Watermark Issue 28.03: Vaccine Confusion by Watermark Publishing Group

Your LGBTQ Life.

February 4 - 17, 2021 Issue 28.03

Tampa Bay AIDS Walk returns Contigo Fund’s All Black Lives Fund raises $100K

When, where and how you can get the COVID-19 vaccine in Central Florida and Tampa Bay 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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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

departments 7 // Publisher’s Desk

page

8 // Central Florida News 13// Tampa Bay News

We will get to you. We are in a situation where we are awaiting additional supply, and as more supply gets available, we will get it to those of you in the public. – Florida Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkee discusses the covid-19 vaccine

18// State News 19// Nation & World News 25// Talking Points 43// Tampa Bay Out + About 45// Central Fl Out + About 47// Wedding Bells 48// Tampa Bay Marketplace 50// Central Fl Marketplace 54// The Last Page On the cover

page Call Her Rad:

page VACCINE

CONFUSION: When,

where and how you can get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Cover image via Adobe Stock

scan qr code for

WatermarkOnline.com

Mayim Bialik talks “Call Me Kat,” LGBTQ fans and more.

Watermark Issue 28.03 // February 4 - 17, 2021

Making History

Stepping out

Building Back

Parody Pro

page Contigo Fund’s awards 100K in All Black Lives Fund grants.

page Tampa Bay AIDS Walk returns for EPIC event.

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

Florida celebrates transgender military ban’s end.

Tobly McSmith strikes gold with ‘The Office’

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

Publisher’s

Rick Claggett PUblisher

Rick@WatermarkOnline.com

Desk

t some point before my next

column, I’ll celebrate 19 years of employment at Watermark. It seems surreal. When I started with Watermark the longest consecutive time I had spent at any one job was a year and a half. I’ve also made it no secret that I took this job as a temporary fix to unemployment as I searched for something more lucrative. It’s funny how life works out, how plans change.

It wasn’t smooth sailing at Watermark in 2002. My first day was only months after 9/11. Watermark had just lost big on a comedy show scheduled for November of 2001. The community wasn’t ready to gather and laugh just yet. It took a long time to recover from the following financial crisis. Just as we found our footing, another financial crisis hit when the housing market crashed. This one hurt more because we had built our company up and had further to fall. We managed to crawl through that disaster and

rebuild our staff later that year. We even got to the point where we were able to put out a few more unsuccessful attempts at events. Sometimes when you build it, they don’t come. Nevertheless, we persisted. In 2016 I took over ownership with some pretty lofty goals. Sadly, just six months in, tragedy struck our community. Following the massacre at Pulse, Trump was elected and soon after the community grieved the loss of Billy Manes. Our resilient communities banded together and carried each

other through. We were thriving again, and then… COVID. The pandemic is like the emotional equivalent of the “Tower of Terror.” When you think you have a handle on it, the floor drops below you. You pick yourself back up and it drops again. The timing is random, the speed at which it drops is random and how many times you will fall is uncertain. We thought we would be locked down for a month and it would get better. That didn’t happen. We held out for a vaccine. That is having rollout issues. Now the virus is mutating and we find ourselves with more questions than answers, again. This little trip down depressing memory lane isn’t out of a desire to be Watermark’s Debbie Downer. It’s an exercise in control, or lack thereof. For alcoholics like me, the path to recovery spends a great deal of time on this subject. Realizing you can’t control everything leads to serenity which leads to less drinking, putting it in simple terms. At every year-end staff retreat I would say, “This is going to be our year. This year we will do all the things.” Then, something beyond my control would take over. It was years ago that I stopped measuring our success by our ability to hit the goals we set forth on that one day. I measure success on how we adapt to circumstances beyond our control, on our ability to control what we can. You must roll with the punches, so to speak. We live in the most uncertain of times in recent history. We can’t control COVID in the way we would like to. So, we have to adapt. We have to control what we can. In less than 90 days I will be getting married. My fiance and I had a sizeable wedding planned, but due to COVID restrictions we must alter that plan. In March of 2020, when we sent out the save-the-date cards, we didn’t anticipate having to cut the guest

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.

list in half a year later, but here we are. We could have kicked the can down the road and rescheduled, but what’s the guarantee we won’t be rescheduling and rescheduling? We decided to follow the guidelines set in place, wear masks, socially distance and celebrate with those we are able to celebrate with. I know there are some out there who find it outrageous we would move forward at all. I have to believe that if we follow CDC guidelines we can have a safe wedding. We must decide to adapt and control what we can. We must wear our masks; we must

I measure success on how we adapt to circumstances beyond our control, on our ability to control what we can.

keep a safe distance from one another. If the outbreak gets worse then we will adapt again. All we really need is each other, and one brave witness. In this issue of Watermark, we do our best to dive into the ever-changing hunt for the COVID vaccine, seeking answers for those in our community who are looking to get immunized. In Central Florida news we talk to DeLand Pride about there plans for an in-person event and in Tampa Bay news we look into the origins of the film “Koko.” In Arts and Entertainment we have a chat with Mayim Bialik and explore the murder mystery parody of “The Office,” coming to Tampa Bay and Central Florida. We strive to bring you a variety of stories, your stories. I hope you enjoy this latest issue.

Orlando Office Tampa Bay Account Manager: Ricky Celaya-Renaud • Ext. 102 Ricky@WatermarkOnline.com Founder and Guiding Light: Tom Dyer National Ad Representative: Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

contributors SYLVIE Trevena

is a proud, minivan-driving mother of four with a degree in behavioral health and Master’s in Business Administration with a nonprofit concentration. She loves art and horror movies. Page 21

Jerick Mediavilla

is a former journalist from Mexico City, an educator in Central Florida and an human rights activist for the LGBTQ community. Jerick is one half of an Orlando power couple with State Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith. Page 23

Gregg Shapiro

is a Chicago-based freelance journalist and entertainment reporter whose work appears frequently in Watermark. Page 35 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. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising, or listing in WATERMARK is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members of such organizations. WATERMARK is published every second Thursday. Subscription rate is $55 (1st class) and $26 (standard mail). The official views of WATERMARK are expressed only in editorials. Opinions offered in signed columns, letters and articles are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the newspaper’s owner or management. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted for publication. WATERMARK is not responsible for damages due to typographical errors, except for the cost of replacing ads created by WATERMARK that have such errors.

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central florida news

DeLand Pride celebrates with in-person events Isaiah Peters

ELAND, Fla. | After a year of cancelled in-person Pride events throughout Central Florida, DeLand Pride is bringing them back as it celebrates with its “Love is Love Pride Fest” in DeLand Feb. 20. “I’m excited that we’re able to offer the community an opportunity to gather,” says DeLand Pride Executive Director Ann-Marie Willacker. “The queer community often doesn’t have as many opportunities in small towns to get out and be with others, and that has been amplified during the pandemic.” Willacker says Pride organizers recognize the pandemic is still going on and will have safety precautions put in place. DeLand Pride has posted its safety protocol on its website, stating “Masks are required at all times in the Artisan Alley Garage and inside the Cafe Davinci Courtyard unless you are seated. There will be hand sanitizing stations spaced throughout the venue and we encourage attendees to socially distance from those who are not part of your group. Volunteers will be onsite conducting head counts and may temporarily restrict access to the Alley Garage should the Garage exceed recommended capacity. If you are sick please stay home!” They have also streamlined the Pride Market festival — which will be held at Artisan Alley Garage from 1-6 p.m. — cutting down the usual number of vendors from around 50 to 20. In order to keep crowds socially distanced, the “Love is Love Pride Fest” will feature three separate drag shows. The first show will be at 2 p.m. on the Artisan Alley stage, with the 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. shows on the Cafe Davinci stage. Hosted by Aaliyah Nouveau, the shows will feature performances by Melanie D Martinez, Lilac Royalton Dusoleil, Opulence Black, Mr Ms Adrien and more. The “Love is Love Pride Fest” will feature, for the first time, the “New Comers Show” on the Cafe Davinci stage at 5 p.m. The show will welcome six entertainers looking to perform drag for the first time. Anyone interested can sign up on the DeLand Pride Facebook page. DeLand Pride will conclude its celebration with an after party at Cafe DaVinci starting at 8 p.m. Willacker says that while many Pride organizations have turned to virtual events over the last 12 months, due to financial constraints that wasn’t an option for DeLand Pride. “We are still a young and small organization,” Willacker says, “and we just don’t have the technology and infrastructure for going completely virtual yet.” However, Willacker does say that she is working on having portions of the day streamed online through Facebook Live. DeLand Pride’s “Love is Love Fest 2021” will be held at Artisan Alley and Cafe Davinci in DeLand Feb. 20. For more information, visit DeLandPride. org or Facebook.com/DeLandPride.

Funds Granted: Contigo Fund members and elected officials join recipients of the All Black Lives Fund in front of Orlando City Hall. Photo by Jeremy Williams

Making History Contigo Fund awards grants from All Black Lives Fund initiative Jeremy Williams

RLANDO | Mayor Buddy Dyer issued a city proclamation declaring Feb. 1 “All Black Lives Fund Day,” kicking off Black History Month at City Hall in downtown Orlando. “All Black Lives Fund Day” recognizes the contributions of Black-led LGBTQ organizations in Central Florida and celebrates the fundraising efforts of the Contigo Fund’s All Black Lives Fund. The All Black Lives Fund was created by Contigo Fund and officially launched June 10 to coincide with the “Justice for #AllBlackLives Rally” that took place at City Hall in Orlando the same day. The All Black Lives Fund has raised $100,000 since it launched. The event was attended by state Rep. Anna V. Eskamani and City Commissioner Bakari Burns, who read the proclamation on the steps of City Hall in front of more than two dozen community leaders and activists.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Founding director for the Contigo Fund, Marco Antonio Quiroga says supporting LGBTQ communities of color, particularly organizations led by and for marginalized communities, is core to what Contigo Fund stands for and is what is needed most in this historic moment. “The Black LGBTQ community here in Central Florida has been historically under resourced,” he says. “Many Black LGBTQ leaders have been at the forefront of extraordinarily important work for our community but they themselves have gone underappreciated, unspoken and unpaid in many instances, so we need to make sure we are investing in their leadership for the movement.” The All Black Lives Fund grant recipients were decided upon by a community advisory committee made up of Black LGBTQ leaders in Central Florida and announced by Quiroga at the event. The All Black Lives Fund community advisory committee for the All Black Lives Fund award $30,000 each to the Gender

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

Advancement Project, Divas in Dialogue and Bros in Convo. Gender Advancement Project, founded by Ashley Figueroa and Nikole Parker, is a trans-led grassroots movement dedicated to the progression and inclusion of transgender and gender nonbinary individuals in all facets of society. Bros in Convo is a Black, queer-led community organization founded by Daniel Downer promoting and providing health equity to Black gay, bisexual, queer and same gender-loving men in Central Florida. Divas in Dialogue, founded by Mulan Montrese Williams, is a support group for trans women of color to empower, build and strengthen each other while ensuring everyone has a seat at the table. The remaining $10,000 will be set aside for microgrants to new and emerging initiatives that are Black LGBTQ led. Contigo Fund emerged in 2016 following the Pulse tragedy. The Contigo Fund is the first and only LGBTQ Latinx fund in the United States and has grown into the number one top funder of LGBTQ communities of color in the entire southern United States. For more information on the organizations awarded the grants, visit GenderAdvancementProject.org, Facebook. com/DivasinDialogue and BrosInConvo.org. To learn more about the work of Contigo Fund, visit ContigoFund.org.

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central florida news

Central Florida man accused of killing missing Daytona man Jeremy Williams

AYTONA BEACH, Fla. | A Central Florida man has been arrested in DeLand and charged with second-degree murder in the killing of a gay man who has been missing since Jan. 17. According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, Michael Harris Jr., 20, was taken into custody Jan. 23 for the murder of 63-year-old Bobby Scott of Daytona Beach. Scott was reported missing by his husband after not returning home for a full day. Deputies recovered Scott’s vehicle, which was in Harris’ possession, two days later in DeLand. Harris told deputies that Scott had loaned him the vehicle Jan. 17 but had not had contact with Scott since then. Scott’s husband told

deputies Scott never loaned his vehicle out. Deputies retrieved Scott’s cellphone, which was found abandoned in a vacant lot in DeLand, and through the investigation discovered that Scott and Harris had met via a dating app and agreed to meet up Jan. 17. Deputies stated that Scott had not made contact with anyone nor had any financial activity since going missing Jan. 17. “Michael Harris has a history of posing as a gay prostitute and blackmailing and robbing the victims, and in this case, murdering the victim,” Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood told The Daytona Beach News-Journal Jan. 24. According to The Daytona Beach News-Journal, Scott’s body was found in DeLand in some woods. He had died of blunt

force trauma. Chitwood said investigators believe Harris beat Scott to death with a 2-by-4 piece of wood and a beer bottle. According to deputies, blood and fingerprint evidence recovered from Scott’s vehicle linked Harris to Scott’s death. Scott was a general manager of the Daytona Beach-area restaurant Caribbean Jack’s. Scott’s husband told investigators the couple were happily married and in an open relationship. According to the police report, Scott’s husband states Scott had left for the gym Jan. 17 and never returned home, last hearing from his husband at 12:07 p.m. with a message stating “May stop at a guy’s house too.” Harris was taken into custody by deputies without incident and is being held without bail in the Volusia County Branch Jail.

