BOOK & LYRIC BY GEROME RAGNI & JAMES RADO MUSIC BY GALT MACDERMOT
2009 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical
OCTOBER 25 | 8PM
Representation matters. Having an active presence matters. It’s important so that politicians who are voting on these bills have to at least look at you in the eye when they make that vote. Building relationships and putting faces to issues is really, really
and it can also help sway votes as well.
— FLORIDA REP. ANNA V. ESKAMANI
Jeremy Williams
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jeremy@WatermarkOutNews.com
EDITOR’S DESK
Joy in the little things
WE ARE LIVING IN SOME WILD
and crazy times right now. The world feels so chaotic at the moment, mostly due to a certain “leader of the free world,” and with that much trauma it can be difficult not to sit and stew in it.
I recently was chatting with my Bay-area counterpart, Watermark Out News’ Managing Editor Ryan Willaims-Jent, about that and we both agreed that we can’t always be doom and gloom in our Editor’s Desks. So we both are taking our space provided this month and talking about some things that are bringing us joy in our lives. Hopefully, if you too are feeling like everything is too much at the moment, these things will help you to pause, smile and look for the joy in your life.
If you are in the Central Florida area, then this most recent joy in my life is ready and waiting for you as well. It’s the International Flower & Garden Festival at Epcot. One of the perks of being a Watermark editor is getting to experience the amazing festivals in our area, and no one does it better than Disney.
Thanks to the amazing folks at Epcot, I was again invited to check out all this year’s festival has to offer and I was once again able to bring with me my perpetual plus one, Rick Todd. As someone who can’t even keep a cactus alive, I am blown away by the beautiful topiaries on display throughout the park each year. Flowers, bushes and tress all designed to look like your favorite Disney characters, including Mickey and Minnie Mouse, the women of “Encanto,” Winnie the Pooh and Friends, Kermit and Miss Piggy, Donald Duck, Groot and so many more.
The highlight of the festival for me, as it is with every festival, is the food. Disney goes all out with the food at these festivals and this year is no different. Some of my personal favorites are the chicken and waffles at The Honey Bee-stro, the peanut butter and jelly soft serve at the Swirled Showcase, the ramen cup in Japan and the banana foster bread pudding in The American Adventure.
You can check out photos from our little day adventure in Epcot at WatermarkOutNews. com. Those photos we took leads me into another bit of joy in my life. Now I am embarrassed to rave about this because I have stood fast against joining what I have always called “the Apple Cult,” but I was recently invited to the Apple Store at The Mall at Millenia for the launch of Apple’s new iPhone 16e. While I was there the folks at Apple got a look at me waving my Google Pixel around and decided to loan me one of their new phones to use side-by-side with my current one.
I don’t know if I am completely sold yet but I have been really impressed with it so far. I am not a tech guy so I was totally glazed over as they talked about the phone’s A18 chip, 4-core GPU and 48MP fusion camera. Honestly, I have no idea what any of that means, I just pulled it from my notes from the event. But what I have loved about it is how amazing the pictures look, how clear the sound is and how long the battery has lasted for me. I am going to be using both the iPhone and my Google Pixel together over the next few months as I cover Central Florida, so you all will be able to tell me which one is working best as you scroll through WatermarkOutNews.com.
I will be able to really test the limits of these phones with
my next bit of joy. At the end of March, I am going with my family on my first cruise. I am not an open water kinda guy, so taking a cruise on the high seas was never a bucket list item for me but last year my mom had open-heart surgery and to celebrate her recovery all the other kids wanted to take her a cruise, so away I will go. It’s a fairly short trip, only four days to the Bahamas, but after my initial trepidation I have started to get pretty excited about
Take some time to find the joy in your life.
it. My brother instructed me to download the app so I could look over the ship map and review the itinerary to see what kind of trip it will be.
While it is not specifically a gay cruise, they do have several LGBTQ+ socials on the itinerary which I plan to attend and hopefully I will meet a queer Jack Dawson who has 10 bucks in his pocket and has nothing to offer me and he knows that but he’s too involved now. Or maybe he will just draw me like one of his French girls and be on his way, either way I am excited to finally take this leap.
Speaking of trips, in this issue we are taking a look at the LGBTQ+ activists heading up to Tallahassee for Pride at the Capitol and the Let Us Live March. We also chat with the incomparable CeCe Teneal as she prepares for her Aretha Franklin show at Orlando Shakes.
I know things are tough but keep fighting and take some time to find the joy in your life. I hope you enjoy this issue.
JILLIAN ABBY is the author of “Perfectly Queer” from Hay House and is on Substack at “Reframe with Jillian Abby.” Page 15
HOLLY KAPHERR ALEJOS, SABRINA AMBRA, STEVE BLANCHARD, DEBORAH BOSTOCK-KELLEY, JOHNNY BOYKINS, MARTIN “LEIGH SHANNON” FUGATE, BIANCA GOOLSBY, JAKOB HERO-SHAW, LORA KORPAR, JASON LECLERC, JERICK MEDIAVILLA, MELODY MAIA MONET, TATIANA QUIROGA, TIFFANY RAZZANO, SISTER JUANA REACTION, MOMMA ASHLEY ROSE, TREVOR ROSINE, BRYANA SALDANA, GREG STEMM, SYLVIE TREVENA, MICHAEL WANZIE, MULAN WILLIAMS, DR. STEVE YACOVELLI
BRIAN BECNEL, NICK CARDELLO, J.D. CASTO, BRUCE HARDIN, JAMARCUS MOSLEY, DYLAN TODD, CHRIS STEPHENSON, LEE VANDERGRIFT PHOTOGRAPHY
Ryan Williams-Jent MANAGING EDITOR Ryan@WatermarkOutNews.com
EDITOR’S DESK
AS AN LGBTQ+ AMERICAN, IT’S
hard not to dwell on every setback facing our community and country right now. As a journalist, it’s even harder not to write about it when you have a column.
However, I promised myself this space wouldn’t exclusively focus on Washington, D.C.’s disarray because it’s not healthy for anyone’s mental health to fixate on Donald Trump. So I wanted to share some of the ways I’m finding cheer amongst the chaos, in hopes that it might help other folks remember to do the same.
If you’re like me, the joy is always there — I have a wonderful personal and professional life, which I try not to take for granted — but it can take some effort to focus on sometimes. One trick I’ve found lately is to make it impossible not to.
We got a puppy.
Frankie joined our furever family on Jan. 25. Our little girl is a Pomsky, a cross between a Siberian Husky and a Pomeranian, and she’s every bit the adorable hurricane that sounds like.
I’ve exclusively been a dog person for most of my life, but she’s only the third I’ve owned as an adult. I grew up with dogs and have loved almost every single one I’ve ever met, but I just never wanted the responsibility myself.
That changed when I started dating my husband, who was a package deal with Riverboat, a tiny Pomeranian with more heart than any dog I’ve ever known. I joked for years that he’s the reason we got married, because there was just no living without him.
We lost him at 13 last October, a heartbreak our household will never forget, but I’m thankful for the 11 years we had together. He was also instrumental in raising his best buddy, the first puppy I ever owned:
our Jack Russell mix Howard, who turned 10 last month but remains my baby.
One of the coolest things about Frankie was watching him go from being Riverboat’s little brother to her big one. She’s helped heal all of our hearts after such an unimaginable loss and I’m so thankful. If you can get a puppy to get through the next four years, I highly recommend it.
Coming together as a community has also significantly helped me find joy, like during last month’s Winter Pride. The inaugural event was held Feb. 16-23.
We’re lucky to have so many LGBTQ+-focused outings in Tampa Bay — like Tampa Pride, the Tampa Bay International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, Come OUT St. Pete and St Pete Pride, the state’s largest LGBTQ+ celebration — and it was a wonderful addition to the pack. I witnessed and experienced LGBTQ+ joy at every event I attended.
Watermark Out News also held our inaugural WONDER Awards celebration Feb. 28. Formerly the WAVE Awards, readers recognized Tampa Bay’s diversity, excellence and resilience in 60 categories.
I want to thank emcee Veronica Foxx, DJ Mike Sklarz, the Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Equality Florida’s Alex Quinto, Mr. Gripp, Robert Rigsby and Jobsite Theater’s Colleen Cherry for sharing your talent and voices, and Cocktail for hosting us. It really was a WONDERful night.
