants. | Photo courtesy Elizabeth Mensinger

of each month for those in need; Pet Support program that helps PWAs (People With AIDS) care for their pets by providing pet food and supplies at no cost; and support groups conducted throughout the year where participants can discuss disease-related and social issues in a safe, supportive group setting.

Full details on all the programs benefiting from money raised at the Sarasota/ Manatee AIDS Walk can be found online at TrinityCharities.org. Those interesting in registering for the walk or to donate can also do so through the website.

For more information on Trinity Charities, call 941-351-4347. | l |

11/1/11 2:35 PM

License # 100011497

watermark | state news

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

Romney’s Florida team includes anti-gay activists Wire Report Melbourne | GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney announced the members of his Social Conservatives Statewide Steering Committee Nov 14 and the list includes prominent anti-gay rights and anti-abortion rights activists in Florida’s Christian right circles.

According to a press release from the campaign, “Each member has been an active voice in state politics and an advocate for conservative causes and issue campaigns. The Romney campaign will utilize this coalition to perform voter outreach and coalition building for Get Out the Vote efforts.

“Mitt Romney … is a true conservative on issues of family and faith,” said State Co-Chair Pat Neal, former state senator and former chair of the Christian Coalition of Florida. “The members of this committee are tired of the

liberal policies of the Obama Administration.

Romney will stand up for the values that have made our country strong and will appoint judges that respect the Constitution and the rule of law.”

Former Florida congressman Dave Weldon, who founded the Space Coast Family Forum, was named chairman of the committee. The state co-chairs of the committee include Neal, Nancy McGowan and State Rep. Daniel Davis.

McGowan, a conservative activist, has been twice commissioned for Respect Life, the Catholic Church’s anti-abortion campaign. She served as co-chair of the Social Conservatives for Pam Bondi for Attorney General.

Romney’s 17-member steering committee includes Christian pastors, Christian Coalition members, several advocates who successfully championed Florida’s 2008 anti-gay marriage amendment and a former vice president for Florida Right to Life, to name a few. | l |

Port Charlotte | On Nov. 11, Sheila Barnett and Melissa Patrick walked downan aisle and stood in front of a giant, crescentshaped window at the Crowne Plaza in Manhattan, looked each other in the eyes and said, ``I do.’’

The same-sex couple from Florida was one of 11 couples to win the hotel’s “Marry Me 1111-11 Wedding Contest’’ on Facebook, which gave away dream weddings on that once-ina-century day that’s supposed to be lucky for love: Nov. 11, 2011.

Barnett and Patrick tried not to think about one fact: when they returned home, their marriage isn’t legal in Florida.

Same-sex unions aren’t recognized under Florida law. In 2008, Florida voters amended the state’s constitution to define marriage as a union only between one man and one woman.

A same-sex couple from New York and another from Ohio also won the contest. Ohio has an amendment similar to Florida's, but gay marriage is legal in New York. The state also recognizes unions from other states.

Barnett and Patrick, who are both 37, haven’t always been in same-sex relationships and are reluctant to identify themselves as lesbians, saying that their love ``blindsided’’ both of them. Barnett was in a relationship with the same man for 20 years—married for many of them—and Patrick had a long-term relationship with a man. Both have children from those prior relationships.

“I fell in love with a person, for who she is and everything about her,’’ Barnett said. “Not because she was a female.’’

The two women became friends 20 years ago in high school. After graduating, Patrick moved to Indianapolis and became a firefighter.

They kept in touch throughout the years and in 2010, Patrick visited Florida on vacation.

She and Barnett spent every day together, and when it was time for Patrick to leave, they both cried.

The couple dated long distance, and then Patrick moved to Florida so they could be together. They initially planned to hold a commitment ceremony in the summer of 2012, but a friend told them about the Crowne Plaza contest a few months ago. | l |

Lesbian publisher dies at 78 Wire Report Tallahassee | Barbara Grier, co-founder of the lesbian publishing company Naiad Press, has died. She was 78.

Grier’s partner, Donna McBride, says Grier died of cancer Thursday, Nov. 17, at a hospital in Tallahassee. The couple founded Naiad Press in 1973.

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McBride says Naiad was publishing 36 books a year before she and Grier sold the company and retired in 2003. | l |

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watermark | nation+world news

briefs Gronstal to block IA gay marriage debate Iowa Senate Majority Leader Michael Gronstal said Nov. 17 he will block debate over a proposed constitutional amendment banning gay marriage. “People’s rights should not be put to a popular vote,’’ Gronstal said. The Iowa State Supreme Court in 2009 struck down a state law defining marriage as being between one man and one woman, and critics of that decision have since sought to amend the state’s constitution to overturn that decision.

Australian PM says she favors vote on gay marriage Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard says she favors allowing a parliamentary vote on same-sex marriage although she personally opposes changing the law. However, samesex marriage advocates say that there is no realistic chance of the same-sex marriage vote passing without an endorsement from Gillard and the support of her Labor Party.

Gillard says she won’t support such changes to the country’s Marriage Act, which prohibits same-sex marriage. Three Australian states currently recognize civil unions.

Brazil grants residency based on samesex marriage The Brazilian government has granted a Spanish man the right to permanent residency based on his marriage to a Brazilian man. The Nov. 14 decision follows an October ruling by the country’s Supreme Court that recognized same-sex marriage, giving gay couples rights such as the ability to jointly file taxes and to jointly adopt a child. In the United States, Congress is reviewing a bill that would grant permanent residency to married same-sex couples that include a foreigner.

MA lawmakers pass transgender rights bill The Massachusetts Legislature has passed and sent to Gov. Deval Patrick a bill that would prohibit discrimination against transgender people in that state. No senator spoke against it during debate. The measure was approved Nov. 16 by both houses after proponents of the bill agreed to drop a public accommodations section of the bill that critics warned would lead to a breakdown in privacy in bathrooms and other singlegender facilities.

Appeals court asks for new briefs in Prop. 8 case Wire Report San Francisco, Calif. | The federal appeals court considering the constitutionality of California’s same-sex marriage ban wants supporters and opponents to explain how a state Supreme Court ruling authorizing Proposition 8’s supporters to defend the measure affects the broader case.

A 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel in San Francisco issued an order Nov. 18 directing lawyers to file papers by Dec. 2 discussing what the panel should do next.

The coalition of religious and conservative groups that qualified Proposition 8 for the ballot and successfully campaigned for its passage in 2008 have asked the 9th Circuit to reverse a federal trial judge’s ruling in August 2010 striking down the measure as a violation of gay Californians’ civil rights. Former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Gov. Jerry Brown, in his previous role as state attorney general, took the unusual step of refusing to appeal the decision.

Acting at the request of the 9th Circuit, the

California Supreme Court examined if ballot initiative sponsors have the right to defend their measures in court when the governor or attorney general refuse to do so.

Seven justices issued a unanimous ruling on Nov. 17 said initiative backers have such authority, but their guidance is non-binding on the federal court.

If the panel accepts the Supreme Court’s interpretation, it would clear the way for the appeals court to reach the merits of an appeal challenging the lower court ruling that overturned the ban.

Lawyers for the two gay couples who successfully sued to overturn the ban in the lower court had argued that if the ban’s backers did not have the right to appeal, the trial judge’s decision would stand and samesex marriages would be legal in California for the first time since Proposition 8 passed three years ago.

After the Supreme Court ruling was issued, the couples’ lawyers said they still felt confident the ban ultimately would be struck down by the 9th Circuit and possibly reach the U.S. Supreme Court. | l |

Senate panel OKs repeal of DOMA Wire Report Washington, D.C. | The Senate Judiciary Committee voted Nov. 10 to repeal a federal law defining marriage as a union between a man and a woman, but the legislation lacks vote for passage.

The vote was 10-8, with all committee Democrats favoring appeal and all Republicans opposed. The only immediate effect is political: Democrats can show their liberal base that they strongly support equality in federal benefits for gay couples.

The repeal bill would need 60 votes in the 100-member Senate, and sponsors

acknowledged the votes aren’t there. The measure would have no chance in the House, controlled by conservative Republicans.

The current federal law, known as the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), has a huge negative economic impact on gay couples through the denial of federal government benefits.

It is likely that the issue will be debated right up to the 2012 elections, while challenges to the law take place in several federal appeals courts. Conservatives pledged to make it a front-burner issue after President Barack Obama decided in February his administration no longer would defend the law. | l |

Bishops say government eroding religious liberty Wire Report Baltimore, Md. | U.S. Roman Catholic bishops attending the fall meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops vowed Nov. 14 to defend their religious liberty in the face of growing acceptance of gay marriage and what they call attempts by secularists to marginalize faith.

Bishop William Lori, leader of a new national religious liberty committee, condemned federal and state policies that he says interfere with the church’s ability to provide social services, from health care to immigrant support to international aid.

“We should not be obliged to provide services or other initiatives that are contrary to our conscience,’’ said Lori. “We don’t need the government forcing our hand.’’

Bishops hope to persuade federal lawmakers to retain DOMA, which passed in 1996. President Obama has said his administration would no longer defend the law, calling it ``counter to the Constitution.’’

Archbishop Timothy Dolan, president of the U.S. Conference, says it is wrong to describe religious convictions as discrimination.

“The church has nothing against compromise, but we can’t compromise principle,’’ Dolan said. | l |

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watermark | the big story

| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

| uu | Dab Garner from p.7

advancements made during her career. But many patients don’t see the big picture when they learn of their status.

That’s why Garner is still spreading awareness about the disease to a variety of audiences. Too many people don’t understand what a positive diagnosis means, he says.

“After I speak at an event I hope that people see that it is possible to live with this virus,” says Garner. “Number one, people have to be tested so they know their status not only so they can start the proper medication if they are positive, but so they won’t pass the virus onto anyone else.”

Garner, who says he is in a new relationship, says that each time he starts dating a new man he shares two key facts: that he is HIV positive and that his passion is battling HIV in a very public way.

Unfortunately, there is a lot of public education still needed to be done, even among Garner’s positive brethren.

“In the gay community I’m seeing more and more barebacking parties and that really irks me,” he says. “There is more than one strain of the virus and the gay community is a little ignorant that you can be infected with another strain of HIV or other STDs. Those other STDs make it even harder to live with HIV.” The handsome and fit Garner says that people who first learn about his status seem surprised, given his healthy appearance.

“I’m always upfront and share that I have chronic HIV wasting, which means I take hormone replacement and I work out six days a week,” Garner explains. “I can’t keep fat and people may say that I look great or compliment my body, but it’s not an easy life. I work out not to be muscular but to be healthier overall.”

Many are also unaware of the side effects of HIV medications, which can be quite painful.

