Watermark Issue 27.14: A More Perfect Union

Your LGBTQ Life.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 • Issue 27.14

A More Perfect Union Not-so-newlyweds reflect on 5 years of marriage equality

Central Florida initiative embraces Black, LGBTQ communities

Tampa Bay organizations commit to doubling health services

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departments 7 // Publishers’s Desk

page

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9 // Central Florida News 12// Tampa Bay News

We were pleasantly surprised how good it felt to fully participate in an institution that was solely reserved for opposite sex couples. We had been afforded legal standing in terms of rights and responsibilities, and recognition of our relationship in all aspects of life. – husbands Nicholas Cardello and Kurt English

13// State, Nation & World 19 // Talking Points 30// Tampa Bay Out & About 31// Central Fl Out & About 33// Wedding Bells 34// Tampa Bay Marketplace 36// Central Fl Marketplace On the cover

page Lendale and Love:

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page A MORE

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PERFECT UNION:

Not-so-newlyweds reflect on 5 years of marriage equality.

Cover Design by Dylan Todd; image sourced via public domain.

scan qr code for

WatermarkOnline.com

Tennis player Lendale Johnson (center) serves activism on reality television.

Watermark Issue 27.14 // July 9 - 22, 2020

Bold & Proud

Community First

Statewide Study

Democratically Yours

page Bros in Convo Initiative spearheads equality efforts.

page Metro, CAN commit to doubling inclusive services.

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

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12

13

Miami Researcher leads LGBTQ youth initiative.

17

Democrat Johnny Boykins wants to recruit you.

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

contributors

Publisher’s

Rick Claggett PUblisher

Rick@WatermarkOnline.com

I

Desk

treat everyone like they have

COVID. I assume everyone I encounter could transmit the virus to me. I now wear a mask at the office, all day. I wear a mask when I’m around anyone – especially indoors.

This past weekend my family came to my house in Orlando to visit and go swimming. We all wore masks when inside the house and kept a safe distance from each other in the back yard. My brother helped me tile my laundry room and we wore masks the entire time. It was a little annoying but we had no problem breathing.

I sanitize my hands every time I get out of the car and immediately when I get back in the car. Whatever I buy at the store gets wiped down with disinfectant before it gets put away and when I am done with that I sanitize my hands again.

I use a germ key to open doors and punch numbers on a keypad.

Despite all of this, I realize that I could get infected. In fact, I assume that like everyone else I also have COVID and I take precautions in general to minimize my risk and in turn minimize the risk of me spreading it. Wear your damn masks!

Keep your damn hands clean!

Keep your damn ass at home if you are sick!

I saw a guy at the grocery store ATM who had a runny nose wipe his nose with his finger and then immediately used that finger to put in his pin number. This was the inspiration for the germ key.

I also have heard several stories recently of COVID-positive people going out because they didn’t feel that bad. I’m not talking about people I have seen on the

news, I’m talking about people I directly know or people directly connected to people I know. One kid tried to get tested but his boss made him go to work for several days — in a restaurant — before he could get to a test, which ended up being positive.

So please, just take the necessary precautions. We have to assume at the same time that we have COVID, protecting transmission from us to others, and that we don’t have COVID, protecting ourselves from those infected. Both can be true for us to slow the spread. So let’s slow the spread and stop another shut down.

I reserve the right to change my mind as new information comes in, but at this very minute I am not on board with those advocating a complete shutdown if all the plan consists of is shutting down. Unless we shut down until a vaccine is found, won’t we find ourselves with the same problem in a few months?

With a total lack of federal leadership, who will foot the bill for another shutdown? Certainly not the city or the county, and we have proof that Florida can’t handle that kind of responsibility.

The current solution to rent and mortgage is to postpone payments, not forgive them.

I took a hit when Disney mistakenly took out four months of small annual pass fees from my checking account this past weekend. How will people be able to avoid eviction and foreclosure when they get hit with months of payments due at once?

It is possible for us as a society to be concerned about ourselves, our loved ones AND the economy. We can want to protect our mothers AND our jobs at the same time. They don’t have to be mutually exclusive. I don’t

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

Central Florida Bureau Chief: Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Jeremy@WatermarkOnline.com Tampa Bay Bureau Chief: Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Ryan@WatermarkOnline.com Art Director: Dylan Todd • Ext. 102 Dylan@WatermarkOnline.com

worry about myself in these matters as much as I do the seven people who rely on this company to survive. My families, both biological and at Watermark, are my concern. There has got to be a solution that protects both. I hope the teams of people charged with our futures find that solution.

In this issue of Watermark we turn our attention to a celebration. We recently crossed the five-year anniversary of marriage equality and in our in-depth section we pause to acknowledge this milestone.

Watermark checks in with some of the couples who married

Wear your damn masks! Keep your damn hands clean! Keep your damn ass at home if you are sick!

on that landmark day, as well as those who were featured in our Wedding Bells section throughout the years.

In Orlando news the House passed a bill to designate Pulse as a national memorial. In Tampa Bay news we dive into the expansion of services with Metro Inclusive Health and CAN Community Health. Our Arts & Entertainment feature focuses on professional athlete, actor, model and activist Lendale Johnson whose new reality show talks about being a double minority, Black and gay.

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

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.

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

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Edward Segarra

currently attends the University of Central Florida as a journalism major. Page 9, 27

Michael Wanzie is

an Orlando-based playwright, actor and ordained minister. He is most recognized for his direction of productions in the Orlando area. Page 15

Johnny Boykins

is the president of the Pinellas County Young Democrats, a husband, bow tie aficionado, amateur chef and U.S. Coast Guard veteran. Page 17

Lora Korpar is

a journalism student at the University of Central Florida and a former Watermark intern. She plans to graduate in Spring 2020. Page 33 Sabrina Ambra, Nathan Bruemmer, Scottie Campbell, Miguel Fuller, Divine Grace, Holly Kapherr Alejos, Jason Leclerc, Melody Maia Monet, Jerick Mediavilla, Greg Stemm, Dr. Steve yacovelli, Michael wanzie

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

distribution LVNLIF2 Distributing, Ken Carraway, Vanessa Maresca-Cruz CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher.

Unsolicited article submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Although WATERMARK is supported by many fine advertisers, we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising, or listing in WATERMARK is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members of such organizations.

WATERMARK is published every second Thursday. Subscription rate is $55 (1st class) and $26 (standard mail).

The official views of WATERMARK are expressed only in editorials. Opinions offered in signed columns, letters and articles are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the newspaper’s owner or management. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted for publication.

WATERMARK is not responsible for damages due to typographical errors, except for the cost of replacing ads created by WATERMARK that have such errors.

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

central florida news

House passes bill to make Pulse a national memorial Jeremy Williams

REACHING OUT: Bros in

Convo Executive Director Daniel Downer (R) leads the organization’s outreach efforts.

PHOTO COURTESY DANIEL DOWNER.

Equality Focused Bros in Convo embraces Blackness, queerness with outreach efforts Edward Segarra

O

RLANDO | A Black, LGBTQ-led organization in Central Florida is directing its advocacy toward uplifting members of the Black and LGBTQ communities.

The Bros in Convo Initiative is dedicated to building community while protecting the wellbeing of people of color. It is fiscally sponsored by Miracle of Love, Central Florida’s community-based HIV/AIDS organization.

The initiative is one of the co-facilitators for the installment of a Black Lives Matter mural in the Sanford community of Goldsboro.

They were approached to get involved in the spirit of inclusivity.

The mural was designed by a collective of local Black artists. Its installation was originally scheduled for July 4 but was postponed due to weather and COVID-19, Bros in Convo Initiative Executive Director Daniel Downer explains.

He believes that the emotional resonance of art and its capacity to convey meaning make it an

effective tool in bolstering social commentary. “Art does not just grab your attention,” he says. “It makes a statement, resonates and sends a message. The power of art is that it moves individuals emotionally with the strategic planning of activism to bring about social change.”

Downer hopes that the efforts of the Black Lives Matter movement culminate in a community-wide empowerment of Black, LGBTQ individuals that promotes social equality for all members of the Black community.

He seeks to “cultivate a communal network that allows us the capacity to lead and learn, to foster a queer affirming network and to intentionally embody and practice justice, liberation and peace for all Black lives.”

The initiative also recently launched a program to ensure the survival of Central Florida’s Black, trans women. It supplies them with tasers so that they can protect themselves from violence.

“Transgender individuals today face an epidemic of anti-trans violence,” Downer explains. He adds that many members of the trans

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

community feel uncomfortable relying on law enforcement for protection, a reality reflected in the response that the organization received from the efforts.

“We ordered 22 tasers last month and based on the demand ordered 30 this month,” he says. “We will continue to order them to provide our Black, trans siblings with the protection they need.”

Downer says that the visibility of the Black, LGBTQ community during this time is “extremely vital” because it allows for more inclusive representation, which can lead to an increased understanding from non-Black, non-LGBTQ individuals, as well as reinforce the identities of Black, LGBTQ people.

