From the MC Film Mail Bag

Posted on August 13, 2013 by admin

From: info@lccimembers.com
Reply-to: tpatiny@tampabay.rr.com

Potluck BBQ

August 17^th 2013

Flamingo Auto Group is having a Pot Luck BBQ on August 17^th 2013. This is on Picnic Island in South Tampa. Come show off your car and meet some new people. We are doing this event in conjunction with the Pot Luck Dinner Club they hold every month. This will be a great opportunity to meet some new people and show off your wheels.

Please let us know what you plan on bringing to the event so we can plan accordingly.

When – August 17^th 2013 at 4 PM

Where – 7409 Picnic Island Boulevard Tampa, FL 33616 Shelter #609

RSVP – Tpatiny@Tampabay.rr.com or (813) 404-4163 to let us know what you are bringing

Cost – This a Pot Luck dinner with another group so please bring a dish.

Directions – Gandy Blvd to South Westshore, head south and follow the curve around to the right. This turns in to Commerce St.. Stay on that street and follow signs to Picnic blvd.

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m.a.d. theatre

Presents

The Mystery of Edwin Drood

Directed & Choreographed by
Jennifer Marshall

Musical Direction by
Justin Havard

August 15-18 and 22-25, 2013

Thursday, Friday, Saturday 8:00 p.m.
Sunday 2:00 p.m.

$22.00*

Buy Tickets

Written by Rupert Holmes, the-whodunit, audience participation musical is based on the unfinished Charles Dickens’ novel, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, comically staged by a loony Victorian musical troupe. At the center of the plot is a love triangle between John Jasper (a Jekyll-and-Hyde choirmaster), the object of his affection (Miss Rosa Bud, his music student), and his nephew, Edwin Drood, who happens to be engaged to Miss Bud. The title character mysteriously disappears at a Christmas Eve celebration—but has Drood been murdered? If so, by whom? Cue the audience to answer that question and orchestrate the show’s final scenes.

Winner of the 1986 Tony Award for Best Musical, The Mystery of Edwin Drood recently won the hearts of audiences and critics alike, earning a 2013 nomination for Best Revival of a Musical.

Shimberg Playhouse
David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

1010 North W.C. MacInnes Place • Tampa, Florida 33602

*Using a credit card will incur service charges plus an optional donation to the Straz.

Service charges may be reduced by paying with cash at the Straz ticket window.

Support m.a.d. Theatre

Shop Amazon!

Click on the Amazon icon to shop!

m.a.d. theatre will receive a percentage of your purchase from Amazon.

Thank you for your continued support!

www.madtheatre.com • m.a.d. theatre on Facebook •

m.a.d theatre is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit community theatre that incorporates the three performing arts; Music, Acting, & Dance. Established in 1999 m.a.d theatre has since delivered powerful, provocative, and affordable musical theatre to stages in the Tampa area. We are always looking for people who are interested in performing or volunteering, and for donors and corporate sponsors. m.a.d. theatre survives on your generosity! Contact us at Info@madtheatre.com for more information.

Donate to m.a.d. theatre

Shop Amazon and Support m.a.d. theatre using this link

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Dillydally with Dali
August 17, 2013 (Saturday)
11:45 AM – 4:30 PM

Children can discover the creative world of Dali through games, puzzles and arts + crafts activities which educate and encourage family interaction. Dillydally with Dali takes place under the direction of the museum’s Family Programs Coordinator in the 1st floor Education Classroom. Saturday activities are supported by Jeeves Law Group, P.A.

Cost: Free

“Sharing Salvador…Legacy Stories”
August 17, 2013 (Saturday)
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Documentary captures over three decades of memories of Eleanor and Reynolds Morse, Dali Museum founders, and the origins of the Dali Museum. Films feature six story tellers: Dali Deputy Director & Chief Curator Joan Kropf, and docents Jane Roberts, Charlotte Smyth, Georgia Parsons, Johnna Patterson and Joan Sackheim. Sharing Salvador was created in in collaboration with the Suncoast Hospice Lifetime Legacies program and St. Petersburg Parks & Recreation TASCO Teen Technology Camp. (Hank Hine, Executive Producer; Yvonne Marrullier, Project Coordinator).

Cost: Free to all. Refreshments for sale in Cafe Gala (Refreshments not permitted in theater)

Yoga + Dali
August 18, 2013 (Sunday)
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM

Join Inspire Yoga every Sunday at the New Dali – a remarkable environment where Dali’s energy infuses the physical, mental and spiritual inspiration of yoga. Classes held in the Community Room or Avant-Garden, both with incredible views of the waterfront. Classes are vinyasa/ashtanga-based incorporating pranayama (breath work), asana (posture work), meditation and relaxation. Beginners and experienced yogis are welcome. Practice as gentle or advanced as desired. Please arrive early on a light stomach, bring your mat and towel, and come ready to be inspired. Forgot your mat? We have several on hand to lend. Enter through the Cafe Gala doors (Eastside Garden entrance) starting at 11:30.

