PHOTO BY ROBYN VON SWANK
Rick Todd PUBLISHER Rick@WatermarkOnline.com
Watermark is coming OUT PUBLISHER’S DESK
“T HE ONLY CONSTANT IN LIFE
is change.” Sometimes for the bad: my uncle Tom — Mr. T to his nephews — passed away just a few days before Christmas this year. And sometimes for the good: my niece had her first baby the day after Christmas, making me the great uncle I knew I always could be. But it is always constant.
When Watermark formed in 1994, the queer community was struggling for protection in the workplace, safety from hate crimes and a general sense of equality to name a few concerns. There was no specific piece of legislation that prevented anyone from “saying gay,” but if you did it would certainly get people’s attention, and not in a positive way, generally speaking.
It was a conscious decision to not call the newspaper (insert city name here) Gay News. Although the tagline “Florida’s Distinctive Gay and Lesbian Publication” was on the front page, the concern of naming the paper Gay was twofold: 1) readers may not feel comfortable sitting down in public to read it or pick it up and 2) local businesses wouldn’t allow the paper to be distributed in their stores. Both valid in my opinion, as it would defeat the purpose of starting the paper if it didn’t get into the hands of the community.
Watermark fulfilled its mission. It connected and helped strengthen the community in Central Florida and Tampa Bay. Although full equality remains elusive, we have made gains in workplace protections, marriage equality and the passage of hate crime legislation. We have lived in this space somewhat comfortably for the past several years; 2025 hints at challenging those gains.
I have always been a fan of LGBTQ+ rights activist Harvey Milk. He was one of the first gay people I learned about when I first came out. In his “Hope Speech” of 1978 he said, “Like every other group, we must be judged by our leaders and by those who are themselves gay, those who are visible. For invisible, we remain in limbo — a myth, a person with no parents, no brothers, no sisters, no friends who are straight, no important positions in employment.”
I’ve thought about this over the past years as corporate America has begun to shy away from public support in the wake of Florida’s attacks on Disney and the blowback of Bud Light’s collaboration with a trans activist. These hard times are not the cue to retreat, they are the indication that we need more support, more visibility.
We at Watermark have decided it is time for us to be more visible, to come out of the closet so to speak. We cover the news in a state that is ground zero for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and we want everyone to know that we are here to inform and support the LGBTQ+ community. Watermark will now operate under the name Watermark Out News. Same trusted news source, more visibly out.
For those that follow us on social media, you will start to see those change to fit our new name in the coming days, as well as our website and email addresses.
We will also be rebranding our best of WAVE awards, now known as the WONDER Awards or Watermark Out News: Diversity, Excellence and Resilience Awards. Our nomination round is online now through Jan. 15. Don’t miss your chance to honor your favorites!
Watermark Out News is also adding something new to each
issue this year known as The Good Page. On this page we will share with you the good news we know we need. It might be a business hitting a milestone, a profile of an individual doing good work or a family celebrating an adoption or marriage. This first issue, The Good Page highlights Gabby and Emily of Hornet Designs. They’re helping empower trans members of our community with gender-affirming photo editing services that help
These hard times are not the cue to retreat, they are the indication that we need more support, more visibility.
people see themselves as they want to be seen.
Thanks to a grant from Press Forward, Watermark will be diving into new territory by hiring a social media coordinator for the first time. Our plan is to bring news to you in ways we haven’t been able to do before.
There is a lot of change to digest with Watermark Out News, but what has not changed is our staff, dedicated to the mission of advancing and informing LGBTQ+ interests, and our commitment to bringing you the stories of your life in a way no other publication does.
As we close out our 30th year and look to the future, I encourage you to stay visible, stay strong and support each other.
TIFFANY RAZZANO is the founder and president of Wordier Than Thou, a literary arts nonprofit that creates fun, engaging events for writers and readers. Page 19
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JOHNNY V. BOYKINS
central florida news
Safe at Home
Zebra Youth expanding short-term LGBTQ+ youth housing
Jeremy Williams
ORLANDO | Zebra Youth, a local nonprofit focused on providing services to LGBTQ+ youth, is expanding its short-term housing for queer youth thanks to a grant from the Homeless Services Network of Central Florida through its Brighter Days initiative.
Zebra Youth, who has been providing housing assistance to LGBTQ+ youth in need since 2013, added 12 additional units in a newly renovated building that has been designed for dormitory-style apartment living. There is no cost to the youth in the program.
The program provides housing for up to two years with one year in temporary housing being average. The space does not allow for pets, with the only exception being service animals.
The new units help to expand Zebra Youth’s Bridge Housing program to 23 total beds that serve LGBTQ+ youth ages 18-24.
“Everyone who comes to us for housing assistance will be assigned a case manager and they will take
part in an assessment that will assess their needs,” says Heather Wilkie, Zebra Youth’s executive director. “If they are living in an unstable environment or if they’re experiencing homelessness, then they could qualify for the program. It’s based on need, so of course we have a waitlist since unfortunately in Central Florida there is an affordable housing crisis.”
Zebra Youth currently has 45 youth on a waitlist for its short-term housing program.
According to the Trevor Project, 28% of LGBTQ youth reported experiencing homelessness or housing instability at some point in their lives.
Bobby Hermida came to Zebra Youth in 2018, first utilizing the nonprofit’s mental health counseling for his alcohol and drug addiction.
“I got to a point where I hit rock bottom in my alcoholism and active addiction and needed support,” Hermida says. “My case manager was like this might be a good time to cross over into our housing program. Zebra has provided a strong foundation which has allowed me to create
HELPING HANDS: Zebra
Youth board member
Bobby Hermida (L) and executive director Heather Wilkie.
the connection between sobriety and recovery, and I’ve been able to stay sober and clean for almost seven years now.”
Hermida, who is now also a board member for Zebra Youth, is living on his own with a job and his own transportation, something he attributes directly to the assistance of Zebra.
“I have a lot of gratitude for the experience that I had and I hope that the youth that come through the program are able to feel that gratitude as well,” he says.
Zebra Youth has assisted more than 400 youth since beginning its housing initiative, seeing about 40 individuals a month, and that is growing, Wilkie says.
To assist with additional needs once they have housing, Zebra Youth has set up an Amazon Wishlist for anyone who can and wants to help. The list contains everyday items needed around the house such as trash bags, toilet paper, towels, cleaning supplies, pantry items and more. You can also donate gift cards for groceries, transportation and food delivery, as well as monetary donations directly to the organization through its website.
For more information on Zebra Youth’s housing programs, visit ZebraYouth.org/ programs-services/housing. If you would like to assist by donating, go to ZebraYouth.org/ take-action/donate.
MOMS LOOK FOR ANSWERS AFTER 7-YEAR-OLD SON IS HIT WITH DRONE
Jeremy Williams
ORLANDO | Adriana Edgerton and Jessica Lumedge are saying their 7-year-old son Alezander has undergone open-heart surgery after being hit in the chest by a falling drone during a holiday show at Lake Eola Park in Orlando Dec. 21.
Speaking with WESH 2, Edgerton said that she and her family were watching the 6:30 p.m. drone show at Lake Eola when drones started to fall out of the sky.
“Everyone’s natural instinct was to duck and scatter, and before we realized it, my daughter found my son on the floor unconscious. He had blood coming out of his face,” Edgerton told WESH 2.
Edgerton said the drone struck Alezander’s chest so hard that it damaged one of his heart valves, adding that an imprint of the drone was left on his chest.
The family has launched a GoFundMe to help with Alezander’s accident recovery.
“My baby is going into emergency heart surgery,” Lumedge wrote on the GoFundMe page. “Our family attended the drone show at Lake Eola on 12/21. One of the drones shot into my son’s chest, and our family would be so grateful for support for Alezander. He is currently staying in the hospital. I will be missing work at this time, and he will be celebrating Christmas in the ICU.”
The GoFundMe raised more than $30,000 in less than a week.
Sky Elements, the Texas-based company that organized the drone event, said in a statement, “Sky Elements Drones wants to extend our sincere hope for a full and speedy recovery for those impacted at our Lake Eola show.”
The City of Orlando also issued a statement expressing that their “thoughts are with the family and all those impacted” at the event, adding that they have been in contact with the Federal Aviation Administration, who is investigating the incident.
Both moms took to their Facebook pages to share the GoFundMe link and comments on what happened.
“God please be with me! My baby is going into emergency heart surgery off of just trying to watch a drone show at Lake Eola Park! I am beyond words beyond terrified! City of Orlando – Government and Sky Elements Drones really have some explaining to do,” Edgerton wrote. They will be held accountable for what was done to my son. I pray he makes it out of this!”
