Watermark Issue 23.04: Presidential Primary by Watermark Publishing Group

watermark Your LGBT Life.

ISSUE 23.04 • FEBRUARY 25 - MARCH 9, 2016 WATERMARKONLINE.COM

#wearewithher Watermark’s presidential primary endorsement along with some other candidates and races to watch in the coming months

daytOna beach • OrlandO • tampa • st. petersburg • clearwater • sarasOta

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Contact Name: Please Contact:

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Version 1.0 22Jan2016 Please Contact:watermark Your LGBT life.

Sharon Foust, CCRC

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

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Please Contact: Sharon Foust, CCRC watermark Your LGBT life. Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4 407-647-3960 EXT: 2133 | sfoust@oicorlando.com | www.oicorlando.com

The study is enrolling now. Contact us to learn more. Please Contact:

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watermark Your LGBT life.

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

For the LGBT community, it’s a historic race.

departments 6 // mail

PAGE

7 // editOr’s desk 13 // OrlandO neWs 17 // tampa bay neWs

I would be the first openly out member of Congress from the state of Florida.

—foRmeR floRida democRatic PaRty cHaiRman bob Poe wHo is Running foR u.s. congRessional distRict 10

20 // state neWs 21 // natiOn & WOrld neWs 29 // in-depth 37 // arts & entertainment 43 // cOmmunity calendar 45 // tampa bay Out+abOut 47 // OrlandO Out+abOut 48 // tampa bay marketplace 50 // OrlandO marketplace 54 // transitiOns/Wedding bells

On the cOver

PAGE

37 PAGE

#WEAREWITHHER: Watermark endorses Hillary Clinton for the next President of the United States.

scan Qr cOde FOr

WatermarkOnline.cOm

Our chOice:

hillary Clinton is a strong voice, a capable voice, for the people of America, just as she is for the people of the LGBT community.

Watermark i ssue 23 .04 //February 25 - march 9, 2016

prepared

hOme, sWeet hOme

Why bernie

Jeb, interrupted

PAGE The University of Central

PAGE Metro Wellness

PAGE

read it Online! In addition to a Web site with daily LGBT updates, a digital version of each issue of the publication is made available on WatermarkOnline.com

Florida’s health center joins the growing number of clinics offering PrEP.

& Community Center purchases the St. Petersburg location in partnership with Community AIDS Network.

Scottie Campbell looks at the Sanders campaign and explains why you might want to feel the Bern.

It’s hard to say goodbye to the ones we love. Jason Leclerc remembers Jeb’s run for the White House.

wave award winners are finalized! pick up the next issue tO find Out whO was vOted the best Of the best by yOu, Our readers.

watermark Your LGBT life.

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

BUILT BEAR TOUGH 2016 FORD F-150!

top web comments WatermarkOnline.com: On Nebraska bill to prevent anti-gay child placement agencies from losing state funding:

“Not a good idea for the state to support religious bigotry, it sends a bad message to children.” —GayEGO

On Jacksonville Human Rights Ordinance discussions continuing:

YES,

domestic partners CAN buy together!

MODEL: Alex at Vyce Vinny at Parliament House

“This sounds like the Old West!” —GayEGO

On Florida House committee moving Pastor Protection Act forward:

“This pastor is a mess.” —GayEGO

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Call Fred Berliner to set your appointment today!

(407)644-7111 ext.242 email: carbearfb@aol.com

On gay rights advocates saying bill giving preference to heterosexual parents unconstitutional:

“They’re right, ALL studies show that gays are just as good at parenting. Turns out (shocker) that kids just need love, and two parents (samesex or opposite) are better. Sorry bigots!! waa waaa.” —Norman Dostal

Watermark’s Facebook: On Pacquiao apologizing for homophobic statements after being dropped from Nike deal:

“Anyone asking this man to shill for them is crazy.” —Veronica Drake

On Pastor Protection Act heading to Florida Senate for a vote:

“The article writer clearly hasn’t researched this enough. Trying to ‘catch’ Christian businesses denying a service against their beliefs is a ‘thing’ on YouTube. I don’t blame pastors for trying to protect against lawsuits. And why would you

watermark Your LGBT life.

“I agree. I was within 30 days of receiving my benefits when I was discharged for being a homosexual. I think I will fight to get those.” —Ron Holmes, on veteran receiving honorable discharge 50 years after being kicked out of Army for being gay

want someone who doesn’t agree with your marriage to marry you, gay or not?” —Maria Kay Helm

“Very Christian of these ‘pastors.’”

—Joanne Malarney Kean

On Jacksonville Councilman planning to withdraw LGBTfriendly Human Rights Ordinance:

“The FBC in action without having their tax exemption being withdrawn by the IRS. They are practicing politics against the law.” —Bart Cleveland

On Aaron Carter possibly coming out as Chris Crocker’s new beau:

“Can you think of two bigger attention whores?” —Doug Bowser

“I don’t see it being true.” —Jennifer Bergman

On Florida House committee moving Pastor Protection Act forward:

“For what churches do to people, shouldn’t this drawing include a condom on that spire?” —Miguel Herrera

On Punky’s having their grand opening:

“I sooo want to check this place out! Thanks for sharing.”

—Sondra Rae Valentino

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

On Birth certificate bill moving forward in the Florida House:

“Wouldn’t it make more sense to have the biological parents? So you could trace them for medical reasons?” —Erin C. Erskine

“FYI- You missed the point.”

—Ron Hernandez

“Not over ‘til it’s over never trust the legislature.” —Edith Stewart

On Florida Senate committee approving Pastor Protection Act, postponing workforce equality bill:

“Are pastors not already allowed to refuse marriage services as they see fit, whether gay or straight? This bill does nothing but postpone the passing of legislation that is much needed for the protection of the citizens as a whole.” —John Dykhouse

“My ‘like’ is for the consistently great reporting by Watermark. NOT for our disgusting, bigoted legislature and the GARBAGE like this bill that they produce.” —Lou King

“I’m married and our pastor welcomed us with open arms.” —Paul Nottingham

Photo by RobERt bARtLEtt

editor’s

billy manes editOr

BIlly@WatermarkOnline.com

desk

Pull my sHiRt off and PRay.

It’s a bit of a conundrum, this political primary. Though Florida’s presidential-preference primary parade won’t hit the pavement until March 15, socalled Super Tuesday is blowing up in our faces on March 1, meaning, of course, that we have to sound our golden horns, decorate our cars and reach for the sky, or engage in something else that screams “occasion.”

That’s not to say that we are taking this election lightly. In the past few weeks, we’ve witnessed the chutes and ladders of an overstaffed Republican lineup dwindle in its numbers—Jeb lost his exclamation point, poor dear—and the thirdrunner-up of the Democratic Party fall from grace (O’Malley), though gracefully. We’ve endured caucuses, town halls, debates and talking points on a level that this editor can’t recall ever having to witness. We’ve seen the racist kowtowing

Watermark staFF

of conservatives touching base, heard the stink of corporate agendas in political financing swirls, tried to dissect the optimism of one candidate versus another on the Democratic side, scoffed at “socialism” and fought with our friends. Things are getting ugly, and they aren’t going to clean up in the nearest of futures. Comparatively, the insanity of politics has been on the right: Donald Trump is a circus unto himself. But we aren’t without issues on the left, either.

The phenomenon of “Bernie Bros” has dripped into the lexicon (and likely your Facebook feed); simultaneously, the hatred of dynasties and the “establishment” is ringing its own bell. Buckle up. In this issue, for many reasons, we have chosen to endorse a primary candidate. There will be hell to pay, we’re sure, and we’re ready for it. There is too much on the line for us to be risking our futures with a candidate whom— while completely respectable, especially on the living wage front and most social issues (sorry, guns)—is not quite ready, in our opinion-at-large, for the role as the leader of the free world. If you think we’re making this choice lightly, well, you’re welcome to think whatever you would like, but we’re not. Hillary Clinton, in Watermark’s opinion, is the most well-equipped candidate we’ve ever seen. From the White House to the Senate to the State Department, she has proven herself a deft handler of the severities facing this nation and the world at large. She’s a fighter and a hero and a juggler. Nope, we won’t apologize. What we will do is be open to other opinions, though. Columnist Scottie Campbell makes the argument for a Sanders presidency in this very issue, and does so rather convincingly. And if he had not dropped out late in the press-date game, Jeb Bush would have received a nod from our conservative commentator Jason Leclerc (It’s been edited and rewritten to reflect the nodding off of that nod). But even for those living in log cabins, it’s got to be tough supporting Kasich, Cruz, Rubio or Trump at this point. Each of them would challenge social and personal rights, and, bizarrely, are getting away with it among the voting public. And against the backdrop of Pastor Protection Acts across the country (including here in Florida), the risk of “fiscal conservatism”

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as an actual argument is too dangerous. Georgia is expanding its discriminatory legislation to include private businesses. Florida has the same thing in mind. Kim Davis is laughing all the way to the bank. This, dear readers, is the backlash you’ve been hearing about. This is the time to fight back. The LGBT community has made too many advances on the backs and the blood of our forbears to allow history to simply repeat in overzealous state governments. Yes, Sanders has also been a fighter—an “evolved” fighter, like Clinton, on the human rights front—but this world is getting nastier and uglier by the day. In our opinion, the woman

Things are getting ugly, and they aren’t going to clean up in the nearest of futures.

with the most experience deserves our nod, even if it is from a regional LGBT paper, even if it amounts to a symbolic gesture. We’d rather the decorous symbolism than not speaking our minds. Inside this issue you’ll find our endorsement. You’ll also find our picks for other down-ticket races we think you should be watching. They’re often more important than the figurehead pageants the television is selling you, after all. You’ll also find some less heavy lifting and some more important news. Next week, we promise to shut up for a minute and give you the WAVE awards, because local elections matter, people. So, grab your popcorn and enjoy the show. We’re coming up on (re-) Election Day.

OrlandO OFFice 414 N. Ferncreek Ave. Orlando, FL 32803 TEL: 407-481-2243 FAX: 407-481-2246

tampa bay OFFice TEL: 813-655-9890 FAX: 813-849-2986

cOntributOrs gReg stemm

lives in Gulfport, Fla., and has worked as a freelance writer for several local publications. He is a founding member of St. Pete Pride and active politically in Tampa Bay. Page 17

scottie camPbell

is a longtime community activist and a friend to the LGBT community. His work has resulted in a thriving community in the Lake Ivanhoe region and his wit has melted at least a few Orlando candles. He’s a great guy. He’s backing Bernie. Page 23

Jason lecleRc

is a near lifelong resident of the I-4 corridor, currently in South Tampa. He publishes poetry online at PoetEconomist.blogspot.com. His first book, Momentitiousness, was published in 2014. His new book, Black Kettle, will be published in 2016. Page 25 aarOn alper, scOttie campbell, susan clary, krista ditucci, kirk hartlage, JOseph kissel, JasOn leclerc, mary meeks, stephen miller, david mOran, gregg shipirO, greg stemm, dr. steve yacOvelli, , michael WanZie

phOtOgraphy brian becnel, nick cardellO, angie FOlks, bruce hardin, Julie milFOrd, travis mOOre, chris stephensOn, lee vandergriFt, tinkerFluFF

distributiOn lvnliF2 distributing, lisa JOrdan, Jill bates, ken carraWay CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher. Unsolicited article submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Although WATERMARK is supported by many fine advertisers, we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising, or listing in WATERMARK is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members of such organizations. WATERMARK is published every second Thursday. Subscription rate is $55 (1st class) and $26 (standard mail). The official views of WATERMARK are expressed only in editorials. Opinions offered in signed columns, letters and articles are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the newspaper’s owner or management. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted for publication. WATERMARK is not responsible for damages due to typographical errors, except for the cost of replacing ads created by WATERMARK that have such errors.

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watermark Your LGBT life.

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

watermark Your LGBT life.

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

central florida news

PrEP RALLY:

Dr. Laura Ellis (right), Two Spirits staff physician, discusses patient protocols regarding PrEP with Two Spirits medical assistant Joshua Rivero (left) and Kelvin Soto, a certified HIV/HEP tester/screener from Hope and Help of Central Florida, Inc. Photo by Dr. David BakerHargrove

Partners in prevention HIV prevention drugs available in more Central Florida locations Jamie Hyman

entral Floridians interested in HIV prevention medications now have several options. Planned Parenthood announced at the end of 2015 that they offer both PrEP and PEP (pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis) at local clinics. The University of Central Florida has been Truvada to students since January, and Two Spirits Health Services in downtown Orlando launched their PrEP clinic Feb. 15. Two Spirits’ clinic is in partnership with Hope and Help of Central Florida, Inc., plus Impulse Orlando, The Center, Quest Diagnostics and Gilead Pharmaceuticals.