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

Michael Harris Jr’s mugshot. Photo via Volusia County Sheriff’s Office

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

FREE HIV Tests From the Comfort of Your Home EPIC is offering free, at-home HIV tests for individuals in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. Test kits can be picked up at one of our offices, delivered to your home or mailed upon request. The test kit includes a simple oral swab and is processed in about 20 minutes. There is no need to mail the test back or wait weeks for results. A trained counselor will guide you through the process, explain the results and, if needed, connect you with the appropriate services. For more information or to request a test kit, call (727) 328-3260 and ask for a member of the Prevention and Outreach team.

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

tampa bay news

Pasco Pride names scholarship for late community hero Ryan Williams-Jent

N EPIC RUNNERS:

EPIC Executive Director Joy Winheim (L) and Chad Daughtrey run for safe sex. PHOTO COURTESY EPIC.

Stepping Out Tampa Bay AIDS Walk returns Ryan Williams-Jent

T. PETERSBURG | Empath Partners in Care (EPIC) is holding a virtual “I Run for Safe Sex” 5K/10K now through Feb. 28, a Tampa Bay AIDS Walk event benefiting the organization’s fight against HIV/AIDS. The fundraiser marks the first Tampa Bay AIDS Walk since 2017, an outing which raised more than $52,000 for EPIC. For 14 years, the walk inspired thousands to raise more than $1 million. “We had been in discussions to bring the Tampa Bay AIDS Walk back and we had a lot of great ideas for 2020,” EPIC Executive Director Joy Winheim says. “We were actively working on those when COVID hit so we had to switch gears. We didn’t want to take this long of a hiatus but we needed to reinvent it a little bit.” Like the walk, all of EPIC’s fundraising initiatives were derailed last year. Organizers opted to hold the “I Run for Safe Sex” 5K/10K to raise much-needed funds and allow supporters to participate in a COVID-conscious manner. “I was really looking forward to seeing the AIDS Walk back in

2020 and am disappointed that the pandemic has set it back,” Special Events Coordinator Molly Robison says. “The great thing about going virtual this year is that anyone, anywhere can participate. “On the beach, in your neighborhood, on your treadmill, or in the park with your dog – it’s your choice,” she explains. “Until we can safely run or walk together again, we’d welcome your support for this virtual event and EPIC.” Registration for the 5K/10K opened last month with a fundraising goal of $15,000. For $50, participants receive an official “I Run for Safe Sex” T-shirt and a commemorative medal, mailed 2-4 weeks or available locally after they complete their registration. Interested parties can complete their run anytime through Feb. 28. To track progress and help spread the word, they’re encouraged to utilize the hashtag #IRunForSafeSex on social media. “Even if running isn’t your ‘thing,’” EPIC adds, “you can support EPIC by sponsoring an individual, a team or simply by making a donation.” For every $25 raised, EPIC says that nearly 140 pounds of food can fill the organization’s food pantry. $50 will provide a month of

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

transportation for one client and $100 will allow them to conduct nearly 50 free HIV tests. $250 will cover the cost of gas for EPIC’s Mobile Testing Unit and $500 will provide five hours of mental health services. “COVID really showed us where the needs were for our clients,” Winheim says. “We had to adapt because people still needed our food pantry to be open, and they needed access to mental health services because people became isolated and lonely. We knew these were services that were needed, but it was very eye opening for us to see just how needed they were.” As of Jan. 29, supporters have raised more than $10,500. Winheim is hopeful the organization will meet the event’s fundraising goal. “The Tampa Bay AIDS Walk has been such a staple in our community,” she explains. “It was a time for our clients, supporters, staff and everyone to come together not only to memorialize those who lost their battle but to celebrate everyone that’s still living. “You can walk anywhere, you can walk anytime,” she concludes. “This is just a way to get out there, get moving and talk about an issue that’s really important. With everyone’s support, I think this is going to be a success.” For more information about EPIC and to register for the “I Run for Safe Sex” 5K/10K or make a donation, visit MyEPIC.org.

EW PORT RICHEY, Fla. | Pasco Pride has named its community leadership scholarship after the late Terra Winthrop, a lifetime advocate for Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ community. Winthrop was instrumental in Pasco Pride’s expansion following its 2018 launch. She died Nov. 27 at the age of 47 and is survived by her wife Katina and their four children. The nonprofit’s community-funded, post-secondary education scholarship program began last year. It was made available to seniors that explained their LGBTQ advocacy and more. “Pasco Pride is deeply honored to announce that we are naming our scholarship after the beloved Terra Winthrop,” the organization announced Jan. 24. “Terra spent her time mentoring and advocating for the LGBTQ+ community in Pasco. She was a talented leader and made our 2019 Pride Festival and Pageant spectacular events.” In addition to her work with Pride, Winthrop also spent 14 years with the Pasco County Sheriff’s Department as a School Resource Officer. The position allowed her to mentor youth. “My wife was and always will be a large staple in our beautiful community,” Katina Winthrop says. “She shared her passion with everyone who entered our lives.” Pasco Pride President Nina Borders strongly agrees. She met Terra in 2018 and credits her for extending an olive branch to the community at large. “When I took over as president Terra and Katina were some of the first people I reached out to in order to build an organization around community activism and support,” Borders recalls. “When Nina contacted me and explained the scholarship, I was filled with so many emotions,” Katina says. “I was excited that Terra’s legacy will remain for years to come and proud because others see how truly special she was. “There was a sense of sadness that she won’t be here to see this,” she adds, “but I’m thankful because I will be able to be a part of this opportunity and stand in her place. On behalf of our family, I would like to thank Pasco Pride for acknowledging my wonderful wife and allowing her legacy to continue in a community she loved!” Pasco Pride hopes to award the next Terra Winthrop Community Leadership Scholarship by May. The organization launched fundraising efforts Jan. 25. “Terra was a parental figure for the entire queer community and people really leaned on her and loved her,” Borders says. “We named this community scholarship for our youth because that’s what she did: give people a chance.”

To learn more about Pasco Pride, the Terra Winthrop Community Leadership Scholarship and to make a donation, visit PascoPrideFestival.org and Facebook.com/PascoPrideFestival.

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:  Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.  Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to ﬁght infections. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.  Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.  Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.  Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.  The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%). These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

 Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without ﬁrst talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months.

ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:  dofetilide  rifampin  any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider if you:  Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.  Have any other health problems.  Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.  Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:  Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.  BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

5/26/20 3:47 PM

tampa bay news

clearwater-based filmmaker denies anti-LGBTQ views, ‘Koko’ origins despite mounting evidence Ryan Williams-Jent

AMPA BAY | Anjani Pandey, a Clearwater-based filmmaker whose film “Koko” ignited controversy after its St. Petersburg screening Jan. 18, is denying that he holds anti-LGBTQ beliefs or that his film is an allegory for his opposition to same-sex marriage despite evidence to the contrary. “Koko” was featured during this year’s Sunshine City Film Festival (SCFF) at AMC Sundial, where it won the Audience Choice Award. Its protagonist discovers “the purest form of love in his one true companion,” a dog which he seeks to legally wed. Pandey discussed the film’s origins with an entertainment website last September. Speaking with The Movie Blog, he noted that he opposes same-sex marriage and called

“Koko” a satire inspired by marriage equality. “I am not personally [a] supporter [of] the same-sex marriage law, and when I heard same-sex marriage [had] been declared as a legal … I was not happy,” he shared. Watermark reached out to both the SCFF and the Central Florida Film Festival (CENFLO) for comment, the latter of which was scheduled to screen the film Jan. 23. The former noted that its “stellar reputation for inclusion and diversity speaks for itself.” CENFLO immediately canceled its “Koko” screening. “We were recently made aware of some hateful and hurtful comments made by the filmmaker responsible for ‘Koko,’” organizers shared. “Now that these comments have come to light we have decided we will not show the film at our festival. “At CENFLO we pride ourselves on inclusion and we strongly

support the Supreme Court decision to legalize marriage between consenting adults,” they added. “We firmly believe that LOVE IS LOVE and we don’t feel that the filmmaker behind Koko’s views align with our festival.” Ahead of the cancellation, Pandey publicly urged supporters via social media not to “listen to the gossip/rumors.” He subsequently called the view that “Koko” was anti-LGBTQ a misunderstanding. Pandey also stressed that he does not hold anti-LGBTQ views in an email with Watermark. He shared that he has “very close friends … who are gay and I have a very high respect for them.” “Of course I am not [a] supporter of same-sex marriage LAW as my faith [and] my beliefs do not allow me,” he continued. “I consider myself a man of God. I am Hindu and also believe in Jesus [and the] Bible. I believe ‘marriage is a

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

relationship between one man and one wom[a]n.’ BUT it’s just me. I don’t expect anyone to believe the same.” Regarding the origins for “Koko” that he discussed with the blog, Pandey explained that “I made up one imaginary inspiration story.” He added that he “never thought people [would] interpret [it] this way and can call ‘Koko’ … anti-LGBT.” According to the filmmaker, 54 viewers watched “Koko” during this year’s SCFF, a number the festival did not confirm. He added that at least seven LGBTQ viewers also watched the film “and they all loved it.” “It was never my intention to hurt anyone’s emotions,” the filmmaker also noted. “We should give ‘Koko’ a fair chance to get screenings[,] release smoothly and let [the] audience decide!” Following the exchange, Watermark was also alerted to a crowdfunding Kickstarter

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

launched Nov. 28, 2018 ahead of the film’s production. The campaign was ultimately suspended due to an intellectual property dispute and confirms the film’s anti-LGBTQ origins. “The word marriage stands for the union of a man and a woman as made from birth,” the website reads. “It is simple and enough. If you do not agree and can’t digest the concept of SAME[-] SEX MARRIAGE, this film is your voice. Save our Next Generation BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE!!!!” Despite the clear anti-LGBTQ rhetoric, Pandey told Watermark it was “another confusion.” The filmmaker stressed that the story “is unique and [a] one of its kind human-canine true love story … open to many interpretations.” Read more at WatermarkOnline.com. To learn more about SCFF and CENFLO, visit SunshineCityFilmFestival.com and CentralFloridaFilmFestival.com. To learn more about Pandey or “Koko,” visit KokoTheMovie.com.

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

state news

group helps trans, nonbinary Puerto Ricans Yariel Valdés González of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of The National LGBT Media Association

wo organizations have entered into a partnership that seeks to improve the health and quality of life of transgender and nonbinary Puerto Ricans. The collaboration between the South Florida-based Arianna’s Center and the Puerto Rico-based Waves Ahead seeks to strengthen and improve programs and/or services to these communities. They include free mobile HIV testing, prevention and care, case management to help with name changes, legal referrals and links to medical care and mental health services. Both organizations will offer workshops to help trans women and non-binary people enter the workforce. Arianna’s Center and Waves Ahead will also train trans women to become activists and help elected officials at all levels of government on vital issues and policies. Arianna’s Center CEO Arianna Lint told the Washington Blade that another one of her organization’s goals is “to empower the trans community over 50 with support groups.” “We will have two offices: One in the San Juan metropolitan area and the other in Cabo Rojo (in southwestern Puerto Rico),” she said. “We are also developing a fundraising project for these two organizations to continue with the services.” “Puerto Rico has become the heart of Arianna’s Center. Since 2019 we have been here supporting the trans and non-binary community with the services and advocacy that characterize our work in the United States,” added Arianna’s Center Operations Director Tony Lima in a press release. “We are proud to start 2021 by announcing Kimberly Vázquez, with vast experience and is highly recognized by her own community, is an official part of our family who will continue our trans legacy here on the island.” Vázquez, who is in charge of coordinating Arianna’s Center work in Puerto Rico, told the Blade that joining forces with Arianna’s Center will create more opportunities for trans people who need and deserve dignified and fair treatment. “I think it is a great alliance that, in the end, will support many more people,” said Vázquez. Wilfred Labiosa, executive director of Waves Ahead and SAGE Puerto Rico, said they “are extremely proud to be able to continue the work that Arianna started in 2019 in Puerto Rico.” “Ms. Vázquez will work with our existing staff and from our centers to add more services for our Transgender and non-binary community in Puerto Rico,” said Labiosa. “New year, new beginnings.”