“Pray for my son, we went to the Drone show at Lake Eola and one of the drones hit him in his chest, he is awaiting surgery,” Lumedge wrote. “JUSTICE FOR ALEZANDER.”
Video of the drones falling out of the sky circulated on social media. It is unknown what caused the drones to initially collide.
“This should not have happened, and no family should be going through this,” Edgerton said. “We were trying to watch a show and have a good time.”
PHOTO BY CAITLIN SAUSE
THE WET SPOT’S ‘DRAG RACE’ PARTIES TO FEATURE LOCAL COMPETITOR
Ryan Williams-Jent
ST. PETERSBURG | The Wet Spot Pool Bar and Day Club will hold weekly “RuPaul’s Drag Race” watch parties beginning Jan. 3, welcoming season 17 competitor Jewels Sparkles for select episodes.
MTV officially announced the Tampa Bay entertainer was among the competition’s latest cast Dec. 4. Sparkles and 13 other queens will face off for the title of “American’s Next Drag Superstar” and a cash prize of $200,000.
“Out of drag, this youthful queen has a sweetness and an innocence, and is a self-described ‘ditzy clumsy bimbo,’” the network described her. “But don’t be fooled — Jewels intends to enter the competition with intention and strategy … you’d be foolish to underestimate this talented doll as merely a ‘look queen.”
Cocktail, for which The Wet Spot serves as “climactic co-star” and where Sparkles has entertained, was among the venues to congratulate her. They subsequently detailed the pool bar’s upcoming watch parties Dec. 21.
“Wetter is better, which means there’s no better way to watch ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ Season 17 than at The Wet Spot!” organizers announced. “Relax in our heated pool or chill by the bar and see all the lipsyncs, Rusicals, runway looks and Snatch Games on our huge LED screen and state-of-the-art sound system.”
Local entertainer Discord Addams will host the watch parties, held Fridays at 8 p.m.
“One of Tampa Bay’s most unique and beloved drag artists, [Discord] has a passion for embracing individuality and spreading acceptance, especially to those who feel like outsiders,” The Wet Spot shared. “Their desire to perform was sparked at a young age by the vibrant Halloween traditions in their family.”
Addams will be joined by Sparkles “for select viewing parties to spill the behind-the-scenes tea, host meet and greets, deliver sickening performances and watch along with you,” the venue also noted. The newly minted “Ru girl” will be on site for the season’s premiere on Jan. 3.
“Kick off Season 17 of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ and cheer on hometown star Jewels Sparkles in person,” the venue detailed the event’s launch. “Jewels is making a splash on the big screen and she couldn’t be more excited to celebrate with you. Get behind-the-scenes tea during an exclusive Q&A, meet Jewels, and see her real-time reaction to the show!”
The Wet Spot’s “RuPaul’s Drag Race” viewing parties begin Jan. 3. They will follow each Friday at 8 p.m. for the remainder of the season.
For more information about “RuPaul’s Drag Race” watch parties at The Wet Spot or to purchase a VIP experiences, visit CocktailStPete.com.
tampa bay news
Cocktails and a Cause
Shelter Strong quenches needs
Ryan Williams-Jent
LARGO, FLA. | Shelter Strong is now operating in the former Quench Lounge, offering a safe space in the region after the bar’s closure last May.
The nonprofit was created to offer housing assistance to local residents in need and create “sustainable, affordable, eco-friendly housing across Florida.” They assumed Quench’s lease in October to do exactly that.
“We were founded because there is a huge, underserved community in our area, a middle ground of people,” says Theresa McGivern, Shelter Strong’s founder, president and CEO. “There is assistance for those who are experiencing homelessness, but if you’re above poverty level and you’ve been given a three-day eviction notice, there’s nothing.
The working class is a tire blowout or medical expense away from being homeless, so we’re working to assist that underserved population.”
Shelter Strong works with local property managers and other partners to find those in need, individuals who undergo
an application process. Their efforts are funded through initiatives like Thyrst, which produces “unforgettable events while providing a welcoming environment for everyone in our community.”
“Thyrst is more than just a gathering space; it’s a cornerstone of community support, proudly operating as a not-for-profit venture for Shelter Strong,” McGivern says. “Every purchase made at Thyrst directly contributes to Shelter Strong’s mission.”
Recurring events include bear and drag-focused nights like Bingos and “Satur-slay” shows, activities with access to a full bar.
Former Quench staples Rockell Blu, Alexis De La Mer, Lady Liemont, Crystal Reigns and Veronica Vixen regularly feature, working for tips alongside Thyrst’s bartenders.
Since opening, Shelter Strong has provided hurricane relief and hosted holiday-themed fundraisers. McGivern hopes to eventually add food service and feature dance classes, town hall forums and more.
“Shelter Strong serves as an open forum and safe space for meaningful discussions, creativity and connection,” she says. “Thyrst
and Shelter Strong empower individuals to share ideas, learn new skills and foster a sense of belonging.”
The nonprofit has a seven-person board, a group of LGBTQ+ and ally locals including Nick Caraccia, McGivern’s brother and fellow Quench alum. The two worked at the venue in various capacities over the years, something that intentionally impacted their approach to Thyrst.
“When Quench closed, our safe space in central Pinellas County was gone and I don’t know how many people reached out asking us to do something,” McGivern says. “I didn’t think there was anything we could do, but it turned out, unexpectedly, there was.”
“A lot of people don’t want to travel all the way to St. Pete or to Tampa for their safe space, so it was another void that needed to be filled,” Caraccia adds. “It was another way that we could help an underserved area.”
Attending Thyrst events isn’t the only way to support Shelter Strong. Sponsorships are available and donations of all sizes are accepted to help those in need.
“This concept seamlessly blends entertainment with altruism, creating a space where giving back is as effortless as raising a glass or attending a workshop,” McGivern says. “Together we’re building a stronger, more connected Tampa Bay.”
Shelter Strong is located at 13284 66th St. N. in Largo. Hours vary. For additional information about supporting the nonprofit through Thyrst and more, visit ShelterStrong.org.
FAMILIAR FACES: Theresa McGivern (L) and Nick Caraccia at Shelter
Strong Dec. 19. PHOTO
BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT
GAETZ REPORT RELEASED
John Hayden via OUT South Florida
Former Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz’s scandals have been open secrets. Now they’re part of the public record.
Over Christmas week, the GOP-controlled U.S. House released an ethics report that’s been years in the making. It says there is “substantial evidence” of “prostitution, statutory rape, and illicit drug use.” The report says there is proof Gaetz paid a 17-year-old for sex.
The report “details egregious and illegal activities on the part of Matt Gaetz while he was an elected representative of Florida, including having sexual relations with an underage girl,” Kristen Browe, President of the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus said. “Most outrageously and in typical hypocritical fashion, Gaetz routinely accused LGBTQ+ people of ‘indoctrinating’ children in schools... Florida is better off without this liar and charlatan representing our state in Congress.”
Gaetz could face criminal prosecutions.
LGBTQ+ GROUPS CALL OUT FLORIDA’S US REPS
Jeremy Williams
Aletter written by 16 LGBTQ+ organizations in Central Florida and Tampa Bay condemning the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2025 was sent Dec. 21 to six of Florida’s Democratic Congressional members who voted for the bill.
The NDAA, which includes an anti-transgender rider prohibiting the children of U.S. servicemembers from accessing gender-affirming health care under the military’s health plan TRICARE, passed the U.S. House Dec. 11 by a vote of 281-140.
The 281 yes votes included those of Florida’s U.S. Reps. Darren Soto, Kathy Castor, Lois Frankel, Sheila Cherlus-McCormick, Jared Moskowitz and Frederica Wilson.
“Aside from betraying the principles of equality and inclusion that you have avowed in the past, your support of this legislation
jeopardizes the availability of medically necessary care for thousands of servicemembers and their families,” the letter states.
“We cannot sugarcoat the reality that your vote helped pass the first anti-LGBTQ+ federal statute in years to harm a community that needs your leadership and advocacy now more than ever.”
The letter is signed by GLSEN in Central Florida, Collier County and Tampa Bay; PFLAG in Greater Orlando and DeLand; Come Out With Pride as well as Pride’s Trans & Non-Binary Task Force; Zebra Youth; the LGBT+ Center Orlando; both Moms and Dads for Hope; The Umbrella Brigade; SPEKTRUM Health; RISE Initiative; Ashley Marie Figueroa with the Gender Advancement Project; and trans rights activist Andrea Montanez.
