Watermark Issue 30.17: Meating the Moment

space.

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more than that as well. He’s extraordinary to me, but in reality he’s a normal person with a great talent. I think that describes all of us. Whether we are good at math, singing, listening or taxes. We are all just people. Our big difference is how many people like our talent.

I think this is why I love my job so much. We have a platform where we get to hear and tell story after story, opening our community’s eyes to as many of the wonderful people doing good work for the greater good as our pages will allow. We all have value and we all deserve for our stories to be told.

is just real life. What you see of someone is what you are allowed to see, and no one is just that one thing nor are they the thing they used to be. No one is the result of one trauma, one talent or one moment in their history. They are a sum of those, and those experiences continue to change and people continue to evolve.

I had a high school English teacher tell me once, “Don’t tell anyone everything.” How can we possibly know someone in totality if that’s advice everyone follows? You don’t, and that’s

BIANCA GOOLSBY

MBA is a digital strategist and activist who partners with mission-driven organizations to increase their impact through innovative and effective online communications. She also empowers and equips families to curate safe social spaces for themselves and their children. Page 15

Don’t get me wrong, I fan girl out about celebrities. I idolize Harvey Fierstein, the first celebrity role model I ever had. I ogle over Tom Holland and I will drive hours to see Air Supply in concert. I just don’t want to meet them. I don’t want their autographs. I don’t need a picture with them. Why should I?

I like Harvey Fierstein because he was a gay playwright who wore a Mumu on the Johnny Carson show. I dug it. He was doing what I wanted to do with my life, minus the Mumu — although now I should probably be wearing them.

I like Tom Holland because of his movies and I love Air

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Supply’s music. Outside of that, I don’t know them and meeting them isn’t a priority of mine. I often have said, “I don’t care about celebrities.” What I really mean is that I don’t care that they are celebrities.

When I got the call to work for Joan Rivers the first questions I was asked is, “How do you feel about celebrities?”

“I don’t care,” I said. She was a gem, by the way. She was so interested in me and was adamant that I have a good time and be taken care of.

Let’s see if I can articulate this in an appropriate way: Celebrities are just people with a specific talent. For example, my husband is a very talented photographer. He is so much

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I recently had the privilege to hear the story of one of our own, Brandon Wolf, via his book “A Place For Us.” Like most people, I only got to know Brandon in the wake of the Pulse massacre. He gained local celebrity status through his advocacy and grief. I know him to be an inspirational speaker, a gregarious and handsome guy, but I knew very little about him as a person.

His book got me from the first sentence, where he acknowledges this book is his memoir told through his perspective of his own life. I knew then what I was about to read would be authentic. So much of it resonated with me, and I appreciated the vulnerability and courage it takes for him to admit insecurities while exposing a life of traumatic experiences. It was real. It was human.

I think society loses sight of that human aspect of life. We see celebrity as larger than life when the reality is their life

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okay. I think the key is to realize we are all human, we are all part of a community and we all play an important role in that community.

I am so impressed with “A Place For Us” and I encourage everyone reading this to read that book and share it with someone else. I hope I carry this with me for a long time and remember to understand there is a story behind every person I encounter. We strive to bring you a variety of stories, your stories. I hope you enjoy this latest issue.

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I’VE ALWAYS FELT LIKE CELEBRITIES are weird. I use that word loosely, both celebrity and weird. I don’t know a lot of celebrities, but the idea of being one is weird to me.

I think society loses sight of that human aspect of life.

ORLANDO MAGIC DONATES $50K TOWARD DESANTIS Jeremy Williams

ORLANDO | The Orlando Magic made a substantial donation to a Super PAC supporting Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ presidential campaign at the end of LGBTQ+ Pride Month.

A donation of $50,000 was made by Orlando Magic, LTD on June 26 to Never Back Down Inc., a Super PAC supporting DeSantis’ run to become the 2024 Republican nominee for President of the United States.

The donation was first reported by SFGate Politics Editor Alex Shultz Aug. 1 on Twitter.

“Orlando Magic appear to be the first NBA team… ever? to back a presidential candidate,” Shultz wrote.

Shultz stated, after scanning filings to the Federal Election Commission, this may be the largest political donation attributed to an NBA organization, although he admits he did not conduct an exhaustive search.

“[T]eam owners dumping money on presidential candidates (especially conservatives) is not new; in this case, it’s very odd that, when given the opportunity, the organization isn’t distancing itself from the DeSantis donation,” Shultz wrote.

Shultz reported that when asked if the donation should be attributed to the DeVos family rather than the team, the response he received was “we don’t comment publicly on political contributions.”

According to the FEC website, campaigns are prohibited from accepting contributions directly from corporations, however donations to a Super PAC that supports a particular candidate is legal.

While the receipt Shultz posted shows a date of June 26, a spokesperson for the Magic told HuffPost that the donation was made May 19, days before DeSantis announced his run for president.

In an interview with CNN’s Jim Acosta Aug. 4, Showtime Sports contributor Rachel Nichols called the Magic’s contribution to DeSantis’ campaign “very difficult to stomach.”

“Money for NBA teams, the Orlando Magic’s money that they donated to Ron DeSantis, doesn’t come from a magic tree elf. It came from the work of those players on the court,” Nichols said. “And the fact that their work has been turned into a contribution for someone running for president who has come out with statements that they think directly oppose who they are as people, that is very difficult to stomach.”

Nichols added that while individual NBA members have backed politicians, she hasn’t seen a franchise directly donate in her 25-plus year career.

The Magic’s donation came roughly three months after the team hosted an LGBTQ+ Pride Night to “celebrate diversity, equity, inclusion and unity with the LGBTQ+ community.” The evening featured a performance from the Orlando Gay Chorus, a donation made to the Zebra Coalition and an award ceremony honoring Hope CommUnity Center executive director Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet.

His Place

Brandon Wolf holds book signing in Orlando

Jeremy Williams

ORLANDO | Brandon Wolf, LGBTQ+ rights activist and Pulse survivor, held a book release event at College Park Gallery Aug. 7 signing copies of his new memoir, “A Place For Us.” Before sitting down to add personalized messages to each book for those who attended the sold-out event, Wolf spoke to the crowd about the process of getting “A Place For Us” published.

“The very first question the publisher asked me was ‘Is this a book about Pulse?’,” Wolf said to the crowd, adding that a publisher’s only concern is will the book sell. “I said ‘It’s only kind of a book about Pulse.’ Pulse is only one chapter in the book, because I firmly believe you can’t understand why Pulse the event mattered to people if you don’t understand why Pulse the space mattered.”

Wolf’s memoir, which was released July 1, has appeared on Amazon’s Best Sellers list in several of the website’s

categories, something that has left Wolf overwhelmed.

“When you put your first book into the world there’s a part of you that worries that no one will ever read it, and as a Black, queer person there’s a sense of imposter syndrome that my story might not resonate with people,” Wolf said, speaking with Watermark at the event. “Watching people purchase it, post about it online, share what part of the story resonated most deeply with them. Watching young queer people talk about how they see themselves in this story, perhaps for the first time, it means the world because that’s why I wrote this book.”

Speaking on the crowd that showed up to his Orlando event, Wolf says it is a testament to this community, which he adds is who this book is really about.

“It’s a story not just about me but of our entire community,” he says. “This is the same group of people who have been there for me since the hours after Pulse, when I wasn’t sure what the next day would bring. This is the very same group of people that has held me

up for seven years, and to see them show up like this to celebrate our story means a lot to me.”

While speaking to the crowd, Wolf addressed the very real possibility that “A Place For Us” may never make it to the bookshelf of a Florida public school, making reference to the state’s “Don’t Say Gay or Trans” law.

“A book like this, stories like these, our story is so important in this moment because it is under assault,” Wolf said.

After telling the crowd that his favorite part of the book is the chapter titled “Forgiveness,” he expanded on why that chapter meant so much.

“I talk a lot in the book about forgiveness as an act of grace, as an offer to shed what has been in order to leave space for what can be,” he says. “I also talk about it as not a moment to absolve people for the things they’ve done or the hurt they caused, instead extending a promise to them that maybe we can make something more beautiful tomorrow.”

Wolf has been involved with many organizations, including March For Our Lives, Everytown, Giffords and The Dru Project. He was also the first survivor of the Pulse tragedy to testify in front of Congress and currently serves as press secretary for Equality Florida.

“A Place For Us” is out now and available wherever books are sold.

HIS STORY: Brandon Wolf speaks about his memoir “A Place For Us” during his book signing at College Park Gallery.

PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

‘NAKED BOYS READING’ LAUNCHES NEW CHAPTER IN TAMPA BAY

Ryan Williams-Jent

ST. PETERSBURG | International literary salon

“Naked Boys Reading” held its first event in Tampa Bay Aug. 10 at Studio@620, delivering on its namesake.

“Naked Boys Reading” features fully nude males reciting curated samples of literature to a live, 18+ audience. It began as a performance art in 2012 in London and in the years since has launched chapters around the globe.

Its latest venture was directed by Nathan Truly, an openly LGBTQ+ poet based in Tampa Bay. He regularly hosts an open mic event in Ybor and was a featured reader during this year’s St Pete Pride.

“I’ve been putting on poetry events and performing throughout Tampa Bay for over a year now,” he says. “I’ve been increasing my platform to offer more literary events to the community that I think aren’t being seen as much and combining that with LGBTQ+ safe spaces.

“Literary events are a great fit for that,” he continues. “Books are needed more and more, especially in the state of Florida under the current political climate.”

Truly’s visibility online led a curator for “Naked Boys Reading” in New York to contact him about the expansion. The chapter holds the literary salon’s U.S. rights.

“I said I would love to put this on in Tampa Bay,” he recalls. “I thought it would be a great event to take a chance on and see what happens — it’s been growing and pretty well supported.”

Around 75 people attended the inaugural event, which featured six readers between the ages of 18 and 80. Its theme was “Saints & Peters” to honor St. Petersburg’s thriving literary arts scene.

“I decided to immerse myself in this event after reading about it,” says Felipe, who read first. “I jumped at it knowing that it would align with my values of supporting friends, personal development and cultivating a deeper appreciation for the arts.

“I trust that our community will perceive this event in the same way,” he continues. “I encourage [everyone] to embrace our ever-evolving community and to participate in and support local events. You may be surprised by what you discover.”

Each reading was scheduled for 7-10 minutes and consisted of “various passages of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and prose … presented by a diverse set of readers in the buff.” Truly hopes to continue “Naked Boys Reading” in Tampa Bay in the future, with another session tentatively scheduled by the year’s end.

“A lot of people may attend for the thrill of seeing a naked male on stage, but they’ll leave with an incredible literary experience that’s going to impact them,” he says. “This is a nice, mind-opening experience for people in a safe space for everyone.”

Visit Facebook.com/NakedBoysReadingTampaBay for information about future events.

Florida First

Inaugural FLOCC held in Tampa

Ryan Williams-Jent

TAMPA | The inaugural Florida Out Coast Convention was held Aug. 1-3 at the Hilton Tampa Downtown, welcoming nearly 150 people to the first conference focused solely on Florida’s LGBTQ+ tourism industry.

FLOCC was hosted by OutCoast LLC, which has supported the state’s LGBTQ+-inclusive businesses and destinations since 2017. Participants gathered July 31 for an opening social, followed by three days of keynote speeches, panel presentations and specialized workshops. OutCoast CEO Rachel Covello began by reflecting on FLOCC’s historical nature.

The opening session was emceed by social media influencers and featured remarks from Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. She celebrated the greater Tampa Bay region’s commitment to inclusion before “Navigating Florida Tourism Advisories,” a panel examining the merits of travel advisories issued by civil rights organizations like Equality Florida.

The day’s breakout sessions detailed experiences for

transgender travelers, how LGBTQ+ groups give back and travel trends for LGBTQ+ seniors. Its general session featured comedian Jeff Klein and “Why Diversity in Tourism Matters” with Key West Mayor Teri Johnston and others.

A second panel followed, “Social Media Marketing with LGBTQ Influencers.” “Recruiting Hospitality Employees with Inclusion in Mind,” “Authentic Travel Experiences: Meeting Expectations” and “Developing an Inclusive Marketing Strategy” breakouts were held after that.

FLOCC’s second day was emceed by Tampa Bay entertainer Brianna Summers and Trevor Pettiford of Spectrum News 9. “The Impact of LGBTQ+ Market Segment Leaders at the DMO Level” kicked things off, with breakouts highlighting LGBTQ+ travel trends and inclusive branding.

“Don’t Be a Drag: Dispelling Stereotypes & Understanding Impact,” sponsored by Watermark and moderated by Summers, was also held. It featured her fellow entertainers Silver Foxx, Momma Ashley Rose and Angelique Young.

Entertainment included Jay Miah from Fox’s “Alter Ego” and Sarah Potenza from “America’s

Got Talent,” which preceded “The Value of LGBTQ+ Bars, Venues and Events on Tourism.” The session was moderated by Watermark and welcomed representatives from Cocktail, GayBarchives, The Lady’s Room and St Pete Pride.

Kevin Finke provided the conference’s keynote. An awards ceremony in which Covello recognized six individuals or organizations with “Flamazing” awards came after that; winners included Visit Lauderdale’s Stacy Ritter, Walt Disney World, Naples Pride, Alexander’s Guesthouse, St Pete Pride and Young.

“Leveraging Local and National LGBTQ+ Partnerships” closed FLOCC on Aug. 3. The panel preceded results of a silent auction benefiting LGBTQ+ centers in Naples and Fort Myers, raising over $2,800 for each.

“It was an honor to unite so many tourism industry experts and LGBTQ+ leaders in one space for learning and networking,” Covello says. “The connections and collaborations made in only three days are a testament to what can be accomplished when efforts are made to focus on inclusive tourism.

“Florida is a state that has historically welcomed all people,” she adds. “We will continue our work until our LGBTQ+ family feels invited and embraced in all corners of the sunshine state.”

Read more about the inaugural FLOCC and view a full photo gallery at WatermarkOnline.com.

COMING TOGETHER: OutCoast Publisher Rachel Covello welcomes attendees to FLOCC Aug. 1. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

AP PSYCHOLOGY MAY BE AVAILABLE AFTER CLASH

Wire Report

MIAMI (AP) | The first time the College Board bumped up against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’s efforts to inject conservative ideals into education standards, it ultimately revamped the Advanced Placement course for African American studies, watering down curriculum on slavery reparations and the Black Lives Matter movement — and a nationwide backlash ensued.

Now, faced with altering its AP Psychology course to comply with Florida’s limits on teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity, the nonprofit College Board is pushing back. It advised the state’s school districts Aug. 3 to

not offer the college-level course to Florida’s high school students unless it can be taught in full.

By Aug. 4, statements from both sides suggested students in Florida would be able to take the full course after all. In a letter to state superintendents, Florida Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. said the state believed the psychology course could be taught “in its entirety.”

The College Board said it hoped Florida teachers now will be able “to teach the full course, including content on gender and sexual orientation, without fear of punishment in the upcoming school year.”

It remained unclear whether any modifications to the course would be expected to comply with

Florida’s rules. Under an expanded Florida law, lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity are not allowed unless required by existing state standards or as part of reproductive health instruction that students can choose not to take.

The College Board refused to modify the psychology course to comply with Florida’s new legislation. The course asks students to describe how sex and gender influence a person’s development — topics that have been part of the curriculum since it launched 30 years ago.

Literacy and free-speech experts lauded the College Board’s new approach.

RED CROSS TO ALLOW GAY, BI MEN TO DONATE BLOOD

Los Angeles Blade Staff, Courtesy of The National LGBT Media Association

WASHINGTON, D.C. | The American Red Cross has announced a historic change in the organization’s policies regarding blood donations by gay and bisexual men.

Under this new donor screening process, all donors answer the same eligibility questions regardless of gender or sexual

orientation and will be assessed for blood donation based on individual risk factors, not on sexual orientation.

This change by the Red Cross falls within the U.S. Food and Drug Administration finalized guidelines for blood donation issued this past May that will use a uniform individualized risk assessment questionnaire for respondents regardless of their sexual orientation, sex, or gender.

“This change means many healthy individuals who previously could not give will now be able to support their community through

SHAKESPEARE CAUGHT IN ‘DON’T SAY GAY OR TRANS’

Hillsborough County Public School students will be reading only excerpts from William Shakespeare’s plays rather than the full texts under redesigned curriculum guides developed to take into consideration the state’s new law restricting classroom materials whose content can be deemed sexual. The changes were made with Florida’s new legislation limiting classroom materials that “contain pornography or obscene depictions of sexual conduct” in mind. The decision in Tampa is the latest fallout from “Don’t Say Gay or Trans” laws passed by Florida’s Republican-controlled Legislature and championed by Gov. Ron DeSantis in the last two years.

DANCER O’SHAE SIBLEY REMEMBERED

the gift of blood donation,” the Red Cross noted in a statement.