“This is really the brainchild of Lindsay Kincaide, the Community Programs and Development Director at Hope and Help,” says Dr. David BakerHargrove, president and CEO of Two Spirits. “Until recently, she worked as the Director of Clinical Services at The Center and has been very interested in developing an affordable PrEP clinic for persons without insurance for some time.” Kincaide says the clinic is a “dream come true” at that she’s been trying for more than a year to figure out how to get PrEP into the hands of uninsured clients. “When I told her about our medical and mental health services grant to provide services to LGBTA persons without insurance, she asked me if I would be interested

in developing a PrEP clinic,” Baker-Hargrove says. “I jumped on the chance as it is perfectly within the mission of Two Spirit to provide quality medical and mental healthcare to our community, specifically targeting those without insurance or ability to pay for such services. Prevention is better than treatment.” That grant is key. Kincaide says the medication costs aren’t the biggest barrier. “It was the doctors’ visits and the labs on the front end that were the most cost prohibitive,” she says. Most of the client services happen at Two Spirits, but BakerHargrove says every partner plays a role. A person interested in PrEP makes an appointment at Two Spirits then goes to The Center to be screened for STDs. “It is required to be STD free to start PrEP,” Baker-Hargrove says. “If not, we have to medically treat the STD first.” Hope & Help provides certified HIV/HEP C tester Mondays from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Once cleared, the patient meets with a nurse who takes a medical history and blood samples for Continued on pg. 14 | uu |

watermark Your LGBT life.

Kinky Boots event brings LGBT youth behind the curtain Jamie Hyman

bout 20 of Central Florida’s LGBT youth will get an opportunity to learn about what goes into a Broadway production. Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, in partnership with Zebra Coalition, Kinky Boots and the True Colors Foundation is hosting the event, which is an afternoon of educational speakers followed by a dinner, performance and then a Q&A with the Kinky Boots cast. “This is an excellent opportunity that offers a holistic behind-the-scenes view of theatrical performance,” says Heather Wilkie, Zebra’s executive director. “Many youth do not have the means to attend a Broadway performance. This unique experience will expose youth to career opportunities and the art of theatre.” The speakers will cover topics including company management, marketing and production. Sam Zeller, Kinky Boots cast member, says the touring production has hosted these LGBT youth events in about ten other cities, including Detroit, Houston and Pittsburgh. “I always look forward to these because we always end up learning more about ourselves and what this show is truly about when we meet these kids,” Zeller says. “I’m overwhelmed by how brave and how amazing these kids are to be able to know who they are at 15 or even younger and going through what they do.” He said they got new cast members a few months ago and it’s made for a better experience at these LGBT youth events. “They’re a little bit younger and they’re more eager to come out and help. Instead of four people at the talkback, we’ve had sixteen,” Zeller says, adding that he expects the Zebra youth will enjoy a discussion with a large number of cast members during the Feb 25 event. Kinky Boots opened Feb. 23 and runs through Feb. 28. Tickets are available at DrPhillipsCenter.org.

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

central florida news Out & abOut night returns tO central FlOrida Fair FOr secOnd year Adam Manno

he 106th annual Central Florida Fair runs through March 13, but LGBT families might want to save the date for March 2, the second annual Out &About Night from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. “Last year was our first year hosting Out & About and we found an increase in attendance of about 1000 people,” says Central Florida Fair Sponsorship Coordinator Frances Rivera. Orlando’s LGBT Chamber of Commerce (MBA) will be hosting a networking mixer at the same time. “We’re looking forward to the addition of the professional environment offered by the Metropolitan Business Association. Every year we want to build on the previous one, and Out & About is here to say,” says Rivera. Admission to Out & About night is free with a Watermark flier. Watermark Publishing Group sponsors the event. The Central Florida Fair is a non-profit organization awarding $280,000 annually in local scholarships. The fairgrounds will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Daily admissions to regular fair days are $10 for adults and $6 for children, with unlimited ride wristbands ranging from $25 to $30.

Life & Status.

| uu | Partners in Prevention frOm pg.13

metabolic and organ function. Quest Diagnostics provides the lab services at a deep discount, which Baker-Hargrove says is “one of the key factors in making this program affordable.” Next, the client meets with Two Spirits physician Dr. Laura Ellis to talk about the medication’s risks and ask any questions. At a follow-up appointment with Dr. Ellis a week later, she reviews lab results with the patient who is then directed to the pharmacy partners, Gilead Pharmaceuticals, whose Patient Assistance Program provides the drug free of charge. In addition to providing the tester, Hope and Help is covering all marketing costs and along with The Center and Impulse, they refer people who don’t have HIV and are interested in PrEP to the clinic. Baker-Hargrove says the protocol is a good fit for anyone who wants to protect themselves from HIV, regardless of any

attempts to stigmatize PrEP. “[I’ve heard people say] that people who take PrEP are just whores. I’ve even seen the hashtag #truvadawhore on Facebook,” he says. “That astounds and confuses me. it only takes one time of unprotected sex to become infected with HIV. I think most people in our community have made the mistake of having unprotected sex at least once in their lives.” He says the rates of HIV infection back him up a PrEP prescription shouldn’t be an avenue for judgment, but a sign that someone is willing to take responsibility not only for their own health, but for the health of the gay community. “I am positive if I asked 100 HIV positive individuals if they had had the chance to be on PrEP prior to becoming infected, they would all tell me they would have jumped at the chance,” BakerHargrove says. The who program costs only $30, which covers the physician’s visits and basic labs. Patients

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

can pay more to get their STD testing through Quest rather than The Center. Despite the low cost, Kincaide says it’s the same level of care patients would get in a nonclinic setting. “We’re not skimping, we’re not cutting any steps,” she says. “We’re not taking any shortcuts that could jeopardize someone actually following the PrEP regimen.” Interested in getting on PrEP? Contact Two Spirit Health Services at 407-487-9868 or info@twospirithealth.org to make an appointment. They’re located at 801 N. Magnolia Ave, Ste 402 in Downtown Orlando.

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tampa bay news

Metro purchases St. Pete location, solidifies permanent home Jeremy Williams

M The Main Event:

Banno (left) and Henderson fight it out in Gulfport mayoral race.

Openly Gay Mayor or Straight Gay Friendly Mayor? Divided Residents of Progressive Gulport Face an Amazing But Tough Choice Greg Stemm

n an election year fraught with unusual circumstances and candidates, one local Tampa Bay area election has put a difficult decision to the voters of Gulfport on whom to elect as their new mayor. One candidate, the incumbent, is a well-liked progressive straight mayor with undeniably strong support for LGBT issues and the challenger who is an openly gay woman and a respected business owner in the community. According to the latest census about a third of the residents of this small Tampa Bay area city of about 12,500 residents identify themselves as LGBT. Gulfport has long prided itself in taking lead roles in the fight for LGBT rights and equality. It was the fourth and smallest city in the state to pass a Human Rights Ordinance, the first in Pinellas County to do so, and it is to

date the most comprehensive in the state. It was the first city in Pinellas County to pass a domestic partner registry and it has taken strong official positions in support of marriage equality and ending workplace discrimination. The city’s library hosts the state’s only publically supported LGBT resource center. Many Gulfport residents take pride in being a role model to other communities on how gays and straights can work effectively and even joyfully together. If Barbara Banno, the woman challenging current mayor Sam Henderson is elected, she would be the first openly gay candidate elected as mayor of Gulfport. She would also be the first lesbian mayor of any city in Florida. Gulfport has elected a number of openly gay candidates to other offices, and in fact Banno served as a city council member in the past. On the other hand, Henderson won his election to become Gulfport’s current mayor over a candidate who was a

seventh generation resident of the city in an election that many saw as a challenge between what some call “old Gulfport,” with its more conservative old fishing village history, and “new Gulfport,” with its strong LGBT presence and progressive nature. Many members of the LGBT community supported Henderson in his original bid, and it was that support that put him into office.Henderson has also served as a city council member. Both candidates are Democrats and have sought the endorsement of various Democratic institutions. One of the most important is the Stonewall Democrats, an organization which states it is devoted to advancing equal rights for all people regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Its webpage also states that “as a Democratic organization, SDPC will work with the Democratic party and support fair minded leaders and candidates who support our mission.To the surprise of some, the Stonewall Democrats have endorsed Henderson over Banno. “The Stonewall Democrats believe that Henderson deserves another term in order to bring several ongoing projects to completion, including improvements in both storm water and waste water systems. While Henderson’s early political opponents ridiculed him for being an environmentalist, recent circumstances have made his education and knowledge in that

etro Wellness & Community Center, in partnership with Community AIDS Network (CAN), has purchased its St. Petersburg location after a seven-month legal battle. The previous owner attempted to sell the building last summer out from underneath Metro, even attempting to have the clinic evicted. Metro was forced to file for an injunction and fight it out in court. “It’s been seven months of a lot of work,” Metro Chief Executive Officer Lorraine Langlois says. “We were given a three-day notice to vacate [by the owner], which is against the law, and the judge said, ‘No,you can’t do that to people.’” Metro and CAN close April 15 on the building with the previous owner. Metro will own it with CAN, in an equal partnership. “We were in need of more space: not just for staff, but for community activities going on. We had been restrained by what we could do and we need to make this place a lot nicer for people to come to,” Langlois says. Metro currently occupies about 18,000 square feet of the building’s space (the entire building is 47,000 square feet) but plans to expand an additional 10,000 square feet. “We are going to expand our testing area and the primary care, as well as the HIV clinic,” Langlois says. “The rest we have some different plans for, for part of which we are looking at some revenue making options. There are a lot of smaller offices that I think we will probably rent out, like we did for [St. Pete] Pride.” The expansion could not have come at a better time as Metro and CAN have recently added more doctors to the staff. “CAN has brought on Dr. [Brian] Elliot, and he has been an HIV doctor in this area for 15 years, and he had 700 patients he saw at his previous clinic,” Langlois says. “I’m sure some of them will follow him here, and we have Dr. [Douglas] Walsh here now. We were having a hard time keeping up, so we brought on some more help.” Langlois is hoping to start construction on the building shortly after they close April 15. “The building will need some work: We need a whole new roof, we have 15 A/C units right now, one of which is salvageable, so that along with expanding the space will happen. Expanding the clinic space will be a priority,” she says. For now, though, Langlois’ main focus will be

Continued on pg. 18 | uu |

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tampa bay news | uu | Metro Purchases Location from pg.17 working to raise the $500,000 needed for the down payment. Metro has already reached out for the assistance of Larry Biddle to help raise funds. “We are hoping to get some people to come forward who believe having a home for the LGBT community forever is necessary and think it would be such a great gift to the community,” Langlois says. The Kenwood area has long been an unofficial LGBT area for St. Petersburg, but when Georgie’s Alibi closed last September, many worried whether that would be the first in a line of dominoes to fall. Langlois sees the opposite happening. “Behind Georgie’s is where Burlington Place is being built, and that’s going to be affordable housing, and there will be a niche for LGBT seniors, so I’m working with those folks, too,” she says. With Metro cementing their presence in Kenwood as land owners and Punky’s huge success since opening last year, things seem to still be going strong for the area. “We are trying to work with all the developers in the area so that we can really keep it focused on LGBT [people], and I think everyone is excited about that,” Langlois says.

| uu | Gulport Mayoral Race from pg.17

field crucial to his public service,” says Beth Fountain, vice president of political action. Banno expressed extreme disappointment with the Stonewall Democrat’s decision. “The decision of the Stonewall Democrats to endorse only my opponent is discouraging not only to me, but to any future LGBT activist who actually puts themselves directly in the line of fire as a true leader and now sees that sacrifice could be overlooked when it matters most,” Banno says. “But I won’t be stopped. I will continue to represent ALL of Gulfport – LGBT or not – in a way that truly places our community’s best interests above finding the easier way to go.” There are some residents of Gulfport who think that Banno has placed too much emphasis on her sexual orientation, particularly in a city which is often hesitant to put any labels on people.

