Watermark Issue 31.01: Rising Above

Your LGBTQ+ News Source.

January 4 - 17, 2024 • Issue 31.01

RISING ABOVE Elevated Access takes flight for gender-affirming care, reproductive rights

City of Orlando to take over onePULSE events

Metro Inclusive Health opens new locations

DAYTONA BEACH • ORLANDO • TAMPA • ST. PETERSBURG • CLEARWATER • SARASOTA

Film Festival 34th Annual

ST. PETERSBURG EDITION

January 25-28, 2024 www.tiglff.com

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watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. JANUARY 4 - 17, 2024 // ISSUE 31.01 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

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DEPARTMENTS 7 // EDITOR’S DESK

page

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

I heard about Elevated Access and saw that they had this amazing mission for helping folks get gender-affirming care and abortion access. It took me back to a time where I needed this same gender-affirming care and I couldn’t get it.

— CENTRAL FLORIDA ELEVATED ACCESS PILOT ANGEL P.

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Elevated Access takes flight for gender-affirming care, reproductive rights.

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Matt Rodin relives his wedding day on Broadway tour.

WATERMARK ISSUE 31.01 // JANUARY 4 - 17, 2024

TWO LADIES & A BABY

ON THE MOVE

JUDGE SAYS

FRONTLINE FIGHTER

page Comedy fundraiser to help lesbian couple with adoption costs.

page Metro Inclusive Health opens new locations throughout Tampa Bay.

page

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Judge says DeSantis spread false trans health care information.

Read what Nicholas

has to say in his 17 Machuca inaugural Viewpoint.

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EDITOR’S

Jeremy Williams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com

I

DESK

WAS 10 YEARS OLD IN 1989 WHEN

“Back to the Future II” came out. Everyone knows the basic premise of those films, so I won’t bore you with the details, but I remember going to the theater and watching the second film of the trilogy and being amazed by what they thought the future would be like.

Flying cars, hoverboards, self-lacing shoes and jackets that adjust to your size were a few of the technological advances I remember talking about when we left the theater that day. We are now nine years passed the future year of 2015 that the film took place in and I still have to tie my own shoes, my car doesn’t leave the ground and my jacket still fits a little too snug around the waist area.

It’s fun to look ahead and try to guess what the future holds. This time of year most people do that, looking into the future 12 months and making predictions of how

they are going to better themselves, or as we all like to call them — New Year’s resolutions.

Making a New Year’s resolution is quite popular among Americans, with several polls stating that roughly 40% of people in the U.S. will make one. Just as popular it seems are people who mock others for making New Year’s resolutions, heading online in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve to write “GeT ReAdY fOr ThE nEw YeAr, NeW mE pOsTs!” To each their own, but I find it better to encourage those trying to make a positive change in their lives rather than be cynical

about it on social media. But then again, I am one of those who sets resolutions each year and usually fails at completing them, but I am not alone. According to the Fisher College of Business, only 9% of Americans who make resolutions will complete them with 43% of people quitting by the end of January and 23% quitting before the end of the first week.

With so many people wanting to better themselves, why is it so hard to just do it? This may come as a surprise, but most people on the internet know exactly why your resolutions fail and they know exactly what you need to do in order stop being such a lazy sloth and stick to it this time. As I Googled my way through trying to figure out how I can stay on track this year, I learned that I need to change everything AND that I am trying to change too much. I also learned that I lack the confidence in completing my resolutions BUT I’m also overconfident that it is going to be too easy. My favorite bit of advice was to make sure I find people who will hold me accountable but also don’t focus on what people think. Thanks internet, I feel so prepared for 2024.

One piece of internet advice I found that was kind of helpful was from a leadership coach on LinkedIn by the name of Kathy Caprino, who wrote “Personally, I don’t make New Year’s ‘resolutions’ per se because there’s so much hype and pressure around them that I find they rarely work. I choose to approach it more like a year-end review — of what I’m most happy with in terms of what’s been achieved and created, and also to examine what has not gone well, and what has transpired that led to failed expectations and hopes.”

I don’t know if that will help everyone, but it seems like a sound bit of advice to me and it does seem easier for me to think about

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it like fixing what didn’t work last year rather than fixing something in the upcoming year that hasn’t been broken yet. Or maybe it’s just easier for me to blame past Jeremy rather than place expectations on future Jeremy? Let’s not unpack all of that right now. As for my 2024 goals, they are the same as my 2023 goals: lose weight, make healthier lifestyle choices and spend more time with family and friends. I’m not going to refer to these as my New Year’s resolutions, rather things I plan to work on if I have the time. Also, I will probably hold off on starting them until February so that no one can come at me with the “nEw YeAr, NeW yOu” attacks.

As for my 2024 goals, they are the same as my 2023 goals.

Speaking of attacks, in this issue we look at a group trying to help Floridians access gender-affirming care that is being stripped from them by state lawmakers. The nonprofit Elevated Access enables access to this much needed health care by providing flights to states with gender-affirming care on private planes at no cost to the patients.

In news, the City of Orlando announces that it will take over the onePULSE Foundation’s Annual Remembrance Ceremony and the CommUNITY Rainbow Run as the foundation continues its dissolution, Metro Inclusive Health details the organization’s redistribution of operations across Tampa Bay and a federal judge calls out Gov. Ron DeSantis’ false information on gender-affirming care.

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watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. JANUARY 4 - 17, 2024 // ISSUE 31.01 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

CONTRIBUTORS TERRANCE HUNTER

is the CEO of Central Florida Community Arts and an Orlando native who has been involved in the arts since elementary school. Page 15

NICHOLAS MACHUCA is

the deputy director of development for Equality Florida, the statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization. He lives in Tampa and works all over Florida on LGBTQ+ equality. Page 17

HOLLY KAPHERR ALEJOS, SABRINA AMBRA, ABBY BAKER, STEVE BLANCHARD, DEBORAH BOSTOCKKELLEY, JOHNNY BOYKINS, BIANCA GOOLSBY, JAKOB HERO-SHAW, LORA KORPAR, JASON LECLERC, JERICK MEDIAVILLA, MELODY MAIA MONET, TIFFANY RAZZANO, SISTER JUANA REACTION, MOMMA ASHLEY ROSE, GREG STEMM, SYLVIE TREVENA, MICHAEL WANZIE, DR. STEVE YACOVELLI

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

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

AFFILIATIONS

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.

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7

EDITOR’S

Ryan Williams-Jent MANAGING EDITOR Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com

I

DESK

’VE NEVER CONSIDERED MYSELF

very patriotic. Even in grade school, pledging my allegiance to a flag every morning felt forced and uncomfortable.

I recited the words but it all seemed like propaganda to me, well before I really understood what that meant. Particularly the line “one nation under God,” since save for a few misguided years in high school I’ve also never considered myself to be very religious.

That phase of my life ended poorly once I came out, only bolstering my lack of patriotism.

U.S. lawmakers were never shy about using their religion to justify anti-LGBTQ+ laws as I grew up, vowing I’d never marry and more, so I rarely felt like a fully recognized citizen. It always put a dampener on things like the Fourth of July, and I hate fireworks anyway.

As far as the pledge goes, I learned as I grew older that like U.S. currency — which didn’t read “In God We Trust” until 1957 — it

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was initially secular. The modern version’s first iteration was written in 1892 and made no reference to a god, Christian or otherwise.

In fact, it was just a marketing tool written to mark the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus and his “discovery” of America. According to The History Channel, it was a push to assimilate immigrants who were “harmful to the ‘American’ way of life.”

It went through a few minor alterations over the years before the modern version made its 1954 debut. In case you’ve blocked it from your memory or aren’t familiar, it reads: “I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

I rather like the last bit and don’t harbor any ill will toward folks who recite the pledge, it’s just never been my cup of tea. It’s easy to see why, since Republican President Dwight D. Eisenhour promised after “under God” was added that “millions of our school children will daily proclaim in every city and town, every village and rural schoolhouse, the dedication of our Nation and our people to the Almighty.”

Separation of church and state, anyone? Thankfully students have a constitutional right not to recite the pledge, though you’d have never known about such a “woke” idea in my hometown. The Supreme Court ruled on it in 1943.

“If there is any fixed star in our constitutional constellation, it is that no official … can prescribe what shall be orthodox in politics, nationalism, religion, or other matters of opinion or force citizens to confess by word or act their faith therein,” their opinion reads. Now that’s a country I can get behind.

We’re a nation that knows how to get it right at times — which I think is worth fighting for, just not blindly adoring. The fact that I now have a husband tells me that.

So as we enter 2024, what’s already become a tiring election year, I hope everyone in our community realizes what’s at stake.

Especially if this November is a 2020 rematch.

President Joe Biden isn’t a perfect man, but he’s a good one. He’s a public servant who’s supported our community and this country for decades, who unlike his predecessor isn’t an insurrectionist actively working to dismantle our Democracy.

Biden hasn’t appointed Supreme Court justices who’ve stripped Americans of their right to choose or kept them from student debt relief; Trump has. Biden hasn’t enacted racist travel bans, barred transgender Americans from

serving in the military or defended white supremacists; Trump has.

The president also hasn’t bragged about committing sexual assault or been found liable by a jury for sexual abuse, which, you guessed it, Trump has. I also like the way Biden isn’t facing 91 criminal charges.

Trump was ill-equipped for the presidency in 2016 and couldn’t have deserved his 2020 defeat more. I’m hopeful that Republicans won’t nominate him this year, but the only thing I think is safe to say at this point is that they won’t be nominating Ron DeSantis.

The only thing messier than the

The only thing messier than the governor’s campaign is what his presidential ambitions have done to Florida.

governor’s campaign is what his presidential ambitions have done to Florida, something we examine in this issue. We highlight the nonprofit Elevated Access and how they’re getting LGBTQ+ Floridians the health care he’s worked to deny them.

In news, Metro Inclusive Health details their redistribution of operations and the City of Orlando announces it will take over onePULSE events. We also preview “Company” ahead of the Broadway tour’s stop at the Straz.

Watermark is proud to serve as your LGBTQ+ news source, so thanks for reading and for supporting our advertisers. Please stay safe, stay informed and enjoy this latest issue.

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Office Assistant: Bubba Trahan • Ext. 100 Bubba@WatermarkOnline.com Founder and Guiding Light: Tom Dyer National Ad Representative: Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863

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Ste 250 Orlando, FL 32807 TEL: 407-481-2243

TAMPA BAY OFFICE 401 33rd Street N. St. Petersburg, FL 33713 TEL: 813-655-9890

watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. JANUARY 4 - 17, 2024 // ISSUE 31.01 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

CONTRIBUTORS TERRANCE HUNTER

is the CEO of Central Florida Community Arts and an Orlando native who has been involved in the arts since elementary school. Page 15

NICHOLAS MACHUCA is

the deputy director of development for Equality Florida, the statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization. He lives in Tampa and works all over Florida on LGBTQ+ equality. Page 17

HOLLY KAPHERR ALEJOS, SABRINA AMBRA, ABBY BAKER, STEVE BLANCHARD, DEBORAH BOSTOCKKELLEY, JOHNNY BOYKINS, BIANCA GOOLSBY, JAKOB HERO-SHAW, LORA KORPAR, JASON LECLERC, JERICK MEDIAVILLA, MELODY MAIA MONET, TIFFANY RAZZANO, SISTER JUANA REACTION, MOMMA ASHLEY ROSE, GREG STEMM, SYLVIE TREVENA, MICHAEL WANZIE, DR. STEVE YACOVELLI

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

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

AFFILIATIONS

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.

