Watermark Out News Issue 32.10: The Travel Issue

E:

D SI OW IN L IA NB IDE I EC A GU SP ER Y TH IL FAM

DAYTONA BEACH • ORLANDO • TAMPA • ST. PETERSBURG • CLEARWATER • SARASOTA WAT E R M A R KO U T N E W S . CO M • I S S U E 3 2 .1 0 • M AY 8 - 2 1 , 2 0 2 5 • F R E E & T R U S T E D

Ending the HIV epidemic

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PREVENT STIS WITH DOXY PEP Doxy PEP (doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis) is a sexual health strategy that involves taking an oral antibiotic after unprotected sex to prevent chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhea.

Want to learn more? Talk to your provider and see if Doxy PEP is right for you!

At Hope & Help, we offer free HIV testing, prevention, and support for everyone.

407-645-2577 www.hopeandhelp.org 4

Watermark Out News MAY 8 - 21, 2025 // ISSUE 3 0.10 WAT E R M A R KOU T NE W S .COM

DEPARTMENTS 7 // EDITOR’S DESK

page

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8 // CENTRAL FL NEWS 10 // TAMPA BAY NEWS

Portugal has increasingly become a premier destination for those scouting for a new home. There are many reasons for this, including that Portugal first prohibited any form of discrimination based on sexual orientation in 2004 — which is enshrined in the country’s constitution.

—SHERYL KAY IN HER TRAVEL STORY “LGBTQ+ TOURISTS AND EXPATS ARE CHOOSING PORTUGAL”

12 // STATE NEWS 13 // NATION & WORLD NEWS 19 // THE GOOD PAGE 31 // TAMPA BAY OUT + ABOUT 33 // CENTRAL FL OUT + ABOUT 34 // TAMPA BAY MARKETPLACE 36 // CENTRAL FL MARKETPLACE 38 // EVENT PLANNER ON THE COVER

page A FAMILY AFFAIR:

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page THE TRAVEL

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ISSUE: LGBTQ+ options, destinations & concerns.

COVER PHOTO VIA FREEPIK

SCAN QR CODE FOR

WATERMARKONLINE.COM

Editor-in-Chief recounts his time on his first cruise ship, the MSC Seashore.

WATERMARK OUT NEWS ISSUE 32.10 // MAY 8-21, 2025

CENTRAL FL NEWS

TAMPA BAY NEWS

STATE NEWS

TRAVELING WHILE TRANS

page Central Florida drag legend Divine Grace passes away at 50.

page Trans teacher, author sues Pinellas County Schools for discrimination.

page

page

Read It Online!

In addition to a website with daily LGBTQ+ updates, a digital version of each issue of the publication is made available on WatermarkOUTnews.com

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Florida LGBTQ+ Democrats call on party to drop Hard Rock for Leadership Blue.

Trump’s policies spark

warnings, 27 global domestic lawsuits.

FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, THREADS & INSTAGRAM AT @WATERMARKOUTNEWS + LIKE US ON FACEBOOK Watermark Out News MAY 8 - 21, 2025 // ISSUE 3 0.10 WAT E R M A R KOU T NE W S .COM

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Stonebreaker Homes and Land Ally to the LGBTQ+ Community and Central Florida's Trusted Realtor

407-489-0652 Working with Christine Bowen is Living Like a Local OrlandoCityandBurbs.com ChristineBowenRealtor@gmail.com

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Watermark Out News MAY 8 - 21, 2025 // ISSUE 3 0.10 WAT E R M A R KOU T NE W S .COM

Jeremy Williams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jeremy@WatermarkOutNews.com

EDITOR’S DESK Reflecting on my time with you, the readers

W

HEN I FIRST WALKED INTO

the offices of Watermark Out News, I had no idea how profoundly this place would shape me: professionally, personally and emotionally. Now, as I prepare to leave my role as Editor-in-Chief and embark on a new chapter in New York City, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude, nostalgia and a deep sense of bittersweet pride.

This isn’t just goodbye to a job; it’s farewell to a community that has become my home.

Journalism, at its core, is about people. Over my years at Watermark, I’ve had the extraordinary privilege of amplifying voices that needed to be heard, sharing stories that demanded to be told and chronicling moments — both triumphant and challenging — that defined our community. From covering the Supreme Court’s decision to recognize same-sex marriage across the U.S. to telling the story of the Pulse tragedy while being a member of the very community that was targeted to spotlighting the unsung heroes working tirelessly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic to every byline, headline and late-night editing session, it was all driven by a singular mission: to serve you.

I have been in awe of the passion of so many community leaders as I sat across from them and asked questions; people like Florida Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith, Florida Rep. Anna V. Eskamani and Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost, to name a few. I have been moved listening to the inspiring stories of local heroes who overcame so much adversity and still continued to fight for what was right in our city, our state

and across this country. And I have also fangirled out while getting to talk to some of the most talented celebrities around like Dolly Parton, Ben Platt, Bernadette Peters, Wayne Brady, Leslie Jordan, Michael James Scott, Matthew Lopez, Melissa Etheridge, Jessica Kirson, Idina Menzel, Kristin Chenoweth, the list goes on and on.

Equal to the work I have done outside these walls is the work I have done fostering new generations of journalists inside these walls. I’ve felt my heart swell with pride as I watched many University of Central Florida students pass through this office, entering as interns and leaving as some of the finest journalists I could ever hope to work with.

Seeing how their reporting makes a difference, not only to the community but to them as well, and knowing I had a hand in helping with that is something I will forever be proud of.

Whether we were holding power to account, celebrating cultural milestones or simply giving someone a platform to share their truth, Watermark has never been just a newspaper. It’s been a living, breathing extension of the community it serves.

None of this would have been possible without the incredible team at Watermark. I have one more Editor’s Desk left before I head out June 17 so I will have more to say about each of them in the next one but I want to say that the entire staff pour their hearts into this work every day, so please continue to support them.

To those I have had the pleasure of working with here at Watermark who have moved on, know that every one of you has taught me something about life and myself that I continue to hold onto.

I would like to say something to you, the readers. The ones who picked up our papers, clicked on

WATERMARK OUT NEWS STAFF

our articles, shared our work and, yes, even wrote in with critiques when we missed the mark or you didn’t agree with our assessment on something. Your engagement, your trust and your unwavering support have been the driving force behind everything we do.

Journalism is nothing without an audience that cares and you have reminded me of that every single day.

Leaving isn’t easy. How do you say goodbye to a place that has

I want to simply leave you with this: Thank you.

given you so much? How do you walk away from the humming of a newsroom, the thrill of sharing stories and the profound sense of purpose that comes with serving a community you love?

The truth is, you don’t, not really.

While I may be trading Florida sunshine for New York skyscrapers, Watermark and the people who make it special will stay with me. The lessons I’ve learned here will inform everything I do moving forward.

Though I won’t be in the office, I’ll still be cheering from afar, eagerly reading each new issue and marveling at the incredible work this team continues to produce.

So dear readers, I want to simply leave you with this: Thank you. Thank you for trusting me with your stories. Thank you for challenging me to be better. Thank you for making Watermark more than a publication. While my byline will move on, my heart will always remain here in the pages we’ve created together.

I hope you enjoy this issue.

ORLANDO OFFICE

Owner & Publisher: Rick Todd • Ext. 110 Rick@WatermarkOutNews.com

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

Editor-in-Chief: Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Jeremy@WatermarkOutNews.com

Creative Designer: Caitlin Sause • Ext. 104 Caitlin@WatermarkOutNews.com

Managing Editor: Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Ryan@WatermarkOutNews.com

Social Media Coordinator: Luis Salazar • Ext. 303 Luis@WatermarkOutNews.com

Sales Director: Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Danny@WatermarkOutNews.com Central FL Account Manager: Daisy Chamberlin • Ext. 101 Daisy@WatermarkOutNews.com

Founder and Guiding Light: Tom Dyer National Ad Representative: Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863

1300 N. Semoran Blvd.

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

TAMPA BAY OFFICE 401 33rd Street N. St. Petersburg, FL 33713 TEL: 813-655-9890

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CONTRIBUTORS GREG STEMM

lives in Gulfport, Fla., and has worked as a freelance writer for several local publications. He is a founding member of St. Pete Pride and active politically in Tampa Bay. Page 15

DR. STEVE YACOVELLI

is owner of TopDog Learning Group, LLC, a learning and development, change management, and diversity consulting practice based in Orlando. Page 17 HOLLY KAPHERR ALEJOS, SABRINA AMBRA, STEVE BLANCHARD, DEBORAH BOSTOCK-KELLEY, JOHNNY BOYKINS, MARTIN “LEIGH SHANNON” FUGATE, BIANCA GOOLSBY, JAKOB HERO-SHAW, LORA KORPAR, JASON LECLERC, JERICK MEDIAVILLA, MELODY MAIA MONET, TATIANA QUIROGA, TIFFANY RAZZANO, SISTER JUANA REACTION, MOMMA ASHLEY ROSE, TREVOR ROSINE, BRYANA SALDANA, GREG STEMM, SYLVIE TREVENA, MICHAEL WANZIE, MULAN WILLIAMS, DR. STEVE YACOVELLI

PHOTOGRAPHY BRIAN BECNEL, NICK CARDELLO, J.D. CASTO, BRUCE HARDIN, JAMARCUS MOSLEY, DYLAN TODD, CHRIS STEPHENSON, LEE VANDERGRIFT

DISTRIBUTION CMJM ENTERPRISES LLC, KEN CARRAWAY

AFFILIATIONS

CONTENTS of WATERMARK OUT NEWS are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher.

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

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

WATERMARK OUT NEWS is published every second Thursday. Subscription rate is $100 1st Class or $55 Standard Mail.

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

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

Watermark Publishing Group, Inc.

7

Ryan Williams-Jent MANAGING EDITOR Ryan@WatermarkOutNews.com

EDITOR’S DESK

The most magical trips on Earth

M

Y FAMILY DIDN’T HAVE MUCH

money while I was growing up, but my parents made sure I had everything I needed. They also did their best to get me whatever I wanted.

Usually those wants came at the expense of their own. It’s something I was aware of at the time, at least as much as a spoiled kid could be, but that I’ve certainly come to appreciate more as an adult.

Money can buy a lot of things, but it can’t buy love like that.

They made sure I had new comic books each week, turning me into the fervent reader I am today, and kept me dialing into America Online every month. Both were instrumental in preparing me to become a journalist, something I’m thankful for every day.

My parents also used every penny of whatever inheritance we got when my beloved grandmother died to take me to Disney World for the first time. We drove from Ohio to Orlando the next year, which took a pre-electronic-device eternity for a preteen. Thankfully I was well stocked on those comics.

Our trip happened to coincide with the Magic Kingdom’s 25th anniversary, when Cinderella’s Castle was transformed into a giant birthday cake. It was gaudy, bubblegum pink and absurdly ‘90s, but I loved everything about it.

