Watermark Issue 28.14: Gender Euphoria by Watermark Publishing Group

Your LGBTQ Life.

July 8 - 21, 2021 Issue 28.14

Biden signs bill designating the National Pulse Memorial Florida names new LGBTQ Consumer Advocate

Gender Euphoria Local trans and nonbinary activists celebrate loving

themselves authentically

D A Y T O N A B E A C H • O R L A N D O • T A M P A • S T . P E T E R S B U R G • clear w ater • S A R A S O T A

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Your LGBTQ Life.

July 8 - 21, 2021 Issue 28.14

Biden signs bill designating the National Pulse Memorial Florida names new LGBTQ Consumer Advocate

Gender Euphoria Local trans and nonbinary activists celebrate loving

themselves authentically

D A Y T O N A B E A C H • O R L A N D O • T A M P A • S T . P E T E R S B U R G • clear w ater • S A R A S O T A

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

s In collaboration with the Tampa Bay International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, with support provided by the Art Bridges Foundation, the Museum of Fine Arts is proud to present three films centered on LGBTQ artists, filmmakers, and allies and their role in advancing conversations about art, social justice, and queer visibility.

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

It took a lot of self-work, self-reflection and soul searching to get to where I am today. Living my truth and transitioning has honestly brought me the most joy and happiness because it would get me closer to the person I always saw in – Adonis “AJ” Cuevas my head.

departments 7 // Editor/Bureau Chief’s Desk

page

8 // Central Florida News 11 // Tampa Bay News 14 // State News 15 // Nation & World News 21 // Talking Points 39 // Tampa Bay Out + About 41 // Central Fl Out + About 42 // Tampa Bay Marketplace 43 // Central Fl Marketplace 46 // Wedding Bells On the cover

page Song of Joy: LGBTQ

page

Gender Euphoria: Local trans and nonbinary activists celebrate loving themselves authentically.

Cover artwork and images featured in the

filmmaker Todd Stephens discusses his new feature “Swan Song” and more.

Watermark Issue 28.14 // July 8 - 21, 2021

In the race

taking action

Fighting Back

New Heights

page Leigh Shannon runs for Orlando City Commissioner District 3.

page Nikki Fried names Florida’s new LGBTQ Consumer Advocate.

page

In-Depth by Dylan Todd.

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WatermarkOnline.com

Read It Online! In addition to a Web site with daily LGBTQ updates, a digital version of each issue of the publication is made available on WatermarkOnline.com

Human Rights Campaign sues Florida over anti-trans ban.

Daphne Ferraro launches one-woman show “Tall Tale.”

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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Head to WatermarkOnline.com and click on the Digital Publications link to a read a digital version of the printed newspaper!

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

tampa bay

bureau chief’s

Ryan Williams-Jent TB bureau chief Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com

Desk

t’s been a whirlwind few

months. My husband and I closed on our first home in April, moved into it as Tampa Pride returned in May and did our best to settle in as St Pete Pride inspired events throughout June.

After Pride Month(s) ended, the U.S. also turned 245 – a birthday we hijacked to finally hold our housewarming party – and despite her many flaws, with the help of vaccinations, engaged voters and federal leadership, I don’t think she’s ever looked better. Our democracy is a tiring but ultimately worthwhile work in progress, not unlike a new house. Which I can now confirm is at times an exhausting purchase, particularly when coupled with an influx of in-person events. But even with as tired as I am, I’m also very grateful. That’s because while the last few months’ worth of activities have kept me from finishing every detail at home that I’ve wanted to, which I’ve learned we never

watermark staff

Owner & Publisher: Rick Todd • Ext. 110 Rick@WatermarkOnline.com Editor-in-Chief: Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com

actually will, it’s all been a welcome change of pace. If I never hop on Zoom as a form of entertainment again, it will still be too soon. The conferencing platform was invaluable for staying connected with loved ones last year, but that call has long been dropped for me. Personally, nothing compares to hugging my friends again or sharing an in-person laugh with them while we’re out and about. On a professional level, it’s a thrill to reconnect with the community Watermark is here to serve. My small talk may be a little rusty, something readers can likely attest if we’ve chatted during a recent outing or two, but covering the gatherings that unite our community has always been one of the most rewarding parts of my job.

As a wise leader once said, we’re stronger together. I was most recently reminded of that during St Pete Pride’s final weekend this June, which welcomed the LGBTQ community and our allies to North and South Straub Parks in Downtown St. Petersburg. Attendees were invited “to spend an evening along the beautiful bayside waterfront, enjoying picnics, musical performances and a fireworks display” to cap off PrideFest 2021. That’s exactly what participants did, something I was lucky enough to experience firsthand. Every Pride is someone’s first and in watching people of all ages celebrate our community that evening, I’m certain the event was no exception. The pure joy I saw on the faces of families – chosen and non – was an important reminder of why celebrating our authentic selves is so important. You don’t get that on Zoom. Various gatherings were held simultaneously and afterwards throughout Tampa Bay, from the Grand Central District to Pinellas Park, and from what I’ve seen they were all beautiful displays that our area and community should be very proud of. I know I am. That kind of authenticity is the focal point of our new issue. We gathered transgender and nonbinary individuals from Tampa Bay and Central Florida to showcase how they’ve fully embraced who they are. They reflected on their gender euphoria to do that, feelings which has been described as the satisfaction and joy that stem from loving one’s true self. It can mean many things, and does to a great deal of people, but these eight community members tell us what it represents to them. We pair their thoughts with photos beautifully captured at The Snap House in Tampa and Wall Crawl in Orlando by

Tampa Bay Bureau Chief: Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com

Sales Director: Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Danny@WatermarkOnline.com

Creative Designer: Dylan Todd • Ext. 107 Dylan@WatermarkOnline.com

Senior Orlando Account Manager: Sam Callahan • Ext. 103 Sam@WatermarkOnline.com

Creative Designer: Ezri Ruiz • Ext. 301 Ezri@WatermarkOnline.com

Tampa Bay Account Manager: Michael Wier • Ext. 105 Michael@WatermarkOnline.com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Watermark’s creative designer and photographer Dylan Todd. The photoshoot was another gathering I was fortunate enough to experience in person, and I want to thank every participant for sharing their truth with readers and each studio for allowing us to utilize their space to do so. In Tampa Bay news, we look back on Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Nikki Fried’s recent visit to St. Petersburg. The LGBTQ ally, who is the only statewide-elected Democrat and is also running for governor, officially recognized Pride Month in Florida. She also named St Pete Pride President Nathan Bruemmer as Florida’s next LGBTQ Consumer Advocate, the second person to fill the position and

It’s a thrill to reconnect with the community Watermark is here to serve.

the first who is transgender. Congratulations, Nathan. Across the bridge, the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber welcomes its new board, and in state news, the Human Rights Campaign files a lawsuit against Florida’s discriminatory law targeting transgender youth. Further proving elections matter, we also examine the bill signed by President Joe Biden designating Pulse as a national memorial. In Arts and Entertainment, “Another Gay Movie” scribe Todd Stephens discusses his new film “Swan Song.” Fan favorite entertainer Daphne Ferraro also reaches new heights with “Tall Tale,” her one-woman show. Watermark strives to bring you a variety of stories, your stories. Please stay safe, stay informed and enjoy this latest issue.

Orlando Office Founder and Guiding Light: Tom Dyer

1300 N. Semoran Blvd. Ste 250 Orlando, FL 32807 TEL: 407-481-2243

National Ad Representative: Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863

Tampa Bay Office 401 33rd Street N. St. Petersburg, FL 33713 TEL: 813-655-9890

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

contributors Johnny V. Boykins

is a Democratic Strategist in Pinellas County, a husband, bow tie aficionado, amateur chef and U.S. Coast Guard veteran. He also serves as Director of Outreach with the Pinellas Democratic Party. Page 17

Dr. Steve Yacovelli

is owner of TopDog Learning Group, LLC, a learning and development, change management, and diversity consulting practice based in Orlando. He’s also the Chief Inclusion Officer of LGBTInclusivity.com, a consulting group focused on LGBTQ equality in the workplace. Page 19

Lora Korpar was

a journalism student who graduated from the University of Central Florida and is a former Watermark intern. Page 46

Sabrina Ambra, Nathan Bruemmer, Scottie Campbell, Miguel Fuller, Divine Grace, Holly Kapherr Alejos, Jason Leclerc, Melody Maia Monet, Jerick Mediavilla, Greg Stemm, Dr. Steve yacovelli, Michael wanzie

photography Brian Becnel, Nick Cardello, Bruce Hardin, Jamarqus Mosley, Chris Stephenson, Lee Vandergrift

distribution LVNLIF2 Distributing, Ken Carraway, Vanessa Maresca-Cruz CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher. Unsolicited article submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Although WATERMARK is supported by many fine advertisers, we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising, or listing in WATERMARK is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members of such organizations. WATERMARK is published every second Thursday. Subscription rate is $55 (1st class) and $26 (standard mail). The official views of WATERMARK are expressed only in editorials. Opinions offered in signed columns, letters and articles are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the newspaper’s owner or management. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted for publication. WATERMARK is not responsible for damages due to typographical errors, except for the cost of replacing ads created by WATERMARK that have such errors.

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Editor’s

Jeremy Williams Editor-In-chief

Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com

Desk

here are two things that I’m

terrible at — pronouncing people’s names, no matter how simple they may be to say, and remembering how long ago things in my life happened. The latter of which I’m certain I got from my mother who whenever she tells a story, starts it with “The other day...” even if the other day was 17 years ago.

