Watermark Issue 30.25: The Remarkable People Issue

Your LGBTQ+ News Source.

Dec. 7 - 20, 2023 • Issue 30.25

the REMARKABLE PEOPLE issue

Our list of 2023’s Remarkable People in Central Florida and Tampa Bay DAYTONA BEACH • ORLANDO • TAMPA • ST. PETERSBURG • CLEARWATER • SARASOTA

Your LGBTQ+ News Source.

Dec. 7 - 20, 2023 • Issue 30.25

the REMARKABLE PEOPLE issue Our list of 2023’s Remarkable People in Tampa Bay and Central Florida DAYTONA BEACH • ORLANDO • TAMPA • ST. PETERSBURG • CLEARWATER • SARASOTA

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watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

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DEPARTMENTS 7 // PUBLISHER’S DESK

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8 // CENTRAL FL NEWS 10 // TAMPA BAY NEWS

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REMARKABLE PEOPLE ISSUE: Our

list of 2023’s Remarkable People in Central Florida and Tampa Bay. COVER PHOTOS BY DYLAN TODD

SCAN QR CODE FOR

WATERMARKONLINE.COM

Eddie Izzard returns to New York for a version of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” with just one actor onstage.

WATERMARK ISSUE 30.25 // DECEMBER 7 - 20, 2023

WHAT’S NEXT?

BACK HOME

QUEERLY BELOVED

VISIBILI-T

page onePULSE Foundation announces it will be dissolved.

page The Honey Pot returns to Tampa’s Ybor City through a new partnership.

page

page

Read It Online!

In addition to a website with daily LGBTQ+ updates, a digital version of each issue of the publication is made available on WatermarkOnline.com

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10

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Read what Rev. Jakob Hero-Shaw has to say in his latest Viewpoint.

Read all about Elizabeth

in the most 19 Tomanguilla recent Visibili-T profile.

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CONTRIBUTORS

PUBLISHER’S

Rick Todd PUBLISHER

Rick@WatermarkOnline.com

T

DESK

HERE NEEDS TO BE A SONG

about an Australian Christmas. You know, how everyone is in shorts, getting sun and barbequing. Then I might feel like it’s Christmas.

How can this be December?

Is it always this hot? It is very difficult to get into the holiday spirit when it feels like June out here.

But alas, we are at the end of the year whether the weather wants us to accept it or not.

This is my last column of 2023.

It will be late January before you hear from me again. Depending on what city you live in, you will enjoy a full month of columns from either Jeremy Williams or Ryan Williams-Jent.

I looked back on my last column of 2022 and found this gem, “For 2023 I have one simple request: Can we finally put Donald Trump back into the background? I will check back in with you in twelve months to see how that is going.”

Such a dreamer that one-year younger Rick Todd was. How did we do? I’m thinking not so well. The orange-painted hot air balloon is all over my TV and social feeds. Although it isn’t so bad. Since I watch a lot of MSNBC most of the coverage is about his four criminal indictments, his election loss and his being found liable for sexual misconduct.

I mean, if I have to hear about it might as well be about his losing and being held accountable for the terrible things he has done… alleged terrible things.

I know everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty, but this is my opinion column, not a court of law and not a news story.

So, I will say what I feel.

We may not have been successful in putting a muzzle

on the Trump situation, but it was an exciting and somewhat triumphant year for Team Watermark.

With the first issue of 2023 Watermark launched its Visibili-T series. We aimed to highlight our everyday trans community to hopefully help our readers put a human face to some of our most marginalized siblings. I am proud of this series and I stand as strong as ever in saying our community needs to embrace and support the trans fight for rights.

Watermark also worked with Adrenaline Films to document the LGBTQ+ history of Central Florida. A work in progress, the documentary was accepted into the Florida Film Festival and received an audience choice award. I have written extensively about this in this space before, but I would like to say a special thank you to the film’s director, Jess Keller. She is working step-by-step with me as we get the documentary finalized. She lifts my spirits when times get hard and is there to celebrate the triumphs. She is amazing and I thank her for helping me create the thing I am most proud of.

After years of talking about it, Watermark launched a podcast.

Editor-in-Chief, Jeremy Williams, and I host a weekly show called “Wine, Wine Not: A Queer Podcast.” Basically, Jeremy drinks wine and I do not. We talk about queer characters and entertainers and we have a blast doing it.

Another long awaited project for the team was upgrading WatermarkOnline.com. It hasn’t been the smoothest transition, but we are very excited about the new look and additional opportunities for our advertisers.

Hopefully it is easier for you to navigate and find the news you are most interested in.

WATERMARK STAFF Owner & Publisher: Rick Todd • Ext. 110 Rick@WatermarkOnline.com Editor-in-Chief: Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com Managing Editor: Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com

The latest project we have started is our Spanish language news section. We have contracted a Spanish-speaking journalist and consultant to help cultivate stories and news for our Spanish speaking LGBTQ+ community.

It’s been a triumphant year for our whole community.

Darcel Stevens led a statewide Drag March in Tallahassee to protest the governor’s anti-drag law. The owners of Hamburger Mary’s joined the fight by suing the governor and having the law put on hold while the trial is adjudicated.

2023 left some big shoes for

Donald Trump will lose.

2024 to fill, but I am excited about the possibilities. Watermark has some exciting plans for our 30th year in publication. We have laid a lot of groundwork to launch new avenues to connect with our community and I can’t wait for you to see what we have come up with.

Before you get to reading this issue full of remarkable people, I’ll leave with this prediction for 2024. Donald Trump will lose. He will lose his audience when his trial is televised. He will lose his run for the presidency. He will lose and the truth will win.

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

ORLANDO OFFICE Creative Designer: Dylan Todd • Ext. 107 Dylan@WatermarkOnline.com Creative Designer: Caitlin Sause • Ext. 104 Caitlin@WatermarkOnline.com

Sales Director: Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Danny@WatermarkOnline.com Senior Orlando Account Manager: Sam Callahan • Ext. 103 Sam@WatermarkOnline.com Central FL Account Manager: Daisy Chamberlin • Ext. 101 Daisy@WatermarkOnline.com

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REV. JAKOB HERO-SHAW

is the Senior Pastor of the Metropolitan Community Church of Tampa. He and his husband are the proud parents of two teenagers.. Page 17

JENNIFER RING has told

the story of art in Tampa Bay since 2017 through more than 200 art reviews, artist profiles and features. She believes that everyone can and should make art, whether they’re good at it or not. Page 10 HOLLY KAPHERR ALEJOS, SABRINA AMBRA, ABBY BAKER, STEVE BLANCHARD, DEBORAH BOSTOCK-KELLEY, JOHNNY BOYKINS, NATHAN BRUEMMER, BIANCA GOOLSBY, JAKOB HERO-SHAW, LORA KORPAR, JASON LECLERC, JERICK MEDIAVILLA, MELODY MAIA MONET, TIFFANY RAZZANO, GREG STEMM, SYLVIE TREVENA, DR. STEVE YACOVELLI, ANGELIQUE YOUNG, MICHAEL WANZIE

PHOTOGRAPHY BRIAN BECNEL, NICK CARDELLO, J.D. CASTO, BRUCE HARDIN, JAMARQUS MOSLEY, CHRIS STEPHENSON, LEE VANDERGRIFT

DISTRIBUTION LVNLIF2 DISTRIBUTING, KEN CARRAWAY, RAYLENE HUNT, ZACHARY WELCH

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CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher.

Unsolicited article submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Although WATERMARK is supported by many fine advertisers, we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising or listing in WATERMARK is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation or gender identity of such persons or members of such organizations.

WATERMARK is published every second Thursday. Subscription rate is $55 (1st class) and $26 (standard mail).

The official views of WATERMARK are expressed only in editorials. Opinions offered in signed columns, letters and articles are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the newspaper’s owner or management. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted for publication.

WATERMARK is not responsible for damages due to typographical errors, except for the cost of replacing ads created by WATERMARK that have such errors.

Watermark Publishing Group Inc.

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central florida news

NIKOLE PARKER NAMED THE CENTER ORLANDO’S NEW COO Jeremy Williams

O

RLANDO | The LGBT+ Center Orlando announced Dec. 1 that Nikole Parker will be the organization’s new Chief Operating Officer.

Parker is the former Director of Transgender Equality for Equality Florida, that state’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization.

She has also been a part of several nonprofit boards and advisory councils in Central Florida including the Orlando United Assistance Center, Contigo Fund, the onePULSE Foundation Memorial Task Force, The Center Orlando and more.

Parker is a decorated LGBTQ+ rights activist who was recognized as one of Watermark’s Most Remarkable People in 2018, as well as, in 2019, was nationally recognized by Congressman Darren Soto in honor of LGBTQ+ Pride Month, having her biography read into the Congressional Record.

She was also honored with the Emerging Leader Award by the Association of Fundraising Professionals in 2021, the Champion of Equality Award by The Center Orlando in 2022 and the Marsha P. Johnson & Sylvia Rivera Trans Justice Pioneer Award from the Contigo Fund in 2023.

Parker will begin in her new position on Jan. 2.

THE PLAZA LIVE PAYS $5K FINE TO STATE OVER 2022 HOLIDAY DRAG SHOW Jeremy Williams

O

RLANDO | The Orlando Philharmonic Plaza Foundation agreed to pay the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulations a fine of $5,000 as part of its settlement for allowing children to attend “A Drag Queen Christmas” at The Plaza Live in Orlando on Dec. 28, 2022.

According to WKMG News 6, a consent order released Nov. 30 states that the venue also agreed not to allow anyone under 18 years of age into any performance “which contains, depicts, or simulates any activities” that violate the state’s obscenity laws.

The 2022 holiday-themed drag show was targeted by the FLDBPR last year because of what the state agency called material of “a sexual nature” that was not “appropriate for minors.” The agency sent a letter to The Plaza Live at the time advising that there are “strict penalties for licensees who allow minors to attend these drag shows at their licensed premises.”

The drag show called into question had previously played at The Plaza Live for the previous eight years without incident.

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NO MORE RUN?:

The Community Rainbow Run (pictured) was one of the events created by the onePULSE Foundation.

