Watermark Issue 27.26: A Year of Loss by Watermark Publishing Group

Your LGBTQ Life.

Dec. 23 - Jan. 6, 2021 • Issue 27.26

A Year of

Loss A look back at what made 2020 one of the worst, and most inspiring, years in recent memory

Orlando, St. Pete, Orange County mayors call on Congress to pass Equality Act

Empath Health, Stratum Health System receive approval for landmark merger

D A Y T O N A B E A C H • O R L A N D O • T A M P A • S T . P E T E R S B U R G • clear w ater • S A R A S O T A

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

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departments 7 // Publisher’s Desk

page

8 // Central Florida News 10 // Tampa Bay News

We don’t know about you, but 2020 has left us exhausted. The year has been filled with immense loss, sadness and enough chaos to fill a decade's worth of newspapers ... Join us as we look back on the long, dark tunnel that was 2020 and some of its bright spots that give us hope for 2021. — Watermark editor Jeremy Williams, in the Year in Review introduction

12 // State News 13 // Nation & World News 19// Talking Points 37// Tampa Bay Out + About 39// Central Fl Out + About 40// Tampa Bay Marketplace 42// Central Fl Marketplace 46// Wedding Bells On the cover

page A Year of Loss: A look back at what made 2020 one of the worst, and most inspiring, years in recent memory.

scan qr code for

WatermarkOnline.com

page What's Poppin'?:

“Happiest Season,” a holiday rom-com focused on a lesbian couple is one of 2020’s biggest entertainment moments in our annual LGBTQ A-Z of Pop Culture. Photo courtesy of Hulu

Watermark Issue 27.26 // Dec. 23, 2020 - Jan. 6, 2021

Call for Equality

Almost There

The Wonderful World

Fit to Print

page Central Florida mayors call on Congress to pass Equality Act.

page Empath Health, Stratum Health merger receives final board approval.

page

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

Michael Wanzie weighs in on why actors should be able to play any role.

Steve Blanchard reflects on what a ruthless year 2020 was.

December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

Publisher’s

Rick Claggett PUblisher

Rick@WatermarkOnline.com

Desk

nsert “sigh” here. Now throw

in a cliché — What a year this has been! Then, add a metaphor about it being a dumpster fire. Collect the 2020 bingo cards to see who won the year of insanity. Follow it up with the promise of a better tomorrow and poof, we are in 2021. Except, it just doesn’t work that way.

In 2016 Central Florida had a historically bad year. Watermark ran a cover with the headline, “Worst Year Ever.” Does that still hold true? It does. 2016 and 2020 were both tragic and comparing tragedy is futile. We could have run the same headline for this issue and both would still hold true. I usually enjoy the last issue of the year, taking a look back at our failures and successes and looking ahead at what’s to come. This year is just different. The mark of the end of an era and movement into another feels lost at this point. When we wake up on Jan. 1, thousands more people

will have died from coronavirus. When we wake up on Jan. 2, thousands more people will have died from coronavirus; Jan. 3, 4, 5 and so on. It is an impossible time to live in, seeing the end in sight and still living in the reality. COVID is by far the story of the year and this holiday season has me consumed with thoughts of those we have lost. I can’t imagine there is anyone who has not been affected by a COVID death. I am connected in some fashion with seven, a friend of a friend or someone I follow on social media. I wonder at what point Americans became desensitized to so much loss. Was

it when the number got too big it stopped being human, or too large for our brains to fathom? Each page of Watermark can hold up to 1200 words, without any graphics or advertisements. If you list the first and last name of every soul lost to COVID you could list roughly 600 people per page. That’s 28,800 names in this 48 page issue and it’s just enough to cover the deaths in Florida. It would take nearly six months to list the names of everyone in the United States who passed, and by then we would have so many more names to include. Here’s another way I visualize the enormity of this daily calamity: I used to work in the Whale & Dolphin Stadium at Sea World in the mid-to-late 90s. That stadium sat 2,000 guests per show. Imagine looking at that packed stadium and realizing 1,000 more people than you are seeing will die before the sun sets and rises again. It’s overwhelming. Thank God there is hope (I know that sounds strange coming from me, but I promised God I would mention Her in at least one column a year if Joe Biden became president). There is hope that vaccines will swoop in to save us all and that life will return to normal. There is hope that the new administration will restore decency to our country and that life will return to normal. I typically use this space to reflect on my previous year's predictions and make some forecast for what the next year will bring. I only have one thing to say for 2021, and that is I hope life doesn’t return to normal. I hope we are better than we used to be. I hope we find a better version of humanity. I hope we learn to reconnect on a personal level and not in a virtual cloud. I hope

watermark staff Owner & Publisher: Rick Claggett • Ext. 110 Rick@WatermarkOnline.com Business Manager: Kathleen Sadler • Ext. 101 Kathleen@WatermarkOnline.com

Editor-in-Chief: Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com Tampa Bay Bureau Chief: Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com Art Director: Dylan Todd • Ext. 107 Dylan@WatermarkOnline.com

Sales Director: Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Danny@WatermarkOnline.com Senior Orlando Account Manager: Sam Callahan • Ext. 103 Sam@WatermarkOnline.com Tampa Bay Account Manager: Michael Wier • Ext. 105 Michael@WatermarkOnline.com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

that we value those close to us and those in our community fighting the good fight. I hope we return to entertainment with a great appreciation for art and the people behind it. I hope the Black Lives Matter movement continues to teach us, continues to move all of us to that better version of humanity. I want to acknowledge two shining stars of the year, two women for are true leaders in our community. Congratulations Blue Star and Pom Moongauklang, who reinvented themselves in the adversity of 2020. They are the beacon of hope I hope we see more of next year.

I only have one thing to say for 2021, and that is I hope life doesn’t return to normal. I also want to acknowledge some amazing people who passed this year: Sam Singhaus, Marcy Singhaus, Mike Ames, Charles Williams, Anthony Franco and Jason Halterman. You have had a profound affect on my life and the lives of those I care so deeply about. In this issue of Watermark, our editorial team reflects on the top stories of the year and brings you the latest from today’s headliners. Happy Holidays to you and your loved ones. Wear your mask, social distance and let’s get to the other side of this. We strive to bring you a variety of stories, your stories. I hope you enjoy this latest issue.

Founder and Guiding Light: Tom Dyer National Ad Representative: Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863

Michael Wanzie is

an Orlando-based playwright, actor and ordained minister. He is most recognized for his direction of productions in the Orlando area. Page 15

Steve Blanchard

is a former Watermark editor turned media relations coordinator at Moffitt Cancer Center. He returns with his viewpoint column, Fit to Print. Page 17

Tiffany Razzano

is the founder and president of Wordier Than Thou, a literary arts nonprofit that creates fun, engaging events for writers and readers. Page 46 Sabrina Ambra, Nathan Bruemmer, Scottie Campbell, Miguel Fuller, Divine Grace, Holly Kapherr Alejos, Jason Leclerc, Melody Maia Monet, Jerick Mediavilla, Greg Stemm, Dr. Steve yacovelli, Michael wanzie

photography Brian Becnel, Nick Cardello, Bruce Hardin, Jamarqus Mosley, Chris Stephenson, Lee Vandergrift

distribution LVNLIF2 Distributing, Ken Carraway, Vanessa Maresca-Cruz 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.

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central florida news

Watermark’s Top 5 most read online headlines of 2020

Parliament House owner responds to upcoming closure rumors After court documents stating the Parliament House is being turned over to its mortgage company start to circulate online, owner Don Granatstein addresses with Watermark Oct. 5 the online rumors that Orlando’s longest running LGBTQ club and resort would be closing down in November. Granatstein says he is working on securing the financing that would keep the resort open.

Orlando Police investigate homicide at Parliament House Orlando Police respond to a shooting call at the Parliament House resort April 2 and discover the body of Ricardo Montez Filmore — a 38-year-old, part time resort employee — laying on the ground inside one of the hotel rooms. He was pronounced dead on the scene. Filmore and his partner had been staying in the hotel, owner Don Granatstein stated.

Suspect in Parliament House shooting arrested Orlando Police arrest Courtney Lamar Williams, 28, April 15 for the murder of Ricardo Montez Filmore. Filmore and Williams, who were partners staying at the Parliament House, had been arguing according to a witness who was also staying at the hotel. Williams was seen fleeing the Parliament House after two security guards and a front desk clerk heard multiple loud bangs coming from the direction of Filmore’s room. One of the security guards identified Williams in the police report as “Ricky’s boyfriend.”

Parliament House to close after Halloween weekend After 45 years as Central Florida’s most well-known LGBTQ club, the Parliament House resort announces that it is officially closing its doors. Parliament House makes the announcement on its Facebook page Oct. 28 that its final dance at its current location would be Nov. 1. Lion Financial, the Miami-based firm that held the Parliament House’s mortgage, took ownership of the property Nov. 3 and has filed paperwork with the city to have the resort torn down.

Parliament House owner says the resort is not up for auction Online rumors that the Parliament House is being auctioned off start up in the beginning of 2020 when court documents on the Orange County Clerk of Courts website stating as much began to circulate. Owner Don Granatstein says in an interview with Watermark that while the Orange County Clerk of Courts does show the Parliament House going up for auction, it is only a formality and that a refinancing agreement is being worked on that will be completed before the Feb. 25 auction date.