The letter highlights the unique challenges transgender children in military families already face such as frequent relocations, inconsistent access to affirming
health care and the common stresses of military life.
“[P]olicies that strip transgender youth of medically recommended care only compound these difficulties, creating extra barriers to their stability and well-being,” the organizations write.
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson reportedly insisted on amending the NDAA to add the anti-trans policy after a final version of the bill had already been negotiated by the chairs and ranking members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees. The bill went on to pass the U.S. Senate by a vote of 85-14 on Dec. 18.
The $895 billion defense budget bill was signed into law by President Joe Biden Dec. 23. He said his administration strongly opposes the provision because it targets a group based on gender identity, a stance detailed on p. 15.
BIDEN SIGNS DEFENSE BILL DESPITE OBJECTIONS TO BAN ON TRANS CARE FOR MILITARY CHILDREN
Wire Report
WASHINGTON | President Joe Biden on Dec. 23 signed into law a defense bill that authorizes significant pay raises for junior enlisted service members, aims to counter China’s growing power and boosts overall military spending to $895 billion despite his objections to language stripping coverage of transgender medical treatments for children in military families.
Biden said his administration strongly opposes the provision because it targets a group based on gender identity and “interferes with parents’ roles to determine the best care for their children.” He said it also undermines the all-volunteer military’s ability to recruit and retain talent.
“No service member should have to decide between their family’s health care access and their call to serve our nation,” the president said in a statement.
The Senate forwarded the bill to Biden after passing it by a vote of 85-14. In the House, a majority of Democrats voted against the bill after House Speaker Mike Johnson insisted on adding the provision to ban transgender medical care for children. The legislation easily passed by a vote of 281-140.
Biden also objected to other language in the bill prohibiting the use of money earmarked to transfer detainees held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to some foreign countries and into the United States. He urged Congress to lift those restrictions.
The annual defense authorization bill, which directs Pentagon policy, provides a 14.5%
pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5% increase for others.
The legislation also directs resources towards a more confrontational approach to China, including establishing a fund that could be used to send military resources to Taiwan in much the same way that the U.S. has backed Ukraine. It also invests in new military technologies, including artificial intelligence, and bolsters the U.S. production of ammunition.
The U.S. has also moved in recent years to ban the military from purchasing Chinese products, and the defense bill extended that with prohibitions on Chinese goods from garlic in military commissaries to drone technology.
The legislation still must be backed up with a spending package.
COURT FINDS JAPAN’S BAN ON RECOGNIZING SAME-SEX UNIONS UNCONSTITUTIONAL
Wire Report
TOKYO | Japan’s refusal to recognize same-sex marriage is unconstitutional, a high court ruled Dec. 13, the latest victory for the LGBTQ+ community to add pressure on the reluctant government.
The decision by the Fukuoka High Court in southern Japan marks the eighth victory out of nine rulings since the first group of plaintiffs filed lawsuits in 2019.
In the ruling, presiding Judge Takeshi Okada noted that the current civil law provisions barring the marriage of same-sex couples violates their fundamental right to the pursuit of happiness guaranteed under Article 13 of the Japanese Constitution.
The court also said the ongoing ban violates sections in the Constitution that guarantee equality, individual dignity and the essential equality of both sexes. The judge said there is no longer
any reason to not legally recognize same-sex marriage.
The government has argued that marriage under civil law does not cover same-sex couples and places importance on natural reproduction. After the ruling, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters that the government will monitor pending lawsuits and public opinion.
The ruling is the eighth overall that found the ongoing ban to be unconstitutional or nearly so, against only one district court decision that found it constitutional. It was the third straight high court decision, following rulings this year in Sapporo and Tokyo, that clearly called the current ban unconstitutional.
The rulings can still be appealed to the Supreme Court, but lawyers and plaintiffs say the overwhelming 8-1 wins are already enough and the government should quickly take action.
The verdict comes at a time the main obstacle to recognition,
Japan’s conservative Liberal Democratic Party, was forced into leading a minority government after its major election loss in October. The LDP is likely to have to compromise more on liberal policies pushed by the opposition parties such as marriage equality, which is largely supported by the general public.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who has indicated support for same-sex marriage, told a parliamentary session recently he is aware of the sufferings of the same-sex couples and that he will not just “sit back and do nothing.” His comment raised hope among the LGBTQ+ community and their supporters. It is unclear whether he will act, or how much he could do against resistance within the party.
More than 30 plaintiffs have joined the lawsuits on marriage equality filed in five regions across Japan since 2019. They argue that civil law provisions barring same-sex marriage violate the Constitutional right to equality and freedom of marriage.
IN OTHER NEWS
KENTUCKY AG: STATE NOT REQUIRED TO PAY FOR INMATE GENDER SURGERIES
Kentucky is under no legal requirement to use taxpayer money to cover the costs of gender-affirming surgeries for people incarcerated in state prisons, Attorney General Russell Coleman said Dec. 19. The Kentucky Department of Corrections requested the opinion from the state’s Republican attorney general as the agency amends its administrative regulations regarding medical care for people in prison.
SUSPECT CHARGED IN SHOOTING OF BLACK TRANS TEEN IN ALABAMA
The mother of a Black teenager fatally shot in Alabama said she believes her daughter was killed because of her transgender identity. Cameron Thompson, 18, was shot just after midnight Dec. 16, and her body was found that afternoon a few blocks from her home, according to the Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit. According to Unit Captain Jack Kennedy, the suspect and victim knew each other. Authorities reviewed Thompson’s online activity and found that she had posted on social media about the suspect’s sexual orientation before she was killed. Police have not revealed any details about these posts or the nature of their acquaintance. The suspect is under 18 but is charged as an adult with Thompson’s murder.
TWO TRANS WOMEN MAKE HISTORY IN NEPAL
Nepal celebrated a milestone for its LGBTQ+ community Nov. 22. Two transgender candidates, Honey Maharjan and Mouni Maharjan, members of the People’s Socialist Party-Nepal, ran in local elections. It marked the first time that trans people ran for office in the country. Honey Maharjan ran for mayor in Kirtipur, a municipality outside Kathmandu, the Nepalese capital. Mouni Maharjan ran to become a ward chair in the same municipality. Although both candidates lost the election; experts and activists consider their participation a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in Nepalese politics.
VIOLENCE IN NIGERIA LINKED TO BREAKUP OF METHODIST CHURCH
A religious schism turned deadly in Nigeria, with a church member fatally shot and two young children killed as homes were set ablaze. The reported violence Dec. 15 stemmed from a schism in the worldwide United Methodist Church over its decision to repeal LGBTQ+ bans. A United Methodist church member was shot and killed in a confrontation between both factions in Taraba, a state in northeast Nigeria. Homes were set ablaze, claiming the lives of two children, ages 2 and 4, of the overseer of a United Methodist school and nursery. Another 10 church members were reported injured.
Johnny Boykins
THIS IS NOT THE NEW Year’s column I was expecting to write. Like many, I truly believed Vice President Kamala Harris’ historic campaign would end in victory and joy.
Unfortunately, a tiny majority of Americans chose a different path — a darker, sinister, more dystopian path. Since the election results, I have visited the five stages of grief several times.
It is hard to grapple with the fact that America would decide that a second Trump term would be in the country’s best interests. Especially when President-Elect Donald Trump is a convicted felon, fraudster, business failure and sexual assaulter who was impeached twice and is a morally bankrupt, anti-religious, bigot and authoritarian that flirts with fascism.
The political left and the Democratic Party are in the wilderness, and we need to protect our communities for what’s to come and start plotting, planning, organizing, strategizing and mobilizing our return to political power. We should take this time in the wilderness to reflect deeply and introspectively and return to the fundamental basics of politics because the enterprise of America is not lost.
When a political party is in the wilderness or out of power and facing an uncertain path back to influence, we must take advantage of every opportunity to regroup, rebuild and refine. I spent the last couple of weeks reflecting on the virtue of truth. I turned to scholars like James Baldwin and his groundbreaking assessment of American life in “The Fire Next Time,” Hannah Arendt’s “On Violence” and Timothy Snyder’s “On Tyranny.”
These works are helping me recenter my understanding of fundamental truths. I have also re-engaged with Ta-Nehisi Coates’ “We Were Eight Years in Power” and Robert Greene’s “The 48 Laws of Power” to reframe my understanding of political and social power. I am determined to use this time in the wilderness to the best of my ability because I still believe that America’s best days are ahead despite the setbacks we are facing. I am a forever optimist.
