Watermark Issue 29.12: Looking Back, Marching Forward

Your LGBTQ News Source.

June 9 - 22, 2022 • Issue 29.12

LOOKING BACK,

MARCHING

FORWARD

ST PETE PRIDE CELEBRATES 20 YEARS TAMPA BAY’S STAR MONTRESE LOVE REMEMBERED GAYDAYS HEADING BACK TO DOUBLETREE IN 2023 DAYTONA BEACH • ORLANDO • TAMPA • ST. PETERSBURG • CLEARWATER • SARASOTA

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What if your child’s healthcare provider had as much imagination as your child?

Celebrate LGBTQIA Pride with

Celebrate Pride Month this June and every day with a special collection of films, series and short stories exploring the LGBTQIA+ experience in the United States and around the world.

LGBTQIA+ PROGRAMMING IN JUNE ON WEDU AND WEDQ: We’re on a journey to discover better ways of approaching children’s health. Putting as much focus on prevention as cures and working hand in hand with the community to make every child’s world a place for them to thrive. Beyond the expected.

Beyond limits. Leading to the healthiest generations of children who ever lived.

Well Beyond Medicine Go well beyond at Nemours.org/Beyond

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50 Years of Coming Out American Masters: Ballerina Boys Hiding In Plain Sight On the Town In the Palm Beaches Out In Rural America Prideland Queer Silicon Valley The Lavender Scare The Lodge True Colors For more WEDU PBS and Pride Month programming, visit wedu.org/schedule

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DEPARTMENTS 7 // PUBLISHER’S DESK 8 // CENTRAL FL NEWS 13// TAMPA BAY NEWS 18 // STATE NEWS 20 // NATION & WORLD NEWS 29 // TALKING POINTS 49 // EVENT PLANNER 51 // TAMPA BAY OUT + ABOUT 53 // CENTRAL FL OUT + ABOUT 55 // WEDDING BELLS 56 // TAMPA BAY MARKETPLACE 57 // CENTRAL FL MARKETPLACE 62 // GALLERY W

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[Marco] Rubio gave a full-throated endorsement of the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill, bucking public opinion, mental health experts and the pleas of LGBTQ youth, families and teachers across the state. This is just the most recent example of Rubio’s self-serving political agenda designed to harm LGBTQ Floridians.

– STATE REP. CARLOS GUILLERMO SMITH IN HIS “REPRESENTING YOU” VIEWPOINT

ON THE COVER

PAGE LIVING LEGEND:

39

PAGE LOOKING BACK,

31

MARCHING FORWARD:

St Pete Pride celebrates 20 years.

WATERMARK ISSUE 29.12 // JUNE 9 - 22, 2022

PHOTO OF ST PETE PRIDE BY DYLAN TODD. ST PETE PRIDE 2003 PHOTOS VIA WATERMARK’S ARCHIVE.

SCAN QR CODE FOR

WATERMARKONLINE.COM

Ts Madison on acting, activism and appearing at St Pete Pride.

SIX YEARS LATER

NOT FORGOTTEN

DESIRED CHARACTER

A PERFECT MEAL

PAGE Local organizations to host Pulse Remembrance events.

PAGE Tampa Bay entertainer Star Montrese Love dies at 43.

PAGE

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

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Indigo Leigh plays the iconic Blanche DuBois.

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Tim Mulligan presents his best recipes in new cookbook.

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM AT @WATERMARKONLINE AND LIKE US ON FACEBOOK. watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

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PUBLISHER’S

Rick Todd PUBLISHER

Rick@WatermarkOnline.com

I

DESK

USED TO HATE COUNTRY MUSIC.

Not sure why. My early years were spent in Houston, Texas and my parents played it on the radio all the time. I’m talking about early ‘80s country music; classics like Willie Nelson, George Jones and early Dolly Parton.

I find the older I get the more I like these artists and their music.

I can’t say that the songs age well or that my ears became more mature over time. I attribute the change in taste simply to nostalgia.

In short, it reminds me of my dad.

If I hear Dave Frizzel’s “I’m Gunna Hire a Wino,” I am immediately transported to the backseat of my parent’s car with my dad in the driver’s seat, belting out the words, slapping his knee and tapping his foot. My dad was fearless when it came to singing in the car. He didn’t care who was around, he loved country music and he wasn’t afraid to show it.

Now I listen to it and it makes me feel closer to him.

As I approach my mid-life crisis, I notice I am easily taken back in time with certain songs, smells and situations. I recently found myself in a Burger King. The smell of the Whopper took me right back to summer school in 1992. I wasn’t the most physically active kid and avoided physical education in my high school electives until I was forced to take a training class that summer. Every day, after finishing the circuit course at Ward Park, I’d eat a Whopper. One whiff of that greasy burger and I can feel the heat of the summer sun

standing in that park like it was a new Meta world.

Perhaps I am in a nostalgic mood, walking down memory lane because of gay day at Disney and the glorious events that surround the tradition. This was the first year in a long time that all the events were back together after a three-year hiatus, in full force.

It felt good.

There are definite moments during Orlando’s big queer weekend that are essential to my enjoyment. These moments take me back to the first time I experienced them and are indicative of the festivities. The first is Thursday mornings and the opening of the Gay Days Expo at their host hotel. It’s full of excitement and anticipation of the days to come. I always make sure I am working at the Watermark booth that morning because it reminds me of all the fun I had there, especially the year Kathleen Sadler began working at Watermark. It was her first week and what a first week it was!

Then comes Friday night at Typhoon Lagoon. For me, this is the ultimate One Magical Weekend event. Maybe I am biased since this event was originally created

by Watermark, but I can float down the lazy river with my friends and remember every year I spent there, even the drunk years – and that’s saying a lot. Finishing the night surfing the Wave pool is tradition and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. The team at One Magical Weekend really goes all out and makes this event inclusive and fun for everyone.

The big show comes on Saturday, the actual gay day at Disney, and it wouldn’t be complete without the 1 p.m.

Country Bears Jamboree. There is nothing like it all weekend. The theater is filled with red shirts who make the show way more interactive than its creators had in mind. It’s delightful and it reminds

WATERMARK STAFF Owner & Publisher: Rick Todd • Ext. 110 Rick@WatermarkOnline.com Editor-in-Chief: Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com

me of the days when the lines to all the rides at the park were full of red shirts and people singing.

After the bears, it’s time to gather in front of Cinderella’s castle for the 3 o’clock parade.

This is the original tradition and cornerstone of which everything else was built. The sea of red has dwindled from time to time, but the power is still there – at least for me.

It felt really good to experience everything again this year. It didn’t feel 100% the same, but what ever does? I’m not one to say everything has to remain the same, and I don’t hold on to or try to keep reliving my past. It’s nice though, when you get to share in traditions and watch a new

As I approach my mid-life crisis, I notice I am easily taken back in time with certain songs, smells and situations.

generation of people get excited about the same things you did when you were their age.

I feel like the world was testing the waters this year to see if it was possible, and it is. There were plenty of new experiences that were stunning surrounding the Pride Cup. I hope the festivities continue to grow and gay day gets back to its former glory, not for nostalgia but so more and more people get to experience the rich history and meaning of this important day and the events that surround it.

We strive to bring you a variety of stories, your stories. I hope you enjoy this latest issue.

ORLANDO OFFICE Managing Editor: Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com Creative Designer: Dylan Todd • Ext. 107 Dylan@WatermarkOnline.com Creative Designer: Kyler Mills • Ext. 301 Kyler@WatermarkOnline.com

Sales Director: Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Danny@WatermarkOnline.com

Founder and Guiding Light: Tom Dyer

Senior Orlando Account Manager: Sam Callahan • Ext. 103 Sam@WatermarkOnline.com

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CONTRIBUTORS REP. CARLOS GUILLERMO SMITH is a

member of the Florida House of Representatives, representing District 49. Page 23

MARK SEGAL is

publisher of The Philadelphia Gay News. His Memoir “And Then I Danced, Traveling The Road To LGBT Equality” was named book of the year by the National Lesbian Gay Journalist Association. Page 25

TIFFANY RAZZANO

is the founder and president of Wordier Than Thou, a literary arts nonprofit that creates fun, engaging events for writers and readers. Page 55 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

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central florida news

GAYDAYS ANNOUNCES MOVE BACK TO DOUBLETREE AS HOST HOTEL IN 2023 Jeremy Williams

O

RLANDO | GayDayS, Inc. may have just wrapped up the June 2022 events but it is already looking ahead to 2023.

During the organization’s 2022 expo at the Avanti Palms Resort, GayDayS, Inc. announced that it would be returning to the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando at SeaWorld for its June 2023 events.

“Going through this transition of taking over the company, Thomas and I were looking at what are the things we wanted to accomplish and one of those items were going back to the DoubleTree,” says Joseph Clark, new owner of GayDayS, Inc. “A lot of the people that had worked with the DoubleTree when we were there are back so we’ve been working on the contract for that event. We are very happy to be heading home.”

GayDayS, Inc. had held its annual events at the DoubleTree by SeaWorld for many years before moving location and dates in 2019 after not being able to book the hotel. Clark says they have secured the DoubleTree for 2023 and are finalizing the details to keep it at the DoubleTree for the next five years but says “I don’t foresee any changing once we are back there.”

The theme for next year’s events is “Homecoming: Class of ’23” and will take place May 31-June 5, 2023.

“DoubleTree isn’t the first property I attended GayDayS as a guest but when I started to work with GayDayS, that’s where we started out at,” Clark recalls, “so it has the feeling of home; it feels that way with the staff, the whole deal when you step onto that property, that’s where home is.”

While few details are available this soon after the 2022 events, Clark says the team has started working on the logistics of the event and has already begun talks with their longtime vendors.

“We are bringing the expo back to the ballroom area as our guests know it and that whole space has been remodeled since the last time we were there so it will look great,” Clark says. “Several events we know are coming back — Mr. Leather, Taste [of GayDayS], Miss [GayDayS] — but as we are always trying to keep things fresh, there may be some changes to the way we do things for those. That outdoor space they have now after they eliminated one of the pools hasn’t really been used by us before, so we will be looking at some fun stuff to do out there.”

GayDayS opened reservations to this year’s guests first, selling more than 100 rooms in the first day at its onsite information center. Rooms are expected to be available to book online by June 13.

For more information, visit GayDayS.com.

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REMEMBERING PULSE: Several events

occurred at the start of June including onePULSE’s CommUnity Rainbow Run (pictured) held on June 4.

PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

Six Years Later Local organizations to host Pulse Remembrance events Jeremy Williams

O

RLANDO | Several Central Florida LGBTQ organizations will be hosting events throughout the June 12 weekend to remember those lost six years ago during the Pulse tragedy.

The Orange County Regional History Center will display the Pulse memorial crosses on June 10 and 11 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and on June 12 from 12-5 p.m. Admission into the history center will be free during this time. onePULSE Foundation, in collaboration with Cultural Vistas, will present the International Culture of Remembrance Symposium at the UCF Downtown Campus June 10-11, from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. each day. The symposium brings together leading international scholars and experts in memorial culture to provide a multidisciplinary platform to enrich and showcase progress, innovations, trends and achievements in memorial culture and turn thought into action. The

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

symposium will be held both in-person and virtually.

The second annual “United We Dance” celebration will happen June 10, from 6 p.m. to midnight, in the Thornton Park District. It’s a night of music and dance to honor the resilience of the community, the City Beautiful, Pulse families, survivors, first responders and the 49. General admission is $20.

The Dru Project will host a drag brunch June 11, starting at noon, at the 808 in Thornton Park to announce this year’s scholarship award recipients and to raise funds to support next year’s awards and the Gay Straight Alliance club grant program. For more details, visit The Dru Project’s Facebook.

Later that evening, the Zebra Coalition will host its Pride Prom at the Orlando Museum of Art from 6-10 p.m. The event, open for ages 14-20 only, will feature a DJ, dancing, lip synch competition, light bites, beverages and a live performance by Axel Andrews. More information at ZebraYouth.org.

On June 12, the day will begin at the First United Methodist Church

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of Orlando with the Orlando Gay Chorus performing at the church’s 11 a.m. worship service, followed by the annual 49 Bells Ceremony at 11:45 a.m. Following the ceremony, the Sanctuary will remain open for quiet reflection until 1 p.m.

OneBlood will hold blood drives at two locations, one at Orlando City Hall and one at the Pulse Interim Memorial, starting at noon. More information on the blood drive can be found at OneBlood.org.

Contigo Fund, Bros in Convo, Divas in Dialogue, Basically Wonderful, Del Ambiente, One Orlando Alliance and Lake County Pride are just some of the organizations taking part in “For Us, By Us: A Tribute to Those Surviving & Fighting for Change,” a Pulse remembrance event at the Lake Eola Amphitheater, on June 12 from 1-3:30 p.m. The event will highlight the voices of survivors and families directly impacted working to make a change in their community. This is a free event and is open to the public.

More information is available at Facebook.com/ContigoFund.

The Pulse Remembrance Ceremony held at the Pulse Interim Memorial by onePULSE from 7-8 p.m. is an invite only event; however, the ceremony will be livestreamed on onePULSE’s Facebook page.

For more information, visit onePULSEFoundation.org.

A commitment to people and PRIDE.

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central florida news

OUAC RENAMED OURS, EXPANDS SERVICES PURCHASE OF ‘GENDER QUEER’ BOOK IN ORANGE COUNTY SCHOOLS UNDER STATE INVESTIGATION Yasmene Warren

O

RLANDO | The purchase of a nonbinary author’s coming out story “Gender Queer” has the Florida Department of Education investing its authorization, the Orlando Sentinel reports.

In late October, the Orange County Public Schools district pulled the memoir from multiple high school libraries, according to emails between the district and an FDE employee.

“This office is trying to find out who approved the book,” Ian Dohme, an FDE employee, wrote in an email to an OCPS administrator April 13.

In another email, Dohme detailed his investigation of who ordered the books to OCPS high schools. In response, he was sent purchase orders from four high schools that bought the book, as well as one document that included the name of a high school media specialist.

The Florida Freedom to Read Project issued a public records request to obtain the emails. This group opposes censorship, book bans and “Gender Queer’s” removal from school libraries.

Gov. Ron DeSantis called the book “incredibly disturbing” when he signed the “Don’t Say Gay or Trans” bill into law in March.

Karen Castor Dentel, former OCPS teacher and Orange County School Board member, said she was unaware of the state’s actions but found them inappropriate and unfair upon being told of the emails.

“You don’t bring the weight of the state down to an individual teacher who only brought a book,” she told the Sentinel.

“Gender Queer” is an award-winning book but has received criticism for some of its graphic illustrations.

In late October, OCPS administrators moved to have the book removed from three high schools, stating that its graphics were inappropriate for younger teenagers.

Castor Dentel sees no harm in the media specialists’ actions, saying that they “didn’t do anything wrong” and that they were just doing their job by purchasing a book they thought would be beneficial to some students.

Dohme inquired in an email April 13 who initially approved the book in the high schools. The following day, Maurice Draggon, senior director of digital learning at OCPS wrote back that “my team has been working to try and get the invoices for the orders for you.”

Draggon attached six book orders for the book placed by four OCPS high schools: Boone, Dr. Phillips, Lake Buena Vista and West Orange, the emails revealed.

Among these documents included a “payment form” from Barnes & Noble Booksellers that showed the name of West Orange High School’s media specialist who purchased the book for $14.39.

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Charlotte Skipper

O

RLANDO | Beginning June 1, the Orlando United Assistance Center has been renamed to the Orlando United Resiliency Services and will expand its services in order to provide more assistance to Orlando’s LGBTQ community.

OUAC was initially formed following the June 12, 2016 Pulse tragedy, as a collaboration between The City of Orlando, Orange County Government, Osceola County Government and The Heart of Florida United Way. As OUAC adopts its new name of OURS, services such as counseling and mental health support will be expanding.

“OUAC’s doors first opened to support those affected by the tragic loss of 49 souls – as well as the hundreds of people injured or psychologically wounded by the Pulse shootings. That mission continues and is expanding,” Dr. George Wallace, CEO of The Center, said in a press release. “We know the counseling, support, and connections we offer our Pulse clients are needed just as desperately by many others in the Central Florida community. Others in the community, including the wider LGBTQ+ community, anyone who has experienced violence and other traumatic events, and those who struggle with physical, emotional, and mental health problems can now be served under the OURS program.”