I also want to thank our readers for voting me as your Favorite Local Writer/Journalist this year. I’m so thankful to do what I love and it wouldn’t be possible without your support.
Outside of puppies and parties, this Marvel fan has found comfort in superheroes. I thoroughly
enjoyed “Captain America: Brave New World” on the big screen and “Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man” at home, and Disney+’s “Daredevil: Born Again” is off to a thrilling start.
I’ve also read quite a bit of fiction thanks to our local library system. I got my card last year and whether you’re a casual or avid reader, I can’t recommend doing the same enough.
I recently finished “Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow,”
If you can get a puppy to get through the next four years, I highly recommend it.
a love letter to gaming and friendship, and I’m about to start “The House in the Cerulean Sea.”
A friend told me it’s an LGBTQ+inclusive series akin to “Harry Potter,” something magic without J.K. Rowling’s bigotry.
Having an escape is important but so is advocacy. That’s why we detail how local advocates are standing up for LGBTQ+ rights in Tallahassee this month at Pride at the Capitol and the Let Us Live March. We speak with lawmakers and organizers about how we can all make a difference.
In Tampa Bay news, Love the Golden Rule announces their inaugural fashion fundraiser and Kurt’s Place moves into City Side Lounge. We also detail Tampa Pride 2025 in our Pride in Tampa magazine, available in Tampa Bay print editions and on our website.
Watermark Out News is proud to be your LGBTQ+ news source. Please stay informed, support those who support you and enjoy this latest issue.
JILLIAN ABBY is the author of “Perfectly Queer” from Hay House and is on Substack at “Reframe with Jillian Abby.” Page 15
HOLLY KAPHERR ALEJOS, SABRINA AMBRA, STEVE BLANCHARD, DEBORAH BOSTOCK-KELLEY, JOHNNY BOYKINS, MARTIN “LEIGH SHANNON” FUGATE, BIANCA GOOLSBY, JAKOB HERO-SHAW, LORA KORPAR, JASON LECLERC, JERICK MEDIAVILLA, MELODY MAIA MONET, TATIANA QUIROGA, TIFFANY RAZZANO, SISTER JUANA REACTION, MOMMA ASHLEY ROSE, TREVOR ROSINE, BRYANA SALDANA, GREG STEMM, SYLVIE TREVENA, MICHAEL WANZIE, MULAN WILLIAMS, DR. STEVE YACOVELLI
BRIAN BECNEL, NICK CARDELLO, J.D. CASTO, BRUCE HARDIN, JAMARCUS MOSLEY, DYLAN TODD, CHRIS STEPHENSON, LEE VANDERGRIFT PHOTOGRAPHY
Puppy Power!
DESCOLONIZARTE TEATRO PRESENTS LGBTQ+ LATINX STORIES WITH NEW PRODUCTION, ‘QUEER!’
Christopher Klimek
ORLANDO | Descolonizarte Teatro, a professional Latinx social change theater organization in Central Florida, is partnering with the Renaissance Theatre Company to showcase Latinx queer stories about “the courage to live authentically” in the production “Queer!” coming to Orlando March 13, 15 and 29.
“Queer!” features performances from five actors and their personal journeys through live music and onstage movement.
“What I wanted was to have a production where individuals could tell their own real-life stories, lived experiences about queerness,” says Nadia Garzon, founder and executive director at Descolonizarte Teatro. “What it’s like to realize you’re queer, how you come to terms with that and how you come out.”
Garzon says “Queer!” doesn’t follow the normal guidelines of theatre by giving the actors a script to follow. Instead the script is formed by the performers themselves to allow them to fully encapsulate their personal journey. The show is a collective creation, which means it is formed by the group. In the beginning, Garzon tells the actors her vision and allows them to create their own story. With constructive criticism from Garzon, the cast can present a script of depth and meaning to the stage.
“We want to tell our own stories. Our name comes from the word decolonization,” Garzon says. “Descolonizarte Teatro is like decolonizing you or decolonizing yourself and for us, that means reframing and retelling stories that have been told about ourselves, our bodies, our knowledge, our history, our stories.”
This production looks to drive the focus away from stereotypes, Garzon says.
“I don’t want to talk about drugs when I talk about being Latina. I want to tell my own story,” she says. “The stories that have been told about ourselves is one thing, but the stories of who we are is another.”
Descolonizarte Teatro gives three different selections for ticket prices which allow those to choose the best option that matches their financial situation. The prices for one ticket are $20, $25 or $30.
The organization focuses on removing barriers that hinder those who do not speak Spanish, English or are deaf. There will be subtitles available in English and Spanish, as well as a sign language interpreter present at each show.
You can watch “Queer!” at the Renaissance Theatre Company in Orlando March 13 at 7 p.m., March 15 at 5 p.m. and March 29 at 5 p.m. by purchasing your tickets at DescoTeatro.org.
central florida news
Fighting Back
FiftyFiftyOne brings hundreds of protestors to Orlando’s City Hall
Caysea Stone
ORLANDO | Orlando was one out of dozens of cities all over the country to hold protests March 4 in response to President Donald Trump’s “anti-democratic and illegal actions” and the administration’s “plutocratic allies.” The city saw hundreds of protestors lining the corner of S. Orange Ave. and W. South St. right outside of City Hall with signs and flags.
The protests were organized by FiftyFiftyOne, a grassroots movement that pushed to have 50 protests in 50 states for one movement.
In between the protestors yelling, “Hey hey, ho ho, Donald Trump has got to go,” various speakers met on the stairs of City Hall to share their stories, missions and goals for the nation and Central Florida. The event was emceed by Obsidian Tiburòn, who is Two-Spirit Taino, Indigenous to the Caribbean, and featured speakers Jude Speegle, a transgender advocate and parent who works for Equality Florida
and Peer Support Space; Marilyn Baldwin, an African American disability rights activist board member of League of Women’s Voters of Orange County; Amelia Burgos, a Latina transgender veteran advocate and parent, who works for Equality Florida; Evelyn DeJesus, a Latina Executive VP of American Teachers Federation and LCLAA President; Lamia Moukaddam, a Lebanese queer trans harm reductionist/organizer; and Corey Hill, a human rights activist, journalist and poet.
Burgos spoke on behalf of Equality Florida, the largest LGBTQ+ activism organization.
From the steps of City Hall, Burgos defined herself as a “trans woman, a Puerto Rican, a mother, a veteran, an LGBTQ advocate, but most importantly, human.”
Burgos asked that the protestors share the same passion towards protecting the trans community as she does as a trans woman, because banning transgender service members from the military is everyone’s loss.
“[Trump] thinks he can deem himself a monarch and that we will all bow to him, but tyranny is
not what I serve for,” Burgos said during her speech. “When you’re a soldier away from home, you have a mission, and you complete that mission; that’s what we’re all focused on. No one’s worried about what’s in your pants. I promise you.”
The injustices and dangers facing the transgender community were also emphasized by Speegle. They referenced Bill 1233, a bill that would’ve forced recognition based solely on someone’s biological sex but died in the Health & Human Services Committee.
Speegle shared a poem they wrote in response to the bill.
“…You can’t have pride beside this divide, not with a government that would rather see you dead than ahead. Bureaucracy, mob, supplemental synonyms on the tip of our tongue, command, control, domination, deploring us as abominations,” they said during their speech. “They take away our bathrooms, our identities, strip us to our grassroots, muddy down our colors like toxic lovers. The Nazis burned flags and tried to bury us in ashes. Our history can be erased, but it can’t be lost, not at this cost, not at this cost.”
FiftyFiftyOne was founded in January after a Reddit post went viral. The group held its first protest on Feb. 4. The successful turnout led to the group organizing “No Kings Day” protests all over the country on Presidents Day, Feb. 17.
STANDING UP:
Obsidian Tiburòn speaks to the crowd of protestors in front of Orlando City Hall March 4. PHOTO BY
TAMPA | Kurt’s Place, a new concept from LGBTQ+ entrepreneur Kurt King, will begin operating at City Side Lounge following its closure March 2.
