Watermark Issue 26.21 President Pete?

INSIDE:

Watermark’s annual look at all things Halloween in Central Florida and Tampa Bay

WE CAN FIX THAT JACKED UP SMILE!

Experience the Prestige Dentistry Difference Prestige Dentistry utilizes the latest innovative procedures, instruments and techniques. Our gentle, private-practice dentists offers restorative and cosmetic treatments.

2

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Providing Skilled Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Sedation Dentistry and More to the Trinity and Palm Harbor, FL Area!

Visit us at:

www.prestige-dentistry.com to see our New Patient Online Offers!

Two locations to serve you: 1641 Davenport Drive Trinity, FL 34655 Appts: 727-263-2604

4140 Woodlands Parkway, Suite A Palm Harbor, FL 34685 Appts: 727-877-1507

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

3

Conway Cleaners

Your FREE Pickup and Delivery Service TWiCe a Week PiCkuP aND DeLivery

Serving Orlando for more than 30 years Downtown Maitland Call Today to Sign Up! Orlando Lake Nona Winter Park Waterford College Park Lakes ConwayDryCleaner.com

407-275-0397

PRESENTED BY:

Conway Cleaners & Shirt Laundry • 4450 Curry Ford Rd., Orlando, FL, 32812

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m

ORLANDO FESTIVAL PARK 2911 E. Robinson Street Orlando, FL 32803

FREE EVENT!

$5 Parking/ Free Bike Valet

www.CFVegFest.org

UltraBody

*

-----------------------------

www.bodenvy.com/WM

(407) 358-3994

415 N. Orlando Ave • Suite 104 • Winter Park, FL 32789

4

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

Seeing teenagers come up to me and let me know what this campaign means to them, and folks who are of a different generation, who just never thought that they would see this, sometimes coming up with tears in their eyes, really has made me feel a different level of awareness and fulfillment but also responsibility around that fact about this campaign.

departments 7 // Publisher’s Desk 9 // Central FLorida News 13 // Tampa Bay News 15 // State, Nation and World News 21 // Talking Points 41 // Community Calendar 43 // Tampa Bay Out+About 45 // Central FL Out+About 46 // Tampa Bay Marketplace 48 // Central FL Marketplace 53 // Wedding Bells/

Announcements 53 // The Last Page

page

26

– Mayor Pete Buttigieg on being the first openly LGBTQ candidate for president of the United States

On the cover

page

25

page a Bunch of

President Pete?: Mayor Pete Buttigieg talks historic campaign for LGBTQ History Month.

Photograph courtesy Pete For America, Chuck Kennedy; Design by DiBenedetto/Wiedemann

scan qr code for

WatermarkOnline.com

31

Hocus Pocus:

Central Florida and Tampa Bay run amuk, amuk, amuk for Halloween 2019!

Watermark Issue 26.21 // October 17 - October 30, 2019

For the Kids

Legal Loss

Danse Macabre

Last Page

page LGBTQ youth connect at the Orlando Youth Empowerment Summit.

page A federal judge strikes down Tampa’s conversion therapy ban.

page

page

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

09

13

37

Orlando Ballet haunts the Dr. Phillips Center with the return of “Vampire’s Ball.”

54

Get to know Central Florida activist and Embellish FX co-owner Ben Johansen.

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @WatermarkOnline and Like us on Facebook. watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

5

OPENING FALL 2020

Bundle. Save.

Simple.

Life can be complicated. I'm here to help simplify your insurance. Plus, the more you protect, the more you can save. Call or stop by today for a free quote.

St. Petersburg

Richard Dean Plummer II 941-999-3131

For more information, call or visit us online today!

8441 Lorraine Road Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 rdplummer@allstate.com

(813) 280-3509

AmericanHouse.com/St-Petersburg AmericanHouse.com 19-AHMK-4583

ALF# Pending

Based on coverage selected. Savings vary. Subject to terms, conditions and availability. Castle Key Indemnity Co., Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co., Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co. Š 2019 Allstate Insurance Co.

Mention Watermark to receive a special amenity.

WWW.AILTRAVEL.COM

Local travel agent providing personalized service for all of your globe-trotting needs.

Atlantis.International

Join me onboard the newly Ampliied Mariner of the Seas and receive a Florida Resident discount or Special Rate with my Friends and Family savings. I can’t wait to meet you and enjoy two Perfect Days at CocoCay, the newly renovated Royal Caribbean Private Island offering a hot air balloon, the tallest water slide in North America, wave pool, zip-lines, oating over-water private cabanas, mo and much much more.

Bring Your Costume For Our Halloween Celebration Onboard!!

Starting from $255 per person. Book now and receive a special offer of up to $100 onboard credit per cabin.

Andres Negron (727) 906-0444 x208 6

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

10981861

Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care

I'm always here with local advice you can trust.

contributors

Publisher’s

Rick Claggett PUblisher

Rick@WatermarkOnline.com

I

Desk

t’s time for me to see a

therapist. In fact, it’s long overdue. I don’t say this because something is wrong; therapy isn’t about having a problem. Really, everyone should see a therapist. It is sad to me that there is a negative connotation to doing so. Communication is so vital and that includes communicating with yourself.

I’ve been a couple of times in my life. My first visit was when I came out to my mom at the age of 16. She wanted to make sure we both had our heads wrapped around the concept of me being gay. The second was a result of my drinking problem, years before I admitted I had one. I had no-called, no-showed to work after a night of binge drinking and then headed back to the bar when I woke up at three in the afternoon.

Hindsight’s 20/20, amiright?

Most of the time I find comfort in just saying whatever is bothering me out loud. When

talking to a professional, I have the opportunity to speak with someone who harbors no bias toward me or my thoughts. I can be completely authentic and that is pretty good mental therapy in my book.

Perhaps with the help of a therapist I can find some reasoning behind why I seem to pick the path of most resistance in much of what I do. For example, I love to bake but refuse to use prepared foods even if the recipe calls for it, like box cake mixes or prepackaged icing. I will search for a recipe for that item and make it

watermark staff Owner & Publisher: Rick Claggett • Ext. 110 Rick@WatermarkOnline.com Business Manager: Kathleen Sadler • Ext. 101 Kathleen@WatermarkOnline.com

CFL Bureau Chief: Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com Tampa Bay Bureau Chief: Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com Creative/Photographer: Dylan Todd • Ext. 102 Dylan@WatermarkOnline.com

first, then carry on with the rest of the original instructions.

I’m also terrified of roller coasters but I have to ride them and I’m a gay, non-believer in a 12-step program centered on God. Most prevalent in my mind now is that I am a newspaper-publishing, hardcore liberal stuck in the mind of a centrist.

The last of these issues makes election seasons particularly painful for me. I know I’m not unique in that respect. I read the comment sections. Election cycles are painful for a lot of people, at least those in my TweetBook feed.

I get it, though. Our human rights are being argued at the Supreme Court, a concept I struggle to understand. The centrist in me looks at the other side of that coin, where they are arguing for their interpretation of their faith, a concept they struggle to understand. Don’t get me wrong, I am acutely aware that the line is drawn when religious rights take away the rights of others.

I just wonder if our society is in a place where we can have middle ground? Where religious liberties are met and discrimination is eradicated?

I long for a time when these decisions aren’t this or that, but rather this AND that. For example, can we have a constitutional right to own guns should we choose AND have laws that these guns need to be registered, licensed and come with a gun safety course?

Can we disagree with a political ideology AND remain friends with those we disagree with? This topic was on the forefront of social media as the outrage du jour last week when a picture of friends Ellen DeGeneres and George W. Bush emerged.

I know nothing about their friendship and I choose not

to judge it, as to do so would require great speculation on my part. What I can say is that the outrage against Ellen surprised me. Why can’t she be a champion of our community and a friend of George’s? Is there a scenario in which we can reach common ground on that?

I don’t have the answer, but I do know people are complicated. For me, that friendship does not define the good she has done for the LGBTQ community any more than my opinions define this paper; or any more than one article posted on our website defines the life

For me, I get to choose who I love and I let others choose their friends. For me, love conquers hate.

work of Watermark. For me, I get to choose who I love and I let others choose their friends. For me, love conquers hate.

In this issue we have a special interview from our partners at the LGBT History Project. They spoke with Mayor Pete Buttigieg about his LGBTQ influences and his historic campaign for president. In addition we present a spooktacular look at all things Halloween in our In Depth section.

Continuing with the ghoulish theme, we look at Orlando Ballet’s “Vampire’s Ball” and our Last Page features Embellish FX co-owner Ben Johansen.

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

Jerick Mediavilla

is a former journalist from Mexico City, an educator in Central Florida and an human rights activist for the LGBTQ community. Jerick is one half of an Orlando power couple with State Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith. Page 17

Nathan Bruemmer

is the vice president of St Pete Pride and former executive director of ALSO Youth in Sarasota. He was named one of Tampa Bay’s Most Remarkable People for his advocacy on youth issues. Page 19

Marianella Falbo

is a former journalist and layout editor turned event coordinator. She loves to cook, read and travel. She also volunteers at several Central Florida Charities. Page 53 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

Orlando Office Sales Director: Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Danny@WatermarkOnline.com Senior Orlando Account Manager: Sam Callahan • Ext. 103 Sam@WatermarkOnline.com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Senior Tampa Bay Account Manager: Russ Martin • Ext. 303 Russ@WatermarkOnline.com Founder and Guiding Light: Tom Dyer Tom@WatermarkOnline.com National Ad Representative: Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863

1300 N. Semoran Blvd.

Ste 250 Orlando, FL 32807 TEL: 407-481-2243

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

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

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.

Watermark Publishing Group Inc.

7

Orland o MINI Fun to Drive For Fall Getaways And Everything in Between

2020 MINI Countryman S Lease For $ Per Month

279

Plus Tax for 36 Months

Orland o MINI 350 South Lake Destiny Rd. Orlando, FL 32810

(407) 835-2727 iwantamini.com

Lease with approved credit. $2999 down plus 1st payment, tax, tag, and dealer fee due at signing. 7500 miles per yr. Payment is plus tax per month and includes all rebates and incentives plus $795 dealer fee. STK. # 3L24592. MSRP $33,560. MSRP may not be the selling price of the vehicle in the trade area. See dealer for all details. Offer expires 10/31/19

8

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

central florida news

onePulse Foundation announces finalists in Pulse national memorial and museum design competition Jeremy Williams

O

RLANDO | The onePULSE Foundation released six potential designs for the National Pulse Memorial and Museum on Oct. 3.

Each of the six concept designs were available for the public to view at the Orange County Regional History Center and online via the accompanying digital exhibition at onePULSEFoundation.org earlier this month, during which time the community was invited to provide feedback on each of the designs.

The onePULSE Foundation’s 15-person “blue-ribbon jury” will select the winning design team, now that the public viewing period is complete, and announce the winner on Oct. 30.

The jury — made of “onePULSE stakeholders, civic decision-makers, global thought-leaders and world-renowned architects” — consists of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, Orange County School Board Chair Teresa Jacobs, Walt Disney World Resort President George Kalogridis, onePULSE victim’s liaison Mayra Alvear, Pulse survivor Ricardo J. Negron-Almodovar, studioSUMO President Yolande Daniels, Harvard University Graduate School of Design Dean Sarah Whiting, Dovetail Design Strategies President Susanna Sirefman, Arquitectonica co-founder Laurinda H. Spear, onePULSE founder and CEO Barbara Poma and onePULSE Board of Trustees members Mark Cosgrove, Hilary Lewis, Andrew Snyder and Earl Crittenden.

The nonprofit organization launched an international design competition in March challenging architects from around the world to create a “unique and iconic” National Pulse Memorial and Museum.

Last month, onePULSE Foundation announced it had purchased 1.75 acres of land, located at 438 W. Kaley St., at a cost of $3.5 million to be used as the sight of the museum. The space is located less than a mile from the Pulse nightclub where the memorial portion of the project will be located.

In October 2018, the onePULSE Foundation was awarded up to $10 million Tourism Development Tax funding by the Orange County Board of County Commissioners for the design and construction costs of the museum.

The onePULSE Foundation was created in the wake of the 2016 shooting to create a memorial honoring the victims and establish a national museum dedicated to providing “a permanent home for artifacts and archives of the tragedy and represent a lasting legacy of the global response of love seen in the weeks and months following the shooting.”

For more information, visit onePULSE Foundation.org.

Community Advice:

For The Kids LGBTQ youth to connect, be educated at Orlando Youth Empowerment Summit Lora Korpar

O

RLANDO | The City of Orlando, Zebra Coalition and LGBTQ organizations across Central Florida will be celebrating and educating LGBTQ youth with the upcoming Orlando Youth Empowerment Summit.

The fifth annual summit will take place at Valencia College’s West Campus on Oct. 19 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

The event is free of charge.

Focusing on youth aged 13-24, the summit will provide a variety of workshops on topics such as healthcare, LGBTQ history, intersectionality, consent, religion, overcoming bullying and more.

Mayor Buddy Dyer and City Commissioner Patty Sheehan were key figures in the summit’s creation when it launched in 2014.

“I think investing in children is a very important thing to do,” Sheehan said during a Watermark interview last month. “I love the fact that we have Zebra Coalition. I love the fact that we have places where kids can go now to be safe.”

This is the second year that the Zebra Coalition has partnered with

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

the City of Orlando to lead the event.

The Zebra Coalition is a local Orlando organization whose mission is to assist LGBTQ youth with various programs to combat issues such as homelessness, abuse, isolation from families and bullying.

“It gets them out of their comfort zone a little bit,” Heather Wilkie, Executive Director of the Zebra Coalition, says. “It gets them to be able to network with other youth who are going through possibly similar situations that they are. And oftentimes with younger people they end up being siloed in their own schools, so what this does is it’s a way to get out of your own school environment and meet other people.”

Other organizations partnering with Zebra Coalition and the City of Orlando include QLatinx, UCF’s LGBTQ+ Services, GLSEN, One Orlando Alliance and more.

This is the first year that the summit will be providing workshops for parents as well. In partnership with Gender Spectrum, a national organization dedicated to creating gender inclusive environments for young people, there will be workshops for parents or guardians of gender-nonconforming children

A panel of LGBTQ community leaders speak to the youth at the 2018 Orlando Youth Empowerment Summit. Photo by Melanie Ararat

and teens to learn about raising a child that “doesn’t fit into society’s notions about gender.”

The parent workshop will be led

by Gender Spectrum’s director of family support. It will be at the same time and place as the summit and admission costs $10.

“I think [these workshops are] important because it gives youth a safe space to be who they are and learn about issues that may impact them, whether they know it or not,” Wilkie says.

Besides the workshops, the event will also feature confidential HIV and STI testing from Hope & Help, a lip sync battle and performances from young LGBTQ performers.

The featured performers include stand-up comedian Brianna Rockmore, electric violinist Jose Navarro, spoken-word poet Kathryn Ross and drag queen Sorcha Mercy, who will perform a “drag transformation” with tips and tricks on how to do drag makeup.

The Zebra Coalition plans to continue to work with OYES to provide these workshops and events for years to come.

“We want to make sure that we have this opportunity for youth every year,” Wilkie said.

“Oftentimes [LGBTQ youth] will be introduced to content that they may have not even thought about before, and so [the summit] gives us the ability to educate them. It also gives the community a reason to come together to talk about these issues.”

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

9

Helping people is all in a day’s work.

David Vargas Agency INC 2942 1st Ave n.

St. Petersburg, FL (727) 564-9599 Davidinsured.com

Got Mustard?

We’ve got more weiner than we can handle.

Just a Little Prick

Just a Little

www.DareToRescue.com

a member of

JustaLittlePrick.org

12

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

IfyouSex.org IfyouSex.org

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

tampa bay news

Kevin Beckner enters race for Hillsborough Clerk of Court Ryan Williams-Jent

T

AMPA | Former Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner, the county’s first openly gay commissioner, has announced his candidacy for Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court.

“Because of the support and hard work of so many friends like you, I had the honor and privilege of serving as your Hillsborough County Commissioner from 2008 to 2016,” Beckner shared Oct. 1. “From the first day I took office, I remained conscious of the trust that you placed in me to work hard every single day to make our community a better place. “ Beckner championed a number of equality efforts during his two terms, leading the charge to reverse years of anti-LGBTQ legislation in Hillsborough County.

