Watermark Issue 31.25: The Remarkable People Issue

Barber

—ST.

Jeremy Williams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com

EDITOR’S

DESK

024

Congressmen Maxwell Alejandro Frost and Darren Soto, all of whom have proven to be progressive champions. In Orlando we still have amazing leaders like Mayor Buddy Dyer and City Commissioner Patty Sheehan. There are also extraordinary activists in even the most ordinary of people in this community.

There may not be a lot that you and I can do right now when it comes to big issues in Washington, but we can make sure that we are helping to take care of marginalized people in our own communities. Volunteer, mentor and let them know that you are there with them. Donate funds, attend marches and rallies; I know it seems bleak but remember the old phrase “it’s always darkest before the dawn.”

Contigo Fund, Hope CommUnity Center, Habitat for Humanity, 26Health and many more.

Jeremy Armando Rodriguez is another one who spent 2024 working on political campaigns while also working to secure funds for the trans and nonbinary communities through Contigo Fund. Another activist who has been everywhere this year is Juleigh Mayfield. This amazing leader and activist has been on the frontlines pushing for equality and educating everyone on the intersex community.

Donald Rupe is another remarkable person who not only has opened his Renaissance Theatre to the community for gatherings and events but also

TATIANA QUIROGA is the executive director for Come Out With Pride. She is a proud mother, wife and LGBTQ advocate in Central Florida. Page 19

NADINE SMITH is the co-founder and CEO of Equality Florida, the state’s largest organization dedicated to ending discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Page 34 2

WASN’T A GREAT YEAR AND by the looks of it 2025 isn’t going to be a whole lot better.

For my final Editor’s Desk of the year, I usually try to look back at the things I enjoyed over the past 12 months or I look ahead at all the amazing things I hope to see in the coming year. Needless to say, this desk has been proving to be a difficult one to write.

In a few short weeks, Donald Trump is going to be inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States. A job the man had four years ago but this time around he seems more chaotic, unhinged and far more dangerous. That is evident in many of his cabinet picks which include Robert Kennedy Jr, Tulsi Gabbard, Pete Hegseth, Pam Bondi, Linda McMahon and the list goes on and on. Who knew that picking someone as awful as Marco Rubio would be one of his sanest picks. Again, I always try to see the good coming with the new year, so there are some things that I think

will be bright spots in 2025. We came close to Attorney General Matt Gaetz, but he withdrew his name because he was not going to be able to get the Republican support in the Senate. While that is kind of scraping the bottom of the barrel for optimism, it’s the best I can hope for when the GOP will hold the White House, Senate and the House. The next four years are going to be a wild and scary ride so any kind of guardrails, no matter how poorly built, are appreciated. My hope is that there will be enough moderate Republicans in Congress that it will keep most of the worst Trump ideas from happening.

Here in Central Florida we have some amazing bright blue spots that should make life better at least locally. Fighters like Florida

Senator Carlos Guillermo Smith, Florida Rep. Anna V. Eskamani and

Some of those very extraordinary activists are highlighted in our current issue, one of my favorite issues we do every year, our annual Remarkable People issue. Every year we name 10 Remarkables — five in Central Florida and five in Tampa Bay — and then ask someone in the community who knows them or works with them to write a short profile on their works from the past year. Ahead of naming our Remarkables, we ask the community to nominate who they saw doing the work that needed to be done and you did not disappoint. We received more nominations this year than any other year I have been on Watermark’s editorial team. A true testament to how many amazing activists, leaders and fighters we have here. It was difficult narrowing the list down to just five here in Central Florida. So many amazing folks got left off but the final five we have were some of the most active, unsung heroes we saw in 2024.

Leaders like Chevalier “Chev” Lovett, who not only has been fighting for voting rights right here in Florida but has also worked on boards and committees with several organizations including

Thank you all for keeping Watermark going for the past three decades.

made Orlando proud as he took his amazing show “From Here” to Off Broadway in New York City.

Melody Maia Monet rounds out Central Florida’s five Remarkable People. She is not only one of the most passionate trans activists I have met but she is also someone I have seen firsthand fight for the community as one of Watermark’s most beloved Viewpoint writers.

We also named a special 11th Remarkable Person this year, Watermark’s owner/publisher Rick Todd. Rick has been remarkable this year, Watermark’s 30th in publication.

Thank you all for keeping Watermark going for the past three decades and we look forward to bringing you more LGBTQ+ stories in the coming year.

Happy Holidays!

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

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

Ryan Williams-Jent

MANAGING EDITOR

Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com

EDITOR’S

DESK

THIS IS MY FINAL COLUMN OF THE

year, which usually prompts me to revisit my first.

I was a little hesitant about the prospect since 2024 didn’t shape up to be one of my favorites. My default mode tends to be somewhat optimistic, something I’ve struggled with lately.

Within the last six months we lost my stepfather, the man who taught me everything I needed to know about becoming a man myself, and then our beloved dog Riverboat, a tiny Pomeranian who was so much larger than life he changed the way I looked at it forever.

We also may have lost our Democracy, at least as we know it. So not one of my favorite years.

I couldn’t remember exactly what I’d written back in January — time flies when you operate in two-week cycles, particularly those 2024 brought us — but I was hesitant because I figured

it was related to the presidential election. I was right.

“As we enter 2024, what’s already become a tiring election year, I hope everyone in our community realizes what’s at stake,” I wrote. “Especially if this November is a 2020 rematch.”

I had no idea how tiring it would become, of course, or that I’ll never willingly listen to “Freedom” by Beyonce again. It joined the ranks of “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten last month, filed away forever with presidencies that should’ve been.

“President Joe Biden isn’t a perfect man, but he’s a good one,” I continued in my column. “He’s a public servant who’s supported our community and this country for decades, who unlike his predecessor isn’t an

insurrectionist actively working to dismantle our Democracy.”

I still believe all of that to be true, even after Biden dropped out and endorsed Kamala Harris. I was proud to support the vice president’s inclusive vision for America, one that championed equity and equality for all, and excited about what her potential victory would say about our country.

Instead, her loss — and what it says about our country — has been a sobering and ugly experience. Rather than making history by electing a proven leader as our first female president, the U.S. made history by re-electing a convicted felon whose chief desire seems to be remaking this country in his deplorable image.

I do take some solace, however, knowing that the majority of LGBTQ+ voters actually did realize what was at stake for our community. Exit polls showed that 86% of us cast our vote for Harris compared to 12% for Trump, overwhelmingly rejecting his brand of chaos and division.

He also failed to capture 50% of the nation’s popular vote, another fact — and not an alternative one — that we can all use to push back on his so-called “MAGA mandate.” Since he’s already begun stocking his second administration with the architects of the anti-LGBTQ+ Project 2025, it’s clear we’ll need to.

As bleak as things have seemed recently, and to harken back to my aforementioned optimism, I will say that 2024 hasn’t been all bad. My husband and I traveled to Berlin and Prague with our friends this year, an unforgettable experience, and I turned 40 this month surrounded by those and other loved ones. I’m a lucky man.

I’ve also been incredibly proud to help celebrate Watermark’s 30th anniversary this year, amplifying LGBTQ+ voices throughout Tampa Bay and

Central Florida. It’s never been more important, and I sincerely thank everyone who’s trusted me to play a part in telling your stories.

Many of them are the basis for Watermark’s annual Remarkable People issue, always one of my favorite features of the year. In these pages, we highlight deserving locals who have made an impact on LGBTQ+ Tampa Bay and Central Florida through their work, activism and authenticity, including one of Watermark’s own. Thank you all for making a difference.

We tune into “Pop Culture Jeopardy!” in Tampa Bay news, checking in with a Clearwater

As bleak as things have seemed recently … I will say that 2024 hasn’t been all bad.

couple and their friend who competed on the gameshow’s first season. Equality Florida’s Tampa Gala also raises $690,000 in the nonprofit’s fight for LGBTQ+ Floridians, a regional record.

The Human Rights Campaign releases the results of their 13th annual Municipal Equality Index in State News, which details how inclusive local laws are. St. Petersburg, Tampa and Orlando all retained their perfect scores, another welcome bright spot for the year that’s sure to be critical in 2025.

Watermark is proud to be celebrating 30 years as your LGBTQ+ news source, so thanks for reading and supporting our advertisers. Please stay safe, stay informed and enjoy this latest issue.

TATIANA QUIROGA is the executive director for Come Out With Pride. She is a proud mother, wife and LGBTQ advocate in Central Florida. Page 19

NADINE SMITH is the co-founder and CEO of Equality Florida, the state’s largest organization dedicated to ending discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Page 34

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

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

AZupka Counseling

central florida news

THE PRIDE CHAMBER TO LAUNCH NEW ACADEMY

Jeremy Williams

ORLANDO | The Pride Chamber, Central Florida’s LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce, has created a new leadership academy to help build future business leaders in Central Florida.

The Emerge Business Leadership Academy will provide a comprehensive, hands-on educational program for future business leaders of large corporations or aspiring entrepreneurs with an intentional focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.

Gina Duncan, the Pride Chamber’s president and CEO, says the new leadership academy is an important part to the chamber’s holistic approach to business.

“We have launched programs such as the Corporate Equality Council, our [Employee Resource Group] platform that supports affinity groups with our major corporate partners, RED Groups, our Ambassador Program and more,” Duncan says. “One of the things that we were missing and wanted to focus on is how do we support our up-and-coming business professionals.”

The academy is designed for what Duncan calls “young in business,” saying that they didn’t want to focus on a specific age bracket when recruiting into the program’s courses.

“It’s really designed for a plethora of people in that it could be someone who has been a senior leader and they retire and they want to start their own business. It could be someone who is an up-and-coming leader at a major corporation and they want to be more of a voice and more of a leader in their organization. Or it could be a young entrepreneur who’s just wanting to get started and they want information on how to file an LLC or how to improve their elevator pitch,” Duncan says.