The FDA’s new protocols issued in May note that prospective donors who have had a new sexual partner, or more than one sexual partner in the past three months, and anal sex in the past three months, would be ineligible. So would those who are “taking medications to treat or prevent HIV infection (e.g., antiretroviral therapy (ART), pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP),” as these drugs can delay the detection of HIV.

GERMANY RECEIVES 178 COMPENSATION APPS

Wire Report

BERLIN | The German defense ministry said Aug. 8 that it has received 178 applications for compensation from gay servicepeople who experienced discrimination in the military in the past.

The ministry said in a statement that it had expected more applications, but that nonetheless “the goals of the law were achieved.” A law rehabilitating

gay soldiers who suffered discrimination came into force two years ago, and so far, about 400,000 euros ($438,000) has been paid in symbolic compensation, the ministry said.

While the German military stopped its policy of discrimination against gay soldiers in 2000, it took more than two decades to pass the law offering them compensation. The law also offers compensation for gay soldiers who served in East Germany’s National People’s Army until Germany’s unification in 1990.

The defense minister apologized for the discrimination against gay soldiers in the Bundeswehr at the time the study was presented. Legislation criminalizing male homosexuality was introduced in the 19th century, toughened under Nazi rule and retained in that form by democratic West Germany, which convicted about 50,000 men between 1949 and 1969. Homosexuality was decriminalized in 1969 but the legislation wasn’t taken off the books entirely until 1994.

Friends and family gathered Aug. 8 in Philadelphia to remember O’Shae Sibley, who was fatally stabbed after he confronted teenagers who taunted his group of gay, Black friends as they danced at a New York City gas station. About 200 people attended Sibley’s funeral at a historic opera house in the city where he grew up before moving to New York. He had performed with the company Philadanco and used dance to celebrate his LGBTQ+ identity. Sibley was 28. Brooklyn prosecutors have charged a 17-year-old with hate-motivated murder in Sibley’s death, who pled not guilty Aug. 11.

KUWAIT, LEBANON MOVE TO BAN ‘BARBIE’

“Barbie” was set to open across the Middle East on Aug. 10, but moves by Kuwait and Lebanon to ban the film for allegedly threatening conservative values have raised questions over how widely it will be released. The film about the American dolls contains no overt sexuality or references to LGBTQ+ rights, but seems to have drawn fire because of its broad message of inclusion and gender equality in the anti-LGBTQ+ region. The cast of “Barbie” includes Kate McKinnon, who is gay, and transgender actor Hari Nef. Many in the LGBTQ+ community have embraced the film.

IRAQ LABELS HOMOSEXUALITY ‘SEXUAL DEVIANCE’

Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission has ordered media outlets and social media companies that operate in the country to refer to homosexuality as “sexual deviance.” Reuters on Aug. 8 reported the country’s official media regulator’s directive applies to media outlets and social media companies that operate in Iraq. Reuters notes the Communications and Media Commission has also banned phone and internet companies that it licenses from using the term “homosexuality” on their mobile apps. Homosexuality is legal in Iraq, but violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity remains commonplace in the country.

Care and Support for an EPIC Generation

LGBTQ seniors are more likely to be isolated in and out of their LGBTQ communities and to

these seniors through a variety of fun social activities, check-in phone calls and access to community resources through the Friendly Caller program and care for their sexual health and well-being.

Learn more about becoming a part of this EPIC Generation by calling (727) 328-3260.

Heal Thyself

How often do we apologize for our feelings, quirks or even our dreams, simply because they don’t fit the socially constructed narrative of “normal?” How often do we stay in situations that do not serve us because they are “safe” and familiar? How often do we extinguish our inner spark so that we can avoid standing out in a way that might make us vulnerable?

We have the power to break out of these molds and write our own stories. We can create a script that allows us to become the authors of our own lives. By listening to ourselves, understanding our values and taking risks with courage, we can begin to define what success looks like for us on our terms. There is a profound sense of liberation and healing that comes from living without apologies, fully embracing every aspect of ourselves as inherently worthy of love, respect and acceptance. Allow me to serve as a reminder that your authenticity is valid and beautiful in its entirety.

In this season of life, I’ve been prioritizing my healing and peace. It’s been quite a challenge, with life throwing all sorts of obstacles my way that made me question my relationship with God. But you know what? It made me take a good, hard look at my life and how I’m living it. I started reflecting on the things that truly make me happy, the amazing people who love and support me, and all the blessings that are still right in front of me, even when everything else seems to be falling apart. And you know what happened? I embraced the beautiful messiness of my story with open arms.

Now, I’m determined to live authentically and embrace my own happiness. I’m committed to healing myself and inspiring others to make that intentional choice. I won’t sugarcoat it, it’s not always a walk in the park, but let me tell you that it’s absolutely worth it.

I’m taking steps forward in my personal journey, fully embracing life daily — and I want this message to reach someone who needs a gentle reminder: you are

beautifully and wonderfully made. You are deserving and you are perfectly imperfect. This is your unique journey: embrace it love it, and live it to the fullest.

Embracing your authentic self is a powerful form of self-healing. Many of us carry deep wounds from years of trying to fit into boxes we were never meant to occupy. The stress and pain of constant self-editing and self-censorship can lead to profound emotional and even physical distress. When you live unapologetically, you aren’t simply rejecting the concept of conformity for rebellion’s sake. Instead, you’re choosing to embrace your authentic self, knowing that your uniqueness is a source of strength and a beacon of individuality that can inspire others to do the same.

When we choose to live unapologetically, we give ourselves the space to heal these wounds. We allow ourselves to fully feel our emotions, to express our thoughts and feelings, and to pursue our passions without fear of judgment or rejection. It’s a process that requires time, patience, and self-love, but the rewards are immeasurable.

So, how can you start your journey towards living unapologetically and healing thyself?

ACKNOWLEDGE

YOUR FEELINGS AND EXPERIENCES. Understand that all of your experiences and emotions, even the negative ones, are valid and form a crucial part of your identity. Don’t suppress them; instead, let yourself feel and process them fully. Allow vulnerability to be your superpower!

CELEBRATE YOUR INDIVIDUALITY. Everyone is unique and this uniqueness is something to celebrate rather than suppress. Your passions, interests and quirks make you who you are. Cherish and celebrate these attributes. You are a gift to the world!

SET BOUNDARIES AND AUDIT YOUR VILLAGE.

Healthy boundaries is crucial to safeguard your time, energy and emotional well-being. Deliberately choose who gets to influence your life. Assess your circle and gracefully let go of those who hinder your personal growth. Always remember, it’s perfectly acceptable to prioritize yourself.

PRACTICE SELF-LOVE AND SELF-CARE. It’s through meditation, exercise, a hobby or spending time with loved ones that you ensure you’re taking care of your own needs. When you fill up your cup first, you will be able to pour into others from a place of abundance.

SEEK SUPPORT WHEN YOU NEED IT. You don’t have to navigate this journey by yourself. The invaluable

support and guidance from friends, family, mentors, or mental health professionals can make a significant difference. Embrace the courage to reach out and ask for the help you require.

Living unapologetically and healing thyself are paths toward a life filled with freedom, fulfillment, and joy. It’s a journey, not a destination. There will be challenges, but remember that this is your life and you have every right to live it on your terms.

Embrace your uniqueness, say goodbye to societal expectations and embark on a self-healing journey that leads you towards a life filled with authenticity and happiness. The world is waiting to see

the real you, unapologetically and beautifully you.

Say this affirmation with me: “I am patient with myself and kind to my heart. I am open to new beginnings and know that better days are on the horizon. I am worthy of love and happiness, and I will not allow these experiences to dim my light. I am overcoming, I am healing, and I am becoming stronger and more resilient every day.” I love you.

www.tampabaylgbtchamber.org

THE WORLD CAN BE A stage with a constant stream of influences, expectations and norms that can often make us feel like actors playing roles rather than the stars of our own story.

Bianca Goolsby, MBA is a digital strategist and activist who empowers and equips families to curate safe social spaces for themselves and their children.

Embracing your authentic self is a powerful form of self-healing.

Bianca Goolsby

Visibili-T

CINDI GRACE MILLER

Ryan Williams-Jent

VISIBILI-T

IS DEDICATED TO

transgender members of our community in Central Florida and Tampa Bay, some you know and many you don’t. It is designed to amplify their voices and detail their experiences in life.

This issue, we check in with Cindi Grace Miller, a woman who’s passionate about helping others live authentically. An avid golfer and Ocala native, she now resides in Tampa Bay with her spouse of more than three decades, with whom she shares two adult children.