“Gulfport is a city light years ahead of its time in the realm of LGBTQ rights. Why, then, all of the continued emphasis on sexual orientation as if that is important to a candidate’s qualifications as an effective mayor here in Gulfport,” Tiffany Taylor, a gay married resident of 16 years who has an 11 year old daughter, says. Paul Ray is an openly gay board member of the Gulfport Merchants Association and the president of the Gulfport Democrats.He and his husband are supporting Banno, but not because of her sexual orientation. “My husband is a Gulfport native and, after he introduced me to this community, I fell in love with it and want nothing more than what is best for it,” Ray says. “But with that in mind we take a long view instead of just looking at short term issues or solutions. We fully intend to stay here for the rest of our lives so we want a candidate who will work on the issues and problems affecting our future. While we like Sam and agree he is a gay ally, we both really feel that Barabara is the best choice to do that.” Gulfport has been locked in a sometimes contentious political

debate over storm water runoff that an aging sewer and runoff system in St.Petersburg is inadequate to handle. In some serious rain events the issue has resulted in raw sewage from St.Petersburg being dumped into Boca Ciega Bay via the Bayou, resulting in beach closures and fishing restrictions in Gulfport which prides itself on having a long history as a waterfront community Whatever Gulfport decides, Henderson says its message of acceptance and inclusion will be showcased to the outside world, which seems important to him, his opponent and the voters of Gulfport. “If Barbara wins I can see the historical significance of a gay woman leading our city and it would speak volumes about our community’s unquestioned willingness to put a gay person in that high level of politicalimportance. If I win it says that residents of Gulfport have moved beyond sexual orientation as any kind of relevant issue in an election. Either way it seems to me that everyone in Gulfport wins and we can be very proud of what we are saying to the world,” Henderson says.

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state news

pastOr prOtectiOn act headed tO FlOrida senate FlOOr FOr vOte, pOstpOned

JacksOnville cOuncil WithdraWs lgbt prOtectiOns measure Jamie Hyman

Jamie Hyman

acksonville | Jacksonville’s City Council members voted to withdraw two bills - one that would have added LGBT protections to the city’s Human Rights Ordinance and the other that would have put that idea to a referendum - but the council is far from united on the issue. Councilman Tommy Hazouri announced that he planned to withdraw his bill, which would have added the protections outright. Councilman Bill Gulliford, who was behind the referendum bill, had stated that he would also withdraw but upon learning that Hazouri would work on his bill and bring it back, Gulliford threatened to keep his bill on the table because he said he “received concerns that [Hazouri’s withdrawal] is a ploy to postpone my bill until after the deadline for a referendum.” Hazouri said he’s not “doing this out of spite” and that he had informed the council of his plans to reintroduce the measure. “I’m doing this because of the importance to the city,” Hazouri said, “Eleven of us weren’t here in 2012.” That’s a reference to the last time LGBT protections came before the council. They were voted down in 2012. The council debated for more than an hour before voting 13-6 to withdraw both proposals. They also discussed with staff a mayoral directive to introduce the LGBT protections for city employees and vendors.

maJOrity OF FlOridians suppOrt laWs prOtecting lgbts FrOm discriminatiOn Jamie Hyman

Most Floridians support LGBT nondiscrimination laws and don’t think businesses should be allowed to refuse to serve LGBTs based on religious beliefs. That’s according to a new poll by the non-partisan Public Religion Research Institute, based on 42,000 interviews to explore attitudes in all 50 states ahead of legislative battles in 2016. The survey finds a resounding 70 percent of Floridians support laws that would protect LGBTs against discrimination in jobs, public accommodations and housing. That’s just shy of 71 percent of Americans nationwide who agree. The Institute also finds that 58 percent of Floridians oppose allowing a business owner to refuse products or services to LGBTs if doing so violates their religious beliefs. About six out of 10 Americans –59 percent –oppose religious-based refusals of service. “Despite the fact that there are 28 states that have no LGBT nondiscrimination laws, there is near consensus support for laws that would protect LGBT Americans from discrimination,” PRRI CEO Robert P. Jones said in a media release. “Even among groups that are more opposed to same-sex marriage, solid majorities nonetheless favor LGBT nondiscrimination laws.”

allaHassee | The Pastor Protection Act (SB 110), an unnecessary, anti-gay bill that purports to prevent religious leaders from being forced to perform same-sex weddings, is headed to the full Florida Senate. On Feb. 17, SB 110 cleared its final hurdle when the Rules Committee voted 7-3 in favor of the legislation. The bill is redundant, as under current laws protecting religious beliefs, clergy can already opt out of marrying any couple they choose, gay or straight. The Rules Committee meeting kicked off with the bill’s sponsor, Sen. Aaron Bean, R-Jacksonville, declaring that “This is a celebration of religious freedom.” Sen. Darren Soto, D-Kissimmee, introduced an amendment that would have defined religious organizations to line up with Florida’s current Civil Rights Act. In its current form, the bill leaves “religious organizations” undefined, simply “providing that churches or religious organizations, related organizations, or certain individuals may not be required to solemnize any marriage or provide services, accommodations, facilities, goods, or privileges for related purposes if such action would violate a sincerely held religious belief.” “We thought that the scope should be defined in a way that would avoid litigation,” Soto told the committee. Carlos Smith, with Equality Florida, told the committee that while EQFL doesn’t support the bill, they support religious exemptions from performing same-sex marriages, and if the committee agreed to approve Soto’s amendment, “our organization would withdraw opposition to the bill.” “Not because we suddenly believe this to be a good bill, we still believe it’s unnecessary,

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but because no one would be harmed by the passage of this bill in the version that Sen. Soto has presented,” Smith said. “It has not broadened religious objections beyond what is currently allowed.” Following committee questions on the amendment, a parade of fundamentalist clergy approached the pulpit to testify as to why the bill should not be amended. Things got heated when Pastor Gilberto Rodriguez with Temple Elijah Church out of Lutz claimed Soto’s amendment would somehow make the bill “vague” and “can be used against the church.” When Soto asked Rodriguez why they shouldn’t use a wellestablished, uniform definition, Rodriguez told him, “It just kind of concerns me when you’ve been completely against the church in your presentations in last meetings. For you to come and bring an amendment, it kind of concerns us that basically you don’t have the best intent or the best reason for any presentation.” At this point, Sen. Don Gaetz interrupted Rodriguez with a point of order. “[Sen. Soto] and I may disagree on this bill but you do not impugn the religious beliefs of a member of this committee,” Gaetz told Rodriguez firmly, and Soto added, “For the record, I am a confirmed Catholic.” After further comment from both supporters and detractors, Soto offered to remove the public accommodations portion of the amendment. His proposal was still voted down 7-3. Then the committee heard comments on the bill itself, with clergy testifying both for and against it. Rodriguez made another appearance, during which he for some reason informed the committee, “My sister was a gay.” John Vertigan, a minister with the United Church of Christ out of Oviedo, told the committee that after he previously testified against the bill, other religious

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leaders reacted angrily and told him he wasn’t a “real” minister. “I’m convinced this bill is not about protecting pastors, rather, it is quite obviously a political ploy,” he told the committee. Following testimony by a man who told the committee they’re only to serve “King Jesus,” Sen. Audrey Gibson, D-Jacksonville, stated: “King Jesus was inclusive also. I don’t believe this bill gives any more protection to a person who doesn’t want to solemnize a marriage.” In closing, Sen. Bean said optimistic the bill will never be needed. “I want to be a uniter [sic],” Bean said. “It wasn’t my intention that this bill would be so divisive.” Initially, the bill was scheduled for a full Senate hearing on Feb. 23. Late on Feb. 22, the bill was temporarily postponed, however, though Smith doesn’t believe it has seen its last day. There is room for improvement “now that we’re in a place where we are sure that they’re listening,” says Smith. He specifically references the recent (and similar) Georgia Senate measure which was expanded at the last minute to include private businesses and not just pastors. The bill, “The First Amendment Defense Act” was added to Georgia’s proposed Pastor Protection Act, or HB 757. “What happened in Georgia has validated our concerns,” he says. “These bills are Trojan horses to pass wide-ranging anti-LGBT measures,” Smith says. “The story around this being temporarily postponed is definitely a good sign. But people need to keep calling their legislators.” Please follow Watermark’s legislative Tracker at watermarkonline.com for more updates on the Pastor Protection Act and other bills racing through Florida’s legislative session.

nation+world news

Georgia “Pastor Protection Act” passes in State Senate Wire Report

tlanta | Georgia’s state Senate approved a bill allowing faith-based organizations to refuse services to same-sex couples without government penalties, including loss of grants or other taxpayer funding. Senators voted 38 to 14 on party lines Feb. 19, despite fear about damage to the state’s economy expressed by the state’s influential business community and opposition from gay-rights advocates. The bill combines a Senate proposal shielding adoption agencies, schools and other faith-based organizations from penalties for opposing same-sex marriage and a House bill allowing religious officials to decline performing the unions. Sen. Greg Kirk, an Americus Republican, initially proposed the exemption for faith-based organizations as a separate bill titled the “First Amendment Defense Act.” Senate leadership added Kirk’s measure to the House proposal earlier this week, fast-tracking a floor vote. Kirk, a former Southern Baptist pastor, said the bill blocks the government from denying or revoking tax status, licenses or state funding based on a faith-based organization’s view of marriage. He said it protects any view of legal marriage between two people,

including same-sex marriage, which was effectively legalized last summer by a U.S. Supreme Court decision. In its example of beliefs that would be protected, however, the bill cites only the view of marriage as that between one man and one woman. “We are not picking sides,” Kirk said. “This bill does not favor one viewpoint over others, which is exactly how government should act with regard to religious beliefs.” The bill now returns to the House. It’s unclear what action House members will take. Supporters of the original House bill protecting clergy acknowledged that religious officials already could refuse to perform marriages outside their faith under the U.S. Constitution, but argued that the new measure would reassure people following the Supreme Court’s decision. As a result, the bill received little resistance from gay-rights advocates or the state’s business community on its way to unanimous approval in the House, aided by support from the chamber’s top Republican Speaker David Ralston. The Senate’s charged debate lasted nearly four hours, though Republicans used their majority powers to prevent changes to the bill on the chamber floor. Representatives of the state’s business and tourism industries, including the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the state’s Hotel

and Lodging Association opposed the bill after Senate leadership’s changes. Intent on avoiding the boycott threats that emerged in Indiana after that state passed a broader “religious freedom” bill in 2015, top Georgia employers, including Home Depot, Delta Air Lines, Porsche and UPS, formed a coalition opposing any legislation that could be considered discriminatory. Hala Moddelmog, president and CEO of the Atlanta chamber, cited that coalition in a letter to senators on Friday standing against the bill. “This legislation jeopardizes the economic future of many hardworking Georgians who serve visitors in hotels, restaurants, stores and attractions across the state,” said Bill Henderson, chairman of the hotel association. “It’s really that simple.” Democrats also warned that the bill was unconstitutional and that, if signed into law, it would trump local anti-discrimination laws or ordinances. Georgia doesn’t have a statewide civil rights law preventing discrimination. But Republicans maintained that the bill is narrow enough to prevent economic damage. State Sen. Fran Millar, R-Atlanta, said lawmakers have “let the media define what we’re doing down here” and described a recent phone call from his daughter asking if he’d vote for “that discriminatory bill.” A similar bill was approved in the Mississippi Legislature.

culture and local wisdom of the country where they have large numbers of users,” he said. Homosexuality is not illegal in Indonesia, but is a sensitive issue in the Muslim-majority nation of more than 250 million people. At the same time, most of Indonesian society, which follows a moderate form of Islam, is tolerant, with gay and transsexual entertainers often appearing on television shows. Line said it had removed all LGBT-related stickers from its local store after receiving complaints from Indonesian users. Twitter and Facebook had exploded with criticism of Line and its competitor WhatsApp for containing gay content. Ismail said the government would tell WhatsApp to do the same as Line.

Last month, Research, Technology and Higher Education Minister Muhammad Nasir said openly gay students should be banned from the University of Indonesia’s campuses. His statements followed controversy over news that a sexuality research center planned to offer counselling services for students. Nasir’s statement sparked public controversy in Indonesia for weeks, with objections from human rights groups but support from the Indonesian Ulema Council, an influential board of Muslims clerics. In 2014, lawmakers in Aceh, a conservative Indonesian province, passed a law that punishes gay sex by public caning and subjects non-Muslims to the region’s strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law.