Stonewall Museum receives major grant to digitize collection JW Arnold via South Florida Gay News

he Stonewall National Museum & Archives (SNMA) in Fort Lauderdale recently received a $50,000 grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to digitize its collection and update information systems. “This is a big step for Stonewall,” said Executive Director Hunter O’Hanian. “Our archive is over 2,700 linear feet, totaling more than six million pages of LGBTQ history, from the 1950s to the present day. With the help of the Mellon Foundation, we will

begin the process of digitizing the collection and making it available to researchers, writers and artists around the world. Accessibility to our collection has long been a strategic goal of the organization.” Even before the COVID-19 pandemic limited in-person visits to the facility, O’Hanian and SNMA leadership recognized the need to digitize the collection, especially deteriorating newspapers, periodicals and documents. The grant will allow the museum to hire a consulting firm to map a plan and retain a staff manager to oversee the massive project. O’Hanian added, “Not only does digitalization make these materials

available to a larger audience, but it also ensures the content will be preserved beyond the useful life of the paper they were printed on. Collectively, we are making sure that this history won’t be forgotten.” Jacki Bennett, board chair, pointed out, “Digitizing our impressive collection propels SNMA’s archival leadership forward in exhibiting LGBTQ history and culture to all across time and geographies.”

Equality Gina Duncan said in a statement. “The welcoming back to work of thousands of transgender people who’ve made the sacrifice of serving their country is a win for America and a refreshing reminder that the Biden-Harris administration intends to turn the page on the bigotry of the last four years,” she continued. “The transgender community is ready to enter a new era where we are judged based on the content of our character, not our gender identity.” Equality Florida also shared praise from Taryn Wilson, a U.S. Navy veteran from Panama City. “This roll back of the trans military ban is the culmination of lots of diligent work to rightly recognize the contributions transgender service members who serve in the active and reserve components along with our National Guard units across the globe,” Wilson shared. “We are not a burden, we are a force multiplier. We serve in all ranks, branches and military occupational specialties. We have always been here and will now be able to serve openly for the foreseeable future.”

“We are celebrating a win today but our work is just beginning,” Duncan added. She concluded by noting that “the right of LGBTQ people to live with dignity should not rest on executive orders from the Oval Office, but should be fully codified into law.” The Florida LGBTQ Democratic Caucus, which represents LGBTQ Floridians to the state’s Democratic Party, also praised the news. “President Biden is proving from the very beginning that his will be the most pro-LGBTQ administration in American history,” Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus President Stephen Gaskill said in a release. “His executive order today reversing the shameful ban on transgender service members imposed by the Trump administration underscores that he values individuals for who they are and how they can best use their skills and talents,” he concluded. “Discrimination has no place in America, and especially in our military.”

Work is expected to begin this month. About half of the current collection is already available online at Stonewall-Museum.org.

LGBTQ-focused organizations praise reversal of transgender military ban Ryan Williams-Jent

resident Joe Biden signed an executive order (EO) Jan. 25 repealing Donald Trump’s transgender military ban, prompting widespread praise from LGBTQ-focused organizations across the state. The EO fulfills one of the key promises that the president made to the LGBTQ community on the campaign trail. It “sets the policy that all Americans who are qualified to serve in the Armed Forces of the United States should be able to serve,” the White House shared. “Today, I repealed the discriminatory ban on transgender people serving in the military,” the president also shared via social media. “It’s simple,” he stressed. “America is safer when everyone qualified to serve can do so openly and with pride.” In Florida, the state’s largest LGBTQ civil rights organization immediately praised the reversal. “The Trump administration assaulted the transgender community at every turn,” Equality Florida Director of Transgender

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

To learn more about Equality Florida and the Florida LGBTQ Democratic Caucus, visit EQFL.org and LGBTQDems.org.

nation+world news

Biden reverses Trump’s trans military ban Wire Report

ASHINGTON | President Joe Biden signed an order Jan. 25 reversing a Trump-era Pentagon policy that largely barred transgender individuals from serving in the military. The new order, which Biden signed in the Oval Office during a meeting with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, overturns a ban ordered by President Donald Trump in a tweet during his first year in office. It immediately prohibits any service member from being forced out of the military on the basis of gender identity. The decision comes as Biden plans to turn his attention to equity issues that he believes continue to shadow nearly all aspects of American life. Ahead of his inauguration, Biden’s transition team circulated a memo saying Biden planned to use his first full week as president “to advance equity and support communities of color and other underserved communities.” As he signed the order, Biden said, “What I’m doing is enabling all qualified Americans to serve their country in uniform.” “America is stronger, at home and around the world, when it is inclusive. The military is no exception,” the order says.

“Allowing all qualified Americans to serve their country in uniform is better for the military and better for the country because an inclusive force is a more effective force. Simply put, it’s the right thing to do and is in our national interest.” The order directs the departments of Defense and Homeland Security to take steps to implement the order for the military and the Coast Guard. And it says they must reexamine the records of service members who were discharged or denied reenlistment due to gender identity issues under the previous policy. It requires the departments to submit a report to the president on their progress within 60 days. Austin, in a statement, voiced support for the change and said the Pentagon will work over the next two months to implement the new policy. “I fully support the President’s direction that all transgender individuals who wish to serve in the United States military and can meet the appropriate standards shall be able to do so openly and free from discrimination,” said Austin, who also was formally sworn in as defense chief by Vice President Kamala Harris Jan. 25. “This is the right thing to do. It is also the smart thing to do.” Congress members and advocates hailed the signing.

“This is the triumph of evidence-based policy over discrimination,” said Aaron Belkin, the executive director of the Palm Center, which researches and advocates against LGBTQ discrimination. “The inclusive policy will make it easier for trans troops to do their jobs and to fulfill their missions.” The Trump policy triggered a number of lawsuits, including from transgender individuals who wanted to join the military and found themselves blocked. “It is my highest goal to serve my country in the U.S. military and I’ve fought this ban because I know that I am qualified to serve,” said Nicolas Talbott, an aspiring service member involved in one of the lawsuits. “I’m thrilled and relieved that I and other transgender Americans can now be evaluated solely on our ability to meet military standards. I look forward to becoming the best service member I can be.” Others disagreed. Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, said the move would divert “precious dollars from mission-critical training to something as controversial as gender reassignment surgery.” Under Biden’s new policy, transgender servicemembers won’t be discharged based on gender identity.

The Data Protection Authority took action following a complaint by the Norwegian Consumer Council alleging personal data was shared unlawfully for marketing purposes. The council had detailed in a report last year how Grindr and other dating apps leaked personal information to advertising technology companies for targeted ads in ways the council said violated the EU’s tough GDPR privacy rules. Norway isn’t a member of the EU but closely mirrors the bloc’s rules and regulations. The company has until Feb. 15 to give feedback, which the watchdog will take into account for its final decision.

Grindr said it looked forward to holding a “productive dialogue“ with Norwegian regulators about the allegations. The app’s privacy approach includes “detailed consent flows, transparency, and control“ provided to all users, the company said, adding it has “retained valid legal consent“ from all its European users “on multiple occasions.“ The watchdog’s preliminary conclusion is that Grindr shared user data with a number of third parties without legal basis. The data included GPS location, user profile information as well as the fact that users are on Grindr, which could indicate their sexual orientation.

Norway to fine Grindr over privacy breach Wire Report

ONDON | Gay dating app Grindr faces a fine of more than $10 million from Norwegian regulators for failing to get consent from users before sharing their personal information with advertising companies, in breach of stringent European Union privacy rules. The Norwegian data privacy watchdog said Jan. 26 that it notified Grindr LLC of its draft decision to issue a fine for 100 million Norwegian krone ($11.7 million), equal to 10% of the U.S. company’s global revenue.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

in other news Hate crime charge added in attack on gay Louisiana teen A hate crime charge has been added to attempted murder in the case of gay Louisiana teen Holden White, 18, who was attacked by Chance Seneca, 19, who he met on the app Grindr last year. Police initially said the evidence did not support a hate crime in the attack. White spent days in a coma and nearly a month in the hospital after Seneca wrapped a cord around his neck so tightly he lost consciousness. White woke up in a bathtub where Seneca repeatedly slashed his wrists. The Lafayette Parish District Attorney’s Office added the hate crime charge to the case. Seneca remains jailed on a $250,000 bond. His next pretrial hearing is March 3.

Authorities investigate blast at anti-LGBTQ California church The FBI and local police are investigating an early morning explosion at a Los Angeles-area church Jan. 23 that had been the target of protests for its anti-LGTBQ message. Officers responding around 4:30 a.m. initially thought a vandal had broken the windows of First Works Baptist Church in El Monte. Officers then noticed smoke coming from inside. “[W]e realized that the windows were not smashed, that they had actually blown out from some type of explosion,” police said. No injuries were reported. Officials didn’t immediately detail the extent of the damage inside the church.

‘Straight Pride’ organizer charged in US Capitol riot Two Massachusetts residents — Suzanne Ianni, a 59-year-old Natick town meeting member, and Mark Sahady, 46, of Malden — who organized buses to take Trump supporters to Washington ahead of the siege at the U.S. Capitol, were arrested Jan. 19 in connection with the riot, authorities said. Ianni and Sahady were arrested by federal agents at their homes, the FBI said. They are charged with knowingly entering or remaining in any restricted building or grounds without lawful authority and disorderly conduct on Capitol grounds, authorities said. Authorities said Ianni is involved with Super Happy Fun America, a group that organized a “straight pride” parade in Boston in 2019.

Montana bill would ban trans females from women’s sports A bill that would ban transgender females from competing on female sports teams sponsored by public schools and universities passed the Montana House on a 61-38 vote Jan. 27. It now advances to the Senate. Rep. John Fuller, R-Whitefish, said his bill was meant to protect the opportunity of females to compete in sports without being forced to compete against males or to lose their spot to a male. Opponents argued the bill was discriminatory, violated the rights of transgender females and that the state could lose federal education funding.

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

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Change is Here t may be February, but

I’m still thrilled to see a new year on the calendar. That isn’t to say that everything was bad in 2020, but I think we can all agree there were some significant challenges.

In my final column of the year, I expressed my contempt for former President Trump’s policies, among them his rescinding of health protections for transgender individuals. In my first column of 2021, I am breathing a sigh of relief after President Biden repealed the military ban for transgender Americans. Many of my friends and family are affiliated with the military in some way. One of my closest connections is that my father went through Marine basic training, although a health issue ended his military career before it really began. I have a great deal of respect for the military and for anyone who chooses to dedicate their professional career to their country. My oldest daughter, who is almost 16, is seriously considering becoming a military nurse. Like all my kids, I told her that if that is her dream, I support her 100%. Until Biden’s decision to repeal the ban, military service was not an option to my youngest child. My eleven-year-old transgender son would not have been allowed to seek out a pathway to the military, simply because our country’s former leader banned people like him from serving in all of its branches. Early in his term, Trump announced via Twitter that transgender individuals could no longer serve their country. In 2019, the Pentagon carried out his orders and policies were implemented that meant transgender individuals could only serve if they were representing their biological sex. Data from all branches of the military currently show that there are fewer than 15,000 transgender

individuals that are considered active duty. Thousands of military members are diagnosed with gender dysphoria every year, and our government has data that tracks all of this. I felt disgusted by Trump’s discriminatory ban, just as I felt infuriated when he rescinded health protections that the LGBTQ community so desperately needs. There are so many inequities within our country – and the basic right of being treated fairly and respectfully without discrimination or bias, Trump chose to do away with. I am not sure why these acts were so important to him, but they seem to be rooted in ignorance and hatred. While the last thing I want to do with my first column of 2021 is talk about Trump, the facts must be cited. Biden promised to do away with the transgender military ban his first day – and while he was a few days late, the fact that this was prioritized and done swiftly is simply inspiring. It also wasn’t his first LGBTQ-affirming action in office. During such a dark time for so many, his announcement really made my day. The White House released a fact sheet to go along with the ban being lifted, and there were some amazing directives. “All Americans who are qualified to serve in the armed forces of the United States should be able to serve” really resonated with me. We are all Americans after all, and that was a reminder at this unifying commonality. Naturally, the part about being qualified to serve was a perfect reminder that military service is about being able to work for the betterment of this country, not about what genitalia someone doing so may have under their uniform. Putting it that way, the insidious nature of Trump’s former policy is laid bare.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

My little dude is always talking about playing football when he gets older (and bigger) and what he wants to do when he “grows up.” That can now include military service. I love these conversations and I have had them with all my four

I remember it clearly, because I thought; “if Jake is banned from military service, then possibly becoming a police officer is out too.” I was panicked even pondering what that conversation would have looked like.

regarding inclusion and diversity, but we have a long way to go. I will leave you with this final quote from the fact sheet released about the president’s decision. The last part gave me chills. “President Joe Biden

Until Biden’s decision to repeal the ban, military service was not an option to my youngest child. kids. I want nothing more than my children to live long, healthy and fulfilled lives. He has said he wants to be a vet when he grows up. He wants to play football in high school. He said he might want to do something to help others. As his mom, I will do my best to help him achieve all his goals and dreams. When the military ban happened, Jake was talking about law enforcement as a future career aspiration.

