Watermark Issue 31.10: Red & Ready

Osceola County to build Pulse Tribute

TransNetwork, Pinellas Dems raise nearly $20K

RED READY &

Orlando’s Big June Weekend is back with pool parties, circuits and events

Gay Day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom first took place on June 1, 1991, in front of Cinderella’s Castle at the Magic Kingdom just before the 3 p.m. parade. The idea was for the LGBTQ+ community to gather, all wearing red shirts, to be visible and to be seen during a time when doing so could be dangerous. Every year for the past 33 years — give or take a year or two due to a pandemic — the LGBTQ+ community has gathered, celebrated and turned red to honor that original commitment.

DESK PUBLISHER’S

YOUTH IS WASTED ON THE YOUNG.

I’ve heard that a lot but the more I age the more I find it true for me. That’s not to say my youth was a waste, I was

overachiever.

As a child and into my teen years I felt I had to be the best at everything. There is a direct correlation between my coming to terms with being gay and the amount of work I did to be at the top of my game. I was afraid that when people found out who I really was, they may not like me.

By the time I entered my junior year of high school I racked up a pretty high grade point average. I imagine I could have gone to any college I wanted. Locally I had my eye on Rollins College but all I knew is that I did not want to attend the same college my brother was going to.

He and I were not that close in my later years of high school. I had decided he

a bit of an

wouldn’t accept me being gay, so I distanced myself.

My brother had accepted a scholarship to play baseball at Mars Hill College in North Carolina. My parents were pretty determined for me to follow in his footsteps.

After many attempts on their part, I finally decided to go with my parents to visit him. What happened when I got there can only be described as the town’s plan to pretend they were like the Farmers in “Funny Farm.”

The landscape was something I had never seen before and was quite breathtaking. My parents suggested we walk around the campus. As I walked up to the administration building, I saw a sign welcoming me by name.

They offered me a tour of the theater, where I met one of the professors and we talked for hours. It seemed the whole day had been orchestrated to make me fall in love with the place, and it worked. Much to the surprise of every adult I knew, this anti-religious institution city boy was about to head to the mountains for a Southern Baptist college.

Mars Hill College was the only school I applied for and I was accepted with a full tuition scholarship. I entered the program as a theater education major.

I struck up a friendship with the professor I had talked to so long that first day I visited the campus. C. Robert was more than a teacher and a mentor, I really felt we were friends. We would talk for hours and hours, and I was often jeered by my other friends because they knew when I made my way to his office I would disappear for hours. He was an amazing man who helped shape my confidence and my future.

I had big plans while I was in college. We talked about me having a stage managing career. There was another opportunity for me to walk right out of Mars Hill and into a local high school as a teacher. It seemed my path was planned.

The summer of my sophomore to junior year I met someone and fell in love for the first time. I was a bit of a romantic and believed we would be in love forever. C. Robert knew otherwise and encouraged me to simply enjoy what I had and not put too much pressure on it. I did not follow his advice.

By the end of that summer my love had moved on to college in another state and I was devastated when he ended our long-distance affair. It wasn’t kind and affected me for a long

time. Clearly running from this pain, I changed my major from theater education to theater and graduated a year early.

I know this was not the path C. Robert wanted for me and I felt as if I lost his respect in doing so. I was too embarrassed to have this conversation with him. I spent my whole life trying to be the best and I couldn’t face those I felt I had failed.

Twenty-eight years later I made my way back to Mars Hill as part of my three-year anniversary with my husband.

I tracked down C. Robert to see if we could catch up. I often describe how crazy this phenomenon is where two people can experience the same events

Without all of my experiences I wouldn’t be who I am today.

in very different ways. Well, that was us. He remembered our time with fondness and even used my name in a book he wrote, which is a huge honor coming from someone so well respected.

When I say youth is wasted on the young, I mean me and the wasted twenty-eight years I lost with a dear friend. I mean my inability to appreciate the beauty and subtlety of my time at Mars Hill, a place and lifestyle I ran from so fast and now long to experience so much more often.

I have no regrets. I love the way my life turned out. Without all of my experiences I wouldn’t be who I am today. I am just glad I was able to rekindle an important friendship with an amazing man. Thank you, C. Robert.

STEMM lives in Gulfport, Fla., and has

as a freelance

for

He is a founding member of St. Pete Pride and active politically in Tampa Bay. Page 21

BIANCA GOOLSBY, JAKOB HERO-SHAW, LORA KORPAR, JASON LECLERC, JERICK MEDIAVILLA, MELODY MAIA MONET, NICHOLAS MACHUCA, TIFFANY RAZZANO, SISTER JUANA REACTION, MOMMA ASHLEY ROSE, GREG STEMM, SYLVIE TREVENA, MICHAEL WANZIE, DR. STEVE YACOVELLI BRIAN BECNEL, NICK CARDELLO, J.D. CASTO, BRUCE HARDIN, JAMARCUS MOSLEY, CHRIS STEPHENSON, LEE VANDERGRIFT PHOTOGRAPHY

OSCEOLA COUNTY

TO BUILD A PULSE

TRIBUTE

Jeremy Williams

Osceola County has announced it will begin construction on a brand new Pulse Tribute next month.

The official groundbreaking is set for June 12, the eight-year mark of the mass shooting that took 49 clubgoers’ lives and left dozens more injured.

In a statement to WESH 2, Osceola County Commissioner Chair Cheryl Grieb said, “Right after the Pulse massacre, I met with many of the victims who had been shot and also met with many of the moms of victims who had been killed. There are so many people that were affected in Osceola County from that horrific evening. I wanted to make sure the 49 that lost their lives and everyone else involved in this tragedy are never forgotten. The symbolism in this art piece speaks to this, and I look forward to the groundbreaking on the anniversary date alongside many of the moms and victims.”

While many details have not been released, Grieb said the memorial will be a 49-feet-tall structure in honor of the 49 lives lost that night. The tribute will be built on county-owned land next to the Neo City Academy using $250,000 of unused COVID Relief funds.

The news comes as the City of Orlando is still preparing to build its Pulse Memorial at the nightclub location.

Last month, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer held a press conference announcing the city’s next steps, including bringing on Dr. Larry Schooler to facilitate talks between the victim’s families, survivors and those impacted by the tragedy through the memorial process.

ROXXXY ANDREWS AMONG QUEENS RETURNING FOR ‘ALL STARS 9’

Bellanee Plaza

ORLANDO | Start your engines, a new season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” will be coming May 17.

Paramount+ announced April 23 the eight queens that will be returning for Season 9 of “All Stars” and the list includes Orlando’s very own Roxxxy Andrews. The other queens are Angeria Paris VanMichaels, Gottmik, Jorgeous, Nina West, Plastique Tiara, Shannel and Vanessa Vanjie, the latter of whom used to call Tampa Bay home.

Andrews was a contestant on the fifth season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and the second season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.”

central florida news

Rally for Rights

LGBTQ+ organizations protest against Florida’s gender ID policy

Jeremy Williams

ORLANDO | Advocates representing nearly two dozen LGBTQ+ organizations held a rally at Spektrum Health in Orlando May 6 protesting the state’s driver’s license and ID card policy change on gender.

The rally was a response to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles rescinding earlier this year its policy allowing Floridians to update the gender marker on their IDs to match their gender identity. Prior to the update, Floridians could update their licenses by providing an official statement from an applicant’s attending physician noting it was appropriate to do so. According to the memo, however, this provision was “not supported by statutory authority” and the term “gender” should be “understood as a synonym for ‘sex,’” which subject matter experts like the World Health Organization refute.

The January memo has led to months of protests, marches, letter writings and die-ins from a coalition of LGBTQ+ organizations.

“Accurate identification is a human right; we must demand access to legal authenticity for all,” the coalition stated in an open letter. “Advocates for transgender individuals, immigrants, and people experiencing homelessness must stand together in the fight for equitable access to accurate identification. We demand that the FLHSMV restore their previous IR08-Gender Requirements policy to ensure that transgender people can obtain accurate IDs.”

The rally was attended by dozens of activists including Florida Rep. Anna V. Eskamani, One Orlando Alliance board member Shea Cutliff, GLSEN Central Florida chair Jen Cousins and Florida Senate candidate Vance Ahrens.

Ahrens spoke about a local trans person who went to his DMV with a court order allowing him to change his name and gender marker; however, due to the DHSMV directive was unable to do so.

“This is nothing but discrimination,” Ahrens said. “We need change here now. What’s been going on is they’re ignoring the real problems of Floridians by making transgender people the scapegoat for all the problems in Florida.”

Attendees held signs reading “Trans Lives Matter,” “Protect Trans Kids” and “ID For All” as community leaders like Jacob Muldoon, an organizer for Orlando for Gender Equality, led them in chants like “being trans is not a crime!” and “we won’t go back, not one step back!”

“This recent DMV guidance is specifically targeting the trans community, but the Florida GOP has been attacking ID’s at every part of the government,” Muldoon said. “The only way to save Florida is to fight back!”

In a call to action, Muldoon told the crowd that they must continue to build pressure on the FLHSMV until the policy is changed, directing everyone to an online petition.

“Sign the petition, share the petition, stay involved in the fight,” he said. “Additionally, we know that petitions are not the only tactic we can use. In addition to building public pressure around the DMV policy, we will engage in direct actions in the coming weeks. We will continue mobilizing to DMV’s across the state. We will not back down until the policy is changed.”

FIGHTING

BACK: Local LGBTQ+ leaders attend protest at SPEKTRUM Health in Orlando. PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

| uu | Roxxxy Andrews, Cont.

“All Stars 9” will also be the first time ever the queens aren’t competing for a cash prize. They’ll be competing for charity.

Each of the queens has chosen an organization to which they will donate their $200,000 prize, should they win the crown this season.

The charity that Andrews will compete for will be Miracle of Love, an Orlando HIV/AIDS nonprofit.

“Miracle of Love, Inc. is an organization founded by Mr. Stafford in 1991 for the distinct purpose of providing accessible HIV/AIDS prevention programming and supportive assistance to service the multicultural needs of communities in Central Florida, namely Orange, Seminole, Lake and Osceola counties,” the show’s press release states. “Today, Miracle of Love, Inc. is a nonprofit corporation under the laws of the Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3). This community-based minority HIV/ AIDS organization is the oldest in Central Florida. MOL continues to be, with over 29 valuable and outstanding years of service, a repository for education, support, care, community advocacy and referral services.”

On Instagram, Andrews posted the announcement, writing “I’m back to snatch that crown!”

“RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” season 9 premieres May 17 on Paramount+.

central florida news

OUT SPORTS TO HOST TALENT SHOW FUNDRAISER BENEFITING PEER SUPPORT SPACE

Bellanee Plaza

ORLANDO | Central Florida’s inclusive sports league for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies, OUT Sports revealed its second annual Loud & Live: Louder Together Charity Talent Show for May 21.

OUT Sports League, which stands for Orlando United Together, is an LGBTQ+ recreational sports league that serves the Central Florida area. The league was created in the years after Pulse to provide a safe, social and accepting in-person alternative to bars and apps for members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Last year’s event raised more than $10,000 for Zebra Youth to help and support transgender youth, according to a press release.

The second annual event will continue to support the community

by benefiting Peer Support Space, a local peer-led organization. Peer Support Space’s mission is to build and be a local hub for diverse peer-led recovery communities.

Peer Support Space recently announced the opening of Eva’s Casita, the nonprofit organization’s new peer respite focused on the LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. Eva’s Casita is the only peer respite of its kind in Florida and is named after Eva Fajardo, Peer Support Space’s founding board president who passed away in April 2022. “We’re so excited to be bringing what has been proven effective in other states to our area, providing a lifesaving alternative to psychiatric hospitalization. With deep respect for the land we are occupying and those that have laid the foundation for the work we’re doing, we open our doors,” the organization wrote on its Facebook page. “In this space, at no-cost, guests can take a break

from life in an environment that affirms them. For some that’ll be staying to themselves, for others partaking in group or self-guided activities. We genuinely care for whoever comes through these doors. Whatever you’re navigating you don’t have to do it alone.”

Loud & Live: Louder Together will feature local talent competing for a top prize and to raise the most money for Peer Support Space. The event will be held at Southern Nights Orlando at 8 p.m. with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. for mingling and cocktails.

The talent show will consist of ten acts ranging from comedy to singing.

To learn more about the show visit @outsports on Instagram and Facebook and for tickets you can go to GiveButter.com/Hjd3j4.

PROJECT PRIDE HIRES 1ST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Ryan Williams-Jent

SARASOTA | Project Pride has announced the appointment of Paul Lotierzo as the organization’s first executive director.

The nonprofit formed in 2019 to celebrate, unite and support the LGBTQ+ community in and beyond Sarasota. The organization now oversees signature events like Sarasota Pride, expected to rebrand this year, and opened a headquarters in the Rosemary District in January.

Project Pride’s board announced they were seeking an executive director in December 2022, advising Watermark they were “looking for support to help elevate our efforts to strengthen our local LGBTQ+ community.” President Jason Champion says Lotierzo is the perfect fit.

“Project Pride is excited about the next chapter in moving Pride forward in Sarasota,” he explains. “Paul was the perfect fit for us because of his experience fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, corporate connections and sheer tenacity.”

Lotierzo is a New York native who attended the University of Tampa. His nonprofit work includes roles at Civic Influencers, a nonpartisan nonprofit dedicated to amplifying the voices of young voters, and Athlete Ally, which is dedicated to ending homophobia and transphobia in sports. He also spent six years working with Immigration Equality, which promotes justice and equality for LGBTQ+ and HIV-positive immigrants.