“It’s a tricky balance,” Icaza-Webb says. “I try to give someone who just found out he or she is positive the hope to continue. I convince

AIDS: A Timeline 1981

1981 1982 1983

The first AIDS discrimination lawsuit is filed in NY

AIDS Quilt Panels

The Center will present several panels of the AIDS Quilt Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 as part of its World AIDS Day ceremonies. The panels are on display in Gallery Q from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. on Nov. 30 and from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Dec. 1.

St. Luke’s United Methodist Church at 4851 S. Apopka Vineland Rd., will also display the panels during an interfaith service on Dec. 1 at 7:30 p.m.

1991

1996

2001

2007

1987

1992

1997

At a UN special session, world leaders set long-term targets on HIV/AIDS

2002

2008

1993

1998

2003

2009

1994

1999

The first HIV vaccine candidate to undergo a major trail is found to be ineffective

2004

2010

1995

2000

America launches PEPFAR to combat AIDS worldwide

2006

2011

1988 1989

World AIDS Day established

Photographer HIV identified as Robert cause of AIDS Mapplethorpe dies of AIDSrelated illness Rock Hudson Artist Keith dies of AIDS Haring and Ryan complications; Ryan White White die of AIDS-related refused entry to his middle illnesses school

1984 1985

1990

them they can continue to live a fairly normal life. I give them hope. But I have to focus on prevention too. Medications are harsh but you can live with it. But it’s an avoidable situation.”

A time to continue living Garner counts himself among the lucky.

Living with HIV/AIDS for 30 years is almost unheard of and most, if not all, of the people he knew at the beginning of the AIDS epidemic have died.

He credits his survival to luck and genetics.

His doctors believe he was born with a gene anomaly that helped him fight he virus for most of his life.

The service will include scripture readings and appearances from a panel of diverse, spiritual leaders.

Jazz Jam Against AIDS

The Orlando Garden Club will hold a special charity jazz concert at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4, for programs developed by the Multi-Cultural Addictions Network, Inc. The club is located at 710 E. Rollins St. in Orlando.

2011

1986

First cases of The first panel “GRID”, later of the AIDS called AIDS, are is detected in Memorial Quilt created; Calif. and NY President Reagan mentions AIDS publicly for the first time The name Liberace, dies “AIDS”— of AIDS-related Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome—is created; safer illness; AZT approved for treating AIDS sex programs begin.

Commemorate World AIDS Day Dec. 1 Orlando

Sources: AVERTing HIV and AIDS charity, AIDS.gov

Red Ribbon AIDS Memorial Project created; Quilt displayed Magic Johnson announces he for the last time in D.C. is HIV-positive Combivir, a Florida teenager combination of Ricky Ray dies two antiretroviral drugs in one of AIDS-related illness tablet, approved Philadelphia is the first major Hollywood film on AIDS; Angels in America wins the Tony Award The Real World features Pedro Zamora, a young gay man living with HIV Greg Louganis discloses that he is HIV-positive

Those in earlier stages of HIV included in American with Disabilities Act (ADA) San Francisco’s VaxGen conducts first human vaccine trials in Thailand Presient Thabo Mbeki of South Africa voices support for AIDS dissidents

“That was until I had non Hodgekin’s lymphoma in the 1990s,” he says.

The chemotherapy required to defeat that disease destroyed the gene anomaly that had kept him healthy for so long. Fortunately, however, medications had evolved enough to sustain Garner’s health, for the most part.

“So far I’m holding my own,” Garner laughs when asked about his current health.

“There’s been the cancer—twice—a heart attack and a stroke. A lot of that the doctor blames on my hectic schedule. Plus I’ve participated in so many clinical trial studies to get the medicines we have today.”

In those studies, he says, volunteers never quite know what medications they’re receiving

TAMPA BAY

in the seminary at 308 E. Fowler Ave.

A three mile fun run, a one mile walk and a “virtual run” will help raise money for Metro Wellness and Community Centers and the AIDS Institute at Lowry Park Zoo on Dec. 1. The run begins at 5:30 p.m. following a welcome from Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner and Fox 13 meteorologist Alan Johnson. The zoo is located at 1101 W. Sligh Ave.

Spirit of Life Metropolitan Community Church in New Port Richey will hold its World AIDS Day Memorial Service at 6 p.m. on Dec. 1. The Ecumenical service will remember and celebrate the lives of those lost to HIV/AIDS and will be followed by a candlelight vigil.

World AIDS Day Services

ACT AWARE will host a luncheon to reflect on the 30th anniversary of HIV/AIDS at The Gathering Place at Suncoast Hospice, 5771 Roosevelt Blvd., in Clearwater, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dec. 1. Tickets are $20 per person or $125 per table of eight.

Red Ribbon Run

The First United Church of Tampa United Church of Christ will hold a special service commemorating World AIDS Day at 7 p.m. Dec.1.

The interfaith service will be held

World AIDS Day Luncheon

The first rapid HIV test kit providing 99.6% accuracy in 20 minutes released

Circumcision found to reduce HIV infection among heterosexual men

Another major HIV vaccine trial is halted after preliminary studies show no benefit Swiss study stirs controversy after claiming that people adhering to ARVs have a smaller risk of passing on HIV Obama removes travel ban on HIV-positive people entering US

AIDS Action merges with the National AIDS Fund to form AIDS United.

AIDS activist Elizabeth Taylor dies; Success reported in microbiocide gel reducing HIV infection by 40%

or what damage may have been caused by them. He wouldn’t change anything, however, saying that he lives life to its fullest and that everyone else should do, regardless of their HIV status.

“My message, especially to those who are positive, is even though you’re living with HIV, you can still go out and live your dreams.

Regardless of your status, life isn’t a dress rehearsal. You have to get out there, live your life, pursue your dreams and tell those you love and care about that you love them because none of us are guaranteed tomorrow.”

For more information on Garner and the Dab the AIDS Bear Foundation, visit DabTheAIDSBearProject.com. | l |

Admission includes lunch and a special preview of the upcoming documentary Scarlet: Our Positive Youth by director Charlie David. Visit ASAPServices.org/ WAD for more information.

$12 and benefit local HIV/AIDS Charities. Admission includes a full buffet, door prizes and access to guest speakers.

Free testing

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota will hold a special service with a reading of the names in the church courtyard beginning at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 1. A service in the sanctuary will follow.

Speakers include education and prevention consultant Joan M. Surso, activist and Watermark contributor Greg Stemm and Diversity: The Voices of Sarasota and the Interfaith Festival Choir are both scheduled to perform.

The event is free and suitable for all ages.

The Hillsborough County Health Department will provide free HIV testing at its location at 1105 E. Kennedy Blvd., from 11 a.m.1p.m. Dec. 1. The medical center will provide refreshments as well as educational programs.

WAD Benefit Breakfast

The New Port Richey Quality Inn Suites is the site of the World AIDS Day benefit Breakfast from 9-11 a.m. Dec. 1. Tickets are

Sarasota

Interfaith service

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watermark | viewpoint

| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

Totally! I seek out new ones to try, attend the meet-ups and follow my favorites.

Yes, but I just go to the bazaars and pods. I don’t really eat at them day-to-day.

top web comments As part of our J. Edgar movie swag giveaway, Watermark asked our readers who keeps their secrets.

Somewhat. I’ve tried a few but am not super enthusiastic about the concept.

Here are some of the best responses:

No. I don’t care how trendy it is, I’m not eating food out of a truck.

“I usually tell my secrets to another of my multiple personalities. If they tell then they are banished from my life forever.”

—Rob Sanborn

43%

29% 14% 14%

At WatermarkOnline.com, we asked you:

Are you jumping on the food truck trend?

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

“I tell my boyfriend my deepest secrets. If we break up, I’m screwed!”

—Jon Jimenez

“I keep my secrets in a leather daily journal and my internet data encrypted.”

—James McCracken

“I tell my deepest secrets to my dog, George. He truly believes that he is a human and for that I can trust him.”

—Ryan Qualters “God only knows!”

—troyjernigan

Don’t be left out of the community conversation!

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

mail So proud of COWP

I want to be perfectly clear: I fully support and championed the Domestic I’m so proud. I’m proud of the City of Partnership legislation. City staff Orlando and its elected officials for being and members of the Orlando Antiso hospitable and accommodating so that Discrimination Ordinance Committee we may show how proud we are to be have been working on this for months. gay. I’m proud of the organizers of this The proposed legislation is now being event who, not once but twice, worked their reviewed by Orange County officials. It is tails off to make Come Out With Pride a our hope that they will move forward on an successful and proud moment for all of us. ordinance that will protect all of the citizens I’m proud of the vendors and of Orange County, as well as the City of organizations who set up tents, and who Orlando. The proposed ordinance will came out to support this event to make codify domestic partnership, and provide their services inclusive and available to rights for hospital visitation, jail visitation, all of us. I’m proud of whomever paid for medical surrogacy, educational access, the fireworks. I’m so proud of the parade and funeral arrangements. If for some participants who made their floats, their reason Orange County officials do not want presentations, and to move forward with their costumes family this ordinance, Orlando oriented (leaving will. This ordinance is the offensive ready to go, has been elsewhere) so fully vetted and passed families and their through our Legal children could watch Department. and participate in the Activists in our parade. community, including This event Mr. Cantone, have showcases who we been working on actually are, ordinary an Equal Benefits and normal human Ordinance. I had no beings who are proud idea that was what they of who we are, who were shoving in my want the same rights face—on camera—to as everyone else, sign at the parade.

—Commissioner who just happen to I have since done Patty Sheehan be born gay. Thank my homework and you Orlando and now know what the event and parade proposal is about. organizers for making Basically, this would me so proud on Nov. 13 at Come Out With require all potential vendors receiving over Pride. $100,000.00 in City contracts to provide Tom Roseberry Domestic Partnership benefits to their Orlando employees if they offer them to married couples.

That sounds good to me. But we would have to go through the same process of writing an ordinance, studying the legal ramifications, and to see if there is support On Nov. 13, I was extremely proud to of Council for such an ordinance. I am be part of Come Out With Pride. In my not in favor of adding it to the Domestic opinion, it has grown into one of the top Partnership legislation. This would be an Pride celebrations in the country. I was unnecessary delay. And it is not smart especially happy that Orlando Mayor public policy to add something that has Buddy Dyer not only spoke at the rally in the potential to be controversial (which favor of a Domestic Partnership Registry, but also rode in the parade, an historic first. anything that adds to the cost of doing business in this economy seems to be) The only smudge on an otherwise to an ordinance that appears to have perfect day was being ambushed on overwhelming support from both the City camera by members of the Mike Cantone and County Commission. campaign. Now, I am a big girl, and I am Mr. Cantone seems more interested used to being abused in public. I was in getting attention for his campaign than defending Mayor Dyer because he was actually helping the gay community. That my guest, and I felt it was unfair for one of is his prerogative. But is also mine to his opponents to try to use this celebration defend our allies and those of the GLBTQ to try and bolster his own campaign. The community who have been working Cantone campaign has since produced a collectively and cooperatively to further the YouTube video. This video makes some cause of equality. ridiculous comments about my somehow Commissioner Patty Sheehan not supporting gay rights, which is the Orlando most insulting thing I have ever been accused of.