While it seems like just the other day, I recently became aware that it has been 10 years since the summer of 2011. That summer was of great significance to me. Besides the fact that it began with Lady Gaga releasing her “Born This Way” album, it was also the summer of my first journalism class at Valencia College with whom would become my professional mentor, Ken Carpenter. From the start of that class to this very day, I adapted the mantra: “What Would Ken Do?” And while our time together was short, Ken passed away from cancer five years

later, I not only learned a great deal on how to be a good journalist but also how to be a descent, compassionate human being. This summer I celebrate another 10-year anniversary. I’m not sure anniversary is the word most people would use but I do as it has become something that I celebrate as a turning point in my life. This summer I celebrate 10 years since I found out I am living with HIV. When I first found out, getting the news from the Orlando Immunology Center after signing up to be a part of an HIV vaccine study, it felt like the worst news

I could receive. I was someone who knew all about the virus, having two people in my life who are long-term survivors — my uncle and a former partner — and I felt embarrassed that I had let myself become infected. Some of the first people I told after telling my parents were Ken and Shay, the student editor of the Valencia Voice newspaper. I had missed classes after finding out and I broke down to both of them. What I thought was going to be an awkward conversation turned out to be honest compassion, hugs and offers to help me with whatever I needed. Compassion and understanding would come from the rest of the college newsroom. The more acceptance I was given the more comfortable I felt to be open with my status. Now that’s not to say that there weren’t any negatives in my positive diagnosis. As a hypochondriac, the news sent my anxiety through the roof and brought on full-fledged panic attacks. Within the first three months I had visited the emergency room dozens of times, thinking a heart attack was imminent. My mental health suffered as well. I blamed myself being gay as the reason I was now HIV-positive, I pushed friends away and started to put weight on, gaining roughly 100 pounds within the last decade thinking I could hide behind an overweight frame as men wouldn’t find me attractive. I fell into a very dark place, all while putting on a bright, optimistic front so people would think I was ok. I went to support groups and saw therapists, always being told that I’m doing so well handling this. Then back home to eat my feelings and push the world away. Two things happened that helped me reverse course, first I got on medication for anxiety and depression. Never be afraid to ask for help and if that help is taking medications for a mental health

watermark staff Owner & Publisher: Rick Todd • Ext. 110 Rick@WatermarkOnline.com Editor-in-Chief: Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com

Tampa Bay Bureau Chief: Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com

Sales Director: Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Danny@WatermarkOnline.com

Creative Designer: Dylan Todd • Ext. 107 Dylan@WatermarkOnline.com

Senior Orlando Account Manager: Sam Callahan • Ext. 103 Sam@WatermarkOnline.com

Creative Designer: Ezri Ruiz • Ext. 301 Ezri@WatermarkOnline.com

Tampa Bay Account Manager: Michael Wier • Ext. 105 Michael@WatermarkOnline.com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

issue, do it and don’t see it as you aren’t strong enough to fight it. Realizing what tools you need to beat it is you being strong. Second, some of the friends I tried to push away, refused to go. They kept coming around, they kept checking in and they kept letting me know they were here for me. Not long after, I came to Watermark and found a family and community that accepted me just as I am, who not only embraced all of me but celebrated it. So on this 10-year anniversary of a diagnosis that led me on a journey to become stronger and more accepting of myself, I thank all of those who have been positive influences in my life and who never gave up on me.

This summer I celebrate 10 years since I found out I am living with HIV.

That leads me into this next issue where we explore gender euphoria and being able to not only accept one’s self but celebrate it. We gathered transgender and nonbinary members of the Central Florida and Tampa Bay community and had a pair of photo shoots to celebrate them living their authentic selves and asked what gender euphoria means to them. We showcase our models with the help of two amazing photo studios — Orlando’s Wall Crawl and Tampa’s Snap House. If you love the scenes in these photos then you owe it to yourself to head down to one of these studios and have a photo shoot of your own. In this issue, we also chat with gay filmmaker Todd Stephens about his new film “Swan Song” and Tampa Bay drag sensation Daphne Ferraro.

Orlando Office Founder and Guiding Light: Tom Dyer

1300 N. Semoran Blvd. Ste 250 Orlando, FL 32807 TEL: 407-481-2243

National Ad Representative: Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863

Tampa Bay Office 401 33rd Street N. St. Petersburg, FL 33713 TEL: 813-655-9890

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

contributors Johnny V. Boykins

Dr. Steve Yacovelli

Lora Korpar was

a journalism student who graduated from the University of Central Florida and is a former Watermark intern. Page 46

photography Brian Becnel, Nick Cardello, Bruce Hardin, Jamarqus Mosley, Chris Stephenson, Lee Vandergrift

Watermark Publishing Group Inc.

central florida news

Biden signs bill designating the National Pulse Memorial Jeremy Williams

RLANDO | In the final days of LGBTQ Pride Month, President Joe Biden signed H.R. 49, designating the National Pulse Memorial. Biden signed the bill into law June 25 surrounded by First Lady Jill Biden, Pulse survivors, victims’ family members and political leaders, including the three Central Florida Congressional representatives who sponsored the bill — U.S. Reps. Darren Soto, Stephanie Murphy and Val Demings. “Just over five years ago, the Pulse night club, a place of acceptance and joy became a place of unspeakable pain and loss,” Biden said before signing H.R. 49. “We’ll never fully recover but we’ll remember.” As Biden spoke about the Pulse tragedy, he drew attention to the photos of the 49 victims on either side of him. “You see on either board there the 49 lives lost — family members, parents, friends, veterans, students, young, Black, Asian, Latino; all fellow Americans,” he said. “There memory, and from the countless others forever scarred, is why I sign this today.” After signing the bill, Biden concluded by saying “[May] no president ever have to sign another monument like this.” Biden followed the bill’s signing with an LGBTQ Pride Month reception with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and 16-year-old Ashton Mota, a transgender advocate and leader with GenderCool Project from Lowell, Massachusetts. Biden declared “Pride is back at the White House,” also indicating that while progress has been made with LGBTQ rights that “we still have a long way to go, a lot of work to do.” “This afternoon, we celebrate,” Biden said. “Tomorrow we go back to work. Progress won’t come easy. It never has. But we’re going to stand strong, stand together.” The Pulse National Memorial bill passed the U.S. House May 12 and the U.S. Senate June 9. The onePULSE Foundation celebrated the bill’s signing, thanking Biden as well as the representatives and senators who introduced the bills that led to Pulse becoming a national monument. “It is so meaningful to everyone here, especially the families of the 49, survivors, first responders, and all the lives affected, that our federal government recognizes the depth of the tragedy of Pulse,” onePULSE said in a statement. “It’s also a clear and lasting message to the LGBTQ+ community that what happened at Pulse matters and will never be forgotten for future generations, and that we will always outlove hate.” While the new law designates Pulse a National Memorial and Museum, it will not be recognized as part of the National Park System. Also, no federal funds will be used in establishing the memorial and museum which is estimated to cost $45 million.

Signs point to yes: Leigh

Shannon yard signs have started to appear throughout District 3 in Orlando.

In the Race Leigh Shannon runs for Orlando City Commissioner District 3 Jeremy Williams

RLANDO | Owner of Orlando’s Ritzy Rags Wigs & More, Martin Fugate — better known to most as Central Florida drag entertainer Leigh Shannon — is officially running for Orlando City Commissioner – District 3. Fugate made his initial intentions known with a post on his Facebook page June 7. It read, “Are You Ready for Some New Shoes? Leigh Shannon for District 3 Commissioner,” along with the message “KICK OFF Coming.” Shannon, who has lived in College Park with his husband for 15 years, moved his wig business to the neighborhood after more than 30 years in the Mill50 District. Now he says he is ready to work on improving District 3 not only for his business but for all the residents and business owners in the district. “I’m already in public service,” Fugate says. “That’s just what I do. Everything is about the people. Here at my business, I listen to my customers and make decisions based on what they want and need. In my shows, I adjust as I perform

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

based on the reactions from my audiences. I think if you do the same as a commissioner and you do your best to hear them and do as much as you can to help them, then you will succeed, and I truly believe I’m the best man for this job.” Fugate says he is embracing all aspects of his life as he runs to become city commissioner, even fighting to have his name appear as Martin “Leigh Shannon” Fugate on the ballot. “Leigh Shannon, Marty Fugate, I’m all the same person,” he says. “I’m the drag performer, the actor, the business owner, I’m all of that and if I get elected then the voters are going to get all of me.” Fugate has several key issues he is passionate about that he says he will be talking about in detail leading up to election day. They include proposing a local freeze on property taxes due to the COVID-19 crisis for up to three years, providing proper docking stations for public bikes and scooters, and limiting the tearing down of homes by developing a program that would offer property tax incentives for home improvements to a home’s facade.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Photo courtesy Leigh Shannon

“I’ve always been intrigued by old houses and neighborhoods,” he says. “What they look like if you tear them down. What goes up in their place. I grew up in a suburban subdivision so living in these communities, I believe these places have to be protected.” Fugate says he feels that the district is being invaded by “super developers,” setting his focus on the Rosemont Development Plan. “It’s just too massive,” he says. “They’re putting in an eight-story building which will bring thousands of apartments. The roads won’t be able to handle all that extra traffic, where is all that sewage going to go? They aren’t listening to the residents, many of them don’t want this massive building in their neighborhood.” Robert Stuart, District 3’s current commissioner, has represented the district since 2006, which Fugate says is long enough. “Mr. Stuart is an okay guy. I’ve talked to him many times on the phone. I’ve given him suggestions of what I feel would help the residents of this district, given my opinions. We differ on a lot of things. He’s an okay guy but he’s been in there a lot of terms and I think it’s time for him to go,” Fugate says. “You have to hear the people and if you do not, if you ignore them, if you play games with them, they’ll know and they’ll replace you.” For more information on Fugate’s campaign, go to ElectLeighShannon.com.