This and other work has given him firsthand experience of “how the struggle for equality intersects across different identities, histories and life paths,” Lotierzo said in a statement. “This unique intersectionality profoundly shaped my understanding of the movement for equality at large and taught me that our efforts must be as diverse and interconnected as the communities we serve.”

He also noted that his vision for the organization is one that “champions inclusivity and allyship in every facet of Project Pride’s work. By acknowledging the complex realities of those we stand with,” he continued, “we can foster a more visible, inclusive and united front in the ongoing fight for equality.”

Lotierzo also shared the news via social media. “I am truly honored to lead this remarkable organization in partnership with an incredible board, which is dedicated to enhancing visibility, fostering allyship and providing essential programs for the LGBTQ+ community in Sarasota and its Gulf Coast neighbors,” he said.

“Given the current political climate in Florida ... I am humbly stepping into this role with a deep sense of responsibility and urgency,” he continued. “It is crucial now more than ever to support and elevate the vital work.”

The organization also added in a press release that Lotierzo’s arrival “is the next step” in their “upward trajectory.” Project Pride will host a series of signature outings including Grand Carnival June 1 and Silver Pride June 8.

Learn more about Project Pride at ProjectPrideSRQ.org.

tampa bay news

United Effort

TransNetwork, Pinellas Dems raise nearly $20K for equality

Ryan Williams-Jent

ST. PETERSBURG |

TransNetwork and the Pinellas County Democratic Party united 450 supporters April 28 at Coastal Creative, raising nearly $20K for the organizations and their work.

Their inaugural UNI-TEA Dance was designed to honor “diversity and a shared commitment to equality.” Organizers relayed that message through calls to action, entertainment and more.

“Every walk of life is here,” TransNetwork Co-Founder Andy Citino addressed attendees as it began. “The only way we get past the hate and the fear is together — it takes all of us, and you all showed out.”

He subsequently reflected on TransNetwork’s mission to use education and activism to build “a future where everyone can live authentically and freely, regardless of their gender identity.” It’s work he and co-founders Tristan Byrnes and Andre Clarke began in March 2023 before formally launching the organization last May.

Citino also reflected on the event’s success April 30 via social media. “Our goal was to bring community together and we did that,” he wrote. “The work of so many people for years made this possible … we have been around one year, and it is clear we have touched lives. I am very proud of our team.

“UNI-TEA Dance was ELECTRIC,” Citino continued. “I was misty at so many moments, the love was palpable, the support SHOWED OUT. The drag show was fantastic! From where I personally sit, I am in awe with how far we have come … and we still have work to do.”

Some of the region’s top drag performers entertained that evening, with music from DJ Jayson Chancey. Among others, emcee Christina Moore welcomed fan favorites like Aquariius, Lilith Black, Rockell Blu, Conundrum, Alice Marie Gripp and Kori Stevens, who received a special award for her years of supporting LGBTQ+ Tampa Bay. After parties were held at LGBTQ+ hotspots Enigma and Cocktail.

After the event’s costs are covered, the UNI-TEA Dance’s proceeds will be split evenly

Andy

between TransNetwork and the Pinellas County Democratic Party. The group works to elect Democrats in local and statewide elections while advancing Democratic values and positions.

Chair Jennifer Griffith says the celebration “exceeded all my expectations, offering a stunning display of unity and strength across our diverse communities.”

“The overwhelming enthusiasm and generous involvement of all the performers, our guests, and the team who put this together not only highlighted the significance of our cause but also strengthened our commitment to pressing forward,” she says.

Griffith also notes the organization is eager to work with TransNetwork again in the future. She says the fundraiser “marks just the beginning of what promises to be an enduring collaboration, paving the way for a future rich in advocacy and shared successes.”

TransNetwork will hold its next signature event May 30 at Allendale United Methodist Church in St. Petersburg, a conversation about survival. The gathering will also include a kickoff event at 6 p.m. for the Jeanie Project, which honors the late Jeanie Promise Williams by serving and supporting the transgender and gender-expansive community and its allies.

Learn more about TransNetwork and the Pinellas County Democratic Party at MyTransNetwork.org and PinellasDemocrats. org. For more on the Jeanie Project, visit TheJeanieProject.org.

Co-Founder

Citino speaks during UNI-TEA April 28. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

MX ST PETE PRIDE PAGEANT TO FEATURE LOCAL LEGENDS, WELCOME ‘DRAG RACE’ ALUM ALYSSA EDWARDS

Ryan Williams-Jent

ST. PETERSBURG | St Pete

Pride will hold its second Mx St Pete Pride pageant May 26 from 5-11 p.m. at The Palladium, honoring its outgoing Royal Court and crowning its next set of representatives.

Formerly the Miss St Pete Pride pageant, the competition has entertained audiences for over a decade. It was rebranded last year to allow contestants to enter regardless of gender.

They now compete in three divisions — Miss, Mr. and Mx. — with one winner chosen from each. Miss consists of parties whose stage personas identify as female, Mr. as male and Mx. as gender diverse or nonbinary.

Last year’s pageant crowned Ceazia Giovanni Kreshé as Miss, Vyn Suazion as Mr. and in a first, KaMarion Lavish as Mx. St Pete Pride. The trio have represented the state’s largest LGBTQ+ Pride

celebration ever since, primarily under the guidance of St Pete Pride board member and Mx St Pete Pride Pageant Director Clifford Hobbs. An ardent fan of drag and pageantry, he says working with them “has been one of the most significant service experiences of my life thus far.”

“My responsibility was to create the platform for them to shine, and shine they certainly have,” he explains. “Though I’ll dearly miss them, I’ll forever treasure the remarkable journey we shared together.”

The outgoing court agrees. Lavish says making history as the organization’s first Mx. representative was “an awesome feeling.”

“Being able to meet new faces and build new relationships was one of the few goals I set,” Lavish explains. “Getting out in the community of St. Pete I’ve felt love and acceptance … the work [St Pete Pride] provided for us all year, being part of such

amazing events and giving back to the community, always left a fulfilling feeling.”

Kreshé calls the community “my unwavering support system since day one,” noting that “I’m deeply thankful for their encouragement, acceptance and love.”

“I’m filled with a mix of excitement and bittersweet emotions as I reflect on what I’ve achieved this year,” she says. “While I’m eager to see the outcome, it’s also a poignant moment knowing I’ll be passing the torch … I trust that whoever succeeds will feel the same love and support we’ve received.”

“Our 2023 reign has shown me that the presence and power of queer excellence is more imperative than ever,” Suazion adds. “I look forward to seeing who are the next to step to the plate and how their reign will further the possibilities of equality, representation and inclusivity!”

Registration for this year’s pageant opened in February and quickly drew 17 contestants. Hobbs says six entertainers will compete for the title of Miss St Pete Pride, four for Mr. and seven for Mx., “all of whom have left their mark on the St. Pete drag scene.”

In addition to the title, the winner of each division will receive a $2,000 cash prize and event bookings, contingent upon scores in five categories. The first is personal interview, scheduled for May 25, and the second is presentation. Participants will be judged on how they express the Pride flag representative of their LGBTQ+ identity.

The pageant will also feature Evening Gown for Miss, Evening Wear for Mr. and Evening Fashion for Mx. Each contestant will then have seven minutes for a talent of their choice followed by an on-stage interview.

Angelica Sanchez will host and judging will be led by

Delores T. Van Cartier. This year’s panel also includes Kori Stevens, Dena Cass and Isaiah Sanchez Hilton, with special guest judge Alyssa Edwards from “RuPaul’s Drag Race.”

Edwards and the outgoing Royal Court will entertain and the evening will also celebrate the 10-year mark of Stephanie Stuart and Hilton being crowned Miss and Mister St Pete Pride 2014. Also of note, Hobbs says, is the return of Stevens as a judge.

“This pageant wouldn’t be here if not for Kori and I’m happy that she will be with us again,” he says.

“The Mx St. Pete Pride Pageant is more than just a pageant — it’s a showcase of St. Pete’s best entertainers, past, present and future.”

Mx. St Pete Pride 2024 will be held May 26 from 5-11 p.m. at The Palladium, located at 253 Fifth Ave. N. in St. Petersburg. Tickets begin at $20 and general admission is 50% off with code MSPC24. Learn more and purchase yours at StPetePride.org.

#1 MED SPA IN THE COUNTRY

SPONSOR

and Kristin

BOOK BY JOHN CAMERON MITCHELL

MUSIC AND LYRICS BY STEPHEN TRASK

KIRSTEN KELLY

TRANS WOMAN MURDERED IN MIAMI

Brody Levesque of The Los Angeles Blade, Courtesy of The National LGBT Media Association

Gregory Fitzgerald Gibert, 53, who was out on probation, is charged with the second-degree murder of 37-year-old Andrea Doria Dos Passos, a transgender Latina woman who was found deceased in front of the Miami Ballet company facility.

According to a Miami Beach Police spokesperson the security guard thought Dos Passos was sleeping in the entranceway around 6:45 a.m. on April 23 and when he went to wake her, he discovered the blood and her injuries and alerted 911. She was deceased from massive trauma to her face and head. According to Miami Beach police when video surveillance footage was reviewed, it showed Dos Passos lying down in the entranceway apparently asleep. WFOR reported a man arrived, looked around and spotted her dressed in a black shirt, red shorts and red shoes.

At one point, he walked away, picked up a metal pipe from the ground and then returned. “The male is then seen standing over her, striking her and then manipulating her body. The male then walks away and places the pipe inside a nearby trash can,” according to the arrest report.

Police noted that in addition to trauma on her face and head, two wooden sticks were lodged in her nostrils and there was a puncture wound in her chest.

Victor Van Gilst, Dos Passos’s stepfather confirmed she was trans and experiencing homelessness.

“She had no chance to defend herself whatsoever. I don’t know if this was a hate crime since she was transgender or if she had some sort of interaction with this person because he might have been homeless as well. The detective could not say if she was attacked because she was transgender,” said Van Gilst.

The Miami Police Department arrested Gibert, collected his clothing, noting the red shorts were the same type in the video and had blood on them. Blood was also found on his shoes, according to police. He was taken into custody and charged. “The suspect has an extensive criminal record and reportedly was recently released from custody on probation for prior criminal charges. Police apprehended the suspect in the city of Miami and the investigation is currently ongoing. This case is further evidence that individuals need to be held accountable for prior violent crimes for the protection of the public. We offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the victim,” Miami Beach Mayor Steve Meiner said in a statement.

Joe Saunders, senior political director with LGBTQ rights group Equality Florida, told the Miami Herald that “whenever a transgender person is murdered, especially when it is with such brutality, the question should be asked about whether or not this was a hate-motivated crime.”

FLORIDA AMONG STATES TO IGNORE NEW TITLE IX RULES PROTECTING TRANSGENDER STUDENTS

Erin Reed of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of The National LGBT Media Association

In late April, the Biden administration released its final Title IX rules, which include protections for LGBTQ+ students by clarifying that Title IX forbids discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The rule change could have a significant impact as it would supersede bathroom bans and other discriminatory policies that have become increasingly common in Republican states within the U.S. As of April 25, however, officials in Oklahoma, Louisiana, Florida and South Carolina have directed schools to ignore the regulations, potentially setting up a federal showdown that may ultimately end up in a protracted court battle in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.

Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley was the first to respond. Asserting that Title IX law does not protect trans and queer students, Brumley stated schools “should not alter policies or procedures at this time.” Critically, several courts have ruled that trans and queer students are protected by Title IX, including the

4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in a recent case in West Virginia.

In South Carolina, Schools Supt. Ellen Weaver wrote in a letter that providing protections for trans and LGBTQ students under Title IX “would rescind 50 years of progress and equality of opportunity by putting girls and women at a disadvantage in the educational arena.” She then directed schools to ignore the new directive while waiting for court challenges. While South Carolina does not have a bathroom ban or statewide “Don’t Say Gay or Trans” law, such bills continue to be proposed in the state.

Responding to the South Carolina letter, Chase Glenn of Alliance For Full Acceptance stated, “The flagrant disregard shown for the Title IX rule tells me that our superintendent unfortunately does not have the best interests of all students in mind.”

Florida Education Commissioner Manny Diaz also joined in instructing schools not to implement Title IX regulations. In a letter issued to area schools, Diaz stated that the new Title IX regulations were tantamount to “gaslighting the country into believing that biological sex no longer has any meaning.”

Governor Ron DeSantis approved of the letter and stated that Florida “will not comply.”

Florida has notably been the site of some of the most viciously anti-queer and anti-trans legislation in recent history.

State Education Supt. Ryan Walters of Oklahoma was the latest to echo similar sentiments. Walters has recently appointed the right-wing media figure Chaya Raichik of Libs of TikTok to an advisory role “to improve school safety,” and notably, Raichik has posed proudly with papers accusing her of instigating bomb threats with her incendiary posts about LGBTQ people in classrooms.

The Title IX policies have been universally applauded by large LGBTQ rights organizations in the U.S. Lambda Legal, a key figure in fighting anti-LGBTQ legislation nationwide, said that the regulations “clearly cover LGBTQ+ students, as well as survivors and pregnant and parenting students across race and gender identity.”

The Human Rights Campaign also praised the rule, stating, “rule will be life-changing for so many LGBTQ+ youth and help ensure LGBTQ+ students can receive the same educational experience as their peers: Going to dances, safely using the restroom, and writing stories that tell the truth about their own lives.”

The rule is slated to go into effect Aug. 1, pending any legal challenges.

