Watermark Issue 28.01: New Alliance

Your LGBTQ Life.

January 7 - 20, 2021 Issue 28.01

New Alliance One Orlando Alliance’s new board chair, executive director talk where they came from and where the Alliance is going in 2021

ALSO Youth expands outreach Orlando Fringe kicks off Winter Mini-Fest D A Y T O N A B E A C H • O R L A N D O • T A M P A • S T . P E T E R S B U R G • clear w ater • S A R A S O T A

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

departments 7 // Publisher’s Desk

page

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8 // Central Florida News 11// Tampa Bay News

I was always compassionate and God loves you as you are, but I couldn’t extend that to myself.

I just wasn’t there yet and what happened at Pulse chipped away at that a little bit.

–Josh Bell, executive director to the One Orlando Alliance

14// State News 15// Nation & World News 21// Talking Points 37// Tampa Bay Out + About 39// Central Fl Out + About 40// Tampa Bay Marketplace 42// Central Fl Marketplace 46// Wedding Bells On the cover

page The Rainbow Connection:

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page New Alliance:

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One Orlando Alliance’s new board chair, executive director talk where they came from and where the Alliance is going in 2021. Photo by Dylan Todd.

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Project Pride unites Sarasota with “The Brunch Show.”

Watermark Issue 28.01 // January 7 - 20, 2021

Anniversary tea

New Horizon

New Year

Theatre Season

page Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria celebrates 15 years.

page ALSO Youth expands outreach following merger with Prism Youth.

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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Equality Florida details LGBTQ-focused 2021 agenda.

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Orlando Fringe moves forward with Winter Mini-Fest.

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

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

Publisher’s

Rick Claggett PUblisher

Rick@WatermarkOnline.com

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Desk

appy New Year! Or so I hope.

I again find myself in an information purgatory, the news equivalent of “The Medium Place” for fans of NBC’s “The Good Place.”

The 48 hours between the time I write these words and you read them, the world will most definitely be altered.

As I sit here, the polls are open in Georgia for the two run-off Senate seats — the outcome of which will have a profound effect on our community. Will Democrats take control of the Senate and allow soon-to-be President Biden an easier path to make this the country we voted for or will Republicans maintain control with the power to stymie the Democratic Party agenda? Would a Republican win embolden election fraud conspiracy theorists to fight harder to deny a Biden presidency? The next 48 hours could be a smooth nothing-burger or the start of violent civil

unrest. It’s enough to make the even-keeled’s anxiety spike.

The good news is that time will tell. These next two days will pass and we will have our answers. In the meantime I’m reminded of my favorite TV quote, “There’s no sense in rehearsing tragedy.” That comes courtesy of Frank Reagan on CBS’ “Blue Bloods.” I’m no longer ashamed to admit I watch an abundance of CBS shows. Part of my 2021 plan is to embrace my age and the poor taste I have in all forms of art.

I’ve not been much for New Year’s resolutions lately. I can appreciate the sentiment, and it’s good to have goals, but I see a

lot of failed attempts. In the past I have used Jan. 1 as a marker to stop smoking, drink less and go to the gym. Oddly, all of these things are currently being done but they were never the result of a successful New Year’s resolution.

I am by no means an expert in the area of self-improvement, but I’ll offer some insight that helped me eventually reach my goals. First of all set realistic, measurable goals. “I want to go to the gym more often,” or “I want to be healthier,” aren’t realist or measurable. If you go to the gym once, have you fulfilled the goal of going more often? If you pass on one slice of pizza are you being healthier? If your goals aren’t quantifiable, then it’s easy to fall short of what you are actually looking for.

During quarantine I managed to gain too much weight. I was back up to 200 pounds and a size 36, so for a short 5’6” guy, I was pretty unhealthy. I knew I had to do something so I said I was going to workout more and eat healthier. There were days where this worked, but I wasn’t seeing the results I wanted. I started to set specific goals: fit into size 32 pants, fit into small shirts collecting dust in my closet.

I then looked at what my daily life would need to be and I put that into action.

I’ve been working on my health since October, even though the holidays were in sight and I knew it would be difficult. This brings me to my second point, and at the risk of sounding like Shia LaBeouf, do it now. Don’t wait for a magic day or time of year. If it’s important enough just start today, whether it’s Jan. 1 or Aug. 13.

The next step is accountability.

I wasn’t able to achieve my goals when I was in it alone. I needed to invest time into a program and I have found that in the nutrition

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

Editor-in-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. 107 Dylan@WatermarkOnline.com

Sales Director: Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Danny@WatermarkOnline.com Senior Orlando Account Manager: Sam Callahan • Ext. 103 Sam@WatermarkOnline.com Tampa Bay Account Manager: Michael Wier • Ext. 105 Michael@WatermarkOnline.com

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

and training team at Rock Hard Fitness. Involving others can give you benchmarks and encouragement in the process.

Don’t forget to pace yourself and give yourself time. It took me two years to get back up to the heaviest I’ve ever been and it was going to take more than a couple of weeks to improve. You don’t want to go all-in and burn out.

Lastly, cut yourself some slack — a lesson that was hard for me to learn. It’s okay to slip up from time to time. What is important is that you keep moving forward. The thing about self-improvement is that it never stops. You have to work at it.

I’ll steal a line from a 12-step

I’ll steal a line from a 12-step program and say that the goal is progress, not perfection.

program and say that the goal is progress, not perfection. This can apply to any of your goals, not just physical fitness.

In this latest issue of Watermark we look to two people who are looking to make some community improvement as the new leaders of the One Orlando Alliance. In Central Florida news we celebrate the 15th anniversary of Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria. In Tampa Bay we focus on the merge of ALSO Youth and Prism Youth Initiative. Our Arts & Entertainment section features Orlando Fringe’s Winter Mini-Fest while Tampa Bay focuses on the Project Pride Brunch Show.

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

Orlando Office Tampa Bay Account Manager: Ricky Celaya-Renaud • Ext. 102 Ricky@WatermarkOnline.com Founder and Guiding Light: Tom Dyer National Ad Representative: Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

contributors Jason Leclerc

is a near lifelong resident of the I-4 corridor, currently in South Tampa. He publishes poetry online at PoetEconomist. blogspot.com. His first book, Momentitiousness, was published in 2014. His book, Black Kettle, was published in 2016. Page 17

Scottie Campbell

is a longtime activist as a member the LGBT community. His work has resulted in a thriving community in the Lake Ivanhoe region and his wit has melted at least a few Orlando candles. Page 19

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

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

distribution LVNLIF2 Distributing, Ken Carraway, Mike McCarthy, June Macwithey CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher.

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central florida news

Orlando Pride players announce engagement Jeremy Williams

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RLANDO | Orlando Pride players Toni Pressley and Marta Vieira da Silva, known publicly as Marta, announced Jan. 4 that they are engaged.

Photos of the couple showing Pressley’s engagement ring, were posted to each of their Instagram accounts with Pressley writing “Yes” followed by smiling face surround by hearts emoji and Marta writing “This is another chapter of the story that we are writing together,” in both English and her native Portuguese.

Marta, who is originally from Brazil, is often referred to as the greatest female soccer player of all time. She has been named FIFA World Player of the Year six times and has scored a record 17 goals at FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments.

Pressley is one of four players remaining from the Orlando Pride’s inaugural 2016 season. Marta joined the team the following year.

The couple’s engagement announcement comes about a year after fellow Orlando Pride teammates Ali Krieger and Ashlyn Harris married in a Miami ceremony Dec. 28, 2019.

Serving Tea: Pom Moongauklang is ready to serve up tea and sandwiches to the Milk District for another 15 years.

Photo by Austin Burke, courtesy Pom Moongauklang

Anniversary Tea

Orlando named best destination for LGBTQ families

Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria celebrates 15 years in Orlando’s Milk District

Jeremy Williams

Jeremy Williams

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RLANDO | GayTravel.com, an LGBTQ travel site, named Orlando as the No. 1 destination for LGBTQ families.

“Celebrated for its larger-than-life theme parks and its family-oriented fun, Orlando has a lot more up its sleeve than just games, rides and costumed characters,” the site raved. “Gay travelers will discover that this city of almost 300,000 has its own unique rhythm. Boasting more than 100 parks and 100 lakes, including pretty Lake Eola, it can actually be a subdued retreat for LGBTQ+ travelers.”

The distinction came as a part of the site’s fifth annual Gay Travel Awards, which recognizes and rewards select accommodations, destinations and transportation companies around the globe. The winners were announced on GayTravel.com Dec. 28.

Orlando was joined by award-winning destinations such as Los Cabos, Mexico, named best beach; Mykonos, Greece, named best island; Zermatt, Switzerland, named best mountains; Costa Rica, named best nature; and Puerto Rico, named best wedding destination. Atlanta, Georgia was named the best overall city for gay travel.

“The Gay Travel Awards give us all a moment to focus on the industry’s best as a prologue to a time when it’s safer to get back out there,” said GayTravel Chief Visionary Officer Steve Rohrlick in a statement. GayTravel.com’s full 2020 Gay Travel Awards list can be seen at GayTravel.com/ 2020-gay-travel-awards-winners.

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RLANDO | Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria commemorated 15 years as one of the community’s favorite local eateries with a 15-day celebration — set to end Jan. 9 — honoring the restaurant’s food, drinks, art and, most importantly, its customers.

“My success is owed all to them and my staff,” owner Pom Moongauklang says. “Whenever they have friends in town or family they bring them by because they know we are a safe space.”

Moongauklang, who was born in Thailand, had been living in Orlando for a few years when she decided she wanted to open a deli-style restaurant like the one she use to go to in New York.

“After work at NoBu, (the New York eatery owned by celebrity chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa and Oscar-winning actor Robert De Niro that Moongauklang worked at) all we wanted to do was grab a beer and a sandwich at the deli next

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

door,” Moongauklang says. “And back in 2005, there really wasn’t anything like that here in Orlando.”

So Moongauklang decided she would open something like it.

“At the time the Baldwin Park area was being built and I was deciding whether to open up in there or in the Milk District,” Moongauklang recalls. “I had lived around the Milk District before and there was a little halal butcher that I noticed was going out of business and I looked at that spot and I thought this is perfect. This is where I need to be.”

15 years later, Pom Pom’s is a staple of Orlando’s Milk District. It is as synonymous with the area as Southern Nights, Drunken Monkey and Beefy Kings.