2021 is off to a chaotic start, but I am remaining optimistic for the future under our new leadership. I want a peaceful and loving world for all my kids, including my transgender child. I believe we all deserve to do what we want with our private lives, careers and families. I dream of a more united country and a more inclusive world in general. Lifting the transgender military ban was a great first step

believes gender identity should not be a ban to military service and America’s strength is found in its diversity,” it reads. I completely agree.

Sylvie Trevena is a proud mom of four whose eclectic interests include hairdressing, horror movies, mental health, advocacy and writing. She holds a BS in Behavioral Healthcare and an MBA.

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

viewpoint

Jerick Mediavilla

#LoveHandlin

Open Space very time I sit down

to write this column, it takes a while for me to find the right words. After all it is my desire that in these words you find support, encouragement and, in many cases, a sliver of solace from experiences that might sometimes feel unfathomable.

The current pandemic has officially been around in the U.S. for a year already, and even though we joke that it feels like a decade has gone by, the real weight of these trying times on our shoulders is not felt by what we have been able to keep — like our sanity — but more about what we no longer see around us. Many of us saw our health shaken, employment swept away, savings disintegrate and, worst of all, had the size of our families reduced. Loss is the inevitable truth we humans aim to avoid at all costs yet it is a consistent theme every day. As I saw three close family members succumb to the pandemic, many more convalescing from the virus, small businesses struggling and tensions rising from the intertwining crises, I couldn’t help but notice the opportunity this represented for the human race, in the grand scheme of things. Yes! This may sound exhaustingly optimistic but if you pay close attention to everything we have lost, every material possession or relationship that no longer is, it has created an open space for you to begin from scratch. We humans have the biological tendency to dream big and materialize those aspirations but more often than not we get tangled up in the machine of the

world. We have a tendency to pour our hearts into attaining the car, the house, the clothes, the brand, the name recognition but, even though I do not mean to downplay its importance, we fail to remember that nothing lasts forever. With that last thought, I bring your attention back to the optimistic sense of having an open space. Since nothing lasts forever — not the car or the house, the clothes or work — we are able to recognize that crises like the ones we have endured this last year will eventually fade and you will once more have the chance to reinvent yourself and try something new. That is the tragic beauty we can enjoy from this collective experience, granted that we first become aware of the collective nature of all our actions. As politics during the pandemic ripped communities, families, friendships and individuals apart, that perceived chasm between people is another open space upon which we can build. I don’t necessarily mean building back bridges for those who are no longer in tune with our frequencies and life energies, those bridges can be left undone. The remains of what was before the pandemic should stay there, in the past, for right now we have the unprecedented occasion to stand in the open space with the maturity of lived experiences already within us to push us forward. How many times have you daydreamed of going back in time knowing what you know now? What would you do differently? Those wishes arise from our natural yearning to undo or redo what our hearts actually desire. Well, guess what I am going to bring up next? You guessed right: open space. As cheesy and repetitive this might sound, it is futile to try and change the past. In the words of German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche

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“everything goes, everything comes back; eternally rolls the wheel of being. Everything dies, everything blossoms again; eternally runs the year of being.” Fortunately, we do not need to philosophize too deeply to realize that the person you were a year ago is not

available to all of us, this opportunity will reveal itself in different ways for everyone. In my case, I picture this opportunity like a vast, dark desert, under a vast, empty sky with no sensible direction or constellations to follow. As grim as this image may

we can draw our personal constellations; map our own direction. That idea you had years ago, those dreams of yours that you’ve been postponing, that time you’ve been yearning to have to be with and by yourself, this is it. Life has heard us all and has emptied our hands bare

who you are today, and the open spaces presented to you are there for you to build upon what no longer is. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel, it’s already made, but with every roll the ride gets smoother. With the new year seemingly unfolding at a glacial pace, and with so many open spaces now

seem, I am certain we have all gone through so much so quickly that we have no other choice but to walk ourselves into the dark, grappling with our fears and keeping them in check. With every step we take into the unknown, we create our own path, our vision adjusting to the darkness until light reaches us. Then

to give us the simplest, yet most powerful tool we can receive in times of distress: a new chance. Leap towards your open space.

Since nothing lasts forever ... we are able to recognize that crises like the ones we have endured this last year will eventually fade and you will once more have the chance to reinvent yourself and try something new.

Jerick Mediavilla is a former journalist from Mexico City, an educator in Central Florida and an human rights activist for the LGBTQ community. Jerick is one half of an Orlando power couple with State Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith.

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

talking points I walked into this thing with an idea of what drag is and the kids … keep changing it. This season we have a trans man who is on our show who is competing with the other drag queens and this man is fantastic. I keep moving with what the kids are doing. –RuPaul discusses the newest, trans-inclusive season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”

20 states have hate crimes

laws based

Gaga leads LGBTQ-inclusive Biden-Harris inauguration

on sexual orientation

ady Gaga sang the national anthem at the LGBTQ-inclusive inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris Jan. 21, showcasing her fashion and passion. She wore a large dove pin and a billowing skirt as she sang into a golden microphone. She was followed by Jennifer Lopez and country legend Garth Brooks. The three were among a slew of celebrities descending on D.C., virtually or in person, to welcome the new administration. Performers participated in the multi-network “Celebrating America” broadcast that evening, including Lin-Manuel Miranda, Katy Perry, Demi Lovato and more. The Human Rights Campaign simultaneously hosted “The Power of Equality,” featuring Billy Porter, Matt Bomer and other openly LGBTQ stars. “We cannot let the past four years of hate and division define us,” HRC shared. “We must use this moment to define a new era of true inclusion for all.”

and gender identity,

while 12 states

— including Florida — have laws based on

sexual orientation only. 15 states address hate crimes, but do

Swiss basketball pro comes out

witzerland’s 3×3 basketball player Marco Lehmann came out as gay Jan. 15, one month after playing the World Tour finals in Saudi Arabia. “A lot of young guys quit playing team sports when they discover they’re gay,” the 27-year-old professional player told the international basketball federation. “This is for the future generations so they can live a free sporting life without hiding.” Lehmann has a top-15 world ranking in the street format of the game, which will make its Olympic debut in Tokyo this year. Unfortunately Switzerland did not qualify. Lehmann said he is focused on the future and is “trying to win a World Tour and bring Switzerland to the 2024 Olympics.”

Firth and Tucci go ‘Supernova’

he Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci-led “Supernova” opened in select theaters and was simultaneously made available on streaming services Jan. 29, drawing praise for each of the veteran actors. The dramatic film by British writer and director Harry Macqueen is a solemn, authentic love story between two gay men, a deeply-bonded couple on the upper end of middle age who have been together for 20 years. After one is diagnosed with early onset dementia, they spend as much time together as they can. While neither actor identifies as gay, both have notably played LGBTQ roles in the past. Their performances in the film have been described as “heartbreakingly believable,” garnering early Oscar buzz.

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LGBTQ inclusivity shrinks on TV

ccording to GLAAD, the percentage of LGBTQ characters regularly appearing on TV fell during the 2020-21 season, a first since the media watchdog began tracking data in 2013. In its annual “Where We Are on TV” report, GLAAD found that 70 out of 773 series regular characters on broadcast scripted TV were LGBTQ. Last year, it was 90 out of a total of 879 characters. Recurring LGBTQ characters were also down but are highlighted on shows like FX’s “Pose.” “We’re hoping that is just a blip and not the beginning of a trend,” GLAAD President & CEO Sarah Kate Ellis said, adding that the overall decrease was largely due to fewer shows being made because of COVID-19.

not address sexual orientation or

gender identity. 4 states have no

hate crimes laws

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

at all.

— HRC’s State Equality Index 2020

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

When, where and how can you get the COVID-19 vaccine in Central Florida and Tampa Bay

Jeremy Williams

ince American pharmaceutical company Pfizer and German

biotechnology company BioNTech announced they had developed a vaccine that was about 95% effective in preventing COVID-19, followed by an announcement by American pharmaceutical and biotechnology company Moderna that it had developed a COVID-19 vaccine that was about as effective, St. Petersburg couple John Bartholomew and Robert Pica have been ready to take it. “We have been shut up in this house for so long,” Pica says. “We don’t congregate, we don’t go to movie theaters or restaurants. The grocery store is pretty much the extent of where we go.” Pica, who is 66, and Bartholomew, who is 75, have been together for more than 40 years. They are usually very active in the community and when news broke that COVID-19 vaccines were on the way they were excited that the process of “getting

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back to normal” was underway, until they tried to get an appointment to get one of the vaccines. “I have tried through the [Department of Health] and have been very unsuccessful with that,” Pica says. “No matter what I tried, I get through the registration portal and then there are no appointments available. Then the system went down on

Continued on pg. 29 | uu |

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

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Sylvie Trevena

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

the risks of getting sick from COVID-19 are much higher than the risk of having an allergic reaction to the vaccine.

| uu | Vaccine Confusion from pg.27

me. Basically I spent a lot of time spinning my wheels on several different sites. I was going from the house phone to the cell phone the computer; I do not have an appointment yet.” Pica isn’t alone. Since the first COVID-19 vaccine outside of clinical trials was administered Dec. 14 to a nurse in New York, the process of who can get a vaccine, when they can get it and how they can sign up has been confusing and chaotic. In a poll conducted by Watermark from Jan. 6-16, 91% of readers who responded said they plan to get the COVID-19 vaccine when it is available and offered to them, but nearly half said they were unsure how they find out when they are able to receive the vaccine or where they can go to get one. Even when they are able to get vaccinated, many who took the poll said they had concerns about potential side effects, the types of vaccines that are being used and how quickly they were rushed to market. Through information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Florida Department of Health and the newly established White House COVID-19 Response Team, we address some of the concerns you may have about taking the COVID-19 vaccines, when more vaccines will be available to the public and how you can get one.

What vaccines are available?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made two COVID-19 vaccines available in the U.S. under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). The first is the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine and is administered as a two-dose series with the second dose given 21 days after receiving the first shot. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is for people age 16 or older. The second is the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine which is also administered as a two-dose series, with the second dose given 28 days after receiving the first shot. The Moderna vaccine is for people age 18 or older. The FDA does state that if necessary, the second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech or the Moderna

Who can get the vaccine right now?

UpDates from Experts: The Biden administration has established The White House COVID-19 Response Team which provides televised press briefings from public health officials. Screenshot from The WHite House’s Youtube channel COVID-19 vaccine can be given up to six weeks after the first dose. According to the CDC, both the Pfizer-BioNTech and the Moderna vaccines are Messenger RNA vaccines—also called mRNA vaccines. “To trigger an immune response, many vaccines put a weakened or inactivated germ into our bodies. Not mRNA vaccines,” states the CDC. “Instead, they teach our cells how to make a protein—or even just a piece of a protein—that triggers an

the time it took to enroll patients was very, very fast. The follow up was as thorough as it is for any vaccine, and we now have months of data on patients who received the vaccine or placebo, and we’ve compared the incidence of side effects between patients who received the vaccine and placebo, and that incidence of side effects, other than injection site reaction, is no different.”