“When people can see something represented, they are better able to understand and grasp who those people are, and this creates an important shift in the social consciousness to include people from a range of different backgrounds,” Downer explains.

“It also fosters a great sense of affirmation of our own identities,” he continues. “Feeling affirmed with one’s sense of self can boost positive feelings of self-worth, which is quite different than feeling as if you are wrong or bad for being who you are.”

The Bros in Convo Initiative is open 8:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Monday-Friday at the Stafford House, Miracle of Love’s LGBTQ facility. For more information about the organization, its programs and services, visit BrosInConvo.org.

O

RLANDO | The U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill that would designate Pulse as a national memorial June 26.

U.S. Rep. Darren Soto (D-FL-9) introduced H.R. 3094 to designate the National Pulse Memorial June 4, 2019 with Reps. Val Demings (D-FL-10) and Stephanie Murphy (D-FL-7) signing on as co-sponsors. The measure had a total 48 co-sponsors upon the vote.

The bill, which passed exactly two weeks after the Pulse tragedy’s four-year mark, would make Pulse a part of the National Park System but keep onePULSE Foundation in control of the construction of the Pulse Memorial & Museum.

“Today, the House of Representatives passed a bill to recognize Pulse nightclub as a National Memorial Site, reminding the world that we will not let hate win,” onePULSE shared on its Facebook page June 26.

A press release from the three Orlando representatives notes that the bill “grants a federal designation honoring the 49 lives taken on June 12, 2016, as well as the survivors, first responders and the entire Central Florida community.” It also notes that there is currently no Senate companion bill.

“I am grateful that the House has passed our legislation to make the Pulse site a national memorial,” Demings said. “We will always honor the family, friends, and neighbors we lost that night. Today, the U.S. House moved forward legislation that will help to ensure that the memories of the victims will always be a part of our national identity and that they will never be forgotten.”

“Four years ago, we saw the atrocious and destructive nature of hatred plague our Orlando community when 49 lives were taken and 53 others were injured,” added Soto. “As we continue to honor the memory of those lost, I am proud to lead the fight with Congresswomen Val Demings and Stephanie Murphy to designate the National Pulse Memorial.

“Today, we remind the world that hate will never defeat love, grief can turn into strength and that a place of loss can become a sanctuary of healing,” he continued. “Together, we will continue to open minds and hearts. We will make the Pulse Memorial a national symbol of hope, love and light.”

“We owe it to the families and loved ones of the victims to honor their memories by dedicating a national memorial at Pulse,” Murphy shared. “I’m proud to be co-leading this effort to create a place of healing for survivors and a welcoming place for all those seeking inspiration to create a better, safer, and more inclusive nation. By taking this important step, we are telling the world that we will fight to ensure no community will ever go through something like this again.”

For more information about the onePULSE Foundation, visit onePULSEFoundation.org.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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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

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF BIKTARVY

BIKTARVY may cause serious side effects, including:

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.

 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 and children who weigh at least 55 pounds. It can either be used in people who have never taken HIV-1 medicines before, or people who are replacing their current HIV-1 medicines and whose healthcare provider determines they meet certain requirements.

BIKTARVY does not cure HIV-1 or AIDS. HIV-1 is the virus that causes AIDS. Do NOT take BIKTARVY if you also take a medicine that contains:  dofetilide  rifampin  any other medicines to treat HIV-1

BEFORE TAKING BIKTARVY Tell your healthcare provider if you:  Have or have had any kidney or liver problems, including hepatitis infection.  Have any other health problems.  Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if BIKTARVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking BIKTARVY.  Are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take:  Keep a list that includes all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, antacids, laxatives, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.  BIKTARVY and other medicines may affect each other.

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

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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 ASPIRING, LOVE WHAT’S INSIDE, GILEAD, and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. Version date: February 2020 © 2020 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. BVYC0218 04/20

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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DIMITRI LIVING WITH HIV SINCE 2018 REAL BIKTARVY PATIENT

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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.

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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tampa bay news

St Pete Pride launches Grand Central mural fundraiser

S

T. PETERSBURG | St Pete Pride has launched a fundraiser to install a Pride mural in the Grand Central District, the celebration’s birthplace.

“The City of St. Pete has approved the installation of an inclusive Pride Mural in Grand Central,” St Pete Pride shared June 26. “The mural will be made up of 11 colored stripes [to] help celebrate the community’s rainbow colors, acknowledge the inclusion of people of color as part of the LGBTQ+ community and uplift the transgender community.”

The mural will be painted on the intersection of Central Ave. and 25th. St. The organization agreed to raise $7,000 in support of the effort to cover installation, permits, maintenance and more.

“The city has taken a stance on limiting the liability to the city by not installing rainbow crosswalks,” St Pete Pride President Chrys Bundy says. “St. Pete is known for our murals so a street mural was a natural choice.”

St. Petersburg LGBTQ Liaison Jim Nixon approached the organization with an initial design for the project, having worked with other city officials on installation approval and more. “It is important that we recognize the LGBTQ community and the Grand Central District for their contributions in making our city a diverse and welcoming community,” he says.

“The Grand Central District was the birthplace of St Pete Pride and the original ‘gayborhood,’” Nixon continues. “Having an inclusive pride street mural to anchor its history and celebrate the vision that in St. Pete we recognize that our differences, what we look like, who we pray to, who we love … that’s what makes our country great. That’s what makes St. Pete shine.”

As a district which celebrates Pride throughout the year, the Grand Central District Association has embraced the proposal. “Grand Central is the birthplace of St Pete Pride so we want to continue to build on that legacy as well as our relationship with St Pete Pride,” Executive Director David Foote says.

The mural’s installation will be overseen by area artist Andrea Pawlisz. She will utilize local LGBTQ artists to facilitate the installation and work with LGBTQ-owned businesses to assist in its preparation.

As of press time, St Pete Pride has currently raised more than $5,000 thanks to individual donors and a large donation by Metro Inclusive Health. The funds will allow them to move forward with installation, which they hope to complete this month while adhering to COVID-19 safety guidelines.

“We hope the community will come together to help fund the project,” Bundy says. “We are grateful for the financial support we have already received and are working with other individuals and organizations that we hope will help financially, but we have a long way to go. We want the community vested in the project and donating is a great way to support the project and have an impact in its message.”

For more information about the mural and to donate, visit One.Bidpal.net/PrideDonation. To learn more about St Pete Pride or the GCDA, visit StPetePride.com and GrandCentralDistrict.org.

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TEAM TAMPA: (L-R) Tampa City Council Chair Guido Maniscalco, Katy Wendel, Brian Bailey, Nate Taylor, Mayor Jane Castor and Ana Cruz gather at the German American Club with Metro’s inclusivity flag June 30. PHOTO COURTESY METRO INCLUSIVE HEALTH

Community Care Metro, CAN commit to doubling inclusive services by 2021 Ryan Williams-Jent

T

AMPA | Metro Inclusive Health, CAN Community Health and elected officials closed out Pride Month June 30 at the German American Club, committing to double inclusive services in Tampa Bay by 2021.

The health partners first announced their Tampa expansion in 2019. They acquired the historic Ybor City venue to transform it into a 30,000-square-foot health and community center, breaking ground on the project that year.

“As a local organization, we have grown alongside Tampa Bay by serving the community’s holistic health needs,” Metro CEO Lorraine Langlois shared at the time. “Being able to restore and modernize this beautiful piece of local history for the community while expanding our impact fits right in line with our organizational mission.”

“CAN and Metro started their partnership in 2013, building what has become a model for us in other communities,” CAN CEO Rick Carlisle added. “This

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

investment in our community will continue to transform modern healthcare services for all in the Tampa Bay area.”

The partnership reached more than 30,000 people in 2019.

Nearly 19,000 individuals received one-on-one services and more than 11,000 were engaged via outreach and educational events.

“We strive to promote a healthy environment for all and to foster diversity within the community as a whole,” Metro shares. “Our groundbreaking approach to inclusive care has provided ongoing support for our community across Tampa Bay. We’re ready to double that impact.”

Once complete, the Tampa location will provide more than 100 services and programs focused on health and wellbeing.

Services will include primary care, behavioral health, psychiatric med management, HIV medical care and case management and STI education and prevention, including testing, PrEP and nPEP. Metro and CAN representatives reflected on their plans by raising Metro’s inclusivity flag

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

at the location June 30. Metro Chief Marketing & Experience Officer Brian Bailey, Director of Development James Keane and Division Director of Community Initiatives Nate Taylor were joined

by CAN Senior VP of Clinical Operations Katy Wendel, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and City Council Chair Guido Maniscalco.

The flag incorporates various LGBTQ identities enclosed in a bracket for inclusivity, representing the organization’s commitment to foster an environment where all are welcome. It was created for St Pete Pride 2019.

To make expanding services a reality, the organization has fundraising goals to offset construction costs. “If we can raise $1 million from donors and sponsors, we can continue to maximize our own resources towards serving more of the community,” Bailey says.

