Watermark Issue 31.16: Round One by Watermark Publishing Group

Round ONE

Democrats and Republicans address LGBTQ+ issues before Florida’s primary

Journalism matters. Journalism provides information. Information is knowledge and knowledge is power.

Watermark matters. Our mission is to advance LGBTQ+ interests. We do that by connecting community, informing you of what is happening around you that might not be on your radar. We celebrate our triumphs and, at times, we question our missteps. We uplift those fighting the good fight and hold those accountable who seek to silence you.

We need your help to continue our mission. In honor of our 30-year anniversary, Watermark is asking 1,000 of our readers to support local queer journalism by gifting $30.

Visit WatermarkOnline.com/30th or scan the QR code to show your support.

Unlike other news outlets, Watermark covers the LGBTQ+ community from a local perspective, year-round, providing depth and context for our readers they can’t get elsewhere.

Your gift will help go towards investigative journalism, expanding our freelance team and creating opportunities for more LGBTQ+ journalists, hopefully providing us with the resources to hire more staff to provide a better experience for you, our readers.

–KRISTEN BROWDE,

TALKING

Todd Phillips’ “Joker: Folie à Deux,” starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, among the films playing at the 81st Venice Film Festival. PHOTO COURTESY WARNER MEDIA

DESK PUBLISHER’S

ICAN’T SAY THAT I AM A SPORTS

person. I play softball and I’ll watch baseball when it’s on at the local sports-themed restaurant, but I can’t tell you who the players are or recite their stats.

There are plenty of sports I don’t get either: football tops the list and boxing is on it. I also don’t understand any extreme fascination with college sports. Please don’t be offended. Remember, I am obsessed with CBS first responder shows and Air Supply, so consider the source.

There is one time, however, that I become a sports fan and vehemently choose sides. I must watch the championships of all major sporting events. Maybe it’s the nachos and chicken wings, but I love watching the best of the best battle it out on the fields and courts. I pick a team and root for them like I was born in their city and we are best friends. It doesn’t hurt that they throw

in some great commercials, or used to anyway.

Imagine my excitement that the Olympics are here, and the Summer Olympics to boot. Twenty days of extreme talent all over the world vying for the podium and a chance to wear bling, as the kids used to say. I really do love the Olympics. The spectacle of it all and the adrenaline rush are often unmatched. I’ve been around long enough to have had the privilege of seeing Mary Lou Retton at her best, watching the miracle hockey team win in 1980 and being amazed as a wounded Kerri Strug hobbled her way to the vault, carrying her team to gold. It was all something of a miracle.

The 2024 Olympics is not disappointing us either. The comeback story of gymnast Suni Lee fighting through kidney disease to having a standout qualifying performance, and self-proclaimed nerd Stephen Nedoroscik’s expertise on the pommel horse that took the U.S. men’s gymnastic team to medal for the first time in 16 years. Truly inspired.

There are a record 191 LGBTQ+ athletes in the 2024 summer Olympic games. The U.S. leads all nations with 28 out athletes competing.

Aside from the competition, I love to watch the opening ceremonies. It’s fascinating to me to see what each country highlights as a representation of its culture and vision of the games.

This year we witnessed as Celine Dion had somewhat of an emotional comeback as she performed from the Eiffel Tower in the pouring rain, as if the heavens were so moved the gods wept. It was powerful.

With all of this amazing talent and inspiration, what could possibly go wrong? The religious right. Before I go any further, please understand that I am not saying the religious, or people of faith. I am referring to the wing of religion that uses religion as a political tool to manipulate people of faith and control them politically.

The latest form of this manipulation came as a result of a scene from the Olympic opening ceremonies in which a Feast of Dionysus was artistically displayed. The religious right went into an uproar stating it was mocking The Last Supper and labeled it blasphemy. To that I say, it’s not all about you. Perhaps if you spent more time reading books and not banning them you might have learned something

about other cultures. Second, you might ask yourself why a pagan festival looks a lot like your coveted religious imagery. Spoiler, the pagan festival came first.

It reminds me of the outrage of kneeling during the National Anthem as some sort of dig on the American Flag when every Fourth of July you can wipe your mustard-stained lips with a napkin donning the American flag or see American Flag thongs riding up the backside of countless beachgoers. It’s manufactured outrage and it needs to stop.

To those so furious and uneducated you are wrong about the Olympic ceremony, you are

Perhaps if you spent more time reading books and not banning them you might have learned something about other cultures.

wrong about drag queens, you are wrong about gender-affirming care and you are wrong about women’s health care. At a time when we should be banding together to celebrate, you have made it ugly.

As Watermark approaches its 30th anniversary issue, we take a look back at 2021. Also in this issue, we check in with local congressional candidates and where they stand on important LGBTQ+ issues.

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

JUANA REACTION is an educator by both vocation and training. As a house member of the Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, she spreads joy at local queer events and helps with fundraising for many local charities. Page 15

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

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SAVOY ORLANDO TO HOST 12TH ANNUAL

CELEBRITY

BARTENDER

EVENT TO BENEFIT THE CENTER ORLANDO

Grace Lowell

ORLANDO | The LGBT+ Center Orlando is hosting its 12th Annual Celebrity Bartender event on Aug. 6 at Savoy Orlando.

Sponsored by Tito’s Vodka, the event will feature four celebrity bartenders for each of the six hourly shifts that start at 6 p.m. and run through midnight. The celebrity bartenders will be spread out among Savoy’s several bars with two at Savoy’s main bar, one on the Paradise patio and the final one making drinks at Ivanhoe 1915.

This year’s bartenders include Heather Wilkie, Zebra Youth’s executive director; Tatiana Quiroga, Come Out With Pride’s executive director; Gina Duncan, The Pride Chamber’s executive director; and George Wallace, The Center Orlando’s CEO on at the 6 p.m. hour.

They will be relieved by The News Junkie’s Sabrina Ambra, Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria owner Pom Moongauklang, entertainer Risa Risqué and MojoMan Swimwear & Clothing owner Lane Blackwell for the 7 p.m. hour.

Starting at 8 p.m., the bars will be tended by Orlando performers Heather Abood and Steven Johnson, as well as drag entertainers Addison Taylor and Sheila From Accounting.

At 9 p.m., you’ll be getting served by musician RalphyC, The Center Orlando’s board president Danny Garcia, The Center Orlando’s COO Nikole Parker and Jason Lambert, owner of local eateries The Hammered Lamb and Jack & Honey’s.

Performer Jessica Hoehn, members of the LGBTQ+ rugby team the Orlando Otters, social media influencer Jimmy Drew and drag performer Ginger Beer will take over at 10 p.m.

The final shift, which starts at 11 p.m., will bring in entertainer Axel Andrews, Central Florida realtor Eric Rollings, comedian Gregory Metts and a special mystery celeb.

All tips raised from the celebrity bartenders, as well as sales from the night’s Jell-O shots, will all be donated to The Center Orlando. For the event, $1 from every Tito’s drink sold will also be donated. In the past, the event has raised over $30,000 for the nonprofit.

Celebrity Bartender is one of several events throughout the year that Savoy Orlando and The Center Orlando partner on. Another upcoming joint event will be The Center’s Annual Turnabout, which pits the team from The Center Orlando against bartenders and entertainers from Savoy Orlando in a drag competition with all tips raised going to benefit The Center Orlando. The Center’s Turnabout will take place at Savoy Orlando on Sept. 17.

For more information on upcoming events and on how the funds raised will benefit The Center Orlando, visit TheCenterOrlando.org.

central florida news

For Every Letter

26Health announces leadership, return of gender-affirming care

Grace Lowell

ORLANDO | 26Health, a Central Florida nonprofit focused on providing health care services “rooted in our LGBTQIA+ heritage, lineage and history” has announced several changes to its leadership over the last several weeks.

In a June 21 press release, 26Health named Latrice Stewart its new interim chief executive officer, replacing former CEO Syvonne Carter, who was released from her position on May 28. Stewart had been named the organization’s executive designee upon Carter’s exit.

“Stewart joined the nonprofit healthcare provider in March as Chief Operating Officer, and brings three decades of healthcare experience, including previous CEO roles at healthcare organizations,” 26Health said in its release.

The organization posted to its social media accounts on July 18, naming Stewart as 26Health’s permanent CEO.

Stewart’s promotions were accompanied by an announcement

on July 8 from 26Health, naming CeCe Teneal as the new chair of 26Health’s board of directors, replacing outgoing chair, Dr. David J. Hardrick, who held the position since May 2023.

“As the chairwoman of the Board of Directors for 26Health, I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the board for placing their confidence in me,” said Teneal in a statement. “Together, we will work tirelessly to drive our mission forward to ensure equitable access to healthcare for every individual, regardless of their background. Healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. I am committed to serving the underprivileged and underserved because we encompass every letter. No one should be left behind.”

Teneal, who is a proud queer woman of color and a world-renowned singer, joined the board in 2021 and most recently served as its treasurer.

Among the organization’s leadership changes, 26Health also announced it would resume offering gender-affirming care through its clinic.