“Mr. Cantone seems more interested in getting attention for his campaign than actually helping the gay community.”

Ambush has no place at Pride

Closets are for clothes and shoes. Serving my community with PRIDE! The only salesman you will ever need…

Happy Pride!

RAVE N C L A R K

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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.

watermark | viewpoint

preaching to the

converted

laptop-filled briefcase would make me a mark if I didn’t have on my headphones and a scowl.

Of course, I know they’re probably not that concerned with me. Most are just taking a shopping break to hit Gucci, or the Anthropologie store across the plaza, as they consult their iPads and Droids, but hey, I’m just trying to get to work.

Let’s not forget a simple tenant of American life: Capitalism is good.

Capitalism, to a large degree, is the point of our democracy. It’s a fully democratic playing field—for the first time in the Pre-Occupy history of the world—where hard work Wall Street and excellence result in reward. Yes, dirty, monetary reward. If you don’t believe in that, you don’t believe in America. We are Ken Kundis the Capitalist Experiment in 3-D. Ken@WatermarkOnline.com A certain amount of oversight is absolutely necessary, and I can’t deny that executive salaries at the top of the house have become ridiculous; but too much regulation, or even the suggestion that we make our financial system the domain of the federal government, misses the point. Do we really want our financial experts to be public servants? Spend a day at the DMV and tell me if that is the talent pool you want managing your money.

We need the best and the brightest focused on the objective. And in this country, founded on the principal of successful competition, isn’t the objective to have a healthy and robust financial system?

Do I sound a little jaded? Okay, yes. I have a terrible confession to make, one that is sure to make you think less of me. know I’m a Democrat and, even more so, a believer in free speech and the right to For the last 20 years—my entire career, assemble, but I just can’t shake a central really—I have drawn a salary from the U.S. notion: what is all this Occupying about?

Financial Services industry.

I run creative marketing services for a It didn’t used to be such a badge of technology company, and my focus is shame. In fact, I have always felt a bit of (gasp!) financial services. In that role, I pride in at least being in the conversation run creative meetings and one thing on of how the financial world, or at least in my particular case its technology infrastructure, which I absolutely insist within my team is not having a criticism without a suggested works. I never tried to obscure my affiliation with world financial markets until solution. This is my central issue with the Occupy Wall Street folks. Yes, I know that now. our unemployment Now when I walk rate sucks, and that to work, I don’t pull there are people in out my Rockefeller this country who are Center badge I have yet to hear a really hurting. But until I’m inside single progressive I have yet to hear a the building. (For single progressive solution from the those of you who solution from the only think of Rock Occupy (fill-inOccupy (fill-in-theCenter as the home the-blank) folks. blank) folks. of Matt Lauer and, In the absence fictitiously, Tina Fey of a solution, all and company, it is we have is a gaggle actually a working of geese squawking about what is wrong. office complex, and my company occupies a full floor of 45 Rock, adjacent to the home This country is based on the pulling of boot straps, not lamenting about what “he has” in of The Today Show and countless other proportion to your bank account. The idea cultural markers.) that America should democratize not only I walk briskly through the burgeoning voice, but, as these protesters seem to be crowds of now not only those that want saying, wealth, is more Marxism than it is to see the Tree. There is always also a Democratic any day of the week. smattering of ‘protesters’ milling about the In my career, I’ve had the opportunity to plaza. Me in my clearly business attire and

I

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

meet the CEOs of some of the largest banks in the world, and some of the smallest. To a person they’ve struck me as a group of people who have two goals: 1) to serve their company and shareholders to the best of their ability; and 2) to provide necessary and progressive financial services to those who require them.

That doesn’t make them patriots, but it does invest them in being a part of the greatest, biggest economy in the world. The biggest, greatest economy the world has ever known. To the immeasurable benefit of every American.

So Occupy all you like, but remember how we got here, and stop being so damned spoiled. America is still largely insulated

23

from the big bad world, filled with financial despair and the daily prospect of terrorism, and still you’re not happy? This morning my cab driver told me he was a biometrical engineer in Pakistan and still makes more money as an NYC cab driver. He didn’t betray the slightest bit of disappointment.

He knew it was his decision and he made it.

So I say, and so would he: America in this generation may not be the financial superpower on which we’ve all come to depend. We might actually have to suffer a little and compete a little. So accept the new reality, and get on with it. Just like the rest of the world. | l |

‘ROCK STAR’

EVERYBODYS’ TALKIN’ ABOUT IT “Tough, Potent, Shocking” Prior to the National Theatrical release of ‘ROCK STAR’ there will be private screenings in Orlando, Miami and Los Angeles & other Principal Cities.. This Motion Picure has already garnered a huge amount of controversy, both in the US and Europe..(CANNES)-- A NEWCOMER STEVEN ARWOOD FROM ORLANDO ALSO APPEARS IN “ROCK STAR”..............THIS MOVIE IS FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY... “If male nudity offends you, this movie is not for you...” It received huge success at Cannes ($3,674,350)-----Kris, appearing in ROCK STAR ”OUR FULL COLOR AD APPEARS DIRECTLY has appeared in aprox. 24 moACROSS FROM REX REED’S REVIEW IN tion pictures, and next appears in “Waimea Bay,” and Moonshadows” THE NEW YORK OBSERVER!” The response has been overwhelming!! This is the Motion Picture (Universal City Releases) “EVERYBODY IS TALKIN’ ABOUT” “AND EVERYTHING YOU’VE HEARD IS TRUE!’

IN ‘ROCK STAR’, A SMALL TIME ROCK STAR TURNS A DREAM INTO A NIGHTMARE ALL DVD RIGHTS--AND MANY FOREIGN RIGHTS TO ‘ROCK STAR’ ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR SALE BY THE PRODUCERS-----PRIOR TO NATIONAL THEATRE RELEASE INTERESTED PARTIES MAY CONTACT THE PRODUCERS AT MOTIONPICTURES@WEBTV.NET

From Universal City Productions, LLC. Copyrighted 2011 Universal City Productions, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

MotionPictures@webtv.net One of the Largest Merchandising Campaigns Ever.. to Coincide With Its Release...

24

| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

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publisher’s

perspective

watermark | viewpoint

W

e live in an area rich with options. There are gay churches, community centers and more than 50 gay and gay-friendly bars, nightclubs and restaurants. And there’s an organization or athletic league catering to just about every interest imaginable.

But there are four major events that have come to define the huge local LGBT communities in Tampa Bay and Orlando.

The last of them just wrapped, so it’s a good time to take stock.

Gay Days Weekend This event—the biggest annual multiday gathering of gays and lesbians in the nation—will celebrate its 21st year in 2012. It takes place the first weekend in June, and attracts an estimated 150,000 to celebrations at Orlando-area attractions, hotels and bars. Although there is no single planning entity, GayDays.com is the biggest player. Established promoters like Girls in Wonderland, Mark Baker Presents, Let’s Go Play/Riptide and the Parliament House provide additional juice.

With that level of experience and continuity, Gay Days Weekend is on solid ground for 2012 and the future. The GayDays.com and Girls in Wonderland hotels and events routinely sell out. Last year Riptide attracted more than 6,500— the biggest crowd ever—to Typhoon Lagoon. Mark Baker reestablished the huge Buena Vista Palace as circuit party

central. And with a star-packed lineup, the Parliament House was bursting at the seams all weekend.

Most intriguing, and potentially gamechanging, is Disney’s role in the future of Gay Days Weekend. The event started as a gathering in front of Cinderella’s Castle, but attendance at Gay Day at the Magic Kingdom has dropped in recent years.

In fact, with the exception of Riptide at Typhoon Lagoon, much of Gay Days Weekend now bypasses Disney. Disney knows it, and if they were willing to open their arms just a little they could change it.

GayDays.com is looking for a bigger hotel with a better party pool. Imagine the impact if Disney would allow them to block one of their huge moderately priced hotels for Gay Days Weekend.

What if they also lured Mark Baker back to their Hollywood Studios attraction for his big Saturday night party, currently held at Universal Studios? All of Walt Disney World would change from the “most magical place on earth” to the “most fabulous place on earth” that first weekend in June. And the trajectory for Gay Days Weekend would be set for the next decade.

St. Pete Pride Like a bookend to Gay Days, the biggest Pride event in Florida takes place the last weekend in June, drawing as many as 90,000 to the LGBT-friendly Grand Central District of St. Petersburg. St. Pete Pride is run by an experienced and universally respected executive director, backed by an active and engaged board. In 2012 the theme is “Carnivale—10 Years of Pride in Paradise.” The future looks solid.

It’s a source of, well, “pride” that the event takes place on the anniversary of the Stonewall Riots and the birth of the modern-day LGBT rights movement— despite sweltering heat that reaches the mid-90s by the end of the Promenade.

But therein lays St. Pete Pride’s biggest challenge. The event has to be held in the morning to avoid predictable afternoon rains. How best to capitalize on the tens of thousands that have converged on beautiful St. Petersburg for the rest of the day and weekend?

Georgie’s Alibi and The Flamingo Resort have stepped up nicely, holding hugely popular parties that are becoming legendary. Last year Watermark and ALandCHUCK.travel had success luring Pride attendees to St. Pete Beach.

My suggestion? Get the city, county and visitors bureau more involved.

Take advantage of the Central Avenue Trolley system to extend festivities to the cosmopolitan downtown and glorious waterfront parks. Create a shuttle system to connect Pride to The Flamingo, Gulfport and the beaches. And get beachfront hotels like The Postcard Inn, Sirata and Tradewinds to offer discounts to Pride attendees.

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

25

But TIGLFF offers the opportunity to Tampa International Gay & experience them together—and to gather Lesbian Film Festival before and afterward to talk about LGBT Started in 1990 as a three-day event, film and culture. That shared cultural TIGLFF is now one of the ten largest LGBT film festivals in the nation, attracting experience should be cultivated, and I suspect the current board is already as many as 15,000 to the beautiful Tampa working on it.

Theatre and other venues in early October.

It is run by a creative, competent and wellCome Out With Pride connected board. TIGLFF is a respected The rain-delayed event on Nov. 13 was event, with solid support from the City impressive on so many levels. Organizers of Tampa and a devoted core audience. managed to sustain Its challenges enthusiasm for six are cultural, not weeks and attract a organizational.