7

central florida news

CITY OF ORLANDO TO TAKE OVER ONEPULSE EVENTS AS FOUNDATION DISSOLVES Jeremy Williams

O

RLANDO | In its final message to its donors and the press, onePULSE Foundation sent a statement providing updates on the city’s plans to take over management of several of the foundation’s programs as well as what is next for the Pulse Memorial.

“A few weeks ago, the City of Orlando took ownership of the Pulse site, with a goal of creating a permanent memorial for the 49 Angels taken on June 12, 2016,” the statement reads. “Since then, Mayor Dyer has met with members of the onePULSE Foundation Board to understand the impacts of the organization’s dissolution and learn more about the work done to date on the memorial.”

The foundation goes on in the statement to say that the board will be sharing its memorial design work and overview of its initiatives beyond the memorial with the city.

For the city’s part, the statement announced the creation of the Orlando United Pulse Memorial Fund, which would allow people to contribute toward the memorial. The city will also take over two of the foundation’s popular events for 2024 — the Annual Remembrance Ceremony and the CommUNITY Rainbow Run, which will be in partnership with the UCF DeVos Sport Business Management Program.

As the city works to create a permanent memorial at the site of the Pulse nightclub, it “remains committed to working with the families of the victims and the survivors to ensure that the memorial honors the lives taken, those impacted by the tragedy and pays tribute to the resiliency of Orlando.” The statement goes on to say that the city is finalizing a process that will engage and communicate with the victims’ families, survivors and first responders as part of that process.

In October, the City of Orlando announced it was moving forward with purchasing the Pulse property for a reported $2 million after it was revealed that talks between the foundation and the club owners for the property had broken down. The foundation announced less than a month later that it would be dissolving.

Speaking with members of the media, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer said he would like to see a permanent memorial in place by the Pulse tragedy’s 10-year mark of June 12, 2026.

The city has created a website providing updates on the Pulse memorial. On the site, the city states they are “committed to taking a thoughtful, collaborative approach to understand the history of the effort to create a memorial up until this point.”

Keep up to date with the city’s plans by going to Orlando.gov/Initiatives/ Pulse-Tragedy/Pulse-Memorial.

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MOMS TO BE: Christian

and Marlena Miles are ready to be parents. PHOTO FROM MILES’ ADOPT TOGETHER PROFILE

Two Ladies & a Baby Comedy fundraiser to help lesbian couple with adoption costs Jeremy Williams

O

RLANDO | Christian and Marlena Miles have known they wanted to build a family together since they first met, and they knew they wanted part of the journey to involve adoption.

“I knew since I was 10 years old that I wanted to grow my family with adoption,” Christian Miles says. “[Marlena] is like me too. We say the baby doesn’t need to be born in the family to be a part of the family.”

Christian and Marlena Miles began their journey to adopting a child in November 2022, chronicling the events through the website AdoptTogether, a nonprofit, crowdfunding platform that “bridges the gap between families who want to adopt and the children who need loving homes.”

“It may surprise you to hear that adoption related costs can easily total up to $60,000 (or more!),” the couple wrote on their profile. “So we have set up this campaign to help ease the financial

burden that otherwise could easily be overwhelming.”

The couple found an adoption agency that they felt connected to about a month later and began the process of preparing for the home study, along with everything else needed before they could even think about matching with a child, including questionnaires, medical clearances, letters of recommendation, both local and federal background checks and a visit from a social worker.

The process took nearly a full year but the couple announced Nov. 28 that they had some good news.

“We are matched with a birth mom due in February with a little girl,” they wrote in their profile.

“We are so excited to be one step closer to starting our family.

The next couple of months will be spent anxiously awaiting the arrival of the baby and preparing for a little one to join our family.

We got to see an ultrasound photo of the baby which feels surreal!”

As the couple prepares for the baby’s arrival — both emotionally and financially — Christian Miles, who works as a stand-up comic,

has been organizing a comedy fundraiser for the adoption.

“Two Ladies & A Baby” will bring together several local comedians for a show celebrating the baby announcement and as a way to raise funds to help offset the adoption costs.

“Since I moved here, I have fallen in love with Orlando’s comedy scene,” Christian Miles says. “So I wanted to do the event to give family, friends and everyone a place to go and celebrate the adoption, celebrate comedy; I think it is just so important, especially now, to bring people together and lift spirits.

The event will be held at the Audubon Park Church, located at 3219 Chelsea St. in Orlando, on Jan. 13. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the show starting at 7:15 p.m. Hosted

by Christian Miles and Jason Montilla, the evening will feature comedy by Patrick Sisk, Aimee LeCours, Lee Cohen and Johnni P. It will also include musical guest Francisco Laboy.

“At the end of the day the event is a free comedy show to bring people together and have a good time,” Christian Miles says. “And if anyone is able to help contribute toward the adoption costs, it of course is greatly appreciated.”

This is a free event with donations welcomed. For more information on the event, and to follow along with Christian and Marlena Miles’ adoption journey, visit AdoptTogether.org/ Families/The-Miles.

watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. JANUARY 4 - 17, 2024 // ISSUE 31.01 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

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9

tampa bay news

THE NEXT TIGLFF COULD BE THE LAST Ryan Williams-Jent

S

T. PETERSBURG | After the Tampa Bay International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival holds part two of its 34th outing Jan. 25-28 at Green Light Cinema, its president says the state’s longest-running celebration of LGBTQ+ cinema could come to a close.

TIGLFF President Rob Akins, whose previously extended term will end this month, has been involved with the organization for nearly two decades. He says new stewards are needed for the festival to continue.

There are currently seven members on the nonprofit’s board, some of whom predate Akins’ involvement and may also vacate their positions. TIGLFF is also supported by one staff member, Festival Director Renee Cossette, and the organization’s contracted Program Director KJ Mohr.

Mohr programmed TIGLFF for nine years until a 2020 departure but returned for TIGLFF Tampa Oct. 5-8.

Instead of its traditional nine-day festival, TIGLFF was split for the first time between two weekends across Tampa Bay, which organizers hoped would increase attendance and alleviate other concerns.

Akins calls the decision a success, not unlike other ventures introduced in recent years. Organizers have also launched smaller festivals to elevate trans and LGBTQ+ BIPOC voices while monthly screenings in St. Petersburg have also flourished.

“Unless you’ve spoken directly with myself or a board member, I think you would say that things are going well,” Akins says. “But this is a lot of work, it takes a lot to put on a film festival, and a lot of us have been doing this for a long time.

“Frankly, we’re just ready to move on to the next stages of our lives and need people to get involved,” he continues.

“To bring new ideas to continue the good things we have going on, like the Trans Film Fest and the monthlies. We need people to take up the cause.”

According to TIGLFF’s website, board members must commit to a two-year term, attend monthly board meetings and at least one other event per month.

Festival attendance is mandatory, along with a desire to make a difference in the community while promoting TIGLFF’s mission to showcase films by, for and about the LGBTQ+ community.

Additional opportunities to support TIGLFF are also available. Year-round volunteers are needed to assist with social media, event planning, graphic design, networking and more, and there are three different screening committees film lovers can join.

Donations are also welcome, though Akins notes TIGLFF’s potential end isn’t related to finances.

“We do need donations but we aren’t bankrupt,” he says. “It’s the people that are needed. If you have people with energy, time, passion and skillsets, the rest will come.

I believe in this organization and I think it’s something culturally that we do need … but we need to continue with a new generation.”

TIGLFF St. Pete is scheduled for Jan. 25-28. For more information about joining the organization’s board and other ways to donate your time, email Rob@TIGLFF.com and visit TIGLFF.com.

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INCLUSIVE CARE: Metro Inclusive Health representatives at St Pete Pride 2023. PHOTO VIA

METRO’S FACEBOOK

On the Move Metro opens new locations Ryan Williams-Jent

T

AMPA BAY | Metro Inclusive Health has nearly completed the organization’s redistribution of operations into eight full-service locations, an expansion first detailed last year.

The plans were announced in April 2023 and billed as a return to Metro’s roots, designed “to meet demand while addressing increased barriers to healthcare in underserved communities.” The organization had partnered with CAN Community Health in the decade prior to renovate and share a 47,000-square-foot St. Petersburg facility and a 30,000-square-foot facility in Ybor, both of which CAN continues to operate from.

“Over the next 12 months, Metro will redistribute operations currently located at the St. Petersburg and Tampa centers [to] significantly expand the organization’s reach from four locations to eight, including its two existing health centers in Clearwater and New Port Richey,” Metro shared at the time. “All will provide over 100 health, wellness and social services with labs and pharmacy services.”

“These moves will create substantial annual cost savings that can be redirected towards providing services to the community while also contributing to the financial longevity of the organization, ” Metro CEO Priya Rajkumar added.

Work on Metro’s expansion started right away and continued through the end of 2023. They began offering services at the organization’s renovated Central Ave. location in St. Petersburg that month, formerly their retail location Inclusivitea, and their Brandon site opened in July. A North St. Petersburg location followed in October and Tampa’s Seminole Heights and Fletcher Ave. sites opened in November.

Metro also vacated the Ybor location that month while operations have continued in Clearwater and New Port Richey.

Downtown St. Pete opened and Metro vacated its traditional St. Petersburg location on Dec. 29, while their eighth site in South St. Petersburg is slated to open by Feb. 1.

“It’s been a lot of heavy lifting in getting centers online and patients transferred to their preferred location,” says Chief Marketing & Business Development Officer Brian

Bailey, who initiated the shift toward Metro’s new model. “Overall, we’re ahead of schedule and patients are liking the accessibility of the new locations near them.”

Patients have also benefited from the roll out of online scheduling and Metro's rebranded pharmacy services. They recently unveiled Metro Inclusive Pharmacy: Copay it Forward, which marks “a significant stride in the organization’s commitment to healthcare equity and community support.”

Metro’s Copay it Forward program launched in 2018 and utilizes normal pharmacy copayments to offer care to those who are under or uninsured.

In 2022, insured patients who participated in the initiative contributed $660,450 toward services. The pharmacy is located in Metro’s former LGBTQ+ Welcome Center beside their Central Ave. site.

“As Metro Inclusive Health expands into new locations and continues to enhance its community outreach, the organization encourages everyone to support and educate others about the benefits of choosing Copay it Forward and Metro Inclusive Pharmacy for their prescription needs,” Metro noted. They also shared they look “forward to making a greater impact in the lives of many through this rebranded initiative.”