NEW LEADERSHIP:

Gender-affirming services had been halted in 2023 due to passing of the Senate Bill 254. The bill signed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis restricted access to hormone replacement therapy in the state. At the time, many LGBTQ+-focused clinics, including 26Health, paused many of its gender-affirming health care services because of the law.

In June, U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle ruled that the law and related Boards of Medicine rules were motivated by disapproval of transgender people and violate the equal protection rights of transgender individuals, opening the door for Florida clinics to once again offer gender-affirming care.

26Health began offering those services on July 1.

Transgender individuals who want to seek gender-affirming care through 26Health can schedule an appointment online or over the phone to begin the process. This begins with a mental health exam to receive clearance with one of 26 Health’s therapists, then meeting with one of the nurse practitioners or physicians to start the process of receiving gender-affirming care.

“We have already had a significant response from our patients,” Stewart says. “We are very excited to have them back.”

Appointments for services can be made by calling 321-800-2922 or at 26Health.org/Book.

The team at 26Health celebrate Latrice Stewart’s promotion to CEO. PHOTO FROM 26HEALTH’S FACEBOOK

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COALITION ILLUMINATES RINGLING BRIDGE WITH PRIDE

Chloe Wagner

SARASOTA | A coalition of local artists and organizations illuminated the John Ringling Causeway Bridge with Pride July 28 in protest of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ “Freedom Summer.”

Florida bridges were lit in red, white and blue from Memorial Day through Labor Day this year as a part of the initiative, excluding them from being lit for Pride Month. The event was originally scheduled for July 14 but rescheduled due to rain.

The coalition hosting the event consisted of the Fabulous Arts Foundation, which focuses on uplifting emerging LGBTQ+ artists and exploring ways to heal through the arts; Florida Transgender Alliance, an advocacy organization focused on Florida’s transgender community; SEE Alliance, a student-founded and led organization that encourages Floridians and youth to vote; PSL Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay’s branch of the Party for Socialism and Liberation and ANSWER Suncoast, the Suncoast chapter of the Act Now to Stop War and End Racism coalition.

Rounding out the coalition was Equality Florida, the largest civil rights organization for Florida’s LGBTQ+ community; Orenda Health and Wellness which helps individuals facing HIV/AIDS among other health disparities; Stonewall Democratic Caucus of Sarasota, the Sarasota chapter of the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus; Voices of Florida, a Black and Queer led 501(c) (3) focused on protecting human and reproductive rights and local artist Michael Murphy, also known as Bichael Burphy.

“This coalition is important because we together are holding space for all of us, as we create a beacon of hope,” the groups said in a press release ahead of time. “Join us for a special evening as we light up the bridge in a stunning display of community and artistry.”

They added that “we are taking action to proclaim that Pride is resistance, Pride is survival, and we are here to stay. Florida cannot dim our shine! Pride is not just a celebration in June; Pride is 365!”

The event featured a walk to the top of the bridge where light holders helped illuminate the bridge and other surprises from local artists within the coalition. It also included speakers and a vigil to “remind the community that our voices matter,” FabAF’s website noted.

“This event specifically is to create a beacon of hope in light of everything that’s going on,” FabAF Executive Director and Founder Shannon Fortner added to Watermark. “I think it just shows that when we come together, we can offer hope and resiliency to a lot of the hectic world around us and offer a moment to step away from all those things and just come together as a community.”

For more information about the Fabulous Arts Foundation and its partners, visit FabAF.org/We-Shine-Bright-Light-Up-The-Bridge.

tampa bay news

Running for All Whitney

Fox details support for LGBTQ+ Floridians

Ryan Williams-Jent and Chloe Wagner

ST. PETERSBURG | Whitney

Fox is one of five Democrats running in Florida’s Aug. 20 primary to represent District 13, a Tampa Bay seat currently held by Republican Anna Paulina Luna.

Like her Democratic opponents, Fox promises to advocate for LGBTQ+ Floridians. Her website describes her as “a mother who will fight to improve the quality of life for Florida’s 13th district and the American people.”

The Tampa Bay native previously served as the communications director for the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, spearheading its SunRunner Bus Rapid Transit system. Her campaign says her background in public policy has helped her understand “a thriving community creates a thriving economy,” which “requires freedom and equality for all.”

“I’ve been working for the community throughout my career, trying to do what I can to better people’s day-to-day lives,” Fox says.

“I’ve been working closely with our community and our local elected leaders to understand a lot of the issues that our community faces.”

Fox launched her campaign last October and has regularly worked to connect with LGBTQ+ and ally voters ever since. This year’s St Pete Pride marked her sixth time participating.

“St Pete Pride is one of my favorite weekends and it was quite an experience walking as a candidate for Congress,” she reflects. “Every time I’m at St Pete Pride I’m enjoying the celebration, but this time … I heard multiple times people saying, ‘thank you for being here.’ They were just so grateful to feel seen and heard — and it’s such a small ask to be recognized.”

Fox says she’s acutely aware of “the attacks on the LGBTQ+ community in Florida” in recent years and vows to stand up against them if elected, both at home and in D.C.

“We need to make sure people know that this is not Florida,” she stresses. “This is not the Florida I know and this is not who we are. I feel very strongly that this

November that we are going to show people what Florida really stands for.”

In addition to receiving support from allies like U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor and former St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman, LGBTQ+ elected officials have also endorsed Fox. Local supporters include Largo Commissioner Michael Smith and state Rep. Michele Rayner.

According to Federal Election Commission reports, Fox may also be the best poised to challenge Luna financially. She has regularly outraised the incumbent as well as her primary opponents.

“This isn’t just fundraising — it’s a movement for real change in Pinellas,” Fox shared July 17. “While Luna chases headlines, we’re fighting for you.”

Fox says Luna will do the opposite for LGBTQ+ Floridians, citing her record of making derogatory comments about the community.

“I know very strongly that those are not the values of Pinellas County,” Fox notes. “When these extremists try to silence our voices, we’re just going to speak louder this November — and when they try to divide us, we’re going to come together stronger.”

For more information about Whitney Fox, visit WhitneyFoxForCongress.com.

Learn more about the other Democrats hoping to challenge Anna Paulina Luna, who did not respond to Watermark’s requests for comment, in our election coverage on p. 25.

ALLY IN ACTION: Whitney Fox (R) and supporters march in the St Pete Pride parade. PHOTO COURTESY WHITNEY FOX’S CAMPAIGN

TRANS TEEN STABBED IN MIAMI

Chloe Wagner

Atransgender teen was stabbed 18 times while at the Miami International Airport late July 20.

While the motive is still unclear, police arrested 29-year-old Alexander Love. He was charged with attempted first-degree murder and is being held without bond. The victim, 17, is a transgender girl currently in the process of transitioning, according to police. It was unclear whether she and Love knew each other before the attack.

“Without provocation, the subject attacked the victim by stabbing her multiple times and attempted to throw her over the railing,” a Miami-Dade news release reads. “The victim was able to escape the attack and ran down the stairs to the 3rd floor level, which is where the officers found her.”

Footage from the “Only in Dade” Instagram account shows travelers running away from the commotion and the victim receiving care from a bystander.

Paramedics rushed the teen — who was in critical care — to a trauma center to receive treatment. She underwent emergency surgery and is recovering.

LGBTQ+ DEM CAUCUS ENDORSES HARRIS, MORE

Chloe Wagner

The Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus

endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential bid July 28, just days after releasing its list of congressional endorsees for Florida’s Aug. 20 primary.

“The people we endorsed are pro-equality champions, people who will help us take back Florida and make it a place for all of us, not just the far right few,” Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus President Kristen Browde said in a statement July 23.

“That’s not to say the other Democrats in the races are in any way bad — they’re terrific people and should they win their primaries we’ll be working to elect each of them,” she continued. “But these are the candidates we think are best positioned to do what is so necessary here, to protect the Democratic senate majority

and to help flip the House of Representatives so that Kamala Harris has a Congress that will join her in continuing the progress we’ve seen in the past four years.”

The caucus led with its endorsement of Debbie Mucarsel-Powell for U.S. Senate, who previously represented Florida’s 26th congressional district.

“Debbie has proved herself an outstanding legislator with deep understanding of the issues vital to all Florida voters,” Browde shared. “She’s not just ready to move up to the United States Senate, she’s the candidate best positioned to eliminate the embarrassment ... Rick Scott.”

In the U.S. House, the caucus endorsed each of Florida’s incumbent representatives including Central Florida’s Maxwell Alejandro Frost and Darren Soto along with Tampa Bay’s Kathy Castor. Endorsed candidates include Allek Pastrana, Andrea

Doria Kale, Barbie Harden Hall and Daniel McDow in Central Florida and Jan Schneider, Manny Lopez, Patricia Kemp and Sabrina Bousbar in Tampa Bay.

In its endorsement of Harris, the caucus noted members are already actively participating in the vice president’s campaign. Volunteers are working across the state to register voters and more.

