Jeffries steps down as TBBG prez
In a surprising turn of events, Tampa Bay Business Guild board president Cory Jeffries stepped down from his role during the organization’s monthly meeting Jan. 11. Jeffries cited “personal reasons” for his departure and said he will remain on the board until the elections in April. Stepping into the role of president is Sharon Gwozdz, who was Jeffries’ vice president. “I am looking forward to our 29th year and will enjoy being a part of an organization that has remained strong for three decades,” Gwozdz said. Gwozdz said that membership numbers are up for the TBBG and that she expects all the seats on the board to be filled after the April elections. For more info, visit TBBG.org.
Beckner’s 40th will raise campaign funds
Hillsborough County’s first county commissioner (who happens to be gay) will celebrate his 40th birthday on Saturday, Feb. 5, with a campaign fundraiser at Mise En Place from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Kevin Beckner’s countywide seat is up for election again in 2012, but so far no candidate has announced any direct opposition to him. Regardless, Beckner and his supporters are prepping for another campaign season and tickets to the celebration—which is also a celebration of his continued commitment to public service, according to the invitation—start at a $40 contribution. The maximum contribution allowed is $500. Lester Freeman and “D” Band will provide the entertainment and attendees will no doubt get a chance to speak directly with the handsome commissioner. RSVPs can be sent to Ginnie@KevinBeckner.com.
No more Naturists
The Tampa Bay Naturists are no more. The gay social nudist group officially closed shop on Dec. 31, 2010, according to an e-mail sent to Watermark. That e-mail also directed those interested in joining a gay naturist group to visit GayNaturists.org. It is unclear as to why the Tampa Bay Naturists closed down. On its website, the group advertised that it had anywhere from 70 to 90 members and that it would host functions of a non-sexual nature throughout the Tampa Bay region. It is unclear if the group will reform at a later time.