He adds that there are a variety of ways to help to support Tampa’s future home for inclusive health, with some as simple as becoming a patient. Through Metro’s Copay it Forward program, insured individuals make health care available to those without insurance at no extra cost.

For more information about supporting the expansion or to donate, visit MetroTampaBay.org/Tampa or contact James Keane at JamesK@MetroTampaBay.org or 727-321-3854, ext. 1246.

state, nation + worldnews

Foundation pledges up to $250K for Stonewall Chris Johnson of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of the National LGBT Media Association

A

mid concerns the iconic Stonewall Inn in New York City may close due the impact of the COVID-19, the Gill Foundation announced it will match contributions of up to $250,000 to protect the business from closure.

The news was timed for the 51st anniversary of the Stonewall riots, considered the start of the modern LGBTQ movement.

Scott Miller and Tim Gill, co-chairs of the Gill Foundation, said in a statement “Stonewall is a cornerstone of LGBTQ history and it must be protected.”

“Queer people of color — including trans women of color like Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera,

and Miss Major — led the uprisings against police brutality at Stonewall and in doing so helped spark the movement for LGBTQ equality,” they said. “We must preserve that history and the legacy of the activists who led the charge.”

According to CNN, the inn is faced with mounting bills and uncertainty around when it can reopen. As a consequence, it has started an online fundraiser to ensure the LGBTQ landmark won’t close for good.

The monthly rent for the Stonewall Inn is more than $40,000 and although bar received some Paycheck Protection Program funds, it was significantly less than the owners had expected, CNN reported.

The bar sits next to the Stonewall National Monument, which is a national park, but does not receive federal funding, according to CNN. The pledge of up to $250,000 from the Gill Foundation will be earmarked to support rent and utility costs.

Stacy Lentz and Kurt Kelly, co-owners of the Stonewall Inn, welcomed the commitment from the Gill Foundation in a statement.

“As the first and only LGBTQ National Monument, Stonewall is home not only to the history of our community, but also the history of our city and country,” Lentz and Kelly said. “We are beyond grateful for this generous pledge that will help us keep the history alive.”

In 2014, the Gill Foundation coordinated with the National Park Foundation to identify LGBTQ places and events of historical significance. As part of that effort, The Stonewall Inn was designated as a national monument in 2016, making it the first-ever LGBTQ National Monument.

According to the Gill Foundation, the ultimate goal for the Stonewall Inn is a permanent exhibition and visitors center near the Stonewall Inn to commemorate its important history.

families of other racial, cultural and religious backgrounds,’” Ryan said.

The model that was developed “encourages parents to fully accept their children for who they are, instead of refusing to discuss — or in some cases acknowledge — their child’s sexual orientation or gender identity.”

Gattamorta had done a number of research projects that focused on the Hispanic population and was taken aback by the lack of discourse on the intersection of Latin culture and queer identity.

Findings from the Family Acceptance Project indicate that queer Latinx youth are at a much greater risk for mental distress, substance abuse and disease when their sexuality or gender identity isn’t embraced by their families.

Ryan has said that familial support is crucial to the well-being of queer Latinx youth because of the family-oriented nature of many Hispanic cultures.

She also pointed out that the persistence of systemic inequities within Hispanic communities has prevented the creation of culturally-competent resources.

“One of the big challenges has been cultural and religious beliefs because family is the heart of the culture,” she said. “But because of the enormous economic disparity, lack of access to services and the barrier of language for many, there hasn’t been a way to provide guidance to families that was culturally appropriate.”

“One of the strengths in this project is we have found specific behaviors parents engage in that result in risk — suicide and depression — and on the other side there are positive behaviors,” Gattamorta said. “We want to help people increase positive behaviors.

For example, the family mobilizes and provides incredible support during pregnancy. We know this shows the nurturing impact of family, and that’s the most important thing in this work.”

Miami researcher leads statewide LGBTQ study Edward Segarra

A

researcher and associate professor from the University of Miami is conducting a study on the emotional dynamics of Hispanic families with LGBTQ youth.

Karina Gattamorta, who works at the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, will be utilizing family-support models tailored to Hispanic families with LGBTQ youth and offer these services to Florida families for free. The study’s goal is to increase support for Hispanic LGBTQ youth.

Gattamorta was initially inspired by the work of clinical social workers Caitlin Ryan and Rafael Diaz. The duo created The Family Acceptance Project in 2002 to examine family acceptance of LGBTQ youth, resulting in the “first evidence-based family support model for families with LGBTQ youth,” according to San Francisco’s Bay Area Reporter. “‘From the beginning we did research with Latino parents with LGBT kids throughout California; and, of course, we also worked with

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Study participants will be between the ages of 12-21 and all queer Latinx youth in Florida are eligible. According to Gattamorta, the use of online appointments through service providers has allowed them to expand the study beyond South Florida. For those interested in participating in the study, please contact Gattamorta at UMfamilyacceptance@Gmail.com.

Taiwan celebrates Pride with parade The Taiwanese capital held its annual LGBTQ Pride parade June 28, becoming one of the few places in the world to proceed with in-person festivities of its type due to COVID-19. The Taipei parade has drawn tens of thousands of people in the past, but participant numbers were reduced by both virus concerns and heavy rain.

Taiwan’s Central News Agency said that more than 1,000 attended. Taiwan is the only place in Asia to have legalized same-sex marriage and its liberal political system has long promoted human rights, free speech and freedom of assembly. American student Loren Couse said Taipei’s ability to hold the parade was “really impressive.”

Palm Beach County human rights council elects chair The Palm Beach County Human Rights Council (PBCHRC) has elected G. Joseph Garcia as the chair of the organization’s charitable foundation. Among other duties, he will oversee the Daniel S. Hall Social Justice Awards program, which grants annual college scholarships to college-bound high school seniors in recognition of their advocacy on behalf of the LGBTQ community. “I am proud of this opportunity to help give back to Palm Beach County’s LGBTQ+ community,” Garcia said. “I look forward to developing additional programs for the PBCHRC Foundation.” The foundation is an affiliate of PBCHRC, Florida’s oldest, independent, non-partisan, political organization dedicated to ending LGBTQ discrimination.

State Dept. acknowledges Pride Month The U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor acknowledged Pride month June 30. “The U.S. stands in solidarity with human rights defenders working around the world to protect fundamental freedoms of LGBTI persons and communities,” officials shared. “All people are endowed with unalienable human rights and every government is obligated to provide equal protection under the law.” While Sec. of State Mike Pompeo did not publicly acknowledge it during Pride month, the U.S. embassies in Russia and Lithuania did in various ways.

Montenegro recognizes same-sex partnerships Montenegro became the first European country outside of the European Union to officially recognize same-sex couples on July 1. A bill to recognize same-sex couples’ civil partnerships passed in the 81-seat Montenegrin Parliament with 42 votes, with Prime Minister Duško Markovic celebrating the measure’s narrow passage. ““I welcome the adoption of the Law on Same-Sex Life Partnership in Parliament,” he shared. “Equality and same rights for all are the cornerstone of human and European values.” Markovic added the vote is “a great step in the right direction for MNE (Montenegrin) society, its democratic maturity and integration process.”

Montenegro has begun the process to join the EU.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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watermark Your LGBTQ life.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

viewpoint

Michael Wanzie

THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF WANZIE

I

Where Shopping is a Pleasure?

typically grocery shop

at College Park Publix, where I have never once been met with anything but superior customer service and where the vast majority of customers have been wearing masks long before the recent mandate to do was enacted.

Since I’m about to relate a horrendous series of Publix-related customer service fails, I feel I should also point out that the College Park Publix management went above and beyond what I had any right to expect from them in the wake of the Pulse shootings.

I approached them, with almost no notice, for assistance in feeding the several hundred people involved with presenting “From Broadway With Love: A Benefit Concert For Orlando.” The response from them in that moment was nothing short of stellar.

On June 27, however, I shopped at the Colonial Town Publix where most of the customers were not wearing masks. When I asked the cashier if she could tell me why no one was at the door reminding people of the need to do so, she laughed and said, “It’s above my pay grade to be a bouncer.” I asked if she really thought that to be an appropriate response to my legitimate concern and she curtly asked if I needed to see a manager.

An assistant manager came out to inform me that the store had no right to tell anyone they have to wear a mask. When I pointed out the Orange County mandate he said, “It may be an Orange County policy but it is not a Publix Policy.” When I suggested that was not an appropriate response he summoned the store manager, who emerged from his office visibly annoyed.

Before I could finish my question, he cut me off with “Sir, it’s not my job to enforce the law. My job is to sell groceries.” During the course of the ensuing debate he actually told me that the employees were wearing masks only because it is part of Publix’s uniform code, not because the store was acknowledging any actual heath concern related to COVID-19.

My suggestion that he could call the police regarding the persons in his store who were breaking the law was met with dismissive derision.