LET’S STOP HIV TOGETHER

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

tampa bay news

Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber welcomes new board Ryan Williams-Jent

COMMUNITY ADVOCATES:

Florida LGBTQ Consumer Advocate Nathan Bruemmer (L) and Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Nikki Fried June 25. PHOTO COURTESY FDACS

Taking Action Florida names new LGBTQ advocate, recognizes Pride Month Ryan Williams-Jent

T. PETERSBURG | St Pete Pride supporters gathered at The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art June 25 for the Stonewall Reception, recognizing Pride Month and more. The annual event is billed as the nonprofit’s “must-attend reception.” This year, organizers welcomed Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Nikki Fried. The LGBTQ ally is currently the only statewide-elected Democrat and is also running for governor. She officially recognized Pride Month on behalf of the state later in the evening and announced that St Pete Pride President Nathan Bruemmer would serve as its next LGBTQ Consumer Advocate. Ahead of the news, Bruemmer detailed PrideFest 2021, June’s reimagined celebration. St Pete Pride held its final anchor event the next evening, a picnic culminating with fireworks along the waterfront. He then highlighted eight local nonprofits benefiting from

PrideFest’s month of ticket sales: Reach St. Pete, EmpowHERment, The Well, Ready for Life, Community Tampa Bay, the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, the St. Petersburg Free Clinic and the St. Pete Youth Farm. Speakers included Raymond James & Associates President Tash Elwyn, St. Petersburg Deputy Mayor Kanika Tomalin and openly LGBTQ State Rep. Michele Rayner, who is currently running for U.S. Congress. Fried spoke last. “As your Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services, I’m so excited to be here tonight celebrating Pride Month with all of you,” she began. “My department is so proud to be a partner with you and support the amazing work being done here on the ground at St Pete Pride.” Fried reflected on some of the ways she’s done so as commissioner. In 2019, she added sexual orientation and gender identity to her department’s list of workplace protections. She also created its first LGBTQ Consumer Advocate.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

LGBTQ activist Nik Harris filled the role, working to safeguard consumer rights since its inception. With the longtime advocate departing for a position with the Human Rights Campaign, Fried announced Bruemmer will succeed her. “As a statewide leader, I take seriously my responsibility to recognize everyone as deserving of dignity and respect, with full rights and privileges as Floridians,” she subsequently said in a statement. “Ensuring that LGBTQ+ freedoms are protected requires consistent advocacy and vigilance ... I am thrilled to appoint Nathan Bruemmer to this position as we build on the work we’ve done over the past two years,” she noted. “I am honored to join the FDACS family,” Bruemmer added, “and combine my passion for education and LGBTQ advocacy with my Florida roots ... I thank Commissioner Fried for the opportunity to get to work on behalf of all Floridians and businesses.” Ahead of their new partnership, Fried presented Bruemmer with a proclamation declaring June as Pride Month in Florida. “The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services stands proudly with the LGBTQ community,” it read. View photos from the reception and read more at WatermarkOnline.com and FDACS.gov.

AMPA | The Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber held its annual Pride in Business luncheon June 30, welcoming business professionals, advocates and its new board to the Centre Club for networking. The chamber has advanced business interests in Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Sarasota counties for decades. It represents more than 600 businesses, groups and individuals. “I’m so thankful to be here,” Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber President Justice Gennari shared. “I appreciate each and every one of you for the work that you do in the community to highlight LGBT business and equality in the workplace.” Gennari then introduced Christie Hattersley, the outgoing chair for the chamber’s board of directors. The body serves in staggered terms. “I look back and I’m so proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish here in the Tampa Bay region,” Hattersley shared. “We had a brand new board when I started … and I take great pride in our partnership and ability to get through some of the most difficult times in this organization’s existence.” The outgoing executive committee included Vice Chair Chad Daughtrey, Treasurer Bob Sanders and Directors Brandon Tydlaska-Dziedzic, KJ Summers, Luke Franchina and Skyler Hunt. Hattersley noted that in addition to navigating COVID-19 during their tenure, the board and Gennari expanded its outreach, rebranded and hosted the NGLCC International Business and Leadership Conference. The gathering had an estimated economic impact of nearly $7.8 million for the Tampa Bay region. Gennari thanked them before introducing the 2021-2022 board. Additions include Andrew Hall, Brian Liotta-DeVivo, Dustin Portillo, Lauren Reyes, Parker Homas, Ryan Niemeyer, Sam Samson and Trace Kingham. Daughtrey will now serve as the board’s president. “I am extremely honored and excited to take on the role,” he shared. “This organization has served the LGBT and allied business community since 1983 and I couldn’t be more excited to lead our Board of Directors into 2022.” The luncheon also welcomed Nathan Bruemmer, Florida’s newly appointed LGBTQ Consumer Advocate, Project Pride President Jordan Letschert and Empowering Differences Founder Ashley Brundage. They discussed LGBTQ equality and more before Gennari closed by awarding the President’s Award to Sanders. He said the Regions Bank senior vice president has showcased an “outstanding commitment to the business community.” “I can honestly say this organization has been one of the best things I’ve done since coming to Tampa,” Sanders thanked him. Read more and view photos from the gathering at WatermarkOnline.com.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, 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 ﬁrst talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to check your health regularly for several months, and may give you HBV medicine.

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:  Those in the “Most Important Information About BIKTARVY” section.  Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to ﬁght 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 effects of BIKTARVY in clinical studies were diarrhea (6%), nausea (6%), and headache (5%). These are not all the possible side effects of BIKTARVY. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any new symptoms while taking BIKTARVY. You are encouraged to report negative side effects 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.

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. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.  Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk. 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 affect 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.

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 1-8 00-GILEAD-5  If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, KEEP CREATING, and LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2021 © 2021 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0369 04/21

BVYC0369_BIKTARVY_B_9-25X10-1_Watermark_Chad_r1v1jl.indd All Pages

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

CHAD LIVING WITH HIV SINCE 2018 REAL BIKTARVY PATIENT

h r

ut t

KEEP CREATING.

Because HIV doesn’t change who you are.

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. See Chad’s story at BIKTARVY.com. Featured patient compensated by Gilead.

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

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

4/7/21 9:52 AM

state news

Federal lawsuit filed against Florida’s anti-trans sports ban Ryan Williams-Jent

ROWARD COUNTY, Fla. | The Human Rights Campaign filed a federal lawsuit June 30 against Florida’s law targeting transgender youth. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the anti-LGBTQ Senate Bill 1028 (SB 1028) into law June 1, banning the vulnerable population from playing sports that align with their gender identity. The lawsuit was filed by the HRC Foundation, the educational arm of the nation’s largest LGBTQ-focused civil rights organization, on behalf of a 13-year-old student identified as Daisy and her parents, Jessica and Gary N. It describes Daisy as “a rising eighth grader at a middle school in Broward County” who plays sports and “is passionate about soccer.” DeSantis is named as the lawsuit’s first defendant. The

Florida High School Athletic Association, Broward County School Board, Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Robert Runcie, Florida State Board of Education and Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran join the governor. “Given the unprecedented onslaught of state legislative attacks, we have a responsibility to utilize every tool in our belt to safeguard the LGBTQ community, including suing the states that infringe upon our civil rights,” HRC President Alphonso David said in a statement. “On the first day of Pride Month, a moment of celebration, Governor DeSantis signed a bill into law attacking transgender children – now, on the last day of Pride, we are sending a message to him, and all anti-equality officials, that you cannot target our community without retribution.”

The litigation follows action from D.C. On June 16, President Joe Biden’s administration declared that discrimination against LGBTQ students is illegal under federal law. The Education Department shared it would enforce Title IX – which bars discrimination on the basis of sex in schools – to prohibit it on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Equality Florida, the state’s largest LGBTQ civil rights organization welcomed the president’s support that day. “Florida’s Republican leadership repeatedly ignored warnings that their unnecessary and cruel transgender youth sports ban violates Title IX,” they shared. “For nearly a decade Florida has had clear guidelines on transgender student athlete participation that worked,” they continued. “Bill sponsors could not identify a single issue in Florida under those policies.

Republican leadership relied on fear and ignorance to manipulate the legislative process and rush through a bill that pandered to extremists in their base for votes.” The organization further noted that transgender youth “deserve the same opportunities as any other student.” That includes students like Daisy, HRC stressed. After filing their lawsuit, the organization noted she “has only participated on girls’ sports teams; while some of her teammates and coaches are aware of her transgender identity, others are not. She has enjoyed a supportive school and team environment and continues to play without incident with other teammates, opposing players and coaches or parents of other student athletes.” “Playing sports makes me feel like I fit in, the thought of not being able to play next year scares me,” Daisy shared in the release.

Read It Online!

“I’m going to be lonely and sad if I can’t play.” Equality Florida quickly applauded HRC’s efforts. “We cannot sit idly by as Republican legislatures make transgender youth the newest target of a campaign of hate and ignorance,” Public Policy Director Jon Harris Maurer said. “Equality Florida stands with our partners challenging the cruel and unnecessary transgender youth sports ban in Florida and elsewhere,” he continued. “Transgender youth are some of the most at-risk in our community and we will never stop fighting for them.” HRC announced it will file other legal challenges across the country to fight similar anti-LGBTQ laws. Learn more about and support the efforts of both HRC and Equality Florida at HRC.org and EQFL.org.

SUNDAY AUGUST 8, 2021 | 12-4PM

Head to WatermarkOnline.com and click on the Digital Publications link to a read a digital version of the printed newspaper!

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

ADVANCED SALES

AT THE DOOR

nation+world news

California bans state travel to five more states Wire Report

AN FRANCISCO | California added five more states, including Florida, to the list of places where state-funded travel is banned because of laws that discriminate against members of the LGBTQ community, the state attorney general announced June 28. Democratic Attorney General Rob Bonta added Florida, Arkansas, Montana, North Dakota and West Virginia to the list that now has 17 states where state employee travel is forbidden except under limited circumstances. “Make no mistake: We’re in the midst of an unprecedented wave of bigotry and discrimination in this country — and the State of California is not going to support it,” Bonta said. Lawmakers in 2016 banned non-essential travel to states with laws that discriminate against LGBTQ people. The 12 other states on the

list are: Texas, Alabama, Idaho, Iowa, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Kentucky, North Carolina, Kansas, Mississippi and Tennessee. The five states newly added to the list have introduced bills in their legislatures this year that prevent transgender women and girls from participating in school sports consistent with their gender identity, block access to health care and allow the discrimination of the LGBTQ community, Bonta said. Florida, Montana, Arkansas and West Virginia passed laws that prevent transgender women and girls from participating in school sports consistent with their gender identity. North Dakota signed into law a bill allowing certain publicly-funded student organizations to restrict LGBTQ students from joining without losing funding. Arkansas passed the first law in the nation to prohibit physicians from providing gender-affirming healthcare to transgender minors —

regardless of the wishes of parents or whether a physician deems such care to be medically necessary. These lawmakers “would rather demonize trans youth than focus on solving real issues like tackling gun violence beating back this pandemic and rebuilding our economy,” Bonta said. The state law has exemptions for some trips, such as travel needed to enforce California law and to honor contracts signed before the states were added to the list. Travel to conferences or out-of-state training are examples of trips that can be blocked. It’s unclear what effect California’s travel ban will have. Bonta did not have information about how many state agencies have stopped sending state employees to the states on the list or the financial impact of California’s travel ban on those states.

with his education. He said he is heartened by his victory in court because “a win in Virginia is a win everywhere.” “This is a national conversation because trans people are everywhere and because we have to fight for our rights in like most of the states in our nation still who have not passed affirming policies,” he told The Associated Press. The Supreme Court left in place lower court rulings that found the policy unconstitutional. Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas voted to hear the board’s appeal. The American Civil Liberties Union said the high court’s decision to let stand the lower court rulings supporting transgender rights is a significant victory for Grimm and transgender students across the country. “This is the third time in recent years that the Supreme Court has allowed appeals of court decisions in support of transgender students to stand,” said Josh Block, senior staff attorney with the ACLU’s LGBTQ & HIV Project. “Our work is not yet done, and the ACLU is continuing to fight against anti-trans laws targeting trans

youth in states around the country,” Block added. David Corrigan, an attorney for the school board, declined to comment. In its petition asking the Supreme Court to hear the case, the school board argued that its bathroom policy poses a “pressing federal question of national importance.” The board argued previously that federal laws protect against discrimination based on sex, not gender identity. Because Grimm had not undergone sex-reassignment surgery and still had female genitalia, the board’s position has been that he remained anatomically a female. The ACLU, which represented Grimm in the lawsuit, argued that federal law makes it clear transgender students are protected from discrimination. A U.S. District Court judge and the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals both ruled that the board’s policy violated Title IX, a federal civil rights law barring sex-based discrimination in any school that receives federal money. They also found it violated the U.S. Constitution’s Equal Protection Clause by prohibiting Grimm from using the same restrooms as other boys.