Starting in January, the chamber will launch a cohort each quarter consisting of 12 in-person courses, one each week. Each course will take place Tuesday evening from 6-9 p.m. inside the National Entrepreneur Center at the Fashion Square Mall in Orlando.

“We will have subject matter experts teaching everything from marketing to developing your personal brand to accounting, everything and anything you might need to take your personal business skills to the next level,” Duncan says.

The chamber packed a lot of information into each 12-week program including management skills, DEI programing, public speaking, creating an inclusive workspace and more.

“Our mission is to ensure that everyone is seen, safe and treated with dignity and respect in the workplace,” Duncan says. “I can’t think of a better way to start than to be educating future business leaders to be the next voices of our community in public policy and social change.”

The Pride Chamber’s Emerge Business Leadership Academy is $199 per person and includes a free membership to the chamber at the Small Business level for the first year. For more information or to register for one of the chamber’s 2025 cohorts, visit ThePrideChamber.org or email Emerge@ThePrideChamber.org.

NEWLY

Making Herstory

Claudia Thomas elected Sanford’s 1st

openly LGBTQ+ commissioner

Jeremy Williams

SANFORD, FLA. | Claudia Thomas became Sanford’s District 4 City Commissioner Nov. 5, making her the city’s first openly LGBTQ+ official elected to the position.

Thomas defeated her challenger, Tara Waisanen, winning her commission seat 52.88%-47.12%.

Thomas comes into the role of Sanford’s District 4 City Commissioner as a first-time elected official but she isn’t new to politics.

“I spent 44 years in Brevard County and I had been asked to run for office quite a few times,” Thomas says. “But I did a lot of campaigning for a lot of great candidates when I was in Brevard and at that time I just felt like I could do more good behind the scenes.”

Thomas moved to Sanford nearly four years ago with her wife and their two dogs, who she lovingly refers to as her kids, after many decades in Brevard County where she retired from Lockhead Martin. During her time in Central

Florida, she has been an active member in the community, even showing off her skills as a jazz guitarist with performances at Theater West End.

“We love Sanford,” she says. “They say it’s a small town with big city vibes. I feel like I can really make a difference here.”

Thomas says that now felt like the right time to step out from a behind-the-scenes role in politics and run for office, starting locally in her city.

“I’m not trying to bite off more than I can chew, but I thought maybe this would be a good foot in the door to see if I can make a difference,” she says.

Thomas adds that when she decided to run, she knew that she wasn’t going to hide who she is just to get votes.

“I didn’t campaign saying I want you to vote for me because I’m queer, I ran wanting you to vote for me because I will help address the issues within the city of Sanford,” she says. “But I was authentic in that it was never anything I hid. It was not vote for me because of this, this is a part of who I am and there is a lot to who I am and

running on that message I never had any pushback.”

Authenticity was one of the three pillars Thomas ran on in her campaign, calling herself a “Triple A candidate.”

“I am an advocate, I’m accountable and I am authentic,” she states. “My messaging during my campaign was: I get things done, I have experience and I work for everyone, and to work for everyone really means I am not owned by anybody. Nobody’s trying to buy me, I will represent everyone.”

Thomas will be sworn in at the Commission Chambers at Sanford City Hall on Dec. 9, and once sworn in she is ready to start working on the issues she raised during her campaign, including addressing water quality, public safety and smart growth in her district. She is also eager to get to work helping revitalize the Seminole Town Center Mall, which — like many shopping centers across the country — has become what she called a “zombie mall.”

“I moved here just a few years ago so I come here as a fresh face and a fresh voice that isn’t someone who knows all the good old boys, knows how things used to be,” she says. “I’m ready for the people who are going to tell me ‘this is the way we used to do business here,’ well perhaps not anymore, if it’s not the ethical way to do it. Times are changing and maybe they are ready to change even more.”

ELECTED:

Claudia Thomas is Sanford’s first openly LGBTQ+ commissioner.

PHOTO COURTESY CLAUDIA THOMAS

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. Your healthcare provider will test you for HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV, your HBV may suddenly get worse if you stop taking BIKTARVY. Do not stop taking BIKTARVY without fi rst talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

ABOUT BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS.

Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:

 dofetilide

 rifampin

 any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY

Tell your healthcare provider if you:

 Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.

 Have any other health problems.

 Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.

 Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks of breastfeeding during treatment with BIKTARVY.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:

 Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

 BIKTARVY and other medicines may a ect each other. Ask your healthcare provider and pharmacist about medicines that interact with BIKTARVY, and ask if it is safe to take BIKTARVY with all your other medicines.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side e ects, including:

 Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.

 Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fi ght infections that may have been hidden in your body. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking BIKTARVY.

 Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. If you develop new or worse kidney problems, they may tell you to stop taking BIKTARVY.

 Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

 Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

 The most common side e ects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%).

These are not all the possible side e ects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY.

You are encouraged to report negative side e ects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Your healthcare provider will need to do tests to monitor your health before and during treatment with BIKTARVY.

HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY

Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION

 This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more.

 Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5.

 If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

SWITCHED TO BIKTARVY

Listen to REAL STORIES being told by REAL VOICES.

Person featured takes BIKTARVY and is compensated by Gilead.

BIKTARVY® is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in certain adults. BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. Ask your healthcare provider if BIKTARVY is right for you. , 04/19/2019 through 05/19/2023.

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

EQUALITY FLORIDA TAMPA GALA RAISES RECORD $690K

Ryan Williams-Jent

TAMPA | Equality Florida held its annual Tampa Gala Nov. 22 at Armature Works, raising $690,000 in their fight for LGBTQ+ Floridians.

This year’s event welcomed nearly 400 people for a seated dinner service, charity auction, keynote address and other festivities. The gala began with a VIP reception, where Steering Committee Chair Michael Womack presented regional meteorologist Andy Johnson with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Official programming led by area entertainers Jade Embers and Gia Banks followed. The emcees thanked sponsors and introduced Equality Florida Executive Director Nadine Smith, who delivered her state-of-the-state address.

She began by thanking attendees for their support before addressing the results of the 2024 election, in which Equality Florida had endorsed Kamala Harris’ bid for president. Smith called on attendees to see the nation as more than “red and blue,” noting that things are “much more complicated than that.”

She then highlighted how Florida “has been the testing ground for Project 2025,” the anti-LGBTQ+ presidential transition project. “Here in Florida, when they threw everything at us, we did not back down,” Smith asserted. “We found ways to stand up … When they try to make you afraid, it is so much more important that you stand up for each other.”

Smith closed by vowing to stand up for LGBTQ+ Floridians, calling on others to do the same. Dr. Gary Howell, psychologist, educator, LGBTQ+ advocate and president of the Florida Psychological Association, subsequently received the evening’s Voice for Equality award.

Howell thanked organizers for the recognition and called on LGBTQ+ and ally attendees to support the transgender community. He noted they “aren’t just an invisible letter in the acronym that we throw around so easily,” stressing that they are facing “unprecedented challenges.”

For Equality Florida’s work, Howell awarded the organization with the first-ever Florida Psychological Association Presidential Citation in return. Smith accepted on the nonprofit’s behalf as Howell stressed that his organization was proud to recognize Equality Florida’s “leadership, dedication, and emotional labor, and all that you do in support of the LGBTQ+ community.”

Equality Florida Deputy Director of Development Nicholas Machuca confirmed the evening’s fundraising total Nov. 25. “Amid the challenges our state faces, this gala was more than an event — it was a declaration of hope, resilience and unstoppable progress,” he said. “The energy in the room was palpable, and the impact of that night will echo far beyond it.” View Watermark’s photo gallery and read more at WatermarkOnline.com.

Tampa Tamales

Clearwater

couple, friend competing on first season of ‘Pop Culture Jeopardy!’

Ryan Williams-Jent

CLEARWATER, FLA. | The Tampa Tamales — local couple Mike Halterman and Jonathan Thornton, along with friend Ava Davis — will be among the 81 teams competing on “Pop Culture Jeopardy!” this month.

Hosted by comedian Colin Jost, the competition is billed as “a brand-new twist on the classic quiz show’s ‘answer-and-question’ format that combines the academic rigor of ‘Jeopardy!’ with the excitement and unpredictability of pop culture.” It made its three-episode premiere Dec. 4 on Prime Video.

The series will consist of 40 episodes releasing weekly in batches of three and the Tampa Tamales are scheduled to make their debut Dec. 18. The trio traveled to Los Angeles in August to compete on the series after a lengthy audition process that began with an online test in May.

“As soon as the ‘Pop Culture Jeopardy!’ news launched, I sent

it to Jonathan and Mike and said, ‘this is us,’” Davis recalls. “It was a trio — nothing had ever been more us.”

“It was already pre-ordained,” Thornton adds. “There was never any question about who our team was going to be.”

The two met in 2019 while working at Starbucks and “quickly bonded over our love for so many different things,” Davis says. “We bonded over ‘Big Brother’ and watching ‘Jeopardy!’ every single day and went from work friends to best friends.”

She met Halterman, a journalist with a background in LGBTQ+ media, through Thornton. The couple has been dating for over five years and also share a love of pop culture.

“My oldest, undying obsession is daytime soap operas,” Halterman says. “I’ve been watching ‘Days of Our Lives’ for over 30 years and I’m also a big ‘Real Housewives’ fanatic … really crappy reality TV is like nectar for me. I’m very television heavy.”

“We have a lot of overlap but also, Ava is super into horror movies and alternative music, something Mike and I don’t have a big handle on,” Thornton notes. “I also like nerdy things that they don’t really like — video games, anime, Broadway musicals — and Mike knows literally everything about everything, so we complemented each other as a team even without trying to.”

While the Tampa Tamales wasn’t the team’s first choice for a name, they say they’re happy to represent the region. Thornton and Halterman also note they were proud to compete as a couple.

“One of my biggest takeaways was how LGBTQ+-friendly it was,” Thornton says. “The combination of a gay couple and their girlfriend was the most common one — it felt like every other team had some LGBTQ+ representation.”

That includes at least one Central Florida couple, Orlando’s Alexander Pribil and Andy Hall, and others nationwide. The trio says the Tampa Tamales have made lifelong friends from the experience and that they are looking forward to watching the competition unfold.