City Side served Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ+ community since 1991 and was purchased by owners Delon Cunningham and Michael Rivera in 2020. They announced its closure Feb. 10, citing operational costs.
“A lot of people would love to have the space and I would love for it to stay open, but we’ll see,” Cunningham told Watermark Out News Feb. 11. “… please continue to support gay businesses. If you don’t support them, they’re not gonna survive.”
King, who returned to Tampa last year after moving to Michigan, first teased he would open a new bar in the area Feb. 13. He subsequently confirmed it would be Kurt’s Place at the former City Side Lounge Feb. 26.
The entrepreneur has a long history of providing safe spaces in the region. He owned and operated the former Hamburger Mary’s Tampa, St. Petersburg, Brandon and Clearwater franchises as well as LGBTQ+ bars like Baxter’s and Chambers.
King currently works for a wholesale retail company in a corporate position. He says he had no plans to open another bar, something that changed when City Side announced its closure.
“I read the post about City Side and I know [owners] Mike and D very well,” he explains. “They bought the bar during COVID and kept it open for five years and it’s really hard to do that now.
“So I was really upset over City Side and called them,” King continues. “We talked and this is helping them out. It’s going to help the community out.”
King also says he’s known the building’s landlord for decades and that he expects a smooth transition between the two businesses.
“The younger generation, they don’t need gay bars and safe spaces [the way older generations did] and don’t know what we had to go through,” King says. “But they’re going to need them now. In the next few years I’m going to get very political again … we need to get our power back. We need to get our rights back.”
Kurt’s Place is expected to retain City Side’s hours, daily from 11 a.m.-3 a.m., with a renewed focus on happy hour. King also says he’ll work to retain as many entertainers and staff members as possible, another reason he wanted to take over the space after City Side announced its closure.
“I didn’t want these people to lose their jobs,” he explains. “It’s hard to find a job, especially if you’re transgender. At one time, we had 18 bars in Tampa and now we’re down to four — I just want to have a safe place to go, a bar for open-minded people where everybody’s welcome.”
Kurt’s Place is located at 3703 Henderson Blvd. in Tampa. Learn more at Facebook.com/KurtsPlaceTampa.
tampa bay news
Fashion First
Love the Golden Rule to hold inaugural fundraiser
Shyler Oras and Ryan Williams-Jent
ST. PETERSBURG | Love the Golden Rule announced Fashion with Passion Feb. 28, a new charity gala designed to benefit the nonprofit clinic’s work.
Dr. Bob Wallace founded Love the Golden Rule in 2013. The clinic has two sites in St. Petersburg, offering primary care, gender-affirming care, chronic care management and other services.
Billed as “an unforgettable evening where high fashion becomes a force for change,” Fashion with Passion will support that work April 26 from 7-10 p.m. at the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront. The gala will welcome Urban Native Founder Erik Wise and feature exclusive New York Fashion Week designs.
“This spectacular night will bring together trailblazing designers, changemakers, and passionate advocates, all united by a shared vision: a world where healthcare, self-expression, and dignity are accessible to all, regardless of gender identity,”
Love the Golden Rule announced. Ticketed entry includes access to the runway event, an open bar, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction and more. Speakers will include Wallace and a representative from GILEAD.
“At the heart of this event” is Wise, “whose designs embody a fearless embrace of diversity, culture and inclusivity,” organizers noted. “His boutique’s philosophy, ‘Fabulous is the Only Option,’ aligns seamlessly with Love The Golden Rule’s commitment to providing compassionate, affirming healthcare to underserved LGBTQ+ communities. Every step on this runway represents more than just fashion — it’s a statement of visibility, acceptance, and empowerment.”
“Urban Native was born out of my international travels. I take ‘native’ prints and colors from around the world and design them into ‘urban’ styles that can be appreciated by everyone,” Wise added. “Working with Love The Golden Rule … is an opportunity to use fashion as a platform for change — to give back to the community and support those
who need access to essential medical care.”
The gala will focus on fashion because it “has long been a powerful form of self-expression, allowing individuals to present themselves authentically to the world,” Love the Golden Rule also noted. Self-expression ties into their greater mission, “one that directly impacts the transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse community by providing life-changing medical care, advocacy, and support.”
The evening will directly fund the clinic’s Inclusive and Equitable Healthcare Program, “which provides comprehensive medical services tailored to the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals, including gender-affirming care, mental health support, and primary care in a safe, affirming environment.”
Tickets begin at $75, VIP admission is $150 with additional benefits and sponsorships are also being sought.
Love the Golden Rule stresses that the need for expanding LGBTQ+ healthcare has never been greater.
“Florida has some of the highest rates of new HIV diagnoses in the nation, and many transgender individuals face limited access to competent medical care,” they shared. “Join us as we transform the runway into a platform for advocacy, artistry and action.”
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit LoveTheGoldenRule.com.
FASHION FORWARD:
Urban Native Founder
Erik Wise’s designs on the runway.
PHOTOS COURTESY LOVE
THE GOLDEN RULE
IN OTHER NEWS
JUDGE ORDERS BLOCK ON TRUMP’S TRANS HEALTH CARE ORDER
A federal judge extended a nationwide block March 4 on President Donald Trump’s executive orders halting federal funding for providers of gender-affirming health care for trans people under age 19. The judge’s ruling came in a lawsuit filed on behalf of families with trans or nonbinary children who allege their health care has already been compromised by the president’s orders. The preliminary injunction from U.S. District Judge Brendan Hurson in Baltimore keeps enforcement of the orders on hold while the case plays out, though the administration is expected to appeal.
ACLU MOVES TO TAKE UP LAWSUIT EEOC ABANDONS
The American Civil Liberties Union is seeking to represent two restaurant workers in a gender identity discrimination lawsuit after the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed to drop the case in response to President Donald Trump’s recent executive order targeting transgender people. The lawsuit against a Culver’s restaurant in Clarkston, Michigan, is one of seven cases involving gender identity discrimination the EEOC has filed to dismiss, arguing in court filings that pursuing the lawsuits conflicts with Trump’s executive order, which declared that the government would only recognize the female and male sexes and ordered federal agencies to take steps to comply.
US WITHDRAWS FROM UN LGBTI CORE GROUP
The U.S. has withdrawn from the United Nations LGBTI Core Group, which formed in 2008 pledging to support LGBTQ+ and intersex rights around the world. Chile and the Netherlands are the current co-chairs with 39 other countries participating. The Core Group was formed with three specific objectives: raising awareness about LGBTI issues; contributing to multilateral work and negotiations at the United Nations; and seeking common ground and engaging in a spirit of open, respectful and constructive dialogue and cooperation with UN member states and other stakeholders outside the Core Group.
GHANA LAWMAKERS REINTRODUCE ANTI-LGBTQ+ BILL
Lawmakers in Ghana have reintroduced an anti-LGBTQ+ bill that was passed by parliament last year but not enacted. Former President Nana Akufo-Addo did not sign the bill into law last year before his term ended, saying he was waiting until the Supreme Court ruled on a challenge to it. The court dismissed the challenge in December, shortly after Akufo-Addo lost his bid for another term. The bill if enacted would impose up to five years in prison for those who engage in “willful promotion, sponsorship or support of LGBTQ+ activities.”
TREVOR PROJECT
RELEASES REPORT ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF FLORIDA’S LGBTQ+ YOUTH
Julia Ferrara
The 2024 Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People in Florida was recently released by The Trevor Project, the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ+ youth. The 2024 edition collected the experiences of over 18,000 LGBTQ+ youth ages 13-24 across the country and around 1,000 respondents in Florida.
In Florida, it found that 37% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered suicide in the past year, which includes 45% of transgender and nonbinary youth. Along with that, it found that 11% attempted suicide in the past year. Symptoms of anxiety were experienced by 67% of LGBTQ+ youth in Florida, 70% of which were transgender and nonbinary. Symptoms of depression were experienced by 54% of this population.
The survey also reported on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth
that contributed to these suicidal ideations. It found that 24% of LGBTQ+ youth in Florida were physically threatened or harmed based on their sexual orientation or gender identity in the past year. It also reported that 63% experienced discrimination based on these factors in the past year. Because of these challenges and the political climate of the state, 69% of LGBTQ+ youth have reported that they or their family have considered leaving Florida.