Supreme Court won’t revive trans bathroom ban Wire Report

ASHINGTON | The U.S. Supreme Court rejected a Virginia school board’s appeal June 28 to reinstate its transgender bathroom ban, handing a victory to transgender rights groups and a former high school student who fought in court for six years to overturn the ban. After learning that the high court refused to hear the board’s appeal, Gavin Grimm, now 22, said that his long battle is over. “We won,” he tweeted. “Honored to have been part of this victory,” he added. Grimm was a 15-year-old student at Gloucester High School when he was banned from using the boys bathroom. The Gloucester County School Board’s policy required Grimm to use restrooms that corresponded with his biological sex -- female -- or private bathrooms. Grimm filed a federal lawsuit that wound its way through the courts for six years. Grimm said that being forced to use the nurse’s room, a private bathroom and the girl’s restroom was humiliating and severely interfered

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in other news State Department to issue gender-neutral passports The State Department will begin to issue gender-neutral passports and documents for American citizens who were born overseas. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a statement June 30 announced the new policy. Blinken noted the State Department will immediately update its procedures “to allow applicants to self-select their gender as ‘M’ or ‘F’ and will no longer require medical certification if an applicant’s self-selected gender does not match the gender on their other citizenship or identity documents.” The State Department has also begun the process to allow people who identify as non-binary, intersex or gender non-conforming to choose a gender-neutral gender marker.

White House names envoy for global LGBTQ rights The White House announced June 25 it has named Jessica Stern as the next special U.S. envoy for the promotion of LGBTQ rights abroad. Stern for the past 11 years has been the executive director of OutRight Action International, a global LGBTQ advocacy group. The White House in its announcement notes Stern is also an adjunct associate professor at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs. Then-Secretary of State John Kerry in 2015 announced the position within the State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor. It had remained vacant since 2017.

VA to offer gender confirmation surgery The Department of Veterans Affairs is moving to offer transgender veterans gender confirmation surgery, Secretary Denis McDonough announced June 19. The move is just the first step in what’s likely to be a years-long federal rulemaking process to expand VA health benefits to cover the surgery, but McDonough said the VA will use the time to “develop capacity to meet the surgical needs” of transgender veterans. The decision, he said, will allow “transgender vets to go through the full gender confirmation process with VA by their side.”

Vatican ‘meddling’ in Italy’s LGBTQ rights law The Vatican has formally opposed a proposed Italian law expanding anti-discrimination protections to the LGBTQ community, which activists immediately denounced as “unprecedented” Vatican meddling. The Vatican foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, sent a letter to the Italian ambassador to the Holy See saying the proposed law violates Italy’s diplomatic agreement with the Vatican and seeks changes. Italian politicians and advocacy groups reacted strongly to what they saw as an attempt to derail the Zan Law, which would add women and people who are gay, transgender or have disabilities to the classes of those protected under a law banning discrimination and punishing hate crimes.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Join your local LGBT Chamber, as we are the premier advocates for the Tampa Bay Area’s LGBT business community.

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

viewpoint

Johnny V. Boykins

Democratically Yours

A Political Paradox

he road ahead is

still foggy despite watching the U.S. slowly recover from a oncein-a-lifetime pandemic. My anxiety level remains high despite knowing that most of my friends, family and colleagues are fully vaccinated. I can recognize that we are on the rebound to chart our new standard of post-pandemic living. However, it also feels like I am living in a paradox or some parallel reality – while I can see the sunshine at the end of the tunnel, the path forward remains cloudy. My dreams won’t allow me to erase the images of the Jan. 6 insurrection. I can’t seem to shake the photo of the man carrying a large Confederate battle flag into the halls of the U.S. Capitol. It saddens me that the class of 2021 did not get a chance to experience the highs and joys of achieving a monumental milestone in the community. I remain troubled by the assault on the LGBTQ community, particularly my trans siblings. The bizarre attack on trans kids is particularly troublesome – they want to play sports and learn the joys of being part of something larger than themselves, but their government denies them that right. I am disappointed that despite the realities of our collective circumstances and President Biden’s best efforts, the U.S. political apparatus continues to move at a glacial pace. I would say that I am shocked by the political stalemate, but impasse is my generation’s political reality. I recently logged into a Zoom lecture to watch my old political science professor, Dr. Bill Felice, deliver his final address. His audience included hundreds

of friends, colleagues and students that spanned his magnificent 30-year tenure at my alma mater, Eckerd College. His message was clear, fundamental and spoke directly to me with an eerily clear familiarity, “we must always live in our truth, and our personal moral convictions should carry the day.” We are at a crossroads with truth, and because of it, we are at risk of losing our moral convictions. Dr. Felice reminded me that I do have personal agency to demand better for myself and my community. I call upon all of you to lean inward and grab those nuggets of truth and showcase them proudly in the daylight. The world is opening back up, and many of us are returning to work and life, but the pandemic has caused us to reimagine what our work and life should be. Workers around the country are demanding better conditions and higher wages. Employees are opting to keep their work from home flexibility. Employers are adjusting to meet the demands of our new normal and the outcomes look promising. The gantlet that we just experienced forced all of us to slow down, and because we slowed down, we began to reflect on a future we all want and, more importantly, deserve. During the pandemic, we learned that government could do amazing things to step forward and take care of the American people. Through medical and technological innovation, we were able to manufacture an effective vaccine, and the U.S. is well on its way to obtaining herd immunity. If you haven’t done so already, go and get your COVID-19 vaccine. We learned that the government could meet the needs of its citizens by issuing pandemic stimulus payments for most Americans. They expanded food security aid by opening

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up SNAP benefits. We saw assistance to small businesses, moratoriums on housing expenses and more. Despite the darkness of the past year, we are navigating a societal evolution and revolution. The naysayers on the political right are foolishly

The Biden Administration has an extensive plan with significant legislation to tackle everything from childcare and climate change to infrastructure and policy reforms. There is also a big push to sure up our democracy to expanding voting protections. We can

to coordinate health responses, city councils and county commissions issued executive orders and directives. All of these leaders directly impacted our daily lives. Take time to invest in the politics of your local community. We have seen a glimpse

suggesting that the American workforce is lazy and wants government giveaways now that the country is opening back up. But the reality is that the American workforce understands our value. The days of poverty, wages and poor working conditions are over! The promise of an American future is within our grasp if we find the political will to demand it.

get the country we deserve by demanding our leaders act with the same urgency they did during the height of the pandemic. If Washington politics is too much for your political taste, remember the phrase coined by Speaker Tip O’Neil, “all politics is local.” Local leaders were the driving force of pandemic response. School boards had to launch virtual learning, the mayor’s office had

of our future; we know that our lives can and should be better. The parallel universe that the Jan. 6 insurrectionists wanted to introduce does not exist. Better days are ahead of us. That is the political reality.

We have seen a glimpse of our future; we know that our lives can and should be better.

Johnny Boykins is a Democratic Strategist in Pinellas County, a husband, bow tie aficionado, amateur chef and U.S. Coast Guard veteran. He also serves as Director of Outreach with the Pinellas Democratic Party. Learn more at PinellasDemocrats.org.

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viewpoint

Dr. Steve Yacovelli

Your Queer Career:

Work advice from

“The Gay Leadership Dude”

“Is My Workplace a Homophobe?”

n his latest column, Dr.

Steve Yacovelli, (a.k.a. “The Gay Leadership Dude”) shares his expertise on submitted workplace questions from members of the LGBTQ+ Community. Have a question? See below! “Gay Leadership Dude” I’m in trouble. I started at a new job about four months ago and was super excited. Did the work from home thing and it was fine. Once I got physically into the organization though things seemed “off.” I think it’s not as inclusive to gay folks as I had initially thought. I asked around before I took

the job, looked at HRC Corporate Index (they’re too small a company to do the Index thing). But little things lead me to think senior management isn’t so friendly. I think my boss would be cool, but honestly I’ve yet to come out to anyone in case I’m right. What should I do? Quit? I really wanted (and needed!) this job. ~ Blue in Pink

Hey B-I-P: Darn! Don’t you hate when you start seeing someone, go out on a few dates (interviews), do your cyberstalking for info and decide to dive in only to find they’re just not that into you (even in a pandemic)? Yeah: I can relate. So now it’s time for you to do your own “Nancy Drew-ing” (or “Riverdale-ing,” pick your favorite CW mystery show analogy) from the inside. Here’s a few places to start: 1. Leadership. What does your new company’s leadership look like? What do they do (and not just say) to promote inclusivity year round? Is their language truly inclusive or is it more heterosexist? What’s the demographic makeup of the leadership team and does it fairly represent the rest of your org and the “customer base?” Also, what does the makeup of the Board of Directors of the organization (for profit and not-for-profits) look like, too; not just the executive team? If you’re seeing various demographics at “the top” it could be a good indicator of a more inclusive business.