“It’s really become a community for the contestants,” Thornton says. “It was such a bonding experience and we’ve really become a family.”

“Pop Culture Jeopardy!” is airing now on Prime Video. For more information, visit Jeopardy.com/Pop-Culture.

TV TRIO: (L-R) Ava Davis, Jonathan Thornton and Mike Halterman in California last August.

PHOTO COURTESY MIKE HALTERMAN

‘ALL-STAR CITIES’ ORLANDO, ST. PETE, TAMPA RETAIN PERFECT HRC SCORES

Ryan Williams-Jent

The Human Rights Campaign released its 13th annual Municipal Equality Index Nov. 21, revealing that Orlando, St. Petersburg and Tampa retained their perfect scores in 2024. They were among 18 cities scored in Florida.

The MEI examines how inclusive municipal laws, policies and services are for LGBTQ+ people who live and work there. It is the only nationwide assessment of its type, conducted by the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights group in partnership with the Equality Federation, which builds a network of state-based LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations.

A total of 506 cities and towns were surveyed this year, scored on their non-discrimination laws, the municipality as an employer, municipal services, law enforcement and the city

leadership’s public position on equality. HRC noted that including Orlando, St. Petersburg and Tampa, a record 130 of them received the highest possible score, representing 49 million Americans.

“Over more than a decade, the Municipal Equality Index has worked with cities and towns in all parts of the country, in all fifty states to advance the fight for lived & legal equality,” HRC President Kelley Robinson said in a statement.

“For LGBTQ+ people, building community isn’t just a phrase, it’s a way of life,” she continued. “In many important ways, local politics shapes our lives just as much as state or national politics does. Mayors and city councilors who take LGBTQ+ inclusion seriously build stronger communities, and in turn their cities thrive.”

This year marks the 11th consecutive time Orlando and St. Petersburg received a perfect score, something each mayor celebrated via social media.

“For years, Orlando has been recognized as a community that puts inclusion at the forefront of all that it does,” Mayor Buddy Dyer shared. “I am incredibly proud that we have not and will not get complacent in our collective work to ensure that our city is welcoming for every resident and visitor.”

“We are pleased to be recognized by the Human Rights Campaign 11 years in a row, but we understand that perfect scores on the Municipal Equality Index do not happen by accident,” St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch noted. “Intentional inclusivity and inclusive progress are part of what we build upon every day, from policy to practice.

“Our city’s growth is stronger when everyone plays a part in it, and we remain dedicated to advancing equity for all,” he added. St. Petersburg LGBTQ+ Liaison Eric Vaughan also welcomed the news.

“Living and working in a city as welcoming and inclusive as St. Petersburg fills me with so much pride,” he said in a statement. “Our 11th year of a perfect score reflects our policies and the spirit of St Pete — a city where everyone can feel at home and empowered to be themselves.”

“I couldn’t be prouder of Tampa winning a perfect score year after year from the Human Rights Campaign,” Mayor Jane Castor told Watermark. “It reflects who we are as a city and community — diverse, inclusive, welcoming, vibrant, and always striving to be the best we can be. Tampa is a wonderful place for the LGBTQ people, whether to visit, work, or live.”

Orlando, St. Petersburg and Tampa were also each designated as an All-Star City for having earned over 85 points in Florida, which lacks statewide nondiscrimination statutes explicitly protecting LGBTQ+ residents. Coral Gables, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Miami,

Miami Shores, Oakland Park, Tallahassee and Wilton Manors also received the designation.

In contrast, Cape Coral, Daytona Beach, Gainesville, Hialeah, Jacksonville, Pembroke Pines, Port Saint Lucie each scored under the threshold. Daytona Beach receiving the lowest score of 39 points.

“While certain federal and state anti-equality politicians continue to single people out to bully based on race or gender, local communities continue showing up for each other and fighting for our freedoms, our families, and our futures,” Equality Federation Institute Executive Director Fran Hutchins said. “… The Municipal Equality Index underscores the need to invest in local leaders, on-the-ground capacity and the fight for local protections wherever possible.”

To view the HRC’s 2024 MEI report in full, visit HRC.org/MEI.

WALMART BECOMES LATEST AND BIGGEST COMPANY TO ROLL BACK ITS DEI POLICIES

Wire Report

NEW YORK | Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, is rolling back its diversity, equity and inclusion policies, joining a growing list of major corporations that have done the same after coming under attack by conservative activists.

The changes, confirmed by Walmart Nov. 25, are sweeping and include everything from not renewing a five-year commitment for an equity racial center set up in 2020 after the police killing of George Floyd, to pulling out of a prominent gay rights index. And when it comes to race or gender, Walmart won’t be giving priority treatment to suppliers.

Walmart’s moves underscore the increasing pressure faced by corporate America as it continues to navigate the fallout from the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in June 2023 ending affirmative action in college admissions. Emboldened by that decision, conservative groups have filed lawsuits making similar arguments about corporations, targeting workplace initiatives such as diversity programs and hiring practices that prioritize historically marginalized groups.

Separately, conservative political commentator and activist Robby Starbuck has been going after corporate DEI policies, calling out individual companies on the social media platform X. Several of those companies have subsequently announced that they are pulling back their initiatives, including Ford, Harley-Davidson, Lowe’s and Tractor Supply.

But Walmart, which employs 1.6 million workers in the U.S., is the largest one to do so.

“This is the biggest win yet for our movement to end wokeness in corporate America,” Starbuck wrote on X, adding that he had been in conversation with Walmart.

Walmart confirmed to The Associated Press that it will better monitor its third-party marketplace items to make sure they don’t feature sexual and transgender products aimed at minors. That would include chest binders intended for youth who are going through a gender change, the company said.

The Bentonville, Arkansas-based retailer will also be reviewing grants to Pride events to make sure it is not financially supporting sexualized content that may be unsuitable for kids. For example, the company wants to makes sure a family pavilion

is not next to a drag show at a Pride event, the company said.

Additionally, Walmart will no longer consider race and gender as a litmus test to improve diversity when it offers supplier contracts. The company said it didn’t have quotas and will not do so going forward. It won’t be gathering demographic data when determining financing eligibility for those grants.

Walmart also said it wouldn’t renew a racial equity center that was established through a five-year, $100 million philanthropic commitment from the company with a mandate to, according to its website, “address the root causes of gaps in outcomes experienced by Black and African American people in education, health, finance and criminal justice systems.”

And it would stop participating in the Human Rights Campaign’s annual benchmark index that measures workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees.

“We’ve been on a journey and know we aren’t perfect, but every decision comes from a place of wanting to foster a sense of belonging, to open doors to opportunities for all our associates, customers and suppliers and to be a Walmart for everyone,” the company said in a statement.

UK COURT HEARS HOW ‘WOMAN’ IS DEFINED IN LAW

Wire Report

LONDON | The U.K. Supreme Court on Nov. 26 began hearing a legal challenge focusing on the definition of “woman” in a long-running dispute between a women’s rights campaign group and the Scottish government. Five judges at Britain’s highest court were considering the case, which seeks to clarify whether a transgender person with a gender recognition certificate that recognizes them as female can be regarded as a woman under equality laws.

While the case centers on Scottish laws, the campaign group bringing the challenge, For Women Scotland, has said its outcomes could have U.K.-wide consequences for

sex-based rights as well as everyday single-sex services such as toilets and hospital wards.

The case stems from a 2018 law passed by the Scottish Parliament stating that there should be a 50% female representation on the boards of Scottish public bodies. That law included transgender women in its definition of women.

The women’s rights group successfully challenged that law, arguing that its redefinition of “woman” went beyond parliament’s powers.

Scottish officials then issued guidance stating that the definition of “woman” included a transgender woman who has a gender recognition certificate.

FWS is seeking to overturn that.

The challenge was rejected by a court in 2022, but the group was granted permission last year to take its case to the Supreme Court. Opponents, including Amnesty International, say barring transgender people who hold a gender recognition certificate from protections against sex discrimination conflicts with human rights principles.

Amnesty submitted a written intervention to the court, saying it was concerned about the deterioration of the rights for trans people in the U.K. and abroad.

The appeal hearing is expected to last two days with a judgement expected at a later date.

IN OTHER NEWS

TRUMP NOMINATES GAY MAN FOR TREASURY SECRETARY

President-elect Donald Trump nominated openly gay hedge fund executive Scott Bessent as U.S. Treasury secretary Nov. 22. Once a prolific donor to Democrats and a protege of liberal billionaire philanthropist George Soros, if confirmed Bessent would be the first LGBTQ+ official to lead the Treasury Department and the second gay cabinet secretary after Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

ILLINOIS SUPREME COURT OVERTURNS SMOLLETT’S CONVICTION

The Illinois Supreme Court on Nov. 21 overturned Jussie Smollett’s conviction on charges that he staged and lied to the police about being the victim of a homophobic and racist hate crime in 2019. The court ruled the actor should not have been prosecuted again after he had already reached a deal with prosecutors to resolve the case. However, the ruling did not address whether Smollett was innocent of staging the hate crime, as he has continued to claim, overturning the conviction on the grounds that the second prosecution was a due process violation.

HONG KONG’S TOP COURT RULES IN FAVOR OF EQUAL BENEFITS FOR SAME-SEX COUPLES

Hong Kong’s top court on Nov. 26 upheld earlier rulings that favored subsidized housing benefits and equal inheritance rights for same-sex married couples, in a landmark victory for the city’s LGBTQ+ community. The Court of Final Appeal’s dismissal of the government’s appeals ended some yearslong legal battles over the differential treatment facing same-sex couples married overseas under Hong Kong’s Housing Authority policies and two inheritance laws. The unanimous decisions are expected to have a far-reaching impact on the lives of same-sex couples, who have traditionally had fewer rights compared to their heterosexual counterparts in the global financial hub.