It was the first time, for me, that the park went from a distant dream to the most magical place on Earth. I’ll always be grateful to my mom and stepdad for making it happen, and I’ll always cherish the memories we made on that trip.

I wouldn’t see the castle in its full glory for almost another decade, when I was nearly finished with high school. My best friend’s family sent us and another dear friend to Orlando as her graduation gift, which felt like mine. Talk about Disney magic.

The entire experience was unforgettable and marked my first time flying, making it obvious that the Wright brothers — my fellow Ohioans — knew we needed a faster way to get to Florida. I prematurely vowed to never make the drive again, just five or so years before I’d come to call the Sunshine State my home. I’ve been driving back and forth to Ohio for almost two decades now.

I eventually became a Disney passholder, which the pandemic brought to a screeching halt, but I’ve been back to the parks in rapid succession lately. A group of my friends and I were privileged enough to purchase four-day Florida resident tickets last month.

It’s been incredible to experience some of the newer attractions together, especially the Tron Lightcycle Run, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance — my new favorite Disney experience of all time — and since I’m still a comic nerd, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. As a wise tree once said, “I am Groot.”

The classics still warm my heart as well. Mickey’s PhilharMagic is my forever favorite, especially with its “Coco” update, and I’m proud to be a foolish mortal for the Haunted Mansion. The castle also never ceases to amaze me — staring up at that fairytale fixture turns me right back into that 12-year-old kid, although these days I’m happy it’s not a birthday cake.

I’ve been thinking about all of my trips to the parks lately

WATERMARK OUT NEWS STAFF

because they’re more than just something fun for me to do.

They’re a much-needed reprieve and very timely reminder to cling to whatever happiness we can, especially right now.

Things are pretty grim for our country and our community these days, so it’s more important than ever to find joy. You don’t have to be a Disney Gay™ to do it, either, so please remember to take care of yourselves however you see fit.

For some folks that means

Money can buy a lot of things, but it can’t buy love like that.

taking a trip outside of Florida. In this issue we highlight LGBTQ+ travel options, destinations and because of the world we live in, the concerns facing members of our community.

In Tampa Bay news, a former Pinellas County Schools teacher who is transgender sues the district, Florida Department of Education and more for discrimination. In Central Florida, the community mourns local drag legend Divine Grace who died at just 50 years old.

The Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus calls for change in State News, a response to the Florida Democratic Party’s scheduled fundraiser at the Hard Rock in South Florida. They cite donations made by the venue’s owners to anti-LGBTQ+ politicians in recent years. We also highlight local events and more.

Watermark Out News is proud to be your LGBTQ+ news source.

Please stay informed, support those who support you and enjoy this latest issue.

ORLANDO OFFICE

Owner & Publisher: Rick Todd • Ext. 110 Rick@WatermarkOutNews.com

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

Editor-in-Chief: Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Jeremy@WatermarkOutNews.com

Creative Designer: Caitlin Sause • Ext. 104 Caitlin@WatermarkOutNews.com

Managing Editor: Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Ryan@WatermarkOutNews.com

Social Media Coordinator: Luis Salazar • Ext. 303 Luis@WatermarkOutNews.com

Sales Director: Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Danny@WatermarkOutNews.com Central FL Account Manager: Daisy Chamberlin • Ext. 101 Daisy@WatermarkOutNews.com

Founder and Guiding Light: Tom Dyer National Ad Representative: Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863

1300 N. Semoran Blvd.

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

TAMPA BAY OFFICE 401 33rd Street N. St. Petersburg, FL 33713 TEL: 813-655-9890

Watermark Out News MAY 8 - 21, 2025 // ISSUE 3 0.10 WAT E R M A R KOU T NE W S .COM

CONTRIBUTORS GREG STEMM

lives in Gulfport, Fla., and has worked as a freelance writer for several local publications. He is a founding member of St. Pete Pride and active politically in Tampa Bay. Page 15

DR. STEVE YACOVELLI

is owner of TopDog Learning Group, LLC, a learning and development, change management, and diversity consulting practice based in Orlando. Page 17 HOLLY KAPHERR ALEJOS, SABRINA AMBRA, STEVE BLANCHARD, DEBORAH BOSTOCK-KELLEY, JOHNNY BOYKINS, MARTIN “LEIGH SHANNON” FUGATE, BIANCA GOOLSBY, JAKOB HERO-SHAW, LORA KORPAR, JASON LECLERC, JERICK MEDIAVILLA, MELODY MAIA MONET, TATIANA QUIROGA, TIFFANY RAZZANO, SISTER JUANA REACTION, MOMMA ASHLEY ROSE, TREVOR ROSINE, BRYANA SALDANA, GREG STEMM, SYLVIE TREVENA, MICHAEL WANZIE, MULAN WILLIAMS, DR. STEVE YACOVELLI

PHOTOGRAPHY BRIAN BECNEL, NICK CARDELLO, J.D. CASTO, BRUCE HARDIN, JAMARCUS MOSLEY, DYLAN TODD, CHRIS STEPHENSON, LEE VANDERGRIFT

DISTRIBUTION CMJM ENTERPRISES LLC, KEN CARRAWAY

AFFILIATIONS

CONTENTS of WATERMARK OUT NEWS are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher.

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

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

WATERMARK OUT NEWS is published every second Thursday. Subscription rate is $100 1st Class or $55 Standard Mail.

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

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

Watermark Publishing Group, Inc.

7

central florida news

ORLANDO GAY CHORUS CELEBRATES 35 YEARS Fabiana Ungaro

O

RLANDO | It was 1990 when Robert Knoll, a founding member of the Orlando Gay Chorus, read about a gay chorus forming in the neighborhood, wanted to join and stumbled into a rehearsal inside the Rogers Room at Rollins College while still closeted.

“Society was a lot different back then, a lot of people wouldn’t even use their real name, they used their pseudonyms,” Knoll says.

Knoll’s empowerment grew as OGC, which celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, found its place in the Central Florida and choir community. Over the decades, OGC has grown to welcome more performers, which now holds over 160 members, making it one of the largest LGBTQ+ choirs in the U.S. “It changed my world, and it gave me the courage to come out to my family, friends and taught me how to make other people feel safe,” Knoll says.

OGC performed at the Orlando Museum of Art for one of its first concerts and has since performed in venues like the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts, The Plaza Live, Rollins College and at Pulse memorials throughout Central Florida.

In the years since the Pulse tragedy, OGC has continued to send a message of hope, healing and belonging.

OGC’s Artistic Director Harold Wright commonly says, “As the world teaches one to be an individual, music teaches a world of individuals to be one!”

“I feel it when we’re all together and we sing together, my stress levels relax. That’s what Harold’s quote says to me: ‘You’re not in this alone,’” Member Council President Sandra Lee says.

To celebrate the chorus’ milestone, OGC is set to perform its 35th Anniversary: A Choral Kaleidoscope concert during the month of May. First, you can see the show at The Ritz Theater in Sanford May 16 and then at Steinmetz Hall inside the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts May 28.

OGC was founded on Valentines Day in 1990, Chair of Development Sean Mundyschein recalls, which is fitting he says since OGC has remained committed for 35 years to their message of love.

“Our entire chorus was founded from love and continues the mission of sharing love with the world,” Mundyschein says. “I think these members needed love 35 years ago in 1990, and we see now that some things are coming back and that we still need love today.”

The Orlando Gay Chorus’ “35th Anniversary: A Choral Kaleidoscope” will be at The Ritz Theater in Sanford May 16 at 7:30 p.m. and The Dr. Phillips Center’s Steinmetz Hall in Orlando May 28 at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $20 and are available at OrlandoGayChorus.org/Shows.

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SIMPLY DIVINE:

Divine Grace as Bea Arthur. PHOTO

BY DYLAN TODD

CENTRAL FLORIDA DRAG LEGEND DIVINE GRACE PASSES AWAY AT 50 Jeremy Williams

O

RLANDO | Chadrick Pace, better known to the community as the sharp-witted drag legend Divine Grace, passed away April 27.

“It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Chadrick Pace, known to many as the iconic drag performer Divine Grace,” Fruit Wine Productions wrote on Facebook that day. “A beloved figure in Orlando’s LGBTQ+ community and beyond, Divine Grace was celebrated for her sharp wit, theatrical flair, and unwavering authenticity. Divine Grace’s legacy is one of courage, creativity, and compassion. She will be deeply missed by all who were touched by her presence.”

Pace had worked on several shows with Fruit Wine Productions, most famously “The Golden Gals Live” with fellow drag icons Ginger Minj, Gidget Galore and MrMs Adrien, as well as the late Doug Ba’aser. Pace played the no nonsense Dorothy Zbornak in the popular “Golden Girls” parody play.

“My Dorothy Zbornak, my Herman Munster, my Mister Howell, my writing partner, my

sister, my friend,” wrote Minj in a social media post. “You have been a constant in my life from the moment you barged into it twelve years ago. Few people will ever have the impact you’ve been able to make in your all too brief 50 years. The only thing that brings me comfort with the news of your passing is knowing that the legacy and art you’ve created will continue to live on through all of us. I love you so much and, as always, thank YOU for being my friend.”

Pace was also a staple at Orlando’s local LGBTQ+ bar Savoy, where she hosted karaoke weekly. Savoy owner Brandon Bracale-Llewellyn took to social media to share how heartbroken he was at the news.

“His presence brought light, laughter, and love into every room he entered,” he wrote.

“Divine’s creativity, kindness, and authenticity left a mark on all of us, and his absence is deeply felt.

“More than a colleague, he was a true friend—a source of inspiration, wisdom, and unwavering support,” Bracale-Llewellyn continued. “His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched, the

Watermark Out News MAY 8 - 21, 2025 // ISSUE 3 0.10 WAT E R M A R KOU T NE W S .COM

work he so passionately pursued, and the love he gave so freely.”

Pace was a Watermark Out News contributor for many years, writing a Viewpoint column titled “Sweet Divinity.” Pace used his column to showcase his one-of-a-kind sense of humor and rant about everything from religion and politics to hurricanes and homophobes.

According to one “Sweet Divinity,” Pace stated he was born and raised in North Carolina by “two astonishingly liberal and progressive Baby Boomers.” The drag icon turned 50 years old earlier this year and celebrated by being roasted by his friends at Savoy.

A city resolution was presented during a celebration of life held April 30 at Savoy recognizing the drag legend’s impact on the community.

The resolution read, in part, “I, BUDDY DYER, Mayor of the City of Orlando, and PATTY SHEEHAN, Commissioner, District 4, do hereby recognize and honor the life and legacy of Chadrick Pace, also known as Divine Grace, for her invaluable contributions to the cultural and social fabric of our city.”