Cost: $10 members and students, $15 non-members. Non-members, visit the galleries on the same day for an additional $6. Please purchase tickets at Admissions and bring your receipt to class.

NEXT WEEK: Cult Classics @ The Dali: Big Lebowski
August 20, 2013 (Tuesday)
7:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Cult Classic (Noun ‘kult ‘kla-sik): A movie that keeps getting better with every line of dialogue memorized and every Halloween costume inspiration.

Your hostess: Kori Stevens, Female Impersonator

Grab your lawn chair, put on your bathrobe, grab a $5 milkshake, and get ready to laugh with your favorite anti-heroes! Movie inspired dress is encouraged. Enjoy a cash bar, popcorn and food truck delights. Event presented by the Zodiac Group.

Featured food truck: Destination Grill

Cost: Film is free and open to the public. Event takes place on the museum patio. Doors open at 7pm. Films start at sunset. (Museum will be closed.)

A T T E N T I O N

Centennial Park to Undergo Site Improvements

Minor construction will begin Tuesday, August 13, 2013 in Ybor City’s Centennial Park. American with Disabilities Handicap improvements will be made to the Centennial Park stage. There will also be a gas kiln installed as well as a brick screen wall at the southern wing of the Ybor Art Studio.

The Ybor City Saturday Market will REMAIN OPEN throughout the construction period. Upcoming Special Events in the park will not be impacted by the project. Estimated project completion is November 30, 2013.

For more information about this project, please contact Kelly Carpenter, City of Tampa Contract Administration at 813-635-3475 or kelly.carpenter@tampagov.net.

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50th Anniversary Of The March On Washington West Tampa Branch Library
To:

Groups must register in advance. Call (813) 273-3652.


50th Anniversary Of The March On Washington
Email a friend Notify me Print Download to calendar Remind Me
Event Type: All Ages Age Group(s): Children, All Ages, Adults Date: 8/24/2013 Start Time: 2:30 PM End Time: 4:30 PM Description: Enjoy a day of memories and song! To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, which took place on August 28, 1963, the library will feature video histories of local residents who were present on that eventful day along with an afternoon of freedom songs. Refreshments will be provided. Library: West Tampa Branch Library Map & Directions Location: Tony Garcia Jr. Community Room Other Information: Funded by the Ada T. Payne Friends of the Urban Libraries.

* * * * * * * *

From the MC Film Mail Bag

Posted on August 6, 2013 by admin

National Center for Lesbian Rights, St. Petersburg Office Collection

http://lib.usf.edu/special-collection-news/now-available/national-center-for-lesbian-rights-st-petersburg-office-collection/

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Ybor celebrity known for crazy costumes, David “Diggler” Marshall can’t afford surgery to walk againRead more: http://www.abcactionnews.com/dpp/news/region_tampa/Ybor-celebrity-known-for-crazy-costumes-David-Diggler-Marshall-cant-afford-surgery-to-walk-again#ixzz2bDFBTqIc

From the MC Film Mail Bag

Posted on July 30, 2013 by admin

Invitation from Flamingo Auto Group

A message from Tiny Nasworthy

Potluck BBQ

August 17^th 2013

Please let us know what you plan on bringing to the event so we can plan accordingly.

When – August 17^th 2013 at 4 PM

Where – 7409 Picnic Island Boulevard Tampa, FL 33616 Shelter #609

RSVP – Tpatiny@Tampabay.rr.com or (813) 404-4163 to let us know what you are bringing

Cost – This a Pot Luck dinner with another group so please bring a dish.

Directions – Gandy Blvd to South Westshore, head south and follow the curve around to the right. This turns in to Commerce St.. Stay on that street and follow signs to Picnic blvd.

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Metro Wellness and Community Centers

HIV GALA Tickets on Sale

Tickets On Sale

A Night Like No Other!

(Tampa Bay) June 25, 2013 – Tickets are now on sale for Metro Wellness and Community Centers’ Inaugural Tampa Bay Gala. This year marks the organizations 20^th anniversary and plans are well underway to create “a night like no other” to celebrate this milestone.