SWATCH WINS MALAYSIAN SUIT OVER ‘LGBTQ+ WATCHES’

Swiss watchmaker Swatch won a suit against the Malaysian government Nov. 25 after a court ordered the return of 172 Swatch watches that were seized last year due to designs that authorities said bore “LGBT elements.” The Kuala Lumpur High Court ruled that the watches were seized illegally without a warrant and ordered the watches to be returned within 14 days, adding that Swatch can demand compensation if the watches were damaged. Authorities raided Swatch outlets in various malls across Malaysia in May last year, seizing watches from the Pride Collection. A few months after the seizure, the government banned all Swatch products that contain LGBTQ+ elements.

PARENTAL GUIDANCE

IN THE WAKE OF A

disheartening national election, it’s easy to feel disappointed, disillusioned and drained. For many in the LGBTQIA+ community, the results represent more than just a political shift. They feel like a personal setback, a reminder of the uphill battles we still face.

It can be tempting to retreat into frustration or fear, but if history has taught us anything it’s that our community thrives in the face of adversity. We have always been resilient.

From the days of Stonewall to the fight for marriage equality, our power has never come from political validation — it’s come from our strength, our unity and our refusal to back down. Today is no different. Yes, this election may feel like a blow but it’s also a call to action. It’s a reminder that our fight is far from over. And most importantly, it’s a chance to turn our pain into power.

Pain, while difficult, is a powerful motivator. It reminds us of what’s at stake and pushes us to act. When we channel that pain into action, we create movements that change the world. Think about the countless activists who came before us, people who faced unimaginable challenges but refused to give up. They took their pain and transformed it into something extraordinary.

We can do the same! We must take the disappointment we feel and let it fuel our determination. Let it inspire us to speak louder, organize more fiercely and build stronger communities. Pain can either paralyze us or propel us forward. Let it be our fuel.

Fear is another emotion that can hold us back or push us forward. Right now, it’s understandable to feel afraid. I am afraid. Afraid of what policies might be enacted, afraid of how our rights might be

threatened, afraid for our most vulnerable community members. But fear, when harnessed correctly, can become a powerful force. When we face our fears head on, we become unstoppable. Fear is what drives us to protect those we love, to advocate for justice and to stand up for what’s right. We must take the fear we feel and use it as fuel for our fight. We cannot afford to be passive. We must be bold, brave and unapologetically ourselves.

Worrying is a natural response to uncertainty but worry alone changes nothing. It’s what we do with that worry that matters. We can sit and stew in our anxieties or we can channel them into meaningful action. The choice is ours.

Every small action counts. Whether it’s volunteering for a local LGBTQIA+ organization, like Come Out With Pride, getting more involved in the community or simply having conversations with those around us, we all have a role to play. Our collective efforts, no matter how small they seem, add up to something powerful. By turning our worries into work, we create change.

In times like these, it’s crucial to remember our most vulnerable community members. Those who are marginalized within marginalized communities — our trans siblings, our youth, our undocumented friends, our communities of color and those living with disabilities — often bear the brunt of political shifts. We must center their voices and prioritize their protection.

Solidarity is not just a buzzword, it’s a commitment to stand together, especially when it’s hard. We must show up for one another, amplify each other’s voices and ensure that no one is left behind. Protecting the most marginalized means fighting for a country where everyone can thrive, not just survive.

viewpoint

Unity is our greatest strength. When we stand together, we are unbreakable. It’s easy to feel isolated or divided, especially in a country that often tries to pit us against each other. But our diversity is our superpower. Our community is made up of

Resilience is the thread that runs through our history. It’s what has kept us going through countless challenges and setbacks. It’s what will keep us going now. Resilience is not about never falling; it’s about getting back up every single time. We are a resilient

people with a variety of life experiences, each bringing unique perspectives, lenses and strengths.

Now more than ever, we need to lean into that unity. We need to build bridges, not walls, and remember that we are stronger together. It’s not about one person or one group, it’s about all of us. Together, we can create the change we want to see.

community. We’ve faced worse and we’ve come out stronger. This is just another chapter in our story, and we have the power to write it. We will not be defined by this election or by those who seek to harm us. We will be defined by our courage, our compassion and our commitment to justice.

Despite the challenges ahead, there is always hope. Hope is what keeps us fighting, dreaming and

believing in a better future. Hope is what allows us to envision a country where everyone is liberated and free to be their authentic selves, without fear or judgment. I want a country that my children can be proud of. So, let’s hold onto that hope. Let’s carry it with us as we march forward, together. Let’s turn our pain into power, our fears into force and our worries into work. The road ahead may be long but we’ve never been ones to shy away from a challenge. We’ve got this. Together, we will rise!

Tatiana Quiroga is the executive director for Come Out With Pride. She is a proud mother, wife and LGBTQ+ advocate in Central Florida.

Tatiana Quiroga

Hope & Help Welcomes Dr. Cariane Morales Matos as New Medical Director

Orlando, FL—Hope and Help Center of Central Florida, Inc., doing business as Hope & Help, has appointed Dr. Cariane Morales Matos as its new Medical Director, effective September 16, 2024. Dr. Morales Matos, a boardcertified expert in Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, brings a distinguished background in HIV care, infectious disease management, and medical education to the organization.

Originally from Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, Dr. Morales Matos graduated from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine in 2014. She completed her Internal Medicine training at Damas Hospital in Ponce, Puerto Rico, followed by a specialty in Infectious Diseases at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation in New Orleans. After her fellowship at Ochsner, her expertise in HIV care was honed at Montefiore Medical Center’s AIDS Center in Bronx, New York, where she worked from 2019 to 2022.

Most recently, Dr. Morales Matos served as a hospital epidemiologist and Infectious Disease attending physician at Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York, where she also educated medical students, residents, and fellows as an assistant professor. She is certified in Internal Medicine and Infectious Disease by the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dr. Morales Matos is also a certified HIV specialist through the American Academy of HIV Medicine.

experience

Now based in Winter Park, Florida, Dr. Morales Matos joins Hope & Help with a focus on providing comprehensive care to people living with HIV while promoting screening and prevention efforts in the community. Her extensive experience will be crucial in guiding the organization’s medical services and advancing its mission to combat HIV/AIDS in Central Florida.

“We are excited Dr. Morales has joined our Hope & Help family,” says Executive Director Lisa Barr. “Her expertise, compassion, and leadership opens doors to expanded medical services for our patients and community. Hope & Help is proud to be the Warm Hug of Healthcare under Dr. Morales’ medical direction!”

For more information about Hope & Help’s services and programs, please visit www. hopeandhelp.org.

About Hope and Help Center of Central Florida

Hope & Help is a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives through the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS and related health conditions. Since 1988, the organization has served thousands of individuals across Central Florida with a commitment to creating a healthier, more informed community

Donald Rupe

Theatre owner/producer/writer/director, Renaissance Theatre Company

Eddie Cooper, Central Florida performer

DONALD RUPE HAS

HAD A passion for theatre since his early years. In fact, his first job out of college was teaching high school theatre at his alma mater.

Whether directing, producing or writing, Rupe’s goal has never been about making box office record breaking productions but rather about making entertaining, avant-garde and affordable theatre to all who seek it out.

That’s evident to anyone who attends a show at the Renaissance Theatre, which he co-founded in 2022. These productions range from sexy vampires acting, singing and scaring the crap out of us every year in “Nosferatu” to a hilarious “Holiday Office Party” that will not only make you feel like you’re actually part of this incredibly hilarious group of coworkers, but also laugh so hard, you might hurt yourself.

He has been throwing crazy/fun ideas against the wall since the beginning of his theatrical career and, to his delight, sometimes they stick. His method of imagining these shows has

been an organic process every step of the way. This is what makes shows at The Renaissance Theatre so special. The intention to outmatch the last production is usually met with a new idea that sparks one after the other. This infectious energy has bled into Orlando’s audiences, building enthusiasm and excitement, keeping us all on the edge of our seats and waiting for the next gratifying experience.

Each new, original production is usually illustrated with an all-new set that will make you do a double take every time you walk through the doors just to make sure you’re in the right place. While amazingly produced musical theatre is a widely known element of the theatre, Rupe also makes sure that all types of performance art has exposure with themed nights such as Musical Mondays, where local talented vocalists are billed

to belt out their favorite songs with a live band and anyone else gets a shot at the open mic later in the evening. The theater also has its own amazing drag shows where queens perform their faces off every week and usually close every major weekend production with a nonstop show that we’ve never seen in this town.

In order to have a diverse crowd and give everyone a chance to experience live theatre, Rupe makes a point to offer a group of discounted, sometimes free, tickets to every themed night and production based on an honor system. The company also collaborates and supports local charities, donating their space their staff and valuable time.

Rupe and his cast and crew recently took their show “From Here” to New York City, where they all fulfilled a lifelong dream of performing in the big city. Rupe, however, says that even after that incredible experience, he was so happy to come back home and continue his journey of giving all of us in Central Florida the kind of entertainment you can’t find anywhere else.

All of this from a shy kid from Kissimmee. That’s pretty remarkable.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

Chevalier “Chev” Lovett

Chief Operating Officer, Florida Rising

Shannon Currie, Talent & Equity Director, Florida Rising

CHEVALIER “CHEV” LOVETT IS

A name that proudly resonates with vision, creativity and transformation. A proud native of West Winter Park, Florida and raised in Historic Hannibal Square — Chev has spent his life turning challenges into opportunities for social progress. As the Chief Operating Officer of Florida Rising, he leads one of Florida’s most impactful grassroots organizations, championing economic and racial justice for Black, Brown, LGBTQIA+ and Immigrant communities.

Chev’s journey is one of relentless advocacy and bold leadership. With over 15 years of senior leadership in the nonprofit world, his journey has been defined by roles at organizations like the YMCA, City Year Inc., and Organize Florida (now Florida Rising), where he crafted innovative strategies to tackle historical inequities. A graduate of highly respected leadership programs like Leadership Winter Park (Class 28), Leadership Florida (Connect Class 9), Leadership Orange (Class 8), Leadership Orlando (Class 101), and Rockwood Leadership, Chev has honed a skill set that balances strategy with heart. Chev is also an alum in several programs and studies spanning across the University of Hartford, Rollins College and Cornell University.