Stop worrying about last night That’s why; We are expanding

Now you can find us in

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9

tampa bay news

A COUPLE’S STORY OF LIVING WITH APHASIA AND THE NONPROFIT THAT’S HELPING THEM David Warner

T

AMPA | Cozied up together on a couch, Donna Williamson and Tara Anderson are having trouble remembering how long they’ve been together. Or rather, Donna is having trouble while Tara just can’t get the words out.

Tara suffered a stroke three years ago at 54, leaving her with the language disorder known as expressive aphasia. It has profoundly limited her ability to speak and read, but she is still able to listen and comprehend.

The couple subsequently joined Voices of Hope for Aphasia in 2022, which they credit with playing a big role in Tara’s ongoing progress.

VOH has been helping people impacted by aphasia for 13 years through group activities and online meet-ups. The programs do not replace speech therapy, but facilitate progress through socialization.

“VOH strives to create a community where every voice is valued, understood and supported,” says Executive Director Debbie Yones. Tara beams when asked about friends she’s made through VOH activities like the book club. Donna says she feels included, too.

The couple lives in Tampa and met through their jobs at a research company. Tara had planned to keep working another 10 years, and Donna, who is now 62, had more years to go, too.

But the stroke changed everything. Tara not only lost her power of speech, she also has apraxia, a motor disorder.

“She got the whammy,” says Donna. “She can’t walk and she can’t use her right arm.”

Which means that Donna had to become Tara’s full-time caregiver, and neither woman would have an income anymore. That kind of financial shock is common among families affected by aphasia. “It’s a huge hit,” says Yones. “That’s why at VOH we will never turn anybody away based on ability to pay.”

But that also means that VOH depends on grants and donations to keep its programs free.

That’s where Word Play 25 comes in, returning to Banquet Masters in Clearwater May 15. VOH’s fundraiser is a celebration of the joys of language. There will be dinner, auctions and word games. Every table will receive a puzzle created for the event by New York Times crossword constructor Kevin Christian.

When Yones told the couple that they’d be able to attend Word Play, thanks to donated tickets, they were utterly delighted.

On May 15, Donna and Tara will be among friends who understand both the pleasure of language and the struggle to recapture the words that are lost. VOH hopes supporters of their work will join them.

Word Play 25 will be held May 15 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Banquet Masters in Clearwater. Purchase tickets at WordPlayTampaBay.com and read more at WatermarkOutNews.com.

10

MR. TOBIN:

Toby Tobin with a copy of his book.

PHOTO COURTESY THE SCOTT LAW TEAM

TRANS TEACHER, AUTHOR SUES PINELLAS COUNTY SCHOOLS AND MORE FOR DISCRIMINATION Ryan Williams-Jent and Shyler Oras

S

T. PETERSBURG | Toby Tobin, a former Pinellas County teacher who is transgender, filed a federal lawsuit April 17 against the Pinellas County School District, Florida Department of Education and more for job discrimination.

The educator “claims he was forced to resign because of the school district’s implementation of Florida’s 2023 law restricting the use of preferred pronouns,” the Tampa Bay Times reported April 21. The law is currently being challenged by the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Tobin’s lawsuit says the district discriminated against him on the basis of his sex, violating Bostock V. Clayton County, the Supreme Court’s landmark decision on LGBTQ+ workplace protections. It also names the Florida State Board of Education, Florida Education Practices Commission and Manny Diaz, Jr., the state’s Commissioner of Education, as defendants.

Tobin had previously issued a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission which was referred to

the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. Gabriel T. Roberts, his Scott Law Team lawyer, told the Times that “interest” in the matter “went away” after the election of Donald Trump.

Tobin worked as a fifth grade math and science teacher at Cross Bayou Elementary for two years.

He said the district initially had no concerns with his gender identity.

Florida’s restriction of pronoun usage states that in the context of public schools, a person’s sex is an “immutable biological trait and that it is false to ascribe to a person a pronoun that does not correspond to such person’s sex.”

Once the State Board of Education “updated its rules to make violation of that law subject to discipline under the educators’ Principles of Professional Conduct,” the Times reported, “Tobin took several steps to avoid using ‘Mr.’ while not being forced to misgender himself as ‘Ms.’” He worked until July 1, 2023 before moving from Florida. He told the Times that as his family’s sole provider, “effectively I was forced out” of the state. The educator subsequently published “Call Me Mr. Tobin” to share his story, released April 4.

“On July 1st, 2023, a law passed in Florida that essentially

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made it illegal to teach in a public school if you openly identify as transgender,” its description reads. “[Mr. Tobin] lost his job, he packed up his family, and he moved to a magical land called ‘Not Florida,’ where he wrote and illustrated this true story.”

The synopsis says the book “uses humor to encourage readers to live their lives as their authentic selves, especially in times of uncertainty, confusion and oppression.”

Pinellas County Schools told the Times that the district does not comment on pending litigation.

Watermark Out News spoke with Tobin and Roberts, the latter of whom noted the two discussed the case on the law firm’s podcast.

“Teachers are so scrutinized all the time,” Tobin shares in its third episode. “You always have eyes on you, and I want to make sure that if I have this opportunity to help others, that I’m helping others understand that trans people, queer people, marginalized communities, we’re just people.

“We’re fathers, we’re parents, we’re siblings,” he continues. “We have jobs, we communicate, we contribute to society and we’re not trying to do anything other than live genuine lives and help in any way we can.”

americanstage.org

BY JAMES IJAMES

DIRECTED BY RAYMOND O. CALDWELL 2023 Outer Critics Circle Award winner for John Gassner Award for New American Play

Nominated for 5 Tony Awards

2022 Pulitzer Prize Winner for Drama

"Hamlet" gets a modern, comedic makeover, complete with a new setting at a backyard barbecue.

And Hamlet, in this Pulitzer Prize winning show is a black, thicc and queer young man named Juicy!

Watermark Out News MAY 8 - 21, 2025 // ISSUE 3 0.10 WAT E R M A R KOU T NE W S .COM

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state news

FLORIDA LGBTQ+ DEMS CALL ON PARTY TO DROP HARD ROCK FOR FUNDRAISER Shyler Oras and Ryan Williams-Jent

T

he Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus and its Tampa Bay chapters are calling on the Florida Democratic Party to cancel Leadership Blue 2025, set for June 20-22 at the Hard Rock Hollywood, or to find a new venue for the fundraiser.

Leadership Blue is open to registered Democrats and is designed to bring together those interested in furthering their presence in the party and state government. FDP hosts panels, training sessions and a gala over the course of a weekend.

The Hard Rock Casino is owned by the Seminole Tribe.

In 2022, they contributed $3 million to the Republican Governors Association and another $1 million directly to Ron DeSantis, who has championed

anti-LGBTQ+ legislation throughout his time as governor.

The Stonewall Democrats of Pinellas County, a chapter of the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus, released a statement criticizing FDP’s choice of venue April 24.

“In a time when reproductive rights, voting access, LGBTQ+ protections, and the future of democracy itself are under constant attack in Florida, it is unconscionable for our state’s Democratic leadership to reward and legitimize a corporation actively funding the forces working to dismantle those very rights,” they shared. “This is not just a tone-deaf choice — it’s a betrayal of the people we are supposed to be fighting for. “…We call on the Florida Democratic Party to cancel its partnership with the Seminole Hard Rock and commit to venues and vendors who reflect

our ideals—not bankroll their destruction,” they added.

The Hillsborough County LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus subsequently addressed the matter April 25. The chapter, which is based near Hard Rock Tampa, noted their official absence during Tampa Pride 2025, arguing it sent “a loud and clear message: they are comfortable profiting from our community, but unwilling to invest in it.” They also called holding Leadership Blue at Hard Rock Hollywood offensive and “deeply hypocritical.”

“Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa lives by Hard Rock’s core value, ‘Love All Serve All’ and is a strong supporter of LGBTQ+ organizations and programs in Tampa Bay,” Hard Rock Tampa spokesperson Gary Bitner responded to Watermark Out News. He added that the organization “is a proud member” of the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber

and sponsor of St Pete Pride but did not address Tampa Pride.

“The Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus is one of the largest and most active groups supporting Democratic candidates in Florida,” the Hillsborough County LGBTQ Democratic Caucus also noted.

“We bring passion, resources, volunteer power and a powerful voice to this party ... we use that voice to call on the Florida Democratic Party to cancel its planned summer conference at the Hard Rock Casino.”

Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus President Kristen Browde also provided Watermark Out News with an email sent to FDP Chair Nikki Fried dated April 11.

“As the President of the LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus I’m writing to express my deep concern at the siting of the Leadership Blue conference at the Hard Rock, owned by Seminole Tribe,” it reads. “…This Caucus

will not patronize an institution that funds anti-LGBTQ+ hate, nor should the Florida Democratic Party.

“I am, therefore, calling on the FDP to cancel Leadership Blue at the Seminole — if it’s possible to move it elsewhere, fine, if not just cancel it and be noisy about the reason why,” she continued.

“Later we can discuss how and why the FDP thought it was appropriate to put the event at the Hard Rock.”

Watermark Out News has reached out to FDP leadership as well as Seminole Hard Rock Hotel Hollywood for additional comment. No response was received from either organization as of press time.

Learn more about the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus and its local chapters at LGBTQDems.org. For more information about Leadership Blue, visit LeadershipBlue.com.

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nation+world news

SINGER-SONGWRITER JILL SOBULES DIES IN A FIRE Wire Report

J

ill Sobule, the award-winning singer-songwriter whose witty and poignant writing first attracted widespread attention with the gay-themed song “I Kissed a Girl,” died in a house fire May 1. She was 66.

Her death was confirmed by her publicist, David Elkin, in an email. It was not immediately clear how the fire in Woodbury, Minnesota, started.

“Jill Sobule was a force of nature and human rights advocate whose music is woven into our culture,” John Porter, her manager, said in a statement. “I was having so much fun working with her. I lost a client & a friend today. I hope her music, memory, & legacy continue to live on and inspire others.”

During her more than three decades of recording, Sobule

released 12 albums that addressed such complex topics as the death penalty, anorexia nervosa, reproduction and LGBTQ+ issues.

Her first album, “Things Here Are Different,” was released in 1990. Five years later, she received widespread attention for her hit singles, “Supermodel,” from the movie “Clueless,” and “I Kissed A Girl,” which, despite being banned on several southern radio stations, made it into the Billboard Top 20.

She also starred in an autobiographical off-Broadway musical that initially premiered at the Wild Project in New York in 2022 and includes songs and stories about her life.

Sobule was known for taking control of her career by fundraising so she could make her next album.

In 2008, after two major record companies dumped her and two indie labels went bankrupt beneath her, she raised tens of thousands of

dollars from fans so she could make a new album.

“The old kind of paradigm, where you’ve always waited for other people to do things, you’d have your manager and your agent,” she said at the time. “You’d wait for the big record company to give you money to do things and they tell you what to do. This is so great.

I want to do everything like this.”

Sobule was scheduled to perform in Denver May 2.