The event presented by Mail-Meds Clinical Pharmacy will take place at the Tampa Garden Club on Saturday, September 14, 2013 as part of a weeklong celebration that also marks the National LGBT Community Center Awareness Day. Throughout the week, Metro locations in Tampa and St. Petersburg will host open-house events for area neighborhoods including Historic Kenwood and Central Oak Park in St. Petersburg and Historic Ybor City in Tampa. On Friday night, comic Karen Williams will have a pre-Gala performance at the St. Pete Center, located at 3251 3^rd Avenue North in St. Petersburg. Tickets are $20.

Saturday night is the big night as special guests from throughout the community look back and celebrate the work that Metro Wellness and Community Centers has done throughout the community. Metro was founded as Metropolitan Charities by King of Peace MCC in 1993. What started as an effort to assist those suffering from HIV/AIDS in Pinellas County has grown into a thriving beacon of service and education to those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS serving four counties. In addition, through it’s Community Centers in Ybor City, St. Petersburg and New Port Richey – Metro is now a hub of activity for the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) community with health and wellness programs, education, social activities and special events to help improve the quality of life for those in the Tampa Bay area. Today the organization serves nearly 9,000 people each year, with an outreach to many more. The organization’s programs and services continue to expand and reach people across the state of Florida.

The Tampa Bay Gala is on Saturday, September 14, 2013 from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. at the Tampa Bay Garden Club, 2629 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa. Metro has an exciting evening planned with cocktails, elegant edibles, live entertainment and special guests, including Williams, an award-winning comic; Jack Mackenroth, model, Project Runway star and HIV activist; and US Representative Kathy Castor.

Curve Magazine calls Karen Williams “a laugh riot!” She delights fan-filled audiences from San Francisco to South Beach to Sidney and now makes her way to the Tampa Bay area. Williams is a featured comic in “We’re Funny That Way,” the internationally-acclaimed film shown regularly on HBO, is host of the New York variety show, “In the Life”, and her humor writings appear in numerous anthologies. Williams has worked with numerous HIV/AIDS charities and uses her celebrity status to raise awareness and to work for social justice using humor and healing.

Mackenroth is most known for his run on Project Runway Season 4, but has also been a professional designer, nationally recognized competitive swimmer and fitness and fashion model for years. He has appeared in numerous magazines including a cover story feature in the May/June 2013 issue of HIV Plus Magazine. Mackenroth has always been very open about his positive HIV status. Since his diagnosis in 1990, he has tried to combat the stigma of HIV by living honestly and being a role model through professional and athletic achievements.

Tickets are available for all events at www.MetroTampaBay.org, by calling 727-321-3854 or at the St. Petersburg Center. Gala tickets are $100. Additional sponsorships are also available. For more information email Kathie Michael at KathieM@metrotampabay.org.

Metropolitan Charities, Inc. d/b/a Metro Wellness and Community Centers is a 501(c)3 organization committed to providing premier HIV services, social networking, and other health and wellness programs that enhance the quality of life. The organization strives to promote a healthy environment for all and to foster diversity within the community as a whole regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or economic status.

# # #

Media Contact:

Metro Wellness & Community Centers

Chris Rudisill

Director of LGBT Community Center Services

Phone: 727-321-3854 ext. 238

Email: chrisr@metrotampabay.org

www.MetroTampaBay.org

********************************

m.a.d. theatre

Presents

The Mystery of Edwin Drood

Directed & Choreographed by
Jennifer Marshall

Musical Direction by
Justin Havard

August 15-18 and 22-25, 2013

Thursday, Friday, Saturday 8:00 p.m.
Sunday 2:00 p.m.

$22.00*

Buy Tickets

Winner of the 1986 Tony Award for Best Musical, The Mystery of Edwin Drood recently won the hearts of audiences and critics alike, earning a 2013 nomination for Best Revival of a Musical.

Shimberg Playhouse
David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

1010 North W.C. MacInnes Place • Tampa, Florida 33602

*Using a credit card will incur service charges plus an optional donation to the Straz.

Service charges may be reduced by paying with cash at the Straz ticket window.

From the MC Film Mail Bag

Posted on July 16, 2013 by admin

Streetcar Fest, October 12, 2013

We are actively seeking sponsors to support the 2013 TECO Line Streetcar System Streetcar Fest Event.

It is the time of year again when we begin preparations for the annual TECO Line Streetcar System Fest. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, October 12, 2013, from 10a.m. to 2a.m. (the following day). A 25¢ fare is being offered to thank the community for its past patronage, as well as to attract new riders. In celebration we will also be collaborating with the Ybor Saturday Market that will promote its first OktYborFest on the same day. That event along the line will undoubtedly add to the success of the 2013 TECO Line Streetcar System Fest.