“Our members [are] excited to be working to elect the first woman to the nation’s highest office and to take back Florida at the same time,” Browde said. “Not only does Kamala Harris have the knowledge, energy and leadership skills this country needs, she’s a career prosecutor who knows exactly what to do with career felons like Donald Trump.”

View a full list of endorsements and learn more about the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus at LGBTQDems.org. Read Watermark’s primary coverage on pg. 25.

nation+world

HARRIS BECOMES DE FACTO PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEE WITH LGBTQ+ SUPPORT

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

Less than three days after President Joe Biden announced his decision to step off the ticket and endorsed Kamala Harris to run in 2024, the vice president emerged as her party’s de facto pick to take on Donald Trump in November.

According to data from the Associated Press, 2,868 of the nearly 4,000 delegates who represent Democratic voters endorsed Harris by July 22, well exceeding the 50% threshold necessary to lock up the nomination.

Virtually all prominent Democrats whose names were floated as potential rivals quickly lined up behind Harris, including Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who was tapped to co-chair the campaign, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, the first openly gay Cabinet member, who is considered a top contender to be her running-mate. As of July 24, endorsements had come from over 90% of House Democrats, including Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Also supporting Harris are major organizations that are allied with the party. Among them are major labor unions, advocacy shops and civil rights groups like UnidosUS and the Human Rights Campaign.

In written statements and public remarks after Harris officially announced her campaign, LGBTQ+ leaders and organizations highlighted Biden and Harris’ records advancing rights and protections for the community and touted their administration’s legacy as the most pro-LGBTQ+ in history.

They voiced confidence in Harris’ vision for building on that progress over the next four years and chronicled the ways in which she — in her roles as San Francisco district attorney, California attorney general, U.S. senator, and vice

president — had a hand in many of the major milestones in the fight for LGBTQ+ civil rights.

Several who spoke out to support Harris noted that she would be the first Black woman and the first South Asian presidential nominee to lead a major party ticket, having previously broken barriers throughout her career in elected office.

“We are deeply grateful to President Biden for his more than 50 years of public service and his longtime support for the LGBTQ+ community,” HRC President Kelley Robinson said.

“We owe the Biden-Harris team a debt of gratitude for leading the country out of a state of chaos and constant crisis under former President Trump,” she continued. “And the Human Rights Campaign endorses the tough, formidable, and experienced Vice President Kamala Harris for president. Vice President Harris has the support of millions of Americans, as primary voters have already made the decision to put her on the ticket.”

Robinson added, “Vice President Kamala Harris is a trailblazer and has been a champion for LGBTQ+ equality for decades: from leading the fight in San Francisco against hate crimes and her work in California to end the so-called gay and transgender ‘panic defense’ to her early support for marriage equality and her leadership serving as our vice president.

“Convicted felon Donald Trump has already shown that he aims to destroy democracy and divide the country in his quest for power,” she added. “Vice President Kamala Harris is a true champion of unity and accountability – and will fight for a country where no one is above the law and ‘justice for all’ means something.”

LGBTQ+ Victory Institute

President Annise Parker said her organization “commends President Joe Biden on leading the most progressive and inclusive presidential term in American history” under which “LGBTQ+ people have received a record number of federal appointments, including cabinet members, judges

and around 14 percent of political appointments.”

“His dedication to supporting LGBTQ+ communities and championing pro-equality legislation and executive action has created the most inclusive and affirming administration our country has ever seen,” Parker said. “And, despite attacks on LGBTQ+ liberties in state governments nationwide, the Biden administration has reinforced its dedication to LGBTQ+ equality through action.”

National LGBTQ+ Task Force Action Fund Executive Director Kierra Johnson said: “We are grateful for President Biden’s decades of service and allyship to LGBTQ communities — and for everything his administration has done to move our community forward.

“At this critical moment for our democracy and our freedoms, we have both hope and excitement for Vice President Kamala Harris and what she can do for our country,” she continued. “We fully expect a continued commitment to always putting our communities first. We now recommit to moving forward in the democratic process, the upcoming convention and the November elections.

“The Task Force action fund calls on LGBTQ+ people and our allies to take action and engage in the political process,” she also added. “Only through a show of voting power in the Nov. 5 election will we begin building the democracy we deserve.”

In a written statement to the Blade, Harris for President Senior Spokesperson Kevin Munoz said, “Vice President Harris has been a steadfast ally and fighter for LGBTQ+ Americans since her early days in office.”

He added, “Like President Biden, she’s never shied away from fighting for us, as demonstrated by her record throughout her time in public service, as well as being a part of the most pro-LGBTQ+ administration in history. Vice President Harris has had the LBGTQ+ community’s back, and this November, we’ll have hers.”

IN OTHER NEWS

TENNESSEE LAWSUIT OVER DRAG BAN DISMISSED

A federal appeals court dismissed a lawsuit challenging the first-in-the-nation law designed to place strict limits on drag shows July 18, reversing a lower court ruling that deemed it unconstitutional. The court ruled Friends of George’s, an LGBTQ+ theater company that filed the complaint last year, lacked the legal right to sue. They had alleged that the law would negatively affect them because they produce “drag-centric performances, comedy sketches, and plays” with no age restrictions. Like other Republican-led states, Tennessee’s Republican supermajority has repeatedly passed laws over the years targeting the LGBTQ+ community.

NEW HAMPSHIRE GOVERNOR SIGNS ANTI-TRANS BILLS

Republican Gov. Chris Sununu of New Hampshire signed a bill July 19 to ban transgender student athletes from teams aligning with their gender identity. The bill passed by the Republican-led Legislature will require schools to designate teams as either girls, boys or coed, with eligibility determined by students’ birth certificates “or other evidence.” The president of the public school union NEA-New Hampshire criticized Sununu. “Public schools should be safe, welcoming environments for all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity,” she said. He also signed a bill that would ban gender-affirming surgeries for trans minors, set to take effect Jan. 1.

NAMIBIAN GOVERNMENT APPEALS SODOMY LAW RULING

The Namibian government has appealed a ruling that struck down the country’s apartheid-era sodomy laws. The country’s High Court ruled the statutes are unconstitutional in June. Omar van Reene, founder of a Namibian advocacy group, said “This is done with two motives: 1) to buy cheap campaign points to their minority homophobic base and 2) showing that they are fighting against ‘homosexuality’ in the country.”

ARGENTINA ADOPTING PRO-LGBTQ+ POLICIES

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation and LGBT+ Public Policy Institute of Argentina have released their third annual report on the inclusion of LGBTQ people in the country’s workplaces. The total number of participating companies increased from 76 to 82, which reflects a growing commitment to creating LGBTQ-inclusive policies and practices in Argentine workplaces. The report also notes 224,649 queer employees, which is a 120% increase over last year. Fifty-five of the 82 participating companies in Argentina earned this certification this year. They represent 26 different business sectors. HRC has worked with groups in Mexico, Chile, and Brazil to implement similar indexes in their respective countries.

www.projectresponse.org/new-location

viewpoint

Novice Sister Juana Reaction

Reacting to Hostility POSITIVE REACTIONS

I’M STILL THINKING ABOUT

Pride Month and all of its empowering and joyful events. Social media was full of posts and articles sharing details about brunches, drag shows, family events, community celebrations and discussions around the meaning of Pride.

It was a joy for me to find all this information as I scrolled on my phone — until I dared to look at the comments. More often than not, the comments section left me feeling anxious, disappointed and frustrated.

I believe the current political climate has contributed to an increased number of negative comments directed towards LGBTQ+ citizens. Some people seem to feel emboldened to double down on their misguided hate and bigotry.

Sometimes it feels inevitable that along with an encouraging media piece, you will also have to deal with discouraging comments right underneath it. What would be a positive reaction to these virtual encounters? Should we engage? And if so, how often? When is it enough?

The answers to these questions can be complicated and nuanced, but I do have some thoughts I wish to share. I want to encourage you to value and guard your mental wellbeing above all else.

The media we consume undeniably impacts our mood and demeanor. If you spend every morning reading through negative comments and objectively false accusations, how do you think the rest of your day will go? If you spend the last hour before going to sleep on your phone consuming negativity and arguing with bad-faith people, how effective and restorative will your sleep be?

Probably not much, because your mental peace has been attacked first thing in the morning or the

last thing in the evening — or both. Ask yourself, am I positively contributing to my mental wellbeing by consuming this post or this news article? If not, switch the channel, whether literally or figuratively.

On a day when you are feeling empowered and inspired to engage in virtual dialogue in potentially hostile spaces, try to gauge the intention of the person. If they are asking questions and listening to the good-faith answers being provided, that sounds like a fruitful interaction to me.

Replies that seek to illuminate the readers’ understanding and worldview are definitely encouraged. This can be particularly successful when interacting with people you actually know in real life, people who have a frame of reference for your life story and what you bring to the table. It will be harder to dismiss you as a stereotype or just another misinformed citizen if they know you as a well-rounded individual. It can be productive to move the conversation to a private setting where more honest questions and feelings can be addressed. However, if you find yourself on the receiving end of willful ignorance and disingenuous condescending attacks, whomever it’s from, I believe that is the moment to immediately step away and protect your peace of mind.

