Watermark Issue 28.07: Equality Now! by Watermark Publishing Group

Your LGBTQ Life.

April 1 - 14, 2021 • Issue 28.07

LGBTQ advocates champion the Equality Act

EPIC announces new St. Pete health center Come Out With Pride begins search for executive director 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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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

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departments 7 // Publisher’s Desk

page

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

Despite the tremendous progress our nation has made toward equality, too many LGBTQ Americans still live in fear. That’s because LGBTQ people across the country remain vulnerable to discrimination on a daily basis. -Rep. Stephanie Murphy, Florida’s 7th Congressional District

12// State News 13// Nation & World News 19// Talking Points 35// Tampa Bay Out + About 37// Central Fl Out + About 39// Wedding Bells 40// Tampa Bay Marketplace 42// Central Fl Marketplace 46// The Last Page On the cover

page Focus on Film: The

page EQUALITY NOW!:

LGBTQ advocates champion the Equality Act.

design by dylan todd, watermark file

Florida Film Festival gets back to in-person screenings for its 30th outing.

Watermark Issue 28.07 // April 1 - 14, 2021

photos paired with u.s. government works via the u.s. senate flickr page and obama white house flickr page.

scan qr code for

WatermarkOnline.com

Open Faith

Epic Expansion

High Fidelity

A Family Affair

page Progressive reverend begins new role at Unity Church in Orlando.

page Empath Partners in Care announces new sexual health center.

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

Miguel Fuller talks about his engagement in his latest Viewpoint.

Children’s book “Sam is My Sister” educates and entertains all ages.

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

Publisher’s

Rick Claggett PUblisher

Rick@WatermarkOnline.com

Desk

et’s just say it: COVID sucks. No

matter who you are, COVID has had a negative impact on your life. If you’re lucky, it was a mild inconvenience. You hunkered down with someone close to you and waited out the storm, you kept your distance from others and you wore your mask.

For others it was more of a struggle. You were isolated alone and the loneliness took its toll. Your work couldn’t handle the economic downturn and you were furloughed or lost your job completely. Finding assistance was a struggle. You found solace in online communication but it was no comparison to the physical interaction with those you care for. Some of you lost the most, a loved one. It is unimaginable to me the pain a loss like this must be. I’ve lost family close to me before, but I was able to say goodbye or attend their funeral. The victims of COVID were not afforded such luxuries.

Now, through all the pain, the sun has begun to set on the COVID nightmare. We are in no way out of the woods yet, but we can see the finish line and we know what we need to do to get there. Vaccines are pouring onto the scene, even in our own community centers like Metro Inclusive Health and the LGBT+ Center Orlando. I am happy to report that every Watermark employee who works in either of our offices has begun their vaccination process. As we begin to close this chapter of COVID, I’ve started to think about what lessons we have learned and what new ways of life we have benefited from. I’ve put together

some things I would like to see us continue to do when COVID doesn’t make it a necessity. First, I’d like to normalize staying home when you are sick. This would require business owners to step up with sick leave, or at least the flexibility to allow employees to work from home. If you can’t stay home, then let’s normalize mask wearing from now on. If you have a cold, wear a mask. We know it works. We can see how wearing masks, washing hands and social distancing have lowered the spread of the flu this flu season. Social distancing is the next new norm I’d like to see stick around. I worked for years at overcrowded theme parks and ever since I’ve always been someone who enjoyed my personal space. I’ve never been comfortable standing in a tight crowd or within one foot of someone waiting in line. Maybe it doesn’t need to be six feet moving forward, but some space would be nice. I’m sure it’s no surprise then that I’m not a big hugger. I feel like the odd man out here in a community that overwhelmingly loves to hug hello and goodbye. It’s not that I’m not happy to see people, I’m just uncomfortable getting that close to everyone. I’m much more a fan of the fist bump, or the 2020 version known as the elbow bump. COVID has forced businesses to adapt and I recently had the opportunity to experience one of the best rebranding ideas to come out of this pandemic. Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center created their Frontyard Festival that takes place, well, on the front yard of the property. They have created pods, or seating areas, for groups of people to sit safely away from others. They bring in movies and live entertainment the likes of which we have not been able

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

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Creative Designer: Dylan Todd • Ext. 107 Dylan@WatermarkOnline.com

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Tampa Bay Account Manager: Michael Wier • Ext. 105 Michael@WatermarkOnline.com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

to see in a year. The experience is truly amazing. In addition to enjoying the show, you can order food and have it delivered to your seat; something I have been wishing for since UberEats was invented. I do hope this model finds a permanent home. Finally, I’d like to see video conferencing stick around. It doesn’t have to be everything, but some things seem better on Zoom. This one may simply be selfish on my part, but I can attend more meetings if they are on online. From 12 steps to board meetings,

2020 seems like a lost year, but there’s still something to be learned. Let’s learn from the lessons and celebrate the innovations.

I’m a fan of Zoom. 2020 seems like a lost year, but there’s still something to be learned. Let’s learn from the lessons and celebrate the innovations. In this issue of Watermark we celebrate the Equality Act and reflect on what its passage by the Senate would mean for LGBTQ Americans. In Central Florida news we introduce you to The Center Orlando’s new Health & Human Services Center, while In Tampa Bay Empath Partners in Care announces its new sexual health center. 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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contributors Sabrina Ambra

is a cohost of Real Radio 104.1’s “News Junkie” program and will kick your ass if she needs to. Page 15

Miguel Fuller is the out and proud co-host of the Miguel & Holly show on HOT 101.5 FM in Tampa Bay. He also hosts everything! Page 17

Lora Korpar was

a journalism student who graduated from the University of Central Florida and is a former Watermark intern. Page 39

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

The Center Orlando opens new Health & Human Services Center Jeremy Williams

RLANDO | The LGBT+ Center Orlando held an open house for its new Health & Human Services Center in Orlando’s Mills50 District March 17. The new facility — located at 1200 Hillcrest St., Suite 102 — houses all of The Center’s health-related services including HIV, Hepatitis C and STI testing, grab-and-go condoms, NARCAN distribution and HIV case management. The Hillcrest location is also home to the Orlando United Assistance Center (OUAC) services. The Center incorporated OUAC under its purview of existing services in October. OUAC serves and supports the immediate family members of the 49 individuals taken in the 2016 Pulse tragedy and the survivors.

First Sunday:

Rev. Maggie Alderman speaks to the congregation during her first sermon at Christ Church Unity in Orlando. Screenshot from YouTube

Check out the photos from the event at WatermarkOnline.com and visit TheCenterOrlando.org for more information on all of The Center’s services and locations.

Open Faith

COWP looks to hire new executive director

Progressive reverend begins new role at Unity Church in Orlando

Jeremy Williams

Isaiah Peters

RLANDO | Come Out With Pride (COWP) is looking to hire an executive director. In a post on its Facebook page March 16, COWP stated it is looking for an executive director “to collaborate closely with the Board of Directors and play a vital role in the growth of the organization as we take Come Out With Pride to the next level.” “We are at the point, given our growth over the last several years plus our commitment to hopefully bring World Pride to Orlando [in 2026], it is time to bring someone on,” says Jeff Prystajko, COWP’s board president. “It’s a job that is excessive for just all volunteers.” Prystajko says the board is looking to have the new director in place by early June to give them plenty of time to be prepared for Pride in October. This will be COWP’s first executive director since 2014 when then-executive director Mikael Audebert was fired from the position due to allegations of fraud and financial mismanagement. The job listing states that the executive director must live in the Orlando area and be able to physically attend meetings in various locations throughout Central Florida with government officials, community partners, donors and sponsorships.

Interested parties wishing to apply can do so at ComeOutWithPride.org/ executive-director.

ORLANDO | New Senior Rev. Maggie Alderman began ministering at Christ Church Unity (CCU) Orlando on March 7. Alderman described her preaching style as progressive and open, and she says her first Sunday attracted the church’s largest turnout since the pandemic started with 90 in-person attendees and about 300 live streamers. “We did a nationwide search for our new minister and could not be more pleased with the selection of Rev. Maggie Alderman,” says Sunni VonMutius, president of the CCU Orlando Board of Trustees. “Her ability to lead with kindness, vulnerability and authenticity is clear.” Alderman says one of her primary values is encouraging openness and embracing all. “We have the opportunity to reach out to all communities through just personal awareness,” she says. “I would be the type of minister in a smaller town to go and explore to connect with

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

everyone — white, black, brown, gay and straight — and let them know we have a place for them to come and celebrate their divine spark, the connection that we have within us.” Alderman felt called to embark on this new career and spiritual journey, saying the church she previously ministered at was much smaller with only 80 committed members compared to the Orlando location with more than 200 committed members. “It was a leap of faith and I thought, ‘I will go where the spirit calls.’ I just allowed for the guidance to take me each step of the way,” Alderman says. “Which lead me to pull out of my driveway in Texas with my teenage son, two cats and my dog, and make my way halfway across the country to take the position.” When speaking about balancing the harsh realities 2020 brought, large charged headlines dominating the public conscience from the pandemic to protests that followed into this year, Alderman says she had to step back and

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think about how to discuss and incorporate social issues. “I’m human and got exhausted, through the trials and tribulations of the pandemic, and a very tense election year,” she says. “Though we’ve had great strides in the social action arena, people seem to have started to wake up again to the injustices happening in our minority populations.” Alderman says last year brought to the forefront how to respond to charged moments and emphasized the need for humility and the ability to listen. “How do I talk about this, and should I even be talking about this as a white woman?” Alderman asked. “When it’s not my place, I’ll step aside and invite another teacher to take the pulpit on that Sunday and they’ll tell their story from their perspective and tie it to unity principles.” In light of a year full of grief and abrupt change, Alderman says she’ll use storytelling and empathy to connect. “It is my job to be creative and to bring stories in a way that lets my congregation know I’m not living my life with my head in the sand, and I too am struggling and hurt,” she says. CCU Orlando, located at 771 Holden Ave., is open in a modified way to maintain safety. The church continues a virtual presence on Facebook and YouTube via live streaming. Find more information on Christ Church Unity Orlando by visiting CCUOrlando.net.