What’s next? onePULSE to be dissolved Jeremy Williams

O

RLANDO | The onePULSE Foundation’s trustees voted Nov. 21 to initiate the transfer of assets and the dissolution of the foundation, according to a press release sent by the organization Nov. 22.

In the release, Yolanda Londoño, onePULSE’s board spokesperson, states that when onePULSE was formed, the vision was to “honor the 49 lives taken, survivors and first responders, and to permanently preserve the site of the tragedy.”

“We developed an ambitious agenda to fulfill these mandates and received positive support both locally and globally,” Londoño said.

“Unfortunately, best intentions are not enough.”

The foundation puts blame for not seeing its vision through on “unexpected and definitive events” including the COVID-19 pandemic and the breakdown in talks between the foundation and the owners of Pulse to secure the property for a permanent memorial.

The announcement comes as the foundation is facing new

scrutiny by Orange County over what it calls a violation of its TDT agreement, which granted onePULSE up to $10 million in 2018 for the building of a museum.

According to WESH 2, Orange County’s lawyers sent the foundation a cease-and-desist letter Nov. 21 claiming onePULSE has been renting out a warehouse located at the foundation’s purchased museum property, a violation of the foundation’s agreement with the county.

WKMG-TV News 6 reported that onePULSE representatives met with Mayor Jerry Demings and county commissioners during an Orange County commission meeting on Nov. 28 to give updates on the foundation.

Former Walt Disney World president and onePULSE vice chair, George Kalogridis spoke publicly for the first time about the foundation’s dissolvement saying that onePULSE was finished once the City of Orlando decided to purchase the Pulse nightclub property.

“It was clear that funding for anything else was going to be impossible and because the negative media was not helping

PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

anybody wanting to give money to us,” he said.

Just as many in the community did after learning about the dissolution of onePULSE, several county commissioners called for an audit of the foundation with Commissioner Mayra Uribe asking “What’s happened to the money?

Where did the money go?”

Kalogridis said that there was no “wasting money” on onePULSE’s part, stating “our percent of spend from design fees as compared to the national average was right in line.”

County officials pushed back on that, with Commissioner Mike Scott saying, “I think that it’s important we understand very intimately what led to the decisions that were made over the years that got us to this point so that those decisions don’t reoccur.”

The dissolution of the foundation is just the latest issue in a year filled with problems for the organization.

After announcing in May it would not be building a memorial at the site of the Pulse nightclub because a deal to donate the property could not be reached between the foundation and the property owners, onePULSE advised the community that it would be scaling back on its “ambitious plans” for a Pulse museum. That news was later followed by an announcement that the foundation would not be building a museum at all.

watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

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tampa bay news

ST PETE PRIDE’S RED & GREEN RAISES OVER $40K Jennifer Ring

S

T. PETERSBURG | St Pete Pride’s annual Red & Green fundraiser returned to Sunken Gardens Dec. 2, raising more than $40,000 for LGBTQ+ youth programming and community partner Family Resources.

“This event offers a meaningful experience to attendees and partners, many of whom may not be welcome at other holiday celebrations,” St Pete Pride shared ahead of time. “While Red & Green offers a wonderful holiday party atmosphere, it also encompasses a time of giving, allowing St Pete Pride to raise needed funds to keep our major Pride month events free to the public.”

St Pete Pride also noted that they are working to expand their annual LGBTQ+ Youth and Family Day. “Your donations will allow us to hire a Youth Pride Director who will be instrumental in creating youth outreach, educational workshops, mentorship opportunities, and a Youth Pride Advisory Board,” they shared. Attendees were able to donate directly as well as through the evening’s raffle and silent auction.

St Pete Pride President Byron Green launched the festivities with a plea to help St Pete Pride meet its goal of $60,000. He then introduced Dr. Lisa Davis, president and CEO of Family Resources.

Davis spoke about how Family Resources helps Pinellas County kids and teens in crisis.

“Right here in St. Petersburg, we have a disproportionate amount of gay, lesbian, and especially trans youth who are homeless and walking the streets,” said Davis. “We opened a drop-in center in 2020, and that resource center helps almost all our queer youth because they don’t have a place to go, and we are trying to provide housing and bridge programming for them.”

Green subsequently passed the mic to St Pete Pride Board member Immani Love, who adopted two gay children when they were in their late teens. “Those children would not have had the lives they had if they didn’t have someone in their life to support them,” Love shared.

Tampa Bay-based performance troupe The Bohemians then performed three songs from “RENT,” starting with a stirring rendition of Seasons of Love. The performance kicked off an evening of live entertainment that included singing, dancing and drag hosted by spoken word artist Queen Sheba.

Prominently featured were St Pete Pride’s 2023 Court, Mr. St Pete Pride Vyn Suazion, Miss St Pete Pride Ceazia Giovanni Kreshe and Mx. St Pete Pride Kamarion Lavish.

Organizers thanked attendees for their support via social media Dec. 4. Donations will continue through the end of the year to help them reach their goal.

“We wish everyone a safe and healthy holiday season,” St Pete Pride wrote.

Read more and donate to St Pete Pride’s fundraiser at GIveButter.com/c/ RedGreen2023.

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NO PLACE LIKE HOME: Supporters

attend HP at PTL’s grand opening Nov. 24. PHOTO COURTESY STEVE DONAHUE

Back Home The Honey Pot returns to Ybor Ryan Williams-Jent

T

AMPA | The Honey Pot returned to Ybor’s 7th Ave. Nov. 24 through a new partnership with PTL Nightclub, which took over the LGBTQ+ staple’s venue after its pandemic-related closure in 2021.

PTL Nightclub — which stands for power, truth and love and bills itself as a space “where the party never stops” — officially opened in 2022. The Honey Pot had previously served the LGBTQ+ community in the space for nearly 14 years.

The club was a venture of the Florida Entertainment Group, which also operated defunct LGBTQ+ bars like Ybor’s G Bar, now Southern Nights Tampa, and St. Petersburg’s G St. Pete.

They announced the venue would permanently close in March 2021 following a year of restricted operations and citywide shutdowns.

“Despite our best attempts and hopes of reopening at our current location, the mounting expenses of maintaining the business while

shut down without income for months has made it impossible to recover financially,” they shared via social media. “We are currently looking at other opportunities and hope to be back with a new venue shortly along with many more years of fun, parties, music & dancing!”

Dozens of LGBTQ+-focused events have been thrown in Honey Pot’s name since. Massive dance parties have been held at The Castle in Ybor, The Floridian Social in St. Petersburg and more, coinciding with major Pride events and holidays.

Now, through the new partnership deemed HP and PTL, The Honey Pot has returned home.

Hundreds of supporters attended their grand opening in their former space Nov. 24.

“It’s so good to be back,” Managing Partner Steve Donahue says. “It felt amazing and I saw so many old friends I hadn’t seen in years!”

“I hope we help bring back the neighborhood,” he adds. “Ybor has been getting a bad reputation lately and another gay business should help bring back safety in

numbers and the old tradition of parking once and bar-hopping between the clubs.”

Other familiar faces are involved with the venture.

Donahue partnered with Justin Weiss, who previously worked with The Honey Pot’s sound and lighting, and is supported by Laval Rhone, a longtime manager and promoter who bartended during the grand opening.

“From what I saw the customers that I served for years were really happy to have us back,” he says.

“As for the newbies that had heard of our legendary parties, it was even more of a blessing for them to experience it now.”

HP at PTL is currently scheduled for Friday nights, with plans to launch a weekly, female-focused Sugar Saturdays event night starting Dec. 9. Parties for Gasparilla and Tampa Pride are also in the works.

“We were happy to see the turnout because we missed the community as much as they missed us,” Rhone says. “We’re happy to be back and are looking forward to throwing a lot of successful parties and offering that safe space for people to come out and have a good time.”

HP at PTL takes place Friday Nights at PTL Nightclub, located at 1507 E. 7th Ave. in Tampa. Sugar Saturdays begin Dec. 9. For more information, visit Facebook.com/HoneyPotHP.

watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

READ IT ONLINE! Head to WatermarkOnline.com and click on the Digital Publications link to a read a digital version of the printed newspaper!

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state news

FUNDRAISING CONTINUES FOR FINAL SMART RIDE Ryan Williams-Jent

T

he 20th and final SMART Ride has raised a record $1,280,381 for AIDS service organizations in Florida this year, but fundraising continues through Dec. 31.

Cyclists completed their 165-mile journey from Miami to Key West Nov. 17-18. Since the inaugural ride in 2003, participants have raised over $16 million to help Floridians.

The 2023 ride will once again give the entirety of funds raised to Florida nonprofits. The final beneficiaries will be Empath Partners in Care in Tampa Bay, Miracle of Love in Central Florida, Broward House in Wilton Manors, Pridelines in Miami-Dade County, Compass Community Center in Palm Beach County and A.H. of Monroe in Monroe County.

CAN Community Health, longtime ride sponsor, reflected on its legacy after the ride. “CAN Community Health is excited for the future as we remain focused and dedicated to the day when HIV is no longer a public health

threat,” the organization shared Nov. 19. “The 20 year history of the SMART Ride is a testament to the humanity and compassion our community has for those impacted by HIV.” Beneficiaries also addressed cyclists and other supporters via social media.

“We are thankful to SMART Ride for welcoming us into their family, even though our time together was short,” EPIC shared Nov. 22. “There is still time to be a part of the legacy of this 20th and final ride — donate now through December 31 at TheSMARTRide.org.”

“What an incredible feat!

This ride has been more than a physical journey; it’s a testament to the power of community, determination, and compassion,” Miracle of Love wrote Nov. 23.

“Every donation raised makes a profound impact. It helps the clients of the 6 benefiting agencies support individuals whose lives have been affected by HIV. Your generosity bridges the gaps that grants can’t cover, providing essential assistance where it’s needed most ... Let’s continue making a difference together!”

SMART Ride also solicited support through the year’s end. The organization hopes to raise at least $1.5 million before announcing a final total.

“What an amazing journey we embarked on,” Weinzimer addressed supporters Nov. 25. “It isn’t over till December 31st and I know we can do this, raise $1.5 million if not more.”

Half of this year’s funds will be evenly divided between this year’s benefiting agencies, with 10% designated for a lifeline fund.

Riders also have until Dec. 15 to designate how they want their half of funds raised to be designated.