Miller has a Masters in Counseling and Psychology as well as a Master of Divinity and Theology. She owns a health insurance agency and a travel agency specializing in LGBTQ+ and non-LGBTQ+ markets.

If that weren’t enough, she’s also an author, speaker and international gender consultant. She published “Gender Transition: Where to Start and How to Thrive” in 2022, which

serves as “a complete guide to the gender transition experience.”

“If you have struggled with questions about your gender identity, then this is the road map you need to unleash the authentic you,” the book’s synopsis reads.

“You may have tried to tell others at one time and maybe you were shut down or shamed for what you expressed. If you’re like most people of trans experience, you are probably really good at being secretive. You have had to be for your survival.

“Maybe you have silenced the questioning in your own head or maybe it has made you feel like you have multiple personalities,” it continues. “You may have spent years trying to prove that you are the gender that you were

assigned at birth, even though you knew it wasn’t true … In this book I map out exactly what you need to know to live your true gender and your best life.”

“When you transition it is way more than just coming out socially and going through physical changes,” Miller explains. “Depending on how long a person pretended to be a different gender, there can be a ton of emotional and mental challenges that they must overcome.

“There are a lot of ways of being that they must let go of and re-learn new ways of being,” she adds. “This applies to both their inner dialogue and how they interact with others. In addition, most individuals of trans experience must deal with the loss of people and situations in their life due to coming out. This requires a period of mourning and adjustment.”

Miller came out herself four and a half years ago.

“I lived in fear of revealing my true gender to the world for way too many years,” she says. “I have since learned that most of what I was afraid of never happened and those things that did were

never as bad as I thought they would be.”

It’s why she would tell her younger self “about the biological foundations of being a person whose outward gender is inaccurate to their true gender.” She says that’s “something we just didn’t know in the 70s and 80s and when I learned it, it changed everything for me.”

Her return to Florida has helped change things as well. She and her spouse moved to Tampa Bay after living in California for more than a decade to “be in a place we felt was safe to transition in.”

“I love the support and love that I have experienced and witnessed in our Tampa/St. Pete LGBTQ+ community,” Miller says. “It is very easy for most to find this support as well as many activities where they can begin to connect with like-minded people. This is something I really never saw in other communities.”

Miller says she has noticed “a lot of fear and guilt being spread within the community,” however, something she’d like to see improved.

“We should not make members of the community feel guilt if they

do not act or think in a way that some think they should,” she says. “Coming out and learning to be a new you is hard enough without adding LGBTQ+ guilt on top of the process.”

That message is one she regularly shares with audiences in Tampa Bay and beyond. She consults with organizations who want to increase their understanding of transgender employees and can often be found speaking at events or conferences.

Earlier this month, that included a presentation at FLOCC, Florida’s first LGBTQ+-focused tourism convention. Miller led “Creating Transformative Experiences for Transgender Travelers.”

“I love to help educate others about the trans experience,” she says. That’s evident at CindiGraceMiller.com, where you can learn more.

Interested in being featured in Visibili-T? Email Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Williams in Central Florida or Managing Editor Ryan Williams-Jent in Tampa Bay.

51, She/Her/Hers

talking points

40% OF FLORIDA PARENTS

RACHEL MADDOW, ALONG WITH OPRAH WINFREY AND ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER, WILL BE AMONG THOSE APPEARING THIS FALL at the 92nd Street Y, a New York City cultural institution and community center marking its 150th anniversary. Maddow will examine the roots of far-right extremism in the U.S., the subject of her upcoming book “Prequel.” Winfrey will appear with co-author Arthur C. Brooks to discuss their new book, “Building the Life You Want: The Art and Science of Getting Happier,” and Schwarzenegger will give a talk about his book “Be Useful: Seven Tools for Life.” Founded in 1874 as the Young Men’s Hebrew Association, the 92nd Street Y has been based on Manhattan’s Upper East Side since 1900. Some of the most notable public figures in the arts, politics and culture have spoken and performed there.

WAYNE BRADY COMES OUT AS PANSEXUAL

ENTERTAINER WAYNE BRADY, WHO CURRENTLY HOSTS THE GAME SHOW

“LET’S MAKE A DEAL,” came out as pansexual in an interview with PEOPLE magazine Aug. 8, joking that it is “bisexual — with an open mind.” “I’ve always had a wonderful community of friends who are in the LGBTQ+ community, people that I’ve grown up with in shows, gays and lesbians, and, later in life, my trans relatives and my niece. I’ve always had that community, but I’ve always felt like a sham because I wasn’t being forthcoming with myself,” he said. After his interview with PEOPLE, Brady made his announcement on social media with a video of him lip synching to Celine Dion’s “It’s All Coming Back to Me Now.”

TAYLOR SWIFT LEADS 2023 MTV VMA NOMS

TAYLOR SWIFT TOPS THE 2023 MTV VIDEO MUSIC AWARDS NOMINATIONS. She leads with eight — seven for her “Anti-Hero” music video and a nod in the artist of the year category — followed by SZA, who has six, MTV announced Aug. 8. Swift currently has 14 VMAs to her name, placing her behind Beyoncé, who has 28 (two with Destiny’s Child); Madonna, who has 20 awards; and Lady Gaga, who has 19. Doja Cat, Kim Petras, Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj, Olivia Rodrigo and Sam Smith are tied at five nominations, and BLACKPINK, Diddy and Shakira each received four. The 2023 MTV Video Music Awards are scheduled for Sept. 12.

‘HEARTSTOPPER’ SEASON 2 GETS 6.1 MILLION VIEWS

THE SECOND SEASON OF NETFLIX’S LGBTQ+FOCUSED, COMING-OF-AGE ROM COM “HEARTSTOPPER” premiered Aug. 3 and was the second most watched series on the streamer for the week with 6.1 million views. The top spot was taken by the second season of “The Lincoln Lawyer” which brought in 6.7 million views in its fifth week of release. “Heartstopper’s” numbers are all the more impressive when taking into account that the series was only out for four days of the ratings week which went from July 31-Aug. 6. Much like the first season, “Heartstopper” season 2 has been a hit for both critics and audiences. Both seasons currently sit at over 95% on Rotten Tomatoes.

POLLED SAID THEY WOULD LIKE TO MOVE OUT OF THE STATE BECAUSE OF ITS “DON’T SAY GAY OR TRANS” LAW, WITH AN ADDITIONAL 15% SAYING THEY FELT MIXED ABOUT MOVING. ALMOST 11%

SAID THEY WERE VERY LIKELY TO MOVE IN THE NEXT TWO YEARS. BARRIERS TO LEAVING INCLUDED JOBS, EXTENDED FAMILY AND THE HASSLE OF MOVING.

To hear [Disney CEO] Bob Iger say that our demands for a living wage are unrealistic while he makes $78,000 a day? […] I don’t have any words for it but f*ck you.

—EMMY-, GRAMMY- AND TONY-WINNING PERFORMER BILLY PORTER, SPEAKING TO EVENING STANDARD ABOUT THE SAG-AFTRA STRIKE

MADDOW TO JOIN 92ND STREET Y FOR 150TH ANNIVERSARY

SPECIALIZED MEDICAL CARE SINCE

Providing premier medical care in your community through outreach, advocacy, education, and research.

* services vary by location WALK-INS

Jeremy Williams

LGBTQ+ INDIVIDUALS CAN FACE unique obstacles when it comes to financial decisions.

In a 2022 study, U.S. Bank found that members of the LGBTQ+ community find it more difficult to secure a mortgage, access funds for medical care and spent significantly more to build a family compared to their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts.

“I think banking in general can be a stiff environment, so coming into that environment when you already have feelings you might be treated differently because you are a member of a community

that is routinely underserved and is misunderstood can be daunting,” says Jeff Dry, regional director for branch operations at Addition Financial.

To meet the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals, couples and families, banks and credit unions have started to be louder and prouder with their community support and services in the last few years. They hope to attract more LGBTQ+ customers and make the ones they already have feel safe and proud to be members.

When you are a member of a marginalized community, it is hard not to factor the possibility of being discriminated against into every decision you make, and financial choices are no different. In a recent survey conducted by Experian, more than half (59%) of respondents said they experienced discrimination because of their status as members of the LGBTQ+ community. That number increases to 64% for participants who identify as Black or African American.

“Being an LGBTQ-friendly organization isn’t just saying you are inclusive, you have to show it,” says Dry. “It’s creating an environment that allows anyone who walks through

those doors to embrace who they are.”

So how do you know if a bank or credit union you are interested in is LGBTQ+-friendly?