Indonesia urges app to remove LGBT content amidst social media backlash Wire Report Jakarta, Indonesia | Indonesia’s government has demanded that instant messaging apps remove stickers featuring same-sex couples, in the latest high-profile attempt to discourage visible homosexuality in the socially conservative country. The government move comes after a social media backlash against the popular smartphone messaging app Line for having stickers, which are an elaborate type of emoticon, with gay themes in its online store. Information and Communication Ministry spokesman Ismail Cawidu said that social media and messaging platforms should drop stickers expressing support for the LGBT community. “Social media must respect the

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in other news Texas sentences 2 men to 15 years for torture of gay man Two South Texas men received the maximum 15-year sentences in federal prison after pleading guilty to federal hate crime charges in the March 2012 torture of a gay African-American man in Corpus Christi. Ramiro Serrata Jr. and Jimmy Garza, sentenced Feb. 17, must pay the victim $10,800 in restitution, serve three years of supervised release and register as sex offenders. Both pleaded guilty last September to luring the man to an apartment and, for three hours, punching, kicking and assaulting him with various weapons. They taunted him with racist and homophobic epithets.

Kentucky Supreme Court rules in favor of lesbian in complex custody case The Kentucky Supreme Court has ruled that a gay woman may proceed with her efforts to obtain joint custody of a girl born to her ex-partner when they were still together. The woman had asked the court to block adoption proceedings by her ex-partner’s husband. The girl’s mother became pregnant with the help of a sperm donor. She gave birth in 2006 when the women were still a couple. The case is among several across the country involving questions about what it means to be a parent under today’s everchanging definition of family in the eyes of the law.

Kentucky Senate moves forward with “separate but equal” marriage license bill Kentucky lawmakers want to create two marriage license forms, one noting the “bride” and “groom” and the other noting “first party” and “second party,” in a move critics say harks back to the “separate but equal” days of the civil rights movement. The bill also removes the name of the county clerk who issued the license and would require couples to note their gender, no matter what form they chose. The proposal cleared a Senate committee with bipartisan support. It comes five months after Rowan County Clerk Kim Davis spent five days in jail for refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples because of her religious beliefs.

Italy’s prime minister mulls confidence vote to pass gay rights bill Italian Premier Matteo Renzi is considering resorting to a risky confidence vote in the Senate to ensure the passage of a bill allowing civil unions, but not marriage, for gay couples. Pro-Vatican senators among the Democrats have refused to back the bill because one provision allows for adoption of the gay partner’s biological child. A coalition party led by his interior minister also insists the adoption provision be jettisoned. Renzi has expressed frustration that the bill bogged down, considering that he has shepherded through other reforms. Losing a confidence vote would force the resignation of Renzi, now starting his third year in office.

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viewpoint

Photo by Jess regan

Scottie Campbell

The Tender

activist Why Bernie.

e’ve often heard

the phrase “survival of the fittest” bandied about to the point that it is a concept we readily accept. But in his epiphany-fueled book Life’s Operating Manual, comedy film director Tom Shadyac points out Charles Darwin only used this phrase “twice in The Descent of Man but used the word love 95 times.” Darwin actually emphasizes mankind’s ability to cooperate and sympathize as keys to our survival; we’re physically inferior to many beings on the planet, so it stands to reason.

My guess is our most easily accessed emotions, fear and anger, have distanced us from Darwin’s reality. Industrialization and technology have left most of us ill-equipped to survive in actual nature. Through conditioning and training, we have arrived in 2016, collectively, as a reluctantly huddled mass of selfish fucks. Over the past year, America has been introduced to the concept of democratic socialism and a remarkable amount of people – 18,000 gathered at a Bernie Sanders rally in Colorado this month, for instance – have studied and embraced the theory. Still others have a knee-jerk reaction to socialism born of Truman era propaganda against communism, ironically manufactured to mask faulty presidential governance, but I digress. You can nutshell democratic socialism to this: government by the people, for the people. Say, that sounds a little familiar, doesn’t it?

Art Garfunkel was on CNN in January to explain why he gave permission for the Simon and Garfunkel tune “America” to be used for a television commercial supporting Bernie Sanders. As he watched the stirring ad with host Michael Smerconish, its bucolic imagery neatly timed with guitar strums and lyrics, he described in phrases what he liked about Sanders, and the 74-year-old poet’s face was younger than it ever has been. He is waking up to a dream, I thought to myself. A dream he has never forgotten exactly, but is amazed could still become reality. I recognized that look on Garfunkel’s face. It gave me a flashback to my 18-yearold self and the moment my spirit took its first real blow, soundly delivered by my dad. His advice regarding the goal in question – to attend college – was to “take off my rosy-colored glasses.” He emphasized the statement by slowly miming removal of said glasses – the theatrics a touch ironic, since my plan was to pursue a theater career. Higher education itself wasn’t the issue; paying for it was. I would eventually finish college at 29, racking up an unmanageable amount of debt. Dad, incidentally, achieved his degree a few years after me, earned by his service in the military. Our military, by the by, is a great example of socialism in action. Making a college education accessible to all of our citizens is among the elements of Bernie Sanders’ vision for America that have been labeled “pie-in-the-sky.” I’m surprised Americans have any tolerance for such a dismissive term. Imagine the number of times it, or something similar, was uttered in the course of our history and, if people had listened, what little would have been accomplished. I think, if we’re honest with ourselves, the beginning of our country was a pie-in-thesky idea forged by people wearing rosy-colored goggles. Declaring a plan pie-in-thesky indicates that you think it’s a good idea but fear the

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odds against it; you are not so much a pragmatist as you are a coward. Sanders’ platform is packed with these good ideas. We made great strides with health care under President Obama, but even he knows there were too many compromises.

threat. It is an answer that proves Sanders connects the dots, addressing the whole picture. These are hard ideas to denounce for any other than political reasons. Somewhere along the line the so-called American Dream became less about the pursuit of genuine happiness

desperately need a different dream, one toward a more sentient America. The political revolution Bernie Sanders is leading strikes some as radical, but I think its roots are actually basic. It’s interesting to note that more than one artist – including Chad

Let’s get fully realized universal healthcare. It’s unconscionable that people work 40 or more hours a week and live in poverty. How about a $15 minimum wage for all? A strategy proven, even in America, to be economically beneficial. Sanders stunned his fellow candidates during the first Democratic debate when he correctly identified climate change as our country’s greatest national security

and more about stuff, the riches it takes to get more stuff, and forsaking all others to get that stuff. “Will you take that phony dream and burn it before something happens?” wailed Biff Loman in 1949. But the “something” has happened: a cockeyed distribution of wealth with rising poverty levels and a government either too scared or too corrupt to take measures to fix it. Bernie Sanders knows we

Mize of St. Petersburg – has depicted Sanders as a Sesame Street character. His name is an obvious mashup of roommates Bert and Ernie, but the connection goes deeper. In that fictional neighborhood, many of us learned the building blocks of being a good citizen: cooperation and sympathy. Darwin knew it; it’s how we’ll survive.

Declaring a plan pie-in-the-sky indicates that you think it’s a good idea but fear the odds against it.

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

viewpoint

Jason Leclerc

The other side

of life Jeb, Interrupted

“D

on’t endorse yet,

Jason.” That’s what my more prudent friends advised.

But I’m stubborn, and there’s something kind of romantic about always picking the right candidate when the rest of the party is wrong. In the contested primaries since I’ve been a voter, I have a zero percent success rate. Remember Jack Kemp? Steve Forbes? Jon Huntsman? Remember Jeb Bush? The article was written, tightly edited, and ready for production on Feb. 17. I even had a clever title: “Bush it, Bush it Good.” Then South Carolina on Feb. 21 happened. Since Jeb’s campaign started, it had been interrupted: first by early flib-flubs, then by Trump’s incivility and finally by itself. So, while he is no longer a candidate, the meat of the endorsement remains. In what may seem an oddly meta moment, allow me to quote and paraphrase myself from the article that should have been about the the President that should have been. I began with a nod to Hillary and expressed that Obama should be able to place a nominee for SCOTUS. Then, I lit into Cruz and Trump: “They are pernicious snake-oil peddlers whose dangerous rhetoric flows from a fundamental bastardization of Kennedy/Reagan optimism,” I wrote; then continued, “They embarrass me, not only as a Republican, as an American.” I wrote good things about other candidates like Christie, Fiorina, and Rubio who, although each has flaws, would have been acceptable also-rans. I gushed a bit about Kasich’s solid resume and went on: “He, in his words and demeanor, channels optimism: He isn’t unequivocally “anti” anything. The expression of his message is always upbeat and positive.” After acknowledging a strong field, I had set up Bush as the only best choice. I touted his success as governor: “Jeb over-delivered for the people of Florida. The minority

gap in education decreased as performance in reading and math, for the first time truly measured, increased overall; Florida’s high school graduation rates rose; the economy grew faster than the national average; Florida added 1.1 million jobs which was more than any other state (even California, which is twice our size); the state achieved AAA credit rating. Meanwhile he led us through the swirling winds of increasing partisanship and some eight natural disasters.” I even gave a nod (eerily uncomfortable in hindsight) to Marco: “Let’s not overlook that he mentored and helped catapult the third-mostqualified candidate in this year’s Republican presidential field, rosy-cheeked Marco Rubio.” How has he spent the last ten years? I answered myself: “Since he left office, Jeb has been think-tanking, advising and living an example of how to move the means of capital toward the promotion of good ends. He’s spent more time obsessing about education and its importance as both a cause and a standalone solution to flagging international competitiveness than any other candidate, Demcratic or Republican, has in decades. He understands that education is the civil rights issue of this generation but won’t pander to those who think that knowledge and skill come without civic responsibility.” And then, of course, I wrote about issues that affect the LGBT community. A couple paragraphs in their entirety: The Bush family, Jeb included, has quite unapologetically embraced LGBTs as friends, colleagues, and closest-circle advisors. GHW’s and Barbara’s recent participation in a gay wedding was a carefully orchestrated demonstration that the Bush family has tacitly evolved to accept the new law of the land, replacing postured judgment with love and acceptance. In Jeb’s own words, following the Obergefell decision, “It is now crucial

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overturn recent Supreme Court decisions. He would not actively push an amendment to redefine marriage to the exclusion of LGBT. He may not have “evolved” as quickly as Hillary or Obama, but is not far behind. Jeb Bush will not reignite the culture wars which have flamed, out of control,

that as a country we protect religious freedom and the right of conscience AND also not discriminate.” Although the standard Republican approach to issues of constitutional ambiguity is to defer to state hegemony, Bush further argued, “I don’t think you should be discriminated

by side.” Classrooms, grocery stores, and playgrounds are where acceptance is bred and flourishes, not in the halls of a disconnected congress or in the marble chambers of nine (or eight!) largely unaccountable jurists. But, as he’s said, it’s settled, “Period. Over and out.”

Thanks for the classy run, Jeb. I’m not at all embarrassed to reassert that you would have been the best President. over the past seven years under the the administration that should have put much of the old fights to bed. He understands that an educated electorate rife with economic opportunity will spread wealth, help neighbors, and protect the rights of all Americans; he understands, like his family, that (speaking specifically about the June 2015 SCOTUS marriage decision), “In a country as diverse as ours, good people who have opposing views should be able to live side

[against] because of your sexual orientation. Period. Over and out.” As to the Kim Davises, “She is sworn to uphold the law, and it seems to me that there ought to be common ground, there ought to be big enough space for her to act on her conscience and—now that the law is the law of the land—for a gay couple to be married in whatever jurisdiction that is.” I feel confident in asserting that a President Jeb Bush would not work to actively

Finally, I concluded with an admission that Jeb (true and settled sooner than I expected or hoped) may not get the nomination but that I, nonetheless, endorse him. Thanks for the classy run, Jeb. I’m not at all embarrassed to reassert that you would have been the best President. Alas, in your own interrupted words: “Over and out.”

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

STATES STILL HAVE

ANTI-SODOMY LAWS

talking points

[Animals] know how to distinguish males from females. If people then engage in male-to-male, female-to-female relations, then they are worse than animals. —PRofessional boxeR and PHiliPPines senate candidate manny Pacquiao wHen asked about His stance on same-sex maRRiage in an inteRview witH BILANG PILIPINO feb. 15.