Moongauklang had hoped to mark Pom Pom’s 15th anniversary with a huge party but, due to the current pandemic, opted for a 15-day celebration filled with discounts and giveaways. Pom Pom’s also used the anniversary to help raise funds for local nonprofits.

On Dec. 29, Moongauklang donated 15% of the eatery’s lunch proceeds

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to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and on Jan. 9 15% of that day’s proceeds will be donated to the onePULSE Foundation.

Moongauklang says that Pom Pom’s 15-day celebration honoring its loyal customers – who Moongauklang calls “Pomatics” – isn’t just for the last 15 years but also for the support she received from them since the start of the pandemic.

“Truthfully I didn’t think I was going to make it to 15,” Moongauklang says. “I think there were so many touch-and-go moments in 2020, but I’m grateful and thankful that all my purveyors understood and they worked with us, and of course the neighborhood.

The Pomatics came out in force and that really, really helped us.”

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, recognizing the social and cultural impact Pom Pom’s has had on Central Florida, issued a proclamation Jan. 6 declaring the day Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria Day in the city.

“When I opened Pom Pom’s I knew that, whatever else it would be, I wanted it to be a safe place for everyone and that’s what it has been since day one,” Moongauklang says. “You walk in and can see Danielle Hunter sitting there at the counter eating a tuna sandwich next to someone who works in construction.”

Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria is located at 67 N. Bumby Ave. in Orlando’s Milk District.

— featuring live entertainment — Event Dates:

A Taste of the Swan & Dolphin The Big Game Tailgate Party Saturday, Jan. 16 & Feb. 27 Sunday, Feb 7 Event admission includes: • Unlimited tastings at multiple food stations • Unlimited tastings at a variety of beverage stations • Live musical entertainment • Physically distanced safety protocols & our commitment to clean • Seating available to accommodate each party at their own table

Event Only Tickets - $110 Room Package Reservations: 1.800.227.1500 Booking hours: Mon - Fri 8:30am - 7:00pm & Sat - Sun 8:30am - 5:00pm

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Learn More at FoodAndWineClassic.com All events will be indoors. Events are limited to those 21 and older. Tickets to the event are limited. Packages include access for two adults to food & beverage experience. Rates are based on availability at time of booking. Among the protocols that will be implemented for each event are: Temperature check at entrance for all attendees, plexiglass walls for all food service, all cast members wearing PPE, seating to accommodate each party at their own table, touchless menus and clearly marked physical distancing signage.

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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tampa bay news

Tampa Bay officials urge caution in 2021 Ryan Williams-Jent

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COMMUNITY RENOVATION:

ALSO Youth Executive Director James Robinson (R) accepts a donation from Project Pride SRQ in support of the organization’s Bradenton renovation.

PHOTO COURTESY PROJECT PRIDe SRQ

New Horizon ALSO Youth expands outreach Ryan Williams-Jent

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ARASOTA | ALSO Youth’s work to support the LGBTQ community has officially expanded into Manatee County, allowing them to reach more LGBTQ youth than ever before.

The organization plans to open its renovated Bradenton location with an outdoor event Jan. 23 in the former home of Prism Youth Initiative. The two nonprofits finalized their merger late last year.

The union was ideal, representatives shared with Watermark ahead of time. ALSO Youth has focused on advocacy, leadership, support and outreach for LGBTQ youth since 1992 – while Prism began its likeminded work to empower LGBTQ youth in Manatee County in 2010, most notably through its annual Manatee Pride celebration.

The organizations originally intended to announce their merger at the festival’s seventh outing last March. It was ultimately cancelled in response to COVID-19, which also forced each group to suspend in-person offerings for most of 2020.

The pandemic didn’t halt progress; ALSO Youth Executive Director James Robinson joined the organization in April and planning for the expansion of services continued. Programming was held virtually while he and the board moved forward with the merger, finalizing details in September.

Despite the year’s many challenges, he says “ALSO Youth did relatively well during COVID.” Robinson credits “the tremendous community support for the organization” and the dedication of its growing board and staff.

“We’re in a really good place,” he says. “We have the team to support the work that we need to do and we’re expanding.”

Ahead of reopening the Bradenton location, which has received financial support from organizations like Project Pride SRQ, ALSO Youth has resumed in-person programming at its Sarasota headquarters. Robinson says they’re able to do so safely in both locales thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.

“They’re paying for a cleaning company to come in every other week to sanitize,” he says, “and for

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

a lot of the masks, hand sanitizer and thermometers. Both of these spaces are ready to reopen in a COVID world.”

In addition to maintaining regular programming, ALSO Youth will also assume stewardship of Manatee Pride. As “the celebration traditionally financed Prism,” Robinson says, “that will continue.

Whatever income is generated will continue to serve young people in Manatee County.”

He adds that the festival is likely to return in 2021 but won’t be held in its traditional month of March. Like the organization’s other critical fundraisers – including the ALSO Youth Turkey Trot and ALSO Prom – details remain uncertain as COVID-19 continues to impact Florida.

In the interim, ALSO Youth is focusing on supporting the LGBTQ community and its allies however it can. In-person activities are scheduled throughout January, complementing continued virtual efforts as their presence in Manatee County grows.

“The opportunity is here for us to really go in and make ALSO Youth a part of the community,” Robinson says. “Aside from reaching a whole different cohort of young people, the idea of creating a partnership and becoming a viable and visible presence is definitely a goal. Things look pretty bright for 2021.”

To learn more about ALSO Youth, its events or to make a donation, visit ALSOYouth.org.

AMPA BAY | As COVID-19 continues to impact Florida and its LGBTQ community, St. Petersburg and Tampa officials are urging residents to exercise caution in the new year.

Florida became the third state to hit one million coronavirus cases Dec. 1, closing out the month and year with its highest single-day increase in infections.

According to the Florida Dept. of Health, more than 20,000 positive cases were reported on Dec. 31.

More than 875 of them came from Pinellas County, which includes St. Petersburg – and more than 1,500 came from Hillsborough County, of which Tampa calls home. As of Jan. 3, each county’s average two-week positivity rate is respectively 9.31% and 12.74%.

Rising numbers are what prompted St. Petersburg to launch its Race to Safe initiative in December, designed to make Pinellas “Florida’s most COVID-safe community” by lowering its positivity rate. Officials stress that “we must continue doing everything we can to keep our community safe.”

The city now provides a dashboard of information comparing Pinellas, Hillsborough and other counties.

It also maintains a list of resources for city businesses, residents and visitors, designed to help mitigate risks and reduce infection rates “the St. Pete Way.” Ahead of the new year, St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman addressed that mentality via social media.

“Despite some dark days, the spirit of St. Pete shined bright in 2020,” he wrote Dec. 31. “As we enter 2021 with COVID remaining a serious threat, we must recommit ourselves to doing right, for ourselves and for each other.

I know we can do it.”

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor also addressed constituents Dec. 30, releasing a public service announcement. In it, she calls on locals to “extinguish” COVID-19 in 2021.

“Let’s be honest, we can all agree that 2020 has been a bit of a dumpster fire,” she says in the video, “but the end is in sight and we need you to be the fire extinguisher.”

Castor subsequently outlined a number of resources available to residents and businesses, encouraging responsible behavior throughout the year. She highlighted Tampa’s Lift Up Local and Safe & Sound initiatives, designed to encourage cautious behavior.

In Tampa specifically, COVID-19 has already begun to impact LGBTQ venues and events in the new year. Tampa Pride announced in November that its next celebration has been postponed from March 27 to May 22.

The LGBTQ hotspot Honey Pot also shared Dec. 28 that it would close indefinitely, a response to county restrictions prohibiting unseated patrons from congregating on dance floors.

“We eagerly await a return to normalcy in the new year and the ability to once again dance the night away with each other,” the bar shared via social media.

Visit StPete.org/COVID-19 and Tampa.gov/COVID-19 and for more information about each city’s coronavirus response.

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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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.

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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, 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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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

4/27/20 1:25 PM

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state news

Equality Florida details LGBTQ-focused 2021 equality agenda the 1980s. “People living with connected and supported during Equality Florida’s 2021 agenda educational institutions. They hope HIV can still be arrested and the COVID-19 pandemic.” begins with ensuring schools are this and more will “work to end convicted for non-disclosure, even In 2021, Equality Florida will welcoming for LGBTQ students. rampant discrimination against when no transmission occurs,” also further its efforts to pass the “School safety is a life or death transgender and gender nonbinary quality Florida they explain. “These outdated Florida Competitive Workforce issue for LGBTQ youth, who face people in healthcare, housing, and previewed its 2021 laws disproportionately target Act (FCWA), first introduced in the higher risks of bullying, assault, the criminal justice system.” agenda ahead of the women, people of color and the state more than 10 years ago. It homelessness, substance abuse and Finally, Equality Florida will new year, committing to protect trans community, and often deter would prohibit discrimination on suicide attempts,” the organization work to support pro-equality the community it serves as people from seeking testing the basis of sexual orientation and shares. They advise their Safe and businesses which have adopted the state’s largest LGBTQ civil and treatment.” gender identity in employment, Healthy Schools program remains comprehensive LGBTQ protections. rights organization.

Following the deadliest housing, public accommodations “the most ambitious school-based They’ll do so by highlighting It follows a historic year for year on record for transgender and more statewide. program ever undertaken on behalf their efforts in their Equality the organization, even amidst Americans – with at least 43 “Florida is behind the times, and of LGBTQ students.”

Means Business and Open Doors COVID-19. In addition to our state law still does not explicitly individuals having been murdered With continued support in Florida programs. combatting anti-LGBTQ legislation in 2020, including at least three in ban firing someone, evicting them 2021, the organization committed “Equality Florida has always in Tallahassee throughout Florida – they also committed to from housing or denying them to continuing its work in training thrived in less than desirable 2020, Equality Florida’s efforts advancing transgender equality service at a restaurant just because school teachers, counselors, social circumstances and the pandemic raised $1.5 million to turn out 1 and inclusion. Equality Florida workers and students on inclusivity. they are LGBTQ,” Equality Florida is no different,” Womack stresses. million pro-LGBTQ voters for the will expand their TransAction shares. “But all that is about to They also advised they will support “Our work of changing hearts general election. network while deepening their change. Next year, we have the Gender-Sexuality Alliances (GSAs) and minds and fighting for our “The nature of our work has sort work “to end the epidemic of chance to pass statewide legislation throughout Florida “so every community is undeterred.” of remained the same,” Equality anti-transgender violence that that will clearly make Florida child can find a safe and accepting Florida Communications Manager To learn more about Equality Florida’s Safe overwhelmingly claims the lives of a safer, healthier place for our community at school.”