“You’ll need to start by doing some research,” says Dartavious Garland, Additional Financial’s Fern Creek branch manager. “Look at the company’s core values, check out their social media and see how integrated and inclusive the institution is as a whole. Are they representative of the community you are a part of?”

A good starting off point is with the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index. The index, which

launched in 2002, has become a roadmap and benchmarking tool for LGBTQ+ equality in the workplace. The HRC CEI looks at workforce protections, inclusive benefits, supporting an inclusive culture and more to find LGBTQ+-friendly businesses. Of the more than 800 businesses to earn a score of 100% last year, several financial institutions made the cut including Amalgamated Bank, Bank of America, Seacoast National Bank, TD Bank and many more.

“To be able to serve a diverse community of customers, as an organization you need to be pretty diverse yourself,” Dry

ILLUSTRATION BY KYLER MILLS (KY VIAN.)

says. “And as a whole we are a very diverse company. I came out about eight years ago and under a different CEO I’m not sure I would want to be out but under this CEO and with this company, I have been given the space to feel comfortable and free to be myself.”

When deciding if a financial institution is right for you, take some time to look into whether the company has a diversity, equity and inclusion program or employee resource groups. A company having one or both of these can tell you a lot about how that company feels towards the LGBTQ+ community.

Also, are those institutions you’re putting your money into putting their money into your community? LGBTQ+ publications, like Watermark, are excellent places to look and see if the bank or credit union you are interested in is reaching out to you for your business. Check to see if they are advertising to the community or check out directory listings with LGBTQ+ organizations to see who they have listed.

Banks and credit unions who are looking to reach the community will develop partnerships with local LGBTQ+ organizations. Several financial institutions based right here in Central Florida and Tampa Bay have built strong ties with organizations like the LGBT+ Center Orlando.

“Being a part of the community, I knew some of the leaders at The Center so I started reaching out,” says Dry on Addition Financial’s partnership with The Center. “We started working with George [Wallace, CEO of The Center Orlando] and began by asking what can we offer and how can we help.”

That partnership has led to Addition Financial sponsoring events, walking in the Pride parade and offering financial wellness seminars through The Center.

“It was just important for us to be involved in the community and give them a space to do their banking, ask their questions and not be judged,” Dry says.

Another local financial institution that has embraced partnerships with the LGBTQ+ community is Climate First Bank. Climate First is the nation’s first climate-focused bank and was founded on “principles of tackling climate change and doing the right

“Everybody has a right to identify as and to be the person that they feel they are and that should be true in every aspect of their lives,” Kent says. “Whether they are going to the bank, whether they are going into a supermarket or whatever they chose to do every day.”

account that is open. We work with different charities, at the moment we are working with The Center and we worked with KindRED Pride before that. The idea is to spread the opportunity to as many LGBTQ+ charities as possible.”

Climate First’s Pride

basic human right,” says Kent. “We do a lot of diversity and inclusion training at Climate First to make sure our people are educated and well informed. We have a specific pronoun training when you join the company to learn the correct ways to address people and be respectful of their pronouns and preferred name.”

Addition Financial has also incorporated training specifically focused on respecting their LGBTQ+ members, including utilizing the right name and pronouns of every person and knowing how to properly and respectfully address same-sex couples.

“We tailor each member’s account so that when they come in whoever is helping them will be able to pick up from that last conversation to ensure that they are communicating with that individual accordingly,” Garland says. “It is about honoring and respecting each member, and we take that very seriously.”

Another quick and easy way to know if your bank or credit union is LGBTQ+-friendly is to look for visual markers that the company has chosen to display to let you know you are in a safe space. Look for Pride flags being displayed or employees wearing pronoun pins. Also if your local police or sheriff department has a Safe Place Initiative, look for those rainbow-colored decals on the business’ doors and/or windows.

thing by our planet.”

“We are all about becoming the most impactful bank in terms of tackling the climate crisis,” says Climate First’s VP Director of Marketing Rachel Kent. “Our lending is focused on youth, education, affordable housing, renewable energy, making things like solar very accessible and affordable. Just trying to do the right thing by our planet.”

That fight for social justice carries over to the LGBTQ+ community as well.

In 2022, First Climate launched Pride Banking, a checking account focused on raising awareness and funds for an LGBTQ+ organization. It began with a six-month partnership with KindRED Pride Foundation and then at the start of 2023, First Climate partnered with The Center Orlando.

“The checking account is something we offer to anyone who wants to open a new account,” Kent says. “We donate $100 to an LGBTQ+ charity or organization for every

Banking accounts are an interest-bearing account with $0 monthly fees, no minimum account balance and come with free Pride-themed checks.

Something that is of great importance to many LGBTQ+ individuals, especially for those who identify as transgender, nonbinary or gender nonconforming, is knowing that their names and pronouns will be respected and honored at their financial institution.

“Banking with your preferred name and pronouns is not only important, it’s a

“Feeling safe and being able to be yourself and not have to hide who you are, [same-sex couples] being able to say my husband or my wife is on this account with me, knowing that when you come in you won’t be harassed about your preferred name and pronouns, those kinds of things aren’t just about good customer service, they are about treating everyone equally and with respect,” Dry says.

To check out the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index, go to HRC.org.

If you are interested in learning more about Climate First Bank’s Pride Banking, visit ClimateFirstBank.com/Personal/ Pride-Banking.

Learn more about Addition Financial by going to AdditionFi.com.

SHOWING PRIDE: Addition Financial marches in the Come Out With Pride parade in Orlando. PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

Being an LGBTQ-friendly organization isn’t just saying you are inclusive, you have to show it. It’s creating an environment that allows anyone who walks through those doors to embrace who they are.

— JEFF DRY, REGIONAL DIRECTOR FOR BRANCH OPERATIONS AT ADDITION FINANCIAL

Business of Pride

An advisor and ally talks inclusive outreach

professionally. Our mission is to pave the way for meaningful change, so we can all move forward — together.”

One way they accomplish that is through the network’s Business of Pride Symposium. Their third annual event was held at the end of Pride month in St. Petersburg.

Ryan Williams-Jent

FINANCIAL SERVICE INDUSTRY

veteran Wayne Dictor has worked with clientele in Central Florida and Tampa Bay for decades, offering securities and investment planning along with pensions, 401Ks, IRAs, life insurance, annuity investments and long-term care policies. It just so happens that most of his clients are LGBTQ+.

“I got into the financial industry in 1982, right out of college,” Dictor says. The longtime ally says he began working with openly LGBTQ+ members of the community in 1985, which has grown over the years to become “over 75% of my book of business.”

“It was just natural,” he says, citing word of mouth. “I’ve been in the business for over 40 years and it just happens to be the largest percentage. It’s like opening a doctor’s office. If you’re a physician, you get who comes in the door, then you have certain clients who start referring their family or referring their friends, people they associate with. That’s how I built my book of business over the years.”

Dictor is president of Dictor Financial LLC, which he operates primarily through

referrals. He says he handles clients and businesses of low or high net worth.

“I always take a referral regardless of their value because if people feel good enough to refer to me and think I can help a friend or family member, I show them the courtesy of doing that,” he says. One way he’s served clients for over 13 years is as a registered principal of Raymond James Financial Services.

The global financial firm’s website says its focus “is on providing trusted advice and tailored, sophisticated strategies for individuals and institutions.”

It promises to do so as “a financial services firm as unique as the people we serve.”

“Raymond James has always been a different kind of financial services firm, embracing long-term planning, valuing

methodical decision-making and remaining focused on what matters most: People,” the firm notes. A key part of that is their commitment to diversity and inclusion.

That’s evident at its international headquarters in St. Petersburg, where they regularly raise the Pride flag, partner with local LGBTQ+ organizations and have created company-wide inclusion networks for LGBTQ+ employees, advisors and their allies.

Dictor says he’s proud to have joined Raymond James’ Pride Financial Advisors Network this year. He did so after attending Raymond James’ national meeting, where he networked with some of its members at a Pride Financial Advisors Network breakfast.

“We got to talking and I realized these were my people,” he explains. “Philosophically and socially, we were on the same track.”

“The Pride Financial Advisors Network welcomes professionals with a demonstrated commitment to fiercely and honestly serving the LGBTQ+ community,” the group’s official synopsis reads. “And whether you’re a like-minded advisor, advocate or ally, our network invites you to thrive as your most authentic self, both personally and

funds are doing certain things, how they’re approaching the business — it’s important for me to understand you as my client, too,” he explains. “This network is trying to make it more accessible for people in the LGBTQ+ community to have a safe space.”

In the financial services industry, existing data says that’s critical. According to last year’s Retirement Confidence Survey, conducted for the 32nd year by the Employee Benefit Research Institute and Greenwald Research, LGBTQ+ Americans are less likely to have confidence about living comfortably through retirement.