He had no problem informing me he would gladly call the police to have me removed from the store, however, since I had introduced the word “fuck” into the conversation.

It seemed the culture at Publix Colonial Town is at complete odds with that of the Publix in College Park.

However, after receiving a call from Publix corporate headquarters I felt certain this attitude is coming from the top. Their corporate customer service rep who phoned me in response to my written complaint seemed more interested in parroting Trump-supporter talking points than in dealing with the way I was treated by his associates.

The representative sought to educate me, insisting, “The medical community is completely divided about the effectiveness of wearing masks.” When I asserted his statement was patently false and pointed out that the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Dr. Fauci all say otherwise, he insisted there were just as many credible sources who take the opposite view.

When I asked him to name just one, he could not. When I informed him I did not write Publix headquarters because I wanted to get into a political debate with him, he insisted his assertions were not political in nature. Added to that, he earnestly asked me to understand that Publix could not possibly afford to finance the added position of a mask monitor at the entry of every Orange County store.

I thanked him for continuing what must be a Publix policy of being argumentative with customers who express legitimate health concerns.

I subsequently asked that he pass along to his CEO and all Publix shareholders my sincere condolences regarding their dire financial

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

situation which is making it impossible for them pay someone to remind incoming customers to wear a mask.

I received an unexpected call on June 29 from a Publix district manager, who apologized to me for the way I had been spoken to and the dismissive attitude of the Colonial store manager.

He informed me that tens of

immediately don a mask – which Publix is happy to give them – or leave. I was assured that the policies were already in place and being proactively enforced.

The very next day I learned from an associate’s social media post that he was disheartened that the company wasn’t requiring masks. I contacted him for

customer wore a mask after my initial experience. Still, it seems the inconsistencies of Publix’s COVID-19 response are consistent with the inconsistencies of the Trump administration.

Despite this lack of leadership we in the Greater Orlando area have an enviable history of pulling together as a community in

thousands of masks had been delivered to every Publix in the area along with signage informing customers that wearing a mask required.

He told me he had issued new guidelines that require and empower all employees to approach anyone who might manage to enter a store without mask to inform them that they must either

clarification and he informed me that he’d had an incident in the SODO Publix on Orange Ave. June 30, the day after Publix’s district manager had called.

In fairness, I must point out that another individual shared via social media that an employee was stationed at the Colonial Town Publix door ensuring every

times of crisis. COVID-19 is no less a crisis than were the events of 9/11, Pulse or being hit by a major hurricane. We need to pull together just as we have done in the past.

As we did then we now need to once again care for one another. That means adhering to social distancing and when you must go out – WEAR A MASK!

I thanked him for continuing what must be a Publix policy of being argumentative with customers who express legitimate health concerns.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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viewpoint

Johnny Boykins

Democratically Yours 2020 is Here to Recruit You

Y

oung LGBTQ people

have seen profound and rapid cultural and social changes over the last decade but we shouldn’t stop pushing. There is more work to do.

Toward the end of Pride Month 2020, I reflected a lot on where we have been while grappling with the rapid cultural and social changes we have seen.

2020 has been a wild ride and June was impacted by COVID-19, civil disobedience and a national spotlight on police violence and brutality, spearheaded by the Black Lives Matter movement.

We have just surpassed the five-year anniversary of the landmark Obergefell Supreme Court decision, making marriage equality the law of the land. I think we must now do some deep reflection and chart a course of how we continue to march towards progress, equity and equality to complete a more perfect union.

I am a Black, gay millennial and community leader and I recognize that we cannot stop now. Our fight didn’t end with marriage equality or the repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. I am part of a generation that has seen tremendous progress. I have largely lived in a world, at least in the West, where LGBTQ acceptance is the mainstream.

I am part of the YouTube generation, where millions of people posted coming out videos showcasing that we are not alone and launched successful campaigns like #ItGetsBetter. Watching these videos helped shape my young adult life and I believe my generation slowly changed the hearts and minds of our families, friends and communities.

I will never forget sitting at my desk at work and reading the Obergefell decision with tears in my eyes and a smile on my face. It felt like I was experiencing a seismic shift in what I would forever think was possible. Justice Kennedy’s profound conclusion in the Obergefell decision is something I think about a lot.

“No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion,

sacrifice, and family,” Kennedy wrote. “In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were. …

They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right. The judgment of the Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit is reversed. It is so ordered.”

I recognize that I am part of a generation whose life experience has afforded us the ability to live in a world where our LGBTQ identity is just one part of many traits that define us. LGBTQ is no longer the defining characteristic of our existence and we can choose to navigate our lives in a manner that simply did not exist even 10 years ago.

For that, I am truly grateful to be alive in this era of fundamental change.

Due to COVID-19 we did not end the month of June marching in parades, dancing in the streets or attending our favorite Drag Queen Brunch spot. We did not attend remembrance vigils for the transgender lives taken from us. We did not reflect upon the brave pioneers of the early LGBTQ rights movement or experience that overwhelming sense of community that Pride gives us in person.

All is not lost, however, because I am here to recruit you. Our work continues.

Some folks are suggesting that Millennials and Gen-Zeds don’t understand the struggles of the past or present and have forgotten about the early LGBTQ civil rights movement. I think those folks are wrong. We are the generation that is demanding real structural changes and we are led by the motto of “just because it has always been, does not mean it will always be.” I am here to recruit you!

These famous words of LGBTQ icon Harvey Milk give me hope and a road map for what we can do now, as the most open-minded generation

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

in all of human history. We must get off the sidelines and continue the work.

I believe we understand the intersectional struggle, be it for social justice, environmental justice or economic justice. Be it for

can join a club, caucus or community organization that is working on a cause you believe in.

I am asking you to join the Pinellas County Young Democrats, or your local Black Lives Matter group.

family because their families have abandoned them. I am asking you to VOTE! We need to engage in elections because the people that we send to City Hall, or State House and Senate, or to Congress, or the White

Justice for Black Lives, or Trans Lives, or Black Trans Lives. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to get in the fight. We are demanding a more egalitarian society where we are all afforded dignity, liberty, happiness, freedom, equity and equality.

I am calling upon young LGBTQ people and our loving allies to join the movement in building a more perfect union. You

I am asking you to go visit an LGBTQ retirement community because many of our elders are experiencing loneliness in their later years. I guarantee you will leave these meetings with new friends and learning something on the way.

I am asking you to volunteer at your local LGBTQ center and work with homeless teens who may be trying to rebuild their lives with a chosen

House matters. Elections matter. Elections have consequences.

I am here to recruit you.

It is so ordered.

I am calling upon young LGBTQ people and our loving allies to join the movement in building a more perfect union.

Johnny Boykins is the president of the Pinellas County Young Democrats, a husband, bow tie aficionado, amateur chef and U.S. Coast Guard veteran. He also serves as Vice Chairman of the Pinellas Democratic Party. Learn more at PinellasYoungDems.org.

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

talking points

98% of

Black or African American

LGBTQ youth

ages 13-17

You never gave up. I applaud your determination and your courage and your belief that people could change. I think that’s a very important belief to have these days.

–Sigourney Weaver reflecting on the LGBTQ community’s fight for civil rights while discussing her film “Prayers for Bobby” with The Advocate

Google honors activist Marsha P. Johnson

G

oogle commemorated the legacy of activist Marsha P. Johnson by depicting the LGBTQ trailblazer in a vibrant illustration on the search engine’s homepage June 30, the last day of Pride Month 2020. Johnson is considered a “beloved and charismatic fixture in the LGBTQ community” for her pivotal role in the 1969 Stonewall Riots, the company shared, which are “widely regarded as a critical turning point for the international LGBTQ+ rights movement.” In 1970, she also founded the LGBTQ organization Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries with fellow trans activist Sylvia Rivera.

“Thank you, Marsha P. Johnson, for inspiring people everywhere to stand up for the freedom to be themselves,” Google shared. The design “will help teach her story to many more around the world, and about the work that has been historically ignored and often purposely left out of history books,” the Marsha P. Johnson Institute added.

believe racism

affects the lives of

Bl a ck and Afric an

Americ an people.

91% say it has impacted

the lives of their personal

friends and family.

-The Human Rights Campaign’s 2019 Black and African American LGBTQ Youth Report

Broadway shutdown extended until 2021

T

he shutdown on Broadway has been extended again in response to COVID-19, at least early 2021. While an exact date for performances to resume has yet to be determined, Broadway producers are now offering refunds and exchanges for tickets purchased for shows through Jan. 3. “The Broadway experience can be deeply personal but it is also, crucially, communal,” The Broadway League Chairman Thomas Schumacher said. “The alchemy of 1,000 strangers bonding into a single audience fueling each performer on stage and behind the scenes will be possible again when Broadway theatres can safely host full houses.” Many shows planned for the Fall have moved to next 2021, including a revival of “The Music Man” with Hugh Jackman.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Celebrities come out for Pride

P

ride Month 2020 inspired the coming out of a number of public figures. Actress and “Orange Is the New Black” star Taylor Schilling came out on Instagram on June 28. Schilling is currently dating visual artist Emily Ritz, who posted a photo of the two on her Instagram story, which Schilling later reposted on her own account.