Chevalier Lovett isn’t just a leader; he’s a true catalyst for

change and a reflection of his multifaceted identity and vibrant spirit. His ability to bring people together, paired with his deep understanding of systemic issues, has made him a trusted leader in community development and empowerment. He is a man who authentically believes in the power of people and community.

However, Chev’s impact doesn’t stop at his professional achievements. As a fierce advocate for uplifting community voices, he has served on almost two dozen local and national boards & committees, which currently include: the Contigo Fund, Hope CommUnity Center, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Orlando & Osceola County, as the Chair for the City of Orlando’s Nominating Board, Winter Park Library’s Board of Trustees, Poverty Solutions Group and 26Health as the Vice Chair.

These efforts have not gone unnoticed – Chev has earned a slew of honors, from being named Winter Park Magazine’s “Most Influential” in 2020 to Orlando Magic and Florida Blue’s 2023 “Diversity Game Changer,” and landing a spot on Orlando Business Journal’s prestigious 2024 “40-Under-40” list.

Chev’s story is as personal as it is powerful. As a queer husband and father of twin sons, he exemplifies the values he champions: equity, inclusion and a better future for the next generation and advocating for the marginalized and LGBTQIA+ communities. When he’s not shaping Florida’s social and economic landscape, you might find him behind a piano in recitals or with a microphone as the Contemporary Worship Director at First United Methodist Church of Winter Park – channeling his creative energy into music and uniting communities by sharing his lived experiences.

Whether driving policy reforms, mentoring emerging leaders or making us smile with his infectious laugh, Chev’s work stands as a blueprint for what’s possible when courage meets action. In every space he occupies, Chevalier’s message remains the same: the power to transform society lies in all of us!

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Melody Maia Monet

Transgender Resource Manager, LGBT+ Center Orlando

Nikole Parker, Chief Operations Officer, LGBT+ Center Orlando

MELODY MAIA MONET IS the definition of an advocate.

I’ve enjoyed watching her blossom in her many capacities in the movement. Maia is the Transgender Resource Manager at the LGBT+ Center Orlando, a board member of Come Out with Pride and a Trans & Nonbinary Task Force member, a photographer, a YouTuber, a viewpoint columnist for Watermark and so much more.

As an out and proud transgender lesbian, Maia has spearheaded the conversation on LGBT+ issues for years. Through her YouTube channel she has been able to have tough conversations and answer questions many people have had but were scared to ask. The impact of her channel, I’m not sure even she realizes. It has helped so many people understand and see the humanity of transgender people. Maia has even helped me answer

many questions I had post gender-affirming surgery.

I get the pleasure of working with Maia every day and seeing her shine. She is the facilitator for the Transgender Peer Network support groups here at the LGBT+ Center Orlando. A group that once had 5-10 attendees weekly now has an upwards of 60. Week after week I’ve seen the group grow into the beautiful safe space it is now and that’s all because of Maia. Whether it’s sitting with parents whose

child has just come out as transgender or nonbinary and answering any and all questions, to helping our community with her advocacy fund budget, Maia’s main goal is to help anyone she can. This year along with the Les Vixens, she hosted a Thanksgiving dinner and mixer here at the LGBT+ Center for anyone who needs a safe space to celebrate the holiday.

When Maia isn’t working at the LGBT+ Center Orlando, you can catch her around town taking some great photos! From her own personal photography business Monet Boudoir Photography to the epic photos she takes at Southern Nights she will make sure she gets your best angle!

I’m so incredibly happy she is being celebrated for all the amazing work she does for our community. I cannot wait to see how she takes the Transgender Services Program to new heights. Maia is a prime example of living out loud, living proud and standing strong in the face of adversity.

BY

PHOTO

DYLAN TODD

Jeremy Armando Rodriguez

Community Board Member, Contigo Fund

Joél Junior Morales, Senior Foundation Manager for Contigo Fund

IN THE VIBRANT TAPESTRY

OF Central Florida’s queer community, Jeremy Armando Rodriguez stands out as a vital thread weaving together passion, activism and transformative change. Raised in the heart of Orlando as a queer Mexican-American, Jeremy’s journey epitomizes a harmonious fusion of personal triumphs and public victories. With a profound understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities, Jeremy has dedicated their life to fostering acceptance, inclusion and progress.

From an early age, Jeremy was immersed in the rich cultural intersections of Mexican heritage and LGBTQ+ identity — elements that fueled their unwavering passion for advocacy. This diverse background grants them a unique perspective, empowering them to champion causes with empathy and resilience. For Jeremy, commitment is deeply personal, resonating powerfully in every endeavor they undertake. In their role as campaign manager to Nate Douglas, who ran for the Florida House, Jeremy has masterfully developed voter outreach strategies that amplify underrepresented voices, ensuring no one is left unheard. Beyond managing campaigns, they pour their energies into mentorship, empowering youth as a community organizer with Voters of Tomorrow. Through programs Jeremy has helped initiate, many young individuals have discovered their own

political voices, galvanizing the next generation of leaders.

As a pivotal board member with the Contigo Fund, Jeremy’s influential work extends deeply into Central Florida’s transgender community.

Inspired by their vision, the Central Florida Trans Care Fund was born, securing $100,000 to bolster transgender health care. This fund represents more than financial support, it is a beacon of hope and a concrete step toward equality and health care access for those most in need.

Since its inception, and as of 2024, the Contigo Fund has awarded over $4.5 million in grants. This substantial contribution supports leaders and programs at the forefront of queer rights and racial justice advocacy, delivering essential resources to grassroots organizations often facing systemic challenges. Under Jeremy’s stewardship, the fund continues to build resilience and empowerment within the community, reflecting their

steadfast belief in the power of collective action.

For Jeremy, community is not merely a buzzword — it is a lifeblood. Every initiative, plan and event is infused with a collective spirit that Jeremy believes is elemental for true achievement. They inspire those around them to aim higher, strive for greatness and trust in the power of togetherness.

Jeremy’s personal journey of resilience and unwavering dedication positions them as an extraordinary asset to Central Florida and beyond. Their achievements in empowering marginalized voices are nothing short of remarkable, defining a new era of

inclusion and hope — a reflection of what Central Florida can become.

Jeremy Armando Rodriguez, with vibrant resilience and contagious passion, you are a cornerstone of our community’s progress, a beacon for tomorrow’s leaders and truly one of the most remarkable figures of 2024.

Juleigh Mayfield

Intersex activist

Blaire Fanning, CEO of MCA-Russell Johns

JULEIGH

MAYFIELD IS MORE THAN

a trailblazer; she’s a wildfire of change, blazing through ignorance and lighting up hearts with her passion, humor and fierce determination. A wickedly funny and whipsmart performer, actress and spokesperson, she doesn’t just speak up for intersex individuals, she roars. With a heart as big as the moon and a knack for educating and entertaining through her social media “arson” — burning stereotypes and igniting minds — Juleigh is redefining what it means to be an advocate in the modern age.

As an intersex person, Juleigh’s advocacy is deeply personal. She’s lived the challenges of being misunderstood, stigmatized and marginalized. But rather than let those experiences define her, she’s turned them into fuel for her mission: to educate, inspire and smash outdated notions of what it means to be intersex. Her storytelling is as captivating as it is enlightening, weaving humor and vulnerability into every post, speech and performance. Juleigh doesn’t just educate; she connects, bringing others into the conversation with her sharp wit and disarming candor.

Her social media platforms are a masterclass in advocacy with a side of sass. Through posts that mix laughter with truth bombs, she tackles complex topics like intersex health care, human rights and societal misconceptions,

making them accessible to all. She’s the friend who’ll make you laugh until you cry and then hit you with a fact so profound it sticks with you forever. It’s this balance of levity and depth that makes Juleigh’s work not only impactful but unforgettable.

Juleigh’s live appearances — whether workshops, panels or keynote speeches — are a full sensory experience. She cuts through discomfort with humor, encourages questions and creates an environment where even the most sensitive topics feel approachable. Her presence is magnetic, her words transformative. She makes you want to listen, learn and most importantly, change.

But Juleigh doesn’t stop at education. She’s out there fighting for intersex representation and rights with the tenacity of a warrior and the patience of a saint.

Whether lobbying for better health care policies or pushing for protections against discrimination, she’s not just advocating for intersex individuals — she’s laying the groundwork for a world where they thrive. Her work benefits not only the intersex community but the broader LGBTQ+ family, showing that progress for one is progress for all.

What makes Juleigh truly extraordinary is her ability to tackle hard truths without losing her sense of hope — or humor. She believes in humanity’s potential to grow, even when the road is slow and bumpy. Her resilience is a masterclass in grit, and her optimism is contagious. Juleigh’s openness has given countless individuals the courage to speak their truth, embrace their identity and find their place in a community that values them.

Honoring Juleigh Mayfield means recognizing a force of nature — someone who doesn’t just advocate for change but embodies it. She’s proof that vulnerability is strength, humor is power and one voice — when fearless enough — can echo across the world. Juleigh isn’t just educating or advocating; she’s creating a movement, one laugh, one post and one conversation at a time. Her story is a beacon for those navigating their own journeys and a reminder to us all: be bold, be kind and never underestimate the power of being unapologetically yourself.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

Tamara Leigh

Tampa Bay Black Lesbians President

Immani Love, Tampa Bay Black Lesbians Vice President

WHEN I FIRST MET TAMARA

Leigh, I had no idea the impact she would have on our community or how she would become such an important part of not only my life, but the lives of thousands in the queer community in Tampa Bay and beyond.

Her passion for community is unparalleled and her commitment to making the world a better place is honorable. Through her DEI consulting business, her queer person of color magazine Blaque/OUT and her group the Tampa Bay Black Lesbians, Tamara has opened doors for many professionals to tap into their talents and share them with their communities.