CHANGING COURSE, PROSECUTOR SUSPENDED BY DESANTIS TO SEEK REELECTION

Wire Report

ADemocratic Florida prosecutor suspended from office by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis for his supportive stances on both transgender and reproductive rights said last month he will seek reelection while a court battle continues over his 2022 removal from the post. Andrew Warren had said in January he would not run this year. But that was before a federal

appeals court ruled that a lower court should consider Warren’s argument that statements he made about hot-button issues were political advocacy protected by the First Amendment. That case remains pending. DeSantis cited those statements in suspending Warren, contending he was improperly refusing to uphold and enforce certain laws.

In his announcement on social media, Warren said the governor “illegally forced me from office” and “I’m running to protect our

values, for a woman’s right to choose, for a fair and just system and — above all — for freedom and democracy.”

Warren’s suspension was the first one made by the Republican governor involving Democratic elected state attorneys. Last year, DeSantis suspended Monique Worrell, who was the state attorney for the Orlando area. Worrell is challenging the decision before the Florida Supreme Court.

JUDY SHEPARD RECEIVES MEDAL OF FREEDOM

Christopher Kane of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of The National LGBT Media Association

WASHINGTON | Beloved LGBTQ advocate Judy Shepard is among the 19 honorees who received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the U.S., on May 3.

The mother of Matthew Shepard, who was killed in 1998 in the country’s most notorious anti-gay hate crime, she co-founded the Matthew Shepard Foundation with her husband Dennis to raise awareness about anti-LGBTQ+ violence.

The organization runs education, outreach, and advocacy programs, many focused on schools.

Shepard was instrumental in working with then-President Barack Obama for passage of the landmark Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act in 2009, which was led in the House by then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), who was also honored with a Presidential Medal of Freedom during the ceremony.

Also in 2009, Shepard published a memoir, “The Meaning of Matthew: My Son’s Murder in Laramie, and a World Transformed,” and was honored with the Black Tie Dinner Elizabeth Birch Equality Award.

Other awardees who were honored by the White House this year are: Actor Michelle Yeoh, entrepreneur and former New

York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Jesuit Catholic priest Gregory Boyle, Assistant House Democratic Leader Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.), former Labor and Education Secretary and former U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Dole (R-N.C.), journalist and former daytime talkshow host Phil Donahue, World War II veteran and civil rights activist Medgar Evers (posthumous), former Vice President Al Gore, civil rights activist and lawyer Clarence B. Jones, former Secretary of State and U.S. Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.), former U.S. Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) (posthumous), Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky, educator and activist Opal Lee, astronaut and former director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center Ellen Ochoa, astronomer Jane Rigby, United Farm Workers President Teresa Romero, and Olympic athlete Jim Thorpe (posthumous).

PASSAGE OF HARSH ANTI-LGBTQ+ LAW IN IRAQ DRAWS DIPLOMATIC BACKLASH

Wire Report

BAGHDAD | Human rights groups and diplomats criticized a law that was quietly passed by the Iraqi parliament over the weekend that would impose heavy prison sentences on gay and transgender people.

U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement that the law passed April 27 “threatens those most at risk in Iraqi society” and “can be used to hamper free-speech and expression.” He warned that the legislation could drive away foreign investment.

“International business coalitions have already indicated that such discrimination in Iraq will harm business and economic growth in the country,” the statement said.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron called the law “dangerous and worrying.”

Although homosexuality is taboo in the largely conservative Iraqi society, and political leaders have

periodically launched anti-LGBTQ+ campaigns, Iraq did not previously have a law that explicitly criminalized it.

The law passed April 27 with little notice as an amendment to the country’s existing anti-prostitution law. It imposes a sentence of 10 to 15 years for same-sex relations and a prison term of one to three years for people who undergo or perform gender-transition surgeries and for “intentional practice of effeminacy.”

It also bans any organization that promotes “sexual deviancy,” imposing a sentence of at least seven years and a fine of no less than 10 million dinars (about $7,600).

A previous draft version of the anti-prostitution law, which was ultimately not passed, would have allowed the death sentence to be imposed for same-sex relations.

Iraqi officials have defended the law as upholding societal values and portrayed criticisms of it as Western interference.

The acting Iraqi parliamentary speaker, Mohsen Al-Mandalawi, said in a statement that the vote was “a necessary step to protect

the value structure of society” and to “protect our children from calls for moral depravity and homosexuality.”

Rasha Younes, a senior researcher with the LGBT Rights Program at Human Rights Watch, said the law’s passage “rubber-stamps Iraq’s appalling record of rights violations against LGBT people and is a serious blow to fundamental human rights, including the rights to freedom of expression and association, privacy, equality, and nondiscrimination.”

A report released by the organization in 2022 accused armed groups in Iraq of abducting, raping, torturing, and killing lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people with impunity and the Iraqi government of failing to hold perpetrators accountable.

A group of Iraqi lawmakers said April 28 that they had launched a campaign to expel U.S. Ambassador Alina Romanowski, accusing her of interfering in the country’s internal affairs after she issued a statement condemning the legislation.

IN OTHER NEWS

KANSAS BILL TO LIMIT GENDERAFFIRMING CARE DIES AFTER FAILED VETO OVERRIDE

A proposed ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors in Kansas died April 29 when two Republicans switched their votes and prevented the Republican-controlled Legislature from overriding the Democratic governor’s veto of the measure. The Kansas House voted 82-43 to overturn Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto of the bill. The bill not only banned surgeries for minors but also puberty blockers and hormone treatments. The Senate voted 27-13 to override Kelly’s veto, the exact margin supporters needed there.

4TH CIRCUIT RULES GENDER IDENTITY IS A PROTECTED CHARACTERISTIC

The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled April 29 that transgender people are a protected class and that Medicaid bans on trans care are unconstitutional. Furthermore, the court ruled that discriminating based on a diagnosis of gender dysphoria is discrimination based on gender identity and sex. The ruling is in response to lower court challenges against state laws and policies in North Carolina and West Virginia that prevent trans people on state plans or Medicaid from obtaining coverage for gender-affirming care; those lower courts found such exclusions unconstitutional.

KENYAN COURT BARS HOMOPHOBIC PROTESTS

The queer community in Kenya can breathe a sigh of relief after a Mombasa court April 29 ruled clerics, politicians and anti-LGBTQ groups cannot hold homophobic protests or engage in incitement. Two petitioners — Mr. JM and the Center for Minority Rights and Strategic Litigation — last October sued Police Inspector General Japhet Koome for allowing religious leaders and lobby groups to hold homophobic protests whenever a court rules in favor of the LGBTQ+ community. The Mombasa High Court’s ruling is temporary until July 24 when the court in Kenya’s second-largest city determines a petition on the issue.

MEXICAN SENATE APPROVES CONVERSION THERAPY BAN

The Mexican Senate approved a bill April 25 that would ban so-called conversion therapy in the country. The measure passed by a 77-4 vote margin with 15 abstentions. The Chamber of Deputies, the lower house of Mexico’s congress, approved the bill the month prior that, among other things, would subject conversion therapy practitioners to between two and six years in prison and fines. It is not immediately clear whether President Andrés Manuel López Obrador supports the ban.

Terrance Hunter

TERRANCE TALKS

Transitions

LIFE IS A SYMPHONY OF transitions. A harmonious blend of changes that shape our journeys, perspectives and destinations.

Whether we’re moving between jobs, relationships, homes or phases of life, transitions are not just moments but transformative journeys offering profound opportunities for growth, resilience and self-discovery. Sometimes, these transitions happen all at once, other times, they happen successively; I have somehow found myself in a sea of transition and it’s led me to think about the power and potential these moments and seasons hold for us. As we delve into the importance of open-mindedness, acknowledging mistakes, embracing what I call “rubber banding,” introspection and uncertainty, I hope to share how we can all embrace welcomed (and sometimes unwelcomed) transitions and use it as a catapult for growth.

One of the most powerful phrases I’ve ever heard speaks to the possibility of other realities. It simply says, “Are you open to the possibility that…” I love this phrase because it helps to position other possibilities that we are not always able to see. Open-mindedness serves as a gateway to growth and innovation during transitions. By embracing a flexible mindset, we invite new perspectives, ideas and possibilities into our lives. This openness encourages curiosity, learning and adaptation, enabling us to navigate transitions with resilience and creativity. It’s a reminder that rigid thinking can limit our potential, while open-mindedness expands our horizons and fuels personal and collective evolution.

I’m also a huge believer in personal accountability. I, like many of us, could be better about acknowledging my own mistakes, but I’ve found such power in the moments that I do — particularly right now. Acknowledging mistakes is a cornerstone of personal development during transitions. Instead of viewing mistakes as failures, I’m learning to reframe them as valuable lessons that contribute to my growth. Admitting mistakes requires humility, self-awareness and a commitment to learning from experience. It’s an opportunity to course correct, refine our approaches and cultivate resilience in the face of challenges. It’s also

an opportunity to share your lessons learned with others. Why should anyone have to learn a lesson “the hard way” if we can help them simply by sharing our experiences?

“Rubber banding,” as I like to call it, symbolizes the inherent resilience and bounce-back ability we possess during transitions. Picture a rubber band being stretched to its limits — the tension created becomes the driving force for propulsion and progress. Similarly, facing setbacks and challenges during transitions can build resilience, transforming adversity into opportunities for growth and strength.

Embracing “rubber banding” teaches us that setbacks are not roadblocks but rather springboards for personal and professional development. It’s about harnessing the tension of challenges to propel ourselves forward, emerging stronger and more resilient than before. To say it plainly, sometimes we must pull back in order to launch forward.

Introspection deepens our understanding of self and guides us through moments of transition. It involves reflective self-examination, exploring our values, beliefs and aspirations. During transitions, introspection helps us stay aligned with our authentic selves, make decisions aligned with our values and navigate uncertainties with clarity and purpose. It’s a journey inward that fosters self-awareness, resilience and a deeper sense of meaning. Introspection during a time of transition is especially powerful as it can help us discover how our views, values and beliefs are also shifting.

Life’s transitions often come with a degree of unpredictability, and learning to embrace the unknown is hard. Embracing uncertainty means letting go of the need for absolute control, staying open to new possibilities and trusting in our ability to navigate challenges with resilience and grace. Of the above, I’m really only good at navigating the challenges

with grace and staying open to possibilities. I haven’t yet learned how to let go of my need for control entirely, but I’m taking micro steps.

Beyond all of this, transitions offer unique opportunities for personal and collective transformation. They can ignite creativity and

When I talk with friends and colleagues about one of the biggest transitions I’m experiencing — moving my aging parents in — I’ve been met with so much support, personal stories, offering of resources and, most importantly, deeper, more authentic connections.

Each transition becomes a steppingstone toward a brighter future, guiding us on a journey of continuous learning, self-discovery and personal evolution. When things are shifting, stay to the possibility that the transition is not to be feared but embraced as

Transitions are not just moments of change; they are catalysts for growth, resilience and self-discovery.

Each transition offers a chance to evolve, learn and redefine ourselves.

innovation, prompting us to think outside the box and explore new avenues. Transitions are not just moments of change; they are catalysts for growth, resilience and self-discovery. Each transition offers a chance to evolve, learn and redefine ourselves.

Whether in personal relationships, communities or organizations, transitions can strengthen bonds, foster empathy and inspire collective action. They remind us of our shared humanity and the importance of supporting one another through life’s twists and turns.

an opportunity for growth and transformation. Be open-minded and introspective and remember that “an arrow can only be shot by pulling it backward.”

Primary Care | Hypertension | Diabetes Geriatrics | LGBTQ+ | HRT | Immunizations Mon - Fri: 7am-6pm | Sat: 9am - 2pm 407-426-9693 | PineroMedical.com 2766 E. Colonial Drive Orlando, FL 32803

Accepting most insuraces. Se Habla Español

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

Threatened But Accepted

AS WE APPROACH

another Pride season, I want to take a few moments and see where we are as a community. Are we living up to our quest to be a truly fair and equitable society? How does the rest of society view us? Are we winning or losing in the so called “culture wars?”

I’d say the state of our community is “threatened but more accepted than we think.”

There is certainly plenty to be angry and frightened about in today’s neo-fascist world, and it is easy to get mired in “doom scrolling.” But it seems to me that we are winning the culture wars in all sorts of interesting ways, like by challenging social norms.

We may be doing better than we think when it comes to winning over middle America on LGBTQ+ acceptance. Just look at the hundreds of commercials we see today — I remember being just 22 and telling someone I was dating at the time that I didn’t understand why we didn’t see gay people selling toothpaste, beer or cars. He assured me, in 1983, that it would never happen.

Today, I can point to dozens of commercials with LGBTQ+ characters. Recent ones I’ve seen include Turbo Tax, which featured a gay couple who are funky enough to be from Gulfport, and VW with two brides

kissing each other in the backseat of a “bug.”

They’re far from the only examples, with a number of companies partners with LGBTQ+ celebrities. Hellmann’s features Kate McKinnon; Mountain Dew, Aubrey Plaza; NYX Cosmetics, Cardi B; Paramount+, Drew Barrymore; Rakuten, Christian Siriano; GM and Netflix, Jonathan van Ness and Antoni Porowski and Doritos have been marketed by Elton John.

During the Super Bowl, the LGBTQ+ advocacy organization GLAAD tracked an increase of ads with LGBTQ+ representation from 2023 to 2024 jumping to 10 ads, along with visibility for bisexual women and queer women. The majority of tracked ads, however, featured white LGBTQ+ representation and included no visibility for transgender and nonbinary people. We’re doing better but clearly we still have work to do. It seems clear to me that by and large, mainstream society has moved on. The majority of people are no longer shocked when a male actor they like shows up with an openly gay NFL player as his date to the American Country Music Awards.