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2. Corporate Policies. Does your organization include policies referring to same-sex couples (married or otherwise)? Does it include health care specific for our trans brothers and sisters? What about adoptive assistance? Family leave? What’s the company’s

a part-time side hustle that sends a big signal regarding dedication by the business). Does diversity to them really mean, “Let’s celebrate _____ month!” or does it go deeper? Does your organization have an Employee Resource Group (ERG) or Affinity Group dedicated to LGBTQ+

Once you look at these five areas, make your decision about how much of an “awesome ally” or “horrible homophobe” your workplace is. And then you have to decide your next vocational move: should you stay or should you go? And hey, I know it’s easy for me to write that in some

nondiscrimination policy: does it include sexual orientation and gender identity and gender expression? A “quick hit” here is to look at the acceptance of pronouns in e-mail signatures, or look for gender designations on HR forms (nonbinary = much more inclusive workplace). 3. The “real” corporate values at play. Using the criteria above, what are your organization’s real values, the ones on display every day? Are they the ones listed on your company’s website or are they really different? Is there obvious alignment in what your organization says it does and what it promotes to the outside world? I work with a lot of workplace cultures and even when I see a pretty “we’re Inclusive!” poster in that break room, I look for clues to see if that’s REALLY the workplace culture or PR-fodder. 4. Inclusion Support (HR, D&I, ERGs). Is there a head of diversity and inclusion in your business? What do they do? Is it their full-time gig? (If it’s

employees and their allies? How are those teams leveraged in the business: as internal consultants or the organizers for Pride Month festivities only? Having an ERG could simply be a tick mark and not a true inclusive effort. 5. External Efforts. Does your workplace market or communicate directly to the LGBTQ+ Community? When same-sex marriage became legal, what did your organization do to support or hinder its progress? Who do they donate their money to on a political perspective (candidates or PACs), and how inclusive is that candidate or PAC? When certain groups threaten the rights of LGBTQ+ people outside of the workplace (like at the state or federal level), does your business (and its leadership) stand up or remain silent? What has the business done regarding Black Lives Matters? Actions (or inactions) externally show the true colors and values of the organization, and if they “walk the walk.”

rando column, but honestly think if you want to put your expertise and dedication to an organization that doesn’t value your authentic self. There are many other places that truly DO value you and our community beyond the rainbow cha-thing of June (and in a remote-working world those opportunities will continue to grow for many roles). Finally, be a good LGBTQ+ community member and “gay it forward” by sharing your perspective with others on sites like GlassDoor.

Be a good LGBTQ+ community member and ‘gay it forward’ by sharing your perspective with others.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

HAVE A QUESTION FOR “THE GAY LEADERSHIP DUDE”? Submit at YourQueerCareer.com. Please note the advice shared is for informational use only; it is not intended to replace or substitute any mental, financial, medical, legal or other professional advice. Full disclosure can be found at the website listed above. Dr. Steve Yacovelli is owner and principal of TopDog Learning Group, LLC. For more information, go to TopDogLearning.biz.

On exhibit through August 15

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talking points

11%

Look, our presence here this afternoon makes a simple, strong statement: Pride is back at the White House. —President Joe Biden, in his remarks commemorating LGBTQ+ Pride Month at The White House June 25

— or about 1.2 million — LGBTQ adults identify as

Queen Latifah, Lil Nas X shine at BET Awards

nonbinary

he BET Awards highlighted LGBTQ Pride when they aired June 27 with a seductive performance by Lil Nas X and Queen Latifah, who thanked her reported partner and son when she accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award. As she rattled on thank you’s, she said: “Ebony, my love, Rebel, my love.” The 51-year-old ended with: “Peace! Happy Pride!” Latifah was honored for her illustrious career as a Grammy-winning rapper, a Golden Globe-winning actor and an Emmy-winning TV producer. Nas X won over the crowd with his No. 1 hit “Montero (Call Me By Your Name),” which ended with the rapper locking lips with a male background dancer, as the crowd roared loudly. His stage was set in Ancient Egypt, much like Michael Jackson’s “Remember the Time,” which Nas X paid tribute to with a skilled dance break during the performance.

with 31% preferring the term queer, 17% bisexual, 17% pansexual,

Lady Gaga releases special edition ‘Born This Way’ album

ady Gaga re-released her multi-platinum selling album “Born This Way” June 25 to celebrate 10 years since the iconic album’s original release. The special edition album features all 14 songs from the original version along with six new, re-imagined tracks from artists “representing and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community”: Kylie Minogue covering “Marry the Night,” Big Freedia covering “Judas,” The Highwomen (featuring Brittney Spencer and Madeline Edwards) covering “Highway Unicorn (Road to Love),” Ben Platt covering “Yoü and I,” Years & Years covering “The Edge of Glory” and Orville Peck with The Country Road Version of “Born This Way.” “Born This Way The Tenth Anniversary” album is out now.

Carl Nassib becomes the 1st out active player in the nfl

as Vegas Raiders defensive end Carl Nassib has become the first active NFL player to come out as gay. Nassib, who is entering his sixth NFL season and second with the Raiders, announced the news on Instagram June 22, saying he wasn’t doing it for the attention but because he felt representation and visibility were important. Nassib added in a written message that followed the video that he “agonized over this moment for the last 15 years” and only recently decided to go public with his sexuality after receiving the support of family and friends. More than a dozen NFL players have come out as gay after their careers were over.

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Sesame Street embraces ‘Gay Dads’ for Pride month

14% asexual,

esame Street enhanced LGBTQ visibility this Pride season introducing two gay dads and their daughter, in a special episode directed by Japanese American actor and theatre director Alan Muraoka who also plays Alan, the current owner of Hooper’s Store on the show. Muraoka shared the exciting news on Facebook, saying he was “honored and humbled” to have directed such a milestone episode, “Love is love, and we are so happy to add this special family to our Sesame family. Happy Pride to all!!!!,” he posted. Sesame Street has long embraced LGBTQ visibility featuring LGBTQ celebrities such as Sir Elton John, Ellen DeGeneres, Billy Eichner, Billy Porter and recently Lil Nas X.

10% gay and

6% lesbian for their

sexual identities. — Williams Institute’s “Nonbinary LGBTQ Adults in the United States” brief

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Gender Euphoria Local trans and nonbinary activists celebrate loving

Jeremy Williams

ust before LGBTQ Pride Month this year,

actor Elliot Page shared a photo of himself on his Instagram showing off his summer-ready body. In the photo, Elliot poses shirtless showing off an impressive set of abs and a smile that says more about how happy he is at this point in his life than a million words ever could. Elliot’s caption on the Instagram post simply read “Trans bb’s first swim trunks #transjoy #transisbeautiful.” That joy, confidence and smile is gender euphoria. In her book, “Gender Euphoria: Stories of joy from trans, non-binary and intersex writers,” Laura Kate Dale writes “For many transgender people, a big part of what initially pushes us to realize we need to come out is experiencing gender dysphoria, an unpleasant feeling of disconnect between our gender assigned at birth, and our own knowledge of our lived experience.” Dale states that while dysphoria is talked about so often when discussing gender identity, that it is not every trans person’s experience and that it isn’t “required to be a valid trans person.” “Gender Euphoria is an equally valid reason to decide who you are,” Dale writes. “This book is about people doing small actions and grand gestures that made them feel radiantly themselves and wonderfully at peace. This book is about stories of transition as euphoria.” To celebrate gender euphoria and loving yourself fully and authentically, we brought together a few members of Central Florida and Tampa Bay’s transgender and nonbinary community and had photo shoots at a pair of amazing studios — Orlando’s Wall Crawl and Tampa’s Snap House. While not professionally affiliated with each other, both Wall Crawl and The Snap House share a similar vision to bring guests a variety of backgrounds, scenes and props that let you express your individuality, encourage your creativity and celebrate your authentic self. What better places to capture images of our models expressing their gender euphoria and celebrating body positivity? Along with the images, we asked each of our models to tells us what “gender euphoria” and “body positivity” mean to them and you’ll find their answers with their photos. No matter how you identify or express yourself, we want to encourage you to celebrate you. So get out there and fill social media up with images of love, acceptance and euphoria.

themselves authentically

Alyssa Renée Dawson Age: 14 | Identifies as: Lesbian and transgender Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

I feel more like me. My family and friends have helped shape the person I am by letting me know that my feelings were okay … Knowing it’s not abnormal and that transgender is a thing made me want to live as the girl I am. Before that, I didn’t know it was an option.

If you want some amazing photos of your own, be sure to book some time at Wall Crawl and The Snap House. Wall Crawl is located at 1016 W. Church St. in Orlando and is open Mondays 10:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m., Tue.-Thurs. 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Fridays 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays 9 a.m.-9 p.m. For more information, visit WallCrawl.com. The Snap House is located at 1318 E. 7th Ave. in Tampa and is open Mon.-Thurs. 12-9 p.m., Fridays 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m.-7 p.m. For more information, visit TheSnapHouse.com.

“Gender Euphoria: Stories of joy from trans, non-binary and intersex writers,” by Laura Kate Dale is available to purchase in paperback and digital format at Amazon.com.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Cindi Grace Miller Age: 49 | Identifies as: Female, trans woman, trans physical Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

I have come to see gender euphoria and gender dysphoria as two sides of the same coin … my gender dysphoria made life like trying to run in three feet of mud. It was doable but very hard. However, the gender euphoria I now experience daily, makes things easy, even enjoyable. I highly recommend it!

Rose Hornedo Age: 55 | Identifies as: Gender nonbinary, genderqueer Pronouns: She/Her, They/Them

I got tired of hiding, of being miserable, of feeling fake. The more I embrace my authentic self the more peace of mind I feel … I’m finding my true self. That means listening to MY voice. I’m still a work in progress but I’ve never felt more gender euphoria and body positivity about myself than right now, this moment in life. watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Svetlana (Lana) Victoria Dunn Age: 33 | Identifies as: A proud, openly transgender woman who is bisexual Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Gender Euphoria is that moment when I look in the mirror and instead of thinking to myself, ‘I look masculine’ or ‘I don’t look feminine,’ I can’t help but think ‘Damn, girl! You’re gonna turn some heads today’ *cue hair toss*. When it comes to body positivity, you only get one body and that body is a temple but it’s a temple devoted to YOU.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Andrea Montanez Age: 55 | Identifies as: Transgender woman Pronouns: She/Her/Ella

Gender euphoria means happiness to me; it means acceptance and it means joy.