Read the full report at WatermarkOutNews.com.
HOMELAND SECURITY ELIMINATES SURVEILLANCE PROTECTIONS FOR LGBTQ+ AMERICANS
Shyler Oras
President Donald Trump’s administration has revoked Biden-era expansions of federal protections for LGBTQ+ citizens that prohibited the Department of Homeland Security from “the surveillance of individuals or groups based solely on their sexual orientation or gender identity.”
LGBTQ Nation was among the outlets to report the news, sharing that “the move suggests that Trump may start investigating LGBTQ+ groups as a security threat.”
“Two weeks ago, the DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis updated its policy manual to fall in line with President Donald Trump’s executive orders excising diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies from federal agencies and declaring there are
only two immutable sexes, male and female,” they noted.
There was no press conference or declaration regarding the revoking of the order, “just a quiet edit to a government policy manual,” Space environmentalist and TED Fellow Moriba Jah pointed out via Medium. These protections still exist for those identified by their race, ethnicity, sex, religion, country of birth, nationality or disability.
CENSUS BUREAU SEEKS PERMISSION TO DELETE QUESTIONS ABOUT GENDER IDENTITY
Wire Report
The U.S. Census Bureau under the Trump administration has sought permission to delete questions about gender identity from a monthly survey that gathers near real-time data about American life. The Census Bureau asked the Office of Management and Budget for permission to delete questions about gender identity from the Household Trends and Outlook Pulse Survey. The agency said the
Feb. 14 request was made to align with President Donald Trump’s order stripping federal money from programs that “promote gender ideology.”
The Census Bureau has had plans to ask questions about sexual identity and gender identity on the 2027 American Community Survey, the most comprehensive survey of American life. Questions about sexual orientation and gender identity started being tested in August with trial questionnaires sent out to several hundred thousand households. The Census
Bureau on March 3 didn’t respond to an emailed query asking about whether gender identity questions also would be deleted from the American Community Survey. Separately, the Census Bureau terminated March 4 at least two outside advisory committees set up to provide guidance to the agency from outside experts. The axed bodies were the 2030 Census Advisory Committee and the Census Scientific Advisory Committee.
In Memory of John “Tweeka” Barber 1972 - 2011
Jillian Abby
IT’S
A LITTLE BIT FUNNY
Lessons from Suburban Banana Farming
MY FRIEND BREE IS A
TikTok-famous homesteader. She makes growing things look possible and instills in me the confidence of a reality show bro screaming “Let’s Gooooo!” even when I’m unqualified.
I have a pitchfork collection that outnumbers me two-to-one, however, and a straw hat that reminds me that I am still “not a hat person.” So with a bit of lesbian bravado, I entered the arena of suburban farming.
It didn’t take long to realize that my talents are primarily overthinking, a penchant for making up words and a never-ending flow of unsubstantiated optimism. I am also one determined little bugger, so if I wanted to grow food and pretty things in my yard, I was certain I would do it… ish. I read “Braiding Sweetgrass” by Robin Wall Kimmerer, determined to be a better steward of the earth. I read “Compost Anything” by David the Good and tried to convince my wife we could reduce waste and use practically everything, including our pee, to feed the plants in our sandy soil. She was not game to urinate in a mason jar.
I consulted Bree’s videos to try and recreate her incredibly bountiful harvests. As much knowledge as I consumed to turn our suburban home into Green Acres, nature was going to teach me differently.
I’d love to dive into all of the meaningful life lessons I’ve gathered from walking through my yard, whispering sweet nothings to mango panicles about how someday they’ll be fruity. I have many more lessons that nature taught me via toxic sap, assassin bugs and fruit rats. For today I offer you this natural truth — living things are antifragile.
The term antifragile comes from Nassim Nicholas Taleb’s book, “Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder.” Taleb was a statistician who developed the
concept while studying systems that not only withstand stress or volatility but benefit from them. A simple example of this in humans is exercise. I’d lift pitchforks of mulch. Then, I’d spend the next several days laid up because everything hurt and I regretted my life choices. In the process, I’d notice that my arm muscles look more toned, so I’d repeat the cycle.
We see antifragility in book banning due to the Streisand Effect, where attempting to suppress something draws more attention to it. When conservatives banned Maia Kolbabe’s “Gender Queer,” book sales increased 130%. When Senator Ted Cruz got his knickers in a swivet over Ibram X. Kendi’s “Antiracist Baby,” sales of the book increased 5,000%. I’m not saying that we should embrace book banning as a nifty marketing hack, but I can’t help but marvel at the unintended consequence of strengthening and amplifying the very stories some people try to hide. Bury them in dirt and they will still find the light.
My yard is a continual lesson in antifragility. In my initial gardening days, I babied my plants like a helicopter parent at Chuck E. Cheese — wanting to hover over them while also trying not to make contact with every dirty surface. If a bug flew near my plants, I was out there waving my moderately-toned muppet arms to shoo it away. When it came to watering, I wanted to quench their thirst when the sun felt too sunny.
Do you know what happens when you water a plant too often? Aside from potential root rot, when there is always water available, the roots learn to live at the surface of the soil. When roots stay superficial, the plant is not as strong. It’s a dry ground that forces roots to dig deeper in search of water. Deeper roots mean more stability. It was a hard truth for me to swallow that my
plant-coddling was setting them up for failure. Struggle can be strength. That’s not to say that the weight of a struggle is commensurate with the amount of growth. There is a breaking point where stress, suppression or the drought becomes too much. I have killed many
in a way that would likely support them best given the direction of the wind. (Let’s be honest, though. I couldn’t figure that out because I’m not that type of lesbian. My wife did it and I cheered for her and patted her butt like she had just scored a landscaping touchdown.)
eventually roll our eyes at the tired tropes or reclaim them to take back our power. (Looking at you, “queer.”) For challenges to become growth events, we require preemptive care to ensure that we have the strength to withstand whatever blows our way. We can permit
Deeper roots mean more stability … Struggle can be strength.
plants this way as well. Contrary to Kelly Clarkson belting out “what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger,” we do not need to reach death for something to be considered “too much.”
Even antifragile beings need extra care. Our double-whammy hurricane season in Tampa was almost too much for my burgeoning banana forest and trellis of luffa. I took preemptive actions — staking up plants
We reinforced the trellis and took proactive measures to limit flooding. When the worst had passed, we went back in to do what we could to facilitate the plants’ healing and future growth. Humans are antifragile. Toddlers fall but gain strength and knowledge each time they get back up. When we run or meditate, our threshold for what we can tolerate increases. When words cut us, we may
ourselves and others to take time for rest and repair to cultivate a healthy return. As nature also taught me, this never happens alone. Our flourishing is interwoven. I keep that lesson tucked in the overall pocket near my heart.
Jillian Abby is the author of “Perfectly Queer” from Hay House and is on Substack at “Reframe with Jillian Abby.”
Curated from the collection of the Historical Society of Central Florida, in collaboration with individuals and organizations throughout the community, Orlando Collected marks the city’s 150th anniversary with the exhibition of 150 of some of the most fascinating and rarely seen items from Orlando’s history.
Billy Manes’s sunglasses Accessioned circa 2017 Community Curator: Scottie Campbell
Zaira Campos
THE GOOD PAGE FEATURES
positive LGBTQ+ news in Central Florida and Tampa Bay, uplifting and inspiring stories highlighting locals in our community. In this issue, we check in with Quincy.
Art is a lifeline, a reflection of the soul and a means of connecting with others. It flows through the very core of Quincy, a tenacious and inspiring artist whose journey is one of transformation, self-expression and community building. As a queer Black man, Quincy’s story resonates with struggles, triumphs and a commitment to creating spaces where others like him can find freedom and healing.
Quincy’s artistic roots are deeply woven into his family’s traditions.
“My grandmother wrote and sang, my mom wrote poetry and many others in my family are writers,” he says. “Spoken word, in particular, has been passed down through generations in my family in the Bahamas.”
From a young age, Quincy found a profound connection to creativity, supported by the people around him.
“I always had this imagination. I always believed in magic and the power of creating. Something that was always fostered by the people around me,” Quincy recalls.