Equality Leaders: Orlando Mayor

Buddy Dyer (L) and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings. Dyer photo from City of Orlando

website/Demings photo from Orange County website

Call for Equality Dyer, Demings join mayors calling on Congress to pass Equality Act Jeremy Williams

RLANDO | Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings joined more than 140 other mayors and municipal leaders from the 29 U.S. states without comprehensive nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ people in calling on Congress to pass the Equality Act. The list also includes six other Florida mayors – Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean J. Trantalis, Gainesville Mayor Lauren Poe, Gulfport Mayor Sam Henderson, Miami Beach Mayor Dan Gelber, St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman and West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James – and Commissioner Matthew Sparks of Oakland Park. “We urge you to take action and pass federal protections to provide security to our citizens and consistency throughout our states and nation,” the letter, addressed to both the U.S. House and Senate, states. Within the 29 states represented in the letter without full statewide LGBTQ protections, more than 400

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

cities, counties and municipalities have enacted their own local laws and ordinances prohibiting LGBTQ discrimination. While local ordinances are a start, “these efforts are simply not enough.” “This patchwork of protections is unworkable for LGBTQ people who are vulnerable where they live and when they travel,” the letter advises. “Even when protections exist, each time an LGBTQ resident commutes to another city for work, or visits other states, their level of protection changes ... Usage and enforcement of these protections can vary widely from city to city. This creates a confusing tangle of local ordinances, state laws, court opinions and administrative rulings, which is nearly impossible for the average person to navigate.” Dyer, who shared the letter on his Twitter account, said in a statement “The City of Orlando is committed to working each day to make our city more inclusive, equitable and welcoming for all residents. At the same time, federal protections are needed to end discrimination against LGBTQ+ Americans in every city and state in our country. All

Americans must be treated equally under the law and I am happy to join municipal leaders from across the United States to urge Congress to pass the Equality Act.” Demings echoed Dyer’s call to equal protections for LGBTQ people, saying in a statement “My goal for Orange County is to create a community culture of innovation, collaboration, and inclusion where no one is left behind. This vision can only happen if we embrace diversity and show compassion for one another. We must put people over politics and respect each other. Florida is one of 29 states that lack explicit protections against LGBTQ+ residents. In order to fully serve a diverse and inclusive community, nondiscrimination protection must be a priority for all people in our community.” The Equality Act would amend the Civil Rights Act of 1964 extending protections to LGBTQ people in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodations and more. The Democratic-controlled U.S. House passed the Equality Act last May; however Senate Republicans rejected a vote on the bill when it came before them a month later. According to Equality Florida, passage of the Equality Act is supported by over 70% of Americans, 200+ major businesses and 700+ faith organizations. The Democratic Party included fighting to enact the Equality Act as part of its 2020 platform.

December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

tampa bay news

Watermark’s Top 5 most read online headlines of 2020

Transgender woman jailed with male inmates seeks accountability Karla Bello, a transgender woman who was jailed with mail inmates for 11 days in 2019, seeks damages and shares her story with Watermark. She files a lawsuit Aug. 27 against Pinellas County, its sheriff and other officials who she says violated her civil rights. “They just thought they could get away with it because no one would care,” she explains. “This is the time to really speak out because I’m lucky to be alive.”

CARETAKERS:

Stratum Health System President and CEO Jonathan Fleece (L) and Empath Health President and CEO Rafael Sciullo. PHOTO

St Pete Pride 2020 rescheduled to the fall The state’s largest LGBTQ Pride celebration announces April 20 that its 18th annual celebration – expected to welcome 275,000 people to the city of St. Petersburg – will be rescheduled due to COVID-19. Originally scheduled for June 26-28, organizers share that they will work with local officials to secure new dates in the fall when it might be safer to gather.

Nonbinary Brandon resident who chronicled COVID-19 illness dies PJ McClelland, 37, dies April 11 from coronavirus complications after publicly chronicling their illness on social media. According to Facebook posts, McClelland was first screened for COVID-19 in late March after their neighbor tested positive and they developed symptoms. McClelland initially shared that they tested positive March 27. As of April 16, 873 cases of COVID-19 were reported in Hillsborough County, a number which continues to climb.

Tampa man who admired Pulse shooter charged with scouting attack targets The FBI charges Muhammed Momtaz Al-Azhari with providing material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham, a designated foreign terrorist organization. Federal prosecutors share their criminal complaint May 27 charging that Al-Azhari, a U.S. citizen who expressed admiration for the Pulse shooter and has lived in Tampa since 2019, attempted to buy weapons and scouted the area for potential targets for a similar attack.

St Pete Pride cancels 2020 celebration Following its initial postponement and as COVID-19 cases grow throughout Tampa Bay, St Pete Pride opts to skip its 2020 festivities. “The initial hope was to postpone these events,” organizers share. “However, the level of uncertainty and lack of clear guidance from experts prompted the decision to cancel as the Board deemed the health and safety of our community, both near and far, most important.” The celebration is now scheduled to return in June 2021.

COURTESY NATIONAL STRATEGIES PR

Almost There Empath Health, Stratum merger receives final board approval Ryan Williams-Jent

AMPA BAY | The boards of Empath Health and Stratum Health System have formally approved their merger, making way for the nonprofits to become one of the country’s largest health care systems. Empath Health’s network of care supports patients facing chronic or advanced illnesses throughout Tampa Bay. It began in 1977 as Suncoast Hospice and its members include Empath Partners in Care (EPIC), which formed in 2016. Stratum Health System was founded in 2015 and focuses on managing the continuum of care through services in Southwest Florida. Its most recognized brand is Tidewell Hospice, established in 1980 to serve patients in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties. The organizations announced Feb. 26 that they had entered into formal discussions to merge. They shared Dec. 10 that their boards had formally approved their plans to “create the country’s

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

largest not-for-profit health system delivering non-acute care and services.” “The combined organization will serve over 6,000 patients a day, creating a bridge between chronic, advanced and terminal care and providing seamless integration based on patient needs,” they shared. “Today, we humbly come together to commit to combining our organizations in a thoughtful and meaningful way which will create positive impact across the communities we serve, the business partners we engage and the larger industry as a whole,” Empath Health President Rafael Sciullo said. “As the saying goes, bigger does not automatically make you better,” he continued. “It is what we do with that opportunity that will allow us to create meaningful change while continuing to excel at doing what we do best … providing compassionate care to our patients and their families.” “We are excited for this opportunity,” Stratum Health System President Jonathan Fleece added. The announcement follows months

of collaboration. Throughout 2020, the organizations worked together to serve their patients amidst the global pandemic. They promised that together, they "will continue that momentum as they lead change both internally and within the industry." Once the merger is complete, Sciullo and Fleece will align under the newly-formed entity. Sciullo will serve as CEO of the new organization – which as of yet has not been named – and Fleece will serve as its president. Fleece will then lead the organization in each role upon Sciullo’s planned 2023 retirement. Regulatory approvals for the merger are expected within the next few months. Once finalized, Empath Health, Suncoast Hospice, Stratum Health System and Tidewell Hospice will continue to operate under their respective names. “We both have strong, passionate teams that are ready to engage in building the new organization,” Fleece concluded. “As we finalize our plans to bring the two organizations together we are committed to improving all aspects of our business by listening not only to our colleagues but to our patients, their families, our business partners and the larger communities we call home.” For more information about Empath Health, visit EmpathHealth.org. For more information about Stratum Health System, visit StratumHealthSystem.org.

December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

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state news

Watermark’s Top 5 online headlines of 2020

Black transgender man killed by Tallahassee police in shooting Tony McDade, 38, a Black transgender man, is killed by Tallahassee police May 27. His death follows his alleged role in the fatal stabbing of another man. Equality Florida says his death reflects the large-scale violence committed against transgender people of color in the United States, calling Florida "an epicenter of anti-trans violence." Local and national activists seek investigations and answers from officials.

Transgender woman murdered in Miami Yunieski “Yuni” Carey Herrera, 39, a transgender woman and well-known performer in Miami, is murdered Nov. 17. According to Miami police, her boyfriend Ygor Arrudasouza confessed at the scene of the crime after the two had been involved in an argument that became physical and fatal. She becomes the 37th known transgender person killed in the U.S. this year.

Longtime Florida LGBTQ activist Terry Fleming dies at 58 LGBTQ activist and the Gainesville-based Pride Community Center Co-President Terry Fleming dies April 28 at the age of 58. The center, founded in 2002, serves the LGBTQ communities of Alachua, Bradford, Clay, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Layfayette, Levy, Marion, Putnam, Suwannee and Union. Fleming previously served as president of the Stonewall Democrats of Alachua County, state committeeman of the Alachua County Democratic Party and president of the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus, an arm of the state’s Democratic Party.

Andrew Gillum comes out as bisexual Former Tallahassee mayor and Democratic gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum comes out as bisexual Sept. 14 in an interview with Tamron Hall. She interviews Gillum and his wife, R. Jai Gillum, who advise many people don’t understand bisexuality. It is the first time Gillum speaks publicly since an incident in March at a Miami hotel that involves a friend and a drug overdose.

Police seek community assistance in solving Bree Black’s murder Bree Black, 27, a Black transgender woman, is fatally shot in Pompano Beach July 3. The Broward Sheriff’s Office asks eyewitnesses to assist in solving her murder. Black’s death is a part of an epidemic of crimes against transgender people, particularly Black transgender women. According to the Transgender Law Center, she is one of six Black transgender women found dead that week.

First openly gay man named interim Miami Beach city manager Wire Report

IAMI BEACH, Fla. | The first openly gay man has been named interim city manager in Miami Beach. Raul J. Aguila, who has been the city attorney, was appointed Dec. 9. Effective Dec. 12, Aguila will handle the city government

while Miami Beach searches for a replacement for Jimmy Morales. Morales left his job Dec. 11 to take a position in the administration of new Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, The Miami Herald reports. Officials said Aguila will earn more than $314,000 in base salary. The plan is for Aguila to return to his post as Miami Beach

city attorney once a permanent manager is named. Aguila’s appointment means that five of the 10 Miami Beach leaders and senior officials who sit on the City Commission dais are openly gay men. “For the first time in [Miami Beach] history, we have an openly gay manager, city attorney and city clerk,” Aguila said in a statement. “It’s historic.”