Michael Womack reflects. “The and Healthy Schools program or TransAction Black transgender women.”

Good Morning Dylan, LGBTQ community.”

The organization will also work pandemic has certainly made and networks, visitand go from there. and he'llmental be running anhealth 1/8 page ad for 26 issues, and will need his ad toThe be created.

We initially agreed to aalso horizontal orientation, but he seems very open to whatever optionsalso we recommend. our conversation earlier, let'sEquality start with theMeans horizontalBusiness orientation per the insertion order, Leadership plansBased toonconduct organization hopes toadvertiser, increase resources. our work more difficult, but our I signed a new EQFL.org. To read the organization’s full 2021 elements have been movedthat and organized into: so will LGBTQ diversity trainings at major to lobby the legislature to update They advise doing fight to protect Florida’s LGBTQ Artwork C:\Data\Editorial\Master Ad Folder\Customer Files\R\Romeo's Sensation\Artwork Elements agenda and to support it financially, visit EQFL. corporations, health care systems, statewide HIV laws, which they allow LGBTQ students to “stay safe, community and our commitment to I took the liberty of organizing the text-blurbs he sent over as best I could. You have full creative-license on this to help his business shine, and you're free to pick and choose from the information and images provided. Thanks Dylan! org/2021-Equality-Agenda. law enforcement agencies and say haven’t been updated since them persists.”

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

nation+world news

LGBTQ faces from Obama years included in latest appointments by Biden Chris Johnson of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of the National LGBT Media Association

L

GBTQ staffers who are familiar faces from the Obama years are among the choices for the upcoming Biden administration as the transition continues to ramp up.

Stuart Delery, who served during the Obama years as acting U.S. associate attorney general and was the most senior openly LGBTQ official in the U.S. Justice Department’s history, was announced Dec. 23 as White House deputy counsel for President-elect Joe Biden.

Delery, currently a partner at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher, LLP, was also assistant attorney general for the Civil Division, a role in which he supervised the defense of the U.S. law in court on behalf of the federal government, and was senior

counselor to Attorney General Eric Holder, according to his bio. Delery now lives in Washington, D.C., with his husband and two children.

Gautam Raghavan, who served as White House LGBTQ liaison under Obama and was chief of staff to Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), was also tapped as deputy director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office.

More LGBTQ appointees may be on the way. Biden, to great fanfare, has previously announced Pete Buttigieg would be his pick for transportation secretary, potentially making him the first Senate-confirmed Cabinet appointee.

Few Cabinet-level positions are remaining for LGBTQ people to fill.

Randi Weingarten and Denise Juneau, former superintendent of the Seattle public school system, had come up as possible names for education secretary, but Biden ended up picking Connecticut Education Commissioner Miguel Cardono.

But the role of head of the U.S. Small Business Administration is still

open. Fred Hochberg, who during the Obama years served as head of the U.S. Export-Import Bank, continues to be talked about as a possibility.

Biden has also yet to name his choice for U.S. attorney general.

Maura Healey, who as Massachusetts Attorney General became the first openly gay state attorney general, has been named as a possibility, but she’s viewed as a long-shot amid reports Biden has narrowed his choice to either Sen. Doug Jones (D-Ala.) or U.S. Circuit Judge Merrick Garland.

The LGBTQ Victory Institute, which seeks to help qualified LGBTQ people obtain positions in the U.S. government, has been renewing its efforts calling on Biden to name a transgender person for an appointment subject to Senate confirmation, sources familiar with the talks told the Washington Blade.

No openly transgender person has ever sought or obtained Senate confirmation for a presidential appointment in U.S. history.

Congress increases money to beat HIV, but stops short of goal set by advocates Chris Johnson of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of the National LGBT Media Association

I

n the wake of extended deliberations, Congress included in its deal to provide coronavirus relief and fund the government for fiscal year 2021, an increase of $137 million for the Trump administration’s plan to beat HIV/AIDS, but stopped short of the full request, much to the disappointment of advocates fighting the epidemic.

The $1.4 trillion deal, unveiled Dec. 21 after days of negotiations amid fears of a potential government shutdown, notably includes $600 in stimulus checks and new money for small businesses under the Paycheck Protection Program.

The deal also contains funds for the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative, which seeks to beat the HIV epidemic by 2030.

Announced by President Donald Trump at the State of the Union address in 2019, the PrEP-centric initiative under the Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS) seeks to reduce new HIV infections by 75% in 2025, then 90% in 2030. It remains to be seen if President-elect Joe Biden will adopt this plan and the infrastructure set up by the Trump administration to eliminate HIV. The FY-21 deal appropriated $403 million for the initiative, increasing the FY-20 funding levels by $137 million. The $137 million increase breaks down as follows: -$35 million for Centers for Disease Control’s HIV prevention efforts; -$35 million for the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program;

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

-$52 million for HRSA Community Health Centers to focus on PrEP to prevent HIV transmission; -$5 million for Indian Health Service for HIV and hepatitis; and -$10 million for National Institute for Health’s Centers for AIDS Research.

The final package also includes funding increases for other domestic HIV programs, including an additional $20 million for HUD’s Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS, or HOPWA, $1.5 million for the Minority HIV/AIDS Fund and $1 million for the CDC’s School Health program.

The funding is a far cry from the $412 million increase sought by the DHHS making a total appropriation of $678 million in FY-21, to ramp up the Ending the HIV Epidemic initiative in each designated high-incident jurisdiction with testing, linkage to care and PrEP activities.

in other news Rhode Island official resigns from leadership over transphobic remarks Wire Report

A

Providence City Council member has resigned from a leadership post after a recording surfaced of him using transphobic language to discuss a transgender activist.

Council member Michael Correia submitted a letter to the city clerk’s office on Dec. 18 resigning immediately from his post as president pro tem, WPRI-TV reported.

“The conversation was inappropriate and offensive to her and all members of the LGBTQIA Community and quite frankly should be offensive to everyone,” Correia, a Democrat, wrote on Facebook.

In the conversation, Correia talks about Justice Gaines – a transgender woman and activist who frequently engages with the City Council and once ran for a seat on it – using male pronouns, discussing her anatomy and referring to her as “it.”

“I was hurt and upset and sad,” Gaines told WPRI-TV. “To have a city councilman mocking or making light of my pronouns or what being transgender means ... that’s upsetting.”

Correia said he met with Gaines before his announcement to ask for her forgiveness and added that he understands the actions have broken his trust with the public.

Correia remains on the City Council and has two more years of his term. He cannot seek reelection because of term limits.

Cayman Islands recognizes same-sex couple’s overseas marriage Michael K. Lavers of The Washington Blade, Courtesy of the National LGBT Media Association

I

mmigration authorities in the Cayman Islands have recognized the marriage of a same-sex couple who legally married outside of the British territory.

The Cayman Compass newspaper reported Paul Pearson and Randall Pinder legally married in Ireland.

The Caymanian Status and Permanent Residency Board denied the couple’s application to have Pinder acknowledged as a “spouse of a permanent residency holder” on grounds the Cayman Islands’ Constitution defines marriage as between a man and a woman. The Immigration Appeals Tribunal last week overturned the board’s decision.

Cayman Islands Grand Court Chief Justice Anthony Smellie in March 2019 struck down the territory’s same-sex marriage ban. The Cayman Islands Court of Appeal a few months later overturned the ruling.

The territory’s Civil Partnership Law took effect in September.

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

viewpoint

Jason Leclerc

The other side

of life

I

Annus Interruptus

t was at around this

time last year when the World Health Organization (WHO) announced a mysterious Coronavirusrelated pneumonia in China.

For the intervening year this “mysterious” virus spread around the globe. 2020, as those of us who survived it can attest, was rife with interruptions to our lives. Our efforts to slow the virus’ spread long enough to develop treatments and vaccines have also interrupted basic human interactions like smiles and scowls, kisses and fist bumps, dancing and messing around.

With tens of millions of cases and millions of COVID deaths, 2020 was the year of interruption, even at warp speed. We could look back at 2020 for its tragedies and frustrations: the audacity of crooked elites, foreign hacking of our national information infrastructure, re-exposure of deep-rooted racial injustice, a toxic political season highlighted by more lies and strains on our Republic, businesses shuttering: all on top of a deadly global pandemic. The viability of the modern human species has been threatened.

In 1968, another year of upheaval, religious institutions focused on threats to procreation, specifically upon coitis interruptus. Pope Paul VI’s “On Human Life” described it as “any action which either before, at the moment of, or after sexual intercourse, is specifically intended to prevent procreation.” The “pull out method” remains a sin against the intended fertility and viability of mankind and the Catholic Church itself, even today.

What, then, of 2020’s collective prophylaxis – masks and isolation – in which we engaged last year? What sins against humanity have we prevented (or traded for) by proactively withdrawing to our safest places: isolated from society, withdrawn from fellowship?

While we could decry the interruptions of 2020 – the “Great Pulling Out,” as it were – as detrimental to our national fabric, I optimistically interpret the annus interruptus as one of the greatest wholesale experiments in America’s history. We can take stock in what we’ve learned about technology, social interaction, commerce,

our institutions, our Republic and ourselves. From our masks, we’ve learned to smile with our eyes; to be expressive and see into others’ concern. We’ve learned to listen more intently and to speak more clearly.

From our scientists, we’ve found that the processes of researching, hypothesizing, testing and observing are drivers of rapid change, driven by passion, cooperation and a little healthy competition.

From the sorrow of losing our parents and grandparents, we’ve learned to value the lives and legacies of the greatest generation. From 2020’s summer of protest, we learned that we can still fight for social justice and against systemic, institutional inequities.

From our entrepreneurs, educators and healthcare professionals we’ve learned that when faced with challenges, they can innovate, adapt and drive meaningful change.

From the elections, we learned that that an imperfect Constitution is more important than a popular authoritarian and that American democracy can be strained without breaking.

I’ve learned that saying “I’m sorry” is just as powerful as saying “I’m right,” and that “thank you” is more powerful still. I’ve also learned that my optimism may expose my (self-righteous) privilege and that there are many fellow humans who have felt forcibly (and thoroughly unsatisfyingly) anus-effed who are ready for it to end. We have friends and neighbors from whom we’ve felt evolutionarily – genetically, not merely socially – distanced.