The TECO Line Streetcar System is a 2.7 mile streetcar system connecting Historic Ybor City, to the Channel District, and Downtown Tampa. Six sponsorship levels exist for the 2013 TECO Line Streetcar System Fest. You can find these and other sponsorship levels attached to this letter.

On October 12, 2013, we celebrate 11 years since the return of the bright yellow streetcars, with a 25¢ fare, which will attract more ridership.

Become a part of Tampa’s most notable icons. We ask that you help support the celebration of this iconic piece of Tampa that has helped revitalize Ybor, the Channel District and downtown Tampa. A representative from HART and/or the TECO Line Streetcar System will keep you informed of the details of the event throughout our preparations. Please review the list of attached sponsorship levels and let us know which sponsorship level represents your commitment and opportunity to be part of Tampa’s iconic Streetcar service and this event by Friday, August 4, 2013. Cash sponsorships may be negotiable.

For any questions regarding this offer please contact Lynn Cristina, HART Community Relations Specialist at 813-384-6595 (CristinaL@goHART.org), or Carla Williams, HART Community Relations Specialist at 813-384-6596 (WilliamsC@goHART.org). You can also email adinfo@goHART.org.

Thank you for your time, we look forward to working with you, and your business.
Steve Rosenstock
Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications
HART
1201 East 7th Avenue
Tampa, FL 33605
Tel: (813) 384-6597
FAX: (813) 223-7976
RosenstockS@gohart.org

From the MC Film Mail Bag

Posted on July 9, 2013 by admin

33rd National Veterans Wheelchair Games

Tampa Convention Center

July 13-18, 2013

http://www.va.gov/opa/speceven/wcg/index.asp

The Retirement Announcement of Rev Phyllis Hunt, M-Div

Retirement Announcement

Our Mission:
.
CLAIM our birthright
GROW in wisdom
SERVE in gratitude
SHARE God’s Love

In This Issue

Spiritual Reflection

Upcoming Events

Church Happenings

Social Justice
In the Life of Our Church
Community Events

This Week

Sunday Service

10:30 AM

Weekly Office Hours

Tues-Thurs

10:00AM-3:00PM

(813) 239-1951

408 E. Cayuga Street

Upcoming Events

Movie Day

Sex in The City of God Bistro & a Book

Fall Yard Sale

Church Happenings

Monthly Board Mtg

Cookbooks

Living Green

Board Positions Open

Facebook Page

Social Justice

Domestic Ptnr Registry

Pop Tops For Shriners HIV Testing

Food Pantry

In the Life of Our Church

Ministry Opportunities

Congregational Care

Become a Creative Financier

Recurring Credit Card

Our Community

Francis House is looking for Volunteers

Tampa Bay Business Guild

Join Our Mailing List

July 7th 2013

Dear Beloved Community,

It is with a prayerful heart and much discernment that I announce my retirement from MCC Tampa as well as the work of senior pastoral ministry. You called me to serve as your pastor in March of 2003 and I have served you faithfully and with great passion, creativity, prayerful leadership, abiding faithfulness and holy boldness throughout my tenure. No matter how long a pastor is called by a church body, it is a temporary relationship. As you may know, discerning a call to join or depart from ministry requires deep listening. It is like finding a well worn path in an overgrown field of tall grass. You cannot find it with your eyes, it must be felt and it requires courage, persistence, patience and trust.

To hear the voice of my call means I must listen beyond the familiar voices of emotions, opinions, logic, fear, and even desire. I have never heard my call in the literal sense of language or words. My sense of call is not dictated by the world or the church’s standards of success or failure, although I have experienced both in my time as your pastor by your definition and mine. My call is not based on feelings of being loved or disdained, for a good leader will evoke a spectrum of emotional responses by the very nature of this work. My sense of call is a knowing that resides deep in the core of my being.

The prospect of no longer being a part of the ministry of this congregation has been a painful and difficult a decision for me. I have been your pastor for over 10 years and a community friend of this church since 1987. The work that you asked me to do over the past 10 years as your spiritual leader has offered me some of the most spiritually enriched, creative and challenging experience both professionally and personally. I’m proud of the work we have done and I will carry many meaningful memories of our time together in my heart and mind for many years to come.
The most spiritually fulfilling experiences for me throughout my ministry with you have always been those which were the most personal: celebrating your most joyous times with you – baptisms, weddings, and the accomplishments of your goals and dreams; sharing with you in times of spiritual confusion, sickness, loss, and bereavement. As well as living into gospel of justice and equality as we stood on the front lines fighting for the rights to adopt our children and marriage equality, feeding hungry people who come to our doors both spiritually and physically.