A check distribution party is currently scheduled for Jan. 14, 2024 in Wilton Manors. SMART Ride also noted Nov. 25 that benefiting agencies “are committed to figuring out what the next ‘thing’ is and have a planning meeting in February to look at what is possible.” Anyone with ideas can email IdeasForTheFuture@ TheSMARTRide.org.

accomplishments in tackling this public health issue, including ending discriminatory blood donation bans, reviving the White House Office of National AIDS Policy, and launching “a new National HIV/AIDS Strategy — a roadmap for using innovative community-driven solutions to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the United States by 2030.”

Biden said the White House continues working with “state and community leaders” to combat HIV criminalization laws that “wrongly punish people for exposing others” to the disease and noted that he has asked Congress for $850 million “to aggressively reduce new HIV cases, fight the stigma that stops many people from getting care, and increase access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).”

Meanwhile, overseas, “We are also focused on ending HIV/AIDS as a public health threat worldwide by 2030 under the bipartisan

President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR),” Biden said.

“PEPFAR is focusing on forging a future where every HIV infection is prevented, every person has access to treatment, and every generation can live free from the stigma that too often surrounds HIV.” The president noted that “My Administration is committed to working with the Congress to pass a clean PEPFAR reauthorization bill to extend this lifesaving bipartisan program for 5 years and end HIV/AIDS by 2030.”

Biden concluded his proclamation by calling to “let us honor all the families who have lost a loved one to this disease and all the people currently living with HIV/AIDS. Let us remember the activists, scientists, doctors, and caregivers who have never given up in the fight against the HIV/ AIDS epidemic. Let us recommit to finishing this fight — together.”

For more information about The SMART Ride and to make a donation, visit TheSMARTRide.org.

PRESIDENT BIDEN HONORS WORLD AIDS DAY 2023 Christopher Kane of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of The National LGBT Media Association

P

resident Joe Biden honored World AIDS Day on Dec. 1 with a proclamation as the red ribbon was displayed at the White House to mark the occasion.

Crediting the “enormous progress” that has been made in the fight against the disease, Biden noted that “about 39 million people continue to live with HIV, including more than one million people in the United States.”

“Far too often, people living with HIV face discrimination that prevents them from accessing the care they need,” he said.

The president then named some of his administration’s

FLORIDA GOP CHAIR WON’T RESIGN OVER RAPE ALLEGATION The head of the Florida Republican Party, whose wife is a founder of the anti-LGBTQ+ conservative group Moms for Liberty, has been accused of rape, roiling the state’s conservative politics and creating accusations of hypocrisy from Democrats and LBGTQ+ activists. Police search warrant affidavits show that a woman who had been friends with Christian Ziegler for 20 years has accused him of raping her in her apartment two months ago. Ziegler denies the accusation and will not resign, though his wife Bridget told detectives that the three had engaged in sex once more than a year ago.

SANTOS EXPELLED FROM CONGRESS Lawmakers voted 311-114 on Dec. 1 to expel former U.S. Rep. George Santos from Congress, exceeding the two-thirds majority needed. The third such vote followed a 56-page report by the U.S. House Ethics Committee which found Santos had siphoned campaign contributions to shop at luxury retailers and for OnlyFans purchases. Democratic New York Gov. Kathy Hochul will now schedule a special election. Santos vacated the U.S. House before the vote was finalized, stepping into a waiting car and telling reporters, “To hell with this place.” Separately, he faces a 23-count indictment for alleged financial crimes in the Eastern District of New York.

INDIA’S LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY MARKS PRIDE More than 2,000 people took part in a Pride event in New Delhi Nov. 26, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in India while raising concerns over the country’s restrictive laws. The annual event came after India’s top court refused to legalize same-sex marriages in an October ruling. Despite this, legal rights for LGBTQ+ people in India have been expanding over the past decade, mostly as a result of the Supreme Court’s intervention. According to a Pew survey, acceptance of homosexuality in India increased by 22% to 37% between 2013 and 2019, but same-sex couples often face harassment in many Indian communities, whether Hindu, Muslim or Christian.

RUSSIA EFFECTIVELY OUTLAWS LGBTQ+ ACTIVISM Russia’s Supreme Court effectively outlawed LGBTQ+ activism on Nov. 30, the most drastic step against advocates of LGBTQ+ rights in the country. In a lawsuit filed by the Justice Ministry, the court labeled what the suit called the LGBTQ+ “movement” operating in Russia as an extremist organization and banned it. It was the latest step in a decade-long crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights in Russia under President Vladimir Putin, who has emphasized “traditional family values” during his 24 years in power. Amnesty International called the ruling “shameful and absurd,” warning it could lead to a blanket ban on LGBTQ+ organizations, violate freedom of association, expression and peaceful assembly.

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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 eff ects 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, and KEEP BEING YOU are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. © 2023 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. US-BVYC-0292 04/23

US_BVYC_0292_BIKTARVY_B_9-25X10-1_Watermark_r1v1jl.indd All Pages

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#1 PRESCRIBED

HIV TREATMENT* *Source: IQVIA NPA Weekly, 04/19/2019 through 01/20/2023.

ELIAS SWITCHED TO BIKTARVY Listen to REAL STORIES being told by REAL VOICES.

No matter where life takes you,

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.

Person featured takes BIKTARVY and is compensated by Gilead.

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

5/17/23 1:57 PM

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THANK YOU TO OUR CELEBRITY SERVERS! Adrian Kierulf-Velez Brandon Bracale-Llewellyn Carlos Guillermo Smith Gary Lambert Jeff Starks John Paonessa Linda Reid Niki Friedman Patrick Howell Stan Miller Trina Gregory Wayne & Moira Dictor

THESE AMAZING SERVERS GENERATED OVER $60,000 FOR OYA! 16

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viewpoint

Rev. Jakob Hero-Shaw

QUEERLY BELOVED Don’t Let the Bastards Grind you Down

T

HERE’S A PHRASE I

have returned to for solace many times in my life since first reading Margaret Atwood’s iconic “The Handmaid’s Tale” over 20 years ago. “Nolite te bastardes carborundorum.”

It is sort of an imitation of Latin, which roughly means, “Don’t let the bastards grind you down.” In the novel, as well as the TV series, this phrase gives the protagonist, Offred, the courage to fight against the oppression that threatens to break her.

Here we are, at the start of the holiday season. And while we’re not literally living “The Handmaid’s Tale,” life can feel a bit oppressive. As a pastor, people might expect me to share some kind of joy-inspired message of how fantastic this season is for us all — or maybe I am supposed to say something cliché about the “reason for the season” — but we have enough platitudes at this time of year. Instead, I want to offer you real advice for the holidays: “Nolite te bastardes carborundorum.”

Because I’m clergy, I’ll offer a biblical example as well. One of the many times that Jesus is saying not to be a judgmental jerk (I’m paraphrasing here, from Matthew 7), he goes on to say not to throw pearls to the pigs, because the pigs will stomp on the pearls and then turn and attack you. Why would you throw pearls at pigs? Let’s not get caught up in the details — the point is that sometimes what we hold sacred can be torn apart by others.

As a faith leader, my best advice in the holiday season is to not let yourself be torn down or trampled on. It seems like the holidays are always a hard time to maintain a sense of balance. Our schedules change, our eating patterns change, we are under intense pressure to spend money and show up at things. For many people, the holidays also require spending time

with the people whose world views and values are different from their own.

In an ideal world, we would all comfortably get along with people with different political, religious and even ethical beliefs. But we live in the real world, not some idealistic utopia.

I certainly do encourage everyone to keep an open heart toward those who might hold different views than you. But there’s a limit to what we can be reasonably expected to accept or tolerate.

If you find that participation in holiday events with your family, or even with your place of work, is harmful to your sense of self, then I encourage you to bail on the event. This is the advice I give every year at the holidays. If you can celebrate holiday festivities, and even endure some discomfort, but still be okay, then absolutely you should go. But if it threatens to break you, if it endangers your sense of wellbeing, if it makes you feel wounded beyond repair, you do not have to participate.

To be clear, I am not saying that we should all avoid conflict. I am advocating for self-preservation. As members of the LGBTQ+ community, we are all familiar with the discrimination that we are forced to face, all year long. We must each establish our own threshold of what we can tolerate.

If holiday gatherings mean you must avoid speaking of your beloved by name or that you have to endure being misgendered, these are unreasonable expectations.

If showing up at a family function means that you are going to be lectured with bad theology or bashed with political viewpoints that invalidate your sense of self, you deserve better.

If the particular brand of vile homophobia or transphobia you have to face this holiday season is rooted in Christianity, feel free to let them know that Jesus doesn’t want you to throw your pearls to the pigs, then

excuse yourself from the conversation.

If you can show up and help others with your presence, go for it! If you can maintain a sense of calm and balance, then you absolutely should participate in holiday functions. I have many people in my life who I love and

Sometimes we must forgive ourselves for not turning out the way our families or friends expected.

We can celebrate the wonderful, creative, loving and different people that we are and allow space for the complicated feelings that come when we acknowledge

resist throwing your pearls to the pigs.

Remember that the stress of the holidays and the added pressures of family and social functions can’t take away what you know to be true about yourself. You are worthy of love, your identity is valid and you are stronger

People might expect me to share some kind of joyinspired message of how fantastic this season is for us all … but we have enough platitudes at this time of year. do not agree with, it can be awkward, but it is possible to maintain these connections.

Some things are reasonable to disagree about, and some relationships are worth it.

Afterall, life would be boring if we were all the same. More power to you if you can make it work. But if you can’t, please allow yourself to be okay with that.

that we might be different than the people and places we came from. During the holidays, these differences are even more obvious.

As we journey through the holidays, I encourage you to be like Offred, “nolite te bastardes carborundorum.”

Or perhaps heed the words of Jesus (even if Jesus isn’t typically your thing) and

and more powerful than you know. Happy holidays!

Don’t let the bastards grind you down.

Rev. Jakob Hero-Shaw is the senior pastor of the Metropolitan Community Church of Tampa, MCCTampa.com. He and his husband are the proud fathers of two wonderful children.

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

www.tampabaylgbtchamber.org

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Visibili-T ELIZABETH TOMANGUILLA 39, She/Her/Ella

V

attending events throughout Tampa Bay and beyond. She says it’s given her the opportunity to engage with other LGBTQ+ leaders, one of her favorite parts about being in the local community.

