6/29/25 - Once Upon A Story Thyme
Pride is for everyone! Bring the family for a fun colorful day at the market, complete with a story time, rainbow craft activities, and more.
No need to herb your enthusiasm–bring everyone you know! Stories start at 10:00 AM & each of our friends will read 1 book.
Dates:
June 29, 2025
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
At Galveston’s Own Farmers Market (3304 Market St, 77550)
The Readers
Mitchell Avila Katine
Attorney at Law at Katine Nechman McLaurin LLP
Mitchell Avila Katine
Attorney at Law at Katine Nechman McLaurin LLP
Mitchell Katine graduated from South Texas College of Law in 1985. Around the same time, the United States Supreme Court issued a horrendous decision known as Bowers v. Hardwick. The Bowers decision held that gay people were excluded from the protections of the United States Constitution. In 1998 two men, John Lawrence and Tyrone Gardner, were arrested for having private consensual sex in their home. When they got out of jail, they came to Mitchell’s office and hired him to represent them. He spent the next five years, with Lambda Legal as co-counsel, fighting the case all the way to the Supreme Court, and won. In 2003, the Supreme Court issued the landmark decision known as Lawrence v. Texas, which overturned Bowers v. Hardwick, recognized the Constitutional rights of gay people, and laid the foundation for the historic 2015 same-sex marriage decision. Mitchell is a law partner at Katine Nechman McLaurin LLP where he practices real estate litigation. Mitchell’s spouse, Walter Avila Katine, and have been together for over 26 years. Together they have two children, Sabrina and Sebastian (both 23) and three small dogs.
Robert A. Rodriguez, PhD, MPH
Executive Board Member, Access Care of Coastal Texas (ACCT)
Dr. Robert Rodriguez is a global public health leader with a passion for storytelling, culture, and community engagement. He holds a PhD in Population Health Science and an MPH in Epidemiology, and has led strategic efforts in global education, built international partnerships, and served as a strong advocate for better health outcomes in marginalized communities. As an executive board member of Access Care of Coastal Texas (ACCT), he champions HIV prevention and education initiatives serving underserved populations. Outside of work, Dr. Rodriguez is an adventurer at heart—drawn to ancient ruins, rich traditions, and the power of stories to connect us all.
Co-Owner at Maison de Campagne
Luis Santiago
Co-Owner & Managing Director at Maison de Campagne
Real Estate Agent at Coldwell Banker TGRE
Luis Santiago is the Co-Owner and Managing Director of Maison de Campagne (MDC), an award-winning home staging and interior design company based in Galveston, Texas. Originally from Puerto Rico, Luis transitioned from a successful chemical engineering career in the oil and gas industry to pursue a more personal and creative path. This shift was fueled by the joy he found in staging projects and the desire to build something meaningful alongside his partner, Mitchell, in a field where he could truly be himself.
Luis’s experience in project management and sales provides the backbone of MDC’s operations. With a results-focused mindset, he ensures that every project stays on track, bringing his strategic approach and determination to MDC’s daily operations and long-term growth. His leadership centers on relationship building, brand awareness, inclusivity, and innovation—values that reflect his commitment to delivering exceptional client experiences.
Known for his approachable personality and people-centered management style, Luis strives to create an environment where clients and collaborators alike feel valued. His dedication to both the creative and operational sides of MDC has been key to the company’s success, establishing MDC as a leader in the Galveston and Greater Houston area.
Assistant Professor at UTMB’s School of Nursing
Zach Carson, DNP, APRN, AGPCNP-BC
Assistant Professor at UTMB’s School of Nursing
Dr. Zachary Carson is a nurse educator and full-time faculty member at the University of Texas Medical Branch School of Nursing (UTMB) where he teaches undergraduate and doctoral nursing. He holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Master of Science in Nursing in Adult-Geriatric Primary Care, along with a certificate in Nursing Education—all from UTMB.
He began his career journey with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Colorado, Denver. A dedicated advocate for inclusive healthcare and LGBTQIA+ representation, Dr. Carson is passionate about creating spaces where people of all identities feel respected, supported, and celebrated.
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, he brings both a personal perspective and professional experience to his work—whether he is mentoring future nurses or connecting with families at community events.
Outside of work, Dr. Carson spends his time attempting to make pottery in his home studio, woodworking in his garage, and knitting well into the night. He believes in the power of creativity, connection, and a good pair of hand-knit socks.
At this special GOFM Pride event, Dr. Carson is excited to read stories that highlight love, identity, and the joy of being exactly who you are.