Fictional characters have also moved from tragic supporting roles to leading men or women; Hollywood and beyond has matured in how our community is portrayed. We’ve gone from silly and campy “Will and Grace” episodes to gritty, older and bearded gentlemen who are lovers in “The Last of Us.” The series showed us that there are queers even in an apocalypse.

LGBTQ+ characters and movies with LGBTQ+ themes are all the rage. I was six episodes into a bingeworthy Netflix series when the lead character — the epitome of a “tough cop” — is talking on his cell as he is driving. He ends the call by saying ,“I love you too sweetheart.”

The character in the car with him says , “I didn’t realize you had a girlfriend,” to which he casually replied “I don’t.” It was simple. Effortless. Without a parade. But it let the viewer know the lead character they had grown to love over the past six episodes was

complete with boots, a cowboy hat, a southern drawl and a behind that fills out his jeans in a way I’m pretty sure is illegal here in Florida. At first I was digging the easy smooth new country when Mr. Dallas surprised me by letting me know that the blue-eyed

stuff, with the only exception being that his love interest in the song is always a guy.

Stay the course and pursue the ‘gay agenda’ with vigor, because America is listening.

“one of those kind of guys,” even with his tough and masculine exterior. I thought it was done in a real Pride 2024 style.

I do have a secret I’d like to share as well: I like country and western music. OK, more specifically I like male country singers. So when I was introduced to Mr. Dixon Dallas on YouTube, I took notice.

He’s a typical hunky cowboy heartthrob,

honey he was crooning about was a dude.

Then he went on with lyrics that described in shocking detail (for the genre, especially) both what he’d like to do with that dude but also what that dude could do to him. Honestly, even I almost blushed on some of the lyrics. It was amazing!

I love his music and I’ve since discovered Mr. Dallas sings about all sorts of usual

So let’s remember when we are marching this year that we need to continue to bring Pride to mainstream America — in movies, in pop culture, with celebrities, with entertainment, and even in country and western music! Stay the course and pursue the “gay agenda’” with vigor, because America is listening.

Greg Stemm is a longtime resident of Pinellas County and a founder of St Pete Pride. He is an outspoken activist on many issues, including HIV/ AIDS education.

talking points

It’s not lost on me what my presence at the podium behind that lectern means. Being a first in many different ways — I’m an immigrant, I’m a queer Black woman, a person of color — and it is incredibly a heavy weight that I understand is important to carry with respect and understanding.

— WHITE HOUSE PRESS SECRETARY KARINE JEAN-PIERRE IN AN INTERVIEW WITH THE ADVOCATE

TWO BROADWAY SHOWS CELEBRATING THE SPARK OF SONIC CREATIVITY

— the semi-autobiographical Alicia Keys musical “Hell’s Kitchen,” and the play “Stereophonic” about a ‘70s rock band recording a star-making album — each earned a leading 13 Tony Award nominations April 30. “The Outsiders,” an adaptation of the beloved S. E. Hinton novel and the Francis Ford Coppola film, earned 12 nominations; a starry revival of “Cabaret” starring Eddie Redmayne, nabbed nine; and “Appropriate,” Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ searing play about a family reunion in Arkansas where everyone has competing motivations and grievances, grabbed eight. A number of LGBTQ+ performers received nominations, including Jonathan Groff for “Merrily We Roll Along,” Sarah Paulson for “Appropriate,” Jim Parsons for “Mother Play” and Brandon Victor Dixon for “Hell’s Kitchen.” The 77th Tony Awards, hosted by Ariana DeBose, will air live on CBS and Paramount+ June 16.

BILLIE EILISH ANNOUNCES WORLD TOUR

BILLIE EILISH IS HITTING THE ROAD. The pop performer will embark on her worldwide “Hit Me Hard and Soft” arena tour this fall, kicking off in Quebec City in Canada on Sept. 29 and concluding in Dublin on July 27, 2025. She’ll hit many major cities in North America in 2024, the closest stops to Florida being her two shows in Atlanta Nov. 2 and 3, before heading to Australia and then Europe. Eilish announced her highly anticipated third studio album, “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” will be released May 17. Eilish worked with her brother and longtime collaborator Finneas on “Hit Me Hard and Soft.”

VENICE BIENNALE PLATFORMS QUEER ARTISTS

OUTSIDER, QUEER AND INDIGENOUS ARTISTS ARE GETTING AN OVERDUE PLATFORM at the 60th Venice

Biennale art exhibition that opened April 20, curated for the first time by a Latin American curator, Adriano Pedrosa. Highlights for this year, which runs through Nov. 26, include queer artist Kang Seung Lee and his installation titled “Untitled (Constellations),” which considers the artists who died in the AIDS epidemic through a collection of objects in dialogue with spare paper-on-canvas works by British artist Romany Eveleigh, and trans Brazilian artist Manauara Clandestina, who presented a video exhibit titled “Migranta,” which speaks about her family’s story of migration.

GAY ACTOR’S SPEECH BACK ON AFTER SCHOOL CANCELS OVER ‘LIFESTYLE’

OUT ACTOR AND CHILDREN’S BOOK AUTHOR, MAULIK PANCHOLY is being allowed to speak at Mountain View Middle School in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania this month after initially having his event canceled over his “lifestyle.” The Cumberland Valley School District’s board voted 5-4 on April 25 to let him speak after unanimously voting to cancel the event just 10 days earlier. The board’s reversal came after hearing from residents, including more than a dozen students. Pancholy, 48, is an award-winning actor and author who has written two children’s books and was the voice of Baljeet in the Disney animated series, “Phineas & Ferb.”

OF

AGES 13-17 IN THE SOUTH AND 40% OF TRANSGENDER YOUTH AGES 13-17 IN THE MIDWEST LIVE IN STATES WITH AT LEAST ONE ANTITRANSGENDER LAW. TRANSGENDER YOUTH IN THE NORTHEAST ARE LEAST LIKELY TO LIVE IN A STATE WHERE AN ANTI-TRANSGENDER LAW HAS BEEN ENACTED.

—Williams Institute report

RED READY &

Orlando’s Big June Weekend is back with pool parties, circuits and events

Jeremy Williams

JUNE IS A BIG MONTH FOR CENTRAL

Florida’s queer community. It’s LGBTQ+ Pride Month, it’s the start of the busy summer season when people from all around the world visit our theme parks and it is Orlando’s Big Party Weekend — filled with pool parties, circuits and celebrations — tied to that first Saturday in June known as Gay Day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

Gay Day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom first took place on June 1, 1991, in front of Cinderella’s Castle at the Magic Kingdom just before the 3 p.m. parade. The idea was for the LGBTQ+ community to gather, all wearing red shirts, to be visible and to be seen during a time when doing so could be dangerous. Every year for the past 33 years — give or take a year

or two due to a pandemic — the LGBTQ+ community has gathered, celebrated and turned red to honor that original commitment.

As the years went on, the day grew to a multi-day collection of events hosted at various hotels and organized by various organizations, all with the same idea that our community could come together and celebrate

who we are. This year, from May 30-June 2, Orlando will be back in red and ready to party.

One Magical Weekend returns with a collection of events, both traditional and new, at its host hotel, the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Hotel. This year’s theme is “Unleash the Magic,” and OMW will be bringing a magical experience with returning favorites like RipTide at Typhoon Lagoon and its Red Party at House of Blues, as well as a new Sunday night party, the Pride Ball. OMW is also back with Bear Jamboree! at the bear’s host hotel, Crowne Plaza Orlando at Lake Buena Vista. Everything from the bear pool parties to Beareoke are back. GayDayS is back at the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld and ready to party. This year’s GayDayS theme is “All Aboard: 2024 Land

Cruise.” Alongside returning events like Miss GayDayS, Mr. GayDayS Leather and Drag and Porn Bingo, you will find new overnight circuits and retro throwback parties.

Girls in Wonderland also returns with another year of exciting events for the ladies, and at a new host hotel — the TownePlace Suites Orlando/ SpringHill Suites Orlando at Flamingo Crossings. From the pool parties to the comedy show to the big Queer Prohibition Party, GiW has a weekend filled with excitement.

In the following pages you will find a breakdown of events, days, times and information so you can get the most out of your big June weekend.

Along with events for One Magical Weekend, Bear Jamboree, GayDayS and Girls in

Wonderland, we also have the latest information on The Pride Cup, KindRED Pride Foundation’s LGBTQ+ multi-sports competition happening over three days throughout Central Florida.

And if you choose to include the theme parks into your celebration, there are select parks that are recommended as Red Shirts Days for each day: Thursday, May 30, will be Animal Kingdom and SeaWorld; Friday, May 31, will be Hollywood Studios and Islands of Adventure; Saturday, June 1 will be Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios; and Sunday, June 2 will be Epcot and Discovery Cove.

All event and ticket information are subject to change. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit each organization’s website.

CONTINUED ON PG. 27 | uu |

ILLUSTRATION BY KYLER MILLS (KY VIAN)

One Magical Weekend

ONE MAGICAL WEEKEND IS BACK

at its host hotel — the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort, located at 12205 S. Apopka Vineland Rd. in Orlando, with attendees ready to “Unleash the Magic” for the big weekend. OMW will feature 14 world-class DJs, a dozen hot dancers and 11 amazing party hosts throughout its 10 sizzlin’ events.

The host hotel features a pair of resort-style pools, two restaurants and a bar & grill, spa treatments, a 24-hour fitness center and more. It is located within walking distance of Disney Springs, but you won’t have to get your steps in as they offer daily shuttles to Disney’s park transportation center and Disney Springs.

OMW will host its Gay Biz Expo at the Sheraton, featuring dozens of vendors, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Sheraton Resort.

Below you’ll find information on One Magical Weekend’s events. Prices are subject to change. All OMW events are 18 and up, please bring ID. For more information, visit OneMagicalWeekend.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 30

#TBT Welcome Party

9 P.M.-1 A.M.

SHERATON LAKE BUENA VISTA RESORT

Join OMW for the ALL NEW #TBT (Throwback Thursday) Welcome Party hosted by the incredible Ms. Darcel Stevens and her cast of DIVAS. Dance to the incredible music of iconic DJ Twisted Dee and enjoy the drag show featuring some of Central Florida’s most amazing drag talents, including Daisy Dior, DeDe Santos, Angelica Sanchez, Britany One More Time, Mr Miss Adrian, Ebony Mendoza, Tasha Long, Orusha San Miguel and TP Lords. This event is free to attend but a ticket is required.

This event is 18 and up.

This is a free event

FRIDAY, MAY 31 Friday

Therapy Pool Party

12-8 P.M.

SHERATON LAKE BUENA VISTA RESORT

Start your Friday off with a party poolside at the host hotel. DJ Chalie B., back by popular demand, will be spinning the tracks from 12-4 p.m. and DJ Marti Frieson makes his OMW debut from 4-8 p.m. Discount available if you purchase all three days of pool parties.

$25

RIPTIDE

8 P.M.-2 A.M.

DISNEY’S TYPHOON LAGOON

This is One Magical Weekend’s signature event and they go all out for it. For one night, you and thousands of your closest friends will have access to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon waterpark. The 52-acre waterpark features wave pools, water slides and more.

DJ Paulo and DJ Edil Hernandez will keep the music going on the Main Stage with DJ D-STU spinning at the Bear Lagoon.

Bliss Beach is also returning, presented by Bliss Cares. Don’t miss Bliss Cares’ 2024 TRANSformation graduates at the party.

Set it up with a VIP ticket which gets you early access to the waterpark as well as access to the VIP Private Beach area with open bar and towel service all evening.

This is an 18 and up event only, and IDs will be checked so don’t forget it.

$100 general admission

$210 VIP

Cadabra

After Hours:

Neon Fantasy

2-8 A.M.

SHERATON LAKE BUENA

VISTA RESORT

Keep the party going all night with the Cadabra After Hours circuit. The Friday night into Saturday morning theme is Neon Fantasy. Music will be provided by DJ Deanne. Cadabra After Parties are 21 and up. Discount available if you purchase all three nights of after parties.

$60

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

Saturday

Therapy Pool Party

12-8 P.M.

SHERATON LAKE BUENA VISTA RESORT

Kick off the very first day of LGBTQ+ Pride Month with a poolside party at the host hotel. DJ Mohammad starts it off, playing the tunes from 12-4 p.m. and DJ Danny Verde takes the stage from 4-8 p.m. Discount available if you purchase all three days of pool parties.

$25

RED Vol VII: Buccaneer

8 P.M.-1 A.M.

HOUSE OF BLUES ORLANDO

Don’t miss OMW’s annual RED circuit party at Disney Springs’ House of Blues. This year, shiver your timbers matey as you search for booty at RED Volume VII: Buccaneer. That means, along with wearing red, you are encouraged to get dressed in your best pirate garb.

Music will be provided by the mesmerizing DJ Ana Flor who will have your swashbuckling across the dance floor. The One Magical Weekend dancers will be back and they are ready to board your ship.

Make this evening one the seadogs will be envious of with the VIP experience featuring open bars and special seating. Make sure to wear your best red outfit but keep in mind Walt Disney World Resort and Disney Springs do not allow costumes, so plan accordingly. This is an 18 and up event only and IDs will be checked so do not forget it.

General admission $75

VIP $170

Cadabra After Hours: Locker Room

2-8 A.M.

SHERATON LAKE BUENA

VISTA RESORT

Go right from House of Blues to the next Cadabra After Hours circuit. Get your game on from Saturday night into Sunday morning as the theme is Locker Room. Music will be provided by DJ Nick Stracener. Cadabra After Parties are 21 and up. Discount available if you purchase all three nights of after parties.