“I have met amazing LGBTQ+ leaders in Tampa Bay, and I have found a little bit of everything, from talented performers who entertain our community every weekend, to powerful public speakers, to everyday trans people who work in corporate jobs like myself,” she says. “I think the inherent diversity as well as the diversity of thought in our local trans community is amazing. I have learned so much and continue to learn from many individuals in our community.”

There are changes she’d like to see, of course. Tomanguilla says there’s a common misconception that the trans community is homogenous.

“The reality is that like many other communities, transgender people come in all shapes, colors, sizes, backgrounds and experiences,” she says. “Our community is every bit diverse as any other group.”

She’d also like to see additional trans-focused events.

“There are some local events which cater to the trans community in Tampa Bay, but there can be more,” Tomanguilla says. “I believe trans programming is lacking in comparison to other parts of the country, where there are specific trans events, trans groups in social media and trans forums.”

Programming and other trans-focused initiatives are a part of her ideal future. It’s her hope that “trans visibility will continue to increase, becoming as common as gay and lesbian visibility.”

Before and until then, Tomanguilla says she’s ready to connect with others.

“I want to share the spotlight with as many trans people as possible,” she says. “I believe in the power of community, and for that, I wish to connect with other like-minded individuals in Tampa Bay.”

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Ryan Williams-Jent

ISIBILI-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.

In this issue we check in with Tampa Bay’s Elizabeth Tomanguilla, a Peru native who moved to the U.S. in 2004.

She loves home improvement projects and currently works in Human Resources for a Fortune 500 company.

Her professional life is one of the many ways she advocates for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized voices.

It’s something Tomanguilla discussed with Watermark last year for National Hispanic Heritage Month.

“I’m not necessarily marching in the streets but I am helping by bringing equality into the corporate world,” she shared.

“A lot of what I do involves

connecting LGBTQ folks, especially gender diverse folks, to the right hiring managers.”

It’s something dear to her that she doesn’t take for granted.

“Personally, I am privileged to have access to gender-affirming care, gainful employment and access to education,” she says.

“This is not true for many trans people in the U.S., who lack access to all these basic rights.”

Tomanguilla has seen that firsthand in her role.

“I’ve met so many trans people through my work from all over the world; from Brazil, from England, from the Philippines,” she told Watermark last year.

“That lets me not only meet trans people from all over the world but

people who are gender diverse with different lived experiences with different perspectives.”

Now, Tomanguilla adds that “I love being working with people and in this job, I get to do this daily.” Cultivating connections like those are a part of what makes her professional life so special — something she says she could have used when coming out as trans a decade ago.

“Be patient,” she would tell her younger self now. “I would tell myself to be patient, as all comes in due time, and that the beauty is in the moments. As many people say, happiness is in the journey, not in the destination.

“When I first came out as a trans woman, I did not know any other trans person and didn’t have any role models from the trans community,” Tomanguilla continues. “It’s different now, because there are many other trans people who are visible.”

It’s part of why she wanted to participate in Visibili-T. “I feel I am contributing to the visibility of the community as a whole,” she notes.

Tomanguilla does so in multiple ways, speaking at and

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. PHOTOS BY DYLAN TODD

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talking points Anything that I can do to highlight the beauty of the souls that I have around me from the LGBTQ community I will do it always.

—HANNAH WADDINGHAM, SPEAKING TO THE ADVOCATE CHANNEL ABOUT THE LGBTQ+ REPRESENTATION IN HER NEW APPLE TV+ HOLIDAY SPECIAL “HOME FOR CHRISTMAS”

“DEADNAME” AMONG MERRIAM-WEBSTER’S WORDS OF THE YEAR FOR 2023

M

ERRIAM-WEBSTER RELEASED THE LIST OF ITS 2023 WORDS OF THE YEAR Nov. 27, placing the word “deadname” among the year’s Top 10. Merriam-Webster defines “deadname” as “the name that a transgender person was given at birth and no longer uses upon transitioning.”

The Massachusetts-based dictionary company said lookups of the word followed an onslaught of legislation aimed at curtailing LGBTQ+ rights around the country.

Other words on the list include “rizz,” “deepfake” and “kibbutz.” The top word of the year, according to Merriam-Webster, goes to “authentic.” “We see in 2023 a kind of crisis of authenticity,” editor at large Peter Sokolowski told The Associated Press. “What we realize is that when we question authenticity, we value it even more.” This year marks the 20th anniversary of Merriam-Webster choosing a top word.

IZZARD TO STAR IN ONE-PERSON ‘HAMLET’

E

DDIE IZZARD IS RETURNING TO A NEW YORK STAGE THIS WINTER FOR AN AMBITIOUS VERSION OF “HAMLET.” It’s ambitious because the actor-comedian will be the only one on stage. Izzard will play all the William Shakespeare parts in a one-person staging adapted by Izzard’s brother, Mark, and directed

by Selena Cadell. Performances at Greenwich House Theater run from Jan. 25-March 3. “It’s a great challenge but there is no point living and not going for challenges,” Izzard tells The Associated Press.

This “Hamlet” will ask Izzard to play noblemen, women, ghosts, soldiers, courtiers, lovers and fools. “I want it so that 10-year-old kids can grab this. I want it for the people who don’t find Shakespeare easy, like I didn’t when I was a dyslexic kid.”

‘WILL & GRACE’ STAR GETTING DIVORCED

A

CTOR ERIC MCCORMACK, WHO PLAYED ONE HALF OF THE TITULAR DUO IN THE GROUNDBREAKING LGBTQ+ SERIES “WILL & GRACE” on NBC, and wife Janet Holden are calling it quits after 26 years of marriage.

According to PEOPLE, who obtained the court documents, Holden filed for divorce from McCormack, citing irreconcilable differences. The filing was entered in Los Angeles County Superior Court Nov. 22 with no separation date listed. The couple met on the set of “Lonesome Dove: The Series” in 1994. McCormack starred in the series and Holden was an assistant director. The couple married in 1997. McCormack is best known for playing Will Truman on “Will & Grace” for 11 seasons. He won a Primetime Emmy Award for the role in 2001.

129 CITIES 100 SCORED A

ON THE

HUMAN RIGHTS

CHER REVISITING FORTHCOMING MEMOIR

C

HER TELLS JIMMY FALLON THAT SHE IS STILL WORKING ON HER HIGHLY ANTICIPATED MEMOIR. While appearing on “The Tonight Show” to promote her recent Christmas album, Cher said that she had to go back a rework parts of her memoir because she initially avoided sections of her life that she was uncomfortable with. “I just totally chickened out,” Cher said to Fallon.

“I didn’t put in some things that needed to be in and they’re not comfortable but they need to be in so I have to go back and man up.”

The 77-year-old icon announced back in 2017 that she had begun working on a tell-all memoir. No release date has been set.

CAMPAIGN’S 2023 MUNICIPAL EQUALITY INDEX, A RECORD-BREAKING

NUMBER.

INCLUDED IN THOSE CITIES ARE

ORLANDO, TAMPA AND ST. PETERSBURG.

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—HRC’s 2023 MEI

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Our list of 2023’s Remarkable People in Central Florida and Tampa Bay

DARCEL STEVENS CENTRAL FLORIA DRAG PERFORMER AND HARMONY HEALTHCARE’S MARKETING & OUTREACH COORDINATOR

I

The team at Harmony Healthcare

N THE VIBRANT HEART OF ORLANDO, DARCEL

One of Darcel’s recent triumphs showcases her unwavering dedication to justice and equality. In the face of an oppressive anti-drag law, she fearlessly organized a march on Tallahassee.

Partnering with other influential community leaders, Darcel led a campaign that resonated far beyond the city limits, ultimately contributing to the discriminatory law being blocked from going into effect. Her courage in confronting legal challenges reflects not only her resilience but also her commitment to ensuring the rights and freedoms of the LGBTQ+ community.

Darcel has gone from kitten heels to catwalks all over the country.

Within the walls of Harmony Healthcare, Darcel assumes the role of Marketing & Outreach Coordinator with unparalleled passion. She utilizes her platform not only to entertain but also to educate, emphasizing the critical importance of testing and treatment within communities that might otherwise be overlooked.

Darcel’s efforts transcend the stage as she works tirelessly to break down barriers,

ensuring that health care is accessible to all, regardless of background or identity.

In recognizing the invaluable contributions of Miss Darcel Stevens, we acknowledge the trailblazing spirit that she brings to our team. Her ability to seamlessly blend glamour with advocacy not only elevates Harmony Healthcare’s outreach efforts but also fosters a sense of community empowerment. To have Darcel on our team is not just a stroke of luck; it’s a privilege. In every sense, she is not just a remarkable entertainer, but a dedicated advocate, a compassionate ally and a force for positive change in the realm of LGBTQ+ health care. Darcel Stevens, you’re not simply remarkable — you’re an inspiration.

Your impact, both on and off the stage, is creating a legacy of empowerment that will resonate for years to come. We are fortunate to have such a passionate trailblazer like Miss Darcel Stevens at the forefront of our mission, embodying the spirit of resilience and advocacy that defines our commitment to the LGBTQ+ community.

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PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

Stevens stands as more than just a captivating entertainer; she is an indispensable force driving positive change within our community. Beyond the glamorous exterior of her iconic drag persona, Darcel’s commitment to advocacy and community outreach undoubtedly makes her a remarkable person of 2023.

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We provide care and services to all, regardless o cancommunityhealth.org

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of your insurance status or financial circumstances.

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PATTY SHEEHAN ORLANDO CITY COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 4

Bill Stevens, Aide to Commissioner Sheehan

W

HEN WE TALK ABOUT OUR HISTORY IN

the United States we usually start off by talking about our Founding Fathers. But when we talk about LGBTQ+ history in Orlando, I think we have to start off with our Founding Mother — Commissioner Patty Sheehan.

Commissioner Sheehan has been at the forefront of our battle in Orlando for the past 23 years! She was the first openly gay elected official in Central Florida. Because of her we have had an outspoken voice for our community. Commissioner Sheehan was instrumental in making sure that no one in Orlando would be fired for being a part of the LGBTQ+ community. She was the driving force behind the Domestic Partner Registry, and she even worked behind the scenes to make sure that we’d have the right to marriage equality in Orange County starting on January 6, 2015. Commissioner Sheehan not only fights for our rights but she fights for everyone’s rights.