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tampa bay news

St. Petersburg recognizes Trans Day of Visibility 2021 Ryan Williams-Jent

T. PETERSBURG | Mayor Rick Kriseman reflected on the importance of Transgender Day of Visibility (TDoV) during a St. Petersburg City Council meeting March 18, issuing a proclamation recognizing March 31 as such in the Sunshine City. TDoV is dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments and victories of transgender people worldwide. It also raises awareness of the work that is still needed to save transgender lives. “It is my honor today to present this proclamation,” Kriseman shared. He then noted this year’s TDoV was perhaps more important than ever before. That’s because of “what’s happening on the state level and the actions that have been taken, or are proposed to be taken, that directly impact our transgender community,” Kriseman shared. The mayor was referring to anti-transgender legislation currently under consideration in the Florida House and Senate, which advocates are currently fighting in Tallahassee. Kriseman stressed St. Petersburg’s commitment to inclusivity while reading the proclamation, noting that “we come together as a community to promote visibility and fairness to all transgender individuals [and] we reaffirm our commitment to promote the full inclusion of transgender individuals in our community.” Representatives from Metro Inclusive Health and St Pete Pride accepted the proclamation. “I so appreciate these words today,” St Pete Pride President Nathan Bruemmer said. “I drove back after two days in Tallahassee last night and there was no better feeling than being on the bridge and seeing our skyline … knowing I was coming home after a really tough fight [with] this in front of me today,” he continued. “From the entire community, thank you.” Members of the city council spoke next, beginning with Vice Chair Gina Driscoll. “I want to make sure you know that this goes beyond words on a beautiful piece of paper, every single day we do see you, we do hear you and we do stand with you,” she said. “You are part of what makes St. Petersburg so incredibly special – as a place where everyone, everyone, can say ‘this is a city for people like me.’” Openly LGBTQ Councilmember Darden Rice closed out the discussion, thanking Bruemmer and other advocates for the work they’ve done throughout St. Petersburg. “15 years ago, this city was different,” she said. “Lately when I go downtown, I see transgender people also walking down the street, holding hands, just being themselves … that’s beautiful,” Rice concluded. “St. Pete is a city where everybody from all walks of life can come here to thrive, be who they are, find a good life and be respected.”

Watch the full council meeting and read the proclamation in its entirety at WatermarkOnline.com.

EPIC VISION: Concept art for EPIC’s new sexual health center. PHOTO COURTESY EPIC.

Epic Expansion Empath Partners in Care announces sexual health center Ryan Williams-Jent

T. PETERSBURG | Empath Partners in Care (EPIC) announced March 18 that the nonprofit will open a sexual health center in early summer, a facility specializing in sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and treatment. EPIC is a member of Empath Health, which has supported Tampa Bay patients since 1977. It formed after the 2016 merger of the AIDS Service Association of Pinellas and Francis House. Its latest expansion will allow the organization to serve an estimated 10,000 clients per year from a renovated home located at 300 49th St. S. in St. Petersburg. Empath Health President Rafael Sciullo says the center is “a natural progression of services that allows us to more fully impact the entire spectrum of an individual’s sexual health needs.” Those services will also be mirrored at EPIC’s Tampa campus, the traditional Francis House. Officials promise that each facility will offer “an array of medical,

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

educational, support and resources to empower people to achieve better sexual health and make informed decisions about their sexual well-being.” The St. Petersburg location has a projected opening of May, while the Tampa expansion has a Fall 2021 target. “This has been in the works for years,” EPIC Executive Director Joy Winheim explains. “In looking at how to stay relevant ... this seemed like the next logical step,” she continues. “We’re dealing with prevention all the time, so this is just another way for us to prevent new HIV infections – holistically taking care of everyone’s sexual health and wellness makes sense to us.” In addition to STI testing and treatment, the facilities will offer pregnancy testing and referrals, birth control and prophylactics, and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP). Educational services on safer sex and LGBTQ health will also be offered. To make that possible, the space will be transformed to include exam rooms with lab capabilities. It will also boast private meeting

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spaces. Fundraising efforts have already begun, with half of the nonprofit’s $800,000 goal having been met by individuals and organizations. Partnership and gifting opportunities including exclusive naming rights remain. “We are 50% to our goal, so basically our construction loan is covered,” Winheim says. “Now we are raising money so that we can continue through the first year of operations. We want to be able to offer as many free services as we can, and we need to raise money to do that. “The reaction has been fantastic,” she continues. “We’re very, very thankful to those folks who really believe in our mission and support what EPIC is doing. We’ve put a lot of work behind the scenes into figuring out just exactly what we’re going to offer and how we’re going to offer it.” More than anything, Winheim is excited about impacting the community EPIC serves in new ways. “This is going to be a very sex positive place,” she concludes. “We want you to come as you are – everybody will be welcome, free of judgment. We don’t care what you’re doing out there, we just want you to do it safely. We’re here for the community.” For more information about EPIC and to donate to its sexual health center campaign, visit MyEPIC.org/Vision. View even more details and additional renderings for the facility at WatermarkOnline.com.

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state news

Fort Lauderdale gay mayor criticized for honoring anti-LGBTQ church Lou Chibbaro Jr. of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of the National LGBT Media Association

ttorney and longtime LGBTQ rights advocate Dean Trantalis, who is serving as the first openly gay mayor of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, came under criticism by LGBTQ activists for backing and signing a proclamation approved by the Fort Lauderdale City Commission honoring the city’s Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church. Founded in 1960 by televangelist Rev. D. James Kennedy, the church became a platform for Kennedy’s strong anti-gay views for over 30 years, including his promotion of debunked “conversion therapy” to change someone’s sexual orientation from gay to straight. By the 1980s, its television ministry from which Kennedy preached at an enlarged church

building with a 300-foot-tall tower in Fort Lauderdale had an audience of 3.5 million viewers, according to the St. Petersburg Times. Wayne Besen, executive director of the LGBTQ group Truth Wins Out, urged Trantalis not to sign the proclamation. He pointed out that the Southern Poverty Law Center in 2011 listed Coral Ridge Ministries, the church’s political action arm controlled by Kennedy, as an anti-LGBTQ hate group. Some observers say the church has moderated its positions and public statements on homosexuality since Kennedy’s successors took over in 2007 after Kennedy’s death. But Besen told the Washington Blade the church has yet to change its official anti-LGBTQ positions and has not apologized for its

past “hurtful” actions toward the LGBTQ community. Trantalis defended his support for the proclamation during the five-member City Commission’s meeting March 16 which was broadcast over Zoom. Trantalis, who is a member of the commission, spoke after Vice Mayor Steven Glassman, who is gay and also serves as a commissioner, read a statement criticizing the proclamation. Glassman called the proclamation honoring Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church a “sanitized and whitewashed history of Dr. Kennedy and the church,” according to the South Florida Gay News, which covered the commission meeting. The proclamation honors the church in recognition of the 60th anniversary of its founding and the 50th anniversary of the founding of its church school, the Westminster Academy.

“It’s time to build a future based on love and not hate, and it’s time for those who still harbor resentment to let go of it,” SFGN quoted Trantalis as saying to his fellow commission members. “I know I have, and I know my community has,” the paper quoted him as saying. “There’s no doubt that the Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church and one of its previous pastors have been a difficult challenge for our community, and to say the least, I stood out there on sidewalks and demonstrated in front of the convention center as well as their church in which we protested the types of practices that the church engaged in once upon a time,” said Trantalis as reported by SFGN. In a statement that Trantalis released to the statewide LGBTQ advocacy group Equality Florida, which urged Trantalis not to sign the proclamation, Trantalis suggested that members of the Coral Ridge Church were among

people of faith he has spoken with who have been “eager to bring our communities together.” During the City Commission meeting, Commissioner Heather Moraitis, who is a member of the Coral Ridge Church, expressed support for LGBTQ people, SFGN reported. “My grandfather had 13 children and came out as a gay gentleman and I will always love him and value him,” she said. “I’ve loved many other gay men and women, including you, Steve, and you, Dean, and it’s a privilege to serve with you,” she said referring to Glassman and Trantalis. The church’s current pastor, Rev. Rob Pacienza, was present during the Commission meeting to officially receive the proclamation. “I think for far too long, the church has been known more for what they’ve been against than what they’ve been for, and we look forward to building those bridges,” he said.

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

nation+world news

Levine makes history with senate confirmation Chris Johnson of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of The National LGBT Media Association

achel Levine made history March 24 by becoming the first openly transgender person to obtain Senate confirmation as a presidential appointee. The vote on the U.S. Senate floor, which despite its significance took place with little fanfare after senators largely discussed issues than Levine serving as assistant secretary of health, was along party lines and 52-48. Levine in a statement following her confirmation thanked President Biden for the nomination and the Senate, recognizing the importance of her appointment to LGBTQ people. “As I prepare to take my oath of office and begin serving as assistant secretary for health, I would like to take this opportunity to address members of the LGBTQ community,” Levine said. “First, thank you. Only through your work and advocacy

over many decades is my story possible. I am humbled to be the first transgender individual to serve in a Senate-confirmed position. As Vice President Harris has said, I recognize that I may be the first, but am heartened by the knowledge that I will not be the last.” Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Maine) joined Democrats in voting to confirm Levine. One exception to absence of discussion of Levine was Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), who noted the historic implications of the vote as the start of the morning of the Senate. “As transgender Americans suffer higher rates of abuse, homeless and depression more than every other group, it’s important to have national figures like Dr. Levine, who by virtue of being in the public spotlight will help break down barriers of ignorance and fear,” Schumer said. No openly transgender person prior to Levine had ever sought or obtained confirmation by the Senate in U.S. history. In the Obama administration, Dylan Orr at Department of Labor and Amanda Simpson at the departments of energy and

defense made history as the first openly transgender presidential appointees, but their roles didn’t require Senate approval. Trump, whose administration was marked by open hostility to the transgender community, had no openly transgender appointments. Annise Parker, CEO of LGBTQ Victory Institute, hailed President Biden in a statement for making the historic confirmation for the transgender community happen. “Yet the importance of this moment extends well-beyond the health of our nation alone,” Parker added. “At a time when hateful politicians are weaponizing trans lives for their own perceived political gain, Dr. Levine’s confirmation lends focus to the contributions trans people make to our nation and deflates absurd arguments calling for their exclusion.” The assistant secretary of health oversees the department’s key public health offices, a number of presidential and secretarial advisory committees, 10 regional health offices across the nation, and the Office of the Surgeon General and the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps.