Actress and “Hairspray” lead Nikki Blonsky came out via a TikTok video, which showed the actress and singer lip-syncing to the Diana Ross hit “I’m Coming Out.” The video’s caption proudly proclaimed “Hi, it’s Nikki Blonsky from the movie. I’m Gay!” Four professional snowboarders joined them via the snowboarding magazine Torment June 25: Tanner Pendleton, Kennedi Deck, Chad Unger and Jill Perkins.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

The Chicks unveil new name, single

T

he country-pop group formerly known as The Dixie Chicks, Martie Maguire, Natalie Maines and Emily Strayer, dropped “Dixie” from their name June 25. It coincided with the release of their LGBTQ-inclusive single “March March” from “Gaslighter,” their first new album in 14 years. The video features content from protests, specifically highlighting the Black Lives Matter movement, LGBTQ Pride marches, Trans Lives Matter protests and the women’s suffrage movement.

The Chicks remain the best-selling female group in America with more than 33 million albums sold in the U.S. Formed originally in Texas as a bluegrass group, they hit commercial fame with their breakthrough album “Wide Open Spaces.” They have been longtime, vocal LGBTQ allies.

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

A More Perfect Union Not-so-newlyweds reflect on 5 years of marriage equality

“O

Ryan Williams-Jent & Jeremy Williams

ur nation was founded on a bedrock

principle that we are all created equal,” President Barack Obama addressed the nation on the historical morning of June 26, 2015. “The project of each generation is to bridge the meaning of those founding words with the realities of changing times, a neverending quest to ensure those words ring true for every single American.

“Progress on this journey often comes in small increments, sometimes two steps forward, one step back, propelled by the persistent effort of dedicated citizens,” he continued. “And then sometimes, there are days like this when that slow, steady effort is rewarded with justice that arrives like a thunderbolt.”

That thunderbolt was the U.S. Supreme Court’s 5-4 ruling that every LGBTQ American had the legal right to marry the person they loved, ending the nation’s patchwork promise of equality for same-sex couples. Prior to that morning only 36 states, D.C. and Guam recognized marriage equality after lengthy legal battles, including Florida on Jan. 6, 2015.

The high court’s decision made it the law of the land, summarized by Justice Anthony Kennedy.

“No union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice and family,” he wrote in the court’s majority opinion.

“In forming a marital union, two people become something greater than once they were,” he concluded. “They ask for equal dignity in the eyes of the law. The Constitution grants them that right.”

LGBTQ Americans have endured great losses and celebrated incredible victories in the five years since

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

marriage equality, which has only strengthened our community and country. According to the Williams Institute, which advances public policy through independent research, more than half of the nation’s estimated 513,000 same-sex married couples have wed since that day – almost 293,000 people who have spent $3.2 billion on their weddings.

Their guests have been responsible for an additional $543.8 million in spending in our economy, with same-sex couples generating an estimated $244.1 million in state and local taxes. But the economic impact is nothing compared to the emotional reward so many have experienced in the days since.

“There’s so much more work to be done to extend the full promise of America to every American,” President Obama noted five years ago. “But today, we can say in no uncertain terms that we’ve made our union a little more perfect.”

To reflect on five years of marriage equality, Watermark reached out to a number of the Central Florida and Tampa Bay same-sex couples that shared their love stories with us in 2015. In these pages, the not-so-newlyweds discuss five years of proudly proving that love is love.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

David and Mike Lee-Hollis Alberto and Glenn

Ages:

52 and 49

Where are you living now?

We split time between St. Petersburg, Florida and our cabin in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.

How long have you been together?

13 years.

Who made up your family when you were married five years ago?

Just the two of us.

How has your family changed in the last 5 years?

Molina-Coats Where are you living now?

Tampa, Florida.

How long have you been together?

More than 21 years.

Us and two dogs, both passed away.

What surprised you the most about being married?

How has your family changed in the last 5 years?

How has being married changed your relationship?

Our relationship has become stronger.

How did you celebrate your first and fifth anniversaries?

Our first was a trip to Ft. Lauderdale and our fifth was to our cabin in North Carolina.

What marriage advice would you give to a couple getting married today?

Be your spouse’s best friend and keep honesty as the basis for all communication.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

With being together for more than 15 years, our relationship has not changed. Purchasing our new home, it was validating to see us listed as a “married couple.” With our prior home we were listed as single men but were both treated equally in the decision process this time.

Who made up your family when you were married 5 years ago?

We now have our Cocker Spaniel, Sadie. She’s four.

The feeling of truly belonging to one another and being recognized as a family unit.

How has being married changed your relationship?

Ages:

49 and 53

It’s now us and one dog, a rescue.

What surprised you the most about being married?

Glenn’s mother, Barbara, lost her battle to stomach cancer in 2018. We became her caregivers and before she was diagnosed, we sold our homes and bought a home for all of us. Alberto would take Glenn’s mother to her chemo appointments. She would proudly call Alberto her son-in-law, without going into a long explanation on how we’re related.

Glenn had a colonoscopy prior to marriage equality and we needed a health care surrogate certificate and trust in case we needed Alberto to make medical decisions.

After marriage equality our marriage licenses were all we needed. Filing joint taxes was another surprise, and when Alberto was laid off Glenn was able to add him to his employer’s medical coverage without question.

How did you celebrate your first and fifth anniversaries?

Our wedding from 16 years ago we celebrated in Miami. When finally recognized in 2015, we renewed our vows (11 years from our wedding date) in Miami again. Please understand, as far as we’re concerned it took the government 11 years to catch up to how we’ve been living. With us and to our family and friends we’ve been living as a married couple since our wedding in 2004 at Davis Island Garden club in Tampa, Florida.

What marriage advice would you give to a couple getting married today?

We would give the same advice to both opposite sex and same-sex couples: wait 3-5 years and get to know each other. Don’t rush into marriage. It’s a major milestone not to be taken lightly. Even after waiting to get married you will still learn things about each other and it’s a roller coaster.

Be open to individual and couples therapy.

It takes A LOT OF COMMUNICATION.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

23

Nicholas Cardello and Kurt English Ages:

57 and 55

Where are you living now?

Brandon, Florida.

How long have you been together?

28 Years

Who made up your family when you were married 5 years ago?

Just us, no children or pets.

How has your family changed in the last 5 years?

We adopted a rescue cat for the first time. Two years after our “legal marriage” in Florida we participated in the 2017 National Equality March for Unity & Pride in D.C. We were excited to highlight discrimination we still face, call for expanding LGBTQ rights and also out of concern for the ramifications of the 2016 election.

This was an anniversary trip of sorts because we also participated in the March on Washington in 1993 when we had zero protections! The 1993 march was risky because we lobbied our representatives in D.C. and happened to appear on national television. We could have returned home from that trip only to find out we both had been fired from our jobs for being gay.

While we were at the March in 2017 we were encouraged to recreate a photo we took in 1993 at the National Mall.

I posted the 1993 and 2017 photos side-by-side on my Facebook page around 11 p.m. from our hotel room in D.C. and by morning it had gone viral. Overnight it was shared all over the world, racking up more than one million likes in Brazil alone. Someone took the photo and

24

reposted it on Twitter with the sarcastic caption “It’s just a phase” where it also went viral. Another person posting it to Reddit, where it reached number one and the national media picked up the story. We proceeded to do interviews from around the world for the next 30 days.

We worked with Equality Florida to ensure our message was on point: we celebrated the Obergefell ruling but we wanted to draw attention to the fact that the struggle was not over. We chose to use our brief moment in the spotlight to draw attention to the lack of federal work place protections and the disproportionate number of LGBTQ youth suicides.

What surprised you the most about being married?

We were pleasantly surprised how good it felt to fully participate in an institution that was solely reserved for opposite sex couples. We had been afforded legal standing in terms of rights and responsibilities, and recognition of our relationship in all aspects of life.

We were also delighted to introduce each other as husbands and no one could challenge that. We were married on the first day it was legal in Florida in a mass ceremony by Pat Frank in Tampa with 100 other couples.

We applied for our license in Brandon and were amazed at the reception we received at the Clerk of the Court office. They were also a little disappointed we did not get married in Brandon.

How has being married changed your relationship?

There are laws protecting us and marriage benefits.

Nick was able to get on Kurt’s health care plan through his employer.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

How did you celebrate your first and fifth anniversaries?

This was our third commitment to each other over the 28 years we’ve been together. Our first ceremony was at our Brandon home in 1993 with about 30 family and friends.

Then we got married “legally” in Boston in 2008 to secure federal rights, which allowed us to file joint tax returns and amend three years of back returns which saved enough money over three years to buy a new car. Can you imagine how much we have overpaid taxes in the 20 years prior?! Finally we had the most recent wedding in Tampa in 2015. We also celebrate the day we met in 1992.