For more information about Metro Inclusive Health and the organization's new locations, visit MetroTampaBay.org.

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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!

This new year, join us at our new location!

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state news

FLORIDA LAWMAKER INTRODUCES BILL TO BAN LGBTQ+ PRIDE FLAGS LA Blade Staff, Courtesy of the National LGBT Media Association

A

Republican lawmaker in Florida has introduced a measure that, if passed, would ban the display of the LGBTQ+ Pride flag and other “political flags” from local and state government buildings and facilities.

Republican Rep. David Borrero, who represents Northwestern Miami-Dade County, introduced House Bill 901 that would prohibit local governments and agencies from flying the LGBTQ+ Pride flag or any other banner representing a “social or political position.”

According to the bill’s language, “The government agency must remain neutral when representing political viewpoints in displaying or erecting a flag.”

Florida Politics reported that as written, HB 901 would ban local governments, government agencies and public schools, colleges and universities from displaying any flag that represents a partisan, racial, sexual, gender or political viewpoint.

JUDGE: DESANTIS SPREAD FALSE INFORMATION WHILE PUSHING TRANS HEALTH CARE BAN Wire Report

T

ALLAHASSEE, FLA. | A federal judge hearing a challenge to a transgender health care ban for minors and restrictions for adults noted last month that Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis repeatedly spread false information about doctors mutilating children’s genitals, even though there’s been no such documented cases.

“The law was sold as defending children from mutilation when it is actually about preventing trans children from getting health care,” Judge Robert Hinkle said to Mohammad Jazil, a lawyer for the state.

“When I’m analyzing the governor’s motivation, what should I make of these statements?” Hinkle asked. “This seems to be more than just hyperbole.”

Hinkle said he will rule sometime in the new year on whether the Legislature, the Department of Health and presidential candidate DeSantis deliberately targeted transgender people through the new law. He raised some skepticism about the state’s motivation as lawyers gave their closing arguments.

Jazil said the motivation behind the law was simply public safety in an area that needs more oversight and can have permanent consequences.

“It’s about treating a medical condition; it’s not about targeting transgender individuals,” Jazil said.

Jazil added that if the state was targeting transgender people, it could have banned all treatment for adults and children. Hinkle quickly replied that Jazil would have trouble defending such a law.

Hinkle, who was appointed by former President Bill Clinton, has temporarily blocked enforcement

of the law as it pertains to minors, pending the outcome of the trial. The lawsuit also challenges restrictions placed on adult trans care, which have been allowed to take effect during the trial.

At least 22 states have now enacted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming medical care for transgender minors, and many of those states face lawsuits.

Thomas Redburn, a lawyer representing trans adults and the families of trans children, said DeSantis and the Legislature have shown a pattern of targeting transgender people. He listed other recent laws that affect the community, including restrictions on pronoun use in schools, the teaching of gender identification in schools, restrictions on public bathrooms and the prohibition of trans girls from playing girls sports.

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nation+world news

ACTIVISTS HOPE POPE’S APPROVAL OF SAME-SEX BLESSINGS COULD EASE ANTI-LGBTQ+ BIAS Wire Report

R

OME | Pope Francis’ green light for Catholic priests to offer blessings to same-sex couples is in many ways a recognition of what has been happening in some European parishes for years. But his decision to officially spell out his approval could send a message of tolerance to places where gay rights are far more restricted.

From Uganda to the United States, laws that discriminate against LGBTQ+ people or even criminalize homosexuality have increased in recent years, leaving communities feeling under attack. Pastors in some conservative Christian denominations, and the Catholic Church in particular, have sometimes supported such measures as consistent with biblical teaching about homosexuality.

In Zimbabwe, a country with a history of state harassment of LGBTQ+ people and a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage, news of Francis’ approval was met with cautious optimism among activists.

But Chesterfield Samba, director of Zimbabwe’s GALZ association, which represents LGBTQ+ people, said same-sex unions would likely remain taboo regardless of the pope’s stance.

“Christians here are of the view that they are devoid of sin and cannot be aligned with LGBTQ+ people,” Samba told The Associated Press.

By contrast, a Catholic priest in the United States — Alex Santora of Hoboken, New Jersey — was elated by the pope’s declaration, hoping it would clear the path for him to bless a same-sex couple who had been part of the parish throughout his 19-year tenure there.

The Vatican says gays should be treated with dignity and respect but that homosexual acts are “intrinsically disordered.” Francis hasn’t changed that teaching, but he has spent much of his 10-year pontificate offering a more welcoming attitude.

The Vatican statement marked a new step in Francis’ campaign, explicitly authorizing priests to offer non-sacramental blessings to same-sex couples. The blessings must in no way resemble a wedding, which the church teaches can only happen between a man and woman.

The Rev. Wolfgang Rothe, a German priest who participated in open worship services blessing same-sex couples in May 2021, said that the approval essentially validated what he and other priests in Germany have been doing for years. But he suggested it would make life easier for homosexual couples in more conservative societies.

“In my church, such blessings always take place when anyone has the need,” Rothe said.

But “in many countries around the world there are opposing moves to maintain homophobia in the church,” he added. “For homosexual couples living there, the document will be a huge relief.”

In Nigeria, authorities arrested dozens of gay people in October in a crackdown that human rights groups said relied on a same-sex prohibition law. Nigeria is among 30 of Africa’s 54 countries where homosexuality is criminalized with broad public support, though its constitution guarantees freedom from discrimination.

Uganda’s president last year signed into law anti-gay legislation that prescribes the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality,” which is defined as sexual relations involving people infected with HIV, as well as with minors and other vulnerable people.

In the U.S., the Human Rights Campaign identified an “unprecedented and dangerous” spike in discriminatory laws sweeping statehouses in 2023, with more than 525 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced.

“Given the homophobic and transphobic climate created by many bishops in the United States, the average same-sex couple likely still won’t feel comfortable presenting themselves to their local bishop or priest to ask for a blessing,” said Jamie Manson, a lesbian and president of Catholics for Choice.

Starting from his famous “Who am I to judge” comment in 2013 about a purportedly gay priest, Francis has evolved his position to increasingly make clear that everyone is a child of God, is loved by God and welcome in the church. Francis also told The Associated Press: “Being homosexual is not a crime.”

Raul Pena, a spokesman for Crismhom, Madrid’s main Catholic LGBTQ+ association, said small-town, conservative dioceses in rural Spain could benefit from Francis’ message.

“If the priest from your town talks about gays being the devil in his sermons each Sunday, which some priests do, now you have the pope signing a document saying that homosexuals who live as a couple can be blessed,” he said.

“It’s a fundamental step for those hierarchies and for those people who are in places where being LGBT is difficult.”

Santora, pastor of New Jersey's Church of Our Lady of Grace, said the pope’s declaration would be welcome in a parish that celebrates a Pride Mass with LGBTQ+ parishioners.

“This is a very important step, people realizing the church is finally recognizing the goodness of their lives,” he said.

Gary Stavella, 70, helps lead the LGBTQ+ outreach ministry at Our Lady of Grace. He said he was happy about the pope’s declaration, particularly on behalf of LGBTQ+ Catholics in countries where homosexuality is criminalized.

“There are a lot of anti-LGBTQ cardinals in those countries, and in ours,” Stavella said. “For their boss to say, ’You can’t condemn them, you should bless them’ is a sea change. It can save lives.”

Antonella Allaria, who lives in New York City with her wife, Amanda and their six-month-old son, said the pope’s decision is a positive step for her family and the church as a whole.

“I’m gay and it’s OK to be a person and to be gay. Where before, in the Catholic Church, it was not that OK,” she said. “I feel things are getting normalized. And it’s about time.”

Kimo Jung of Pittsburgh, a lifelong Catholic, met his future husband 34 years ago when they both attended a New York parish. Jung, 60, sees the Vatican declaration as monumental for the church, but less so for himself and his husband, whom he married in a civil ceremony in 2016.

“I would certainly ask my friends who are priests to convey such a blessing, but I wouldn’t approach any other church official to demand a rite to be blessed, because I already know God has blessed my relationship.”

IN OTHER NEWS ACLU OF MASSACHUSETTS SUES OVER DRAG BAN The ACLU of Massachusetts has filed a lawsuit against the North Brookfield Select Board and two of its members after they refused to grant permission for a 2024 Pride celebration on the Town Common because the event will include drag performance.

The lawsuit challenges that the Select Board’s actions continue a pattern of discriminatory treatment, violate free expression and assembly rights, and unlawfully discriminate on the basis of gender. It seeks relief to allow the Rural Justice Network to host its 2024 Small Town Pride celebration, including drag performances, and to prevent further obstruction in the future.

GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE BANS CHALLENGED At least 22 states enacted laws banning or restricting gender-affirming care for minors in 2023, most of which are being challenged in court. Transgender youth and their families have asked SCOTUS to review an appellate court decision that allowed bans in Kentucky and Tennessee to remain in effect and in Alabama, a federal judge declined to pause litigation challenging the state’s ban Dec. 26. The U.S. Department of Justice asked to put the case on hold citing the evolving legal landscape. Alabama’s ban makes it a felony for doctors to treat people under 19 with puberty blockers or hormones to help affirm their gender identity.

CHURCH OF ENGLAND BLESSES SAME-SEX COUPLES Church of England priests offered officially sanctioned blessings of same-sex partnerships for the first time last month, though a ban on church weddings for same-sex couples remains in place amid deep divisions within global Anglicanism over marriage and sexuality.

The church’s national assembly voted in 2023 to allow clergy to bless the unions of same-sex couples who have had civil weddings or partnerships. The words used for the blessings were approved by the church’s House of Bishops Dec. 12 and used for the first time Dec. 17. The compromise was struck following five years of discussions about their position on sexuality.

GREECE OFFICIALS STAND BY SAME-SEX MARRIAGE PLEDGE Greece’s government said Dec. 21 it would fulfill a commitment to legalize same-sex marriage despite opposition from the country’s Orthodox Church.

Officials said legislation will be brought to parliament during the house’s current term. The Church argues that extending marriage rights would create a legal obligation to follow up with parental rights under international rights obligations that Greece has signed up to. Opinion polls suggest Greeks are evenly divided on the issue of same-sex marriage, but opposed to extending full parental rights to gay couples. The country legalized same-sex civil partnerships in 2015.

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viewpoint

Terrance Hunter

TERRANCE TALKS Trying something new

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S WE STAND ON THE

cusp of a brand-new year with the promise of unique opportunities and personal growth unfolding before us like a blank canvas, let’s cast aside the expected resolutions and dare to dream of a transformative journey.

In the tapestry of aspirations and ambitions, allow me to introduce a resolution that goes beyond clichés — a resolution that can infuse your 2024 with an extraordinary touch of artistic flair. Let’s discover why CFCArts might just be the transformative experience you didn’t know you needed.

CFCArts is more than an arts organization; it’s a haven, an inclusive space where individuals like you and me can find solace and connect with a community that thrives on creativity and individuality. Imagine a space where everyone, regardless of their background or artistic ability, discovers their unique niche and contributes to the collective brilliance of the community.