queer community that is pressured to hide and stay silent.” “There’s a Japanese saying that translates to ‘the nail that sticks out gets the hammer,’” Nagata said. “Japanese culture pressures people to conform and stay quiet. Anything that is different will draw even more attention to it. Many queer people don’t come out because of being ‘othered.’” Nagata said LGBTQ people have more of a voice in the U.S. and he was happy to see same-sex couples in Japan challenge the law and for the court to rule the marriage ban was unconstitutional. Under current Japanese law, same-sex couples are banned from legally marrying, which means partners cannot inherit each other’s assets upon death and have no parental rights over the other’s child. Nikkei Asia reported three couples — two male and one female — in Hokkaido tried to register their

marriages in 2019, but local officials turned them away. The couples sued and the court ruled the government’s actions violated two provisions of the Japanese Constitution: Article 14 that ensures the right to equal treatment and Article 24, which does not expressly deny the right of marriage to same-sex couples. Article 24 defines marriage in Japanese law as “based on the mutual consent of both sexes and it shall be maintained through mutual cooperation with the equal rights of husband and wife as a basis.” The government’s attorney’s argued Article 24 applies only to heterosexual couples as implied by the term “husband and wife,” but the LGBTQ plaintiffs disagreed. They argued the law does not expressly prohibit same-sex couples from legally marrying. The ruling is just the first step in what is still a long process of change.

Japan’s same-sex marriage ban unconstitutional Philip Van Slooten of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of The National LGBT Media Association

Japanese court ruled March 17 that the country’s constitution does not ban same-sex couples from legally marrying and ensures them a right to marry. “Until the ruling was announced, we didn’t know this was what we’d get,” Gon Matsunaka, director of Marriage for All Japan and a representative of Pride House Tokyo, told Japan Today after the Sapporo District Court issued its ruling. “And I’m just overjoyed.” Thomas Nagata, a gay Japanese American who is an Asian and Pacific Islander Queers United for Action DC board member, said the ruling “has given a voice and recognition to the

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in other news Anti-LGBTQ Co. baker sued again Masterpiece Cakeshop, which won a partial victory at the U.S. Supreme Court in 2018 for refusing to make a wedding cake for a same-sex couple, went on trial March 22 in yet another lawsuit – this one involving a birthday cake for a transgender woman. Autumn Scardina attempted to order a cake on the same day in 2017 that the high court announced it would hear baker Jack Phillips’ appeal in the wedding cake case. Scardina requested a cake in honor of her transition, which the shop refused to make. The lawsuit is the latest in a series of cases around the U.S. that pit the rights of LGBTQ Americans against merchants’ religious objections.

Pride lifeguard tower burned in Ca. A lifeguard tower that was painted in the bright colors of the LGBTQ Rainbow Pride flag was burned to its steel frame early March 23, a spokesperson for the Long Beach Fire Department confirmed. The department responded to a call for a structure fire located on Long Beach around midnight. The rainbow tower was painted by LGBTQ members of its marine safety division in June 2020. In a statement posted on Twitter, officials said the rainbow tower symbolized “our strong support for the diversity within our ranks & community.” The source of the fire remains under investigation. The tower will be replaced and repainted by lifeguards.

Vatican defends its same-sex blessing ban A cardinal close to Pope Francis is defending a March 15 pronouncement that priests cannot bless same-sex unions as the Vatican faced outright dissent from some Catholic clergy. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, head of the Vatican’s laity office, concurred with the document that a “blessing” is a sacramental action related to the sacrament of marriage, which the Catholic Church teaches can only be celebrated between a man and woman. His comments came amid continuing criticism of the Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which said the Catholic Church cannot bless same-sex unions because God “cannot bless sin.”

Turing honored on UK bank note The Pride flag flew above the Bank of England in the heart of London’s financial district March 25 to commemorate World War II codebreaker Alan Turing, the new face of Britain’s 50-pound note. The design of the bank note was unveiled before it is set to be formally issued to the public on June 23, Turing’s birthday. The 50-pound note is the most valuable denomination in circulation. Turing was selected as the new face of the note in 2019 following a public nomination process. The 250,000 or so votes supporting his selection also represented a recognition of the discrimination that he faced as a gay man after the war.

April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

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and Vegeterian Cuisine Greek, Mediterranean,

viewpoint

Sabrina Ambra

ladyfingers Divine Gaslighting

aise your hand if

you’re fairly sure we are living in a simulation. Alright, fine. That’s a bit of a loadedprompt. We all agree the past year has been fucking weird in some measure, right?

Now, of course 2021 has shown signs of an upswing; a glimmer of hope, at the very least. People are getting vaccinated, folks are getting back to work, grandparents are being hugged for the first time in over 300 days; all very promising sentiments considering the doom and gloom that sharted everywhere in 2020. As the good news pendulum swings one way, let us not forget the other, intensely-frustrating pendulums that seem to be swinging in completely opposite directions. Shall I tell thee the ways? Pope Franny Franny Oxen Free recently signed off on the decree that upholds the longstanding “tradition” of prohibiting gay marriages in the Catholic Church, or as the Vatican so gently put it, “We can’t bless sin. Sorry lol.” That is not a direct quote, but it is the way I interpreted the

words (does that sound familiar, thumpers?) I’m not surprised as much as I am confused because I’m fairly sure it wasn’t that long ago that the current pope was welcoming all the homos with open arms. Perhaps it’s just that I am now realizing that those open arms may be similar to those of a T-Rex. You see, T-Rex arms are great for holding decree-signing pens and even better for simulating a hospitable embrace that can easily (and apparently rather quickly) morph into the “IDK Emoji.” It’s also worth noting, and may even incite a chuckle or two, that the Catholic Church invested nearly $1.2 million in “Rocketman,” the gayest biopic of the century, probably. Furthermore — wait for it — THEY PROFITED FROM THEIR INVESTMENT! You must be asking yourself where, oh where did they get the millions of dollars used for his righteous investment? Donations from their faithful, definitely not gay at all (sike) members, of course. It’s like Divine Gaslighting, fam! I was born and raised Catholic, so you can probably tell I’m a bit miffed. For one, I had a fairly pleasant experience with the church in my youth; I went to mass every Sunday with my mom, I was a youth group leader in high school, there was even one time I went to a Christian music festival and raised my hands up so I looked like all the cool teens next to me. Granted, at that time I was very unaware that in a few years I would have a lifetime membership to the Sisterhood of the Scissor Society. So, maybe that is why I don’t have early memories of someone telling me God and my church aren’t cool with the whole same-sex marriage thing. Or perhaps I’ve

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repressed those memories so they can marinate and resurface at the most inopportune time in a few years (that’s how panic attacks work, right?) All the above is not to say that once I was launched out of the closet

Lord while simultaneously eating from the forbidden Boom-Boom Shrimp Basket (#AsSeenInTheBible!) Would you like a side of ranch with that hypocrisy? To those that may be clutching my section of Watermark in one hand

and if they’re loving thy neighbor as they love themselves, than they deserve the gift of loving another human as much as anyone else. Furthermore, no matter how many lemons discrimination, bigotry and

(thanks, crazy ex and Facebook!) that these doctrinal teachings on gay marriage didn’t conveniently find their way into my ear holes, because they did. “Love the sinner, hate the sin!” I mean, nothing screams “love” like telling someone they’re hellbound for going against the word of the

and flicking a Bic in the other, well, I’m not sure what publication you thought you were reading, but thanks for reading this far. I hope you know that these embittered words are not for the all-knowing, all-loving God; I may have my questions for Her, but I do believe that good people are on this Earth

hate try to throw, we have, can and will make sweet, inclusive lemonade out of it. And it will be fucking delicious.

The Catholic Church invested nearly $1.2 million in ‘Rocketman,’ the gayest biopic of the century, probably. Furthermore — wait for it — THEY PROFITED FROM THEIR INVESTMENT!

Sabrina Ambra is a co-host of Real Radio 104.1’s “News Junkie” program and an LGBTQ activist in Central Florida.

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viewpoint

Miguel Fuller

high fidelity Six Months Later

ix months in and we

are still engaged! Six months in and we’ve also encountered some awkwardness when it comes to a “gay engagement.”

Let me back up a little. In my last column I wrote about how my then-boyfriend Abe Gadikian got together with my radio co-host Holly O’Connor, our producer Scott Tavlin and our boss, Will Calder to plan an amazing on-air, live-streamed marriage proposal. I had no clue it was happening, which was a feat within itself. I’m super nosey and a self-diagnosed control freak, so it was very surprising that they were able to get away with planning it while leaving me totally in the dark. It was one of the most memorable moments of my life and career, made even more amazing because we had the ability to share that moment of love with our listeners and the Tampa Bay community. After the excitement of the day calmed down, it took me a minute to read through the comments on social media because I just knew there would be something that would turn nasty. If you’ve looked through any comment section for your local newspaper, TV or radio station, you know it can seem like the worst of humanity. It can look like a jungle scanning those sections. So you can imagine how I was a little nervous to peruse our radio station’s social media pages about the wedding proposal, but I found not ONE negative comment. Not one person commenting on our gay, interracial marriage proposal. I was so relieved. The

worst of humanity did not show themselves that day. Then the holidays arrived. My fiancé and I decided to travel up to Atlanta to see my Mom, from a distance, and other family members. Up to this point I hadn’t realized that not a lot of people in my family had called to send their congratulations or send their well wishes. I wasn’t surprised because my family would never win the family communication award. We’ve never been super close. I’ve felt detached since I moved to Florida in 2008. The rest of my family lives in Atlanta, and during my 20’s I didn’t visit often because I was making a new life for myself and discovering my newfound gay family here. After visiting with some family members during the holidays and my Mom beaming proudly about her son getting married and showing off her new son to be, I thought excitement would spill over from other family members. Not so much. There were a few awkward comments, which I let roll off my back. I didn’t respond or think too much about it, until after coming back to St. Pete. I was really upset that my engagement wasn’t celebrated by other family members who normally soaked up the joy of celebrating love. I wish I could announce that after months of reflection and deep talks with family members, everything is wonderful and we are living in a peaceful, happy bubble of love. That’s not the case, which is another example of what many in our culture considers “normal.” For those and other reasons, I was nervous about being around a lot of straight people as we recently had our engagement photos taken in public. Because of the era I grew up in, I can sometimes be a little nervous about PDA.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