Palm Beach County, Boca Raton challenge appeals court ruling overturning conversion therapy bans Jason Parsley and John McDonald via South Florida Gay News

alm Beach County, Fla. | Boca Raton and Palm Beach County filed a petition with the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals Dec. 11 asking the court to review a November ruling where a three-judge panel found their bans on conversion therapy for minors unconstitutional. The petition is calling for an en banc review, which means all 12 judges would hear the case. The petition also states that the majority opinion overturning the bans “conflicts with circuit precedent” and its interpretation of “strict scrutiny” departs “from the U.S. Supreme Court.” “The decision, possibly unintentionally, included language suggesting it constituted a final decision on the merits, even though the Court was merely reviewing the denial of a preliminary injunction; the Governments are entitled to their day in court to present additional evidence,” the petition reads. According to Palm Beach County Human Rights Council President Rand Hoch, the judges in the majority should never have ruled on the merits in this case until a trial was held.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

“Two recently appointed appellate court judges ignored legal precedent, as well as extensive evidence that conversion therapy causes harm to LGBTQ children,” Hoch said. “As a result of this erroneous ruling, LGBTQ youth in Florida once again can be subjected to the psychological abuse caused by conversion therapy.” Judge Britt Grant, joined by Judge Barbara Lagoa, wrote the majority opinion. Both are appointees of Donald Trump. The controversial practice known as conversion therapy has been discredited by most professional medical associations and 20 states, and more than 80 counties and municipalities in the U.S. have enacted laws prohibiting the practice on minors. The initial challenge to the laws in Palm Beach County and Boca Raton were brought by well-known local anti-LGBTQ therapists Robert Otto and Julie Hamilton. “If the panel’s ruling is allowed to stand, all conversion therapy bans in Florida will be struck down,” Hoch noted. “Moreover municipalities in Florida, Alabama and Georgia could be prohibited from enacting laws to provide protection against conversion therapy.” Wilton Manors also revealed that the city intend to keep its ban on conversion

therapy. Commissioners voted unanimously to join other Florida municipalities in a legal battle to keep the local bans on conversion therapy in place. Commissioner Gary Resnick brought up the issue near the end of a commission meeting. Resnick said he was approached by South Florida’s LGBTQ organization SAVE to sign an amicus brief asking for a rehearing of the ordinance that bans licensed medical providers from practicing conversion therapy on a child. City attorney Kerry Ezrol said there would be no cost to the city to join the amicus brief and that Miami Beach attorney Rob Rosenwald would take the lead in the case. “We have joined in other amicus brief situations with him where they do the work, we have a limited involvement and it’s worked very smoothly,” Ezrol said. Miami Beach Commissioner Michael Góngora has called the decision overturning conversion therapy bans legally and morally wrong. “There is no First Amendment right to practice junk science on LGBT minors,” Góngora said, adding the decision “should be reversed before anyone else is harmed by this scientifically rejected practice.”

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nation+world news

Biden hails Buttigieg as ‘new voice’ Wire Report

ILMINGTON, Del. | President-elect Joe Biden introduced his one-time Democratic primary rival Pete Buttigieg as his nominee for transportation secretary, saying the 38-year-old can be “a new voice” in the fight against economic inequality, institutional racism and climate change. Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, would be the first openly gay person confirmed by the Senate to a Cabinet position. Biden hailed that milestone Dec. 16 while saying that by the time he’s done filling out his new administration’s top jobs, it will have more women and people of color than ever, including “a Cabinet

that is opening doors and breaking down barriers, and accessing the full brains and talent we have so much of.” Biden said Buttigieg offers “a new voice with new ideas determined to move past old politics.” “We need someone who knows how to work with state, local and federal agencies,” Biden said, noting that highways are in disrepair and that some bridges “are on the verge of collapse.” Beyond standard transportation fixes, which are easier to promise than for administrations to get through Congress, Biden wants to rejuvenate the post-coronavirus pandemic economy and create thousands of green jobs by making environmentally friendly retrofits and public works improvements.

The president-elect noted that much of the nation, including his home state of Delaware, faces the risk of rising sea levels. A more immediate challenge, though, will be enforcing Biden’s promised mask-wearing mandate for airplanes and public transportation systems to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Buttigieg mentioned his affinity for trains while acknowledging that he would be only the “second-biggest” Amtrak enthusiast in the administration, given that Biden rode the rails for years between Washington and Wilmington, Delaware, while serving in the Senate. Buttigieg also mentioned that he proposed to his husband, Chasten, at Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

Topeka council bans LGBTQ discrimination in work, housing and public accommodations because of gender identity, genetic information, sexual orientation or veteran status. The ordinance also was updated to prevent discrimination through telecommunication, which includes harassment over social media, The Topeka Capital-Journal reported. A first offense could result in a misdemeanor charge, a $1,000 fine and up to six months in

Wire Report

OPEKA, Kan. | The Topeka City Council has voted to expand the city’s anti-discrimination ordinance to include LGBTQ residents and military veterans. The council unanimously approved the ordinance Dec. 15 that prohibits discrimination

jail. A second offense carries a possible $2,500 fine and up to one year in jail. “Stuff like this still goes on in the workplace, at home, at schools, everywhere,” said council member Sylvia Ortiz. “Until we change our hearts and until we change our thinking process ... that is when it’ll change.”

group condemns Hungarian adoption ban Wire Report

UDAPEST, Hungary | Human rights groups condemned a new Hungarian law Dec. 16 that effectively bans adoption for same-sex couples and applies a strict Christian conservative viewpoint to the legal definition of a family. The amendment, passed by Hungary’s right-wing ruling coalition in parliament Dec. 15, alters the constitutional definition of families to exclude transgender and other LGBTQ individuals, defining the basis of the family as “marriage and the parent-child

relationship, “ and declaring that “the mother is a woman and the father is a man.” The changes are the latest in a series of moves seen by critics as hostile to LGBTQ rights by Hungary’s nationalist ruling party Fidesz and its hardline leader, Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who has long said he was building an “illiberal” Christian democracy. Lawmakers from one opposition party boycotted the parliamentary vote in protest. Same-sex marriage was constitutionally banned in Hungary in 2012, but civil partnerships are recognized. However, the new amendment declares that

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

only married couples may adopt children, effectively barring same-sex couples or single individuals from doing so. The amendment also tasks the state with “protecting the right of children to self-identity according to their sex at birth,” and mandates that children be raised “in accordance with the values based on Hungary’s constitutional identity and Christian culture.” These changes come on the heels of a scandal involving a member of the European Parliament who resigned after being caught by Brussels police attending a gay orgy.

Watermark’s Top 5 online headlines of 2020

Presidential election results too close to call The results of the 2020 presidential election between incumbent President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden remains up in the air Nov. 4. The New York Times reports that Biden is ahead of Trump in the Electoral College by a 227-213 margin. The final vote counts in several battleground states would not be announced for several days; however, by week’s end AP calls the race for Biden with a final Electoral College count of 306-232.

ICE arrests gay Va. man after traffic stop U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrest Luis Valladares Cruz, a gay man in Virginia, after pulling over his car. Cruz’s partner, Josh Ayala tells the Washington Blade that four men who did not identify themselves as ICE agents surrounded the car and took Cruz into custody. In a statement to the Blade, an ICE spokesperson states “officers targeted Valladares Cruz for immigration enforcement based on the fact that he is subject to a final order of removal issued by an immigration judge.” Biden names openly gay, former US ambassador as deputy campaign manager Rufus Gifford, a former U.S. ambassador during the Obama administration who has served as a high-profile fundraiser for the Democratic Party, is named deputy campaign manager for Joe Biden, the campaign confirms April 29. The former U.S. ambassador to Denmark from 2013 to 2017, Gifford was one of seven openly gay ambassadors who served under the Obama administration.

Trans woman attacked by mob in Minnesota Iyanna Dior — a transgender woman in St. Paul, Minnesota — is the subject of a viral video showing a group of people attacking her at a convenience store June 1. Dior says the attack came after she hit several cars while attempting to move her friend’s car and could not pay cash demanded by one car’s owner. Dior sought safety in a nearby convenience store but says the owners declined to call police or help. Dior says she was “sucker punched” and then beaten until she passed out.

‘SWAT’ team raids Baltimore gay bar The owner of an LGBTQ leather-Levi bar raises strong objections to what he calls a “SWAT-style raid” on his establishment by a dozen city regulatory agencies who claimed they were investigating a complaint that the bar was violating COVID-19 social distancing rules. The owner says the raid came shortly after he alerted officials he learned people associated with a competing LGBTQ establishment filed false complaints against him.

December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

viewpoint

Michael Wanzie

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF WANZIE Acting the Part

hen the musical

“The Producers” opened on Broadway — and even more so when the movie version hit the cineplex — GLAAD condemned it, partially because of its supposedly offensive portrayal of gay men as swishy, lisping, loose-wristed effeminate creatures who live only for musical theater and care for little else.