With that being said, it is important to stay informed about what is happening in the government locally, statewide and federally so that we can be knowledgeable voters and effective advocates of social justice. We cannot turn a completely blind eye to the news and what is happening around us. This is why it matters to be selective of where we consume our news. We need to constantly discern whether a piece of media is focusing on the facts or focusing on editorial

opinions. Both can be useful and important, but we must be careful not to confuse one with the other.

Examine the tone of your news source and see if it makes unfair assumptions about political figures or entire communities. I would recommend having at

have learned and explain why the stakes are so high for you every election cycle as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.

If you have the means to do so, donate funds or volunteer your time for political campaigns that align with your ideals of

I want to encourage you to value and guard your mental wellbeing above all else.

least three different news sources so that you can have a complete picture of the day’s events.

What is the ultimate positive reaction to hostility in media? Action. Action that can create change on a large scale. The most important action is to make sure you vote for candidates that support our community. Furthermore, make sure you reach out to your friends and family. Share what you

inclusion and social justice. If you do not wish to associate with any political campaign, join charity groups that help local people in need.

At some point, we all experience disappointment and frustration with current events, but the difference lies in how we channel those negative feelings into a positive reaction. Always prioritizing your mental health, join a group

of like-minded people who want to make the world a better place through action. There are so many local groups, just reach out and ask. From my experience, I can promise you that doing so will make your mornings happier and your nighttime rest more effective and restorative.

Novice Sister Juana Reaction is an educator by both vocation and training. As a house member of the Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, she spreads joy at local queer events and helps with fundraising for many local charities.

Hosted By:

Rick Todd

Jeremy Williams

1 Broadway tour shows, like “Frozen (pictured), return to Florida after the pandemic. PHOTO BY DEEN VAN MEER

2 Rachel Levine, Assistant Secretary of Health and first trans appointee confirmed by the Senate.

3 Tymisha Harris plays Josephine Baker at Orlando Shakes in 2021.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

4 Tampa’s Jenny De Leon, who became the 46th known transgender or nonbinary person killed in 2021.

PHOTO COURTESY TAMPA PD

5 Owner David Fischer (2nd from L) and members of Cocktail’s initial team welcome supporters to St. Petersburg’s new LGBTQ+ hotspot in May. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

6. Representatives from Contigo Fund and 2021’s grant recipients.

PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

7 Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria celebrates 15 years in Orlando in 2021.

PHOTO COURTESY POM MOONGAUKLANG

8 Project Pride completes its historic Pridewalk street mural in April.

PHOTO FROM PROJECT PRIDE’S FACEBOOK

9 Tatiana Quiroga is named Come Out With Pride’s executive director and one of Watermark’s Most Remarkable People in 2021. PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

10 Trump supporters storm the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

ON THE COVER

3 YEARS AGO

LOOKING BACK: Rick Todd, Publisher

COMING OUT OF A YEAR OF LOSS

and sadness, we had high hopes for 2021.

Joe Biden had been announced as the winner of the 2020 presidential race and the LGBTQ+ community felt inspired by a return to government civility towards our community.

However the year would start with a violent attack on our nation’s Capitol building, an insurrection in which the sitting president, now ex-president, Donald Trump is indicted for inciting.

Before leaving office, Trump quietly rescinded regulations barring discrimination among HHS grantees with respect to religion, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity. Upon his inauguration as the 46th President of the United States, Biden made history by appointing the country’s first LGBTQ+ cabinet member when he named Pete Buttigieg as transportation secretary and appointing Rachel Levine as Assistant Secretary of Health,

becoming the first transgender appointee confirmed by the Senate.

The trans and nonconforming members of the LGBTQ+ community suffered great losses in 2021. According to the Human Rights Campaign, at least 50 known people were fatally shot of killed by other violent means. They are not forgotten.

The year celebrated some firsts as the One Orlando Alliance named Josh Bell as its first executive director followed by Come Out With Pride hiring Tatiana Quiroga in the role. The Trans Visibility March had its first march outside of D.C. by joining the Come Out With Pride festival. St. Pete welcomed its first Black mayor when

electing Ken Welch to the office and Project Pride in Sarasota introduced the city’s first Pride crosswalk.

Although the timing wasn’t right for the return of GayDayS and One Magical Weekend, 2021 saw the return of Tampa Pride, St Pete Pride and Come Out With Pride. Metro Inclusive Health opened a 30,000-square-foot facility in Ybor while Sarasota’s ALSO Youth expanded to Manatee County after their merger with Prism Youth.

Orlando remembered those taken at Pulse with the 5-year mark of the tragedy. Ben Johansen, aka “The Ribbon Maker,” announced the end of his ribbon making career with 1.3 million ribbons created and distributed to all 50 states and reaching 67 countries.

As Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ term continued, he signed a law to block trans youth from playing sports aligning with their gender identities. The Florida Commission on Human Relations also announced it would protect LGBTQ+ Floridians by enforcing the Florida Civil Rights Act.

PHOTO BY BLINK O’FANAYE; FROM FLICKR

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talking points

I want to honor our President @JoeBiden. He has served our nation admirably for decades, he is a decent honorable man, a hugely successful president, and a patriot. Now let us unite behind @KamalaHarris and defeat Donald Trump in November!

—GEORGE TAKEI IN A POST ON X

THE TELEVISION ACADEMY HONORED DOZENS OF QUEER CREATORS AND QUEER-THEMED TV SHOWS in its nominations for the 76th annual Emmy Awards, which were announced July 16. One of the most interesting races is among the reality competition categories as RuPaul and the juggernaut series “RuPaul’s Drag Race” will compete with queer entertainer Alan Cumming and his hit Peacock reality competition series, “The Traitors.” “Drag Race” earned nominations for outstanding reality competition series, production design, casting, choreography, directing, picture editing and sound mixing. RuPaul also earned a nomination for outstanding reality competition host, an award the drag legend has won eight years in a row. “The Traitors” earned four nominations of its own for outstanding reality competition series, cinematography, directing and outstanding reality competition host for Cumming. The winners will be announced at the Primetime Emmy Awards on Sept. 15.

CHAPPELL ROAN BRINGS

OUT SASHA COLBY AT CONCERT

LGBTQ+ POP SENSATION

CHAPPELL ROAN BROUGHT

“RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE” STAR SASHA COLBY on stage during her performance at a festival July 19. Roan was performing her hit song, “Hot To Go,” at the Capitol Hill Block Party in Seattle when Colby made her way to the stage. The duo performed the song’s signature dance while Roan sang along — ending with Roan shouting into the mic as Colby flaunted on stage. Colby posted photos on July 22 of her and Roan performing and meeting backstage. Roan has become a viral sensation in recent months with her hit songs like “Good Luck, Babe,” “Femininomenon” and “Red Wine Supernova,” despite having released her debut album in 2017.

GAGA, GUADAGNINO AND ALMODÓVAR AMONG VENICE FILM FEST LINEUP

TODD PHILLIPS’ “JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX,” STARRING JOAQUIN PHOENIX AND LADY GAGA; LUCA GUADAGNINO’S “QUEER,” based on William S. Burroughs’ novel of the same name and starring Daniel Craig and Jason Schwartzman; and Pedro Almodóvar’s first English-language film, “The Room Next Door,” starring Julianne Moore and Tilda Swinton are among the films playing at the 81st Venice Film Festival. The lineup, unveiled July 23, also includes new films starring Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Angelina Jolie, Nicole Kidman and Jude Law. The festival kicks off Aug. 28 with the world premiere of Tim Burton’s “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice” and ends Sept. 7.

BRITTNEY GRINER AND WIFE CELEBRATE BIRTH OF THEIR SON

IT’S A BOY FOR BRITTNEY AND CHERELLE GRINER. The Phoenix Mercury center revealed the news in interviews with CBS Sports and NBC News. “Every minute I feel like he’s popping into my head,” said Griner. “Literally everything revolves around him. And I love it.” The couple officially welcomed the baby boy on July 8. “That’s my man. He is amazing,” Griner told CBS Sports. “They said as soon as you see them, everything that you thought mattered just goes out the window. That’s literally what happened.” He weighs 7 pounds, 8 ounces. Griner told NBC News correspondent Liz Kreutz they chose to name their newborn son “Bash.”

300,000

ARE BEING RAISED BY SAME-SEX COUPLES.

21% OF SAME-SEX COUPLES WHO ARE PARENTING ADOPT.

3% OF DIFFERENT-SEX COUPLES WHO ARE PARENTS ADOPT.

4% OF SAME-SEX COUPLES WHO ARE PARENTING FOSTER AND 0.4% OF DIFFERENT-SEX COUPLES WHO ARE PARENTS FOSTER.

—Williams Institute’s LGBTQ Parenting in the US report

RUPAUL AND ALAN CUMMING

Round ONE

Ryan Williams-Jent

PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN UPENDED THE

2024 presidential election July 21, announcing he would no longer seek a second term. He subsequently endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic nomination, whose campaign went on to raise a record $81 million in just 24 hours.