A formal memorial to celebrate her life and legacy will be held later this summer.

“No one made me laugh more.

Her spirit and energy shall be greatly missed within the music community and beyond,” Craig Grossman, her booking agent, said in a statement.

She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law, James and Mary Ellen Sobule, along with her nephews and cousins.

US FUNDS SUPPORTED NEPAL’S GROWING LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY. NOW THAT MONEY IS GONE Wire Report

K

ATHMANDU, NEPAL | The metal gates are padlocked now at the Parichaya Samaj center that advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and supports the queer community in Nepal. A sign at the entry says they are unable to help anymore. The staff and volunteers are gone.

Ever since U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration began dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development, which was responsible for humanitarian aid, most of the help centers for Nepal’s LGBTQ+ community have been closed due to lack of funds.

Thousands of people have been left without support.

It is an unprecedented setback to the Himalayan nation’s growing queer community, which has made significant progress in recent years.

“It is a big crisis,” said Sunil Babu Pant, an openly gay former parliamentarian and a leading LGBTQ+ campaigner. “When the community needs counselling or

support, it is absent. People are going back to the closet again.”

In the past few years, Nepal’s LGBTQ+ community made rapid advancements in securing their rights. The nation became one of the first in Asia to allow same sex-sex marriage. The constitution adopted in 2015 explicitly stated there can be no discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

The U.S. was among the biggest donors for the LGBTQ+ rights campaign.

Over the years, USAID and others stepped in and partnered with help centers to support initiatives like HIV prevention and care and safe-sex counselling. The U.S. funds were vital for running the centers and clinics that helped with distributing free condoms, screenings and follow-up treatment for people with HIV. Now the USAID office in Nepal is closed.

With most of that funding gone, those gains are at risk.

Babu Dumi Rai, who worked at a help center in Kathmandu that has closed, warned that the aid cuts could lead to more HIV infections.

“In our community people are hesitant to buy condoms, and many of them are not even aware they need to use a condom or even how to properly use them,” Rai said. “With all these projects and services shuttered, there is now a very big risk of the HIV infections to be on the rise.”

It is estimated that between 15,000 and 20,000 people with HIV in Nepal are from the LGBTQ+ community, said Dinesh Chaudhury, who has been working with the help centers.

Chaudhury said the centers also provided medical help to the community, and now people are struggling to find alternatives.

Government hospitals and general medical facilities have some resources, but some in the LGBTQ+ community have said they feel uncomfortable with the way they are treated there.

“It is uncertain where they can go to get help in the coming days,” Chaudhury said. “I have so many people come with questions on where they can go, but I have no answer.”

IN OTHER NEWS FAMILIES END CHALLENGE TO ALABAMA BAN ON TRANS CARE Families in Alabama dropped a legal challenge to the state law that bans transgender youth from receiving gender-affirming care, a decision that was celebrated by the state’s attorney general. The plaintiffs filed a stipulation of dismissal May 1 to end their federal lawsuit filed in 2022. Organizations representing the plaintiffs, including GLAD Law, the National Center for Lesbian Rights and the Southern Poverty Law Center, did not elaborate on the reasons for ending the lawsuit, but said the families have faced tough choices since the ban took effect.

GEORGE SANTOS SENTENCED TO 87 MONTHS IN PRISON Disgraced former Republican congressman George Santos was sentenced to 87 months in prison April 25, after pleading guilty last year to federal charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. The first openly gay GOP member of Congress, Santos became a laughing stock after revelations came to light about his extensive history of fabricating and exaggerating details about his life and career. His colleagues voted in December 2023 to expel him from Congress. Federal prosecutors found evidence that Santos stole from donors, used his campaign account for personal purchases, lied about his wealth on congressional documents and committed unemployment fraud.

ENGLISH SOCCER BANS TRANS WOMEN FROM WOMEN’S TEAMS The organization that governs English soccer announced May 1 it will no longer allow transgender women to play on women’s teams. The British Supreme Court ruled April 16 the legal definition of a woman is limited to “biological women” and does not include trans women. The Football Association’s announcement, which cites the ruling, notes its new policy will take effect on June 1.

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION: PENN VIOLATED SEX DISCRIMINATION LAWS The Trump administration said April 28 that the University of Pennsylvania violated laws guaranteeing women equal opportunities in athletics by letting a transgender swimmer compete on the school’s women’s team and into team facilities. The administration’s statement does not name Lia Thomas, the trans swimmer who last competed for the Ivy League school in 2022 and was the first openly trans athlete to win a Division I title, but the investigation opened in February by the U.S. Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights focused on Thomas. The department said Penn violated a law barring sex discrimination in schools and colleges by “permitting males to compete in women’s intercollegiate athletics.”

Penn had no immediate comment.

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viewpoint

Greg Stemm

POSITIVE LIVING Arrested Developements

I

F ATTACKS FROM THIS

administration and the resulting protests continue at their current pace, I have to admit there is the potential that I’ll get arrested in the next few months. Perhaps even multiple times.

For an experienced activist like me, getting arrested is almost a badge of honor. My biggest concern would be making sure my dog is taken care of while I’m a political prisoner. You’ll hear me shouting “someone feed Joy!” as they take me away in handcuffs.

For many years I’ve only partially joked that when they come for me in the middle of the night, they had better bring the entire list of reasons why. I’ve been working on that list for over 40 years, so I want to be sure they don’t overlook anything.

Let’s review it, shall we? First, of course, I am openly gay. Not only that but I am an activist that helped form organizations like St Pete Pride and the LGBTQ+ Resource Center. I’ll be happy to be called an agitator if that helps. My outspokenness is an outright threat to homophobic bigots, so off to the slammer I go.

I’m also a journalist. Fascists know that words cut much more sharply than knives so silencing them becomes paramount. Honestly the so-called mainstream media so far has often been complicit in the right-wing nonsense, so you are going to have to look to independent outlets like Watermark Out News who strive to bring you non-biased coverage.

I’m also a long-term HIV survivor and yes, I admit that it takes thousands of dollars in medication to keep me alive each month — but are you really going to cut me off from those life-saving drugs because of some orange-faced buffoon? What good is the supposed best health care in the world if no one can afford it?

Well, they cut off HIV drugs we were providing to third world countries, condemning thousands to a completely preventable death, so I’m not confident it won’t happen here. What terrifies this administration is that I’m not shy about talking about HIV or advocating for those it affects. You can’t intimidate me with any stigmas because for me they don’t exist.

What they’d really like is if I sat down and shut up. However, anyone who has ever met me knows that is not happening on a social justice issue, especially HIV/AIDS. I haven’t restricted my “agitation” to LGBTQ+ issues. A quick look through social media and you’ll see I was an active member of Occupy St. Pete and its spin off group “the Elders of Occupy.” I lost track of how many times I was marching around downtown St. Pete chanting “we are the 99%!”

I believe Occupy helped to mold the national conversation toward issues of wealth inequality. I came close to being arrested once when the Republican National Convention was here, but it turned into a friendly and lively conversation about the First Amendment with a local cop.

Usually if anyone has any doubt about my subversive activism all they need to know is that I am a Quaker, which is another reason I’m probably headed to jail. I’m the clerk of the Peace, Social Concerns and Outreach committee for the St. Pete Meeting. Going back to the 1600’s, Quakers were not at all shy about being jailed for their beliefs and convictions. I have 400 years of civil disobedience behind me. Do you think I’d back down now?

Quakers are pacifists at our core. That comes from a belief that there is God in everyone and killing denies that existence. We dig deep into our silent worship and from that silence

comes our commitment to social justice.

Quakers helped produce the March on Washington in the 60s and the Women’s March recently and are currently involved with the complex issues in Israel and Palestine and are speaking boldly and sensitively about

not going to allow a gun in my Quaker Meeting House.

It could come to pass that we enter martial law or at least see the enactment of the Insurrection Act, which would almost virtually guarantee me a spot in the political gulag. My outspoken and publicly

Occupy once and I shocked them by thanking them.

I certainly am not advocating that you need to get arrested. Everyone needs to resist at whatever level they feel comfortable. Just remember this: history is calling us. Ask yourself right now: how will you respond

women’s reproductive rights. Right now we are carefully discerning how we might non-violently overthrow a government.

We’d love your thoughts.

Quakers have spoken firmly (and in court) that ICE agents are not welcome in our Meeting Houses. I’ve gone one step further locally and told them I will put up active passive resistance if anyone with a gun tries to enter our sacred place. I am

stated opinion is that the moment they tell us we are, we completely flood them with resistance. I have absolutely no intention of obeying or complying with any unlawful or unconstitutional orders or curfews.

We haven’t even touched on my politics. Let’s just say that someone yelled “Communist!” at me while I was demonstrating with

if they come for you or your loved ones in the middle of the night?

We’ve passed this being hyperbolic. Now it’s horrifyingly real. Stay safe.

Stay strong, comrades. The resistance shall prevail!

I have 400 years of civil disobedience behind me. Do you think I’d back down now?

Greg Stemm is a longtime resident of Pinellas County and a founder of St Pete Pride.

He is an outspoken activist on many issues, including HIV/ AIDS education.

Live

VIBRANTLY PASSION + PURPOSE + COMMUNITY

Live the life you love.

Find out how at AboutActs.com/Watermark or call (855) 506-3586.

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THE BARBER FUND HELPING THOSE LIVING WITH CANCER

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

ONE LOVE!

16

In Memory of John “Tweeka” Barber 1972 - 2011

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viewpoint

Dr. Steve Yacovelli

YOUR QUE E R C A R E E R :

WORK ADVICE FROM THE

GAY LEADERSHIP DUDE Not Letting Our Rainbows Fade In his latest column, Dr. Steve Yacovelli, (a.k.a.

“The Gay Leadership Dude”) shares his expertise on submitted workplace questions from members of the LGBTQ+ Community. Have a question? See below!

HELLO “GAY LEADERSHIP DUDE,” I’M REALLY FRUSTRATED AND TIRED. MY COMPANY HAS PULLED BACK ON ALL ITS DEI EFFORTS. THEY’VE ELIMINATED OUR LGBTQ+ EMPLOYEE RESOURCE GROUP, MAINLY DUE TO EXTERNAL PRESSURES AND OUR COMPANY HAVING A LOT OF GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS. MY COMPANY ISN’T PARTICIPATING IN ANY PRIDE EVENTS THIS YEAR AND I FEEL LIKE ALL THE WORK WE’VE DONE BOTH WITHIN OUR BUSINESS AS WELL AS IN SOCIETY IN GENERAL IS TAKING A MASSIVE STEP BACK. IS THERE ANYTHING YOU SUGGEST I CAN DO TO HELP MANAGE THIS FEELING OF GLOOM? ~FADING RAINBOW

Oh, Fading Rainbow, I so hear you: it seems like these are the darkest times our Rainbow Family has experienced, especially for our trans siblings.