Adonis “AJ” Cuevas Age: 38 | Identifies as: Trans Male Pronouns: He/Him/His

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Artwork elements have been moved and organized into: C:\Data\Editorial\Master Ad Folder\Customer Files\R\Romeo's Sensation\Artwork Elements I took the liberty of organizing the text-blurbs he sent over as best I could. You have full creative-license on this to help his business shine, and you're free to pick and choose from the information and images provided. Thanks Dylan! Company Name: Romeo's Sensation LLC

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Kathryn Hagen Age: 53 | Identifies as: Transgender lesbian Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Daryn Bauer Age: 33 | Identifies as: Queer, transgender, agender Pronouns: He/Him, They/Them

Gender euphoria hits when I experience my true self in some tangible way ... Finding body positivity as a trans person goes hand in hand with affirming our own validity. I am valid, I am good enough, I am trans enough,

I believe we all experience gender euphoria differently, if at all. Before beginning my physical transition, gender euphoria was such a foreign concept because I never experienced it before … My moments of gender euphoria never come as a wave of emotion. It happens in small and

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Film made her the ideal actress to play Rita Parker Sloan?

Song of Joy

Gay fimmaker Todd Stephens talks about his new film ‘Swan Song’ Udo was one of the only people that had the charisma that could capture the real Mr. Pat. Even though the real Mr. Pat was not German, didn’t have a German accent or anything like that. He had similar blue giant blue eyes. I considered other actors, as well, but when my casting director mentioned Udo, as soon as she said it, I knew he was the one. One of the things that stood out for me about “Swan Song” is that Jennifer Coolidge gave what could be described as her most restrained performance.

(above)

It’s Pat:

Udo Kier plays Pat Pitsenbarger in “Swan Song,” a Magnolia Pictures release. Photo by Chris Stephens, courtesy of Magnolia Pictures

Gregg Shapiro

ongtime fans of gay screenwriter

and director Todd Stephens know a couple of things for sure about him.

The first is that he has scope. He handles drama, as in the case of his feature-length screenplay debut “Edge of Seventeen,” with aplomb. Stephens is also equally at adept with over-the-top comedy as he demonstrated in “Another Gay Movie,” his second movie as writer/ director. The other thing they know is that Stephens’ hometown of Sandusky, Ohio always figures prominently in his work. Stephen’s extraordinary new movie, “Swan Song,” makes the most of his comedic and dramatic skills, as well as his affection for Sandusky. Stephens was generous enough to take a break from editing his last project to answer a few questions about “Swan Song.” Watermark: Your marvelous new movie “Swan Song” stars Udo Kier as the late Pat Pitsenbarger, the “true icon” who inspired the movie. Tell me about Mr. Pat’s inspiration and influence on you.

Todd Stephens: When I was a kid growing up in this small town, Sandusky, Ohio, I would see this amazingly flamboyant guy walking around downtown in the ‘70s. He was different than everybody else. The town was pretty conservative, and Pat really stuck out. I always felt like I didn’t fit in and so I was really fascinated with this guy who was a bit mysterious. I didn’t

know his story. But when I turned 17, I got up the nerve to go to our small-town gay bar which was called The Universal Fruit and Nut Company, just like it is in the move. It’s also the same bar from “Edge of Seventeen.” When I first went in there, I saw something sparkling on the dance floor. I looked and there was this guy that I had seen as a kid wearing a matching sequined pantsuit and being fabulous. It all connected. It was then I knew that I was home. That he was one of my tribe [laughs]. The leader of the tribe, no doubt. Udo Kier is fantastic in the movie. What made him right for the role of Pat?

Part of it was that I made the decision for this particular movie that I wanted to cast all queer actors for the queer parts. I don’t really believe in a litmus test with that, in general, but I just felt with this particular role that I wanted someone who had lived the life that Pat had lived and had lost people to AIDS. They didn’t really have to act it, could just kind of be it. That was part of it. Also, it was a hard role to cast with someone that could be so flamboyant but in a real way; wouldn’t be like a put-on. To be honest, I’m kind of sick of people acting gay [laughs].

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

I love that you say that, and I agree. I really feel like it shows a whole different side of her. Yes, there’s range there.

Yes, she really got to show her range. It was interesting because she read the script and she loved it, but she wanted to play another character. The character of Sue in the thrift store. She thought that was more her. I think she was reluctant to play the heavy, because she hasn’t done that before. But I encouraged her to try something different. That’s why I’m really proud to hear you say that. She’s still funny but there’s a depth and a sadness to the character that she brought, that I knew was in there and I was excited to get it out. I’m glad you mentioned Sue. She is played by Stephanie McVay, who has appeared in all of your movies from your first screenplay, “Edge of Seventeen” to “Swan Song.” Why do you keep returning to her?

[Laughs] We just have so much fun when we work together. There’s something so real about Stephanie. I first cast her as my mother for my character in my autobiographical story “Edge of Seventeen.” She has this realness and a warmth about her. She always inspires me to write characters for her. I feel like every single movie I ever make or anything I ever do, I want Stephanie to be a part of it. Linda Evans plays a pivotal part in the movie. Without giving away too much, what

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

It’s a small part but the whole story revolves around the character. I knew that it needed to be somebody that had a real presence. Originally, we were going to have like a local actor do it but I find that Linda’s presence in the film really elevates the whole movie. She’s another person that’s always been a hero of mine. I think about the “Dynasty” era with Rock Hudson. How there was a big controversy at the time, that right as Rock Hudson announced that he had AIDS the “Dynasty” episode where she kissed him aired. Linda was amazing back then and a real ally. She educated people that that’s not how you get AIDS. She stood up for her friend. I think that that adds to it. The film really touched her. She’s been retired for like 25 years. It was such an honor that she came … she doesn’t have to work [laughs]. She doesn’t need the money. Obviously, she didn’t do it for the money, she did it because she loved the script. Would it be fair to say that Sandusky, OHIO itself is a character as much as a setting?

Absolutely! I really wanted Sandusky to be a character in the film. My hometown is in the Rust Belt. It’s fallen on hard times in recent years but is currently having a real comeback and is coming back to life. That actually helped inspire the story of the lead character that kind of starts off lost and hopeless and is also coming back to life. The story is all about rebirth and embracing life, again, and rediscovering your joy of life. As Udo comes back to life in the film, I wanted to show how my hometown was coming back to life. It was interesting that when we first made “Edge of Seventeen,” we decided to keep it a secret that it was a gay story. I remember doing like a “select all” and changing the name Rod to Rhonda in the script to make a fake script that we showed people. Because we thought that people back in 1997, when we shot it, wouldn’t help us. You need a lot of help from a small town when you’re making a film there on a low budget. People did ultimately find out when we were shooting and there was a lot of controversy about it. Fast forward to when we shot “Swan Song,” more than 20 years later. When we first went back there to start pre-production, they were doing their third annual Gay Pride Festival. It blew my mind how far my hometown had come on that issue. “Swan Song,” distributed by Magnolia Pictures, is scheduled for a limited release Aug. 6 and will be released on video on demand Aug. 13.

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Theater

New Heights

Daphne Ferraro launches one-woman show ‘Tall Tale’

(above)

next level:

Daphne Ferraro stands tall beside “Squeaks” in the original promo for “Tall Tale.” Photo courtesy daphne ferraro

Ryan Williams-Jent

ichael Dixon has been

entertaining audiences in Tampa Bay and Central Florida for more than two decades. He’s most frequently done so as Daphne Ferraro, affectionately known as “the tallest drag queen in captivity,” but his love for the stage doesn’t end where she begins. That’s because while drag is a critical and cherished part of Ferraro’s life – something she proves weekly at Enigma Bar & Lounge as the St. Petersburg staple’s show director – much of her passion stems from the theater. “I want people to understand I’m a performer and actor before I’m a drag queen,” she says. That’s never been clearer than after the launch of Ferraro’s one-woman show “Tall Tale.” Nearly 100 people attended its June 27 premiere at Stageworks Theatre in Tampa to witness “a little prince’s journey to becoming a big ol’ queen.” The 90-minute production, a mixture of live monologues and music videos, was written entirely by Ferraro to bring her life story to the screen and stage. It features seven professionally

recorded parodies, five of which were written exclusively for the production. “Tall Tale” begins with one of those songs, the appropriately titled “Daphne Ferraro” based on “Roxie” from the musical “Chicago.” Others include “Anomaly” derived from “Karma Chameleon” by Culture Club; “Don’t Stop Improvin’” in the style of “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey; “Filling Me Slowly,” based off on the Fugees’ hit “Killing Me Softly” and “I’m Not 6’5” from Gloria Gayner’s “I Will Survive.” Also included are two parodies the performer previously showcased on her YouTube channel: “Part of RuPaul,” which mirrors “Part of Your World” from “The Little Mermaid” and “Worse Things,” Ferraro’s first professionally produced parody released in 2019. It’s based on “There are Worse Things I Could Do” from “Grease.”