In 2013, he and his fellow commissioners voted unanimously to repeal a 2005 decision that barred the acknowledgement of or participation in LGBTQ celebrations, paving the way for Tampa Pride to return in 2015 after 13 years.

The next year, he successfully fought for sexual orientation and gender identity to be added to the county’s existing Human Rights Ordinance. The amendment prohibited discrimination within Hillsborough County on either basis in employment, public accommodations, real estate transactions and county contracting or procurement.

Beckner cited the ordinance’s passage in his campaign announcement, adding that as commissioner he fought for the rights of all marginalized communities and vulnerable populations. He pointed to the creation of the county’s Juvenile Justice Task Force and relief for seniors from high property taxes.

“We accomplished a great deal, but our work is not done,” Beckner noted. “It’s time to continue what we started—together! That’s why I’m excited to share the news with you that I am running to be your Clerk of the Circuit Court, a countywide position that serves as the Chief Financial Officer and record keeper of Hillsborough County entrusted with independent oversight of over $1.8 billion of taxpayer dollars.”

Beckner ran for Hillsborough County Clerk of the Circuit Court in 2016 against incumbent Pat Frank, a longtime ally of Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ community. Frank has held the position since 2004 and is retiring at the end of her fourth term in office at the age of 89 next year.

“As a Certified Financial Planner professional and with eight years of service on the County Commission, I am both qualified and ready to lead our County Clerk’s office into the future,” Beckner concluded. “But to get there, I need your help. Please join me to continue the work we started to build a stronger, more inclusive and more efficient Hillsborough County.”

Kevin Beckner’s campaign kickoff will be held Oct. 22 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Columbia Centennial Museum, located at 2029 E. 7th Ave. in Tampa. For more information about the gathering or his campaign, visit KevinBeckner.com.

PROUDER DAYS: Tampa

Pride 2018 participants make their way down 7th Ave. in Ybor City. PHOTO

BY RUSS MARTIN

Legal Loss Federal judge strikes down Tampa’s conversion therapy ban Ryan Williams-Jent

T

AMPA | U.S. District Judge William Jung issued a 41-page ruling on Oct. 4 striking down Tampa’s ban on the discredited practice of conversion therapy.

The practice purports to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. It is widely opposed by prominent health associations including the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Psychological Association.

Studies have shown that it can lead to depression, anxiety and suicide. Tampa’s Ordinance 2017-47 was signed into law in April 2017 and applied only to licensed therapists.

“The intent of this ordinance is to protect the physical and psychological well-being of minors, including but not limited to [LGBTQ] youth, from exposure to the serious harms and risks caused by conversion therapy or reparative therapy by licensed providers,” it reads.

The anti-LGBTQ Liberty Counsel subsequently filed suit against the city on behalf of two therapists.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

The group cited a violation of their First and Fourteenth Amendments.

In Jan. 2018, the Southern Poverty Law Center, the National Center for Lesbian Rights and the law firm Carlton Fields filed a motion on behalf of Equality Florida to defend the ban.

Jung’s ruling advised that regulation of psychotherapy is a state concern, not a municipal one. “Tampa has never regulated healthcare substantively in any other way” prior to the ban, he wrote.

“Nor does Tampa substantively regulate services similar in nature to healthcare such as massage therapy, acupuncture, optometry, tattoos, piercings, hearing aids, medical labs or funeral services. This contrasts with the State of Florida’s pervasive and all-encompassing regulation in this field.”

“This is a harmful decision that puts some of our most vulnerable young people at risk,” Equality Florida’s Director of Public Policy Jon Harris Maurer reacted to the ruling.

“The decision for Tampa stands completely alone in its reasoning.

“Regardless of this decision, experts agree that conversion therapy is a dangerous and

sometimes deadly practice, and we know it is still routinely practiced on children and teens in Florida,” he continued. “We support the City of Tampa’s leadership in protecting minors, and the Florida Legislature can and should also act immediately to protect children from this fraudulent practice.”

“Regulating health care is above the pay grade of local municipalities,” Liberty Counsel founder Mat Staver said in a statement. “This ruling dooms every municipality in Florida and is the beginning of the end of more than 50 similar local laws around the country.”

“No child should endure this form of child abuse,” Mauer also noted. “Today’s decision doesn’t change the fact that this archaic, traumatizing and fraudulent practice needs to be ended forever. Our local governments are acting where our state legislature has failed to protect young Floridians being subjected to conversion therapy.”

Prior to her election, Mayor Jane Castor—Tampa’s 59th and first openly LGBTQ mayor—told Watermark that she would support LGBTQ youth should the ban be challenged.

“If portions of any of these ordinances or laws are struck down, then I will champion the equal treatment as a community,” Castor said. “You shouldn’t have to have an ordinance that tells you do to the right thing, so that would be my mantra to the community—we’ve always been inclusive.”

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

13

Freedom from glasses and contacts.

What will you do?

Freedom from glasses and contacts.

What will you do?

results for

Every Body ▶ Infectious Diseases Bacterial, Fungal, & Viral ▶ HIV, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), Hep C ▶ Evidence Based FDA Approved Alcohol and Opioid Abuse Treatments

▶ Medical Cannabis for Qualifying Conditions

i.e. Cancer, HIV/AIDS, ALS, PTSD, MS, Glaucoma, Epilepsy Crohn’s & Parkinson’s Disease

Most Insurance Accepted

(excluding Medical Cannabis related issues)

Dr. Kingsley Asare, DO, MPH

All-Laser LASIK and other amazing technologies like the Visian ICL, Cornea Cross-Linking and Intacs Come explore ALL your options with YOUR SURGEON Call today to schedule your FREE CONSULTATION with Dr. Kelly Herschel

407.894.8081 www.LasikEyeOrlando.com

Board Certified Internal Medicine & Infectious Disease

Dr. Michael Schaefer, DC, MPH, MCAP, DACACD Board Certified Addictions & Compulsive Disorders

Svetlana Nagle, MSN, APRN Adult and Geriatric Health Nurse Practicioner

9555 Seminole Boulevard, Suite 100 Seminole, Florida 33772 Phone 727-729-9000 Fax 866-614-2548 www.ADVANCEDCAREPHYSICIANS.com

Get to know your surgeon

• Cornea Specialist, that’s the surface of the eye where LASIK is performed!

• One-on-one care from your surgeon, from your free consultation through every visit • FDA Clinical Trail site for advancements in refractive surgery as well as groundbreaking treatments for Keratoconus • Options for any age including All-Laser Financing LASIK, Visian ICL, and Multifocal Implants Available • Have you been told you’re not a candidate for refractive surgery? We have the solution.

0%

Pizza Bakers

Full Bar

Happy Hour Daily 3-6pm & 8-10pm

Lunch, Dinner, and Sunday Brunch

(featuring Bottomless drinks)

Schedule your consultation today and find out why, Those Who Know Choose Herschel LASIK

We Cater

and can host large events

Trivia Thursday’s @8pm with prizes

We have items on our menu for all tastes and dietary needs! (gluten-free, vegan/vegetarian, low carb)

407-894-8081 | www.LasikEyeOrlando.com 1911 N. Mills Ave., Suite 100 | Orlando, FL 32803 14

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

941-388-7504 6727 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231

Right off the South Siesta Key Bridge

- LGBT owned and operated -

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

state, nation+world news

Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus unveils new name Ryan Williams-Jent

T

he Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus, formerly the LGBTQA Democratic Caucus, unveiled their new name on Oct. 11 for National Coming Out Day. The caucus has 19 statewide chapters throughout Florida.

It represents members of the LGBTQ community to the Florida Democratic Party, including their recent 2019 State Convention in Orlando Oct. 11-13.

The organization deliberately chose National Coming Out Day to unveil the new name, “a time to celebrate coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer.” They noted that “coming out to family, friends and coworkers is how we’ve changed hearts and minds, and it’s how we’ve moved America closer and closer to full equality.”

Caucus membership voted in favor of the renaming during the organization’s summer conference in Tampa last July. “We added the Q+ to be inclusive of non-binary

members of our community and those who identify as queer,” they explained, adding that the plus sign “also encompasses our straight allies who are so integral to advancing our rights.”

With the new name comes new branding. “We modernized our logo and added black and brown stripes to the rainbow-wrapped Florida to represent LGBTQ+ Floridians of color,” the caucus said, “and the fact that we are one, diverse community standing together in the fight for equality.”

Supreme Court weighs LGBTQ people’s rights Wire Report

A

seemingly divided Supreme Court struggled Oct. 8 over whether a landmark civil rights law protects LGBTQ people from discrimination in employment.

With the court’s four liberal justices likely to side with workers who were fired because of their sexual orientation or transgender status, the question in two highly anticipated cases that filled the courtroom was whether one of the court’s conservatives might join them.

Justice Neil Gorsuch, President Donald Trump’s first Supreme Court appointee, said there are strong arguments favoring the LGBTQ workers. But he wondered whether

the justices should take into account “the massive social upheaval” that might follow a ruling in their favor.

Two other conservatives, Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Brett Kavanaugh did not squarely indicate their views, although Roberts also questioned how employers with religious objections to hiring LGBTQ people might be affected by the outcome.

The first of two cases involved a skydiving instructor and a county government worker in Georgia who were fired for being gay. The second case dealt with fired transgender funeral home director Aimee Stephens, who was in the courtroom for the arguments.

The Trump administration and lawyers for the employers hit hard on the changes that might be required in

bathrooms, locker rooms, women’s shelters and school sports teams if the court were to rule that the Civil Rights Act of 1964 covers LGBTQ people. Lawmakers, not unelected judges, should change the law, they argued.

The cases are the court’s first on LGBTQ rights since Justice Anthony Kennedy’s retirement and replacement by Kavanaugh. Kennedy was a voice for gay rights and the author of the landmark ruling in 2015 that made same-sex marriage legal throughout the United States.

Kavanaugh generally is regarded as more conservative.

A decision is expected by early summer 2020, amid the presidential election campaign.

in Uganda because the current provisions in the penal code are sufficient,” tweeted Ofwono Opondo on Oct. 12.

Opondo’s comments come a day after Ethics and Integrity Minister Simon Lokodo spoke with the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

“Homosexuality is not natural to Ugandans, but there has been a massive recruitment by gay people in schools, and especially among the youth, where they are promoting the falsehood that people are born like that,” said Lokodo.

Uganda is among the countries in which consensual same-sex sexual relations remain criminalized.

Lokodo said his country’s “current penal law is limited.”

President Yoweri Museveni in 2014 signed Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act, which imposed a life sentence upon anyone found guilty of repeated same-sex sexual act. The law was known as the “Kill the Gays” bill because it once contained a death penalty provision.

The Obama administration after Museveni signed the law cut U.S. aid to Uganda and imposed a travel ban against officials who carried out human rights abuses. Uganda’s Constitutional Court later struck down the Anti-Homosexuality Act on a technicality.

Uganda says no plans to reintroduce ‘Kill the Gays’ bill Michael K. Lavers of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of the National LGBTQ Media

A

spokesperson for the Ugandan government says it will not reintroduce a bill that would impose the death penalty upon anyone found guilty of homosexuality.

“Government hereby clarifies that it does not intend to introduce any new law with regards to the regulation of LGBT activities

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

in other news Colorado Boy Scouts merge citing gay inclusion A local Colorado Boy Scouts council has merged with a Denver area council amid declining membership numbers and financial difficulty. The combined western slope service area was created in May to serve about 2,400 youth members and about 1,000 volunteer adult leaders through scout units in 15 northwestern Colorado counties.

Officials say the Grand Junction Boy Scouts council joined efforts with Denver in part because of decisions to allow gay scouts and leaders by the national organization. Boy Scouts officials say it is expecting further membership decline this year when the Mormon church separates from the organization and forms its own global youth activity program.

PrEP, PEP made available in California without prescription Pharmacists in California will be able to dispense HIV prevention pills to patients without a doctor’s prescription after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation Oct. 7 that supporters say will greatly reduce the spread of infection.

Advocates of Senate Bill 159 say California is the first state to authorize pre-exposure prophylaxis, also called PrEP, and post-exposure prophylaxis, known as PEP, without prescriptions. California is already considered a leader in AIDS prevention. PrEP is a once-daily pill for HIV-negative people to help prevent infection while PEP is a medication taken after possible infection to prevent the virus from taking hold.

Salt Lake City mayor gives endorsement for replacement Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupski is endorsing Utah Sen. Luz Escamilla to replace her as leader of the capital city. Biskupski cited Escamilla’s record working on behalf of minority groups as a state lawmaker. Escamilla is running against Erin Mendenhall, a city councilwoman who rose to prominence as an anti-pollution activist. Mendenhall garnered the most votes in the Democratic primary and has been endorsed by former mayoral opponent David Ibarra, among others. Biskupski was the city’s first openly lesbian mayor. She decided not to run again after one term, citing an undisclosed family situation. Escamilla would be the first Latina mayor if elected.

French conservatives protest bill allowing IVF for lesbians Conservative activists marched through Paris Oct. 6 to protest a French bill that would give lesbian couples and single women access to in vitro fertilization and related procedures. Traditional Catholic groups and far-right activists who held mass demonstrations against France’s legalization of same-sex marriage in 2013 organized the protest, arguing that it deprives children of the right to a father. LGBTQ activists and left-wing groups held a counter-demonstration against them. Several other countries already offer assisted reproduction to lesbians and single women but French law currently allows it only for infertile heterosexual couples.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

15

CELEBRATING DIVERSITY & MOVING ORLANDO FORWARD

OTE

ORL A NDO M AYOR

VOTE EARLY

OR ON NOVEMBER 5TH Paid electioneering communication paid for by Orlando PAC, 2910 Kerry Forest Pkwy., #D4-324 Tallahassee, FL 32309. | BUD1922

United in Colors, Styles and Choice.

A Boutique Eyewear Experience Featuring Stylish and Iconic Eyewear and Brands for Men, Woman and Children.

Located on Swanson’s Ivanhoe Row next door to Hammered Lamb!

16

MON — SAT

SUN

ADDRESS

WEBSITE

9 AM — 6 PM

11 AM — 5 PM

1231 N. Orange Avenue Orlando, FL 32804

oxfordeyes.com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

  

viewpoint

Jerick Mediavilla

#LoveHandlin Health and Compassion

“B

less you!” it’s

the first reaction people say when someone sneezes, wishing them good health, assuming something could be off. The origin of this widespread tradition is somewhat unknown, but the true wish behind it is clear: We want everybody to look and feel healthy.

The scientific community has contributed widely to our perception of health, which not only encompasses physical traits, but also mental qualities and spiritual realms. I firmly believe that, whatever the reason we choose to wish someone good health, it is because our natural, primal need is to be compassionate towards others, and that is a trait many can perceive as corny.

Compassion has been historically tied (sometimes strictly) to religious and spiritual traditions, but the truth is that this characteristic is intrinsic and natural, and it is not exclusive to any institution, nor any biological group. We have seen many documentaries in which we see how dogs, lions and other species come to help when one of them is hurt, and even help lick the wounds to aid in their recovery. That’s our nurturing nature right there, in plain sight.

This is the main reason I bring to your attention the topic of health and compassion, because we ALL know how good it feels to be taken care of when we’re sick or when we’re going through

emotional distress. Yes, we can immediately turn to that chicken soup made by mom that suits us so well, but all in all, it is the fact that you feel someone cares for you that is the soothing pill.

I will never forget the time when a really good friend of mine had just been given the news that he was HIV-positive. He was 20 years old at the time and dealing with a breakup, a fundamentalist household that rejected his sexual orientation and his new status. He confessed to me that the first thing that came into his mind was to commit suicide, plain and simple.

I am relieved to say that he did not carry out his first thought, but called me instead. I rushed to his side and we talked it through. I will never be able to fully comprehend the way he felt, but being in that position to listen helped me to be responsible for caring and learning about what my immediate circle goes through. That way I could find a way to help and not just stand idly by.

Each year, we recognize October as breast cancer awareness month. We can read the statistics of those newly diagnosed and be stunned by them, but we quickly go on with our daily chores because, you know “What else can I do?” I recently sat down with a college professor who just ended her cancer treatment for her dual diagnosis of both ovarian and breast cancer. As it is my nature to try and always keep a positive vibe, I was curious to know what was that thing she appreciated the most during this difficult time for her. She said that what she enjoyed the most was when people randomly called her inviting her to the mall, or to have frozen yogurt, or came by her house and did the laundry.