And also because of the supposedly equally offensive portrayal of the one person in the scene who worked on the technical side of the business we call show as being a butch woman with short cropped hair, not a lot of pizzazz and who prefers men’s clothing. The problem was while GLAAD was busy raising a stink over the producers of “The Producers” transparent use of broad stereotypes presented as one-dimensional characters, gay men and women were flocking to the theater to see the show and loving it. To this day when “Keep It Gay” is videocast onto monitors at a gay bar, the clientele stop to listen, sing along and laugh their asses off. Why? Because so many among us can in fact see glimpses of ourselves, or a glimpse of a friend or an acquaintance, in those overblown stereotypical portrayals. We no longer live in a time when LGBTQ people are only shown in mainstream entertainment in one of two accepted but restrictive forms: Those who are unhappy — perhaps even suicidal — despite how they might party and camp it up in public or the over-the-top, out-of-the-closet screaming queen who dressed to distress the “normal” people and by their every movement were practically begging to be beaten up. But those times are long past and the audiences are new. I think we can be a little less sensitive about stereotypes in entertainment. We have now

arrived at a time where most people understand that LGBTQ people come in all varieties and that no stereotype is true when applied generally to any entire group of people, demographically speaking. I feel that we fought long and hard to get here and we’ve finally arrived at a place where non-LGBTQ America sees us as the “everything bagel” proudly on display in the bakery case. A conglomeration of so many spices, toppers and fillers sharing shelf space with at least another dozen easily identifiable types, each a treat in its own right but each with vastly differently flavors and colors, yet all with the shared identity of being bagels. If someone wants to make a few jokes about a pumpkin spice bagel and the pumpkin spice bagel doesn’t mind the attention then why should the plain bagel waste his or her time being upset on behalf of the pumpkin spice bagel who is not at all bothered? As of late we have both career critics and gay persons of every ilk who seem to be losing it over what they are declaring to be an “offensive” performance by James Corden as a gay, narcissistic Broadway actor in the film version of the Broadway musical, “The Prom,” and this just makes me want to vomit. First off, there is no one type of gay man so therefore no gay man has the right to criticize any actor for improperly portraying a gay man. Newsflash! We do not come “one size fits all” and it is impossible to answer the question: How does one play a gay man? The near answer is: One doesn’t play a gay man. One plays a man who is many things and one of those things may be that he is gay. Most of us reading Watermark right now can likely think of a half dozen gay men in our lives who move, speak, act and react precisely like Danny — the

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

would then mean gay people could not portray straight men, and that would be just downright silly. Say you dislike Corden’s performance all you like if you thought it lacked something compared to when you saw it performed live on stage, but don’t

character Cordon plays in “The Prom.” People like Danny are real. They exist. It is a manor of behaving the likes of which some among us might label extreme but it is none the less real. Cordon’s performance is not contrived to inform others that this person in

are overweight, speak with a lisp and have a foot fetish. The fact of the matter is I am overweight and speak with a lisp and have a foot fetish, and I’ll play any damn role I have a mind to play — gay, straight, trans or lesbian — and I will expect to be critiqued on nothing but my

There is no one type of gay man so therefore no gay man has the right to criticize any actor for improperly portraying a gay man. Newsflash! We do not come ‘one size fits all.’ bash the man because he’s a straight actor playing a gay man and don’t join the chorus of voices claiming his portrayal should be offensive to gay men. To me that’s as stupid as saying Wanzie should not play that part of a gay man in the upcoming movie because then the general public will think all gay men

and of himself tiptoes all gay men. We know he does not and I have to believe that in 2020 most movies goers think not as well. Then there’s the belief that straight actors not ought to be allowed to play gay characters, which to me — a playwright, an actor and a producer — is completely ludicrous. That

ability to act. P.S. I loved “The Prom.” It’s downright fun and happily uplifting at just the right time. I’m sure I would have appreciated it less had I seen the show on Broadway but I didn’t so I love the film. And I adored James Corden’s performance in it. So there!

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

viewpoint

fit for print That Was One Ruthless Year

ow many times can

we say it? The year 2020 will forever be the year that sucked.

Social injustice, an election that never seemed to end, ridiculous conspiracy theories and that little thing called COVID-19 which altered our lives unlike anything that came before it. In a word, 2020 was ruthless. That may explain why I found such comfort in an old favorite movie: “Ruthless People.” True, there are 100 billion different movies, series and documentaries to stream on a variety of platforms these days. Baking shows, sci-fi, sitcoms, animation and even a series about a chess genius are all great ways to escape reality. But this classic Bette Midler vehicle, co-starring Danny DeVito, is a gem of a movie layered in 1980s nostalgia, bright colors and one-liners that – for me at least – are more relatable at the tail end of 2020 than at any other time in my life. For those younger than me, the film may not even be a familiar title. But for 40-somethings and older, the film is a reminder that seeing the world from another point of view is the best way to relate to the struggles of those around us. It’s also the perfect demonstration of self-reliance, personal choices and self-improvement. If there was ever a time for self-reflection, 2020 was it. What better year to ask ourselves some tough questions? How am I going to respond to this pandemic? Can I isolate for the health of my fellow man? Can I stand up for those who are facing inequities? Do I confront those not social distancing or do I mind my own business? How am I going to spend this extra time? Am I going to work on self-improvement or am I going to wallow in despair and depression?

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

non-Stockholm Syndrome kind of way. It’s comedic fiction, yes. But the character Midler portrays emerges from a dark situation a better person with a more respectful view of her fellow man and a self-actualized in a way I never really

What was right for me wasn’t necessarily right for you – and vice versa. We all had a challenging year and had to face uncertainties we never expected. Our own choices are what turned us into 2020 survivors. Never before has it been more important or more

really, just want to hug the people that mean the most to me. It’s been way too long. I’m confident all those things will happen in 2021, but I hope we all also take what we learned from 2020 into the rest of our lives. Self-reflection, self-understanding and

We can only control so much of what is around us and this year proved that point. understood before now. Notably, in 2020, the latter is much easier to do than the former, but I’m still working on that. We can only control so much of what is around us and this year proved that point. As chaos unfolded literally outside our front doors, it was up to us as to how we would respond.

necessary to be hopeful for the future and for the New Year. As 2021 inches closer, my hope is that life can slowly return to normal and my goals are much different than previous years. I want to have dinner and drinks with my friends at a favorite restaurant or bar. I’m excited to sit in a movie theater and watch the next big blockbuster. And I really,

the continued relationship building with our own selves must continue, even as the normal noise and chaos of the world starts to distract us once again. Happy Holidays, Happy New Year and here’s to a hope-filled 2021. Steve Blanchard is the former editor of Watermark and currently works in Public Relations. He lives in Tampa with his husband and their two dogs.

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

10981861

Steve Blanchard

We all had to ask ourselves these questions – and more – when 2020 was barely out of its Baby New Year phase. For me, I decided to focus inward instead of outward. It’s not that I ignored the world around me – I ferociously read news every morning and evening. But as the distraction of the hustle and bustle of the daily world faded and I found myself alone with my thoughts, I finally heard what I was thinking. I feel like I know myself better now than nine months ago, when my office first closed its doors and my co-workers and I learned that we would be working remotely for the foreseeable future. It was almost like a chance to have a second set of resolutions to replace the traditional ones that rarely, if ever, get fulfilled. I didn’t write the great American novel, purchase a dream house or start a family, but I learned how to be comfortable with myself. Honestly, I didn’t even know that was a struggle for me until I had to come face-to-face with it this year. Which brings me back to the film. In “Ruthless People,” Midler’s unlikeable character is kidnapped early on. While she is literally chained to a bed in a suburban home’s basement, she wallows in self-pity, spits comedic vitriol at her captors and promises revenge with every breath. But as she channel surfs, the television lands on an exercise program. Rather than continue to be miserable and angry, she takes advantage of her situation and decides to participate, rather than remain passive. Over the weeks of her captivity she not only feels better about her body, but her mind seems to see things clearer too. She understands why she was targeted, learns some disturbing details about her husband and comes to respect her captors in a traditional 1980s

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

94 U.S. cities scored perfect 100% a

the

9th annual

Municipal

Equality

Index

out of

506

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—Human Rights Campaign’s 2020 Municipal Equality Index

talking points Thinking of those who lost a loved one eight years ago today at Sandy Hook. We owe it to their memory, and the countless others lost in America’s ongoing gun violence, to act boldly to prevent the loss of any more innocent life. — Pete Buttigieg on Twitter Dec. 14, the 8-year mark of the Sandy Hook school shooting

Billy Porter to join New Year’s Eve show from Times Square

“P

ose” star Billy Porter will join Ryan Seacrest and Lucy Hale on ABC in Times Square on Dec. 31 for “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2020.” The broadcast is closed to the public due to the pandemic. Porter made his debut on the program last year, taking over from Hale as co-host in New Orleans and performing several songs. As with last year, Ciara will once again oversee the Los Angeles festivities. Last year, Porter became the first openly gay man to win an Emmy Award for best actor in a drama series for his role in “Pose.” He also has a Grammy and a Tony for his work on the musical “Kinky Boots.”

The Highwomen big winners at Americana awards

he Highwomen won three awards: album, song and duo/group of the year, at the Americana Honors and Awards. The supergroup made up of openly lesbian singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile, along with Natalie Hemby, Maren Morris and Amanda Shires, won for their self-titled debut record and song of the year for “Crowded Table.” The winners were announced online Dec. 15 after the awards show was cancelled because of the pandemic. Other winners include Black Pumas, who won emerging act of the year; Brittany Haas, who won instrumentalist of the year; and the late John Prine, who died in April due to complications from COVID-19, who was given artist of the year honors.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Audible enlists Lena Waithe to help find new talent

ena Waithe will join several influencers on an advisory board for Audible to help discover new talent. The online audiobook and podcast platform announced Dec. 7 the formation of the Emerging Voices Advisory Board. The diverse board of esteemed artists, podcasters, producers and writers was created to help Audible experts define and “further the creative vision” of storytellers. The board will also help attract and develop projects from the “best emerging and established voice across the globe.” Other board members will include former New York Magazine editor-in-chief Adam Moss, Grammy-winning songwriter-producer T Bone Burnett and Marshall Lewy, the chief content officer at Wondery.

Ellen DeGeneres tests positive for COVID-19, says she's 'feeling fine right now'

llen DeGeneres says she has tested positive for COVID-19 but is “feeling fine right now.” Production on her daytime talk show has been paused until January, producer Telepictures said in a statement that followed DeGeneres’ Dec. 10 announcement. In an Instagram post, DeGeneres said anyone who was in close contact with her has been notified, adding that she’s following “all proper CDC guidelines,” a reference to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “I’ll see you all again after the holidays. Please stay healthy and safe,” DeGeneres said in her post. Reruns of “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” started airing Dec. 10.

December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

A Year of

Loss A look back at what made 2020 one of the worst, and most inspiring, years in recent memory

Jeremy Williams and Ryan Williams-Jent

e donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know about you, but

2020 has left us exhausted. The year has been filled with immense loss, sadness and enough chaos to fill a decade's worth of newspapers.