As you sit down to pen your resolutions for the year, I invite you to consider a unique opportunity to enrich your life with a profound dose of the extremely talented community that calls Orlando home. Picture yourself not just attending performances but actively participating in the show — whether it’s belting out melodies alongside a choir boasting more than 300 passionate voices or rediscovering the instrument you once held dear, now playing alongside 200+ musicians in a symphony or jammin’ with the Big Band. CFCArts extends a heartfelt invitation to become an integral part of a community that values collaboration.

For those among us who are seeking experiences for older adults, CFCArts has specially designed programs that transcend the expectations of aging. One stand-out program among them is “The Narrators,” a senior acting troupe that weaves together theatre games, creative writing and storytelling to craft compelling performances. Here,

you can take center stage in ways you never envisioned, reinforcing what we know to be true — that the pursuit of art is timeless and knows no boundaries.

The essence of CFCArts goes beyond personal artistic growth; it’s an unparalleled opportunity to connect with kindred spirits who appreciate the joy of artistic expression.

This community, one that extends far beyond the rehearsal space, becomes a tapestry of enduring connections — connections that enrich, inspire and transform.

Now, let’s talk about the benefits of trying new things. Stepping into uncharted territories fosters personal development and growth. It’s a journey that enhances resilience, instills confidence and offers a sense of accomplishment as you navigate the challenges of mastering new artistic skills. Beyond personal development, trying new things cultivates an open-minded perspective, expanding your horizons and enriching your life with diverse experiences.

Here’s the best part: there’s no audition to join CFCArts. The doors are wide open for everyone, regardless of their level of experience or expertise.

Whether you’re a seasoned musician or someone who’s never sung in a choir, CFCArts welcomes you with open arms. This inclusivity is at the core of CFCArts, ensuring that the joy of artistic expression is accessible to all who are eager to explore and contribute to this vibrant community.

As you contemplate the resolutions that will guide your growth in the coming year, I invite you to make CFCArts an integral part of your path. Embrace the prospect of trying something new, immersing yourself in the arts in a way that complements your professional pursuits and becoming

an indispensable part of a community that values the unique contributions of every member.

I know how easy it is to say “you should try [fill in the blank],” but it’s another thing entirely to take that leap. Let’s make 2024 the year we turn those

And not to forget my cultural peers, nearly every arts organization has opportunities for you to engage with them offstage and outside of exhibitions.

Take a class, volunteer to give tours, attend a program or volunteer in the office.

Are you ready to infuse

beauty, allowing us to express ourselves and build bridges between cultures and communities.

You believe in the fundamental role of the arts in life, and so do I. My job is to create spaces and opportunities; yours is simply to take

“shoulds” into “absolutely wills.” I’m committed to trying something new this year too. I’m not big on improv; I love watching it but it is not where my skillset shines. Not to be deterred by my own “stuff,” I’m registered to take an improv class starting in just a couple of weeks.

I hope you’ll join me and share your stories of trying something new or scary.

your year with a touch of artistic brilliance? Delve into the possibilities that CFCArts has to offer at CFCArts.com.

Remember, “the artist is not a special kind of person; rather each person is a special kind of artist.”

Creativity is a birthright for all, and lives in our everyday actions, expressions and connections. The arts inspire goodness, foster creativity and amplify

advantage of them.

Here’s to a year of exploration, creativity, collaboration and community — a year where each day unfolds as a chapter in a book of new and exciting experiences.

Here’s to a year of exploration, creativity, collaboration and community.

watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. JANUARY 4 - 17, 2024 // ISSUE 31.01 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

Terrance Hunter is the CEO of Central Florida Community Arts and an Orlando native who has been involved in the arts since elementary school.

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viewpoint

Nicholas Machuca

FRONTLINE FIGHTER Join the Resistance

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NYONE PAYING

attention to Florida politics knows the ringer we’ve been put through this past year.

From circus shows at local school board meetings to the hostile takeover of New College to the implementation of draconian laws, Florida has served as a microcosm of how anti-LGBTQ+ conservatives aim to reshape our nation and society toward hate and exclusion.

It’s no secret that our school boards have experienced a near-continuous crisis for the last year — and in communities like Sarasota, shamefully hypocritical board members like Bridget Ziegler scapegoat and dehumanize the LGBTQ+ community while engaging in same-sex activities behind closed doors.

From bigoted individuals loudly attacking openly-LGBTQ+ electeds to the abrupt removal of staff, educators, guidelines, and policies, so-called “leaders” have created chaos in institutions of great respect, all while failing to live up to the radical standards they themselves seek to impose. All of it has been cheered on and inflamed by hate groups like Moms for Liberty (which the scandalized Zieglers created) and other anti-LGBTQ+ organizations. This right-wing hysteria is fueled from the top — whipped into a frenzy by those who benefit from fanning these flames of hate.

We have a governor who likes to call us the “free state” of Florida but is at war with freedom. Free states don’t ban books. Free states don’t criminalize health care. Free states don’t censor history. There is no freedom in government dictating what we can wear, what we can read and who we can be.

Parental rights are under assault. The governor and his allies claim to be champions of “parental rights” while they strip parents of the rights to access life-saving medical care for their children, send their kids to schools they feel safe and included, and decide what entertainment is appropriate for their own families. Instead of allowing parents to decide what books they want their children to access, a small group of hypocritical extremists declare that any book they disagree with is “pornographic.”

The DeSantis administration is torching Florida’s reputation nationally, and it’s costing all of us. The governor’s agenda of censorship, book banning and whitewashing of history is destroying Florida’s image, driving away top talent. Our state has grown synonymous with attacks on LGBTQ+ people, reproductive rights, honest American history, the arts and more. This extreme agenda is about one thing: feeding his hopeless presidential ambitions.

Meanwhile, government is being weaponized against Floridians with the politicization of state agencies. This all-out assault on LGBTQ+ people, the likes of which we have not seen since the days of Anita Bryant’s “Save Our Children” campaign, is designed to manufacture right-wing outrage that the governor can leverage in his desperate bid to outflank the former White House occupant for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination.

Florida was once on a path toward a bright, progressive future.

I remember the days when this state felt like a departure from our more conservative neighbors in this region.

Florida once even led the way, pulling ahead of the federal government at times.

Just in 2015, Equality Florida fought and succeeded in winning marriage equality right here in our state six months before SCOTUS legalized it nationwide!

Flash forward to 2023 where Floridians saw the most overtly anti-LGBTQ+ session in our legislature’s history. Just recently, Charlotte County even made national headlines for implementing the removal of all books with LGBTQ+ characters in all grade levels.

Our state population comprises only 6.5% of the country, but a recent report shows that Florida accounts for more than 40% of the school book bans in the U.S. Nearly half. A third of these books included characters of

color and racial themes, and another third represented LGBTQ+ identities, so this is not just about queer people.

Coalition building with other marginalized communities is going to be critical in the fight against this.

We cannot risk another all-out legislative assault on

on our fundamental human rights. But in anticipation of another damaging legislative session for LGBTQ+ people, we need your help in our mission.

We are mobilizing people from all over the state for our Pride at the Capitol program, which kicks off on

Tallahassee throughout the 60-day legislative session.

Whenever you are able to join us, we will find a place for you to fight alongside us. Together, we must do everything to defend our fundamental rights and freedoms. Showing up when they try to dehumanize us,

our community this year.

We cannot allow another legislative session where the “Don’t Say LGBTQ+” law, the anti-drag law the anti-trans bathroom law, bans on gender-affirming care, and the six-week abortion ban are allowed to move forward.

Equality Florida will always advocate for the rights and dignity of all Floridians and will hold those responsible accountable for their attacks

Jan. 16 and 17 in Tallahassee.

We are not backing down, we are proudly showing up and we are fighting back.

We are activating Floridians to travel to Tallahassee, meet with state lawmakers and rally for LGBTQ+ rights to make our voices heard.

I encourage — no, I implore you to join us there.

Whether you can join us for the program kickoff or not, Equality Florida’s team will be in

either to share our stories or to hold them accountable, is our strongest tool in this fight.

We cannot risk another all-out legislative assault on our community this year.

Nicholas Machuca is the deputy director of development for Equality Florida, the statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization.

He lives in Tampa and works all over Florida on LGBTQ+ equality.

Visit EqualityFlorida.org/PATC to join the resistance.

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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talking points If you say one more bad thing about me on your show ... you’re going to be in so much trouble, you little trouble-making queen.

— MADONNA TO ANDY COHEN, WHO WAS SITTING IN THE FRONT ROW OF HER NEW YORK CITY CONCERT DEC. 16

CATE BLANCHETT TO SPOTLIGHT STORIES FROM WOMEN, TRANS AND NONBINARY FILMMAKERS

O

SCAR-WINNING ACTRESS CATE BLANCHETT IS LIFTING UP WOMEN, TRANSGENDER AND NONBINARY FILMMAKERS with a new initiative through her production company, Dirty Films, and the global think tank Annenberg Inclusion Initiative. The program titled “Proof of Concept” is designed to accelerate the path to large-scale filmmaking for directors who give voice to the perspectives of women, trans and nonbinary people. The program will provide support for up to eight filmmakers to make a short film that is “proof of concept” for a feature film or television project.

Short films will be funded at $50,000 and directors will participate in a mentorship and exposure program which connects them with industry leaders. “With financial, artistic, and producorial support, it is possible to nurture the creativity, ambitions, and success of these filmmakers and provide a launchpad for their career success,” the initiative’s website states. Applications opened Jan. 3. You can find more information at POCAccelerator.org.

13.9 MILLION

ADULTS

IN THE U.S. IDENTIFY AS LGBT.

THE SOUTH

‘MAESTRO’ IS A RAFT OF THEATER STARS

L

EONARD BERNSTEIN WAS A TOWERING FIGURE ON BROADWAY. So it seems only fitting that the new film drama of him leans on the Great White Way to get the story right.

Bradley Cooper’s movie “Maestro” is studded with theater stars — 29 of the 38 principal cast members have a background in the theater, including Gideon Glick, Michael Urie, Greg Hildreth, Nick Blaemire, Ryan Steele, Zachary Booth and Gaby Diaz. Casting director Shayna Markowitz said she didn’t necessarily set out to land theater pros but it came naturally when she was trying to populate Bernstein’s world authentically. “Maestro,” written, directed, produced and starring Cooper is streaming now on Netflix.

NEW JERSEY DEVILS WEAR PRIDE JERSEYS IN SPITE OF NHL BAN

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HE NEW JERSEY DEVILS HOCKEY TEAM SPORTED THEIR PRIDE JERSEYS DEC. 21 exploiting a loophole in the National Hockey League’s recent ban on specially themed jerseys.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has called rainbow-themed jerseys a “distraction” leading to the league to ban teams from donning the supportive wear during warm-ups, when many teams allowed players to wear them. The Devils instead wore the Pride jerseys during the players arrival to the arena. The night’s game was the Devils annual Pride Night celebration which saw them take on the Edmonton Oilers.