For her, these times

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

were a reminder that life continued uninterrupted, so she didn’t have to go back to her lone bed and think about the end of it all. Again, it was a magical realization for me to see that, during what appears to be a tumultuous time in the lives of those we know,

if we just make a call.

Think about those who are caring for aging parents, dementia or Alzheimer’s patients or people in hospitals. Let’s not forget them, nor those who care for them like nurses, doctors and medical personnel who chose this

just hope those in need will receive help. When we think of good health, we think of our loved ones being protected even when we are not there to protect them. Pick up the phone, show up to the hospital, help a caring friend with the dishes one afternoon

the simplest things tend to be the most impactful.

Now, think about those patients that are undergoing dialysis, or with multiple sclerosis, or diabetes; just like those living with cancer, HIV or one of the many autoimmune diseases. Life has to continue and we can help life go on with less stress and more gratitude

career. We can make their lives better when we are present. For them this is more than a simple sneeze, but we can become such a blessing for all of them, just by simply showing up.

Now, it is very easy to forget about illnesses and those suffering, when we are enjoying good health, and when in this blissful state, it is not enough to

or take them to the movies.

Our good health is the result of others taking the time to care for us, so we can actually bless them when they don’t feel like themselves. We are the help they are waiting for.

Our good health is the result of others taking the time to care for us, so we can actually bless them when they don’t feel like themselves. We are the help they are waiting for.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

17

18

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

viewpoint

Nathan Bruemmer

keeping it real Advovacy for a Reason, a Season or a Lifetime?

I

’ve been racking my

brain lately to try and remember the first advocate I was introduced to as a child. As a good Catholic, I’m pretty sure it was St. Francis of Assisi. He was the patron saint of animals.

I was introduced to a long line of other saints in Catholic school, but in the secular world I found so many more. I learned from and was inspired

by Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Susan B. Anthony, Cesar Chavez, Nelson Mandela and so many more.

However, when I question, “Who was the first LGBTQ+ advocate I was introduced to?”—I am slightly appalled that I can’t remember. Who were my advocates? Where were my role models? As an LGBTQ+ youth searching for self and tribe, I read whatever magazines I could get my hands on at our local gay bookstores. The characters I read about— the stories they told—they all seemed like advocates to me. After all, simply sharing your truth can be an act of advocacy.

But advocacy often requires more than personal storytelling. It requires stepping beyond personal boundaries and standing up for other people and telling their stories. So, when I get right down to it, I realize that the first real-life advocates in my life were a bunch of Tampa locals who met up in a former bookstore to talk about overcoming discrimination and inequality. That was 20 years ago. Eventually, these advocates grew bold, their mission grew clear and those meetings grew into one of the most effective statewide LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations in the country.

I didn’t know what I was there to do. I just showed up because I needed to do something. I needed to meet other people who also needed to do something.

I needed a tribe. I needed a voice. I needed to do anything to feel as though I could possibly make

this life better for my community and myself. And so, I showed up.

We met. We marched. We strategized. We made phone calls. We protested. We connected with each other.

It’s been a couple of decades now. Can that be real? Suddenly, I realize that I have spent years of my life in active advocacy— as a volunteer, as a staff member, as a board member or as a consultant.

I have also realized that my advocacy began well before I walked into that bookstore; well before those first meetings. I didn’t set out to become an advocate; I set out to merely survive.

I set out to learn to cope with the discrimination casually hurled at me.

When I was seven, I remember the hurtful and snide remarks a stranger made to my mother because I was so masculine looking.

I remember being publicly “outed” and then bullied in high school. After that I began to act out and I remember my principal encouraging me to drop out of high school because I was never going to amount to much anyway. At 20, I remember Chicago police officers barging into and pulling me out of the ladies’ restroom at Midway Airport to check my ID. I remember each and every instance my personhood was challenged.

I still experience those moments, but now I am mostly numb to the pain it used to cause. The numbness can be helpful as I continue to advocate, and this numbness makes me realize that there is a personal cost to advocacy.

It takes intentional effort to stand up for yourself and others. Progress comes at a cost. I have never measured that cost, but I am certain others have.

There are likely academic studies out there on the psychological impacts or the emotional impacts of long-term discrimination and the toll exacted from

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

those that fight against it.

Unfortunately, we must continue to pay that toll.

There is still so much work to do. There is still so much discrimination and hate, and we continue to see our LGBTQ+ experiences and our right to authentic lives challenged. I think

because I acknowledge this very contentious political moment. I see and hear the increasing rhetoric of hate and the swelling vitriol of racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia and so much more. I have seen many advocate friends exhausted and beaten up.

counseling every few months, among other approaches. I have also seen new faces and new advocates step forward.

All the advocates who have stepped forward for a reason, for a season, or who have made it their life’s work humble me

about the next generation of advocates taking on these challenges and choosing to make advocacy their mission. We must give support to these warriors.

We need their energy and enthusiasm because the level of exhaustion reached from constantly fighting off discrimination is indeterminable.

I reflect today on what that cost is individually as well as collectively

I have watched them step away from pubic advocacy.

I have even encouraged some to step away as the strain and stress invaded every nook and cranny of their lives. The work has gotten harder. The price is too much for some.

An increasing number of articles offer suggestions for advocates to determine when to take a break, to encourage self-care, to find community, to seek

and inspire me.

I may need to take a deep breath one day and step away again on my advocacy journey. I hope I recognize if that day comes. If I don’t, I hope the people in my life might clue me in. Until then, I know the price to pay is far too high to do nothing.

I didn’t set out to become an advocate; I set out to merely survive.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

19

AZupka Counseling Let the Journey Begin

Greek, Mediterranean, and Vegeterian Cuisine

Alan Zupka

Join Us To Celebrate the 10th Annual Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic!

Unlimited Food, Wine & Beer Tastings* Live Entertainment | 70+ Beverage Stations 30+ Food Stations | Stay & Play Packages Oktoberfest Inspired Beer Garden | NEW Themed Areas NEW Food Menus | NEW Food & Drink Seminars

LGBTQ+ Issues

All-Inclusive*

$

145

*w/purchase of unlimited event ticket. Excludes Grand Tasting Experience & Seminars.

20

Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, NCC

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

- Specializing in Individuals & Couples - Men’s Issues - Addiction - Anxiety & Depression - HIV Diagnosis 407-986-2888 // AZupkaCounseling.com 3222 Corrine Dr. Orlando, FL 32803 AZupkaCounseling@gmail.com

WE HAVE A LOT TO THANK THE GREEKS FOR...

MEDITERRANEAN BLUE IS JUST ONE MORE.

435 E. Michigan St.,Orlando, FL 32806 www.mediterraneanblue.net 407-422-2583

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

talking points

1LGBTQinyouth5 ages 13-24

in the U.S. identify as a

sexual orientation

other than

gay, lesbian or bisexual.

A

large minority of LGBTQ youth used identity terms like

“queer, trisexual, omnisexual or pansexual.”

—The Trevor Project

Today Pope Francis received me for a private 30-minute audience in the Apostolic Palace, where I shared with him the joys and hopes, and the griefs and anxieties, of LGBT Catholics and LGBT people worldwide.

I was so grateful to meet with this wonderful pastor.

—Rev. James Martin, author of “Building a Bridge,” a book on how the Catholic Church should reach out to the LGBTQ community, tweeted Sept. 30

Ellen DeGeneres defends friendship with George W. Bush

E

llen DeGeneres stirred up controversy after a photo was posted online of her and wife, Portia de Rossi, sitting with former president George W. Bush and his wife, Laura Bush, at a football game on Oct. 6.

Many took to Twitter to blast DeGeneres for sitting with a president who they pointed out, during his two terms in office, opposed same-sex marriage and led the U.S. into a war with Iraq on false pretenses.

DeGeneres addressed the controversy the next day on her talk show.

“Here’s the thing: I’m friends with George Bush. In fact, I’m friends with a lot of people who don’t share the same beliefs that I have,” DeGeneres said. “But just because I don’t agree with someone on everything doesn’t mean I’m not gonna be friends with them. When I say be kind to one another, I don’t mean only the people that think the same way you do. I mean be kind to everyone. It doesn’t matter.”

Mattel launches line of gender-neutral dolls

M

attel launched a new series of gender-neutral dolls called Creatable World.

In a new ad, Mattel says Creatable World is “a doll line designed to keep labels out and invite everyone in. Making play more inclusive than ever before.”

Creatable World offers six deluxe kits that include a doll, a wig, clothing and accessories that can be mixed and matched to create more than 100 characters and looks. The dolls are available in several races and a variety of hair styles.

Creatable World Character Kits retail for $29.99 each and are available for purchase at Walmart and Target stores as well as online at Amazon.com.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Confetti-throwing comic Rip Taylor dies

R

ip Taylor, the madcap mustached comedian with a fondness for confetti-throwing who became a television game show mainstay in the 1970s, died Oct. 6. He was 84.

In his over five decades in entertainment, Taylor would make over 2,000 guest star appearances on shows like “The Monkees,” ″The Merv Griffin Show,” ″The Tonight Show,” ″Late Night with David Letterman,” ″Hollywood Squares” and “The Gong Show.” He also hosted the beauty pageant spoof “The $1.98 Beauty Show.”

Taylor also did a fair share of voice work in animation including in “The Jetsons” and “The Addams Family.” He earned an Emmy nomination for his work as Uncle Fester. He is survived by his longtime partner Robert Fortney.

Rachel Maddow joins cast of ‘Batwoman’

M

SNBC’s Rachel Maddow will be joining the cast of The CW’s new “Batwoman” series.

“I know no one’s going to believe this is true, but it’s true,” Maddow tweeted Oct. 4.

Maddow will play Vesper Fairchild, a Gotham TV and radio personality. Currently, Maddow is only supplying the voice of Fairchild as the character is not expected to appear on screen.

“Batwoman” is a part of The CW’s Arrow-verse, a collection of DC Comic TV shows within the same televised universe. “Batwoman” stars out actress Ruby Rose as the titular character. Batwoman is the first openly gay superhero to headline a network show.

“Batwoman” airs Sundays on The CW.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

21

IMPORTANT FACTS FOR BIKTARVY®

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

MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including: } Worsening of Hepatitis B (HBV) infection. 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.

ABOUT BIKTARVY BIKTARVY is a complete, 1-pill, once-a-day prescription medicine used to treat HIV-1 in adults. 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.

Get HIV support by downloading a free app at

MyDailyCharge.com

BVYC0103_BIKTARVY_B_9-25x10-1_Watermark_KeepPushing2_DR4_r1v1jl.indd All Pages 22 watermark Your LGBTQ life.

(bik-TAR-vee)

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY 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. 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. HOW TO TAKE BIKTARVY Take BIKTARVY 1 time each day with or without food.

GET MORE INFORMATION } This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to learn more. } Go to BIKTARVY.com or call 1-800-GILEAD-5. } If you need help paying for your medicine, visit BIKTARVY.com for program information.

BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, DAILY CHARGE, the DAILY CHARGE Logo, KEEP PUSHING, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies.

Version date: December 2018 © 2019 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0103 02/19

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

e

es

h, r

ut t

m

HAT’S es.

KEEP PUSHING.

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. To learn more, visit BIKTARVY.com.

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

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

23

6/25/19 1:00 PM

Register at stpete.com/ chamber-shuffle

presented by 24

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

P

Mark Segal

ete Buttigieg, who has

served as mayor of South Bend, Indiana since 2012, came out as a gay man in a self-penned essay published by the South Bend Tribune on June 16, 2015. In April of this year, he declared his candidacy for president of the United States.

Buttigieg spoke with Philadelphia Gay News publisher Mark Segel by phone ahead of the Human Rights Campaign’s LGBTQ-focused presidential town hall which aired on CNN Oct. 10. The interview was conducted exclusively for The LGBTQ History Project, a coalition of LGBTQ print and web publications including Watermark which span coast-to-coast.

Each October—for LGBTQ History Month—the coalition publishes features highlighting LGBTQ individuals throughout history who have brought progress to our community or who have been a part of our American history or culture. The project is now in its 11th year.

Continued on pg. 27 | uu |

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

25

THE BARBER FUND HELPING THOSE LIVING WITH CANCER

www.thebarberfund.org WE HONOR THEIR COURAGE. WE HONOR THEIR STRENGTH.

Sun, Surf ONE LOVE! Sun,&Surf SculpSure Piñero Preventive Medical Care & SculpSure WE HONOR THEIR FIGHT!

In Memory of John “Tweeka” Barber 1972 - 2011

Serving our community since 2006

A Smarter Way to Sculpt

™

Non-Invasive Body Contouring Get summer ready with SculpSure treatments.

A Smarter Way to Sculpt ™ SculpSure treatments help you safely reduce stubborn fat in problem areas such as the belly, love handles, back and thighs—with a treatment plan that is customized to the results you desire.

The SculpSure device is a non-invasive laser body contouring system, intended to permanently eliminate fat cells through non-invasive lipolysis of the abdomen, love handles (flanks), back, inner and outer thighs, and under the chin (submental). Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed.

WarmSculpting treatments are not intended for weight-loss results or for people who are obese. Mild side effects may occur, including temporary tenderness, swelling, or tissue firmness in the treatment area. Please consult with your physician to see if WarmSculpting treatments are right for you. ©2019. Hologic, Inc. All rights reserved. Cynosure and SculpSure are registered trademarks of Cynosure, LLC. WarmSculpting is a trademark of Cynosure, LLC. Hologic, Inc. owns exclusive rights to photography. Use of photography without written permission of Hologic is prohibited.

Get summer ready with SculpSure treatments.

SculpSure treatments help you safely reduce stubborn fat in problem areas such as the belly, love handles, back and thighs—with a treatment plan that is customized LOGO to the results you desire.

PRACTICE NAME, 123 Main Street, City, State website.com Before 8 weeks after 2 SculpSure series AREAS TREATED: Upper & lower abdomen, left & right love handles Phone#

The SculpSure device is a non-invasive laser body contouring system, intended to permanently eliminate fat cells through non-invasive lipolysis of the abdomen, love handles (flanks), back, inner and outer thighs, and under the chin (submental). Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed.

WarmSculpting treatments are not intended for weight-loss results or for people who are obese. Mild side effects may occur, including temporary tenderness, swelling, or tissue firmness in the treatment area. Please consult with your physician to see if WarmSculpting treatments are right for you. ©2019. Hologic, Inc. All rights reserved. Cynosure and SculpSure are registered trademarks of Cynosure, LLC. WarmSculpting is a trademark of Cynosure, LLC. Hologic, Inc. owns exclusive rights of to photography.

Use of Courtesy B. Katz, MD photography without written permission of Hologic is prohibited.

LOGO

PRACTICE NAME, 123 Main Street, City, State website.com Phone#

Before

Non-Invasive Body Contouring

8 weeks after 2nd SculpSure series

AREAS TREATED: Upper & lower abdomen, left & right love handles Courtesy of B. Katz, MD

12 weeks after 2nd SculpSure series

Advertisement. Model for illustrative purposes only. Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed. SculpSure is intended for non-invasive fat reduction of the submental (under the chin) area, abdomen, flanks, back, inner and outer thighs.

SculpSure is not a weight loss solution or for people who are obese.

Permanent Fat Reduction nd

©2018 Hologic, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Cynosure and SculpSure are registered trademarks of Cynosure, Inc. A Smarter 12 weeks after 2nd SculpSure series Before Way to Sculpt is a trademark of Cynosure, Inc. Hologic, Inc. owns exclusive rights to photography. Use of photography

AREAS TREATED: & lowerofabdomen, left & right loveAMP-726 handles 6/18 without written Upper permission Hologic is prohibited.

Courtesy of S. Doherty, MD

Permanent Fat Reduction

Advertisement. Model for illustrative purposes only. Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed. SculpSure is intended for non-invasive fat reduction of the submental (under the chin) area, abdomen, flanks, back, inner and outer thighs.

SculpSure is not a weight loss solution or for people who are obese. ©2018 Hologic, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Cynosure and SculpSure are registered trademarks of Cynosure, Inc. A Smarter Way to Sculpt is a trademark of Cynosure, Inc. Hologic, Inc. owns exclusive rights to photography. Use of photography without written permission of Hologic is prohibited. AMP-726 6/18

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

A LSO OFFERING (X EOMIN, R ADIESSE, B ELOTERO) A ESTHETIC T REATMENTS Sculpsure_Orlando

26

Before

AREAS TREATED: Upper & lower abdomen, left & right love handles Courtesy of S. Doherty, MD

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

407.426.9693 1720 S Orange Ave Ste 200 Orlando, FL 32806

Look for us on Facebook!