JOEL GREY OPENS UP ABOUT

BOB FOSSE IN NEW MEMOIR

oel gRey, wHo won tHe tony in 1966 for playing the Emcee in Broadway’s Cabaret, was almost completely shut out from the 1972 film, according to the actor’s new memoir Master of Ceremonies. Grey, who also recently came out as gay, told the New York Post that legendary choreographer and Cabaret director Bob Fosse didn’t want him for the role. Fosse allegedly told the producers, “It’s either me or Joel Grey.” The producers choose Grey but let Fosse stay. “He wanted to control everything,” Grey said. “But I couldn’t let him. I knew this character inside and out, and I was the keeper of the original musical. I had to stand up for it. I think he knew I was going to keep an eye on him.” Both Grey and Fosse went on to win Oscars for the film.

ONMORE THE THAN BOOKS TEN YEARS AFTER THE

U.S. SUPREME

COURT RULED THEM

UNCONSTITUTIONAL. —USA Today

THe GoLdeN GiRLS get immOrtalized as tOys

unko, tHe nostalgiainsPiRed toy comPany famous for their pop culture vinyl figures, released their 2016 collection at the New York Toy Fair Feb. 13 and it features everyone’s favorite Miami foursome. Along with collections for the upcoming Ghostbusters film, DC’s Suicide Squad and American Horror Story: Hotel, the big headed, wide-eyed treatment is being given to The Golden Girls. Dorothy, Rose, Blanche and Sophia have developed a huge cult following in the three decades s ince premiering in 1985, especially among the LGBT community. Reruns on Logo and The Hallmark Channel are consistently the highest rated show on both networks. Funko has not released a date yet, only that they will be available in 2016.

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chaz bOnO plays BoLd ANd BeAUTiFUL

HaZ bono will be Paying a visit to tHe foRResteR family in The Bold and the Beautiful when he makes an appearance on the long running CBS soap opera. The 46-year-old LGBT activist is the only child of superstars Sonny and Cher and announced publicly he is a transgender man in 2009. “I’m very excited to have been cast in a role on The Bold and the Beautiful,” Bono said to People magazine. “I’m grateful that they are willing to pay me to do something I love, which is to act.” Bono will play a minister on a two episode stint of B&B airing March 31 and April 1. Bono joins fellow trans actor John Turner Schofield on the show.

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

AMeRiCAN idoL finalist cOmes Out in new videO

MERICAN IDOL season 14 finalist Rayvon owen came out with a kiss in his new music video posted on his YouTube channel. Owen, who came in fourth place on the singing competition show, premiered the video on Valentine’s Day and has over 85,000 views. The video for the song “Can’t Fight It” finishes with Owen kissing Shane Bitney Crone, the subject of the 2013 documentary Bridegroom. “It took a lot for me to come to this point to want to talk about this,” Owen said to Billboard magazine. “I think this issue is bigger than me. If I can contribute to that and help get the conversation started, it’s really important,” Owen said to Billboard.

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

IN-DEPTH: THE PRIMARY

#wearewithher Watermark’s presidential primary endorsement along with some other candidates and races to watch in the coming months Billy Manes, Jamie Hyman and Jeremy Williams

HougH it may be difficult to

locate the rainbows of optimism in much of the current political fracas trundling its way toward Florida’s March 15 presidential-preference primary, elections remain important and inevitable.

If we roll our eyes and say, “Meh, they’re all the same, these terrible politicians,” sidestepping our suffrage in favor of suffering, then we are clearly doing our lives and our country a significant disservice. Apathy, however, is not this year’s

favorite notion, as there are numerous candidates putting their necks out to protect LGBT – and human – rights. But this year also brings the oddest of stump-speech echo chambers – one with a stench of

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retaliation against both President Obama and the LGBT community’s gains he helped us ride in on – and it shouldn’t be ignored. Effectively, most of the Republican giants of overstatement and acrimony – hello, Marco Rubio and Donald Trump – want to roll back any gains achieved in the name of equality, mostly because they’re relying on the implied stupidity of a voting base that would rather witness the pendulum swing back to America’s own dark ages. These are precarious times. And so it is that we, gaily looking forward, offer our two (or three,

or four) cents on the upcoming political shift in November. You probably already know whom we’re endorsing in the Democratic primary (and can sleep well knowing that we can’t endorse anyone in the Republican primary). But there are other down-ticket races we’ll be following through the August primary and the November general election. We talked to some people; we learned some things. We just want you to be engaged, really. Strap yourselves in. It’s going to be a bumpy ride.

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

Our choice

he bluster was all there in Orlando

on Feb. 17, as it typically is at Democratic political events held in union offices. There was a violinist, there were stilt-walkers and there were numerous names and faces often associated with the local liberal machine.

There was also a cheering squad of three shouting things like, “When I say madam, you say president!” It was all in the name of advancing Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign in Florida, of course. Clinton has been opening offices throughout the state in the past weeks, eliciting hyperbolic statements of support. When statements like, “She’s a hard-nosed candidate who can get things done,” are thrown around by union leaders, it’s hard not to notice. The battle is on. For much of the Democratic primary season, we’ve been torn on exactly which side to sit in the nomination process. In part, that’s because the tenor of the discussions between Clinton and her opponent, Bernie Sanders, have teetered on the ledge of civility like none we’ve witnessed before. The deciding and dividing lines have been drawn, in effect, in the sands separating pragmatism and optimism; reality and amorphous hope; domestic issues and the global economy. There’s the fear that Clinton is a settling proposition against Sanders’ wide-eyed

idealism, and, to some extent, we respect that fear. Nobody likes nepotism; nobody is still watching Dynasty. But digging a little deeper into what we consider the most important issues confronting our community and, indeed, our country, we are endorsing Clinton. Though there has been much ado about her speaking fees and other entanglements with the systems that make the U.S. government go round and round – in the world of investigative hit pieces, she is a legend – Clinton is a strong voice, a capable voice, for the people of America, just as she is for the people of the LGBT community. In a rousing moment during the Feb. 18 Nevada town hall meeting featuring Clinton and Sanders, Clinton was (once again) cornered on that infamous speech in which she seems to say she does not support same-sex marriage. Her response was strong and finite. She’s evolved. She is with us. The Human Rights Campaign has endorsed her. And even though the Sanders campaign would have you believe that the HRC is part of the establishment

(along with Planned Parenthood), as Clinton pointed out, the HRC “fights against the establishment every day.” Look no further than Clinton’s LGBT platform. Her website lists numerous goals for the community. Clinton pledges to fight for full federal equality, pointing out that 65 percent of LGBT citizens say they are on the foul end of discrimination in regular daily life and 50 percent see it in the workplace. She wants to extend the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to add gender identity and sexual orientation to protected statuses. She wants to address the cruelty toward youth in schools and toward LGBT parents seeking to adopt. She is adamantly against conversion therapy and a strong advocate for assisting homeless gay kids tossed out by their families. She hopes to roll back the shaming of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” and restore rights to those living beneath that abuse; she also wants to allow the trans community to serve. Clinton is also on the warpath for extended Medicaid coverage for those suffering from HIV/AIDS and for the medical prevention efforts being made today like PrEP. She has made no bones about giving a damn for LGBT citizens, even after a perceived gaffe on marriage equality in 2004 made it seem so. As U.S. Secretary of State, Clinton gave a rousing speech in 2011 in Geneva that showed her true colors on the global stage, one that equated LGBT struggles with human rights struggles throughout history. “This is not unlike the justification offered for violent practices towards women like honor killings, widow burning, or female genital mutilation,” she said. “Some people still defend those practices as part of a cultural tradition. But violence toward women isn’t cultural; it’s criminal. Likewise with slavery, what was once justified as sanctioned by God is now properly reviled as an unconscionable violation of human rights. In each of these cases, we came to learn that no practice or tradition trumps the human rights that belong to all of us. And this holds true for inflicting violence on LGBT people, criminalizing their status or behavior, expelling them from their families and communities, or tacitly or explicitly accepting their killing.” So, what we’re left with is the unknown – a recently converted Democratic senator who has numerous merits and a history of being a Democratic Socialist (which we love, to be honest) – and a woman, potentially our first female president, who knows how to get things done on the global scale. In a time fraught with global insecurity and with too many moving parts, we respect Bernie implicitly, but we choose Hillary as our pick for the next President of the United States of America. And we’re proud to do so.

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Sexual Politics O

Stephen J. Miller

ur community is becoming more and more aware of our political clout, especially as public sentiment has slowly shifted, and gay and lesbian couples are combining assets. In fact, one major force for change is LGBT donations into political campaigns. A good indicator of how things have changed was Obama’s run for re-election in 2012, where LGBT money made a significant difference. In the early 2000s, LGBT donations had, overall, been dropping, both in 2010 and 2014. The Center for Responsive Politics states that funds dropped 58 percent from the 2006 election cycle to the 2010 cycle. They dropped another 12 percent between 2010 and 2014 for most candidates. However, after Obama announced marriage equality support in 2012, LGBT people donated to his campaign in record amounts. CNN reported that his announcement raised $8 million in four months. Sources at Politico. com estimate the total donations contributed somewhere between six and 10 percent of Obama’s entire campaign contributions, between $11 and $19.1 million. LGBT rights are still a hot button issue, even after marriage equality. In December 2015, six of the Republican presidential candidates said they would work in their first 100 days to rescind marriage equality. The other Republican candidates have not stated support for marriage equality; some like Jeb Bush still argue that it should’ve been a state’s issue. On the Democratic side, both candidates support marriage equality. Bernie Sanders has been a long-term fighter. In 2014 on National Public Radio, Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton was challenged for her 2004 denouncement of marriage equality while she was running against Barack Obama in the primaries. In the 2014 interview, Clinton and host Terri Gross got into a heated exchange. Clinton explained that she has since become more “educated” on the subject, and now wholeheartedly supports it. “LGBT Americans are our colleagues, our teachers, our soldiers, our friends, our loved ones. And they are full and equal citizens, and they deserve the rights of citizenship. That includes marriage,” Clinton’s campaign has stated. These are conversations that just weren’t happening 15 years ago. Higher visibility, more political activity, public opinion, and need for funds have all combined so that, now, politicians are listening to us.

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

Bob Poe

ormer Florida Democratic Party chairman Bob Poe knows he’s crossing some lines with his run for U.S. Congressional District 10, but Poe has always been one to run slightly against the grain. Recently back to the mainland after a congressional field trip to Cuba (foreshadowing!), Poe is optimistic about his volley for the seat representing an area in which he grew up. (He announced in front of a gas station at which he worked.) That community happens to center around Pine Hills; he’s also facing down Democratic favorites Geraldine Thompson and Val Demings (and attorney Fatima Rita Fahmy), which could make for a tough run. The other race question is an important one. “As I go out into the community, I’m not finding a racial divide in the African-American community,” Poe says. “I’m finding a bit of skepticism. But once they know who I am and what I’m about, that goes away.” Part of the insider concern for Poe’s chances is borne of standard polling tactics. “Here’s what happened: The folks in D.C. have made a decision about how they thought the race looked and had it all wrapped up with a ribbon,” he says. “When three other people jumped in the race that they hadn’t anticipated, then they needed to rally around their anointed candidate [Demings]. Now, I think that they’ll see that this can go any way.” Poe is pushing for human rights on all levels – from LGBT to workers – he says, and he hopes to be part of the breaking of the logjam in the U.S. Congress. “For the LGBT community, it’s a historic race,” he says. “I would be the first openly out member of Congress from the state of Florida. I can’t say I’d be the first, really. Just the first unouted member of Congress.”

Carlos Smith

“T

his is not a hypothetical,” says the former Orange County Democratic executive chairman and current political go-to-guy for Equality Florida. Smith, who is running for Florida House District 49, has never been one to mince words. He’s a realist and, well, somebody who is not afraid to speak up. Though he may not yet have a Republican (or even a Democratic) challenger for the 2016 stakes – with the recent redistricting challenges and victories, the district’s incumbent Rene “Coach P” Plasencia (the one who beat LGBT champion Joe Saunders by 700 votes just two years ago) opted to hop into the conservative District 50 pool – Smith isn’t taking his positions lightly. “To be frank,” he says, “the reason my race is important to the LGBT community is because we can win.” But that’s not the only reason. In a presidential election year that has already seen mudslinging from the right about overturning Roe v. Wade and rolling back the historic Obergefell decision. “We’ve all been reduced to such silly and irrational fears,” he says. Smith acknowledges that rulings like the so-called Pastor Protection Act – which will actually see its day on the Senate floor and likely pass – carry a sort of inevitability in a conservatively stacked legislative field, his optimism remains intact. And the nature of the issues is shifting. Transgender discrimination, he says, is on the rise. “On this I will not compromise,” he says. “We cannot leave the trans community behind.”