I gauged how many had actually received the vaccine and a good majority of them had. They were also scheduled for their second dose and none of them said that they had experienced any problems afterward.” Dr. Rochelle Walensky, M.D., President Joe Biden’s new CDC director, stated in the administration’s first White House COVID-19 Response Team press briefing that the vaccines are safe and they work, saying that “this is backed up

No matter what I tried, I get through the registration portal and then there are no appointments available. — St. Petersburg resident Robert Pica immune response inside our bodies. That immune response, which produces antibodies, is what protects us from getting infected if the real virus enters our bodies.” While both vaccines have been pushed through using EUA, COVID-19 Research Task Force Chair for the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Andrew Badley, M.D., said that the vaccines are safe and effective. “These vaccines were fast-tracked, but the parts that were fast-tracked were the paperwork; so the administrative approvals, the time to get the funding — those were all fast-tracked,” Badley said in a video message posted to the Mayo Clinic website addressing concerns. “Because these vaccines have such great interest,

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side effects? According to the CDC, both the Pfizer-BioNTech and the Moderna vaccines can possibly cause mild side effects which are common with many other types of vaccines. Those side effects can include pain, redness or swelling where the shot was administered, fever, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, chills and/or joint pain. Dr. George Wallace, the executive director of the LGBT+ Center in Orlando, oversees the organization’s OWL program. OWL stands for Older Wiser Learner and is a program that brings LGBTQ seniors together for social interaction. “We have sent out the vaccine information,” Wallace says, “and

with data.” In our readers’ poll, some attributed their fear of getting one of the vaccines to the possibility of having an allergic reaction. “The CDC released an MMWR [Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report] on severe adverse events, most notably anaphylaxis for those who received the Moderna vaccine as well as the Pfizer vaccine,” Walensky said. “Based on our most recent data, we found that there were 2.1 cases of anaphylaxis per million administered doses of Moderna and 6.2 cases of anaphylaxis per million doses administered of Pfizer. Let me be clear, these are rare, treatable outcomes, and the COVID-19 vaccines are safe.” Walensky went on to say it is important to remember that

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

On the federal level, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) — a group that provides advice and guidance to the Director of the CDC regarding use of vaccines — recommended that states initially vaccinate frontline essential workers and people age 75 and older. But due to Florida’s larger than normal senior population, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an executive order in December establishing that during the first phase of the vaccine rollout in Florida, all providers administering any COVID-19 vaccine shall only vaccinate the following populations: Long-term care facility residents and staff, persons 65 years of age and older and health care personal with direct patient contact. The order does state that hospital providers may vaccinate persons who they deem to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. According to the Florida Department of Health, more than 1.6 million Floridians have been vaccinated so far with just over 1.3 million receiving the first dose and nearly 275,000 people receiving the full two-dose series of shots. The Florida Department of Health’s COVID-19 vaccination plan states phase two initially was planned to begin in March and phase three planned to begin in April. However, based on the initial rollout of the vaccine, that timetable may be unrealistic based on the number of vaccines the state is receiving. “Demand for the COVID-19 vaccine is far in excess of the supply the state has received so far,” the Florida Department of Health posted to its website. “It is anticipated that additional supplies will be coming soon.” Biden announced Jan. 26 that vaccine deliveries to the states would increase by 16% over the next three weeks. DeSantis said during a Jan. 27 press conference that the state would be receiving 307,000 doses of the vaccine during the first week of February,

Continued on pg. 31 | uu |

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

to local health departments, hospitals and select Publix | uu | Vaccine Confusion pharmacies to be administered from pg.29 within their communities. Unfortunately there is no central up from just over 265,000 location to see who has vaccines received the week prior. and open appointments. So a “That’s not going to be a big certain amount of legwork on difference in terms of like, ‘Oh, your part is going to be required. this is a game changer,’ but it is Also remember, Florida is still helpful,” DeSantis said. “We’re in phase one, so the following going to put it to use.” information is for those who fall Florida Surgeon General Dr. into one of the approved phase Scott Rivkees, in a telephone one categories. interview with The Associated On page 33, we have Press, stressed the need for broken down the information patience. “The message is: We county-by-county in Central will get to you. We are in a Florida and Tampa Bay on situation where we are awaiting how to register and schedule additional supply, and as more an appointment when they supply gets available, we will get are available. it to those of you in the public.” To obtain a vaccine through a Adding to the confusion, when local hospital — such as Orlando vaccines become available and Health, AdventHealth, BayCare, appointments can be made, each Suncoast Community Health, of Florida’s 67 counties has its Tampa General and USF Health own set of rules to follow when — it is recommended that you signing up, and within each check those hospitals’ websites county the sign up process is for information on scheduling different if you are going through or contact them directly on the the county’s Department of general line. Most hospitals have Health, a local hospital or a a COVID-19 prompt. participating pharmacy. If you are a military veteran Between trying to secure who uses your local VA for an appointment for himself health care, you can contact and hearing horror stories your VA directly to schedule an from friends in SAGE, an appointment by phone. You can LGBTQ mature men’s group also visit VA.gov/Health-Care/ through Metro Inclusive Health COVID-19-Vaccine for more in Tampa Bay, Pica is left information on signing up to feeling defeated. receive the vaccine. “I am not good when they have To sign up for an appointment me sitting on hold for two and a at a participating Publix half hours,” he says. “And I hear pharmacy, visit Publix.com/ they are closer to approving the COVIDVaccine. Currently only Johnson & Johnson vaccine, and select counties are offering that is a single dose, so part of me vaccines through Publix thinks just keep doing what I’m pharmacies so check the doing: Wash my hands, wear my website to see if your county is mask, socially distance and wait. one of them. I’ve waited a year already.” On Jan. 29, a statewide website As a military veteran, was launched to help streamline Bartholomew was able to get the vaccine distribution through into his local VA hospital and the Florida Health Department. has received the first dose. He The website, MyVaccine.FL.gov, receives his second dose Feb. 4. allows you to pre-register for “I called them and initially went a vaccine and places you in a round and round,” Bartholomew virtual queue until vaccines are says. “One of the prompts was to available in your area. speak to a nurse and I said yes. The website’s homepage lists I said I want to get my vaccination, the groups who are currently so she got me set up. No line, available to receive a vaccine in I walked right in. I had to register Florida — individuals 65 years with one guy and then a nurse of age and older, long-term did a lot of paperwork. Then I got care facility residents and staff, the Pfizer vaccine, had to wait 30 health care personnel with direct minutes then went home.” patient contact and individuals extremely vulnerable How do I get an deemed to COVID-19. appointment? If you fit into one of those categories, you select the county When vaccines are received you live in and click “GET IN LINE.” by the state, doses are dispersed

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

On the next screen, you will fill out your personal information, indicate if you prefer to be notified by phone, text or email and then submit. If you wish to pre-register over the phone, dedicated numbers have been established for that purpose. In Brevard call 866-201-5420, Hillsborough call 866-200-3896, Lake call 866-201-6909, Manatee call 866-201-5412, Orange call 866-201-3604, Osceola call 866-201-6507, Pasco call 866-201-7092, Pinellas call 866-201-7113, Polk call 866-201-7132, Sarasota call 866-201-7170, Seminole call 866-201-7180 and Volusia call 866-201-7314.

Will you get the COVID-19 vaccine? 9% No

91% Yes

when I get my appointment?

Once you have your vaccine appointment schedule, do not forget to go. In order to receive a vaccine in Florida, you must show proof that you are either a full-time or part-time Florida resident. This can be done with a government-issued form of ID, a mortgage statement, a utility bill, banking statement, etc. Keep in mind, that if you use anything other than a valid Florida ID, you will need to show two of the other items. Wear a mask to the appointment. Bring your appointment confirmation and if you received a QR code after signing up for your appointment, then you will need to present a printed or digital copy of that as well. Also bring your health insurance card. While the vaccine is most likely to be free for you, you will still be asked for your insurance information. Due to the large amount of appointments, you are asked not to arrive too early ahead of your scheduled appointment time. Also, be prepared to wait for up to 30 minutes after receiving your vaccine for observation. Once you have received both doses, you still have to wear your mask, wash your hands and socially distance to keep protecting those who have not be vaccinated.

This is all general information and all processes and procedures are subject to change. Stay informed with the latest updates by visiting CDC.gov and FloridaHealth.gov. Visit YouTube.com/ WhiteHouse to watch the White House COVID-19 Response Team press briefings.

Do you know how to check if you are eligible to get the vaccine?

46% Yes

54% Yes

Do you have a preference to which vaccine you receive?

12% Yes,

Pfizer-BioNTech

14% Yes, Moderna

74% No

— Watermark online reader poll

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

COVID-19 vaccine information [county by county]

Polk

btaining an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine is

currently different depending on which county you are in. Below is information to help you figure out how your county’s Department of Health is setting up appointments and the best way for you to get your vaccine. We have included the locations which the vaccine is being administered, as well as contact information if you need assistance setting up your profiles and/or getting your appointment scheduled.

Polk County’s Department of Health, 1290 Golfview Ave., Bartow Polk County’s registration web portal is at Register.Polk.Health. You will be required to create an account before you can schedule a vaccine appointment. If you aren’t sure what you’re looking for or need clarification, you can contact Polk County’s COVID-19 Vaccine Hotline at 863-298-7500, Mon-Fri from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sat-Sun from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Brevard

Orange

Sarasota

Brevard County Health Department’s Viera Clinic, 2555 Judge Fran Jamison Way, Viera

Orange County Convention Center, 9400 Universal Blvd., Orlando

Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Rd., Sarasota

Register online through the CDR HealthPro site at PatientPortalFL.com. “Create an Account” in order to schedule your appointment. Once you have created your account, you still need to schedule your vaccination appointment and complete the medical screening questionnaire by clicking “GET VACCINATED” on the homepage of your account screen. Once scheduled, you will receive a QR Code to show at the vaccine administration site. For customer support questions, please contact Vaccination Registration Assistance at 844-770-8548.

Residents must register online at Member. Everbridge.net/730492332670985/Login. Appointments are scheduled based on vaccine availability and the date you signed up. You will receive a call, text and/or email based on the contact information you provide. You will be asked to confirm an appointment date and time or decline if you are not available. Declining will not remove you from the system. Declining will put you back in the cue to receive future appointment notifications. If you do not have internet access and need assistance to register, call 941-861-VAXS (8297).

Brevard County uses Eventbrite to schedule appointments. You can get to Brevard County’s Eventbrite page by going to FloridaHealthCOVID19. gov, selecting “Find A Testing Site” at the top of the screen and then selecting Brevard from the dropdown menu. You can receive text alerts from Brevard County Emergency Management when additional vaccine is received and appointments are available. Text BrevardEOC to 888777. When an alert is issued, it will include a link to the online registration system.

Hillsborough University Mall, 2200 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa This site will be open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The site will offer 1,600 doses to pre-registered individuals per day. No walk-ups will be accepted. To make an appointment, you must call the statewide COVID-19 vaccine appointment line at 866-200-3896 or 1-833-476-1029 for those with hearing impairments.

Lake

Osceola Appointments for a vaccine, if available, can be made at Osceola.org/ COVID19Vaccinations. A link to request an appointment can be found near the top of the page. Updates on vaccine availability and scheduling are available at Osceola.FloridaHealth.gov and Osceola.org/ COVID19Vaccinations. A “Live Chat” option is available at Osceola.org/ COVID19Vaccinations for those who require further assistance.

Lake Square Mall (Sears storefront), 10401 US-441, Leesburg

Pasco

Amazon Distribution Site, 7453 Republic Dr., Groveland

Gulf View Mall (Sears storefront), 9409 US 19, Port Richey

To make an appointment, eligible individuals can go to Scheduling. LakeCountyFL.gov or call the state-run vaccine appointment system at 866-201-6909 or 833-476-1031 for those with hearing impairments. Text COVIDUPDATE to 888777 to be notified when more vaccines are available.

Manatee Tom Bennett Park, 280 Kay Rd., Bradenton Manatee County is implementing a COVID-19 vaccine standby process that allows seniors ages 65 and older to avoid waiting lines by preregistering by phone or online with the County if they’re interested in receiving vaccines beginning to arrive locally. Register online at vax. mymanatee.org anytime, or register by calling 311 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays. As vaccines become available, eligible recipients will be randomly selected from the pool. If you are not selected, you will go back into the pool with the opportunity be selected the next time vaccines become available. You do not have to submit your name again. When selected, you will be contacted by Manatee County to book an appointment.