The Pride jerseys were auctioned off Dec. 28 with proceeds benefiting Hyacinth, New Jersey’s largest and first HIV/AIDS service provider.

‘DRAG RACE’ ALUM FARRAH MOAN COMES OUT AS TRANS

D

RAG PERFORMER FARRAH MOAN, WHO APPEARED ON “RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE” season nine and “Drag Race All Stars” season four, came out as transgender during an interview on the podcast “Maddy Morphosis’ Give It To Me Straight.” The 30-year-old performer said she has been living as her authentic self since 2019.

“The times in my life where I tried to suppress my trans identity it was because I felt if I ever did it I would never be on ‘Drag Race.’ I’d never be successful, I’d never be able to have a job,” she said. Moan joins fellow “Drag Race” alumni Adore Delano and Jade Jolie as performers who have come out as trans in recent months.

HAS THE

LARGEST PERCENTAGE OF LGBT ADULTS WITH 36%,

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RISING ABOVE

Elevated Access takes flight for gender-affirming care, reproductive rights

S

Deborah Bostock-Kelley

ENATE BILL 254, DESCRIBED BY

Florida’s Republican-controlled state legislature as “comprehensive parental empowerment and child safety legislation,” was filed by state Sen. Clay Yarborough and cointroduced by Sen. Keith Perry in March 2023.

It was signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis in May of last year and has had far-reaching consequences for trans Floridians ever since.

According to the Williams Institute, Florida has the second largest population of transgender adults in the country, an estimated 94,900 people, and the law mandates

that a physician be present to oversee any health care related to transitioning. It also requires for people to see that doctor in person and requires that adult patients seeking trans

health care sign an informed consent form. Those rules have proven difficult because many people receive care from nurse practitioners and use telehealth.

It is a crime to violate the new requirements, putting the providers who care for them at significant risk of losing their licenses. The bill’s language is vaguely written, making it hard to interpret when understanding its implications.

The U.S. District Court in Northern Florida heard a landmark case, Doe v.

Ladapo, on Dec. 13, 14, and 21, fighting for the rights of transgender adults seeking gender-transition medical care and for transgender minors, including their parents. A

subclass was created for minors totally prohibited from treatment due to not initiating it before the effective dates of SB 254 and the Board of Medicine rules. State law forbids youth from obtaining this care during puberty and adolescence without being grandfathered in.

In a joint press release from the GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders, Human Rights Campaign Foundation, Southern Legal Counsel, National Center for Lesbian Rights, and Lowenstein Sandle, the group presented evidence that SB 254 and the BOM rules were motivated

by Florida’s disapproval of transgender people, have no rational justification and

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deny transgender Floridians and parents of transgender individuals equal treatment as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.

Sarah Warbelow, Legal Director of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, stated, “Despite living in a state that has shown blatant discriminatory intent toward transgender people, the families, and plaintiffs involved in this case have put their bravery, resilience, and humanity center stage. This trial showed that there is no sound reason to deprive people of the ability to make best-practice, medically-necessary healthcare decisions for themselves —

CONTINUED ON PG. 24 | uu |

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| uu | Rising Above FROM PG.23

especially when the trade-off is the heartache and distress of children and parents.”

As plaintiff Lucien Hamel also explained in the release, “Being forced to abruptly stop my medical care this summer has been devastating for both me and my family. I received my care from a competent medical provider that I really trusted. Then I was told that Florida law suddenly won’t let APRNs and Nurse Practitioners provide the care I need. I can’t get an appointment with a physician anywhere in the state.

There’s no medical basis for this change – it’s just preventing transgender Floridians like me from getting care. I’m scared and frustrated because I know my health will continue to decline the longer I have to wait, putting incredible stress on me, my wife, and our child.”

While the new law effectively requires transgender adults to leave Florida to obtain necessary care, Hamel testified that, like many others, he can’t just uproot his family, abandon Florida and move across the country.

Anonymous plaintiffs also spoke on behalf of their transgender children, Susan and Gavin.

“My worst nightmare is having to watch my child suffer because I can’t get her what she needs,” one parent shared.

“Seeing Susan’s own fear about what will happen to her because of this ban has been one of the hardest experiences we’ve endured as parents. Nobody with a heart could ever do this to her.”

“If you have children, you will do anything and everything to protect them, to provide what they need. SB 254 is prohibiting my ability as a parent to do that,” they continued. “I am unable to get Gavin the care he needs in Florida and am greatly concerned about what that means for his mental health and his overall well-being.”

A month prior to SB 254’s signing, DeSantis also signed a six-week abortion ban, replacing a 15-week ban enacted in April 2022. In Florida and elsewhere, gender-affirming care and reproductive rights are inextricably linked because they

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both stem from the basic right to bodily autonomy.

This legislation will only be enforced if the State Supreme Court nullifies Florida’s existing protections for abortion rights, which is also being challenged.

Activists at Florida Protecting Freedom are working hard to ensure abortion rights appear on the Florida ballot this November, something Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has taken legal action against to try and prevent.

LGBTQ+ activists note that it is disheartening that these and other barriers still exist for

Elevated Access operates as a volunteer pilot program that provides free air transportation to individuals who require gender-affirming care or abortion access to states where such care is legal. A community of 1,350 volunteer pilots has completed 400 flights since its founding in 2022.

In response to these challenges, Elevated Access has forged a network of pilots — each of whom completes a vetting process to confirm their values align with the nonprofit’s mission and goals, and who willingly donate their time, skill

As a transgender female of color, Angel P. — a Central Floridian whose full name has been redacted to protect her anonymity — understands firsthand the ramifications of Florida’s restrictive laws. It’s why she wanted to do something to help others in her hometown.

Motivated by personal experiences, Angel is part of a diverse group of volunteers challenging the status quo.

As a female pilot at Elevated Access, she is a rarity, as most of the volunteers are white men. According to the April 2023 report by Pilot

Being a pilot for Elevated Access has taught me to be more kind and open. It’s one of the first times in my life where the rules have been reversed — I’m in the position to help someone else.

— CENTRAL FLORIDA PILOT ANGEL P. those in need of health care. It’s why Elevated Access, a nonprofit organization founded in Illinois in 2022, has emerged as a beacon of hope for those seeking gender-affirming care and abortion services in states like Florida across the country.

As the LGBTQ+ community continues to face disparities in care, Elevated Access has taken the battle to the skies — literally — to address this pressing issue. The nonprofit firmly believes in bodily autonomy and the freedom to make private healthcare decisions without government intervention, and was founded to make health care more accessible and equitable in all states.

and aircraft — to transport passengers anonymously. These patients, providers and support staff are taken to and from clinics to receive care.

The nonprofit understands the sensitive nature of the services it supports, and so passengers are protected by a veil of confidentiality. Pilots are not made aware of the reason for their passengers’ travel, discretion allowing individuals to maintain their privacy during a challenging time in their lives.

Elevated Access pilots can fly into 3,000 airports nationwide, with 90% of the U.S. population living within 30 minutes of these regional airports.

Institute, less than 10% of U.S. pilots are women.

While piloting may still be a boy’s club, at Elevated Access, Angel emphasizes their commitment is to the organization’s mission. “There’s one thing we all care about, that we’re involved in this organization,” she says. “That’s what it comes down to — we are good pilots. That’s all that matters.”

Angel fell in love with flying at an early age and knew she would be a pilot starting through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps. Between the Obama and Trump years, she came out as transgender, and the latter president’s transgender

ban disrupted her time in the ROTC. She worked in politics to fight for equality and let that passion fuel her goal to get back into the sky. She eventually quit her job and began flying full time, studying to become a commercial pilot.

“I love flying and nothing else I have ever done really compares,” she says.

When the opportunity arose to fly and volunteer to make a difference in the lives of those facing medical challenges, she jumped at a chance to earn her wings. She is just months away from her Elevated Access maiden flight.

“I heard about Elevated Access and saw that they had this amazing mission for helping folks get gender-affirming care and abortion access. It took me back to a time where I needed this same gender-affirming care and I couldn’t get it,” Angel says.

“Knowing that I had the ability to help — it wasn’t something that I could walk by without doing something. Being able to help someone get access to the care they need and get them where they need to go is so important to me.”

Elevated Access recognizes the multitude of challenges faced by individuals seeking these services, particularly when living in areas with limited access or facing financial constraints. Patients flown by these pilots often face extreme barriers to accessing health care, including lack of funds, time away from work, inadequate transport, unavailable childcare and a bevy of hostile laws restricting access to care.

The organization opens its aircraft doors to anyone who needs to travel for gender-affirming care or to access abortion. This includes those who are low-income, uninsured or live in areas with limited access.

While Elevated Access offers free transport, partner organizations help to alleviate the financial burdens associated with expenses like ground transportation, lodging, food, child care, medical care and more. By doing so, they ensure that the journey to care is not only accessible but also less daunting for those in need.

Through eliminating these financial barriers, Elevated Access and its partners ensure that those in need can access

watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. JANUARY 4 - 17, 2024 // ISSUE 31.01 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

TAKING FLIGHT: Elevated Access transports passengers at no cost to get the health care they need but are unable to access in their home states due to anti-LGBTQ+ laws and other restrictions. PHOTO COURTESY ELEVATED ACCESS

care promptly. According to the 2023 Elevated Access Impact Report, their “typical passenger is a person of color, very likely living paycheck to paycheck and with no means to access this support on their own.”

“40% of the abortion patients we work with have children already, which could mean that every hour spent away from their everyday lives has repercussions,” the report reads.

“Every mile flown instead of driven saves precious time.

Time that can be translated directly into hours spent caregiving, or being available to continue working and putting food on the table instead of missed shifts that could lead to unemployment.”

To access the services provided by Elevated Access, individuals must be referred by trusted partner organizations, such as funders, reproductive health clinics and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups. This initial step helps ensure that the individuals seeking care are connected to the program efficiently.

Once a referral has been made, dedicated flight coordinators work closely with partners and make all necessary flight arrangements for the individuals who are flying. The organization’s commitment to providing a seamless experience is evident at every stage of the process.

One trusted Tampa Bay partner is the statewide organization Florida Access Network, the only queer,

BIPOC-led statewide abortion fund in Florida. The company was founded in 1996 and changed its name from Central Florida Women’s Emergency Fund to Florida Access Network to be more inclusive to people of all genders who need abortion access.

Partnering with organizations like Florida Access Network, Elevated Access ensures a seamless experience for individuals seeking care.

Stephanie Loraine Pineiro, Executive Director/CEO, and Gin, Director of Client Services, highlight the importance of the partnership in offering discreet opportunities for clients to access services outside of their communities.

“We discovered Elevated Access through our partners who were already utilizing them. We realized what they do aligns with what Florida Access Network does and that we wanted to work together,” explains Gin. “Because our clients have to travel out of state for abortion services, we partnered with Elevated Access to offer more discreet opportunities to fly out of the state. The confidentiality helps our clients feel safer.”