I first learned of Blaque/ OUT when a call for models was put out for a queer POC to pose semi-nude on the cover. I answered the call because, why not? When I spoke to Tamara about her vision, I was blown away at her creativity and as a writer, I wanted to be a part of the magazine. But her vision didn’t stop there.

Tamara is the founder of Blaque/OUT Equity & Inclusivity Architects, a consulting firm that takes a very different approach to DEI work. Through speaking engagements, workshops

and more, she and her team speak from points of personal experience to help organizations evolve. She also helped create one of the most important tools for our trans community this year, the Blaque/OUT T.R.A.I.I. (Trans Remembrance Archive and Information Index) mapping system.

In collaboration with the incredible team at GIS Scholars, Inc., Blaque/OUT has developed a powerful tool that integrates geospatial technology with critical data concerning every known individual from the trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming/gender expansive communities who have lost their lives to violence since 2018. The T.R.A.I.I. is a free resource, accessible to all individuals and organizations that allows users to layer various factors such as victimology, geographic region, and gender identity onto a map.

Its visualization provides valuable insight into who each

of these individuals were and the details surrounding their cases. The hope is that the T.R.A.I.I. will empower groups and organizations to lobby more effectively for funding, enable investigators to identify patterns with greater speed and accuracy, and most importantly, keep the memories of our lost siblings alive.

As if all of that wasn’t enough, when Tamara moved to Tampa Bay she found it hard to find “her people,” so she started the Tampa Bay Black Lesbians as a Facebook group.

It quickly grew to over 1,000 members and evolved to a community centered, nonprofit organization in 2024. Most recently TBBL helped several members with recovery efforts from the hurricanes, providing hot food, helping to replace lost items, utilizing the human resources within the group to connect members with whatever assistance they required. All efforts are donation based or funded from the events that the group puts on annually to support the nonprofit while staying close to its social origins.

To say that Tamara Leigh is one of the most Remarkable People of the year is, for me, an understatement. I am honored to know her, proud to write about her, but overall, grateful to call her my friend.

BY

PHOTO

DYLAN TODD

Andy Citino, Andre Clarke & Tristan Byrnes

TransNetwork Co-Founders

Callen Jones, TransNetwork Support Space Facilitator

WHEN IT SEEMED LIKE THE WALLS

were closing in on transgender and gender expansive Floridians as the state legislature met in 2023, Andrew Citino, Tristan Byrnes and Andre Clarke got to work.

Rather than allowing the fear to silence them, they stepped into their power as leaders within our community and founded TransNetwork. They took up space, they harnessed their voices and they united people highlighting the truths within our beautiful community to challenge the fallacies being spread about us. If that isn’t remarkable, I don’t know what is.

TransNetwork quickly became a staple of support, stability and service within the local LGBTQ+ community. Andy, Tristan and Andre united local leaders and LGBTQ+

people to offer educational sessions about the real-life impacts of the new laws and provided a much needed resource for so many who didn’t know where to turn.

They also knew how much we all needed one another and continued to provide spaces for people to connect and be affirmed as we navigated this new landscape. This impact and the work of TransNetwork has grown substantially throughout 2024 in ways so many of us could never have imagined.

As a local non-binary trans masculine person, I have been

truly empowered by the staunch commitment TransNetwork has shown to comprehensively supporting and advocating for the needs of trans and gender expansive (TGX) people in the Tampa Bay area. Their conversation series has allowed TGX people and allies to unite in powerful dialogue with opportunities to learn through story and lived experience.

Their social and philanthropic events have brought people together for a common purpose of moving this work forward. Their support spaces have allowed people to share openly during a time when so many are seeking to feel understood. Their participation in local educational events has solidified their voices as trusted local experts who lead with empathic understanding and equitable expectations. And their presence in things like the annual TransMarch, kicking off the St Pete Pride Parade, gives visibility to show that TGX people are here, are loved,

are powerful and are worthy of living full lives where they thrive in their truest authenticity.

It is clear why each member of the TransNetwork board is a remarkable person. They saw a need and not only did they meet it, they filled a void with smiles and support, action and advocacy, and ongoing opportunities for the transgender and gender expansive members of the Tampa Bay community to exist openly with pride and powerful possibility.

There is something palpable about the energy at TransNetwork events. When you get to experience the bravery and pride that accents the authenticity in the spaces TransNetwork has created, you will be forever changed by the empowerment these remarkable people have organically created. Thank you for doing this work. We are all better off because of you.

Rev. Andy Oliver

Allendale United Methodist Church

Nadine Smith, Equality Florida Executive Director

“SIMPLY MANAGING THE

old order will not lead to a new future. Offering charity without transformation will not bring beloved community any closer. We need a new social order where the most vulnerable are centered — that will bring our collective liberation.” –Rev. Oliver

Rev. Andy Oliver stands out in 2024 for his bold commitment to building a world where everyone, no matter who they are, feels welcome and safe. Watermark’s recognition of him as one of the “Remarkable People of 2024” couldn’t be more fitting. Andy’s leadership isn’t about following a script; it’s about rewriting it to include those who’ve been left out. This year, he’s been a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the United Methodist Church, a compassionate source of support during natural disasters and a steadfast ally for unhoused people. Andy understands that joy is both a form of resistance and the bond that forges community. As attacks on the drag community grew, he invited drag queens to lead worship on the fifth Sunday of each month. For many, this was a powerful testament to his belief that faith isn’t about exclusion or judgment; it’s about celebrating each

unique individual and doing so with joy.

Andy also opened his church’s doors and grounds to the unhoused, even when some neighbors and city officials pushed back. He didn’t waver. Instead, he worked to connect people with housing solutions, access to cell phones, and a community of care, insisting on everyone’s right to dignity. In a world where the unhoused are often overlooked or vilified, Andy’s response was both simple and radical: he treated them as people inherently worthy of respect.

In a landmark moment for both the United Methodist Church and LGBTQ+ communities, this year marked the repeal of the church’s ban on LGBTQ+ clergy and same-sex weddings. Andy was on the front lines of this change, and his dedication helped secure this win in a struggle that spanned five decades. The decision opened doors that had long been closed,

and Andy made it clear that everyone has a place in the church.

When Tampa Bay was hit by a hurricane, Andy responded immediately to the need. He quickly organized his church as a hub for recovery, providing laundry services, essential supplies, and even work teams to help clean out damaged homes. His efforts were a testament to his hands-on approach to leadership — showing that real impact comes from rolling up your sleeves and doing what’s needed.

This year, he also united more than 30 LGBTQ+affirming congregations to march together at St Pete Pride. For many, it was their first time publicly stepping up to celebrate inclusion and love, an act of solidarity that sent a powerful message to the wider community. Andy showed that faith and pride aren’t opposites; they’re deeply connected by a shared commitment to community, equality and love.

Andy’s work this year is a beautiful reminder of what faith in action looks like. His compassion and bravery continue to transform lives, inspire communities and break down barriers. There are allies, and then there are accomplices like Andy, who risk and leverage their privilege for freedom and justice. Andy’s leadership doesn’t just speak — it acts, and Tampa Bay is better for it.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

Todd Richardson

former Equality Florida

Pinellas Development director

Mark Puskarich, Equality Florida Development Director

WITH A SMILE THAT brightens up the biggest ballroom of any fundraising gala, Todd Richardson has been an activist for the LGBTQ+ community for 30 years.

As a young man who was outed and discharged from the United States Air Force for being gay, losing his security clearance, and a job in Washington, D.C., Todd has felt the horrible hate, pain, and embarrassment of workplace discrimination. Forever changed by his dismissal from his career in the service, he has dedicated his life to ensuring others don’t face the same injustice.

For more than a decade, Todd has supported the work of Equality Florida and has helped build the organization into the largest statewide LGBTQ+ education and advocacy group in the country. Because of his efforts, he has raised more than $5 million for Equality Florida and has helped develop St. Petersburg into one of the most successful communities in the state for the nonprofit’s activism.

His colleagues are motivated by these accomplishments and

his authentic and caring approach to how well he recognizes, respects and gets to know his many donors. It’s not uncommon to ask Todd a question about one of them, and he may tell you about their work, their relationships with other folks and organizations in the community, and their involvement with Equality Florida. In the fundraising world, Todd would be known as an exemplary “steward” of his donor community.

Over the years, Todd has become someone who staff members can turn to for advice and encouragement — two things that will be missed from him, as he retires from the organization this year.

His sincerity, passion and energy will be the legacy he leaves behind for his admiring colleagues so appreciative of his many contributions.

Speaking of energy, Todd’s is electric, and you

can’t help but be inspired by his passion for making this world better for everyone. He is dedicated to LGBTQ+ representation in the arts through his own photography work as well as through his support of the Tampa Bay International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival and Art for Life, a key fundraiser for the former Tampa AIDS Network.

Additionally, back in 2021, he worked to formalize the designation of the St. Petersburg birthplace of gay playwright, librettist and screenwriter Terrence McNally. In addition to the home’s recognition, Todd assisted with the declaration of May 7, 2021 as Terrence McNally Day in St. Petersburg. It’s clear Todd understands the importance of recognizing LGBTQ+ individuals in history so that their achievements are not forgotten, and that they may be inspirations for generations to come.

Though Todd will begin settling into retirement soon, he has already committed to helping new staff members find their way and volunteering to continue to support Equality Florida’s important work throughout Florida. Just other thoughtful ways Todd has found to brighten up our day.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

Dr. Byron Green-Calisch

St Pete Pride President and Justice Over Everything Co-Founder

State Rep. Michele Rayner, Justice Over Everything Co-Founder

DR. BYRON GREEN-CALISCH IS

the sibling and friend I never knew I needed. When I first ran for office, he reached out to me to speak to a class he was teaching at USF and from that brief interaction, I knew he was one of my people.

Byron is remarkable for so many reasons. It is not just for the incredible work he does as an award-winning DEI expert and consultant, nonprofit

creator and leader and a coach to many. He is remarkable because he is one of the truest people I know. When he loves you, he does so with fierce

Elliott Green-Calisch, Husband

WHERE TO BEGIN? AS HIS husband, I’m sure I’m partial and biased to a degree, but I’m a Taurus too, so I tend to tell it like it is.