The Good Page
Central Florida poet Quincy is helping to build community through artistry
But life hasn’t always been easy for Quincy. The loss of his grandmother when he was just 10 years old marked a turning point, plunging him into a period of depression. “By 10, I was writing actual poetry,” he reflects. Poetry became his lifeline during that time, a safe outlet for his grief. “It was my only outlet,” he shares.
In a world where many feel alone, Quincy found strength in the unwavering support of his mother.
“My mom always made it like a nurturing environment where I could come and talk to her,” he explains. This emotional foundation became essential to his resilience.
His journey of self-expression extended to his queer identity.
“You can be queer, Black and proud. You can be the best artist, fathers, cooks, protectors. You can be the very best you can be, Black, queer and proud,” Quincy recites from his poem. For Quincy, it’s essential that people understand the complexity and beauty of identity in all its forms.
Quincy doesn’t just talk the talk, he creates spaces where others
can feel the same freedom he experienced.
“I created the space because I needed it first and then I knew that other people needed it. That’s my reason because I know other people need spaces to create,” he explains, reflecting on the creative haven he’s built.
For Quincy, art goes beyond mere expression.
“Art, for me, has always been a channel for self-awareness, for helping me process emotions, understand my trauma and find healing,” he shares.
His Cozy Crafting workshops provide a unique environment where people can connect emotionally through creativity.
“Honestly, we’ve had moments in poetry workshops where we cry together and I feel like that’s like a real thing because you don’t have spaces like that,” Quincy says.
“To be alive is to be creative,” he continues. “I feel like there’s this myth that creativity belongs only to artists, but creativity is everywhere. If you feel like you aren’t creative,
you might be thinking about it the wrong way. Everybody can be creative.”
His belief that creativity is an inherent part of being human liberates others to tap into their potential.
Quincy’s ultimate goal is to offer a space of freedom; freedom to explore, express and simply be. “I want people to feel free,” he says. Through these spaces, he fosters connection and community. “You never know who you might inspire when you step into your creativity.”
Quincy’s journey hasn’t been without challenges but he centers gratitude in his story, saying “For so long, I didn’t want to live ... and now I’m still here. I’m still here.”
His family’s unwavering support continues to fuel his success.
“Without my mom, I don’t know my family, without everybody that has impacted me ... I’m so grateful,” he says.
Quincy’s philosophy of creating conscious art encourages others to be aware of the impact their work can have, believing that art can
inspire, heal and provoke change. His work and vision are creating a ripple effect.
“Seeing the community grow and the traction we’re gaining in new cities is empowering and impactful,” he says.
Quincy’s work is more than artistic expression. “Art has always been a way of surviving, healing and thriving,” he shares, reflecting the core of his philosophy. His art isn’t just personal expression; it’s a tool for transformative change. Quincy’s movement empowers individuals to take control of their narrative, express their truths and heal, creating a better world where freedom, creativity and community are celebrated.
For performance or event-related requests, contact Quincy at qmajormgmt@gmail. com. For matters related to Peer Support Space (Cozy Craft Gatherings), reach out to creativesarts@peersupportspace. org. For inquiries regarding Conscious Art for Change, email info@ consciousartforchange.org.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF QUINCY
ON THE ROAD AGAIN
Ryan Williams-Jent
FLORIDA REPUBLICANS HAVE HAD
a governing trifecta for nearly three decades, essentially controlling the governorship, state House and state Senate since 1999.
In recent years, the party has held a supermajority in both legislative chambers, something voters — and two defecting Democrats — only strengthened in 2024. The year prior, Republicans used their power to enact the largest slate of anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Florida’s history.
Equality Florida deemed them Gov. Ron DeSantis’ “slate of hate,” measures which are still being litigated or have since been settled in court. Florida’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization has also worked diligently to combat subsequent attacks through events like Pride at the Capitol.
“Pride at the Capitol is our campaign to show up and fight
back against Gov. Ron DeSantis and his legislative allies’ bills aimed at taking our freedoms, censoring our voices and infringing on our rights,” the organization explains. “This is our time to mobilize our community and allies to defeat as many harmful bills as possible, reduce the damage of any legislation that may pass and champion our proactive legislation.”
This year’s kick-off event will take place March 18-19 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., beginning with lobby training and a legislative briefing from lawmakers. Team building, meetings with stakeholders and a press conference will follow before advocates reconnect for an evening
reception. Group meetings, advocacy efforts and potential committee hearings will follow the next day.
Participants will head to Tallahassee just weeks after the legislative session began March 4, launching what Equality Florida calls “the 60 most dangerous days in Florida.” The group says that “once again, DeSantis and the GOP supermajority are pushing an extreme agenda of censorship and government control, taking aim at our rights and freedoms.”
The group cites bills that will target pro-LGBTQ+ policies on the municipal level, “allowing any resident to sue a local government for any diversity or equality ordinance or resolution ever passed, and allowing the Governor to remove any commissioner who voted in favor,” as well as legislation to restrict the representation of Pride in classrooms and city halls.
“A new ‘Don’t Say Gay or Trans at Work’ bill would ban state and local government offices from even
LGBTQ+ advocates take their fight for rights to Tallahassee
allowing a job applicant to identify as transgender or nonbinary,”
Equality Florida also warns. They call these and other measures “a calculated distraction from the fact that leadership is not addressing issues like housing costs and insurance that everyday Floridians are most concerned about.”
Orlando state Rep. Anna V. Eskamani — one of just 33 Democrats in the 120-member Florida House — says participating at events like Pride at the Capitol can help make a difference in combating attacks like these.
“Representation matters. Having an active presence matters,” she says. “It’s important so that politicians who are voting on these bills have to at least look at you in the eye when they make that vote.
“Building relationships and putting faces to issues is really, really powerful, and it can also help sway votes as well,” she continues.
“So there’s that component, but for the individual that goes to the Capitol, it’s also very empowering.
It gives you more control over your future and the future of your state.”
The state representative — a celebrated “LGBTQ+ accomplice” who is term-limited and running for Orlando mayor — says she returned to Tallahassee this year to fight for every Floridian. She was among the Democrats to file the “Health Care Freedom Act” and “Freedom to Learn Act” last month, legislation designed to restore LGBTQ+ rights.
Eskamani filed the former with state Sen. Shevrin Jones, who became Florida’s first openly LGBTQ+ state senator in 2020. It would repeal Florida’s 6-week abortion ban and repeal discriminatory restrictions on medical care for transgender minors and adults. It would also reverse provisions of a law allowing health care providers or insurers to refuse service based on personal “religious, moral, or ethical” preferences.
“Extreme politicians have stripped away the personal freedoms and parental rights of
ILLUSTRATION BY DYLAN TODD
Floridians while paying lip service to those fundamental liberties,” Eskamani announced Feb. 20. “The Health Care Freedom Act restores the fundamental rights and freedoms of Floridians to make their own personal and potentially life-saving healthcare decisions without political interference. This legislation is even more important today as we face extremism from the White House.”
“This is about protecting patients, their decision-making, and aligning our policies with the value of freedom that we all share,” Jones added. “This will remove discriminatory barriers to care and end political interference in Floridians’ personal medical decisions.”
The Freedom to Learn Act, introduced by state Sen. Tracie Davis and state Rep. Angie Nixon, would repeal the provision in Florida’s “Stop WOKE Act” that probits the discussion of topics like systemic racism and provisions of the state’s “Don’t Say Gay or Trans” law. LGBTQ+ history would also be added to public education requirements among other endeavors.
“Since 2021, we have seen a concerted effort by the Governor to silence Black voices, devalue the humanity and contributions of already marginalized groups, and sanitize American history,” Nixon shared. “Republicans have turned our schools over to book-banning extremists and are allowing our youth to be indoctrinated into ignorance while students of color, LGBTQ people and families are relentlessly attacked.
“These efforts only work to placate bigots, embolden discrimination and ensure our students are not prepared for the 21st century,” she continued. “They have no place in the ‘Free State of Florida.”
Sen. Davis echoed Nixon.
“Florida’s Department of Education has been distracted with culture wars and other nonsense for years, and it shows in our childrens’ test scores and preparedness,” he said. “Removing books on history or LGBTQ+ people does not mean it is not real, it just weakens our education system. This bill would take away these ridiculous political stunts and return the Department of Education back to its actual goal of guiding the education of our children.”