The year was dominated by a global pandemic, which infected 77 million people and took the lives of more than 1.6 million worldwide; nationwide Black Lives Matter protests, sparked by the brutal murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and far too many Black men and women at the hands of police; and a presidential election that saw President Donald Trump do everything in his power to elevate white supremacy and discredit the will of the people as record numbers turned out to vote. But among the chaos of 2020, we saw stories of inspiration as everyday heroes stepped up to meet the challenges that this year threw at us. We got familiar with words like essential workers

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

and social distancing, as health care professionals, food service workers, grocery store clerks, truck drivers and more put themselves in harm's way on the frontlines and became the people keeping us supplied, keeping us going and keeping us alive. We saw thousands, mostly young people, take to the streets in protest and organize against violence and injustice. These people who were looking for accountability in their leaders turned their anger and outrage into votes, leading more people to the polls than ever before to say four more years of Donald Trump is not something this country wants or can survive. Many people also managed to find some joy in this year. The

social media platform Tik Tok blew up, allowing people in quarantine to express their creativity through dancing, cooking, arts and crafts. It also helped people to connect and have some semblance of human interaction that had been taken away from them due to the pandemic. Streaming services, new and old, gave us plenty to watch. They introduced us to heroes to root for, villains to root against and provided a plethora of nostalgic shows from our youth. We got to meet "Tiger King's" Joe Exotic and Carloe Baskin and we had to say goodbye the Rose Family of "Schitt's Creek." It was a year that hit far too hard, felt far too long and seems far too difficult to try and summarize. But that's what we try and do in the following pages. We go month-by-month and highlight the biggest stories of the year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; locally, statewide, nationally and globally. Join us as we look back on the long, dark tunnel that was 2020 and some of its bright spots that give us hope for 2021.

December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

January

 Watermark optimistically welcomes the New Year with renewed focus, ushering in 2020 with the help of fitness experts and dietary specialists. Personal trainers and nutritionists in Central Florida and Tampa Bay share tips to help readers with health-related resolutions meet their goals.  We subsequently examine a battle within. Transgender and nonbinary individuals discuss discrimination from fellow members of the LGBTQ community while advocates stress the importance of unity.

 In Tampa, the former Diversity Chamber of Commerce unveils its new name, becoming the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Sarasota Pride, which skipped its traditional Oct. 2019 festival, also marks 30 years with its first January outing – unknowingly becoming one of the last in-person Pride celebrations of 2020.  Just hours before the legislative deadline and with three LGBTQ members serving in the Florida Legislature, Republican lawmakers kick off the year by submitting four anti-LGBTQ bills. Equality Florida calls the session “the most overtly anti-LGBTQ agenda” in recent years. Federally, organizations like the Human Rights Campaign clash with the Trump administration as it introduces anti-LGBTQ “religious freedom” regulations.

Orlando Pride’s Ali  They also call for action. Krieger and Ashlyn LGBTQ icon Cleve Jones visits the LGBT+ Center in Orlando to Harris get married implore voters to oust Donald

Trump in the 2020 presidential election. His visit follows the death of the organization’s former executive director Terry DeCarlo at 56, a leader mourned by the community at large.

February

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

 Love is safely in the air as Watermark introduces Central Florida and Tampa Bay’s 10 most eligible singles. Our first LGBTQ Voters’ Guide of the year follows ahead of Florida’s presidential primary.  Of the 28 Democratic candidates initially challenging Trump’s presidency, eight remain. Watermark contacts each campaign to detail their commitment to equality, receiving in-depth responses from former Vice President Joe Biden, former Mayor Pete Buttigieg and more.

nightclub and resort, deny rumors that their property will be auctioned.  St Pete Pride reflects on its 17th year by unveiling its $67.2 million economic impact in 2019. They reveal more than 265,000 attended the prior year’s festivities and look ahead to their June 2020 celebration, expected to welcome even more. Tampa Pride announces it will hold their inaugural, celebrity-headlining Pride at Night the next month.

 As news breaks that Florida Missing persons schools discriminating against LGBTQ students have received  Local leaders are given Lakeland financial support from the state’s the spotlight in Centralcase Florida. in voucher program, corporate The LGBT+ Center announces oﬀers $10K fundersreward withdraw from the award recipients for the 2020 Harvey Milk Diversity Breakfast ceremony scheduled for May. Honorees include Rep. Anna Eskamani. Owners of the Parliament House, Orlando’s longest-running LGBTQ

scholarship program. Companies including Wells Fargo and Wyndham Destinations stand with equality as LGBTQ and ally Floridians remain hopeful for an inclusive year.

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

Your LGBTQ Life.

march 19 - april 1, 2020 • issue 27.06

March

 Everything changes. After celebrating the 2020 Watermark Awards for Variety and Excellence, in-person festivities grind to a halt. The World Health Organization declares COVID-19 a global pandemic March 11 and coronavirus concerns quickly impact Central Florida and Tampa Bay.  With an estimated 60,000 people expected to fill the streets of Ybor for the sixth annual Tampa Pride March 28, organizers postpone until May. The seventh annual Manatee Pride in Sarasota follows suit.  The LGBT+ Center and Hope & Help in Central Florida suspend in-person events and services, as do Tampa Bay organizations like Empath Partners in Care and Metro Inclusive Health. Gatherings throughout the state are also shuttered as local governments declare states of emergency

April

and announce business closures, a precursor to city and statewide shutdowns.  In Miami, the first known case of COVID-19 surfaces from the National LGBTQ Task Force’s Winter Party Festival. More than 10,000 people attended the gathering March 4-10. More cases resulting from the fundraiser follow as Florida suspends all on-premises dining and alcohol consumption.  Ahead of further social unrest and economic instability, leading presidential candidates including Buttigieg suspend their campaigns. He does so as the first openly gay man to receive presidential delegates. Buttigieg and others subsequently endorse Biden, who easily wins Florida’s presidential primary and goes on to face Sen. Bernie Sanders for the Democratic nomination.

 Watermark speaks with nonprofits working to address LGBTQ homelessness, an issue exacerbated by uncertain times. We also find something to celebrate as April brings Lesbian Visibility Day. We sit down with local lesbian leaders who reflect on the LGBTQ activists who inspired them.  Rather than postpone festivities, Orlando staples One Magical Weekend and Tidal Wave Party move their events scheduled for the first weekend of June to 2021. The Contigo Fund and One Orlando Alliance unite to raise funds for members of the LGBTQ community in need.  Fundraising and entertainment efforts ramp up in Tampa Bay as well, as performers launch virtual shows to bring the community together. St Pete Pride postpones its 18th annual celebration to the fall

while Tampa Pride announces it won’t return until next year.  In a bright spot of news, Tallahassee bans the discredited practice of conversion therapy, but multiple deaths are now linked to the Winter Party Festival in Miami. More fundraisers across the state alter their 2020 plans as LGBTQ nonprofits begin to rethink how they serve the community.  The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) also evolves, faced with a nationwide shortage of blood due to COVID-19. They ease restrictions on donations from men who have sex with men, allowing them to donate after abstaining from sex for three months instead of one year. Trump notes he had nothing to do with the change as Biden becomes his apparent Democratic challenger when Sanders departs the presidential race.

coronavirus concerns impact central florida and tampa bay

daytona beaCh • orlando • tamPa • st. PetersburG • ClearWater • sarasota watermark Your LGBTQ life.

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watermark Your LGBTQ life.

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Your LGBTQ Life.

June 11 - June 24, 2020 • issue 27.12

Justice?

The Supreme Court weighs LGBTQ workplace equality

May

 With cases surging and stay-at-home orders becoming commonplace, we highlight essential LGBTQ workers. These nurses, delivery drivers and more become heroes in Central Florida and Tampa Bay. 

A father’s need to protect

his son becomes a fight to One Orlando protect all transgender children Alliance forms in Flagler County. Watermark introduces readers to two anti-racism individuals making a difference in their Central Florida committ eeas an example for community those beyond it.

Tampa bay Florida artireveals sts  Equality that it raised more than $56,000 ‘Don’tin Ask, Do ItsTell’ an online event. first virtual fundraiser highlights for Pride Month Palm Beach, Tallahassee, Key

West, Miami and St. Petersburg; cities where COVID-19 cancelled events that were projected to raise nearly a half million dollars for critical work in the election.

 National nonprofits also continue raising awareness. On the eighth anniversary of Biden becoming the highest-ranking U.S. official to publicly support same-sex marriage, the Human Rights Campaign endorses his presidency. Many others follow, including the National Center for Transgender Equality, as the candidate reiterates his longtime support for the LGBTQ community.  By the month’s end, 8 minutes and 46 seconds becomes a symbol of police brutality. George Floyd’s murder at the hands of officers is filmed in Minnesota, prompting activists across the world to assert yet again that Black Lives Matter. Worldwide protests erupt and continue for months to come, with hundreds of LGBTQ organizations uniting to condemn racist violence and white supremacy.

June

 We preview a Pride Month unlike any other; a June with no in-person Pride festivities after the state’s largest LGBTQ celebration cancels. St Pete Pride shares it won’t return until 2021 as organizations find new ways to connect with one another, from socially-distanced events to virtual gatherings.  Civil rights remain the focus of this unprecedented Pride season. The U.S. Supreme Court gives the LGBTQ community a much-needed victory, enshrining into law that LGBTQ Americans are protected under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.  The court rules 6-3 that an employer who fires an individual merely for being a member of the LGBTQ community violates federal law, a win celebrated by Biden and decried by Trump. We examine the implications at length.

 Local nonprofits stress the importance of this intersectionality throughout the month, a trend that advocates hope will continue well beyond it. The Contigo Fund launches their efforts to financially support organizations empowering the Black, LGBTQ community and the One Orlando Alliance forms an anti-racism committee to address systemic racism in Central Florida.  In Tampa Bay, Come OUT St. Pete, Project No Labels and the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum unite for “Together We Rise,” a vigil mourning lives lost and stressing that Pride began as a protest. Metro Inclusive Health and CAN Community Health close out the month by committing to double health services by 2021, promising to serve every community with the renovation of the German-American Club.

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

Your LGBTQ Life.