OURS will focus on promoting the LGBTQ community through educational tools, advocacy and support. The program will be led

by Jesse Arias, alongside several case managers and therapists on staff ready to assist OURS clients.

“No matter who you are, if you’re struggling with any kind of trauma – come to OURS. If you’re struggling, and especially if you are suffering because of trauma, OURS offers support and resources to help you through this journey to healing,” Arias said in the release.

OURS is relocating from The Center’s Health and Human Services building and will provide its services Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at The Center’s main location at 946 N. Mills Ave.

Metts says the pantry is the outlet the LGBTQ needs because they may not always feel welcomed or safe in other spaces.

He hopes the event brings in lots of donations to help the members of his community.

“We’re here to help each other,” he says.

Guests aged 21 years or older who bring at least one item to donate to the pantry will receive a free drink courtesy of the Savoy owner, Brandon Llewellyn.

Metts has been in the comedy game for four years now and has been hosting bi-monthly comedy nights at Savoy since April of this year.

“I’ve become a comic hosting these shows because it brings me joy,” Metts says. “It’s just a good time. It’s always nice to bring joy to people.”

With stand-up having always been something Metts admired and aspired to do, he found himself wanting to create a space where LGBTQ people can come together. However, for most of his life, he lacked the strength to comfortably do so.

“I used to battle stage fright,” Metts says. “It took me 20 years to pursue comedy. I always wanted to do it, but I was scared to get in front of people.”

Metts, now 43, was 40 when he first decided to get his foot in the door into the world of comedy.

“It’s made me stronger as a person,” Metts says. “I can talk to people much easier. I have more confidence speaking to people on the street.”

Metts says performing at Savoy was something he’s always thought about doing and that being able to do these shows has helped him just as much as he seeks to help others.

“It’s a safe space for the LGBTQ,” he says.

Dr. George A. Wallace, executive director of the Center Orlando, will be in attendance for “Comedy for a Cause” and will bring the Pride Pantry van with him, Metts says.

Metts says he’s thankful to both Llewellyn and Wallace for granting him the opportunity to do the two things he loves doing most.

“I’m just very thankful that these gentlemen allow me to perform stand-up comedy and help people,” he says.

LOCAL GAY COMIC RAISES AWARENESS FOR LGBTQ FOOD PANTRY WITH STAND-UP SHOW

Yasmene Warren

O

RLANDO | Through laughter, smiles and unity, Orlando gay comic Gregory Metts will help shine a light on a local LGBTQ food pantry this Pride Month.

The LGBT+ Center Orlando’s Pride Pantry got its start in August 2021 and has been dedicated to helping members and allies of the city’s LGBTQ community.

Because the organization is still fairly new, Metts says he hopes to bring them awareness through his upcoming stand-up show “Comedy for a Cause.”

“Comedy for a Cause” will feature five LGBTQ comics — Metts, Alina Siddiqui, Deb Rose, Joanie Werner and Dr. Anna Lepeley — and will be held in The Starlite Room at Savoy Orlando June 28. Anyone who brings a donation for the Pride Pantry will receive a free drink at the event.

“Hopefully, we will raise a lot of awareness for the Pride Pantry at The Center,” Metts says.

Pride Pantry accepts donations of nonperishable items like canned goods and unopened and unexpired packaged foods, as well as hygienic items, cleaning supplies and even pet food.

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

“Comedy for a Cause” will be at The Starlite Room at Savoy Orlando June 28, starting at 8 p.m. Entry is free. For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page.

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tampa bay news

SOME TAMPA BAY RAYS PLAYERS REMOVE LGBTQ PRIDE NIGHT LOGO Ryan Williams-Jent

S ST. PETE STAR: Tampa Bay performer Star Montrese Love was crowned the first Miss St Pete Pride in 2009,

PHOTO VIA STAR MONTRESE LOVE’S FACEBOOK PAGE

Not Forgotten Tampa Bay entertainer Star Montrese Love dies at 43 Ryan Williams-Jent

S

T. PETERSBURG | Tampa Bay performer Star Montrese Love, also known as Star Hayes, died May 31. The beloved entertainer was 43.

Star, who had previously been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, captivated audiences in and outside of the local drag scene for years. Her sister Chrissii Wright confirmed her death via social media June 1, having previously shared Love was “comfortably transitioning from this life to the next” on May 30.

The entertainer grew up in St. Petersburg and described herself as “a pageant girl to start with.” She won Miss Clearwater Newcomer in 2001 – the first pageant she entered – following in the footsteps of Aspen Love, her late drag mother and a fellow drag legend who won the crown in 2000.

“We were both trying to grow up in this pageant drag world together,” Star told Watermark in 2019. “I dressed Aspen in 2000

and I said, ‘oh my god, Mom, I want to do this. I started getting ready the next year.’”

Star subsequently became the first Miss St Pete Pride in 2009 and among other titles, reigned as Miss Polk Gay Pride 2019. She reflected on her 10-year mark of winning Miss St Pete Pride with Watermark that year.

“St Pete Pride has always been my heart,” she shared. “It’s been a whirlwind … always one of the titles that I love.”

It further instilled in her the importance of giving back to the community, she noted, something she was well known for. Star participated in numerous benefits for her peers throughout her drag career.

“I’ve just always been one of those girls that has been willing to give and that’s just always been my nature,” she explained. “I’ve always been one of those people that thinks it’s better to give than to receive and I really live by that, so I don’t have a problem with giving someone the shirt off my back.”

“They supported me when I was nothing,” she continued.

“When I got sick two years ago, the community came together to help. That makes me happy that I do what I do – and I’m going to continue to do what I do, forever.”

St Pete Pride honored their representative ahead of this year’s 20th celebration, holding a moment of silence at this year’s Kick-Off Party and thanking her for her contributions to the community June 1. Multiple tributes from drag pageants and fellow performers have also been shared in Star’s honor since May 30.

“Our hearts are breaking,” the Polk Pride System shared via social media. “She would help anyone with anything and she is one of the kindest individuals we have ever had the pleasure encountering and working with.

“Her positive light shines on through those individuals she has left a impression on,” they continued. “We’re sending all our love, positive light and energy to her family, friends and loved ones in this difficult time.”

Watermark confirmed Star’s passing with Wright. She noted that “it’s hard to get the words to express her, I feel like they would only minimize who she was and is to me.”

In a video, she also expressed that her sister “would have wanted me to thank you guys for all of the love that you guys are giving her.”

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

T. PETERSBURG | The Tampa Bay Rays played the Chicago White Sox at Tropicana Field June 4, losing 3-2 during the team’s 16th annual Pride Night.

The game marked the Rays’ first time recognizing Pride on their uniforms. While most players wore LGBTQ jerseys and hats, at least five abstained due to religious beliefs.

The majority of players wore a rainbow-colored sunburst logo patch and hat when taking the field.

Ahead of time, many also appeared in LGBTQ-themed T-shirts in what the organization shared was meant to promote a message of inclusivity.

“It just shows that we want everyone to feel welcomed and included when you come to Tropicana Field and people are cheering us on,” Rays center fielder Kevin Kiermaier, who wore the specially designed cap and uniform patch, told MLB.com.

As in years past, a portion of ticket sales benefited Tampa Bay-based LGBTQ organizations including Come OUT St. Pete, St Pete Pride, the Tampa LGBT Chamber, Tampa Pride and more when fans utilized unique purchase codes. Metro Inclusive Health was also presented a $20,000 check for its work.

According to a Tampa Bay Times report, five Rays pitchers removed their LGBTQ patches and wore their standard team hat for the game. Those players are Jason Adam, Jalen Beeks, Brooks Raley, Jeffrey Springs and Ryan Thompson. Speaking for the players who did not wear the LGBTQ logo, Adam told the outlet that “a lot of it comes down to faith, to like a faith-based decision.”

“So it’s a hard decision. Because ultimately we all said what we want is them to know that all are welcome and loved here,” he continued. “But when we put it on our bodies, I think a lot of guys decided that it’s just a lifestyle that maybe — not that they look down on anybody or think differently — it’s just that maybe we don’t want to encourage it if we believe in Jesus, who’s encouraged us to live a lifestyle that would abstain from that behavior, just like [Jesus] encourages me as a heterosexual male to abstain from sex outside of the confines of marriage. It’s no different.”

Adam subsequently stressed that “it’s not judgmental. It’s not looking down. lt’s just what we believe the lifestyle he’s encouraged us to live, for our good ... we love these men and women, we care about them, and we want them to feel safe and welcome here.”

Tampa Bay Rays Manager Kevin Cash addressed their choice after a game June 5. “First and foremost, I think the organization has done a really good thing to have Pride Nights supporting our gay community to come out and have a nice night at the ballpark,” he said.

“Impressed that our players have had those conversions and we want to support our players that choose to wear or choose not to wear to the best of our capabilities.”

Pride Night attendance was 19,452 people, above the season average of 16,868. The June 5 game welcomed 11,162.

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IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

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

(bik-TAR-vee)

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

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

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:  Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.  Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.  Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.  Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.  Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death.

Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.  The most common side effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:  dofetilide  rifampin  any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider if you:  Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.  Have any other health problems.  Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.  Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:  Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.  BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other.

Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION  This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.  Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5  If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, KEEP CREATING, and LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2021 © 2021 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0369 04/21

BVYC0369_BIKTARVY_B_9-25X10-1_Watermark_Chad_r1v1jl.indd All Pages

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CHAD LIVING WITH HIV SINCE 2018 REAL BIKTARVY PATIENT

es

h r

ut t

m

d

KEEP CREATING.

Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS.

Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you.

See Chad’s story at BIKTARVY.com.

Featured patient compensated by Gilead.

Please see Important Facts about BIKTARVY, including important warnings, on the previous page and visit BIKTARVY.com.

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4/7/21 9:52 AM

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tampa bay news

PFLAG RIVERVIEW TO HOST LGBTQ YOUTH PRIDE PROM Charlotte Skipper

R

IVERVIEW, FLA. | PFLAG Riverview is bringing Wonderland to life with its first ever Pride Prom on June 17, held at The Regent in celebration of LGBTQ youth.

PFLAG Riverview is one of nearly 400 branches of an organization committed to uniting the LGBTQ community and its allies. The organization strives to help build resources for support, education and advocacy to people across the nation.

The chapter was recognized at PFLAG National’s 2021 convention “We Are the Change” for exponential growth in its first year last October. It will now innovate in another way this June, celebrating LGBTQ youth as their authentic selves in a safe way at Pride Prom.

“We are super excited to offer a safe space for our LGBTQ+ youth to have a safe space to celebrate all of who they are,” PFLAG Riverview President Faith Moeller says. “It will give them the opportunity to meet new friends and make great memories that will last a lifetime.”

For its inaugural LGBTQ Youth Pride Prom, PFLAG is going all out with the whimsical, over-the-top theme of “Down the Rabbit Hole for A Night in Wonderland.”

Guests from 14-20 are welcome to dress in their favorite formal or semiformal attire or wear a look to match the Wonderland whimsy.

Or as Moeller explains, “the dress code is whatever makes you feel fabulous!”

Along with traditional prom festivities like dancing and music led by DJ Greg Anderson, character performances from local performers Brianna Summers, Charlotte Diamond Star and 92 Era Lords will help bring Wonderland to life. Moeller says it’s been a labor of love not just for PFLAG Riverview but from other local organizations and sponsors.

“We have had financial support and a Prom committee with leaders from GLSEN, Metro Inclusive Health, educators and GSA students,” she says. “We also have gracious sponsors like Greg Anderson Events, ABC Event Planning, Breezin Entertainment and Corey’s Bakery. Pride proms are way more fun!”

The prom will take place from 7-11 p.m. Light appetizers and non-alcoholic drinks will be provided and pizza will be delivered by 10 p.m.

“Now more than ever after the past two years our LGBTQ youth need to know that they are not alone,” Moeller says. “Not only are there other people their age on the similar journeys, there are adults who have their backs and will support fight for and celebrate them!”

Tickets can be purchased on the PFLAG Riverview Facebook page for $30 or at the door of the event for $40.

PFLAG Riverview’s Pride Prom will be held June 17 at The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. For more information, visit Facebook.com/PFLAGRiverview. Additional reporting by Ryan Williams-Jent.

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LOGGING ON:

Cindi Grace Miller in the Transverse. PHOTO

COURTESY MILLER.

Safe Space Transverse provides virtual world Deb Bostock-Kelley

T

AMPA BAY | Imagine a world where you can authentically be yourself.

You slip on an anonymous customized avatar and enter a safe virtual space specifically made for the 18+ trans community to connect and receive support.

Licensed therapist Cindi Grace Miller is the author of “Gender Transition: Where to Start and How to Thrive,” published in March. She provides a roadmap to living as your true gender and best life.

“The book is designed for somebody in the closet actually to get a strategy of where to go next,” she says. In collaboration with its release, Miller launched the Transverse in mid-May. Members log in and become part of a virtual community for a small monthly subscription. You open the door and enter what looks like a conference center with doors labeled with the different services available.

“A person creates an avatar of what they look like or want to look like,” she explains. “This allows people to come in with total

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anonymity, how they want to be referred to. We can work together, but they can also interact with other people.”

While members can talk to one another, chat is also available, which translates languages, making it easy to converse with people from any country.

This secure online subscription software provides everything from an inspirational room with photos of real people who have transitioned to rooms offering meditation, tapping, makeup application, and image styling assistance to legal counsel and financial planning to confidential coaching and counseling.

The screens on the center walls can be used for videos, multi-media presentations, live casts, and computers in the virtual world connect to Miller’s actual website calendar to book counseling appointments in the Transverse.

Miller is giving those transitioning something she did not have during her transition: a group of people who share similar experiences.

“The trans community is largely in secret,” she says. “It’s largely in the shadows. The majority

are still in the closet. I don’t feel comfortable just offering the traditional coaching or therapy model where it’s just on Zoom or just local because that presents a problem for most.

“The Transverse was literally a brainstorm,” she continues. “Our purpose is to create a private, safe place for people regardless of where they are – whether they’re in the closet, out of the closet, they’ve transitioned, or they don’t know about what to do.”

Miller explains that a person could be anywhere globally and log in with their membership to access the community. She hopes to continue expanding and building an online campus dedicated to the Transverse.

Miller is doing everything possible to ensure her members are protected. If someone is disrespectful during live interactions, they will be banned from the platform.

“The only people who will be the Transverse will be of trans experience, or they are experts, allies who work with and help the trans community,” she explains.

In addition to Miller’s private coaching and therapy, the Transverse’s classrooms will host workshops and more.

Base membership of Cindi Grace Miller’s Transverse is $29 or $99 per month for the coaching/therapy programs. Read more at WatermarkOnline.com and sign up at CindiGraceMiller.com.

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17

state news

HIGH SCHOOLER OUTS HIMSELF PROUDLY AT GRADUATION Digital Staff of The Los Angeles Blade, Courtesy of the National LGBT Media Association Venice High School senior William Harless walked across the stage last month to receive his diploma carrying an unfurled progress pride flag, coming out to everyone in attendance.

In an interview with Sarasota television station WWSB ABC7, Harless says this is something he was looking to do since his seventh-grade days in West Virginia. Five years later, he says this felt like it was the right moment.

“The reason I chose graduation to come out is because I really wanted to stay true to myself, because graduation is all about your achievements,” Harless said. “And you can’t really acknowledge your achievements if you’re not acknowledging your true self.

“It feels amazing, like a weight has been taken off my shoulders,” Harless continued. “I have really been able to stay true to myself because I no longer feel like I don’t need to hide a part of myself. I feel genuinely free.”

He told WWSB that his family and friends have been very supportive.

FLORIDA STUDENT ACTIVIST HONORED Wire Report

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EW YORK | Florida student Jack Petocz, an opponent of the state’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill, was among those awarded by PEN America May 23.

“Instead of being able to focus on menial responsibilities such as school work, my generation has been forced to rapidly mobilize and fight for our future,” Petocz said. “If our collective voice couldn’t make a difference, then they wouldn’t be trying so hard to silence it.”