I’m not talking about heavy petting, but hand holding, kissing and the sweet things that straight couples never think twice about. I’m a Black, gay man in an interracial relationship in the south, so I can sometimes be a bit nervous about the slightest show of affection between

thought we looked like a truly loving couple. She put me at so much ease, that little bit of kindness meant the world to me. In the LGBTQ+ community, we are all trailblazers in our own ways. You being open and out at your work place is you being a trailblazer. Educating

process would go a bit differently than it has, but you know what? It’s beautiful the way it has played out so far. That’s one of the amazing things about being in the LGBTQ+ community, we get to make our own rules. A lot of us learn to build our own family units when we are

the two of us. For the first part of our photo shoot we returned to the site of our first date. There were people watching us from the window of the restaurant and before too long an older white lady came outside to ask what we were doing. When we said engagement photos her face lit up. She wanted to take a picture of us because she

your workplace or friends about why using the proper pronouns for someone that is transitioning is you being a trailblazer. Each day that we leave our houses as open people just living our best lives means we are being trailblazers. I’ve spent the last few months wrapping my brain around expectations and how to deal with them. I thought this engagement

first coming out and use that as a network of support. In the same way, my fiancé and I are doing that now as we plan our wedding.

In the LGBTQ+ community, we are all trailblazers in our own ways.

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Miguel Fuller is the host of Miguel and Holly on HOT 101.5 in Tampa Bay and hosts daily segments on the nationally syndicated Dish Nation. See his life in pictures and videos on Instagram @MiguelFuller.

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talking points I’m really excited to act, now that I’m fully who I am, in this body. No matter the challenges and difficult moments of this, nothing amounts to getting to feel how I feel now. —Elliot Page, in his first interview since coming out as transgender, speaking with TIME magazine

Almost

300,000 — or roughly 3% of

Elton John opens his Oscar night party to all this year

ttending Elton John’s long-running Oscar-night party has always been one of the hardest tickets to get. Now you can go — if you have $20. The Elton John AIDS Foundation is inviting everyone to an hourlong, virtual pre-show Oscar party special hosted by Neil Patrick Harris and featuring a performance by Dua Lipa. Tickets for the April 25 event are $19.99 and are available via Ticketmaster. Proceeds will go to young people at risk and living with HIV all over the world. The foundation is one of the leading independent AIDS organizations in the world. One of its fundraising highlights is the star-studded Oscar viewing show, with a dinner and an auction. This time, a pre-show will be available to ticket buyers. The special will be hosted four times in four different time zones and each will accommodate 100,000 viewers, meaning a total of 400,000 ticket buyers are allowed access.

Noms for best in LGBTQ writing announced

Diverse Oscar slate lacking queer nominees

arth Greenwell’s “Cleanness” and Samantha Irby’s “Wow, No Thank You” are among this year’s nominees for the Lambda Literary Awards, given for the best in LGBTQ writing. Finalists in 24 categories were announced March 15 by Lambda Literary. Other nominees include Jenn Shapland’s “My Autobiography of Carson McCullers” and Eduardo C. Corral’s “Guillotine.” Winners will be announced during a virtual ceremony June 1. The Lambda awards, also known as the “Lammys,” were established in 1989. Previous winners include Dorothy Allison, Bryan Washington and Carmen Maria Machado. You can read the full list of this year’s nominees at LambdaLiterary.org.

he nominations for the 93rd Academy Awards were some of the most diversified in Oscar history but included little LGBTQ representation. Of the 20 acting nominees, no LGBTQ-identifying person was nominated, but two Best Actress noms — Viola Davis and Andra Day — were picked for portraying real-life bisexual icons. Also nominated was Travon Free’s “Two Distant Strangers” for Best Live Action Short. Those that didn’t make the cut include Pixar’s “Out” for Best Animated Short, Janelle Monae’s “Turntables” for Best Original Song and the documentaries “Disclosure” and “Welcome to Chechnya.” The 93rd Academy Awards air live April 25.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Netflix begins work on gay holiday rom-com

etflix announced March 23 that it is working on a holiday romantic comedy centered on gay men which will be directed by Michael Mayer, the Tony-winning director of “Spring Awakening.” “Single All The Way” follows Peter, a perpetually single man played by Michael Urie, whose best friend, played by Philemon Chambers, poses as his boyfriend just as his mom sets him up on an incredible blind date with her handsome trainer, played by Luke MacFarlane. The film also stars Barry Bostwick, Jennifer Robertson, Jennifer Coolidge and Kathy Najimy. While no release date has been announced, “Single All the Way” will be a part of Netflix’s 2021 holiday lineup.

undocumented

adults

in the U.S. — identify as

LGBT.

48.3% of LGBT undocumented immigrants are between the ages of

18 and 29. —Williams Institute report “LGBT Adult Immigrants in

April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

the United States”

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

LGBTQ advocates champion the Equality Act

top photo via the u.s. senate’s flickr page, congressional democrats introducing the equality act in 2019. Lower collage features watermark file photos paired with photos from the u.s. senate and obama white house flickr pages.

Ryan Williams-Jent

n June of last year, the U.S. Supreme Court

ruled that any employer who fires someone for being LGBTQ violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The decision enshrined workplace equality into federal law – setting into motion a series of events proving that despite its challenges, 2020 was a landmark year for LGBTQ civil rights in America.

Advocates celebrated the victory against the backdrop of the Trump administration, which had argued in the nation’s highest court against protecting LGBTQ workers. Its figurehead ultimately shared that “we live their decision,” but largely ignored its ramifications throughout his sole term. Following Trump’s loss in the 2020 presidential election, however, his successor did the opposite. More than six months after the ruling was delivered, President Joe Biden signed an executive order on his first day in office Jan. 20 directing federal agencies across the nation to implement it.

“It is the policy of my administration to prevent and combat discrimination on the basis of gender identity or sexual orientation,” the order reads. “It is also the policy of my administration to address overlapping forms of discrimination.” One of the ways Biden’s hoped to do so is by signing the Equality Act into law, federal legislation originally developed in 1974. Its modern counterpart was co-authored by openly gay U.S. Rep. David Cicilline of Rhode Island and LGBTQ ally U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley of Oregon, Democrats who respectively introduced it

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in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate in 2015. Considered in every U.S. Congress since, the Equality Act would amend existing civil rights law – including the same Civil Rights Act, the Fair Housing Act, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, the Jury Selection and Services Act and others – to explicitly prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex, sexual orientation and gender identity. Once signed into law, it would build upon the Supreme Court’s ruling and president’s executive order, which advocates say can be challenged by future administrations, to protect LGBTQ Americans in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodations, education, federally funded programs, credit and jury service. The legislation first passed in the Democratic-controlled House in 2019 but never advanced in the Republican-controlled Senate. The Trump administration said it was full of “poison pills,” while then-presidential candidate Biden promised the Equality Act would be a top legislative priority should he win the election.

April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

Continued on pg. 23 | uu |

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

| uu | Equality Now! from pg.21

Biden vowed to enact the Equality Act within his first 100 days in office, a campaign promise the president is on track to honor. With Democrats now in control of the White House and both chambers of Congress, LGBTQ advocates in Central Florida, Tampa Bay and across the nation have been working to make that pledge a possibility.

PASSING THE HOUSE

The first step in getting a bill to the Oval Office began in the U.S. House, which introduced 2021’s Equality Act on Feb. 18. It was announced by Cicilline, who noted that “every American should be treated with respect and dignity.” “Yet, in most states, LGBTQ people can be discriminated against because of who they are, or who they love,” he continued. “It is past time for that to change.” “Our nation was founded on the promise that all are created equal and are worthy of dignity and respect, regardless of who they are or whom they love,” added House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who oversaw its 236-173 passage in 2019. Eight Republicans voted in favor of the measure at the time. “With the reintroduction of the Equality Act, Congressional Democrats are making a resounding commitment to this truth: that all Americans must be treated equally under the law, not just in the workplace, but in every place,” Pelosi continued. “The Democratic House will now swiftly pass this landmark legislation and will keep working until it is finally enacted into law – so that we can combat anti-LGBTQ discrimination that undermines our democracy and advance justice in America.” The Equality Act received a vote just days later. It passed 224-206 on Feb. 25, with only three Republicans joining every House Democrat to support it. The Congressional LGBTQ+ Caucus was quick to celebrate the passage, having long championed the act as a resource on federal LGBTQ issues. The group consists of more than 160 members, all Democrats. Formed in 2008, it is currently co-chaired by the nine openly LGBTQ members of the U.S. House

including Cicilline. It works toward equality for all. “The House has again affirmed that LGBTQ people should enjoy the same rights and responsibilities as all other Americans,” Cicilline shared. “I look forward to seeing President Biden sign the Equality Act into law.” “After four years of enduring racist, sexist, homophobic and transphobic attacks, and generations of systemic discrimination, LGBTQ+ people deserve dignity, respect, and equal

who represents Central Florida’s 9th congressional district, and Rep. Charlie Crist, who represents its 13th. “It was really exciting the first time,” Soto says of his vote for the Equality Act in 2019. “Now we’re just digging our heels in to get this thing through the Senate. We made this a priority again because it’s a priority for the Democratic majority – and most importantly, it’s a priority for America.” The nation’s largest LGBTQ civil rights organization points to data confirming that in its support

and civil rights leaders, and communities in virtually every corner of the nation.” Crist agrees. “The Equality Act is landmark civil rights legislation that enshrines into law what a vast majority of Americans already know and feel in their hearts – that no one should be discriminated against for who they are and whom they love,” he says. “This is a monumental step forward in protections for the LGBTQ+ community and I am humbled and proud to have been able to vote for its passage.”