But this brings up one of the things about us that is pretty damn incredible: the resiliency of the LGBTQ+ community.

Let’s take a quick trip back in time: our queer history is filled with moments of joy and celebration but it’s also marked by periods of intense adversity.

Consider the Stonewall Riots in 1969. That wasn’t just a spontaneous outburst; it was a powerful act of collective resilience in the face of relentless oppression and police brutality. For years, simply existing openly as a member of the LGBTQ+ community was an act of defiance, a testament to our unwavering spirit. We built our own communities, our own support systems, our own families, often in

the shadows, because the mainstream world wasn’t ready – or willing – to accept us. That, my friend, is resilience in action.

Move forward to the AIDS crisis. Our community was decimated, often ignored or stigmatized by wider society. We lost a generation of LGBTQ+ members to the disease. Yet, in the face of unimaginable loss and fear, we rallied. We cared for each other, we advocated for research and treatment, we mourned our fallen and we fought like hell for our right to live and be seen. The activism that emerged from that era not only saved lives but also laid the groundwork for many of the rights and protections we have today. That period, though devastating, showcased our profound capacity to come together, to find strength in unity and to keep fighting even when the odds seemed insurmountable.

Fast forward to today. While we’ve made significant strides in legal rights and social acceptance, we’re once again facing a climate where some of those gains feel fragile. We see increased legislative efforts in the U.S. and elsewhere targeting our rights, a rise in hateful rhetoric and a general sense of unease for many in our community and equality in general.

It can feel disheartening, even exhausting. But here’s the thing I want you to remember, Fading Rainbow: this isn’t the first time we’ve navigated turbulent waters and it certainly won’t be the last. Our history is a testament to our enduring resilience.

So, how do we, as humans and specifically as an LGBTQ+ family, tap into this wellspring of resilience during times of change and challenge?

One key factor in fostering resilience is the presence of strong social support. Research consistently demonstrates that folks with robust social networks – friends, family,

community groups – tend to cope better with stress and adversity. For LGBTQ+ individuals, our chosen families and community bonds have always been a vital source of strength and support, especially when faced with societal prejudice or lack of acceptance from biological families. These connections provide a sense of belonging, validation and practical assistance during tough times.

Another crucial element is our ability to find meaning and purpose, even in the face of hardship. This might involve engaging in activism, supporting others in the community, pursuing creative outlets or finding spiritual or philosophical frameworks that provide comfort and guidance. For many LGBTQ+ folks, our shared history of struggle and our commitment to creating a more just and equitable world fuels this sense of purpose.

Finally, studies on resilience emphasize the role of self care and emotional regulation. Taking care of our physical and mental wellbeing, practicing mindfulness and developing healthy coping mechanisms are essential for navigating stress and maintaining our resilience over the long haul.

Give yourself some time and grace when needed, Fading Rainbow.

And let me be crystal clear here, I know perhaps you and some of us in the rainbow family will experience these times harsher and with deeper feelings than others. And this article isn’t meant to have some rose-colored glasses or engage in “toxic positivity,” but merely point out – as a community – we have faced down prejudice, loss and uncertainty before and we have emerged stronger and more determined each time. This time will be no different.

Our journey as an LGBTQ+ community has always been one of resilience, Fading Rainbow.

We have a deep well of strength to draw upon, forged in the fires of adversity. By nurturing our connections, practicing self compassion, focusing on what we can control, finding meaning and cultivating hope, we can not only weather the current storms but emerge even more resilient, more connected and more determined to create an equitable and just world than ever before.

HAVE A QUESTION FOR “THE GAY LEADERSHIP DUDE”? Submit @ YourQueerCareer.com. Please note the advice shared is for informational use only; it is not intended to replace or substitute any mental, financial, medical, legal or other professional advice. Full disclosure can be found at the website listed above.

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The Good Page Euphoria Coffee: Queer, Caffeinated, Connected

PHOTO COURTESY JULIEN SALERNO

T

Zaira Campos

HE GOOD PAGE FEATURES

positive LGBTQ+ news in Central Florida and Tampa Bay, uplifting and inspiring stories highlighting locals in our community. In this issue, we learn about Euphoria Coffee.

When the world paused in 2020, Julien Salerno found clarity in the quiet. Burnt out from years working as a mobile dog groomer and facing the uncertainty of the pandemic, they turned to something simple and grounding: making coffee at home. What started as a personal ritual soon evolved into Euphoria Coffee, a queer-owned micro roastery and online coffee shop that has since become a community-rooted business in Central Florida.

“I was living alone during lockdown, and everything was shut down,” Salerno recalls. “So I started ordering beans from small roasters online, setting up a little coffee station and experimenting with different brews. It became this kind of calming hobby.”

The name Euphoria came easily.

“It’s that first sip of coffee in the morning — everything slows down and you feel this inner

peace,” they say. “And for trans and nonbinary folks, gender euphoria is that same kind of alignment, that sense of coming home to yourself. I loved the double meaning.”

Euphoria Coffee launched online during the pandemic as Salerno’s way to share that feeling with others. Though they once dreamed of a physical shop, they chose to focus instead on a model that felt more sustainable and aligned with their values.

Operating as a one-person micro roastery, Salerno hand roasts each small batch to order in their kitchen, ensuring freshness and intentionality with every bag.

“My roaster is tiny. It does one pound at a time,” Salerno explains. “When you buy from me, you’re getting a roast made just for you. It’s very different from bigger operations that roast in bulk.”

Salerno approaches coffee with the heart of an artist and the

PHOTO COURTESY JULIEN SALERNO

curiosity of a scientist. Each bean goes through multiple roast levels during testing, allowing them to determine which flavors to bring forward. With a tasting wheel nearby, Salerno builds each roast with the same care one might use to prepare coffee for a friend.

“There are roasters who approach it very methodically,” they say. “For me, it’s gut feeling, intuition. Coffee is part science, part art. I lean toward the art.”

But Euphoria Coffee isn’t just about what’s in the cup. It’s about who gets to hold it.

As an openly queer business owner, Salerno wanted their company to reflect the values of visibility, accessibility and community care. From supporting local trans safety funds to donating to mutual aid food drives, they make it a point to stay connected to grassroots efforts in Central Florida.

“It’s not just about profit,” Salerno says. “If that was the goal, I would’ve stayed in my old job. I wanted this business to align with who I am and what

I care about. I see Euphoria Coffee as part of a larger ecosystem of care.”

That ecosystem includes customers, too. Salerno finds joy in pop-ups and local markets, where they get to meet coffee lovers face to face.

“The markets are the best part,” they share. “People ask questions, get excited about the coffee and I get to talk about the process. It’s also where people see that I’m just one person roasting beans in my kitchen, and they love that.”

Though they occasionally get offers from companies interested in partnering, Salerno is careful about collaborations. “If it doesn’t align with my values, I’m not doing it. I don’t want to scale up in a way that loses the heart of what I do.”

They envision Euphoria Coffee staying intentionally small, rooted in queer community and powered by connection rather than capital.

“I’m kind of an anti-capitalist running a business,” Salerno laughs. “It sounds contradictory,

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but I think it’s possible to do business differently.”

That ethos has made Euphoria Coffee a beloved staple among those who know it. And while Julien still mourns the loss of their favorite brick-and-mortar coffee shop, Downtown Credo, they’re creating their own version of that third place, one bag of beans at a time.

“As a queer person just out in the world, it’s really necessary to see ourselves doing these things,” they say. “It’s not just about making money — it’s about being visible, helping where I can and staying connected to community.”

To learn more or order coffee, visit them on IG @euphoria. coffeeroasters.

Interested in being featured in The Good Page? Email Editor-in-Chief Jeremy Williams at Jeremy@WatermarkOutNews.com in Central Florida or Managing Editor Ryan Williams-Jent at Ryan@WatermarkOutNews. com in Tampa Bay.

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ORLANDO FRINGE

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CommUnity Rainbow Run 9th Annual | 4.9K

Registration is now open

Saturday, June 7, 2025 City Hall Plaza 400 South Orange Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32801

We invite you to join us in honoring those impacted by the Pulse tragedy. This year's run brings renewed hope as plans for the Pulse Memorial move forward, with an opening planned for late 2027.

Visit pulseorlando.org/rainbowrun to register or learn more. | #OrlandoUnited Net proceeds will benefit the Orlando United Pulse Memorial, a permanent memorial honoring the victims and the spirit of our community.

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A

Jeremy Williams

FTER A ROUGH YEAR FOR MY

mom — recovering from surgery and dealing with all the stress that came with it — my siblings and I decided she needed a proper escape. No chaotic family reunions, no stressful planning, just her and her four kids setting sail on a family cruise, which so happened to be my very first cruise.

We chose a three-night voyage from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Ocean Cay on the MSC Seashore. As someone who has never cruised, I was worried about the possibility of seasickness so we went with a short trip in case I couldn’t handle

it. Luckily, I not only handled it — for the most part — I actually really enjoyed myself.

First bit of advice, get something to help with motion sickness even if you think you won’t need it. My sister brought a box of all natural

motion sickness patches from a company called 369 Life. They are small sticker-like patches that go behind each ear and last for a couple days. I wasn’t sure if they worked until the second day when I started to feel nauseous due to some rough seas. I assumed the patches gave out but when I checked the back of my ears, they had fallen off.

I slapped a fresh set on and the nausea was gone within minutes.

A box of 24 patches is less than $15 on Amazon.

As we arrived to port, before we even stepped foot on the ship, my older brother had already set the tone for the trip. We surprised mom with custom button-up shirts

CONTINUED ON PG. 25 | uu |

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PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

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WEEKEND GETAWAY: From island excursions to live nightime entertainment to simply relaxing poolside, even a short, three-day cruise offers plenty to do on and off the ship. PHOTOS BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

| uu | A Family Affair FROM PG.23

featuring flamingos, palm trees and our mother’s face printed all over them. We wore them proudly as we boarded, much to the amusement (and possibly confusion) of fellow passengers.

If there’s one way to announce your presence on a cruise ship, it’s by turning your family into walking, tropical-themed shrines to your mom.

As we entered the ship on Deck 10 I was surprised by just how big these ships are. People who cruise regularly are always saying how big the ships are, but you don’t realize just how big until you are walking up to it.

That brings me to my next piece of advice, wear comfortable shoes that you’ll be able to walk in. You will have no trouble reaching your 10,000 steps for the day on these massive vessels.

We had some time to kill before our room was ready, so we hit up the buffet on Deck 17 and had a few drinks. More on the food and drinks later but I will say here, splurge on the drink package, it is well worth it.

Since it was just mom and the four kids — no spouses or grandkids on this trip — we decided to get one, upgraded room instead of everyone having their own separate one. I would advise against that if you are

going with larger groups but with it just being us five it worked out just fine, plus you find that you don’t spend very much time in your room. However, if we did this would be the room to chill out in.

