Watermark Out News Issue 32.16: It's Reigning Minj by Watermark Publishing Group

Reigning MINJ!

‘Drag Race All Stars’ winner GINGER MINJ brings the crown

ZEBRA YOUTH announces LEADERSHIP TRANSITION

USF professor launches TAMPA BAY LGBT HISTORY PROJECT

Ryan Williams-Jent EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ryan@WatermarkOutNews.com

EDITOR’S DESK

Pick your battles, Brother

HALLOWEEN WAS A BIG DEAL

when I was a kid. I still love it — much to the chagrin of my husband, who’s forced into a couple’s costume or two every year — but it just hit different in the 90s.

Some of my facial hair turned gray just from typing that, but I digress. Halloween is responsible for some of my favorite memories growing up, from strolling through questionably lit neighborhoods with friends to being transformed into a vampire by my stepfather, a tattooist by day but Halloween makeup artist by (holiday) night.

I now know as an adult that I was drawn to Halloween because it provided the opportunity to be anything I wanted. I grew up poor and gay, two things society likes to condemn before you fully understand what either will mean for you, so it didn’t always feel like that was possible.

Back then, I just knew Halloween was fun. Fun that stemmed from greasy makeup, tinted hairspray, flimsy plastic costumes and masks you could barely breathe in.

Sure, you got candy, but what was most exciting was how the world was at your fingertips, at least for one night. That’s because whatever our financial situation, my parents found ways to secure any costume my spoiled little heart desired.

One of my absolute favorites was right after Disney’s “Aladdin” came out. I dressed as Prince Ali, which was particularly memorable because it snowed in Ohio that year, a far cry from Agrabah and a rare thing for Halloween.

Another favorite was Spider-Man. This lifelong Marvel fan has fond memories of web-slinging through the streets wearing the superhero’s mask, even if I could’ve used some Spidey sense to actually see.

More surprisingly, though, was the year I dressed as Hulk Hogan. Yes, brother. Really.

I can’t confirm why — other than being born in 1984, which Google tells me was the “Rise of Hulkmania” in professional wrestling — but I loved the guy as a kid, or at least his impact on pop culture. I think most folks did at the time, which is what made his very public descent into madness so disappointing for many of his fans.

I wouldn’t say I was ever really one of them, but I do have fond memories of that costume. Which is why I’ve been rattling on about Halloween; it was one of the first things I thought about when news broke that Hogan died July 24 right here in Tampa Bay.

I think what I liked most about the costume was the reception I got from strangers while wearing it. I wasn’t often praised for my masculinity growing up, but behind that pale, plastic Hogan mask — ketchup-colored bandana and mustard-toned mustache included — I was just another one of the guys. Even in a printed blouse that was meant to resemble his wrestling wear.

Hogan’s death didn’t have any real impact on me, but I was struck by how quick the internet went to war about it, even in my own personal social media sphere. I was surprised to see so many LGBTQ+ folks arguing at length because someone dared to say he’d be missed. Or because someone simply acknowledged he’d left a mark on them.

I spent most of my adult life loathing what Hogan chose to stand for — from overt racism to his full embrace of the anti-LGBTQ+ MAGA mentality — but I didn’t dwell on that when he died, and I certainly didn’t attack people for caring that he did. I thought about how I felt as a kid wearing that mask.

It was all a reminder that humans can wear many masks, and that more than one thing can be true at once. It’s okay to acknowledge that from time to time.

Was Hogan a good man? It sure didn’t seem like it, no. Was he responsible for some good in this life, even if it was a little bit of entertainment over the years? Probably so.

Give one another some grace. Our community has bigger things

Humans can wear many masks … more than one thing can be true at once.

to worry about than debating a wrestler’s legacy.

Thankfully, we also have much bigger things to celebrate. In this issue we speak with Ginger Minj, Orlando’s drag darling and the well-deserved winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” season 10.

She discusses entering the “Drag Race” Hall of Fame, what it was like to capture the crown after a decade of work and what fans can expect from her next chapter. Congratulations, queen.

In other Central Florida news, Zebra Youth details its leadership transition while the region’s Prime Timers chapter marks 30 years. In Tampa Bay, CAN Community Health launches a nonprofit honoring its founder and an LGBTQ+ history project hopes to inspire the next generation of activists.

Watermark Out News is proud to be your LGBTQ+ news source. Please stay informed, support those who support you and enjoy this latest issue.

SISTER JUANA REACTION is an educator by both vocation and training. As a fully professed member of the Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, she spreads joy at local queer events and helps with fundraising for many local charities. Page 15

HOLLY KAPHERR ALEJOS, SABRINA AMBRA, STEVE BLANCHARD, DEBORAH BOSTOCK-KELLEY, JOHNNY BOYKINS, MARTIN “LEIGH SHANNON” FUGATE, BIANCA GOOLSBY, JAKOB HERO-SHAW, LORA KORPAR, JASON LECLERC, JERICK MEDIAVILLA, MELODY MAIA MONET, TATIANA QUIROGA, TIFFANY RAZZANO, SISTER JUANA REACTION, MOMMA ASHLEY ROSE, TREVOR ROSINE, BRYANA SALDANA, GREG STEMM, SYLVIE TREVENA, MICHAEL WANZIE, MULAN WILLIAMS, DR. STEVE YACOVELLI

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

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BUREAU CHIEF’S DESK

Change Brings New Opportunities

IHAVE NEVER BEEN A FAN

OF change. As I’ve grown into the person I am today, however, I find myself accepting it with open arms.