Full equality has been denied to LGBTQ+ Americans and their families for far too long. I directed agencies to implement the Supreme Court’s ruling and fully enforce … laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity or sexual orientation. Now, it’s time for Congress to secure these protections once and for all by passing the Equality Act – because no one should ever face discrimination or live in fear because of who they are or whom they love. — President Joe Biden

protection under the law,” co-chair Mondaire Jones of New York also noted. “No one should face discrimination because of who they are or who they love, but from housing and education to our justice system, LGBTQ+ discrimination pervades every area of our society,” he continued. “With the Equality Act, we will take a powerful step toward affirming the rights of LGBTQ+ people.” In addition to its co-chairs, more than 20 U.S. representatives serve as vice-chairs of the caucus. Among them are Rep. Darren Soto,

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

of the Equality Act. The Human Rights Campaign (HRC) shared March 17 that 7 in 10 U.S. voters support it. “In poll after poll, we see that Americans overwhelmingly believe that LGBTQ people should be able to live free from fear of harassment and discrimination by guaranteeing the same federal anti-discrimination protections that other Americans have enjoyed for decades,” HRC President Alphonso David shared. “The Equality Act is supported by a bipartisan majority of voters, the business community, faith

Doing so ahead of an April 1 deadline was of paramount importance for the Equality Caucus. “It passed out of the House before that critical deadline,” Soto explains. “Bills that passed last Congress have the ability to get consideration straight on the floor if they are brought there before then and this was a big priority of ours. We know President Biden has already indicated he would sign the bill if given the opportunity to do so.” That’s a key difference between 2019 and 2021, he and Crist note.

April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

“I know President Biden,” the latter says. “He is a good man, a decent man. He has compassion for all Americans.” The president affirmed that ahead of the Equality Act’s passage in the House, releasing a statement Feb. 19. “Full equality has been denied to LGBTQ+ Americans and their families for far too long,” Biden shared. “I directed agencies to implement the Supreme Court’s ruling, and fully enforce Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity or sexual orientation,” he continued. “Now, it’s time for Congress to secure these protections once and for all by passing the Equality Act – because no one should ever face discrimination or live in fear because of who they are or whom they love.”

ON TO THE SENATE

Democratic leaders in the U.S. Senate were quick to show their support for the House’s efforts. Merkley joined a number of his counterparts Feb. 25 in publicly applauding its 2021 passage. “In the land of the free, the doors of opportunity should not be slammed shut because of who Americans are or whom they love,” he shared. “Let’s celebrate this major milestone and use this day to recommit ourselves to bringing the fight to ban LGBTQ discrimination to the Senate. “Let’s make 2021 the year that we end discrimination that remains legal in the majority of American states,” he continued. “Let’s make 2021 the year that we ring the bells of freedom for every American.” Senate Majority Leader Schumer echoed the Equality Act co-author, advising he was proud to introduce the measure. He said that’s because it is “essential, urgent and long-overdue legislation that will move us closer to a society where all Americans are treated equally under the law. “Even today, the signs of discrimination based on sexual orientation abound from education, to housing, to family planning, from the workplace to adoption to immigration,” Schumer continued. “Congress must pass the Equality Act so that LGBTQ+ Americans will no

Continued on pg. 25 | uu |

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

st. pete strong: U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist, a vice chair of the Congressional LGBTQ+ Caucus, shows his continued support for Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ community by riding in the St Pete Pride parade in 2019. watermark file photo

stepping out: U.S. Rep. Val Demings shows her continued support by walking the Come Out With Pride parade route in 2019. watermark file photo

tampa proud: U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor discusses LGBTQ equality in Ybor City during Tampa Pride in 2015. Photo via tampa pride’s facebook page

| uu | Equality Now! from pg.23

longer have to face discrimination in some of these most basic areas of life.” In Florida, the spotlight turned toward U.S. Sens. Marco Rubio and Rick Scott, Republicans who have yet to publicly share their support or opposition. The Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus, which represents the interests of LGBTQ Floridians to the state’s Democratic Party, called for them to support the Equality Act and its protections which were “long overdue.” “The Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus thanks those in the Florida congressional delegation who voted in support

of our community,” Caucus President Stephen Gaskill said, “and for their recognition that civil rights should not be up for debate. “We hope that when the U.S. Senate takes up the bill that Marco Rubio and Rick Scott will recognize the large number of LGBTQ+ Floridians who are watching,” he concluded. “They may have a vote on our rights, but we have a vote on their jobs.” The state’s largest LGBTQ-focused civil rights organization echoed the caucus, calling on Florida’s senators to support the Equality Act. They pointed toward HRC’s frequent polling detailing the unprecedented support for LGBTQ rights. “The task before the Senate is clear: stand on the side of the American people,” Equality Florida

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central florida visit: U.S. Rep. Stephanie Murphy (3rd from L) welcomes Equality Act co-author and U.S. Rep. David Cicilline (2nd from L) to The LGBT+ Center Orlando in 2018. Photo via rep. murphy’s facebook page

shared Feb. 25. “With support from over 70% of the country, 200+ major businesses and 700+ faith organizations, passage of the Equality Act is a necessary and clear next step in moving the nation forward.” “The time has come for a modernized and updated federal Civil Rights Act that recognizes where discrimination still occurs today,” Executive Director Nadine Smith added. “Floridians clearly support equal rights regardless of sexual orientation and gender

identity and we call on our Senators to join the overwhelming public support that led to passage in the House.” The statewide organizations aren’t alone. U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, who represents Tampa Bay’s 14th congressional district and U.S. Reps. Stephanie Murphy and Val Demings of Central Florida’s 7th and 10th – all of whom are members of the Equality Caucus with Soto and Crist and voted in favor of the Equality

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Act – are urging action from their Senate colleagues. “All Americans deserve nondiscrimination protections in the workplace, in school, in housing and in public,” Castor says. “The Equality Act will ensure that LGBTQ individuals in Florida and across the nation enjoy the same rights and responsibilities as all other Americans … I’m especially proud that the House passed the Equality Act and urge my Continued on pg. 27 | uu |

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

| uu | Equality NOW! from pg.25

colleagues in the Senate to take it up as quickly as possible.” She adds that “I am hopeful that with President Biden in the White House and a Democratic majority in the Senate, we will be able to finally move the Equality Act over the finish line and ensure that our LGBTQ neighbors garner the protection that they deserve.” Murphy calls its passage personal, for both herself and the community she represents. “Central Florida is an area that prides itself on its diversity, compassion and inclusiveness,” she says. “Despite the tremendous progress our nation has made toward equality, too many LGBTQ Americans still live in fear. That’s because LGBTQ people across the country remain vulnerable to discrimination on a daily basis. “Now that the House has taken action,” she continues, “and President Biden has signaled his strong support, the Senate needs to follow suit to ensure no American faces discrimination because of who they are or who they love.” “‘Liberty and justice for all,’” Demings stresses. “That is America’s guiding belief, yet we have seen throughout our history that, as John Lewis reminded us, ‘democracy is not a state. It is an act.’ Without the Equality Act, there is no federal law protecting the LGBTQ community from discrimination. It’s past time to right this wrong and I am proud to support this legislation to ensure that America lives up to her ideals.” The representative also says that’s because “‘no one is free until we all are free.’ These are the powerful words of Dr. King and we all should be guided by them. I am proud to stand with my LGBTQ constituents and all Americans to further the cause of justice and equality in our great country.”

EQUALITY NOW?

Watermark reached out to both Rubio and Scott for comment about the Equality Act but received no direct response from either senator. Scott’s office, however, sent an automated letter concerning the legislation. “I have repeatedly made clear that I stand opposed to discrimination of any kind,” his words read. “At the same time, I am firmly committed to

central florida champion: U.S. Rep. Darren Soto (3rd from L), also a vice chair of the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus, hosts an LGBTQ roundtable with Equality Florida in 2019. Photo via equality florida’s facebook page defending the core constitutional liberties of free expression and the free exercise of religious beliefs.” Religious freedom is frequently cited by those who oppose the Equality Act. That’s because the bill does not allow for its LGBTQ protections to be superseded

“If you are in the public domain, and interstate commerce, you need to make sure that all Americans have equal access,” he stresses. “It is overreaching to say that a local church, synagogue or mosque has to abide by ways that are not within their beliefs. There

deep-rooted beliefs in justice and fairness that I am proud to support the Equality Act.” Demings points toward the First Amendment in response to the legislation’s critics. Its Establishment Clause prohibits the government from encouraging

Without the Equality Act, there is no federal law protecting the LGBTQ community from discrimination. It’s past time to right this wrong and I am proud to support this legislation to ensure that America lives up to her ideals. — U.S. Rep. Val Demings, Central Florida’s District 10

by the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. The 1993 law “prohibits any agency, department or official … from substantially burdening a person’s exercise of religion.” That concern and others were highlighted during the Equality Act’s first ever Senate hearing on March 17. Despite this, supporters stress that the Equality Act isn’t a threat to religious freedom. “You can’t hide behind religious rights to discriminate against different communities,” Soto says.