Much of Gay Days big and very happy When TIGLFF crowd to what first began, it was Weekend now has to be one of an exciting novelty bypasses Disney. the prettiest Pride to watch films locations in the about gay people, Disney knows it… country. Fireworks especially in a and could change it. provided huge crowded downtown bang for the buck, movie theater with blanketing the entire hundreds of other downtown area in gay people. Now the celebration. there are two LGBT cable channels—three With a crack core organizational team if you include Bravo. Dozens of LGBTreturning, and tremendous goodwill created themed movies are available there, or on by their efforts in 2011, COWP is off and Netflix or the Internet, just months after running in its seventh year and should rival release. And television is now peppered St. Pete Pride in attendance. A suggested with LGBT characters. tweak: pace the post-parade festivities at TIGLFF can’t compete on that level the Walt Disney Amphitheater so that they and shouldn’t try. In fact, in an attempt crescendo into dancing and partying before to fill an 11-day schedule and appeal to a broad spectrum of moviegoers, many of the the spectacular nighttime fireworks. | l | selections are weak.

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watermark | music

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

G•O•I•N•G

Gay Metal EVEN WITH JUDAS PRIEST FRONTMAN ROB HALFORD OUT O F T H E C L O S E T, F E W L G B T S EMBRACE THE GENRE Joseph Kissel

I

t’s never been easy being gay in the ultra-aggressive, hyper-masculine world of heavy metal music.

For instance, leather and studs-loving Judas Priest frontman Rob Halford kept it in the closet until 1997.

“The worst thing you could ever say about a metal band is ‘They’re fags!’” says Aaron Johns, a 32-year-old accountant and metal fan from Long Island, NY. Despite Halford’s S&M-inspired gear and the legions of fans and bands that followed him sartorially and musically out

of the seventies, being “metal” and gay is a road even less traveled.

“I kept everything very separate,” says Tampa Bay Area 34-year-old rock photographer Todd Fixler. “It wasn’t a closeted thing; it’s just that music people don’t bring it up.”

It was the late 1990s, a time of rapid hybridization across music scenes and quickening acceptance of personal sexuality, especially among the young.

It was never a question posed to Fixler amongst his punk rock friends. “But I

would have answered it,” he says.

While the metal of the 1970s splintered into scores of subgenres during the 80s and especially the 90s—goth, emo, speedcore, every-kind-of-core—Fixler doesn’t split hairs.

“I like to listen to ‘heavy’ music,” he says.

Beyond the blitzkrieg of bass, drums and guitar, heavy metal—or whatever you want to call it—has something else on the Continued on page 32 | uu |

27

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watermark | comedy

(L-R) OR (Clockwise from bottom left) “Trixie,” “Rachel,” “Trampolina” and “Winnie” make up the dragapella group The Kinsey Sicks.

Oy Vey Holiday Kinsey Sicks blend a healthy dose of holiday musical comedy

Joseph Kissel

T

here are many traditionalists among the holiday-music genre—Elvis, Johnny Mathis, Peggy Lee. But the Kinsey Sicks are definitely not among them, which is why their popularity seems to explode more each year.

The group—a 10 on the musical-comedy Richter scale and an unqualified six on Alfred’s Kinsey’s famous hetero-homo rating continuum—arrives at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, Dec. 2, to present their outsider’s take on the Christmas season with Oy Vey in a Manger.

“It criminally parodies all of the Christmas classics resulting in ‘God Bless Ye Femmy Lesbians,’ ‘Tis the Season to Drink Stoli’ and ‘A Lay in a Manger’ with a big dose of Jewish Christmas angst,” said Irwin Keller, who plays “Winnie” and is one of the two original “Sicks” still with the group.

The other personalities in the singing and comedy group are Trixie, Rachel and Trampolina, who employ tight harmonies and humor ranging from the lowest of low-brow to topical political and cultural commentary.

One of their many other shows is the politically charged I Want To Be a Republican.

If you know that “Rachel” (Ben Schatz) is a Harvard-trained civil rights lawyer and “Winnie” is a University of Chicago-educated lawyer, linguist and former director of the AIDS Legal Referral Panel of the San Francisco Bay area, then perhaps their politics and polka dots approach isn’t so surprising.

“We’re very political and sophisticated until you catch a reference you wish you hadn’t caught,” says Keller.

The Kinsey Sicks have weaved harmonies and pushed buttons ever since a group of five friends dressed in drag 18 years ago to see a Bette Midler concert, thinking they’d be among many others.

They weren’t ... at all.

In spite of--or because of—it, they were offered to appear at an upcoming event as a musical act. To which they replied, “We don’t sing.”

Until they realized, in fact, they did! All of them had musical backgrounds.

Now, 40 states and hundreds of performances later, the group has seen a couple of personnel changes but the message remains the same: “Really funny, clever and disturbing ideas delivered in glorious four-part harmonies,” Keller said. That’s what makes them the country’s most popular “dragapella” group.

“What’s so different about them from other drag shows is that they actually sing live and they’re very good,” says Mariruth Kennedy, an unabashed fan who first saw them perform at the 2005 Tampa Gay and Lesbian Film Festival—of which she was the president.

“They performed opening night for 700 people and everybody loved it,” recalls Kennedy, who is now president of the LGBT Tampa Bay Business Guild.

Kennedy says she plans to be there for the Dec. 2 show and has convinced many friends to join her.

“The last time I went after the performance my cheeks hurt from laughing so much.”

Oy vey! What could be a better Christmas gift than that? | l |

see+hear WHO: Kinsey Sicks WHAT: Oy Vey in a Manger WHERE: Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa WHEN: 7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 2 TICKETS: StrazCenter.org

watermark |film

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

Jason Segal helped Kermit and Miss Piggy write the script to The Muppets.

years (Adams) is a little less satisfied, but she loves that her beau supports his three-foot-tall, A Trip Down cloth-skinned brother. Of course, the puppet Memory Lane Walter finds kindred spirits in the Muppets; he’s obsessed. However, when Segal and Adams plan an anniversary trip to LA, they all Stephen Miller find the Muppet empire in sad repair, about to Stephen@WatermarkOnline.com be taken over by an evil oil tycoon (Cooper).

The only way to save the theater is to pull a The Muppets Judy Garland-Andy Rooney routine and put on | Starring Jason Segal, Amy a show, right?

Adams, Jack Black, Chris Cooper “Are the Muppets in 3-D?” curmudgeon Statler asks. he Muppets show us that nostalgia His cohort Waldorf answers, “Nope, is just fine, as long as they’re as one-dimensional as they’ve there’s something worth always been!” remembering. Starting more The stupid gags are all here, than 40 years ago, Jim updated for the movie. The Henson, Frank Oz and genial warmth of Kermit and their talented crew created feminist spirit of Miss Piggy are broad characters worthy of well intact, as are Fozzie’s bad geeky fandom. It’s obvious jokes and Gonzo’s recklessness. that a few of those obsessed And every movie introduces a fans (co-writer Segal new character—this times it’s being on of them) created Segal’s brother Walter—in a Leonardo DiCaprio is J. Edgar. this homage to the goofy tradition that may seem a bit weekly variety show and cliché. But the Muppets were the early movies. never really highbrow or groundbreaking. In “There is only one Miss Piggy, and she is fact, their purpose in life seems to be to remind moi!” Miss Piggy announced, and yes, indeed! us of all the old, dusty Vaudeville gags, but So, these puppets do a lot of dumb stuff, with puppets. like bringing attention to the fact that the movie is lagging and throwing in a montage.

Thy also sing sweetly and dance in a world J. Edgar soured by grit, violence and reality television. | Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, It was their very nerdiness that first made them Armie Hammer, Naomi Watts, Judi Dench cool to some and annoying to others. In this Sometimes a less-than-perfect movie can case, the Muppets still have it. still be incredibly compelling. Director Clint Segal and his puppet brother are perfectly Eastwood says that he didn’t want to paint happy in Smalltown. Segal’s girlfriend of 10

rating guide

T

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

that Hoover’s panic over his unexpressed sexuality drove him to shape the once-small bureau into a federal powerhouse. Hoover constantly expanded his reach, playing politics, blackmailing, keeping secret files on everyone.

The film skips from Hoover’s latter days— his attempts to shape his own legacy—to his past tackling anarchists, mobsters, and subversives. Sometimes he seemed right; other times he was manipulative, petty and incredibly lacking ethic. A sort of domesticity was reached, where J. Edgar and his “buddy” always ate lunch and dinner together, took vacations together, shopped for clothes together. This is fact; whether it was sexual is another question entirely.

So was this gay? Or was Hoover too scared to have it be gay? How did his fear shape his striving, his policy, his conniving, and his own self-deception?

He says it twice in the film: “I refuse to be publicly humiliated!”

His “pal” responds: “I can see right through you. You’re a scared, heartless, horrible little man!”

All the film’s compelling questions aside, the movie has problems. The plot tends to meander, getting occasionally muddled.

Worst of all, the crappy age make-up is just terrible—a glaring inconsistency in a film that still deserves several Oscar nominations for acting.

Yet, it’s a flawed flick about a flawed man, and both remain unquestionably worth our interest. | l |

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famous FBI Chief Hoover—who worked in the department for 48 years—as overtly homosexual. Eastwood wanted the audience to decide. However, J. Edgar does make a strong argument for the man’s sexual latency.

J. Edgar (DiCaprio) was a little soldier, a paranoid pendant, and a momma’s boy. In fact, he lived with his mom (Dench) until she died.

He had a loyal secretary (a wonderful Watts) and a handsome, fawning right-hand man (Hammer of The Social Network).

The script by gay scribe Dustin Lance Black (who won an Oscar for Milk) argues

31

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watermark | music

Judas Priest frontman Rob Halford, center, came out of the closet nearly a decade ago, spawing interest in Metal among LGBT music fans.

“It’s just that music people don’t bring it up.”

| uu | Gay Metal from p.27

agenda.

“In general, it’s emotionally based,” Johns says. “It’s a means of catharsis and venting,” he adds, “but it also has the ability to alienate people.”

“Metal is associated with aggression,” says Jason Brighton, a 22-year-old “super conservative” accountant from Irvine, Calif.

“It just has a way to get out aggression playing the music, going to shows or even working out to it,” he shares.

Los Angeles trainer and physical therapist Carlo Baker agrees.

“It’s an intensity I like when I’m doing something physical,” he adds.

That was then, this is now…

Unlike many of the tragic and tumultuous out-of-the-closet epics of previous decades, Fixler’s coming out during the late 1990s in southern Florida was relatively uneventful. “It just didn’t have this crazy stigma like people got from the ‘70s and ‘80s,” he remembers.

In the punk scene, there was no backlash.

“Everybody was like ‘That’s awesome!’ or ‘That’s cool!’”

At the time, he didn’t have any gay friends, a seemingly common trait amongst metal fans who happen to be gay.