Because I am so convinced of the important ministry MCC Tampa provides, not only those inside the walls of our church but the greater community beyond these walls, it is difficult for me to conclude my journey with you. This decision is ﬁlled with both love and loss for me as I imagine this change. I love this church and already feel a sense of loss as I name and enter this season of change. At the same time I’m ready to retire from the role of Senior Pastor. The responsibility of leading MCC Tampa is overwhelming and unending. When I was training for ministry I often said seminary was the greatest and hardest work I had ever done, now I say it prepared me for the greatest and hardest work I will ever do. I believe God will give each of us the strength and vision we need for the transition ahead – and at the same time, I believe God is calling me in a new direction.
I will conclude my work as your pastor on August 11, 2013. I believe it is important for you to know that I am not seeking another church to serve and I do not have a job waiting for me. I will enter a time of well needed rest and some space to grieve and celebrate our journey. As I move through this season of caring for myself, my family and my beloved spouse, Vilia (whose service, gifts and talents to the ministry of this church and her unwavering support of me, I hold and appreciate with deep gratitude and love), I believe that the work God is calling me to will become clear. The office of pastor includes ethics that define the role of a pastor leaving this office. The implications of my retirement means that following this date I will not be attending MCC Tampa for any events to include worship, weddings, funerals, baptisms, fundraisers, community events, etc. Please understand not attending MCC Tampa is not personal, it is my responsibility to the covenant of ordained ministry and to you. This decision is bittersweet. I’m sad to leave, but whoever the church calls as its next installed pastor needs space to establish spiritual authority and unencumbered time to set up meaningful relationships and partners in the work of the mission of this church.

In the coming weeks Rev. Elder Darlene Gardner will be meeting with the board and the congregation to help you in this transition and place an interim pastor that will guide you as you prepare to call your next pastor. Between my leaving and an interim pastor coming Tammy Rabon will be the lay pastoral leader. I will continue to hold you and the impact of this decision in prayer and I ask you to do the same for me and my family. May we feel the presence, comfort and guidance of the holy spirit as we move through this transition while serving the mission of our call to proclaim God’s unconditional love to the world we touch and beyond.

With deep love and affection,

Rev. Phyllis Hunt, M-Div

Calendar of Events at The Metro Wellness Center

Tomorrow, find out which St. Pete Mayoral Candidate has your issues in mind:

LGBT Mayoral Debate
Tuesday, July 9 from 6:30-8:30pm
Metro St. Pete Center
Do you know where the St. Petersburg Mayoral Candidates stand on issues important to you? The Metro St. Pete Center will host an LGBT Mayoral Debate next week so you can get your questions answered! The event is free and open to the public.

Fondue Party
Wednesday, July 17 from 6:30-8:30pm
The Melting Pot – 2221 4th St. N., St. Pete
Join us for fun, friends & fondue at this fundraiser for The SMART Ride. The event includes a four-course meal with free raffles and complimentary beverages. To register, visit: outingsandadventures.com. Mingling begins at 6:30pm and dinner is at 7:00pm.

Bruno Mars Concert
Wednesday, August 28 at 7:30pm
Tampa Bay Times Forum
Get exclusive tickets to the iconic Bruno Mars show! Tickets are $135 and include VIP treatment in a premium loft party area with free alcohol and food. These tickets serve as a fundraiser for Metro.

Like Us! Follow Us!

ty Mix
Looking? HMU!
A new program for gay and bisexual men in Tampa.

IMPAC+
A Group for HIV+ men to discuss topics liek making safe sex fun, discrimination when dating, and more.

HMU
A social and peer group for all men to talk about sex and community.

RSVP: Call 813-232-3808
or email AbbyN@metrotampabay.org for more info.

St. Petersburg Events & Classes

Mondays
Positive Choices
Mondays & Wednesdays
12:00-2:00pm
Substance abuse program for HIV+ adults. Eligibility required.

Young M.I.N.D.S.
Mondays, 1:00-3:00pm
Empowerment program for Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino young adults, 18-24.

Next Generation
Mondays, 5:30-7:00pm
A forum for LGBTQA youth, ages 14-18, to discuss everything from coming out, bullying and dating, play games, watch movies and more. Free dinner.

The Lounge
Mondays, 7:00-8:30pm
Meet other LGBTQA young adults, ages 18-24, in this fun, supportive atmosphere. Weekly events vary. Free refreshments.

Pregnancy Planning
July 15, 6:00-7:00pm
Learn from female couples who have successfully become mothers how to become pregnant: from planning, to finding a donor, legal and hospital issues and more.