Both measures are supported by Equality Florida.
“Floridians cannot be truly free until their fundamental right to bodily autonomy, their freedom to learn, and their freedom to make personal healthcare decisions without political interference are fully restored,” Public Policy Director Jon Harris Maurer said. “Our state can do better and will do better when it gets back to being a place where everyone is free to succeed, and these reforms are an
doesn’t matter how you identify,” Hill continues. “We all have the same rights, so it’s important that we stand up and speak out.”
Over 20 transgender-led groups organized next month’s Let Us Live March for that reason. The second annual rally will follow Pride at the Capitol March 20 from 8 a.m.-noon., when participants will march to Tallahassee’s Old Capitol steps and
be a part of the movement that creates real change.”
That’s how Equality Florida was able to defeat 21 of 22 anti-LGBTQ+ bills last year, the nonprofit has shared. Their strategy this year is to outnumber anti-LGBTQ+ voices at committee hearings, speak out against and minimize the harm of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and to build pro-LGBTQ+ coalitions state
If our lawmakers won’t listen to us, we will arm our allies in Tallahassee with the tools, sources and information they need to fight alongside us. We can’t do this alone and need to remind our representatives that their job is to fight for their voters.
— DRAG2TALLE ORGANIZER LILITH BLACK
important step in that direction.”
The Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus Legislative Director John Hill says advocating for LGBTQ+ Floridians is critical. The group lobbies for inclusive legislation at the state level and beyond.
Events like Pride at the Capitol “remind people that we’re here,” he explains. “That we are contributing members to society, that we are leaders in our fields, that we are citizens of the state and country and that we have every single right that everyone else should have.
“There is no discrimination of rights that should be happening, it
hold a rally with trans leaders and pro-equality lawmakers.
Angelique Godwin is its lead organizer. The LGBTQ+ activist also serves as Equality Florida’s Director of Transgender Equality and helped shape last year’s inaugural event.
“Our stories matter and people showing up, fighting and expressing themselves makes a huge difference,” she says. “It’s always worth telling your story because an untold story goes nowhere. If you tell yours, you can inspire others to change and to tell their own. To come forward and
“It’s essentially the closing event and it’s never too late to sign up,” she adds. “We want as many people to come and be a part of this journey, especially now, while we still have all of our freedoms intact. We want people to use your stories, to use your voices.”
Groups around the state are working to make that happen, including Tampa Bay’s Drag2Talle. Organized by entertainers Lilith Black and Ericka P.C., the volunteer coalition raises funds for LGBTQ+ Floridians and their allies to travel to Tallahassee and advocate for equality.
With mounting attacks on LGBTQ+ Americans from the Trump administration and the Florida Legislature’s history of enacting discriminatory laws, they believe it’s more important than ever.
“If our lawmakers won’t listen to us, we will arm our allies in Tallahassee with the tools, sources and information they need to fight alongside us,” Black stresses. “If trans people continue to be the target of these legislative attacks, we will turn our allies into experts in trans rights and healthcare needs. We can’t do this alone and need to remind our representatives that their job is to fight for their voters.
“There are tons of groups just like ours that are eager to help,” they also note. “If you’re looking for a way to support trans people, I promise there are resources that need your help. Even if you can’t help financially, an extra set of hands can make more of a difference than you know. We can’t do it ourselves and the key to longstanding change is coming together in solidarity.”
Elected officials “are humans like you and I,” Eskamani adds. “You should be able to approach your lawmaker to have a conversation and influence them on an issue.
and nationwide.
Supporting the Let Us Live March is a key part of that.
“Last year it was heartwarming how many groups showed up and this is the first year that we’re combining with Pride at the Capitol,” Godwin says. “Going into this year and with President Trump being elected, we knew right off the bat what the trans community would be facing — Florida has always been Project 2025, we were Project 2023 and the test site for a lot of anti-LGBTQ+ laws, so we knew we had to hit the ground running for this year’s march.
“Even if you don’t have a big checkbook. Even if it’s your first time. Even if you historically have been apolitical,” she continues. “It’s important that advocates feel a sense of power and understanding of our system — and of course, for directly impacted people to play a role in shaping the direction of our state.”
Equality Florida’s Pride at the Capitol Kick-Off will be held March 18-19, followed by the Let Us Live March on March 20. For more information and to register for each event, visit EQFL.org/PATC. Read more at WatermarkOutNews.com.
TALLAHASSEE TRIBE: Equality Florida’s staff and supporters attend Pride at the Capitol 2024, meeting with lawmakers and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. They return to Tallahassee later this month. PHOTO VIA EQUALITY FLORIDA’S FACEBOOK
In the Key of CeCe
CeCe Teneal brings an Aretha Franklin-themed show to the Orlando Shakes stage
Lola Fontanez
(ABOVE) PORTRAIT
OF CECE:
CeCe Teneal is ready to take the stage at Orlando Shakes April 5-6. PHOTO
CENTRAL FLORIDA SINGING ICON CECE
Teneal is kicking off her “Portrait of Aretha” tour this month, hitting stops nationwide.
The soul artist will perform works from Aretha Franklin’s iconic discography, promising an energetic night infused with nostalgia and community.
“I ask people when they come to the theater to come with no inhibitions and no reservations,” says Teneal. “Leave it at the door and come in prepared to live your best life because for 90 minutes, that’s what we want.”
Teneal’s musical ability has been thoroughly recognized throughout her career. She has been nominated for four Independent Music Awards and claimed the title for 2011 Best Gospel Song (“I Heard You Prayin’”) and 2011 Best R&B Album (“Train from Osteen”), as well as 2018 Best Soul/ Funk/Fusion Song (“Danger”). Other
accolades include the 2008-2010 Orlando Best Live Band, the 2017 Orlando Music Trailblazer Award and the halftime headliner for the 2019 Citrus Bowl.
The performer has toured internationally in 60 different countries, 15 of those in just the past year. Teneal says that her experiences with other cultures and performing globally have allowed her to understand a wider range of audiences while connecting her back to her roots.
“It’s a great opportunity to dive into different cultures and really understand how other people live,” says Teneal. “But it also brings us back home and reminds us of what our blessings are and how amazing it is to live in the United States of America …
philanthropic efforts around Orlando, including volunteer work with the Boys and Girls Club of Central Florida, 26Health, FusionFest and PACE Center for Girls.
it brings you a lot of appreciation and gratitude for the things that you have.”
Teneal grew up surrounded by the music of the greats and her family of musicians helped her find her voice. Her mother and grandfather were singers, establishing music as a staple for a young Teneal. She cites her grandmother’s records of Franklin, of course, but also B.B. King, Buddy Guy, John Taylor and Betty Wright as major influences that encouraged her to pursue music. These artists became the soundtrack of Teneal’s Sunday morning chores; however, growing up in rural Florida resources for show business tend to be limited, though that didn’t stop Teneal’s passion for soul.
“When you’re living in a small town and you’re on a limited income and limited resources, you tend to lean on what you have,” says Teneal. “That’s the radio, my grandmother had a record player and she would play her favorite 45s … it was just a habit at home.”
Teneal’s vocal likeness to Franklin was not the only thing that drew her to develop the tribute tour. Much like Teneal, Franklin also had an extensive history in activism, playing a vital role as an artist during the Civil Rights Movement. Franklin was born to preacher and civil rights activist Clarence L. Franklin and his wife Barbara Siggers. She was also mentored by gospel music, specifically by singer Mahalia Jackson, who was notably friends with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Much of Franklin’s music reflected themes of racial and gendered political contention at the time.
“As I grew older, I started to dive into what some of those songs meant and I realized that Aretha said the things that all Black women wanted to say but couldn’t or were afraid to say,” says Teneal. “So she became a pivotal moment of empowerment for me and that’s where her influence really drives home for me.”