July 23 - August 5, 2020 • Issue 27.15

Dry State central Florida and tampa Bay lGBtQ bars, nightclubs share how they’re navigating a coViD-19 world

July



As COVID cases continue to

permanent street murals are

painted in the Progressive rise and protestors are taking to begins One Orlando Alliance flag colors both in Tampa and the streets to fight against police search forWatermark new begins executi ve director St. Petersburg showcasing brutality, July by opening our in-depth feature to local, Black LGBTQ leaders to share their stories and have their voices heard. We also reflect on five years of marriage equality in the U.S.

diversity, equality and inclusion in the Bay area.

Tampa oﬃcials, organizations  In South Florida, the loses yet another paint permanent Pridecommunity mural  In Central Florida, Bros in Convo — a Black, LGBTQ-led organization — advocates for Black Lives Matter and the transgender community, spearheading initiatives for Black artists and providing tasers for trans women of color to protect themselves from violence. The One Orlando Alliance also begins its search for a new executive director.  In Tampa Bay, The Plus Project awards nearly $55,000 in grants to Tampa Bay nonprofits serving the LGBTQ community. By the end of the month, several

transgender woman of color to violence when Bree Black is shot and killed in Pompano Beach the day before Independence Day. Later in the month, homophobic Davie police chief Dale Engle, who stated an openly gay officer died of COVID-19 because of his “lifestyle,” announces he will retire in September.  Colorado’s openly gay governor signs into law a bill banning the use of gay or trans panic as a defense in the courtroom, making it the 11th state to issue such a ban. The United Nations calls for a global ban on conversion therapy.

August

 Watermark takes an in-depth look at the impact of COVID-19 shutdowns on local LGBTQ bars and nightclubs, as well as how LGBTQ teachers are feeling about going back into the classroom during a pandemic. We also chat with LGBTQ delegates ahead of the Democratic Party’s virtual convention.  Since moving forward with in-person events is deemed too dangerous, many Central Florida LGBTQ organizations announce they are going virtual for upcoming events. This includes the City of Orlando’s Youth Empowerment Summit, onePULSE Foundation’s Rainbow Run and Zebra Coalition’s Drag Race 5K.  Tampa Bay’s Michele Rayner makes history by winning her primary to represent Florida House District 70, making her the first Black,

openly LGBTQ woman elected to the Florida Legislature. Also in Tampa Bay, a transgender woman files a lawsuit against Pinellas County alleging her civil rights were violated when she was held in county jail in 2019.  A federal appeals court delivers a major victory in transgender rights when it rules 2-1 that a Jacksonville-area high school violated the law by refusing to allow trans student Andrew Cody Adams to use the restroom consistent with his gender identity. State Rep. Shevrin Jones moves one step closer to becoming Florida’s first openly gay state senator after winning his primary race.  “Harry Potter” author, J.K. Rowling announces that she will return a 2019 award bestowed from a human rights organization after the group’s president criticized her transphobic comments.

DayTOna beaCh • OrlanDO • Tampa • ST. peTerSburG • ClearwaTer • SaraSOTa watermark Your LGBTQ life.

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One Orlando Alliance is so grateful for the partners who make our work possible! With the support of the foundations, corporations, and other entities listed below, we have been continuing our mission to unite and empower the LGBTQ+ community in Central Florida. Turner Construction

The Better Together Fund at Central Florida Foundation

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For more information on the top 10 issues facing the LGBTQ+ community in Central Florida, visit www.AllianceAgenda.org For more information about One Orlando Alliance, visit www.OneOrlandoAlliance.org Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @oneorlandoalliance

Special thanks to our advertising sponsor Pinero Preventive Medical Care pineromedical.com

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

Your LGBTQ Life.

Sept. 3 - 16, 2020 • Issue 27.18

September A guide to your Central Florida and Tampa Bay entertainment offerings

 Watermark is all about the arts in September as we feature local entertainment offerings for the upcoming season. We also take a deep dive into Tampa Bay’s International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival which goes virtual for the first time.  U.S. Rep. Val Demings takes on the FDA as she and fellow House member, Rep. Mike Quigley, introduce a bill that would allow blood donations nationwide regardless of the person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. The intersex community also scores a big win when activist Juleigh Mayfield is granted her request for a gender change on her legal documents, the first time a Florida ruling has covered an intersex individual.

of Women Voters of the St. Petersburg Area launches an LGBTQ Equality Voters campaign, an initiative designed to encourage civic participation from LGBTQ and ally voters. The league enlists local artist John Gascot to paint an interactive mural.  After months of being shut down, Florida announces that bars across the state may reopen at 50% capacity. Former Tallahassee mayor and 2018 Democratic gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum comes out as bisexual.  The world mourns the loss of liberal Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg who passes away Sept. 18. Less than 10 days later, Trump nominates conservative judge Amy Coney Barrett to replace her. Barrett is confirmed by the Senate a month later.

Orlando business to  Sarasota’s Harvey help those inMilk recovery Festival celebrates 10 years of the Fabulous Independent Film Festival with a virtual celebration. The League

Dining Out for Life Tampa Bay returns

October

 Watermark devotes both October covers to the 2020 election. In a first for the National LGBT Media Association, all 12 member publications — including Watermark — unanimously endorse Biden and Kamala Harris. As the month draws to a close, we publish our second LGBTQ Voters’ Guide.  As Come Out With Pride hosts its socially-distanced Pride in the Streets in October, the One Orlando Alliance announces Josh Bell as its new executive director. The month also brings tragic news as Central Florida says goodbye to beloved entertainer Sam Singhaus and the Parliament House announces it will be closing. Its last dance is scheduled for Nov. 1.  Come OUT St. Pete moves forward with in-person, socially-distanced events to celebrate Pride. On

Tampa Bay’s political front, Congressman Charlie Crist tours LGBTQ-owned businesses in St. Pete and the youngest Trump daughter; Tiffany visits Tampa to headline “Trump Pride,” designed to court LGBTQ voters.  Equality Florida makes its largest investment ever in a state race to defeat the Republican candidate running for the state senate seat in Florida’s 9th District. In Palm Beach, the county’s human rights council works to expand its anti-discriminations ordinances.  Bringing more uneasiness about the U.S. Supreme Court, Associate Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito issue a statement criticizing the court’s 2015 decision granting marriage equality to all U.S. citizens. In a new documentary, Pope Francis endorses same-sex unions for the first time as pope.

DAYTONA BEACH • ORLANDO • TAMPA • ST. PETERSBURG • CLEARWATER • SARASOTA watermark Your LGBTQ life.

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watermark Your LGBTQ life.

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Your LGBTQ Life.

Nov. 25 - Dec. 9, 2020 issue 27.24

November

 Watermark opens November by remembering the iconic Sam “Miss Sammy” Singhaus as friends share stories of the drag legend who passed away after battling brain cancer. We also check in with Metro Inclusive Health as they work to renovate a 100+-year-old building into a state of the art health care center in Tampa.  In Flagler County, LGBTQ activists call on the school board’s new and returning members to update the district’s nondiscrimination policy by adding gender identity to it. The school board will add gender identity the following month. State Reps. Carlos Guillermo Smith and Anna V. Eskamani are among the state House representatives to win re-election in Central Florida.  In St. Petersburg, state Rep. Jennifer Webb loses her re-election bid in House District

December

drag in the house

69. Webb made history in 2018 as the first openly LGBTQ woman to be elected to the Florida Legislature. Tampa Pride also announces it will move its March 2021 parade to May.  Former state Rep. Shevrin Jones becomes state Sen.-elect, winning his race to become Florida’s first openly gay state senator. Unfortunately, it isn’t all happy news in South Florida as a trans entertainer is murdered in Miami by her boyfriend and a federal court rules that conversion therapy bans are unconstitutional.

 Nationally, voters say one term for Trump is enough and elect Biden as the nation’s next president. LGBTQ candidates also make history – winning key races in both blue and red states, including the first transgender person elected to a state senate and the first openly gay Black men to win seats in Congress.

 Watermark closes out 2020 by looking back at the recently-closed Parliament House through the eyes of a few of its drag performers. We also name 20 community advocates and allies who made remarkable contributions to an otherwise chaotic year to our annual Remarkable People Issue.  The City of Orlando announces it is working with local health organizations to assess the needs of those living with HIV in Central Florida. The Center Orlando also announces it is working with the FDA on a study that could lead the federal organization to change its policy of banning gay and bisexual men from donating blood.

holiday toy drive benefitting local charities.  Palm Beach County and Boca Raton also challenge the appeals court ruling overturning their conversion therapy bans.  As the Biden administration prepares to take over in January, Buttigieg is nominated to serve as Transportation Secretary. If confirmed, Buttigieg will become the first openly gay person to take a cabinet position that requires Senate confirmation. He will also be the youngest person to hold a cabinet position.  The British government announces it will be easing its restrictions on gay and bisexual men donating blood, stating that “donors with one sexual partner and who have been with their sexual partner for more than three months will be eligible to donate regardless of their gender, the gender of their partner or the type of sex they have.”

Tampa Bay marks inclusive holiday season

 Tampa and St. Petersburg score 100% on HRC’s annual equality index. Balance Tampa Bay also celebrates its 10th year of Party 4 Presents, a

Dr. Phillips center announces frontyard festival

Daytona beach • orlanDo • taMPa • st. PetersburG • clearWater • sarasota watermark Your LGBTQ life.

December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

JJ GREY � MOFRO

The Jazz Orchestra at Dr. Phillips Center

Let Freedom Ring: Jazz and the Civil Rights Movement January 15

January 2

Tye Tribbett January 16

Save a socially distant box for up to 5 people—and enjoy dinner delivered from on-site restaurants.

frontyardfestival.org

Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra

Gershwin! January 30

Keb’ Mo’ February 11 Gilberto Santa Rosa February 12 Step Afrika! February 13 Preacher Lawson March 13 Foreigner March 23 & 24

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

uli’i Cravalho - The voice of the titular character in Disney’s animated film “Moana,” Auli’i Cravalho comes out as bisexual on TikTok in April. The video is the 19-year-old’s first on the popular social media platform.