Marking its 100th year, the literary and human rights organization held its annual fundraising dinner gala in Manhattan. Petocz was given the PEN/Benenson Courage Award, author Zadie Smith the literary service award, Audible.com founder Donald Katz the award for being a business visionary and Ukrainian journalist Vladyslav Yesypenko was presented in absentia the PEN/Barbey Freedom to Write Award, given to political prisoners.

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TRANS YOUTH TREATMENT UNDER FIRE IN FLORIDA Wire & Staff Reports

T

ALLAHASSEE, FLA. | Florida health officials have asked the state medical board to draft new policies that would likely restrict gender dysphoria treatments for transgender youth as the state amps up its ongoing attacks on the treatments amid the country’s culture wars.

The officials are also arguing that such treatments should not be covered by Medicaid. In a lengthy report dated June 2, the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration said puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and sex reassignment surgery have not been proven safe or effective in treating gender dysphoria.

Tom Wallace, the state’s deputy director of Medicaid, signed off on the report.

In response, Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo wrote a letter to the state Board of Medicine asking it to review the findings and establish new standards for children seeking “these complex and irreversible procedures.”

“Florida must do more to protect children from politics-based medicine,” Ladapo wrote. “Otherwise, children and

adolescents in our state will continue to face a substantial risk of long-term harm.”

Transgender medical treatment for children and teens is increasingly under attack in many states where it has been labeled a form of child abuse or subject to various bans.

Many doctors and mental health specialists argue that medical treatment for transgender children is safe and beneficial and can improve their well-being, although rigorous long-term research on benefits and risks is lacking. Federal guidelines say gender-affirming care is crucial to the health and well-being of transgender and nonbinary children.

Last year, the American Medical Association issued a letter urging governors to block any legislation prohibiting the treatment, calling such action “a dangerous intrusion into the practice of medicine.” The letter noted that medical treatments are among several “supportive interventions” promoted for transgender minors.

This is not the first time Florida officials have opposed such treatments. Similar steps have already been taken by the administration of Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has embraced

clashes in the country’s culture war as he runs for reelection and eyes a run for president in 2024.

Last month, the administration issued guidance that pushed back against the federal guidelines by opposing “social gender transition” or gender reassignment surgery for children and adolescents, and puberty blockers for anyone under 18.

Last year, DeSantis signed a law barring transgender girls and women from playing on public school teams intended for student athletes identified as girls at birth.

The actions have drawn condemnation from the World Professional Association for Transgender Health, an international group of doctors and others involved in treating transgender people.

“Florida’s assault on transgender communities has been relentless,” Dr. Walter Bouman, the group’s president, said in a statement June 3. “Florida’s health agencies have an obligation to support the health and well-being of its residents, including those who are transgender. The state has instead chosen to issue misleading and dangerous reports designed to harm transgender people.”

from someone in their field, community or who knows the person personally. Smith’s profile is written by New York Times Bestselling author and fellow Floridian Kristen Arnett.

“In the fight for equality in Florida, there has perhaps been no greater advocate for LGBTQ people than Nadine Smith,” writes Arnett. “For over 30 years—most recently as the executive director of Equality Florida—Smith has worked tirelessly to safeguard our rights and elevate our voices, combatting discrimination in employment, housing, and many other areas. Smith comes from a family with a strong civil rights background and has consistently

chosen to defend those who are the most vulnerable in our state and across the country. She is a Black, queer woman who has regularly spoken out about discrimination and biases against LGBTQ people when others have stayed silent.”

Smith is joined on the list by several LGBTQ individuals, including Oscar-winning actress Ariana DeBose, playwright Michael R. Jackson, musician Michelle Zauner, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Arizona Sen. Krysten Sinema, Texas transgender activist Emmett Schelling and soccer star Megan Rapinoe.

EQUALITY FLORIDA’S NADINE SMITH NAMED TO TIME’S MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE LIST Jeremy Williams

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adine Smith, the executive director of Equality Florida, was named by TIME magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in 2022.

Published annually since 1999, TIME lists 100 people it deems as “most influential” in array of categories that include artists, innovators, titans, leaders, icons and pioneers for that year.

Smith is listed as an icon alongside the likes of Mary J. Blige, Issa Rae, Keanu Reeves, Adele and more.

Each influential person has a profile written about them

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To read the full list of influential people, go to TIME.com.

Prevent HIV with pride.

There are many options to prevent HIV. Choose the method that works for you.

LEARN MORE AT CDC.GOV/STOPHIVTOGETHER

@StopHIVTogether • @StartTalkingHIV @CDCHIV • @StartTalkingHIV @CDC_HIV

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19

nation+world news

IN OTHER NEWS

BIDEN RECOGNIZES PRIDE MONTH, ANTI-LGBTQ BILLS

ROYAL MINT MARKS 50 YEARS OF PRIDE UK The Royal Mint has revealed a commemorative 50 pence coin celebrating the 50th anniversary of Pride UK. This coin marks the first time Britain’s LGBTQ community has been celebrated on official UK coinage, and forms part of The Royal Mint’s wider commitment to diversity and inclusion. It was designed by Dominique Holmes, an east London artist and activist. Clare Maclennan, Director of Commemorative Coin at The Royal Mint, called the anniversary a milestone. “This is the first ever UK coin dedicated to Britain’s LGBTQ+ community, with color printing technology capturing the spirit of Pride UK with its iconic rainbow colors,” Maclennan said.

LGBTQ-SUPPORTIVE US BISHOP NAMED CARDINAL Bishop Robert McElroy of San Diego, one of Pope Francis’ ideological allies who has often sparred with more conservative U.S. bishops, was named by the pope May 29 as one of 21 new cardinals. Last year, McElroy, 68, was among a small group of bishops signing a statement expressing support for LGBTQ youth and denouncing the bullying often directed at them. His statement noted LGBTQ youth attempt suicide at much higher rates, are often homeless because of families who reject them and “are the target of violent acts at alarming rates.” McElroy will be installed by Pope Francis on Aug. 27 at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

KUWAIT REBUKES US EMBASSY A U.S. Embassy tweet of a message by President Joe Biden in support of Pride Month has drawn a face-to-face diplomatic protest from Kuwait and sparked a rare Twitter fight between the two close allies. On June 3, U.S. diplomats were doubling down with rainbow flag postings and statements in support of LGBTQ rights on social media. The messages appeared in response to the Kuwaiti government’s official objection the day before to what Kuwait’s state news agency called the “pro-gay rights post” of the U.S. Embassy there. Kuwaiti law punishes consensual same-sex relations between men by up to seven years in prison.

SETTLEMENT ENDS NYC STING The police agency that patrols New York City’s main bus terminal has agreed to stop sending plainclothes officers into its public bathrooms to catch people propositioning strangers for sex, a type of sting long criticized by activists as a discriminatory relic of an era of crackdowns predominantly aimed at gay men. Under a legal settlement entered in federal court May 31, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey will give its new police recruits LGBTQ+ sensitivity training for the next three years and only reinstate the so-called public lewdness patrols at the Port Authority Bus Terminal if approved at the highest levels. The training will be performed in conjunction with the Gay Officer’s Action League.

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Chris Johnson of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of The National LGBT Media Association

P

resident Biden, keeping with the tradition of Democratic presidents issuing a proclamation recognizing Pride month, pointed out in his statement the occasion comes as states are advancing and enacting laws against LGBTQ youth.

As a result of the anti-LGBTQ measures, Biden said in the statement May 31 that Pride festivities come at a time of “relentless attack” on LGBTQ people.

“An onslaught of dangerous anti-LGBTQI+ legislation has been introduced and passed in States across the country, targeting transgender children and their parents and interfering with their access to health care,” the statement says. “These unconscionable attacks have left countless LGBTQI+ families in fear and pain.”

Among the measures being advanced in state legislatures are laws banning transgender youth from participating in school sports and making it criminal for medical providers to provide transition-related care to transgender youth.

Some of these measures have been approved by Republicans who are potential 2024 presidential contenders. In Texas, Gov. Greg

Abbott declared transition-related care a form of child abuse as officials began investigating families with transgender youth.

In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed “Don’t Say Gay or Trans” legislation prohibiting teachers from discussing LGBTQ issues or identities in grades K-3 or other “age inappropriate” settings.

“As I said in my State of the Union Address — especially to our younger transgender Americans — I will always have your back as your President so that you can be yourself and reach your God-given potential,” Biden writes. “Today and every day, my Administration stands with every LGBTQI+ American in the ongoing struggle against intolerance, discrimination, and injustice.”

to the youngest members of the LGBTI+ community.”

Erick Iván Ortiz, who oversees the Global Equality Caucus’ work in Latin America, told the Washington Blade that “this is a pact that we also signed in Mexico and implies the commitment of legislators to advance laws and public policies that allow us to eradicate once and for all, these misnamed conversion therapies.”

According to the Global Equality Caucus representative, the meeting served “to demonstrate that congresses, national governments and local governments can and should work together to advance the rights of LGBTI people and how Argentina and Mexico are good examples and good practices.”

Ortiz also stressed that from now on they will be able to face any threat from anti-LGBTQ groups in Latin America, “who seek to roll back, paralyze progress or simply deny our rights.”

“What we need is a coordinated response from those of us who are and will remain in the struggle to advance the rights of LGBTI people,” said Ortiz.

The first part of the launch of the Global Equality Caucus’ Latin America chapter took place in Mexico City on April 1-2. The

second meeting took place in Argentina from May 16-17.

Mercosur Parliamentarian María Luisa Storani, Argentine National Assemblyman Maximiliano Ferraro, Argentine National Sen. Guadalupe Tagliaferri, Peruvian Congresswoman Susel Paredes and Guatemalan Congressman Aldo Dávila, among others, attended the Buenos Aires meeting.

“The meeting met the expectations we had of having the opportunity to show the good practices and legislative and public policy experiences that Argentina has,” Ortiz stressed.

“This is particularly important because they are experiences that come from the global south that are already, in the case of the gender identity law, a decade old and that have left significant changes in the realities of many LGBTQ people,” Ortiz continued.

The Global Equality Caucus pointed out launch’s objectives are to share experiences and create a peer-to-peer learning process.

The group, at the same time, also wants to form and strengthen networks among LGBTQ lawmakers and allies throughout Latin America and build a working agenda on LGBTQ rights issues in the region.

LAWMAKERS PLEDGE TO END CONVERSION THERAPY Esteban Guzman of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of The National LGBT Media Association

L

GBTQ lawmakers from across Latin America who gathered in Argentina’s capital recently to work together to ban conversion therapy in the region.

The second meeting of the Global Equality Caucus’ Latin America chapter took place in Buenos Aires. Those who attended agreed the effort to ban conversion therapy would begin in countries where openly LGBTQ people have been elected to public office and where allies can be identified.

“Efforts to correct sexual orientation and gender identity, also misnamed ‘conversion therapies,’ lack scientific support and are based on prejudices contrary to the human dignity of all people,” reads the document signed at the end of the meeting.

“The practice of ECOSIG has been widely spread and institutionalized in our region, outside the law, which represents a threat to all LGBTI+ people and, especially,

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viewpoint

Florida Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith

REPRESENTING

YOU Florida’s LGBTQ community deserves better than Marco Rubio

T

HE STATE OF FLORIDA

is at a tipping point. We have a housing affordability crisis, skyrocketing property insurance rates and cost of living, plus a massive teacher shortage.

As a member of the Florida House of Representatives, I’m working with other Democrats to deliver common-sense solutions to these issues and more for the people of our state.

Unfortunately, the Florida GOP has a different set of priorities. They spent the last legislative session dividing Floridians with invented culture wars and doling out political retribution for companies that dare to speak against them.

Perhaps most notably, this played out in the fight over Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill, a piece

of legislation designed to erase LGBTQ students, families and history by banning classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity. While a bipartisan coalition of companies and elected officials lined up to condemn the bill, Republicans in the legislature got support from one of their biggest cheerleaders in Congress, Senator Marco Rubio.

In February, Rubio gave a full-throated endorsement of the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, bucking public opinion, mental health experts and the pleas of LGBTQ youth, families and teachers across the state. This is just the most recent example of Rubio’s self-serving political agenda designed to harm LGBTQ Floridians.

But he’s out of alignment with the people of our state. Polls show that 75% of Floridians support fully inclusive laws to protect the LGBTQ community from discrimination. They don’t want to see the civil rights of their family, friends and coworkers stripped away.

Whether the issue is marriage equality or protecting workers from discrimination, Rubio has consistently opposed giving LGBTQ Floridians equal treatment. He has raised money in favor of conversion therapy, said that LGBTQ parents are part of a “social experiment” and vowed to support Supreme Court Justices who want to overturn marriage equality. He’s consistently sided with the NRA in opposition to every commonsense gun safety proposal before Congress. And after 49 people were taken by hate at Pulse nightclub, Rubio showed up in Orlando only to exploit our pain and relaunch his Senate run after a failed presidential campaign. But

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showing up is really out of character for him.

In his 24 years as a politician, Rubio has a long and documented history of skipping work. In 2016, he earned the worst missed-vote record of any sitting

Politico dubbed him the “absentee senator.” His refusal to do his job isn’t just a dereliction of duty, it’s a slap in the face to the hardworking Floridians who pay his salary.

While hundreds of thousands of us are

We deserve better than Marco Rubio.

senator during his failed presidential campaign.

Over several weeks last fall, Rubio missed 14 Senate committee hearings, including critical meetings about U.S. foreign policy, protecting seniors and helping small businesses. In fact, he has missed so much work that

fighting for our lives, Marco Rubio is focused on the culture wars of the right. We deserve elected officials who care about the kitchen table issues facing working people, that put all Florida’s families first including the LGBTQ community, and that, yes, show up for work.

graduating in 2003. He joined the statewide LGBTQ advocacy group Equality Florida in 2015 before winning his run for House District 49 in 2016 and becoming Florida’s first openly LGBTQ Latinx person ever elected to the Florida Legislature.

Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith is a member of the Florida House of Representatives, representing District 49. Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Guillermo Smith attended the University of Central Florida,

Polls show that 75% of Floridians support fully inclusive laws to protect the LGBTQ community from discrimination. They don’t want to see the civil rights of their family, friends and coworkers stripped away.

Photo by Nancy Rosado.

Experience~ Education~ Service

Elect Mercedes for

The voice you need.

The experience you want.

Orange County Commissioner District 4

Suppor ting public safety Building infrastr ucture that contributes to our quality of life Ensuring scal responsibility and promoting economic recover y

407-917-1328 | info@vote4mercedes.com Paid for and approved by Mercedes Fonseca, nonpartisan candidate, for Orange County Commissioner District 4

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June 12, 2016 | Six-Year Remembrance We will forever honor the 49 Angels.ls.

Stanley Almodovar III

Alejandro Barrios Martinez

Amanda Lizzette Alvear

Brenda Marquez McCool

Oscar A. Aracena Montero

Gilberto R. Silva Menendez

Rodolfo Ayala Ayala

Kimberly Jean Morris

Antonio “Tony” Brown

Akyra Monet Murray

Darryl Roman Burt II

Luis Omar Ocasio Capo

Angel Candelario-Padro

Gerardo A. Ortiz Jimenez

Juan Chavez Martinez

Eric Ivan Ortiz-Rivera

Luis D. Conde

Joel Rayon Paniagua

Cory James Connell

Jean C. Mendez Perez

Tevin Eugene Crosby

Enrique L. Rios Jr

Deonka “Dee Dee” Drayton

Jean Carlos Nieves Rodríguez

Simón Adrian Carrillo Fernández

Xavier Emmanuel Serrano Rosado

Leroy Valentin Fernandez

Christopher Joseph Sanfeliz

Mercedez Marisol Flores

Yilmary Rodríguez Solivan

Peter Ommy Gonzalez Cruz

Eddie Sotomayor Jr.

Juan Ramon Guerrero

Shane Evan Tomlinson

Paul Terrell Henry

Martin Benitez Torres

Frank Hernandez

Jonathan A. Camuy Vega

Miguel Angel Honorato

Juan Pablo Rivera Velázquez

Javier Jorge Reyes

Luis Sergio Vielma

Jason Benjamin Josaphat

Franky Jimmy DeJesus Velázquez

Eddie Jamal Droy Justice

Luis Daniel Wilson-Leon

Anthony Luis Laureano Disla

Jerry Wright

Christopher Andrew Leinonen

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watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

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viewpoint Village, Christopher Street Ghetto and marching publicly uptown to Central Park. We were out, loud and proud!