Osteen-born, Teneal has called Central Florida home her whole life and has dedicated herself to giving back to the community that raised her. She has a hand in numerous
Teneal has also been focused over the past few years on living her life as open and authentic as she can. In an interview with Watermark Out News in 2022, she spoke about that journey and why she decided to speak publicly about being a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
“I think I was worried for so long that the music industry had placed a stigma on being plus size, on being gay, on being a Black businesswoman,” she said at the time. “The industry places a stigma on that, so I tried to fly under the radar with who I am but in 2020, in the aftermath of the racial injustice and the Black Lives Matter movement, I decided that I was gonna be unapologetically me. And I am finding that people really like me and I don’t have to pretend to be anything else, and I don’t have to follow the guidelines from the people who have put those in place. That in and of itself has been refreshing for me to walk in.”
Her unwavering commitment to the people of her hometown and her authenticity in living proudly was recognized by Mayor Buddy Dyer and Mayor Jerry Demmings in 2022 when they proclaimed Sept. 17 as “the annual CeCe Teneal Day” in Orange County and won her the 2023 Orlando Magic Diversity Game Changer Award.
“I want to continue to be an inspiration and a source of power for women,” says Teneal. “Not just Black women but all women, including trans women. I want to be an inspiration for them and show them they can wave their flag as high as possible.”
Teneal will inspire her hometown community with “Portrait of Aretha,” a 90-minute show starring Teneal, at the Orlando Shakes Theatre April 5-6. The show is a part of Orlando Shakes’ Concert Series and will showcase why Teneal is known for her iconic voice.
In her interview with Watermark Out News, Teneal also announced a self-produced original project that she plans to release this year.
“I’m really excited about that because it’s a project that I was able to pour my heart and soul into,” says Teneal. “It’s self-produced, so I was able to really tell my own stories without having any label or oversight, so I’m super excited to be able to let the world hear the story of CeCe.”
“CeCe Teneal: Portrait of Aretha” will play at Orlando Shakes April 5-6. Tickets are $35 and are available at OrlandoShakes.org.
announcements TAMPA BAY OUT+ABOUT
CONGRATULATIONS
Tampa Bay turned out to celebrate the diversity, excellence and resilience of its LGBTQ+ community with Watermark Out News’ 2025 WONDER Awards celebration at Cocktail Feb. 28. Attendees enjoyed food provided by Cocktail and entertainment from fellow WONDER Award winners including emcee Veronica Foxx, DJ Mike Sklarz, Mr. Gripp, Robert Rigsby and Jobsite Theater’s Colleen Cherry. View all of our photos at WatermarkOutNews.com.
Salty Nun celebrated three years in St. Petersburg March 3. Luis Salazar officially joined Watermark Out News as our Social Media Coordinator March 3. Welcome to the team!
The Tampa Bay Lightning recognized Equality Florida Senior Manager of Health Equity Noelle DeLaCruz as the team’s Lightning Community Hero during their Pride Night March 4. The recognition included a $50,000 contribution toward Equality Florida’s work.
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BREAKING OUT: Autumn Vee was voted Tampa Bay’s Favorite Local Breakout Performer in 2025.
PHOTO BY JAMARCUS MOSLEY
2
HOT SHOT: Mr. Gripp plays with fire during his performance at the 2025 WONDER Awards. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT
3
DOING THE WORK: Tampa Bay’s Favorite Local Activist Alex Quinto details his work with Equality Florida at the 2025 WONDER Awards.
PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT
4
SLINGING DRINKS: Tampa Bay’s Favorite Local Bartender Sebastian Hathcock behind the bar at the 2025 WONDER Awards.
PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT
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MIXING IT UP: Tampa Bay’s Favorite Local DJ Mike Sklarz takes a break from the DJ booth to accept his award.
PHOTO BY JAMARCUS MOSLEY
6 ST PETE PROUD: (L-R) Immani Love, Stephanie Morge, Molly Robison and Nathan Bruemmer, board members past and present, accept St Pete Pride’s WONDER Awards.
PHOTO BY JAMARCUS MOSLEY
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EVENING EMCEE: Hostess Veronica Foxx during her number at the 2025 WONDER Awards.
PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT
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BIG GAY PHOTO: (L-R) Claire Elisan, Bryan Hinkson, Chris Gorman and Sean Kelly represent Tampa Bay’s Favorite Local Radio Show “The Big Gay Radio Show.” PHOTO BY JAMARCUS MOSLEY
Tampa Pride held its 5K Rainbow Run and Family Fun Day March 8. View photos at WatermarkOutNews.com.
PFLAG Riverview celebrated its fifth year March 10. Shuffle celebrates seven years in Tampa March 16.
NOW HIRING
Watermark Out News is hiring for Advertising Sales in Tampa Bay. Apply now to join a passionate team dedicated to delivering quality news and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. Read more at WatermarkOutNews.com.
LOCAL BIRTHDAYS
Tampa muscle man Danny Watson, Longtime LGBTQ+ activist Larry Biddle (March 13); Tampa Bay style icon
James Watson, Beau n Mo’s staple Mitch Demmons, Tampa event planner Tim Thompson (March 14); Tampa nutritional biochemist Debra Roche, St. Petersburg realtor
Bobby Poth, Sarasota realtor Rob Krasow, Universal lover Bobby Dixon (March 15); Publix HQ PR man Chris McNally, Tampa Bay entertainer and entrepreneur Viktoria Sommers (March 16); Tampa Bay entertainer Viktoria Sommers, Britney-loving bear Nabil Harb, former St. Petersburg City Councilman Steve Kornell, “Talkin’ Pets” co-host Jon Patrick, Enigma staple Indrek Karner (March 17); Associate director of admissions for Stetson Law School Darren Kettles (March 18); St. Petersburg massage therapist Terrell Ray (March 19); Sarasota County Health Department’s Sue Westcott, Tampa Bay entertainer Stephanie Shippae, Hyde Park Antiques owner Randy Strebing, (March 20); Worth Clark Realty’s Bill Munette (March 21); Metro Inclusive Health’s Christian Klimas (March 22); former T Network leader Jennifer Kurzawa (March 23); former Florida House Rep. Adam Hattersley, American Stage Board Chair Anastasia Hiotis, Righteously Outrageous Twirling Corps board member Eric Peak, Mad Hatters Kava Bar’s David Baptista (March 24); Strategic Property Partners’ Brian Gallaher (March 25); Tampa photographer John Kantor, former St Pete Pride board member Delores Ringgold, Former Gazette publisher Brian Feist, Lakewood Ranch Allstate owner Richard Plummer, St. Pete social media star Chris Gibson, Suncoast Softballer Ryan Menke, Sarasota insurance professional Richard Dean (March 26).
announcements CENTRAL FLORIDA OUT+ABOUT
CONGRATULATIONS
Enzian Theater celebrated its 40th anniversary as one of Central Florida’s most beloved independent cinemas last month.
Florida Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith held his Orlando office grand opening Feb. 25, inviting residents of Florida Senate District 17 to meet their new senator, his new legislative staff and learn more about his plans for the upcoming 2025 legislative session.
Pom Moongauklang announced Feb. 26 that Pom Pom’s Sandwiches will be opening at Henry’s Depot Food Hall in Sanford. “We couldn’t resist!!! The timing, the space and a great partner made this all happen!!,” Moongauklang wrote on Facebook. “[Sanford], we are excited to be in your beautiful city !! ... LOOKING FORWARD TO SERVING THE COMMUNITY WITH SOME FUN AND DELICIOUS SANDWICHES. SEE YOU SOOOOON!!! POM POMS IS BAAACK!!!” No opening date has been announced just yet but Moongauklang shared that it is “Coming soon!!”
Central Florida turned out to celebrate the diversity, excellence and resilience of its LGBTQ+ community with Watermark Out News’ 2025 WONDER Awards celebration at the Renaissance Theatre Company in Orlando Feb. 27. The event was sponsored by AIDS Healthcare Foundation, AHF Pharmacy and Out of the Closet Thrift Store, and included flowers by Lee Forrest Design and food provided by Savoy Orlando and Pom Moongauklang. Attendees were entertained with music by WONDER Award-winning DJ Edil Hernandez, followed by a showcase of WONDER Award-winning performers. Hosted by 2023 National Entertainer of the Year Twila Holiday, the show featured performances by Ivy Les Vixen, Gabriel Quijano, Divine Grace, Crystal Vahzz and the cast of “Boots,” the latter of which is currently performing at The Ren every Friday and Saturday. Check out all of our photos at WatermarkOutNews.com.