Change is what brought me to this moment. It brought me to the role of Central Florida Bureau Chief for Watermark Out News.

I didn’t think five months post-grad I would have a job in the field I studied so hard, yet here I am. I started my journalism journey while in high school taking a random elective titled “Journalism 1,” not knowing it would change my life. I was incredibly lucky to learn from the sweetest and smartest English teacher who taught the journalism classes, as it was one of her interests.

She showed me how words can create impact and how we have more power when we use our thoughts to create. I was shown a new world and I dove in headfirst. I immediately joined the yearbook club to learn all I could about photography and writing.

I became known as the “yearbook girl” since I was everywhere covering all the school events. I knew then that I wanted to study journalism in college. With a pandemic, college became interesting to say the least. I did as much learning as I could from my room but by 2022, I attended my first in-person class since 2020.

To say learning in person was a game changer would be an understatement. I got to meet so many great people and professors at the University of Central Florida, many that pushed me to be in the position I’m in now. I have them to thank for all the knowledge they have passed on.

It was because of UCF that I had the chance to intern with Watermark Out News in 2024. The journalism clubs at the university invite news publications all over Central Florida for an event called Intern Pursuit. This is the most common way students

get internships, and I found myself itching to join Watermark Out News since it was the only publication catering to the LGBTQ+ community.

As a lesbian, that meant a lot to me. I have known about my sexuality since I was little; something always felt off when I thought about my attraction to men.

I have always been open about who I am, but getting to know a publication that stood for queerness proved to me that there’s no need to hide.

I wrote my first freelance piece with Watermark Out News after my internship, and it made me realize all the hours I had put into reporting and writing were paying off. I had the chance to make a name for myself, and I took it.

Working with a team that is small but mighty has shown me how important it is to have a passion for telling stories.

Local journalism is important. As a publication that is local, we look to our communities to serve. It is because of our readers that we look to tell stories that are often overlooked. The LGBTQ+ community is faced with so many challenges that need to be shared.

In my new role, I want my community to know I care. I care about how people are being affected. I care about all the local organizations that look to uplift each other. I care.

Journalism is a necessity, especially in this day and age. There has been a sharp national decline of local journalists. In 2002, the U.S. had about 40 journalists per 100,000 residents, according to Rebuild Local News. Today, the national average is 8.2 Local Journalist Equivalents — a drop of about 75%.

I hope to see that number change. The news is never ending but there must be someone to cover it. That’s why local journalism matters. There will always be something impacting someone, but how will anyone know if the story is not being told or shared?

Since joining the team here, I have learned so much from its leadership and I hope to learn more. I want to continue to grow as a journalist and working with

Working with a team that is small but mighty has shown me how important it is to have a passion for telling stories.

my team will only make that achievable.

In this issue, we congratulate Orlando’s drag darling, Ginger Minj, on winning the 10th season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.” In news coverage, Zebra Youth announces a leadership transition and Prime Timers of Central Florida celebrates 30 years of its chapter.

Also touching on preserving history, the Tampa Bay LGBT History Project launched late last month and CAN Community Health announced a new nonprofit foundation.

I look forward to continuing my work as a journalist and serving the community of Central Florida. I hope you will continue to support Watermark Out News and trust us to be your LGBTQ+ news source.

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

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PRIME TIMERS CENTRAL FLORIDA TO CELEBRATE 30TH ANNIVERSARY

Bellanee Plaza

ORLANDO | Prime Timers of Central Florida will celebrate 30 years as a chapter Aug. 9 with a dinner at Plate Above Catering.

Prime Timers began in 1995 with 10 senior and bisexual men meeting in Orlando to form the Central Florida chapter as part of Prime Timers Worldwide.

The organization exists to promote a welcoming social climate that affirms and supports mature gay and bisexual men. It offers them social, cultural, educational and recreational opportunities that ensure they are cared for and aging with dignity.

The organization has over 70 chapters around the world, including several in Florida. They include Greater Ft. Myers, Palm Beaches, Sarasota, Tallahassee and Tampa Bay.

Mike Murphy of Atlanta, the Prime Timers Worldwide liaison for the Central Florida club, will attend the 30th anniversary dinner along with his husband Stanley Wentworth. Murphy will bring greetings from the Prime Timers Worldwide board.

Chuck S., the sole surviving founding member, is expected to attend. He is still a member. Also expected to attend are several former club presidents: Russ Mayo, who became a member in 1997, Jerry Danese and Edwin Barnes — all of whom are still active club members.

Several members will be recognized for their 30th, 20th and 10th membership anniversaries. Others will be honored for their various contributions to the club since its 2024 anniversary dinner.

The occasion will also include a short concert by an ensemble from the Orlando Gay Chorus, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year.

Prime Timers Central Florida offers weekly bowling, bicycling and walking groups; weekly lunches and occasional dinners and concerts, movies, museum and theatrical outings. These activities help the chapter meet its goals. Involvement in the community is a top priority to Prime Timers.