Mark Segal

PRIDE

AND JOY I

Remembering the early Pride marches F YOU ASK ANY OF US

who were part of organizing or marshaling that very first Pride in New York in 1970, you would hear one word about it: joy.

Yes, it was a protest that came one year after Stonewall, but it was also a celebration of our fighting back.

We were celebrating a community that we had begun to build that included organizations which delivered services, information and activities to the LGBT community, services that for the first time were not centered around thenillegal clubs and bars. So Pride actually translates to protest and celebration, and that Pride came from walking out of our West

Today across the country there is a movement to “reclaim” that Pride. That can’t happen, since there can only be one original Pride.

Today’s activists aren’t the same as the ones who created Pride in New York or Philadelphia.

The ones who created it in Philadelphia were a brave lot. Most were from Gay Activist Alliance, Homophile Action League, Gay Raiders, Radical Queens and Temple Gay Students, toss in some fairies, and that was it.

So who was part of that first Pride in Philadelphia, and how inclusive were they? I asked Tommi Avicolli Mecca, who now lives in San Francisco but in the early ‘70s was part and parcel of all things LGBT here in Philly.

I particularly wanted to ask about BIPOC, transgender people and nonbinary people.

“As I remember it,” Tommi said, “people of color and transpeople who were involved with the ‘72 and ‘73 march include: Cei Bell, Kiyoshi Kuromiya, Ada Bello (who was Cuban, if I remember correctly); a black lesbian whose name I can’t remember, I think she was from HAL; possibly Saj and Ray Henry (a black gay man from Temple GLF); myself and Sweet Basil Razzle Dazzle (from Philadelphia GLF, who did genderfuck, also known as radical drag). I identified back then as a drag queen or simply a queen.

I identify now as gender nonconforming.”

Saj and I would go on to disrupt TV shows as part of the Gay Raiders, but at Pride, Saj did his day job, so to speak. He was part of the entertainment.

Those early Philadelphia marches in the ‘70s were loose but had many of

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

the elements of the New York march. If you took pride in yourself and your community, you were

which I have never felt again in all these years.

Here in Philadelphia in the early ‘70s Prides, like New York there was room for anyone and any identity, the idea was to make it possible for all who wanted to be a part

alongside with that sign “parents of Gays.”

In this season of Pride there is only one word I have for you: joy.

Pride should bring you joy in yourself and your community.

In this season of Pride there is only one word I have for you: joy. Pride should bring you joy in yourself and your community.

welcome to march. It was the one day we’d put down our differences and unite. It made it a joyous occasion which reminded me of the very first Pride in New York 1970 where I was a marshal. At about 17th Street, I stopped for a moment and climbed a pole, and when I looked back I could still see people coming out of Christopher Street. It sent a chill of happiness down my back

to feel included. That went even as far as our parents.

My mother was one of them. Her last Pride was 1977, and at that point she was in the last stages of kidney failure, so the Pride Committee hired a horse drawn carriage so she could be with us one last time. To keep her company, Don Pignolet’s mother sat with her, and our fathers and other parents walked

Mark Segal is publisher of The Philadelphia Gay News and in 2018 his personal papers and artifacts, including some from this article, were inducted into The Smithsonian Institute’s American History Museum in Washington, D.C. His Memoir “And Then I Danced, Traveling The Road To LGBT Equality” was named book of the year by the National Lesbian Gay Journalist Association.

SAVE THE DATE Presents the:

JUNE 17-19, 2022

Virtual & in-person October 1st - October 10th, 2021

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Join your local LGBT Chamber, as we are the premier advocates for the Tampa Bay Area’s LGBT business community.

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New Growth Second Chapter 3, 2021, Thread and fabric sewn on canvas, Collection of Claire Oliver and Ian Rubinstein

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viewpoint

St Pete Pride Turns 20 Brian Longstreth, Founding St Pete Pride co-chair

Ellen Levett, Founding St Pete Pride co-chair

UNITING FOR PRIDE

W

E WERE ON SUCH A

short time frame following the implosion of Tampa Bay Pride in 2002. We hosted a community meeting in late February of 2003 at DT’s Bar on Central and over 100 people showed up, starting essentially from zero.

Owner Wayne Palmer made the first donation that night of $100 before we even had a checking account. People of all backgrounds jumped in and provided expertise in marketing, sponsorship, parade planning and vendor management. Ed Cassidy, the marketing manager for the St. Petersburg Times, took on sponsorship, Robert Danielson in the City of St Petersburg’s marketing department created much of the imaging under the radar of former Mayor Rick Baker. Carol Scianommeo, a former New York City policewoman offered to handle security.

Ellen Levett brought her years of experience of working with Long Island Pride. Greg Stemm had worked with the Festival of States Parade in St. Pete and was a natural to lead the Promenade. We were planning on maybe 100 people participating in the newly named Promenade, a name that came to me while sitting in a bar in Key West and seeing an event poster there.

It wasn’t a parade or a march but was free for anyone to participate.

It started in Historic Kenwood in front of the old Georgie’s Alibi which had become a fixture in the community as a bar and restaurant. The promenade wound through Historic Kenwood and then on to Central Avenue heading East towards the Street Festival in the 2400 and 2500 blocks of Central.

About 50 vendors lined the two blocks as the parade and large rainbow flag was unfurled. With no experience to go on, and no social media (this was pre-Facebook) to help gauge the response, we were expecting maybe 2,000-2,500 people to show up.

Throughout the day people kept arriving and swamping the few bars and restaurants in the Grand Central District at the time. All told, an estimated 10,000 attended the inaugural event, and we knew we had a good model for success. Free to attend, affordable for small businesses to

PRIDE IS A SYMBOL

participate and sponsors to cover the costs. The stories that first year stay with me, from a young family setting up across from Seminole Park in Historic Kenwood to watch the Promenade saying, “we wanted to teach our children about diversity” to the teenager who used the Pride Celebration to come out to his parents, to the 80-year-old gentleman who said he remained faithful to his wife until she passed and he was able to be himself.

Attendance doubled almost every year to quickly become the largest Pride celebration in Florida by 2007. In 2007 representatives from St Pete Pride attended the InterPride conference in Zurich, Switzerland and won the right to host InterPride 2009. St Pete Pride had become a model for many other Pride organizations by focusing on local support and inclusive policies. Our mayor at the time was conservative but didn’t seem to mind as long as the events were in the Grand Central District. The LGBTQ infusion in the district continues to this day.

Brian Longstreth, 61, served as St Pete Pride co-chair for two years and in other capacities until 2009. He also co-founded Come OUT St. Pete.

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

I

HAD BEEN INVOLVED IN THE

Christopher Street Liberation Day Committee in New York for a few years in the early 1980s and when I got to St. Pete, I marched in the Pride parade in Tampa. I wanted to see a Pride celebration here and it was amazing to watch it all come together.

Brian had brought together a diverse group who each had a pertinent talent to contribute. My main talent was being able to cheerfully maintain some semblance of order during meetings.

As with any group we all did not agree on everything, but each was willing to work it out – and on the important stuff we all agreed. We wanted it to be family friendly because there are many gay families who might want to bring their children. We discouraged nudity.

Rick Baker was mayor. He did not sign a proclamation honoring Gay Pride. However, he did not stand in our way. Rick Kriseman, who was on the City Council at the time, signed the proclamation.

There will always be a place for him in my heart for that.

After the parade and festival we were asked to meet with sanitation and police for an evaluation.

They could not have been nicer. There was

no violence or public intoxication, and sanitation could not believe that we cleaned up after ourselves.

Perhaps my favorite memory was a letter we got from a dad who lived near Seminole Park, on the parade route. He said our parade was the first one his toddler had ever seen. The whole family loved it and hoped it would become an annual event.

To my amazement we got support from banks and businesses. Each year, more and more straight businesses supported us.

The first year I don’t remember any “floats,” though there might have been a couple of pick-up trucks loaded with celebrants. That quickly changed with more and more each year, and more and more Pride events cropped up.

The number of blocks for the festival just kept increasing. In fact, Pride grew to cover blocks that we were told could not possibly be included.

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As St Pete Pride turns 20, I am proud to have been part of the beginning.

I don’t think any of us could have imagined how it would grow. We had about 10,000 participants, which blew us away. And I believe the last one had more than 265,000.

People come from all over to participate. It feels like we planted a seed and got an oak tree. Or a forest of oak trees.

To those celebrating this year I say, “enjoy!” We have come a long way from when the Klan (yes, both in Tampa and Saint Petersburg) would protest.

And we ignored them. In Tampa we chanted to them “Your shoes don’t match your dress,” because yes, they actually wore white sheets and pointy hats with argyle socks and black shoes.

Our Pride celebration is a symbol. A symbol of not only self-acceptance, but of acceptance by the community we live in.

Remember that a quarter of a million people participated in the last St Pete Pride celebration.

They were certainly not all LGBTQ.

Ellen Levett, 78, served on St Pete Pride’s board as co-chair for three years. She has lived in St. Petersburg since 1992.

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talking points

41%

Today is not the end of a relationship, it’s more of a little break. You can see other talk shows now.

— ELLEN DEGENERES IN HER FINAL MONOLOGUE ON THE LAST EPISODE OF “THE ELLEN DEGENERES SHOW” MAY 26

OF

U.S. PARENTS

JODIE FOSTER TO STAR IN SEASON 4 OF ‘TRUE DETECTIVE’

T

WO-TIME ACADEMY AWARD-WINNING ACTRESS JODIE FOSTER has been named as the lead in the fourth installment of the HBO anthology series, “True Detective,” according to Variety. Not much is known about the show’s next season, which is titled “Night Country,” but HBO describes it as “When the long winter night falls in Ennis, Alaska, the six men that operate the Tsalal Arctic Research Station vanish without a trace. To solve the case, Detectives Liz Danvers and Evangeline Navarro will have to confront the darkness they carry in themselves and dig into the haunted truths that lie buried under the eternal ice.”

Foster will play detective Liz Danvers and will also executive produce the season along with Barry Jenkins, Adele Romanski, Mark Ceryak and Issa Lopez. Lopez will write the season with Alan Page Arriaga. HBO has not set a premiere date for “True Detective” season four yet.

TOM DALEY DROPS CLOTHING COLLECTION FOR LGBTQ CHARITY

B

EING AUTHENTICALLY YOURSELF AND BEING FASHIONABLE: That’s what openly gay diver Tom Daley had in mind when creating his new Pride collection. This Olympic gold medal winner is set to release an entirely Pride-themed collection of T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, blankets, hats and more with his “Made With Love” fashion label. All of the proceeds will go to Rainbow Railroad, a charity dedicated to “helping LGBTQ+ people around the world escape state-sponsored violence, providing the resources and assistance needed to get to safety.” Tom Daley’s “Made With Love” line can be purchased at ByTomDaley.com.

KATE MCKINNON LEAVES ‘SNL’ AFTER 10 SEASONS

K

ELTON JOHN DOCUMENTARY LANDS AT DISNEY

ATE MCKINNON SAID GOODBYE AFTER 10 SEASONS OF “SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE” May 14 during the show’s season finale. For the cold open sketch, McKinnon reprised fan-favorite character Colleen Rafferty, a woman who finds herself frequently being abducted by aliens. At the end of the segment, an emotional Rafferty steps onto a UFO to stay with the aliens for good.

“Well, Earth, I love you,” McKinnon said. “Thanks for letting me stay a while. Live from New York, it’s Saturday night.” McKinnon was one of four cast members to announce their departure this season, including Pete Davidson, Kyle Mooney and Aidy Bryant.

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

S

IR ELTON JOHN IS PREPARING TO SAY GOODBYE with a documentary from Disney. Disney Original Documentary and Disney+ said May 18 that the film, titled “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road: The Final Elton John Performances and the Years that Made His Legend,” will serve as the definitive and official feature on John’s life and career.

Oscar-nominated filmmaker R.J. Cutler is directing the film alongside producer and director David Furnish, who is married to John.

No release date was revealed for “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” but the companies teased a festival run and a theatrical release before it streams on Disney+.

SUPPORT

TEACHING KIDS ABOUT

SEXUAL ORIENTATION

AND GENDER IDENTITY

WHILE 44% ARE OPPOSED TO IT. 44% SUPPORT

STUDENTS LEARNING ABOUT THE

LGBTQ

CIVIL

RIGHTS MOVEMENT

WITH 40% OPPOSING IT.

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—Morning Consult poll

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LOOKING BACK,

MARCHING FORWARD ST PETE PRIDE CELEBRATES 20 YEARS

P

Ryan Williams-Jent

RIDE MONTH OFFICIALLY BEGAN

in St. Petersburg June 1 as it has for years, with support from local leadership. LGBTQ advocates and allies from throughout Tampa Bay gathered to honor the region’s commitment to equality by raising the Progressive Pride flag above City Hall.

St Pete Pride Founding Co-Chairs Brian Longstreth (L) and Ellen Levett (R) flank St Pete Pride President Tiffany Freisberg.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

The ceremony also commemorated two decades of St Pete Pride, the nonprofit that exists to strengthen the city’s legacy of inclusion.

“By championing equity and representation, we aim to create an open and compassionate community where people are

empowered to thrive,” the organization explains. “No matter who they are.”

Its founders first welcomed an unprecedented 10,000 supporters to the city’s Grand Central District in 2003, launching an almost entirely annual gathering now billed as Florida’s largest

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

LGBTQ Pride celebration. Its last traditional gathering was held in 2019, welcoming more than 265,000 people to St. Petersburg and creating an economic impact of $67.2 million on the city ahead of the pandemic.

Festivities were postponed in 2020 but returned last year for a COVID-conscious celebration.

An estimated 22,000 people attended St Pete Pride 2021, which featured four weeks of dramatically scaled-back events in lieu of Pride’s signature parade and festival.

“Our big takeaway was just how well those events were received, especially considering that we were in a COVID year,” St Pete Pride President Tiffany

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BEPrEPARED 32

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LGBTQ+ Premier Medical Care

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ST PETE PRIDE EVENTS

W

HEN AND WHERE TO

celebrate 20 years of St Pete Pride with events led by or held in conjunction with the organization. View our event planner on p. 49 for even more events.

SATURDAY, JUNE 11

Queer-E-Oke with Carson Kressley $45-75, 7 P.M. | THE PALLADIUM THEATER, 253 5TH AVE. N., ST. PETERSBURG “RuPaul’s Drag Race” judge and “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” alum Carson Kressley hosts this hilarious and love-filled evening of music and camaraderie. He will introduce a roster of local LGBTQ musicians who will lead attendees in a karaoke-style LGBTQ sing-along.

SUNDAY, JUNE 12

Sandra Bernhard $45-125, 7 P.M. | THE PALLADIUM THEATER, 253 5TH AVE. N., ST. PETERSBURG Sandra Bernhard performs live. The “Roseanne” and “Pose” star will bring her unique and raucous mix of cabaret, stand-up, rock-n-roll and social commentary to the St. Petersburg, something she previewed with Watermark ahead of the show. Read our interview at WatermarkOnline.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 17

Stonewall Reception $75, 6-9 P.M. | THE JAMES MUSEUM, 150 CENTRAL AVE., ST. PETERSBURG An original Stonewall demonstrator, contemporary activists and more gather to honor the brave individuals who fought for LGBTQ civil rights. Share light bites and drinks while enjoying special entertainment with St Pete Pride sponsors, community partners and local officials to celebrate Pride.

Get Nude: Drippin’ in Melanin $10, 7-11 P.M. | RED MESA CANTINA, 128 3RD ST. S., ST. PETERSBURG St Pete Pride and the Tampa Bay Black Lesbians collaborate to center queer and trans people of color. All are welcome and invited to dance the night away while meeting, mingling and celebrating the beautiful Black and brown ladies of Tampa Bay. Dress to impress in nudes and earth tones.

SATURDAY, JUNE 18

LGBTQ+ Youth & Family Day FREE, 10 A.M.-3 P.M. | N. AND S. STRAUB PARKS, DOWNTOWN ST. PETERSBURG Thousands of LGBTQ youth, queer families and allies converge for this family-focused and youth-oriented LGBTQ Pride event. Guests will enjoy activities, vendors and main stage performances while celebrating St. Petersburg’s diverse and open-minded community.