“The Business of Pride Symposium offers the opportunity to learn about topics that resonate with the LGBTQ+ community,” Raymond James’ website reads. “You can connect with industry experts, Raymond James executives and a powerful network of like-minded advisors and advocates, all of whom are dedicated to helping you grow personally and professionally. The time is right to understand the ways our businesses can represent and serve the financial planning needs of the LGBTQ+ community.”

Dictor proudly attended.

“The firm is very inclusive,” he says. “It looks to reach out to diverse groups and bring them in ... The Business of Pride means we’re looking to create a safe space — because the financial advisor’s role, for a lack of a better term, sees people come out to us every day.

“If I bring you in to work with me as a client, you’re going to tell me things about your finances, about your family, about your life, things that you probably wouldn’t share with a number of other people,” he continues. “Sometimes not even your family. If I’m dealing with your finances, and they are such an incredibly important part of your overall life, you’re going to tell me things that you might not tell somebody else.”

It’s just one of the things that makes allyship along with an understanding of equity and inclusion so important, Dictor notes.

“In my business, it’s not just about me knowing what’s going on in the market — what companies are doing what, what

They’re also less likely to seek financial guidance, Dictor adds. He says according to one survey by Goldman Sachs, the major investment bank and financial services company, 78% of the LGBTQ+ community does not have a financial advisor.

“That’s a huge number,” he says, something advisors like Dictor are working to change. The symposium stressed just how important it is to do so.

“It’s one thing to walk in and open an account with a broker,” he says. “It’s another thing to open an account with a broker and literally sit there and wonder, ‘what are that particular person’s prejudices? And am I something they’re prejudiced about?’

“I understand what hate is and hate is a deplorable thing,” he continues. “But I didn’t know what it took for many members of the LGBTQ+ community to have the same level of comfort I have when it comes to walking into an office like my own. I want to help champion them, that’s why I aligned myself with this. I’m proud to say that I’m associated with a firm of this nature.”

All comments and opinions are those of Wayne Dictor and not Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc.

Investment Advisory Services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. Dictor Financial LLC is not a registered broker dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

For more information about Dictor Financial LLC, call 407-942-3366 or email Wayne Dictor at Wayne@DictorFinancial.com.

PHOTO

not being overly prepared. That was a barrier for me coming into performance.

Before, I understood performance as something that you had to preconceive. That you had to rehearse and learn to a place where you could perform it exactly the same way to present that material to the audience so they take it in and laugh when you want them to laugh and feel what you want them to feel.

That whole process was really a barrier for me; clowning is really more about showing up willing to say “yes.” You are there in service of your audience, you have the best time and you share that with your audience.

HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THAT FOR “DRAG RACE?”

I think it was just trying to do as best as I could to be prepared and have everything I needed there with me, and then in the moment, try to make choices and do things that felt spontaneous and fresh to fulfill my personal need to do that. So that was making the choice to be Joan Rivers at the last minute [on an “All Stars” Roast challenge].

I had my Joan Rivers wig there, but I didn’t really know that it was going to be a roast and that I would do that. So that was me being able to make a choice there that felt spontaneous and truthful when the girls were all saying, “Oh, I wouldn’t do a character because that makes it too hard.”

My brain thought, “okay, well, I’m doing a character then. I need to do it like this,” and I was able to do that because I had stuff there.

It was the same with Casper. I didn’t know if I was gonna do Casper, but I had that there with me and I was able to listen to their critiques and what they were looking for. I thought, “okay, I can do a Casper performance and maybe win this lip sync. So it’s a combination of being prepared and kind of being spontaneous.

WHAT HAS “DRAG RACE” TAUGHT YOU ABOUT YOURSELF AS AN ARTIST?

I think it’s taught me to just really believe in myself, my voice and my ideas. When you’re an artist on a small island like I was on the west coast of Canada, with my own community and my own audience, everything

was very small and I got the sense from everybody that it was entertaining, and that people connected to it and people loved it. I was celebrated and encouraged, but it wasn’t until I reached a much bigger audience base and platform that I was able to see really the scale to which people love my art and love my take on it. That was really encouraging and showed me, okay, I can really experiment and I have an audience that is wanting to see it.

DID YOU APPROACH “ALL STARS” DIFFERENTLY THAN YOUR OTHER SEASONS?

Yeah, I did. This time I wanted to try to be a bit calmer and a bit more measured in my reactions and my response. I was having fun in the past with being a little bit frivolous with how I acted, or what I did, just because you can.

It’s a made-up world, you’re on reality TV, so it’s a choose your own adventure. But when you exit and you watch it all back, you have to live with those decisions and you have to live with the fandom and all those things. So that definitely shaped my performance and my time on there. I thought, “okay, I have to be really cautious of the choices that I make, because they have repercussions for myself on the show and with my sisters in their lives and everything.”

CASPER AND SHIRLEY TEMPLE WERE BIG HITS. HOW DO YOU CONCEPTUALIZE YOUR CHARACTERS AND

IS IT DIFFICULT TO HAVE SO MANY WELL-KNOWN CHARACTERS FANS HOPE TO SEE?

No, I think it’s great. When someone knows a little bit about the character, the performance, it is kind of half the battle. They’re excited to see it rather than going in with, “okay, what’s going on?” and then being excited. It’s kind of like listening to a song when you know the words ... it’s a little bit more fun. I think it’s the same with performance, when you know where [the show] might go, it really allows the audience to say, “okay, I can really watch and I can really take this all in.”

So I think it’s fun and exciting to reference things that people have a little grasp of so that they’re able to share it.

HAVE ANY BOLOGNA COMPANIES REACHED OUT FOR SPONSORSHIP?

WHY DO YOU THINK

THEY RESONATE WITH FANS?

I think people like seeing a little bit of everything. We are all very similar to each other in all sorts of different little ways that maybe are not so apparent on the outside at first glance.

So I think seeing somebody embody all these different ways of being, and feeling free and comfortable, to kind of flow through them and try them on for a bit and feel them out and then share that, it allows the audience to kind of share in that experience. To go those places without having to go there themselves necessarily, so they’re able to go like, “Holy shit. That was weird and crazy and I’m so glad I didn’t have to do that. But I got to watch you do it.” So I think it’s kind of funny that way.

WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO FIND OUT YOU WON?

It makes me cry every time I watch [the results video.] It was so exciting and crazy. It’s just my dream coming true.

In that moment I knew it could go either way. Obviously I felt like I had a huge support base around the world of people that were Team Jimbo. But at the end of the day, it’s up to Mama Ru and the network and all of those other voices, the people and the fans, and you never know what it’s all going to boil down to. So I thought in that moment, I just wanted it so badly. I wanted to be in the Hall of Fame and have my crown and so I’m so glad it happened.

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE THE FIRST INTERNATIONAL QUEEN TO ENTER THE HALL OF FAME?

It feels really inspirational. We have this amazing family of drag now that’s around the world, and everyone wants a chance to connect and to be celebrated and to show their art. So I feel like me being able to do this, and being able to do it in such a way that was able to resonate with so many people, it kind of gives hope to other drag queens around the world that maybe they’ll have an opportunity to do something similar, or to go on to a larger platform and have an experience like that.

WHAT CAN FANS EXPECT FROM YOUR “JIMBO’S DRAG CIRCUS” WORLD TOUR COMING TO FLORIDA NEXT YEAR?

The tour is basically my first large theatre solo tour. I have a background in production design and theater, and this is my first time where I’m focusing all of my energy and all of my past experience in theater and performance and I’m putting it all into my own show. It’s gonna be a cast of a lot of the characters that we saw on “Drag Race,” but put them all together and create a narrative between them all.

It’s basically a one-woman show where I cycle through and kind of skip around between each character doing performances. I’m also going to be doing live music. I love singing and performing music so it’s going to be an opportunity to weave in that with some characters and some visual beauty.

They haven’t. (Laughs.) I’ve reached out to a few of them, but I don’t know if they appreciate using it like I am — you’re not supposed to play with your food, so maybe they don’t like me throwing it all around … I had to travel around the world finding bologna in 17 countries last year. It was funny.

WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HAVE FOR FANS WHERE LGBTQ+ RIGHTS ARE UNDER ATTACK?

Stay strong and know that this fight has been going on for a long time, and that there is progress, even when it feels like there’s not and it feels like we’re going backwards. As long as we still remain, fighting for what we believe is right, for our truth and our personal freedoms and our rights to be healthy and happy, as long as we’re doing that, and we’re pushing forward for our next generations, then we’re doing the right thing.