Members can also involve themselves in the community through their annual Good Deeds projects. The oldest Good Deed for the past 15 years is their annual collection of personal toiletry items for Hope & Help Center of Central Florida which provides a variety of services for people affected by HIV/AIDS, according to Prime Timers. Another Good Deed is their toy drives for children during the holidays.

The chapter had made and continues to make monetary donations to the Orlando Youth Alliance and Zebra Coalition that provides a variety of services for gay and trans youth, Orlando Gay Chorus, the LGBT+ Center Orlando and other nonprofits.

For more information about Prime Timers Central Florida, visit PTCFL.org

central florida news

ZEBRA YOUTH ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP TRANSITION AND SEARCH

Bellanee Plaza

ORLANDO | Zebra

Youth announced July 18 that executive director Heather Wilkie will transition from her role in the coming months, concluding nearly a decade of leadership.

A nationwide search started July 21 to find her successor, with Wilkie remaining in her position until then, according to a press release.

“Heather’s vision and commitment helped transform Zebra Youth into a vital lifeline for young people in our community,” Bob Smedley, board chair of Zebra Youth, said in the release. “We are deeply grateful for her leadership and lasting impact.”

Wilkie began with Zebra Youth as a graduate intern. During her time, she guided the expansion of multiple housing facilities, ensuring more LGBTQ+ youth had access to safe and affirming spaces.

She introduced comprehensive, culturally responsive training programs for the community, social service providers, parents and businesses, laying the groundwork for more inclusive and affirming practices across Central Florida.

In January, Wilkie was recognized as a recipient of the Live United Impact Award for Health at the Change Maker Impact Awards.

“Zebra Youth is more than just an organization; it’s been my heart and home for nearly a decade,” Wilkie said in a statement. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together to support LGBTQ+ youth across Central Florida.”

With Wilkie’s dedication to sustainable funding and strategic growth, Zebra Youth will continue serving as a beacon of hope and support for LGBTQ+ youth for generations to come.

A comprehensive transition plan is already in place to ensure a smooth and thoughtful leadership change.

“As I step into a new chapter professionally, I remain deeply committed to the mission,” Wilkie said. “I look forward to supporting the next leader as they guide Zebra Youth into its future.”

Zebra Youth shared the application for executive director via social media July 21. As executive director, applicants will provide leadership to inspire a dynamic team and oversee programs that impact LGBTQ+ youth ages 13–24. They will also

CHANGE

MAKER: Heather Wilkie will remain in her position as executive director until her successor is found.

build strong partnerships in the community to advance inclusion and drive innovative solutions to support youth experiencing homelessness, bullying and isolation.

The full-time, on-site position is based in Orlando. Zebra Youth is looking for a leader with experience in nonprofit management, fundraising and a deep commitment to creating community.

The application will be open until the position is filled.

The board of directors and staff are confident that Zebra Youth’s next leader will further its mission to support, empower and advocate for LGBTQ+ youth.

The organization is especially sensitive to the needs of Black, Hispanic and Latinx LGBTQ+ youth.

Each program and goal are designed and implemented with a clear vision of how outcomes will validate planned activities to support and inspire LGBTQ+ and all youth. The nonprofit will mark its 15th anniversary on Oct. 10.

Applicants can send a cover letter and resume to HumanResources@ZebraYouth.org. For more information, visit ZebraYouth.org/Careers.

PHOTO

COURTESY ZEBRA YOUTH

CAN COMMUNITY HEALTH LAUNCHES SUSAN TERRY FOUNDATION

Ryan Williams-Jent

TAMPA | CAN Community Health has officially launched the Susan Terry Foundation, a charitable arm dedicated to empowering people affected by HIV.

The nonprofit is named after the late AIDS advocate Susan Terry, who died in 2009 at 53. A “visionary leader in the fight against AIDS in Sarasota at a time when stigma and fear surrounded the epidemic,” her work led to CAN’s formation in 1991.

The health care organization is now headquartered in Tampa and serves over 22,000 people in Florida. They also work to empower wellness in five other states. The foundation will help those affected by HIV “to live full lives through community collaboration, addressing social determinations of health, and promoting education and awareness,” CAN said, building upon Terry’s “enduring legacy of empathy, service and commitment to health equity.”

The foundation will support organizations that empower those affected by HIV utilizing three main pillars. The first is community collaboration.

“Because no single organization can address all the barriers faced by those living with HIV, we foster collaboration among individuals, groups and organizations to address barriers and create a stigma-free future,” the foundation’s website reads.

The second is by funding community organizations that provide essential health services. These range “from mental health and substance abuse counseling to housing and transportation assistance to medical support.”

Third, the foundation will offer support to education programs that “dispel myths and misconceptions about HIV.” Its website says that “by increasing public awareness and understanding, we reduce fear and prejudice that continue to threaten the HIV community.”

The foundation is led by Executive Director Ray Carson, former CEO of The ALS Association Florida Chapter. He also served in various capacities at the American Cancer Society for over 19 years.

He says the foundation launched “to bring together individuals, corporations and foundations interested in helping to create a future where individuals living with HIV are celebrated for their resilience, embraced without prejudice and empowered to achieve their dreams.”

The foundation is expected to announce its first grant recipients soon. Carson says their work will primarily focus on Tampa Bay and Sarasota but like CAN, he hopes services will expand to other regions.