I know that there are those whose interpretation of the annus interruptus is a little less optimistic. For them, just as archeologists and taxonomists created homo sapien sapiens to demarcate Neanderthals from modern man, I offer the annus interruptus interruptus.

I can empathize with a reality in which the cynics are

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correct and that there was little good to come from a 2020 of mask wearing, social distancing, unemployment, crushing government debt, mass death, toxic politics, strains on the institutions of democracy, civil unrest and rapid technological change.

Regardless of whether we mark the beginning of the interruptus at the 2016 election or at the 2019 WHO announcement about the

during that period, then claim 2021 as your annus interruptus interruptus.

Through the future lenses of 2020 hindsight, we will find in the interruptus interruptus that – like the (misguided, inaccurate depiction as) big-headed, less articulate, knuckle draggers who walked alongside “modern man” 100,000 years ago – we sapien sapiens have learned from the interruptus, not only who we

intelligent than their frailer sapien sapien neighbors may have thought at the time.

Whether you’re among the optimists or the cynics, remember 2020 for the lessons from the interruptus: smile more with your eyes, listen harder and speak more clearly.

Embrace the interruptus interruptus: love and appreciate those who, though they may see the world from

Mankind will be better for the lessons we’ve learned. virus, the annus interruptus interruptus, marks the disruption of the disruption.

Mankind will be better for the lessons we’ve learned.

If you are among those who feel morally and physically superior to the homo sapiens who co-ruled the planet alongside “progressive mankind”

are not. We know better who we are – who we should be.

We also know that Neanderthals were stocky, muscular, and strong; they excelled at hunting and made complex tools. There is no doubt that Neanderthals were an intelligent species. With scientific hindsight, we now know that they were far more

a different perspective, have plenty to teach us even as we integrate their best traits: even as they evolve into extinction.

Jason Leclerc has published two collections of short stories/essays/ poetry and also regularly contributes to the Orlando Sentinel, Tampa Bay Times and Authenticity Magazine.

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

viewpoint reflection that normally happens for all of us when the calendar changes, so I thought I’d share some lessons I’ve learned.

Photo by Jess regan

Scottie Campbell

The Tender

activist Lessons from year 53

W

hile this edition

of the paper is out in the world, I will be crossing the threshold into my 54th year. I love my birthday. John Denver put it best when he sang, “It turns me on to think of growing old.” And, as the old axiom goes, it beats the alternative – as someone who danced the thin line between here and the hereafter at one point, I firmly agree with that. Having a birthday near the beginning of the year adds a layer to the introspection and

If you’re not interested, you can turn the page – I learned that shit decades ago.

Identify as a reader During the year, I had the opportunity to interview Alvin Irby, founder of Barbershop Books, about his works encouraging young Black boys to identify as readers. “Identify as readers.”Alvin put into words something that has been on my mind the past couple of years when my job gently pulled off my rosie-colored glasses. As an avid reader, I assumed everyone reads regularly and it is not so. I believe literacy and being actively literate are key to many of the challenges we humans face. I’ve decided to focus my altruism and philanthropy, humble as my efforts may be, on encouraging a culture of reading.

Practice sword Over the past year, I learned about Qui Jin, the Chinese revolutionary, feminist, writer and all-around badass when I ran across these words from her: “Read books. Practice sword.”

For her, practicing the sword was literal but for me it means to be mindful of when to fight, when to argue.

A few months ago, my friends and I found ourselves taking a stand against transphobia, though nobody in the

conversation was trans. I can’t speak for my friends, but the weight of responsibility to the community had me vibrating with vulnerability.

the perspective that we’re both right. (I have to let go of “unequivocal” views, which is particularly hard when dealing with issues like hate.)

If I think the person is open to seeing things a different way, as in the example above, then it makes sense to proceed, otherwise I’m

who introduced me to the idea of thinking of friends as rainbows. I’ve spent a ridiculous amount of my life worrying over friends. I was doing fear of missing out long before it had trendy initials.

I’ve wasted time and probably was responsible for blowing the flames out on more than

Somehow we were eloquent in stating our case and the outcome was positive.

There is astounding bravery in being your true self and the very least I can do is to speak up when necessary. I like to think Qui Jin, herself a rebel against gender norms, would be proud of us.

You’re right, I’m right I read the book “This Is Marketing” by Seth Godin as a work activity. Traditional marketers who live and die by numbers have a hard time with the book because Godin essentially says your numbers mean crap, but I ate it up.

A takeaway from the book for me was the concept of two rights. In marketing terms, a consumer not using your product is right. They have their reasons based on their life experience, and they are right not to use your business.

Apply this more broadly to everyday opinions. If I’m having a discussion with someone, I need to start from

wasting my time.

Speak no evil Talking to Ellen DeGeneres about playing Mister Rogers, Tom Hanks shared an acronym that has helped me over this past year, W.A.I.T. – Why Am I Talking? It’s a reminder to listen and to be sure what you have to say betters the conversation and is said in a thoughtful way.

The technique has gotten me through many web calls when my frustration over this pandemic world and its disappearing-limbs-Zoombackgrounds wanted to come colorfully flowing out of my mouth. I will admit W.A.I.T. combined with the last lesson has made lunches with my dad quieter and I struggle to be comfortable in the silence –it’s been a tense four years, if you get my drift.

Friends are rainbows The final lesson I’ll share from this trip around the sun comes from the Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hahn

one friendship with jealousy and codependence.

When we see a rainbow, we enjoy the rainbow, we marvel at the rainbow, the rainbow makes us happy.

When the rainbow isn’t there, we don’t sit around worrying about where it is.

Seeing your friends as rainbows is admittedly easier said than done.

I mean, rainbows don’t have Instagram accounts where they post pictures of themselves out at a bar with someone who isn’t me, but I promise it helps.

Lest you think this column has been about Scottie Campbell attaining enlightenment, let me say I have to actively review all these lessons.

As my rainbows will tell you, I’m a fallible work-in-progress who knows the greatest lesson is that it’s never too late to learn.

As my rainbows will tell you, I’m a fallible work-inprogress who knows the greatest lesson is that it’s never too late to learn.

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Find us on Facebook!

talking points

37%

I feel very lucky to have had the vaccine. I would have no hesitation in recommending it … Anyone who has lived as long as I have is alive because they have had previous vaccinations.

– Ian McKellen, 81, after his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine on Dec. 17

0f

voters in the

2020

Netflix launches bold, bisexual ‘Ma Rainey’

N

etflix released the highly-anticipated “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” Dec. 18, its adaptation of August Wilson’s Tony-nominated play of the same name. The film features the final performance of late “Black Panther” star Chadwick Boseman opposite of celebrated actor Viola Davis in the titular role. Set in 1927, Davis plays the fiery, bisexual singer heralded as the “Mother of the Blues.” Boseman plays an ambitious musician seeking to launch his career with updated versions of her musical catalogue. Davis celebrated the film’s authenticity in an interview with the BBC, noting that Ma Rainey is “big, she is bisexual, she’s dark skinned, she’s all those things. Usually a character like that is just funny, she’s just big, Black and funny. That’s it.” She added that “we’re so used to seeing black characters defined by white people … their voice gets taken away, their sexuality gets taken away.” “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” is now streaming.

presidentiaL

election

prioritized LGBTQ

issues at the ballot box.

79% 0f

writer Anthony Veasna So dies

A

nthony Veasna So, the author of a highly-anticipated debut story collection, died Dec. 18 at 28 years old. His death was announced Dec. 10 by his publisher, Ecco. A California native living in San Francisco, So once described himself as a “queer boy, a Khmer-American son of former refugees, a failed computer scientist, a grotesque parody of the model minority, and a graduate of Stanford University.”

In “Afterparties,“ scheduled for Aug. publication, he drew upon the tragedies his family endured in Cambodia during the rule of the Khmer Rouge and his own struggles with sexual and cultural identity. So had agreed to a two-book, six-figure deal with Ecco.

Burgess, Lambert lead ‘Ratatouille’

T

ikTok’s “Ratatouille” benefit concert was held Jan. 1, starring Tituss Burgess, Adam Lambert and Wayne Brady. “Ratatouille: The TikTok Musical,” also known as the “Ratatousical,” streamed for 72 hours in benefit of The Actors Fund.

Based on the 2007 Disney/Pixar film, the musical was crowdsourced over the past several months. The adaptation centered on Burgess’ Remy, an ambitious rat who dreams of becoming a chef. Lambert played his older brother, Emile, and Brady played their father. The production stemmed from musical theater fans and out-of-work performers who collaborated on original songs, lyrics and ideas to turn the animated, non-musical film into a two-act Broadway-style show.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Ski champion Hig Roberts comes out

T

wo-time U.S. national champion skier Hig Roberts came out as gay in an interview with the New York Times Dec. 13. “I just woke up one morning and I said, ‘Enough is enough,’” he shared. “I love this sport more than anything – I’m so lucky and privileged to be doing this – but I can’t go on another day not trying to achieve the person that I am meant to be.” The skier noted that he initially kept his sexuality a secret because of his career. “As athletes, the visibility for LGBTQ+ people has been very quiet,” he said. “There hasn’t been a lot of representation in the space, especially in alpine skiing, a very masculine, aggressive, strength-based sport.”

those voters

supported

Joe Biden

with 19% supporting

Donald Trump, a margin of

60% – The Human Rights Campaign’s LGBTQ and Equality Voter Exit Polling Data, Dec. 2020

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

New Alliance One Orlando Alliance’s new board chair, executive director talk where they came from and where the Alliance is going in 2021

T

Jeremy Williams

he work of the

One Orlando Alliance was started within the first few days after the Pulse tragedy that took 49 lives, injured and impacted countless more and left members of all marginalized communities feeling attacked and frightened.

The first Alliance meeting took place June 16, 2016 and was a collection of 18 LGBTQ organizations in Central Florida who came together to help fill gaps in resources for those impacted by the tragedy. Jennifer Foster and Carlos Carbonell were the original conveners of the Alliance.

“Carlos and I just jumped in and said, ‘what needs to be done?’ The first year was just us responding to the tragedy and making sure things were getting accomplished,” Foster said in an interview with Watermark last July.

In the four years since its launch, the Alliance has changed and grown from an 18-group collective to a coalition of 43 Central Florida organizations who are all working toward a safe, welcoming and inclusive community for all LGBTQ people. Among its many initiatives, the Alliance launched Acts of Love and Kindness, a movement to honor the lives taken at Pulse by showing expressions of compassion in the 49 days leading up to June 12; held community discussions on a variety of topics impacting Central Florida’s LGBTQ community; launched fundraising efforts to assist members of the LGBTQ community in need during the COVID-19 pandemic; and established the Alliance Agenda, an annual report that lays out the 10 most critical issues impacting LGBTQ inclusiveness in Central Florida.