What’s Poppin’? A look back of the biggest LGBTQ pop culture moments of 2020

ettany, Paul - Best known for playing Vision in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Paul Bettany gives a career-best performance — and gains some Oscar buzz — for his role as a gay college professor in Amazon’s “Uncle Frank.”

hile the great 2020 pandemic changed

many aspects of our lives, it would not, and could not, stop the pop culture train from plowing through the year.

As movie theaters, hanging out with friends and live concerts seemed to fade in 2020, the void left was filled by more streaming services, Zoom parties and TikTok dancing. To help you organize all those entertainment moments in this chaotic year, here is our annual LGBTQ pop culture ABC’s.

hromatica - Lady Gaga gets the Little Monsters dancing in quarantine as she releases her sixth studio album, “Chromatica,” in May.

iscovery - CBS All Access’ “Star Trek: Discovery” makes history by introducing in its third season the first transgender and nonbinary characters in the sci-fi franchise’s 50-year history.

Hulu releases “Happiest Season,” a romantic holiday comedy featuring a lesbian couple. We also got LGBTQ holiday offerings this year from The Hallmark Channel and Lifetime making our 2020 Yule-tide gay.

llen DeGeneres - The queen of nice experiences a backlash over the summer when rumors about a toxic work environment on the set of her daytime talk show spring up leading to three producers leaving the show and several former guests calling DeGeneres’ “nice person persona” into question.

nheritance, The - After cleaning up at the Olivier Awards last year, Matthew Lopez’s “The Inheritance” — a two-part, seven-hour epic play looking at gay life in the early 21st century — nabs 11 Tony Award nominations.

olding, Henry - “Crazy Rich Asians” heartthrob, Henry Golding plays an openly gay man returning to Vietnam to spread his parent’s ashes in the indie film, “Monsoon.” appiest Season - After many a holiday season of watching straight couples kiss under the mistletoe,

noxx, Riley - D.C. performer Riley Knoxx became the first openly transgender woman to perform at an NBA halftime show in March as The Washington Wizards hosted its annual Pride Night.

eslie, Javicia - Openly bisexual actress Javicia Leslie dons the cape and cowl as the titular character in The CW’s second season of “Batwoman,” officially replacing Ruby Rose after the show’s debut season. Leslie

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

is the first Black actress to play the iconic role of Batwoman on television.

ayor Pete - Pete Buttigieg may have lost the Democratic primary but shows he may have a future in late night television after a stellar performance as guest host on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” in March.

ackson, Michael R. Michael R. Jackson, a Black, openly gay playwright from the U.S., is awarded the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Drama in May for his musical “A Strange Loop.” It is only the 10th musical to win the prestigious award.

unko - American pop culture collectibles company Funko, best known for its vinyl figures and bobble-heads, announces in March its releasing a collection of Pride Pop! figures which include rainbow versions of Batman, SpongeBob SquarePants and Hello Kitty to support the It Gets Better Project.

Jeremy Williams

iecy Nash - Comedic actress Niecy Nash surprises fans when she announces on her social media that she married singer Jessica Betts in August, officially coming out to the world.

ueer As Folk - “Queer As Folk,” Showtime’s trailblazing LGBTQ drama, turns 20 in December. Earlier in the year, the cast reunited for a livestream to reminisce and raise funds for CenterLink, the coalition which supports LGBTQ community centers across the globe.

yan Murphy Mega-producer Ryan Murphy raises the LGBTQ flag high atop Mount Netflix as he releases queer-centric content “Hollywood,” “Boys in the Band,” “Ratched” and “The Prom” on the streaming giant.

ut - Pixar’s animated short film, “Out” is released on Disney+ for LGBTQ Pride Month in June, marking it as the first animated Disney film to feature an openly gay person as the main character.

at Patterson Legendary professional wrestler and the first openly gay WWE superstar, Pat Patterson passes away in December. Patterson made headlines in 2014 when he publicly came out on an episode of the WWE reality series “Legends House.”

eries Finale Audiences say goodbye to a trio of popular LGBTQ sitcoms when “Modern Family,” after 11 seasons; the “Will & Grace” reboot, after three seasons; and “Schitt’s Creek,” after six seasons all bring their shows to an end in April.

iger King - Netflix introduces the world to its new obsession, the docu-miniseries “Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness,” in March. The show becomes one of Netflix’s most successful programs ever and turns series subjects Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin into household names.

December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

mbrella Academy, The - Star of “The Umbrella Academy,” Elliot Page comes out as transgender on social media in December. Netflix follows his announcement with a tweet of support for Page and states he will remain a part of the popular LGBTQ-inclusive series which has been renewed for a third season.

an Sant, Gus Oscar-nominated and openly gay film director Gus Van Sant partners with Gucci to create a YouTube miniseries for the famous fashion designer. “Ouverture” launches in November and provides Gucci with a way to showcase its latest collection during a global pandemic.

inslet, Kate Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet stars as acclaimed paleontologist and fossil hunter Mary Anning in NEON Pictures’ romantic period film “Ammonite.” Starring as Winslet’s love interest is Oscar-nominated actress Saoirse Ronan.

gender marker - New York says in November it will be updating its Department of Motor Vehicles computers to offer driver’s licenses with a nonbinary gender identity marker of “X” after a lawsuit is filed challenging the state policy of limiting gender identity on licenses to either “M” or “F.”

oung Avengers “Young Avengers” characters Wiccan and Hulkling get hitched in the Marvel comic book “Empyre: Avengers Aftermath” #1, marking the comic company’s first same-sex wedding between two superheroes. The characters were first introduced in 2005’s “Young Avengers,” created by openly LGBTQ writer Allan Heinberg and artist Jim Cheung.

oom - Video conferencing website, Zoom not only becomes a necessity in all lives as it becomes the go-to way for the world to continue working, going to school and communicating during a global pandemic.

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announcements

tampa bay out+about

CONGRATULATIONS The City of St. Petersburg honored LGBTQ Liaison Jim Nixon for his service in the U.S. Armed Forces Dec. 9 in a rescheduled Veterans’ Day ceremony. The Metro LGBTQ Welcome Center celebrated its sixth anniversary Dec. 12. Nicholas Ellis and fiancé Joe were engaged Dec. 12. Tombolo Books celebrated one year Dec. 14. Kori Stevens’ annual Toys for Tots benefits collected toys and raised nearly $2,200 for the program. Balance Tampa Bay’s 10th annual Party 4 Presents raised more than $3,200 for local nonprofits. Read more at WatermarkOnline.com.

CONDOLENCES Paul Kinchen died Dec. 10. He will be missed.

VIRTUAL EVENTS The 51st Gasparilla Festival of the Arts will be held virtually March 6-7, 2021. The festival will be hosted online, allowing juried artists to showcase their work via online booths and participants to stream entertainment.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Joel Schmitz CPA partner Mike Lang, Tampa General physician Dr. Kyle Bowers, Architect John Del Vitto (Dec. 23); Brandon salesman and bear fan Walter Tart, Creative Design Weavers owner Amy Oatley, Tampa writer Caitlin Jones, Former PCYD president Johnny Boykins (Dec. 24); Webtivity Marketing’s Tim Seward (Dec. 25); St. Petersburg bartender Jeff Nicolaus, Metro Inclusive Health’s Chad Chaddington, Zero Pinellas’ Topher Larkin, St. Pete Leisure Services Administrator Mike Jefferis (Dec. 26); Sarasota realtor Nate Brooks, Clearwater realtor Keith Gill, Tampa Bay talent coordinator Tom Penman (Dec. 27); 6S Boutique co-owner Andrew Citino, Equality Florida Pinellas County Safe & Healthy Schools Coordinator Esme Rodriguez (Dec. 28); Watermark contributor Greg Stemm (Dec. 29); Tampa Bay DJ Mike Sklarz, Tampa ROTC member Steve Deal, Tampa Bay entertainer Stephanie Stuart, Equality Florida Communications Director Michael Womack (Dec. 30); Mr. Ybor Eagle 2010 Carlos “Wolfy” Diaz, Tampa massage therapist Russell Fox, St Pete Pride volunteer Paul LeCouris, Tampa historian David K. Johnson (Dec. 31); Hot 101.5 Miguel & Holly’s Holly O’Connor, Chanel enthusiast Jeremy Skidmore, St. Petersburg socialite Corey Malyszka, St. Pete Young Professionals organizer Brandon Dysard, Family Resources president Lisa Davis (Jan. 1); St Pete business analyst Jason Bracewell, Gators gal Deidre Favero (Jan. 2); Sarasota graphic designer Tim Cameresi, Tampa photographer Charles Allen, Lakeland entertainer Momma Ashley Rose (Jan. 3); Tampa Bay DJ LaMonte Monnell aka L Mo, GayStPeteHouse owner Brian Longstreth (Jan. 4); Southern Nights Tampa manager Chou Chou Guilder, Tampa realtor Nicholas Buchanan (Jan. 5); Tampa activist Bill Polley, Northwestern Mutual’s Matthieu Chin (Jan. 6).

2 3

LEADING LADIES: Former state Rep. Jennifer Webb picks up a John Gascot original at The Factory St. Pete Dec. 12.

PHOTO COURTESY JOHN GASCOT

STAYCATION: Brian Longstreth and winged wonder Pecker welcome guests to Gay St Pete House Dec. 13. PHOTO COURTESY GAY ST PETE HOUSE

SEASON’S GREETINGS: Balance Tampa Bay Special Events Coordinator Gabe Alves-Tomko (R) delivers donated gift cards to Empath Health after Dec. 16 Party 4 Presents. PHOTO

COURTESY BALANCE TAMPA BAY

FAMILY MATTER: (L-R) Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence Frankie, Paula and Agatha read socially-distanced cheer with GratitudeSpace.com at The Bad Monkey. PHOTO

COURTESY TAMPA BAY SISTERS

COOL GIFT: Brian Craft (L) donates a check in support of ALSO Youth’s new Bradenton location to James Robinson to allow them to purchase an AC unit Dec. 18.