“We believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting those who work tirelessly to make a difference,” Carson notes.

For more information about the CAN Community Health and the Susan Terry Foundation, visit CANCommunityHealth.org and SusanTerryFoundation.org.

tampa bay news

TAMPA BAY LGBT HISTORY PROJECT HOPES TO INSPIRE NEXT GENERATION

Ryan Williams-Jent

TAMPA BAY | University of South Florida Professor David K. Johnson and his students have launched a new website dedicated to preserving Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ+ history.

An accomplished historian responsible for “The Lavender Scare” and “Buying Gay,” Johnson helped found the USF library’s LGBTQ+ collection in 2003. It was one of the first scholarly initiatives to collect materials on LGBTQ+ life in Florida.

He uses its archive, which includes copies of Watermark Out News, to teach students how to conduct primary source research and more.

Supported by a grant from the USF Foundation’s LGBTQ+ Giving Fund Leadership Council, the project was officially announced in late June. A complementary Facebook group was formed the year prior, allowing supporters to connect and share stories of their own. It now has nearly 500 members.

“Tampa Bay’s LGBT community has a rich and proud history, but one that has been hidden for too long,” Johnson shared when it was announced. “Our goal is to

document these stories and make them accessible to inspire a new generation of activism.”

The website currently features six focal points, the first of which details the history of MCC Tampa.

The Metropolitan Community Church became Tampa’s first formal LGBTQ+ organization over 50 years ago.

“Celebrating Pride” details Tampa Bay’s “many twists and turns” with LGBTQ+ celebrations, from Pride picnics in 1976 to the ban on Pride in Hillsborough County and the rise of St Pete Pride, which in its 20+ years has become the largest Pride in Florida.

“Lesbian Life” examines defunct lesbian bars, historical publications and groups while “Beach Bars and Resorts” examines former LGBTQ+ hotspots. Among them are St. Petersburg’s Suncoast Resort and Flamingo Resort, the latter of which closed in 2019.

Tampa Bay’s drag scene is also chronicled, with the website noting the region “has been a center for drag performance for over a century.” It details female impersonation in the 1930s and more modern entertainers like Joey Brooks, known as “The First Lady of Ybor.”

“Fighting for Our Rights” highlights Tampa Bay activists like Equality Florida Executive Director Nadine Smith, trailblazing Hillsborough County politician Kevin Beckner and more. The section examines their work and the region’s politics beginning in the 1990s.

Johnson says he’s encouraged by reception so far, particularly the project’s social media following. He says its Facebook group and Instagram page are allowing the community to connect and provide their perspectives, furthering the research.

He also says the project serves another purpose.

“I want to reach the younger generation,” he explains. “The LGBT community feels under assault right now, in Florida and nationally. Our rights are under attack and trans rights in particular are under attack.

“I think the website offers a lesson — that we’ve been through this before,” he continues. “We’ve suffered oppression and we’ve suffered, in fact, much worse than this, and we have overcome it as a community to become stronger.”

For more information and to contribute, visit TampaBayLGBTHistory.org.

COMMUNITY COLLECTION:

Photographs from the Tampa Bay LGBT History Project. PHOTOS COURTESY

DAVID K. JOHNSON

NATION & WORLD NEWS

US OLYMPICS BANS TRANS WOMEN ATHLETES

The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee has effectively barred transgender women from competing in women’s sports, telling the federations overseeing swimming, athletics and other sports it has an “obligation to comply” with an executive order issued by Donald Trump. The new policy, announced July 21 with a quiet change on the USOPC’s website and confirmed in a letter sent to national sport governing bodies, follows a similar step taken by the NCAA earlier this year. “By giving into the political demands, the USOPC is sacrificing the needs and safety of its own athletes,” The National Women’s Law Center said in a statement.

EEOC SHIFTS STANCE ON TRANS DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINTS

The federal agency responsible for enforcing laws against workplace discrimination will allow some complaints filed by transgender workers to move forward, shifting course from earlier guidance. Since Trump regained office in January, the EEOC has moved away from its prior interpretation of civil rights law and has dropped several lawsuits on behalf of transgender workers. The EEOC will now consider transgender discrimination complaints that “fall squarely under” the Supreme Court’s landmark Bostock v. Clayton County ruling, which will involve cases involving hiring, firing and promotion.

ITALIAN COURT: SAME-SEX MOTHER ENTITLED TO BENEFITS

Italy’s constitutional court ruled that the non-biological mother in a same-sex union is entitled to paternity leave, equating her role with that of the father and therefore entitled to bonding time with a newborn. The court found July 21 that a 2001 decree on parental leave was unconstitutional because it didn’t recognize that the non-biological mother in a lesbian civil union was also entitled to Italy’s mandatory 10-day paternity leave. The court argued that the child’s interest in having time with both parents, and the parents responsibilities, didn’t depend on their sexual orientation.

HONG KONG RULES IN FAVOR OF BATHROOM ACCESS

A Hong Kong judge on July 23 struck down regulations criminalizing the use of bathrooms designated for the opposite sex, ruling in favor of transgender individuals’ rights to access public toilets matching their identity. Judge Russell Coleman approved the judicial review of K, a transgender male, saying the regulations contravene an article of the city’s mini-constitution that stipulates all residents should be equal before the law. He said in the judgment that the regulations and “drawing the line of a person’s biological sex at birth create a disproportionate and unnecessary intrusion into the privacy and equality rights.” The ruling marks another step forward in recognizing the rights of LGBTQ+ people in the Chinese financial hub.