“Most of my friends still are straight people in the music scene,” he says. “The love of music and passion for music tends to transcend those issues, and that’s been the case for most of the people I know.”

The more aggressive stance of gay politics during the years could also dovetail with the rise of heavy metal and its gay fans.

“People get pent up, frustrated about being a minority,” says Johns. “Especially in this day and age people are more outspoken. They aren’t in the closet and crying as much. There’s more freedom now. The frustration of not being what you want to be might just cause you to pick up that guitar and start screaming.”

Before the wave of sexual tolerance began splashing over the various scenes during the end of the millennium “it was more like nobody would talk about it or bring it up,” says Baker, who’s more of a traditionalist—Judas Priest, Scorpions, Iron Maiden, Van Halen— when it comes to metal.

“The kids were more educated about the whole ‘gay’ thing,” Baker says, “spreading upward to older generations starting to think maybe it’s not such a big deal anymore.”

Gay culture not ‘heavy’ It’s no secret that music played at gay bars and clubs sounds and feels a certain way with

—OUT METAL FAN AND PHOTOGRAPHER TODD FIXLER

its 80s kicks, 90s-style trance chords and autotuned vocals exhorting you to “baby, put your hand up, baby!”

But there’s more.

“They just don’t like the aggression behind the music,” says Brighton.

It doesn’t end there, though.

“The overall metal scene is hyper-masculine so it doesn’t lend itself to gay culture or anything gay for that matter,” Johns says.

Oh, and one more thing.

“In the gay community, they like more of the fake keyboard sound instead of actually getting out the guitar and real drums,” adds Baker, a 42-year-old athletic trainer. “Club music makes me think of the guys at the circuit parties taking drugs. That makes the music better ... in their heads.”

But not everyone immersed in metal disdains electronic music or club tracks.

“I appreciate any music in any style if it’s a good song,” Fixler said. “I saw Lady Gaga at the Ritz Ybor and she was phenomenal,” he says—even though dance music isn’t part of his musical DNA. Despite the general aversion to dance music in heavy scenes, some artists choose to do both. Openly gay sludge metal guitarist Steve Brooks of indie band Torche also has a side dance project called Blowoff.

But is the indifference and sometimes hostility of metal fans towards dance music as

simple as they don’t dance?

None of the interviewed metal fans here said they do.

“They want dance music more or less so they can be with other guys with their shirts off dancing,” says Baker, who said metal shows—or at least the old-school ones he goes to—are more about a kick-back-and-listen environment. “A lot of guys are turned off by that cop-a-feel atmosphere.”

Still, a very small number of gay bars in bigger cities, like the Eagle in the Los Angeles area, have ‘heavy’ music nights.

And there’s an often present message of thinking outside the flock, said Orlando graphic designer Jake Stevens.

“Part of the genre is not being one of the sheep, part of the herd which lends itself to being gay,” he says. looking for out metal gods There are hardly any official census numbers, but the group interviewed put the number of gay men who dig heavy music between 1 and 15 out of 100.

The number of out gay metal stars is even lower. Of course, there’s Halford.

“Even growing up, I kind of thought he was gay,” Baker remembers. “With his black leathers I always felt he was a little gay and wasn’t too surprised when he came out.”

Other than that, of course, there’s Queen, whose earlier output is considered metal.

Although it was widely known Freddie Mercury was gay, that is not true for the rest of the band.

Other than that, there are few others in the pantheon of rock greats—other than Elton John and Melissa Etheridge—who have come out.

“There needs to be a litmus test,” says out gay musician and performer Kendall Kelly. “A Neil Patrick Harris for the music industry.”

Among the biggest out musicians in the rock realm are Doug Pinnick of King’s X, Otep Shamaya of Otep, Roddy Bottum of Faith No More, Bob Mould of Husker Du as well as Gaahl, the former frontman for Gorgoroth.

But many said they don’t see the ranks of out gay musicians swelling in the short term— especially ones with the stature of Mercury or Halford.

“There’s no market for it,” says Johns, who is also a drummer and guitarist of various rock genres. “They would be shunned by the public.

There’s still a stigma.” | l |

see+hear WHO: Judas Priest WHEN: Wednesday, Nov. 30 WHERE: Ask Gary Amphitheatre, Tampa TICKETS: 1800askgary.amphitheatrer.com

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watermark | event planner

| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

TAMPA BAy

Red Ribbon Run

Dave Koz Dave Koz will bring his jazzy sounds for the holidays to Sarasota, Clearwater and Melbourne this month.

Heyd Fontenot Artist Heyd fontenot will discuss his career to date at a free Nov. 29 at Rollins College.

The Tampa Bay Red Ribbon Run will raise money for charity at Lowry Park Zoo on Dec. 1.

film [ORLANDO] Movies Out loud: Santa Claus Conquers the Martians Nothing says warm holiday magic quite like an epic battle between St. Nick and aliens. Movies Out Loud presents campy classic Santa Claus Conquers the Martians Thursday, Dec. 8 at Plaza Cinema Café. As always, comedian Jeff Jones and drag legend Miss Sammy will provide hilarious commentary as the movies plays. Tickets are $10 at WatermarkOnline.com. Showtime is 8 p.m. but there’s a happy hour beforehand, starting at 7 p.m.

Florida’s Purge: The Johns Committee Witch-hunt There will be a world-premiere screening of the documentary Florida’s Purge: The Johns Committee Witch-hunt Tuesday, Dec. 6 at the Morgridge International Reading Center. It might not be the final version of the film but filmmakers report it will at least be a close-to-complete rough cut. The screening starts at 5:30 p.m.

art Heyd Fontenot lecture Artist Heyd Fontenot Lecture will discuss his career to date at a free lecture 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 29 at Rollins College. The Very Queer Portraits of Heyd Fontenot is on view at the Cornell Fine Arts Museum at Rollins College through Jan. 15, 2012.

[YBOR CITY] Miracle on 7th Avenue

theater [ORLANDO] Gem of the Ocean “What good is freedom if you can’t do nothing with it?” is the soulsearching question asked in Gem of the Ocean, August Wilson’s influential and inspirational first installment of his famous Pittsburgh Cycle, which chronicles the African-American experience in the 20th century. Tickets are $17 for adults, $15 for senior citizens and $10 for students at Theatre and are available at UCF.edu or by calling the box office, 407-823-1500.

The show runs Dec. 1–4 at UCF’s Black Box Theatre.

music [SARASOTA, MELBOURNE AND CLEARWATER] Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Handsome, talented and out jazz musician Dave Koz will bring his famous Christmas tour to Florida and make three stops within our coverage area. He’ll perform at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota on Saturday, Nov. 26, at the King Center in Melbourne on Tuesday, Nov. 29, and at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater on Wednesday, Nov. 30. For tickets and information, visit VanWezel.org, KingCenter.com and RuthEckerdHall. com.

[TAMPA] Carrollwood Players’ Holiday Revue No matter how badly we try to deny it, the holiday season is upon us, so why not give into those songs we all know by heart?

The Carrollwood Players are celebrating the sounds of the season with a revue of holiday songs—some made fresh with new arrangements and other original pieces that illustrate the all-too-familiar family disasters of holiday dinners. The Holiday Revue runs friday, Nov. 25-Dec. 17. For tickets, visit CarrollwoodPlayers.org.

Judas Priest Metal heads from throughout Florida will want to check out Judas Priest at the Ask Gary Amphitheatre on Wednesday, Nov. 30. The band’s front man, Rob Halford, came out of the closet a few years back and helped span a new love of metal in the LGBT community. You can expect to see plenty of friendly and familiar faces in the leather-clad crowd. For tickets, visit AskGary.Amphitheatre.com or call 877870-3674.

The Kinsey Sicks: Oy Vey in a Manger The holidays are arguably the most stressful time of the year, no matter what religion or orientation. So take an hour or so and laugh yourself silly with the “girls” of The Kinsey Sicks when they present Oy Vey in a Manger at the Straz Center on friday, Dec. 2. The ‘dragapella’ quartet will amaze you with their harmonies and have you laughing at their outrageous outfits and jokes—which is the perfect way to decompress before the holidays. For tickets, visit StrazCenter.org.

special events [ST. PETERSBURG] Church lady Bingo Holiday Extravaganza After a huge Thanksgiving meal and a busy Black Friday combing the malls for bargains, why not enjoy some holiday humor with Church Lady Bingo at King of Peace MCC on Saturday, Nov. 26, at 6:30 p.m.? The fundraiser for the church and AIDS Partnership will focus on the holidays and give players a chance to win cash prizes. There is also a 50/50 raffle, a box for donated, unwrapped toys for ASAP’s Brighter Season’s Children’s program and plenty of other games.

Admission is $20 and this special event is for 18-and-older bingo enthusiasts only.

For details visit KingOfPeaceMCC.com.

[TAMPA] Red Ribbon Run Put on your running shoes and raise money for area charities during the Red Ribbon Run on Thursday, Dec. 1, at Lowry Park Zoo. Money raised benefits the AIDS Institute and Metro Wellness and Community Centers.

Participants can register online at TampaBayRedRibbonRun.org. Special guest speakers before the 3K, 5:30 p.m. run include Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner and Channel 13 meteorologist Andy Johnson.

A musical review of what makes the holidays so spectacular returns to The Ritz Ybor for its third year on Thursday, Dec. 1. This year, the theater’s own operations manager, Carla Vaughan, will emcee the event along with Watermark editor Steve Blanchard. Their comic timing will (hopefully) get you into the holiday spirit. For details and tickets visit TheRitzYbor.com or call 813-247-2555.

[DADE CITY] Sawmill’s Manager’s Ball Join residents and owners of Sawmill Campground as they celebrate the season and raise money for various HIV/AIDS Charities during the weekend of World AIDS Day. The festivities begin on friday, Dec. 2 with special fundraisers and activities to raise funds. On Saturday, Dec. 3, comedy queen Sherry Vine will sing twisted parodies of popular songs, and representatives of Talent Quest Florida will perform during the formal dinner. Things wrap up following Sunday’s complimentary gospel brunch featuring Phil Garris and Denise Tyler at 11 a.m. For details and to make reservations, call 352-583-0664.

[SARASOTA] 6th Annual AIDS Walk Walkers will meet at the New College of Florida in Sarasota on Saturday, Dec. 3, beginning at 7:30 a.m. to participate in the 6th Annual Sarasota/Manatee AIDS Walk. The two-mile walk will raise money for Trinity Charities, an HIV/AIDS service organization servicing both Manatee and Sarasota counties. To register or to donate, visit TrinityCharities.org.

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.

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

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| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

1- St. Pete Pride executive director Chris Rudisill models a suit from Macy’s during Diversity on the Runway at the Gulfport Casino Nov. 14.

2- The organizers of the first ever Leather-nFetish Pride take to the stage at the Flamingo Resort on Nov. 11.