She was also our beacon of light that showed us that it was ok to cry, be angry, fight back and work together toward healing during our darkest days in Orlando — the Pulse Nightclub shooting tragedy.

What many people may not know is that Commissioner Sheehan is also a champion for our senior citizens, for the less economically fortunate and for her district’s children. Working with her amazing community sponsors, to date Commissioner Sheehan has raised enough money to be able to distribute turkeys and Thanksgiving meals to the neediest residents for the past 18 years in a row.

Commissioner Sheehan has also worked with those same community sponsors to raise enough money to give new bicycles, kick scooters and helmets to District 4 children who may not be getting much

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during the holidays — and she’s done this for the past 22 years in a row!

Commissioner Sheehan is not only a person who has to make important decisions about the future of our city but she is also a very caring person who feels others’ joy and, at times, their pain. She understands what others are going through and can certainly empathize with them.

I feel that these wonderful qualities and her willingness to work side-by-side with others are why Commissioner Sheehan is now our longest serving commissioner in Orlando’s history.

At the end of the day, I count myself as the luckiest person in the world, as I am the lucky guy who has had the privilege to work side-by-side with Commissioner Sheehan, day in and day out, for the past 13 years. That’s why I feel that Orlando’s LGBTQ+ history starts with just one prominent name, our very own Founding Mother — Commissioner Patty Sheehan.

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PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

FORMER FLORIDA REP. , FLORIDA SENATE CANDIDATE, DISTRICT 17

B

Jerick Mediavilla, Watermark Viewpoint writer and husband to Carlos Guillermo Smith

EING REMARKABLE IS AN ATTRIBUTE

that so many people in our community live with naturally.

Astounding works of love have always marked the path forward in Central Florida; as Sir Isaac Newton once penned, “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.”

One of those giants is a name that, for many, symbolizes equality, progress, people power and authenticity: Carlos Guillermo Smith. For me, there is an added layer of respect and commitment to this admirable human I get to call my loving husband. I’ve witnessed Carlos’ devotion to his work, the passionate drive that lets him speak for the voiceless and the will to stand up for the oppressed.

He eats, breathes and lives for the cause, day and night, because he knows that the forces that bring down

our freedoms do not rest. Carlos has experienced bigotry and homophobia, endured acts of violence against him and still wakes up every morning, making sure that every working hour is dedicated to serving the community he cherishes and that the memory of the 49 angels we lost are forever honored with action.

Even more remarkable, I have yet to see Carlos struck down by adverse circumstances or dismayed by unfavorable results. In November 2022, after serving three terms in the Florida House of Representatives, Carlos had a new opportunity in front of him. Startled by the unfortunate results in that election cycle, many thought he would get sucked into the shadows of the corporate world or get

to some other state, but Carlos’ fire is motivated by his bond to Florida. His work has doubled and his desire to continue serving the people of this great state is his proudest badge of honor.

Take it from me: His love for this community is real, his authenticity is unmatched and, as he continues to be a trailblazer of hope and freedom, on his shoulders lies fertile ground for future leaders in this state.

CARLOS GUILLERMO SMITH

PHOTO BY CAITLIN SAUSE

PHOTO BY CAITLIN SAUSE

JOHN PAONESSA & MIKE ROGIER OWNERS OF HAMBURGER MARY’S IN ORLANDO

P

Ginger Minj, Central Florida drag performer

ICTURE IT: ORLANDO, 2008. THE COUNTRY

is in the middle of a recession and downtown Orlando is still a few years away from the revitalization it so desperately needs, so partners John Paonessa and Mike Rogier sell off their thriving insurance agency to invest everything they have into opening a dragthemed burger restaurant inside an old hardware store.

That last part might seem a little strange; however, as an industry professional, I can assure you there’s still an infinite amount of duct tape and spackle filling that building! But I digress...

Good food and good friends were their goal, but what they couldn’t possibly have known was the sense of belonging and understanding they were actually fostering. To this day I don’t think they really understand the impact they’ve had on our little community in our little town, but I’ve been there from the beginning and I’ve seen it. Sure, the burgers are great. Yeah, the decor is delightfully tacky. Of course, the shows are amazing. But the true magic of the place lies squarely on the shoulders of John and Mike who have curated the most diverse group of folx from wildly different walks of life that come together to show love and respect to everyone who walks through the front door.

Their dedication to the community is unparalleled. Aside from the multiple charity bingos or fundraisers they hold regularly, they’re often the first ones out in the thick of it all, asking what needs to be done. The whole world got to see that firsthand this year when all of the hostile and unfounded legislation against

drag queens and the people who support them was introduced. While most of us were running in circles, John and Mike took the proverbial bull by the horns and fought to keep our entertainers employed, our audiences entertained and our spaces safe.

On a more personal note, I owe a great deal of my success and who I am to my two “gay dads” who have always been there with a booking, a meal or some sage advice when I couldn’t even afford a ticket for the struggle bus! In a time before “Drag Race” (was there ever really such a time?) they gave me creative freedom to play and explore, eventually leading to Broadway Brunch.

When Minx and I originally came up with the idea, we had no idea it would become not only a staple in the community, but an award-winning, must-see event for visitors from all over the world, still attracting sell-out crowds over a decade later, even though most of us OG’s have moved on to other projects. It’s a true testament to the naturally nurturing nature (say that 10 times fast!) of John and Mike. They’re not afraid to take chances. I still feel my most creative and free on that little stage in the corner, just in front of the windows, heckling the passersby. It’s home.

watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

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MEAGHAN | SHELDON | SANIKA | JASON | MEREDITH | KELLIANNE

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watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

SHEA CUTLIFF & ROBIN DAILY COME OUT WITH PRIDE’S TRANS AND NON-BINARY TASK FORCE DIRECTORS

Tatiana Quiroga, Come Out With Pride’s Executive Director

C

OME OUT WITH PRIDE IS A TINY BUT MIGHTY

nonprofit mainly run by our volunteer Board of Directors.

I was thrilled when Robin Daily and Shea Cutliff accepted the invitation to join our team in January 2023.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

As LGBTQIA+ leaders in Central Florida, I had the pleasure of working with both of them in different capacities over the years. I knew their impact on the Board of Directors would be significant but I had no idea their full potential.

Intentionally increasing the diversity and representation of organizational leadership has been a priority for me since I stepped into my role. Slowly, I have been able to incorporate more members of marginalized communities into our top level of decision making. Maia Monet serves as our vice president and Andrea Montanez is our community outreach co-director. It felt like the addition of Robin and Shea was a natural fit.

Once on board, I pitched the idea of creating a trans and nonbinary centric program within Come Out With Pride and the idea took off like wildfire. As we workshopped the name, we wanted to hold ourselves accountable and be driven by our constant and continuous goal to serve the trans and nonbinary community in Central Florida. We knew that words such as committee, network or council just won’t be enough. Before we knew it, the Trans & Non-Binary Task Force was created and soaring. Robin and Shea eagerly stepped up to pilot the efforts and become our founding co-directors.

Under Robin and Shea’s leadership, the mission of Trans & Non-Binary Task Force is to increase trans and nonbinary representation, visibility and inclusivity at Come Out With Pride and the larger Central Florida community, empowering local trans and nonbinary leaders and creating an intentionally trans and nonbinary specific collaborative space and experience.

Our first introductory gathering was in July. Inviting the trans and nonbinary community to come and

meet the team, Robin and Shea did an incredible job of creating a welcoming and inclusive sense of community. We had an overwhelmingly positive response.

With Robin and Shea at the helm, the Trans & Non-Binary Task Force received support from The Contigo Fund, who have so generously supported our efforts. For the first time in Come Out With Pride history, we built and launched our first fellowship program. Robin and Shea oversaw the entire planning of our first Trans Family Day Picnic in September. With over 100 attendees, it was a huge success and created another touchpoint for the community before the Trans Rally & March and Trans Pride in October.

As a direct response to the very difficult year for members of the trans community, Robin and Shea knew producing the Trans Rally & March was critical. Plus the Task Force felt it was essential and a top priority for the trans and nonbinary community to know and feel Come Out With Pride was a place for THEM! Robin and Shea created their vision for The Trans Rally & March and Trans Pride and brought it to life. They spent countless hours planning all the details, coordinating with the speakers and entertainment, and organizing the logistics. As a result of their initiative and enthusiasm, the day was a raving success with a tremendous gathering and representation of queer resilience and trans joy.

I am so grateful to have worked so closely with Robin and Shea over this year. It’s been such a pleasure and honor to see both step into their own, find their rightful place on the Come Out With Pride board of directors, take initiative to create their roles, and have the vision to take the organization to the next level of inclusion. As the founding Trans & Non-Binary Task Force co-directors, they are leaving their footprint on the history of Come Out With Pride and our greater LGBTQIA+ community.

watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

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watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

DUSTIN & DANIEL JOHNSON

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

REMARKABLE FATHERS

I

Faith Moeller, PFLAG Riverview President

MET DANIEL AND DUSTIN THREE YEARS AGO,

shortly after we launched PFLAG Riverview to offer support, education and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals, their families and allies in the region. They are without a doubt Mr. Remarkables!

It was during one of our first monthly meetings that I met Daniel — who was not looking for support, but rather to offer it. He showed up to become a stronger advocate for people with other identities in the community and was eager to serve in any capacity, so I invited him to join our leadership team.

Daniel and Dustin began to open their home on a regular basis to us. The first time we were over for dinner, we sat around a huge dining table that would

comfortably sit eight. They shared that on their first date they discussed having children, and after a few more meetings they provided an update on their pursuit.

They were being considered as potential parents for six siblings in the foster care system who ranged from two to 11 years old. They would be provided with a grant and if everything went as planned, they would have the children in a matter of a few months.

My first thought was that adopting six children at once was crazy, even if I thought how wonderful it would be for these siblings to get to grow up together with two loving parents. But raising even one child is challenging and they were considering raising six, to say nothing about how these children had potentially experienced much trauma already.