Seminole

Centro Cristiano Dios De Pactos Church, 1130 Simmons Rd., Kissimmee

Saint Leo University, 33701 State Road 52, Saint Leo Register online through the CDR HealthPro site at PatientPortalFL.com. “Create an Account” in order to schedule your appointment. Once you have created your account, you still need to schedule your vaccination appointment and complete the medical screening questionnaire by clicking “GET VACCINATED” on the homepage of your account screen. Once scheduled, you will receive a QR Code to show at the vaccine administration site. For customer support questions, please contact Vaccination Registration Assistance at 844-770-8548.

Pinellas

Oveido Mall (Sears storefront), 1700 Oviedo Mall Boulevard, Oviedo New appointments will be posted to PrepareSeminole.org’s vaccine section each Tuesday, pending vaccines are received in order to guarantee appointments for the following week. Eventbrite, the appointment system utilized by this county, has a feature to “follow” events created by Seminole County to receive notification if cancellations result in available appointments. To “follow” events, visit PrepareSeminole.org, click on appointment links, and look for the blue “follow” button at the top right of the page. There is no waitlist for appointments; residents should continue to check PrepareSeminole.org for updates. The Seminole County Citizen Information Hotline is available to assist Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 407-665-0000.

Volusia Volusia County Fairgrounds, 3150 E. New York Ave., Deland Volusia County uses Eventbrite to schedule appointments. You can get to Volusia County’s Eventbrite page by going to FloridaHealthCOVID19.gov, selecting “Find A Testing Site” at the top of the screen and then selecting Volusia from the dropdown menu. You can keep updated on future vaccine events at Volusia.org/Coronavirus.

Center for Health Equity, 2333 34th St. S., St. Petersburg Register online through the CDR HealthPro site at PatientPortalFL.com. “Create an Account” in order to schedule your appointment. Once you have created your account, you still need to schedule your vaccination appointment and complete the medical screening questionnaire by clicking “GET VACCINATED” on the homepage of your account screen. Once scheduled, you will receive a QR Code to show at the vaccine administration site. For customer support questions, please contact Vaccination Registration Assistance at 844-770-8548 and check COVID19.PinellasCounty.org/Vaccines for regular updates.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

All information is subject to change so make sure to check FloridaHealth.gov for updates.

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

arts and Entertainment

‘Call Me Kat’ star Mayim Bialik talks cats and comedy

Gregg Shapiro

hen it comes to recognizing

and embracing promising talent, the LGBTQ community has been at it longer than practically everyone else. Remember the Bette Midler/Barbara Hershey movie “Beaches”? Remember the opening sequence with the lead characters as children? That was a young Mayim Bialik in one of her earliest film roles, playing Midler’s C.C. Bloom as a kid. It was clear she was going to be a star.

Since then, Bialik had her own hit NBC sitcom in the ’90s, “Blossom,” and stole the show in every scene she appeared in as Amy Farrah Fowler in the even more successful CBS sitcom “The Big Bang Theory.” She also managed to find the time to earn a Ph.D. in neuroscience from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

In “Call Me Kat,” her first sitcom following the end of the long-running “Big Bang Theory,” Bialik plays Kat, the single and sassy owner of a Louisville cat café. Watermark spoke with Bialik in January 2021, shortly after the show debuted on FOX.

Continued on pg. 37 | uu |

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

I was told that I did and I found that to be true. I was raised by two very liberal documentary filmmakers who lived in the Village and had gay friends when that was a scandalous thing to do. I was raised with a very strong love and appreciation for the gay community. My parents had gay friends. I grew up seeing men as couples in our home; having dinner with us and celebrating holidays with us. I have gay family members, as many of us do. I’m a happy liberal and loving ally. For sure the Bette Midler connection is a very specific thing, which I love to be part of.

| uu | Call Me Rad from pg.35

WATERMARK: Before signing on to do “Call Me Kat,” would you consider yourself a fan of Miranda Hart’s British sitcom “Miranda,” on which it’s based?

MAYIM BIALIK: Honestly, I hadn’t seen it until Jim Parsons brought it to my attention towards the end of “Big Bang Theory.” So, I did not know about it until Jim said, “What do you think of this?” And I said, “I think it’s delightful.” He said, “No, I’m not asking your personal opinion; I’m asking for you to be part of it.” [Laughs], that was really the first that I heard of it. That’s how we got here [laughs]. One of the first things the viewer sees in “Call Me Kat” is the breaking down of the fourth wall. Can you please say something about working in that mode?

I think a lot of people don’t understand that we are literally motivated by our desire to honor the original “Miranda” for all the good that it has brought us. I was on “Blossom” when I was a teenager, and Blossom actually kept a video diary, so I’m used to talking at the camera [laughs], to be honest. When we decided to keep that piece of Miranda, it seemed to make a lot of sense that this character is a woman who is not necessarily lonely, but she is alone a lot. In that sense, breaking the fourth wall is really her having the audience be part of her life. It’s the way that people who do spend a lot of time on their own often do have to be creative with picturing who’s listening and who cares about them. In this case, the audience cares about her is how she sees it. “Call Me Kat” allows you to display other aspects of your talents including your skills as a physical comedian. You even got to do spit-takes in an episode.

[Big laugh.]

What do you like best about that kind of humor?

Keep in mind, not everything I do is stuff that I think is the funniest [laughs]. When I’m told to do a spit-take, I do a spit-take. That’s kind of how it works. I’ve always been a very physical person. I was a dancer from the

Kat Calls: (L-R) Mayim Bialik, Leslie Jordan and Kyla Pratt on FOX’s “Call Me Kat.” Photo Courtesy FOX time I was very young. I grew up watching Lucille Ball and Carol Burnett and Tracey Ullman, women who really all inhabited their bodies in a very specific and comedic way. For me, I think that Darlene Hunt, our showrunner and creator, just incorporated a lot of things about me. I am very physically flexible, so she’s capitalized on that. I like to say

absolutely incredible. He also is a person who, if you ask him to sing something 62 times, it’s going to sound amazing every single time. With me, you get about four takes out of me, and then my voice starts to suffer because I’m not a professional. It’s incredibly lovely how welcoming he is and how much support he gives me, but it really is standing in the presence

your “Call Me Kat” co-stars. Is it as much fun to work with them as it appears?

Oh, absolutely! What I say about Leslie Jordan is, everything that you wish he’s like is what he’s like. That is no joke. Everything he says is a sound bite. We get to hear him be a little raunchier with his language because we get

I was raised by two very liberal documentary filmmakers who lived in the Village and had gay friends when that was a scandalous thing to do. I was raised with a very strong love and appreciation for the gay community. — Mayim Bialik that if my mom, when I was 11 and started acting, could have designed a show for me, it would have been “Call Me Kat,” because this show takes everything I can do and it puts it in there [laughs]. She can sing, she can dance, she’s funny with her body, she can kick high [laughs]. That’s what it feels like. I’m so glad you mentioned singing because you do get to sing on the show. Is it daunting or fun to sing with and in the presence of Cheyenne Jackson who plays Max?

It’s absolutely terrifying! I specifically requested that I not have to sing in front of him for extended periods of time because, first of all, he’s

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of greatness to work with him and, especially, to sing in front of him [laughs]. Kat has a secret crush on Max. Have you ever had a secret crush on someone, and if so, how did that turn out?

[Laughs] Well, they’re not usually secret. I usually post on social media about them [big laugh]. I don’t know if I’ve had a secret crush. Like I said, I feel like nothing’s secret anymore thanks to the Internet. I’m also glad we started talking about Cheyenne, because your queer fans will no doubt be delighted that he, as well as Leslie Jordan, are a couple of

to see parts of him that other people don’t. He’s delightful, he’s hilarious. Everything he says is an unbelievable story or joke. I did not know much about Cheyenne, to be honest, before getting to work with him. He’s just one of those people … his presence and his heart are so stunning. He’s goofy and playful. He’s adorable! We have a great time. I wouldn’t say that if it wasn’t true. I would just say, “Oh, he’s really nice to work with.” Early in your acting career, you played the young version of Bette Midler’s character C.C. Bloom in “Beaches.” Did you develop a sense of a gay following after that?

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

Lainie Kazan played your mother in “Beaches,” Kathy Bates played your mother on “The Big Bang Theory” and now Swoozie Kurtz is playing your mother on “Call Me Kat.” When it comes to playing a mother yourself, do you think you’ll look to the examples they set for inspiration?

[Big laugh] oh my God, that’s an amazing question! I’m probably most like Lainie Kazan. I don’t think I can avoid that. Actually, there’s a lot of my mom in the Swoozie Kurtz character. But my mom’s really the Bronx Jewish version.

Do you have any of your own pets, say a cat or a dog?

I do. I have three cats. I had four and, unfortunately, I lost one of them during COVID. It was definitely a rough year in the cat department. But I do have three fur babies, as we call them. And like Kat, I like to say, “I’m not a sad cat lady, I’m a rad cat lady.” what are you most looking forward to about being a guest host on “Jeopardy!”?

Oh, my gosh. When I think of it, it feels like it’s going to be like a dream. I got to go to Egypt many years ago. I remember standing in front of the sphinx and the pyramids. I felt like I had walked into a postcard; it’s that iconic an image. I guess I’m comparing the “Jeopardy!” set to the sphinx and the pyramids, but in terms of I feel like it’s going to feel like I’ve been placed into a postcard of “Jeopardy!” I can’t imagine it won’t feel that way. I’m beyond excited! It is one of the most iconic things I think I’m ever going to do in my in my career. “Call Me Kat,” starring Mayim Bialik, airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on FOX.

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

Theater

Parody Pro

Author Tobly McSmith strikes gold with ‘The Office’ and activism

(above)

staging a staple:

The cast of “The Office” parody, co-written by parody professionals Tobly and Bob McSmith. Photo courtesy Right Angle Entertainment

Ryan Williams-Jent

hether you’ve been binging

all nine seasons of “The Office” for years or you’ve only seen the memes the series left behind, it’s difficult to deny the sitcom’s impact on pop culture. The ensemble comedy aired on NBC from 2005-2013 and has become a streaming staple in the years since.

Based on the British show of the same name, “The Office” was adapted for American audiences by veteran writer Greg Daniels, known for “Saturday Night Live” and more. It depicted the lives of office employees in the Scranton, Pennsylvania-based branch of a fictional paper company, launching a number of high-profile careers in the process. Each episode was filmed mockumentary style, utilizing a single-camera setup and forgoing a studio audience or laugh track.

The format played to the comedic strengths of a memorable cast that included the likes of Steve Carell, Jenna Fischer, John Krasinski, Rainn Wilson and more, earning it a massive fan base and widespread acclaim. It won a number of awards while on the air, among them the Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series. Its comedic style and critical success also caught the eye of transgender author Tobly McSmith and his writing partner Bob McSmith, known

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

for their celebrated and occasionally controversial musical parodies. Since launching their business partnership 15 years ago, the pair has co-written nine parodies which have toured the world. They include musicals based on ‘90s sitcoms like “Friends,” “Full House” and “Saved by the Bell,” dramas like “90210” and even “Katdashians! The Musical,” a mash-up of “The Kardashians” and Andrew Lloyd Weber’s “CATS.” “It made him pretty mad, but we worked it out with him,” Tobly says of the theater legend. “We thought we were going to make the Kardashians mad, so that is a really fun memory for us.” “Parody is constitutionally protected speech, under free speech,” Bob explains their body of work. “Basically, as long as you aren’t confusing the marketplace and you’re adding commentary while expanding on the original, it’s parody.” “We just love to elevate the material and make fun of it,”