3- (L-R) Amy DeMilo and emcee Alexis Mateo celebrate DeMilo’s WAVE award win during a celebration at Georgie’s Alibi Nov. 10.

4- (L-R) Carroll Hunter, Arica Love and Joshua Beadle were all on hand for the Sarasota WAVE Awards celebration at ALSO Out Youth on Nov. 11.

5- (L-R) Kori Stevens and Christopher Tate take to the runway for the FTM Fund’s Diversity on the Runway fashion show at the Gulfport Casino Nov. 14.

6- Carla Vaughan, Okie Tilo and Niely Cornacchia (and Manny Alvarez in the background) enjoy the Silent Disco at The Ritz Ybor.

watermark | tampa bay out+about

shot on site

Photography | Steve Blanchard, Mark Melnik and Carrie West

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2

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watermark | tampa bay out+about

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

37

tampa bay overheard Waving successes Not to toot our own horn (okay, that’s exactly what we’re doing) but Watermark threw two successful parties on the West Coast to honor this year’s 2011 WAVE award winners at Georgie’s Alibi in St. Petersburg and at ALSO Out Youth in Sarasota. Alexis Mateo was her endearing, funny and fabulous self as she helped Watermark editor Steve Blanchard and Tampa Bay sales director Anthony Barros hand out the much-deserved awards to winners from both sides of Tampa Bay on Nov. 10. The staff at Georgie’s were incredibly busy but made sure everyone had a fabulous time while they celebrated. The fun continued in Sarasota on Nov. 11 when Arica Love stepped in to help Barros and Blanchard distribute more awards. Love’s comedic timing and warmth made all of the winners comfortable in the amazing atmosphere created by ALSO Out Youth’s staff—and the food spread created by Barros was amazingly elegant and delicious.

Watermark has its work cut out for itself in 2012 when trying to top 2011’s celebrations.

Fight! Fight!

Unfortunately, there are times when a disagreement spawns a fight in a bar. But on a relatively quiet Tuesday night recently in

Ybor City, a fight of a different kind debuted at Bradley’s on 7th. In place of the bar’s regular Diva Dance Room, bar staff had set up a huge boxing ring complete with the fabulous Robin DeMornay as the ring hostess. The Semi Pro Wrestlers Association was in town to put on a show for the locals and fans of the world of professional wrestling. Our friends Mark and Carrie of MC Film Fest report that even DeMornay got into the act, hitting wrestler Mad Dog on the head with her microphone and claiming, “That’s how you train a bad dog!” The night was such a success that more wrestling could come to Bradley’s on 7th in December!

Weekday Wipeout The weekend isn’t the only time the sun shines at Postcard Inn. At the Postcard Inn we suggest you say goodbye to your desk, and say hello to the beach!

Diversity shines on the runway Who knew so many fashionistas could get along so well in one room! The smashing success of the FTM Fund’s Diversity on the Runway at the Gulfport Casino Nov. 14 showed just how much support is within the LGBT community. Gay, transgender and straight models strutted their stuff on the runway all while raising money for the fund, which assists one lucky recipient with “top surgery.” Congratulations to organizers and participants for an amazing event.

Come see what the sun looks like mid-week. The beverages are flowing, the waves are crashing, and the Postcard Inn Weekday Wipeout is here!

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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am sometimes asked why someone injured in an accident should hire an attorney. There are important reasons to consider hiring a competent personal injury attorney as soon as possible if you or a loved one are injured as a result of someone else’s negligence. Being involved in an accident is a difficult and traumatic experience. A personal injury attorney should have the knowledge and experience necessary to help you deal with all of the issues that you will face in the aftermath of the accident.

Many times injured persons are not aware of the full extent of their injuries or their rights immediately after an accident takes place. Insurance adjusters or other company representatives may try to settle your claim quickly even before you have a chance to hire an attorney because they know that injured people are often in financial distress and may settle for less than they are entitled to under the law. If you are injured in an accident and settle your case before hiring an attorney you may forfeit important benefits available to you.

An important part of your attorney’s job is to make sure that you do not compromise your rights and that you get full compensation for the injuries that you suffered as a result of someone else’s negligence.

An attorney should also work to make sure that you receive all of the medical treatment for the injuries that you suffered in the accident. The process of getting better following an accident can take months, and it is important that your attorney help you receive all of the medical treatment that you need to get you back up on your feet and in the game.

Perhaps most importantly, an attorney can work hard to make sure that you are fully compensated by the insurance company for the person or company at fault for all economic and non-economic damages that you suffer as a result of the accident. Under Florida law you may be entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering that you have had to deal with following the accident.

It is to your benefit to hire a competent personal injury attorney as soon as possible following an accident in order to make sure that you receive all of the benefits and compensation to which you may be entitled. Don’t let a big company or an insurance adjuster take advantage of you by trying to convince you to settle your case without hiring a lawyer.

And one final point to keep in mind, in a personal injury case your attorney will not be paid unless he or she makes a recovery for you. So, there are no out-of-pocket or up-front costs to you.

You really do have nothing to lose and, hopefully, a lot to gain when you decide to hire a lawyer. • For more information contact Ron Conte at THE LAW OFFICE OF RONALD J. CONTE 407-425-4222 or by visiting our website at

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orlando overheard Firestone to return to its roots The recent closing of Steel has left an opening for LGBT nightlife in downtown Orlando. However, there’s been some buzz surrounding the fate of the Orlando landmark dive bar Hoops Tavern, which closed its doors in October as well. Located just behind Club Firestone at 47 West Amelia Street, it’s been rumored that Firestone owner Jan Harrold has acquired the locale and is planning on reopening it as a gay nightspot.

Firestone itself was once a happening gay night club when it first opened in 1990. Hoops was a multi award winning neighborhood bar that featured your standard beer hall fare and was best known for its dart championships.

The bar’s original owner, Stephen Nadiak, died in December of last year from complications from diabetes. Firestone’s owners were unavailable for comment at press time.

Cracked Nuts Orlando Ballet’s upcoming production of The Nutcracker will feature cameos by a few local celebrities. Lined up so far to be donning tights this holiday season are Michael Wanzie, Doug Ba’aser, Gary Lambert and

Shawn Hunt. “Shawn and I are wearing panty hose,” corrects Gary Lambert. “We are doing big drag!” This will be Lambert’s second time gracing the Orlando Ballet’s stage. “It’s going to be damn fun,” he bursts. This cast of macadamias is sure to give a whole new meaning to the phrase “nut cracker.” For more information, OrlandoBallet.org

Watermark Shuts Down Mr. Sisters Watermark’s Orlando WAVE Awards celebration was so outrageous on Nov. 9 that Mr. Sisters closed its doors on Nov. 12 for good. Watermark, along with WAVE winner Ginger Minj and Alicia Markstone, played host to the best of the best in Orlando at Mr. Sisters. More than 150 people filled the cutting edge nightclub. Minj dazzled audiences with live performances accompanied by her pianist and fellow WAVE winner Spencer Croswell, while guests were treated like glitterati on the red carpet having their photos taken by WAVE winner Eric Babcock. The hosting venue surprised the community when it suddenly closed its doors the following weekend, with little explanation.

For the full story, check out Orlando News on page 8.

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 | Eric Babcock, Tom Dyer, Scott McCauley, Phantom Photographic and Jake Stevens

1 6

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Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 |

3 4

1- Kirk Johnston, center, celebrated his 60 birthday party with his partner, Jim Crescitelli, left, at their home along with friends, including David Almeida, right. th

2- Come Out With Pride speaker and activist Mary Meeks channeled her inner Harvey Milk at the Nov. 13 event.

3- Lakeisha Marshall, left, and Tricia Dougall enjoy the cool weather of the rescheduled Come Out With Pride, Nov. 13 at Lake Eola.

4- Orlando’s Favorite Straight Allies, Jack & Margo Dixon, showed off their WAVE Award at the Nov. 9 party at Mr. Sisters.

5- Orlando’s The LGBT Center staff members and volunteers celebrated their “Most Effective Local LGBT Organization” win at Watermark’s WAVE Awards party Nov. 9 at Mr. Sisters.

6- Chainsaw Chelsea (in black) gets ready for a jam to start at the Orlando Psycho City Derby Girls: Arkham Assailants vs. Serial Thrillers game Nov. 20 at Semoran Skateway.

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watermark | food+spirits

Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011 | Photo by Jan Martinovic

Meals on Wheels Local food truck trend has roots in LGBT community Stephen Miller

W

ant to taste the next great cuisine?

Many of us in the LGBT community like to brag about a new restaurant. Now some of the hottest, most affordable places are at a local park or gas station around the corner from you. Upscale menus and gourmet fare are showing up in colorful, clean food trucks; it’s a booming cult phenomenon.

“I was flat-dead amazed at how it took off!” says Mark Baratelli, the man who can be attributed with taking the food truck craze to the next level, bringing lively food truck bazaars to central Florida.

“You can certainly mention that it was started by a gay dude,” jokes Baratelli, batting his eyes; he is also known for his improv shows.

Now, bazaars in Orlando and Tampa have been

known to draw between 500 and 4,000 people. These events may be the best way to taste tons of offerings in one place; as many as 20 trucks will gather for a night.

Baratelli organized the first Orlando-area bazaars in March 2010; this month Tampa followed suit.

Part of the fun is that it’s so easy and casual. Look up when and where the next bazaar is. (We offer a few suggestions throughout this article.) Though most trucks take credit cards, cash is easier. Walk around first; get a feel for the offerings. Expect to wait 10 to 15 minutes for fresh food. Also, you may have to stand, since tables get commandeered quickly—good thing most of the food is handheld. That’s all you have to do—good quality eats at an affordable price.

Continued on page 46 | uu |

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Food critic Scott Joseph is the creator of ScottJosephOrlando. com, a guide to central Florida dining. | Photo courtesy Eric Cucciaioni

Critique Connoisseur

Food critic Scott Joseph knows good food, and isn’t afraid to point out the bad. Scottie Campbell

O

rlando | Food critic Scott Joseph has a unique relationship with food.

His career as a food critic directly affects people’s opinions, and those who serve up the fare.

“I know that people lost jobs because of things I wrote,” says Joseph. “I know that people lost money because of what I wrote.”

It might surprise those who seek to vilify critics that Joseph doesn’t see himself in a position of power, but something more akin to an educator.

“To call it power sounds sinister,” he says, “I think I had the opportunity to influence and introduce people to restaurants that they might not find.”

Joseph’s writing career had an unlikely start in 1987 when he learned that the Phoenix New Times was looking for someone to write about food. He had no clippings to forward to the editor, because he had no experience as a published writer. He knew how to cook some things, but had no substantial food career. Still something about the job intrigued Joseph, so he wrote a two and a half page letter describing the approach he’d like to take and won the position.