When I first met Byron, I was extremely impressed with his intelligence and drive, but also the vast depth of his empathy. He truly cares about the people around him and his community. I have been able to watch him work with St Pete Pride and he truly cares that every aspect of the community is represented and feels welcome. He takes great pains to make sure that the events are enjoyable to all, and of course that safety for our community is a top priority.

This fed into the development of Justice Over Everything with partner and dear friend, Michele. The passion they pour into this nonprofit is beyond admirable.

As part of the community of POC, Byron sees and has experienced firsthand what the community comes up against and what it so often needs. He shows his strength and drive in getting things accomplished to better the lives of Queer POC and POC. JOE was born to first focus here in St. Pete, directly

protection and loyalty. When you are in his presence you know you are seen. This is one of his many superpowers.

Personally, Byron has walked me through some of my darkest moments and has shouted with joy in some of my happiest. There is never a time we cannot laugh or ki at foolishness or as a means of coping with — well, we all know what occurred on November 5. He is literally a friend of my soul and no one is more deserving of this honor than him.

working with this community. Next, they have sights set to move out to the greater Tampa Bay community, to the state and beyond.

On a personal note, I don’t think I could have ever come across a kinder, more caring person to share my life with. Asking him to marry me was the best decision of my life! The joy that this man brings to my life daily is unmatched.

One thing we discussed very early in our relationship was that neither of us felt that someone would complete us. Instead we were hoping for that person that would greatly add to our lives. Byron showed up and offered a full future that would be shared with an exciting and loving partner, who also knows how to laugh!

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

Rick Todd

Owner/Publisher, Watermark Publishing Group

Michael Wanzie, Central Florida writer/director/performer

16-YEAR-OLD GAY KID WHO

was figuring out who he was found his way to Delta Youth Alliance — now called the Orlando Youth Alliance — where he was mentored by Jeff Horn and Terry Deischer. That kid became instantly involved with the community, went on to work for Tom Dyer at Watermark, was promoted and eventually acquired the business from Tom, continuing to publish and expand what is arguably the finest queer news source in our state. That kid has morphed the print publication into Watermark Publishing Group, taking full advantage of the digital age and using the brand to sponsor events, raise funds for many important causes and even to produce an awardwinning documentary.

That kid was Rick Claggett, who has since become Rick Todd by way of his recent marriage to husband, Dylan Todd. And that film was “Greetings from Queertown: Orlando” for which Rick worked tirelessly to raise the funds needed and to assemble the talent required to produce this truly remarkable film that details the history of the LGBTQ+ community that built Orlando’s political and nightlife scene, struggled through the HIV/AIDS crisis and Pulse,

created Parliament House and Gay Day at Disney World and much more.

Rick has sponsored and promoted many of my gay-positive theatrical endeavors over the years, has become a cherished personal friend and has had the good sense to include me as a Watermark contributing writer for many years now, for which I am quite grateful.

Rick worked very closely with the staff of the Orange County Regional History Center to create “Cover Story: Celebrating Watermark’s 30 Years.” This exhibit has been on full display at The History Center since August where all who visit can learn about queer history, and especially Central Florida’s coming out story, as told through a display of thoughtfully curated Watermark covers.

Most recently, Rick was successful in winning a grant from Press Forward, a national movement to strengthen communities by reinvigorating local news, which recognized Watermark as providing “a vital public service role in its community.” Watermark was one of only 205 news organizations chosen from among over 900 applicants to be awarded this recognition and funding.

Rick Todd has certainly paid it forward in significant and meaningful ways. Our Central Florida LGBTQIA+ community has been greatly enhanced for having been blessed by Rick’s presence, his influence and vision, and his remarkable citizenship.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

announcements TAMPA BAY OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS

Dylan Todd opened his new photography studio in St. Petersburg Nov. 20.

Equality Florida raised a record $690,000 at the nonprofit’s Tampa Gala Nov. 22, where Dr. Gary Howell received the 2024 Voice for Equality Award and more. Read more on p. 12.

Equality Florida celebrated the retirement of Todd Richardson Nov. 23, one of Watermark’s Remarkable People of 2024 detailed on p. 35, after 13 years. Preston Scott will now serve as the nonprofit’s St. Petersburg and Sarasota development leader. “I’ve committed to remaining an active volunteer and financial supporter of Equality Florida, helping Preston settle into his new role and sharing everything I’ve learned over the years about our incredible Pinellas supporters,” Richardson shared Nov. 25.

Clearwater’s Mike Halterman, Jonathan Thornton and Ava Davis will compete on “Pop Culture Jeopardy!” as the Tampa Tamales this month, currently airing on Prime Video. Read more on p. 12.

The joy ride raised $248,361 during its first ride Nov. 2223 and fundraising continues through the end of the year. Read more at WatermarkOnline.com.

The cities of St. Petersburg and Tampa are among the Florida cities to retain their perfect scores of 100 in the Human Rights Campaign’s 13th annual Municipal Equality Index. Read more on p. 14.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS

Opera Tampa assistant conductor Luis Gonzalez, Spathouse’s Scott Durfee, former Cider Press Cafe owner Roland Strobel (Dec. 5); Venice Theater GM and Director of Diversity Kristofer Geddie, Lucky Star Lounge staple Daniel Harris, Shelter Strong Founder Theresa McGivern (Dec. 6); Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, St. Petersburg psychiatrist Tom Young, Tampa’s Red Herring Ltd. expert Ivan Moros, Miss St Pete Pride 2023 Ceazia Giovanni Kreshe (Dec. 7); St. Pete free spirit Miranda Colette (Dec. 8); Tampa Bay entertainer PheYonce Montrese aka Metro Inclusive Health’s Nate Taylor, Tampa Bay realtor Rick Fifer (Dec. 9); Tampa Bay actor Spencer Meyers, Largo pharmacist Eric Hutton, Tampa Bay entertainer Veronica Vixen aka Vincent Bailey-Santamarina, Tampa Bay dancer Fernando Chonqui, Cocktail bartender Nick Green (Dec. 10); Tampa Bay softballer Les Croy, Capital One’s AJ Cuevas, Christian minister Chancey Martinez Colon (Dec. 11); Philanthropist Ed Lally, Former state representative Jennifer Webb, Sarasota realtor Jim Jablonski, St. Pete Twirler Jose Luis Perez (Dec. 12); Bradenton MAC makeup artist Joey Killmeyer (Dec. 14); Former Tampa MCC Pastor Rev. Phyllis Hunt, St. Petersburg outdoor lover Dan Barrett, Clearwater softball stud Gregory Toth (Dec. 15); Tampa Bay lawyer David Schauer, Pastor at St. Andrews UCC Sarasota Paul Werner, Acclaimed author Rob Sanders (Dec. 16); Sarasota’s Sage SRQ Executive Chef Christopher Covelli (Dec. 17); St. Petersburg sculptor Mark Aeling, Tampa Bay journalist Trevor Pettiford, former Honey Pot owner Stephen Moss (Dec. 18).

1

WICKED TEAM: (L-R) Christina Embers Taylor, Jay Miah, Adriana Sparkle, Conundrum and Reb3l sparkle at Cocktail’s “Wicked Gay” party. PHOTO FROM COCKTAIL’S INSTAGRAM

2 AT LAST: Equality Florida Director of Transgender Equality Angelique Godwin receives her WAVE Award for Favorite Local Activist Nov. 22. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

3

SEASON’S GREETINGS: Tampa Mayor Jane Castor (L) and Santa Nick flip the switch on the Tampa Riverwalk’s Harbour Tree Dec. 1. PHOTO FROM MAYOR CASTOR’S FACEBOOK

4 PHOTOGRAPHY FANS: (L-R) Rene Cantu, Joe Redinger and Leah Hodgen strike a pose at the grand opening party for Dylan Todd Photography Nov. 20. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

5 PASSING THE TORCH: Equality Florida St. Petersburg and Sarasota Development Leader Preston Scott (L) shares an embrace with his predecessor Todd Richardson at his retirement party Nov. 23. PHOTO COURTESY EQUALITY FLORIDA

6 SAYING THEIR NAMES: Allendale United Methodist Church members and other supporters attend St. Petersburg Transgender Day of Remembrance 2024 at City Hall. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

7 USING HIS VOICE: Dr. Gary Howell receives the 2024 Voice for Equality Award during the Equality Florida Tampa Gala Nov. 22. PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

8 JOY RIDERS: EPIC Executive Director Joy Winheim (L) and Tampa Bay Area Cyclists Captain Jason Fields enjoy the inaugural joy ride Nov. 22. PHOTO COURTESY JOY WINHEIM

announcements CENTRAL FLORIDA OUT+ABOUT

1

CENTER SUPPORT: George Wallace, the LGBT+ Center Orlando’s CEO, with members of Universal Orlando Resort Foundation’s team as they present a $90,000 check to The Center Orlando Nov. 21. PHOTO COURTESY LGBT+ CENTER ORLANDO

2 HOLIDAY FUN: (L-R) Jeremy Williams, Rick Todd and Jennifer Kunsch visit Epcot for its Festival of the Holidays at Walt Disney World Dec. 1. PHOTO COURTESY JEREMY WILLIAMS

3 SERVING THE PEOPLE: Florida Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith (L) and husband Jerrick Mediavilla check out Smith’s new office while in Tallahassee Nov. 17. PHOTO FROM CARLOS GUILLERMO SMITH’S FACEBOOK

4 COMMUNITY LEADERS: Marco Quiroga (L) and Yasmin Flasterstein attend the Amor Sin Fronteras Contigo Ball at the Orlando Science Center in Orlando Nov. 22. PHOTO FROM YASMIN FLASTERSTEIN’S FACEBOOK

5 LEADERS OF DISTINCTION: (L-R) Terrance Hunter, Latrice Stewart and CeCe Teneal represent 26Health while attending Night of Distinction, presented by Vystar Credit Union, at Camping World Stadium Nov. 21. PHOTO FROM 26HEALTH’S FACEBOOK

6 CITY PRIDE: City Commissioner Patty Sheehan shows off Orlando Pride’s 2024 NWSL Championship trophies at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando Nov. 25. PHOTO FROM PATTY SHEEHAN’S FACEBOOK

7 CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM: Orlando Pride’s Marta (L) with Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer at Orlando City Hall in downtown Orlando Nov. 25. PHOTO FROM ORLANDO MAYOR BUDY DYER’S FACEBOOK

8 YULETIDE QUEENS: (L-R) April Fresh, Daphne Ferraro, Addison Taylor and MrMs Adrien are full of holiday cheer at April Fresh’s Comedy Brunch at The Abbey in Orlando Dec. 1. PHOTO FROM LOC ROBERTSON’S FACEBOOK

CONGRATULATIONS

Lola Smyth received the Emerging Movement Leader Award, Melody Maia Monet received the Marsha P. Johnson & Sylvia Rivera Trans Justice Pioneer Award, Yasmin Andre received the Coretta Scott King Ally in Action Award, Stephanie Loraine Pineiro received the Trailblazer in Philanthropy Award, Yasmin Flasterstein received the Contigo Fund Legacy Award and Tatiana Quiroga received the Angie & Hector Xtravaganza Community Builder Award at the Amor Sin Fronteras Contigo Ball last month.