I had heard horror stories about cramped cruise cabins, tiny bathrooms, bunk beds stacked like prison cells and zero personal space but as we entered the room it was surprisingly spacious. No sardine vibes here. We had a walk-in closet (because why not?), a full-sized bathroom with a tub, a bedroom with a king-sized bed which could split into two full beds, a living room area with a couch that transformed into bunk beds, which immediately gave me flashes of the double-decker couch from “The Lego Movie,” and a sleeper sofa in the bedroom, ensuring all five of us had our own space to sleep.

Then there was the balcony, which faced the front of the ship.

The only thing separating us from the open ocean was the employee deck below us. Naturally, we took turns standing on chairs, leaning against the glass railing, and reenacting the iconic “I’m flying” scene from “Titanic.”

Our butler, David, was an absolute gem. Need extra towels?

Done. Craving a midnight snack?

He made it happen. Want to know the best time to hit the buffet without the crowds? He had the inside scoop. Having a butler felt

ridiculously fancy but we leaned into it hard.

I’d always imagined cruises as floating resorts; serene, relaxing, maybe a little bougie. The MSC Seashore, however, felt more like a theme park at sea. There was so much happening at all times: live music, comedy shows, dance parties, karaoke, a casino and enough bars to keep even the thirstiest traveler satisfied. You can keep track of all this through the MSC app.

As I understand it most cruise lines have their own apps, so my next bit of advice is to download and use the app. I had it but didn’t take advantage of it, so we ended up missing a lot of the things we wanted to check out, namely “Friends” trivia and the LGBTQ+ socials. That app acts like your personal assistant throughout your voyage so make sure you tell it what you want to do and it will set up an itinerary for you.

Something I might look into if and when I cruise again is adults-only cruises. Don’t get me wrong, I like kids and I love big family trips but on this cruise families were everywhere, and most notably kids dominated the main pool and hot tubs, splashing around like tiny, hyperactive dolphins hopped up on sugar.

Luckily, MSC had the perfect solution. Adults-only areas gave us access to quieter spaces, including an infinity pool at the back of the ship and hot tubs

on the top deck. Absolute bliss.

Another area that was a kids free zone was the ship’s spa area. It was a Roman-inspired paradise with hot tubs, saunas, a salt room, a snow room (yes, actual snow!), citrus and mint showers and more. After a day of sun and chaos, this was the ultimate reset.

Dinner each night was a themed event. The first night was American elegance, fancy but approachable. I had prime rib.

The second night was Caribbean cuisine, tropical flavors and rum-infused everything. The third night was an old fashion Italian dinner because, well… MSC is Italian. The wait staff came out with the red, white and green napkins swinging above their heads and playing Italian music.

It was delightful. Our waiter, Toni, was a legend; attentive, funny and always ready with an extra breadbasket when needed.

Dinner was served with wine and Toni was ready to run to the bar if we wanted anything a bit stronger. A few of my favorite liquid treats throughout the cruise were espresso martinis (mixing your alcohol with caffeine is the only way to take your coffee on vacation), Moscow Mules (my cruise staple) and Bloody Marys (for those “I might have overdone it last night” mornings).

Something else I insist you make time for are the evening shows in the theater. Each night was a themed show from the

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onboard cast who were like a ship-based glee club meets Cirque du Soleil. Night one was “The Diva Show,” which was filled with glam, glitter and powerhouse vocals.

Night two was the “MSC Talent Show,” with singers, dancers, a magician, contortionists and a Ukrainian aerial act that featured a man whose abs deserved their own standing ovation. Night three was an all-out rock concert featuring throwbacks to the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s, complete with air guitar sessions.

With so much happening on the ship, I didn’t spend too much time off the boat. We stopped the first day in Nassau, Bahamas, where we wandered, shopped and soaked in the island vibes.

The second day was at Ocean Cay, MSC’s Private Island, which had stunning beaches, crystal-clear water and me, firmly planted at the beach bar, chatting with fellow non-sunbathers. I’m very much the kind of person who respects the ocean from a distance with a cocktail.

The MSC Seashore was a fantastic first cruise experience, packed with luxury, laughter and just the right amount of chaos.

Most importantly, it gave mom the reset she deserved, surrounded by her kids wearing ridiculous shirts in her honor and living her best life at sea.

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Watermark Out News MAY 8 - 21, 2025 // ISSUE 3 0.10 WAT E R M A R KOU T NE W S .COM

PASSPORTS

TRAVELING WHILE TRANS: TRUMP’S POLICIES SPARK GLOBAL WARNINGS, DOMESTIC LAWSUITS

PHOTO VIA FREEPIK

O

Shyler Oras

N HIS FIRST DAY BACK IN OFFICE,

President Donald Trump signed an executive order called “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government.”

Among other things, it directed the Departments of State and Homeland Security “to require that government-issued identification documents, including passports, visas, and Global Entry cards,” reflect an American’s sex “at conception.” The American Civil Liberties Union has said it attempts to “mandate discrimination against transgender people across the federal government and government programs.”

The group highlights that “under the ensuing Passport Policy, within 24 hours the State Department began holding some passports and other documents (such as birth certificates and court orders) submitted by transgender,

intersex, and nonbinary people who had applied to update the sex designation on their U.S. passports and returning others with their applications rejected and their newly-issued passport marked with their sex assigned at birth.”

Later, Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a memo, “Guidance for Visa Adjudicators on Executive Order 14201: ‘Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports,’” which, as summarized by trans journalist and activist Erin in the Morning, “may have just barred most transgender people with updated gender markers who are seeking visas from obtaining visas to enter the United States.”

The federal government also eliminated references to transgender travelers from the State Department’s travel advisory website. In a section now called “LGB Travelers,” officials advise “many countries also only recognize the male and female sex markers in passports and do not have IT systems at ports of entry that can accept other sex markers.”

The page’s travel guidance makes no other mention of those with a minority gender identity. In light of these and other anti-transgender changes from the Trump administration, several countries have issued travel warnings to their LGBTQ+ citizens who may be interested in traveling to the United States.

Denmark issued a travel advisory for transgender individuals March 21, stating “if you have the gender designation X in your passport, or you have changed your gender, it is recommended that you contact the U.S. Embassy prior to travel for guidance on how to proceed,” the Associated Press reported.

The German Federal Foreign Office issued a similar travel advisory March 5, explicitly mentioning Trump’s executive order to ban the issuing of “X” gender markers on passports and Rubio’s attempts to bar any visa applications with the same marker. The Finnish, Portuguese, Netherlands and Irish Ministries and Departments of Foreign Affairs have each issued similar advisories.

Pushback against the Trump administration’s attacks have also come from the U.S. The ACLU filed a lawsuit on behalf of seven transgender and nonbinary people in February. The plaintiffs had “not been able to obtain passports that match who they are because of the State Department’s new Passport Policy or are likely to be impacted by the new policy upon their next renewal,” said the ACLU. Named Orr v. Trump, “the lawsuit argues the policy is arbitrary and capricious, violates the right to travel and right to privacy under the Due Process Clause of the U.S. Constitution, violates the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution, and compels speech from transgender, nonbinary, and intersex passport holders in violation of their First Amendment rights.”

“It’s very isolating and concerning,” Plaintiff Ashton Orr told USA Today. “Receiving a passport that misgenders me is not just a clerical error; it’s a profound denial of my identity and my existence.”

On April 18, U.S. District Judge Julia Kobick in Boston issued a preliminary injunction against Trump’s order. The ACLU noted that “though today’s court order applies only to six of the plaintiffs in the case, the plaintiffs plan to quickly file a motion asking the court to certify a class of people affected by the State Department policy and to extend the preliminary injunction to that entire class.”

According to the AP, Kobick stated the plaintiffs have successfully proven the passport policy and executive order “are based on irrational prejudice toward transgender Americans and therefore offend our Nation’s constitutional commitment to equal protection for all Americans.”

The policies are “arbitrary and capricious,” they also noted, adding “it was not adopted in compliance with the procedures required by the Paperwork Reduction Act and Administrative Procedure Act.” Southern Legal Counsel Director of Transgender Rights

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Initiative Simone Chriss celebrated the victory. She advised “those among us who are rightly afraid and understandably outraged should feel vindicated in the fact that federal courts across the country are scrutinizing this administration’s cruel and inhumane targeting of transgender Americans.”

She added that they are “revealing the undeniable truth: These actions are motivated solely by irrational prejudice and a bare desire to harm a group of people they do not like.”

On April 25, a second federal lawsuit was filed against the administration’s passport policy. Lambda Legal filed it on behalf of seven transgender and nonbinary people.

“Our clients have concluded that international travel is now effectively impossible when they are forced to carry an identity document that shares private and inaccurate information without their consent,” said Lambda Legal Senior Attorney Carl Charles. “This needlessly cruel and discriminatory policy exposes them to the very real dangers of harassment and discrimination and complicates their lives simply because of who they are.

“The anti-transgender animus is clear and intentional,” he added. “…The State Department’s focus should be on accurate identity verification, including by communicating the sex someone lives as, in accordance with their gender identity. This is yet another deliberate targeting for political gain, ensuring transgender people are singled out for harassment, discrimination, and at worst, detention or physical violence.”

In light of all the changes and ongoing litigation, how can transgender Americans protect themselves when traveling?

Arli Christian, senior policy counsel for the ACLU, told the 19th — which reports on gender, politics and policy — to “make sure you’re armed with all the information you need to calmly inform an officer what your rights are.”

He says transgender travelers should carry backup documents like a birth certificate and a copy of the federal policy to give them more leverage and confidence.

For more information about ongoing litigation and to learn more about your rights as an LGBTQ+ traveler, visit ACLU.org, LamdaLegal.org and SouthernLegal.org.

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watermark

Wine

W

i

N o t

Available wherever you listen to podcasts

e n

– presents –

A Queer Podcast

Jeremy Williams Rick Todd

Hosted By:

SPONSORED BY:

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PORTUGAL

LGBTQ+ TOURISTS AND EXPATS ARE CHOOSING PORTUGAL

PHOTO VIA FREEPIK

Y

Sheryl Kay

EARS AGO TOURISTS CAME FOR

the sun, sand and seafood when visiting Portugal.

They still do today, but since the U.S. presidential election Portugal has increasingly become a premier destination for those scouting for a new home. There are many reasons for this, including that Portugal first prohibited any form of discrimination based on sexual orientation in 2004 — which is enshrined in the country’s constitution.

Of course, traveling as a tourist is quite different compared to scouting for a possible residency.

Incredible historic buildings, famed art and sugar sand beaches are all enticing attributes for a vacation, but not necessarily indicative of a potential welcoming and appropriate new home.

Lower travel costs may signal a less expensive place to live, but a vacation just isn’t enough to fully understand what it means to create a new life in a country not of your birth. So best to keep in mind when you visit, if a move might be on

your mind, to go the extra mile to investigate beyond tourist concerns.