We have so many anniversaries that our family doesn’t know when to send us an anniversary card!

What marriage advice would you give to a couple getting married today?

Be patient with each other. Focus on what you have in common and compromise on your differences.

Celebrate each other’s successes and strive to bring your best self to your relationship each day. Take an interest in each other’s hobbies and interests even if they may not be your own, you may learn something new.

Don’t let finances become a barrier, we combined finances the first year we were together so we never had to have the discussion who’s paying for the bill!

Finally, commit to having an attitude of gratitude for each other, because after 28 years life is moving faster than either of us had wished for. We both met in our 20’s during the peak of the AIDS Crisis and we are now in our 50’s in the midst of a COVID-19 pandemic. We have lost several family members on both sides and realize there are no guarantees how long we will have together.

Make every day count!

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

Abby & Rachel Silverman Ages:

35 and 41

Where are you living now?

We are still living in Orlando, Florida.

How long have you been together?

We’ve been together for 11 years, married for five years.

Who made up your family when you were married 5 years ago?

Robby Pigott and Jim Harrison Ages:

We’re both 51, but Jim is four days older.

Where are you living now?

We’re still in Orlando, Florida.

How long have you been together?

29 years, 30 on April 13, 2021.

Who made up your family when you were married 5 years ago?

Just the two of us besides our own relatives.

How has your family changed in the last 5 years?

It’s still just the two of us.

What surprised you the most about being married?

Robby: Not really a surprise, but it was comforting to know that we were LEGALLY “next of kin” after so many years!

Jim: That nothing changed.

How has being married changed your relationship?

Robby: It hasn’t at all. I can’t even ever remember our Jan. 6th anniversary! I always just say 4/13/91, our first date and the day I knew we’d be together forever. Jim: It has not at all.

How did you celebrate your first and fifth anniversaries?

Robby: I probably wouldn’t have known if my mom hadn’t sent us a “Happy Anniversary” message on Facebook the first year.

For our fifth, Jim was in Texas doing a gig and I was working. The fact that it’s the same as “Three Kings Day” (not that I celebrate it, but I’m aware it’s a thing) is helping me remember now.

What marriage advice would you give to a couple getting married today?

Robby: For us, the biggest key to success has been complete honesty. We never fight. We genuinely love being around each other, and we respect the fact that time away from each other is sometimes necessary and absolutely acceptable.

Jim: I would say make sure that you want to be with that person forever because it’s too complicated to separate once you’re legally married.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

It was just us and our two Australian Shepherds, Ollie and Phineas.

How has your family changed in the last 5 years?

Just this year, Rachel gave birth to our first child, Leo. He was born May 2, 2020 and we couldn’t be more in love with him. Ollie and Phineas are still here too, trying to figure out who this new tiny human is!

What surprised you the most about being married?

Abby changed her last name after the wedding and took Rachel’s. It was a surprise to her how much she enjoyed being referred to as “The Silvermans.” It’s fun to check into a hotel or go to an event and hear it.

How has being married changed your relationship?

As simple as it sounds, the feeling of permanence was a change. Our relationship just felt different, in a way that wasn’t tangible but was very real. There was a new legitimacy to our relationship that felt grounding.

How did you celebrate your first and fifth anniversaries?

For our first wedding anniversary went spent a long weekend at a beautiful hotel right on the beach. We slept in, we ate seafood and we enjoyed the sound of waves as we slept. For our fifth anniversary, Rachel was eight months pregnant so we decided to stay home and enjoy our last anniversary as just the two of us. We ordered take out and spent the weekend watching movies in bed.

What marriage advice would you give to a couple getting married today?

Get the oyster bar, greet all your guests with champagne and invite all your people to share your moment. Your people are more important than the flowers or decor. It’s the one day where everyone gets to celebrate your relationship, soak up as much of it as you can!

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

25

Reach local LGBT communities across the nation.

Start connecting with over a million loyal readers in print and online across the country.

212-242-6863 info@nationallgbtmediaassociation.com www.nationallgbtmediaassociation.com

Atlanta | Boston | Chicago | Dallas/ Ft Worth | Detroit | Los Angeles | Miami/ Ft Lauderdale | New York | Orlando/Tampa Bay | Philadelphia | San Francisco | Washington DC

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watermark Your LGBTQ life.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

arts and Entertainment

Lendale and Love Tennis player Lendale Johnson serves activism on reality TV

L

Edward Segarra

endale Johnson is a professional athlete,

actor, model and activist. As the first openly gay, Black professional tennis player in the International Tennis Federation Pro Circuit, he is also the CEO and owner of the Johnson High Performance Tennis Academy, a celebrity and public tennis academy offering programs in New York, New Jersey and Chicago.

His latest venture is a reality television show entitled “Deuces and Love.” It finds the athlete using his platform to bring awareness to social issues affecting marginalized communities, which Johnson discussed with Watermark ahead of its streaming premiere.

WATERMARK: What inspired the creation of your new show “Deuces and Love”?

Lendale Johnson: I really felt like it was time for a show to be put out in the mainstream media really addressing things that have not been addressed [such as LGBTQ rights, Black civil rights and racism in Hollywood.] A lot of trans and LGBTQ actors and actresses haven’t really been highlighted in a positive light. A lot of their roles have been involving murder and I feel like it really needs to change.

Can you describe your experience of navigating the professional sports world as an openly gay, Black man?

I recently came out in the sport, it hasn’t really changed too much for me. It’s more about being

Continued on pg. 29 | uu |

Photo courtesy Otter Public Relations

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

27

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watermark Your LGBTQ life.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

police departments in America] need to be fired and then they can be rehired after they pass a certain psychological test. Of course, not all cops are bad cops – but the bad ones are shining a bad light on the good cops. I feel like the only way to sort out the bad ones is to start over.

| uu | Lendale and Love from pg.27

visible because I feel like [LGBTQ people] should feel comfortable playing any type of sport. Tennis is a very lucrative sport … and I believe that a lot of players that may be in my position – out or closeted – are mainly worried about losing sponsorships or not getting sponsorships if they came out.

I believe that has a lot to do with it and also the homophobia that’s still prevalent in a lot of sports…

Coming out is taking a big risk and it’s a lot of added pressure.

You’ve said that “the fact that Black people are still being murdered in 2020 by the hands of the justice system leaves me feeling very alarmed.”

What are you currently doing to preserve your mental health and what is your advice to other members of the Black community dealing with similar anxieties and emotions?

What have the implications been for your career in coming out?

The [tournament] tour is suspended right now because of COVID-19, but as far as the media … we just did the press release with my coming out a few days ago and I’m slowly doing interviews, so right now I’m not sure how people are going to take it. I can’t say that I’ve noticed anything different yet.

If anything, it would either help me or it would make things worse, but I like to believe that it’s bigger than me and I feel like if I can help out and be a pioneer in my sport for LGBTQ athletes, then I’ll do that.

What is the importance of visibility and media representation for marginalized communities?

I feel like they’re not represented that well. I can’t even think of a professional Black athlete who’s out in sports right now, so I definitely want to be the one to get that going. We need more of our community [and double minorities] to come out.

Are there any special guests that viewers can look forward to seeing on your show?

We’ve actually already interviewed [reality TV star and “Real Housewives of New Jersey” alum] Teresa Giudice and we’re going to have some American tennis stars on the show, as well as [an actor from the cast of the FX series “Pose.] Each episode, we’re going to have a different star on the show to talk about whatever we feel that’s relevant for the episode and make sure that the content is really what our audience needs.

How can people who want to be allies for social justice best support the members of marginalized communities?

serving equality: Lendale Johnson (C) takes center court with fellow Tennis stars (L-R) Jim Courier, John

McEnroe, Andy Roddick and James Blake at the PowerShares Series Tennis event. Photo courtesy Otter Public Relations

Donating to charity and being vocal when they see an injustice.

I can’t stress how important it is for an injustice to be verbally reprimanded … Silence is violence.

You have also been an active part of the Black Lives Matter movement in New York, marching in protest alongside the Manwari

one occasion. can you talk about what it was like to undergo these experiences?

I had an incident with the NYPD, actually. I was heading home on the Upper West Side in the West Village. I got racially profiled and I was thinking ‘Is this really happening to me?’

I ended up getting a panic attack

those thoughts really came from that incident.

What would you say to people who attempt to brush off the realities of systemic racism and argue that if you just “do the right thing” things like racial profiling can be avoided altogether?

Being Black and being gay is a double minority. They can never know what it feels like, but we can show people and teach them the ins and outs. We want them to learn what it’s — Lendale Johnson like to be a double minority.

Black Panthers. How do you plan to bring more awareness to the movement and what is your hope for the progress of it overall?

By being visible and continuing to speak out. We definitely need to focus on systemic racism, redlining, discrimination in the workplace, we need the police to be defunded and we need some policy changes as well.