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

“I’ve always enjoyed writing parodies,” Ferraro says. “‘Worse Things’ told a portion of my life story and then I went on to produce ‘Part of RuPaul,’ which was another part. They were glimpses into my world, but nobody really knew what inspired them.” Ferraro decided to share those stories last year. While she was unable to connect in-person with most of her friends, family and fans, the performer utilized COVID-19 shutdowns to launch 31 weeks of “Daphne and Friends: A Socially Distant Drag Show.” Her virtual efforts raised more than $15,000 for out-of-work entertainers. They also strengthened her skills in audio, graphic and video editing. “In the background I was writing other parodies,” she recalls. “I have probably 15 or 20 that are floating around in my head at all times.” Ferraro says she was also inspired by Ginger Minj, the Central Florida-based entertainer currently competing on “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.” Each is a former Miss Comedy Queen – the national drag pageant focused on glamorous humor – which crowned Ferraro its first winner in 2005 and Minj its eighth in 2012. “I went to Ginger Minj’s one-woman show a couple of years ago and I really liked the format, how she was telling her story and doing some live singing,” Ferraro explains. “My roots are in theater; I was president of the thespian society in high school and a theater geek. “I do drag and I’m on stage, but there’s nothing like that theater environment and actually performing,” she continues. “I was like, ‘I can do this too.’” So she did. Ferraro began writing comedic monologues in support of her existing parodies, soon professionally recording the others. Over time and with the diligent work of Ferraro and her nearly 100 collaborators behind and in front of the camera, “Tall Tale” was born. “I wanted to give people a glimpse into who I am as a person,” the entertainer says. “The whole show is about this journey to self-acceptance; of accepting every inch of who you are. Things that I’m self-conscious about

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

are the things that actually make me who I am … I wanted to show people a glimpse into my motivations and some of the things that have carved me into who I am today.” Ferraro approached Stageworks to help her do that, already a fan of the venue. It’s billed as Tampa’s longest-running professional theatre company, having welcomed audiences of all sorts since 1983. “They do a lot of experimental theater that you can’t see in other places,” she explains. “They take risks and they’re true to artists.” She says that’s particularly the case with Producing Artistic Director Karla Hartley. Ferraro met with her prior to bringing “The Evolution of Drag” to St. Petersburg’s Palladium in 2019, her 11-woman show presenting drag culture through the decades. It served as a fundraiser for the Tampa Bay International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival, welcoming more than 600 people and raising $12,000 in the process. “I knew that if I had a more intimate show that Stageworks would be great for a premiere,” Ferraro says. “I really love the space and I asked Karla if she would be involved because I respect her work and value her opinion. “She told me how the whole process should work,” she continues. “Karla attended the first script reading and helped me host the feedback session after the premiere, still giving me advice there. She was so incredibly helpful.” “It was an absolute pleasure to help Daphne bring her story to the stage,” Hartley says. “Stageworks has always been committed to highlighting diverse voices in our community and Daphne’s show is a perfect example of that. She brought honesty and vulnerability and humor to her play that one rarely sees today.” Ferraro hopes she can continue doing so by performing “Tall Tale” for audiences throughout Florida. She’s currently exploring opportunities in Clearwater, St. Petersburg and Orlando while weighing another fundraiser for TIGLFF, which was among the sponsors for its premiere. “Anytime I can be involved with something where there’s an element of helping the community or I can do something to give back, I’m all about it,” Ferraro says. “If I can put this show to good use and make money for them, that would be a great partnership.” While the entertainer isn’t sure where “Tall Tale” will land next, Ferraro is more eager than ever for its return. In the interim, you can find her performing at Enigma each weekend and check out her digital spotlight at TheDaphneFerraro.com.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

community calendar

event planner

arts+entertainment

Central Florida

CENTRAL FLORIDA

First Time Home Buyers Workshop

Int’l DJ Guy Schiman, July 10, Stonewall Bar, Orlando. 407-373-0888; Facebook.com/ Stonewall.Orlando

Thursday, July 15, 6-8 p.m. LGBT+ Center, Orlando

Adam Hawley, July 11, King Center, Melbourne. 321-242-2219; KingCenter.com “The Sound of Music” Sing-A-Long, July 15, Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, Sanford. 407-321-8111; WDPAC.com Thorgy Thor, July 16, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder,” July 16- Aug. 1, Osceola Center for the Arts, Kissimmee. 407-846-6257; OsceolaArts.org Orlando Water Lantern Festival, July 17, Orlando Watersports Complex, Orlando. 407-251-3100; WaterLanternFestival.com CFL ACE ARO Peer Network, July 17, Virtual. 407-228-8272; TheCenterOrlando.org Laganja Estranja, July 17, Stonewall Bar, Orlando. 407-373-0888; Facebook.com/ Stonewall.Orlando Glamorous Brunch at HÄOS, July 18, HÄOS on Church, Orlando. 407-203-4099; HÄOSonChruch.com Central Florida Film Slam, July 18, Enzian Theater, Maitland. 407-629-1088; Enzian.org Travis Tritt, July 18, Dr. Phillips Center’s Frontyard Festival, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org VGL Orlando: Queer + Dodgeball summer league season opener, July 19, TNT Elite Hoops, Orlando. 407-484-8929; VarsityGayLeague.com/Orlando

Drag Star

Are you a first-time home buyer or thinking of becoming one? Then you do not want to miss Green House Realty and the LGBT+ Center’s First Time Home Buyer Workshop. Presented by Joshua Cooper, you will given all the knowledge and resources to make becoming a homeowner a reality. The workshop is free but space is limited. Go to The Center’s Facebook event page for the link to RSVP. Any questions, email Info@ TheCenterOrlando.org.

Miss Glamorous Newcomer 2021 Monday, July 19, 7:30 p.m. The Plaza Live, Orlando Join the Miss Glamorous Pageantry System as they crown the next Miss Glamorous Newcomer for the pageant’s 10-year anniversary. Contestants will compete in presentation, gown and solo talent. The event will honor Natalie E. Devine and feature all nine former Miss Glamorous Newcomers. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and show starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, email Neema Bahrami at NeemaPulseOrlando@gmail.com.

“RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 8 and All-Stars 3 alum Thorgy Thor heads to Southern Nights Orlando July 16 and Southern Nights Tampa July 17. Photo from Thorgy.com

9th Annual Harvey Milk Breakfast & LGBT+ Center Diversity Awards, July 21, Sheraton Orlando North Hotel, Orlando. 407-228-8272; TheCenterOrlando.org Art Night Out: Fashion Illustration, July 21, Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando. 407-896-4231; OMArt.org Movie Night: “National Lampoon’s Vacation,” July 22, Dr. Phillips Center’s Frontyard Festival, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org

TAMPA BAY Play: New Works by Andrea Pawlisz, July 9, MIZE Gallery, St. Petersburg. 727-251-8529; ChadMize.com Brad Paisley, July 9, MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa. 813-600-1000; LiveNation.com Latin Jazz Fest: MJR Latin Project & Friends, July 9-11, The Palladium, St. Petersburg. 727-822-3590; MyPalladium.org

“Mamma Mia!,” July 9-25, Lakeland Community Theatre, Lakeland. 863-603-7529; LakelandCommunityTheatre.com

REO Speedwagon, July 21, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com

Summer Classics: “North By Northwest,” July 11, Tampa Theatre, Tampa. 813-274-8981; TampaTheatre.org

Erin Boone, July 22, Punky’s Bar and Grill, St. Petersburg. 727-201-4712; PunkysBar.com

Jennifer Real, July 15, Punky’s Bar and Grill, St. Petersburg. 727-201-4712; PunkysBar.com Moonflower: The Spirit of Santana, July 16, The Palladium, St. Petersburg. 727-822-3590; MyPalladium.org LGBTQ Social @ the Village, July 17, Studios at 5663, Pinellas Park. 727-313-2250; PinellasArtsVillage.com Thorgy Thor, July 17, Southern Nights, Tampa. 813-559-8625; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsTampa

“Dionysus on the Downlow,” July 2225, Stageworks Theatre, Tampa. 813-374-2416; OutcastTheatre.org

SARASOTA Cabaret by the Bay: Lauren Mitchell, July 9-10, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Sarasota. 941-263-6799; VanWezel.org Auditions for “Mamma Mia!” and “Cinderella,” July 18-19, Manatee Performing Arts Center, Bradenton. 941-748-5875; ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com

Drag Queen Bingo for Pet Pal, July 20, Punky’s Bar and Grill, St. Petersburg. 727-201-4712; PunkysBar.com

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

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Tampa Bay Balance Tampa Bay’s July Service Event Saturday, July 17, 8:45 a.m.-12 p.m. Meals on Wheels headquarters, Tampa Balance Tampa Bay will be making deliveries for Meals on Wheels in Tampa July 17. Each vehicle will meet at the Meals on Wheels headquarters at 8:45 a.m. and will be given a specific route for deliveries. Routes take about an hour and a half to complete. Meals on Wheels requires all volunteers to complete a volunteer application at MoWTampa.VolunteerHub.com prior to arriving. For more information, email Kenny Donnelly at Kenny@balancetampabay.org.

FREE Rapid HIV & Hep C Testing Wednesday, July 21, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. TBA Fund, Inc, Oldsmar Join Empath Partners in Care (EPIC) as they hold their monthly Rapid HIV and Hep C testing, held on the third Wednesday of every month, at the TBA Fund, Inc. in Oldsmar, located in northern Pinellas County. The tests are free and no appointment is needed. For more information, visit EmpathHealth.org.

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6th Annual Masquerade

Saturday, July 31, 2021 Tampa River Center For more information and to purchase tickets and sponsorships visit MyEPICMasquerade.org Proceeds benefit EPIC (Empath Partners in Care)

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

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EPIC a member of

announcements

tampa bay out+about

CONGRATULATIONS Nathan Bruemmer was named Florida LGBTQ Consumer Advocate June 25. Read more on p. 11. Beariano Grande Davinci won Shade Showdown at City Side Lounge June 25. The entertainer will perform at Southern Nights Tampa for Power Infiniti’s Queen of the Night on July 18. Pro Shop Pub celebrated 45 years in Clearwater June 26. ALSO Youth has welcomed its new Executive Director Mickey Stone with an open house at its Sarasota Center. Stone assumed the role June 28. Equality PAC, which is dedicated to electing openly LGBTQ individuals and allies and passing the Equality Act, as well as U.S. Reps. David Cicilline and Mark Takano have each endorsed State Rep. Michele Rayner in her congressional race. Learn more at MicheleForFlorida.com.

POSTPONEMENTS/RETURNS Judy B. Goode returned to The Hollander Hotel for her recurring cabaret act July 3. She’ll perform at the venue on the first Saturday of every month. The St. Pete Pier one-year anniversary light show has been rescheduled due to inclement weather. It is slated for July 31. Learn more at StPete.org. The All Hallows’ Masquerade Ball announced it will return to the Bryan Glazer Family JCC in Tampa for its 44th Spooktacular Oct. 23. Save the date reminders will be mailed soon. Learn more at AllHallowsBall.org.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Tampa Bay DJ Greg Anderson, Horror master Scott Swenson (July 8); Graphic designer Clo Labelle, Tampa Bay photographer Tony Fowler (July 9); Sarasota actor Kenneth Rapczynski, MCC Tampa Senior Pastor Rev. Jakob Hero-Shaw (July 10); Sawmill Campground general manager Justin Pamplin (July 11); Metro Inclusive Health Development Division Director James Keane, St. Petersburg artist Steven Ranochak, Watermark mother Adrienne Swesey (July 12); Tampa Bay entertainer Robert Rigsby/Rockell Blu, Quench Lounge manager Gary Miller, U.S. para-cyclist Monica Sereda (July 13); Gasparilla Festival of the Arts staple John Scheffel, LGBTQ activist Gil Sainz, Al Ferguson formerly of Al & Chuck, Disney fanatic Matthew Samay (July 14); MIZE Gallery owner Chad Mize, Three Boys Café owner Matthew Downs (July 15); OUTCoast’s Rachel Covello, Michael Saunders & Co. realtor Jason Coy Turner, Community advocate Michael Snyder (July 16); St. Petersburg artist James Michael McCracken, St. Petersburg IT wiz Frank Meekins (July 17); Seminole business owner David Verdi, Former St. Pete LGBT liaison Robert Danielson, Come OUT St. Pete ambassador Joanie J. Werner (July 18); “Ms. Pinky Penmark” Robert Shaffer, Tampa Bay bear Mike Tobias , St. Petersburg hairstylist Joey Wilkes, Service industry pro Julian Cruz (July 19); Karmic Tattoo performer Pam Green (July 20); Tampa Bay singer Jennifer Real, Tampa Bay actor and Patti herself Matthew McGee, St. Pete’s director of cultural affairs Wayne David Atherholt, Makeup extraordinaire Jeremy Bangkx, St. Pete dancer Erik Shepard (July 21).