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are reasonable limits to protect religious freedoms, without continuing this discriminatory regime we have across the nation against the LGBTQ community.” “That concern has been raised in opposition to women’s rights, civil rights and now LGBTQ rights,” Crist adds. “We are ALL children of God, and we are called to treat ALL with respect and dignity. I try to follow the Golden Rule every day, which teaches do onto others as I would have done onto me – it’s just that simple, love one another. It’s because of my faith and my

or promoting religion in any way, which she notes includes anti-LGBTQ animosity. “I am a proud woman of faith, but that faith calls on me to love my neighbor,” she explains. “I particularly lean on the scripture that reads, ‘and now abides faith, hope, love, these three, but the greatest of these is love.’” Demings also cites an old saying, adding that “‘your liberty to swing your fist ends just where my nose begins.’” The Equality Act’s path through the Senate and to Biden’s desk

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remains unclear. To avoid a filibuster, a legislative procedure that requires 60 votes to end debate on most of the chamber’s measures, 10 Senate Republicans will have to back the legislation. While eliminating the rule – which critics have argued has been used to block civil rights legislation and hurt minorities for decades – would require the Democrats’ simple majority in the chamber, doing so has been met with criticism from members of both parties. That includes Democratic Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, the Senate’s only openly bisexual member. Filibuster reform remains an option, however, and both Biden and Merkley have said that they are open to it. As of press time the latter hopes to find 10 Republican supporters. “Sen. Merkley has long taken the position that we need to fix the broken Senate and restore its ability to pass important legislation by simple majority – including legislation like the Equality Act,” his spokesperson told the Washington Blade after the Equality Act’s hearing. “Given the urgency of the Equality Act,” she continued, “the fact that conversations within the caucus about filibuster reform are still ongoing, and the past Republican support for bills like the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, Sen. Merkley is focused right now on meeting with his Republican colleagues and pushing to find 60 votes to get full equality into law as soon as possible.” Despite the uncertainty, LGBTQ advocates in Florida remain hopeful that the Equality Act will move forward. “Democrats control the Senate, which means that this time it might be possible to make the Equality Act into law,” Demings says. “Elections matter.” Directly addressing her colleagues in the Senate, however, the representative is more succinct: “Do the right thing for our country and your legacy.” For more information about the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus and its members in Central Florida and Tampa Bay, visit LGBTQ.House.gov.

For more information about the LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus and Equality Florida – including details about contacting Florida Senators Marco Rubio and Rick Scott about the Equality Act – visit LGBTQDems.org and EQFL.org.

An Evening With

KEVIN SMITH May 8

G R AC E P OT T E R April 22

S H E RY L C ROW April 28

Orlando Gay Chorus

Enjoy dinner and drinks delivered to your own socially distant box for up to 5 people. F R O N T YA R D F E S T I VA L .O R G Mainstage at Senee Arts Plaza

O N E N AT I O N , I N D I V I S I B L E May 7

T H E B E AC H B OYS May 13

ILIZA! B AC K I N AC T I O N TO U R Ma y 1 4

FOREIGNER May 19 & 20

F I T Z & T H E TA N T R U M S Ma y 2 7

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

arts and Entertainment

Florida Film Festival gets back to in-person screenings for its 30th outing

Jeremy Williams

fter first postponing its film festival last

spring due to the pandemic and then taking it virtual in the summer of 2020, the Florida Film Festival makes its return to the Enzian Theater in Maitland, Florida with its 30th annual outing April 9-22. Since the pandemic is still ongoing, this year’s festival will be a blend of socially distanced, in-person screenings and films streaming online. “We are incredibly proud to have the opportunity to present these artists’ extraordinary work on both the big screen at Enzian and virtually as well,” said Matthew Curtis, Florida Film Festival’s programming director, in a press release. “The highest percentage of films ever will

be making their Florida debut at the festival, and we could not be more thrilled about introducing these talented filmmakers and presenting such an entertaining and diverse group of films to our audience.” This year’s festival will screen 164 films representing 31 countries. All of the films will be available to watch in person at designated times at Enzian Theater with 159 of the them also available to be watched on your mobile device, tablet,

computer or on the Eventive App for Roku and Apple TV. Most streaming films will be available April 10-22 with some exceptions. There are 17 LGBTQ-themed films at this year’s festival. All 17 are available to be streamed and on the following page, we have put together a calendar in case you want to get back out there and see them on the big screen. To check out the full schedule for the 30th annual Florida Film Festival, look into other festival events and to purchase in-person tickets, go to FloridaFilmFestival2021com. For information on the virtual festival and to purchase streaming tickets, visit FloridaFilmFestival. eventive.org. Continued on pg. 31 | uu |

“Plaisir” Photo courtesy florida film festival

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

SUPPORT LOCAL ARTS AND CULTURE AT

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

April 19 | uu | Focus on Film

3:45 p.m.

“Dustin”

from pg.29

April 10

Directed by Naïla Guiguet France | 2020 | 20m French with English subtitles

12:30 p.m.

“Marie”

A young group of friends seek distraction from the ugly reality of the world while also yearning for compassion, empathy and love.

Directed by Yudi Zhang USA | 2020 | 15m Before undergoing reassignment surgery, a transgender woman journeys home to confront her father, but when she gets there she finds him unable to provide her the closure she seeks.

“Dustin” is a part of International Shorts #2:“Agony or Ecstasy.”

“Marie” is a part of Shorts #1: Hello In There.” --------------------

“Jesse James”

-------------------9:30 p.m. Directed by Trevor Anderson Canada | 2020 | 16m

8:45 p.m.

“No Man’s Land” Directed by Anna Andersen and Gabriella Canal USA | 2021 | 28m

Summer to Remember: The French/Belgium film ”Summer of 85” was nominated for 12 Cesar Awards (France’s version of the Oscars) including Best Film, Best Director and Best Adapted Screenplay. Photo courtesy of the Florida Film Festival

Alapine is a lesbian community founded in rural Alabama in the 1970s. This beautifully photographed film explores these “womyn’s” coming-out stories, what inspired them to create a separatist space in the first place and their concerns for the future of their home. “No Man’s Land” makes its world premiere and is followed by “Workhorse Queen.”

“Progressive Touch” is a part of the Midnight Shorts.

“Workhorse Queen”

April 11

Directed by Angela Washko USA | 2021 | 87m By day, Ed Popil worked as the manager of a telemarketing center in post-industrial Rochester, New York for 18 years. By night, he transformed into drag queen Mrs. Kasha Davis. Not your average aspiring pop star drag queen, Mrs. Kasha Davis is a 1960’s era housewife trying to liberate herself from domestic toil through performing at night in secret – an homage to Popil’s own mother. After seven years of auditioning to compete on reality television show “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” Popil was finally cast onto the show and thrust into a full time entertainment career at the late age of 44. What seemed like a dream that finally came true, quickly became a reality littered with new challenges, including facing ageism both on and off-set. In only its second U.S. screening, “Workhorse Queen” features appearances by fellow “Drag Race” alumni Bianca Del Rio, Pandora Boxx and Darienne Lake. --------------------

11:59 p.m.

“Progressive Touch” Directed by Michael Portnoy Netherlands | 2020 | 12m Making its southeast premiere and only its second U.S. screening, this film asks “Can you fuck to an irregular beat?”

1:45 p.m.

“Plaisir” Directed by Molly Gillis USA | 2021 | 19m In English and French with English subtitles With little grasp of the language and no knack for farming, a young woman travels to a French commune to perform some post-breakup soul searching. “Plaisir” is a part of Shorts #2:“I Can See Clearly Now.”

April 14 6:30 p.m.

“The Shawl” Directed by: Sara Kiener USA | 2020 | 7m Boyfriends Shane and Dusty are two Stevie Nicks-loving bears who discuss their relationship and a magical concert moment involving the original shawl from the “Stand Back” video in this animated short making its Florida premiere. “The Shawl” is a part of the Animated Shorts:“Tutti Frutti.”

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

April 15 9:30 p.m.

“This is the Way We Rise” Directed by Ciara Lacy USA | 2020 | 12m Native Hawaiian slam poet Jamaica Heolimeleikalani Osorio finds words at sacred Maunakea which redeem both their nearly lost voices. Making its Florida premiere, “This is the Way We Rise” is followed by “The Dilemma of Desire.”

“The Dilemma of Desire” Directed by Maria Finitzo USA | 2020 | 108m An exploration of “cliteracy,” and the clash between gender politics and the imperatives of female sexual desire. Experts pave the way for an authentic celebration of the clitoris and female power in this inspiring film making its Florida premiere.

April 17 12:45 p.m.

“Taffy” Directed by Jon Bryant Crawford USA | 2020 | 5m An exquisite tale of a photographer who snaps candid portraits as he listens to an older Black man reminisce about a past love. “Taffy” is a part of Shorts #3:“Ain’t No Sunshine.”

April 18

A young, Indigenous, transgender man — together with his rock band — bring “mumblepunk” to the Interstellar Rodeo. “Jesse James” makes its Florida premiere and is followed by “No Ordinary Man.”

2 p.m.

“My Fiona”

“No Ordinary Man”

Directed by Kelly Walker USA/Australia | 2021 | 87m

Directed by Aisling Chin-Yee and Chase Joynt Canada | 2020 | 80m

In the wake of an unexpected suicide, Jane finds herself overwhelmed by the loss of her best friend, Fiona. As she begins helping Fiona’s widow Gemma care for their seven-year-old son, the relationship develops from a tentative friendship to a much deeper affair that helps them to cope but threatens their ability to heal. “My Fiona” makes its U.S. Premiere. -------------------4:45 p.m.

“I Love Your Guts” Directed by David Janove USA | 2020 | 16m Two girls working the graveyard shift at a fast food restaurant fend off a belligerent drunk guy while also confronting both their future and their friendship.

“In France Michelle is a Man’s Name” Directed by Em A. Weinstein USA | 2020 | 13m Michael, a young trans man, returns home to the rural American West after years of estrangement from his parents. Making its Florida premiere, this film won the Grand Jury Prize for Best Narrative Short at the 2021 Slamdance Film Festival. “I Love Your Guts” and “In France Michelle is a Man’s Name” are both a part of Shorts #4:“Eruption.”

April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

The legacy of Billy Tipton, a 20thcentury American jazz musician, is brought to the screen by a diverse group of contemporary trans artists.

April 20 3:45 p.m.

“Summer of 85” Directed by François Ozon France/Belgium | 2020 | 101m In French with English subtitles Making its Florida theatrical premiere, “Summer of 85” is a tender, bittersweet coming-of-ager centering on misunderstood and death-obsessed Alexis who falls hard for “the friend of his dreams” David, a slightly older, high-velocity life force.

April 21 9:30 p.m.

“Squish” Directed by Xavier Seron Belgium | 2020 | 20m In French with English subtitles With his husband away on a business trip, stay-at-home writer Tom is left in charge of their five-year-old son, Sam. Rushing to get Sam to his guitar lesson, Tom pulls out of the garage and SQUISH! Tom just crushed something. “Squish” makes its North American premiere.