We need to have more Black people in positions of power. The racism that’s been cultivated in American society and American culture needs to constantly be addressed, because I feel like it’s been going on for so long that people can be racist now and not even realize it.

It has been mentioned that you have been the victim of racial profiling on more than

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

and my anxiety was at uncharted levels. They had detained me in the street for a while and I missed dinner … I felt personally attacked and victimized. It was really traumatic for me because when something like that happens to you, especially at night, there are always thoughts that go through your mind and you’re thinking ‘What if this happens again?’ So when you see police around, it makes you uncomfortable.

But I will say that I definitely conquered my fears when I was protesting for Black Lives Matter.

I led the protest with the other organizers and we were around a lot of police officers; being around other Black people and having our allies support us really helped. But I did have moments of thinking I was going to be singled out and I just had to really push those thoughts away. I feel like

That’s definitely the worst type of racist person we could have.

I feel like that’s a major problem in America and the world as well that’s got all these people thinking that racism is not real and if you just pray and just go about your life being a goody-good, everything’s going to be okay and that’s not the case. People need to take action and it needs to happen with every single human being in this world.

Your tennis academy will be hosting a charity match with the NYPD to raise money for organizations such as the ACLU, The NAACP and The Okra Project. How can law enforcement agencies in general best support people of color in today’s social climate?

This sounds bad, but I feel like maybe the [people working in

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

This is a very emotional time for a lot of African Americans. I would say reach out to some clinical psychologists or clinical centers.

A lot of centers are offering free services right now and I’ve actually taken some classes. If you’re a Black person, you need to not try to put all the pressure on yourself, just do what you feel comfortable doing.

One thing at a time, one situation at a time and take it slow.

How would you like to see the Black LGBTQ community empowered in the future?

We need to be in positions of power. Us being in the limelight is important too. We really need someone to take a stand and be a beacon of light for the African American LGBTQ community because we don’t really have anyone who’s doing it justice, except for [actor and singer] Billy Porter.

What do you want people to take away from “Deuces and Love” once it premieres?

Being Black and being gay is a double minority. People can never know what it feels like, but we can show them and teach them the ins and outs. We want them to learn what it’s like to be a double minority.

What else do you want people to know?

If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say it and don’t say it behind closed doors either.

Lendale Johnson is still in talks with streaming platforms to determine where to distribute his show, but “Deuces and Love” is expected to be available Aug. 24. For more information about his advocacy and for additional updates on his work, visit LendaleJohnson.com.

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announcements

tampa bay out+about

CONGRATULATIONS Oasis announced June 26 that the bar had signed a lease for its new location in downtown Sarasota.

“Tampa Bay’s Got Talent” produced by the Knights of the Krewe of Cavaliers with Matthew McGee raised $14,000 for GLSEN Tampa Bay June 30.

Bill and Jeremy Kody were married July 3.

CONDOLENCES Tampa Pride Volunteer Chair Tim York lost his partner Michael after 30 years together June 30. He will be missed.

POSTPONEMENTS/ CLOSURES Alcohol consumption at bars has been suspended statewide.

Salty’s Gulfport will permanently close its current location July 26.

The 2020 Tampa Bay Comic Convention has been cancelled. It will return in 2021.

The Great Gay 5K 2020 has been cancelled.

All Hallows Ball 2020 has been cancelled. It will return in 2021.

Project No Labels’ Prom in Wonderland has been indefinitely postponed.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Graphic designer Clo Labelle, Tampa Bay photographer Tony Fowler (July 9); Sarasota actor Kenneth Rapczynski, MCC Senior Pastor Jakob Hero-Shaw (July 10); Sawmill Campground general manager Justin Pamplin (July 11); Metro Inclusive Health Director of Development James Keane (July 12); Tampa Bay entertainer Robert Rigsby/Rockell Blu, Quench Lounge manager Gary Miller, U.S. para-cyclist Monica Sereda (July 13); Gasparilla Festival of the Arts President John Scheffel, LGBTQ activist Gil Sainz, Al Ferguson formerly of Al & Chuck, Disney fanatic Matthew Samay (July 14); St. Pete artist Chad Mize, Three Boys Café owner Matthew Downs (July 15); OUTCoast’s Rachel Covello, Michael Saunders & Co. realtor Jason Coy Turner, Community advocate Michael Snyder (July 16); St. Petersburg artist James Michael McCracken, St. Petersburg IT wiz Frank Meekins (July 17); Seminole business owner David Verdi, Former St. Pete LGBT liaison Robert Danielson (July 18); “Ms. Pinky Penmark” Robert Shaffer, Tampa Bay bear Mike Tobias , St. Petersburg hairstylist Joey Wilkes (July 19); Karmic Tattoo performer Pam Green (July 20); Tampa Bay singer Jennifer Real, Tampa Bay actor and Patti herself Matthew McGee, St. Pete’s director of cultural affairs Wayne David Atherholt, Makeup extraordinaire Jeremy Bangkx, St. Pete dancer Erik Shepard (July 21); Helping hand Jarrod Ketzler, St. Pete sweetheart Natalie Buono, DuPont Registry editor in chief David Warner (July 22)

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MURAL MODE: Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber President Justice Gennari lends a helping brush to Tampa’s new LGBTQ intersection mural June 29. PHOTO COURTESY TAMPA BAY LGBT CHAMBER

2

CARE FOR ALL: Tampa Mayor Jane Castor speaks at Metro Inclusive Health inclusivity flag raising at their future Tampa site June 30. PHOTO COURTESY METRO INCLUSIVE HEALTH

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PRIDE CENTRAL: Todd Wilber (L) and John Scheffel strut their stuff at Atlas Body + Home June 27. PHOTO BY RUSS MARTIN

4

WEARING IS CARING: Rising Tide Innovation Center masks up July

1. PHOTO COURTESY RISING TIDE INNOVATION CENTER

5

RIDIN’ WITH BIDEN: (L-R) Michael Womack, Nick Machuca and Adam rev up for the Rainbow Joe Coalition Caravan through Ybor to support Joe Biden for president June 27. PHOTO

COURTESY MICHAEL WOMACK

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TOGETHER WE RISE: Michele Rayner-Goolsby, Yolanda Hudson, Terri Lipsey Scott and Deborah Figgs-Sanders attend Come OUT St Pete’s “Together We Rise” vigil June 28.

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

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STILL GOT IT: Aerin Alexandre (L) and Heno Parks enjoy the St Pete has Pride Art Show at Ekeko Gallery June 26.

PHOTO BY RUSS MARTIN

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MASKED MAN: Jim Nixon welcomes guests to the Metro LGBTQ Welcome Center the #StPeteWay July 1. PHOTO

COURTESY JIM NIXON

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

announcements

central florida out+about

CONGRATULATIONS Anthony Mauss and Robert Belanger were engaged July 4.

POSTPONEMENTS/ CLOSURES

2

Alcohol consumption at bars has been suspended statewide.

REOPENINGS Boomerang Thrift Shop reopened May 27.

The Art & History Museums – Maitland reopened May 28.

The Orlando Museum of Art reopened June 2.

VIRTUAL EVENTS

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Fairvilla has launched Fairvilla University Online July 8 and will feature new online classes several times each month. Education is shared between Fairvilla’s in-house educator Debbie Lee and John and Angelique Luna of Sex Positive Me. Topics include a variety of educational and fun topics.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Darden ally Carole Conroy, The Venue’s Jaime Bridges, co-owner of Shelbie Press Michelle Murray (July 9) The Contigo Fund’s program director Marco Antonio Quiroga (July 11); Central Florida drag performer Kristina McLaughlin, Orlando event planner Jorge Cruz (July 12); former Watermark Central Florida account manager Brianna Rockmore (July 15); AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s Russell Walker (July 16); Hospitality worker Nikki Price (July 18); die-hard theater lover Deborah Simpson (July 19); Orlando entertainer Sam Singhaus, Orlando physician Dr. Jerry Horton, Rock Hard Fitness’ Max Dunley, Footlight Theater dancer Steven Johnson (July 20); beloved activist Rachel Gardiner (July 21)

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U.S. OF YAY: Mel Tino (L) and wife Sondra Rae from XL 106.7 celebrate the 4th of July with their twins.

PHOTO BY SONDRA RAE

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RAINY DAZE: The Bros in Convo’s Daniel Downer enjoys the rain at Shantell’s in Sanford on July 5. PHOTO COURTESY DANIEL DOWNER

Do you have an announcement? Having a birthday or anniversary? Did you get a new job or promotion?

See your news in Watermark! Send your announcement to Editor@WatermarkOnline.com or go to WatermarkOnline.com/Submit-a-Transition.

3

ALL UP ON HIS GRILL: Anthony Mauss (L) and Robert Belanger celebrate their new engagement on July 4.

PHOTO COURTESY ANTHONY MAUSS

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AROUND TOWN: Masked up with somewhere to go, Jay Daniels runs errands July 3.

PHOTO COURTESY JAY DANIELS

It’s that easy!