“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your president,” he shared in a letter, something he reiterated July 24 during an Oval Office address. “And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to ... focus solely on fulfilling my duties as president for the remainder of my term.”

The Democrat’s decision followed weeks of speculation after his performance in the first presidential debate as well as the Republican National Convention. The party formally selected Donald Trump as their nominee July 18 along with the former president’s 2024 running mate, J.D. Vance.

Each has a history of enacting or supporting anti-LGBTQ+ policies and procedures, many of which were amplified at the RNC. The convention took place after more than 500 explicitly anti-LGBTQ+ bills were introduced in state legislatures across the country this year — largely supported by the Republicans in

attendance — including over 10 in Florida.

It’s why Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus President Kristen Browde, whose organization advocates for LGBTQ+ Floridians to the Florida Democratic Party, says Democrats are better suited than Republicans to represent the community’s interests.

“It isn’t a close call,” she explains. “All you have to do is look at the openly anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that has emerged from the Republican-dominated state legislature and has been signed into law by DeSantis,” she says of Florida’s governor, who spoke at the RNC.

“Republicans have ignored reality, ignored science and have ignored the rights and the needs of LGBTQ+ Floridians.”

The Log Cabin Republicans of Orlando disagree. The Central Florida group is a chapter of the national organization representing “LGBT conservatives and straight allies who

ON PG. 27 | uu |

support fairness, freedom and equality for all Americans.”

“Florida Republicans have a strong track of producing strong, energetic, freedom-loving candidates up and down the ballot who have energized voters and turned our state red,” they told Watermark via email. “This November, voters will have the chance yet again to vote for candidates who will fight for the Constitution and represent ALL of their constituents.”

The nation’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization disagrees. The Human Rights Campaign’s latest Congressional Scorecard, which measures support for equality in D.C., gave Florida’s U.S. senators a 0% for their efforts to represent LGBTQ+ Floridians. In the U.S. House, Republican scores went no higher than 38%.

LCR Orlando also advises that the “Republican Party not only respects the fundamental rights

and liberties of LGBT Americans, but will deliver results on other important issues that LGBT voters care about, including the economy, the border, crime, national security, energy and foreign policy.”

As of press time, the group did not respond to Watermark’s requests for comment on Florida’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws, each enacted by its Republican supermajority. Browde, however, maintains a clear message on the matter.

“Don’t vote for candidates who would hurt the ones you love,” she says. “That means if there’s an ‘R’ next to the name, don’t even think of voting for them.”

It’s a matter echoed by Harris’ campaign for president, which has garnered support from civil rights organizations across the country. Among other reasons, they’ve cited the Biden-Harris administration’s years of support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Both the president and vice president have called for the passage of the Equality Act, which would amend the Civil Rights Act to protect LGBTQ+ Americans.

Democrats have lacked the full congressional control required to send the measure to the president’s desk.

The administration also recently expanded Title IX provisions to protect LGBTQ+ students from discrimination in schools, a matter explicitly condemned in the Republican Party’s 2024 platform. The expansion is also facing legal challenges from Republican-led states like Florida.

Biden and Harris also strongly oppose Project 2025, the anti-LGBTQ+ Heritage Foundation’s presidential plan. It was drafted by Trump’s longtime allies and former administration officials in the “conservative think tank,” which has advocated against marriage equality and more. The administration has said the plan would eliminate civil rights and embolden discrimination.

It’s all part of why there has “never been a more important time to elect Democrats to Congress,” Browde says. “We’ve seen what Republican control of any branch of government brings: the reversal

of progress towards equality. The only thing that will stop them is the election of a Democratic majority in both houses of Congress.”

Democrats stress doing so will reshape the American landscape to be more equitable, allowing for the passage of the Equality Act and other inclusive laws. The party has pledged to restore reproductive rights after the conservative Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022 and more.

It’s a process that begins with Florida’s primary, when registered Republicans will choose Republican candidates and registered Democrats will choose Democratic candidates to advance to November’s general election. Regardless of their party affiliation, all registered voters can vote on local issues and nonpartisan contests.

The process is already underway, with mail ballots having been sent to voters who requested them. Those who wish to vote in person can do so on Election Day Aug. 20 or during the state’s early voting period Aug. 10-17.

That’s why Watermark reached out to over 60 congressional candidates in Central Florida and Tampa Bay for our 2024 primary coverage. We asked them four questions — one open-ended about why LGBTQ+ and ally readers should support their candidacy and three yes or no questions about their support for LGBTQ+ issues. View them in full below and in the subsequent pages.

We received 17 responses from Democrats, 3 from Republicans and 4 from other parties, including those without an affiliation. Their answers follow, edited for length and clarity. If their response was unclear or wasn’t provided, an asterisks is included in lieu of a yes or no.

Florida’s primary election is Aug. 20 and early voting is Aug. 10-17.

For information about local races, your polling location, voter registration and more, visit Vote.org or contact your local Supervisor of Elections at MyFloridaElections.com/Contact-Your-SOE.

2024 LGBTQ VOTERS’ GUIDE: SENATE RACES

1 WHY SHOULD LGBTQ+ AND ALLY VOTERS SUPPORT YOUR CANDIDACY?

2 DO YOU SUPPORT THE EQUALITY ACT, WHICH WOULD EXTEND FEDERAL NONDISCRIMINATION PROTECTIONS TO LGBTQ+ AMERICANS?

U.S. Senator Scott, Rick (REP) NO RESPONSE

U.S. Senator Columbus, John S. (REP)

3 DO YOU SUPPORT THE BIDEN ADMINISTRATION’S TITLE IX REVISIONS, WHICH WOULD PROTECT LGBTQ+ STUDENTS?

4 DO YOU SUPPORT PROJECT 2025, THE HERITAGE FOUNDATION’S ANTI-LGBTQ+ PRESIDENTIAL TRANSITION PLAN?

I’m going to keep this simple; I am a heterosexual ally who will always stand up for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. I denounce hate and discrimination of every kind, and believe Love is Love, and embracing Love is the only path forward to creating a more perfect union. As a theatre professional, I understand the value of diverse collaboration, and will always respect and value people’s differences. For more information about me and my campaign, please visit ColumbusforCongress.com.

U.S. Senator Gross, Keith (REP) NO RESPONSE

U.S. Senator Campbell, Stanley (DEM)

U.S. Senator Joseph, Rod (DEM)

I was brought up to treat everyone as an equal. ... There isn’t going to be a person on Capitol Hill or any hill that is going to support your right to be who you are more than me. My brother [Uncle Luke from 2 Live Crew] went to the Supreme Court twice, and we know how to fight. We know how to fight in the streets of Liberty City and we know how to fight in the courts for what’s right.

I am the only military combat veteran running in the race, I served with all types of people regardless of their sexual preferences and ethnicity, I will continue to serves everyone indiscriminately as I have done for 20 years or my life.

U.S. Senator Mucarsel-Powell, Debbie (DEM) NO RESPONSE

U.S. Senator Rush, Brian (DEM)

U.S. Senator Everidge, Ben (NPA)

As a former four-term member of the Florida House of Representatives, who served in the House leadership as the Democratic Majority Whip, I have always supported LGBTQ + civil rights, especially the right to privacy and equal protection under the Constitution. I have long supported marriage equality and the Equality Act, because I believe every person has the right to participate in our economy and our society, free from discrimination. In other words, no person should be denied equal opportunity and equal treatment in regard to their civil rights, especially in relation to employment, education, healthcare, family relationships and government benefits. The Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment requires that all Americans be treated the same and guaranteed equal protection under law. Of the four candidates running in the Democratic primary, I have the most experience in a legislative body and I have over 35 years of experience as a civil trial lawyer, protecting individual rights against government and corporate misconduct and discrimination.

As an independent candidate for the United States Senate, I am not a party proxy for either major party and am not beholden to any particular special interest. The mission of my campaign is to protect Democracy and to protect Florida. That means helping all Floridians have better-paying jobs, safer neighborhoods, access to more affordable healthcare, and education that actually educates truthfully and not politically. As someone who has been in and around national politics since first going to work for then-Congressman Bill Nelson, and then-U.S. Senator Lawton Chiles, I have opposed discrimination of any kind, against anyone, for any reason, anywhere.

U.S. Senator Nguyen, Tuan TQ (NPA) NO RESPONSE

U.S. Senator Bonoan, Feena (LPF)

I support the LGBTQ 100%. Love between consenting adults should be celebrated not condemned. The Libertarian Party is the original home of the LGBTQ, it’s part of the reason I am a Libertarian. My political mentor was the late Tracy Ryan of Hawaii whose name should be known for being the first openly trans person to run for governor in Hawaii in 2002. … I believe love is a rainbow and there many ways to love each other … we are a community of love.

Y N

2024 LGBTQ VOTERS’ GUIDE: LOCAL RACES

1 WHY SHOULD LGBTQ+ AND ALLY VOTERS SUPPORT YOUR CANDIDACY?

DO YOU SUPPORT THE EQUALITY ACT, WHICH WOULD EXTEND FEDERAL NONDISCRIMINATION PROTECTIONS TO LGBTQ+ AMERICANS?