Pineiro says that it creates a pathway for people in rural communities to access care. She notes that “over 70% of Florida residents don’t have an abortion clinic in their communities.

That’s going to increase even further once the six-week abortion ban goes into place.”

“It’s a grim reality, but we are inspired by states like Ohio that enshrined in the state constitution the right to an abortion up to 24 weeks,” she continues. “That brings us hope and comes on the heels of fellow abortion-funding organizations who were instrumental in getting the word out that this was on the ballot in Ohio and were unapologetic about abortion access.”

Pineiro adds that the organization has seen people overwhelmingly support bodily autonomy nationwide, while politicians have used the topic to drive a wedge between people.

“The people most impacted by abortion restrictions are people who are already marginalized,” she explains. “It’s important for people [with] life experience in navigating barriers to healthcare access [to have this care.] We are at the forefront of this work.”

Despite the challenges posed

by Florida’s restrictive laws, Florida Access Network has already pledged over $350,000 in direct abortion access support to 1,300 Floridians.

“We are more hopeful than ever that we are doing the right work at the right time to support people who could be going through a really tough moment,” Pineiro says.

For Elevated Access passengers, they meet their volunteer pilots at designated airports on the day of their flight. These pilots fly them to the clinics where they will receive their care and after the

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Elevated Access has a network of volunteer pilots around the country, including in Florida. PHOTO COURTESY ELEVATED ACCESS

appointments, passengers are flown back to complete the nonprofit’s cycle of support.

These flights are often the fastest and most convenient means of transportation for individuals facing long distances to reach their providers. The program recognizes the urgency of accessing these services and streamlines the process.

“Safety and redundancy are most important,” Angel says.

Elevated Access’ endeavor, like any other, demands a collective effort. There are various avenues for individuals to become involved and make a meaningful impact.

For those who possess the necessary skills and resources, volunteering their time and aircraft as pilots can be as transformative as it is for those in need.

“If you’re in a position where you are a pilot and you can help, I say 100%, don’t think twice, make the leap,” Angel asserts.

“It’s so rewarding. The people you meet, the things you are doing, and how you feel about it, hands down, I’ve never had a negative experience with Elevated Access and don’t know any people who have. It’s hard work, but it’s very rewarding as well. Everyone is striving for the same mission.”

Financial support is also crucial for sustaining their work. Every donation plays a pivotal role in ensuring the organization’s continuity, and raising awareness helps as well.

By disseminating information about Elevated Access and its

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services, individuals can help connect those in need with the support they require.

Elevated Access embodies a lifeline for those it serves, a poignant reminder that this access to care remains elusive for many. The nonprofit offers essential transportation to individuals who might otherwise be unable to access vital abortion and gender-affirming care, the absence of which could have dire consequences.

“Being a pilot for Elevated Access has taught me to be more kind and open. It’s one of the first times in my life where the rules have been reversed — I’m in the position to help someone else,” Angel says. “It’s taught me to do my best and really lend a helping hand.

“In addition to that, it’s got me angry,” she adds. “I’m seeing the injustices and the need for this organization to exist, which frustrates me because this is not what I imagined 2024 would be like when I was younger. Yet here we are, and we still have to fight this fight. I am willing to fight it, but I also hope we won’t need to fight it for too much longer.”

Until then, Elevated Access will continue to rise above to support Floridians in need — because as the nonprofit advises on social media, “we believe that access to healthcare should be just plane simple.”

To donate, volunteer or learn more about Elevated Access, visit ElevatedAccess.org.

For more information about Florida Access Network, visit FLAccessNetwork.org.

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TIMUCUA ARTS FOUNDATION PRESENTS

INTERNATIONAL CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL 2024 Experience chamber music the way it was intended: small ensemble performances in an intimate, inviting atmosphere. From the sounds of living Cuban composers, avant-garde rock, an orchestral performance of new music by JG Thirwell, a classical trio and duet, culminating in a tribute to Dr. Camille Glazer. This festival explores music as a communication between friends.

1/12 KEMUEL ROIG: LIVING CUBAN COMPOSERS 1/13 NATE CHIVERS SOLO SET 1/13 ALTERITY PLAYS NEW MUSIC BY J.G. THIRLWELL 1/14 OKAPI DUO 1/19 DAVE MEDER QUARTET: NEW AMERICAN HYMNAL 1/20 LYRIC ARTS TRIO 1/26 LI-COHEN DUO 1/27 BENOIT GLAZER: SUITE FOR CAMILLE 1/28 RYAN DEVLIN QUARTET TICKETS TIMUCUA.COM

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THEATER

In Good ‘Company’

Matt Rodin relives his wedding day on Broadway tour

COMPANY COMPANION:

Matt Rodin (L) as Jamie and Ali Louis Bourzgui as Paul in “Company.”

PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY FOR MURPHYMADE.

F

Ryan Williams-Jent

EW NAMES ARE AS SYNONYMOUS

with 20th-century musical theater as Stephen Sondheim's.

The late composer, lyricist and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient was credited by former President Barack Obama in 2015 as having “reinvented the American Musical." It’s easy to see why.

The openly gay Broadway staple received eight Tony Awards, eight Grammy Awards and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama among other accolades throughout his career, which began in 1957 with “West Side Story.”

Sondheim’s catalogue also includes enduring work like “Sweeney Todd,” “Into the Woods” and “Company,” his celebrated 1970 concept musical. It was nominated for 14 Tony Awards, winning six, and was one of the earliest works of its type to examine dating, marriage and divorce in the modern world.

A West End revival took the groundbreaking hit even further in 2018, swapping the genders of several principals and reimagining it

to include a same-sex couple for the first time. It transferred to Broadway in 2021 and won five Tony Awards including Best Revival of a Musical.

Sondheim welcomed its reinvention before his death at 91 that year. He told the New York Times that his “feeling about the theater is the thing that makes it different from movies and television is that you can do it in different ways from generation to generation.”

Audiences have agreed, supporting the show on Broadway and its subsequent tour, which launched in October 2023. It comes to Tampa’s Straz Center for the Performing Arts Jan. 9-14.

“It’s Bobbie’s 35th birthday party, and all her friends keep asking — Why isn’t she married? Why can’t she find the right man and isn’t it time to settle down and start a family?” it’s officially billed. “As Bobbie searches for answers, she discovers why being

single, being married and being alive in the 21st century could drive a person crazy.”

The revival's updates to make a male Bobby a female Bobbie — and her female friend Amy a male Jamie, one half of the show’s same-sex couple — were personally approved

by Sondheim. He said “what keeps theater alive is the chance always to do it differently, with not only fresh casts, but fresh viewpoints," a sentiment shared by Matt Rodin who plays Jamie on tour.

“When I saw the production in 2021 I was so moved,” Rodin says. “At that point I had been in a relationship with my now-husband for five years, and while ‘Company’ was written by a man in the ‘70s who had never really been in a significant relationship, it speaks so eloquently about what it means to be in partnership with someone.”

Swapping Jamie’s gender also had an impact on Rodin, who says same-sex couples in pop culture have traditionally been portrayed as caricatures or through a lens of trauma. It was clear to him that the revival was a part of the ongoing work to change that.

“Especially on stage, this was the first time that I had seen a queer relationship in this nuanced way,” he explains. “That I had seen a couple that clearly love each other very deeply, where one is struggling with insecurity and fear and the other is there to hold him and catch him until things kind of fall out. I was very, very moved by the production and told my agent right away that when it went on tour, I wanted the part.”

Rodin’s audition process went on for months. It culminated with a final callback scheduled for July 3, 2023, the day of his wedding.

“My agent called and said, ‘they want to see you one more time’ and I was like, ‘ I’m getting married in the morning but I can do the afternoon,” he recalls. “I thought, ‘okay, this keeps it easy. I can wear what I’m wearing because I’m going to play a groom anyway,’ so that’s what I did.”

Rodin and his husband were married in a small ceremony in

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Central Park at 11 a.m. He left their reception by 2 p.m.

“Everyone said ‘break a leg’ and I hopped on the train for my final callback because I really, really wanted it,” he says. “I found out I got it two days later and it’s all felt like the timing is very much meant to be.

I feel very lucky that I get to wear my wedding ring on stage every night.

“I also get to relive a part of my wedding day eight times a week,” he continues. “I get to do the song and the scene that I did on my wedding day every night, which is just really special, and obviously it takes a special kind of person to support their partner in saying, ‘we can get married and you can go on tour for a year.’ I feel very blessed and lucky to have such a supportive husband.”

Rodin channels that energy into his character and the show, which he says can resonate with LGBTQ+ audiences for a number of reasons. That includes the fact that Sondheim was gay.

“That in and of itself is the foundation for why so much of his material connects with people in our community and in our family,” Rodin says. “But I think in a piece like ‘Company,’ because it includes a queer relationship, it opens up access to all of the partnerships in the show.

It feels like they all become relatable to us because we’re one piece of this puzzle.”

Rodin also notes that he and his character’s partner Paul are heavily featured. Bobbie exits the stage only once in the show, during Jamie’s celebrated song “Not Getting Married,” which makes him the only other character to be on stage alone.

“It’s an incredible opportunity to get to sink my teeth into,” Rodin says. “I feel very lucky because the song is hilarious with some really funny moments in the scene, but also because we get to have our own little play with a beginning, middle and end. It does have weight and it does have consequences.”

The actor also calls the entire cast generous and skilled performers, allowing him to truly dive into the role. He says the tour has created something any audience can enjoy.

“Come see us,” Rodin says. “When we have energized audiences it is such a romp. The show is so much fun and having energized and frankly queer audiences in the house makes such a huge difference. We need that energy and we’re really excited to see it in Tampa.”

“Company” plays Jan. 9-14 at Tampa's Straz Center. Learn more at StrazCenter.org.

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The focus is encouraging residents to live their best lives, with a strong emphasis on individuality and personal growth.

Here, residents can enjoy the comforts of home, while having easy access to beaches, restaurants, and shopping.

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Our unparalleled hospitality, luxurious ameniies, and commitment to lifeeme care, makes us the ideal place to live the life you’ve always imagined.

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announcements

TAMPA BAY OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS Host Morgan Le Shade announced Dec. 27 that The Shade Showcase will return later this month. The show “devoted to diversity and inclusion” will be held at The Garage on Central Ave, its new location, on Jan. 20. For more information about the event search for “The Shade Showcase” on Facebook.

The Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence announced Dec. 27 that the organization was able to donate more than $10,000 to Tampa Bay charities in 2023. Follow their work at Facebook.com/TampaSisters.

Metro Inclusive Health has opened nearly all of the organization's satellite locations throughout Tampa Bay. Read more on p. 10.

Red Mesa Cantina celebrated 15 years in St. Petersburg Dec. 31.

Cocktail has announced Winter Pride, a new event they intend to produce annually beginning Feb. 3-9, 2025.

“Step into a Winter Wonderland of love and pride,” their website teases. Read more at CocktailStPete.com/WinterPride-2025.