Susannah Randolph

hen Representative Alan Grayson announced in July his plans to run for U.S. Senate, Central Florida’s political hopefuls jumped on his Congressional District 9 vacancy like it was the last slice of pizza. A whopping seven candidates from both parties have filed to run for the seat – including Dena Minning, who as far as we know is still romantically linked to Grayson – but there are two

Linda Stewart

t may all seem like all fun and games when Linda Stewart bicycles through a pride parade with dozens of supporters in Stewart drag – it really happened – but former Orange County Commissioner and State Rep. Linda Stewart is far more engaged than her winsome and bawdy persona shows. That’s why she’s running for the Florida Senate District 13 seat against more moderate candidates like Orange County school board veteran Rick Roach and down-the-middle former State Rep. Mike Clelland. “Basically, my voting record over ten years of elected offices lends itself to a great deal of experience, not just at the county level,” she says. Though a longtime hero in the Central Florida LGBT community, Stewart is no political one-trick pony. “No one seems to be able to stand up,” she says. “I don’t vote quietly. I’m not quiet!” In a legislative body dominated by conservative interests and interest groups, Stewart promises not to shy away from controversy, especially on issues like LGBT rights, abortion rights and the rolling back of rights for local municipalities. Recent attacks on “home rule” – meaning, the ability of counties and cities to regulate businesses – have left environmental concerns hanging in the air. It’s fracking today, something else tomorrow. Stewart is a staunch believer in the power of the more reasonable half of Florida’s bicameral legislature. “If you get a senate that is much more democratic, those crazy things that come out of the house, they won’t be able to bring up the companion bills in the senate,” she says. “You can stop them in the senate.”

clear frontrunners: State Senator Darren Soto and Grayson’s former district director, Susannah Randolph. It’s going to be a tough primary. Tough to the point that some local Dems are dismayed that voters will have to choose between the two, but both candidates told Watermark that regardless of the race, now is the time. “I would be running no matter who my opponent was,” Randolph says. “I am running because we need

watermark Your LGBT life.

someone who will fight for women’s rights and access to reproductive health care, protect the gains we have made for marriage equality, put an end to workplace discrimination and prioritize making economic equality a reality.” Despite a voting record that leans to the right, Soto says Democrats need people like him in Congress. “This district also needs someone who can really deliver on the issues that matter to Central Florida: jobs, protecting the environment,

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

Beth Turra

olitics has long been seen as a man’s game, but Beth Tuura is used to busting down doors to the male dominated clubs. Tuura got her start in television broadcasting as a camera operator. “During my initial six-month review, my manager asked me ‘Where do you see yourself in five years?’ I told him I wanted to be a technical director, and he laughed and said, ‘Women don’t have the aptitude for that job,’” Tuura says. Within five years Tuura had that job and even went on to win three Emmys. Now she is running for Florida House District 47 currently held by incumbent Mike Miller, R- Winter Park, but before she can take it toe-to-toe with Miller, she will be challenged in the primaries by two Democratic attorneys, Henry Lim and Clint Curtis. It’s going to be a tough road, but one Tuura says needs to be forged. “I see all the threats that the legislature is making on our health care, our environment, our schools and on our freedoms, and it disgusts me. I see these legislators in Tallahassee who either don’t listen to the people they represent or don’t care about them, and that’s not how our government should be. I am running to be a voice for the community and a fighter for my constituents,” she says. Among the most important issues for voters right are women’s reproductive rights, the environment and equality for the LGBT community, Tuura says. “Floridians deserve someone who will listen and fight and stand up for them, and with me that is exactly what they will get.” protecting and extending human rights and social justice,” Soto says. “These are the causes I’ll champion in Congress.” Will the to-be-determined Democratic presidential nominee turn out the voting numbers both Soto and Randolph will need to secure the seat? When Central Florida’s Dems are forced to pick sides, which way will they go? We’ll have to wait till August to find out, but in the meantime, this is a race we’re watching closely.

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

Mike Reedy

“W

e are not a protected class,” Reedy said to Watermark back in June 2015 when he announced he would be running for Florida House District 63. Reedy was born and raised in Hillsborough County and is a product of its public schools. He attended the University of South Florida and became a realtor in the Tampa Bay area. That’s when it became clear to him the extent of inequality the LGBT community faced in his home state. “We are one of 29 states in which it’s perfectly legal to fire someone based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. They can deny housing. A mortgage company may see a couple with a hyphenated last name and could deny them a mortgage that is not based on credit or credentials, but rather based on [the fact] that they don’t want to provide that service,” Reedy said. Reedy immediately began working with Equality Florida as a consultant and business organizer. With the Florida Competitive Workforce Act killed in committee Feb. 9, which would have protected LGBT people against discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations, the fight will have to be continued next year. “The thing about civil rights is that you’re not supposed to be able to vote on them; they’re supposed to be rights,” said Reedy. “Protecting equal rights for women, for LGBT individuals, is something that we need to be doing. You should not be able to be fired for who you love. “These issues are what I believe to be American values in general. I don’t know why they are polarizing. If you work hard and play by the rules, you should be able to get ahead, no matter who you are or who you love,” he said.

Kevin Beckner

evin Beckner is a man who requires little introduction to the Tampa Bay area. He has served on the Hillsborough County Commission since 2008 and will finish up his second term this year. Beckner is anywhere and everywhere his presence and experience are needed, whether spearheading a campaign to amend Hillsborough County’s Human Rights Ordinance to include sexual orientation and gender identity or getting employee health benefits for domestic partners and samesex spouses of county workers. His championing of LGBT issues and concerns has garnered him awards and recognition from Equality Florida, the Tampa Bay Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and the Human Rights Campaign, just to name a few. And if that isn’t enough to sell you, he is genuinely a nice guy who cares about Hillsborough County. “I am passionate about public service,” Beckner says. And it’s that passion that is leading him to run for the office of Clerk of the Circuit Court for Hillsborough County. “As clerk of the courts and chief financial officer for Hillsborough County, I will provide the same level of service and dedication that I have while serving as a county commissioner to ensure that tax dollars are safe and wisely invested,” he says. Beckner’s campaign will focus on his 16 years of professional experience as a financial planner, not to mention his service as an elected official. Those skills, he says, will transfer to the clerk’s office. “I have the experience, track record and background to improve the clerk’s office and bring us into the 21st Century, and I am prepared to lead the clerk’s office into the future,” he says.

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

SORDID

STORIES SoRdid LiveS creatOr del shOres wants the dating wOrld tO knOw that it is hard Out there fOr a “minOr gay celebrity” in his 50s

Jeremy Williams

ew filmmakeRs wRite lgbt

stories with equal parts humor and heart and even fewer are able to take that story to cult status. One who seems to do it with ease is Del Shores, writer/director of the successful 2000 cult film, Sordid Lives. Shores is heading to The Cuban Club in Ybor with his one man show, SINgularly SORDID, where he talks about politics, religion and returning to the dating world after getting divorced in his 50s. Tinder and Grindr and Scruff, oh my! Shores was gracious enough to speak with Watermark ahead of his Tampa Bay show about Oscar diversity, election coverage and a much talked about sequel in the Sordid franchise.

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WATERMARK: SiNGULARLY

SoRdid is yOur One man shOw that yOu are bringing tO tampa. what can we expect tO see frOm yOu?

DEL SHORES: I always consider myself a storyteller or a humorist: I observe, I sometimes steal from my own life and other people’s lives and talk about it on stage. This piece has become

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

cOntinued On pg. 39 | uu |

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

that you feel got overlooked?

I’ve seen all the nomination pictures now, and most of the performances, and I feel like Idris Elba from Beasts of No Nation was overlooked. I hope that we do start getting a lot more opportunities, because that will make way for more awards. Part of it is also that sometimes the film is too small and there’s no way you can get a campaign for it. There has to be that swell again like with Boys Don’t Cry, with Hilary Swank winning a lot of festival and critic awards.

| uu | Del Shores from pg.37 very personal, because I have gone through a divorce in my 50s and getting back into the dating scene has been crazy, so a lot of that is the SINgularly Sordid part of this. I just tell tales about Leslie Jordan and Dolly Parton and people I have had encounters with, good and bad. I love politics and controversy. My dad was a Southern Baptist preacher, so we’ll cover religion. You and your ex-husband got married in 2003. How has it been getting back into the dating scene considering how much it has changed with online dating and hookup apps?

I came out late in life, and in my slut days we had the AOL chat rooms, so one of the differences is dial-up. You know the biggest change is since all these apps were invented, I have achieved a certain amount of fame, especially in the gay community, so it’s really difficult for me to go on these apps without being recognized. Sometimes you just want to be anonymous, and that’s not going to happen. I have had some interesting and funny encounters that I share in my show. There’s a lot to figure out with them, too. Do you put a face picture up? And if I put up a body picture, I have to starve myself first. You can only suck in so far, and I had Leslie Jordan as my profile consultant, because he is wickedly honest. Does he give you a lot of feedback on what to say and what not you say and post?

Yes. When I first got back into it, I called him and said to him “I just don’t know what to do,” and he went into research mode, and the advice he gave me was very loving and very harsh at the same time. I’m not going to give it all away now; you have to come see the show. The show does become a bit self-deprecating, and I enjoy doing that. It’s fun.

You are a very political person. What your take on the elections so far?

It’s just a shit storm isn’t it? I am obsessed. It’s just one thing after another, and now with Scalia dying, it’s become an even bigger deal, which I have not stopped celebrating by the way. I mean, I’m so sorry for his family, but I’m sure Jesus needed him more than we did. I can’t believe that Trump is doing

Is the ease of access to movies, LGBT films especially, online and the need to be seen in film festivals not so great anymore one of the reasons for the oversight?

I guess that could be part of it. The gay and lesbian film festivals are still great to get seen in and with some of my films we have been played and awarded by many of them, but to get the attention of this town and of the Academy, you have to be able to get into the big ones: Sundance, South by Southwest, Toronto, the big film festivals. I always encourage our community to keep supporting though, because it can certainly give life to a movie. I can trace every bit of success from Sordid Lives back to film festivals.

Sordid Sequel: Del Shores looks to start filming A Very Sordid Wedding, the Sordid Lives sequel, this spring.

Scalia dying…, I’m so sorry for his family but I’m sure Jesus needed him more than we did. —Del Shores

what he is doing; it is total insanity. And with the Democrats, I’m a bit surprised that Bernie is rising the way he is, but we’ll have to play that out. I’m on the Hillary train right now, but we’ll see what happens. Ian McKellen recently said in an interview that the Academy, which is being criticized for not having any people of color nominated in any of the acting categories this year, also disregards LGBT actors and generally

will only nominate gay characters if played by a straight actor. What has your experience been in Hollywood with your films, especially during award season?

It feels like it has to be a tragic story—Philadelphia and Boys Don’t Cry come to mind—for us to be noticed. I’m also wondering if, in the mainstream especially, if it’s not similar to what is going on with the cry for diversity in film from other groups. Who are we giving the opportunity to tell our stories to

watermark Your LGBT life.

the degree that they are able to be Oscar-worthy performances? Are we there yet or getting there? The one thing that is a positive of this is that it has created a dialogue, and dialogue always creates change. We’ve already seen some change in the voting by getting rid of some of what feels like dead wood: these old, white men who have been there for years doing nothing but voting. So we’ll see; it will be very interesting to see next year.

Was there anyone in particular

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

Sordid Lives is by far your most famous play and film. Was that born out of personal experience?