REQUEST APPOINTMENTS ONLINE www.PineroMedical.com

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

MON – FRI 8AM - 5PM SAT 9AM -1PM Find us on Facebook!

| uu | President Pete? from pg.25

Segal and Buttigieg discussed the mayor’s historical campaign, his values and who he looks up to in the LGBTQ community.

When you entered the race as an openly gay man, did you realize the historical significance and what the LGBTQ community expected?

You know, it’s one thing to realize it in theory; it’s another to see it play out in practice. Seeing teenagers come up to me and let me know what this campaign means to them, and folks who are of a different generation, who just never thought that they would see this, sometimes coming up with tears in their eyes, really has made me feel a different level of awareness and fulfillment but also responsibility around that fact about this campaign.

What people from our community historically do you admire?

Wow, well of course anybody who seeks office and is out owes a lot to Harvey Milk and the tradition that he now represents. It’s almost impossible to imagine, I think now looking back, what that would have meant at the time.

And then more recently, in my own lifetime, I remember seeing the judiciary hearings, when they were trying to impeach President Clinton, and seeing Barney Frank just run circles intellectually around so many people. Realizing that he was also an out member of Congress I think changed my awareness of what was possible.

I also admire people who have come into the public eye recently, some even later than I have. Danica Roem in Virginia, just extraordinary the way she has been able not just to break barriers and challenge the backwards-looking culture warrior that she beat but also to do it in a way that truly focused on her constituents, and talk about issues like traffic and commuting as well as issues like equality. There’s so many really inspiring figures out there, Annise Parker, I could go on and on. And obviously I’m aware that I’m standing on the shoulders of so many who helped pave the way.

It’s sort of amazing that in just a few short decades we went from zero candidates running for public office to a man like yourself now running, openly gay, for president of the United States.

Have you sought advice from some of those pioneers like Barney Frank, Tammy Baldwin or Elaine Noble?

Yeah, I’ve had a chance to meet Tammy Baldwin, and again Annise Parker has been a great source of encouragement and support as well as advice. I’m not sure what’s more amazing, the fact that we’re the first to do this or the fact that we can do it at all. Part of just living it seems strange that I’d be the first major candidate to do this. Then again you think about where we were just a decade ago.

That’s a great point. Many in our community never thought we’d see someone being so open and running for president, and we’d always looked at

One of the most amazing similarities I see in your campaign is one I saw in President Obama’s. When he was a candidate, being the first major African American running for president, he kept running up to the race issue no matter how many issue papers he put out on certain subjects.

Similarly, you’re the first out gay man, and therefore no matter how many issue papers you put out, it still comes up. President Obama, then candidate Obama, did something spectacular. He decided he had to address the issue in a major speech in March of 2008, just on race.

that you are basically one of the only candidates who can stay in the entire game if they wish up to the convention.

You have an enormity of support from the LGBTQ community, which would like you to stay in through the convention. Do you feel an obligation that regardless of where the polls go or where the votes go that you need to stay in just to be front and center on this issue?

Well, you know, I think there’s so many things that motivate this campaign. We’re certainly conscious of the historic nature of it, and at the same time, there are many reasons why we’re in this and why I’m going to stay in it. We want to know that

When people are looking to you, and people see in you so much more than one person can really be, you realize that it’s not just you but what you’re building.

— mayor Pete Buttigieg what that opposition would look like. While you’ve been running, the largest number of those opposing you have been religious protesters, and you’ve been very good by saying “I’m going to be judged by my god, not by you.” Is there a time that either on a personal level or on the campaign that you’ve faced homophobia one-on-one?

Well yeah, somebody will come up on a rope-line and have something nasty to say, or you see stuff coming in the mail, although I don’t pay too much attention to that. But I gotta say that any homophobia that comes my way is less concerning than what’s happening to so many youth and really vulnerable people out there of any age around the country.

What’s happening to black trans women endangering their life, I try not to dwell on the irritation of any of the nonsense that might come my way because I’ve got—I can feel all the support that I have, folks from my own team, and from millions of people out there. I think of all the people who don’t know that they have that support, who don’t know that we’re rooting for them when they’re dealing with whatever it is they’re up against.

Do you think if that one issue keeps plaguing you, you’re going to have to give the LGBTQ equality speech, and are you prepared to do that?

Well, I’m not sure my equivalent of that speech will be a speech, although it might be. I think it is important for folks to hear me tell my story, and while I’ve done it in a number of ways, I may need to find new ways to do it. I think not only about President Obama’s example, but also the steps that President Kennedy had to take to reassure voters that they could vote for the first Catholic president.

So often it comes into form, and I remember this from 2008, is people saying “This is not an obstacle for me but I’m just not sure about everybody else,” and finding a way to speak to that and stay ahead of it. I think we’ll continue seeking the right ways to do that, true to who I am and true to what we need to convey as well.

There’s this old political saying, “politics is a dime and a day,” meaning politics can change on any given issue, and you can’t stay in politics unless you raise funds. You’ve had an incredible success at raising funds. In fact, so well,

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

I’ve got the resources to go the distance. And if you say not knowing how things may evolve even from week to week, I’m glad that we do, because the very same things that can be a disadvantage in terms of an issue that’s visible or something that’s in the news, sometimes what’s making things harder for you politically can turn around and be an asset a few months or weeks later. So we’re definitely in this to go the distance and feeling increasingly bullish about how this is going to unfold.

Some of the candidates who will be appearing with you at the HRC/CNN Town Hall meeting on LGBTQ equality have long standing positions—Elizabeth Warren, Joe Biden—and have evolved on our issues long before most others.

How do you differ from them on LGBTQ issues?

I think we all have different areas of emphasis. I’m certainly proud of my record, not just in terms of my identity but what we’ve done because I think it’s important not to take for granted or assume that—just because I’m out—LGBTQ voters are going to automatically

decide I’m the best person to make a difference in their lives.

I think that what’s really important is to have a robust and strong plan. And to me, the Equality Act is very important but I hope it’s also understood that that’s table stakes, that there’s a lot more that we need to do proactively around issues like conversion therapy, protecting LGBTQ youth, attacking the AIDS epidemic, diplomacy around human rights including the way we think about how we treat refugees, work for community based programs. There’s so many things that we need to do that I think each of us has an obligation to put forward a robust plan and not simply make it seem as though we think that the struggle was won when marriage equality came to the land or that the Equality Act is all we’ve got to do.

One of the most important things you’ve done is become a role model for LGBTQ youth.

That’s a heavy responsibility.

How does that weigh on you?

You know, I liken it to a moment of growth that happened to me, around what’s now been a very small thing when I was mayor— which was, when I was a candidate I used to think, when I was riding a bike, a little bit of irritation, ‘oh, I better wear a helmet because if somebody sees me without one they’re going to say something.’ And somewhere along the line I realized my responsibility was different, and I started thinking ‘I better wear a helmet because somebody might see me without one and decide not to, and I’d be responsible for their safety.’ And I think it’s the same now on a much bigger stage.

When people are looking to you, and people see in you so much more than one person can really be, you realize that it’s not just you but what you’re building. And to me, the best way to make good on that is not only to seek to act with integrity and do the right thing, but also to make sure that our campaign organization shows the values that we’re trying to promote, including the idea of belonging.

It’s part of what I’m trying to build for the whole country. And I’m very mindful of the obligation to live up to the need to model and support those values, knowing just how many people have pinned their hopes on the conduct of this campaign as well as its outcome.

Mark Segal was a member of the Gay Liberation Front from 1969-71. He is the founder and publisher of the LGBTQ publication Philadelphia Gay News.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

27

OCT 31NOV 3 2019

FILM & HALLOWEEN Convention

Rock n Roll, Horror, TATTOO

MEET

4-DAY EVENT NOW LOCATED AT THE

Celebrate

TAMPA CONVENTION CENTER

n Hallowee with e!

Spooky Empir

FOLLOW US

@SPOOKYEMPIRE



TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Get your advanced discount tickets TODAY!

RESERVE YOUR ROOM

spookyempire.com

28

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

G

et in, boo-ser—we’re going haunting!

It’s time for Watermark’s third annual Halloween issue to grab its broom and take fright.

Halloween was love at first bite for many members of Central Florida and Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ communities.

The hallowed holiday is a celebration of self-expression, one that has long allowed individuals of any gender identity or sexual orientation to openly

live their truth—or someone else’s, all while donning our very best in spooky and spectacularly gay apparel.

That’s why Watermark has summoned a list of the most exciting tricks and treats throughout Central Florida and Tampa Bay this year. We

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

detail the best in Halloween costume contests, spooktacular evenings and family-friendly fun for you and all of your ghoul friends.

Tampa Bay fan favorite entertainers Daphne Ferraro, Chi Chi Lalique and Kathryn Nevets, three bewitching scream queens pictured above, also share the secrets of their traveling Sanderson sisterhood. Central Florida artist Nick Smith and Tampa Bay performer Matthew McGee, two horror aficionados, subsequently creep it real at the cinema. They revisit Halloween

flicks of old to let us know how they hold up today.

Next up we present some fab-boo-lous recipes from Central Florida judicial candidate Barbara Leach and Watermark publisher Rick Claggett, then share costume ideas for you and your furry friends with the help of Dog Bar St. Pete. Finally, we head to the Orlando Ballet for the fang-tastic Vampire’s Ball.

Watermark knows that ghouls just want to have fun, so go run amuk, amuk, amuk and have a Happy Halloween!

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

29

DYER&BLAISDELL, P .L. DYER&BLAISDELL, P .L. Attorneys at Law Attorneys at Law

Experienced, Experienced, understanding understanding counsel on counsel on matters related matters related to family, estate, to family, estate, and beneficiary and beneficiary planning, including: planning, including: • • • • • • • • • •

Wills Wills Trusts Trusts Probate Probate Healthcare Healthcare Partnership Partnership and Parenting and Parenting Agreements Agreements • Real Estate • Real Estate

W. Thomas Dyer W. Thomas Dyer TDyer@DyerBlaisdell.com TDyer@DyerBlaisdell.com

Edward P. Blaisdell Edward P. Blaisdell EBlaisdell@DyerBlaisdell.com EBlaisdell@DyerBlaisdell.com

414 N. Ferncreek Ave., Orlando, FL 32803 414 N. Ferncreek Ave., Orlando, FL 32803 407-648-1153 • DyerBlaisdell.com 407-648-1153 • DyerBlaisdell.com

THE HIRING OF A LAWYER IS AN IMPORTANT DECISION THAT SHOULD NOT BE BASED SOLELY UPON ADVERTISEMENTS. BEFORE DECIDE,ISASK TO SEND DECISION YOU INFORMATION ABOUT OUR AND EXPERIENCE. THE HIRING OFYOU A LAWYER AN US IMPORTANT THAT SHOULD NOT BEQUALIFICATIONS BASED SOLELY UPON ADVERTISEMENTS. BEFORE YOU DECIDE, ASK US TO SEND YOU INFORMATION ABOUT OUR QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE.

30

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

halloween

Sister Act Enchanting entertainers Daphne Ferraro, Chi Chi Lalique and Kathryn Nevets put a spell on Tampa Bay

TERROR TRIO: (L-R) Daphne Ferraro, Kathryn Nevets and Chi Chi Lalique have bewitched Tampa Bay as Mary, Winifred and Sarah Sanderson for nearly a decade. Photo by dylan todd

Ryan Williams-Jent It hasn’t been 300 years, but scream queens Daphne Ferraro, Chi Chi Lalique and Kathryn Nevets have been bewitching audiences for decades. The trio has respectively performed for 20, 27 and 28 years throughout Tampa Bay and Central Florida.

They’ve done so as Mary, Sarah and Winifred Sanderson—the witchy Sanderson Sisters from Disney’s “Hocus Pocus”—for nearly a decade of that. First brought to life on screen by iconic LGBTQ allies Kathy Najimy, Sarah Jessica Parker and Bette Midler, the 1993 classic has cast a spell on Halloween fans ever since.

Nevets’ fascination with the film came first, at least on the stage; a fitting fact since she plays the eldest sister. “I’ve been a Bette impersonator for 25 years now,” she says. “If you’re going to be a Bette impersonator, of

course you absolutely have to do Winifred Sanderson.”

After refining her resting witch face, Nevets found herself on the cast of “Ferraro’s Fishtank” at Hamburger Mary’s in Tampa. She, Ferraro and Lalique decided to expand the production to showcase each Sanderson sister for an annual Halloween production.

“We got together at Mary’s and it just clicked,” Nevets recalls. “‘Hocus Pocus’ resonates with the LGBTQ community because magic, fairy tales and superheroes usually do.

We have a tendency to root for the underdog going up against the big and powerful.”

Crafting a show around “Hocus Pocus” made perfect sense to the cast, particularly with Nevets’ longstanding impersonation. “The movie has three heavy hitters in Kathy Najimy, Sarah Jessica Parker and Bette Midler who were already such gay icons,” Ferraro explains.

“Putting them together in a musical

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

certainly wasn’t a bad idea—and if you look at them, at their costumes, they’re already in drag.”

“They’re villains but everybody loves them,” Lalique adds. “Audiences certainly love us—it’s kind of scary, because you can see a different look in their faces when they see us in character.”

“It’s not like when an audience sees you just in drag,” Ferraro elaborates.

“You can really see and feel how much they love that movie and these sisters.”

The production has frequently evolved over its nine years. Originally featuring only the sisters, it was recently expanded to include additional characters from the film.

“There are five numbers in the regular version that we do and then there are six in another that entails Billy the zombie,” Nevets explains. “Each year we add or fine tune something, whether it’s our hair, our costumes or something else. We always add elements.”

The trio took flight in four Tampa Bay locations in 2019, beginning with The Asylum in New Port Richey Oct. 5. Ferraro’s home bar Enigma in St. Petersburg welcomed their subsequent stop Oct. 11 and Nevets led them to Lakeland at Mason’s Live on Oct. 12. The trio’s Oct. 19 performance at Hamburger Mary’s Clearwater is the last for Halloween 2019.

“Four different cities in four different types of venues,” Lalique reflects. “People respond to our chemistry and it creates something exciting and unique. Now I understand what happens when the actor playing Mickey Mouse puts his head on at Disney World.”

“We really enjoy what we do,” Ferraro says. “When you’re having fun on stage it translates and the audience has fun with you. We’re committed to what we’re doing; the three of us are in sync and we’ve just always been that way.”

The production is approaching its tenth year because “it gives us and audiences such joy. We’re a family,” Nevets concludes. “We truly are sisters.”

Check Watermark’s event listing for your next opportunity to see the sisters take flight—and see if “Hocus Pocus” holds up on page 33.

EVENTS:

Halloween Costume Contests CENTRAL FLORIDA Halloween—Orlando’s Biggest Costume Contest Saturday, Oct. 26, 8 p.m.-3 a.m.

Thursday, Oct. 31, 8 p.m.-3 a.m.

Parliament House, Orlando Two nights to party and two incredible costume contests!

Parliament House’s legendary Halloween parties feature the biggest cash prizes in town. Best costume on Saturday wins a cash prize of $5,000 and the best on Halloween night gets $3,000. Admission is $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

For more information, visit ParliamentHouse.com.

AMOR $1,000 Halloween Costume Contest Saturday, Oct. 26, 9 p.m.

Stonewall Bar, Orlando Stonewall Orlando and AMOR have a $1,000 cash prize for the best costume of the night! The night will also feature performances by Angelica Sanchez, Amanda Grimhilde and Yeisa. Doors open at 9 p.m. and show starts at midnight.

For more information, visit StonewallOrlando.com.

“Nightmare on Bumby” Halloween Costume Contest Thursday, Oct. 31, 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m.

Southern Nights, Orlando One, two, Southern’s coming for you! #RushThursdays at Southern Nights Orlando presents “Nightmare on Bumby” with a Halloween costume contest featuring $1,000 in cash and prizes. The night, hosted by Axel Andrews, will feature performances by Cara Cavalli, Kaija Adonis, Ivey Les Vixens and Roxxxy Andrews as well as All You Can Drink specials.