The sad truth is that is what most of us think, which is why there are tens of thousands of children in Florida’s foster care system. Yet this is part of what makes Daniel and Dustin so remarkable: I am sure that they had similar thoughts and fears, but it didn’t stop them from taking a leap of faith and letting love win.

Their adoption was finalized in May of this year. They became the Johnson family, party of eight and I am so proud of these two parents. Daniel even took a job in his son’s class to help him feel safe and secure so he could learn as he got acclimated to his new life.

I attended an adoption celebration party for the Johnsons. It was awesome to see the support and love that this new family has. All the children’s teachers from one elementary school came to celebrate along with some of the children’s foster families. Their new aunt, grandparents and even their new great grandmother were there to embrace them.

In August, their biological mother gave birth again to baby number seven — and these two remarkable dads pursued and gained custody of another sibling.

They are currently walking through the adoption process and everyone is thriving because of these two deeply loving, compassionate souls.

Without a doubt, they are raising a truly remarkable family!

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watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

JASON CHAMPION PROJECT PRIDE PRESIDENT

J

Katie McCurry, Project Pride Co-Founder

ASON CHAMPION STANDS AS A BEACON OF

inspiration and empowerment within the LGBTQ+ community. His unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership have propelled Project Pride SRQ to new heights, creating a lasting impact on Sarasota’s LGBTQ+ community.

One of Jason’s most notable achievements is his pivotal role in this year’s Sarasota Pride event. Under his guidance, the celebration reached unprecedented heights, attracting a diverse array of participants and fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and acceptance.

Jason’s vision for Pride extends beyond a mere celebration; it is a platform for education, advocacy and unity. By seamlessly blending entertainment with meaningful conversations, Jason has transformed Sarasota Pride into a dynamic space where the LGBTQ+ community can come together, celebrate diversity and address important issues.

Furthermore, Jason has played a crucial role in recent Pride mergers, demonstrating his strategic vision and commitment to collaboration. By uniting various Pride organizations, he has fostered a stronger and more cohesive LGBTQ+ community. This consolidation not only amplifies the community’s voice but also streamlines efforts to address shared challenges and advance common goals. Jason’s ability to bring diverse groups together reflects his exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of the collective strength that unity can bring.

Beyond events and mergers, Jason has also been instrumental in the establishment of a physical space in the Rosemary District dedicated to LGBTQ+ initiatives, known as Pride Headquarters.

This space serves as a hub for community engagement, support services and cultural activities. Jason’s foresight in securing a dedicated location demonstrates his commitment to creating a tangible, lasting impact on the LGBTQ+ community. The

Rosemary District space is poised to become a central hub for advocacy and support, further solidifying Sarasota as a welcoming and inclusive city.

Jason’s leadership extends beyond the visible aspects of his role; he is a relentless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, contributing to the broader social justice movement. His tireless efforts have not only transformed Project Pride SRQ but have also inspired positive change on a larger scale. By pushing for inclusivity and equality, Jason has become a driving force in creating a more accepting society.

Jason’s exceptional contributions to the LGBTQ+ community in Sarasota make him a standout for Watermark’s Remarkable People of 2023.

His visionary leadership, demonstrated through the success of Sarasota Pride, the Pride mergers, and the establishment of a physical Pride Headquarters space in the Rosemary District, highlight his commitment to fostering unity, inclusivity and positive change.

By recognizing Jason, we celebrate not only his individual achievements but also the collective strides made toward building a more vibrant and accepting community for everyone.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

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OUTCOAST PUBLISHER AND FLOCC FOUNDER

T

Fay Stevenson, OutCoast Executive Assistant/Content Creator

HE WORD “REMARKABLE” MERELY

scratches the surface when describing who Rachel Covello is and what she’s accomplished.

Rachel is a dynamic force and a trailblazer who pieces together the many threads of the LGBTQ+ travel community. As the owner and publisher of OutCoast.com, Florida’s statewide LGBTQ+ editorial and travel blog, Rachel speaks and consults globally on a variety of topics related to inclusive tourism, bridging divides and marketing to LGBTQ+ consumers.

She is a tireless advocate and a

RACHEL COVELLO

TAMPA CITY COUNCIL, DISTRICT 1

A

Michael Womack, LGBTQ+ advocate

LAN CLENDENIN WAS ELECTED THIS YEAR as the first openly LGBTQ+ member of Tampa City Council.

I first met Alan during his 2019 race for Tampa City Council. As a junior staffer at Equality Florida at the time, I was interested in hearing about his experience running for office and traversing the complexities of Democratic politics. That began a close friendship that has spanned multiple years, several campaign cycles and many vodka sodas.

Born in Sanford, Florida, Alan’s journey has been shaped by his experiences as a small business owner, a retired air traffic control professional with 32 years of expertise, and a dedicated advocate for Tampa Bay and for LGBTQ+ rights.

Growing up in Central Florida, Alan attended Florida public schools, where he navigated the challenges of being an LGBTQ+ youth in the 1970s and 80s.

Alan’s commitment to advocacy was evident early on as a member of the Triangle Caucus, the first Democratic

34

LGBTQ+ club in Tampa. This marked the beginning of his long-standing dedication to advancing LGBTQ+ rights, a cause deeply rooted in his personal and political identity.

In 1994, Alan successfully helped lobby the Air Traffic Controllers Union to include benefits for same-sex couples. He also made history in 2008, being elected as the first openly gay Democratic National Committee member from Florida, and eventually as vice-chair of the party. He now holds the titles of Senior Member of the Florida DNC, member of the DNC Executive Committee and Southern Regional Chair, representing a quarter of the entire United States.

Despite his senior roles within the Democratic Party, Alan’s commitment to community-level change has been unwavering as well. He has actively participated as a surrogate for down

dedicated promoter of the LGBTQ+ travel experience in and beyond Florida.

Rachel’s journey is one of passion, determination and a commitment to fostering connections. OutCoast.com emerged from that drive, a testament to her belief in the power of community and the strength that comes from building bridges rather than walls.

It is this desire to bring people together that compelled Rachel to create and host the inaugural Florida OutCoast Convention in Tampa this year. FLOCC is the first and only conference focused on the Florida LGBTQ+ tourism industry, and Rachel planned every detail for the nearly 200 attendees, representing more than 20 destinations.

ballot local campaigns for the better part of four decades.

Alan’s decision to transition from behind-the-scenes activism to public office was rooted in a belief that it was time to effect change directly. This year after decades as a prominent figure in Florida’s political landscape, he was elected to Tampa City Council.

Alan emphasizes the importance of working within the system to advance LGBTQ+ rights and ensure that our community is protected. In his short time on council, he has also championed the extension of the Tampa streetcar, affordable housing and economic opportunity for our region. His political journey is a testament to the transformative power of advocacy, bridging personal experiences with a commitment to shaping a more inclusive and equitable community.

Also remarkable: Alan and his partner, John, will celebrate 40-years together in May alongside his two children and granddaughter, Zelda.

Alan’s life and career has been

She created the perfect mix of general sessions, informative panels, workshops, networking opportunities and entertainment.

FLOCC created a safe space where individuals from Florida’s travel industry and statewide Pride organizations united, evolved and flourished.

FLOCC is Rachel’s vision for a more inclusive future, where the LGBTQ+ traveler not only thrives but continues to shape the landscape of Florida. As planning for the FLOCC 2024 gets underway, and Florida’s LGBTQ+ travel industry continues to grow, her leadership and dedication remain a guiding light to those who know her best: her clients, vendors, team and peers.

Some of the words they use to describe her are knowledgeable, professional, talented, creative, bright, passionate, brilliant, extraordinary and an absolute inspiration. Rachel continues to bridge the gap between LGBTQ+ travelers and the destinations and the businesses eager to welcome them. It’s not just what she does, it’s who she is.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

dedicated to making a positive impact, both within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. That’s why this year, I am proud to help recognize him as one of Watermark’s Remarkable People.

ALAN CLENDENIN

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PHOTO COURTESY ALAN CLENDENIN

ANGELIQUE YOUNG ACTIVIST AND ENTERTAINER

I

Novice Sister Juana Reaction, Tampa Bay Sister of Perpetual Indulgence

MET ANGELIQUE YEARS AGO IN THE TAMPA

Bay drag scene. I quickly learned that she is a powerhouse performer who is friendly and kind.

Our relationship might have stayed in the “friendly acquaintance” stage, but 2023 happened. That’s when Florida politicians made it a priority to target the LGBTQ+ community, and the trans community in particular, with laws aimed to deprive them from basic human rights with attacks on health care and more.

Some of the legislation targeted drag performers, painting the art of drag in an unjustified, negative light and aiming to limit performances. Angelique decided she would not stand idly by.

An emergency meeting was called in Orlando for drag performers to unite. Angelique, with the help of Brianna Summers and other local performers, arranged for a concurrent satellite meeting in Tampa Bay for us to get involved.

This is where I started learning that Angelique was also an inspiring leader, someone determined to use their platform to help make a positive impact.

The sequence of events that followed was swift and impressive.

Seven additional drag performers and allies joined Angelique and Brianna to execute an action plan to address the injustices occurring in Tallahassee, dubbing ourselves The Drag2Talle Nine.

Angelique connected us with Equality Florida, which hosts “Pride at the Capitol” where LGBTQ+ Floridians and allies travel to Tallahassee to make their voices heard, both in public hearings and in private meetings with legislators.

Funding was needed to get us up there, and the local community was extremely supportive through a series of local fundraising efforts. We made it to Tallahassee, thinking we would mostly be advocating against the anti-drag bills — but after learning about the high number of anti-trans

bills proposed, our focus shifted towards advocating against all the bills attacking the LGBTQ+ community.

We learned a lot during that Tallahassee trip. We could have stopped there, but Angelique had bigger plans and a bigger vision. She joined Orlando drag legend Darcel Stevens to help plan the first ever Drag March in Tallahassee, which took place April 25. Following Angelique’s leadership and with support from Equality Florida, The Drag2Talle Nine were able to raise thousands of dollars to send about 50 drag performers and allies from the Tampa Bay area to Tallahassee and march for our rights.

It took several fundraisers, T-shirt sales, political rallies and a massive social media initiative led by Angelique to make it happen. More than a dozen groups from all over the state also attended the march, where hundreds demanded to have our voices heard, showing Florida that we would not back down when it comes to defending the most vulnerable in our community.