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

Literature

A Family Affair

‘Sam is My Sister’ educates and entertains all ages

(above)

a family first:

Author Ashley Rhodes-Courter wrote “Sam Is My Sister,” her first children’s book, with the blessing and help of her children. Photo courtesy ashley rhodes-courter/ albert whitman

Ryan Williams-Jent

shley Rhodes-Courter is no

stranger to the spotlight. The Tampa Bay-based author delivered her first keynote address at only 14, penned a New York Times Bestseller by the age of 22 and in the years since has shared her story worldwide.

The earliest part of her journey is detailed in “Three Little Words,” Rhodes-Courter’s 2009 memoir. It introduces readers to the nearly 10 years she spent as a child in the foster care system, including the abusive circumstances she overcame to find her voice. It’s one she’s continued to use to advocate for child welfare whenever possible. Rhodes-Courter also published “Three More Words” in 2016, her book’s sequel examining her adult life. It was in these later years that Rhodes-Courter obtained her Masters of Social Work, which she now uses

to run Sustainable Family Services in Pinellas County. She also became a foster parent after marrying her husband, and the two cared for more than 25 children together. The couple ultimately became the adoptive and biological parents of three – the subjects of “Sam Is My Sister,” their mother’s first children’s book. Published March 23 from Albert Whitman & Co., it marks another significant departure for the author: its LGBTQ focus. It introduces readers to Rhodes-Courter’s young children Evan, Finn and Sam, whose names have been changed to protect their anonymity,

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and is inspired by the family’s actual experiences surrounding Sam’s coming out as transgender. “Evan loves being big brother to Sam and Finn,” the book’s synopsis reads. “They do everything together – go fishing, climb trees and play astronauts. But lately, Evan notices that he and Sam don’t look like brothers anymore. “Sam wants to have long hair and even asks to wear a dress on the first day of school,” it continues. “As time goes by, Evan and Finn come to understand why Sam wants to look like a girl – because Sam is a girl.” “During our fostering years, we were able to adopt one of our kiddos that we had fostered, Sam,” Rhodes-Courter explains the book’s origins. “At around three or four – and even earlier, the signs were there – Sam, who was assigned male at birth, started expressing themselves differently than our other children who identify as cisgender. “We’ve always been supporters of the LGBTQ community, and with my social work, I’m an affirming therapist,” she continues. “So we took notice and were familiar with these topics.” As a toddler, Sam was drawn to more stereotypically feminine subjects, she explains. By kindergarten, she “was adamant about what she wanted to wear, wanted to be called and how she wanted to be seen in the world.” Seeing herself represented in another picture book helped that process. Among the family’s LGBTQ-inclusive library was “I Am Jazz” co-written by transgender activist Jazz Jennings, which immediately spoke to Sam. “I had never seen Sam’s face light up in the way that it did,” Rhodes-Courter recalls. “Sam just turned to me and said, ‘Mommy, that’s me. That’s me. I’m transgender!’ It was a total game changer and we stared exploring what that meant.” Writing had long served as an outlet for her, so Rhodes-Courter began to document their family’s journey. She saw it as a helpful way to detail their experiences for professionals and educators.

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It also “felt like it was important to chronicle these parts of our lives,” she says, “and because I was already a writer with published books, I had a really unique opportunity to bring this story to the community with the guidance and permission of my children. This is very much a family effort.” The picture book avoids a first-person narrative for that reason. “We wanted to do something that was a little different than what’s already out there,” Rhodes-Courter says. “I think it’s so important for all the voices in a family to elevate one another.” The author also hopes it sparks additional conversations about how families can be impacted by similar experiences. “This is a unique dynamic in our family,” she says, “and we hope that this will become a tool that can provide different talking points.” To help bring it to life, Albert Whitman & Co. enlisted illustrator Mackenzie Haley, whose work has been celebrated for its bold colors. The artist calls bringing Rhodes-Courter’s story to the page an honor. “Her story is so beautiful,” Haley says. “It’s really important people are aware of and learn about how to accept, love and value transgender persons. “I was especially excited that she chose to share the story in picture book format because it’s an amazing opportunity to approach what can be a difficult conversation to have with children,” she continues. “For that matter, with adults … the book is going to be so helpful to children and adults alike.” Rhodes-Courter certainly hopes so. At its core, “Sam Is My Sister” is a story about unconditional love; one in which Sam wants to be herself and her brothers let her. “This book describes a very complex situation in really accessible language,” the author explains. “The lens of a children’s book can provide people like teachers with the language, skills and tools to understand how to create safer spaces for trans kids.” “This is a real story,” Rhodes-Courter says. “Sam is a real child and we are a real family, just one of thousands and thousands and thousands. We hope to dispel a lot of myths and misconceptions about who trans kids are.” “Sam Is My Sister” is available now wherever books are sold. For more information about Ashley Rhodes-Courter, for LGBTQ-inclusive resources and more details about Sustainable Family Services, visit SustainableFamilyServices.com.

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announcements

tampa bay out+about

CONGRATULATIONS Rising Tide Innovation Center celebrated its expansion March 23. Learn more at RisingTideCoWork.com. Rev. Jakob Hero-Shaw finalized the adoption of his children with husband Allan Hero-Shaw on March 25.

EVENTS Come OUT St. Pete announced Artventure March 24, a new initiative welcoming the visual and performing arts. Inclusive artwork will be installed in Grand Central District businesses later this year. Submissions are being accepted until April 14. Visit Facebook.com/ComeOUTStPete for more information. Venice Pride announced March 26 that they will return June 5, 2021 for a Ride for Pride Car Parade. The organization is working toward a Nov. 20, 2021 festival return. Read more at VeniceFLPride.com. Manatee Pride announced it will return Sept. 18, 2021 and Sarasota Pride announced it will return Oct. 23. Visit ALSOYouth.org and SarasotaPride.org for more details.

CLOSURES After more than 13 years of serving Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ community, The Honey Pot announced March 27 that they would not reopen in the hotspot’s current Ybor City location due to ongoing COVID-19 closures and concerns. Read more at WatermarkOnline.com.

Local Birthdays Sarasota paralegal Richard Furlow, Tampa Bay server John Reed Replogle (April 1); Tampa Bay-based Concept Bait’s Frank Clemente (April 2); St. Pete airman Kevin Parker, Tampa Bay-based flight attendant Trenton Ferris (April 3); Sarasota actor Matt Craft, Disco Donnie Presents production manager James Dinnan (April 4); Tampa banker Jeff Baker, St. Petersburg nurse Brian Feist, St. Petersburg entertainer Michael Jones, Tampa MCC activist Mac McGowan, Sage Sarasota’s Jordan Rose, St. Petersburg director Eric Casaccio, Largo City Commissioner Michael Smith (April 5); C2Q’s Donny Hill, Public accountant Joel Schmitz (April 6); Sarasota real estate e-marketing director Ken Demmons, Cristoph’s Tampa owner Jacqueline McRay, All Hallows aficionado Nick Okeson (April 7); St. Petersburg HIV/AIDS activist Joe Dobson, Avidchick Design president Jennifer Carter, Tampa Bay entertainer Star Hayes, Project Pride SRQ co-founder Katie McCurry, Sarasota entertainer Grandma Pearl (April 8); St. Petersburg Metro employee Mike Hollis, Tampa Bay activist Jean Batronie (April 10); Community Cafe owner Mandy Keyes, Tampa Bay performer Susan Haldeman (April 11); PFLAG Riverview president Faith Moeller, Tampa MCC’s facility manager Mac Williams (April 12); St. Petersburg ROTC twirler Scott Heli, Tampa Bay internet guru Jordan Butterworth, Tampa Bay entertainer Esme Russell (April 13); St. Pete Dance owner Michael Raisch (April 14).

2 3

ST PETE PARTNERSHIP: Feeding Tampa Bay’s Liz Corder (L) and Rep. Michele Rayner partner March 21 to distribute food items to families in need. PHOTO COURTESY MICHELE RAYNER

V-DAY: St. Pete City Councilmember Darden Rice receives her first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine March 22. PHOTO COURTESY DARDEN RICE

BASES LOADED: Joaner Hempsworth hits the field with Pasco Pride’s softball team March 24. PHOTO COURTESY PASCO PRIDE

MOVING ON UP: (L-R) Mario Farias, Leigh Kellett Fletcher and St. Pete City Councilmember Robert Blackmon celebrate Rising Tide Innovation Center’s expansion March 24. PHOTO

COURTESY RISING TIDE

DOING THE WORK: The Pinellas County Young Democrats volunteer at the St. Pete Youth Farm March 27. PHOTO COURTESY PCYD

EPIC DONATION: KnowBe4, Inc. donates funds in support of EPIC’s upcoming sexual health center March 17. PHOTO COURTESY EPIC

KEEP SMILING: Rose Dynasty Foundation shares March 28 that it received $1,000 from Amazon Smile. PHOTO COURTESY ROSE DYNASTY FOUNDATION

TEAM TAMPA: (L-R) Bradley Nelson, Mark Bias West, Nancy Desmond and John Desmond enjoy Bradley’s on 7th March 18. PHOTO

COURTESY BRADLEY’S ON 7TH

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

7 April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

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announcements

central florida out+about

VACCINATIONS COVID-19 vaccines are available to any Florida resident 18 and older starting April 5. You can find a vaccine location near you by going to FloridaHealthCOVID19.gov/ vaccines/vaccine-locator.

EVENTS The 30th Annual Florida Film Festival will feature “Because of Charley” as its opening night film, the first COVID-compliant film to be shot in Florida during the pandemic. Set in 2004, “Because of Charley” tells the story of an estranged, racially-mixed, blended family who reluctantly gather at a Central Florida home for an anniversary party, fully intending to keep the visit brief, but Hurricane Charley takes an unexpected turn that changes everything. “Because of Charley” star John Amos (“Good Times,” “Roots,” “Die Hard 2”) will be at the Enzian Theater for the World Premiere event April 9. Tickets for the Florida Film Festival Opening Night Party and the 9:30 p.m. screening of “Because of Charley” can be found at FloridaFilmFestival.com. A full schedule of the festival’s LGBTQ-themed shows are on pg. 31.