No cover before 11 p.m. For more information, visit Southern Night Orlando’s Facebook page.

TAMPA BAY 4th Annual Spooky Pooch Costume Pawty Friday, Oct. 25, 7 p.m.-11 p.m.

Dog Bar, St. Petersburg Dog Bar’s costume party for your furry friends. Dogs will be separated into small, medium and large categories to be judged in three areas: best ensemble, funniest and most creative. Prizes will be awarded to the top three in each.

Visit DogBarStPete.com for more information.

Twink or Treat Halloween Costume Ball Friday, Oct. 25, 10 p.m.-3 a.m.

Honey Pot, Tampa Get ready to dance and drink surrounded by props, shows and music for Honey Pot’s costume contest! Winners will receive more than $500 in cash and prizes and will be chosen by audience response, so bring friends. Search “Honey Pot” on Facebook to learn more.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

Continued on pg. 33 | uu |

31

GET A QUOTE & SCHEDULE ONLINE CAC#042721

PROVIDING COMFORT IN FLORIDA SINCE 1958.

OFF years

GET A COMPLETE NEW SYSTEM UP TO

OFF

Not valid with other offers. Cannot be applied to previous transactions for credit. See associate for complete details. Rebate value dependant on qualifying system purchased.

Expires 11/15/2019.

2016 2019

32

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

halloween

Clack Attack!

D

Halloween Flicks Revisited

o you remember the first time you

watched your favorite Halloween movie? Maybe your first paranormal cinema experience was 1984’s “Ghostbusters.” Perhaps you feel better connected to the campy goodness of 1993’s “Hocus Pocus.”

Films like these, seen through our youthful eyes, seem like they should be placed on pedestals and cherished forever, but do they hold up as adults? We asked the “Gate Keeper” Matthew McGee and “Key Master” Nick Smith to review classic films from last century to find out.

Instead of giving the films a thumbs up or down, our gay Siskel & Ebert will rate each Halloween flick on how many times it makes them clack their fans. The more clacks, the more the film holds up. Let’s get started.

“Ghostbusters” (1984) McGee: This supernatural comedy is one of my favorite movies of all time.

I especially find Bill Murray and Sigourney Weaver perfectly matched as comedic and romantic foils. This movie about three parapsychologists that start a ghost extermination business in New York City is still equal parts scary and hilarious. When demonic demigod Gozer, the Gozerian shows up in the final act looking like a demonic Sheena Easton, you know you’re in for a good time.

5 clacks Smith: This film was actually released a year before I came into this world, but that didn’t stop me from watching it on repeat growing up. Featuring iconic actors such as Bill Murray and Dan Akroyd, it was released when laughs could be clean and you didn’t need top notch special effects to entertain. It introduced me to my always-eating, never-caring spirit animal Slimer—and featured the demonic possession of Sigourney Weaver. She gave us 80s fierceness and lucky for me, “Yas, Queen!” wasn’t a saying back then—because my mother would have had a lot more questions for me if it were.

5 clacks “The Addams Family” (1991) McGee: Many people don’t realize this, but “The Addams Family” only ran for two seasons when it debuted on the small screen in 1964. The cast boasts

the late Raul Julia, Christopher Lloyd, Anjelica Huston and Christina Ricci, all perfectly inhabiting their iconic roles. To me the sequel, “Addams Family Values,” which was written by gay writer Paul Rudnick, is far superior. It features an amazing performance by Joan Cusack as the evil black widow Debbie Jellinsky and Nathan Lane as a police officer. There’s always been something so queer about the Addams Family. Are we surprised?

I mean, the theme song starts with snapping fingers.

4 clacks Smith: They’re creepy. They’re kooky.

Mysterious. And definitely spooky. Frankly, they’re just trying to live their best life. If you like oddball scenarios, easy laughs, drunk uncle antics or most importantly Christina Ricci, then this film is still worth a watch. While not one of my favorites, it still offers a few shocks of nostalgia. Seeing Gomez and Morticia kick across the dance floor or hearing Wednesday Addams shut down every person she meets with a quick, morbid one-liner still gives you a bit of life.

But once the movie’s over I doubt you’ll be popping it back on the tube for another 10 years or so.

3 clacks “Hocus Pocus” (1993) McGee: Halloween isn’t complete without a viewing of this delightfully campy cult classic about three wacky witches hellbent on ending a 300-year-old curse. On its original release, it was a failure for Disney and its star, the legendary Bette Midler. Film critic Roger Ebert even gave it only one star! Oh, the shade of it all, but “Hocus Pocus” is so charming that it can’t help but put a spell on you. You can catch a myriad of drag salutes to the Sanderson Sisters all over Florida this October! Those witches have got staying power, darling!!

5 clacks!

Smith: “Hocus Pocus” is one of the most relatable movies of our gay lifetimes.

It’s centered on an overdramatic trio of

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

ladies with big hair, loud outfits and lots of sass! Hoping to stay beautiful forever, these three devise a plan to suck the souls of youth—but it doesn’t take long for a boy to cause chaos for them. It leads them to pull an all-nighter of challenges with the simple hope to stay indefinitely fresh. If that doesn’t remind you of a happy hour conversation you’ve had, how about when Winifred Sanderson hits on the devil? It doesn’t end well for her. But it’s okay, sis.

We’ve all been there. These divas put a spell on me then, now and forever.

5 clacks!

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” (1993) McGee: I know I’m gonna get a lot of flack for this, but I’ve never been a huge fan of this beloved Tim Burton animated film. I much prefer his “Corpse Bride.”

The film was seen as a modest sleeper hit when first released. Over the years, it has become a huge marketing and merchandising property for Disney. I think a lot if this is based on the incredible art direction, Broadway-style score and beloved main characters. I can’t go anywhere now without seeing the film’s apparel, costumes or tattoos on someone.

Its legacy is embraced by those who are different, and it continues to be a beloved holiday film for all ages. It just never spoke to me. What do I know?

3 clacks Smith: I’ve always loved this movie, which follows leading character Jack Skellington as he enters a mid-life (death?) crisis and tries to find his purpose. Instead of picking up a hobby like a normal person, he decides to quit his job, leave his friends behind and steal Christmas.

It’s a classic loner film of depression and self-discovery. Side note: This movie is impressive when you consider the amount of work that went into making a full on Claymation movie before the world of CGI we have today. It really inspired my love of Halloween even though it’s a total Christmas movie (fight me). Heck, I even named my dog after the one in the movie.

The name also happens to be the same as the number of griefs I want to hear from the haters out there— Zero. This Pumpkin King would break his fan based on the number of clacks I’d give it.

A seriously annoying number of clacks Matthew McGee is an acclaimed actor, drag artist, writer and horror aficionado. He lives in Tampa Bay with his partner George and their two dogs, Brian and Averi.

Learn more about him at TheMatthewMcGee.com.

Nick Smith is a Central Florida artist who creates mixed medium pieces, often nerdy, giving each one a unique touch for originality. He is also obsessed with Halloween and all things spooky. Learn more about his art at Facebook.com/Art.NickSmith.

| uu | Halloween EVENTS from pg.31

Enigma’s Halloween Costume Contests Saturday, Oct. 26; Thursday, Oct. 31, 9 p.m.-3 a.m.

Enimga, St. Petersburg Enigma doubles down! Hostess Jaeda Fuentes and a special guest hold a costume contest at 10 p.m. Oct. 26 with $500 in cash and prizes. Show Director Daphne Ferraro hosts another on Oct. 31 with $300 in cash and prizes.

Diva Show and Costume Contest Saturday, Oct. 26, 9:30 p.m.-3 a.m.

Quench Lounge, Largo Dress up for this divalicious drag show with host Juno Vibranz. Show at 10:30, contest at midnight. First place receives $100 cash and a $50 gift card, second receives $50 cash and a $25 gift card. Visit QuenchLounge.com for more information.

11th Annual Halloween Party Saturday, Oct. 26, 7 p.m.-11 p.m.

Red Mesa Cantina, St. Petersburg Come dressed to impressed and ready to party for this annual contest featuring food for days and up to $2,000 worth of prizes for the winners. Contest categories are sexy, scary, look-alike and most creative. Learn more at RedMesaCantina.com.

HallowQueens: Spooktacular Drag Competition and Festival Sunday, Oct. 27, 7-10 p.m.

Out of the Closet, St. Petersburg Join AIDS Healthcare Foundation as they present a family-friendly competition and festival with St Pete Pride. Six queens will compete in a Halloween-themed drag competition with a cash bar, music, local artists, costume contest and more. Visit OutOfTheCloset.com for additional details.

Halloween Night Spooktacular Thursday, Oct. 31, 9 p.m.-3 a.m.

Bradley’s on 7th, Tampa Kori Stevens leads a spooktacular show beginning at 11:30 p.m. with a costume contest at midnight. Winners will receive $750 in cash prizes; first place receives $400, second place receives $250 and third receives $100. Featuring drink specials and more, learn more at BradleysOn7th.com.

Adult Only Events CENTRAL FLORIDA Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights, through Nov. 2, Universal Studios, Orlando. 407-224-7840; Orlando.

HalloweenHorrorNights.com A Petrified Forest: Deadly Destinations, through Nov. 2, A Petrified Forest, Altamonte Springs. 407-468-6600; APetrifiedForest.com

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

Continued on pg. 34 | uu |

33

halloween | uu | Halloween EVENTS

Bone Appetit!

from pg.33

Dark Horizon, through Nov. 2, Holiday Inn Resort Orlando Suites, Orlando. 407-387-5437; DarkHorizonOrlando.com Mount Dora Ghost Tours, through Nov. 2, Sunset Park, Mount Dora. 407-494-5655; MountDoraGhostTours.com

Delicious Halloween treats

AMOR presents Day Of The Dead, Oct. 19, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-373-0888; StonewallOrlando.com The Haunted Jungle, Oct. 19, The Jungle MMA & Fitness, Orlando. 407-601-5425; JungleOrlando.com College Night Zombieland, Oct. 24, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando

Halloween Sugar Cookies Barbara Leach Cookie Ingredients: 2 sticks of butter, softened 1 cup of sugar 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 15 ounces of flour

Haunted Hike, Oct. 26, Lake Louisa State Park, Clermont.

352-394-3969; LLSP.org MrMs Adrien presents The Rocky Horror Drag Show, Oct. 26 & Oct. 27, Parliament House, Orlando. 407-425-7571; ParliamentHouse.com ShriekFest Orlando Film Festival, Nov. 2, Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, Sanford. 407-321-8111; ShriekFest.com/Orlando

Mix butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract and almond extract on low to medium speed until blended, about 2 minutes Add flour and xix again on low speed.

Be sure to scrape down the bowl. This dough gets thick!

I roll my dough out on a flexible, plastic cutting board covered with plastic wrap, so I don’t have to worry about the dough sticking to anything, nor do I have to use “extra flour” and worry about it getting too dry.

TAMPA BAY Howl-O-Scream 2019: ‘20 Years of Fear,’ Select nights through Nov. 2, Busch Gardens, Tampa. 813-884-4386; BuschGardens.com/Tampa Ghosts of Tampa Theatre Tours, Oct. 18-31, Tampa Theatre, Tampa. 813-274-8981; TampaTheatre.org Horny Little Devils, Oct. 18, Honey Pot, Tampa.

813-247-4663; YborCityOnline.com/The-Honey-Pot Hauntizaar 2019, Oct. 19, The Studio@620, St. Petersburg.

727-895-6620; TheStudioAt620.org A Night of Hocus Pocus, Oct. 19, Hamburger Mary’s, Clearwater. 727-400-6996; HamburgerMarys.com/ Clearwater 43rd Annual All Hallows’ Masquerade Ball, Oct. 19, Bryan Glazer Family JCC, Tampa. 813-575-5900; AllHallowsBall.org Midnight Movie: ‘Rocky Horror Picture Show,’ Oct. 19, Nancy and David Billheimer Capitol Theatre, Clearwater.

727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com/Billheimer-CapitolTheatre Drag Queen Bingo Bonanza: Halloween Edition, Oct. 20, McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, Sarasota. 941-925-3869, McCurdysComedy.com Spooky Bingo with Stephanie Shippae, Oct. 22, Centro Asturiano de Tampa, Tampa. 813-229-2214; CentroAsturianoTampa.org Read No More: Gulfport Murder House, Oct. 23-27, 54th St. S., Gulfport. 516-906-2140; WordierThanThou.com Fright & Fetish Halloween Bash, Oct. 26, Honey Pot, Tampa. 813-247-4663; YborCityOnline.com/The-Honey-Pot Killer Queens!, Oct. 29, City Side Lounge, Tampa.

813-350-0600; CitySideLoungeTampa.com

Continued on pg. 35 | uu |

34

After I roll it out, using 1/2 inch dowels for a consistent thickness, I stick the plastic cutting board in the freezer so the dough hardens. This gives crisp lines when using the cookie cutters.

Bake at 350 degrees for 12-18 minutes, depending on the cookie thickness.

Icing Ingredients: 5 tablespoons meringue powder 2 lbs. confectioners’ sugar 2/3 cup of water Mix all ingredients together at a low to medium speed for 5 minutes. Add a little water as needed to achieve proper consistency. Be careful not to overbeat.

Add gel paste at the end for desired coloring.

Pumpkin Roll Rick Claggett Cake Ingredients: 1/4 cup powdered sugar (to sprinkle on towel) 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon salt 3 large eggs 1 cup granulated sugar 2/3 cup pumpkin puree

Preheat oven to 375° F. Grease 15 x 10-inch shallow sheet pan. Line with parchment paper, grease and flour paper.

Sprinkle a thin, cotton kitchen towel with powdered sugar.

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves and salt in small bowl. Beat eggs and granulated sugar in large mixer bowl until thick. Beat in pumpkin. Stir in flour mixture. Spread evenly into prepared pan.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Bake for 13 to 15 minutes or until top of cake springs back when touched. (If using a dark-colored pan, begin checking for doneness at 11 minutes.) Immediately loosen and turn cake onto prepared towel.

Carefully peel off paper. Roll up cake and towel together. Cool on wire rack.

FILLING: 8 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted 6 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Powdered sugar (optional for decoration) Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter and vanilla extract in small mixer bowl until smooth. Carefully unroll cake.

Spread cream cheese mixture over cake.

Reroll cake. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least one hour. Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

halloween

Pet Symmetry

E

| uu | Halloween EVENTS from pg.35

‘Awake in the Dark: An Evening of Unsettling Stories,’ Oct. 30, Tampa Theatre, Tampa. 813-274-8981; TampaTheatre.org

Couple Costumes with your Pets

Family-Friendly Events

Jeremy Williams

CENTRAL FLORIDA

very year we see romantic couples and groups of friends in their matching Halloween costumes, hitting the parties to show off. Wouldn’t we all rather couple up our costumes with our best friend in the world—our pet?

Pet costumes give you an excuse to hang out with your furry little friends on a night when all your other friends insist that you go out. Plus those outfits make your cute little pet even more adorable.

With the help of Dog Bar St. Pete and some of their pawesome patrons, we present a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing. You and your furry baby will be the talk of every clawstume pawty this Halloween.

Mini-Me’s: One way to couple up your costume with your pet is to dress them up in a smaller version of your costume, like Leslie Johnson and Monty did as pirates. Pair up as matching vampires, zombies, witches; or take the idea of a mini me literally and go as Dr. Evil and Mini Me of “Austin Powers” fame. That pair of costumes won’t cost you much, just “One. Miiiillion. Dollars!”

Bookworms: Base your costumes on one of your favorite books. This works well if you have multiple pets, like Megan First—with her puppy pals Holly (L) and Rodriguez— who took a trip to Wonderland as Alice, the Cheshire Cat and the White Rabbit.

Perhaps you have a large pet, so you can consider dressing up as Captain Ahab from “Moby Dick” while your big furry pal can go as the great whale. If you are one of those people who lives among a cluster of cats, get some small, 19th Century dresses and doll those felines up to look like Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy from “Little Women.”

Pun & Games: Who doesn’t love a good pun or dad joke?

Turn those groans from the kids into the perfect Halloween costume, like this pool shark courtesy of Stephanie Marble.

Get it? If you are not someone who wants to get elaborate with your costumes, try putting on a green T-shirt and have your buddy wear a collar with the word “ENVY” on it. If the internet has taught us anything, we all know how much your pet enjoys having a slice of bread wrapped around their face.