I think it’s when we start believing the false rhetoric, when we start being small and making ourselves less visible out of fear, that’s when they start winning. We have to really be visible and we have to be brave and we have to say, “there is nothing wrong with who we are. There’s nothing wrong with wanting love and rights and freedoms just like everyone else.”

“RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” season eight is now streaming on Paramount+.

For more information about Jimbo and her upcoming tours, visit HouseOfJimbo.com.

SNATCHING THE WIN: “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” guest judge Bowen Yang (L) with Jimbo as “Snatch Game of Love” winner Shirley Temple. PHOTO COURTESY WORLD OF WONDER/PARAMOUNT+ ©2023 WORLD OF WONDER PRODUCTIONS, INC.

CONGRATULATIONS

Roo Roo’s Diner celebrates three years in Largo this month.

The inaugural Florida Out Coast Convention welcomed nearly 150 people to Tampa Aug. 1-3. Read more on p. 10.

The Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber shared Aug. 7 that President and CEO Justice Gennari has been elected to the board of directors for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. Learn more at ACCE.org.

Naked Boys Reading launched in Tampa Bay Aug. 10. Read more on p. 10. American Stage’s celebrated run of “La Gringa,” the company’s first bilingual production, closed Aug. 13. Read all about the show and its impact on LGBTQ+ actor Victor Souffrant at WatermarkOnline.com.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS

St. Petersburg LGBTQ+ liaison Jim Nixon, St. Petersburg interior designer Scott Velez, Tampa Bay entertainer Alexis De La Mer, Tampa Bay photographer Kimberly DeFalco, Enso owner and chef Mathias Padilla (Aug. 17); Tampa Bay performer Macaviti, Sarasota orthodontist Michael Radall, St. Petersburg realtor Dan Casper (Aug. 18); Lakeland singer Danny Pate, Tampa pastor Scott Manning, Former St. Pete ASAP Executive Director William Harper, Love the Golden Rule’s LJ Sosa (Aug. 19); MHK Director of Strategy and Pharmacy Jimmy Singkhapophet (Aug. 20); Clearwater bear Keith Schorr, Brandon restaurant exec. Rob Roberts (Aug. 21); Tampa Bay retailer Charles Germaine, The Hotchkiss Group’s Sonny Hotchkiss, Caretaker Mariam Mai (Aug. 23); Writer and ally Karen Brown, The Taylor Company Founder Scott Taylor, Tampa Bay mainstay Corey Peterson, Miss Quench 2022 Kamden

T. Rage, St. Petersburg actor/director Steven Flaa, Channel 125 owner Dick Woelfle (Aug. 24); Tampa

Bay realtor Tom Malanowicz, Spring Hill psychologist

David Chandler, St. Pete Twirling Project veteran Steven

Caruso, Tampa softballer Andrew Cohen, Optician Sharon Greene, Cocktail bartender Marc Kennedy (Aug. 25); St. Petersburg staple Joshua Wallace, Buffy lover Del Fugler, Hillsborough County educator Laurie Walls, Tampa Bay

entertainer Ja’Staria Sherrington, Spring of Tampa Bay’s Emmie Wehle (Aug. 26); former St. Pete Pride board member Carl Lovgren, Keller Williams’ Dallas Coffield, Tampa Bay realtor Scott Fulghum, GaYbor President Walter Giovanni, Tampa Bay activist and entertainer

Angelique Young (Aug. 27); Gypsy Productions’ Darryl

Epperly, St. Pete songstress Lorna Bracewell, Clearwater bear Chris Miller, Tampa Verizon guy Jim Green, DoMA Home Furnishing’s Cody Williams, Tampa Bay activist

Aramis Baynard (Aug. 28); Seminole painting expert Karen Santos, Studio@620 founder Bob Devin Jones, Sarasota entertainer Hunter Vance, PrimeTimers Sarasota’s Stephen Horowitz, Sarasota PR pro Joey Panek, Progressive Insurance’s Jeff Davidson (Aug. 29); Tyler’z Barbershop owner Tyler Cochran (Aug. 30).

TAMPA BAY OUT+ABOUT

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PHOTO PROS: Megan Dipiero (L) and Dylan Todd strike a pose during her Irreplaceable Workshop on Aug. 12. PHOTO COURTESY DYLAN TODD

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TEAM MCC: MCC Tampa Senior Pastor Rev. Jakob Hero-Shaw (L) and former Senior Pastor Rev. Phyllis Hunt celebrate the organization’s 50-year mark Aug. 6.

PHOTO FROM MCC TAMPA’S FACEBOOK

TAKING THE STAGE: Director Nathan Truly brings “Naked Boys Reading” to Tampa Bay Aug. 10 at Studio@620.

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BY COSMIC PERSPSECTIVE PRODUCTIONS

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FIRST FLOCC: (L-R) David Downing, Ashley T. Brundage, Nathan Bruemmer, Stacey Ritter and Loann Halden kick off FLOCC Aug. 1 with “Navigating Florida Tourism Advisories,” the conference’s first panel.

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MUSIC MAKERS: Members of the Tampa Bay Pride Band and Tampa Bay Symphonic Winds enjoy their orientation Aug. 8. PHOTO FROM TB PRIDE BAND’S FACEBOOK

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FLAMAZING WINNERS: (L-R) Brianna Summers, Gabe Alves, Rachel Covello, Clifford Hobbs, Jim Nixon, Trevor Pettiford and Nicole Berman take the stage Aug. 3 at Flamboyance as St Pete Pride wins Flamazing LGBTQ+ Event during FLOCC.

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DOING THE WORK: (L-R) Nate Taylor, Argenis Perlata, Cameron Wright and Timothy Barbara table at Enigma Aug. 11 for Metro Inclusive Health. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

FOND FAREWELL: CAN Community Health’s St. Petersburg staff says goodbye to Dr. Peter Berkey Aug. 9 before he transfers to another clinic.

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PHOTO

PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

PHOTO FROM CAN’S FACEBOOK

CONGRATULATIONS

Sara Grossman was named the new president of The Dru Project. Outgoing president Shawn Chaudhry made the announcement on social media Aug. 4. “This move has been a long time in the making, as I will be focusing my time on other ventures and projects,” Chaudhry wrote in his post, adding that he will continue to serve on the board as the organization’s treasurer. Corsets & Cuties celebrates nine years as a burlesque cabaret troupe Aug. 28.

Will’s Pub celebrates its 27th anniversary on Sept. 1. 26Health celebrates eight years as a Central Florida health center this month.

It was announced this month that SAK Comedy Lab will be moving from its longtime location on Orange Ave. to the Church Street Market. The space, which will be a few doors down from Orlando Fringe’s ArtSpace, is expected to open by December.

DEPARTURES

Brandon Wolf, an LGBTQ+ rights and gun control activists, as well as Equality Florida’s current Press Secretary, announced Aug. 14 that he is leaving Orlando to begin a new chapter in Washington, D.C. In a Facebook post, Wolf stated “I’m excited to share more about the work I’ll be doing when I can,” adding he “will be even more deeply connected to the national fight for our freedom than ever before.” Wolf states that he will begin his move to the nation’s capital Sept. 1. Wolf recently released his memoir, “A Place For Us,” making an appearance in Orlando Aug. 7 for a book signing. Read more about that event on pg. 8.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS

Orlando entertainer Tod Kimbro, Tony Award-winner Kenny Howard (Aug. 17); Orlando actor Chris Shepardson, Orlando lawyer Paul San Giovanni (Aug. 18); Orlando-based actress Daniella Sagona, Central Florida performer Danielle Hunter, Orlando artist Steven McCune, Winter Park Playhouse’s Todd Long (Aug. 19); Orlando LGBTQ activist Sam Graper (Aug. 20); 26Health’s Debo Ofsowitz, school teacher and ally Tabatha Schmidt, GayMovieDB founder Brandon Taylor (Aug. 22); Orlando International Airport’s Pedro Aponte, Orlando graphic artist Marcus Vale (Aug. 23); Sunnyland Slammer Shana Moshen, Ally and activist Karen Brown (Aug. 24); Manager of Corporate Partnerships at Universal Brad Partridge (Aug. 25); Orlando’s Eddie Mora, Central Florida singer and actress Jill Wilson, Former Watermark film critic Stephen Miller (Aug. 26); Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse coordinator Benjamin Cox (Aug. 27); Orlando artist Keith Theriot (Aug. 28); Orlando Miller’s Ale House kitchen coach Nicole Phillips, IT guru Jeff Kern, Orlando artist and photographer Lee Vandergrift (Aug. 29).