For Democrats, I want us to use this period of wilderness to realign with core values, connect with voters, and address organizational and messaging gaps. The Democratic Party should use this wilderness period to foster reflection, renewal and growth. We must recognize that the country did not hand Trump a mandate, and we must use every lever of power to contain the fallout of his draconian policy agenda.
The wilderness will allow us to learn from our mistakes and engage in collaboration with unlikely allies, as well as the chance to build a grassroots foundation that can drive long-term change. The wilderness demands resilience and humility, as survival often depends on listening to diverse voices and adapting to new realities.
However, adaptation to new realities doesn’t mean we should compromise on our values and our understanding of fundamental truths. Historically, political wilderness has been the breeding ground for movements that later reshaped the mainstream.
We need to channel King’s energy and engage in the work of nonviolent civil disobedience. We should return to our anti-war roots. We should leverage the teachings of Barack Obama and get back to grassroots community organizing. We need to stand firm in fights for LGBTQ+ rights, women’s rights, racial justice, environmental justice, healthcare being a human right, reproductive justice and economic equity. Democrats must remove the gloves because some of this work will require us to get in the mud. The time for leadership is now, and we must show up with our heads held high and our spines strengthened. While being politically out of favor can feel disheartening, it
offers a rare opportunity to rebuild and return with renewed vigor, ultimately proving that the wilderness — though harsh — is fertile ground, for it is both a challenge and an opportunity.
I mentioned that I’ve visited the five stages of
focusing on the separation of powers and checks and balances of government. We must community organize and build grassroots support by seeking allyship in spaces we previously ignored. We must advance a clear policy agenda. We must indeed be for something, not
Finally, we must expand our reach, developing and championing a media universe that can compete with right-wing and far-right media narratives. Prioritizing these strategies will impact and protect us from what will come next in American Carnage
I still believe that America’s best days are ahead despite the setbacks we are facing. I am a forever optimist.
grief several times since the election, but I am taking this new year not to live in a perpetual state of fear and dread. This era will require all of us to take action, protect our communities and uphold our fundamental values.
My message from the wilderness is simple: Democrats, we must protect and defend our democratic institutions, mainly by
against someone. We need to leverage local and state power and wield power to advance our agenda. We must simplify our communication. We must learn from our Republican neighbors by genuinely focusing on unity. We must prepare to take our battles to court and put on the most significant defense of the rule of law this country has ever seen.
2.0. We will only be in the wilderness for a short time if we remain focused, deliberate and intentional in our efforts. The enterprise of America is not lost.
Johnny V. Boykins is a political organizer and Democratic Party State Committeeman in Pinellas County, a husband, bow tie aficionado, amateur chef, and U.S. Coast Guard veteran.
Hosted By:
Rick Todd
Jeremy Williams
Tiffany Razzano
THE GOOD PAGE FEATURES
positive LGBTQ+ news in Central Florida and Tampa Bay, uplifting and inspiring stories highlighting locals in our community. In this issue, we introduce you to Gabby Cohen, a graphic design and visual marketing professional who’s helping others see themselves through their business.
While they’ve worked at various companies over the years, Cohen and their wife, Emily, have owned Hornet Designs since 2011. Gabby handles the graphic design side of things while Emily focuses on social media management.
Now, Hornet Designs is offering their clients a new service: gender-affirming photo edits. It started last year when a friend asked Gabby if they could edit childhood photos to reflect their gender identity.
“They asked if it was something I could do because they were not able to find someone that they trusted to do it,” Gabby recalls. Before jumping into the project, they wanted to find a way to practice first, as it was the first time they would be manipulating images in this way.
The Good Page
Hornet Design’s gender-affirming edits create authentic images
screaming at their mother when she put them in more feminine outfits.
“I needed to try it first but it was like, how do I find a photo to edit?” they explain.
“I could use a stock photo and change the clothes, but it felt inauthentic. I wasn’t really comfortable with that.”
So, Gabby decided to use their own childhood photos. Ultimately, the editing request resonated with their own journey of self-discovery.
“I realized how deeply personal and how affirming it was to do,” they say. “When I was younger, I was a tomboy … and in the last few years, I came out as nonbinary, and as a butch and masculine of center person, it’s kind of just an ongoing journey for me all the time, and really gray and nuanced.”
Looking at their own childhood photos, they recalled
“It didn’t really occur to me that I might feel better if some of those memories didn’t occur or if I could change these images,” they note. “But as a gender non-conforming person myself and nonbinary it made a lot of sense. I could understand it.”
They took “a natural, realistic approach” to their edits, removing bows and frills from outfits and leaving their hair the length it was, as it looked natural for that age. The photos are seen above.
“I wanted it to look like a picture of me and what I looked like,” Gabby says. Then, they shared the images with their mother, who loved them.
“I’m very aware of the privilege I have that my mother is supportive of my doing this and is supportive, period, but not everybody has that,” they add.
This informs their approach to which clients they take on for gender-affirming photo edits. It
boils down to requiring that the person in the photo be aware of the edits being made and approve the project.
“Everyone has to be consenting. It’s not a gift that you give to somebody without their knowledge,” Gabby says. “We’ve had parents reach out and say they’d love to give it as a gift, but we cannot do that without the consent of the person in the image.”
The couple has come up with a way to handle well-meaning family members who want to surprise a loved one with gender-affirming images: offering them a gift certificate.
There is no set price for the photo edits. Instead, they evaluate each project case by case, including the number of photos.
“Photographs are a powerful way to affirm your identity and share it with the world,” their website reads. “Whether you’re
in the process of transitioning or simply want to see yourself as you truly are … we provide customized edits that align with your vision, and you get a high quality, authentic image, ready to share or cherish.” Learn more at HornetDesigns.com.
Interested in being featured in The Good Page? Email Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Williams at Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com in Central Florida or Managing Editor Ryan Williams-Jent at Ryan@WatermarkOnline. com in Tampa Bay.
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY GABBY COHEN
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talking points
I will sign executive orders to end child sexual mutilation, get transgender out of the military and out of our elementary schools and middle schools and high schools. ... Under the Trump administration, it will be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders: male and female.
—PRESIDENT-ELECT DONALD TRUMP, DURING A SPEECH AT AN AMERICAFEST 2024 RALLY HOSTED BY TURNING POINT USA IN PHOENIX
‘SQUID GAME’ SEASON 2 FEATURES TRANSGENDER CHARACTER PLAYED BY CISGENDER ACTOR
THE NETFLIX SERIES “SQUID GAME,” WHICH FOLLOWS AN UNDERGROUND COMPETITION IN KOREA that recruits people in debt to participate in childlike games with deadly consequences for money, is stirring up controversary with its second season, streaming now. The new season features a transgender character played by cisgender actor Park Sung-hoon. “Squid Game” creator Hwang Dong-hyuk says he understands why hiring a trans actor would have been ideal, but that the casting is a reflection of how gender identity is viewed in Korea. “In Korea, when it comes to the LGBTQ and gender minority community and culture compared to the Western worlds, it’s not as widely socially accepted yet,” Hwang told the Associated Press. “We don’t have a very large pool of actors that allow for authentic casting when it comes to transgender characters.” The first season of “Squid Game” was a global hit when it was released in 2021, becoming Netflix’s most-watched series and winning several awards. A third and final season is already in development and is expected to be released in 2025.
BEYONCÉ THE STAR OF NETFLIX’S NFL DEBUT
BEYONCÉ PROVIDED MORE EXCITEMENT THAN EITHER GAME DURING NETFLIX’S NFL DEBUT ON CHRISTMAS DAY. Riding into her halftime appearance on a white horse, the 32-time Grammy winner rocked her hometown Houston crowd with a nearly 13-minute performance Dec. 25. She surprised fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform “Sweet Honey Buckiin” and Post Malone joined her for “Levii’s Jeans.” Mariah Carey opened the football doubleheader with a taped performance of “All I Want for Christmas is You” before fans watched the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers 29-10 and the Baltimore Ravens beat the Houston Texans 31-2.
‘EMILIA PÉREZ,’ ‘WILL & HARPER’ ADVANCE IN OSCARS SHORTLISTS
THE ACADEMY OF MOTION PICTURE ARTS AND SCIENCES UNVEILED SHORTLISTS IN 10 CATEGORIES
DEC. 17, moving several queer films closer to an Oscar nomination. Two musicals, “Emilia Pérez” and “Wicked,” were well represented. Netflix’s “Emilia Pérez” advanced in international feature, hair and makeup, original score, two original songs and sound. “Wicked” moved forward in categories for hair and makeup, original score, sound and visual effects. “Will & Harper,” the Netflix documentary about trans writer Harper Steele and actor Will Ferrell, made the shortlist for both documentary feature and original song. Final nominations will be announced Jan. 17.