Slip those adorable faces into slices of Wonder Bread and put gold medals around your necks to go as a pair of bread winners. Or you can keep the bread, ditch the medals for berets and go as an order of French Toast.

Dynamic duos: Since everyone knows that your pet is also your best friend, how about dressing up as some of pop culture’s best pals, like Leslie Johnson and Monty dressed up as Bert and Ernie. Get colorful costumes and pair up as Batman and Robin or Spongebob and Patrick. Maybe keep with the same species as your pet and dress up as Shaggy and Scooby-Doo or Charlie Brown and Snoopy if you have a dog; Garfield and John or Salem and Sabrina the Teenage Witch if you have a cat; or if that seems too simple, swap characters and you go as the pet and they go as your human.

Read all about Dog Bar St. Pete’s fourth annual Halloween costume contest in our events section and DogBarStPete.com.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, through Nov. 1, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World. 407-939-5277; DisneyWorld.Disney.Go.com SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular, through Oct. 27, SeaWorld, Orlando. 407-545-5550; SeaWorld.com Disney in Concert: Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare before Christmas,” Oct. 18, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando.

844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org Winter Park Pumpkin Party, Oct. 19, Ward Park Pavilion, Winter Park. 407-599-3334; CityOfWinterPark.org/Parks Gatorland’s Gators, Ghosts and Goblins, Oct. 19-31, Gatorland, Orlando. 407-855-5496; Gatorland.com Halloween Festival of Frights, Oct. 25-26, Oviedo Center Lake Park, Oviedo. 407-971-5550; CityOfOviedo.net Zoo Boo Bash, Oct. 26, Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Sanford. 407-323-4450; CentralFloridaZoo.org Halloween Bash, Oct. 30, Winter Park Village, Winter Park.

407-571-2700; ShopWinterParkVillage.net

TAMPA BAY Creatures of the Night, Fridays and Saturdays through Oct. 26, Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park, Tampa. 813-935-8552; ZooTampa.org Drag Queen Story Hour: Halloween, Oct. 19, Community Cafe, St. Petersburg. 727-222-6979; Facebook.com/ DragQueenStroyHourTampaBay 2nd Annual MFA Zombie Thriller Dance, Oct. 24, Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petesrburg. 727-896-2667; MFAStPete.org Trunk or Treat, Oct. 25, Allendale United Methodist Church, St. Petersburg. 727-527-6694; AllendaleUMC.org 8th Annual Fantasma Fest / Little Monsters Pumpkin Patch, Oct. 26, Centro Ybor, Tampa. 813-739-4815; Facebook.com/ FantasmaFest Free Screening: ‘Corpse Bride,’ Oct. 26, Water Works Park, Tampa. 813-274-8615; TampaTheatre.org Movie on the Lawn: ‘Hocus Pocus,’ Oct. 28, Armature Works, Tampa. 813-250-3725; ArmatureWorks.com Imperial Symphony Orchestra: ‘Spooky Symphony,’ Oct. 29, RP Funding Center, Lakeland. 863-834-8100; RPFundingCenter.com Spooky Empire 2019, Oct. 31-Nov. 3, Tampa Convention Center, Tampa. 954-258-7852, SpookyEmpire.com Halloween in Old Northeast, Oct. 31, Old North East, St. Petersburg. 727-269-5521; HONNA.org

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

35

36

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

T

Marianella Falbo

he Orlando Ballet is back to kick

off the 2019-20 season with its undead-inspired original show, “Vampire’s Ball,” at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts—just in time to celebrate Halloween.

“This is the fourth time we’ve been doing it and I’m going into my eleventh season,” says Robert Hill, Orlando Ballet’s artistic director.

The ballet came about as a reflection of the city’s love for the scare-filled holiday and quickly evolved into an Orlando favorite.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

“I found out soon after being here how big Halloween is in Orlando.

I mean it’s huge and many people, sort of, encouraged me. ‘Why don’t you do something that is Halloween time of year friendly?’,” says Hill. “It’s so funny because originally there was not going to be a story,” he continued. “I wanted to create some kind of sweet advances that would work for the Halloween time of year and as I started creating some of the little dances it became

apparent that if I wanted to I could weave it together by creating a very sort of silly, campy story and that’s kind of what happened.”

While this is the fourth time the Orlando Ballet has performed the show, Hill says that this version of “Vampire’s Ball” will be different as it has been updated with new types of technology and new productions.

Continued on pg. 39 | uu |

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

37

15% Off Love Dolls and Torsos!

Private Arcade Booths + 3 Theaters 15% off Maia Toys!

Andrew Christian Menswear 15% Off Double Scorpio!

Sexual Supplements + Lotions 20% Off Select Handcuffs!

VOTED BEST IN-HOUSE THEATER 2018

Follow us on

@ RomanceAttackTP Subject to mdse in stock & T & C Expires 10/31/19

38

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

A thrilling good time: Orlando Ballet performers take the stage for a dark and brooding dance number during “Vampire’s Ball.” Photo Courtesy of Orlando Ballet

| uu | Danse Macabre from pg.37

“We’re going to be using projection for some of the backdrop, that’ll be a new thing.

There are some new dances in the second act,” says Hill. “It’s going to feel quite fresh.”

“Vampire’s Ball’s” use of classical technique and humor makes this ballet a perfect introduction to the art form as well.

“The play on vampires, zombies and all of that is just pure fun. It does not take itself seriously, we make fun of the ballet tradition,” says Hill. “‘Vampire’s Ball’ is rich in thrills and campiness, with an approachable blend of strong classical dancing alongside edgy, contemporary movement.

It’s a fan favorite, but it’s also a fun first ballet for newcomers.”

The ballet will also provide the audience the chance to see some new faces on the stage.

“In the original production, I created a dance for a trio of young, talented dancers and they turned out to be the sort of children of vampires and they do this really hard dance and bring down the house,” says Hill.

Although the casting has not been announced, “Vampire’s Ball” will include dancers from Orlando Ballet’s second company, upper level trainees

and children from the Orlando Ballet school.

“I created these roles because our students are performing at such an exceptional level, they deserve the opportunity to gain valuable performance experience alongside our professional company,” says Hill.

With a cast of 40 dancers, “Vampire’s Ball” will include

Hill is excited to bring back “Vampire’s Ball” and understands the love Orlando dance lovers have for the program.

“I just got into the studio, started making these little dances that used either Halloween kind of music or that kind of thing and then eventually I just felt like wow this could be linked to this way

in Dance” by the New York Times in 2002.

After “Vampire’s Ball,” the season will continue with the return of holiday favorite “The Nutcracker.” The performance starts Dec. 13 and runs through Dec. 23. “The Nutcracker” will include the entire Orlando Ballet company and 150 Orlando Ballet school students.

“After that we’ll be doing

‘Vampire’s Ball’ is rich in thrills and campiness ... a fun first ballet for newcomers.

— Robert Hill most of the company.

The principal casting will be announced closer to opening night.

“We’re not ready to officially announce the principal cast but just know that the cast is 40. Everybody in the company will be on the stage at one point in each of the four performances,” says Hill.

“There’s no mystery, we don’t try to be anything like that. It just makes sense for all concerned that we really wait until just before and, you know, hopefully the casting will be what I have in my mind right now but we’re still teaching the ballet and we’re still trying different people out in different roles.”

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

and that could be linked that way and we use a little bit of voice over to tell the story,” he says. “It’s a very silly, funny and campy story and people absolutely love it. I get people who stop me in the grocery store, in different places around town, thanking me for bringing ‘Vampire’s Ball’ back again. It really does have great dancing in it and so people love that.”

Hill has been the artistic director at Orlando Ballet for over a decade. He has been a principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, the New York City Ballet and the Royal Ballet. His performance in “Onegin” at the Metropolitan Opera House was selected as one of the “Ten Best Moments

very nice production of ‘Cinderella,’” says Hill. “Then, we are going to be doing a triple bill program in March which I think is going to be my favorite.”

“Made in the USA: A Collection of American Works” will feature guest choreographers and an original piece by Hill.

“The triple bill program is called ‘Made in the USA,’ so I’ve invited two of my friends who are American choreographers to come back,” says Hill. “Jessica Lang, this is her third time with us, and Val Caniparoli, this is our second time having his stage work, and I’m going to be creating the third ballet on that program.”

Lang graduated from the Juilliard School where she studies under the direction of Benjamin Harkarvy. She has choreographed for companies worldwide, including American Ballet Theatre, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Joffrey Ballet.

Caniparoli has choreographed for over 50 companies and spent 43 years at San Francisco Ballet. Caniparoli attended Washington State University and received a scholarship to study at San Francisco Ballet School.

“I’m also going to be making my return to the stage after 17 years in a solo called ‘The Calling.’ The choreographer is Lang so we will be having her company piece and also the solo,” says Hill. “I’m very excited about returning to the stage.”

The Orlando Ballet closes out the season with “Mowgli – The Jungle Book.” The show is a one-hour version of the production designed for kids of all ages.

Orlando Ballet’s “Vampire’s Ball” plays Oct. 31-Nov. 3 at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

Tickets start at $24 and are available to purchase at OrlandoBallet.org/ Event/Vampires-Ball-2019. For more information on all the shows coming to the 2019-20 season, visit OrlandoBallet.org.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

39

40

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

community calendar

event planner arts+entertainment

Central Florida

Central Florida

Volusia Pride 2019

The Animatronicans Double Feature, Oct. 1627, Orlando Museum of Art’s Sun Trust Auditorium, Orlando. 407-896-4231; JeffJonesComedy.com

Saturday, Oct. 19, 1-5 p.m.

Old Fort Park, New Smyrna Beach Volusia Pride celebrates its 8th annual Pride Festival in New Smyrna Beach. The festival will feature vendors, food trucks and live entertainment.

The festival is free to attend but donations to stock the shelves of local dog and cat rescues are being accepted. For more information, visit VolusiaPride.com.

Bear Bust XXIX, Oct. 17-21, Parliament House, Orlando.

407-425-7571; BearBust.org Immerse 2019, Oct. 1819, Downtown, Orlando.

CreativeCityProject.com Uncut Cabaret, Oct. 18 & 20, Parliament House, Orlando. 407-308-5119; OrlandoGayChorus.org Alison Krauss, Oct. 19, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org Bon Voyage! – The Stonewall Duo Send-Off Party, Oct. 19, Roque Pub, Orlando. 407-985-3778; RoquePubOrlando.com Orlando Youth Empowerment Summit, Oct. 19, Valencia College – West Campus, Orlando.

407-228-1446; OrlYES.org April Fresh’s Comedy Brunch, Oct. 20, Parliament House, Orlando. 407-425-7571; ParliamentHouse.com Panic Underground w/ Grun Wasser, ACP PRO, Bacon Grease, Oct. 21, Stonewall Bar, Orlando. 407-373-0888; StonewallOrlando.com “Les Miserables,” Oct. 22-27, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org Orlando Improv presents Ladies Night, Oct. 23, Orlando Improv Comedy Club, Orlando. 407-480-5233; TheImprovOrlando.com Orlando Bisexual Alliance Monthly Meeting, Oct. 24, LGBT+ Center, Orlando. 407-228-8272; TheCenterOrlando.org

The Joker The Joker: Bianca Del Rio brings her show “It’s Jester Joke” to the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa Oct. 31 and Hard Rock Live in Orlando Nov. 1. Photo courtesy Right On! PR The Jazz Orchestra w/ Nikki Yanofsky, Oct. 24-25, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando. 844-513-2014; DrPhillipsCenter.org Central Florida Veg Fest 2019, Festival Park, Orlando.

321-331-1859; CFVegFest.org Bianca Del Rio: It’s Jester Joke, Nov. 1, Hard Rock Live, Orlando.

407-351-5483; HardRock.com/ Live/Locations/Orlando

Tampa Bay “Vietgone,” Oct. 17Nov. 3, American Stage Theatre Company, St. Petersburg. 727-823-7529; AmericanStage.org GMCTB’s “You Are My Brother,” Oct. 18, King of Peace MCC, St. Petersburg & Oct. 19, The Portico, Tampa. 813-389-6313; GMCTB.org Wheeling Warriors Fundraiser, Oct. 19, Gay StPete House, St. Petersburg. 727-365-0544; GayStPeteHouse.com

St. Petersburg Science Festival, Oct. 19, Poynter Park, St. Petersburg. 727-893-7345; StPeteSciFest.org BURN: Morean Street Party, Oct. 19, Morean Arts Center, St. Petersburg. 727-822-7872; MoreanArtsCenter.org Free Pops in the Park, Oct. 19, Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg & Oct. 20, River Tower Park, Tampa. 727-892-3337; FloridaOrchestra.org Drag Queen Brunch, Oct. 20, Frescos, Lakeland. 863-683-5267; FrescoLakeland.com Taste of Latino Art & Music Festival, Oct. 20, Centennial Park, Tampa.

TheCubanSandwichFestival.com Kevin Beckner’s Campaign Kickoff, Oct. 22, Columbia Centennial Museum, Tampa. 813-248-4961; KevinBeckner.com Rainbow Housing Coalition Community Meeting, Oct. 23, King of Peace MCC, St. Petersburg. 727-228-2075; RainbowHousingCoalition.org

Patty Sheehan Campaign Fundraiser Thursday, Oct. 24, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

The Hammered Lamb, Orlando Patty Sheehan, Orlando’s first out city commissioner, is running for her sixth term in District 4. Come out and meet your city commissioner as she lays out her mission for the City of Orlando for the next four years.

Suggested donation is $25, max donation is $1,000. For more information, call 407-435-9514 or visit VoteForPatty.com.

Drag Queen Bingo, Oct. 24, Bay Cannon Beer Co., Tampa.

813-442-5615; BayCannon.com

Tampa Bay

SHINE St. Petersburg Mural Festival Grand Finale, Oct. 26, The Factory St. Pete, St. Petersburg. SHINEMuralFest.com

Ujima Men’s 20th Anniversary Conference

St. Pete Equality Connection, Oct. 29, Red Mesa Cantina, St. Petersburg. 813-870-3735; EQFL.org So You Think You Can Dance Live, Oct. 29, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com Bianca Del Rio: It’s Jester Joke, Oct. 31, Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa.

813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org

Sarasota Out of the Darkness Walk, Oct. 20, Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota. 407-415-8757; AFSP.org Hashtag Lunchbag Monthly Meet-up, Oct. 26, Raffurty’s Bar and Grill, Sarasota.

HashtagLunchbag.org

Friday, Oct. 25—Sunday, Oct. 27 holiday inn westshore, tampa The Ujima Men’s Collective holds their 20th anniversary conference in Tampa! The organization exists to grow a collection of Black, same gender loving men who will educate, inform, encourage and advocate for themselves and the greater community. The conference boasts five tenents: leadership, advocacy, relationships,spirituality and health & wellness. For more information about speakers, workshops and more, visit UjimaMen.net.

GSA Student Leadership Retreat Saturday, Oct. 26, Noon-3 p.m.

Metro Inclusive Health, St. Petersburg Metro hosts GSA advisors, students, school administrators and supportive adults to come together for an afternoon centered on resource sharing, support and creativity. Attendees will hear remarks from LGBTQ leaders, participate in icebreakers, network, and learn how to create change at their schools. More information can be found at MetroTampaBay.org.

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

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

41

We’re letting sheena brook

Sat, nov 2•11a-4p

Give Up the Stray Cat Life...

suncoast mcc (church grounds) music by

the

(nbc’s “the voice” contestant)

dj oliver dill • gracie cespedez diversity chorus

dogs

Pet Blessing (1:30p) • Pet Parade Contest w/Prizes • Drag Queens Vendor Booths • Food & Refreshments • Local Speakers Children’s Corner & Activities • Voter Registration PRIDE T-Shirts & Items for Sale

OUT!

Differen� Shade� o� Ga�

by Zarhary Taylor

2nd annual 2019

VENDOR AND SPONSORSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE. CALL US! 3276 E. VENICE AVE • VENICE, FL 34292 • VENICEFLPRIDE.COM • 941.484.7068

Framing Watermark readers since 2003

Different Shades Of Gay is an autobiography that follows the journey of the main character Zach, through life and love. The beginning of the book portrays a young inexperienced Zach but full of wonder and at the beginning of his gay odyssey.