It really was. Latrelle and Ty, that was really me coming out to my mother, and so I always say that that was the heart and soul of that piece. Sordid Lives had a crazy evolution. When I was still closeted and married to a woman, I wrote a short story called Nicotine Fit, and it was about my Aunt Sissy, and I was inspired by the fact that she had tried to quit smoking, so I always try to raise the stakes in my writing. And I thought, ‘What would prevent her from keeping to this quest to quit smoking? Well, let’s make her sister die a scandalous death,’ and so that started it. In that story, Latrelle was confronted about her homosexual son, so I think subconsciously I was channeling myself and then I put it away. Then after I started going to therapy and came out, I went back to it and started writing all of Ty’s monologues. They were just my

Continued on pg. 41 | uu |

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

䔀愀琀Ⰰ 䐀爀椀渀欀 ☀ 䈀攀䴀愀爀礀䄀琀⸀⸀⸀⸀

䠀愀洀戀甀爀最攀爀䴀愀爀礀 ᤠ猀一漀眀圀椀琀栀吀栀爀攀攀吀愀洀瀀愀䈀愀礀䰀漀挀愀琀椀漀渀猀℀

sin wagon: Del Shores’ SINgularly SORDID comes to The Cuban Club in Ybor March 11.

| uu | del Shores frOm pg.39 therapy sessions, but all the characters are based on my relatives and friends. My friendship with Leslie Jordan is where I came up with Brother Boy. I didn’t actually have a crazy uncle obsessed with Tammy Wynette; I was the one obsessed with Tammy Wynette. I did go to a therapist once that I found in an ad that said “go from gay to straight, make the journey,” and I lasted about two sessions. Part of the therapy was masturbation exercises, so I took all that to an extreme and ludicrous level with Dr. Eve. what is it abOut SoRdid LiveS that made it able tO crOss Over frOm small cult film tO a mOre mainstream fOllOwing?

I believe the gay community embraced it and felt it was safe enough to share with their straight family, and they see it and say, “oh that’s my mother, that’s my aunt,” They recognize some family. Even with those Republican family members, there is enough that they recognize that they can get past the gay stuff. I can’t tell you the amount of letters I have gotten of people saying they shared Sordid Lives with their family as a coming out event. [Laughs] I think that’s a little twisted, but I’ll take it. That’s what I think, and I have so many female fans, because they just love these older women, and there are not a lot of writers out there who write older women characters like I do. everyOne really lOves these

characters, sO it’s nO surprise that yOu are wOrking On a sequel tO SoRdid LiveS and it is called A veRY SoRdid WeddiNG. what can yOu tell us abOut it?

吀愀洀瀀愀

䌀氀攀愀爀眀愀琀攀爀

吀愀洀瀀愀 ⴀ ㄀㘀䔀㜀琀栀䄀瘀攀Ⰰ 吀愀洀瀀愀⸀ ⠀㠀㄀㌀⤀ ㈀㐀㄀ⴀ㘀㈀㜀㤀倀甀戀䠀漀甀猀攀 ⴀ ㄀㘀䔀㠀琀栀䄀瘀攀Ⰰ 吀愀洀瀀愀⸀ ⠀㠀㄀㌀⤀ ㈀㐀㠀ⴀ㔀㜀㜀㜀䌀氀攀愀爀眀愀琀攀爀 ⴀ ㈀㠀㤀㄀唀匀䠀眀礀㄀㤀一Ⰰ 䌀氀攀愀爀眀愀琀攀爀⸀ ⠀㜀㈀㜀⤀ 㐀 ⴀ㘀㤀㤀㘀眀眀眀⸀䠀愀洀戀甀爀最攀爀䴀愀爀礀猀⸀挀漀洀

Well what I can say is we have advanced these characters to 2015, right after the Supreme Court decision on same-sex marriage. It is what happens in rural America when equality comes roaring in. You learn how some characters have evolved, how some have not. We just catch up with them. We have Whoopi Goldberg in the cast. We are hoping to have everything ready to start filming it in April and May. sO Over the last several decades yOu have wOrked with sOme big name stars. whO were the best and wOrst Of the bunch tO wOrk with?

That is a wicked question, but of course I’ll answer it. I have so many favorites that it’s hard to pick. I love the entire Sordid Lives cast: Leslie Jordan makes me laugh. Delta Burke, Rue McClanahan, I’ve been very lucky. I mean for Christ’s sake, I got to work with Olivia NewtonJohn! Here is an unusual one: I got to direct some PSA’s for The Trevor Project one year, and Felicity Huffman was absolutely the most gracious, kind, sweet person I got to work with for about 30 minutes. The worst is Judge Reinhold. I had to work with him twice, and he is just such an asshole. That’s probably why he doesn’t work anymore.

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

SAVE THE DATE TO CELEBRATE!

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Thursday, March 10th

Friday, March 1st

Doors open at 7-10pm

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Hosts: Jorge Estevez from WFTV Channel 9 & Miss Sammy

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

event planner

arts+entertainment

cOmmunity calendar

OrlandO i Left My Heart… a salute to the music of tony Bennett, Jan. 22Feb. 27, Winter Park Playhouse, Winter Park. 407-645-0145; WinterParkPlayhouse.org Naked Boys Singing, Feb. 5-March 13, Footlight Theatre at Parliament House, Orlando. 407-425-7571; ParliamentHouse.com The Tempest, Feb. 10-March 27, Orlando Shakespeare Theater, Orlando. 407-447-1700; OrlandoShakes.org Reeling, Feb. 18-28, Theatre UCF, Orlando. 407-823-1732; UCF.edu Kinky Boots, Feb. 23-28, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org Central Florida Fair, Feb. 25-28, March 2-6 and 9- 13, Central Florida Fairgrounds, Orlando. 407-295-3247; CentralFloridaFair.com Girls Night: The Musical, Feb. 25-28, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org Wet nurse, the areolas, Rag Rage, vicious Dreams, Feb. 26, St. Matthew’s Tavern, Orlando. 610-737-7426; OrlandoBeerGarden.com 8th annual Downtown Food & Wine Fest, Feb. 27- 28, Lake Eola, Orlando. 407-246-2827; CityOfOrlando.net Campaign Reception supporting Bob Poe for Congress, Feb. 29, The Mezz, Orlando. 407-704-6261; ArtfulEvents.com Josh Groban, March 2, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org Badazzle night, March 4, Aloft Downtown, Orlando. 407-380-3500; AloftDowntown.com Winter Park Playhouse Cabaret Series: Maria olivia bryant, March 9- 10, Winter Park Playhouse, Winter Park. 407-645-0145; WinterParkPlayhouse.org Movies out Loud: Trog, Wednesday, March 9, The Abbey, Orlando. 407-704-6261; AbbeyOrlando.com

OrlandO

Fab Fringe monday, feb. 29, 6:30 P.m. HaRd Rock live, oRlando

KAT NIP

Re-live your favorite moments of Fringe from the past 25 years with the Annual Fringe at the Hard Rock. Hosted by the OOP Guys, the event will feature songs from Asian Sings the Blues, The Naked Guy, Disenchanted, and a brand new show, The Key of F.U., and include artists Michelle Knight, Andrea Canny, Michael Wanzie, Doug Bowser, SAK Comedy Lab, VarieTEASE and more. Show starts at 8:00 p.m. with general admission at $27 and VIP at $50. VIP includes sit down dinner at 6:30 p.m. and reception at 10:00 P.M.

Out and About Night wednesday, maRcH 2, 4:00 - 11:00 P.m. centRal floRida faiRgRounds, oRlando The Central Florida Fair and Watermark Publishing Group present an LGBT-friendly night at the fair. Wristbands are $20 and are for unlimited rides (excludes special mechanical rides such as the bull ride and helicopter). Gates open at 4:00 p.m. For more information visit CentralFloridaFair.com.

Josh Groban brings his heavenly voice (and maybe girlfriend Kat Dennings) to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota Feb. 28, Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater March 1 and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando March 2. PHoto CoURteSy oF JoSHgRoBan.CoM.

tampa bay Matilda The Musical, Feb. 23-28, Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org gayBoR 2016 Membership Kickoff Party & Social, Feb. 25, Ybor City Wine Bar, Tampa. 813-247-6233; GaYBOR.com SPCa “Starting from Sit” info Session, Feb. 25, Metro Wellness & Community Centers, St. Petersburg. 727-321-3854; MetroTampaBay.org Pride Skate, Feb. 25, United Skates, Tampa. 813-876-5826; UnitedSkates.com/Tampa our Big anniversary Party, Feb. 26, Honey Pot, Tampa. 813-247-4663; Facebook.com/Honey-Pot Balance tampa Bay’s Feb. Service, Feb. 27, Francis House, Tampa. 813-237-3066; FrancisHouse.org Cinderella presented by Moscow Festival Ballet, Feb. 27, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.net

tampa bay Cameron Carpenter, Feb. 27, Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org Have booze, will travel tampa to orlando Pub Crawl, Feb. 28, Southern Nights, Tampa. 813-559-8625; SouthernNightsTPA.com Josh Groban, March 1, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.net Florida Strawberry Festival, March 3- 13, Strawberry Festival Grounds, Plant City. 813-752-9194; FLStrawberryFestival.com Barn Dance, March 5, Metro Wellness & Community Centers, St. Petersburg. 727-321-3854; MetroTampaBay.org 46th annual Raymond James gasparilla Festival of the arts, March 5-6, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Tampa. 813-876-1747; GasparillaArts.com

open Arms homeless Ministry: Help Feed the homeless, March 6, Hyde Park United Methodist Church, Tampa, 813-253-5388; HydeParkUMC.org

Equality Florida’s Greater St. Petersburg Equality Connection

sarasOta

fRiday, feb. 26, 6:00 P.m. aRticles galleRy, st. PeteRsbuRg

All the Way, Jan. 14-April 9, Asolo Rep Theatre,Sarasota.941-351-8000; AsoloRep.org Yank! a new Musical, Feb. 18-March 3, Manatee Performing Arts Center, Brandenton. 941-748-5875; ManateePerforming ArtsCenter.com

Equality Florida is partnering with Articles Gallery for the first St. Pete Connection of 2016. Equality Florida’s Hannah Willard, and the local St. Pete leadership team, will give an update on what’s next in our fight for equality, including a recap on Florida’s current legislative session. The event is free and open to the public. This is a great event to meet and network with the rapidly growing community in St. Pete. To learn more about, sponsor or purchase tickets to this year’s Gala on May 7 at The Mahaffey Theatre, go to EQFL.org/GreaterStPeteGala.

15th annual van Wezel Foundation gala with Josh Groban, Feb. 28, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota. 941-366-5578; VWFoundation.org Planned Parenthood Dinner & auction, March 3, Powel Crosley Estate, Sarasota. 800-230-7526; MyPlannedParenthood.org

TBGLCC March Dinner Meeting tuesday, maRcH 8, 6:30 P.m. flamingo ResoRt, st. PeteRsbuRg The Tampa Bay Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce invite you to the March Dinner Meeting at the Flamingo Resort in St. Petersburg. Join the TBGLCC for the social hour starting at 6:30 P.M. followed by a dinner at 7:30 p.m. This month’s meeting topic will be LGBT and religion. Member tickets are only $25 and non-members are $35. Reservations required in advance. Tickets can be purchased at TBGLCC.org

to submit your upcoming event, concert, performance, or fundraiser visit watermarkonline.com.

watermark Your LGBT life.

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

watermark Your LGBT life.

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

overheard

tampa bay Out+abOut

tampa pride snags its celebrity

itH about a montH to go, details for Tampa Pride are starting to come in and get finalized. After last year’s huge success when 40,000+ attendees filled the streets in Ybor the pressure is on to try and be bigger and better. Tampa Pride held there Miss Tampa Pride pageant and selected their queen. The grand marshals have been plunked from the community - Fox 13 News morning anchor Russell Rhodes and CEO of Metro Wellness & Community Centers Lorraine Langlois – and now we have our celebrity grand marshal, photographer and designer Mike Ruiz. You might remember Ruiz from Logo’s reality series The A-List, or his appearances on Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List, America’s Next Top Model and RuPaul’s Drag Race. Ruiz has also been recognized and praised for working to help LGBT homeless youth.

there be mOrmOns Outside this theater

ne of bRoadway’s biggest Hits, the Book of Mormon, paid a visit to the bay area and had a sold out run Feb. 16-21 at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. If you were lucky enough to get a chance to see the show, you probably noticed something charming occurring right outside the theater. A group of well mannered, clean cut, real life Mormons! That’s right, the light hearted Latter Day Saints were parked outside saying “Hello!” to guests as they entered the show. Unlike many conservative, religious groups who would set up camp with picket signs and yell out ignorant chants, these young lads hung out Two by Two with a sign that read, “have your picture taken with the real thing.” They smiled, they shook hands and they talked with anyone about anything without pushing any agenda, only talking about the All-American Prophet and handing out the Bible Part 3, if you so wanted to. They even hung out after the show, asked theater goers if they had a good time and enjoyed themselves and never once condemned anyone to a Spooky Mormon Hell Dream. Well done boys.

straz center annOunces new seasOn

oP on tHe yellow bRick Road and take a stroll into the woods and don’t dillydally because life is a cabaret and the Straz Center for the Performing Arts has lots for you to see next season. Straz made the announcement of what you will get to see come through town during the 2016-2017 season. The upcoming season will have something for everyone whether you enjoy the classics, fairy tales or modern classics. The season kicks off with The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time in the start of November 2016 and will be followed by Into the Woods, An American in Paris, Forbidden Broadway, Cabaret, Something Rotten!, The King and I, Finding Neverland, The Little Mermaid, Wicked and finishes up with Motown the Musical in August 2017. So make sure to get your tickets and get to the theater. If you have trouble finding it find it’s the second star to the right and straight on ‘til morning (actually it’s on Macinnes PL in Tampa).