Angelique was one of the main speakers in the Capitol that day, delivering an inspiring speech and spreading her heartfelt message that “there is no community without unity.”

I teared up witnessing what I could only call a most magical moment.

I am now proud to say that Angelique is my friend. She inspires me and so many others to focus our energy on helping others, which is where true life purpose can be found. She recently announced her move to Pensacola. She will be extremely missed in Tampa Bay, but we know we have not seen the last of her.

I know she has even bigger plans for her activist efforts, and we can’t wait to witness them.

watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

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watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

announcements

TAMPA BAY OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS The Honey Pot returned to Ybor through a new partnership with PTL Nightclub Nov. 24. Read more on p. 10.

After nearly 33 years of performing, Boys Entrance played their final show Nov. 25. Read more at BoysEntrance.com.

St. Petersburg arts icon Bob Devin Jones announced he will retire from Studio@620 in June 2024. He will be succeeded by Erica Sutherlin as thartistic executive director.

St Pete Pride’s annual Red & Green fundraiser raised over $40,000 by Dec. 2, benefiting LGBTQ+ youth programming and community partner Family Resources. Fundraising continues through 2023. Read more on p. 10.

Jobsite Theater held Jobsite Rocks Dec. 2, raising $10,600 during its 25th birthday bash. “Thank you for the love and support of your friendly neighborhood theater company, and cheers for 25 years,” they shared via social media.

Read more and donate funds to help them reach their 2023 goal at JobsiteTheater.org.

Bradley’s on 7th owner Bradley Nelson announced “Utopia Road Bar and Courtyard” will open in early 2024, serving as a sister site to the LGBTQ+ hotspot in Ybor. “She is little, and needs a little sprucing up before we open the doors,” he shared via social media. “More details coming soon.”

Learn more at Facebook.com/BradleysOn7th.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, St. Petersburg psychiatrist Tom Young, Tampa’s Red Herring Ltd. expert Ivan Moros, Miss St Pete Pride 2023 Ceazia Giovanni Kreshe (Dec. 7); St. Pete free spirit Miranda Colette (Dec. 8); Tampa Bay entertainer PheYonce Montrese aka Metro Inclusive Health’s Nate Taylor, Tampa Bay realtor Rick Fifer (Dec. 9); Tampa Bay actor Spencer Meyers, Largo pharmacist Eric Hutton, Tampa Bay entertainer Veronica Vixen aka Vincent Bailey-Santamarina, St Pete Pride mainstay Fernando Chonqui (Dec. 10); Tampa Bay Bulldog softballer Les Croy, Capital One’s AJ Cuevas, Christian minister Chancey Martinez Colon (Dec. 11); Philanthropist Ed Lally, Former state representative Jennifer Webb, Sarasota realtor Jim Jablonski, St. Pete Twirler Jose Luis Perez (Dec. 12); Bradenton MAC makeup artist Joey Killmeyer (Dec. 14); Former Tampa MCC Pastor Rev. Phyllis Hunt, St. Petersburg outdoor lover Dan Barrett, Clearwater softball stud Gregory Toth (Dec. 15); Tampa Bay lawyer David Schauer, Pastor at St. Andrews UCC Sarasota Paul Werner, Acclaimed author Rob Sanders (Dec. 16); Sarasota’s Sage SRQ Executive Chef Christopher Covelli (Dec. 17); St. Petersburg sculptor Mark Aeling, Spectrum News reporter Trevor Pettiford, former Honey Pot owner Stephen Moss (Dec. 18); IBEX puppetmaster Heather Henson, Tampa Bay writer Cindy Stovall (Dec. 19); St. Petersburg caterer Steve Gallo, Watermark Creative Designer and photographer Dylan Todd, Florist to the stars Jacob McCall, Woodfield Fine Art owner Jim Woodfield, St. Petersburg loan officer Steven Robertson, Tampa Bay entertainer Angelique Young (Dec. 20).

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HAIR SHARE: Juno Vibranz showcases her unique wig after leaving Enigma’s audience yarning for more Nov. 25. PHOTO BY RYAN

WILLIAMS-JENT

2

HAVING A BALL: Artist John Gascot (L) and voguer Vodou Revlon serve opening night realness Dec. 1 for this month’s show “Category Is” exhibit.

PHOTO FROM JOHN GASCOT’S FACEBOOK

3

COMING TOGETHER: Maggie Schmook (L) and Topher Larkin mark World AIDS Day Dec. 1 for CAN Community Health and Moffitt Cancer Center’s “Unite in Red” commemoration in Ybor.

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PHOTO FROM CAN’S FACEBOOK

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WHAT FRIENDS ARE FOR: The Pinellas County Young Democrats welcome supporters including congressional candidate Whitney Fox (8th from L) to their Friendsgiving potluck Nov. 19. PHOTO FROM FOX’S FACEBOOK

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TAMPA THANKS: Empath Partners in Care’s Tampa team serve clients an early Thanksgiving meal Nov. 22. PHOTO FROM EPIC’S FACEBOOK

6

EVENING OF LOVE: The Bohemians perform “Season of Love” from “RENT” Dec. 2 during St Pete Pride’s Red & Green at Sunken Gardens.

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PHOTO BY JENNIFER RING

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NOT FORGOTTEN: (L-R) Project Pride President Jason Champion, Board Member Justyn Hunter-Ceruti and Co-Founder Katie McCurry mark Transgender Day of Remembrance Nov. 20 at Church of the Trinity MCC. PHOTO FROM PROJECT PRIDE’S FACEBOOK

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‘TIS THE SEASON: Ana Cruz (L) and Tampa Mayor Jane Castor pass out beads Dec. 2 during the city’s annual Santa Fest parade. PHOTO

FROM CITY OF TAMPA’S FACEBOOK

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watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

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37

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ZZ TOP

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Riley Green

Wed. Mar. 6, 7:30 $50

Gene Watson

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The Bellamy Brothers Mon. Mar. 4, 3:30 $25

Sun. Mar. 3, 7:30 $65

Mark Lowry

Tue. Mar. 5, 3:30 $30

Kirk Franklin

Fri. Mar. 1, 7:30 $55

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Parker McCollum

Thu. Mar. 7, 7:30 $45

Jordan Davis

The Beach Boys

Out of The Woods

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Visit FLstrawberryfestival.com or call 813-754-1996 and get your tickets for the best seats available!

• T-Mobile • Alessi Bakeries • AMSCOT • Astin Farms • Candyland Warehouse • Global Frequency Technology • TRUFFOIRE • Circle K • Local Ford Dealers • O’Reilly Auto Parts • Grove Equipment Service • Stingray Chevrolet • Uncommon USA • ZYN • Monticciolo Sedation Dentistry • Netterfield’s Concessions • Verizon Wireless • Badcock Home Furniture &more • Good Health Saunas • Krazy Kup • DIRECTV • Images Everywhere!

• Master Spas • Choo Choo Lawn Equipment • Florida Blue • Wyndham Destinations • Entenmann’s • The Bank of Tampa • Solution Source Construction & Development • Suncoast Credit Union • ICEE • AT&T • Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association • General RV Center • SUN ’n FUN Aerospace Expo • AUSSIE GRILL

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announcements

CENTRAL FLORIDA OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts announced the grand opening of its fifth venue — the Joyce & Judson Green Room, to be known as “Judson’s Live.” The intimate music space is set to open Feb. 6 with a month of diverse programming that will create another stunning space for live entertainment in Central Florida.

Headliners for the grand opening performances include Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, Cécile McLorin Salvant, Joshua Redman, Michel Camilo and Keb’ Mo’. Tickets are now on sale for Judson’s Live.

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Altesse Aurum was crowned Miss Hornitos at Savoy in Orlando Dec. 4.

The LGBT+ Center Orlando celebrated 45 years Nov. 27.

The organization wrote on its social media “Today marks a monumental milestone as we joyfully commemorate 45 years of the LGBT+ Center Orlando’s unwavering commitment to fostering love, unity, and pride in Central Florida! Thanks to the individuals and organizations who have shaped our story, the allies who have stood by our side, and the countless people who have received our services. Here’s to 45 Years and Beyond!” The City of Orlando commemorated the event with a proclamation, presented to the staff and board members by Mayor Buddy Dyer and City Commissioner Patty Sheehan.

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LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Orlando Theatre goddess Beth Marshall (Dec. 7); Former Come Out With Pride President Jeff Prystajko, former Watermark intern Christina Nicole Diaz, Mainframe Real Estate founder and CEO Sean Frank (Dec. 8); Zebra Coalition CEO Heather Wilkie, Southern Nights Orlando bartender Cameron MacDonald, Southern Nights Orlando’s D’Andre Bims (Dec. 9); Orlando artist Jeff Jones, Mitzi Morris’ alter ego Kevin Kreigel (Dec. 10); Former Watermark Sales Director Mark Cady, Central Florida actor and vocalist Zachary Thomas, Royal Caribbean International’s David Bain, Central Florida Forddealing bear Fred Berliner (Dec. 11); Massage therapist Isaac Torres, Orlando Chorus baritone Jamie Decker, Altamonte Springs chiropractor Dr. Bradford Levine (Dec. 12); Walt Disney Creative Entertainment Talent Casting Director Mark Catlett-Miller, 4 Corners writer Lawrence W. Caul (Dec. 13); Orlando Weekly publisher Graham Jarrett, Come Out With Pride’s former festival director Joyce Almeida, Orlando Regional Chamber Business Development Manager Greg Mason (Dec. 14); Orange County library’s Ben Garcia (Dec. 15); Central Florida drag entertainer Divine Grace, WAVE Award-winning Sephora beauty consultant Justin Jimenez, Crew Health’s Brittani Acuff (Dec. 16); OAK Central Florida’s Ken Terrell, actress Becky Fisher (Dec. 17); LGBT+ Center Orlando’s Daniel Fernandez de Castro; Florida Rep. Rita Harris (Dec. 18); former GayDayS owner Chris Manley (Dec. 19); Orlando bartender with flair Tish, Orlando realtor Jeff Ritchie, The District at Mills 50 manager Jamey Harper (Dec. 20).