LOCAL BIRTHDAYS
Hamburger Mary’s co-owner John Paonessa (March 13); Central Florida softball superstar Mary Johnson (March 14); Central Florida mental health professional Kristy Weick, Brevard-based activist Scott Wall-DeSousa (March 15); Skincare genius Tabor Winstead (March 17); Orlando Gay Chorus board chair Sean Mundyschein; Central Florida recruiter Charles Elliott (March 18); Miga Made creator Evan Miga, ABM Orlando’s Sheila Block (March 19); Chair of the SemDems Lynn “Moira” Dictor, JM Best Entertainment owner John Best, Central Florida performer William Bruce, BodyStreet Winter Park co-owner Reiner Wolf (March 20); Orange County Sheriff’s Office LGBTQ Liaison Brandon Ragan, Orlando performer Chris E. Mistery (March 21); Orlando dancer Tia Kadena (March 22); 2023 Entertainer of the Year Twila Holiday aka Joshua Michael Patrick Huntington Orsini-Collins, Channel 13 News IT Director Ian Michael (March 23); Southern Nights Orlando showgirl Chevelle Brooks, Florida-based travel nurse Christopher Milliron (March 24); BizzyNate Creative owner Nate West (March 25); VarieTEASE dancer Megan Boetto, Bowled Over Promotions’ Lisa Brown (March 26).
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PROUD PRIDE: The Come Out With Pride team celebrate their first place wins as Favorite Trans-affirming event and Favorite LGBTQ+ event at the 2025 WONDER Awards at the Renaissance Theatre in Orlando Feb. 27.
PHOTO BY CAITLIN SAUSE
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HEY MR. DJ: Edil Hernandez takes home Favorite Central Florida DJ at the 2025 WONDER Awards at the Renaissance Theatre in Orlando Feb. 27.
PHOTO BY CAITLIN SAUSE
3
COUNTRY QUEEN: Crystal Vahzz, who placed second in Central Florida’s top drag queen, performs with back-up dancers during the 2025 WONDER Awards at the Renaissance Theatre in Orlando Feb. 27.
PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS
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PICTURE PERFECT: Smile and say cheese Loc Robertson, you were named Central Florida’s Favorite Photographer at the 2025 WONDER Awards at the Renaissance Theatre in Orlando Feb. 27. PHOTO BY CAITLIN SAUSE
5
BREAKING NEWS: Orlando’s WESH 2 was represented by two WONDER Award winners, Nancy Alvarez (who won first place favorite TV personality) and Jesse Pagan (who took home third place favorite TV personality) on Feb. 27. PHOTO BY CAITLIN SAUSE
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DYNAMIC DUO: Central Florida thinks Pineapple Healthcare’s Erick and Ethan Suarez are simply WONDERful, naming Erick one of their Top 3 physicians and selecting Pineapple Healthcare as their Favorite Health Care Facility. PHOTO BY CAITLIN SAUSE
7 THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT!: WONDER Awards host Twila Holiday (R) and Divine Grace perform during the 2025 WONDER Awards at the Renaissance Theatre in Orlando Feb. 27.
PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS
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WINNING HOST: Kirk DaVinci is named second place favorite trivia host at the 2025 WONDER Awards in Orlando Feb. 27.
PHOTO BY CAITLIN SAUSE
community calendar
CENTRAL FLORIDA
OUT Sports’ Friday Sand Volleyball & Saturday Kickball
FRIDAY, MARCH 21, 6:20 P.M. & SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 11 A.M. FESTIVAL PARK, ORLANDO & BARNETT PARK, ORLANDO
Out Sports is back with its Spring Leagues in nine different sports, with Sand Volleyball on Fridays and Kickball on Saturdays starting first. The leagues for Dodgeball, Cornhole, Bowling, Soccer and traditional Volleyball start in April. Go to https:// linktr.ee/OUTOrlando for more information and to get registered in one or all of your favorite sports.
Miss Comedy Queen National Pageant
THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 7 P.M.
THE PLAZA LIVE, ORLANDO
Come out for the finale to the 2025 Miss Comedy Queen National Pageant as reigning comedy queen, Vivian Vendetta-Sinclaire, prepares to pass on the crown. Doors open at 6 p.m. at The Plaza Live in Orlando and the show begins at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $69 and are available at PlazaLiveOrlando.org.
TAMPA BAY
Out for
Business Tampa Bay
THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 6-8 P.M. BELLABRAVA, TAMPA
The Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber and Watermark Out News are proud to bring you a free afterhours networking opportunity benefitting Balance Tampa Bay! Join us to make connections with Chamber and community members and enjoy delicious light bites with special raffle items and more. Learn more at Facebook.com/WatermarkOutNews.
LGBTQ+ Rex Fund Pride Fundraiser
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 6-8 P.M. 1920 YBOR, TAMPA
Join the Hillsborough County LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus and keynote speaker Stuart Milk of the Harvey Milk Foundation to raise funds for the organization’s Rex Fund. The fund is a scholarship dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ candidates access education through the Victory Institute. The event is free but donations are suggested at Secure. ActBlue.com/Donate/StuartMilk.
EVENT PLANNER
SO FETCH
“The Big Gay Cabaret: Say My Name,” March 22, Straz Center, Tampa. GMCTB.org
“Set It Off: A PrePride Experience,” March 23, Circle of Voices, Tampa. 813-686-4911; CircleOfVoicesInc.org
Drag Queen Brunch, March 23, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Tampa. 813-627-7718; Casino. HardRock.com/Tampa
“Wicked Sing-Along Drag Brunch,” March 23, Tampa Funny Bone, Tampa. -813-864-4000; Tampa. FunnyBone.com
LGB2B+ Monthly Meeting, March 26, St. Petersburg. Facebook.com/Groups/ LGB2BPlus
Drag Queen Brunch, March 26, Corner Club, Tampa. 813-232-1482; CornerClubTampa.com
CENTRAL FLORIDA
“MJ The Musical,” Through March 16, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
MAYHEM: A Lady Gaga Weekend, March 13-15, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando
The Molly Ringwalds, March 14, House of Blues, Orlando. 407-934-2583; HouseOfBlues.com
Gigolo: The New Cole Porter Revue, March 14-April 12, Winter Park Playhouse, Winter Park. 407-645-0145; WinterParkPlayhouse.org
Prof. Love’s Sexy Time Comedy Show, March 15, LGBT+ Center, Orlando. 407-228-8272; BruceRyanCostella.com
National Theatre Live: “The Importance of Being Earnest,” March 15, Enzian Theater, Maitland. 407-629-1088; Enzian.org
Drag Me To Brunch, March 16 & 23, Savoy, Orlando. 407-270-4685; SavoyOrlando.com
St. Patty’s Day Pre-Party w/ Blue Star, March 16, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com
“RuPaul’s Drag Race’s” Dawn @ iScream Sundays, March 16, Savoy, Orlando. 407-270-4685; SavoyOrlando.com
Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me!, March 20, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
J Balvin, March 21, Kia Center, Orlando. 407-440-7000; KiaCenter.com
Andy Grammer, March 21, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. 407-351-5483; HardRock.com
Bottoms Up Bingo, March 21, Hourglass Brewing, Orlando. 407-730-5249; District.HourglassBrewing.com
“Kinky Boots,” March 2130, Cocoa Village Playhouse, Cocoa Beach. 321-636-5050; CocoaVillagePlayhouse.com
Tyler, The Creator, March 22, Kia Center, Orlando. 407-440-7000; KiaCenter.com
TAMPA BAY
“trans/clay/body,” Through April 27, Morean Center for Clay, St. Petersburg.727-821-7162; MoreanArtsCenter.org
“Mayhem” Album Release Party, March 14, Cocktail, St. Petersburg. 727-592-1914; CocktailStPete.com
Shade Showcase, March 15, The Garage, St. Petersburg. 727-258-4850; Facebook.com/ OFCLGaragePage
St Pete Pride Drag Bingo, March 19, The Study, St. Petersburg. 727-342-0084; StPetePride.org
“Hair in the Park,” March 26-April 27, Demens Landing Park, St. Petersburg. AmericanStage.org