CHANEL APPOINTS NEW ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
ONE OF THE MOST PRESTIGIOUS ROLES IN FASHION HAS BEEN FILLED, as Chanel appointed Franco-Belgian designer Matthieu Blazy as its new artistic director, the fashion house announced Dec. 12. The 40-year-old will oversee all collections for the world’s second biggest luxury brand starting in 2025, replacing Virginie Viard, who parted ways with the house earlier this year. His appointment marks only the fourth designer in Chanel’s over 100-year history to lead the house, following Viard, Karl Lagerfeld and founder Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. Viard, who succeeded Lagerfeld after his death in 2019, left earlier this year after more than three decades with the brand — an abrupt departure, announced in the middle of the night just weeks before the couture show.
27% OF MARRIED SAME-SEX COUPLES
POLLED UNDER THE AGE OF 50 HAVE CHILDREN . OF THOSE WITH CHILDREN, 81% WERE CURRENTLY RAISING AT LEAST ONE CHILD UNDER 18 WHILE 22% ONLY HAD ADULT CHILDREN.
41% OF PARTICIPANTS INDICATED THAT THEY WANTED CHILDREN, OR MORE CHILDREN, IN THE FUTURE.
—Williams Institute’s “Parenting Among Married Same-Sex Couples” report
Sarah Silverman helps Florida find the funny in 2025
SRyan Williams-Jent
ARAH SILVERMAN IS AN EMMY
Award-winning comedian, actress, writer and producer. Her unique brand has entertained the masses on stage and screen for decades, paving the way for her to become a fan favorite podcaster and even a Disney princess.
She’s also a human being. That’s evident in “Postmortem,” the comic’s nationwide tour which launched in September. It was conceptualized after the loss of her father and stepmother, who both died in 2023 as her last HBO special was being released.
“It came out and I was at zero. I had zero material,” she says. “I was at square one, my parents died nine days apart, and that’s what I was consumed with. Even speaking at my dad’s funeral, which was the second one … he was so funny that the eulogy had a lot of stuff that was funny.
“I was doing stand-up very soon after that, and I went back to my notes and I was like, ‘that’s funny,’” Silverman recalls. “‘Postmortem’ happened very, very organically. I’ve never built a new hour this fast.”
The comedian calls touring “an odd comfort,” particularly after the 2024 presidential election. She says the show doesn’t address U.S. politics but that coming together as a community will be an important way to counter them in the days ahead.
Silverman’s “Postmortem” tour stops at Tampa’s Seminole Hard Rock Hotel Casino for two shows Jan. 9 before heading to
Hard Rock Live Orlando Jan. 10. Watermark spoke with the comedian about her work, the new tour and finding the funny in 2025 ahead of time.
WATERMARK: WHY DO YOU THINK COMEDY IS SO IMPORTANT RIGHT NOW?
Sarah Silverman: Being in a big room with a lot of people and belly laughing together is incredibly connecting. I think we need human connection, and I think comedy does that in a way that other things don’t. Well, art does — anything where you’re moved, where you’re laughing, where you’re crying in a group — is cathartic.
I’ve been on the road and I was in Ohio for Election Day, and the next day I was going to South Carolina, North Carolina. I was kind of wishing I was not on tour, and instead in a ball in my room, but it’s really been this odd comfort to be on the road and to be in rooms with people that want to laugh and connect. It’s been a really positive experience. Who knows what fresh hell awaits us, but here we are together in this room and my job is to entertain you, and I’m gonna.
PHOTO BY ROBYN VON SWANK
I think for anyone whose rights are at stake, that’s what is going to be our salvation. It’s going to be coming together as a community, and I already see it. I see people getting ready and that’s what I think we’re here for, to take care of each other. People are going to have to step up in places where our government abandons us, and I see it happening.
HOW SO?
Any woman of means is stockpiling birth control, meds and Plan B to be able to send out to people in need. There’s going to be a chain of helpers— Mr. Rogers, after 9/11, came back on the air and said, “look for the helpers.” For any tragedy or anything that’s going wrong, there are people running towards us to help. That’s how we keep going and stay hopeful. … Laughter gives us strength. Resolve. I think it’s one thing we can count on. In any time of stress and hardship for any oppressed peoples, laughter always finds a way.
HOW HAS YOUR BRAND OF COMEDY EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS?
As I grow and learn new things it always affects the comedy I do. I think if you learn something new, it changes your entire outlook. If your perspective changes just 1%, the whole world looks different. So I’m always coming at comedy from that place, and that place changes.
YOU’VE NEVER SEEMED AFRAID TO APOLOGIZE WHEN LOOKING BACK AT OLD MATERIAL. WHY IS THAT IMPORTANT TO YOU?
I realize that I’m lucky — but to me, it seems so simple. If I’m sorry, I apologize and if I’m not sorry, I don’t apologize. But I think if you are at all sorry, then it feels so good to apologize. Everybody feels better … it’s not always easy, but it’s simple. I talked to a friend for whom it is absolutely very hard to apologize, and she said that it’s hard for her to admit that she’s flawed. And I was like, “but everybody’s flawed.”
I know a lot of people must feel that way and struggle with it, but I wish it was as much as a relief to them as it is to me,
when I realize I’m wrong. I don’t mind being wrong because that’s the only way you can be right, realizing you’re wrong. I like change, and I like seeing people who have changed. It’s such an absolute relief and joy to be wrong and apologize. … It’s fascinating, and it changes you and feels good, it makes life better. I’m sorry — I’m not being funny at all. (Laughs.)
YOU’RE BEING INSIGHTFUL! “POSTMORTEM” DEALS WITH THE LOSS OF YOUR PARENTS, HAS TOURING BEEN A PART OF YOUR HEALING PROCESS?
Yeah. When I started on the road, I had 35 minutes, so it was stressful. Every night was work where I needed to figure out where something went and what I needed to flesh out. Now I’m over an hour and I need to start chipping away at it. So in the beginning I did feel a sense of dread, more than usual. (Laughs.) I love being on stage and I love stand-up, but I still have that dread of like, “oh, can this be snowed out? I can’t imagine being funny.”
It’s all the same things that comics go through that have become much less as I’ve grown but is still there, especially when I really didn’t have it figured out. I had some guilt around it. I had some moments where I was just not ready for the catharsis of it all, not ready to deal. But now I’m much more looking forward to each night and excited to tell the audience about these people while making sure there’s hard laughs, because that’s what I love.
I come from a family that also loved that, and I do feel very good that they would love this.
WHAT COMES MOST NATURALLY FOR YOU, BEING ON STAGE, BEING ON SCREEN OR VOICE WORK LIKE YOUR PODCAST?
I don’t know, maybe stand-up because I always assume the audience is lovely. It feels like they’re my friends and I like talking to people. But the podcast — I never thought I would do a podcast, and then the pandemic hit and I really have been loving it. I love connecting with all these people, even in other countries and stuff. It didn’t occur to me that people could hear it anywhere, like there’s a gay man from Iran, just pretty real shit. It’s so interesting to me. I also love acting. I don’t know, I can’t really pick, but certainly stand-up is more a part of my identity. Even as a kid that felt like who I was.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR EACH OF THEM?
For everything, I do best when I’m really prepared. I’ve learned that’s my best friend, doing the homework. I want to know all my lines so well that I don’t have to be thinking of them, like muscle memory. Because I’m not good at learning lines and I have to really work hard at it.
I like to audition for things, because I think people go “well, people, they’ll just look at you and they’ll see Sarah Silverman, you’re not gonna disappear in a role.” And I can understand thinking that, but that’s why I like to audition. So that if I get the
America, it’s the United States, but it’s like we’re 50 countries. We’re huge. And going to very red states, those are some of my best shows, because everywhere you go, there are people that want to laugh, that want change, or that aren’t the state [they live in.] I don’t think everyone in Florida is Ron DeSantis or whatever, so I really love going to these places … also, it will be warm and sunny and gorgeous.
WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HAVE FOR LGBTQ+ AND ALLY FANS LOOKING FOR A LAUGH?
role, it’s because they saw, “oh, this is what we want.” I also like to show I can be directed. I’m pretty good at pretending stuff.