In 2020, the Alliance announced changes to both of its top leadership positions. Foster, who had served as the Alliance’s executive director for the last two years,

Continued on pg. 24 | uu |

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

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| uu | New Alliance

The anti-racism scorecard is the thing that we’re hitting the hardest because we want to weave that into our DNA. We see the struggles of this past year, that fight for racial justice, there’s really a mandate to address this reality and the LGBTQ+ community is definitely not immune to racism – the number of people who experience racism within the LGBTQ+ community is way too high, so I think that there’s a variety of factors that make that a very powerful piece of what we’re going to be doing in 2021.

from pg.23

stepped down in October and Josh Bell was named as the new Alliance executive director.

Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet was also announced as the Alliance’s new board chair starting this month, taking the role over from Robin Maynard-Harris, who has served as the board chair for the last four years.

As we move away from one of the most trying years in recent memory, we sat down with the Alliance’s new leadership duo to talk about where they came from and the focus of the Alliance as we move into 2021.

The Executive Director

Bell was born and raised in a conservative area of Northwest Florida.

“That’s where I was first exposed to the idea that if you’re gay that’s not what God wants for you and you’ve got to pray really hard and work to change that,” Bell says.

He attended the University of Florida where he got his degree in classical studies with plans to go to seminary and become a pastor.

“I went to a conservative seminary here in Orlando which today would not admit me as a gay man,” Bell says, “and then I spent four years in Clearwater as an associate pastor and spent four years in Lake Nona as a lead pastor.”

Bell came out as gay in 2018 but says the path to living his truth began in part on a Sunday in 2016.

“I was getting ready for church and that was the weekend Christina Grimmie got shot at The Plaza, it was already an awful weekend and I was trying to figure out how to address that with my congregation and then I start seeing that there’s been a shooting at a club,” he says.

Bell addressed the shooting during church service and pastored members of the church affected by the tragedy.

“I was always compassionate and God loves you as you are, but I couldn’t extend that to myself,” he says. “I just wasn’t there yet and what happened at Pulse chipped away at that a little bit.”

The following year, at the tragedy’s one-year mark, Bell woke up at 2 a.m. with a sharp pain in his leg.

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Executive Decisions: Josh Bell was named the new executive director of the One Orlando Alliance in October 2020. Photo by Dylan Todd

“It’s never happened before and it’s never happened since,” he says. “But I knew that Joy Metropolitan Community Church (MCC) and St. Luke’s Methodist Church were going to be at the site from 2-5 a.m. holding what they called prayerful presence. I looked at the clock and thought they’re down there right now, and I did something that is not my normal faith practice but I got down on the floor and I said ‘God, it’s 2 a.m. if you want me to drive downtown, you’re going to have to make it really clear.’”

At that moment, Bell says he received a text from friend and St. Luke pastor, Jad Denmark, which read: “Are you here?”

“I told him I was on my way and headed down there,” Bell says. “Being there that night was another milestone in my journey, of that compassion and that love, just kind of breaking through my own lack of self-acceptance.”

Bell says that he reached a breaking point in 2018.

“I had to wrestle with it and come to terms all the different collateral pieces of that with my profession with my family relationships. Everything changed,” he says.

Bell took a personal leave from the church and began doing nonprofit work with the Community Hope Center as well as working with Valencia College’s Peace and Justice Institute (PJI).

A coffee meeting to discuss PJI programs is how he met Foster.

“I got to know Jennifer a little bit and I heard about the Alliance,” Bell says. “I thought this is really amazing work ... then when Jennifer’s term was finished and the job was posted and I love the mission so I went for it.”

The Board Chair

Sousa-Lazaballet was born in Brazil and came to the U.S. when he was 14 years old. Six months after his arrival, Sousa-Lazaballet lost his immigration status in the U.S.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

— Josh Bell

“I was an undocumented immigrant for about 15 years and in that time I was witness to and experienced a lot of injustices, both because I’m an immigrant and also because I’m part of the LGBTQ community,” he says.

“That’s how I began my life as an activist.”

After attending an immigrants’ rights march in Miami in 2006, Sousa-Lazaballet founded the Florida Immigrant Coalition.

He also helped found the organization Students Working for Equal Rights and was part of a larger organization called United We Dream.

In 2010, Sousa-Lazaballet was one of four students who participated in the Trail of Dreams, a 1,500-mile walk from Miami to Washington, D.C. to promote human rights, stop the deportations of current undocumented students and to support the DREAM Act. “Each town we walked through, we stopped and we would meet with the people of the town, those

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

who supported us and who were against us,” Sousa-Lazaballet says.

“At one point we even had the KKK protest us in Georgia.”

Sousa-Lazaballet says that was when he realized the importance of addressing “intersectionality” even before he knew what the word was.

“In the context of immigrant rights the discussion is around the family; don’t separate our families, those are the narratives you hear often and when they’re talking about families, they’re not talking about same-sex couples,” he says.

“We created this whole movement called the ‘undocuqueer movement’ — undocumented immigrants who are queer — who are coming forward and saying we are facing these issues in a very different way and we deserve to have a space here.”

Sousa-Lazaballet’s work in the undocuqueer movement took him to California where he was involved in a developmental workshop with an organization that works on affordable housing

in Los Angeles. One Sunday morning in 2016, he awoke to dozens of text messages about Pulse.

“People knew I’m from Florida.

When you grew up in Florida, no matter where in the state you live, there is always a connection to Orlando,” he says. “I felt like my home was on fire and I needed to come and figure out how to help.”

Sousa-Lazaballet, along with other friends with ties to Florida, came to Orlando to help. Through philanthropic connections they were able to raise $2 million which became the funds to help launch Contigo Fund.

“That’s how I met Jennifer,” Sousa-Lazaballet says. “She told me about her vision of what the Alliance, at that time called the LGBTQ Task Force, could become.

I loved the idea.”

Sousa-Lazaballet also got a job working with Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer’s office on the long-term recovery from Pulse. It led him to his current position as the Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Senior Specialist for the Office of Multicultural Affairs for the City of Orlando. He joined the board of the One Orlando Alliance in 2018.

“In the summer of 2020, Robin started having the conversation with me about being the next board chair,” Sousa-Lazaballet says, “then we discussed it with the board and in September we voted on it.”

The Alliance

The changes in the Alliance’s leadership positions came in a year highlighted by racial inequality across the country and a pandemic that has drawn attention to the health care and economic disparities in marginalized communities, especially in communities of color and the transgender community.

This led the Alliance to adjust focus in several sections of its Alliance Agenda in 2020, changing the section titled “racial inequality” to “anti-racism” and adding in a section dedicated to the impact of COVID-19. These areas, along with transgender issues, will draw much of the attention of the Alliance heading into the new year.

In June, the Alliance established an anti-racism committee, which meets monthly, to address the issues of systemic racism in Central Florida’s LGBTQ community.

“We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment

for all who reside and visit here,” the Alliance stated in a press release at the establishment of the committee. “Since the senseless murder of George Floyd, our nation and our local community have asked that individuals and organizations take a deep look at what they are doing to be neither complicit nor perpetuate the ills of structural racism.”

One thing created within the anti-racism committee to help the Alliance address this issue is an anti-racism scorecard.

“We are moving forward with having people use that in all of their organizations, including the Alliance, and asking hard questions like ‘how diverse is your staffing?’ and ‘Who is or isn’t represented within your organization, within the people that you serve or within your funding structures – and how is that money allocated?’” Bell says. “It’s a really comprehensive document to help people take a good hard look at themselves.

“The anti-racism scorecard is the thing that we’re hitting the hardest because we want to weave that into our DNA,” he continues.

“We see the struggles of this past year, that fight for racial justice, there’s really a mandate to address this reality and the LGBTQ+ community is definitely not immune to racism – the number of people who experience racism within the LGBTQ+ community is way too high, so I think that there’s a variety of factors that make that a very powerful piece of what we’re going to be doing in 2021.”

The Alliance is also supporting several initiatives focused on the transgender and gender nonconforming communities.

They are the R.I.S.E. Initiative – a program focused on sustainable employment and income – and the Gender Advancement Project (GAP), a trans-led movement dedicated to the progression and inclusion of transgender and gender nonconforming individuals in all facets of society.

“The Alliance is focused on making sure that conversations about anti-racism and transgender issues continue because I don’t think representation is enough,” Sousa-Lazaballet says. “To just have people for the sake of having people at a table, I believe is tokenism.”

Sousa-Lazaballet says that more than just having a “seat at the table,” empowering members in marginalized communities to take over these leadership jobs is the goal.

“My dream is for a trans woman of color to one day become the chair of the board of the Alliance. That is what I would like to see happen,” he says, “and it’s my duty to mentor, to work with communities that are not represented and that don’t have ‘institutional power,’ so they too can have the power that, as an undocumented immigrant, I just felt like I didn’t have.”

“I think one of the pieces for me is how we frame the conversation,” Bell adds. “Shirley Chisholm, who

was the first African-American woman elected to Congress, her saying was ‘if they don’t give you a seat of the table bring a folding chair.’ There’s this model of inclusion work that focuses on getting people a seat at the table, and that is a huge step up from not having a seat, but for me, and for a lot of people, I think it’s not the end goal.

“Having people at the table is not the final step because even if you have that seat, who’s deciding how many seats are at the table?

Who’s deciding what’s on the menu or on the agenda? Who’s deciding what color the chairs are or what color the walls are?”

Bell says. “Who owns the space?

We can have people in a room and we can look around and say, ‘wow, what a diverse room,’ but when you look through lenses of power, you see that the power is still in the same places that it has always been.”

Bell acknowledges that while he is gay, as a white cisgender

Continued on pg. 27 | uu |

My dream is for a trans woman of color to one day become the chair of the board of the Alliance. That is what I would like to see happen and it’s my duty to mentor, to work with communities that are not represented and that don’t have ‘institutional power,’ so they too can have the power that, as an undocumented immigrant, I just felt like I didn’t have.

— Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

Take my Seat: Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet became One Orlnado Alliance’s new board chair this month. Photo by Dylan Todd

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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Alliance work:

(ABOVE) Mourners at the Dr. Phillips Center after the 2016 Pulse tragedy, which led to the Alliance’s work; (below, clockwise) Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet, Jennifer Foster, Orlando citizens and Robin Maynard-Harris at various events.