$60

SUNDAY, JUNE 2

Sunday Therapy Pool Party

12-8 P.M.

SHERATON LAKE BUENA VISTA RESORT

It’s the final 2024 poolside party at the host hotel. DJ Jerac gets the music going from 12-4 p.m. and DJ J. Warren brings it home from 4-8 p.m. Discount available if you purchase all three days of pool parties.

$25

Pride Ball

9 P.M.-1 A.M.

SHERATON LAKE BUENA VISTA RESORT

Let your hair down and get your inner diva ready to strike a POSE! Join OMW at the host hotel for a closing Sunday T-Dance party not-to-be-missed! Wear your favorite PRIDE gear and mask and join us on the dance floor with the sounds of International DJ Kidd Madonny! Heels and harnesses are not necessary but they are more than welcome! This is an 18 and up event only and IDs will be checked so do not forget it.

$55

Cadabra After Hours: Daddy

2-8 A.M.

SHERATON LAKE BUENA VISTA RESORT

Close your weekend out with the final Cadabra After Hours circuit of 2024. This party goes from Sunday night into Monday morning and the theme is Daddy. Music will be provided by DJ Alex Lo. Cadabra After Parties are 21 and up. Discount available if you purchase all three nights of after parties. $60

SPECIALIZED MEDICAL CARE SINCE 1991

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

SERVICES

Comprehensive Primary Care

Gender A rming Care

HIV, STI & Viral Hepatitis

Testing & Treatment

Prevention, Education & Outreach

Lab Draws

Linkage to Care Services

Medical Peer Navigators

On-Site Pharmacy

Patient Care Coordination

PrEP & nPEP Services

Ryan White Provider

LOCATIONS

CLEARWATER

2349 Sunset Point Road #405

Clearwater, FL 33765

O ce: (727) 216-6193

eFax: (877) 868-0981

PALMETTO

408 7th Street West

Palmetto, FL 34221

O ce: (941) 803-7939

Fax: (941) 417-2328

eFax: (866) 622-3009

NEW PORT RICHEY

4758 Rowan Road

New Port Richey, FL 34653

O ce: (727) 312-2040

eFax: (888) 806-9655

ST. PETERSBURG

3251 3rd Ave N #125

St. Petersburg, FL 33713

O ce: (727) 498-4969

WALK-INS WELCOME AT ALL LOCATIONS

* services vary by location

Spanish Speaking Sta

Support Groups

Telehealth Services

Transportation Services

ORLANDO

1301 W. Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL 32804

O: (407) 246-1946

F: (855) 895-5749

TAMPA

2105 N Nebraska Ave. Tampa, FL 33602

O ce: (813) 769-7207

Bear Jamboree!

LAST YEAR, AFTER TIDAL WAVE Party announced it was taking its events to Las Vegas, One Magical Weekend — in partnership with Orlando Bear Pride — stepped up and filled that bear-shaped hole in the weekend with Bear Jamboree!

Bear Jamboree! brings all the beary exciting events that you were used to at Tidal Wave to the host hotel at the Crowne Plaza Orlando Lake Buena Vista, located at 8686 Palm Pkwy. in Orlando. The weekend will be hosted by this year’s official den mother, drag icon Tora Himan. Bear Jamboree! will be participating in the One Magical Weekend Main Events — #TBT Welcome Party, RipTide, RED VII: Buccaneer and the Pride Ball — so turn to page 27 for more details on those events. Below you’ll find information on Bear Jamboree’s other events.

Prices are subject to change. For more information, visit BearJamboree.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 31

Bulge Welcome Pool Party

12-8 P.M.

CROWNE PLAZA ORLANDO LAKE BUENA VISTA

Kick off Bear Jamboree! with a welcome pool party, BULGE attire is encouraged. DJ Chris Adams welcomes the bears from 12-4 p.m. and DJ Edil Hernandez keeps the music going from 4-8 p.m. Admission into the Bulge Welcome Pool Party includes entrance to all the Friday special events hosted by Den Daddy Anthony and Tora Himan, including bingo, bearaoke, pup events, the vendor market, The Dungeon and more surprises. You must be at least 18 to attend the Bear Jamboree! events.

$25

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

Bearwood Derby Dance Pool Party

12-8 P.M.

CROWNE PLAZA ORLANDO LAKE BUENA VISTA

A tropical oasis awaits you at the host hotel’s Saturday dance pool party. DJ Castle kicks the day off spinning tunes from 12-4 p.m., DJ Charlie B keeps it going from 4-8 p.m. Admission into the Bearwood Derby Dance Pool Party includes entrance to all the Saturday special events hosted by Den Daddy Anthony and Tora Himan, including bingo, bearaoke, pup events, the vendor market, The Dungeon and more surprises. You must be at least 18 to attend the Bear Jamboree! events.

$45

Bingo with a Twist

1-3 P.M.

CROWNE PLAZA BAR

Join Den Daddy Anthony and DJ Chris Adams at the Crowne Plaza Bar for a special Bear Jamboree Bingo event.

Event included with Saturday Pool Pass

Bearaoke

3-5 P.M.

CROWNE PLAZA BAR

Time to show the bears how you carry a tune. Hosted by Den Mother, Tora Himan, Bearaoke is just like regular karaoke, just with more growling. Sounds provided by DJ Chris Adams.

Event included with Saturday Pool Pass

Pup Bash Pool Party

8-10 P.M.

CROWNE PLAZA ORLANDO LAKE BUENA VISTA

DJ Tim Staney keeps the music flowing from 8-10 p.m. for the Saturday night Pup Bash Pool Party. The event will include a Pup Camp Drag Show and ball pit.

Event included with Saturday Pool Pass

Scouts Code Pool Party

10 P.M.-2 A.M.

CROWNE PLAZA ORLANDO LAKE BUENA VISTA

Bring the night to an end with Scouts Code Pool Party at the host hotel. Make sure to flag your code. Music provided by DJ Twisted Dee from 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

Event included with Saturday Pool Pass

SUNDAY, JUNE 2

Merit Badge Pool Party

12-8 P.M.

CROWNE PLAZA ORLANDO LAKE BUENA VISTA

The Merit Badge Pool Party is presented by Tidal Wave. Earn your merit badges for your weekend accomplishments and meet Bear Jamboree’s Scout Masters. DJ Danny Gallegos starts you off, spinning the tracks from 12-4 p.m. DJ Mohammad takes over the tunes from 4-8 p.m. Admission into the Merit Badge Pool Party includes entrance to all the Sunday special events hosted by Den Daddy Anthony and Tora Himan, including bingo, bearaoke, pup events, the vendor market, The Dungeon and more surprises. You must be at least 18 to attend the Bear Jamboree! events.

$45

Bingo with a Twist

1-3 P.M.

CROWNE PLAZA BAR

Den Daddy Anthony and DJ Chris Adams are back at the Crowne Plaza Bar for more special Bear Jamboree Bingo.

Event included with Sunday Pool Pass

Bearaoke

3-5 P.M.

CROWNE PLAZA BAR

Hopefully you aren’t too hoarse from the weekend because we want to hear you sing one more time. Hosted once again by Den Mother Tora Himan, Bearaoke is going to get you growling. Sounds provided by DJ Chris Adams.

Event included with Sunday Pool Pass

Pup Bash Pool Party

8-10 P.M.

CROWNE PLAZA ORLANDO LAKE BUENA VISTA

DJ Tim Staney is back from 8-10 p.m. keeping the music flowing and the puppies dancing for the Sunday night Pup Bash Pool Party.

Event included with Sunday Pool Pass

Star Gayzing Pool Party

10 P.M.-2 A.M.

CROWNE PLAZA ORLANDO LAKE BUENA VISTA

One final pool party at the host hotel before Bear Jamboree 2024 comes to a close. DJ Castle will help you dance your final dance from 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

Event included with Sunday Pool Pass

Girls in Wonderland

THIS YEAR MARKS THE 23RD anniversary of Girls in Wonderland and they are celebrating with one of their biggest weekends ever. Started by Amy Alonso, Alison Burgos and Yesenia Leon of Pandora Events, Girls in Wonderland offers up a series of events for the women of the community.

The Girls are back this year at a new host hotel — the TownePlace Suites Orlando/SpringHill Suites Orlando at Flamingo Crossings, located at 13279 Hartzog Rd. in Winter Garden.

Below you’ll find information on Girls in Wonderland’s events. Weekend passes are available, prices are subject to change and all events are 21 and up. For more information, visit GirlsInWonderland.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 30

Welcome Happy Hour

6-8 P.M.

TOWNEPLACE SUITES ORLANDO/SPRINGHILL SUITES ORLANDO

Mix, mingle and make new friends, either for the weekend or for life, at Girls in Wonderland’s happy hour welcome party. The event features live music by Deb Hundseder and free Bud Light on draft until it runs out.

This event is free to GiW hotel guests

Traffic Jam

9 P.M.-2 A.M. CUBA LIBRE

Girls in Wonderland’s opening night party is a Traffic Jam at Cuba Libre at Pointe Orlando. Take a colored bracelet coordinated to your availability — red means taken, yellow means approach with caution and green means go for it. The event will feature music provided by DJ’s Pat Pat, Dlux and Zehno, and sexy go-go girls working the traffic all night long.

$25 in advance

$30 at event

FRIDAY, MAY 31

Wet Pool Party

11 A.M.-5 P.M.

TOWNEPLACE SUITES ORLANDO/ SPRINGHILL SUITES ORLANDO

Get “wet” at the first pool party of the weekend. Indulge in the scenery. Relax, swim, eat and drink at the dual pools while dancing to some of your favorite DJs — Pat Pat, Citizen Jane and Zehno. Live performance by Chloe Star and featuring Day Club games, corn hole contest, beer pong and Newlywed.

$30 in advance

$35 at event

L-Lounge Happy Hour

6-8 P.M.

TOWNEPLACE SUITES ORLANDO/ SPRINGHILL SUITES ORLANDO

Pre-game for the big night ahead with specialty cocktails and live music by Citizen Jane with drum and guitar. This event is free to GiW hotel guests

Out For Laughs Comedy Show

7:30-9:30 P.M.

HASH HOUSE A GO-GO

Join Girls in Wonderland at Hash House a Go-Go, located at 5350 International Dr. in Orlando, for an evening of laughs with one of today’s hottest LGBTQ+ comics — Kristin Key. Key is an American comedian who has appeared at The Improv, and on the series “Last Comic Standing” and “Bring the Funny.” She favors a self-deprecating, physical and improvisational style of comedy and incorporates the guitar to create original musical comedy.

$35 in advance

$45 at event

Climax

9 P.M.-2 A.M.

MANGO’S TROPICAL CAFÉ ORLANDO

Girls in Wonderland’s Friday night party at Mango’s Tropical Café, located at 8126 International Dr. in Orlando, will be led by Ivy Les Vixen and her sexy Vixens. Music will be provided in the main room by DJ’s Les Ortiz and Pat Pat, and on the patio by DJ Tatiana. The event will also feature live performances by Snow Tha Product and JJ Drums.

$35 in advance

$45 at event

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

After Hours, Afterglow

2-5 A.M.

TOWNEPLACE SUITES ORLANDO/ SPRINGHILL SUITES ORLANDO

The party continues overnight back at the host hotel with the Bud Light Disco.

$20 in advance

$30 at event

Splash Pool Party

11 A.M.-5 P.M.

TOWNEPLACE SUITES ORLANDO/ SPRINGHILL SUITES ORLANDO

It’s THE BIG QUEER POOL PARTY!

Frolic and splash around at the infamous sun-drenched pool party.

Sip tropical cocktails and dance to the sounds of DJs Citizen Jane, Pat Pat and Sammii Blendz at the main stage pool. The Day Club, which can be found indoors, will feature DJ Gabby Risso.

$45 in advance

$50 at event

GiW Signature Event: Queer

Prohibition PartyRoaring Twenties

10 P.M.-2 A.M. NEW YORK BEER PROJECT

Saturday night is Girls in Wonderland’s Signature Dance Party, and this year its theme is “Queer Prohibition PartyRoaring Twenties.” Dress code is 1920s fashion and gangster style, and the dance party is happening at New York Beer Project, located at 9230 Miley Dr. in Winter Garden. Music provided by DJs Les Ortiz, Citizen Jane, Pat Pat and Sammii Blendz.

$35 in advance

$45 at event

SUNDAY, JUNE 2

After Hours, Girl

2-5 A.M.

TOWNEPLACE SUITES ORLANDO/ SPRINGHILL SUITES ORLANDO

The biggest and best lesbian party in the country, Girl The Party, takes over the after hours for a night of debauchery. All your favorite DJs, go-go Vixens and more hit the stage. DJ’s Dlux and Zehno will throw down house and indie beats in the Bud Light Disco.

$20 in advance

$30 at event

Sunday Funday! Pool Party

11 A.M.-6 P.M.

TOWNEPLACE SUITES ORLANDO/ SPRINGHILL SUITES ORLANDO

Frolic and splash around at the infamous, and final, weekend pool party. Sip tropical cocktails and dance to the sounds of DJ’s Sammii Blendz and Les Ortiz on the main stage pool. Also, don’t forget about the annual MUFF EATING CONTEST! The indoor Day Club will feature music by DJ’s Spex and Zehno, and don’t miss Drag Queen Bingo.

$35 in advance

$45 at event

Last Chance Party

10 P.M.-2 A.M.

FLAMING GRILL AT THE TOWNEPLACE SUITES ORLANDO/ SPRINGHILL SUITES ORLANDO

Say goodbye to another amazing Wonderland in our Bud Light Disco with beats by Guest DJ Sammii Blendz.