SATP Presents: Jeffrey
July 1, 7:30pm
freeFall Theatre – 6099 Central Ave. St Pete
This play takes place in Manhattan during the height of the AIDS epidemic and revolves around a gay man who has sworn off sex because of it. But then he meets a hunky, charming HIV+ man. He then experiences an emotional conflict as he must face his fear in order to accept love, often breaking the fourth wall to do so. Tickets are $10 and proceeds benefit Metro Wellness and Community Centers.Tickets can be purchased at freefalltheatre.com.

Cooking Class
July 22, 6:00-7:30pm
Learn how to roll your own sushi. Samples, wine and soda will be provided. $5 suggested donation. Limited to 10 students.

Tuesdays
Mature Men’s Group
Tuesdays, 11:00am-12:00pm
Meet other men, aged 55+, for discussions, friendships and outings.

55+ Brown Bag Lunch
Tuesdays, 12:00-1:30pm
Bring your lunch and engage with other 55+ aged LGBT adults. Chat about current topics & make new friends.

Women’s Group
Tuesdays, 1:30-3:30pm
Meet other women, aged 55+, for discussions, friendships and outings.

Metro2
Tuesdays, 1:00-3:00pm
Prevention program for substance abuse, relapse, and reduction of HIV and Hepatitis transmission.

Buddhist Meditation
Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30pm
Develop a clearer mind and calmer soul in this guided meditation series. $10 per class or $60 for 6-week series (book included).
To register for a class, email: LGBT@metrotampabay.org

LGBT Mayoral Debate
Tuesday, July 9
7:00-8:30pm
Join us along with other LGBT organizations in Tampa Bay as we welcome St. Petersburg Mayoral candidates to address issues that are important to the LGBT and allied communities.

Wednesdays
Living, Loving, Learning
Wednesdays, 10:00am-12:00pm
Peer-based group for HIV+ women and men. Eligibility required.

Positive Choices
Mondays & Wednesdays
12:00-2:00pm
Substance abuse program HIV+ adults. Eligibility required.

Overeaters Anonymous
Wednesdays, 1:30-2:30pm
A program of recovery from compulsive eating, providing a private fellowship of experience, strength and hope.

Bingo
Wednesdays, 2:30-3:30pm
Free bingo in the community room. Play for a chance to for cool prizes!

Trans* Talk
FTM: July 3 MTF: July 10
FTM: Aug 7 MTF: Aug 14
7:00-8:30pm
Share experiences, explore emotions and express yourself in a discussion and support group for those who identify as transgender.

Book Club
July 17, 5:30-6:30pm
The Metro Book Club meets once a month to discuss thought-provoking literature. This month, we’ll discuss Peace Like a River by Leif Enger.

Fondue Party
Wednesday, July 17
6:30-8:30pm
The Melting Pot – 2221 4th St N.
Join us for fun, friends & fondue at this fundraiser for The SMART Ride. The event includes a four-course meal with free raffles and complimentary beverages.
To register, visit: outingsandadventures.com. Mingling begins at 6:30pm and dinner is at 7:00pm.

Quit Smoking Class
Wednesday, July 24
2:00-4:00pm
Or Wednesday July 31
5:00-7:00pm
Need to quit smoking now? Take one of our smoking cessation classes and learn the tools to kick the habit. You may choose the afternoon or evening course. RSVP to: LGBT@metrotampabay.org.

Thursdays
Senior Fitness
Thursdays, 11:00am-12:00pm
Increase your strength, endurance and flexibility in this fitness class for those aged 55 or better.

WEST (Women Empowered & Standing Tall)
Thursdays, 1:00-3:00pm
Program for women with a husband, boyfriend or fiancé who is incarcerated or recently released from jail or prison.

Yoga
Thursdays, 6:00-7:00pm
Center yourself at the Metro Center. All experiences levels welcome. FREE!

Drop-in Life Coaching
Thursday, August 1
11:00am-12:00pm
Need help getting something started—or finished? Want to reconcile with a loved one but don’t know how? Wading into end-of-life questions? Whether you’re just plain curious about coaching or have something you’d really like to work on, Peggy Green of ClearHeart Coaching invites you to drop in and try it out. Suggested Donation: $10.

Fridays
Wii Games
Fridays, 2:00-4:00pm
Play fun Wii games! Bring a group or play solo!

Saturdays
Free Legal Advice
July 6 & Aug 3 12:00-2:00pm
Stop in for a consultation with a lawyer with your questions regarding: Name change, Domestic partnerships, Estate planning, Wills, Advocacy and more.

Free Financial Advising
July 27, 12:00-1:30pm
Consult with a financial adviser on issues specific to LGBT people.