FLORIDA AG TARGETS RESTAURANT OVER DRAG

Wire & Staff Report

VERO BEACH, FLA. | Florida

Attorney General James Uthmeier has subpoenaed records of a restaurant after it hosted an LGBTQ+ Pride event last month.

Uthmeier claimed in a statement July 22 that the Kilted Mermaid event had “adult, sexualized performers in front of children.” His office did not respond to repeated inquiries asking which laws may have been violated.

The subpoena asks for copies of guest lists, reservation logs, surveillance video and contracts identifying performers.

The owner of the Kilted Mermaid, Linda Moore, is vice mayor of Vero Beach, which is located on the Atlantic Coast.

CITIES REMOVE

Ryan Williams-Jent

Two cities have responded to the Florida Department of Transportation’s memo threatening to withhold funding over inconsistent “pavement surface markings.”

The City of Boynton Beach was the first. Officials had their Pride intersection repainted July 16. According to local ABC affiliate WPBF, local leaders said they repainted the intersection “to ensure full compliance with state and federal transportation mandates.” FDOT issued their directive July 2 after U.S. Dept. of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy sent a letter to governors across the nation introducing a “safety initiative” seeking consisting markings on roadways.

“Taxpayers expect their dollars to fund safe streets, not rainbow crosswalks,” the Trump administration official also shared via social media.

“I was surprised they acted so quickly without reaching out to anyone in the community,” Rand Hoch, president of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, told WPBF after Boynton Beach

Florida’s Protection of Children Act, also known as “the drag show ban,” was championed by Gov. Ron DeSantis. It sought to punish venues for allowing children into what it called “adult live performances.” Though it did not mention drag shows specifically, the sponsor of the legislation said it was aimed at those performances.

Venues that violated the law faced fines and the possibility that their liquor licenses could be suspended or revoked. Individuals could be charged with a misdemeanor crime. The law was challenged in 2023 by Hamburger Mary’s Orlando. The restaurant claimed the Florida law violated First Amendment rights.

In May, a three-judge panel for the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals voted 2-1 to back a lower court’s preliminary injunction that

described Florida’s law as overly broad and vaguely written. The case now returns to the Middle District of Florida for trial.

The Kilted Mermaid has also launched a GoFundMe to support legal fees. As of July 29, the venue has raised over $21,000 of its $22,000 goal.

“Kilted Mermaid is under investigation by the Florida Attorney General for hosting a drag show,” its owner shared.

“We have always stood up for the LGBTQ community, and we will fight this as hard as we possibly can, but we need your help,” she continued. “We are raising funds for legal fees. This fundraiser is only for legal fees, and any money raised but not used for defense against this action will be refunded.”

OR REIMAGINE PRIDE

repainted the intersection. “The memoranda literally blackmails municipalities.”

West Palm Beach subsequently announced July 17 that they would reimagine their Pride crosswalk.

“To comply with updated FDOT regulations, the City will soon power wash the rainbow crosswalk ... however, the City’s strength and resolve to do what is right remain unwavering,” officials said in a press release.

“As part of its ongoing commitment to meaningfully honor the LGBTQ+ community, the City will relocate the monument,” they continued. “The original historic colored LGBTQ+ flag bricks will serve as the centerpiece of a beautifully redesigned public space, which will feature enhanced landscaping, improved lighting and other welcoming elements. This redesigned monument will create a safe, vibrant, and enduring tribute to the LGBTQ+ community.”

West Palm Beach Mayor Keith A. James noted that the crosswalk “has served as a powerful symbol of inclusivity and pride in our community,” adding that the city remains “fully committed to preserving that spirit” while complying with “state regulations.”

CROSSWALKS

Hoch also provided a statement.

“When confronted with directives to erase memorials recognizing the LGBTQ+ community, public officials across Florida struggled to find appropriate solutions,” he said. “In contrast, West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James swiftly came up with a creative solution to dedicate a public park to our community. That is true leadership.”

Details on the crosswalk’s removal and redesign are expected in the coming weeks.

Equality Florida has called on FDOT to “reverse their hateful memo and stop the attacks,” calling on supporters to voice their concerns on the matter. The organization has noted that a Florida-based study found that crosswalk murals contributed to a 10% decrease in drivers running stop signs and a 6% increase in drivers coming to a full stop at intersections.

Watermark Out News has reached out to the cities of Orlando, St. Petersburg, Sarasota and Tampa regarding their Pride crosswalks and street murals. Additional coverage regarding local street murals will follow.

viewpoint

Sister Juana Reaction

Reacting with Bravery POSITIVE REACTIONS

THE TAMPA BAY SISTERS

of Perpetual Indulgence have been very busy this year. We are still conducting and supporting fundraisers for local charities that empower marginalized people, but we have been placing a focused emphasis on spreading universal joy and being a visible presence in queer (and notso-queer) spaces.

