I featured Kevin Via back in January. The father of a gay child, Kevin made you realize that there are a few parents out there who care about their children whether they are gay, straight, bisexual or transgendered.
“I don't know how any parent, in their right mind, could let this happen. I mean that when your child is at their largest need, that you as a parent would fail them. Kicking them out of your house because they are not what you want them to be is stupid”, stated Kevin during our interview.
February I interviewed Eric Gabbard. Let me first say that it was because of Eric, that I had a rare opportunity for another person to focus on in this column (see July).
“It was through a conversation I had with Michelle Leigh Sterling one day”, commented Eric during our interview, “I told her that I was interested in learning all I could when it came to promoting a show”. After a while and with much confidence, Eric took over Miss Gay Pennsylvania America.
As spring was trying to pop into our lives, I sat down with Melissa Ray. A bartender to many in Baltimore, Melissa is a friend we should all have. The way she meets her newly intended boyfriends, is definitely a way to find out quickly, if they are keepers or not.
“They must be okay with my lifestyle and friends. I take them out to a gay bar usually on the first date and if they have a problem with that, then I have a problem with them.”
April showers bought us to May. I did 99% of an interview on the phone with Las Vegas Costume Jewelry designer and Owner Mark Martin.
Mark has such a talent when he designs many of the jewels you see on many female illusionists. From the big titles of Miss Gay America to the little clubs, Mark's jewelry is worn by the best.
Pride brought us into warmer weather. Not only did I get to drive a 2011 Chrysler 200 convertible from Don White's for the GLCCB but I also had the opportunity to get to know one of my Facebook friends better.
I interviewed Jonathan Jackson (aka Tatiyanna Voche') and featured him in our Pride issue. It was after a performance at Toby’s, which happened to be at Halloween, that he dressed in drag and went out with friends from the theatre. It was then, in a matter of speaking, that Jonathan's alter ego – Tatiyanna Voche, was born.
July brought to you at the time, the reigning Miss Gay America 2011 Coti Collins.
“How did you ever get Coti” is the standard comment I receive from emails regarding the article on Coti Collins. My reply is simple – right place at the right time. Coti was appearing at the Miss Gay Pennsylvania competition in Harrisburg. A mere hour drive from my abode; I couldn't pass up the opportunity.
After spending only a few minutes with Coti, I knew in the end that I gained more from meeting her alter ego David than she did; by taking time from her busy schedule with a lonely reporter from Baltimore.
After a slight leave of absence, I featured Mark Hunter in the November edition. It was through his daughter Samantha, that I learned the most about Mark.
December brought on more change for me. With the assistance of good friend Michael Serio, who has helped me with my wheelchair, getting around is not as difficult as it has been.
Though trying to adhere to my disability and limitations and being the victim of a robbery recently, for the most part has ruined the holidays for me. Trying to get in the spirit of things with all that I had been through just wasn't to be.
So, I look toward the future, hoping that this year will finally be a good one. I look forward to introducing you to a few more interesting people from Baltimore and beyond.
And I would also like to take this opportunity to thank a few people. First and foremost, to you who read my column. I enjoy introducing you to members of our community. Second, to my Editor Dana LaRocca and former Editor Steve Charing, who make writing an easier task.
As I leave you, let me be the first to wish you all a Happy and Safe New Year!