Starting in his native country of Israel, he begins to experience the first shades of love and sex and taste the initial flavors of gay loving.

Get your copy today at Amazon

https://amzn.to/2mWHrSy

BUY A HOUSE!

We can show you where.

Preferred People, Preferred Places,

PREFERRED PROPERTIES of Sarasota, Inc.

Lic. Real Estate Broker

Bri Hays,

Broker (941) 321-7772

Kris Kesling-Hays, Broker (941) 321-5638

Serving Sarasota and Manatee Counties www.PrefHomes.net

Bevel and Flat Mirrors Cut to your specifications!

Specialty Frames Available in Oval, Circle, and Shadowbox.

Bevel and Flat Mirrors Cut To Your Specifications

All custom frame work is professionally crafted on-premises!!

TyroneFrame.com

Specialty Frames Available in Oval, Circle and Shadowbox

All Custom Framework is Professional Crafted on-premises!!!

2060 Tyrone Blvd N • St. Pete

TyroneFrame.com 2060 Tyrone Blvd N • St. Pete • (727) 344-1000

(727) 344-1000

42

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

overheard

tampa bay out+about

CAN & GRACE

C

AN Community Health announced Oct. 7 that LGBTQ ally, actress and activist Debra Messing will headline the organization’s second annual Red Ribbon Gala at the Ritz Carlton in Sarasota on Feb. 22, 2020.

Messing is best known for her award-winning role on “Will & Grace,” NBC’s groundbreaking LGBTQ-focused television series. Its revival will end in 2020 with a third season, its eleventh overall.

The gathering supports CAN’s mission to provide a continuum of medical, social and education services essential to the health and wellbeing of those living with HIV and other diseases. The organization announced Messing would headline the evening with a video announcement on social media. “We are so excited to welcome Debra Messing as our guest speaker,” they wrote.

“My favorite acting teacher died of AIDS complications,” Messing explains in the video. “It was devastating—and I vowed I would do what I could to change how people with HIV/AIDS were treated. Today, HIV is a manageable disease—with the right medication people are living long and healthy lives. Compassion, love, determination and hope are equally effective tools in this fight.”

CAN’s “Red Ribbon Gala: Reshaping the Face of HIV” will be held Feb. 22, 2020. For more information, visit CANCommunityHealth.org.

MARVELOUS ENGAGEMENT

T

ampa’s John Chambrone and fiance Richard Owen went viral Oct. 12 after getting engaged during an ACE Comic Con photo op in Illinois with “Captain Marvel” actress Brie Larson.

Chambrone, a longtime comic book fan, is the president of Bear Soup Tampa and entertainment chair for Tampa Pride. He and Owen saw Marvel Studios’ “Captain Marvel” on their first official date.

“Y’all I was present for a proposal and I am CHANGED,” Larson shared the engagement photos on Twitter Oct. 13. “Much love to the happy couple!!!!”

Chambrone also celebrated the news on social media. “He said yes and we both put the ring on his finger,” he recalled. “As we were walking away, Richard said he saw her tear up a bit. We are both so happy that we have been crying on and off all night.”

Ahead of the photo op, Chambrone wrote a letter to Larson to explain his actions and love for her character. “The crazy thing about photo ops is they go by so quickly,” he shared. “I really wanted Brie Larson to know the reason why I chose to ‘ambush’ her with the proposal so wrote her a letter a couple of months ago to hand to her.”

“It was amazing,” he tells Watermark. “I can’t believe how this is blowing up! I just wanted to share my special moment with our favorite superhero and now the world is embracing us!!”

You can read Chambrone’s letter and see the happy couple’s photos at WatermarkOnline.com.

1

2 3

1

PASCO PROUD: Miss Pasco Pride Imani Valentino (L) and Mister Pasco Pride Ken Dartanyan (R) enjoy Pasco Pride with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay’s Deb Kristol-Irwin Oct. 6. PHOTO COURTESY BBBSTB.

2

DYNAMIC DUO: Daniel Harris (L) and Seth Williams dazzle at Lucky Star Lounge Oct. 5. PHOTO

BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

3

FILM FANS: TIGLFF Festival Director Renee Cossette (L) and Program Director KJ Mohr welcome audiences to the Tampa Theatre for the Watermark-sponsored “Benjamin” Oct. 9. PHOTO

BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

4

5

4

SUN SHINES HERE: Come OUT St. Pete board members Chris Jones, Bill Kody, Jayson Chancey and Brian Longstreth receive the city of St. Pete’s COSP proclamation at the Sunshine Center Oct. 10. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

5

MAGA: Jimmy Mac (L) and Michael G. Batista make America gay again during COSP’s festival Oct. 5.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

6

SAY HER NAME: Project No Labels advocates for the transgender community during COSP’s parade Oct. 5. PHOTO

BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

6

7

HIGHER, FURTHER, FASTER: Tampa Pride’s John Chambrone (R) proposes to fiance Richard Owen (L) with the help of “Captain Marvel” star Brie Larson at ACE Comic Con. PHOTO COURTESY JOHN CHAMBRONE

8

30 & THRIVING: (L-R) Tampa Mayor Jane Castor (L) and partner Ana Cruz kick off the 30th annual TIGLFF Oct. 4.

PHOTO BY NICK CARDELLO

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

8 7

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

43

YOU’RE INVITED TO THE GREATER

ORLANDO GALA SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2019 • 8 - 11 PM

PRESENTED BY

Orlando Museum of Art • 2416 N Mills Ave, Orlando, FL 32803 Our Steering & Host Committee have planned an incredible Gala and we hope you will be there! Join us for a night of live music by Silkee Smoove band, the beautiful violin sounds of Jose Navarro, a silent art auction, delicious hors d’oeuvre, and a full open bar. The year’s program will feature a state of the state address by Equality Florida founder and Executive Director Nadine Smith. We will honor Ashley Figueroa, Project Manager for Bliss Cares and local activist, with this year’s Voice for Equality Award. She is the first member of the transgender community to receive this honor at the Greater Orlando Gala. We will also celebrate Jason Lambert and The Hammered Lamb, this year’s Equality Means Business Award honoree.

Tickets are

$100 in advance $125 at the door

R.S.V.P. and purchase tickets at equalityflorida.org/orlandogala or call 971-678-5707

Sponsorship opportunities begin at $500 and include complimentary Gala tickets along with a number of other benefits.

To become a sponsor visit www.equalityflorida.org/orlandogala or contact Brandon Wolf at Brandon@equalityflorida.org or 971-678-5707

Equality Florida is the largest civil rights organization dedicated to securing equality for Florida’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community.

All net proceeds directly benefit Equality Florida Institute, a tax exempt 501c3 non-profit organization.

A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR EQUALITY FLORIDA INSTITUTE MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES AT WWW.FLORIDACONSUMERHELP.COM O R B Y C A L L I N G T O L L- F R E E W I T H I N F L O R I D A ( 1 . 8 0 0 . 4 3 5 . 7 3 5 2 ) . R E G I S T R AT I O N D O E S N O T I M P LY E N D O R S E M E N T, A P P R O VA L , O R R E C O M M E N D AT I O N B Y T H E S TAT E . R E G I S T R AT I O N # C H 7 9 9 2 .

44

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

overheard

central florida out+about

Patty Sheehan re-elected

P

atty Sheehan was re-elected for her sixth term as Orlando City Commissioner for District 4 after her opponent dropped out.

Sheehan is the first openly gay elected official in Central Florida and was first elected to the Orlando City Council in 2000. Her opponent Corey DeVogel filed the paperwork to withdraw Oct. 8.

Sheehan plans to donate the approximately $60,000 she has raised for her campaign to the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando, the Zebra Coalition and Libby’s Legacy Breast Cancer foundation.

She has been recognized for her achievements with awards from many organizations over her first five terms, including from The LGBT+ Center, Girl Scouts Citrus Council, Hope & Help Center of Central Florida and more. Her past projects involve restoring Lake Eola Park, assisting in the creation of the Orlando Youth Empowerment Summit and founding Wheels for Kids, which has provided over 1,000 bicycles to children in need.

2

1

3

5

6

The Center premieres Stonewall exhibit

T

he Stonewall National Museum and Archives has arrived at The LGBT+ Center in Orlando with its traveling exhibition.

The first exhibit, “50 Years: The Stonewall Uprising,” is on display for the public at The Center until Dec. 31.

A new exhibit will be featured every three months with “The Harlem Renaissance: As Gay As It Was Black” on display from Jan. 1-March 31, “Days Without Sunshine: Anita Bryant’s Anti-Gay Crusade” displayed April 1-June 30 and “Transcending Gender: Bodies & Lives” displayed July 1-Sept. 30.

The exhibition is open to the public during the LGBT+ Center’s Orlando regular operating hours.

Pridefest returns

T

he University of Central Florida held PrideFest at the Student Union on campus Oct. 2 to celebrate LGBTQ History Month with its students.

Hosted by the Multicultural Student Center (MSC), PrideFest included LGBTQ history trivia, musical performances, games, a photo booth, a rainbow ball pit and tables from various LGBTQ organizations in Central Florida. Participants included Zebra Coalition, UCF’s Pride Student Association, QLatinx, The LGBT+ Center, Spektrum Health, Watermark and more.

A crowd of about 75 UCF students of all identities joined in the festivities. Various organizations at UCF will be holding events for the entire duration of LGBTQ History Month. Events include Pride Chats, movie nights, a National Coming Out Day event, an LGBTQ Employer Panel, an amateur drag show and more.

Check out the photos from PrideFest at WatermarkOnline.com and check in with Watermark throughout the month of October for information on upcoming events.

4

1

Team Disney: Disney’s VoluntEARS came out for Come Out With Pride’s Drag Race 5K at Lake Baldwin Park Oct. 6. Photo by Jeremy Williams

2

What’s Up Doc?: Comedy legend Carrot Top enjoys The Most Colorful Parade in downtown Orlando Oct. 12. Photo by Kathleen Sadler

3

On Display: (L-R) Russ Fowler, Patty Sheehan and Jorge Rafael Mendez check out the first of four Stonewall National Museum exhibits at The LGBT+ Center in Orlando Oct. 4. Photo by Danny Garcia

4

Colorful Couple: Leyla Lakin (L) and Trevor Lakin get rainbowed up with Watermark at the Come Out With Pride festival at Lake Eola in Orlando Oct. 12. Photo by Danny Garcia

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

5

Diverse Winners: (L-R) Tyrone Law, Yogita Inamdar, Drew Schrimsher and Donna Dyson at the Orlando Business Journal’s 2019 Diversity in Business Awards where Watermark was named an Outstanding Diverse Organization in Central Florida.

Photo by Jeremy Williams

6

Pride Tailgating: Teena Wise (L) and Courtney Bailey have a drink to celebrate Pride in Orlando Oct. 12. Photo by Kathleen Sadler

7

7

Podcast Chat: (L-R) Jeff Prystajko, Jorge Estevez and David Baker-Hargrove get under the rainbow for a podcast chat at WFTV’s Channel 9’s studio Oct. 10.

Photo courtesy of Jeff Prystajko

8

Wonder Twins: Ida V. Eskamani (L) and Anna V. Eskamani kick off Anna’s re-election campaign at The Mezz in Orlando Oct. 3.

photo courtesy Anna V. Eskamani

8 October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

45

tampa

M a r k etplace

framing

Attorneys

hotels+resorts

&

Attorney Alison M. Foley-Rothrock se habla Español!

Immigration Law

ba y

Residential • Commercial

Offering All Types Of Immigration Services

Dan Fiorini 2060 Tyrone Blvd N • St. Pete (727)344-1000

Call today for your FREE CONSULTATION Offices in Lakeland and Ybor City, Tampa 813-424-0652 www.foleyimmigrationlaw.com

Crossroads Center next to Ross

Hair Salon

Community

YOU LOOK GOOD GET YOUR HAIR CUT | COLORED STYLED | BUZZED | CLEANED UP SHAPED | DYED | DID | DONE | FADED TRIMMED | BLOWN OUT

Interior Design

community

“

Because our clients are diverse, it dictates that our designs be equally diverse and unique to each of them.”

WATERMARKFC

BISHOPS ST. PETERSBURG 689 CENTRAL AVE. 727 / 289 / 2289 IG @BISHOPS.STPETERSBURG WALK-INS WELCOME OR BOOK ONLINE @ BISHOPS.CO

DUFFY DESIGN GROUP, INC

Healthcare

1810 W. Kennedy Blvd, Ste 204 Tampa, FL 33606

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME!

813-280-8575 duffydesigngroup.com

Read It Online!

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

46

Primary Care for All Combined HIV/Primary Care PrEP (Truvada) Same Day Transgender Care and HRT STI Testing/Treatment Same or Next Day Appts.

In Office Blood Draws Medical Cannabis use Certification www.DiversityHealthCenter.com info@DiversityHealthCenter.com 4302 N. Habana Ave, #200, Tampa, FL 33607 CALL US TODAY! Ph: (813) 518-0881

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Recovery Services

Intervention Success SPECIALIZING IN LGBTQ ISSUES TA M PA B AY - O R L A N D O - M I A M I

A radical approach with proven success in dealing with addiction and co-occuring disorders:

Drugs (Prescription & Illicit) | Alcohol | Internet/Porn | Gambling Compuslive Sex | Hording | Marijuana and Cigarette Smoking Eating Disorders (Buliamia & Anexoria)

stephen@interventionsuccess.com www.interventionsuccess.org

200 104th Ave., Suite 312 St. Petersburg, FL 33706

312-771-3664

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

Stephen B Timmer JD, CIP, CAI-II Director/Certified Interventionist

tampa

ba y

Travel

M a r k etplace

youth services

viewpoint columnist

Nathan Bruemmer

Keeping it Real only in Watermark and WatermarkOnline.com

Veterinarian

Vocal Instructor SOUTH TAMPA VOICE THERAPY

Call for Rates

813-655-9890 Adult-focused speech pathology practice Specializes in transgender voice modification Cara Bryan, MA, CCC/SLP Speech Pathologist Voice and Singing Specialist

LGBTQ+ friendly 4707 W Gandy Blvd Ste 3, Tampa FL 33611 813-728-6601 // SouthTampaVoiceTherapy.com

Follow us on Social media /WatermarkFL @WatermarkOnline /WatermarkOnline

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

47

C ent r al

F lo r ida

Accounting + Bookkeeping

M a r k etplace

Attorney

Air Conditioning

407-295-9231

www.4seasonsair.net The A/C Company you wish you called first.

FL License#: CAC056308

We have the perfect deal on

PERFECT AIR for your home

Up to $1700

in Rebates plus additional utility company incentives on qualified units.

Practice Areas: Wills, Trusts and Estate Planning Business Law Real Estate

Accounting + Bookkeeping

Attorney

Probate Pre/Post-nuptial Agreements

Matt Rosenthal

ROSENTHALMEYER, PLLC ATTORNEYS AT LAW

MARRIAGE & DOMESTIC PARTNER PLANNING PERSONAL/BUSINESS TAX PREPARATION, e-file QUICKBOOKS ADVANCED PROADVISOR®

Offices in Lake Nona & Avalon Park

Leah eah G. James, CPA, MSTax

Judy L. Hines, CQA, CPB, CPS, CAP

mrosenthal@rosenthalmeyer.com

www.rosenthalmeyer.com 407-504-9725

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.

Before you decide, ask us to send you information about our qualifications and experience.

407.478.4513 • ContactUs@geckoCPA.com

AIDS organization

Cleaning Services

attorney

Counselors + Therapists

Follow us on Social media /WatermarkFL @WatermarkOnline

407-435-9995

/WatermarkOnline 48

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

C ent r al

Counselors + Therapists

F lo r ida

M a r k etplace

Financial PLanners

Health + Fitness

Discount Nutrition Center Serving Orlando for 24 years

MOST FINANCIAL COMPANIES WANT YOU TO INVEST IN THEM. WE’D RATHER INVEST IN YOU. FILOMENA GOMES FINANCIAL ADVISOR ORLANDO (407) 845-1438 FILOMENA.GOMES@NM.COM 05-4011-1 © 2019 Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), Milwaukee, WI (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. Northwestern Mutual Investment Service, LLC (NMIS) (securities), a subsidiary of NM, broker- dealer, registered investment adviser and member FINRA (www. finra.org) and SIPC (www.sipc.org). Filomena Gomes is an insurance Agent(s) of NM. Filomena Gomes, is a Registered Representative(s) of NMIS. Filomena Gomes, is a Representative of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, (NMWMC) Milwaulkee, WI (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning services), a subsidiary of NM and federal savings bank. All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed Representatives who operate from agency offices of NMWMC.