New Times is an alternative weekly and it was the first in the country to have a full-time food section. It didn’t take long for the paper

of interviewing, he was scared to death he to realize why they were the first. Grocery wouldn’t get it. stores, Joseph gives an example, tend to be He was that impressed with the operation more conservative and didn’t understand the at the time. He chuckles when he remembers tongue-in-cheek tone of the publication. One week before Christmas, Scott Joseph was fired how he followed up the interview with phone calls in case they needed more from the Phoenix New information. Joseph may not like Times. to think of it as power, but for Helped by a friend with the next 20 years he was the a thick rolodex, Joseph word on restaurant going began applying for food in Central Florida. critic jobs in various “The newspaper parts of the country while industry is staring the freelancing. Early on in future in the face,” the process, his friend says Joseph of the recommended checking anticipated death into Orlando. “I said, ‘No of print in favor of fucking way’,” laughs online resources. It Joseph. “Just not moving is among the reasons to Florida.” that Joseph decided to Eventually the take a buyout when the unpredictable world of Sentinel first started freelancing began to wear offering them. He on Joseph, so when his —SCOTT JOSEPH thought the timing friend suggested he apply was right to explore for an open position at other challenges—he Orlando Sentinel, he had also heard that the first buyouts would be decided to at least check it out. He arrived in among the more lucrative.

Orlando for his interview—by now armed So in 2008, Joseph left the Orlando with writing clips—scared to death that he Sentinel hoping to explore other career might get the job; but after two and half days

“I’ve joked that family-style dining means that everyone gets into the kitchen and starts arguing.”

avenues, but those opportunities fell through with the onslaught of the recession. To keep in the game, he began writing a food blog and, based on feedback, decided to make it something more substantial and launched ScottJosephOrlando.com, a restaurant guide to Orlando’s restaurants complete with restaurant listings and Joseph’s reviews.

While the Sentinel may have been an envied “bully pulpit,” Joseph seems to have maintained his respected voice in the restaurant community and moved more toward the educational aspect that has always been important to him. To wit, Joseph recently developed an iPhone app that gives people a GPS listing of the 10 closest restaurants.

ScottJosephOrlando.com is essentially a one-man band, but he does get help with web maintenance and has employed people to sell ads for the site. Interestingly, he won’t allow restaurants to advertise on his site unless he has endorsed them. In this way, he hopes to maintain the integrity of his opinions, while making the site profitable, at the same time.

“I’ve joked that family-style dining means that everyone gets into the kitchen and starts arguing,” Joseph says when referring to the stress of entertaining at home during the holidays. He recommends keeping things traditional when preparing meals, avoiding the temptation to try new things. Your guests anticipate “certain flavors and certain dishes.”

When it comes to dining out on for Christmas, Joseph says he can only recommend what a restaurant is like on a regular day. On Christmas day, “All bets are off.” On that day, the restaurant is usually serving a menu that is foreign to them.

“Everybody wants turkey,” says Joseph.

“So here’s a restaurant cooking turkey that normally doesn’t and they are cooking not just one, but several.”

When dining out for Christmas, people usually take the leisure attitude of wanting to linger, so restaurants tend to get backed up.

Know that, even with a reservation, you’re in for a wait, so “chill out, knowing what you’re in for.” On the same token, the restaurant will be busy, so the staff will have a “get ‘em in, get ‘em out” attitude.

Above all, Joseph pleads, “Don’t start getting nasty with the people there—they’re working on Christmas! Be nice to them.”

As for his own holidays, Joseph will be vacationing in London. He’s learned that the entire country shuts down on Christmas day—no shops open, no restaurants open, everything is closed. He is expecting to have his Christmas dinner in a hotel dining room… where you can bet he will be cordial to the staff. | l |

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watermark | food+spirits

| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

| uu | Food Trucks from p.41

“The old prejudice of these being ‘roach coaches’ is passing,” states Baratelli. “You have all kinds of cuisine: ethnic, barbeque, desserts, even gourmet, many are run by trained chefs.”

“You can either hope the customer comes to you, or you can bring the food to the people,” says Dr. Phil, the renowned owner of the critically-praised Winter Park Fish Co. and its colorful truck.

Dr. Phil admits that his truck is mostly used for advertising; the profits almost always go to charity. He’s willing to go anywhere; it’s free advertising for the small Winter Park restaurant run by legendary Chef George Vogelbacher, who also developed the mobile menu. The truck features a photo-laden paintjob and an extended backend with a grill.

Their tender tuna on a stick may be a couple dollars more than most food truck fare, but Dr. Phil is proud that he’s able to bring fresh fish to the masses. The best way to find their truck is to call the restaurant.

Other chefs hit the open road, because it’s simply cheaper: “For younger entrepreneurs who don’t have the finances, a food truck is the next best option,” says Joey Conicella of Orlando’s Yum Yum Cupcake Truck.

Besides their delicious handheld desserts, Yum Yum is rocking an updated 1950s ice cream truck look. Their vehicle is bright yellow and chrome, and they often dress with folded paper caps, polka dots and bow ties.

Food truck rallies like this one in downtown Orlando are gaining in popularity throughout the state and LGBTs are lining up for their meals. | Photo by Jan Martinovic

“I actually did it to spend more time with my partner, Alex” Conicella admits. The couple met at UCF, and after experiencing the food truck boom in San Francisco, decided to update Alex Marin’s family recipes and offer them locally. Conicella markets, Marin bakes, though Conicella has learned how to whip up a mean batch of butter cream.

Conicella and Marin keep their fans updated

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through,” Barr adds. on their changing locations and offerings Even world-famous chefs like Tom through their Facebook page.

Collicchio and David Chang have started “Social media really has been a boon for trucks, adding some serious clout to a venue us,” says Conicella. that once served lo-scale ethnic food, postTampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn has even bar fare, and sandwiches for bored office kicked off his own gathering, The Tampa Bay Food Truck Fiesta, just this month. Updates are workers. Though the food is still better suited to standing and eating with as few utensils as available at the Tampa city website. possible, it’s still high quality.

“It’s really like a moving food festival,” “We’re very responsive to our customers,” says Baratelli. states Sam Dudding, the St. Pete owner of Fire In fact, having their restaurants on wheels Monkey. “We offer fresh, local, seasonal allow owners to even be ingredients, and we even cater to vegan more flexible and change and vegetarian diets.” up their menus to customer Dudding hopes that his work whim. Stephanie Barr of with Fire Monkey will help Tampa opened 3 Ballers support local economies; his with soups and sandwiches, commitment to sourcing but she soon found the need local food means his menu to be more flexible. changes regularly. Fire “More and more people Monkey offers everything started asking for my from Latin and Asian desserts, so I decided to fusion food to burgers do a spin-off of 3 Ballers and even breakfast. It called Sinful Desserts,” also boasts trained chef says Barr.

Carlos Ramirez. They keep Barr switches between 3 their customers informed Ballers and Sinful Desserts through Facebook. depending on the venue “I have to admit that the and the requests of the best business we do is at clients inviting her, craving —Stephanie Barr, the food bazaars,” Dudding her famous chili or bread owner of 3 says. puddings.

Ballers and Sinful That is also the best Barr also revels in how Desserts in Tampa way for foodies to sample food trucks have improved: a variety of trucks, “It’s not just hot dogs menus, and cuisines. Besides TheDailyCity. and greasy, gross carnival food anymore. I com and Mayer Buckhorn’s Tampa bazaars, had a great burger at Burger Culture just the Maitland’s Lake Lily offers a mini-bazaar other day,” admitting she often eats at her every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. around compatriots’ trucks.

Lake Lily. This month, St. Pete’s city council “You can often look at the truck and see also has cleared the way for regular rallies, as what sort of quality they offer, how much they long as permits are obtained. In fact, it looks as care,” Baratelli suggests. if the food truck craze is just revving up. Get “You can also look in and see how clean on board! | l | they are. We have to pass the same rigorous safety standards sit-down restaurants go

“It’s not just hot dogs and greasy, gross carnival food anymore.”

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| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

watermark | transitions

Orlando drag performer Gidget Galore celebrates her birthday Nov. 24. | Photo by Jake Stevens

transitions

Congratulations

Mark Paul Pierpont and Nick Massoni, owners of 903 Concept Restaurants in Orlando, celebrated their 14th anniversary of wedded bliss on Nov. 23. They were married at Strawberry Fields in New York City.

Orlando Fringe Festival general manager George Wallace was named Vice President of the Canadian Association of Fringe Festivals during the organization’s recent conference in Ontario, Canada.

Orlando’s Fringe Festival has named Mike Marinaccio as its new festival producer.

Passings Barbara Grier, co-founder of the lesbian publishing company Naiad Press, died of cancer in a Tallahassee hospital Nov. 10. She was 78.

Local Birthdays Watermark proofreader and Orlando lawyer Ed Blaisdell; drag legend Gidget Galore (Nov. 24); St. Petersburg nurse Ed Briggs (Nov. 26); St. Petersburg actor and die-hard Rays fan Ken Basque (Nov. 27); outgoing HRC president Joe Solmonese, Tampa Bay

chef Paege Chafin (Nov. 28); St. Petersburg actor and former Grand Central Station owner Kris Doubles, sexy Tampa softball bear Bubba De, Tupperware queen Dixie Longate (Nov. 29); founding member of Orlando Gay Chorus David Schuler (Nov. 30); Orlando-based writer and blogger Jim Crescitelli, former Sarasota Pride board member Mary Hoch, MyQmunity. com founder Mariruth Kennedy (Dec. 1); derby zebra Shane Scare, derby volunteer wrangler Cynthia “Cynfully Vicious” West (Dec. 2); City of Sarasota Human Rights Board member Michael Shelton, Tampa GAGME bowling tourney’s former organizer Dave Bauer, Watermark contributor and DJ Kirk Hartlage (Dec. 3); Watermark’s Tampa Bay director of sales, Anthony Barros, Watermark contributor and Community Tampa Bay outreach coordinator Louanne Walters, Valencia Community College data guru Dwayne Smoot (Dec. 4); derby merchandise master Jennifer “Dolly Sparton” Sparkey; Come Out With Pride operations mastermind Joshua Hoskins, St. Petersburg artist Scott Durfee (Dec. 5); Sarasota Trinity Charity’s Paul DiPlacido, actor and Lucky Star St. Petersburg bartender Daniel Harris, Funky Monkey entrepreneur Eddie Nickell (Dec. 6); Orlando International Fringe Theatre Fest goddess Beth Marshall, Orlando Weekly staff writer Deanna Morey, St. Petersburg psychiatrist Tom Young,Tampa’s Red Herring Ltd. expert Ivan Moros (Dec. 7).

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

watermark | advice

dothis!