Kathy Griffin
Metro Night @ Ruth Eckerd Hall
Saturday, July 13 8:00pm
Metro will be at the Kathy Griffin show sharing information about our programs and accepting donations from the community. Get your tickets for this hilarious night of entertainment before they sell out: rutheckerdhall.com.

Sundays
LGBT Sunday Cinema
Sundays, 1:00-3:00pm
Each Sunday we open our center for you to come alone or bring friends and loved ones to enjoy an LGBT film. The attendees vote upon which film we will play from our LGBT film library.

FREE HIV Testing
Monday – Wednesday
11:00am-7:00pm
Thursday
11:00am-5:00pm

Cyber Center
Open Daily, 9:00am-7:00pm

Tampa Events & Classes

Mondays
Pozitive Yoga
Mondays, 6:30-8:00pm
This free yoga brings together HIV+ people to practice basic yoga postures, meditation, breath control (pranayama), and to discuss ways to improve our lives. The instructor is a long-term survivor of HIV and knows that yoga can beneficial in living a healthy Pozitive life. This class is only open to those who are HIV+.

Tuesdays
PC3D
Tuesdays, 11:00am-1:00pm
Substance abuse and therapeutic support group for HIV+ adults. Eligibility required.

Living, Loving, Learning
Tuesdays, 1:00-3:00pm
Peer-based group for HIV+ women and men. Eligibility required.

Next Generation
Tuesdays, 5:30-7:00pm
A forum for LGBTQA youth, ages 14-18, to discuss everything from coming out, bullying and dating, play games, watch movies and more. Free dinner.

Wednesdays
PC3D
Wednesdays, 11:00am-1:00pm
Substance abuse and therapeutic support group for HIV+ adults. Eligibility required.

Metro2
Wednesdays, 1:00-3:00pm
Prevention program for substance abuse, relapse, and reduction of HIV and Hepatitis transmission.

WEST (Women Empowered & Standing Tall)
Thursdays, 1:00-3:00pm
Program for women with a husband, boyfriend or fiancé who is incarcerated or recently released from jail or prison.

To register for a class, email: LGBT@metrotampabay.org

Guided Meditation
Wednesdays, 7:00-8:00pm
An hour of meditation experiences that induce relaxation of the mind and body. Led by Shamanic Practitioner Anna Oliver.

Gay & Bi Men’s Discussion
Wednesdays, 7:00-8:30pm
A safe space for gay and bisexual men to have discussions, socialize, network, learn and grow.

GLSEN
No July Meeting
The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network will not meet in July.

Drag Bingo
Tuesday, July 16
7:30-10:00pm
Hamburger Mary’s
1600 E. 7^th Ave., Tampa
The always-hilarious Drag Queen Bingo at Hamburger Mary’s will be benefiting Metro Wellness and Community Centers July 16. Bring a group and support your local LGBT community center!

Thursdays
Relapse Prevention
Thursdays, 11:00am-1:00pm
Substance abuse prevention for HIV+ adults who are 100+ days clean and sober. Eligibility required.

Young M.I.N.D.S.
Thursdays, 5:00-6:30pm
Empowerment program for Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino young adults, 18-24.

Narcotics Anonymous
Thursdays, 5:45-6:45pm
A discussion and support group for those struggling with narcotics usage.

The Lounge
Thursdays, 7:00-8:30pm
Meet other LGBTQA young adults, ages 18-24, in this fun, supportive atmosphere. Weekly events vary. Free refreshments.

Fridays
Wii Games
Fridays, 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Play fun Wii games! Bring a group or play solo! Win prizes.

Babes and Brews
July 12, 7:30-10:30pm
Cold Storage Craft Brewery
4101 North Florida Ave. Tampa
An event for the women! Enjoy live music by the Friendship Notes, craft beers, raffles, Rollin’ Zoinks food truck and great company.

Saturdays
Buddhist Meditation
Saturdays, 10:00am-12:00pm
Develop a clearer mind and calmer soul in this guided meditation series. $10 per class or $60 for 6-week series (book included).

Free Financial Advising
July 27, 2:30-4:00pm
Consult with a financial adviser on issues specific to LGBT people.

Sundays
Trans*Talk
Sundays, July 7 & 21
2:00-4:00pm
Share experiences, explore emotions and express yourself in a discussion and support group free from judgment.

Cyber Center
Open Daily, 9:00am-7:00pm

FREE HIV Testing
Monday – Wednesday
11:00am-7:00pm
Thursday
11:00am-5:00pm

From the MC Film Mail Bag

Posted on July 2, 2013 by admin

From the MC Film Mail Bag

For Immediate Release

(Tampa Bay) June 27, 2013 – As the Tampa Bay community celebrates landmark decisions on same-sex marriage by the Supreme Court this week, along with Florida’s largest Pride celebration, St. Pete Pride, Metro Wellness & Community Centers continues to move forward with tremendous growth in 2013, the organization’s 20^th year.