Drag by the Bay will celebrate six years at Neptune Grill in Gulfport Jan. 7.

CLOSURES The Pesky Pelican Brew Pub in St. Petersburg permanently closed Dec. 31. The venue previously hosted Pride-related events and a regular Drag Queen Bingo.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS St. Pete staple Brian Longstreth, Tampa Bay DJ LaMonte Monnell aka L Mo, (Jan. 4); Southern Nights Tampa manager Chou Chou Guilder, Tampa realtor Nicholas Buchanan (Jan. 5); Tampa activist Bill Polley (Jan. 6); Watermark Tampa Bay account manager Sylvie Trevena, LGBTQ advocate Mickey Stone, United Airlines flight attendant Justin Horn (Jan. 7); St. Petersburg bartender Michael Joseph, Teaching for the Culture founder and Watermark contributor Bianca Goolsby (Jan. 8); Enigma bartender Erick Henrriquez, Tampa Bay technology manager Ron Walters (Jan. 9); St. Petersburg florist Bobby York (Jan. 10); St. Petersburg instructor and massage therapist Jeremy Couture, Lakeland massage therapist David Lesnett, Gulfport retiree Danny Hughes, PFLAG Safety Harbor President Wendy Vernon (Jan. 11); Sarasota real-life cowboy Bill Flynn, Sarasota actress Christine Alexander (Jan. 12); Watermark owner and publisher Rick Todd, Tampa Bay marketing artist Nick Capezza, Sarasota MCC pastor Gina Durbin (Jan. 13); former Sarasota Pride President Cindy Barnes (Jan 14); St Pete Pride Vice President Stephanie Morge, St. Pete sailer Michele McHugh, Rainbow Counseling owner Aimee Leigh (Jan. 15); Tampa realtor Patricc Petti, Enigma bartender Tyler Frederick (Jan. 16); Tampa musician Connor Zwetsch, former Watermark art director Jake Stevens (Jan. 17).

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TOGETHER AGAIN: Stephen Mayse (L) strikes a pose with Jeff Lucas at Enigma Dec. 29.

PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

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PROUD RU-TURN: “RuPaul’s Drag Race” fan favorite Miss Vanjie returns to Southern Nights Tampa Dec. 16.

PHOTO FROM SOUTHERN NIGHTS TAMPA’S FACEBOOK

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DROPPING BY: Corey Malyszka (L) share a moment with Cocktail’s special New Year’s Eve guest Thorgy Thor for the Cock + Sparkle Drop Dec. 31. PHOTO

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COURTESY COREY MALYSZKA

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CLEANUP CREW: Project Pride and supporters hits the streets to clean up Downtown Sarasota Dec. 26. PHOTO FROM

PROJECT PRIDE’S FACEBOOK

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PAYING TRIBUTE: Tampa City Councilmember Alan Clendenin speaks Dec. 21 at a street-renaming ceremony honoring late Tampa activist Michael Phillips. PHOTO FROM

CITY OF TAMPA’S FACEBOOK

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TUNING IN: (L-R) Bob Sanders, David Campbell, Aron Alves-Tomko, Gabe Alves, Jessica Bond, Rob Hall and Elizabeth Bond celebrate the launch of Alves’ YouTube channel at Cocktail Dec. 21.

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PHOTO BY CHRISTINA LUCIANA

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COMING TOGETHER: The Hillsborough County LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus joins State Rep. Fentrice Driskell (C) for the Democratic leader’s open house in Tampa Dec. 12. PHOTO FROM THE CAUCUS’ FACEBOOK

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SEASON’S QUEENINGS: Esme Russell makes the season bright at Bradley’s on 7th on Dec. 24. PHOTO FROM BRADLEY’S ON 7TH’S FACEBOOK

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announcements

CENTRAL FLORIDA OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS The Amway Center announced its new name Dec. 20. The newly renamed arena — which is home to the Orlando Magic of the National Basketball Association, the Orlando Solar Bears of the East Coast Hockey League and the Orlando Predators of the National Arena League Kia Center — is now known as the Kia Center.

Orlando’s Hunter Rogers and Frankie Miller were engaged Dec. 24.

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Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria celebrated 18 years in The Milk District Dec. 26.

Zebra Youth celebrated its successes in 2023 with a year in review on its social media. The LGBTQ+ youthsupporting nonprofit announced it brought in 127 new youth members, had 857 check-ins at its Drop-In Center, provided mental health counseling and family support to 88 youth via Licensed Mental Health Counselors and UCF and Rollins College mental health counseling student

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interns, facilitaed 1,523 counseling sessions and housed 26 youths. "Your donations ensure LGBTQ+ youth have access to life-saving mental health, housing, and peer support," Zebra Youth wrote. "Thank you for supporting lives of all stripes."

LAUNCHING The LGBT+ Center Orlando is launching it new Orlando Gayming League. The new group kicks off Jan. 20 from 12-2 p.m. at The Center Orlando. The Orlando Gayming League intends to meet every month. For more

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information, visit TheCenterOrlando.org.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Veteran and die-hard Pittsburgh fan Bill Stiller (Jan. 4); Orlando psychologist Guillermo Navarro, Stonewall Bar bartender Timi Hedrich (Jan. 5); Plume’s Clinical Operations Manager Abby Silverman, former owner of Partners Emmi Grainger (Jan. 6); Central Florida director Jeremy Seghers (Jan. 7); Mr. Bear Bust 2017 Shaun Boyd (Jan. 8); Former Watermark reporter Susan Clary, Orlando Fringe performer Logan Donahoo (Jan. 10); Orlando promoter Jason Nuez (Jan. 12); Watermark owner and publisher Rick Todd, Former Chelsea Nightclub owner Nikki Turnon, Se7en Bites owner Trina GregoryPropst (Jan 14); Former Watermark intern and covergirl Gina Avile, Orlando dog-walker Don Williams, Real

1

CELEBRATING ORLANDO: Rob, Jordan, Pom and Kerrie celebrate 18 years of Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria in Orlando’s Milke District Dec. 26. PHOTO BY DANNY GARCIA

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LIGHT UP: Marc Zurich (L) and Jon Michael Wampler in front of their home’s impressive holiday light display in Orlando. PHOTO

COURTESY JON MICHAEL WAMPLER

3

LAST DAY OF THE YEAR: Wayne and Lynn Dictor start the last day of 2023 off with a walk on the beach in Daytona Beach Dec. 24. PHOTO FROM LYNN DICTOR’S FACEBOOK

Program Manager Keri Griffin, Former Watermark intern

4

Melanie Ararat, Central Florida musician Justin David

FROM REINER WOLF’S FACEBOOK

estate vixen Carla Stanton (Jan. 15); Orlando VA LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Program Coordinator & Special Emphasis

(Jan. 16); Former Watermark art director Jake Stevens, LGBTQ activist and library enthusiast Scottie Campbell,

A DISNEY CHRISTMAS: Reiner Wolf (L) and Steffen Brandt celebrate the holidays at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Dec. 24. PHOTO

5

BEACH READY: GayDays’ Joseph Clark (L) and Nikki Hudson celebrate the new year with a day at the beach Jan. 1. PHOTO FROM

JOSEPH CLARCK’S FACEBOOK

6

ON CHRISTMAS DAY: Luis Ernesto Payne-Rios (L) and John Payne-Rios are in the Christmas spirit in Orlando Dec. 25. PHOTO COURTESY LUIS ERNESTO

PAYNE-RIOS AND JOHN PAYNE-RIOS

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FOR THE KIDS: (L-R) Terrance Hunter, Florida Rep. Anna V. Eskamani, Suzie Sturgeon Caffery and Jenn Benner celebrate ArtReach Orlando at the Orange County Academy in Orlando Dec. 20. PHOTO FROM REP. ANNA

V. ESKAMANI’S FACEBOOK

8

2023 COUNTDOWN: Juleigh Mayfield (L) and Chantel Reshae say goodbye to 2023 at Savoy in Orlando Dec. 31. PHOTO FROM

JULEIGH MAYFIELD’S FACEBOOK

Softball stud Richard Harem, UCF journalism professor Rick Brunson, Central Florida dancer Adam Boreland (Jan. 17).

8 watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. JANUARY 4 - 17, 2024 // ISSUE 31.01 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

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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.

MEASELIFE.COM • (727) 738 - 3204 700 MEASE PLAZA, DUNEDIN, FL 3 4698 A L Lic# 07 7 9 6 , M C A L Lic# 1 2 945 , S N / N H Lic# 1 3 3 5 0 9 6 1

YOUTH SERVICES

Fine Art | Portrait | Wedding | Commercial

www.tampabaylgbtchamber.org

www.DylanToddPhotography.com info@DylanToddPhotography.com (727) 310-1212

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

REALTOR

82% of people surveyed

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

HIV CARE + MANAGEMENT

REALTOR NO BETTER PLACE. NO BETTER TIME. INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT WHAT YOUR HOME IS WORTH?

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773.965.6465

DANRCASPER.COM

Advertise your business with us!

YOUR ST. PETERSBURG REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST

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Call 813-655-9890

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C E N T R A L

ACCOUNTING + BOOKKEEPING

F L O R I D A

M A R K E T P L A C E

COUNSELORS + THERAPISTS

COUNSELOR/ THERAPIST

MARRIAGE & DOMESTIC PARTNER PLANNING PERSONAL/BUSINESS TAX PREPARATION, e-file QUICKBOOKS ADVANCED PROADVISOR®

Leah eah G. James, CPA, MSTax

Judy L. Hines, CQA, CPB, CPS, CAP

DENISE O’DOHERTY

407.478.4513 • ContactUs@geckoCPA.com

LPC, LMFT, MSN, RN

COUNSELING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY

ACCOUNTING + BOOKKEEPING Personal Returns from

$89

Call for an appointment

407.923.4000

Stephen E. Roberts Professional Accounting and Tax Services 2180 N. Park Ave. Suite 220 Winter Park, FL 32789

• Individual Personal Development • • Couples / Marriage Issues • • Addiction / Recovery • • LGBTQ+ •

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Counseling to individuals, couples, and families of varying age, gender, race and sexual orientations.

Put 30+ years of experience to work for you.

Confidentiality Guaranteed.

ONE OF THE BEST FEMALE MENTAL HEALTH THERAPISTS OutSmart Reader’s Choice Awards 2004–2022

Tax Preparation Immediate appointments Taxes prepared while you wait!

RelationshipTherapistRN.com • Virtual Appointments

713-823-4001

AIR CONDITIONING

407-295-9231

www.4seasonsair.net FL License#: CAC056308

The A/C Company you wish you called first.

We have the perfect deal on

PERFECT AIR for your home

Up to $1700

in Rebates plus additional utility company incentives on qualified units.