ABove Photo by Jake Stevens. below photos from Alliance.

| uu | New Alliance from pg.25

male, his privilege is pretty extensive in almost every area of his life. That’s why one of his goals as the executive director is to more equally distribute that power in a way that more voices are speaking with authority in the Alliance.

“Within the Alliance, we looked around and saw that there wasn’t enough representation from different groups; from Black communities, from Latinx communities, from the transgender community,” Bell says.

“We looked around and saw there are people that should be at this table that aren’t and so there’s been very deliberate work over the past couple of years to invite, include and to create spaces and opportunities for those voices to be heard and listened to. That

is woven into who we are as the Alliance and it only happens if you do it on purpose; none of this happens by accident.”

“A word that really resonates with me is the word solidarity,” Sousa-Lazaballet says. “Solidarity means standing with, not only in words or in conversations, but through action. I really think that’s what true solidarity is.

It is thinking about not only where we are today but what specific actions we’re going to do personally and how we’re going to leverage our roles to not only add people but to truly include them so they can have a voice and they can be empowered to take action with us.”

While the focus of the Alliance has changed from those early days after the Pulse tragedy, and changed more in the midst of a global pandemic, Bell and Sousa-Lazaballet agree that the

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

mission of the coalition today remains the same as the first day it was established.

“I see a really clear line between my understanding of how the Alliance started, where we are and where we’re going,” Bell says. “And that’s all about bringing people together around making this community better for all LGBTQ+ individuals, and clearly that was in a moment of extreme crisis and tragedy, but creating that synergy between different organizations, between different entities, between different sectors of the community. I think is still very much part of who we are and what we’re doing.”

For more information on the One Orlando Alliance, visit OneOrlandoAlliance.org. To read the full 2020 Alliance Agenda, visit OneOrlandoAlliance.org/Alliance-Agenda.

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arts and Entertainment

The

Rainbow Connection Project Pride unites Sarasota with ‘The Brunch Show’

Photo courtesy Project Pride SRQ

P

Ryan Williams-Jent

roject Pride SRQ’s first year

as a nonprofit was unique. The organization officially launched in 2020 to unite Sarasota’s LGBTQ community with its allies, seeking to celebrate inclusivity through events open to all. That mission quickly evolved in response to COVID-19.

While its introduction to the community was largely spent “under the dark cloud of a global pandemic,” Project Pride SRQ Co-Founder Katie McCurry says she’s grateful that the organization still made a difference. Its leadership hosted a variety of LGBTQ-focused

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

virtual experiences, led a socially-distanced car parade for Pride Month and partnered with other nonprofits to provide food and supplies for those most in need throughout the year.

“Despite operating under these conditions,” McCurry says, “the significant impact we

have had on the community as a whole coupled with how we have been embraced by so many of its residents, reinforces the importance of our mission both today and for the future.”

That future looks bright.

Project Pride’s 10-person board, of which she now serves as secretary, continues its work to celebrate, unite and support marginalized communities throughout Sarasota. She says one of the unexpected but natural extensions of that purpose materialized Dec. 13 with “The Brunch Show,” a web series broadcasting monthly on Facebook and YouTube throughout 2021.

Continued on pg. 31 | uu |

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| uu | The Rainbow

Connection from pg.29

“‘The Brunch Show’ will act as a catalyst for connecting our community through an innovative and immersive web series,” Project Pride officially describes their venture. “This series provides an opportunity for our community to engage in topical conversations with one another in a relaxed talk show setting.

“Expect smart conversation on relevant topics that affect our lives,” they continue. “From managing stress over COVID and the holidays to celebrating our diverse community, ‘The Brunch Show’ promises to deliver information you can use and ideas to share while promoting collaboration and supporting one another. And we’ll have some fun too!”

“When we formed Project Pride SRQ we did not envision creating ‘The Brunch Show,’” McCurry explains. “It is another example of our nimbleness in responding to the changing needs and methods used to support the community.”

The year-long endeavor is presented in partnership with The Community Foundation of Sarasota County, which for more than 40 years has connected nonprofits with donors to create positive change. Its 2020 Giving Challenge raised $18.4 million for nearly 700 of them last April, including a number of Sarasota’s other LGBTQ-focused organizations.

“We were able to create the show because of their grant, which is really special,” Project Pride President Jordan Letschert reflects. “They don’t typically give grants to organizations until they’ve been around for two years – but they liked the idea of what we were doing so much that they gave it to us out of their operating budget within our first six months.”

Community Foundation of Sarasota County Vice President of Strategy and Communications Mischa Kirby says they offered their support because the foundation is “committed to improving the lives of all people,” noting that “we believe the strength of our community is in its diversity.”

“That is why we are proud to partner with Project Pride SRQ in bringing together an assortment of voices, perspectives and

sarasota proud: Project Pride SRQ Co-Founder and Secretary Katie McCurry (R) and Board Member Brian Craft. Photo courtesy project pride srq

experiences from our LGBTQ+ community and beyond,” she continues. “By listening and learning from one another, we continue building a community that strives to address issues and create opportunities for everyone to belong.”

That’s the show’s goal. “It came about in part to feature a fun way for people to have a virtual connection,” Letschert says, “but to also start tackling some of the larger issues society is facing. We’ll be featuring medical and mental health experts and discussing COVID, diversity in the workplace, development of the city of Sarasota and more.”

To help do that, Project Pride leveraged the expertise of broadcast journalism veteran Bob Timm, who serves as director. His production company Opix Media, a proud sponsor, offers decades of experience in live television, storytelling and content creation, along with an impressive array of professional equipment.

“Bob is an Emmy Award-winning producer and director who has offered his time for this project,” Letschert explains. “The set that’s been built for the show, the technology

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

and time that he’s donating, it’s been amazing.”

Timm calls his involvement a labor of love, the perfect marriage of his dedication to the craft and his support for Project Pride’s mission. “I enjoy doing this work and I’m thrilled that I can be doing it for Project Pride,” he says.

“LGBTQ visibility in a community is very important.

“I wanted to bring my experience and knowledge to the organization to create a show that would be on the same level as broadcast programming in this market,” he continues. “I believe that’s what we did.”

“The Brunch Show” production team – which in addition to Timm, McCurry and Letschert includes fellow producer Brian Craft and marketer Craig Kaplan– has already filmed the series’ first three episodes. Each features series host and fan favorite Tampa Bay entertainer Matthew McGee, who Timm calls “a tremendous talent and a delight to work with.”

“A childhood dream of mine was to host a talk show like Sally Jesse Raphael or Rosie O’Donnell,” McGee says. “I was fascinated with the idea of a morning show where I could just be myself and chat with guests.

safety on set: Project Pride SRQ films their inaugural episode, hosted by Matthew McGee (R) at Harvest Sarasota. Photos courtesy project pride srq “While I’ve filled in for many local daytime shows like ‘Morning Blend,’ ‘Daytime’ and ‘Suncoast View,’ Project Pride has given me a marvelous opportunity to host a show that highlights our community in a positive way,” he continues. “I was happy to be approached about it and look forward to what’s on the horizon for ‘The Brunch Show.’”

The episodes were shot on location at The Harvest Sarasota, an LGBTQ-inclusive church. Guests who opted not to partake in the episode remotely were escorted in and out of the building to minimize crowding, while everyone involved adhered to COVID-19 safety precautions.

“That’s why it isn’t streamed live,” Letschert notes. “We’re able to have one person come in, film their segment and leave – then have the next person come in to film their segment and leave.

We’re following all of the CDC guidelines.”

Fittingly, the initial episode focused on navigating the holiday season during the pandemic. McGee discussed a number of topics with subject matter experts, welcoming CAN Community Health Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Tanya Schreibman, Licensed

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

Mental Health Counselor and transgender health specialist Heather Dawn as well as Harvest Sarasota Pastor Dan Minor.

Craft, who doubles as an on-air personality, also introduced the first recurring Bartender of the Month segment during the premiere. That and similar features will be filmed at locations throughout Sarasota to promote LGBTQ and ally businesses alike.

“It has been such a rewarding experience working on ‘The Brunch Show,’” Craft says.

“It is the ideal catalyst for our community to be able to stay connected and gain insights from some of our most gripping leaders.

“The whole goal of the show goes back to our mission at Project PRIDE SRQ, which is to celebrate, support, and unite our community,” he adds. “This is the perfect platform to do so!”

The next episode of Project Pride SRQ’s “The Brunch Show” airs Jan. 10 at 11 a.m. on Facebook.com/ProjectPrideSRQ. You can also stream it via YouTube by searching “Project Pride SRQ.” To learn more about the organization, series or to watch archived episodes, visit ProjectPrideSRQ.org.

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Fringe

Fringing in the New Year

Orlando Fringe moves forward with a different kind of Winter Mini-Fest

(above)

Twin Party:

Scantily Glad Theatre’s “Creepy Boys” are among the LGBTQ-themed shows heading to Orlando Fringe’s Winter Mini-Fest.

Photo courtesy Orlando Fringe

W

Jeremy Williams

hen Orlando Fringe had to

cancel its 2020 international theatre festival in May due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was the first time in 29 years that there no live Fringe shows were held in Central Florida. That was a difficult pill to swallow for the oldest and largest Fringe Festival in the U.S. and a hard hit for an event that annually brings upwards of 75,000 patrons to Central Florida theatres and an estimated $3.4 million to the local economy.

“The biggest struggle wasn’t so much us, but that the artists weren’t going to be able to come and perform. This is the livelihood for so many artists,” says Orlando Fringe Marketing Director Brian Sikorski.

So when the time came for the fifth annual Winter Mini-Fest, Orlando Fringe was adamant that the show must go on, but as safe and socially-distanced as possible.

“With COVID lockdowns it’s hard to bring people in. We can’t bring

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

artists in. It’s irresponsible for us to say we are going to have all these shows in theatres, so we had to change things up a bit to be able to still put on a festival and make it exciting,” Sikorski says.

This year’s Winter Mini-Fest will be a combination of some in-person events and mostly virtual shows sure to scratch that theatre itch that’s been building up since the masses started to quarantine.

“Virtual shows are going to open us to an even wider audience, so people from anywhere around the world can see these shows,” Sikorski says. “We have artists from as far away as Osaka, Japan that have submitted work to be in this festival.