This was the first year that our House sent three representatives to Pride at the Capitol in March, the annual event organized by Equality Florida in which queer citizens and allies go to Tallahassee to lobby and advocate for LGBTQ+ Floridians. This was my third time attending this event, but my first time showing up manifested as a Sister and accompanied by two others.

It was the most attended Pride at the Capitol to date; the energy, passion and resolve were palpable and inspiring. This massive grassroots movement was a large contributor to a wonderful result: every anti-LGBTQ+ bill filed in the 2025 Florida legislative session was defeated. As Sisters, we focused on supporting and uplifting all the attendees who were doing this important advocacy work, serving them as a sounding board, a comforting voice and a source of encouragement.

However, I also must tell you the complete story. It was not all smooth sailing. On our second day in Tallahassee while walking around the Capitol, we ran into a different group of lobbyists who reacted negatively to the presence of the Sisters.

We were startled as they approached us, calling us hostile names with extremely unpleasant tones and demeanor. Even though my elder Sister mentors had warned me that this might happen, I was still surprised because it was the first time that it had happened to me.

In a few seconds, you must decide: how will we react? We decided to react with bravery, but what does bravery look like in this context? Does it look like reflecting their hostility and calling them names too? Does it look like completely ignoring them and hoping they go away?

For us, reacting with bravery meant stepping to the front, creating a barrier between them and our group, and firmly telling them to stay away and to have a wonderful day. That’s it. No back and forth, no conversation beyond that.

Sometimes we think bravery looks like being the loudest voice in the room, but conversations with hostile people who wear homophobia and transphobia as a badge of honor will not be fruitful. These agents of chaos want to get a rise out of you so that they can later mischaracterize it and use it against you. Do not give them that satisfaction. Stay firm and respectful while prioritizing the mission of the day and the safety of everyone involved. We ran into them several times that day, and the same thing happened every single time. They were persistent in their hate, but we were persistent in staying on course with our big picture goals of allyship and advocacy.

Before we knew it, Pride season came along and we had the opportunity to support Pride all over Tampa Bay, going as far as the city of Lakeland for our first ever visit to Polk Pride. While we certainly love attending large Pride parades like the ones in Tampa and St. Petersburg, there is something special about attending a smaller Pride parade like this one.

The sense of community and togetherness is so uplifting, and local community members get to proclaim their Pride in their own backyard. We met so many charity groups doing amazing work in the region like conducting summer camps for queer youth, providing gender-inclusive healthcare

and facilitating support groups for queer groups.

Once again we had a rather unpleasant encounter, however, this time with just one individual. I was walking with one of our postulants (beginners in the Sister path) and a guy on a bicycle came up to us, got a few inches from

myself sound tough. I am sharing this with you because we need to be prepared for situations like these.

We must continue to be visibly queer or visibly allies, going wherever we are needed to advocate for our dignity and our right to exist plentifully. Nevertheless,

prepared to prioritize safety and the inclusive values of our mission. At all those events, the positive experiences far outweighed the negative ones so let’s not deprive ourselves of these wonderful community building events, whether it is during Pride month or any other month.

We must continue to be visibly queer or visibly allies, going wherever we are needed to advocate for our dignity and our right to exist plentifully.

my face, and started yelling hostilities and unfounded accusations. I got between him and our postulant, stretched my arm and started saying “Have a blessed Pride!” repeatedly until he gave up and rode away. I was not going to let this person kill the euphoric joy that we feel at these Pride events.

I am not sharing these events to scare you or to make

homophobes and transphobes are feeling particularly emboldened these days due to the current state of world affairs. Therefore, I recommend that you ideally attend these events in groups with a pre-discussed contingency plan and exit strategy in case you encounter hostility.

True bravery means not backing down but also being

Have a plan, stay together and be vigilant, but most importantly, be your authentic self and spread joy everywhere you go.

Sister Juana Reaction is an educator by both vocation and training. As a fully professed member of the Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, she spreads joy at local queer events and helps with fundraising for many local charities.

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY AND ALL TYPES OF FAMILIES SINCE 2006 Accepting new patients

2766 E. Colonial Drive Orlando, FL 32803 Accepting most insurances. Se Habla Español

PUBLISHES IN PRINT AND ONLINE: September 25, 2025

Connor Barry

THE GOOD PAGE FEATURES

positive LGBTQ+ news in Central Florida and Tampa Bay, uplifting and inspiring stories highlighting locals in our community. In this issue we learn about Goblin Market, a monthly pop-up market, usually hosted at the Oviedo Mall.

Over the last year the market, founded by artist Courtney Ring, has grown to become a massive third space for the queer community in Orlando with other events being sprinkled in like drag shows, fashion shows and even the occasional maid cafe.

“Every month is like pride month at Goblin Market, it’s like ‘if you know, you know,’” Ring says.

Ring got their start in markets selling earrings and 3D art as a vendor which led them to become interested in event planning.

In 2020, Ring began getting even more involved with other markets like Bazaar Botanic and Milk Mart, noticing the ways that markets could be improved for both the vendors and attendees. This, combined with their own experience and having inventory stocked up, inspired the idea of Goblin Market.

The Good Page

Goblin Market gives queer community a safe space to shop and more

convention scene, clubs, other markets and more. This loyalty and dedication to artists even led many to provide services and commissions for cheaper or on a volunteer basis.