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

Tobly adds. “That’s our basic, no-law-degree explanation. Our parodies have played all over the world — in Las Vegas, in New York, the U.K. It’s been such an amazing journey for us both.” Adding “The Office” to their catalogue was a no-brainer, so much so that they’ve done it twice. “The Office! A Musical Parody” played to sold-out audiences in New York and subsequently launched a North American tour. “We love ‘The Office,’” Tobly says. “It was so fresh and we rewatch it all the time. We always pick shows that were important to us and that we see a lot of room to poke fun at. We waited for our eighth musical to do it because we wanted to get it right; to have the experience and knowledge to make sure that we really nailed it.” After theaters around the country began closing their doors to ensure the safety of their audiences because of COVID-19, a second parody was born. The duo created “The Office! A Murder Mystery Parody: Who is the Scranton Strangler?” to fill the void, an outdoor walking tour coming to life at Clearwater’s Bilheimer Capitol Theater Feb. 25-March 14 and The Abbey Orlando March 23-April 11. “The shutdown of live theater during the pandemic was devastating,” the McSmiths stated as they announced the production in a press release. “We took a deep inward look and decided the world needed two things: a COVID-19 vaccine and a parody walking tour. “We only have the bandwidth to deliver one of them,” they continued. “We are proud of this unauthorized parody walking tour and hope to bring some fun and nostalgia to people’s lives during these trying times, all while catching a killer. It’s a win-win (unless you are the killer).” The story surrounds the infamous Scranton Strangler, a recurring but unseen criminal featured throughout multiple seasons of the show. While fans of “The Office” will “get to relive those episodes featuring the Scranton Strangler and see what their favorite characters have been up to during the pandemic, anybody that loves true crime or solving mysteries will love this tour,” Tobly promises. “It’s been hard not to have theater for a year,” he stresses. “We’ve had it continuously for 15 years, so to have this opportunity to create the tour has been really unique and fun.” Participants will join Michael’s Murder Mystery Murder Tour,

Continued on pg. 41 | uu |

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

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| uu | Parody Pro from pg.39

“the most hilarious true crime walking tour on earth,” led by the character of Michael Scott, played by Carell on TV. Small groups will walk through five locations for an immersive experience, interacting with fan favorite characters including Jim Halpert, Pam Beesly and Dwight Schrute, respectively popularized by Krasinski, Fischer and Wilson. “Ten years ago, before anyone knew the words ‘social distance’ or ‘zoom,’ there was a string of savage strangulations in Scranton, Pennsylvania,” the production is officially described. “The Scranton Strangler gripped the media and became one of the most infamous crimes in western Pennsylvania history, only rivaled by the dreaded Scranton Tickler. “The case was believed to be solved and a man was sentenced to life behind bars,” it continues. “The town took a deep, unstrangled breath ... until a few months ago when a similar strangulation took place. Is this the work of a copycat killer or does an innocent man sit in prison to this day?” Tobly says the storyline was a perfect fit for the tour. “There was a lot of room for us to make fun of it as a running gag,” he explains. “We’re also parodying the popularity of true crime, we’re parodying walking tours and in this case you get to hang out with Michael Scott and interact and play with your favorite members of ‘The Office.’” When Tobly isn’t doing that himself, something he’s happy to do as a longtime fan, the author and activist is fighting for the LGBTQ community. He made his debut as a novelist last May with “Stay Gold,” a coming-of-age teen love story between a transgender boy named Pony and cisgender girl named Georgia. “Pony just wants to fly under the radar during senior year,” it’s described. “Tired from all the attention he got at his old school after coming out as transgender, he’s looking for a fresh start at Hillcrest High. But it’s hard to live your best life when the threat of exposure lurks down every hallway and in every bathroom. “Georgia is beginning to think there’s more to life than cheerleading,” it continues. “She plans on keeping a low

walking the walk: Audiences enjoy “Art Heist,” another of Tobly McSmith’s COVID-conscious, outdoor shows in Austin, Texas. Photo courtesy right angle entertainment profile until graduation … then, on the very first day of school, the new guy and the cheerleader lock eyes.” “It’s their love story and there’s definitely a lot of love in it,” Tobly says. “But it also handles very serious issues like bullying, dead naming and discrimination.” Addressing these issues was personal for the author. “I grew up in Texas in the ‘90s and the representation was so limited in that time, especially regarding transgender people,” he says.

Stay Gold Fund in partnership with the Stonewall Community Fund — designed to provide financial support to transgender individuals seeking gender-affirming surgeries. Half of the book’s proceeds fund the effort. The fund launched in response to Donald Trump’s transgender military ban with a $50,000 fundraising goal. The former president announced his discriminatory decision while Tobly was writing “Stay

authentic author: Tobly McSmith wrote 2020’s trans-focused “Stay Gold.” Photo by Allison Michael Orenstein

That’s just shy of 75% of the funds needed to begin the process of distributing grants, which the fund’s website notes is needed more than ever because of COVID-19. “Transgender and gender nonconforming people are suffering from the effects of the coronavirus,” it reads. “Many save for years for their surgery, and in the face of high unemployment and economic downturn, those savings are now being depleted for daily needs. This fund works

We took a deep inward look and decided the world needed two things: a COVID-19 vaccine and a parody walking tour. We only have the bandwidth to deliver one of them. — “The Office! A Murder Mystery Parody: Who is the Scranton Strangler?” writers Tobly and Bob McSmith “I hadn’t even met a transgender person except when they were being made fun of in the media … I spent most of my life really struggling with my identity. “I didn’t transition until I was 33,” he reflects. “I think about what it would have been like if I had seen ‘Stay Gold’ in a bookstore, had any of the TV shows that are coming out or seen any of the leaders that are speaking up — how it would have changed my life positively as a kid. I know I would have lived as my authentic self from a much younger age.” To help others do exactly that, Tobly also created the

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Gold,” citing in part the cost of gender-affirming care. “I was writing a young adult novel about a transgender boy falling in love and finding himself, but also — as many trans people like myself have done — saving up for his top surgery,” Tobly said at the time. “As a result of that awful ban,” he continued, “I found important purpose for myself and my book: helping to provide financial assistance for gender-affirming surgeries and striving to remove the stigma around this important step in the transition journey.” To date, fundraising efforts have brought in nearly $37,000.

to ensure that trans people are able to get the surgery they need as soon as it is safe to do so.” “I didn’t know this was going to be launched during a pandemic, when so many other resources need funds,” Tobly says. “My goal was to raise the $50,000 in 2020 and it’s taking a little longer, but I still can’t believe where we are. I’ve put in a good amount from my book and I’ll continue to do so — the next step is getting to that goal.” Once it’s reached, Tobly says a board will be elected to review applicants. Additional fundraising will then launch both in person and online.

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

“We want to really grow this,” he says. “We want to provide grants but also help remove the stigma around this type of care. We want to show people how positive this kind of health care is for transgender people.” While the pandemic has impacted every facet of Tobly’s comedic and philanthropic efforts, the author and activist remains hopeful. COVID-19 vaccines have begun making their way across the country, paving a pathway for future parodies — and on Jan. 25, the transgender military ban was repealed by President Joe Biden. “To have that day, when it was lifted with the signing of his pen, it just feels empowering,” Tobly says. “I feel safer to be who I am — which is so important right now.”

“The Office! A Murder Mystery Parody: Who is the Scranton Strangler?” will hold outdoor, walking productions Feb. 25-March 14 originating at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, located at 405 Cleveland St. in downtown Clearwater and March 23-April 11 originating at The Abbey Orlando, located at 100 S. Eola Dr. in Orlando. All ticket holders are required to follow all COVID-19 safety precautions, with single tickets beginning at $44. To read more or purchase yours, visit RuthEckerdHall.com or AbbeyOrlando.com. “Stay Gold” is available wherever books are sold. To learn more about it, purchase a copy and to support the Stay Gold Fund, visit StayGoldFund.org.

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

announcements

tampa bay out+about

CONGRATULATIONS Salty’s marks eight years in Gulfport this month. FatMarker Clothing celebrates four years in Ybor Feb. 8.

CONDOLENCES John Anderson died Dec. 30 and a military memorial was held Jan. 29. He will be missed. Celebrated entertainer Ginger Manchester died Jan. 25. She will be missed.

EVENTS “Scott and Patti: Get a Real Job!” is playing Wednesdays-Sundays at 7:30 p.m. now through Feb. 14 at freeFall Theatre. Read more about the show at WatermarkOnline.com. Empath Partners in Care (EPIC) is holding a virtual “I Run for Safe Sex” 5K/10K now through Feb. 28, the first Tampa Bay AIDS Walk event since 2017. Read more on pg. 10. Pasco Pride’s Drag Queen Story Hour will return Feb. 13 at 1 p.m. at ZenfiniTea, led by Tampa Bay entertainer Stephanie Stuart. Read more at PascoPrideFestival.org and WatermarkOnline.com. Metro Inclusive Health’s annual event Black & Empowered has expanded into a year-round, monthly series. A kick-off event will be held virtually Feb. 8 from 6-8 p.m. and feature host and performer Kiala E. Read more at MetroTampaBay.org. Voss Events’ “Drive ‘N Drag Saves 2021”will be held Feb. 23-24 at 7 and 9:30 p.m. at Westfield Brandon. Read our interview with headliner Bianca Del Rio and read more about the show at WatermarkOnline.com.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Former TIGLFF executive director Margaret Murray, Tampa Sister of Perpetual Indulgence Scott Ryan, Financial service representative Sidney Gaddis (Feb. 4); Tampa Bay realtor Derrick Dwyer (Feb. 6); Real estate agent Eric Puzone (Feb. 7); St. Petersburg dance instructor Julia MeyerovichNeighbors (Feb. 8); Old Key West owner Crystal EllisFaber (Feb. 9); Creative Tile Design of St. Petersburg owner Tom O’Keefe, St. Petersburg hair stylist Ric Castro, Metro Inclusive Health’s Jesse T. Rivera, Macy’s St. Petersburg’s HR manager Luis Fabian (Feb. 10); St. Petersburg attorney Bobby King, Tampa media specialist Bart Birdsall, Florida Council on Economic Education Executive Director Mike Bell (Feb. 11); Tampa photographer Mark Danner, Tampa Bay socialite Mark Warden (Feb. 12); USF Vegetarian Society President Mark Weber, Tampa Suncrest Home Health director Portia Weiss (Feb. 13); Honey Pot coowner Ernie Webb, Tampa Bay performer Jaeda Fuentes, Tampa Bay realtor Ryan Thompson (Feb. 14); Former Queen’s Head co-owner Darren Conner (Feb. 15); Florida LGBTQ Democratic Caucus secretary Dave Cutler, Tampa activist Chris Goldsmith, Tampa Bay Bears president Keenan Rose, EQFL intern Prin Ocea (Feb. 16); Tampa Bay entertainer Iman, Punky’s cast member Monique Love (Feb. 17).

2 3

EPIC RUN: Melisa Moore completes her #IRunForSafeSex 10K benefiting Empath Partners in Care Jan. 26. PHOTO COURTESY EPIC

BUC BAE: Matthew McGee’s Patti shows her love for the Tampa Bay Bucs and Rob Gronkowski Jan. 23 ahead of “Scott and Patti: Get a Real Job!” at freeFall Theatre. PHOTO COURTESY FREEFALL THEATRE

3 4

ST. PETE STAPLE: Kori Stevens dazzles at Old Key West Drag Brunch Jan. 31.

PHOTO COURTESY KORI STEVENS

HELPING OUT: Matthieu Chin (R) partners with Come OUT St. Pete to pick up donated coats and blankets from the team at Pom Pom’s Teahouse and Sandwicheria St. Pete Feb. 1 for a community drive. PHOTO

COURTESY MATTHIEU CHIN

MASKED UP: Owner James Encke reps City Side Lounge in an exclusive mask as he welcomes guests Jan. 30. PHOTO

COURTESY CITY SIDE LOUNGE

NATURAL TAIL-ENTS: Mermazing models swim up to the Gay St. Pete House for a fin-tastic photoshoot with Black Rose Photography Jan. 24. PHOTO COURTESY GAY ST PETE HOUSE

TEAM CLEAN: Bryan Karl Casañas Scarsella (L) and St. Pete City Councilmember Gina Driscoll check out the city’s new electric buses Feb. 1. PHOTO COURTESY GINA DRISCOLL

HEADING WEST: Mark Francen (L) and John Del Vitto make a friend while viewing “Black Little: Photographs from the Gay Rodeo” at the James Museum Jan. 30. PHOTO COURTESY MARK FRANCEN

7 watermark Your LGBTQ life.

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

announcements

central florida out+about

CONGRATULATIONS Peer Support Space celebrated its second year Feb. 1 as a 100% peer-led nonprofit helping with mental illness, substance misuse challenges, neurodivergence, disability, grief, trauma and other obstacles to mental wellness.

CONDOLENCES LGBT+ Center Orlando board member Roxy Santiago lost her brother Rob to COVID-19 Jan. 30. Roxy and her family are in our thoughts during this difficult time.