And these are all great artists, ones that we’ve personally vetted to be in this festival.”

There will be four live, in-person Fringe shows during Winter Mini-Fest; three for Kids Fringe the morning of Jan. 9 and one presented by local playwright and actor Bruce Ryan Costella of BC Theatricals. “’Unhappy Accident’ is a take on Bob Ross and his painting show and that will take place on the Fringe lawn,” Sikorski says.

You will also have the opportunity to purchase a ticket to attend one of Fringe’s socially-responsible hangouts.

“So for each of the four nights of Winter Mini-Fest, you can come to Orlando Shakes and for $5, you can get a courtyard access pass and you can see your Fringe friends, have a drink from the bar, order some food from our partner at Ace Cafe and just kind of hang out in the courtyard have a little bit of feeling of fringe togetherness in the social responsible way,” Sikorski says.

There will also be Adirondack chairs and pods for four available to reserve on the Fringe lawn near the fire museum. Each night they will project four of the virtual performances.

“You will be able to watch some of the shows on a big screen with an audience,” Sikorski says. “That way we can kind of bring back the theatre

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

watching experience to the people in a way that is a little safer.”

Anyone attending an in-person event will need to adhere to Orlando Fringe’s tight COVID-19 protocols.

You cannot enter the Fringe grounds without a ticket purchased in advance and you must submit to a COVID screening with temperature check before entering, masks are required at all times but you may remove your mask while stationary and consuming food or beverages and please wash and sanitize your hands often. Failing to follow these standards will result in you being removed from the grounds. No refund will be given.

“Once inside, you will have socially-distanced, assigned seats and all lines will also be socially distanced,” Sikorski says. “We are trying to make everything as touchless as possible. And for members of Club Fringe attending, there will be a valet service where a VIP butler will come to your chair or pod, take your drink order and bring it to you. So you won’t have to worry about getting up from your seat.”

If you are still unsure about attending any of the in-person events, you will have the ability to Fringe from your own living room.

There will be 26 virtual shows available to view online.

“All of these shows except for one have never played in Orlando before,” Sikorski says. “So viewers have a lot of new theatre to choose from.”

Tuning into Orlando Fringe virtually is simple to do. Just go to OrlandoFringe.org or OFWinterMiniFest.com where you will see a list of shows. Select which ones you would like to watch and they will be available on the website starting Jan. 7 at 5 p.m. and can be viewed anytime up to Jan. 14 at midnight. It’s Fringe at your own pace.

Individual shows are $10 each. A limited number of all-access passes —which will let you watch all virtual shows – are available for just $75.

We put together a quick-access guide on the next page, highlighting many of the shows you will be able to view. All shows listed are virtual except for BC Theatricals’ “Unhappy Accident.” LGBTQ productions for the fifth annual Winter Mini-Fest are notated in the show description.

Show information is subject to change.

Go to OrlandoFringe.org for the most up-to-date information and to purchase tickets.

Continued on pg. 35 | uu |

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| uu | Fringing in the New Year

“Creepy Christmas Cabaret”

from pg.33

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Bellingham, Washington 45 min | 13 & UP Adult Language, Mature Themes, Violence

By Ryan Adam Wells

Houston, Texas 60 min | 13 & UP Adult Languages, Mature Themes

A heroic Space Force astronaut wakes from cryogenic sleep on a return flight to Earth, then everything goes to shit.

2 friends. 1,000 songs. 3,000 miles. Adventure, danger, heartache and joy abound in this true musical storytelling piece.

“Dog Person”

By 11th Hour Productions

“All Levels Paint Class”

Orlando, Florida 60 min | 13 & UP Adult Language

By Becca Koopferstock, KoopCreates

Orlando, Florida 60 min | 7 & UP

Follow Maya as a wish leads her to switch places with Princess, her happy go lucky dog, after learning her roommate and long time crush is moving out. This is an LGBTQ production.

A painting class for all skill levels.

Together go step by step to create a beautiful Nighttime Mountainscape.

“El Amor Brujo (The Bewitched Love)”

“The DownTEENers: Imagine & Inclusivity”

By Wildfire Players

By Beth Marshall Presents

Oviedo, Florida 35 min | 13 & UP Mature Themes, Violence

Orlando, Florida 45 min | All Ages

A flamenco ballet-pantomime in one act.

Based on a story dealing with love, death, exorcism and release. What would YOU be willing to sacrifice for love?

“Anxieties Anonymous”

By Savannah Pedersen Presents

Clermont, Florida 60 min | 18 & UP Adult Language, Mature Themes, Strobe Light

Follow the story of Hope Grier, a rising young comedian on the verge of her big break, and a support group of young adults with various mental illnesses.

“Creepy Boys”

By Scantily Glad Theatre

Melbourne, Australia 60 min | 18 & UP Adult Language, Nudity, Sexual Content, Violence

Twin orphans are throwing their very first birthday party and they will do whatever it takes to make their birthday dreams come true - even if it means blood sacrifice. This is an LGBTQ production.

A cabaret/vignette style show with narrative interludes covering a variety of genres featuring performers from ages 12 to 102. This is an LGBTQ production.

“The FABULOUS King James Bible”

By New Generation Theatrical

Orlando, Florida 45 min | 18 & UP Adult Language

In this hilariously historically inaccurate play, gay King James questions the role of the church and the scripture in order to make way for his new translation, much to the chagrin of two high priests who are nothing if not traditional. This is an LGBTQ production.

“Fallen from the Toy Box”

By The Fourth Wall Ensemble

Somerville, Massachusetts 58 min | All Ages

A tale of youth and consequences, inspired by our discarded mementos.

watermark Your LGBTQ life.

This musical reverie revisits fairy tales, childhood games and the secret life of toys.

“Judas”

By BeeJay Aubertin-Clinton Presents

Orlando, Florida 60 min | 18 & UP Adult Language, Mature Themes, Sexual Content

Hear this all-new testament about his savior and (spoiler alert!) lover in a sinful, spirited and sassy romp that reveals the truth, revs up the sex appeal and makes the Good Book even better. This is an LGBTQ production.

“My Dear Debbie”

By Featured Dancer Productions

Orlando, Florida 45 min | 18 & UP Adult Language, Mature Themes, Sexual Content, Violence

A 50’s style sitcom, portraying the highs and lows of marriage. Hijinks ensue. You’ll die laughing.

“Peaceful Hospital”

By Theatre Group GUMBO

Osaka, Japan 60 min | All Ages

Peaceful Hospital is a small hospital with the best doctors and a nurse.

However, they are actually vampires.

“Riders to the Sea”

By Project no. 19 Performance Company

Orlando, Florida 50 min | 13 & UP Adult Language and Mature Themes

In a new audio adaptation from the original tragedy of John Millington Synge, we join Maurya — matriarch and widow — her two daughters, and her youngest son in the face of a tropical storm burgeoning on the Florida Keys.

“Right Now: The Movie”

By Martin Dockery

Montauk, New York 60 min | 13 & UP

Ten months into a quasi-quarantine, a storyteller who’s lost the thread of his own narrative attempts to tell the story of who we are at the dawn of 2021.

“Scintilla River”

By Nap Island

Orlando, Florida 55 min | 13 & UP Adult Warning, Mature Themes

A coming of age story about three college students who explore their first

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

real taste of freedom after being in quarantine for months.

“Sugar and Spice: A Sugar Babies”

By Plays By Gretchen

Bartow, Florida 60 min | 13 & UP Mature Themes, Sexual Content

Savannah is a veteran sugar baby.

She runs her own sugar baby coaching business. Will she be able to convince novice sugar babies - Madison and Gwen to follow in her footsteps?

“Tombmates”

By Bikini Katie Productions

Orlando, Florida 55 min | 13 & UP Adult Language

Every midnight at Westminster Abbey the spirits of Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots rise. A ghost story meets The Odd Couple!

“Unhappy Accident”

By BC Theatricals

Orlando, Florida 60 min | 18 & UP Adult Language, Mature Themes, Violence

America’s favorite television painter discovers that he can no longer paint. Or can he? This is a live, in-person show and an LGBTQ production.

“War Paint”

By Bored at Midnight Productions

Orlando, Florida 13 & Up Adult Language, Mature Themes, Sexual Content

Artist Lily E. Garnett, dons her “war-paint” to explore self-image, social conditioning, beauty standards and how society values people, particularly women.

“A Winter’s Fright”

By Osha Newsome

Orlando, Florida 60 min | 18 & UP Adult Language, Mature Themes, Violence

There is a tradition of gathering around the fire during the coldest nights of the year, sipping on something warm while we tell tales of ghosts and ghouls and terrors that lurk in the dark. A Winter’s Fright is such a tale, but told not just with words and whispers but paint. This is an LGBTQ production.

Show information is subject to change. Go to OrlandoFringe.org for the most up-to-date information and to purchase tickets.

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watermark Your LGBTQ life.

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

announcements

tampa bay out+about

CONGRATULATIONS Eric Casaccio and Jeff Multer were engaged Dec. 25.

Kerissa Hickey and Kayleigh Inzinna were engaged Dec. 25.

Old Key West celebrated 6 years Dec. 31.

Hillsborough County politico and longtime LGBTQ ally Pat Frank has retired at age 91.

CONDOLENCES Nick Arcarola died Dec. 29 and will be dearly missed.

A celebration of life will be held Jan. 9 at Mad Hatters Ethnobotanical Kava Bar.

EVENTS Kori Stevens will host the 2021 Miss Broken Slut pageant at Quench Lounge Jan. 17 at 8 p.m., honoring 2020 winner Muffy Vanbeaverhausen.

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2 3

1

INTO THE WOODS: Andrew (L) and Sasha Citino head to Sunken Gardens to celebrate Andrew’s birthday Dec. 28. PHOTO

COURTESY ANDREW CITINO

REOPENINGS Joey Brooks’ brunch and burlesque show will now be held Sundays at Showbar Ybor.

ALSO Youth will open its renovated Bradenton location, the former home of Prism Youth Initiative, with an outdoor event on Jan. 23. Read more on p. 11.

CLOSURES The Honey Pot in Ybor has closed indefinitely.