Metro is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Community AIDS Network (CAN), a full service HIV/AIDS Service organization based in Sarasota County. As of early April, Metro began working with CAN to form an alliance that will strengthen our expanding services to a broad community along the Central West Florida coast. CAN emerged from the union of Sarasota AIDS Support, Inc. and the Comprehensive Care Clinic, opening its 9,000 square foot facility in December of 2000. After 20 years of service, CAN offers medical and mental health services, nutritionists, dental services, case management, prevention, and intervention programs.

The partnership will collaboratively create additional medical care services that only CAN is able to provide, increasing our combined reach to at-risk communities, increasing visibility among a broader population and solidifying both organizations’ futures in preparation for the Affordable Care Act. “We’ve been visionaries in this partnership,” says Michel W. Cuffage, CEO and President of CAN. “Together, with Metro – we’re better prepared for a vast change in healthcare in Florida and we’re able to strengthen the bonds with needed populations in the areas we serve.” Metro will now offer exclusive services strengthened by CAN’s ability to hire and staff medical clinics in all three of Metro’s current locations. Services began in the organization’s Ybor City location this month and will be opening up a similar medical clinic in our St. Pete Center within the coming months, moving the organization along the path of being a comprehensive health and wellness center, providing a full array of client center services: social programs, support services and now medical care!

“The partnership solidifies our futures,” says Lorraine Langlois, CEO of Metro Wellness & Community Centers. “Our foresight is providing comprehensive clinical care, support, prevention, and LGBT health resources with a combined staff of more than 120 committed specialists in the field.” Langlois has grown the organization from its original founding at King of Peace Metropolitan Church in St. Petersburg in 1993. King of Peace was the first local faith-based organization to open its hearts and doors to those afflicted with HIV/AIDS in the area. Metro, with offices in Tampa, St. Petersburg and New Port Richey has been serving the HIV/AIDS and LGBT communities for 20 years and is the premier provider of such services and general health and wellness programs in the area.

There will be no changes to either organization – only a growth in our presence and prestige across the area as we continue to serve the needs of those affected by HIV/AIDS, the LGBT community and further communities at-risk. “We’re on the brink of providing a full array of wrap-around services to many more in need,” says Langlois.

Additionally, Metro will continue to grow and extend LGBT activities and programs so that everyone can enjoy the centers including more youth programming, senior programming, HIV prevention education and social programs, and health and wellness programs. By the end of the year – we’ll also open a LGBT Welcome Center right in the heart of the Grand Central District on Central Avenue next to our current Metro Thrift and Gift. This project, sponsored by Visit Florida, will be only the second LGBT Welcome Center in the country and will serve as a hub for visitors and residents alike. The future of the project also includes a café and space for local music nights, poetry slams and more. Together with our full-service Centers throughout the Tampa Bay area and our upcoming Visitor’s Center – we will continue to provide a comprehensive set of programming and health and wellness services to the LGBT community.

As you can see, there’s a lot in store for Metro and the Tampa Bay community in 2013. We hope that as you celebrate this year’s Pride Season, please come visit us – at our booth during the annual Street Festival and at one of our Community Centers in Ybor City, St. Petersburg or New Port Richey.

In September of this year, we will celebrate again our “20 Years Strong and Enduring” with our inaugural Metro Tampa Bay Gala on September 14 at the Tampa Bay Garden Club. The event will feature live entertainment, a silent auction, elegant edibles, cocktails and plenty of surprises. We hope that the entire community will join us this year in celebrating YOUR community centers and help us build for the future.

Media Contact:

Metro Wellness & Community Centers
Chris Rudisill
Director of LGBT Community Center Services
Phone: 727-321-3854 ext. 238
Email: chrisr@metrotampabay.org
www.MetroTampaBay.org

First off, Happy Pride weekend to you! As June comes to a close, you may be wondering what the Metro Community Centers are offering in July. Scroll down to our St. Pete and Tampa calendars below to see all of our new programs and events highlighted in yellow.

HOT OFF THE PRESS:
Announcement:Metro is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Community AIDS Network (CAN – a full service HIV/AIDS Service organization in Sarasota County). Metro and CAN’s partnership will create additional medical care services, increasing our combined reach to at-risk communities, increasing visibility among a broader population, and solidifying both organizations’ futures in preparation for the Affordable Care Act. Read the full article here.

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