Rep. for Congress, District 6 Waltz, Michael (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 6 Grow, John (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 6 Stockton III, James David (DEM) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 7 Mills, Cory Lee (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 7 Johnson, Mike (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 7 Adams, Jennifer (DEM) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 7 Fernandez, Tatiana (DEM)

Rep. for Congress, District 7 Pastrana, Allek (DEM)

Rep. for Congress, District 8 Kennedy, Sandy (DEM)

Rep. for Congress, District 8 McDow, Daniel (DEM)

3 DO YOU SUPPORT THE BIDEN ADMINISTRATION’S TITLE IX REVISIONS, WHICH WOULD PROTECT LGBTQ+ STUDENTS?

DO YOU SUPPORT PROJECT 2025, THE HERITAGE FOUNDATION’S ANTI-LGBTQ+ PRESIDENTIAL TRANSITION PLAN?

I’m ready to work with our people and then to make sure our community receives quality treatment. I know we have a few bills over there in Washington that I would like to sit down with them, and then work together. ... To make sure they get what they need, make sure that your people invite me to whatever they need from me. If I don’t know where they are going to be, then I don’t know what they need, and its impossible for us to support them.

As an LGBTQ+ ally, I believe in LOVE IS LOVE! Standing as a supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, I will always be there to support and stand by your side. If anyone is in need of a caring embrace, I am here to offer FREE DAD HUGS! I will represent you in D.C. and make sure your voices are heard, to be included in all decisions I make. The government MUST stay out of the patient room and the bedroom!

I am committed to passing legislation to protect the constitutional rights of LGBTQ persons equally as other persons, including the Equality Act, and other measures to protect bodily autonomy, reduce government intrusion into medical decisions, increase access to mental health and suicide prevention services, and ban conversion therapy. I will work to enhance the respect and acceptance of LGBTQ persons, and to dispel false beliefs that harm LGBTQ persons. I believe that state and federal governments need to stop intruding, and allow the medical community to handle questions of transgender surgery for minors—the issue should not be a political football.

When I was elected to the West Melbourne City Council, I became the only “out” gay man holding public office in Brevard County. That has not changed in the four years since I took office. I was a founder of the LGBTA Democratic Caucus in Brevard and Indian River counties. I was a Space Coast Pride Board member from 2013-2019, I sat on the Equality Florida Host Committee for the Space Coast Region from 2013-2017. I was president of the Space Coast LGBTA Democratic Caucus from 2019-2023. ... I am dedicated to protecting the rights of all LGBTQ+ individuals and stopping the scourge of hate that has taken root in some areas of my community.

Rep. for Congress, District 8 Babits, Joe (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 8 Haridopolos, Mike (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 8 Hearton, John (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 9 Soto, Darren (DEM)

In Congress, I am a proud Vice Chair of the Congressional Equality Caucus. I successfully passed legislation to designate the Pulse National Memorial after the tragic shooting in 2016 and voted to pass the Respect for Marriage Act. I was also an original co-sponsor of the Equality Act and proud to have supported it since it was first introduced. On National Coming Out Day 2023, Team Soto introduced a resolution to recognize the legacy of LGBTQ+ people through the preservation of historic places. We also have an LGBTQ+ Advisory Board to discuss issues important to the Central Florida LGBTQ+ community.

Rep. for Congress, District 9 Castillo, Jose (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 9 Chalifoux, Thomas (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 9 Quinones, John “Q” (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 9 Carter, Marcus (NPA)

Rep. for Congress, District 10 Frost, Maxwell Alejandro (DEM)

I believe that the LGBT movement is one of many outcomes resulting from a decades-long, unchecked mental health crisis that has affected our country and disrupted our societal values. This perspective is not meant to be discriminatory; I don’t see the LGBT movement as the sole result. I also include the millions of veterans who struggle or have struggled with different forms of mental health challenges, which stem from the same societal neglect. ... As I’ve mentioned, I’d be more than happy to share more about my thoughts in detail because I believe the conversation I’m trying to have is the one we need, especially with those most affected by it. At the same time, I am in no way placing judgment, seeking to cause harm, or elevating myself above others. I understand it’s quite a tightrope to walk, but considering the deep divide we are experiencing, it is best to find more effective ways to communicate honestly yet respectfully.

In Congress, I’ve been a staunch advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, serving as Vice Chair on the Congressional Equality Caucus and on the Congressional Progressive Caucus. I collaborate with like-minded colleagues to advance a progressive agenda that includes strong protections against discrimination for the LGBTQ+ community and safe, supportive environments. I have opposed every hateful anti-LGBTQ+ Republican bill and amendment in this Congress. I’ve also supported efforts to ensure that LGBTQ+ youth are protected in our schools and have access to the resources they need to thrive. ... I aim to not just be an ally but an accomplice. I am committed to fighting for equality, justice, and the protection of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, full stop.

Rep. for Congress, District 10 Darius, Wade (DEM) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 10 White, V. “Issa” (DEM) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 10 Le, Tuan (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 10 Montague, Willie J. (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 11 Webster, Daniel (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 11 McCloy, John (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 11 Harden Hall, Barbie (DEM) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 12 Bilirakis, Gus Michael (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 12 Dunlap, Hank (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 12 Aboujaoude Jr, Rock (DEM) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 13 Luna, Anna Paulina (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 13 Bousbar, Sabrina (DEM)

Rep. for Congress, District 13 Dahan, Liz (DEM)

Growing up in Pinellas, I learned ... the importance of treating everyone with dignity and respect. I am a lifelong ally of the LGBTQ+ community and have worked to advance equality both in my personal and professional life. While serving in the Biden-Harris administration, I worked with stakeholders across the country to amplify the White House’s historic actions, including expanding access to mental health services, addressing hate-fueled violence and protecting young people in the LGBTQ+ community. In Congress, I will be a strong champion of equality and LGBTQ+ rights for all Americans ... Pinellas County deserves a representative who will work to secure full LGBTQ+ rights and protections. Our country and nation are strongest when everyone is protected from discrimination and have an equal opportunity to contribute, succeed and thrive.

I am dedicated to the LGBTQ+ community, which I hope you will find evident through my active involvement over my career. My campaign has supported many local community events … [and] Team Liz reflects this commitment. Our senior leadership includes members of the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring authentic connections with women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and young voters. I actively participated in Capital Stonewall Democrats during my time in Washington, D.C. where I focused on policy discussions and advocacy efforts aimed at securing equal rights and protections. At my previous firm, I was a key member of the LGBTQ+ employee resource group, organizing events that addressed critical issues such as domestic violence affecting women and transgender folks. I also led the “Open for Business’’ program, advocating for global LGBTQ+ inclusion and demonstrating the business benefits of diverse, inclusive societies. I am especially proud of the progress we made on LGBTQ+ rights in Taiwan and Kenya. If I become your member of Congress, I am fully committed to fighting discrimination and advocating for affirmative actions that positively impact the LGBTQ+ community.

Rep. for Congress, District 13

Fox, Whitney (DEM)

Rep. for Congress, District 13 Liccione, John William (DEM)

Rep. for Congress, District 13 Weinkrantz, Mark (DEM)

I have stood up as a strong ally to the LGBTQ+ community and will continue to do so in D.C. Whether it’s walking in the St Pete Pride parade six years in a row, promoting PSTA’s free park & ride services to Pride events, wrapping a bus for Pride each year to ensure the LGBTQ+ community feels seen or calling out discrimination wherever I see it, I have always been a proud ally and look forward to the opportunity and trust from the LGBTQ+ community to be an ally in Congress. I will advocate for the Equality Act and expansion of federal civil rights laws to include protections based on sexual orientation and gender identity. During my career, I worked with elected leaders at the local, state and federal level which is why over 50 local elected leaders have endorsed my campaign, including Congresswoman Kathy Castor, because they trust me and know I will be the local leader we need to represent Pinellas County in D.C.

I believe that LGBTQ+ and ally voters should support my candidacy because the LGBTQ+ community can count on me to advocate for LGBTQ+ people — regardless of whether it is difficult or whether it is to my political advantage. Simply put, LGBTQ+ people are my friends and neighbors, and I stand up for my friends and neighbors — and that’s why I ask that LGBTQ+ and ally voters stand up for me.

I have been an advocate and an ally of the LGBTQ+ community for decades. When I was on the board of the YMCA, I advocated for queer families to be granted the same admissions, fee and registration privileges that other families were receiving. Initially I was ignored and then refused. I threatened to resign ... if these discriminatory practices were not changed. We won and the policy was adjusted that year. When placing your trust in someone, it is important to look at what they have done and what they are doing; not just what they say they will do in the future. I am proud to be a member and supporter of a number of LGBTQ+ organizations and I’m also proud of the diversity of our staff which includes queer, gay and trans members. I will continue to work alongside and to fight on behalf of this community until every person feels safe and respected.

Rep. for Congress, District 14 Castor, Kathy (DEM) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 14 Joarder, Ehsan (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 14 Perry, Neelam Taneja (REP) I am an HIV specialist from the 1980’s and have worked very closely with the LGBT community and understand them and their concerns very deeply.