Sanford’s Theater West End presents “Nunsense A-Men,” an all-male version of the sinfully funny musical about five nuns raising money to help pay for the burials of 52 other nuns they accidentally killed with poisoned food. The show runs through April 11 and safety measures and social distancing will be in effect. For more information and to buy tickets, visit TheaterWestEnd.com.

Local Birthdays DJ Lindsey Leigh, Big Bang BOOM! cabaret boss lady Gams D’Vyne, Central Florida musician Melissa Crispo, DJ Twisted Dee (April 1); Former cover model Aaron Sanford-Wetherell, Orlando-based flight attendant James Sparkman (April 2); Darren Charles aka Bridgette Galore, Bowled Over Promotions’ Karyn Bell, Orlando’s Didi Panache (April 3); Orlando playwright David Lee, SOLE Orlando leader Kate Murray, burlesque performer Kissa Von Addams, Bowled Over Promotions’ Dawn Kallio, Orlando bear-tender Sean Wiggins (April 4); Orlando Front Runner Scott Feneck, Miss Florida Bearded Queen Anthony Chiocchi aka Bearonce Bear (April 5); Orlando accountant Leah James, Former PFLAG Orlando president Pat Padilla (April 6); Graphic designer Jason Donnelly, Intrepid traveler Jon Taylor, Rollins College costume studio manager Seth Schrager, Applied Veterinary Solutions owner Jean-David Parlier, ally and owner of Dictor Financial Wayne Dictor (April 7); Orange County Mayor›s LGBTQ liaison Marc Espeso (April 9); Orlando lovebird Bobby McCall (April 10); Orlando Fringe performer John Michael (April 11); Equality Florida’s Joe Saunders, Orlando Log Cabin Republican Patrick Howell, Orlando dentist Elena Puig (April 12);Florida Hospital’s Stacy Pease, Former OGC director Aubrey Connelly, Florida Paradise Weddings owner Steven Russell (April 13); Elizabeth “Sister Koochie Koo” of the Orlando Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Orlando attorney Cory Beetly, Drag chanteuse Chantel Reshae, Theatre West End co-owner Quinn Roberts (April 14).

Group GOALs: The Gay Officers Action League of Central Florida gather for the Hate Crimes Symposium at the Rosen Plaza in Orlando March 25. Photo courtesy

One Orlando Alliance

Be Protected: Mark Anthony Delgado get his Johnson & Johnson vaccine at the Joy MCC vaccination event in Orlando, organized by State Reps. Anna V. Eskamani and Carlos Guillermo Smith, March 29. Photo by Mark Anthony Delgado

Back to the Stage: James Rode gets ready to take the stage with the Orlando Gay Chorus in “The 70s, One Funky Decade” at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center in Sanford March 21. Photo courtesy James Rode

Birthday Fun: Lisa Brown celebrates turning 60 at The Hammered Lamb in Orlando March 26.

Photo courtesy Lisa Brown

Guys & Dolls: Twila Holiday poses in her display box at Secrets Hideaway Resort & Spa March 27. Photo

courtesy Twila Holiday

Ice Ice Baby: Ginger Minj stocks up on ice as she visits Hunters in Wilton Manors March 26.

Photo courtesy Ginger Minj Official Fan Page

On The Go: State Rep. Anna V. Eskamani picks up her order from Eola General in Orlando before heading back to Tallahassee March 28. Photo

courtesy Anna V. Eskamani

Award Winner: Dennis Dunham receives the Pride of Chanel Award at Bloomingdales in Orlando March 26. Photo by Lisa Leatherwood

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8 April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

wedding bells

Bobby Thollander and Kevin Fox from Orlando, Florida

Engagement Date:

Dec. 22, 2019

Wedding Date:

March 6, 2021

Officiant:

Maureen Warman

Venue:

Cypress Grove Estate House

Colors:

Navy, Blush, Rose Gold

Wedding Song/ Artist:

“So Will I” by Ben Platt

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Lee Forrest Designs

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photos via captured by elle

obby Thollander and Kevin Fox

met in a most unlikely place a gay couple could meet — a Catholic high school.

Bobby had been working as a science teacher at the school when Kevin began substitute teaching there. Kevin’s assignment was to manage the copy room. That same day, Bobby needed to get some tests copied. The copier ended up jamming, so the two tried to fix it, starting from opposite sides then meeting in the middle. “We both looked up and met eyes and stayed there motionless looking at each other for what seemed like an eternity,” Bobby says. “Slightly trembling, I started to lean in to kiss him when the principal’s wife walked in the room desperate to make her own copies. Little did I know that I had just met the love of my life.” When arranging a field trip with his marine science class to a disappearing island in New Smyrna Beach, Bobby decided to try to get to know Kevin more by arranging for him to be a chaperone on the trip. The two spent the whole trip walking down the beach and chatting. “He was so easy to talk to,” Bobby says. “We haven’t stopped talking since and one of our strengths

as a couple is our open, honest and sincere communication with one another.” Though many friends and coworkers were aware of and supported Kevin and Bobby’s relationship, the two were always aware of the fact that if the wrong people found out, they would have to choose between getting married and keeping their jobs. “I couldn’t stand feeling like I was in the closet again,” Bobby says. “I came out at an early age and have always fiercely been myself and no one else or what anyone wanted me to be. No one should ever have to hide who they are or be something that they aren’t.” After two years of dating, Bobby decided that it was time to find a new teaching job. His new school was not only accepting of his sexuality and his relationship, but also gave Bobby the idea to propose to Kevin when the school’s computer system had marked Kevin as Bobby’s husband. “The only way to change it in the system was by a dropdown menu to say that either Kevin had deceased or that we had divorced,” Bobby says.

“I hated both of those thoughts but loved the idea of being his husband. I bought the engagement ring and started making plans to propose a few weeks later.” Bobby planned to propose during a weekend getaway for him, his family and Kevin in St. Petersburg. Though he had planned to propose at a rooftop cabana during sunset, the actual proposal didn’t go exactly how he’d planned. Bobby was so excited to propose that he kept the ring in his pocket for days. When the couple and Bobby’s family were at dinner the night before he had planned to propose, Bobby anxiously fiddled with the ring. “Anxiety, fear and excitement washed over me,” Bobby says. “It was like waiting in line for a terrifying, but thrilling roller coaster. I couldn’t take it any longer. As soon as Kevin got back from the bathroom and had barely sat down, I got down on one knee and asked Kevin to marry me.” Though they originally had planned a 200-person wedding, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the couple to change their plans. They had to reduce their guest list and required masks and social distancing measures at the wedding. Kevin and Bobby say that the COVID-19 precautions didn’t take away from the fun of the wedding.

“Being that most family lives out of town, it had been years since seeing some aunts and cousins and they made it a point to make it down to celebrate with us, which made the night unforgettable,” Kevin says. “The whole night moved so quickly,” Bobby added. “I remember the cake was amazing as well as the food, the wait staff never let our drinks get empty and our families all had fun on the dance floor together.” — Lora Korpar

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.

April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

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April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

the last page Hometown:

Asheville, NC

Identifies As: Lesbians

Pronouns:

She/Her

Out Year: Late 90’s

Professions:

Independent Bookstore Owners

Professional Role Models:

Emoke B’Racz, founder of Malaprop’s Bookstore and Cafe and Jezanna Ramsay, owner-manager of Madwimmin Books

Autobiography Title:

“The Book Was Better”

Hobbies:

Yoga, walking our dog Zelda, birdwatching, sea kayaking, alphabetizing books

Alsace Walentine & Candice Anderson T o mb o l o B o o k s c o - o w n er s

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 Alsace Walentine and Candice Anderson, co-owners of Tombolo Books, the fan favorite independent bookstore in St. Petersburg. Learn even more about them at TomboloBooks.com and keep an eye on this space to learn more about the movers and shakers in your community. What do you do professionally?

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

We own and manage a local independent bookstore which opened in St. Pete’s Grand Central District in December 2019. As small business owners we are involved in everything from sweeping the floors to selecting and ordering the books on the shelves. We love the indie bookstore industry – we get to engage with writers, publishers and other book lovers. It’s a privilege to play a role in connecting our community to voices and stories that provide comfort, inspiration and over the last year, the occasional mental vacation. Alsace was the events manager at Malaprop’s Bookstore and Cafe for 16 years

before we moved to St. Pete and author events are a big part of our vision for Tombolo Books. We take a lot of joy in organizing author events where we can geek out with local readers – the connection between a writer and a local audience is always unique. We’ve been able to host author events via Zoom for the last year, but we look forward to starting up in person readings again later this year. How do you champion for the local LGBTQ community?

We want to be a place where LGBTQ folks can find representation. We view bookstores as cultural intersections, so we make an effort to carry books

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

telling intersectional LGBTQ stories from varied eras and geographies.

What is your favorite thing to read in Watermark?

Arts and culture pieces.

What is your favorite local LGBTQ event?

The LGBTQ Resource Center of the Gulfport Public Library’s ReadOut. What is your favorite thing about your local LGBTQ community?

We love being a part of a thriving LGBTQ-owned local business community. It’s part of what attracted us to moving here and we’re so glad we did. What would you like to see improved in your local LGBTQ community?

To see more white allies in our community put our power and experience behind the struggle for racial justice. What would you like our readers to know about you?

No, neither of us has seen “You’ve Got Mail.”

What advice would you give your younger selves?

Don’t be afraid of change - motion and change are what will make you stronger and resilient.

April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

How did your relationship prepare you for owning and operating Tombolo together?

We had been together for 11 years before we started planning on the bookstore, so we had a good foundation. It has served us well because starting a business together introduces a lot of new challenges and growth. What have been some of the most rewarding or challenging aspects of running Tombolo, and how has the store navigated COVID-19?

Just the process of creating something new out of our imaginations and hard work has been incomparably rewarding. The positive response to our crowdfunding campaign in 2019 was inspiring and motivating. Of course, it’s been challenging to operate for most of our first year during the pandemic, but it’s helped us develop some parts of the business we may have otherwise back-burnered, like our webstore and delivery service.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

April 1 - A pr il 14 , 2021 // Issue 28 .07 wat e r m a r konline .com

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