THAT EXTENDS TO THE “WRECK-IT RALPH” FILMS, WHERE YOU PLAYED VANELLOPE VON SCHWEETZ. DID WORKING WITH DISNEY CHANGE YOUR PERSPECTIVE?
It hit me afterwards that, “oh, I’m like a Disney princess.” (Laughs.) Because when we were doing it, we were just in a little room. It was very, very cool; I felt so connected to my character, Vanellope, and when we started, they had pictures of the characters hanging on the wall, rough sketches. And at first she was a redhead with freckles, and they have little cameras as you record in the recesses of the room that you’re not even aware of, and it’s for the animators to watch how you talk and how your face moves. And slowly she got these thick, black eyebrows and a black ponytail and a hoodie.
It wasn’t until we went to watch the first movie that I saw these little motions — these little things that I wouldn’t be able to articulate that I do — and it was like, oh. Whoa. It’s so interesting. And we got to record together, John C. Reilly [the voice of Ralph], and I was surprised at how loose they let us be. It was really cool.
WHY ARE YOU EXCITED TO BRING “POSTMORTEM” TO FLORIDA?
Because first of all, I like people. I like people that are different than me. It’s been really cool touring — we go, oh, it’s
I would go back to the importance of community. Come on down, because you’re not alone. [Republicans] may have won the popular vote, but there’s more of us than them … and I don’t like being “us and them,” but when there are people that want to take human rights away, civil rights away, you can’t just say “well, we have different opinions.”
If you’re threatening the livelihood of other people, it’s not okay, and I think that we’re a force more than we know. Right now, for me, if you need to opt out and not care, just stay home and watch Disney movies for the next several weeks, do it and take care of yourself. Don’t give them your health. But gather your strength. Rest up, because there’s a fight ahead — and as soon as we know what we can do, people start organizing, people start getting stuff going, then we’re gonna do stuff. But honestly, rest up, make love, laugh, go towards joy. It’s actually really important for your health. Then we’re going to fight — and that’s going to be fun too, because we’ll be together.
WHAT ELSE DO YOU
WANT READERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR SHOW?
In closing, wear comfortable clothes. No, look good. No. I don’t know, just come! I can’t wait to see you, the crowd is the whole thing. I know I’m the one talking but the energy, the reaction and the laughs and everything — you can’t do stand-up in front of your bathroom mirror. Come on down and if I see you after, I’ll give you a nice hug, heart to heart. It’s supposed to be good for you.
Sarah Silverman’s “Postmortem” comes to Tampa’s Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Jan. 9 at 6:30 and 9:30 p.m. and Hard Rock Live in Orlando Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit SarahSilverman.com.
| uu | Sarah Silverman FROM PG.25
SILVER STAPLE: Sarah Silverman has regularly been featured on Comedy Central, HBO and other networks throughout her career. Her latest tour, “Postmortem,” plays in Central Florida and Tampa Bay this month. PHOTO BY ROBYN VON SWANK
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Florida Make ‘Em Laugh
Jessica Kirson brings her stand-up act to
Jeremy Williams
JESSICA KIRSON CELEBRATED 25
years of doing stand-up comedy in 2024. The out veteran comic has been filling seats for years thanks to her eclectic, high-energy brand of comedy, which she continues into 2025 with several stops this January in Florida.
“That’s what people love about my live stand-up, I put out a lot of energy, you’re never bored,” Kirson says. “There’s always surprises, every show is so different. It’s the kind of comedy that men relate to, women relate to, people of all ages, gay, straight. I’m different than most comics in that way and I’ve always focused on that, just being different and unique.”
Comedy as a career wasn’t on Kirson’s radar when she was younger. Growing up she thought she would follow in her mother’s footsteps and become
a therapist, which is the plan that she initially started on.
“I was going to school for a master’s in social work and then my grandmother one day told me, she said ‘you should be a comedian,’” Kirson recalls. “‘You know every time you’re around people they’re laughing and you make people so happy’ and I said to her, ‘I could never do that.’”
Kirson, who says she was not a fan of stand-up comedy at the time although she enjoyed watching comical shows such as “Saturday Night Live,” decided to give it a shot.
“I wasn’t really happy studying social work and I just didn’t see myself being a therapist,” she says. “I didn’t think I’d be happy, so I took a [stand-up comedy] class and then I just started doing it.”
Her first time getting on stage she recalls being scary and nerve-wracking, but she quickly became quite comfortable. Not only at being on stage but also working the crowd and interacting with the audience.
“I’m very, very, very comfortable with crowd work because I’ve been doing it my whole career,” she says. “I used to host shows in the beginning every single night and you learn to talk to the crowd and it’s just something that I got really, really good at.”
That skill of working the crowd has earned Kirson quite a social media following, amassing 1.4 million followers on TikTok, more than a million
combined on Instagram and Facebook, and 1.15 million on YouTube. While some of her act can be found on her socials, Kirson focuses mostly on posting up her crowd work.
“You don’t post your act online because you don’t get paid for it online. I learned that I could use the crowd work to get followers, get people to know who I am,” she says. “I only post my material after it’s been on television, so segments of my specials are on my YouTube and stuff. When people come to see me, they think it’s only going to be all crowd work, and then they see I have a whole act.”
Floridians will have a chance to see Kirson’s whole act at one of her stops later this month. After a show on Jan. 23 at The Parker in Fort Lauderdale, Kirson performs at the Tampa Theatre in Tampa Jan. 24 and at the Hard Rock Live in Orlando Jan. 25.
“I always do crowd work, I do it for like 20 minutes, usually in the beginning,” she says. “As for the rest of my show, when people say, ‘what kind of comic are you?’ I do all different kinds of stuff. I do a lot of characters; I talk a lot about my personal life — my mother, my grandmother, my father, my kids, my relationships. Observations of people in the world but it’s very high energy.”
The world of stand-up comedy has changed a lot in the 25 years since Kirson first took the stage, as have her reasons for doing it.
“At first it was just the art of it. It was something fun to do with my friends in New York and being out every night and just trying something that was challenging, and always making people laugh and trying to make people happy,” she says. “But it’s such a different career now. I am so connected to my
PHOTO CREDIT JOHN CAFARO
fans and I feel like I’m really helping people. I get messages all day and night from all over the world, people just saying how much it’s helping them to laugh. I say now it’s like being a therapist except I don’t have to listen, I talk.”
Kirson explored the changing landscape of stand-up comedy from the perspective of female comics as an executive producer on the 2021 FX documentary “Hysterical,” which is currently available to stream on Hulu. Directed by Andrea Nevins, the film “is a backstage pass into a rarely seen world and an examination of ground-breaking female artists commanding the stage in a post-#MeToo era.”
It follows both queer and ally comics such as Kirson, Margaret Cho, Fortune Feimster, Judy Gold, Marina Franklin, Nikki Glaser, Kathy Griffin, Lisa Lampanelli and more — on and off stage — as they discuss how far sexism and homophobia have come in the world of stand-up comedy. While the state of comedy is far from perfect, Kirson says it has come a long way in the two and half decades that she has been doing it.
“I think that a lot of people want to act out and would act out if they could, but I think it’s definitely better than it was when I was starting out,” she says. “There were no limits, you could just say and do whatever you wanted. I mean there’s women who are inappropriate and crazy, there’s gay men, there’s gay women, but let’s be honest it’s mostly straight men. But there are no laws protecting comics. There’s no union, there’s no HR department, there’s nothing. So we’re all just kind of on our own but it’s definitely gotten better.”
While it has gotten better, the assumption that “women aren’t funny” still gets thrown around, particularly behind the anonymity of a keyboard. Social media is filled with profanity-laced rants about women’s ability to make people laugh and how they are not as good as male comics. But where does this idea come from?
“Men,” Kirson says. “I mean not gay men; gay men love
COMEDY
female comics, thank god, but a funny woman is a powerful woman, she’s intimidating. I don’t think some men can handle it because they have issues with themselves. They’re insecure.”
purposely done that. It’s very important as a female comic to not just talk about stuff relating to women. I focused on that my whole career. … It’s interesting because most straight men love my act. There are groups of
complained that it has led to comics being done in by cancel culture, something Kirson pushes back on.
“Not a lot of comics have been canceled, that’s a myth,” she says. “I mean Matt Rife
Most people believe in free speech, whether they want to hear what someone says or not. Some comic’s acts make me sick and I can’t even listen to them but it’s America.
Do I think it’s okay? No, but it’s a hard situation because where do you draw the line?