CENTRAL FLORIDA OUT+ABOUT

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FOR THE LAUGHS: (L-R) Kristian Bighom, Josh Cooper, George Wallace and Danny Garcia at the Orlando Improv Aug. 5 to see comedian Atsuko Okatsuka.

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BOOK SIGNING: Brandon Wolf (L) signs a copy of his memoir for Andrea Montanez during Wolf’s book signing event at College Park Gallery in Orlando

Aug. 7. PHOTO FROM ANDREA MONTANEZ’S FACEBOOOK

3

COMEDY NIGHT: Comedian Lee Cohen takes part in a comedy feedback mic hosted by comedian JP Lambiase in his garage in Central Florida. The session was posted to Lambiase’s YouTube channel Aug. 9. SCREENSHOT FROM JP LAMBIASE’S YOUTUBE

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FAMILY TRIP: Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet (L), Luis Alberto Sousa-Lazaballet and the kids enjoy a family vacation to the mountains in northern Georgia Aug. 6. PHOTO FROM FELIPE SOUSA-LAZABALLET’S FACEBOOK

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DRAG IS GOOD: National Entertainer of the Year Twila Holiday grabs a selfie with a packed house at the Garage Bar in St. Cloud Aug. 13. PHOTO FROM TWILA HOLIDAY’S FACEBOOK

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PHOTO OF THE GIRLS: (L-R) Brianna Summers, April Fresh and Angelique Young grab a photo at the Drag Show Pride Night at Secrets Hideaway in Kissimmee Aug. 8. PHOTO FROM LOC ROBERTSON’S FACEBOOK

7 ON STRIKE: Members of SAG-AFTRA’s Miami chapter hold a support rally in Lake Eola Park in Orlando Aug. 10. PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

8 RIGHT ON TIME: Billy Mick (L) and Brian Villa hit up The 808 in Orlando at 8:08 Aug. 8. PHOTO FROM BILLY N BRIAN’S FACEBOOK

PHOTO FROM DANNY GARCIA

community calendar

CENTRAL FLORIDA Southern Nights 9-Year Anniversary

FRIDAY-SATURDAY, AUG. 18-19, 9 P.M.

SOUTHERN NIGHTS, ORLANDO

Southern Nights in Orlando is celebrating its nineth anniversary with special guests including Danielle Hunter, Dee Ranged, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” alum Eureka O’Hara and more. Free drinks customer appreciation hour from 9-10 p.m. Drag shows at 11 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. For more information go to Facebook.com/SouthernNightsOrlando.

Savoy’s 19th Anniversary

FRIDAY-SUNDAY, AUG. 18-20, 6 P.M. SAVOY, ORLANDO

Come celebrate 19 years in the community with Savoy Orlando. Dance the night away all weekend and celebrate one of Orlando’s gayest spots for nearly two decades. All three days will be filled with special performances, sexy dancers and many more surprises. For more information, visit SavoyOrlando.com.

TAMPA BAY Strike Out for AIDS 16

SATURDAYS, AUG. 19 & 26, 6-9 P.M.

MULTIPLE VENUES, TAMPA BAY

Join Empath Partners in Care for the 16th annual Strike Out for AIDS. This fundraiser benefiting their services returns on both sides of the Bay for a battle between comic book superheroes and villains — first on Aug. 19 at Pin Chasers in Tampa and second on Aug. 26 at Dunedin Lanes. Individual bowling is $35, teams of four are $140 and teams of five are $175. Learn more at StrikeOutforAIDS.org.

Britney vs. Christina Drag Show

FRIDAY, AUG. 25, 7 P.M.

THE FLORIDIAN SOCIAL, ST. PETERSBURG

Drag entertainers promise high-energy dance routines, lip-sync battles and fabulous looks in honor of legendary pop divas Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera. Doors open at 7 and the show begins at 9, featuring music by DJ Ali V. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door. For more information about the 21+ drag extravaganza, visit TheFloridianSocial.com.

EVENT PLANNER

Eureka O’Hara, Aug. 19, Southern Nights, Tampa. 813-559-8625; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsTampa

Brittany Baldwin & The Bee Stings, Aug. 19, Salty Nun, St. Petersburg. 727-329-9994; Facebook.com/ SaltyNun

Taylor Swift Laser Dance Party, Aug. 19, Central Park Performing Arts Center, Largo. 727-587-6793; LargoArts.com

SHE’S HERE

ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT

CENTRAL FLORIDA

Eureka O’Hara, Aug. 18, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando

Les Vixens’ Art of the Tease!, Aug. 18, College Park Gallery, Orlando. 407-368-9352; CollegeParkGallery.com

“Reefer Madness” by Joe Landry, Aug. 18-Sept. 4, Breakthrough Theatre Company, Winter Park. 407-920-4034; BreakthroughTheatre.com

Opera on the Big Screen: “Norma,” Aug. 19, Enzian Theater, Maitland. 407-629-1088; Enzian.org

Bazaar Botanica’s

Mermaid Market, Aug. 20, Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company, Orlando. 407-270-6749; BazaarBotcanicaFair.com

Fashion Market 1-Year Anniversary, Aug. 20, The Abbey, Orlando. 407-704-6103; AbbeyOrlando.com

Drag Brunch – Big Girls, Aug. 20, Island Time, Orlando. 407-930-2640; IslandTimeOrlando.com

Dining with Darcel, Aug. 20, Hamburger Mary’s, Orlando. 321-319-0600; HamburgerMarys.com/Orlando

A Little Night Music, Aug. 20, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

Corsets & Cuties’ 9-Year Anniversary, Aug. 20, The Abbey, Orlando. 407-704-6103; AbbeyOrlando.com

Healers Joy Night, Aug. 21, Casa Feliz Historic Home Museum, Winter Park. PeerSupportSpace.org

Illume: A Transformative Art Workshop for Breast Cancer Survivors, Aug. 25-27, Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando. 407-896-4231; OMArt.org

April Fresh’s Comedy Brunch, Aug. 26, The 808, Orlando. 407-440-4079; The808Orlando.com

Colin Jost, Aug. 26, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

Nerd Night @ Science Night Live, Aug. 26, Orlando Science Center, Orlando. 407-514-2000; OSC.org

TAMPA BAY

“Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992,” Through Aug. 27, Jobsite Theater, Tampa. 813-229-7827; JobsiteTheater.org

“At Home with Ethel Waters,” Through Sept. 10, freeFall Theatre, St. Petersburg. 727-498-5205; freeFallTheatre.com

LGBTQ+ Arts & Crafts Nite, Aug. 18, Studios at 5663, Pinellas Park. 727-313-2250; PinellasArtsVillage.com

Tampa Bay Leather Night, Aug. 19, The Garage on Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-258-4850; Facebook.com/ OFCLGaragePage

EPIC Generations Coffee Hour, Aug. 21, Dunedin Senior Center, Dunedin. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

Tuesday Live Music: Hot Tonic, Aug. 22, James Museum, St. Petersburg. 727-892-4200, TheJamesMuseum.org

Karaoke Tuesdays, Aug. 22; 29, Zipperz Bar, Gulfport. 727-290-7497; Facebook.com/ ZipperzGayBar

EPIC Generations Coffee Hour, Aug. 25, Gulfport Senior Center, Gulfport. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” Live Concert, Aug. 29, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com

EPIC Generations Media Club, Aug. 29, Empath Partners in Care, St. Petersburg. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

Labor Day Boys Night Out, Sept. 1, Quench Lounge, Largo. 727-754-5900; QuenchLounge.com

SARASOTA

Sarasota’s Big Gay Weekend, Aug. 25-27, The Floridian Social, St. Petersburg. BigGayWeekend.com

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

Eureka O’Hara is coming to Florida with a pair of Southern appearances — first at Southern Nights Orlando on Aug. 18 and then at Southern Nights Tampa on Aug. 19. PHOTO BY GREG ENDRIES/HBO

Florida’s First Orthopedic Hospital.

Opens in August

Experience innovation in motion at the first and only orthopedic hospital in the Southeast. Opening this August, the Orlando Health Jewett Orthopedic Institute downtown complex gives patients an all-in-one experience with specialized orthopedic surgery, faster MRIs, smart-room technology and more — at one convenient location. Giving you more reasons to choose well. OrlandoHealth.com/DowntownOrthoInstitute

be seen. choose well.

choose well.

When it comes to your health, you want the best care available. You want Bayfront Health. A connected network of primary and specialized physicians, ERs and a hospital focused on a forward-thinking and innovative approach to wellness. Giving you more reasons to choose well. BayfrontHealth.com