Although Portugal is far smaller than many European countries, there is still a great deal to see.

While Lisbon rivals many other familiar urban destinations, the second largest city, Porto, in the North, is far quieter. It has a bit of an “old world charm” and is the home to Port wineries in the Douro Valley.

In the Southern Algarve region, you’ll find Faro, part of the Nature Park of Ria Formosa. Then there’s Albufeira, an incredible beach destination for dolphin watchers and surfers. And, of course, Coimbra — the former capital of Portugal and home to one of the oldest universities in the world. You could go for two or three weeks and still not see it all.

First and foremost, if you are going to consider a trip to Lisbon, be very aware this is one hilly city regardless of which of the five major neighborhoods you’re in. It easily

rivals San Francisco, Edinburgh, and even Grindelwald, Switzerland.

You will need good walking shoes, and while most places do offer accommodations, in general, wheelchair accessibility is limited.

Uber is a great way to get around the city if you prefer not waiting on local buses, trains and street cars, as it is almost always reliable, and relatively inexpensive. That said, if you’re a fan of public transportation, it’s quite dependable too, and certainly cheaper.

If culture, yesteryear and museums are your thing, you will be in heaven in Lisbon. The city has a long history with tile making (called azulejos), so even the sidewalks and the facades of many buildings show off incredible artwork. Don’t miss the Largo Rafael Bordalo Pinheiro, likely one of the most photographed buildings in Lisbon, featuring tiled depictions of mythological images that represent earth, water and science.

Many tourists will spend hours online to enter some of the more famous spots in Lisbon. For example, we saw one such line at the Belem Tower, on a super foggy day, when all there is to see there are the views from the outside

tower. Do your homework. Many of these spots are not necessarily worth the wait to get inside, and the outside of the buildings are just as, if not more so, amazing.

One incredible resource to help with secret must-see spots is Alex Pollard, founder of Alex’s Queer Lisbon Tours & Events.

He is an unbelievable wealth of knowledge about the city in general, as well as the timeline of LGBTQ+ events throughout history there.

Additionally, he’s published a free online book called “Alex’s LONG LIST - guide to LGBTQ Lisbon & Portugal,” and regardless of whether you’re going as a tourist or possible expat, this is a must read.

Eating is a joy in Lisbon.

Whereas an average dinner in Paris might cost you $30-40, you can easily get a great full course meal for $15-20 in most sections of town.

Traditional fresh fish is abundant, as is a wide variety of other choices, including Nepalese, Indian, Italian and more. Pastry shops are on every street corner, and don’t miss the famed Pastal de Nada, or custard tart, served in most places for a dollar or even less.

While there are literally hundreds of hotels in Lisbon, only one is consistently identified as “family owned,” called The Late Birds. They are, however, male only, so that won’t be an option for everyone. We stayed at a small lodge called Tings, located in the Gracia neighborhood, immediately next to one of the best lookout views, the Miradouro da Graça.

This was a perfect location as it was not at all noisy at night, but easily accessible to the downtown scene, and very close to good restaurants. The staff was also beyond helpful and accommodating, and the owners are ardent LGBTQ+ allies. If a scouting trip is your goal, Tings is especially a good place to stay as many of the employees, including the owners, are expats themselves, and will be happy to share their stories.

If you’re looking for the club scene, you won’t be disappointed.

Lisbon, especially the Bairro Alto and Principe Real neighborhoods, is just brimming with fun! Check out Finalmente, a small but fab venue that has been around since a year or two after the 1974 revolution.

There’s also Shelter Bar (for the Bear crowd), and Purex, which has great dancing and vintage decor.

And make sure you don’t leave without getting to Trumps, which has no relation to the president and is one of the most famous

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LGBTQ+ venues in all of Portugal.

It first opened in the 1980’s and is renowned for its drag shows.

So you’ve got considerable culture, fab food, plenty of partying and it’s all relatively affordable.

Does that mean you want to live in Portugal? We were fortunate to connect with many expats, and for the most part, there are a lot of positive vibes from those who have chosen to make a new life there, even if it is not all perfect, and even if almost all noted life is very different than it is in America.

Pollard, 61, himself an expat from England, moved to Lisbon in 2019 after visiting on three different occasions.

“Despair with the UK’s turn to right-wing populism and the divisive politics of Brexit drove me to move for the kinder, more civilized environment of Portugal,” he says.

Overall, from healthcare to the general pace of life to meeting his partner Manuel, Pollard is thrilled with the move. But it’s not without challenges.

“I have struggled to pick up as much work as I had hoped for, and even with the lower cost of living here, money has been tight, and I have seen rents skyrocket as Lisbon’s success as a tourist destination has put pressure on the housing market,” he notes.

There are many other considerations as well, from tying up your entire life in America (like selling your home, downsizing your belongings, preparing pets for international travel and packing pallets) to filling out endless government required paperwork (on both sides of the Atlantic), VISA appointments, setting up Portuguese bank accounts, and learning Portuguese (which every ex pat we spoke to recommended).

The Portuguese might say “deixar em banho Maria,” a famous saying there, which translates to “leave it in a tub of water, Maria.”

It’s their way of saying, put the problem aside until you have more information.

So if you’re ready to consider Portugal for either a vacation or a home, get out of the tub and plan a visit. Among other ideal times, Lisbon will be hosting EuroPride 2025 in June.

Learn more about Alex’s Queer Libson Tours and Events at @AlexLibsonTours on Instagram.

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Palm Royale Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring jaw-dropping décor, delicious lite bites, amazing cocktails, and musical performance by the fabulous john duff

Saturday, May 31st 2025 at The Circus Arts Conservatory Sarasota, Florida

Open Bar

SCAN ME for tickets & info

Lite bites

DANCING

Featuring

Get Your tickets Now at ppsrq.org

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John Duff

Hosted by Project PRIDE SRQ

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announcements

TAMPA BAY OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS Love the Golden Rule held its Fashion with Passion fundraiser April 26, a charity gala benefiting the clinic’s gender-affirming health care and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Read more and view photos at WatermarkOutNews.com.

St Pete Pride kicked off its 2025 season with Shades of Pride May 2, the nonprofit’s annual celebration of Black, queer joy. Read more and view photos at WatermarkOutNews.com.

The Mari Jean Hotel announced May 1 it was ranked in the top 10% of hotels worldwide on TripAdvisor.

Enigma celebrates its 11th anniversary in May. The Kind Mouse celebrates 13 years May 10.

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CONDOLENCES PFLAG Tampa announced the death of Breanne Heacock May 1, the group’s former president and director of trans initiatives. “As we mourn this loss, we invite you to carry Breanne’s spirit with you,” they shared. “Live boldly. Love deeply. Dream of what our community can be—and help build it.”

MCC Tampa family member Sierra Hill died April 29.

“Sierra brought a joyful and enthusiastic energy to our church, especially her presence in the choir,” they shared. “She was well loved in the local drag community and will be deeply missed by all.”

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS Tampa Bay activist Sasha Citino, St. Petersburg server Jason Grawey, Cocktail manager Alex Gomez (May 8); Animal lover Sarah Wilson, Webtivity Marketing & Design President Terry Thompson (May 9); TransNetwork cofounder Tristan Byrnes, Tampa Bay activist Dale Wilson/ Power Infiniti (May 10); Tampa nursing home director Scott J. Allen, Tampa insurance executive Jeff Giles, former CitySide Lounge owner James Encke, Ybor City Barbering Co. co-owner Lauren Harmon, The Skittle Squad’s Paul Fifer (May 11); Lutz real estate agent Kenny Braverman (May 12); Tampa Bay super volunteer Jeremy Wade Neiman, Sarasota medical specialist Dr. Damon Harper (May 13); St. Petersburg school teacher Bob Tencza, Largo media publisher Jeff Youngblood (May 14); Hillsborough Kids advocate Malachi Ortiz, Tampa Bay entertainer Amanda D’Rhod, Drag aficionado Clifford Hobbs (May 15); “Big Gay Radio Show” co-host Bryan Hinkson, Tampa Bay fitness instructor Bryan Lloyd, St. Pete ROTC leader Frank Hay, FOX 13 reporter Dan Matics, Equality Florida Safe & Healthy Schools Regional Manager Alex Quinto/ entertainer Alice Marie Gripp, Tampa artist Ric Moreir (May 16); Sarasota artist Ming “Troy” Ming, St. Pete staple Marc Calvillo, Sarasota helping hand Jennifer Chalfa, Dog-adoring Tom Singer, Political activist Bryan Farris (May 17); Tampa Bay director Trevor Keller (May 18); St. Petersburg politico Tony Meredith, Tampa Bay activist Elliott Darrow (May 19); Tampa Bay bartender James Bailey, Wordier Than Thou founder and Watermark Out News contributor Tiffany Razzano, Tampa Bay artist Lance Michael (May 20); Watermark Out News photographer Jamarcus Mosley, Tampa Bay bear Rick Grayson (May 21).

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BINGO BENEFIT: Former Miss Come OUT St. Pete Alexis De La Mer leads Bingo at Shelter Strong April 25 to benefit the organization. PHOTO FROM

COME OUT ST. PETE’S FACEBOOK

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DINE TIME: (L-R) Leif Thomas, Corey Malyszka, John Adamowski and Jeremy Skidmore attend Dining Out for Life 2025 April 24 at Gratzzi Ristorante.

PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

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SISTER SISTER: Rockell Blu (L) becomes Sister for a Day with Sister Juana Reaction April 28 at The Garage.

PHOTO FROM THE TAMPA BAY SISTERS OF PERPETUAL INDULGENCE’S FACEBOOK

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CHANGES COMING: Tampa City Councilmembers Alan Clendenin (L) and Gwendolyn Henderson detail forthcoming changes in northern downtown April 29. PHOTO FROM CITY OF

TAMPA’S FACEBOOK

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STORYTIME: Author Rob Sanders connects with a reader during Indie Bookstore Day April 26 at Tombolo books.

PHOTO FROM TOMBOLO BOOKS’ FACEBOOK

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TEAM TAMPA: Tampa Mayor Jane Castor delivers her 2025 State of the City address April 28.

PHOTO FROM THE CITY OF TAMPA’S FACEBOOK

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ST. PETE PROUD: Miss St Pete Pride Kiala Santi strikes a pose at Shades of Pride May 3 at Nova 535. PHOTO BY LUIS SALAZAR

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PASSIONATE CROWD: (L-R) Adam Ryan, Devika J. and Sylvestre Perez attend Passion with Fashion April 28. PHOTO BY LUIS SALAZAR

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announcements

CENTRAL FLORIDA OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS The Orlando Gay Chorus celebrates 35 years this month with a pair of concerts at The Ritz Theater in Sanford May 16 and at the Dr. Phillips Center’s Steinmetz Hall in Orlando May 28. Read more about the chorus’ history on p. 8.