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| uu | Looking Back,

Marching Forward FROM PG.31

Freisberg told Watermark in March. “Turnout was incredible.

The vibe was incredible. So there are things that we’re going to continue to layer in this year.”

This year’s celebration officially began with the flag raising, led for the first time by St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch.

The longtime LGBTQ ally reflected on the organization’s citywide impact and more.

“Let’s take a moment to remember how far we’ve come in this city from St Petersburg’s first Pride parade and celebration in 2003,” Welch shared. “In those 20 years St. Petersburg has created and implemented meaningful change and progress for all who identify as LGBTQ+.

“Today we are a city proud of our diversity, focused on inclusivity and intentional in our embrace of equity. This flag represents who we are, all of us,” he continued. “When we say we are St. Pete, it is a confirmation of our core principle of inclusion.

We are a city where there’s a place for everyone, where every person is valued and every voice is heard. In St Petersburg, we are committed to equality for all. Full stop.”

St Pete Pride’s founders remember a time when that wasn’t the case, noting that the city was very different when they came together for their first event. As St Pete Pride marks 20 years, we examine the celebration’s origins, its June 2022 outing and the nonprofit’s future.

LOOKING BACK

The founding of St Pete Pride followed the controversial collapse of Tampa Bay PrideFest, the area’s primary LGBTQ celebration at the time. The Tampa-centric gathering was last held in 2002 and included no free festivities.

“The July 4 weekend event was roundly criticized for missing the Pride mark by a country mile,” Watermark reported in 2003.

“Everything cost money to get in, there was an unusual dependence on porn actors for entertainment and there was no parade.

“Across the bay, movers and shakers in resurgent St. Petersburg speculated that a modest community-based

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

celebration in the increasingly gay Grand Central District might resonate with area gays and lesbians,” the report continued.

“The more they talked, the more people became enthused and began to offer their own ideas.”

That group included Tampa Bay activist and entrepreneur Brian Longstreth, who would become St Pete Pride’s founding co-chair. “Right from the start, everyone seemed to be on the same wavelength,” he told Watermark.

“The circuit parties and porn stars are all well and good, but for most of us that doesn’t represent Pride,” he continued. “We felt that St. Petersburg had taken some big strides in embracing the LGBTQ community and we wanted to showcase our city.”

More than 100 people attended St Pete Pride’s first organizational meeting, held in the Grand Central District in Feb. 2003. Dozens of sponsors donated $25,000 in cash and $50,000 in services, including Watermark, leading to a robust celebration by June. It was held during the last weekend of Pride Month in honor of the Stonewall Riots.

“There was ongoing disappointment in the direction of Tampa Bay PrideFest,” Longstreth recalls. “It was such great timing, I think – so many people felt the same and wanted to do something different. We wanted to go back to the roots of what a Pride celebration meant.”

Longstreth was joined by Ellen Levett as co-chair, who had previously worked with New York’s Christopher Street Liberation Day Committee in the early 80s. She moved to St. Petersburg in 1992 and was eager to see the city celebrate its LGBTQ residents.

“My friend Robin Hankins told me they were forming a Pride committee here, so I went to an organizing meeting,” she explains. “I wanted to see a Pride celebration in St. Pete. Initially I was not on the board, but within a few months Robin – who was the co-chair – became ill and unable to continue. I was asked to replace her and I accepted.

“It was amazing to watch it all come together,” Levett continues.

“Brian had brought together a diverse group who each had a pertinent talent to contribute.”

Pride’s founding board of directors was rounded out by Rod Houston, who served as secretary

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and Gerry Broughman, who served as treasurer. Additional board members and committee chairs included Paul Anater, Ed Cassidy, Claudia Cole, Robert Danielson, Robin Hankins, Carl Kuttler, Chris Lovett, George Shaunessy, Greg Stemm and Robert Victor.

While Cole, Hankins, Kuttler and Shaunessy have passed away, their legacy lives on through St Pete Pride. Stemm, who was recruited as the celebration’s first parade chair because he had experience producing parades, credits the founders’ dedication to the community they sought to serve.

“I guess you could say all of us were idealists who recognized we had a great responsibility to get it right from the start,” he explains. “We were very aware and cautious because we knew everything we did would set precedent.

“We grew to be very close as well,” Stemm adds. “I believe it was the very first time anyone referred to any of us as ‘gay activists!’”

Just four months after their initial meeting, Parasols on Parade – which would eventually evolve into its full-scale parade – began at 11 a.m. There were no floats, but nearly 1,000 marchers representing more than 60 bars, businesses and organizations made their way through the city’s Historic Kenwood neighborhood into the Grand Central District.

Up to 800 marchers also carried a massive Pride flag across two blocks, cheered and joined by onlookers. More than 100 vendors participated in the subsequent street festival.

Organizers were in awe.

“Carl Kuttler, the first street festival chair and I were literally picking each other up and twirling each other around in the middle of Central Avenue with the unbelievable 10,000 people around us,” Stemm recalls. “Just picture two, 250-pound queens twirling around in tears with a helicopter taking pictures of all of us. I just remember us both shouting, ‘I can’t believe we did this!’”

Broughman says that while he didn’t have many day-of responsibilities as St Pete Pride’s treasurer, he still felt the crowd’s impact.

“I was so amazed at all of the news trucks,” he remembers. “It felt like there were people on every corner, interviewing what

I would call us ‘normal people’ who were just there for Pride.

I remember thinking, ‘This is why I love St. Pete. You don’t have to hide or be ashamed and this is a great way for the straight world to meet us.’”

Broughman says mainstream news coverage that evening primarily painted a different picture, however, focusing in large part on a single protestor and reinforcing stereotypes.

“This was [former St. Petersburg Mayor Rick] Baker’s era,” he notes. “There was a conservative side of things.”

Baker barely acknowledged St Pete Pride, disparaging it when he did. Instead, then-Councilmember Rick Kriseman – the longtime LGBTQ ally who would serve two terms as St. Petersburg mayor beginning in 2014 – recognized and celebrated the inaugural event alongside the community.

“There will always be a place for him in my heart for that,” Levett says.

The city’s proclamation is one of the things Houston remembers most fondly. Pride’s former secretary says that “having the city council declare June as LGBT Month despite the mayor’s objections was a big win for us.

I felt very proud.”

Other moments from the first celebration stick out to Longstreth, like the young family who brought their children to the processional to teach them about diversity. Two coming out stories also resonate.

“There was an 80-year-old widower, who said he finally felt comfortable coming out after his wife had passed,” Longstreth says, “and a teenager who said he came out to work by asking or an extra day off for Pride. I felt proud about what we accomplished and the diversity of who we reached.”

While the organization has undergone significant changes in the last two decades, from its leadership to the location of its parade, St Pete Pride’s mission to reach the community it serves is stronger than ever. Longstreth says he’s thankful the organization has reached 20 years.

“It’s been great to see it grow so fast, even with some of the usual growing pains and struggles,” he says. “I’m humbled and glad to have played a part and pleased to see many in new leadership positions and the diversity of the board this year.”

MARCHING FORWARD To prepare for St Pete Pride’s 20th year – and to position the organization for its next 20 – the nonprofit welcomed almost entirely new leadership in 2022.

Serving not only as president but as acting executive director, Freisberg led the search for a full-time executive director and current board as her tenure began.

St Pete Pride’s last executive director vacated the position in late 2019. The position’s updated description noted they were seeking “a passionate, strategic and collaborative executive director to help steward the organization through its 20th year and beyond.”

“As St Pete Pride sets its sights on leading the transformation of St. Petersburg into one of the nation’s premiere LGBTQ+ destinations, the ED will be responsible for implementing organizational structure and maintaining the financial and operational well-being of the organization,” it also read.

The executive director oversees St Pete Pride’s operations, fundraising, marketing, communications, community partnerships and event strategies are being effectively implemented.

Applicants were required to have extensive experience in progressive leadership and for-profit budget management, as well as an “authentic passion for celebrating diversity, equity and inclusion.”

“For our executive director who’s steering the ship, it was really essential that we find someone who was polished but approachable and who was a member of the queer community or had a personal experience that related to the queer community, so it would be more than just a job,” Freisberg explains.

They found that in openly LGBTQ activist Nicole Berman.

She relocated from Washington in January, having most recently served as the executive director for a domestic violence and sexual assault services agency.

“Tiffany shared that St Pete Pride wanted to be intentionally more inclusive and accessible and to invest in the St. Pete community year around,” Berman told Watermark afterwards. “So it wasn’t just about those 300,000 people you’re working to bring in,

but really what we do for the core community throughout the year.

“I love the party, but the idea of being a cultural institution that benefits the community year-round really spoke to me,” she continued. “St Pete Pride isn’t about the board or executive director. It’s not their Pride or my Pride. It’s St. Pete’s Pride.”

That’s something every St Pete Pride volunteer agrees with.

The organization’s executive committee also includes Treasurer Stanley Solomons, who has served in various capacities since 2008 and Secretary Molly Robison, who officially joined in 2020.

Fernando Chonqui, Carey Mears, Gabe Alves-Tomko, Clifford Hobbs, Darius Lightsey, Stephanie Morge and Byron Green round out the board. They each joined this or last year, eager to guide the organization through its landmark celebration.

“This is the most enthusiastic group of people on the board that I’ve seen in quite a while,” Solomons says as the board’s longest-serving member. “None of us are doing this for a party, although we do enjoy a party. The only thing you should get out of Pride for yourself is the joy of seeing it happen, and we’re doing it for the right reasons.”

Miss St Pete Pride 2022 officially kicked off Pride’s 20th season May 22. Ten contestants sought the title, a tradition that first began in 2009, but Tampa Bay entertainer Delores T. Van-Cartier took the crown.

“It was a stunning evening and the perfect start to our 20th anniversary Pride season,” St Pete Pride shared afterwards.

“We are deeply grateful to all the contestants, judges and volunteers for helping create such a special evening.”

Van-Cartier subsequently performed in her official capacity June 1 during this year’s Kick-Off-Party. Supporters gathered at the start of Pride Month following the flag raising, an annual tradition.

She says she’s excited to represent St Pete Pride through its 20th year because “the alliance is second to none. I’m so happy to be a part of that and see the history behind it. There’s so much love.”

The entertainer, who has performed for 27 years and currently calls Hamburger Mary’s Clearwater her home base, sees

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

EVENTS CONTINUED SUNDAY, JUNE 19

Shades of Pride: An LGBTQ+ Juneteenth Celebration FREE-$50, 2-9 P.M. | THE FACTORY, 2622 FAIRFIELD AVE S., ST. PETERSBURG Celebrate Juneteenth with this event showcasing the art and culture of Black and brown members of the LGBTQ community. “The Legends Panel” will examine the intersection of Pride and Juneteenth and the evening features celebrity guest TS Madison. Read Watermark’s interview on p. 39.

FRIDAY, JUNE 24

Friday Night Concert $10-500, 4-10 P.M. | SPA BEACH – ST. PETE PIER WATERFRONT, DOWNTOWN ST. PETERSBURG St Pete Pride welcomes headliner Todrick Hall and special guest Pussy Riot.

The fan favorite artists will perform their hit songs as attendees also enjoy vendors, food trucks and interactive activities. General admission is lawn seating and VIP tickets include additional amenities.

SATURDAY, JUNE 25

St Pete Pride Parade FREE, 2-10 P.M. | ST. PETE WATERFRONT, DOWNTOWN ST. PETERSBURG St Pete Pride’s signature event returns, promising to be its largest yet. The parade festival begins at 2 p.m. on both sides of the route, which runs from Vinoy Park to Albert Whittard Park along Bayshore Dr. The parade begins at 4 p.m. led with the TransPride March and entertainment will feature pre- and post-parade with local talent and Shaed. Festivities culminate with fireworks.

SUNDAY, JUNE 26

Pride in Grand Central Street Carnival FREE, 11 A.M.-5 P.M. | THE GRAND CENTRAL DISTRICT St Pete Pride’s street festival returns to the Grand Central District, the celebration’s birthplace, for a new carnival experience. Attendees will enjoy block after block of entertainment, vendors, community partners, interactive carnival games and more with special performances by community partners.

TUESDAY, JUNE 28

Transtastic $10, 6-9 P.M. | MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, 255 BEACH DR. NE, ST. PETERSBURG Tampa Bay’s trans and nonbinary community takes center stage. This event showcases a variety of talent, artistry, poetry and more as guests meander through indoor and outdoor spaces with appetizers and a cash bar.

THURSDAY, JUNE 30

Pride Month Wrap Party FREE, 7-10 P.M. | POSTCARD INN, 6300 GULF BLVD., ST. PETE BEACH Close out Pride Month in true St. Petersburg style, with a beautiful sunset.

St Pete Pride celebrates the hardworking volunteers who make Pride happen as attendees enjoy drinks and great music, with a special performance from Miss St Pete Pride 2022 and more.

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drag as a healing outlet. “There are so many bad things going on in the world and it’s nice sometimes to just break away from it all,” Van-Cartier says.

“Let’s all have fun and be safe this year, remembering what Pride is really all about.”

St Pete Pride’s 20-year celebration continues throughout June, with an expected 300,000 attendees. Organizers have worked diligently to introduce new events as well as usher in the return of old favorites.

“Last year we were in the midst of COVID but this year is different,” Freisberg says. “We can make it the best and biggest celebration possible for our 20th anniversary and we’re in a unique position to do so.”

Like last year, St Pete Pride will entertain the masses with events each weekend through the end of June. Celebrity guests Carson Kressley and Sandra Bernhard will respectively host new musical and comedic events June 11-12 while the Stonewall Reception and a family-focused event will return June 17 and 18.

“There’s an appetite for these types of events,” Freisberg explains. “Family Day was very popular last year, so we wanted to make sure it returned, especially given that Florida has become the national epicenter for LGBTQ backlash at the moment.”

On July 1, the state’s “Parental Rights in Education” law will go into effect, widely known as Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay or Trans” bill. Backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the measure has drawn international disdain and will limit classroom discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in schools.

New events intentionally centering BIPOC members of the community will also be held June 17-19. The first will be held in partnership with the Tampa Bay Black Lesbians Group and the second will welcome celebrity guest TS Madison in celebration of Juneteenth, planned by board members Darius Lightsey and Clifford Hobbs. Read our interview with the hostess on p. 39.

The celebration “honors the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and is a day of celebration and reflection,” Lightsey explains. “Like Pride,

20 YEARS LATER: St Pete Pride’s current board, which includes (L-R) Fernando Chonqui, Darius Lightsey, Molly Robison, Clifford Hobbs, Carey Mears, Gabe Alves-Tomko, Stanley Solomons, Nicole Berman, Stephanie Morge, Byron Green and Tiffany Freisberg. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT Juneteenth honors freedom and love of persons.”

Madison and other performers will “embody all of those qualities,” he adds. “It will be a wonderful community event that will bring us all together in a time where we need more love and understanding than ever before.”

St Pete Pride’s signature events last held in 2019 – their Friday night concert, Saturday parade and Sunday street festival in the celebration’s birthplace – will return June 24-26.

Celebrity headliners Todrick Hall and Pussy Riot will lead festivities June 24, complemented by local performers. Freisberg says the internationally acclaimed acts will bring a renewed energy and sense of LGBTQ activism to St. Pete.

This year’s parade will once again be led by the TransPride March June 25, designed to elevate transgender members of the community. St. Petersburg Deputy Mayor Stephanie Owens and LGBTQ Liaison Jim Nixon will participate as Mayor Welch prepares to ride his motorcycle through the route in the parade.

“I am most excited to share this experience with the new administration,” Nixon says.

“This year will be the first time the Welch administration will be together for St Pete Pride and I’m looking forward to seeing them experience the joy and love that Pride brings.

“It’s a big event, but participating from the parade route is unlike anything you

have experienced before,” he continues. “It fills you with such Pride in who we are and why St. Petersburg is a leader for all cities to model.”