$15 in advance

$25 at event

GayDayS

ALL ABOARD AS GAYDAYS IS BACK

again at the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld, located at 10100 International Dr. in Orlando, with this year’s theme set as 2024 Land Cruise!

GayDayS also returns with its popular Expo! This free event will feature live entertainment, giveaways and a wide variety of vendors and exhibitors offering an exciting array of LGBTQ+ goods and services, all conveniently located within the host hotel. The expo runs Thursday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

GayDayS’ Welcome & Information Booth as well as its Ticket & Merchandise Center will open May 29, starting at noon, with pool parties and events beginning on May 30.

Below we have information on GayDayS’ events. Prices are subject to change. For more information, visit GayDayS.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 30

Back in the 80’s

7-10 P.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Take a trip back to the 1980s for a retro party featuring all your favorite jams. Join GayDayS at The Pavilion, located at the host hotel, dressed in your best 80s style to listen to a collection of the best mix tapes. This is an 18 and up event. This is a free event

Gay Dazed & Confused

8 P.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Drag icons Randy Roberts and Varla Jean Merman are teaming up for a special GayDayS show featuring unforgettable entertainment.

$30 in advance | $40 at event

PI @ GD

8 P.M.-2 A.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

The legendary Pleasure Island party is back! Come relive all your favorite Mannequins hits. Music provided by DJ Scott Robert.

$20 in advance | $30 at event

FRIDAY, MAY 31

GayDayS Drag Bingo

5-7 P.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Hosted by former Miss GayDayS Twila Holiday, it’s all the fun of bingo and all the fun of a drag show mixed together.

$20 in advance | $30 at event

Country Night at the Pavilion

7-10 P.M.

Pull out those cowboy boots and chaps and head over to the Pavilion. Country wear is encouraged and the event will feature country music, line dancing, beer and whiskey. This is an 18 and up event.

This is a free event.

GayDayS Porn Star Bingo

7:30-9:30 P.M

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Join host Addison Taylor and her team of porn stars for a host and steamy game of Porn Star Bingo. Just wait until you see what happens when “O-69” is called!

$30 in advance | $40 at event

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

Love Island Erotica Overnight Circuit Party

12-6 A.M.

Party all night long and find your love! Discount available if you purchase tickets to both Overnight Circuit Parties.

$45 in advance | $60 at event

Miss

GayDayS Pageant

5-7 P.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Who will be crowned Miss GayDayS 2024? Hosted by Chi Chi LaRue and Twila Holiday, and featuring Miss GayDayS 2023 Jade Foxx, see the contestants attempt to dazzle the judges in categories such as interview, formal wear and performance.

$20 in advance | $30 at event

SUNDAY, JUNE 2

Fantasy Island Fetish Ball Overnight Circuit Party

12-6 A.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Get ready to unleash your wildest dreams on Fantasy Island. Discount available if you purchase tickets to both Overnight Circuit Parties.

$45 in advance | $60 at event

Mr. GayDayS Leather Competition

1-3 P.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Come meet Mr GayDayS Leather 2023, Tony Vega, and find out who will take home the sash and patch this year at the Mr GayDayS 2024 Leather Competition. Hosted by Jeffrey Wayne and Twila Holiday.

$20 in advance | $30 at event

Boots, Beers & Bears Victory Party

5 P.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Come out and celebrate the victory of the newly sashed 2024 Mr. GayDayS Leather.

This is a free event

Gay

Dazed & Confused

6 P.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Drag icons Randy Roberts and Varla Jean Merman are back for another GayDayS show.

$30 in advance | $40 at event

Tea

Dance at GayDayS

8 P.M.-2 A.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Join the one and only DJ Brianna Lee for the last dance of GayDayS 2024.

$30 in advance | $40 at event

DAILY EVENTS: Main Pool & Bear Pool Parties

MAY 30-JUNE 2

11 A.M.-2 A.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

GayDayS’ pool parties are legendary and feature some of the best DJs from all over the world. This year’s DJ’s are listed here. Thursday: DJ Trevor Oldroyd, Pacemaker and DJ Jayson; Friday: DJ Robbie Carrigan, DJ Trevor Oldroyd and DJ Hot Mess; Saturday: DJ Joshua Atom, DJ Itty Bitty and DJ John Stuurm; Sunday: DJ Mike Sklarz, DJ Joshua Atom and DJ

Chi Chi La Rue. Ticket price gets you access to both the Main Pool and the Bear Pool.

POOL PASS FOR EITHER THURSDAY OR FRIDAY:

$40 in advance $50 at event

POOL PASS FOR EITHER SATURDAY OR SUNDAY:

$50 in advance $60 at event

Puppy Mosh

MAY 31-JUNE 2

3-5 P.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON

ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Calling all pups, come have some fun at the daily puppy mish, open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

$5 per day in advance, $10 at event

$15 for all 3 days in advance, $25 for all 3 days at event

Foam Party

MAY 30-JUNE 1

10 P.M.-1 A.M.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON ORLANDO AT SEAWORLD

Come join in on the fun in GayDayS’ nightly foam party, open Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

$10 per night

$25 for all 3 nights

A Queer Podcast Wine Wine Not

Hosted By:

Jeremy Williams

The Pride Cup

KINDRED PRIDE FOUNDATION IS A nonprofit organization formed by One Magical Weekend owners Tom Christ and Billy Looper to help keep the spirit of the first Saturday in June as Gay Day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom alive, encouraging one million people around the world to wear red on that day. It also was established to support and raise funds for other nonprofits that educate, promote and celebrate diversity, inclusion, equality, safe expression and kindness.

As part of the KindRED Pride Foundation, The Pride Cup is an annual LGBTQ+ multi-sport competition held during the first weekend in June in Orlando. With events welcoming all levels of athletes, the spirit of the competition is “Be Kind Champion” to coincide with the RED Shirt Pride Days.

This year’s Pride Cup will feature golf, basketball, cornhole, kickball, pickleball, soccer and volleyball.

Come out to play or come out to watch, support and cheer on the athletes. You can read individual event information here.

For more details on this year’s Pride Cup, visit KindRedPride.org/Pride-Cup.

Golf

MAY 31

DUBSDREAD GOLF COURSE

KindRED Pride will once again partner with Bowled Over Promotions to host a one-day golf outing to benefit

The Pride Chamber, Central Florida’s LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce. With 144 expected participants, this should be the largest LGBTQ+ golf outing in the U.S.

The Pride Cup Golf Tournament will consist of:

-Four-person Scramble Tournament

-Closest to the Pin (mens and womens)

-Longest Drive (mens and womens)

Golfers can register either as a foursome or as an individual and will be playing 18 holes at Dubsdread Golf Course, located at 549 West Par St. in Orlando. Tee off starts at 8 a.m. Golfers will get a continental breakfast, fabulous golfer gift bag, lunch and two drinks on the course. The event will also have raffle prizes and fun contests.

An awards lunch will follow at Dubsdread’s Tap Room starting at 12:30 p.m.

Registration is $150 for a single golfer and $600 for a foursome

Basketball

JUNE 1-2

LAKE BUENA VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

The United States Pride Basketball Association is partnering with KindRED Pride to bring basketball to The Pride Cup for the first time. The inaugural Pride Cup Basketball Tournament will be a two-day tournament with Round Robin played on the first day and then a single elimination tournament on the second day.

Registration fee is $550

Cornhole

JUNE 1-2

LAKE BUENA VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

Get ready to enjoy the thrill of flinging corn-filled bags into holes. The Rainbow Sports League is bringing Cornhole to The Pride Cup for the first time. The inaugural Cornhole Tournament is a two-day tournament with Round Robin played on the first day of The Pride Cup and then a single elimination tournament with teams placed in two divisions on the second day. You can register as a full team or as a team player. Teams can have two to six players with two team members on the court at a time. Guaranteed to play at least four matches. Teams will be placed in Round Robins by blind draw. Tournament entry fee is $40 ($45 for late registration)

Kickball

JUNE 1-2

LAKE BUENA VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

OUT Sports League is bringing back kickball to The Pride Cup with the goal to unite all of the major Florida LGBTQ+ kickball leagues, so you can expect to see teams from OUT Orlando, OUT Tampa, Rainbow Sports League in Fort Lauderdale, Stonewall Gainesville, Stonewall Jacksonville and more. Teams will consist of 12-17 players. This is a seeded bracket tournament, with each team assigned to three or four random games in a round robin on the first day to determine the seeding. The second day will be a two-division elimination tournament. Games will be played for first, second and third place. Tournament entry fee is $40

Pickleball

JUNE 1-2

LAKE BUENA VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

OUT Sports League is also hosting Pickleball at The Pride Cup this year, offering different doubles and scramble formats to help you meet new people, stay active and get involved with the community. The outdoor, doubles round robin tournament will consist of five total games played to 15 points in pools of six teams. Each event will contain brackets of three different skill levels: Novice (3.0 and under), Intermediate (3.5) and Advanced (4.0) and above. The first day will see Women’s Doubles and Men’s Doubles with the seconds day playing Mixed Doubles and Doubles Scramble. Individuals who sign up without a partner will be matched up. If unable to partner you, a refund will be given. Tournament entry fee is $40

Soccer

JUNE 1-2

LAKE BUENA VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

The International LGBTQ+ Football Association is proud to introduce a new 7v7 Soccer Tournament for The Pride Cup this year. This is a two-day tournament, 7v7 with a goalkeeper and 12 max per team, starting with the group stage on the first day and then playoffs on the second day. Guaranteed to play at least four games. Register as a Team, small group or free agent. The tournament will also feature on the first day, the Kicking Out Transphobia match. This match is a special mini 3v3 tournament highlighting diversity, inclusion and trans resilience.

Registration is $54.99 as an individual or $550 per team

Volleyball

JUNE 1-2

LAKE BUENA VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

You’re invited you to bump, set and spike your way through a magical weekend with the Rainbow Sports League’s Volleyball Tournament. This event will be a 6v6 recreational grass volleyball tournament and a 4v4 competitive grass volleyball tournament. All teams will be co-ed, you can register as a team or as a individual and be placed on a team. Registration is $40 per player

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOHN TEIXEIRA

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

ESH RED

Jennifer Ring

ACH MAY, THOUSANDS OF NEW

Yorkers take the ferry to Fire Island for their summer vacations. The car-free paradise, a well-known gay sanctuary since the 1920s, is a hotbed of queer history, art, literature and tradition. Decades after its formative years, summer still brings tea dances, drag invasions and LGBTQ+ artists to the Island — and this year, a piece of the action comes to St. Pete.

The weekend of May 17-19, The Werk Gallery and The Wet Spot celebrate Fire Island traditions in St. Pete’s first Fire Island Weekend event. It begins with Meryl Meisler’s Fire Island photographs at The Werk through the end of June. Inspired by queer joy, Meisler’s photographs capture disco-era Fire Island in the late 1970s, before AIDS, crack and cell phones. The time travel continues with 70s

Saturday at The Wet Spot. From 4-10 p.m. Studio 54 legend DJ Robbie Leslie spins 70s hits in a disco tea dance paradise created special for the event. Steve Sidewalk keeps the party rolling into the 80s on Sunday.

This weekend of Fire Island revelry comes to St. Pete courtesy of Fire Island Pines Historical Preservation Society President Robert Bonanno.

Bonanno was in his early 20s when he first visited Fire Island.

“Getting off that boat in Cherry Grove was like ‘The Wizard of Oz’ where you stepped into technicolor,” Bonanno recounts. “It was the freedom that place gave you. You walked around and you could be whoever you are.”

CONTINUED ON PG. 41 | uu |

“PARROT PANTS,” CHERRY GROVE, FIRE ISLAND, NY, AUGUST 1977

“JUDIJUPITER READING ANAÏS NIN’S ‘DELTA OF VENUS EROTICA,’” FIRE ISLAND PINES, NY, JULY 1978

“GRACE JONES MASK CREATED FROM RICHARD BERNSTEIN PORTRAIT,” THE ICE PALACE, CHERRY GROVE, FIRE ISLAND, NY, LABOR DAY, SEPTEMBER 1977

“FOUR ON DECK AT ‘STAR WARS’ PARTY,” FIRE ISLAND PINES, NY, AUGUST 1977

•

•

•

•

•

•

Public school teacher and photographer Meryl Meisler was also in her 20s when she made her first pilgrimage to Fire Island. It was July of 1977. A NYC beautician 40 years her senior invited Meisler to come to his summer place.

“I had an aha moment,” Meisler recounts, realizing, “this is the place with the naked fairies they were talking about.”

Meisler stayed in the attic of a place called The Survivor near the post office.

“And it didn’t matter if it was hot or dusty, because you barely slept,” says Meisler. “You were out dancing, meeting people, going to The Ice Palace, going to the beach.”

Meisler likens the energy of the place to that of a Duracell battery.

Although they didn’t know each other then, Meisler and Bonanno use similar words to describe their earliest Fire Island memories.

“Going on the ferry, you’re literally leaving the mainland and going someplace new where there are no cars,” says Meisler. “Everything’s walking, and everything’s biking. It’s an adventure to a little paradise of acceptance. Whoever you are, you are welcome here.”

Except for 2020, Meisler has visited Fire Island every year since her first trip in 1977. Asked how the place has changed, she says she notices more similarities than differences.

“Maybe some fashions change, but not much,” she says. “I actually feel the reverence that something’s still there. It’s very similar.”

About 14 years ago, Bonanno remembers overhearing a conversation in The Pines, which Bonanno describes as Cherry Grove’s younger sister.