The name Goblin Market comes from the idea of Goblin core, Ring says, like the vendors are goblins hoarding little trinkets and shiny things. This led to the creation of Goblin Market in March 2024, a pop-up market that allowed local artists to sell their faulty products, things that didn’t turn out perfect or anything else for cheaper or even offer the chance to trade for any trinkets that attendees may bring.

“You can find your favorite artists every month and purchase their brand-new things, but also you can get stuff from last month for half off,” Ring explains.

With a focus on supporting artists as well as giving attendees a good time, Goblin Market quickly built a large and loyal following, one Ring describes as an amalgamation of so many different types of people, artists from the

“They take a cut because they care about Goblin Market and want to see it grow,” Ring says.

This same level of excitement and diversity can be seen in the attendees at every Goblin Market event as well. Ring says that it was always important to them that Goblin Market was accessible and welcoming to all. They believe this is what really drew in so many people of all types.

“I feel like I never intentionally wanted it to be labeled the queer market. Not that I mind that it is to a lot of people,” Ring says. “Because it’s not just queer people, there’s a lot of other people like furries and disabled people and queer people alike, all these different groups and niches that have found a space here and found love here. I’m very grateful for that.”

Ring says that early on people could feel safe and accepted at Goblin Market, likely because they

saw representation in the vendors that Goblin Market had.

“Knowing that this is one of the only places for those people to find community, see their friends and hang out or do something fun while feeling accepted and valued has made it a priority for us to encourage that,” Ring says.

The market has recently become recognized as a nonprofit organization and Ring says the outpouring of community love has only increased since being recognized.

For Pride month this year, Goblin Market hosted a drag show where anyone could apply online to walk. The show featured multiple first time drag personalities and drew a significant crowd.

“Sometimes people are like, ‘oh it’s Pride month so we’re doing all queer vendors this month… but we don’t need to pressure people to out themselves in order to receive the benefits of the community,” Ring says. “That’s another reason that the market isn’t explicitly queer… people who aren’t out can tell their parents where they’re going because if they look up Goblin Market, the first thing

that comes up is not, ‘this is the gay place.’”

The Pride month market was one of the biggest yet, being held at the Central Florida Fairgrounds, with lines of people waiting to get inside and explore the festivities.

Ring says at the end of the day they are just a person who decided to make a fun place for people to feel accepted and they want others to try it out, so the community has more third space available.

“If you are hesitant about starting a little queer book club or a candy meet or a plushy trade or whatever, literally just do it,” Ring says. “Create an MS Paint image like, ‘Come to my queer book club,’ and I guarantee if you are consistent and put it around town people will start coming… I’m just grateful that Gob is a big part of that community.”

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

PHOTOS COURTESY OF COURTNEY RING

It’s Reigning MINJ!

‘Drag

Race All Stars’ winner GINGER MINJ brings the crown

to Orlando

Ryan Williams-Jent

WHEN GINGER MINJ WON THE 10TH season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” July 18, she received a crown, a scepter, $200,000 and a coveted spot in the “Drag Race” Hall of Fame. She also capped a 10-year journey that turned Orlando’s drag darling into an international icon.

It began in 2015 during the reality competition’s 7th season, where she was named runner-up to Violet Chachki. She subsequently placed 8th on “All Stars” 2 before becoming Kylie Sonique Love’s runner-up on “All Stars” 6.

Paramount+ announced “All Stars” 10 in April, their 12-episode Tournament of All Stars. It featured the competition’s largest cast ever in a reimagined format, Minj among them.

A total of 18 queens were divided into three groups of six, competing in smaller brackets before advancing toward a Lip Sync Smackdown for the Crown. Minj made it all the way to the top — losing over 150 pounds between filming different segments — where she faced off against

fellow fan favorite Jorgeous for her third finale.

“I came back to get my crown — and nothing is going to stop me from turning this out,” Minj shared on national TV. The two performed “It’s Raining Men” by The Weather Girls before she came out on top.

“Since we first met her, Ginger Minj has been the epitome of ‘Drag Race’ excellence. And now she has the crown to prove it!” RuPaul said in a statement afterwards. “May her star power continue to light up the world.”

Since multiple endings were filmed to protect the competition’s outcome — as is customary for the franchise — “Drag Race” also released a live reaction video of Minj and Jorgeous watching the results. In it, Minj comforts her

PHOTO BY DYLAN TODD

drag sister before officially accepting the crown.

“For 10 years I’ve thought about what this moment would be like and it’s so different,” she said. “…I’m heartbroken for you and I’m really happy for me. It feels so weird. This is 10 years of my life … and to be able to put the ending to that chapter, to move onto the next, just feels so amazing.”

The entertainer subsequently celebrated at SAVOY in Orlando, speaking to Watermark Out News not long after. The All Star discussed her health journey, new reign and what fans can expect well beyond it.

WATERMARK OUT NEWS: CONGRATULATIONS! HOW ARE YOU SETTLING INTO THE HALL OF FAME?

Ginger Minj: It’s been such a whirlwind … I got crowned on a Friday night, and then Saturday and Sunday were such a blur. I didn’t really sleep until then, and when I woke up this morning, I looked over, I saw the crown and the scepter on the shelf, and I was like, “Oh my God. It actually happened. I won.” It was great in the moment and then me being me, I was like, “okay, 10 years done. What’s next?”