PHOTO COURTESY PROJECT PRIDE

BY EXAMPLE: CAN Community Health Medical Director Dr. Mohammed Reza receives the COVID-19 vaccine Dec. 17. PHOTO COURTESY CAN

COMMUNITY HEALTH

VETERAN’S DAY: St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman (R) and the city honor LGBTQ Liaison Jim Nixon for his service during a rescheduled celebration Dec. 9.

PHOTO COURTESY CITY OF ST. PETE

CHRISTMAS CHEER: Tampa Mayor Jane Castor (L) and partner Ana Cruz (R) visit with Santa Claus at Desoto Elementary Dec. 18.

PHOTO COURTESY CITY OF TAMPA

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7 December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

announcements

central florida out+about

AUDITIONS Orlando Gay Chorus (OGC) announced that it will hold open auditions for its next season Jan. 6 at the First United Church of Christ in Orlando. OGC is looking for singers, dancers, fundraisers, supporters and more. 2021 events will include performing at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center for a 70’s-themed show and at Dr. Phillips Center’s Frontyard Festival for OGC’s spring show “One Nation: Indivisible.” To sign up or for more information, visit OrlandoGayChorus.org/ Audition.

EVENTS Spend New Year’s Eve at Southern Nights Orlando and say goodbye to 2020. $30 All You Can Drink wells (includes cover) with upgrades available. Temperature checks required for entry and face masks required. “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season 13 contestant Kandy Muse will make an appearance along with performances by Axel Andrews, Cara CavalliAndrews, Kaij’a Adonis, Esiah Royalton, Carbon Cavalli, Sassy Devine,, Maya Andrews, Melony VonKruz and Ivy Les Vixen. Champagne toast at midnight. For more information, visit Southern Nights Orlando on Facebook.

Ring in 2021 at Stonewall Bar Orlando and bid a much-needed goodbye to 2020 with two big shows hosted by Mr. Ms Adrian. Featuring performances byLacie Browning, Kitana Gemini, Victoria Black, Opulence Black, Black Magix, Jaslene DeAmor, Eros Gemini and Bobby Iman. $10 all night for 21+, $15 for 18-20. Wells starts at $2 at 8 p.m. and go up a dollar every hour until they reach $5. DJ Duality will be spinning in the main room and out in the parking lot. Dabs and the Thursday Underground Wubs crew will be on the patio with all of your deep EDM needs. For more information, visit Stonewall Bar Orlando on Facebook.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Orlando entrepreneur Eve Hunt (Dec. 24); UCF Assistant Director Hank Lewis, Sounds of Freedom trombonist Jeremiah Catherwood, Penguin Point Productions owner James Brendlinger (Dec. 25); LGBTQ rights activist Hannah Miller, Central Florida bartender Jeff Munzing, Darden’s Boyd Geary, Southern Nights Orlando General Manager Danny Vega (Dec. 26); WAVE-winning drag performer Lacie Browning (Dec. 27); Stonewall Orlando owner Steven Watkins, former Watermark sales manager Dillian Ramirez, Central Florida performer Gadiel Vazquez, Founder of Gay Day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom Doug Swallow (Dec. 28); Phish Phest phenom and realtor Sue-Bee Laginess, Former Miss America Ericka Dunlap (Dec. 29); The Center Orlando’s Executive Director Dr. George Wallace, Orlando bear Justin Homer, Teacher and activist Clinton McCracken, Florida Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith (Dec. 31); YouTuber Joe Dodd (Jan. 1); Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida’s board chair Dr. Boyd Lindsley, Orlando attorney Joe Seagle (Jan. 2); Lady Boys performer Jose Navarro, Promoter Chris Pittman, Ginger Minj’s husband CJ Russell, Equality Florida Field Director Wes Davis (Jan. 3); veteran and die-hard Pittsburgh fan Bill Stiller (Jan. 4); Orlando psychologist Guillermo Navarro, Stonewall Bar bartender Timi Hedrich (Jan. 5); Hope & Help’s operations director Abby Silverman, former owner of Partners Emmi Grainger (Jan. 6).

Take ‘em to Church: Blue Star (Center) showcases the Sunday Funday brunch entertainment at HAOS on Church in Orlando Dec. 13. Photo courtesy HAOS on Church

Holiday Fun: City Commissioner Patty Sheehan (L) and Mayor Buddy Dyer check out CFCArts’ “Noel” concert at Dr. Phillips Center’s Frontyard Festival in Orlando Dec. 15. Photo courtesy Patty Sheehan

Christmas Coffee: Se7enbites’ Trina Gregory-Propst (L) and the “Naughty Elf on a Shelf” grab an iced coffee at Qreate Coffee + Studio in Orlando before starting off on the first day of “7 Days of Christmas” Dec. 18. Photo

courtesy Trina Gregory-Propst

Royal Treatment: Queen of Central Florida, Sabrina Ambra gets a new crown at Fine Dentistry of Downtown Orlando Dec. 18.

Reindeer Games: Marlon Burnett (top) and Wes Davis are dressed for the season in Orlando Dec. 18.

Photo courtesy Wes Davis

Couple Goals: Luis (L) and Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet are happy, matching elves for the holiday season in Orlando Dec. 13. Photo courtesy

Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet

Take Your Best Shot: Dr. Rafael Pinero gets the Pfizer vaccine at AdventHealth in Orlando Dec. 17. Photo

courtesy Dr. Rafael Pinero

For the Kids: Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus prepare to make this a great Christmas for a lot of kids as they hand out 106 bikes and helmets for the 17th annual Santa’s Bike Force in Orlando Dec. 17. Photo

courtesy Kennon Adkinson

Photo courtesy Sabrina Ambra

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8 December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

wedding bells

Aston and Carlie Reed Hansen from Brandon, Florida

Engagement Date:

Sept. 25, 2019

Wedding Date:

July 25, 2020

Wedding Venue:

Lakeside Inn in Mount Dora

Wedding Theme:

Red and black

Officiant:

Jessenia Caballero, Carlie’s cousin

Wedding Song:

“In Love With You” by Domo Wilson

Catering:

Lakeside Inn

Wedding Cake:

Lakeside Inn

Photographer:

Tyra Adkins

Photo by Tyra Adkins

hen Aston Hansen moved to

Lakeland from Radford, Virginia two years ago, she was looking for a new life. She came from “a little, small town” and having just ended a relationship with a man and come out as gay, she knew she wanted a fresh start.

“I decided to get up and move with my son and start a new life,” she says. Her father’s family lived in Florida, so she had a support system here – and her mother’s side of her family, who live in Virginia, had difficulty accepting that she is gay. The move was a no-brainer for Aston, who was also drawn to the arts and culture of the Tampa Bay area. She had only been here for a year when she matched on Tinder with her future wife, Carlie Reed Hansen, who grew up in the area. Carlie didn’t intend to land in a serious relationship, though. She had also gone through a recent break-up and her ex still lived in her Brandon apartment with her at the time. She’d dated a bit since that relationship ended, but nobody she thought was right for her. By the time she met Aston, she had decided to focus on herself and her career.

“I’d had enough,” Carlie says. “I just wanted to focus on myself and my own stuff. I’m really career oriented.” When she saw on the app that Aston had a young son, she also initially hesitated because she hadn’t spent much time with kids. “I was like, ‘I don’t know about all this.’” she recalls. “But something about her interested me so I agreed to meet. I thought, ‘I’m just getting to know her. It’s not like I’m here to get married. Ha, ha.’” They had their first date Aug. 19, 2019 at the Westfield Brandon mall. It was perfect for Carlie, who studied fashion design. “If you want to know about me, take me shopping,” she says. Aston was quiet throughout the date, Carlie remembers. “She didn’t say much. I wasn’t even sure if she liked me. Eventually, I learned that’s just Aston.” When they got back to the car, Aston asked for a second date. “I was

definitely trying to play it cool,” she says. “I was very nervous. I’m a very shy person.” She was drawn to Carlie’s outgoing personality right away, though. “She’s funny, hilarious, cute as all get out and she’ll definitely put a smile on your face,” Aston says. Meanwhile, Carlie felt heard for the first time. “I liked that Aston listened – really listened,” she says. “She’s also mysterious and really unique.” The two were complete opposites, Carlie adds, but they made sense. “I’m bubbly and in your face, but Aston is so quiet,” she says. Aston proposed a little over a month later while they were visiting her father’s home in Davenport. The two love Halloween, so she decorated the back porch with black roses and garland and popped the question as her family looked on. They’d talked about getting married, though Carlie didn’t expect the proposal to come so soon. “But the minute I figured out what was going on, I knew what my answer would be,” she says. Still, she laughs at how quickly their relationship moved when she wasn’t even looking for something serious at first. “It was like, ‘Great, we’re those U-Haul lesbians getting engaged after a month,’” she muses.

She’d also had a failed marriage and other relationships that didn’t work. “I was super skeptical.” She adds, “But when you meet the right one, you’ll know when you know.” Carlie even immediately cliqued with Aston’s now 3-year-old son, who spends summer and winter breaks with them. “He’s really cute and so sweet,” Carlie says. “The first time I met him, he ran up to me and said, ‘You play with me?’ It was love at first sight.” Aston moved into Carlie’s Brandon home not long after the proposal. Their wedding planning was thrown off track when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March, though. “We weren’t sure what we were going to do,” Carlie says. “We couldn’t go to the courthouse to get married. We just wanted to be married so bad.” Then, the couple spent the 4th July at the Lakeside Inn in Mount Dora and “fell in love with the place,” she says. They inquired about rates for holding a small wedding for about 15 people at the inn and pulled it together in two weeks, marrying July 25. “We did it all ourselves, decorated ourselves, and it was phenomenal,” Carlie recalls. “Everything just came together.” —Tiffany Razzano

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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December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

December 2 3 - J a nua ry 6 , 2021 // Issue 27. 26 wat e r m a r konline .com

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Watermark Issue 27.26: A Year of Loss

Articles inside

PublIsher’s Desk