“There are two gay meccas on Fire Island,” Bonanno explains. “There’s Cherry Grove and the Pines, and they’re very different. They are sisters — one is older, one is younger — and of course the younger one wants to think they know everything. But I overheard a conversation about how they were going to change the name of the club where the tea dance started.”

The Blue Whale bar hosted the first tea dance in Fire Island Pines in 1966. The event has an interesting history that’s difficult to grasp in today’s time. But there was once a time when it was illegal to knowingly serve alcohol to homosexuals. Afternoon tea,

however, was perfectly respectable, and so “tea” took on another meaning on Fire Island. At the Blue Whale, “tea” was a combination of gin and blue curacao simply named a Blue Whale.

“It’s like a gay bell rings at five o’clock,” says Bonanno. “People hear it and you see them come out of the

In collecting these stories, Bonanno came across some of Meisler’s photographs, which he posted to the Fire Island Pines Historical Preservation Society’s website. This was how Meisler, who tracks all her photographs through their meta data, discovered the Fire Island Pines Historical

many Fire Island photos to count. Meisler sent about 100 photos, via Dropbox, to Werk founders Matthew and Fritz Faulhaber.

“There’s a myth sometimes about Fire Island that it’s very white and very male, but that’s not these images,” Fritz tells Watermark. “By going through the whole thing, we

woods. And all of a sudden by 6:30 it’s packed, and the music is playing. It’s a tradition that started at The Blue Whale, and it’s replicated in gay resorts all over the world.”

When Bonanno heard that this legendary Fire Island locale was about to lose its name, he felt the need to do something.

“How could they do that to someplace that held so much history?” Bonnano put out on social media.

“Needless to say, the name was never changed,” says Bonanno.

Still, the incident demonstrated to Bonnano the importance of preserving Fire Island history. Realizing that no one was actively keeping the Pines legacy, Bonanno founded the Fire Island Pines Historical Preservation Society in 2010. The nonprofit organization has been collecting, preserving and displaying Fire Island Pines stories on its website for over a decade.

Preservation Society.

Meisler started reading the site’s contents and was intrigued by it. And while Meisler doesn’t take kindly to her photographs being lifted by commercial sites, she was attracted to the mission of this small nonprofit. For the sake of preserving history, Meisler wrote the website administrator and provided additional information on when and where the photos were taken, and Bonanno responded.

“I understood what he was doing and how important it was,” says Meisler.

“Like any group of people, the LGBT people have a history and culture that’s passed on from generation to generation,” Meisler continues. “And you can see that these traditions continue. And it’s a good thing to have that shared history.”

As a film photographer, Meisler is relatively judicious with her photography, yet she’s taken too

into someone else’s body like it’s a couch, and they’re smiling, and their hands are interacting and their feet are interacting, and there’s someone walking by and there’s the ocean on the side. It’s very simply and beautifully composed, and they are so cute and so pleased with their friendship and their relationship and the beautiful day. It exudes joy and comfort.”

Meisler took the image in Cherry Grove in July of 1978.

Beyond beach vibes, Meisler incidentally captured some LGBTQ+ celebrities during her time on Fire Island. One of the images Matthew and Fritz selected was a portrait of famous drag king Storme DeLarverie, who allegedly threw the first punch during the 1969 Stonewall uprising.

Having never been to Fire Island, Matthew and Fritz, like this writer, are seeing the place solely through Meisler and Bonanno’s eyes. It is their shared history, their legacy, that comes to St. Pete this summer.

This year, as Bonanno plans his move to St. Petersburg, he considered how he could bring a piece of the Island with him. So on his last visit to St. Pete in September, he stopped by The Werk and told Matthew and Fritz about Meisler’s photography. Then he visited Cocktail and The Wet Spot, where he told owner David Fischer about tea dances and their history on Fire Island.

After a series of Zooms, emails, and phone calls, Bonnano says, “I’m very proud to say that we’re here … we’re bringing it, and I’m just so excited.”

were able to show a much more diverse community of people. There was a lot of intimacy, there were a lot of stories happening. So we tried to have a survey of everything that was going on.”

The pair selected about 23 photos from Meisler’s archives to show at The Werk this May through June.

“Matthew and Fritz did an outstanding job curating the work,” Meisler says. “It’s a selection of images that tell a very diverse story of quiet moments and lovers and older people and younger people.”

Revisiting these 23 moments in the dark room, Meisler says she feels their energy coming through.

Asked to pick a favorite, she says, “I’m just going to talk about one that I just printed — they’re all my children. But Matthew and Fritz picked one I printed yesterday. There’s three guys waiting on the dock, and they’re so happy and at ease with each other. One is resting

There’s much to be excited about. Meisler and Bonanno put together a catalog to accompany The Werk exhibition. The collector’s item pairs Bonanno’s words with Meisler’s photographs for an illustrated history of Fire Island. And Fischer says he’s putting a lighted dance floor out on the pool deck at The Wet Spot, where they’re serving Blue Whales per Fire Island tradition.

Most exciting of all, Fire Island Weekend lets Tampa Bay experience Fire Island without leaving town.

“Fire Island: The Photography of Meryl Meisler” opens May 17 from 5-9 p.m. at The Werk, located at 2210 1st Ave. S. in St. Petersburg, and runs until June 30. Learn more at TheWerk.Gallery. The Fire Island Classic Tea Dances will be held May 18 and 19 from 4-10 p.m. at The Wet Spot Pool, located at 2355 Central Ave. Learn more at CocktailStPete.com and for more on the Fire Island Pines Historical Preservation Society, visit PinesHistory.org.

“THREE WAIT ON DOCK,” CHERRY GROVE, FIRE ISLAND, NY, JULY 1978

ORLANDO FRINGE 2024 SHOWCASE

ORLANDO FRINGE 2024 SHOWCASE

Naughty Ballet

Orlando Ballet closes season with ‘Casanova’

Connor Barry

(ABOVE) DIRTY

DANCING:

“Casanova” dancers (L-R) Erin Atkinson, Anamarie McGinn, Hazuki Kishida, John Abenanty and Sofia Abenanty.

PHOTO COURTESY

GIACOMO CASANOVA WAS A

womanizer, an intellectual, a priest, a gambler, a violinist and much more.

All of that and more will be brought out in the intense ballet, “Casanova,” coming to the Dr. Phillips Center on May 16-19 to close out the Orlando Ballet’s 2023-24 season.

“We are closing our extraordinary 50th anniversary season with a production that is sinfully rich with the forbidden. Just the mention of Casanova’s name and everyone’s eyebrows automatically rise; you can’t help it,” said Artistic Director Jorden Morris in a press release.

“Choreographer Kenneth Tindall has created a visually stunning presentation of Casanova’s life of lust, faith, betrayal and genius. It’s way more fun than should be allowed, which is why we are doing it. And if you thought our dancers were

beautiful before, wait until you see them dance in ‘Casanova.’”

Guest conductor Julian Pellicano, music director with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, will lead live musical performances by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra as they perform music by Kerry Muzzey.

Tindall, a former principal dancer with London’s Northern Ballet, is not only the current Choreographer in Residence with the Orlando Ballet but is also the show’s director.

“When you come into the show, you get that essence of what he is,” says Tindall. “The sex was the first attraction but … quite frankly he was also a brilliant mind.”

Set in 18th Century Venice and following the life and essence of

Casanova, sex and sexual tension are a huge part of the ballet, says Tindall. However, the ballet focuses on more than just that, to understand fully who Casanova was and how he became such an iconic person.

Tindall adds that in the creation of the ballet, he sat down with Ian Kelly, author of the biography “Casanova” of which this ballet is based, to figure out how best to capture the man and bring that into dance.

“The first stop was really him and understanding how to take 12 volumes of a memoir, which is what Casanova left behind, and turn that into a two-hour biopic, which was a massive undertaking in itself,” says Tindall. “I was trying to find the essence, the flavor, the character of this man and the sort of paths that repeated themselves throughout his life.”

Something that excited Tindall about “Casanova” was that it is different from a traditional ballet.

“I’m quite a man of theater and I’m keen on the show to be a show. And yes, I want to use the ballet language, but when you come to this, I want it to be quite overwhelming on all of your sense,” says Tindall. “For that I wanted to bring people into the ballet world that had never really worked there before, to give it a different flavor.”

In adapting the ballet into something new and different, one of the biggest challenges for Tindall was translating the idea of Casanova and his life into dance.

“That’s always the challenge that we have in dance, like what can you say without words,” says Tindall. “Art, beauty and paid, I think those are some things we can say wonderfully without words. In fact, we can translate that more honest than with words.”

Created by Tindall in the U.K., this sell-out and award-winning production has been one of the hottest ballets playing in Europe and is making its North American debut in Orlando as part of a collaboration between Orlando Ballet, Colorado Ballet and Milwaukee Ballet.

“Kenneth has created a truly unique ballet with sets, costumes and edgy choreography that will spark a few pearl clutching moments for the audience,” said Morris. “Academically and musically gifted while also well-connected to power, Casanova was one big walking scandal through his entire life. There’s no more entertaining way to tell his incredible story than with exquisite dance and music that grabs the soul. We are ending the season in a very big, and, quite frankly, scintillating way.”

The show will include iconic venetian masquerades, period costumes and over the top dramatic sets, all of which are ideal said Morris for Tindall’s big choreography.

“This is the future — making big, expensive, lavish ballets more accessible to the public as a complement to the standard classics already available. Casanova is so well worth the investment,” Morris said. “We have an extraordinary story being told through dance by a tremendously imaginative choreographer, live music conducted by Guest Maestro Julian Pellicano and our own remarkable Orlando Ballet dancers who could not be more excited to perform. Just as our ballet organization has grown, so has our community in its appreciation for bigger and bolder ballet. ‘Casanova’ is all that and more for sure.”

Despite the show’s intensity, Tindall ensures that anyone can come and enjoy the show regardless of their familiarity with ballet.

“I think part of the successes of ‘Casanova’ is understanding accessibility to a story, whether you’re a first-time person to the theater you can sit back, listen to a luxurious score, and watch a spectacle unfold before your eyes and just appreciate that base level,” Tindall says. “That is not to say don’t challenge or dumb it down. I think a lot of it’s also thought provoking. It’s like a good film; it’s what’s not said that becomes the bits you think about.”

“Casanova” will be in Steinmetz Hall at the Dr. Philips Center, located at 445 South Magnolia Avenue, from May 16-19. Tickets can be purchased at DrPhilipsCenter.org.

Orlando Ballet announced its 2024-25 season which includes “Romeo & Juliet” (Oct. 17-20),“The Nutcracker” (Dec. 6-22), “Peter Pan” (Feb. 20-23, 2025),“Mixed Repertoire: American Classics” (March 27-30, 2025) and “Giselle” (May 1-4, 2025). Season subscriptions are now available at OrlandoBallet.org.

announcements TAMPA BAY OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS

TransNetwork and the Pinellas County Democratic Party raised nearly $20K April 28 during the inaugural UNI-TEA Dance. Read more on p. 12.

Clichè Restaurant Bar & Grill held its official grand opening May 4 in Dunedin. “My heart is very, very heavy and couldn’t be happier,” Owner Delores T. Cartier shared. Read more soon at WatermarkOnline.com.

Enigma held its 10-year anniversary bash May 4, celebrating a decade of serving LGBTQ+ Tampa Bay. “To see us reach this milestone with all the craziness that’s taken place over this stretch is simply mind boggling! Now I’m just excited to see what lies ahead,” Enigma Owner Ed Gonzalez shared. Read more at WatermarkOnline.com.

OUT Arts & Culture will hold the nonprofit’s inaugural OUTie Awards GAYLA May 31 from 7-10 p.m. at the Gulfport Casino. The evening will celebrate their growth and rebranding from the LGBTQ Resource Center and recognize supporters including Watermark. Learn more at OUTArtsAndCulture.org and read more soon at WatermarkOnline.com.

CLOSURES

Quench Lounge announced May 7 that it will permanently close May 18 after serving LGBTQ+ Tampa Bay for more than a decade. Read more at WatermarkOnline.com.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS

Animal lover Sarah Wilson, Webtivity Marketing & Design President Terry Thompson (May 9); TransNetwork Co-Founder Tristan Byrnes, Tampa Bay entertainer Dale Wilson aka Power Infiniti (May 10); Tampa Bay massage therapist Alexis Acevedo, Tampa nursing home director Scott J. Allen, Tampa insurance executive Jeff Giles, former CitySide Lounge owner James Encke, Ybor City Barbering Co. co-owner Lauren Harmon, Citi Sr. Vice President Paul Fifer (May 11); Tampa activist Stephanie Foglia (May 12); Tampa Bay super volunteer Jeremy Wade Neiman, (May 13); St. Petersburg school teacher Bob Tencza, Largo media publisher Jeff Youngblood (May 14); Hillsborough Kids advocate Malachi Ortiz, Tampa Bay entertainer Amanda D’Rhod, St Pete Pride board member Clifford Hobbs (May 15); “Big Gay Radio Show” Co-Host Bryan Hinkson, Tampa Bay fitness instructor Bryan Lloyd, St. Pete ROTC leader Frank Hay, FOX 13 reporter Dan Matics, Kobe Steakhouse server Alex Quinto, Tampa artist Ric Moreir (May 16); Sarasota artist Ming “Troy” Ming, St. Pete staple Marc Calvillo, Sarasota helping hand Jennifer Chalfa, Dog-adoring Tom Singer, Political activist Bryan Farris, (May 17); Tampa Bay director Trevor Keller, Sarasota Planned Parenthood’s Jarred Wilson (May 18); St. Petersburg politico Tony Meredith, Tampa Bay activist Elliott Darrow (May 19); Tampa Bay bartender James Bailey, Wordier Than Thou founder and Watermark contributor Tiffany Razzano, Tampa Bay artist Lance Michael (May 20); Watermark photographer Jamarcus Mosley, Tampa Bay bear Rick Grayson (May 21); University of Tampa professor Jack Crepeau, Sarasota University Club’s Peter McClain Jr., Fabulous Arts Foundation Founder Shannon Fortner, Tampa Bay bartender Nikko Panagos (May 22).