Rep. for Congress, District 14 Peters, John (REP)

We are all American citizens and children of God ... Everyone should be treated equally without discrimination and I support equality for all American citizens without putting people into a box because they disagree with you. Everyone has different ideas on what’s best for the country. We have to look at everyone’s thoughts and come to our own conclusions on how to solve our problems together without calling people names or vilifying them because they have a different idea.

Rep. for Congress, District 14 Rochford, Robert “Rocky” (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 14 Bradley, Christopher (NPA) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 14 Snyder, Nathaniel T. (LPF)

As a candidate, I am committed to fostering a society where everyone feels safe, respected and included. My focus on unity and support for small businesses and veterans directly impacts LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. My campaign is about bringing people together, not dividing them based on their differences. I believe in creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Rep. for Congress, District 15 Lee, Laurel (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 15 Barbosa, Jennifer (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 15 Judge, James (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 15 Kemp, Patricia “Pat” (DEM)

The stakes have never been higher to elect a Democratic majority ... I have stood by the local LGBTQ+ community as we fought to restore Tampa Pride, which was once “banned” ... As a grassroots activist, I canvassed for marriage equality and helped many elected officials who supported equal rights. I’ve celebrated at Tampa Pride year after year and spoken at many LGBTQ+ events. I will continue to be a strong ally ... not just in words but in action, like I have been for decades as an activist and eight years as a County Commissioner. Together we can restore reproductive freedom; protect Social Security and Medicare; lower healthcare, housing, and energy costs; and build a stronger, more equitable economy.

Rep. for Congress, District 16 Buchanan, Vern (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 16 Speir, Eddie (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 16 Miller, Trent (DEM) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 16 Schneider, Jan (DEM) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 17 Steube, Greg (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 17 Lopez, Manny (DEM) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 17 Montavon, Matthew (DEM) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 18 Franklin, Scott (REP) NO RESPONSE

Rep. for Congress, District 18 Braunston, Peter A. (DEM) I am an ally. LGBTQ+ families are families. No one should ever be discriminated against due to their sexual orientation, race, color or religion. Love between two, non-related individuals is hard to find. We should never pass laws against it.

Rep. for Congress, District 18 Kale, Andrea Doria (DEM)

I’ve been an ally of the community since my teens. I’ve been involved mostly since I moved to Florida permanently with the Democratic Caucus who just endorsed me and advocating for legislation. I was a homeless teenager before I became pregnant at the age of 17 and it was the LGBTQ+ community that helped me, specifically the transgender community, and I never forgot that and every opportunity I’ve had to pay it back, that’s what I’ve done.

announcements TAMPA BAY OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS

PFLAG Tampa celebrates 13 years of serving Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ community this month.

A coalition of local artists and organizations including the Fabulous Arts Foundation, Equality Florida, Voices of Florida and more illuminated the John Ringling Causeway Bridge with Pride July 28 in protest of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ “Freedom Summer.” Read more on p. 12.

Love the Golden Rule’s annual Evening in Tropical Paradise raised over $5,000 in honor of World Hepatitis Day. Dr. Bob Wallace also announced they will open a second location later this month.

Gulfport Pride announced July 22 that this year’s celebration in June raised $10,000 for the Sonia Plotnick Women’s Health Fund and Gulfport Kiwanis Club, funds which will be equally divided between the nonprofits. Read more at WatermarkOnline.com.

Dr. Byron Green-Calisch and Elliott Calisch finalized the adoption of their child July 25.

Josh Reed and Tony Pullaro announced their engagement July 28.

In addition to school supplies, the Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence raised over $1,000 for local student programming during Drag Me Back to School at Enigma July 28.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS

Stage superstar Scott Daniel, Suncoast Softball League legend Ron Frank (Aug. 1); former St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman, Sarasota visual artists and AIDS activist George Box, Pinellas County educator Dwayne Shepherd, Pharmacy technician Tarrin East (Aug. 2); Tampa Bay mainstay Daniel Velasco, Bucs fan Roberta Ramasanto (Aug. 4); Former Watermark contributor Aaron Drake, St. Petersburg Starbucks supervisor Mark Mercado, JenSpa and Blush Beauty Center owner Jen Warden, Tampa scuba diver Nick Walters (Aug. 5); Tampa Bay Sister and ally Carol “Mama” Steen (Aug. 6); Hillsborough County ally Russell Patterson, GaYbor District Coalition board member emeritus Rich Kerin, Tampa showgirl and laser professional Jamie Cole, Got Split Ends? stylist Mick Ferrari, Love The Golden Rule’s Dr. Bob Wallace (Aug. 7); St. Petersburg doctor Kush Patel, St. Petersburg realtor Doug Parton (Aug. 8); Sarasota actor/writer Steve Warren, Healing Village Therapy’s Abbie Aldridge (Aug. 9); St. Petersburg activist Karen Murray, St. Petersburg clothing designer Raul del Castillo, Tampa health restaurateur Trent McAree, Largo beautician Jay Berwanger, Digital creator Shawn Nikolas, Kava specialist Michael Murray (Aug. 10); Community builder Kevin Johnson, GTE Financial specialist Jared Acuff, Florida Army National Guard company commander Katie Mace, Salon Swank stylist Mikey Bessette, Tombolo Books’ Alsace Walentine, Tampa Bay bartender Robbie Parks (Aug. 11); Tampa Bay leather bear Eric Siglin, Stand Up Florida’s Bryan Arnette (Aug. 13); Sarasota activist Chuck Redding, Tampa Bay chef Andrew Bolton (Aug. 14).

TROPICAL TASK: Dr. Bob Wallace (L) and Andrew Clarke enjoy the Love the Golden Rule’s annual Tropical Paradise fundraiser July 29 in Gulfport. PHOTO FROM LOVE THE GOLDEN RULE’S FACEBOOK

2 HE SAID YES: Tony Pullaro (L) and Josh Reed take their next step July 28 with an engagement. PHOTO COURTESY JOSH REED

PRIDERAISER: Metro Inclusive Health accepts a ceremonial check for over $5,000 in funds raised by Ciccio Restaurant Group during Pride Month on July 25. PHOTO FROM METRO’S FACEBOOK

TBBL LOVE: Members of the Tampa Bay Black Lesbians strike a pose July 17 for the group’s monthly Karaoke Birthday meet-up. PHOTO FROM TBBL’S FACEBOOK

TEAM TAMPA: Entertainers including the Tampa Pride royal court lead the Tampa Pride Scholarship Fund’s benefit at Southern Nights Tampa July 28. PHOTO FROM TAMPA PRIDE’S FACEBOOK

GAME DAY: (L-R) Dylan Todd, Rick Todd, Daisy Chamberlin, Danny Garcia, Ryan Williams-Jent and Jeremy Williams end Watermark’s mid-year retreat at Dave & Busters July 19. PHOTO COURTESY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

7 FOR THE CHILDREN: (Front, L-R) Hosts Daphne Ferraro and Novice Sister Juana Reaction with performer Ericka P.C. and the Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence (back row) July 28 at Enigma for the Drag Me Back to School fundraiser. PHOTO COURTESY SISTER JUANA REACTION

8 THE SHADY BUNCH: (L-R) Silver Foxx, Phalin B. Angel, Morgan Le Shade and Stormy Knight De’Ore take the stage for Shade Showcase July 20 at the Garage. PHOTO COURTESY MORGAN LE SHADE

announcements CENTRAL FLORIDA OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS

Green House Realty celebrated 14 years in Orlando on July 31.

The LGBT+ Center Orlando held its 12th annual Diversity Awards at the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista on July 26. Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost received the LGBT+ Ally award, Admiral Rachel L. Levine, MD, the 17th Assistant Secretary for Health for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and National Press Secretary for the Human Rights Campaign Brandon Wolf both received the Trailblazer Award. La Jon Dantzler, The Center Orlando’s Individual Giving Manager, received the Emerging Leader Award and Michael Slaymaker, Chief Executive Officer at Orlando Youth Alliance, was named The Center Orlando’s 2024 Lifetime Achievement recipient. Zebra Youth received the Non-Profit Partner award, Orange County Government received the Champion of Equality award, Universal Studios Florida received the Corporate Partner award and Watermark Publishing Group received the Small Business Partner award. You can see photos from the event by going to WatermarkOnline.com.

Southern Nights Orlando celebrates its 10th anniversary this month with a series of events Aug. 15-18. Savoy Orlando celebrates its 20th anniversary this month.