The parade promises to be St Pete Pride’s largest to date, highlighting 20 grand marshals from their past, present and future. Its concurrent festival will begin at 2 p.m. with step-off at 4 p.m. The processional will run from Vinoy Park to Albert Whittard Park along Bayshore Dr. in Downtown. North and South Straub parks will offer entertainment and more through 10 p.m.

In a first in recent years, it will also welcome parade participants who entered at no cost, a scholarship borne from The People’s Council, Pride’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion committee. The initiative exists to hold the nonprofit accountable to the entire community it was designed to serve and is led by India Torrez and Rocky Butler.

Butler is the CEO of 9 Colors Initiative, Inc., a local organization the focuses on amplifying marginalized voices within the LGBTQ community.

“I was presented the new opportunity to work with St Pete Pride under new leadership in hopes to start working toward righting the wrongs of past leaders and to help rebuild the bridge between the minority communities,” he explains.

“Alongside India we began The People’s Council to help form an

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

initiative to make St Pete Pride more inclusive and diverse.

“We felt the Pride parade scholarship was necessary not as a charity to the applicants but to lay the first brick for the bridge we intend to rebuild,” he continues. “To start to gain trust for this community that we felt was not represented in the past in the Pride parade.”

“That was just one of their great suggestions,” Berman adds.

This year’s parade will feature more than 50 floats and around 150 groups will participate.

Pride will subsequently return to where it all began on June 26.

The Pride in Grand Central Street Carnival will include vendors, food trucks, an open container zone and street performances highlighted by Cocktail’s Main Stage. The LGBTQ hotspot will welcome performers CeCe Peniston, Crystal Waters and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” alum Rosé.

“This is the 20th anniversary of St Pete Pride in Grand Central and it will be bigger than ever,” GCD promises. In a first, nine full blocks of Central Ave. will close from 22nd to 31st St. from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

“I believe that GCD needs to promote and sell the whole District as a unique and fun consumer experience destination,” GCD Association Executive Director David Foote says. “Then the businesses as a whole are successful by being a part of District. St Pete Pride plays a big role in helping us make GCD a district-wide experience.

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“We don’t have a beach or a pier. So it’s vital to partner with event organizations and neighborhoods to enhance our eclectic, quirky, diverse, inclusive and fun image,” he continues.

“Here’s to 20 more.”

“The theme for our 20th anniversary is really honoring and showing gratitude for how we got here,” Berman says. “The Grand Central District can’t be left out of that. We’re really excited to partner with them and have an event back where it all started.”

While the district was also the original site of the St Pete Pride parade, leaders from the organization, GCD and city agree its return would be a logistical impossibility. They cite the growth of the parade and the district itself.

“There has been a lot of contentious debate about St Pete Pride’s parade moving downtown,” LGBTQ Liaison Nixon says. “I have seen renewed collaboration between St Pete Pride and the Grand Central District, and the partnership created for this year’s street carnival is a product of that. This, the 20th anniversary, is a perfect time to put that divided history behind us and celebrate all over the city and all month long.”

St Pete Pride’s 20-year celebration will close with two final events. Transtastic, which celebrates Tampa Bay’s transgender and nonbinary community will return to the Museum of Fine Arts June 28 and a wrap-up party will close out Pride Month June 30, celebrating the organization’s volunteers.

“We’re anticipating our largest event yet with it being our 20th and our first parade since COVID,” Berman says. “We hope it’s going to be fun and entertaining, but we also want to keep the spirit alive as to why Pride was created.

“We belong here. We’re not going anywhere. We’re not going to sit quietly while our rights are being threatened,” she concludes.

“We’re going to celebrate and be proud of who we are, where we came from and where we’re going.”

As for Longstreth, his message for Pridegoers as St Pete Pride turns 20 is simple.

“Don’t forget the origins,” he says. “This isn’t just a parade and a party. Get involved … you can make a difference.”

St Pete Pride will mark 20 years through the end of June. For more information, visit StPetePride.org.

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Ts Madison talks acting, activism and appearing at St Pete Pride

T

Jeremy Williams

S MADISON CAN DO IT

all. She is a singer, actor and author, she hosts a talk show, stars in reality television and is a vocal LGBTQ activist. She also breaks down barriers. Madison became the first Black trans woman to star in and produce her own reality show with “The Ts Madison Experience.”

Madison got her first taste of fame in 2013 when she went viral with a Vine titled “New Weave 22 Inches.”

“I had no idea that those six seconds were going to change the trajectory of the way my whole life was going to go,” Madison said in a 2021 interview with the New York Times.

From that six-second video, Madison signed with Pink Money Records in 2014 and released her first album, “The New Supreme,” and collaborated with the likes of RuPaul and Todrick Hall.

Madison penned

her memoir “A Light Through the Shade: An Autobiography of a Queen” the following year and went on to appear in the film “Zola.”

Now, Madison is the star of her own reality show, “The Ts Madison Experience”; hosts her own talk

Living Legend CONTINUED ON PG. 39 | uu |

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

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show, “Turnt Out With TS Madison”; and will appear in the Billy Eichner comedy “Bros,” scheduled for release this fall.

This month, the Florida native returns to the Sunshine State for St Pete Pride’s 20th celebration with “Shades of Pride: An LGBTQ+ Juneteenth Celebration with Ts Madison.”

“Shades of Pride” will “celebrate the history of Juneteenth while showcasing the Art and Qulture of our Black and Brown LGBTQ+ siblings. Come join us to learn more about the deep impact of Black and Brown qulture on the LGBTQ+ community as a whole and its deep roots in the evolution of Pride.”

Madison will host the event from The Factory in St. Petersburg on June 19 starting at 2 p.m.

Watermark spoke with Madison ahead of her St Pete Pride visit to talk about what audiences can expect from the event as well as what she has been up to this past year.

WATERMARK: YOU’RE A REALITY TV STAR, AN ACTRESS, AN ACTIVIST, A MUSICIAN, I MEAN THE LIST GOES ON AND ON. WHAT ROLE DO YOU THINK COMES MOST NATURALLY TO YOU, AND WHICH ONE DO YOU THINK IS MOST CHALLENGING FOR YOU?

TS MADISON: What comes to me naturally is, now don’t laugh, but what comes to me naturally what I found out is activism.

Because even when I’m speaking out on things that bother me and that are concerns that I have about things in my community as a person of color and a trans woman, for some reason it has a reach that sometimes I don’t even expect.

Like, I could go live and do a video talking about an incident, or just something that is just so minute, or something about relationships, something about love, or something about how we’re treated as LGBT people in general and it will trend. So I say maybe that’s my natural thing.

What’s challenging for me is when I have to become an actress because I’m so naturally myself. For me to embody another person, that becomes challenging to me because I have to absorb who this character is, I have to

Mdison will appear this year on small and silver screens. via sT PETE PRIDE

IN CELEBRATION: TS Madison will lead “Shades of Pride” for St Pete Pride’s 20-year celebration this month. PHOTO COURTESY ST PETE PRIDE find similarities in this character to myself, and, you know, I have to embody that. The writer that has been writing these roles for me has been writing around my character, so she’s around my personality, so it can kind of work naturally for me, but you know I have had challenges on auditions where I was like ‘oh god, this is going to be very challenging for me’ because I’m not this person.

SPEAKING OF ACTING, THEY JUST DROPPED THE TRAILER FOR “BROS” WHICH YOU’RE IN. IT LOOKS ABSOLUTELY HYSTERICAL AND LIKE IT’S GOING TO BE A HUGE HIT. HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH THAT PROJECT?

This happened two, maybe three years ago, I got an email from a casting agent that the directors and producers of the show are interested and here’s the thing, I didn’t know who they were at first. And they said they were interested in giving me an opportunity to audition for a character in an upcoming film. And I was like ‘okay cool.’

I auditioned; I was actually on the road doing a gig coming from California.

So after a while, you know, that’s when COVID came through and shut everything down so the communication was very

minimal, this is funny—and I never get a chance to say this stuff—the producers were fans of me from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and “Lemme Pick You Up” and all the things I do over at World of Wonder, but I didn’t know it was Billy Eichner. I didn’t know until I actually had to attend a screen test, because they gave me the sides of every character that’s in the board room because we’re all the Board of Directors, so every character that’s in the Board Room I read for.

I read for the lesbian character, I read for the nonbinary character, I read for every character that’s in the room. They finally gave me the role of Angela. It was crazy, because then they were like it’s Universal Pictures and it’s a Judd Apatow film, it’s Nicholas Stoller, Billy Eichner, all these legendary actors and iconic people are in the film. This is a movie about love and every person that’s acting in the movie is a gay person, or a trans person, or nonbinary, it’s all under the spectrum and I was lie ‘whoa.’ We’re playing straight roles, gay roles, they gave our jobs back to us. And that was amazing.

YOU’RE ALSO DOING A SHOW, “TURNT OUT WITH TS MADISON,” ON FOX SOUL TV. WHAT CAN YOU SHARE ABOUT THAT PROJECT?

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

“Turnt Out With TS Madison” on Fox Soul, that’s my talk show.

I’m able to control the narrative on that show and I communicate with everybody, all the guests.

What’s amazing on that show is I had the opportunity to be a part of mending a 13-year feud between Lee Daniels and Mo’Nique. That was one of the most powerful things that I felt that came from my show because, you know, it was a huge cultural beef. It was amazing.

Also, I have a show coming on WOW Presents Plus, that’s the World of Wonders streaming service, it’s called “Bring Back My Girls,” and I do all the reunions for “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” there’s seasons from Canada, from Holland, I did the season 12 reunion, and I don’t know if you are familiar with “RuPaul’s Drag Race” but season 12 they only had a Zoom reunion on TV. So I was able to do their big reunion right on stage there at DragCon and it was so amazing, I can’t wait for you guys to see it.

HAVE YOU ALWAYS HAD ASPIRATIONS TO BE A TALK SHOW HOST?

Yes, honestly. I didn’t know what I wanted to be at one point because I didn’t know really what it was, but once I understood what shaped and molded me, I was like ‘okay this is really what I want to be.’

I learned a lot about the world through talk shows. Because my mother was a Christian and there were lots of things that she shielded us from and kept us from being involved in — you

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know I didn’t get the chance to run the streets until later on if you want to put it that way. So I learned about the world through talk: Phil Donahue, Geraldo Rivera, Sally Jessy Raphael, Jenny Jones, oh my god, let’s talk about Jenny Jones! What really set me with a new understanding of not homophobia, but fragile masculinity was that episode of Jenny Jones where she brought out secret crushes and the crush was a neighbor, it was a gay man, and he had a crush on his neighbor. And I remember saying ‘I think he thinks it’s a woman’ I remember those words because after that episode aired, the neighbor killed him. And it was then when I was like ‘wow, the world is crazy, he only had a crush’ he didn’t say that he had him or it wasn’t like they had a sexual time, he just had a crush on him. This man was so embarrassed that the world was going to perceive him as homosexual that he risked his freedom and risked the rest of his life over a crush.

I REMEMBER THAT, AND THAT CASE REALLY HIT HOME THE RESPONSIBILITY THAT TALK SHOWS AND TALK SHOW HOSTS HAVE TO THEIR AUDIENCES AND TO THE GUESTS THEY BRING ON THAT IT’S NOT JUST ALL ENTERTAINMENT, YOU’RE INTERACTING WITH REAL LIVES.

Yes. That show stuck with me so hard. And also Jerry Springer was talking about trans people, I saw so many other trans women in the world. Talk shows are what shapes culture. And I wanted to be a part of shaping, influencing and moving culture.

SPEAKING OF SHAPING CULTURE, HERE IN FLORIDA THERE’S A BIG CULTURE WAR GOING ON. YOU’RE ORIGINALLY FROM FLORIDA, AND WE’VE GOT THE “DON’T SAY GAY OR TRANS” BILL, NOW LAW, THAT MADE NATIONAL HEADLINES. DO YOU WANT TO SHARE A COUPLE OF THOUGHTS ON, I ASSUME YOU’VE BEEN FOLLOWING ALONG WITH IT SINCE ITS NATIONAL NEWS AND YOU’RE FROM FLORIDA, BUT DO YOU WANT TO SHARE A COUPLE OF YOUR THOUGHTS ON WHAT YOU’RE WATCHING HAPPEN OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF MONTHS AS THIS WAS COMING INTO LAW?

I was really blown away. I just wonder why are we on a witch hunt for LGBT people? Why

CONTINUED ON PG. 43 | uu |

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queer and everything and damn proud of it honey.

WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO TAKE AWAY FROM THIS EXPERIENCE, FROM YOUR SHOW?

Well, I don’t know to be honest with you.

Every time someone comes in contact with me, they say they have a different takeaway.

Like some people say that I’ve changed their lives over the course of just watching me online and watching me maneuver through the obstacles that I’ve had in my life, and the public scandals that have been on in my life. But what I really want people to take away honey is we’re here, we’re queer, bitch get used to it.

YOU MENTIONED HOW, AS A COUNTRY AND IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA PARTICULARLY, THERE IS RACISM AND HOMOPHOBIA AND TRANSPHOBIA. UNFORTUNATELY SOME OF THAT RACISM AND TRANSPHOBIA COMES FROM WITHIN OUR OWN COMMUNITY. HOW CAN MEMBERS OF THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY HELP TO ELEVATE MARGINALIZED VOICES WITHIN IT WHEN WE’RE SEEING THAT KIND OF TRANSPHOBIA AND RACISM WITHIN OUR OWN PEOPLE?

BREAKING GROUND: Madison is a trailblazing LGBTQ artist. PHOTO COURTESY ST PETE PRIDE

| uu | Living Legend FROM PG.41

are we on a witch hunt for trans people?

What is the obsession, why can we not just co-exist with everybody? Why do we have to have a law, or why do laws have to come into play, like why do we have to be outed?

Why does this stuff have to go on?

So I was confused at first, like it says “don’t say gay” but what does it really mean? In the words of Cardi B, “what is the reason?” It’s weird! It’s crazy, and this is why its so important for us as gay people, trans people and everybody that falls under that umbrella, to get out and make sure that we put people in office that represent us. And that we know, when we’re voting for these people that we don’t need to just run out to the polls during the presidential elections. We need to do it in the local elections, people need to talk to city councilmen, the mayor, voting is important for us and we need to be resilient in doing that.

WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HAVE FOR LGBTQ AMERICANS, PARTICULARLY THE YOUTHS WATCHING THIS HAPPEN AND MAY BE STILL CLOSETED OR IN HOMES WHERE THEY FEEL LIKE THE ONLY PLACE THAT THEY HAD TO TURN WAS A TEACHER OR SOMEONE AT SCHOOL?

Well, this is a time that we need to really set petty differences aside. And we really need to come together as a family. I know its easier said than done, but this is the time that we really need each other. And

we need to show up for each other and be there for each other. We need to be the strength in our communities. We need to be unified because if we can’t turn to our family and we can’t turn to our teachers, we need to be able to turn within. And so we need to be stronger. And the youth are the only people that are going to be able to change the future. So we need to start with letting the youth know that whatever petty differences that we have, they need to lay down and we need to come together as a family and be strong.

What needs to happen is we need to not be gatekeepers.

The gay men need to stand behind their trans sisters and understand that just because you might be passable as a gay man in straight culture, your sisters might be passable or whatever, you can get bashed too, you can get bashed too by straight people. So, you have to uphold and stand behind your people. And we don’t need to fit in, we need to stand out. We need to stand up and stand out for each other. That pisses me off, when I think about how the gay men are like ‘oh well that doesn’t have anything to do with me, that’s a trans issue.’ No, that has everything to do with you. Everything to do with you.

And you say ‘oh well, you know, that stuff is for white people.’ Girl! It’s for all gays! Or ‘that’s for Black people’ you know, we’re gays. When it’s time for us to be rounded up, we’re all going to go.

“Shades of Pride: An LGBTQ+ Juneteenth Celebration with TS Madison” will be held with no cost on June 19 from 2-9 p.m. at The Factory in St. Petersburg, located at 2622 Fairfield Ave. S. Learn more at StPetePride.org.

What we have to understand is if we ain’t got us, who else does? If we don’t have us, who else has got us? And it’s like I said earlier, we’ve got to set aside petty differences and know that there is strength in numbers and we’re stronger together.