1

RIDIN’ WITH BIDEN: Hillsborough County LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus Secretary Dave Cutler (R) snaps a selfie with Joe Biden during after the president’s Tampa speech April 23. PHOTO FROM THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY LGBTQ+ DEM’S FACEBOOK

2 COMING TOGETHER: TransNetwork Co-Founders Andre Clarke (L) and Andy Citino welcome supporters to Coastal Creative April 28 for the UNI-TEA Dance. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

3 PASSING THE BRUSH: St. Pete LGBTQ+ Liaison Eric Vaughan (L) and his predecessor Jim Nixon help repaint the Progressive Pride street mural in the Grand Central District May 6. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

4 MAKE IT BLUE: (L-R) Whitney Fox, Rep. Lindsey Cross and LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus President Nathan Bruemmer attend Leadership Blue 2024 May 3. PHOTO FROM WHITNEY FOX’S FACEBOOK

5 SILVER SHOWCASE: Mr. Come OUT St. Pete Silver Foxx strikes a pose at The Garage May 5 during COSP’s monthly showcase. PHOTO FROM COME OUT ST. PETE’S FACEBOOK

6 HAPPILY EVER AFTER: American Stage cast and crew close “Beauty and the Beast in the Park” May 6. PHOTO FROM AMERICAN STAGE’S FACEBOOK

7 YOU BETTER NETWORK: Strategize & Socialize Networking Mixer members come together at Cocktail May 1. PHOTO VIA DYLAN TODD

8 DECADE OF DRAG: (L-R) Autumn Vee, Lady Janet, April Fresh and Daphne Ferraro take a bow, closing Enigma’s 10-year bash May 4. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

announcements CENTRAL FLORIDA OUT+ABOUT

DEPARTURES

After eight years with the Orange County Regional History Center, Executive Director Pamela Schwartz is leaving for a new position with a New York-based global exhibition company. Schwartz was instrumental in collecting and preserving tribute items in the days, weeks and months after the Pulse tragedy.

RETURNING

SPEKTRUM Health is once again offering hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The LGBTQ+-focused health care clinic posted to its social media April 26 that “while we await a verdict from December’s trial (Challenge to SB254), we have secured a quicker pathway to restore care! Existing patients, please check your email for instructions!” In its social media post, SPEKTRUM states that the clinic has brought on an MD, something the new Florida law specified as a requirement. Limited appointments are available and interested individuals can login and sign up at SPEKTRUM.Health/Portal.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS

DJ extraordinaire Scott Robert (May 9); Southern Nights bartender Gabrielle Juliana, Former Orange County Sheriff candidate Darryl B. Sheppard (May 10); Rollercoaster enthusiast Dainan Rafferty (May 11); New homeowner Bassel Hesham (May 12); Pulse Orlando legend Cindy Barbalock, CycleBar instructor Ryan Tucker (May 13); Peer Support Space co-founder Dandelion Hill, Southern Nights bartender Sara Barone, Central Florida ally and artist Christie Miga, Server Seth Bradshaw (May 14); Orlando entertainer Craig Raymo, Central Florida straight ally Alex Copeland (May 15); Central Florida standup comedian Lee Cohen, Deaf Drag Performing Artist Georgia Up in Space (May 16); Orlando muscle bear and trainer Migael Schieder, Orlando Ballet Dancer Alberto Blanco Perez, Hospitality professional Kevin William McKinney (May 17); Central Florida photographer Julie Milford Textor, Central Florida drag performer Kai’ja Taylor Adonis, former Watermark intern Percy Mercer, Disney castmember Larry Tucker (May 18); Come Out With Pride board president Corey Bryant, Senior pastor at Joy MCC Terri Steed Pierce, Central Florida ally Marianella Falbo, Orlando performer Natalie Hightower (May 19); State House Rep. Anna V. Eskamani, Rep. Smith’s former legislative aide Ida V. Eskamani, Orlando Immunology Center medical director Edwin DeJesus, Yow Dance owner Eric Yow, Olde Town Brokers realtor Brett Winters, Drag personality Alex Gonzalo aka Tara Newhole, Dancer and stiltwalker Kara Valliere, Renaissance Theatre Company performer Meghan Ottomano, Artist and drag talent Isaac Perez (May 20); Orlando real estate agent Wes Miller, Vice-chair of the Human Rights Campaign board of directors John Ruffier, proud mommy Tanya Blasingame (May 21); Hunks Orlando Promoter Jeffrey Torres, Orlando artist Cake Marques, Nurse and spiritualist Bradley Gerik, Manager at Kings Dining & Entertainment Orlando Brittany Gayle, Central Florida photographer Tabitha Whidby (May 22).

1

MEETING LEADERS: (L-R) Joe Colon-Acevedo, Eric Rollings, Democratic Minority Whip Katherine Clark, Congressman Darren Soto and Jason Lambert during a fundraising event for Soto at Jack & Honey’s in Orlando April 24. PHOTO BY BELLANEE PLAZA

2

FIGHTING BACK: Roxy Santiago (L) and Joey Knoll during a rally against the state’s anti-trans ID policy at SPEKTRUM Health in Orlando May 6. PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

3

CENTER ART: La Jon Dantzler (L) and Lee Cohen attend “A Seat at the Table” art show and auction at the LGBT+ Center Orlando May 2. PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

4

BEST BUDS: Pineapple Healthcare’s Erick Suarez brings is buddy Cosmo to the office in Orlando April 26. PHOTO FROM ERICK SUAREZ’S FACEBOOK

5

NEWSMAKERS: WESH 2’s Nancy Alvarez (R) takes a picture with The Center’s CEO George Wallace while covering a story at the LGBT+ Center Orlando April 26. PHOTO FROM NANCY ALVAREZ’S FACEBOOK

6 THE FINAL FRONTIER: Florida Rep. Anna V. Eskamani (L) and NASA administrator Bill Nelson are all smiles at Kennedy Space Center May 6 for the Starliner launch to the space station. The launch was unfortunately scrubbed. PHOTO FROM REP. ANNA V. ESKAMANI’S FACEBOOK

7 DANCING AND DINING: Asia Black performs during Savoy Orlando’s Dining Out For Life Drag Brunch event April 28. PHOTO BY DANNY GARCIA

8

PROUD PARADE: Watermark contributor Jerick Mediavilla celebrates both LGBTQ+ and Puerto Rican Pride while marching in the Puerto Rican Day Parade in downtown Orlando April 27. PHOTO BY CARLOS GUILLERMO SMITH; FROM JERICK MEDIAVILLA’S FACEBOOK

community calendar

CENTRAL FLORIDA

Donate with Pride Blood Drive

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 9 A.M.-5 P.M. ONEBLOOD HEADQUARTERS, ORLANDO

The LGBT+ Center Orlando, OneBlood and The Pride Chamber team up to celebrate the one-year mark of the landmark decision that allows gay and bisexual men to donate blood with a blood donation event at 8669 Commodity Circle in Orlando. This event is more than a blood drive – it’s a celebration of progress, a call to support and a chance to contribute to a cause that touches lives. For more information and to sign up to donate, go to bit.ly/43Sge3K.

Watermark’s

Third Thursday

THURSDAY, MAY 16, 6-8 P.M. CELEBRATION GARDENS, ORLANDO

Join Watermark at Celebration Gardens for our May Third Thursday, a monthly networking mixer that helps to raise funds for a local nonprofit. This month’s mixer benefits the Orlando Gay Chorus. The event will feature light bites, cash bar with first drink on the house, fabulous raffle prizes and live entertainment. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 407-481-2243 or visit WatermarkOnline.com.

TAMPA BAY

“Out in the World”

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 7 P.M.

TOMBOLO BOOKS, ST. PETERSBURG

Join award-winning writer Mark Jason Williams in celebration of “Out in the World,” billed as the first-ever inclusive LGBTQ+ travel guidebook. He will be in conversation with Watermark Managing Editor Ryan Williams-Jent, reflecting on the new publication and more. RSVP at TomboloBooks.com.

Equality Florida 2024 St. Pete Gala

SATURDAY, MAY 18, 5:30-10 P.M. THE COLISEUM, ST. PETERSBURG

Equality Florida invites supporters to celebrate the resistance and resilience of our community. Tickets begin at $150 and include hors d’oeuvres, a buffet dinner and an open bar. Equality Florida Deputy Director Stratton Pollitzer will deliver an address, honorees include Caprice Edmond and Dr. Bob Wallace. Shevonne, DJ Shannon and emcee Daphne Ferraro will entertain. Learn more at EQFL.org/ StPeteGala.

EVENT PLANNER

HEADING SOUTH

Hozier, May 11, MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa. 813-740-2446; LiveNation.com

Free Pops in the Park, May 12, Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, Tampa. 727-892-3337; FloridaOrchestra.org

“An Intimate Evening with Sting and TFO,” May 10, Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-892-3337; FloridaOrchestra.org

“The Smuggler: A Thriller in Verse,” May 15-June 9, Jobsite Theater, Tampa. 813-476-7378; JobsiteTheater.org

“Hedwig and the Angry Inch,” May 15-June 16, American Stage & Jannus Live, St. Petersburg. 727-823-7529; AmericanStage.org

Kathy Griffin, May 16, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org

CENTRAL FLORIDA

“To Kill a Mockingbird,” Through May 19, Theater West End, Sanford. 407-548-6285; TheaterWestEnd.com

Opera Orlando presents “The Juniper Tree,” May 10-11, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-512-1900; OperaOrlando.org

“The Golden Gals,” May 10-12, Clermont Performing Arts Center, Clermont. 352-394-4800; ClermontPerformingArts.com

“The Wind in the Willows,” May 10-12, CFCArts Black Box Theater, Orlando. 407-937-1800; CFCArts.com

Orlando Taco & Margarita Fest, May 11, Central Florida Fairgrounds, Orlando. 407-295-3247; CentralFloridaFair.com

Drag Bingo Monthly Fundraiser, May 11, Abbey Bar, DeLand. 386-232-8551; DeLandPride.org

EUROVISION Watch Party, May 11, Savoy, Orlando. 407-898-6766; SavoyOrlando.com

“Peter Pan,” May 14-19, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org

Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, May 14-27, various locations, Orlando. OrlandoFringe.org

Orlando Ballet present “Casanova,” May 16-18, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-426-1733; OrlandoBallet.org

Kathy Griffin, May 17, The Plaza Live, Orlando. 407-228-1220; PlazaLiveOrlando.org

GOTTMIK, May 17, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando

Bad Bunny, May 17-18, Kia Center, Orlando. 407-440-7000; KiaCenter.com

Orlando Gay Chorus presents “The Gay Agenda REVEALED!,” May 22, Ritz Theater, Sanford. 407-321-8111; RitzTheaterSanford.com

Winter Park Wine & Jazz Spring Edition, May 23, Winter Park Events Center, Winter Park. 407-599-3571; WinterParkEventsCetner.org

TAMPA BAY

LGB2B+ Breakfast Social, May 10, Stella’s, Gulfport. Facebook.com/Groups/ LGB2BPlus

EPIC Generations Coffee Hour, May 10, Sunshine Center, St. Petersburg. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

Afternoon Trivia, May 11, Neptune Grill, Gulfport. 410-262-2929; GregAndersonEvents.com

“Fire Island 1970s: The Photography of Meryl Meisler” Opening, May 17, The Werk, St. Petersburg. 727-289-8685; TheWerk.Gallery

Fire Island Classic Tea Dance: 70s Saturday & 80s Sunday, May 18-19, The Wet Spot, St. Petersburg. 727-592-1914; CocktailStPete.com

GOTTMIK, May 18, Southern Nights, Tampa. 813-559-8625; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsTampa Shade Showcase, May 18, The Garage, St. Petersburg. 727-258-4850; Facebook.com/ OFCLGaragePage

EPIC Generations Coffee Hour, May 24, Senior Center, Gulfport. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

SARASOTA

Diversity Fest 2024, May 11, The Harvest, Sarasota. 941-953-3559; DiverseFest.com To submit your upcoming event, concert, performance, or fundraiser visit watermarkonline.com.

“RuPaul’s Drag Race” alum GOTTMIK takes the stages of Southern Nights in May, first in Orlando for #FlexFridays on May 17 then in Tampa on May 18. PHOTO BY DVSROSS; FROM FLICKR

E n d i n g t h e

ER Care Just For Kids.

When every moment counts, trust us to be there. As a national leader in emergency care, our board-certified emergency physicians and highly trained ER nurses are available 24/7 to provide exceptional care for children and teens in 30 specialties. We’re also home of the only Level One Trauma Center in the region, with state-of-theart diagnostic equipment to treat even the most complex conditions. Giving you more reasons to choose well. ArnoldPalmerHospital.com/ER

Bayfront Health is now Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital.

A new name, for a new century of care. Three years ago, we welcomed Bayfront Health into the Orlando Health family of hospitals. Since that time, we’ve been making steady investments in Bayfront Health and the St. Petersburg community to improve the quality of care and your patient experience, with expanded services and access to more top specialists. And we are proud to add our name. Stay tuned for even more good news to come.

OrlandoHealth.com/Bayfront