Counselors + Therapists

Funeral Services

.Vitamins .Herbs .Dietary .Sports

We will match or beat local prices!

407-207-0067 M-F 10-7, Sat 10-6 www.NMFbody.com

Crystal Lake Plaza 3074 Curry Ford Rd.

Between Conway Rd. & Bumby Ave.

Come see Dave, Ed & Staff for a Free Consultation!

Health + Fitness Zen Rising Wellness Center Massage · Acupuncture Reiki · Cupping · Yoga 1000 E Robinson Street Orlando, FL 32801 zenrisingwellnesscenter.com zenrisingwellnesscenter@gmail.com 321-430-4729

Electrical

MM37121

Health + Wellness

www. CentralFloridaElectrician.com (407-)801-0126

PROVIDING QUALITY ELECTRICAL SERVICES SINCE 1996

Lic: EC13002577

Financial PLanners

Garden / Nursery

DICTOR FINANCIAL, LLC

CIT Y OA SIS

Wayne S. Dictor, CEP President, CEO

Member Board of Directors - Orlando Gay Chorus

Full Service Interior Plantscaping Design & Maintenance Sales - Leasing - Maintenance

Office: 407-942-3366

Mobile: 941-320-4794 Wayne@DictorFinancial.com 801 International Parkway, Suite 500 Lake Mary, Florida 32746 Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPIC

Free Estimates. Prices star t as low as $9 9/mo Exotic Orchids Bonsai Ornamentals

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

1214 N. Mills Ave. Orlando (407) 898 -8101

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

49

C ent r al

Home Inspection

F lo r ida

M a r k etplace

Laser Lipo + Weightloss

Medical

Orlando Laser Lipo Services Orlando Homeopathic Body Works Cryolipolysis Fat Freezing Therapy - Starting at: $499 Three Laser Lipo Services - $99 6457 Hazeltine National Dr. #165 Orlando, FL 32822 (407) 900-8723 // orlandolaserliposervices.com

RELIABLE BUILDING INSPECTIONS

lawn care

• 30 Years Experience • Florida Licensed Mold Assessor/ Certified Microbial Consultant • Infared Thermography used on ALL inspections • Licensed for WDO (termite) inspections LIC HI6219

407-460-4450 http://www.reliablebuildinginspections.biz/

Insurance

Optometrist

LGBT Medical

Insurance

If this were your ad,

personal training www.rockhardfitnessorlando.com

Free trial pass

thousands of readers

would have just seen it.

1 Week unlimited Classes 1 hour personal training

Call for rates

813-655-9890 50

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

820 Lake Baldwin Lane p. 407.802.4631

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

C ent r al

F lo r ida

M a r k etplace

Security Systems Dont be a VICTIM, Protect What Matters Most!

Receive A Video Doorbell upgrade at no cost!

The only Certified LGBT security company in the country!

EM P LOY M ENT O P P ORTU NIT Y:

844.517.0545 | billy@OutLoudStrategies.com

TAMPA BAY Orlando TAMPA ADVERTISINGBAY SALES TAMPA BAY ADVERTISING SALES

LGBThomesecurity.com

EMPLOYMENT OPPORT U NI T Y:

Veterinarian

EM P LOY M ENT O P P ORTU NIT Y:

For more than 25 years Watermark has been the premiere source of LGBTQ news across Central Florida and Tampa Bay and we are expanding our team.

For more than 25 years Watermark has been the premiere source Now you can be a part of the team that brings LGBTQ across Central Florida andpremiere Tampa source Bay Forofmore thannews 25 Watermark has been the theyears news to the LGBTQ community. weacross are expanding our and team. of LGBTQand news Central Florida Tampa Bay and we are expanding our team.

Now you can be a part of the team that Are you motivated and outgoing?brings Now you can be a part of the team that brings news toorganized the LGBTQ community.

Arethe you well starter with the anews to the LGBTQself community.

ADVERTISING SALES

Proudly Caring for the Pets and People of the LGBTQ Community since 1955

great time management skills?

Are motivated and outgoing?

Areyou you Can you work well motivated by yourselfand as outgoing? well as with others?

AreAre you selfstarter starterwith with youa awell wellorganized organized self Full time entry level position, great skills? greattime timemanagement management skills? health insurance benefits & 401K options. workwell wellby byyourself yourself as others?

CanCan youyou work aswell wellasaswith with others?

Open 7 Days a Week!

BOARDING

DOGGIE DAYCARE

NEW WELLNESS CENTER

1601 Lee Rd. Winter Park (407) 644-2676 youth services Changing the lives of LGBTQ teens and young adults for over 25 years Social support groups Make friends Scholarships for college Weekly groups in Orange, Seminole & Polk counties

• Join • Volunteer • Donate

info@orlandoyouthalliance.org www.orlandoyouthalliance.org

Fulltime timeentry entry level position, levelfor position, Watermark Publishing Group health is theFull premier media outlet the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender insurance benefits & 401K health insurance benefits & 401Koptions. options. community in Central and West Florida. Up to 20,000 copies of our biweekly newspaper are distributed every other Thursday throughout Central Florida, Tampa Bay and surrounding communities.

Watermark also produces a collection of high-gloss specialty publications, and a web site with a Watermark Publishing Group is the premier mediaonline outlet community. for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender rapidly growing Watermarkcommunity PublishinginGroup theWest premier media the gay, andaretransgender Centralisand Florida.

Up tooutlet 20,000for copies of ourlesbian, biweeklybisexual newspaper other Thursday Central Florida, copies Tampa Bay and surrounding communities. distributed every community in Central and Westthroughout Florida. Up to 20,000 of our biweekly newspaper are Incoming mailbox size limit is 10MB per email.

Emails larger than 10MB will not be received.

Please optimize attachments accordingly. a collection of high-gloss specialty publications, and a web site with a Watermark also produces distributed every other Thursday throughout Central Florida, Tampa Bay and surrounding communities. rapidlyofgrowing onlinespecialty community. high-gloss publications, and a web site with a Watermark also produces a collection

PLEASE SEND A COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO DANNY@WATERMARKONLINE.COM rapidly growing online community.

PLEASE SEND A COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO DANNY@WATERMARKONLINE.COM

PLEASE SEND A COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO DANNY@WATERMARKONLINE.COM Incoming mailbox size limit is 10MB per email. Emails larger than 10MB will not be received. Please optimize attachments accordingly.

Incoming mailbox size limit is 10MB per email. Emails larger than 10MB will not be received. Please optimize attachments accordingly.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

51

A S p o o k ta c u l a r D r a g C o m p e t i t i o n & F e s t i va l

costume contest 3400 26th avenue south, st. pete, fl 33711

52

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

THRIFT STORES

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

announcements

wedding bells

Tish Dhumrongyud, and Natassia Wekarski, from Orlando, Florida

Wedding date:

Local Birthdays

Officiant:

Dan Schwab

Venue:

Orlando Parliament House Thailand Monk Hospital, Bangkok

Talise Johnson

Colors:

Purple

Wedding Song / Artist:

Orlando “Spend my Life with You” by Eric Benet & Tamia Thailand “Sorn Klin”

by Pakmy

Caterer:

Parliament House

Florist:

Lee Forrest

Cake Flavors: Raspberry

Dr. Daniel P. Greenwald, who regularly performed gender-affirming surgeries in Tampa Bay, died in a plane crash Oct. 5. He will be dearly missed.

George Timothy Reed, better known in the community as drag performer Carmella Marcella Garcia, passed away on Oct. 15 after a long-fought battle with cancer.

Orlando May 9, 2019 Thailand Sept. 4, 2019

Event Planner:

Condolences

Photo Courtesy Tish Dhumrongyud and Natassia Wekarski

“I

was feeling lucky that day

and drove to Tampa to play some poker.

Little did I know, I hit a jackpot and found the love of my life,” says Tish Dhumrongyud.

Tish and her wife Natassia Wekarski had met at Southern Nights Orlando in 2014, then reconnected at the Hard Rock Casino on Feb. 13.

“The very first thing I noticed about her was her presence,” Natassia says. “There was something about her that struck me; it was more than just physical actually. I don’t know how to put it, but I just could tell she was a kind hearted person before any words were exchanged between the two of us.”

When destiny brought the two of them back together earlier this year that is when they both realized they were meant to be together.

“We picked up exactly where we left off. She was my ‘one that got away’ and I secretly never completely got over her,” says Tish. “Life makes more sense now.”

The couple got engaged on April 13 during a visit to St. Augustine in a McDonald’s drive-thru after a Kane Brown concert.

For Natassia it was Tish’s attitude and way of being that made her fall in love.

“There is nothing that can outshine her beautiful and pure heart,” she says. “I adore how thoughtful and considerate she is in all she does.”

Tish was also taken in by Natassia’s attitude and presence.

“What I love the most about her is how considerate, compassionate and empathetic she is towards every person she comes in contact with,” Tish says. “She remembers everyone’s Birthday!”

The couple decided to plan two ceremonies—one in Orlando and one in Thailand. They got married at the Parliament House on May 9 and danced their first dance to Eric Benet and Tamia’s “Spend My Life with You.” “Aside from marrying my best friend, I would have to say I am extremely grateful that we were able to commemorate our special days with our dear parents and friends,” says Natassia.

The couple’s second wedding took place at Monk Hospital in Bangkok on Sept. 4. The ceremony included a special prayer by monks and the couple danced to Palmy’s “Sorn Klin.”

“Apart from being able to have both of our parents attend our ceremonies, having a prayer done for us by monks was very special to me,” Natassia says.

With the help of friends and family the couple was able to plan and enjoy both of their ceremonies.

“We were very lucky in that we had such wonderful friends and family to help pull of two beautiful ceremonies,” says Natassia. “For those planning their wedding on their own or with the help of others, I would say to just go with the flow and not stress out. Everything will always work itself out in the end.”

Now the couple is looking forward to the journey ahead as they join their lives.

Tish sees both going on “many adventures, traveling and making new memories and making up for lost time.

“She is my best friend. My ride or die, my soulmate. I love many things about her,” Tish says.

Gecko accountant Judy L. Hines, Tampa political campaign guru Mitch Kates, singer Sunshine Matthews, Lakeland-based Geico expert Barry Stemle, Ybor City’s King Corona Cigar expert Willy Emerson, Orange County Tax Collector Scott Randolph, Metro Inclusive Health nurse Amanda Graves (Oct. 17); Family Equality Council’s Tatiana Quiroga, Pinellas County Young Democrat Blaine Lawson, DJ Cubby Pat O’Rourke, LGBTQ advocate David Moran (Oct. 18); St. Pete strategic advisor Mike Callahan, Softball star Jennifer Friedman, Former Tampa Bay Diversity Chamber president Eric Mathis, Cider Press Cafe owner Johan Everstijn, Tampa photographer Byron Schaerr, Orlando make-up artist Scott Juszczak, Tampa Bay Pride Band’s Daniel Stevens, Tampa Bay entertainer Chanel P. Cartier, Chago’s Barbershop barber Kevin Rix (Oct. 19); Orlando’s own “Divine Miss M” Jennica McCleary, Quality Analyst Chris Hamlett, Orlando photographer Chris Stephenson, Flamingo Car Club president Robert “Tiny” Nasworthy, Tampa Bay entertainer Samaya Sinsation, Ybor entertainer Blu Yake (Oct. 20); St. Pete DJ Jayson Chancey, DJ Ants Adam Brenner (Oct. 21); Karaoke legend Nick Rogers, Orlando maintenance specialist Joe Arlotta, America-lover Jaime DeFrancesco, Orlando Hamburger Mary’s bartender Juan Torres, Honey Pot co-owner Steven Donahue, Sprinkles Custom Cakes owner Richard Gregory (Oct. 23); Equality Florida’s Director of Transgender Equality Gina Duncan, Stonewall Orlando’s Dan Fraser (Oct. 24); Owner of Pulse in Lakeland Rich Dunn, Tampa Bay entertainer Austin Hagge, Honey Pot bartender Sebastian Hathcock, Cosplayer Charles Parilla (Oct. 26); Former Out & About Books owner Robert Bruce Ground, Tampa vocalist David Valentine, Tampa educator Matthew Healey, Keller Williams Tampa Central admin Danny Gitsas, Tako Cheena proprietor Edgardo Guzman, Southern Nights bartender Lance Keller, Orlando occupational therapist Sarah Bapst, St. Pete hairstylist Jacob Andrew Harris (Oct. 28); Hope & Help case manager Norm Gentry, Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay’s Juan Fontanez Jr., Orlando attorney Michael Morris (Oct. 29); Lakeland leather man Jerry Miller (Oct. 30).

— Marianella Falbo

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.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

53

the last page What would you like to see improved in the LGBTQ community?

Hometown:

For more people to believe that a gay man or woman can be president of the United States.

Unionville, CT.

Identifies as:

What would you like our readers to know about you?

A big ol’ gay!

I love gummy candy and tequila. Not together, of course.

Out Year:

What advice would you give your younger self?

1992

Profession:

Just keep swimming. You will get there.

Co-Owner of Embellish FX with husban, Timothy Vargas

What led you to open your business?

Professional role model:

My father; a police officer of 30 years

Title of your autobiography:

“He’s Dead!”

Hobbies:

Photography, dogs, cosplay, cooking

Ben Johansen O w ne r

T

-

E mbellish F X

Photo by JD Casto

Recommend People to: Central Florida Bureau Chief Jeremy Williams at: Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com Tampa Bay Bureau Chief Ryan Williams-Jent at: Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com

54

he Last Page is dedicated to

individuals who are making a positive impact on the LGBTQ community in Central Florida and Tampa Bay. This issue, we check in with Embellish FX co-owner Ben Johansen from Central Florida. Keep an eye on this space to learn more about the movers and shakers of your community.

What do you do professionally?

I’m a small business owner.

I run a costume and special FX makeup empire!

How do you champion for your local LGBTQ community?

I’ve been a very vocal and colorful member of the Orlando LGBTQ community for just over 15 years. Moving here helped me come out of my shell and be the

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

gay man I am today. I wouldn’t be who I am today if I didn’t move to Orlando.

What is your favorite thing to read in Watermark?

Divine Grace’s column, of course—totally honest, no BS! And my gawd, she is the best Winifred Sanderson in Orlando!

What is your favorite local LGBTQ event?

Pride of course. So many rainbows and smiling faces.

What is your favorite thing about the local LGBTQ community?

The hug that’s there whenever I need it.

Luck. I was in the insurance and financial field for 25 years.

My life got rocked after I got laid off (after seven rounds of layoffs).

I thought it was the end of my world, but then the phone rang and it was my old friend Karl of Century Costumes (down by Pulse Nightclub). He said that he heard about me losing my job and that he was going to close his shop. He asked me if I had any interest in being an owner of a makeup shop. I thought about it, talked it over with Timmy and he ran the numbers.

The next step was to take a leap. We did. This Oct. 31 will be Embellish FX’s seventh year getting Orlando ready for their Halloween parties. It’s been an amazing adventure with my husband and I’m thankful to have him guide me into a better person and business man. Tim is the hidden face of Embellish FX. I owe Embellish FX’s success to Tim. I’m so grateful.

As a costume expert, what do you think will be the top three Halloween costumes this year?

Well, I can tell you right now, scary clowns will be EVERYWHERE again this year.

Scary clowns like Pennywise are going to be huge. Another favorite that won’t die are zombies. Right now we have about 200 appointments booked for Halloween makeup, and 50% are zombies. I’ve seen a lot of people coming in for classics this year like vampires, witches and werewolves. I think it’s going to be a classic Halloween with a few scary clowns thrown in.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

October 17 - Oc tob er 3 0, 2019 // Issue 26 . 21 wat e r m a r konline .com

55

THE INTERNET SAYS

MY WEIGHT GAIN IS HEALTH RELATED, OR

IT’S HALLOWEEN CANDY RELATED. You might want to get a second opinion.

Rest assured — a real doctor can tell you what’s really going on.

OrlandoHealth.com/RealDr

CHOOSE Orlando Health