EVENTS Creative City Projects, in partnership with director Donald Spencer from Modern Theatricals, presents “Down the Rabbit Hole,” a walking play that brings the world of “Alice in Wonderland” to life at the Mead Botanical Gardens in Winter Park Feb. 6-March 14. Shows will be limited to groups of 10-15 and masks will be required to be worn during the show. Tickets start at $22 and can be purchased at CreativeCityProject.com. Enzian Theater brings you a National Theatre Live presentation of the award-winning Broadway musical, “Kinky Boots,” filmed live from the London stage, Feb. 7 at 11 a.m. Based on the 2005 British film of the same name, “Kinky Boots” tells the mostly true story of a man who inherits his father’s shoe factory and his unlikely partnership with a drag queen to produce a line of highheeled boots in order to save the business. With music by Cyndi Lauper and book by Harvey Fierstein, “Kinky Boots” won six 2013 Tony Awards; including Best Musical, Best Original Score and Best Actor in a Musical for Billy Porter. Tickets are $20 and available at Enzian.org.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Orlando doctor Rafael Pinero, Watermark freelancer and former intern Edward Segarra (Feb. 4); Orlando Ballet’s Artistic Director Robert Bell, Watermark contributor Holly Kapherr Alejos, Orlando Fringe board member Daniel Blumberg (Feb. 5); Central Florida fine art photographer Josh Garrick, Central Florida photographer James “Cannonball” Bennett, former Watermark intern Kathy Ruiz (Feb. 6); Orlando attorney Barbara Leach, Orlando fitness guru Tony Edge, Central Florida photographer Albert Harris-Rusell, HAOS on Church bartender Jan Echevarria (Feb. 7); Co-owner of Hamburger Mary’s Orlando Mike Rogier (Feb. 9); Watermark columnist Melody Maia Monet (Feb. 10); Stonewall’s Julian Bain, Former Watermark creative assistant Patrick O’Connor (Feb. 11); Central Florida Community Arts’ Director of Theatre Donald Rupe, J. Meyer’s Insurance co-owner Cathy Meyers-Keene (Feb. 13); Central Florida activist Steven Hogue, Orlando banking guru Diana Cox (Feb. 14); Gary Lambert Salon & Spa co-owner Shawn Hunt (Feb. 15); Central Florida performer Blue Star, Orlando man-about-town Nick Crush (Feb. 16); Downtown Arts District board member Ben Laube, Orlando playwright-actor John Ryan, Disney entertainment guru John Bearse (Feb. 17).

Bike Check: Miracle of Love’s Executive Director Angus Bradshaw (center) accepts a check in the amount of $92,636.29 Jan. 24 from The SMART Ride 17, which held a re-imagined, socially distanced bike ride in 2020. Photo courtesy The SMART Ride 17

Brunch Duo: Ginger Minj (L) and Tora Himan entertain at Estefan Kitchen Orlando’s Sunday brunch “Divas & Dining” Jan. 24. Photo by Ceejay Russell

IN the HAOS: The Ladies and Ladyboys of the Peek-a-Boo Lounge bring sexy back to the stage at HAOS on Church in Orlando Jan. 27. Photo courtesy Blue Star

Streaming History: State Rep. Anna V. Eskamani watches Joe Biden’s presidential inauguration from her office Jan. 20. Photo

courtesy Anna V. Eskamani

Body Goals: (L-R) Reiner Wolf, Steffen Brandt and Jonathan Maynard are ready for a workout at Body Street in Winter Park Jan. 29.

Photo by Jeremy Williams

Birthday Fun: The Bros in Convo Initiative Founder/Executive Director Daniel Downer celebrate his birthday with a photo session from Steven Miller Photography at Wall Crawl in Orlando Jan. 17.

Photo courtesy Daniel Downer

Sunday Funday: Long Island Sundays host Kitana Gemini poses with inaugural Bernie Sanders at Savoy in Orlando Jan. 24.

Photo courtesy Kitana Gemini

Making Herstory: Orlando City Commissioners Regina Hill (L) and Patty Sheehan join dozens of women at City Hall in Orlando to celebrate the inauguration of Vice President Kamala Harris Jan. 20. Photo courtesy Patty Sheehan

8 watermark Your LGBTQ life.

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

Reach local LGBT communities across the nation. Start connecting with over a million loyal readers in print and online across the country. 212-242-6863 info@nationallgbtmediaassociation.com www.nationallgbtmediaassociation.com

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

wedding bells

Sam Cloward and José Cabranes, from Orlando

Wedding Date:

Jan. 20, 2021 (It’s a palindrome!)

Officiant:

Oral Frier (Best Friend)

Venue:

Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards (Where they both work)

Colors:

No actual colors, but they both had on black suits; Sam wore a red button down shirt and José wore a gray button down shirt.

Reception:

Dinner at UNO Pizzeria after the ceremony, where Sam and José had their first date.

Cake:

Chocolate cake, vanilla buttercream, a surprise from a friend.

Photographer/ Videographer:

Livestreamed on YouTube channel, produced by José

efore Sam Cloward and José

Cabranes could get together and write their happily ever after, they would first have to weather a few storms — both metaphorically and physically.

Sam and José first met while they were working at Universal Resort in Orlando and later connected through Facebook. After messaging back and forth and planning a date that would not happen, José and Sam ended up getting into relationships with other people. In the fall of 2016, as Central Florida was preparing for Hurricane Matthew, Sam saw on Facebook that José had gotten out of his relationship. “I messaged José and told him that I was just out of a relationship too and if he needed someone to talk to that I was here for him,” Sam says. “So we chatted with each other the whole time we were hunkered down for Hurricane Matthew.” After the storm passed, Sam suggested they get together and share relationship horror stories. “Not as a date because neither one of us were looking for anything,” Sam says. “So he said ‘sure, we can go grab a drink.’”

They decided to meet up at Winter Park Village after the curfew was lifted for Hurricane Matthew. “I really wasn’t expecting anything, so we met at Winter Park Village and he pulled up in his Mustang, rolled down the window and said ‘Hey’ and I thought ‘Oh, I’m in trouble’,” Sam says, laughing. “Maybe I do want this to be a date.” Due to the storm, most of the area’s restaurants hadn’t opened back up. The two settled on sitting at the bar at Uno’s Pizzeria. “It was one of the easiest conversations I’ve ever had,” José says. “We were sitting there talking and I looked down and it’s like ‘Wow, we’ve already been sitting here for three hours.’” Sam and José planned their second date and have been inseparable ever since. It took a few years before Sam would officially propose to José, but not because he didn’t think José was

the one. It just took that long for him to pull his plan together. “I started making a proposal video about a month after our first date,” Sam recalls. “Whenever I was out away from him or even with him I would pull away and I would record a video of me asking him to marry me no matter where we were at. I just wanted to do snippets for however long until we finally moved forward with a proposal, little snippets of me asking him to marry me. So he knew that I always knew it was him, he was the one.” The time to move forward with the proposal came in the summer of 2019. “It was a time when we could still go places and see people and do fun things,” Sam laughs. “So we booked ourselves on a Mediterranean cruise.” Before setting sail, Sam posted the proposal video to their YouTube channel and scheduled it to go live while they were out at sea. They were on the Oasis of the Seas and Sam proposed to José in Central Park in the center of the ship. “When he showed me the video I was just amazed by how many people had already commented and how many were already in the loop,” José says. “Then he told me he was

planning this for years, and I was not expecting it.” In picking the wedding date, the couple wanted a fun date that would be easy to remember. “I liked 1/20/2021,” Sam says. “It flows and also because my mind is always in a hundred different directions, I know it is something I’ll never forget.” They decided on that date not realizing it would also be the presidential inauguration, but more importantly they didn’t realize there would be a pandemic happening. They ultimately decided that this was there day and they were going to celebrate it in a way that would be meaningful to them. “We like to plan new things, we like new experiences, so we plan them out and we call them date days,” Sam says. “We always have some crazy antics we get into and we always have great stories. So we decided for our wedding we would plan a date day. We gave the itinerary to our friends and they could come and join us for whatever aspects of it they wanted to for however comfortable they were to get out of the house.” Sam and José began their celebration date day first by going to the Orlando Science Center. “We started with the Orlando Science Center because it was the last weekend of the Pompeii exhibit. That was meaningful for us because the cruise we took went to Pompeii,” Sam says. The day of the wedding was filled with more fun memories that ended at Lakeridge Winery where they both work. The couple livestreamed the event for family and friends who couldn’t make it. “We had a glass of wine with our friends, walked out to the back hill between two of the vineyard blocks and the area back there is just beautiful and the sun sets right there so we were able to get a great sunset wedding experience,” Sam says. The couple finished the evening with friends at a familiar spot. “We had reservations at Uno’s, where we had our first date,” Sam says, “and we took photos at the bar.” — Jeremy Williams

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.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

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• Join • Volunteer • Donate

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February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

the last page Hometown:

St. George Island, Florida

Identifies As: Lesbian

Out Year: 2006

Pronouns:

She/Her/Hers

Profession:

Rising Tide Innovation Center co-founder, Fletcher Fischer Pollack PL managing member, Ocean Systems Laboratory, Inc. president, Bioimpact, Inc. vice president and general counsel

Professional Role Model:

Science: Shirley Ann Jackson; Business: Sara Blakely, Founder of Spanx

Autobiography Title: “When One Door Closes, Create Another One”

Hobbies:

Scuba Diving, Skiing, Hiking, Reading

Recommend People to: Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Williams at: Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com Tampa Bay Bureau Chief Ryan Williams-Jent at: Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com

Leigh Fletcher Rising Tide Innovation Center Co-Founder

Photo by Dylan Todd

he Last Page is dedicated to

individuals who are making a positive impact on the LGBTQ community in Tampa Bay and Central Florida.

This issue, we check in with Leigh Fletcher, self-described “serial entrepreneur” and among other ventures, co-founder of the Rising Tide Innovation Center. Keep an eye on this space to learn more about the movers and shakers of your community. What do you do professionally?

A variety of things because I own several types of businesses. As co-founder of RIsing Tide Innovation Center, I work to create opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses; as a lawyer I represent clients in real estate, environmental and business matters; as owner of Ocean Systems Laboratory, I oversee the operation of two microbiological and chemical testing labs on St. Croix and St. Thomas that serve as the designated EPA public drinking water labs for the US Virgin Islands. My role at Bioimpact involves environmental analysis and federal and local permitting work in the wider Caribbean Basin. On any given day I may be working on things for multiple businesses so I am never bored.

How do you champion for the local LGBTQ community?

At Rising Tide we provide workspace to LGBTQ organizations including Project No Labels and Equality Florida.

What is your favorite thing to read in Watermark?

I enjoy the whole thing, but Tampa Bay News is what I read first. What is your favorite local virtual or in-person LGBTQ event?

I am looking forward to an in-person St Pete Pride happening again post-pandemic.

What is your favorite thing about the local LGBTQ community?

Its diversity.

What would you like to see improved in the local LGBTQ community?

I always advocate for increasing entrepreneurship and the visibility of LGBTQ-owned businesses. What would you like our readers to know about you?

I love learning and I am a big believer in the potential of people to create their own opportunities,

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

so whether I am working with entrepreneurs in the co-working space, representing business owners as an attorney, or working with business owners in the Caribbean to ensure their water supply is safe or helping them obtain the environmental permits for their operations, I am energized by others› excitement and passion for their work. What advice would you give your younger self?

Trust your instincts about people and listen carefully to what is said and not said. You cannot take someone to a place they are not ready to go – so if their fear holds them back, move on without them but be kind while doing it. How has Rising Tide navigated COVID-19 in these unprecedented times?

It has been a challenge. The first thing we did was create online content and socializing opportunities for members who could not physically be in the space during the shutdown. We also worked with our members whose businesses were financially impacted to allow them to maintain membership at reduced rates during the periods when they were shutdown. As things began to open back up, we developed a COVID plan that emphasizes safety by spacing out work spaces, instituting strict cleaning protocols for daily

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

use of shared spaces. We take temperatures at the door and provide free masks and gloves to members and visitors if requested. But I am an optimist when it comes to business opportunities so we also continued our expansion of the space on Central and started a new project at the Manhattan Casino on 22nd St. in South St. Petersburg focused on food entrepreneurship. What else should readers know about Rising Tide Innovation Center?

At Rising Tide we believe that developing a professional network is critical to business success. So our goal is not only to provide attractive state of the art work resources in a co-working space for entrepreneurs and remote workers, but also to create networks among our members that connect them to people and skillsets that they need to grow their businesses. We do that through mentoring, social events and online networks; members can decide how much or how little to participate. With our recent expansion we have more dedicated desks (offices without walls) and private offices available, so it is a good time to take a tour and see if we are a good home for your business.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

February 4 - 17, 2021 // Issue 28 .03 wat e r m a r konline .com

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