— COMEDIAN JESSICA KIRSON
Kirson says that the idea that women aren’t funny is something that she, and all female comedians, come up against when they first start off in the business.
“I experienced that for many, many years, when I wasn’t a name, and I would just come on stage and immediately I had to fight 10 times harder,” she says. “Because that’s what they’re thinking and now a lot of the comics say to me, ‘I don’t see you as a female comic, I just see you as a comic,’ and I’ve
straight men that come to my shows, that’s very rare for a female comic to be honest with you, and I’m really happy about that, I’m proud of that.”
The #MeToo movement forced a lot of industries to look at how the roles of men and women were being viewed, and the world of stand-up comedy — where just about 10% of the workforce are female — was no different. As changes started to take effect, some — usually the same keyboard ranters who say women aren’t funny — have
want to hear what someone says or not,” she says. “Some comic’s acts make me sick and I can’t even listen to them but it’s America. Do I think it’s okay? No, but it’s a hard situation because where do you draw the line?”
She continues, “I say things about myself, making fun of myself and people get offended. I’m like it’s me, it’s my life. It’s nothing to do with you. So there’s a fine line there. I do think that some people are definitely too sensitive now, and then I feel like there’s a lot of people who aren’t sensitive enough. It’s a tough situation because I’m disgusted by what some people talk about, but I don’t want people telling me what I can and can’t talk about.”
In September, Hulu announced that the streaming service would be partnering with Kirson to release her brand-new comedy special. Few details have been released other than it will be out sometime in 2025. Meanwhile, Kirson continues to tour North America with many dates booked throughout the first half of the year.
After so many years on so many stages, Kirson says that the crowds are what get her back up there night after night.
“I say this on stage after every show, this is not about me,” she says. “I don’t leave going I’m amazing. When people laughed a lot during the show, it just warms my heart and it’s why I’m doing it. I mean, it’s also therapeutic for me. Even if I don’t want to go on stage, I end up feeling better when I do. I struggle from depression and anxiety like most people now, so it’s really to help people, to make a difference in the world.”
said stuff in a special in his first joke, people freaked out, and he’s sold out all over the world. I mean, [Dave] Chappelle is a perfect example. He got in trouble with the trans stuff, and he got like a six-special deal with Netflix after that whole thing happened.”
Kirson says in reality, it’s very hard to cancel comics, in fact many times when people try to cancel them they just end up getting more popular.
“Most people believe in free speech, whether they
Jessica Kirson will be at the Tampa Theatre in Tampa Jan. 24, starting at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $38.50 and are available at TampaTheatre.org. She will be at the Hard Rock Live at Universal’s CityWalk in Orlando Jan. 25, starting at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $26 and are available through Ticketmaster.com.
“Hysterical” is available to stream now on Hulu.
PHOTO BY JOHN CAFARO
overheard TAMPA BAY OUT+ABOUT
CONGRATULATIONS
The Fabulous Arts Foundation held the soft opening of its LGBTQ+ Center in Sarasota Dec. 13. “Your support allows us to hold space for arts, healing, and connection, and we couldn’t do this without you,” Executive Director Shannon Fortner shared afterwards. “Stay tuned as we announce programming and events, leading up to our grand opening in late January. We can’t wait to share what’s next with you!” Read more soon in future issues of Watermark.
Red Mesa Cantina
celebrated 16 years in St. Petersburg Dec. 31.
CONDOLENCES
Jeremy White died unexpectedly last month. He will be missed. A Celebration of Life to support his fiancée Daniel Nichols will be held at My Bar Sports Bar and Grill on Jan. 12 at 2 p.m.
LOCAL BIRTHDAYS
St Pete business analyst Jason Bracewell, St. Pete supermom Deidre Favero (Jan. 2); Sarasota graphic designer Tim Cameresi, Tampa photographer Charles Allen, Rose Dynasty Foundation President Jason DeShazo, aka entertainer Momma Ashley Rose (Jan. 3); St. Petersburg staple Brian Longstreth, Tampa Bay DJ LaMonte Monnell aka L Mo, musical aficionado Lissa DeWitt (Jan. 4); Southern Nights Tampa manager Chou Chou Guilder, Tampa realtor Nicholas Buchanan (Jan. 5); Tampa activist Bill Polley (Jan. 6); Watermark contributor Sylvie Trevena, United Airlines flight attendant Justin Horn (Jan. 7); St. Petersburg bartender Michael Joseph, Teaching for the Culture founder and Watermark contributor Bianca Goolsby (Jan. 8); Enigma bartender Erick Henrriquez, Tampa Bay technology manager Ron Walters (Jan. 9); St. Petersburg florist Bobby York (Jan. 10); St. Petersburg instructor and massage therapist Jeremy Couture, Lakeland massage therapist David Lesnett, Gulfport retiree Danny Hughes, PFLAG Safety Harbor President Wendy Vernon (Jan. 11); Sarasota real-life cowboy Bill Flynn, Sarasota actress Christine Alexander (Jan. 12); Watermark owner and publisher Rick Todd, Tampa Bay marketing artist Nick Capezza, Sarasota MCC pastor Gina Durbin (Jan. 13); former Sarasota Pride President Cindy Barnes (Jan 14); St Pete Pride
Vice President Stephanie Morge, St. Pete sailer Michele McHugh, Rainbow Counseling owner Aimee Leigh (Jan. 15).
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CHRISTMAS QUEEN: Kathryn Nevets leads the Basic Needs of Life Food and Toy Drive Dec. 14 at Lakeland Elks Lodge. PHOTO FROM ROSE DYNASTY FOUNDATION’S FACEBOOK
2 FUN FARM: Lindsey Spero enjoy’s PFLAG Safety Harbor and Trans Network’s holiday party Dec. 22 at Tree House Farm. PHOTO FROM TRANS NETWORK’S FACEBOOK
3 D-LIGHTED: Tampa International Airport CEO Michael Stephens (L) and Mayor Jane Castor celebrate the groundbreaking of TPA’s Airside D, coming in 2028, on Dec. 18. PHOTO FROM JANE CASTOR’S FACEBOOK
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FAMILIAR FACES: (L-R) Kaos Pupper, Theresa McGivern and Nick Caraccia behind the bar at Thyrst Dec. 19. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT
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NEXT STEPS: Fabulous Arts Foundation Executive Director Shannon Fortner welcomes guests to the organization’s new LGBTQ+ center for its soft opening. PHOTO BY TREY JONES FROM FAB AF’S FACEBOOK
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SEASON’S SWEATERS: CAN Community Health’s Sarasota staff sports their ugly Christmas sweater looks Dec. 18. PHOTO FROM CAN COMMUNITY HEALTH’S FACEBOOK
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WELL DESERVED: Sharon Barrett Graham (L) and Luis Antonio Salazar accept certificates of appreciation from the Hillsborough County Democratic Party Jewish Caucus Dec. 15. PHOTO FROM THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY LGBTQ DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS’ FACEBOOK
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WEEKEND WARMUP: Alice Marie Gripp takes center stage at Cocktail’s Friday Night Foreplay Dec. 27. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT
announcements CENTRAL FLORIDA OUT+ABOUT
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NICE & NAUGHTY: Team members from Pineapple Healthcare cheer up the Grinch during Hispanic Federation Florida & Southeast’s annual Get Up! Get Moving! event at the Englewood Neighborhood Center in Orlando Dec. 7. PHOTO FROM PINEAPPLE HEALTHCARE’S FACEBOOK
2 CHRISTMAS STAR: CeCe Teneal (center) poses with Josh Bell (L) and Rich McCaffrey after her holiday show at the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando Dec. 20. PHOTO FROM CECE TENEAL’S FACEBOOK
3 SWEET TREATS: The team from Crispy Cones Orlando get festive after their fundraiser for The Center Orlando Dec. 23. PHOTO BY DANNY GARCIA
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HOLIDAY DANCING: Florida Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith (L) and Jerick Mediavilla attend Orlando Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” at the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando Dec. 19. PHOTO FROM CARLOS GUILLERMO SMITH’S FACEBOOK
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JOYFUL FORCE: Kindred Pride’s Billy Looper (L) and Pineapple Healthcare’s Ethan Suarez bring holiday cheer to local kids at the annual Santa’s Bike Force at Joy MCC in Orlando Dec. 12. PHOTO FROM PINEAPPLE HEALTHCARE’S FACEBOOK
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TAKING THE STAGE: Ginger Minj greets the guests at Divine Grace’s roast at Savoy Orlando Dec. 16. PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS
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COMMUNITY LEADERS: Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (L) is presented with the Sister Gail Grimmes Advocacy Award by Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet during Hope CommUnity Center’s Fiesta Aqui Estamos! at the Winter Park Events Center in Winter Park Dec. 6. PHOTO FROM FELIPE SOUSALAZABALLET’S FACEBOOK
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FESTIVE SHOW: Sean and Robert Mundyschein hit up Disney Springs in Orlando to see Drawn to Life by Cirque du Soleil Dec. 5. PHOTO FROM SEAN MUNDYSCHEIN’S FACEBOOK
CONGRATULATIONS
The LGBT+ Center Orlando made changes to the locations of some of its services. Starting Jan. 2, The Center Orlando’s main location, located at 946 N. Mills Ave., will become the hub for testing and health services. The Mills Ave. location will house HIV, STI/STD and Hep-C testing; mental health counseling; condoms, Narcan, Julie and testing kits; as well as provide rentable space. The Center Orlando’s Hillcrest location, located at 1200 Hillcrest St., Suite 102, will be home to all transgender services, case management and the pride pantry, as well as have rentable space available.