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WORLD AIDS DAY: (L-R) Andres Acosta Ardila, Rep. Anna V. Eskamani and Whitney Marshall at Central Florida HIV Planning Council’s World AIDS Day event at 1010 West in Orlando Dec. 1. PHOTO FROM ANDRES

ACOSTA ARDILA’S FACEBOOK

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SAFE SPACE: (L-R) Maddie Boucher, Britney Stinson and Robin Daily with the City of Orlando’s Trans Day of Remembrance Proclamation during Transitional Space’s event at Joy MCC in Orlando Nov. 20.

PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

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COMMUNITY LEADERS: The staff at the LGBT+ Center Orlando with their City of Orlando Proclamation recognizing 45 of service to the LGBTQ+ community Nov. 27. PHOTO FROM LGBT+ CENTER ORLANDO

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NEWLY CROWNED: Altesse Aurum is crowned Miss Hornitos 2023 at Savoy in Orlando Dec, 4. PHOTO

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LIGHTS UP: Mayor Buddy Dyer and his wife Susan look on as the Christmas tree at Lake Eola Park in Orlando is lit Dec. 1. PHOTO FROM ORLANDO MAYOR BUDDY DYER’S FACEBOOK

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MERRY KRAMPUS: Jennifer Loder (L) and Jessica Hoen celebrate Kramusfest in The Milk District at The Plaza Live in Orlando Dec. 3. PHOTO FROM JESSICA HOEN

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MAKING NEWS: Pom Moongauklang appears on WESH 2 news Dec. 5 to talk about appearing on the finale of “Blind Kitchen Orlando” on Very Local.

SCREENSHOT BY DANNY GARCIA

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THANKSGIVING EATS: Kristian Bighom (L) grabs a photo with chef Shannea “Nikki” Akins at Nikki’s Place in Orlando Nov. 23.

PHOTO FROM KRISTIAN BIGHOM

BY BRANDON BRACALE-LLEWELLYN

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ChristmasTree Skirt Wear your favorite tree skirt for a chance to win prizes!

New Years Eve

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Countdown & Champagne Toast at 6, 7 & 10 PM

Look for New and Exciting Events & Lineups Coming January 2024

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watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. DECEMBER 7 - 20, 202 3 // ISSUE 3 0. 25 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

T A M P A

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

B A Y

M A R K E T P L A C E

PHOTOGRAPHY

SENIOR LIVING

Retire in Style

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

We invite you to explore Mease Life, Dunedin’s premier Life Plan Community.

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say they support businesses that market to and support the LGBTQ community!

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C E N T R A L

F L O R I D A

ACCOUNTING + BOOKKEEPING

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Tax Preparation Immediate appointments Taxes prepared while you wait!

ACCOUNTING SERVICES

AZupka Counseling Telehealth provider servicing all Florida Counties

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321-306-7830 mary@maryliebermannlcsw.com

Helping to FEEL in order to HEAL in order to be the REAL YOU!

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C E N T R A L

COUNSELORS + THERAPISTS

F L O R I D A

M A R K E T P L A C E

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HOME HEALTH SERVICES

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Come see Dave, Ed & Staff for a Free Consultation!

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C E N T R A L

F L O R I D A

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

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MEDICAL

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The Experts in HIV Care Are Here For You • HIV/STI Care • Hepatitis C Care • PrEP

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5979 Vineland Rd., Suite 208, Orlando 407.745.1171 1685 Lee Rd., Suite 110, Winter Park 407.745.1171

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primary care

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Read It Online!

Head to WatermarkOnline.com and click on the Digital Publications link to a read a digital version of the printed newspaper!

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C E N T R A L

F L O R I D A

M A R K E T P L A C E

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Call 407-481-2243 for more information

Proudly Caring for the Pets and People of the LGBTQ Community since 1955 Open 7 Days a Week!

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1601 Lee Rd. Winter Park (407) 644-2676 YOUTH SERVICES Changing the lives of LGBTQ teens and young adults for over 30 years Social support groups Make friends Scholarships for college Weekly groups in Orange, Seminole & Polk Counties

· Join · Volunteer · Donate

info@OrlandoYouthAlliance.org www.OrlandoYouthAlliance.org

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community calendar

EVENT PLANNER St. Pete Coffee Hour, Dec. 8, Sunshine Center, St. Petersburg. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

CENTRAL FLORIDA OGC’s Peace on Earth: Make the Yuletide Gay

GMCTB’s “Let There Be Peace” St. Pete, Dec. 8, Allendale UMC, St. Petersburg.

GMCTB.org

SUN., DEC. 10, 4 P.M. / SAT., DEC. 16, 7:30 P.M. HARRIETT COLEMAN CENTER, ORLANDO /

GMCTB’s “Let There Be Peace” Tampa, Dec. 8, MCC Tampa, Tampa. GMCTB.org

THE RITZ THEATER, SANFORD Join the Orlando Gay Chorus for its annual holiday spectacular as it celebrates the cultural diversity within our community. OGC will hold two concerts, one on Sunday, Dec. 10, at Orlando’s Harriett Coleman Center and one on Saturday, Dec. 16, at Sanford’s Ritz Theater. Tickets start at $15 for the Dec. 10 show and $28 for the Dec. 16 show. For more information, go to OrlandoGayChorus.org.

Holiday Drag Brunch SUN., DEC. 10 & 17, 11 A.M. ISLAND TIME, ORLANDO Island Time’s Sunday Drag Brunch will be holiday themed throughout the month of December, with Dec. 10’s show — theme being Ugly Christmas Sweater — hosted by Danielle Hunter and featuring performances by The Doll, Cara Cavalli Andrews and Orusha San Miguel. The Dec. 17 show — themed Christmahanakwanzika — will be hosted by Angelica Sanchez and feature performances by Antwanette Chanel Roberts and MrMs Adrien. Assigned seating is from 11-11:45 a.m. with the show starting at 12:30 p.m. Make your reservation by calling 407-930-2640.

For more information, visit IslandTimeOrlando.com.

TAMPA BAY Party 4 Presents 13 SUN., DEC. 10, 12-4 P.M. GRAND CENTRAL BREWHOUSE, ST. PETE Balance Tampa Bay’s annual holiday toy drive returns! Bring your unwrapped gifts and the organization’s elves will collect, sort and deliver toys to youth throughout Tampa Bay area. Gift cards are also welcome. Drop-offs begin Dec. 7 at Cocktail in St. Petersburg and Dec. 8 at District Tavern in Tampa. Visit BalanceTampaBay.org for more details.

Miss Vanjie SAT., DEC. 16, 9 P.M. SOUTHERN NIGHTS, TAMPA Southern Nights Tampa welcomes Vanessa “Miss Vanjie” Mateo back to Ybor. The “RuPaul’s Drag Race” fan favorite will entertain audiences with shows at 11:15 p.m. and 12 a.m., hosted by Jade Embers with house diva Niomi Onassis Knight and special guests. $10 cover for 21+, $20 for 18+. Learn more at Facebook.com/SouthernNightsTampa.

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Nurse Blake: “Shock Advised Tour,” Dec. 9, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org

HELLO NURSE Comedian, social media star and Orlando native Nurse Blake brings his “Shock Advised Tour” to the Straz Center in Tampa Dec. 9 and the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando Dec. 11. PHOTO COURTESY RIGHT ON! PR

CENTRAL FLORIDA

Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, Through Jan. 14, Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford. 407-323-4450; CentralFloridaZoo.org

“Funny Girl,” Through Dec. 10, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

Kim Chi, Dec. 8, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando

Tim Murray & Michael Henry’s Stand-Up Comedy Show, Dec. 12, Hamburger Mary’s, Orlando. 321-319-0600; HamburgerMarys.com/Orlando

“A Swingin’ Christmas: The Holiday Music of Tony Bennett,” Through Dec. 16, Winter Park Playhouse, Winter Park. 407-645-0145; WinterParkPlayHouse.org

“The Nutcracker,” Dec. 8-24, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-426-1733; OrlandoBallet.org

Miss Vanjie, Dec. 15, Southern Nights, Orlando.

407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando

Valentin Kovalev’s Sax for Peace, Dec. 9, Timucua Arts Foundation, Orlando.

321-234-3985; Timucua.com

The Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays, Dec. 15, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT

“A Christmas Carol,” Through Dec. 24, Orlando Shakes, Orlando. 407-447-1700; OrlandoShakes.org Epcot’s Candlelight Processional, Through Dec. 30, Epcot, Walt Disney World.

407-939-5277; DisneyWorld.

Disney.Go.com ICE! featuring “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Through Jan. 3, Gaylord Palms Resort, Kissimmee. 407-586-0000; ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.

Marriott.com

11th Annual Violectric Holiday Show, Dec. 9, Walt Disney Amphitheatre at Lake Eola, Orlando. 321-281-2185; Orlando.gov Chanukah on the Park, Dec. 10, Central Park on Park Ave., Winter Park. 407-644-2500; ChabadOrlando.org

Nurse Blake: “Shock Advised Tour,” Dec. 11, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

TAMPA BAY “Acts of Faith,” Through Dec. 17, American Stage, St. Petersburg. 877-944-8952; AmericanStage.org Enchant Christmas, Through Dec. 31, Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg.

EnchantChristmas.com

Blue Jam, Dec. 9, The Lady’s Room, Largo. 727-642-4412; Facebook.com/ TheLadysRoomLargo Kim Chi, Nov. 9, Southern Nights, Tampa. 813-559-8625; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsTampa Holiday LickHer Pop, Dec. 10, The Saint Speakeasy, St. Petersburg. 727-258-7626; TheSaintSpeakeasy.com Yoga4Change, Dec. 12, Empath Partners in Care, St. Petersburg. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org LGBTQ+ Veterans Coffee Hour, Dec. 14, Empath Partners in Care, St. Petersburg. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org Transcend: Transgender Social Group, Dec. 15, Empath Partners in Care, St. Petersburg. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org Mistletoe Market, Dec. 16, Horan Park, St. Pete Beach.

727-363-9245; StPeteBeach.org EPIC Generations Holiday Party, Dec. 21, Empath Partners in Care, St. Petersburg. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

SARASOTA Disco Brunch: Funky Beats & Delicious Eats, Dec. 17, Art Ovation Hotel, Sarasota. 941-316-0808; PPSRQ.org

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

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