COUNSELORS + THERAPISTS

COUNSELING

DERMATOLOGY

Mary Liebermann, LCSW Certiied Imago Therapist

Individuals & Couples - Anxiety - Depression Codependency - Gay & Lesbian - ACCOA 1307 Portland Ave. Orlando, 32803

321-306-7830 mary@maryliebermannlcsw.com

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

Fulfill your skin care needs Patrick Dominguez MD FAAD

Board-Certified Dermatologist Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery

COUNSELORS + THERAPISTS

AZupka Counseling

80 W Grant St Ste 117 South Downtown Orlando

Telehealth provider servicing all Florida Counties

Let the Journey Begin Specializing in LGBTQ+ Issues for:

• Cope With Stress • Overcome Despression

www.AdvancedDerm.com/about-us/our-providers/Patrick-Dominguez-md

• Individuals & Couples

• Explore Gener Issues

• Anxiety & Depression •

• Deal With Family Conflict

• Anger Management

• Improve Emotional Health

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

• Men's Issues •

• Build Satisfying Intimate Relationships

407-963-1542

(407)-770-0139

• Addiction • HIV Diagnosis

TELEHEALTH SERVICES AVAILABLE

1060 WOODCOCK ROAD ORLANDO, FLORIDA 32803

407-986-2888

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C E N T R A L

F L O R I D A

FUNERAL SERVICES

M A R K E T P L A C E

HEALTH + FITNESS

INSURANCE

Discount Nutrition Center Serving Orlando for 24 years

.Vitamins .Herbs .Dietary .Sports

We will match or beat local prices!

407-207-0067 M-F 10-7, Sat 10-6 www.NMFbody.com

Crystal Lake Plaza 3074 Curry Ford Rd.

Between Conway Rd. & Bumby Ave.

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

FUNERAL SERVICES

HOME HEALTH SERVICES

LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

Call or Text

toddtmlighting@aol.com

GARDEN + NURSERY

CITY OASIS Your Downtown Garden Shop 407-898-8101 1214 N. Mills Ave. Orlando Mention Watermark and Save!

Exotic Orchids, Bonsai, Ornamentals, Tropical Plants Full Service Interior Design and Maintenance Free Estimates, Prices start as low as $99/mo

COMPASSIONATE AND INNOVATIVE CARE

LGBT MEDICAL

Our caregivers will help you not just age in place, but flourish with dignity!

Schedule your Free Consultation Today

407.845.9797 www.flourishinplace.com

PUT YOUR AD HERE

!

& BREAKTHROUGH TO THOUSANDS CALL US TODAY!

407-481-2243 34

2766 E Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32803

watermark Your LGBTQ+ News Source. JANUARY 4 - 17, 2024 // ISSUE 31.01 WAT E R M A R KONLINE .COM

C E N T R A L

LGBTQ MEDICAL

F L O R I D A

M A R K E T P L A C E

PERSONAL TRAINING

TRAVEL

www.rockhardfitnessorlando.com

FREE TRIAL PASS DO YOU STRUGGLE WITH PE/ED OR PAINFUL INTERCOURSE AND WANT TO AVOID PILLS, INJECTIONS, OR SURGERY? CALL 863348663708 FOR A FREE CONVERSATION WITH CENTRAL FLORIDA’S ONLY MOBILE MALE PELVIC PHYSICAL THERAPIST.

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1 WEEK UNLIMITED CLASSES 1 HOUR PERSONAL TRAINING 820 Lake Baldwin Lane p. 407.802.4631

Specializing in All Inclusive packages for cruises, all inclusive resorts and air with hotel and /or rental car packages.

PHOTOGRAPHY

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To plan your next memorable vacation.

SERVING CENTRAL FLORIDA, THE TAMPA BAY, AND BEYOND.

CHRIS BEEKIE 321-800-6964

(8633 48663708 WWW.DAVENPORTPELVIC.COM

www.atlasglobaltravel.com

MEDICAL

VETERINARIAN

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

MidwayCare.org

3317 W. Gandy Blvd., Tampa 813.902.8600 5224 E. Fowler Ave., Temple Terrace 813.902.8600 5979 Vineland Rd., Suite 208, Orlando 407.745.1171

Fine Art | Portrait | Wedding | Commercial www.DylanToddPhotography.com info@DylanToddPhotography.com (727) 310-1212

1685 Lee Rd., Suite 110, Winter Park 407.745.1171

MEDICAL CLINIC

REALTOR

inclusive

Proudly Caring for the Pets and People of the LGBTQ Community since 1955

non-judgmental

BOARDING

Open 7 Days a Week!

compassionate 407.645.2577 sexual health & primary care

DOGGIE DAYCARE

NEW WELLNESS CENTER

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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HIVHASBEENSTOPPED.COM/TOPICS 36

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|

A Queer Podcast Presented by

Hosted By Rick Todd Jeremy Williams

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community calendar

EVENT PLANNER January St. Pete Flea Market, Jan. 7, The Factory, St. Petersburg.

TheIndieFlea.com

CENTRAL FLORIDA The Pride Chamber’s Business Connect

Yoga4Change Session, Jan. 9, Empath Partners in Care, St. Petersburg.

727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 10, 6-8 P.M. CELEBRATION GARDENS, ORLANDO The Pride Chamber hosts its monthly Business Connect mixer at Celebration Gardens in January.

Join the chamber as it showcases programs from various not-for-profits in the local area. Admission is free for members and $20 for non-members. For more information, visit ThePrideChamber.org.

Watermark’s Third Thursday THURSDAY, JAN. 18, 6-8 P.M. 26HEALTH, ORLANDO Join Watermark as it kicks off 2024 with its first networking event of the year. Hosted by 26Health, Watermark’s January Third Thursday will also spotlight current and past Remarkable People winners. Light bites and first drink are provided.

Bring cash for raffle prizes, funds raised benefit 26Health. For more information, go to Facebook.com/ WatermarkFL.

TAMPA BAY

Medical Marijuana Discussion, Jan. 11, Empath Partners in Care, St. Petersburg. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

BELIEVE IT “The Cher Show” makes its Sarasota debut Jan. 10-12 at the Van Wezel and heads to the King Center in Melbourne Jan. 16-17.

ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT CENTRAL FLORIDA

“Company” TUESDAY, JAN. 9-SUNDAY, JAN. 14, TIMES VARY STRAZ CENTER, TAMPA Stephen Sondheim’s groundbreaking musical “Company” comes to Tampa Bay! The Tony Awardwinning revival, which was reimagined to feature gender-bent leads and LGBTQ+ storylines, features Sondheim’s “You Could Drive a Person Crazy,” “The Lady’s Who Lunch” and more. Read our interview with openly gay actor Matt Rodin on p. 27 and learn more at StrazCenter.org.

LGBTQ+ Veterans Coffee Connection THURSDAY, JAN. 11, 10-11 A.M. EMPATH PARTNERS IN CARE, ST. PETERSBURG Join LGBTQ+ veterans from all service areas in a safe space for discussion, encouragement and growth over hot coffee and snacks. This gathering is a part of EPIC Generations, which provides support and social activities for all LGBTQ+ seniors and allies in Pinellas County and transportation is available on request. Learn more at MyEPIC.org.

“Disney’s Aladdin,” Jan. 3-7, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

“A Bronx Tale”: One Man Show starring Chazz Palminteri, Jan. 7, 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

Disney on Broadway Concert Series, Jan. 12-Feb. 19, EPCOT, Walt Disney World.

407-939-5277; DisneyWorld.

Disney.Go.com

LGBTQ+ Cornhole League winter kickoff, Jan. 9, Island Time, Orlando.

OUTSportsLeague.com

“The Cher Show,” Jan. 16-17, King Center, Melbourne.

321-242-2219; KingCenter.com

The Rocket Man Show, Jan. 5-6, Athens Theatre, DeLand. 386-736-1500; AthensDeLand.com

“Henry VI, Part 1: Joan of Arc,” Jan. 10-21, Orlando Shakes, Orlando. 407-447-1700; OrlandoShakes.org

LGBTQ+ Kickball League winter kickoff, Jan. 6, Barnett Park, Orlando.

OUTSportsLeague.com

Queen Flash: A Tribute to Queen, Jan. 11, The Ritz Theater, Sanford.

407-321-8111; WDPAC.com

“Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” Jan. 6, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

FESTN4, Jan. 1114, Fringe ArtSpace, Orlando. 407-648-0077; OrlandoFringe.org

Midnight Memories – A One Direction Night, Jan. 6, House of Blues, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando

Rockin’ on the River – Pride Night Drag Show, Jan. 12, St. Johns Rivership Co., Sanford. 321-441-3030; StJohnsRiverCo.com Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, Jan. 12-15, Kia Center, Orlando.

844-854-1450; KiaCenter.com

Making a Multicultural Connection w/ Jose Luis Dieppa, Jan. 17, Utility Administrative Building, Tavares. 941-365-2135; Facebook.com/FPRA.State

TAMPA BAY “Cinderella,” The Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-892-5767; TheMahaffey.com Pride Skate Tampa, Jan. 6, Skate World, Tampa.

813-884-7688; Facebook.com/ PrideSkateTampa TheDoodPack Rescue Silent Auction Fundraiser, Jan. 6, Dog Bar, St. Petersburg. 727-741-1737; TheDoodPack.com

“She Kills Monsters,” Jan. 11-21, StageWorks Theatre, Tampa. 813-508-0884; ThinkTankYA.org EPIC Generations Coffee Hour, Jan. 12, Sunshine Center, St. Petersburg.

727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org Jay Leno, Jan. 13, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com Afternoon Trivia, Jan .13, Neptune Grill, Gulfport. 727-623-4823; NeptuneGrillGulfport.com 7th Annual St. Pete Bacon & BBQ Festival, Jan. 13-14, Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg.

StPeteBaconandBBQ.com Poly Discussion, Jan. 14, Nueva Cantina, St. Petersburg.

Meetup.com/Tampa-BayPolyamory-Friends “Twelfth Night,” Jan. 17-Feb. 11, Jobsite Theater, Tampa. 813-476-7378; JobsiteTheater.org “From Birmingham to Broadway,” Jan. 1921, freeFall Theatre, St. Petersburg. 727-498-5205; freeFallTheatre.com “Shade Showcase Returns,” The Garage on Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Facebook.com/ OFCLGaragePage

SARASOTA “The Cher Show,” Jan. 10-12, Van Wezel, Sarasota.

941-263-6799; VanWezel.org

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

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be seen.

We know that every woman is unique, and so are your healthcare needs. That’s why at Bayfront Health, we offer a wide range of women’s health services, including gynecological care, preventative and diagnostic screenings, breast imaging, maternity care, and pelvic health treatments. From routine well-woman exams to leading-edge minimally invasive procedures, you can trust our health specialists to meet your unique needs.

choose well.

Our scope of care includes: • Annual gynecological exams

• Pelvic floor rehabilitation

• Mammograms

• Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery

• Immunizations and screenings

• Expert labor and delivery care

• Reproductive treatments

• High-risk pregnancy support

• Breast reconstruction

• Prenatal and postpartum support classes • DEXA bone density scans • Thyroid screenings • Diagnostic ultrasounds

To learn more about our comprehensive women’s health services or to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists, call (727) 823-1234 option 9, or visit BayfrontHealth.com