Owners plans to return in 2021. Read more on p. 11.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Watermark contributor Sylvie Griffiths (Jan. 7); St. Petersburg bartender Michael Joseph (Jan. 8); Tampa Bay technology manager Ron Walters (Jan. 9); St. Petersburg florist Bobby York (Jan. 10); St. Petersburg instructor and massage therapist Jeremy Couture, Lakeland massage therapist David Lesnett, Gulfport retired Birkenstock USA specialist Danny Hughes (Jan. 11); Sarasota real-life cowboy Bill Flynn, Sarasota actress Christine Alexander (Jan. 12); Watermark owner and publisher Rick Claggett, Tampa Bay marketing artist Nick Capezza, Sarasota MCC pastor Gina Durbin (Jan. 13); Sarasota Pride’s Cindy Barnes (Jan 14); Power Design director Stephanie Morge, St. Pete sailer Michele McHugh, Rainbow Counseling owner Aimee Leigh (Jan. 15); Bradley’s on Seventh bartender Levi Garrett, Tampa realtor Patricc Petti, Tampa Bay bartender Tyler Frederick (Jan. 16); Former St Pete Pride Executive Director Luke Blankenship, Tampa musician Connor Zwetsch, former Watermark art director Jake Stevens (Jan. 17); JP Morgan Chase honcho Kris R. Johnson, Atomic Tattoos’ Aaron Bailey-Santamarina (Jan. 18); Tampa Bay trainer Stephen Kalter, Sophia’s Cucina + Enoteca’s Melvin Theriault (Jan. 19); Lakeland filmmaker Kevin O’Brien.

2

DYNAMIC DUO: Haley Martz (L) and Crystal Ellis-Faber welcome patrons to Old Key West Dec. 31. PHOTO COURTESY CRYSTAL ELLIS-FABER

3

LUCKY 13: “RuPaul’s Drag Race” contestant Kandy Muse (L) briefly poses with Juan Fontanez at Southern Nights Tampa Jan. 2.

4

5

PHOTO COURTESY JUAN FONTANEZ

4

BONNE ANNEE: The staff of City Side Lounge heads to the Moulin Rouge for “City Side in Paris” Dec. 31. PHOTO COURTESY

CITY SIDE LOUNGE

5

SPECIAL DELIVERY: Girl Scouts of West Central Florida’s Morgan (L) delivers LGBTQ-tailored donations to Metro Inclusive Health’s Nate Taylor Dec. 23. PHOTO COURTESY

METRO INCLUSIVE HEALTH

6

SUNDAY FUNDAY: (L-R) Amanda D’Rhod, Joey Brooks, Esme Russell and Kiala Santi strike a pose at The Showbar Ybor Jan. 3.

6

PHOTO COURTESY MARK BIAS WEST

7

MEOW-Y XMAS: Santa Nick and his purr-fect helper virtually wish Tampa Bay a Merry Christmas Dec. 25.

PHOTO COURTESY NICK CARDELLO

8

BOOKED UP: Tombolo Books invites patrons to join them for a New Year’s Day sale Jan. 1.

PHOTO COURTESY TOMBOLO BOOKS

7 watermark Your LGBTQ life.

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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watermark Your LGBTQ life.

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

overheard

central florida out+about

AUDITIONS Due to an overwhelming response, Orlando Gay Chorus (OGC) announced that it will hold a second day of open auditions for its next season Jan. 10 at the First United Church of Christ in Orlando. OGC is looking for singers, dancers, fundraisers, supporters and more. 2021 events will include performing at the Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center for a 70’s-themed show and at Dr. Phillips Center’s Frontyard Festival for OGC’s spring show “One Nation: Indivisible.” To sign up or for more information, visit OrlandoGayChorus.org/Audition.

2

CONGRATULATIONS Pom Pom’s Teahouse & Sandwicheria in Orlando celebrates 15 years this month.

Joan Rodriguez and Tommi Pritchett were engaged Dec. 31.

Manny Carames and Nate West were engaged Dec. 31.

EVENTS

1

3

5

6

Trans activist and businesswoman Ashley Brundage is having an event to launch her new book, “Empowering Differences,” Jan. 9 from 4-6 p.m. hosted by Sally Hogshead in Orlando. Drinks and appetizers provided, and the event venue will allow for social distancing and masks are recommended. Pre-order your copy of the book before the event to guarantee availability. Event address provided once you register. You can get your copy of the book and register for the event at EmpoweringDifferences.com/ product/empowering-differences-book.

April Fresh returns with her first Comedy Brunch of 2021 Jan. 17 at Southern Nights Orlando. She will be joined by Divine Grace, Tia Devine and Addison Taylor. The brunch will feature an a la carte menu and full bar. Doors open at 1 p.m. and show starts at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 and available on Eventbrite.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Mr. Bear Bust 2017 Shaun Boyd (Jan. 8); Former Watermark reporter Susan Clary, Orlando Fringe performer Logan Donahoo (Jan. 10); Orlando promoter Jason Nuez (Jan. 12); Watermark owner and publisher Rick Claggett, Former Chelsea Nightclub owner Nikki Turnon, Se7en Bites owner Trina Gregory-Propst (Jan 14); Former Watermark intern and covergirl Gina Avile, Real estate vixen Carla Stanton (Jan. 15); Orlando dogwalker Don Williams, Central Florida LGBTQ veterans advocate Keri Griffin Edenfield, Former Watermark intern Melanie Ararat, Central Florida musician Justin David (Jan. 16); Former Watermark art director Jake Stevens, Watermark contributor Scottie Campbell, Softball stud Richard Harem, UCF journalism professor Rick Brunson, Orlando Ballet performer Adam Boreland (Jan. 17); Lake Fairview Marina owner Cynthia Johnson, Orlando Gay Chorus vocalist Edd “Peaches” Sinnett, A League of Our Own member Jerry Rivera (Jan. 18); Former Space Coast Pride President Lexi Wright, Central Florida artist Ben Van Beusekom (Jan. 20).

4

1

5

2

Carlos Guillermo Smith

Countdown to 21: Greg Griffin (L) and Erica Roberts bring in the new year at Savoy in Orlando Dec. 31.

Up In the Air: Watermark sales director Danny Garcia (L) — with niece, Montseratt, and mother, Nidia (R) — overlooking Orlando from the Wheel at Icon Park Dec. 26. Photo by Danny Garcia

3

He Said Yes: Manny Carames (L) and Nate West celebrate their engagement Dec. 31. Photo courtesy Manny Carames

4

Pop the Cork: Marianella (L) and Nick Falbo welcome 2021 in Orlando Jan. 1. Photo

courtesy Marianella Falbo

The Big 4-0: State Rep. Carlos Guillermo Smith (R) celebrates his 40th birthday with husband Jerick Mediavilla in Orlando Dec. 31. Photo courtesy

6

I Love the 80s: Loc Robertson, as April Fresh, kicks it old school with Manic Mondays’ 80s Music Trivia virtually from District Dive in Orlando Dec. 28. Screenshot

7

from Facebook Live

7

New Year Twinning: Ida V. Eskamani (L) and state Rep. Anna V. Eskamani say goodbye to 2020 with one last selfie Dec. 31. Photo

courtesy Anna V. Eskamani

8

Family Photo: Scott Dunkle (L) and Dave Shane ring in the new year with their adorable pups in Orlando Dec. 31. Photo

courtesy Dave Shane

8 watermark Your LGBTQ life.

January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

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January 7 - 20, 2021 // Issue 28 .01 wat e r m a r konline .com

45

wedding bells

riley Valentino and shamaria motley-Valentino, from Orlando, Florida

Engagement Date:

June 19, 2017

Wedding Date:

Nov. 22, 2020

Officiant:

Blue Star

Venue:

Home backyard

Colors:

Jewel tones

Wedding Song/Artist: Daniel Cesar - “Best Part (Ft. H.E.R.)”

Florist:

Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Mother Earth

Caterer:

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Cake Flavors:

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Bakery:

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Photographer/ Videographer:

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by Jess Roynoha

DJ/ Entertainment:

Kraig Mathews

Photography by All Things Creative by Jess Roynoha

W

hen Shamaria Motley-Valentino was

called on stage during a “Hocus Pocus” show at The Abbey, she wasn’t expecting a marriage proposal from then-girlfriend Riley Valentino.

“I knew I wanted to marry her one day, but I really didn’t see that coming,” Shamaria says.

“She always knows how to surprise me. What I know now is that she built this elaborate plan to completely fool me and she knew it was going to work because I am so gullible.”

Jennica McCleary, who was playing Winifred Sanderson, called her up as a volunteer to “cast a spell.” A video montage of Riley and Shamaria began to play instead.

This video had been filmed by the couple a month prior, but Riley left a secret message in it that Shamaria hadn’t seen. While Shamaria was standing in front of the camera, Riley was stood behind her, opening a box to reveal an engagement ring.

After the video ended, Riley took the microphone to make an emotional speech to her girlfriend.

“I love you beyond what any words can express or define,” Riley said in her speech. “I want you to know that I’ll love you in your weakest moments to your strongest moments. I’m going to love you until I take my last breath in this world. But truth be told, not even the afterlife can stop me from loving you.”

After the speech, Riley got down on one knee and proposed. Shamaria kissed her, happily accepting.

The couple met at Pulse nightclub, where Shamaria used to be a go-go dancer. After catching each other’s eyes, Riley reached out to Shamaria through Instagram. They hit it off and the rest is history.

Three years after their engagement, Shamaria and Riley tied the knot in the backyard of their home.

Riley stayed at a hotel the night before the wedding, so seeing Shamaria walk down the aisle was one of her favorite moments from the day.

“I definitely was sobbing and crying when I saw her,” Riley says. “She was so beautiful.”

“The moment before we were about to be able to kiss did it for me,” Shamaria says. “The feeling I got inside my body was like a putting Alka-Seltzer in coke. And when it finally happened, I was sky high.”

Another one of Shamaria’s favorite moments was her mother Francisca walking her down the aisle.

“My mother raised me as a single mother, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without her,”

Shamaria says. “Her practically carrying me down the aisle is something I’ll never forget. She means the world to the both of us.”

At the reception, there was lots of dancing and speeches from the couple’s loved ones. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some guests came in-person while others celebrated virtually.

“Everyone partied safely, because you know, COVID,” Riley says. “But everything worked out perfectly.”

Seeing all of their family and friends having a good time brought them even more joy as they began their journey as a married couple.

“One thing I can say that’s special about our relationship is that Mari and I are constantly evolving together and individually,” Riley said.

“Finding a lover and a best friend in one person is such a blessing. Never stop dating the person you love, even when you’re married already.”

“When it comes to Riley and I, when you got something good, nurture it,” Shamaria said. “A love that is as deep as the soul deserves your all.”

— 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.

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