6th Annual Pulse Remembrance

YOU’RE COMING TO TAMPA BAY FOR ST PETE PRIDE, NOT ONLY TO CELEBRATE PRIDE, BUT TO HONOR JUNETEENTH WITH YOUR EVENT “SHADES OF PRIDE.” TALK TO ME A LITTLE ABOUT THIS EVENT AND WHY IT WAS IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO HAVE THIS EVENT IN ST. PETE.

I can’t believe it’s 20 years! I remember 20 years ago, I was 24. Oh my god, it’s definitely important for me to be there to celebrate because I’m from Florida honey, so I must come back and celebrate Pride in Florida, and because its Juneteenth and this is something people of color need to celebrate. It’s two freedoms — the freedom of us being LGBT and the time that we found out we were free from slavery. And so it’s double important.

There is a lot of racism in Florida. A lot of racism, and a lot of homophobia. This is important because we need to walk through those streets, we need to march through those streets, we need to parade, dance and let them know honey that we’re Black and proud; we’re Black, gay, trans,

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

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June 12, 2022 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM Downtown Orlando Lake Eola Amphitheater 195 N Rosalind Ave Orlando, FL 32801

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www.NationsLandscaping.com Tracing the journey of a wealthy white family, a group of immigrants, and the people of Harlem, this musical production, presented on Juneteenth weekend, challenges us to stop and think about what it means to achieve the American dream and to be a friend and neighbor to all.

June 18 - 19 CFCArts.com/Watermark

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The Pugh Theatre AT THE DR. PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

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THEATER

Desired Character Indigo Leigh plays the iconic Blanche DuBois in ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’

(ABOVE)

CLASSIC THEATER:

Steve Angulo (L) as Stanley with Indigo Leigh as Blanche.

PHOTO BY ASHLEIGH ANN GARDNER

W

Charlotte Skipper

HEN INDIGO LEIGH SAT IN HER

high school AP Literature class in rural Wisconsin reading “A Streetcar Named Desire” for the first time, she immediately knew the story would hold a special place in her heart.

Now, several years after sitting in that high school classroom, Leigh will be bringing the principal role of Blanche DuBois to life for a 75th anniversary, reimagined performance of Tennessee Williams’ iconic classic “A Streetcar Named Desire,” directed

by Jeremy Seghers, at the Timucua Arts Foundation June 23-26.

“It’s been a different experience for me because of the scale of the work.

It’s an interesting challenge, but one I’m incredibly excited for,” Leigh says.

“A Streetcar Named Desire” follows Blanche, a former socialite that has been left no choice but to move to the gritty French Quarter of New Orleans with her estranged sister Stella and brutal brother-in-law, Stanley.

Blanche quickly gets a taste of reality

after leaving her once-prosperous life to a stuffy apartment in a rough part of town.

Over the course of its 75-year history, Williams’ play has been revived time and time again, both in film and on the stage. Some of Hollywood’s most legendary actresses have taken on the complex role of Blanche, including Vivien Leigh, Jessica Lange, Cate Blanchett, Ann-Margaret and Jessica Tandy, who originated the role on Broadway.

Indigo Leigh, who is a transgender woman, will have that part of her life included into Blanche’s. Leigh says despite what some might see as a large change to the character, the story remains true to its

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

underlying meanings and remains fairly unchanged. “(Being trans) is a small aspect of her life that does play a part into our storytelling, but I think what it mostly does is it paints more of a picture of what’s already there,” Leigh says.

“We aren’t adding bits, and we aren’t changing dialogue, but what we are doing is taking this script and seeing what happens when you put it through a non-cisgendered lens.”

Williams was a gay man, and frequented queer social circles within New York City and New Orleans.

He often included references to this aspect of his life in his work, along with his struggles with substance abuse and mental illness. As a gay man in the 1930s, his less-than-glamourous struggles in life are often a main focus in his plays.

Leigh says she believes Williams wrote “A Streetcar Named Desire” with the intention of creating relatable characters for the audience, regardless if an audience member is gay or straight, transgender or cisgender, black or white. She also notes that at the time the play takes place, New Orleans was not known for being the tourist destination it is today. Instead, it was often frequented by the types of people who were considered outcasts of society. “(Williams) was representing the people he found in his life. The drag queens, and the trans women, and the other queer people in his life representing them through what I like to call ‘big ladies’ like Blanche,” Leigh says. “They’re multifaceted people representing and telling the stories of the trans and queer people he knew in his life.”

Leigh says these multifaceted characters, such as Blanche, are not necessarily the heroine of the story. Instead, these characters bring their true selves to the table, representing various inner struggles and traumatic experiences with other characters. In turn, it brings out the best (and sometimes worst) in their counterparts.

“It’s so interesting to me because in the end of it, it’s a human story that regardless of gender, these characters

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were written and queer-coded so these people could see themselves on stage and in media where they couldn’t visually see themselves,” Leigh says. “But they were afforded the opportunity to feel like their story was being told, and their feelings of being held on the outskirts of society because of their queerness is related to characters like Blanche.”

This performance of “Streetcar,” playing in the intimate theatre at Timucua Arts Foundation, is a new experience for Leigh due to the close quarters of the building. With its intimacy, she says the cast can play into the emotion of the characters and give the audience a more truthful experience that they wouldn’t get in a large theater or movie set.

“We are afforded a luxury that any little thing will be seen,” she says. “If you shift your eyes, someone will see it. Because a lot of the action happens within different places of the theater, action is happening all around, so depending on where you sit, you might go away with a different perspective of what a moment in the show meant.”

The Timucua Arts Foundation location also provides a more immersive and interactive facet to this version of the play, Leigh advises, as the actors will be using practically every inch of the building during the performance, from the staircase to the bathrooms.

“Doing this site-specific immersive theater was so thrilling to me because where I came from, that was not something I did,” Leigh acknowledges.

“Getting to actually be a part of a production that is so much more than just a proscenium stage, and so much more than a traditional sort of setting, has inspired me so much.”

Leigh says while it is turning 75 this play is a timeless piece of art that can be told countless different ways but the only thing she can hope for this production is that each member of the audience will leave feeling something, whether it be heartbreak, anger, betrayal or anything in between.

“I think so many moments have multiple meanings, and that’s how Tennessee Williams wrote them to be,” she says. “Nothing is cut and dry, and this play is far from realism.”

Leigh will be performing alongside Steve Angulo as Stanley Kowalski and Lily E. Garnett as Stella Kowalski.

Additional reporting by Jeremy Williams.

Tickets for “A Streetcar Named Desire” can be purchased through the Timucua Arts Foundation website for $12.50 per ticket. Four shows will take place between June 23-26.

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COOKING

A Perfect Meal

Tim Mulligan presents his 10 best recipes for each meal in his latest cookbook

(ABOVE)

BAKING GOODS:

Desserts are one of several categories covered in Tim Mulligan’s new cookbook.

PHOTO COURTESY MERYL MOSS MEDIA GROUP

W pre-order.

Jheff Mathis

HAT STARTED OUT AS A HOBBY

has now became a top-rated cookbook on Amazon while it was still only available for

“A Perfect 10,” a new cookbook by author, playwright and businessman Tim Mulligan, offers his 10 best recipes for each meal category: breakfast, appetizers, salads, soups, entrees, desserts and Thanksgiving.

Mulligan lives and works in Los Angeles with his husband — who he has been with for 20 years — and two children. On the weekends, they head to their house in Palm Springs where Mulligan has honed his craft by cooking for his friends and family.

Mulligan’s love of cooking has followed him since he was a child and now plays an essential part in his and his family’s lives.

“I was kind of the primary cook for our family while growing up,” Mulligan says. “That just carried over from a very young age, I’d

say like elementary school, all the way ‘til now.”

Nowadays, Mulligan spends time in the kitchen with his family, sharing his passion and creating memories with them as he did in his childhood with his mom and aunts. And his husband isn’t complaining.

Sean Murphy, Mulligan’s husband, says he has been fortunate because the only time he needs to step into the kitchen now is to clean it up.

Murphy says that Mulligan’s way of relaxing after work is going to the kitchen, grabbing different ingredients and figuring out a new and inventive way to cook them.

“It all starts to calm him down,” Murphy says.

While Mulligan enjoys gathering his family and friends together to cook for them on the weekends,

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

he also likes making his life easier during the week.

“I’m someone who likes to plan for the week ahead because I am so busy during the week. So, many of the entrees [in the book] — for example, casseroles and soups — I make those on the weekends, freeze them, pull them out and they’re ready to go at night.”

During the pandemic, Mulligan was spending more time in the kitchen and thought there might be people out there like him who wanted to cook for their family but didn’t think they had the time.

Mulligan started to gather his lifetime of recipes and was inspired to create a cookbook that highlighted his favorites.

“I’m kind of a collector of recipes,” Mulligan says. “I’ve been the one in my family who saves the recipes from aunts, neighbors, family friends and I’m the one who kind of curates all those recipes. No one else seems to do it, and because of that, people are always asking me, ‘Hey, can I get the recipe for this or that?’”

Mulligan took the leap and got to work on “A Perfect 10.” The cookbook features 70 of his favorite recipes and is available for pre-order on Amazon, with publication set for June 7. Mulligan was surprised to find out that while it was still in pre-order status, “A Perfect 10” entered at No. 2 on Amazon’s list of cookbooks and at No. 1 for cookbooks under the breakfast category.

Mulligan says when he put the book together, his thoughts were focused on helping others like him, working parents who were busy with children in school, as well as those who enjoy delicious food but also wanted recipes that are easy to prepare. Mulligan says that “A Perfect 10” has recipes for every taste, and he did not go too far to get inspiration saying he already knew what he wanted and what he did not want to include.

“I love recipes that come from the heart and family, and that’s kind of what my idea was here,” he says.

While gathering the recipes for the book, Mulligan wanted people to

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have fun with the recipes and also be sure that they understood that while he is not a classically trained chef, he knew that these recipes would be a hit because he has been mastering them for years with his family and he was also confident that they would be easy and helpful for anyone who is already leading a busy life.

“I am the farthest thing of a professional chef,” Mulligan says.

“But I have taken my share of cooking courses over the years …

I spent many years in the restaurant industry, and I’ve been cooking since I was a kid.”

And his friend, Doreen Black, can vouch for that. She lives in San Diego and has been friends with Mulligan for over 20 years.

Black says that through their two-decade friendship, she has probably tried at least half of the recipes in the book and says it is all delicious but mentioned two of her favorites: Mulligan’s funeral potatoes and his buffalo dip.

“What I like most about the food he makes is it is simple,” Black says. “It is not going to have 30 ingredients, and it is not going to be complicated.”

She says Mulligan looks forward to having friends over for the weekend because he loves to bring people together through his cooking; however, one date that comes to mind for her when she thinks of his cooking is New Year’s Eve. “It became a thing that when the holiday approaches, people ask themselves, “Oh, where is my invite?’” Black says.

With the cookbook finally hitting the market, Mulligan is looking ahead with excitement as he gets ready to hit the road to promote his book’s publication. Events will span the U.S. from Seattle, Washington to Savannah, Georgia, down to Key West, Florida. Mulligan says he will continue doing appearances and as long as people want him to show up and talk about his cooking.

While “A Perfect 10” is just now out, Mulligan’s already looking ahead to the next project. As he has collected recipes for years, he has so much more to share.

“It’s confusing and interesting and fun,” Mulligan says. “I’m already now thinking about my next cookbook.

If that’s what people want. If they are ready [to see more recipes], I’ve got plenty.”

“A Perfect 10,” by Tim Mulligan, is available to order at Amazon.com starting June 7.

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community calendar

EVENT PLANNER ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT

CENTRAL FLORIDA

CENTRAL FLORIDA

Watermark’s Third Thursday

“Jesus Christ Superstar,” June 7-12, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” Viewing Party, June 10 & 17, Southern Nights, Orlando.

407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando For Us, By Us: A Tribute to Those Surviving & Fighting for Change, June 12, Lake Eola Amphitheater, Orlando.

ContigoFund.org Central Florida Film Slam, June 12, Enzian Theater, Maitland. 407-629-1088; Enzian.org 12th Annual Orlando VA Pride Month Celebration, June 14, Lake Baldwin Medical Center, Orlando. 407-646-5500; VA.gov Laugh With Pride Comedy, June 14, Savoy, Orlando. 407-898-6766; SavoyOrlando.com The Pride Chamber Golf Outing & Business Expo, June 17, Dubsdread Golf Course and Tap Room, Orlando. 321-800-3946; ThePrideChamber.com Keep Healing Orlando, June 18, Ace Café, Orlando.

407-996-6686; Facebook.com/ ImpulseGroupOrlando 5th Annual Pride Pub Crawl, June 18, Underground Public House, Orlando.

407-841-4000; Facebook.com/ CrawlWithUs Pride in St. Cloud, June 18, City Hall East Parking Lot, St. Cloud.

321-805-6828; Facebook.com/ BozanichPhotography “Ragtime,” June 18-19, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando.

407-937-1800; CFCArts.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 16, 6-8 P.M. LGBT+ CENTER, ORLANDO Join Watermark for Third Thursday, our monthly LGBTQ networking social. The June social will be at the LGBT+ Center starting at 6 p.m. Light bites and drinks provided by Savoy Catering. First drink is on the house if you provide a business card. Raffle tickets for some amazing prizes will be on sale with proceeds benefitting The Center.

For more information, call 407-481-2243 or visit Facebook.com/WatermarkFL.

THE BOYS ARE BACK

Picnic With A Purpose SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 10 A.M. CARL T. LANGFORD PARK, ORLANDO

The Backstreet Boys will have it their way when they perform at the MIDFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa on June 21. PHOTO FROM BACKSTREETBOYS.COM

Pride Splash Party, June 10, Highland Recreation Complex, Largo. 727-587-6720; PlayLargo.com

Metro Market, June 18, Muddy Water Kava & Tea, St. Petersburg. 727-520-0720; MWKava.com

“Can’t Ban Pride: A Drag Showcase,” June 10, Punky’s Bar and Grill, St. Petersburg.

727-201-4712; PunkysBar.com

Pride @ The Village 2022, June 18, Pinellas Arts Village, Pinellas Park. 727-342-2593; Pinellas-Park.com

Happy 100th Birthday Judy!

Q Musical Celebration, June 22, The Plaza Live, Orlando. 407-228-1220; PlazaLiveOrlando.org

March For Our Lives St. Petersburg, June 11, Bayshore Dr., St. Petersburg.

MarchForOurLives.com

BirdCage at Bayboro, June 18, Bayboro Brewing, St. Petersburg. 727-767-9666; BayboroBrewing.com

After Dark Market: Pride Edition, June 11, Inclusivitea, St. Petersburg. 727-321-7212; MetroTampaBay.org

Pesky Pride 2022, June 19, Pesky Pelican Brew Pub, St. Petersburg. 727-302-9600; PeskyPelicanBrewPub.com

Blonde Ambition Glow Party, June 23, Boxi Park Lake Nona, Orlando. 407-536-9666; BoxiParkLakeNona.com

Pride in Grand Central Bingo, June 14, Punky’s Bar and Grill, St. Petersburg.

727-201-4712; PunkysBar.com

TAMPA BAY

5th Annual Pride Bowl for Kids, June 12, Ten Pin Lanes, Pasadena. 813-769-3600; BBSTampaBay.org

Backstreet Boys, June 21, MIDFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa.

813-600-1000; Facebook.com/ MIDFloridaAmp

Def Leppard/Mötley Crüe/Poison/Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, June 19, Camping World Stadium, Orlando. 407-496-6815; CampingWorldStadium.com LGBTQ+ Dodgeball Summer League, June 20, Englewood Neighborhood Center, Orlando. 407-736-1040; OutSportsLeague.com

Tears for Fears & Garbage, June 10, MIDFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa.

813-600-1000; Facebook.com/ MIDFloridaAmp “SAY GAY” Opening & Exhibit, June 10, MIZE Gallery, St. Petersburg. 727-251-8529; ChadMize.com

LGBTQ+ Youth Pride Prom, June 17, The Regent, Riverview. 813-833-7972; PFLAGRiverview.org

SARASOTA Big Gay Weekend, June 1012, Various Locations, Sarasota.