2 3

TRIPLE THREAT: (L-R) Steve Sroufe and Kevin Johnson welcome Pride in Grand Central headliner Kristine W. to Buckeye Pizza Truck June 26. PHOTO COURTESY KRISTINE W.

SHOWDOWN CHAMP: Beariano Grande Davinci (L) celebrates his Shade Showdown 2021 win with creator Morgan Le Shade at City Side Lounge June 25. PHOTO COURTESY MORGAN LE SHADE

PINELLAS PROUD: State Rep. Michele Rayner (L) and organizer John Gascot celebrate the inaugural Pride at the Village June 26. PHOTO

COURTESY MICHELE RAYNER

NEW DIRECTION: (L-R) Tara Nikole, ALSO Youth Executive Director Mickey Jay, Eric Bailey and Liz Shannon mark Jay’s new role June 27 at the organization’s Sarasota Center.

PHOTO COURTESY ALSO YOUTH

STILL GOT IT: City Councilmember and mayoral candidate Darden Rice (C) guest bartends at Enigma June 23, flanked by wife Eve Epstein (L) and bar owner Ed Gonzalez. PHOTO

COURTESY DARDEN RICE

DOING THE WORK: The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence enjoy St Pete PrideFest’s Pride picnic before the fireworks on June 26.

PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

GOING WEST: Former County Commissioner and mayoral candidate Ken Welch (L) joins Deputy Mayor Kanika Tomalin June 25 for St Pete Pride’s Stonewall Reception at the James Museum. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

DYNAMIC DUO: Equality Florida Regional Development Officer Nick Machuca and Project Pride President Jordan Letschert attend the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber’s annual luncheon June 30. PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

7 watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Reach local LGBT communities across the nation. Start connecting with over a million loyal readers in print and online across the country. 212-242-6863 info@nationallgbtmediaassociation.com www.nationallgbtmediaassociation.com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

announcements

central florida out+about

CONGRATULATIONS Gina Duncan, State Director of Transgender Equality, retired from Equality Florida July 1. Duncan, a trailblazer in the fight for equal rights, shared to her Facebook page “I thank you for your support, your encouragement and your engagement in supporting transgender equality. From my time at Wells Fargo, to running for County Commissioner, to heading up the Pride Chamber (MBA) and Come Out With Pride, to my amazing time at Equality Florida, you were there, you showed up and you spoke out. As I take this step into the next phase of my life I want you to know how grateful I am for all of you. You are loved. Onward.”

RETURNING EVENTS The Global Peace Film Festival announced it will return with an in-person/virtual hybrid festival beginning on the International Day of Peace Sept. 21 and running through Sept. 26 for the in-person half and Sept. 27-Oct. 3 for the virtual half. Films will be announced this month at PeaceFilmFest.org.

The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts announced it will continue its popular Frontyard Festival through mid-December, expanding the number of attendees seating from 2,000 to 4,500. Find out what events will be coming to the Frontyard Festival by going to DrPhillipsCenter.org/Events/Frontyard-Festival.

RESEARCH STUDY Three of the nation’s largest blood centers — Vitalant, OneBlood, and the American Red Cross — in partnership with The LGBT+ Center Orlando are seeking participants to join a new groundbreaking FDA-funded study in Orlando to consider new approaches for determining blood donation eligibility for men who have sex with men. If you are a gay or bisexual male between 18-39 years old and interested in becoming a blood donor, you may be eligible to participate. To gather the necessary data the blood centers are partnering with LGBTQ Centers in eight cities across the nation. The study looks to enroll 250–300 gay and bi men in Central Florida who meet the study eligibility criteria.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Hamburger Mary’s Jacksonville co-owner Brittany Moore, Darden attorney and board member Carole Conroy (July 8); Co-owner of Shelbie Press Michelle Murray (July 9), The Contigo Fund’s program director Marco Antonio Quiroga (July 11); Central Florida drag performer Kristina McLaughlin, Orlando event planner Jorge Cruz (July 12); The Dru Project’s Shawn Chaudhry, former Watermark Central Florida account manager Brianna Rockmore, One Orlando Alliance board member Andrea Massey-Farrell (July 15); Bank of America’s Tayt Jones, AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s Russell Walker (July 16); The Hammered Lamb’s Nikki Price (July 18); die-hard theater lover Deborah Simpson (July 19); Orlando physician Dr. Jerry Horton, Rock Hard Fitness owner and trainer Max Dunley, Central Florida performer Steven Johnson (July 20); beloved activist Rachel Gardiner (July 21).

Photo courtesy Josh Bell

courtesy Vivian Rodriguez

Working Out: Josh Bell (L) checks out Winter Park’s Bodystreet working out with co-owner and trainer Steffan Brandt.

Progress Road: Members of the community gather at the revealing of Roberto Clemente Rd. in Orlando June 23. Photo

courtesy State of Gratitude

Photo courtesy Vivian Rodriguez

Style State: State of Gratitude founder Chris Bilyk shows off some of the company’s latest apparel July 6. Photo

Making Music: State Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith (L) with Dr. Mary Palmer, outgoing board president for the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, as they welcome incoming board president Melody Lynch July 3. Photo courtesy Carlos Guillermo Smith

Choo Choo-se Art: City Commissioner Patty Sheehan celebrates art in the Mill50 District in Orlando June 30. Photo

courtesy Patty Sheehan

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Parade Rain: U.S. Rep. Darren Soto doesn’t let a little rain stop him from being in the Independence Day parade in Celebration July 4.

Fresh Cocktails: Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet (L) and Luis Alberto Sousa-Lazaballet enjoy a Bourbon Berry cocktail at Mathers Social Gathering in Orlando June 25. Photo courtesy

Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet

Celebrate the 4th: Former Watermark writer Marianella Falbo (R) and Nick Falbo enjoy the nation’s capital in D.C. for the 4th of July.

Photo courtesy Nick Falbo

8 JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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Mobile: 941-230-4797 Wayne@DictorFinancial.com

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

wedding bells

Salvatore Vieira and Adam Reilly from Orlando, Florida

Engagement Date:

Jan. 14, 2018

Wedding Date:

April 10, 2020

Officiant:

Anthony, Salvatore’s brother

Venue:

Adam’s Parent’s backyard

Colors:

Blue and Cream

Wedding Song/ Artist:

“Always Remember Us This Way” - Lady Gaga

Florist:

Adam and his mother

Caterer:

Caffe Positano

Cake Flavors:

Earl Gray and Chocolate

Bakery:

Charlie Pies

Photographer/ Videographer:

Our Friends - Shout Out to Brittany

DJ/ Entertainment:

Adam’s uncle

eal-life magic happened at

the Wizarding World of Harry Potter when Salvatore Vieira and Adam Reilly met for the first time. The two met in 2014 when they were working as performers in Diagon Alley, Universal Studios’ hidden wizard world. Adam worked as the Knight Bus conductor and Salvatore as a puppeteer in the “Tales of Beedle the Bard’’ show. By the following year, they had started dating. Three years later, Adam proposed to Salvatore in Toronto. Salvatore had booked a job as a performer on a cruise ship, so in January of 2018, he was in rehearsals. Adam went to Toronto to visit him. As they were preparing to go ice skating, Adam got down on one knee and proposed to Salvatore. “I had actually thought he was going to propose on Christmas, so when that didn’t

happen, I completely put it out of my brain,” Salvatore says. “So I was incredibly caught off guard, but I immediately felt excited, full of bliss, but also nervous.” In April of 2020, the couple married at an intimate ceremony in Adam’s parents’ house. “Spending time with each other’s friends and family was incredibly special,” Salvatore says. They had set up and planned for a backyard ceremony and dinner, but, in true Florida fashion, a huge storm rolled in a few minutes before guests were supposed to start arriving. Everyone had to scramble to move the wedding indoors, but they made the best of it.

“[When we were inside] it felt like an intimate Italian restaurant,” Salvatore says. The wedding was a family effort. Adam’s uncle served as the DJ, Adam and his mother as florists, and the couple’s friends as photographers and videographers. Salvatore said having his brother Anthony officiate the ceremony was one of the highlights of the day for him. “[Anthony] is such a loving, kind and beautiful soul,” Salvatore says. “He made us cry, laugh and smile during the ceremony.” The couple loved being able to spend time with their closest friends and family as well as their “precious puppy,” Phoebe. “Of course we wanted all of our family and friends to be there,” Salvatore says. “But coming out of a pandemic, we were grateful and lucky for the beautiful evening we had.” — Lora Korpar

Do you have an interesting wedding or engagement story you’d like to share with Watermark readers? If so, email the details to Editor@WatermarkOnline.com for consideration as a future feature on this page.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

JUly 8 - 21, 2021 // Issue 28 .14 wat e r m a r konline .com

CHOOSE A NEW HOMETOWN PARTNERSHIP. As the official healthcare partner of the Tampa Bay Rays, Bayfront Health St. Petersburg is proud to provide care to the fans and our community. Trust the care that’s been there like a friend, year after year.

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A NATIONAL LEADER FOR

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Watermark Issue 28.14: Gender Euphoria

Articles inside

state neWs

central Fl out + aBout

tampa Bay out + aBout

edItor/Bureau chIeF’s desk