Orlando drag icon Ginger Minj will join the cast of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” season 10, according to a Paramount+ announcement April 23. Its 12-episode Tournament of All Stars features the franchise’s largest cast ever, with queens divided into three groups of six. Competitors will compete in their bracket across three episodes beginning May 9. Read more at WatermarkOutNews.com.

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CONDOLENCES Central Florida drag legend Chadrick “Divine Grace” Pace passed away last month. The community learned of the icon’s passing April 27 when Fruit Wine Productions posted the news to social media. Read more about Pace’s passing on p. 8.

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Central Florida DJ Wayne McKay passed away April 27.

He will be missed.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS LGBTQ+ ally Rob “Twilight” King, Watermark cover model Al Pfeiffer (May 8); DJ extraordinaire Scott Robert (May 9); Southern Nights bartender Gabrielle Juliana, Former Orange County Sheriff candidate Darryl B. Sheppard (May 10); Rollercoaster enthusiast Dainan Rafferty (May 11); New homeowner Bassel Hesham (May 12); Pulse Orlando legend Cindy Barbalock, CycleBar instructor Ryan Tucker (May 13); Peer Support Space co-founder Dandelion Hill, Southern Nights bartender Sara Barone, Central Florida ally and artist Christie Miga, Server Seth Bradshaw (May 14); Orlando entertainer Craig Raymo, Central Florida ally Alex Copeland (May 15); Central Florida standup comedian Lee Cohen, Deaf Drag Performing Artist Georgia Up in Space (May 16); Orlando muscle bear and trainer Migael Schieder, Orlando Ballet dancer Alberto Blanco Perez, Hospitality professional Kevin William McKinney (May 17); Central Florida photographer Julie Milford Textor, Central Florida drag performer Kai’ja Taylor Adonis, former Watermark intern Percy Mercer, Disney castmember Larry Tucker (May 18); Come Out With Pride board president Corey Bryant, Senior pastor at Joy MCC Terri Steed Pierce, Central Florida ally Marianella Falbo, Orlando performer Natalie Hightower (May 19); State House Rep. Anna V. Eskamani, Sen. Smith’s former legislative aide Ida V. Eskamani, Orlando Immunology Center medical director Edwin DeJesus, Yow Dance owner Eric Yow, Olde Town Brokers realtor Brett Winters, Drag personality Alex Gonzalo aka Tara Newhole, Dancer and stilt walker Kara Valliere, Renaissance Theatre Company performer Meghan Ottomano, Artist and drag talent Isaac Perez (May 20); Orlando real estate agent Wes Miller, Vice-chair of the Human Rights Campaign board of directors John Ruffier, proud mommy Tanya Blasingame (May 21).

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LOCAL CHAMPIONS: (L-R) Florida Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith, Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet and Florida Rep. Anna V. Eskamani attend the Puerto Rican Day Parade in downtown Orlando April 26. PHOTO FROM FELIPE SOUSA-LAZABALLET’S FACEBOOK

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QUEEN’S ARRIVAL: Crystal Vahzz entertains the crowd at All The Queen’s Men at the Abbey Bar in DeLand April 26. PHOTO FROM

CRYSTAL VAHZZ’S FACEBOOK

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HAKUNA MATATA: Jeremy Williams (L) and Rick Todd attend media night at the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando April 24 for “The Lion King.” PHOTO FROM JEREMY WILLIAMS

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EASTER SERVICE: Pineapple Healthcare sends their bunnies to Southern Nights in Orlando for some community outreach during Easter’s Revival Sunday April 20. PHOTO FROM PINEAPPLE

HEALTHCARE’S FACEBOOK

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SUPPORTING GOOD CAUSES: Magic107.7’s Chad Pitt (L) and Leslye Gale attend the American Heart Association’s 2025 Orlando Heart Ball at The Waldorf Astoria Orlando April 5. PHOTO

FROM CHAD PITT’S INSTAGRAM

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LIVING OUT LOUD: Dylan Todd takes photos of Ginger Minj on Lake Eola in Orlando May 2 for an upcoming Watermark Out News project.

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PHOTO BY JEREMY WILLIAMS

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IN REMEMBRANCE: Heather Abood (L) and George Wallace read a city resolution recognizing the community contribution of the late Chadrick “Divine Grace” Pace during a celebration of life at Savoy Orlando April 30.

PHOTO BY DANNY GARCIA

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EPIC DAY: (L-R) Amanda Spradlin, Samantha Spradlin and Marshall Turner in que for the Ministry of Magic Ride at Epic Universe in Orlando May 4. PHOTO

COURTESY AMANDA SPRADLIN

Watermark Out News MAY 8 - 21, 2025 // ISSUE 3 0.10 WAT E R M A R KOU T NE W S .COM

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Watermark Out News MAY 8 - 21, 2025 // ISSUE 3 0.10 WAT E R M A R KOU T NE W S .COM

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community calendar

EVENT PLANNER “Shuffle Is Such a Drag,” May 10, Shuffle, Tampa. 813-450-3797; ShuffleTampa.com

CENTRAL FLORIDA Donate with PRIDE Blood Drive

“The Shape of Us” Opening Reception, May 16, The Gallery at Creative Pinellas, Largo.

SATURDAY, MAY 10, 10 A.M.-3 P.M. LGBT+ CENTER’S HILLCREST STREET LOCATION, ORLANDO Celebrate the anniversary of equal donor access with the second annual Donate with PRIDE Blood Drive at The Center Orlando’s Hillcrest Street location at 1200 Hillcrest St. in Orlando. This event is organized

by OneBlood, The Pride Chamber and The Center Orlando. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments are encouraged. To schedule your appointment, go to tinyurl.com/REDGive. For more information, you can contact the organizers at 407-608-9242.

34th Orlando Fringe Theatre Festival TUESDAY, MAY 13- MONDAY, MAY 26 LOCH HAVEN PARK, ORLANDO The 34th Orlando Fringe Festival, titled “Let Your Fringe Flag Fly,” runs from May 13-26, bringing with it 30 LGBTQ+-themed shows in its collection of 120 total shows playing at the festival. The Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony happens at Orlando Family Stage May 13 and the festival wraps up on Memorial Day. For a full list of LGBTQ+ shows, go to WatermarkOutNews.com, and be sure to pick up a copy of the official Orlando Fringe Program.

GLOBAL GODDESS “RuPaul’s Drag Race Global All Stars” winner Alyssa Edwards brings her “Crowned” tour to The Plaza Live May 17 and the Capitol Theatre in Clearwater May 18. PHOTO COURTESY RUTH ECKERD HALL

ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT CENTRAL FLORIDA “Disney’s The Lion King,” Through May 18, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

TAMPA BAY Equality Florida’s 2025 St. Pete Gala

Goth Prom, May 9, Cocktails & Screams, Orlando. 407-904-0124; CocktailsAndScreams.com

SATURDAY, MAY 17, 6-10 P.M. THE COLISEUM, ST. PETERSBURG Equality Florida’s signature St. Petersburg fundraiser will feature an awards program, seated meal, raffle and keynote speech from Executive Director Nadine Smith. This year’s theme is “Resist in Rouge” and attendees are encouraged to wear “Moulin Rouge” glam. Tickets begin at $200. Read more and purchase yours at EQFL.org/StPeteGala.

OUT for Business Tampa Bay WEDNESDAY, MAY 21, 6-8 P.M. RED MESA CANTINA, ST. PETERSBURG Join Watermark Out News and the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber to make connections with community members, enjoy delicious light bites and more during our free networking social. Raffles will benefit St Pete Pride. Read more and RSVP at Facebook.com/ WatermarkOutNews.

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“Murder She Wrote” Pub Crawl, May 17, Grand Central District, St. Petersburg. 516-906-2140; WordierThanThou.com

Natural Woman, A Tribute to Carol King, May 9, Athens Theatre, DeLand. 386-736-1500; AthensDeLand.com Spring Studio Show, May 9, Art & History Museum, Maitland. 407-539-2181; ArtAndHistory.org “The Golden Gals Live,” May 9-11, Clermont Performing Arts Center, Clermont. 352-394-4800; ClermontPerformingArts.com

“Route 66,” May 9-June 8, Winter Park Playhouse, Winter Park. 407-645-0145; WinterParkPlayhouse.org Drag “Tree” Brunch, May 10, Buster’s, Sanford. 407-732-4316; BustersSanford.com Suzie Toot from “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” May 11, Savoy, Orlando. 407-270-4685; SavoyOrlando.com Les Vixens Burlesque presents “Broadway, Baby!,” May 14, Southern Nights, Orlando.

407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando Margaret Cho, May 15, The Plaza Live, Orlando. 407-228-1220; PlazaLiveOrlando.org Opera Orlando presents “Treemonisha,” May 16-18, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-512-1900; OperaOrlando.org

Pet Alliance Orlando Pup Crawl, May 17, Ivanhoe Village District, Orlando.

407-351-7722; PetAllianceOrlando.org A Dream is a Wish: Michael James Scott’s Broadway, May 17, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org Alyssa Edwards, May 17, The Plaza Live, Orlando. 407-228-1220; PlazaLiveOrlando.org April Fresh’s Swiftie Drag Brunch, May 18, The Abbey, Orlando. 407-704-6103; AbbeyOrlando.com

TAMPA BAY “The Butterfly’s Evil Spell,” Through June 1, Jobsite Theater, Tampa. 813-229-7827; JobsiteTheater.org “One Night of Queen,” May 9, Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-395-4599; TheMahaffey.com

Drag Queen Bingo benefiting TransNetwork, May 17, The Ball, St. Petersburg. 727-258-7626; TheBallStPete.com Avril Lavigne, May 18, Raymond James Stadium, Tampa. 813-350-6500; LiveNation.com Alyssa Edwards, May 18, Capitol Theatre, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com WMNF’s Big Gay Bingo, May 19, Cocktail, St. Petersburg. 727-592-1914; CocktailStPete.com The joy ride Kickoff, May 19, Casa Tina, Dunedin.

727-328-3260; MyEPIC.org St. Pete Drag Bingo, May 21, The Study, St. Petersburg. StPetePride.org Drag Queen Bingo benefiting PFLAG Safety Harbor, May 22, Thyrst, Largo.

727-240-0150; PlurCentral.com “Mamma Mia!,” May 23-24, New Tampa Performing Arts Center, Tampa. 813-285-1705; JansenDanceProject.com

SARASOTA Be Fabulous Music & Arts Pride Fest, May 8-10, Multiple locations, Sarasota.

FabAF.org Stand Up and Speak Out with the Tyler Clementi Foundation, May 19, SunCoast MCC, Venice. 941-274-0818; VeniceFLPride.com

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

Watermark Out News MAY 8 - 21, 2025 // ISSUE 3 0.10 WAT E R M A R KOU T NE W S .COM

Watermark Out News MAY 8 - 21, 2025 // ISSUE 3 0.10 WAT E R M A R KOU T NE W S .COM

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