Savoy bartender Craig Michael and Justin Coffman were married in Orlando on Nov. 20.

Universal Orlando Resort Foundation donated $90,000 through its Love is Universal Campaign to the LGBT+ Center Orlando. Representatives from Universal visited The Center Orlando Nov. 21 to present the check. The funds will support The Center Orlando’s services and cover the cost of the mobile testing unit.

Orlando Pride defeated Washington Spirit 1-0 at CPKC Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, Nov. 23 to win the 2024 NWSL Championship, the first in team history. To celebrate the championship and to honor the team’s players, the City of Orlando held a parade and celebration in downtown Orlando Nov. 25.

Orlando was among the Florida cities to retain its perfect scores of 100 in the Human Rights Campaign’s 13th annual Municipal Equality Index. Read more on p. 14.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS

“Flame On” podcast host Bryan Pittard, Osceola Arts COO Jeremiah Krivinchuk, Bites and Bubbles entrepreneur Eddie Nickell (Dec. 6); Orlando Theatre goddess Beth Marshall (Dec. 7); Former Come Out With Pride President Jeff Prystajko, former Watermark intern Christina Nicole Diaz, Mainframe Real Estate founder and CEO Sean Frank (Dec. 8); Zebra Coalition CEO Heather Wilkie, Southern Nights Orlando bartender Cameron MacDonald, Southern Nights Orlando’s D’Andre Bims (Dec. 9); Orlando artist Jeff Jones, Mitzi Morris’ alter ego Kevin Kreigel (Dec. 10); Former Watermark Sales Director Mark Cady, Central Florida actor and vocalist Zachary Thomas, Royal Caribbean International’s David Bain, Central Florida Forddealing bear Fred Berliner (Dec. 11); Massage therapist Isaac Torres, Orlando Chorus baritone Jamie Decker, Altamonte Springs chiropractor Dr. Bradford Levine (Dec. 12); Walt Disney Creative Entertainment Talent Casting Director Mark Catlett-Miller, 4 Corners writer Lawrence W. Caul (Dec. 13); Orlando Weekly publisher Graham Jarrett, Come Out With Pride’s former festival director Joyce Almeida, Orlando Regional Chamber Business Development Manager Greg Mason (Dec. 14); Orange County library’s Ben Garcia (Dec. 15); Central Florida drag entertainer Divine Grace, WAVE Award-winning Sephora beauty consultant Justin Jimenez, Crew Health’s Brittani Acuff (Dec. 16); OAK Central Florida’s Ken Terrell, actress Becky Fisher (Dec. 17); Pineapple Healthcare’s Daniel Fernandez de Castro; Florida House Rep. Rita Harris (Dec. 18).

YOGA STUDIO

EVENT PLANNER

HOT ON STAGE community calendar

CENTRAL FLORIDA

Winter Wonderland Open House

FRIDAY, DEC. 6, 6-8 P.M.

LGBT+ CENTER, ORLANDO

Get into the holiday spirit with the LGBT+ Center Orlando. Gather your family and friends and get ready for a cozy evening of hot chocolate and festive fun, including a special visit from Santa himself! This event is free to attend. For more information, visit TheCenterOrlando.com.

Trans & Non-Binary Task Force Holiday Cookie Exchange

SATURDAY, DEC. 7, 5-8 P.M.

THE CENTER’S HILLCREST LOCATION, ORLANDO

Join the Trans & Non-Binary Task Force at the Annual Holiday Cookie Exchange. This event is intentionally created for the trans and nonbinary community, their friends, family and allies. Bring your favorite cookies to share, or simply come as you are and enjoy the holiday spirit. This is a free event but your asked to register by going to Eventeny.com and search HOLIDAY COOKIE EXCHANGE.

TAMPA BAY

Holiday Spectacular

SELECT DATES AND TIMES THROUGH DEC. 29

ZUBRICK MAGIC THEATRE, ST. PETERSBURG

Chris and Ryan Zubrick invite first-time visitors and longtime fans of Zubrick Magic Theatre to enjoy wonder and illusion this holiday season. This 70-minute show promises “mind-boggling illusions, heartwarming holiday stories and laugh-outloud comedy.” Matinees and evening performances are available and tickets begin at $44. Learn more at ZubrickMagic.com.

Toys for Tots 15

SUNDAYS, DEC. 8 AND 15, 8:30 P.M.

ENIGMA AND BRADLEY’S ON 7TH, ST. PETERSBURG AND TAMPA

Kori Stevens’ annual holiday toy drive returns with a friendly competition between Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. The first “Battle in the Bay” fundraiser will be Dec. 8 at Enigma followed by Dec. 15 at Bradley’s, with performances and more benefiting local youth. The venue which raises the most money will receive a trophy for display.

“Slay Bells,” Dec. 6-7, Allendale UMC and Seminole Heights UMC, Tampa Bay. GMCTB.org

Adore Delano, Dec. 7, Southern Nights, Tampa. 813-559-8625; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsTampa Party for Presents, Dec. 8, Cocktail, St. Petersburg. 727-592-1914; BalanceTampaBay.org

Countess LuAnn: “A Very Countess Christmas,” Dec. 8, Seminole Hard Rock, Tampa. 866-388-4263; Casino. HardRock.com/Tampa

“Some Like It Hot,” Dec. 10-15, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org

Nerd Nite St. Pete Anniversary Edition, Dec. 11, Coastal Creative, St. Petersburg. 813-452-9799; StPete.NerdNite.com

CENTRAL FLORIDA

“The Office Holiday Party Musical Extravaganza Show,” Dec. 5-29, Renaissance Theatre, Orlando. RenTheatre.com

Broadway Rave, Dec. 6, The Beacham, Orlando. 407-839-1847; TheBeacham.com

Adore Delando, Dec. 6, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando

Orlando Ballet presents “The Nutcracker,” Dec. 6-22, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-436-1733; OrlandoBallet.org

7th Orlando Korea Festival, Dec. 7, Orlando Korea Culture Center, Orlando. 321-438-3443; Linktr.ee/ OrlandoCultureCenter

Lewis Black, Dec. 7, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. 407-351-5283;Café. HardRock.com/Orlando

Jack Daniel’s Whiskey & Food Tasting, Dec. 9, Savoy, Orlando. 407-270-4685; SavoyOrlando.com

Tax Talk with Julie, Dec. 12, LGBT+ Center, Orlando. 407-228-8272; TheCenterOrlando.com

14th Annual Broadway Christmas, Dec. 12, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando

Drag Queen Story Time After Dark, Dec. 13-15, LGBT+ Center, Orlando. 407-228-8272; TheCenterOrlando.com

“Sleigh – It’s Actually Christmas,” Dec. 1322, Orlando Shakes, Orlando. 407-447-1700; OrlandoShakes.org

Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Dec. 14, Kia Center, Orlando. 407-440-7000; KiaCenter.com

Orlando Gay Chorus presents “Merry Everything: The Gayest Time of Year,” Dec. 15, The Plaza Live, Orlando & Dec. 16, The Ritz Theater, Sanford. OrlandoGayChorus.org

“Some Like it Hot,” Dec. 17-22, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

Holiday Heartstrings: A CeCe Teneal Experience, Dec. 19-20, Judson’s Live, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

TAMPA BAY

Grand Central District

Christmas Market, Dec. 6, 2300 Block Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-828-7006; GrandCentralDistrict.org

Brittany Baldwin & The Bee Stings, Dec. 6, Salty Nun, St. Petersburg. 229-232-0011; Facebook.com/ BrittanyBaldwinMusic

Christmas Care-aoke, Dec. 14, American Legion Post 111, Tampa. 813-236-2281; Facebook.com/TampaSisters

Wide Sky 10th Anniversary, Dec. 14, Pinellas Park. Facebook.com/ WideSkyTees

Bitchin’ Brunch, Dec. 15, The Wet Spot, St. Petersburg. 727-592-1914; CocktailStPete.com

Patti LaBelle, Dec. 18, Mahaffey Theatre, St. Petersburg. 727-892-5767; Themahaffey.com Rock Solstice with The Sisters, Dec. 20, The Garage, St. Petersburg. Facebook.com/ OFCLGaragePage

SARASOTA

Fabulous Arts Foundation LGBTQ+ Center Opening, Dec. 13, Sarasota. FabAF.org

“Little Women: The Broadway Musical,” Through Dec. 15, The Players Centre, Sarasota. 941-365-2494; ThePlayers.org

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

The Tony Award-winning Broadway musical “Some Like It Hot” comes to the Straz Center in Tampa Dec. 10-15 and the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando Dec. 17-22. PHOTO BY MATTHEW MURPHY