CONDOLENCES

Jason Clark, who had been a member of the Central Florida Sounds of Freedom Band & Color Guard, passed away in the early morning hours of July 28. Friends took to Facebook to share memories of Jason, commenting that he was always “the life of the party,” loved gaming and made “amazing Jell-O shots.” He will be dearly missed.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS

Orlando bartender James Costello (Aug. 1); Central Florida performer Josh Roth-Fontaine, The Ritz-Carlton Residences’ Food & Beverage Operations Manager Vitor Braga Lara (Aug. 2); Dynamite derby girl Kiersten Taylor (Aug. 3); Sky 60-Niners slugger Donnie McCammon (Aug. 4); Orlando Penthouse Acupuncture owner Mike Eghbal, real estate agent and Southern Nights bartender Colleen Green, Central Florida realtor and environmental activist Eric Rollings (Aug.5), Orlando super mom to a trans student Jennifer Bertrand (Aug. 6); Orlando designer and “Project Runway” alum Jesse LeNoir, Orlando-based traveler of the friendly skies Drew Sizemore (Aug. 7); Kirkpatrick Veterinary Hospital manager Victor Daza, Shih Tzu rescuer Scott Dunkle, Former Watermark interns Layla Ferris and Isaiah Peters (Aug. 8); Human Rights Campaign Press Secretary Brandon J. Wolf, Orlando accountant Rose Gamba, Former QLatinx executive director Christopher J. Cuevas (Aug. 9); performer “Sorcha Mercy” Lance Austin (Aug. 11); Orlando hair stylist Bobby Kantz, Rotten S’more’s Shiala Morales (Aug. 12); Central Florida singer Billy Mick, Regalia owner David Lang (Aug. 14).

AWARD WINNERS: Watermark’s staff won the Small Business Partner award at The Center Orlando’s Diversity Awards in Orlando July 26. PHOTO COURTESY DYLAN TODD

BRUNCH BUNCH: (L-R)

MrMs Adrien, Divine Grace, April Fresh and Risa Risqué celebrate a Sunday Funday with brunch at Savoy in Orlando July 28. PHOTO FROM LOC ROBERTSON’S FACEBOOK

FUN WITH CATS: Patty

Sheehan shows off her artwork during an exhibit at CityArts in Orlando July 18. PHOTO FROM PATTY SHEEHAN’S FACEBOOK

MIX & MINGLE: David Porter (L) and Josh Bell attend Watermark’s Third Thursday, benefiting PFLAG Orlando, at Savoy in Orlando July 18. PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

5 FROM THE STAGE: Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (L) speaks to the audience, while WESH 2’s Nancy Alvarez and Jesse Pagan look on, at The Center Orlando’s Diversity Awards in Orlando July 26. PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

MAKING CONNECTIONS: Andres Acosta Ardila (L), community relations director for Pineapple Healthcare, and COO of Pom Pom’s, Jay Beckett, have a meeting in Orlando July 29 to build new community partnerships. PHOTO COURTESY ANDRES ACOSTA ARDILA

7 SPORTS TALK: (L-R) Magic 107.7’s Chad Pitt (L) and Leslye Gale (3rd from L) chat with WESH 2’s Michelle Imperato and Stewart Moore in Orlando July 17 about their upcoming Olympic coverage. PHOTO FROM CHAD PITT’S INSTAGRAM

8 RUNNING FOR CONGRESS: Daniel McDow, a Democratic candidate for U.S. House Florida District 8, grabs a selfie with supporters in Melbourne July 18. PHOTO FROM DAN MCDOW FOR CONGRESS FLORIDA 8 FACEBOOK

community calendar

CENTRAL FLORIDA

The Pride Chamber’s August Business Connect

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 7, 6-8 P.M.

THE NATIONAL ENTREPRENEUR CENTER, ORLANDO

The Pride Chamber invites you to a special August Business Connect event to celebrate the launch of its brand-new website. This is your chance to connect with fellow LGBTQ+ and allied business professionals, explore exciting new business opportunities and learn more about The Pride Chamber’s initiatives and how they can support your business. The event is free to members and $20 for non-members. For more information, call 407-420-4895 or go to ThePrideChamber.org.

Rainbow SemDems Social

SATURDAY, AUG. 10, 12 P.M. COMMUNITY BREWHOUSE, SANFORD

Find out more about the Rainbow SemDems and meet LGBTQ+ community members and allies at the organization’s social event in Seminole County. The Rainbow SemDems is committed to creating more safe spaces in the community for Seminole’s LGBTQ+ peers. Free Slam Pizza while supplies last. To learn more, go to RainbowSemDems.org.

TAMPA BAY

Tampa Bay Black Lesbians Influencer Event

SATURDAY, AUG. 10, 2-4 P.M. THE YARD MILKSHAKE BARS, TAMPA BAY

The Tampa Bay Black Lesbians will simultaneously host their first Influencers event at Yard Milkshake Bar locations in both Tampa and St. Petersburg. The all-ages gatherings are TBBL’s new way of getting together to relax and socialize while also bonding with other members of the community. For more information, visit Facebook.com/WeAreTBBL.

Strike Out for AIDS 17

SATURDAY, AUG. 10, 6-9 P.M. PIN CHASERS MIDTOWN, TAMPA

Empath Partners in Care’s Strike Out for AIDS returns in two parts. Help EPIC strike out HIV in the community at Pin Chasers to raise funds to meet the basic needs of their clients. This year’s 17th annual event is themed “Boot Scootin’ Bowling” and a St. Petersburg edition will follow Aug. 24. Registration for a team of five is $175 or $140 for a team of four. Individual bowlers are $35. Register at MyEPIC.org/SOFA.

EVENT PLANNER

Broadway ICON

Yvie Oddly and Michael Bach, Aug. 3, Oxford Exchange Bookstore, Tampa. 813-253-0222; Bookstore. OxfordExchange.com

Creating Your Legacy, Aug. 6, Empath Partners in Care, St. Petersburg. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

Donation Yoga at the Pier, Aug. 7, St. Petersburg Pier, St. Petersburg; 727-490-9361; TheBodyElectricYoga.com

Drag Bingo with Georgia Moore, Aug. 7, Tiki Tim’s Pub and Grill, St. Petersburg. 727-266-7275; ProjectNoLabels.com

LGBTQ+ Veterans Coffee Connection, Aug. 8, Empath Partners in Care, St. Petersburg. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

Lauryn Hill & The Fugees, Aug. 9, MidFlorida Credit Union Ampitheatre, Tampa. LiveNation.com

CENTRAL FLORIDA

“RENT,” Aug. 2-4, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

“The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” Aug. 2-4, Theater West End, Sanford. 407-548-6285; TheaterWestEnd.com

“8-Track: The Sounds of the 70s,” Aug. 2-25, Winter Park Playhouse, Winter Park. 407-645-0145; WinterParkPlayhouse.org

Idina Menzel, Aug. 4, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

Christopher Cross, Aug. 4, The Plaza Live, Orlando. 407-228-1220; PlazaLiveOrlando.org

12th Annual Celebrity Bartender, Aug. 6, Savoy, Orlando. 407-228-8272; TheCenterOrlando.com

Club 90s presents Pink Pony Night - Chappell Roan Night, Aug. 8, House of Blues, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando Hirepalozza, Aug. 9, Kia Center, Orlando. 407-645-4224; OrlandoJobs.com

Classic Albums Live: The Beatles’ “Abbey Road,” Aug. 9, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. 407-351-5483; HardRock.com/Live/Locations/ Orlando

“The Pirates of Penzance,” Aug. 9-11, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

Soul Pop: Summer of Soul featuring Charlyce Simmons, Aug. 9-12, Fringe ArtSpace, Orlando. 407-648-0077; OrlandoFringe.org

“Driving Miss Daisy,” Aug. 9-25, Theater West End, Sanford. 407-548-6285; TheaterWestEnd.com

Taste! Central Florida, Aug. 10, Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, Orlando. TasteCFL.com

The Molly Ringwalds presented by Magic 107.7, Aug. 10, House of Blues, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com/Orlando Southern Nights Orlando 10 Year Anniversary, Aug. 15-18, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando

TAMPA BAY

“The Figs” Through Aug. 4, American Stage, St. Petersburg. 727-823-7529; AmericanStage.org

“The Rocky Horror Show,” Through Aug. 9, Jobsite Theater, Tampa. 813-476-7378; JobsiteTheater.org

Pride Skate Tampa, Aug. 3, Skateworld, Tampa. 813-88-7688; Facebook.com/ PrideSkateTampa

“Fable,” Aug. 9-Sept. 8, freeFall Theatre, St. Petersburg. 727-498-5205; freeFallTheatre.com

The Cheaters, Aug. 10, Salty Nun, St. Petersburg. 727-329-9994; Facebook.com/ TheCheatersMusic

The Spitta Roast: Celebration of Sister Spitta Swallow, Aug. 11, The Catacombs, Tampa. 813-857-5125; Facebook.com/ TampaSisters

Senior Social Café, Aug. 13, Rose Dynasty Center, Lakeland. 863-267-6172; RoseDynastyFoundationInc.org

“Thrice to Mine,” Aug. 1425, The Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org

EPIC Coffee Connection, Aug. 15, Hale Center, Dunedin. 727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org

SARASOTA

“The Outsider,” Through Aug. 18, Florida Studio Theatre, Sarasota. 941-366-9000; FloridaStudioTheatre.org

Idina Menzel brings her “Take Me or Leave Me” tour to the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando Aug. 4. PHOTO FROM DRPHILLIPSCENTER.ORG