G2H2Sarasota.com Sober Social PRIDE Edition, June 18, Teas Days, Sarasota. 941-312-5192; PPSRQ.org

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

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

The Central Florida HIV Planning Council invites you to Picnic With A Purpose. Bring your family and friends for free food, music and games as you learn how you can join the Planning Council and make a difference by helping to create a quality continuum of care for all affected by HIV. For more information, go to CentralFloridaHIVPC.com.

TAMPA BAY Polk Pride in the Park SATURDAY, JUNE 18, 10 A.M.-3 P.M. MUNN PARK, LAKELAND Polk Pride’s Pride in the Park returns! This large, free festival is for the whole family and will once again take place in downtown Lakeland. The day will feature live entertainment, food trucks, vendors and more.

Official events will also be held June 11 and 15-17, including a Lakeland Youth Alliance Pride Party, Kickoff and more. Pride after Dark will follow June 18 from 9 p.m.-2 a.m. at The Parrot. Learn more at PolkPrideFL.com.

2nd Annual Queer in Color: BIPOC Film Festival FRIDAY, JUNE 17 – SUNDAY, JUNE 19 VIRTUAL AND IN-PERSON The Tampa Bay International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival’s BIPOC-focused film festival returns, covering a wide range of perspectives and experiences. The festival is designed to elevate the BIPOC LGBTQ experience, bringing quality cinema to historically underserved and underrepresented communities. Multiple films will stream through TIGLFF’s Eventive platform and include one in-person screening at Green Light Cinema in St. Petersburg. Learn more at TIGLFF.com.

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JUNE 11-18

PRIDE ON TAP POLK PRIDE 2022 BEGINS! SWAN BREWING

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PRIDE KICKOFF DRINKS DANCING AND DRAG THE PARROT

PRIDE in the PARK A CELEBRATION OF PRIDE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY MUNN PARK 201 E Main St • LKLD

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announcements

TAMPA BAY OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS St Pete Pride kicked off its 20th celebration June 1 at the Sirata Beach Resort. View photos at WatermarkOnline.com.

The Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber held its Pride in Business luncheon June 1, awarding Kailyn Bautista a $2,000 scholarship. More than 300 business people participated in the sold-out event. View photos at WatermarkOnline.com.

The Hillsborough County Clerk of Court & Comptroller held its “Love is Love” Pride Wedding Event June 2, marrying multiple same-sex couples in honor of Pride Month.

Read more at WatermarkOnline.com.

Gulfport Pride returned June 4, benefiting the LGBTQ Resource Center at the Gulfport Public Library. Read more at Facebook.com/LGBTQResourceCenter.Gulfport

CONDOLENCES Tampa Bay entertainer Star Montrese Love, the first Miss St Pete Pride and more also known as Star Hayes, died May 31.

She will be dearly missed. Read more on p. 13.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS St Pete Pride cofounder Gerry Broughman, Tampa Bay chiropractor Joshua Carreiro, Empath Partners in Care Executive Director Joy Winheim (June 9); Tampa Bay Sister of Perpetual Indulgence Daniel Lancaster, AAA Director Julio Soto, Hillsborough Community College teacher David Usrey, Tampa Bay lawyer Scott Bird, Ybor store owner Sharon Rose, Tampa Bay cowboy Roger Bell, St. Pete life-saver Richard Recupero (June 10); Tampa Bay real estate agent Ken Hodges, Tampa marketing whiz La’Trice “Lady LaLa” Sharpe, Tampa Bay leading loaner Keith Louderback, St. Pete SoyBright Candle Company co-owner Tim Huff, Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi owner Samuel Dean Ray (June 11); Tampa native bear Ryan Morris, former St. Petersburg city councilmember Darden Rice, Tampa Bay activist Lucas Aiden Wehle, Tampa Bay ally Julia Sharp, Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber president Justice Gennari (June 12); Empowering Differences entrepreneur Ashley T. Brundage, Sarasota activist Joshua Beadle, Red Mesa Cantina marketing manager Tony Pullaro, Oxford Exchange server Curtis Lynch, former St. Pete Deputy Mayor Dr. Kanika Tomalin (June 13); Tampa-based performer Lunatique, City Side Lounge first female Raven Lunatique, former TIGLFF president Chris Constantinou, Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay president Bill Kanouff, Sarasota socialite Trent Henderson (June 14); Tampa photographer Poly Costas, St Pete Q&A founder Jimmy Biascan (June 15); Bodywork Massage and Day Spa owner Roger Medrano, Town ‘n Country banker Travis Hilborne, Sarasota filmmaker Anthony Paull, St. Pete bartender Taylor Pruett (June 16); St. Teresa of Calcuta priest Fr. Victor Ray, former GaYbor Coalition board member John Gorman, St. Petersburg photographer J.J. Respondek, Tampa Bay entertainer Arabella McQueen, St Pete Pride President Tiffany Freisberg (June 17); Sherloq Solutions’ Jonah VandenBussche, Flex Traffic School owner Tito Rhodes (June 20); Former Watermark account manager Russ Martin, Tampa Bay chauffer Marty Theriot, St. Pete handyman Adam Miller, KW Realtor Jordan Conover (June 21); #IdRatherBeNaked’s Jason Lee, St. Petersburg yoga instructor Andre Sur, Tampa Bay entertainer Riquette Ramsey, Tampa Bay Elder Sister Agatha Frisky, Polk County school board member Sarah Fortney, ‘Coolest’ Tampa Bay realtor Tabi Deas (June 22).

1

2 3

1

GULFPORT PROUD: (L-R) Janessa Brooks, Paul Ray and Anna Fillaxus strike a pose at Gulfport Pride June 4. PHOTO COURTESY THE LGBTQ RESOURCE CENTER

2

ST. PETE STOP: St. Pete Police LGBTQ Liaison Maj. Markus Hughes welcomes the Special Olympics Florida LEO torch to St. Petersburg on its route to Orlando June 2. PHOTO COURTESY SPPD

3

SUNDAY FUNDAY: Adriana Sparkle wows the Sunday crowd at Cocktail June 5. PHOTO

4

5

BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

4

LOUD & PROUD: Miss St Pete Pride 2022 Delores T. Van-Cartier (L) and emcee Kori Stevens kick off St Pete Pride’s 20th year at Sirata Beach Resort June 1.

PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

5

THEY DO: Hillsborough County Clerk of Court & Comptroller Cindy Stuart (C) marries Tampa Bay couples for the “Love is Love” Pride Wedding Event June 2.

PHOTO COURTESY HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE

6

ST. PETE PROUD: St. Petersburg City Council and local leaders join St Pete Pride Executive Director Nicole Berman (3rd from L) and St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch (3rd from R) for the raising of the Pride flag at City Hall June 1.

6

PHOTO COURTESY CITY OF ST. PETE

7

TAMPA PROUD: (L-R) Florida LGBTQ Consumer Advocate Nathan Bruemmer, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and Equality Florida’s Nick Machuca raise the Pride flag in Tampa June 1. PHOTO COURTESY CITY OF TAMPA

8

LUNCH HOUR: Nick Cardello (L) and Ashley Brundage enjoy the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber’s annual Pride in Business luncheon in Tampa June 1.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

watermark Your LGBTQ News Source.

7 JUNE 9 - 2 2, 202 2 // ISSUE 29.12 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

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announcements

CENTRAL FLORIDA OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS Watermark handed out awards at the fifth annual Splash Awards during Orlando Fringe’s 2022 Closing Ceremonies and Awards at Loch Haven Park May 30. The Watermark Splash Awards allowed our readers to vote on their favorite LGBTQ shows from this year’s Fringe shows.

“Undetectable” took home Favorite LGBTQ Show with one of its leads, Hunter Rogers, taking home Favorite LGBTQ Lead Performer. “Undetectable” told the story of Lex and Bradley as they explore the delicate emotions, moral dilemmas and personal demons we all take to bed with us. Jamie DeHay was named Favorite LGBTQ Director for his show “Down The Rabbit Hole,” a show that took some well-known cartoon rabbits and put them in a local dive bar for New Year’s Eve. Billie Jane Aubertin went home with a pair of awards, Favorite LGBTQ Supporting Performance and Favorite LGBTQ Writer, for “Stag Night,” a Bachelor-like competition with deadly results.

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Phoenix Endroa was crowned Miss GayDayS and Jeffrey Wayne was named Mr. GayDayS Leather during the GayDayS celebration held at the Avanti Palm Resort in Orlando June 2-5.

Nick Nastase from The Property Pros Real Estate and Ted Bogert from VIP Mortgage Group organized a fundraiser for the LGBT+ Center Orlando at Island Time where they raised $3,670.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Freedom For All Americans VP of government affairs Hannah Willard, KangaGirl Productions diva Margaret Nolan (June 9); Central Florida teacher Jochy CoraSantiago, Flag World Orlando’s GM Rocky Ruvola (June 11); Watermark Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Williams, Orlando activist Wendy Elkes (June 12); Department of Transportation employee John Stimis, Mango’s Tropical Café’s Dalton Connell (June 13); Orlando DJ and model Marisa Maddox, Opera Orlando’s Grant Preisser, The Glass Knife’s Steve Brown (June 14); Central Florida pianist Tim Turner (June 15); Central Florida queen Evelyn Adonis, Central Florida Sounds of Freedom president Joe Kennedy (June 16); CTS Agency’s Carolyn Capern, Central Florida LGBTQ history buff Ken Kazmerski (June 17); Intersex activist Juleigh Mayfield, CBP Martial Arts Academy Orlando’s Milena Ofsowitz, Orlando artist Lu’e Diaz (June 18); Watermark sales manager Danny Garcia, LGBTQ activist Stacy Gayle, former Watermark intern Natalie Caballero (June 19); Photographer Jonathan Croft, Flight attendant Andrew Elder, Miracle of Love’s Mpowerment program coordinator Lester Burges, Chiropractor and Joie De Vivr owner Dr. Will Llewelyn (June 20); Drag legend Ange Sheridan, Steelers fan Jimmy Guzic, Central Florida Softball League diva Eric Hans (June 21); Central Florida immigration attorney Henry Lim (June 22).

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WELCOME TO THE EXPO: Hostess Chantel Reshae picks up her copy of Watermark during the GayDayS Expo at Avanti Palms Resort in Orlando June 4. PHOTO BY KYLER MILLS

ARE YOU READY: David (L) and Brian check in guests ready for some Tidal Wave Party fun at the B Resort in Orlando June 2.

PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

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NETWORKING FRIENDS: (L-R) Roxy Santiago, Rep. Carlos G. Smith, Maia Monet and Jerick Mediavilla network at The Pride Chamber’s June Business Connect at NEC Headquarters in Orlando June 1. PHOTO BY DANNY GARCIA

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KICKOFF PARTY: 2019-2021 Mr. GayDayS Leather Daddy Mark (L) and Miss GayDayS Twila Holiday attend One Magical Weekend’s kickoff party at Mango’s Tropical Café in Orlando Juen 1. PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

DISNEY BEARS: A group of Red Shirt Bears leave the Country Bear Jamboree during Gay Day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom June 4. PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS RUN FOR A CAUSE: Team Watermark gets ready for the 4.9K CommUnity Rainbow Run in Wadeview Park in Orlando June 4. PHOTO BY WATERMARK

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QUEER SPORTS: The Diversity in Sports panel, hosted by Sally Hogshead (center), on stage at the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista in Orlando June 2. PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

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GREAT TRAFFIC: Jessica (L) and Joanie mingle at Girls in Wonderland’s Traffic Jam party at Elixir in Orlando June 2. PHOTO BY SABRINA AMBRA

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WEDDING BELLS

Jason Fields and Channing Floyd from St. Petersburg, Florida

ENGAGEMENT DATE:

Oct. 22, 2019

WEDDING DATE:

March 12, 2022

WEDDING VENUE:

Tampa Garden Club

HONEYMOON:

London (May 2022)

WEDDING PLANNER:

John Campbell Events

FLORIST:

Florest Fire

CATERER:

Dan Denoyer

OFFICIANT:

Don Kiceina Jr., one of the couple’s best friends

CAKE:

Cakes by Michael

WEDDING COLORS:

Shades of blue

DJ:

Greg Anderson

WEDDING SONG:

Fields sang “Your Song” by Elton John; the couple danced to Snow Patrol’s “Chasing Cars”

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Tiffany Razzano

ASON FIELDS FIRST MET CHANNING

Floyd, Jr., his future husband, on July 19, 2002, in Wilmington, North Carolina, where they both lived at the time. Two decades later in March 2022, the couple tied the knot in Tampa Bay, where they’ve lived for years.

They were about 32 years old when they first met and hit it off quickly, Fields says. A physician at the time, he had spent his childhood in Wilmington and moved back for his pediatric residency. Floyd, a native of the area, owned a landscaping business there.

They met through mutual friends and volunteerism. Both were also running enthusiasts and Fields signed up to participate in a fundraising run for the local chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Floyd worked for the organization as a campaign coordinator for the event.

In 2007, Fields came to the Tampa Bay area for addiction treatments and never left Florida.

Following his treatment and recovery efforts, he decided to switch gears in his career to addiction medicine and today works for BayCare Life Management.

Eventually, Floyd followed him to Florida, bringing his landscaping company with him.

“Was it rocky in that time for us? Yes,” Fields recalls. “But we got through it, and I live a sober lifestyle in the recovery.”

His husband is currently attending the University of Florida pursuing a

degree in environmental management and dreams of changing careers to work with the Environmental Protection Agency or local parks and recreation agencies in the area of water and soil conservation, he adds.

Since moving here in 2007, the couple has been active in the community. They both are members of the Krewe of Cavaliers and Fields previously served as president of Balance Tampa Bay, where still remains on the board. Though they lived for years in South Tampa, they’ve since relocated to St. Petersburg in January.

“We love living here,” Fields says.

“We’re involved in a lot of things in the community and love living in St. Pete.”

They were excited when same-sex marriage was legalized in 2015 and talked about one day getting married themselves.

“We decided that we’re in this for the long haul and we wanted to be married. We wanted to enjoy the benefits of being married,” Fields explains.

During a trip to London, Floyd’s favorite city, he surprised him by proposing with a dinner at The Ivy on Oct. 22, 2019. Originally, they planned to get married in 2021, but the COVID-19 pandemic pushed back their plans, especially because they wanted a big wedding.

“We had a lot of experiences and friends along the way we wanted them to be there for us,” Fields notes.

When vaccines became available, they began planning and required friends and family to be vaccinated for everyone’s safety. About 280 people attended.

Sadly, his mother died after a chronic illness Feb. 22 of this year, just weeks before their wedding. The couple found ways to honor her on their big day. They played some of her favorite music, displayed pictures of her and left an empty seat for her up front during the ceremony. As the groomsmen walked in, each left a white rose – her favorite – on the chair, her son says.

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 News Source.

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Dunedin Pride Week 2022 June 11 - 18, 2022 Live, work, play, and retire in Dunedin.

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For #DunedinPride event info, visit DunedinPride.com

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THANK YOU

To everyone who joined us in person or virtually from across the world, thank you for making the 6th Annual CommUNITY Rainbow Run a tremendous success.

We would like to especially express our gratitude to the DeVos Sport Business Management Program at UCF for their partnership, our sponsors and all the amazing volunteers.

Amanda’s Angels, American Cancer Society, Bike Walk Central Florida, Brown Fertility, Buff City Soap, Buttercrust Pizza, Camp Gladiator, Clean Harbors, Come Out With Pride, Duke Energy, First American Title, Gran Arepa, Hope Presbyterian Church of Lake Nona, Kelly’s Homemade Icecream, Navy Federal Credit Union, Orange Theory Fitness, Orlando City Soccer, Orlando Gay Chorus, Regions Bank, Starbucks, Stars of Hope, State Farm, Tijuana Flats, Victim Service Center of Central Florida, W.O.W. Ice, Zen Dogs Therapy Network

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photography

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, Lake Buena Vista, Orlando

galleryw Go see more photos at

watermarkonline.com

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HE COMMUNITY TURNED OUT IN DROVES for the return of One Magical Weekend’s RipTide at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon on June 3. After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands showed up for the nighttime, water park celebration that featured fun on the water slides, scantily clad party goers and music playing late into the night.

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One Magical Weekend’s RipTide 2022 FRIDAY, JUNE 3

Photography by Jheff Mathis

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