Take control of the situation ADVICE FROM

The Truth

Truth@WatermarkOnline.com

49

established that Sarah may not be the most caring person in the world.

I also am unclear how the finances of a ceremony in Q1 are just now being reconciled in Q4. I’m assuming here that she financed it all and you didn’t, or at least hadn’t yet, paid her back. Not sure the motivation there.

There seems to be some sloppiness on both sides, where crispness could have avoided this situation. Legally speaking, I think you’re on the hook for half the expense of the ceremony.

No way around that, I’m afraid. I’m unclear about why canceling a cruise so far in advance wouldn’t make you eligible for at least some kind of refund. Please confirm that she isn’t trying to double dip. Here comes the Truth: The ceremony is done and gone, but she broke up with you before the cruise, and I think she should bear the cost of pulling out.

Dear Truth, I hate Thanksgiving. Every year I have to go back to my parents’ house in Kentucky and endure four days of Southern Baptist sermons and Christian music. I have five older brothers and sisters, all of whom are married (of course!) and have at least two children, so the house is like a pre-school war zone. My dad avoids talking to me about anything other than UK basketball; mom forces a weird smile and politely changes the subject whenever someone asks me about my personal life. I’m out to one of my sisters, but she’s worried that her husband will find out so she will only talk about it when we’re walking the dogs. I’m truly thankful that I have a family to share the holidays, but I always come back to school feeling worse than when I left. Any advice?

—Tampa Bluegrass Kid

Dear Truth, t the beginning of 2011, my girlfriend Sarah and I had a beautiful commitment ceremony on Madeira Beach. Because of our work schedules, we planned our “honeymoon” as a cruise over the Christmas holidays, everything preDear TBK, paid. About a month after our ceremony, Yes, I do have some advice. Just stop. Just.

Sarah told me she wasn’t in love with me Stop. Going. These people, while I’m sure anymore and we broke up. Today she sent a loving family, make you miserable when me an email “reminding” me that I still owe you’re around all of them at once. Simply put, her for my “share” make alternate plans of the commitment for Thanksgiving, ceremony expenses and then go see them and the canceled individually. Excuses No one should hate cruise. I can’t believe about a local family Thanksgiving. Craft a it! I don’t feel like I inviting you to their strategy to maximize owe her anything. holiday, or having to What would you do? work before or after your enjoyment.

—Broken-Hearted Thanksgiving will do Bride the trick. (If you have a boyfriend, threaten Dear Ran-Away-From Bride – to bring him. Based on your description, it First of all, my condolences. Pardon the sounds like there would be a risk of being vulgarity, but that just sucks. You thought you uninvited.) This will allow you to dilute the were committing to something that would last experience, control it more, instead of getting forever and I’m sure it’s jarring to get such a the full-strength version every year. rude awakening. Chin up, young person. It will Here comes the Truth: No one should hate all be fine.

Thanksgiving. It’s a perfectly lovely holiday.

As for the money, it’s a little trickier. If Craft a strategy to maximize your enjoyment.

Sarah were a thoughtful person, she would An aside about your sister’s strategy with her have sent an email that had said something like husband: if the husband isn’t able to handle a “I realize that I called all this off, so I should non-blood relative being gay, he needs to grow bear a larger portion of the expense. How up. And she needs to stop coddling his bigotry. about you pay XX?” But I think we’ve already I would tell her so, too. But that’s just me. | l |

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watermark | sports

| Nov. 23 - Dec. 7, 2011

US soccer player British rugger suffers stroke, David Testo comes out awakes as gay man wire report

wire report

Montreal, Canada | American soccer player David Testo, who recently played for the Montreal Impact and who was formerly of the Columbus Crew, came out during a Nov. 10 interview with Radio Canada.

Testo is the first American Soccer player to come out of the closet and, while he is not affiliated with a professional team now, he is not retired, which is also a new milestone in the world of athletics.

“I really do regret not coming out publicly earlier,” the 30-year-old midfielder told RadioCanada. “It’s like carrying around a secret, you know, and carrying around luggage and just never being allowed to be yourself.”

The North Carolina native said he now feels more confident and mature and is ready to speak publicly about his sexual orientation.

He said his teammates and team owners and management all knew he was gay.

In the interview, Testo talked about the difficulty of being a gay athlete.

“On a daily basis I had to constantly be aware of the things I said, who I said it to,” he said. “I think players around me had to, too. That sucks, as a human being. It would have been a lot easier to get into a field where everything is accepted.” | l |

Strokes can have strange consequences. Some stroke victims wind up with different accents, others with different personalities. Chris Birch said he discovered he was gay when he woke up after a stroke.

The 26-year-old Welshman suffered a stroke after breaking his neck while attempting a back flip at a gym, according to the British newspaper The Daily Mail. His then-fiancée and family stayed by his side, but when he woke, something had changed.

“It sounds strange, but when I came round I immediately felt different,” Birch told the paper. “I wasn’t interested in women any more.

I was definitely gay. I had never been attracted to a man before—I’d never even had any gay friends.”

Before the stroke, Birch was a banker who loved playing rugby, watching sports, and drinking beer with his buds. After the stroke, he found he had little in common with his friends, quit his job to train as a hairdresser, and started dating a man.

“I went back to my job in the bank and tried hard to fit back into things but it didn’t seem right anymore,” Birch told The Mirror last month. “Suddenly, I hated everything about my

old life. I didn’t get on with my friends, hated sport, and found my job boring.”

He also focused more on his appearance, lost a lot of weight—and became more confident.

Birch’s neurologist told him the changes in his personality could be from the stroke “opening up” a different part of his brain, according to the Daily Mail.

What do experts have to say—can a stroke really turn you gay?

Dr. Ira G. Rashbaum, professor of rehabilitation medicine and chief of stroke rehab at NYU Langone Medical Center, wouldn’t speculate on this specific case since he wasn’t involved in Birch’s care, but he told CBS News that it’s quite common to see personality changes in patients following a stroke.

Rashbaum said some recovering stroke patients might experience anxiety, depression, or difficulties paying attention. In some cases if a stroke affects the brain’s frontal lobe—which controls inhibition—a previously quiet person might become angrier, suddenly telling others off.

But a full-blown personality change?

“This is a more rare circumstance, certainly not a common thing” he told CBS News. He added that profound personality

John R. Dickson,

Former British rugby player Chris Birch awoke following his stroke to learn he had a newfound attraction to men and a knack for hairstyling.

changes usually aren’t permanent following rehabilitation with a team that might include psychologists and social workers.

Joe Korner, director of communications for The Stroke Association in the U.K., told CBS News in an email that he’s never personally heard of a stroke changing someone’s sexuality, but he doesn’t doubt the stroke had some impact on Birch’s life.

“Strokes are traumatic, life-changing experiences, which can make you reassess life and your feelings so perhaps that’s the reason behind it,” Korner said. “Whether or not the stroke turned Chris gay, or whether he was gay anyway but unaware of it, his experience seems to be a positive one, which is great.” | l |

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billymasters

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o Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries have broken up. While I say, “Who cares?” people do. In fact, quite a large group of people on Facebook have cited this travesty as an argument to legalize gay marriage. And maybe they’re right. After all, how many gay men and women do we know who have moved in with someone they barely knew because they were sure this was “the one”?

To recap that story about Taylor Lautner’s dinner with Gus Van Sant and Dustin Lance Black, it actually was all business. Lautner optioned a non-fiction story that appeared in The New Yorker and is making it into a film that will be directed

by Van Sant. So when you think about it, it was Taylor who was wooing Gus! An ironic twist to the original speculation. Perhaps Lance will write the script. I’m sure he wants a piece of this action.

We’ve previously told you that Days of Our Lives was planning to have the character “Will Horton” come out. We now can confirm that storyline will be on the front burner when it hits around Thanksgiving. This means we’ll have sexy Chandler Massey and newcomer Freddie Smith to help fill the void that daytime devotees have felt since the demise of “NuKe” on As The World Turns.

There’s been a lot of buzz recently about actor Luke Evans, who is in The Three Musketeers and the upcoming Immortals.

When he was appearing on the London stage in Boy George’s musical Taboo almost a decade ago, he gave an interview to The Advocate where he talked very candidly about his sexuality. He made it quite clear that while his character in the musical was straight, he was openly gay.

However, last year an overseas paper linked Evans with a woman he brought with him to a premiere. When The Advocate reached out to Luke’s reps for an update, they were told that the actor would like his work to speak for itself and that he will no longer address his personal life in the media.

Of course, this isn’t Luke making any statement, so it should be ingested with a healthy amount of salt. But take it along with what Paris Barclay recalls about doing the 2002 interview, which he also recorded: “I can’t help but believe those were his true feelings at the time, but for the record, I haven’t spoken to him since and a lot can happen in nine years. Obviously, a lot has.” A lot, indeed.

I’m sure you all recall the play about Katharine Hepburn called Tea at Five, written by my bon ami Matthew Lombardo. The role of Miss Hepburn has been tackled by many formidable actresses, but here’s one you may not have seen coming—Charles Charles Busch! Yes, the divine Charles will be playing Hepburn (to the hilt, I’d expect) in a one-night-only staged reading.

This is a benefit for the Ali Forney Center, which provides housing for LGBT homeless youths (and was the primary beneficiary in Bea Arthur’s ’s will). This special event will take place on Nov. 28 at the Lucille Lortel Theatre in NYC and I wouldn’t miss it.

This week’s “Ask Billy” question comes from Joey in Biloxi, Miss.: “I understand Jonathan Groff went full frontal in Twelve Thirty. Do you have any footage or photos of that?”

I’m sure some of you may not be able to place Jonathan Groff. My theatre fans will know him

Acting legend Charles Busch will play another legend, Katherine Hepburn, in a special presentation of Tea at Five.

from Spring Awakening on Broadway. Indy film buffs will recognize him from Taking Woodstock. However, most of you will know him from his short stint on Glee as Jesse St. James, a role he will return to later this season. Anyway, Twelve Thirty made the round of film festivals earlier this year and will soon be released on DVD. When talking about the director’s style, the New York Times said this: “His uninhibited, compulsively talkative characters are likely to remove their clothes at the drop of a hat and to carry on intense personal conversations while naked.”

This would explain the cache of photos that appeared on my computer of Mr. Groff in the buff, who looks quite delectable indeed. Check him out on BillyMasters.com.

When I’m trying to figure out how to drop a hat the next time I run into Jonathan, it’s definitely time to end yet another column.

By the way, there’s been all sorts of buzz that Groff has been dating newly-out actor Zachary Quinto for the past several months. Or it could just be two gay men hanging out. Who knows?

Until next time, remember, one man’s filth is another man’s bible. | l | Three Musketeers and Immortals star Luke evans came out in the Advocate several years ago, but rumors are that he’s spending a lot of time with a woman.

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