Hope CommUnity Center hosted its annual Fiesta “Aquí Estamos” on Dec. 6. During the event, Melissa Byrd, Orange County School board member and Hope CommUnity Center board member, was honored with the Sister Cathy Award for Excellence in Education; Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost was the recipient of the Sister Gail Award for Excellence in Advocacy; and Laudi Campo, Hispanic Federation State Director, was presented with the Sister Ann Award for Excellence in Community Organizing. “The evening was a resounding success with inspiring stories from our community, delectable food, lively music and a silent auction,” Hope Community Center wrote on its Facebook page. “Hope CommUnity Center extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who attended the Fiesta and generously supported our mission through their donations. We are incredibly thankful to our sponsors and the dedicated volunteers whose hard work made this event possible.”
LOCAL BIRTHDAYS
Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida’s board chair Dr. Boyd Lindsley, Orlando attorney Joe Seagle (Jan. 2); Central Florida performer Jose Navarro, Promoter Chris Pittman, Ginger Minj’s husband CJ Russell (Jan. 3); Veteran and die-hard Pittsburgh fan Bill Stiller (Jan. 4); Orlando psychologist Guillermo Navarro, Stonewall Bar bartender Timi Hedrich (Jan. 5); Plume’s Clinical Operations Manager Abby Silverman, former owner of Partners Emmi Grainger (Jan. 6); Central Florida director Jeremy Seghers (Jan. 7); Mr. Bear Bust 2017 Shaun Boyd (Jan. 8); Former Watermark reporter Susan Clary, Orlando Fringe performer Logan Donahoo (Jan. 10); Orlando promoter Jason Nuez (Jan. 12); Watermark owner and publisher Rick Todd, Former Chelsea Nightclub owner Nikki Turnon, Se7en Bites owner Trina GregoryPropst (Jan 14); Former Watermark intern and covergirl Gina Avile, Orlando dog-walker Don Williams, Real estate vixen Carla Stanton (Jan. 15).
REALTOR
SOLAR SERVICES
YOGA STUDIO
community calendar
CENTRAL FLORIDA
Pride in the Workplace – Diversity and Inclusion Summit
THURSDAY, JAN. 9, 9:30 A.M.-2 P.M. NATIONAL ENTREPRENEUR CENTER, ORLANDO
Join The Pride Chamber for its inaugural Pride in the Workplace - Diversity and Inclusion Summit, a timely and informative session of information, inspiration and guidance from experts in the diversity, equity and inclusion space. The event will include lunch and features a DEI panel, ERG panel and keynote speaker Andrea Snead, U.S. Tennis Association’s DEI director. To register, go to ThePrideChamber.org.
Tax Talk with Julie
THURSDAY, JAN. 9, 2-6 P.M.
LGBT+ CENTER, ORLANDO
It’s the start of a new year which means time to start thinking about taxes. Join the free Tax Talk with Julie from Bravo Tax & Accounting Services to ask all your tax-related questions. This event is perfect for performers, entertainers and gig workers. For more information and to register for the event, visit TinyURL.com/TaxTalkWithJulie.
TAMPA BAY
“RuPaul’s Drag Race” Watch Parties
BEGINNING FRIDAY, JAN. 3, 8 P.M.
THE WET SPOT, ST. PETERSBURG
Sashay over to The Wet Spot for weekly “RuPaul’s Drag Race” watch parties beginning Jan. 3, hosted by Discord Addams all season long on Fridays at 8 p.m. The Jan. 3 kickoff will feature an appearance by Tampa Bay entertainer and season 17 competitor Jewels Sparkles. Read more on p. 12.
“The Cher Show”
TUESDAY, JAN. 14-SUNDAY, JAN. 19, TIMES VARY
STRAZ CENTER, TAMPA
Snap out of it! “The Cher Show” comes to Tampa to prove superstars come and go but Cher is forever. Featuring 35 hits and celebrating six decades of stardom, the Broadway hit is billed as an “unabashedly fabulous new musical that will have audiences dancing in the aisles!” Read Watermark’s interview with the show’s leading ladies at WatermarkOnline.com.
EVENT PLANNER
ICONIC COMEDY
ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT
CENTRAL FLORIDA
The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show, Jan. 3, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Billy Gilman, Jan. 3-4, Judson’s Live, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
The Rocket Man Show, Jan. 3-4, Athens Theatre, DeLand. 386-736-1500; AthensDeLand.com
Absolute Queen, Jan. 4, House of Blues, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com
The Pride Chamber’s January Business
Connect, Jan. 8, Fields BMW of Winter Park, Winter Park. 407-420-4895; ThePrideChamber.org
Queen Flash Tribute to Queen, Jan. 9, The Ritz Theater, Sanford. 407-321-8111; RitzTheaterSanford.com
Sarah Silverman, Jan. 10, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. 407-351-5483; Cafe. HardRock.com
Broadway At The Beach: A Musical Revue, Jan. 10-12, Little Theatre of New Smyrna Beach, New Smyrna Beach. 386-423-1246; NSBPlayers.org
Miss Glamorous Newcomer 2024, Jan. 11, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando
The Butterfly Effect Showcase, Jan. 12, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Miss Glamorous Plush 2024/2025, Jan. 12, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando
“Mamma Mia,” Jan. 14-26, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
BoysTown – A Gay Male Revue, Jan. 14, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando
TAMPA BAY
“Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations,” Jan. 3-5, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org
“Florida Strong: Resilience & New Beginnings,” Jan. 4, Studios@5663, Pinellas Park. 727-313-2250; PinellasArtsVillage.com
Judy B. Goode Cabaret Show, Jan. 4, Hollander Hotel, St. Petersburg. 727-873-7900; HollanderHotel.com
Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay Spring Auditions, Jan. 6, Metropolitan Community Church, Tampa. GMCTB.org
Sarah Silverman, Jan. 9, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Tampa. 866-388-4263; Casino.HardRock.com/Tampa
The Rocket Man Show, Jan. 10, Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-300-2000; TheMahaffey.com
Steve Martin & Martin Short, Jan. 10, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
Plantapalooza III, Jan. 11, Sunken Gardens, St. Petersburg. 727-551-3102; SunkenGardens.org
Drag Queen Bingo, Jan. 11, Speakeasy Kava, Largo. 727-351-2672; SpeakeasyKavaBar.com
Paula Poundstone, Jan. 11, Nancy & David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
The Kids Are Alright: Youth Open Mic, Jan. 12, The Chattaway, St. Petersburg. 727-823-1594; GirlsRockStPete.org
“Macbeth,” Jan. 15Feb. 9, Jobsite Theater, Tampa. 813-476-7378; JobsiteTheater.org
“Rock of Ages,” Jan. 16Feb. 2, Straz Center, Tampa. MadTheatre.com
“Something Funny Happened: Comedians Telling True Stories,” Jan. 17, The Palladium, St. Petersburg. 727-822-3590; MyPalladium.org
SARASOTA
“Nothing New: Archives of Affection,” Through Feb. 1, Ringling College of Art + Design, Sarasota. 941-359-7563; RinglingCollege. Gallery
January G2H2, Jan. 9, Tarpon Bay Grill & Tiki Bar, Sarasota. 941-893-5528; G2H2Sarasota.com
Legendary comedian Paula Poundstone returns to Ruth Echerd Hall’s Bilheimer Capitol Theatre in Clearwater Jan. 11. PHOTO FROM RUTHECKERDHALL.COM