2 3

cause you gotta Have fRiends: (L-R) nick Janovsky, eric Skains and Miguel Fuller take in the St. Petersburg night life at Tryst Feb. 20. Photo CoURteSy oF niCK JanovSKy

community imPact: Mark Puskarich (L) and Jennifer Russell attended Community Tampa Bay’s Evident Impact event at Nielsen Media Research Feb. 11. Photo CoURteSy oF MaRK PUSKaRiCH

PoweR couPle: Philip Dinkins (L) with husband, and Voice for Equality award winner, Ed Lally at the Tampa Gala at TPepin’s in Tampa Feb. 20. PHoto By LoRi RoSS

sPeak softly: Equality Florida’s Executive Director nadine Smith gives the state-of-the-state address at the Tampa Gala at TPepin’s in Tampa Feb. 20.

PHoto By LoRi RoSS

i’m tHe king of tHe woRld: Chris Goldsmith (L) and Jeremy Jones take in the Grand Canyon from the Skywalk glass bridge as they vacation in Las Vegas Feb. 21. Photo CoURteSy oF JeReMy JoneS

tHe manatee yankees: The cast of Yank!, (L-R) Billy Masuck, Brian Strubbe, Brian Craft, Dave addis, Brian Finnerty and Katie ann eichler, celebrate with drinks after the show in Bradenton Feb. 20. Photo

CoURteSy oF BRian FinneRty

sHow stoPPeRs: Kev Kev, ashlee t. Bangkx, Christian Klimas, Lady Liemont and Jeremy MistaBangkx Cureton strike a pose at the Flamingo Resort in St. Petersburg Feb. 22. Photo CoURteSy oF J. MaRC PHoto

PRide PlanneR: Carrie West let us know what’s cookin’ with Tampa Pride’s latest developments at the Hampton Inn in Tampa Feb. 16. PHoto By RiCK CLaggett

8 7

watermark Your LGBT life.

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

THE BARBER FUND HELPING THOSE LIVING WITH CANCER

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watermark Your LGBT life.

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

overheard

OrlandO Out+abOut

YOu knOw where yOu are?

ou’Re in tHe Jungle baby, and you’Re gonna dance! The new gala-fundraiser for the Center gets a brand new name, Welcome to the Jungle, a Savage Soiree, previously titled Jungle Fever has a new name and will be held on June 17. The event page on Facebook promises a night of dancing (courtesy of DJ Twisted Dee), silent auction, casino and surprise performances. The invite also suggest that costumes are not required but highly suggested, and although a location has yet to be named, we’re already picking out various animal print patterns for the big night.

zebra hOpes-ta win-a

He ZebRa coalition is HoPing you sHaRe tHeiR Post and hashtag it #WinABellaGala. By doing so, you will increase the chances for the Zebra Coalition to win a $25,000 gala thrown by the beautiful Bella Colina. The venue, popular in the wedding markets and seen in our 2015 LGBT Wedding Guide, looks like it was plucked right out of Tuscany and placed in the beautiful hills of Monteverde, FL – minutes outside from Downtown Orlando. On February 17, The Bella Collina met with the Zebra Coalition as they were in the running for the Win a Bella Gala. Visit the Zebra Coalition’s Facebook page and share and hashtag the post to increase their chances to win.

a chance tO help

ong befoRe same-sex maRRiages became legal in Florida and across the nation, many people in the community fought for equality; this included our straight allies. One of whom is performance artist Brian Feldman. Back in 2010, Brian Feldman didn’t agree with the antiquated laws banning same-sex couples to wed. He took an approach that raised eyebrows and made people aware how easy it was for two strangers to marry but not two people who love each other. Brian placed an ad asking a stranger to meet him at the courthouse and to marry. After the threeday waiting period, this happened. Due to the brave steps of our allies, this eventually helped the cause to allow for same-sex marriage. Many of those Brian stepped up for are now asking for help. In Washington, D.C., Brian was attacked by a gang. The attack has resulted in medical bills as well as the fear he now has where he resides. A GoFundMe (Help For Brian) was set up to assist him with these bills and to relocate to a safer neighborhood. As we have gone to press, nearly $13,000 out of the $20,000 was raised.

tHat 70s skate: Orlando Psycho City Derby Girls don their disco finest for Full Sail’s Hall of Fame event Feb. 19. PHoto By oLen HUMPHRieS

WITH HER: Margo Dixon and bob Poe celebrate the opening of Hillary Clinton’s Orlando Field Office Feb. 17 at the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Hall. PHoto By BiLLy ManeS

PaRty lines: State House 41 candidate bob Doyel, his campaign manager Sarah Wissig and State House 49 candidate Carlos guillermo Smith hobnob at the State Capitol in Tallahassee during Florida’s legislative session. PHoto By HannaH WiLLaRD

good time: Carly Rae Jepsen performs songs from her second album during the Orlando stop of The Gimmie Love Tour at The Plaza Live Feb. 15. PHoto By aDaM Manno

kiss me i’m iRisH: (L to R) Chris Brown, Daniel Sergi, Rose Gamba and Lisa Brown mingle at Paddy’s for Watermark’s February Third Thursday networking social, Feb. 18 at Paddy’s in Winter Park. PHoto By Danny gaRCia

watermark Your LGBT life.

business tHai: Members of the Thai Trade Center Delegation from Miami visit MBA Orlando Feb 9 to discuss increased trade and tourism opportunities in the LGBT community. (L to R) Pheeraphat Phatraprasit, nayte Carrick, Kittinand yingcharoen, Lu Mueller-Kaul and Sandy Rawaismarn Cuervo. Photo By PongRaPee SUeSatBoon

quaRtet foR queens: Classern String Quartet performs Dancing with the Queens, a semi-formal charity event benefiting Hope and Help Center of Central Florida Feb. 22 at The Abbey. PHoto CoURteSy CLaSSeRn

big sHoes: (L to R) henry Kim, Fatima Fahry and eric Rollings celebrated the lives and legacies of local grassroots activists Feb. 19 at Elixer during the Orange County Democratic Executive Committee’s Legacy of Action award reception. PHoto By BiLLy ManeS

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

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for 2 weeks

Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

INCLUDES

• Bold Heading

announcements

wedding bells

Melissa Crispo, 37, and Candace Salemi, 36

cOngratulatiOns

from Orlando, Florida

barCodes orlando celebrates seven years in business on March 5.

years tOgether:

honey Pot celebrates its ninth anniversary Feb. 26.

More than 2 years

lOcal birthdays

engagement date:

July 2, 2014

Wedding date:

January 31, 2016

Wedding venue: Winter Park Farmers Market

Wedding planner:

Jessica Robinson of My Favorite Things Inc.

Wedding caterer:

Cocktails, catering and a dessert buffet by A Sweet Little Bakery in oviedo, Florida

Wedding theme/ cOlOrs:

Their wedding colors were yellow, tan and black with lots of sunﬂowers for decoration.

First sOng:

Phillip Bonnano, a musician and good friend of the couple, played and sang “Stand By Me.”

interesting Fact:

Two weeks prior to the wedding, Candace thought Melissa was traveling to St. louis to see her best friend and have a bachelorette party, but Melissa was actually there for three days recording a new song for her.

PHoto By JoHnny Q PHotogRaPHy

“m

y favoRite tHing about

Candace is she has a beautiful heart,” Melissa says. “She has so much love in her, and not just for me but for everybody—and it just shines.” Candace Salemi, who is a senior higher education specialist, and Melissa Cripso, a musician, songwriter and paramedic, hung out in the same circle of friends for 15 years. Candace came to see Melissa perform regularly, but they only ever considered themselves acquaintances. One day while they were both single, they started to hang out and became friends. At that time, they were looking to find love and wanted to find someone they could share a serious relationship with. Melissa says one day she finally realized that when she went down the list of qualities she wanted in a woman, Candace possessed them all and vice versa for Candace—so they started dating. “The best part about it was when we started hanging out, I

was in my raw form, because I only looked at her as my friend and somebody to hang out with,” Melissa says. “I was so honest and never had to put on a front or put on a show or try to get her to impress me. I was just rawly myself, which I think was the best thing about it.” They officially got together in January 2014, and by July 4, 2014, Melissa proposed to Candace. She even asked Candace’s dad, which Candace thought was very sweet. They had a get together at Santiago’s Bodega for Fourth of July, and Candace didn’t think too much about it at first. She said, as the night went by, more friends started to show up. Melissa went outside to her car to get “something,” but she really went to get the ring. When she came back, she got down on one knee in

front of all their close friends and asked Candace to marry her. “She said a lot of really great things, and she told me that she had called my father,” Candace says. “My father is my best friend and most important person in my life, so of course that made me cry.” Both women were excited as the wedding day approached, and Melissa admits to being nervous on the wedding day. But she was positive about one thing: It wasn’t because of whom she was marrying. “It’s so funny,” Melissa recalls,“I get up in front of people all the time and sing and play music, but walking down the aisle and having everyone stare at you with your dress on, I was more nervous about tripping down the aisle than anything.” The couple spent their honeymoon on an eight-day cruise. “I’m just happy I get to spend the rest of my life with my best friend,” Melissa says.

Orlando graphic designer Lisa Buck, Framing of Central Florida co-owner Mike vanDerLeest, Tampa artist and hairstylist Christopher nejman, Tampa’s Outings and Adventures founder Robert Geller, Vietnam vet and Tampa Bay transgender activist Janice Carney (Feb. 25); Come Out With Pride’s Matthew Riha (Feb. 26);Tampa softballer and karaoke diva Carlos Lopez, sexy Sarasota Ballet marketing manager Mike Maraccini, Orlando aesthete extraordinaire Jim Cundiff, muscled Tampa massage therapist eduardo Campos (Feb. 27); Orlando photographer J.D. Casto, Polk Pride’s Scott guira, Disney Cruise Line’s David Baldree (Feb. 28); Fields Motorcars Orlando’s Russ Fowler, Orlando Gay Chorus’ Joel Strack (Feb. 29); drag beauty and former WAVE award winner Chrysanthe Mum (March 1); former Joy MCC pastor Lisa Heilig, Parliament House manager tim Calandrino (March 2); Gay Days’ Steve erics (March 3); Tampa Bay singer and comedian Judy B. goode, Sarasota resident and activist Mark Kidd, Club Orlando attendant arthur adams, Tampa mama to twins and lactation counselor Patty Cannon (Mar. 4); Orlando playwright, actor, columnist and rabble-rouser extraordinaire Michael Wanzie, TIGLFF’s KJ Mohr, Orlando realtor Rustin Davis, Rollins College theater director thomas ouellette (March 6); Tampa Bay fashionista Robert Chmura-Pappadeas, Tampa Bay political expert Randy Smith, handsome Tampa Bay bear David Sparks (March 7); psychologist and co-owner of E.M. & Voss Solutions Event and Wedding Services eric Muenks (March 8); St. Pete mail carrier Derek Wilkins, Sarasota woman about town Misty Smeltzer, former Watermark intern veronica Bregina, Saint Petersburg Practice Management Consulting president Jacob Hamm (March 9).

dO yOu have an annOuncement? having a birthday Or anniversary? did yOu get a neW JOb Or prOmOtiOn? See your news in Watermark! Send your announcement to editor@Watermarkonline.com or go to Watermarkonline.com/Submit-a-transition.

it’s that easy!

—Samantha Rosenthal

Do you have an interesting wedding or engagement story you’d like to share with Watermark readers? if so, email the details to editor@Watermarkonline.com for consideration as a future feature on this page.

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4

the Anti-ordinary

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Feb rua ry 25 - M a rch 9, 2016 // Issue 2 3.0 4