Local author of the recently published novel Sunlight in the Shadows is a long time resident of Hampton Roads, working in Ghent and residing in Chesapeake with her wife Elise. Read on to learn more about Gail!
Where were you born and raised?
Massapequa, Long Island New York
How long have you lived in Hampton Roads?
21 Years
What do you do for money/living?
Property Manager/Executive Assistant the Palace Shops & Station LLC’S West 21st Street in Norfolk
How long have you been ‘out’ (if applicable) and who was the hardest person to tell?
26 years and my brother
Who is your LGBTQ hero and why?
The man I have worked for and with the last fifteen years, Claus Ihlemann. His dedication is an inspiration.
Is a picture worth a thousand words? Explain your answer.
Yes! When you look a picture you can feel range of emotions.
What is the most memorable LGBTQ moment of your life?
First march on Washington
On what do you insist upon daily?
Honesty
What was your last social media post?
About the release of my book Sunlight in the Shadows.
If you could give your 16 year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid. There is a whole big world out there, go explore it.
Do you have any suggestions for leaders of Hampton Roads’ LGBTQ organizations?
Work together. We are all for the same cause.
What is the best aspect of the Hampton Roads LGBTQ community?
That we even have a community that cares.
What LGBTQ stereotype annoys you the most?
That all gay men are drag queens.
What non-LGBTQ issue do you feel most passionate about?
Animal cruelty. It breaks my heart.
What natural gift would you most like to possess?
To play the piano. After nine years of lessons, you would think I’d be able to play something.
What quality do you most admire in a person?
Self confidence.
What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?
Music
What is your favorite curse word?
I usually go with ‘shit’. But if its serious, then ‘fuck’. It says it all.
Why Hampton Roads?
It wasn’t. I came kicking and screaming in 1996 when the company I worked for transferred us here. Now I would love to split my time between here and Shelter Island where my wife Elise and I have another home.
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Are you interested in sharing your story or perspectives with the Hampton Roads LGBTQ community? We would love to hear from you and have you answer the InQueery questions! To do so, visit our InQueeries page here.