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LADIES THAT LUNCH: Sue Bee Langiness (L) with sister Debbie (C) & mother Charlotte (R) dine in at Cavo’s Bar & Kitchen – 7/1/20, photo

courtesy of SueBee Lnginess

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RED, WHITE & TWO: Bill (L) and Ed Bohannon-Dobski head to spend the holiday at Universal Orlando July 4. PHOTO COURTESY

BILL BOHANNON-DOBSKI

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MASK MANDATE: Billy Celiz pumps iron and follows the rules at LA Fitness June 28. PHOTO

COURTESY BILLY CELIZ

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SANITIZED: Practicing safe six and using protection, Blue Star (L) gets a squirt of sanitizer from Jason Lambert at the Hammered Lamb June 30. PHOTO

COURTESY THE HAMMERED LAMB

8 watermark Your LGBTQ life.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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In Partnership with UCF DeVos Sport Business. Benefiting onePULSE Foundation.

Join us for the Fourth Annual 4.9k CommUNITY Rainbow Run as we come together to celebrate a world of inclusion.

Saturday, September 12 , 2020 Wadeview Park 2177 S. Summerlin Avenue, Orlando, FL Registration Opens: 7:00 am Kids Fun Run: 9:15 am Race Begins: 8:00 am CommUNITY Festival: 7:00 am-10:30 am

Register online at www.communityrainbowrun.com VIP Experience | $149 Run and/or just enjoy the 26Health Patron’s Tent for unlimited Mimosa’s and other adult beverages, along with brunch provided by Hard Rock Café. 21 and older. ID required day of event.

4.9k General Run Registration | $49 Enjoy the run and CommUNITY Festival.

Old Town Kissimmee Kids Fun Run | $5 A special run, just for the kids, includes CommUNITY Festival.

PNC Bank Virtual Run | $49

Join us from anywhere in the world for our Virtual Run and receive an official T-shirt, medal and backpack.

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watermark Your LGBTQ life.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

wedding bells

Felipe and Luis Sousa-Lazaballet, from Orlando, Florida

Engagement Date:

June 7, 2019 and Sept. 2, 2019

Wedding Date:

June 6, 2020

Officiant:

State Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith

Venue:

Mennello Sculpture Garden

Colors:

White and Lavender

Wedding Song/ Artist:

“Never Enough”

Florist:

Amazon, a bouquet and rainbow umbrellas

Caterer:

Friend Marco Antonio Quiroga hosted a brunch for the six people involved in the wedding

Cake Flavors:

Lemon lavender

Bakery:

Se7en Bites

Photographer/ Videographer: J.D. Casto

Photos by JD Casto

W

hen Felipe and Luis Sousa-

Lazaballet first got engaged, they could never have predicted that they would have a socially-distanced wedding.

After deciding to propose, Luis knew he wanted to pop the question on the beach in Miami — the place they had met. The couple had already planned a trip for Luis’ birthday.

Unfortunately, it had started to pour, so the birthday party was moved to a hotel. While they were singing “Happy Birthday” and cutting the cake, Luis’ friends were secretly helping him set up a rooftop proposal.

When it was ready, Luis invited everyone up to the roof for “a toast.”

“I held Felipe’s hand and in the presence of so many of our loved ones I got down on one knee and asked him to marry me,” Luis says. “The funny thing was he said yes before I finished asking the question, which only made my heart grow warmer.”

After that moment, Felipe wanted to make Luis feel just as loved as he felt, so he decided he was also going to propose while on a trip to Rio de Janeiro to meet Felipe’s family.

“One of my favorite parts of being part of the LGBTQ+ community is that we get to create our own tradition and forge our own path forward,” Felipe says.

“I loved when Luis proposed to me and that made me feel chosen.

I wanted him to have a similar experience.”

Luis and Felipe had promised each other to see all the seven wonders of the world, so Felipe decided he would propose at the Christ the Redeemer statue, which would be their first world wonder.

“On our way to the Christ the Redeemer, I kept replaying in my head what I wanted to tell him,” Felipe says. “In Felipe style, I started crying then I had to say that the song on the radio made me emotional and that I loved him so much. This entire time he was clueless of what was about to happen.”

Though it had been raining hard, the sky had started to clear. After taking a few pictures with Felipe’s

godson, Felipe’s cousin said “it’s now or never.”

“I took him right in front of the Christ the Redeemer statue, got on one knee and asked him to marry me,” Felipe says. “I was so focused on Luis that I didn’t notice that all of the tourists on top of the mountain had created a circle around us and they started to clap when he said yes.”

Felipe and Luis had originally planned to have a large wedding at Come Out With Pride. This plan especially meant a lot to Felipe, who wanted to combat negative stereotypes about immigrants, as he is from Brazil and Luis is from Venezuela.

“It feels to me that one day doesn’t go by without a new attack on immigrants by the president,” Felipe says. “I thought that a celebration of love shared by two gay immigrants could make a difference. In my humble opinion, love is a light that cannot be dimmed down by hate.”

Unfortunately, COVID-19 forced the couple to make other plans.

They wed at a sculpture garden with only six people total. The ceremony was livestreamed for all their other loved ones.

However, some of their friends decided to surprise them by driving to the parking lot to be there in person while still practicing social distancing.

“As we walked out, we were caught off guard when we realized that they were all there, waiting for us in their cars, honking, cheering, holding signs and celebrating with us while keeping a safe distance,” Luis says. “I will never forget this.”

Though the wedding wasn’t what they had originally planned, it was still a joyous day. To continue social distancing, they didn’t have a reception, but they have big plans for one.

“For now let’s just say: Carnaval in Rio 2022,” Luis says.

“It can sound cliche but our wedding day was the happiest day in my life,” Felipe says. “I got to say ‘I do’ to the man of my dreams and I could not have chosen a better person to be my lover, life companion, the man who I share all of my aspiration, the person I can always count to be with me during happiness and sadness, and the person I want to have a family with.”

— Lora Korpar

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

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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tampa

bay

Accountant

M arketplace

financial services

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

ADDRESSING THE UNIQUE FINANCIAL NEEDS OF THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY. As a member of the LGBTQ+, I have a deep understanding of the financial challenges we face − and of the solutions that can help meet those challenges.

Call me today and let’s discuss how you can meet those THEchallenges, UNIQUEtoo.

FINANCIAL NEEDS OF THE

ADDRESSING LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY.

Joe Patneaude

Advisor, PrudentialofAdvisors As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I have a Financial deep understanding the financial Thehelp Prudential Company of America challenges we face — and of the solutions that can meetInsurance those challenges.

Office: 813-520-4169 Call me today and let’s discuss howADDRESSING you can meet those challenges, too.NEEDS OF THE THE UNIQUE FINANCIAL Cell: 727-482-8891 LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY.

Joe Patneaude As a member of the LGBTQ+ I have a deep understanding of the financial Fax: community, 813-287-9336 challenges we face — and of the solutions that can help meet those challenges.

Financial Advisor, Prudential Advisors Call me today and let’s discuss how you can meet those challenges, too. joe.patneaude@prudential.com The Prudential Insurance Company of America www.prudential.com/advisor/joseph-patneaude Joe Patneaude Phone: 813-520-4169 Financial Advisor, Prudential Advisors Fax: 813-287-9336 The Prudential Insurance Company of America Phone: 813-520-4169 Mobile: 727-482-8891 Fax: 813-287-9336 joe.patneaude@prudential.com Mobile: 727-482-8891 joe.patneaude@prudential.com www.prudential.com/advisor/joseph-patneaude www.prudential.com/advisor/joseph-patneaude

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Prudential Advisors is a brand name of The Prudential Insurance Company of America and its subsidiaries. Offering investment advisory services through Pruco Securities, LLC (Pruco), doing business as Prudential Financial Planning Services (PFPS), pursuant to separate client agreement. Offering insurance and securities products and services as a registered representative of Pruco, and an agent of issuing

Prudential Advisors is a brand name of The Prudential Insurance Company of America and itsPrudential, subsidiaries. investment services PrucoFinancial, Securities, (Pruco), doing business as worldwide. insurance companies. the PrudentialOffering logo, the Rock symbol and Bringadvisory Your Challenges are servicethrough marks of Prudential Inc., andLLC its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions Prudential Financial Planning Services (PFPS), pursuant to separate client agreement.

Offering insurance and securities products and services as a registered representative of Pruco, and an agent of issuing 1015493-00002-00 insurance companies. Prudential, the Prudential logo, the Rock symbol and Bring Your Challenges are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc., and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide.

1015493-00002-00

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34

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

- Couples Money Communication - Debt Free Living - Financial Freedom - Designing Your Legacy

July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

tampa

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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C entral

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

C entral

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financial services

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Read It Online!

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

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

37

C entral

Insurance

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watermark Your LGBTQ life.pHOTOGRApHY July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

• Join • Volunteer • Donate

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July 9 - July 22, 2020 // Issue 27.14 wat e r m a r konline .com

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