THE TRIANGLE CONNECTION
Our History
The Triangle Connection was founded in 2005 by LGBTQIA+ folks from the Florida cities of Eustis, Mount Dora and Tavares (a.k.a., The Golden Triangle). We are a not-for-profit recreational organization which offers social and service opportunities for the LGBTQIA+ community. The Triangle Connection is an inclusive group, coordinated by 100% volunteers. Its premiere Meet-n-Greets are attended monthly at local area restaurants by our network of growing members and participants. Our list of Events include a variety of activities with something for everyone.
Our Vision
“Strengthen the community’s cohesiveness. Create a safe environment for all. Build upon the needs of the people to implement solutions to alleviate environmental stressors.”
Before The Triangle Connection
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THE FOUNDERS
Scot Cornwall, who helped found a similar social organization in his old Boston neighborhood of Dorchester, and his spouse Bill Opperman moved to northern Lake County in 2005. After more than 25 years together, they were legally married in Massachusetts in 2004. Cornwall and Opperman – as well as Triangle Connection co-founders Ed Fenninger and Charly Schormann (also formerly of Boston and also legally married) – chose to make their home in this area due to the area locals doing such an excellent job of bringing the LGBTQ community together.
Other organizers and early supporters of The Triangle Connection include Bill Sievert and John Theis, spouses Sally Sellers and June Sellers, Joan Kennedy, Bob Dumais and Jamie Simpson, Bruce Freeman and Dale Gruber.
Triangle Connection
Board Members
Henry Ollendick
President
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Born in Panama, Henry lived in Key West for years before moving to Mount Dora several years ago. A strong leader among the Mount Dora merchants group, Henry is also part owner of the well-known Papilio shop on Donnelly Street. He lives in downtown Mount Dora. Henry is well connected within the commerce circles, City Hall and is well known by many in our community.
Nathan Boler
Vice President
Nathan was born and raised in Henry County, Kentucky. He is a Veteran of the United Sates Air Force. Nathan spent the last 7 years in the insurance business. The current insurance market has forced him to switch gears. He plans to attending law school so that he can join his husband to partner in his law firm, Earl Harmon Law.
Nathan enjoys spending time at Universal Studios and kayaking with friends.
Tom Harry
Treasurer
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A native of Jacksonville and educated in Georgia, Tom retired as a Psychiatrist after a long career. He now lives in Mt. Dora and loves gardening, painting, and dancing. Tom is also active on the Central Florida HIV Planning Council.
Kathy Russell
Secretary
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Originally from Wisconsin, Kathy and her husband Jim were high school sweethearts and during Jim’s military career lived all over the world. They are proud parents and grandparents and moved to Lake County in 2006.
Darla Adams
Trans Awareness and Voter Advocacy
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A native of upstate New York, Darla and her husband Bert moved to Lake County a couple of years ago. She had a career in Human Services before retiring. Darla is the proud mom of two adult transgender sons.