YOU IMMEDIATELY COMFORTED JORGEOUS AFTER YOUR WIN. WHAT WAS GOING THROUGH YOUR HEAD?

I’ve been on the other side of this thing — well, three other times, but particularly twice as the runner-up — finding out that your dreams aren’t coming true right now, and I know that Jorgeous wanted this just as much as I did, and she worked just as hard as I did, and I know how crushing that can be. So I think my maternal instincts kind of kicked in before I could even think about it to just make sure she was okay. Because I don’t want to move on and have this wonderful, great experience if somebody is suffering next to me. And to be completely honest with you, in all the seasons that I’ve lost, there hasn’t been anybody there to ask me if I was okay. And I’ve always said I can be happy for somebody and disappointed for myself all at the same time. So when we crowned Violet, or when we crowned Kylie, I was so thrilled for them, but so crushed for myself at the same time, and

unless you are directly in that experience, you don’t really understand what it’s like. I think it’s a natural human reaction just to be like, “are you okay?” before we move on. You’re a human and I want to make sure that you’re okay.

WHAT APPEALED TO YOU ABOUT JOINING “ALL STARS” 10? WHY WAS THIS THE RIGHT TIME?

Because when I started it, I felt like I was on a downward spiral in my life. My health had never been worse. My weight had never been higher. I was pre-diabetic. I had horrible sleep apnea, so I wasn’t getting any kind of actual rest. My blood pressure was through the roof, I was in and out of the hospital, and I genuinely felt like if I didn’t do something to take my life back, I was going to lose it. After I got out of the hospital the last time, a couple weeks later, I got the phone call to come back and I said, “I never expected this, and it’s coming at a time where I feel like this

is the kick in the ass that I need to really kind of pull myself out of this. If I’m ever going to do it, it’s going to be now.” So I used “All Stars” 10 as the catalyst to do that, and what I think is really exciting … is seeing how my health, both physically and mentally, changed and got better and better and better until the crowning moment.

I really don’t feel like if I had won any of my three previous seasons that I would’ve been ready. I don’t feel like I would have appreciated it as much as I do right now.

IT WAS AN INCREDIBLE 10-YEAR ARC.

Yeah, and I always say that I don’t have the biggest fan base, but I probably have the most loyal, because they’re people who have spent a decade of their life with me. I have always tried to be as open as possible with my ups and downs. I try to share what’s going wrong in my life or how I’m trying to make it better. That’s because I’ve seen

I’ve had the people that go, “oh, she’s skinny now, but she took Ozempic. Come on, Ozempic queen!” First of all, no, it was Zepbound, it wasn’t Ozempic. And second, it’s not the “gotcha moment” that you think it is. I talked to a doctor, I am prescribed this and I’ve been on this journey taking the shot once a week for the last nine months … It’s the one tool that I’ve had in my entire life that has helped me to become a healthier person — and while it may not be for everybody, I want people to know that if this is the one tool that can help them, they should go for it. They should try to take every opportunity they can to make themselves healthier and better.

I’ve also had tons of people that have thanked me for being so open about it because they were ashamed to start it, and now they are and they’re feeling better about themselves.

HOW DID YOU PREPARE FOR “ALL STARS” 10 COMPARED TO PREVIOUS SEASONS?

firsthand how that affects and changes other people as well.

So I think the people who are really hardcore Ginger Minj fans and have been for a decade appreciate the fact that they see themselves in me. I felt like when I went back and when I won, it was not just for me, it was for all of us who have been on this journey together for 10 years.

YOUR HEALTH JOURNEY WAS ALSO A BIG PART OF THIS SEASON. WHAT KIND OF FEEDBACK HAVE YOU GOTTEN?

Every kind of feedback you could imagine. Of course, there are the people who are mad because they love me as a big girl and as plus-size representation. But even if I’m no longer as big as I was, I’m still a size 16. I’m still plus size, and I love being a plus-size girl, and I love representing for our community; but I couldn’t represent for anybody if I couldn’t even get myself out of a hospital bed.

I didn’t, which was the big difference. I’m the type of person that likes to overthink things … and I think that’s why I lost three times, because I was so worried about what was next that I wasn’t focused on what was happening in the moment. A lot of times it comes across as very rehearsed, but that’s because I was so concerned about being misunderstood or falling on my face, that I didn’t want to take those chances, and I was too concerned about what other girls were doing.

This time, I made myself a promise to trust my instincts. You have to just step in, be present in the moment, do your best and let everything shake out how it’s supposed to. And lo and behold, it’s the one time that I won almost everything, including the title.

IT WAS EXCITING TO WATCH.

I was excited watching it too — because a lot of the chatter since the cast was announced was, “it’s not fair. Ginger Minj has an unfair advantage coming back into this competition for a fourth time,” and it’s weird because in my head, I was at a complete disadvantage coming back.

SHE’S A WINNER, BABY: Central Florida’s Ginger Minj wins “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” season 10, officially entering the reality competition’s “Drag Race” Hall of Fame. PHOTO COURTESY WORLD OF WONDER/PARAMOUNT+

WHY IS THAT?

I had already done very well in the competition two times before, and I felt like I had to not only meet what I had done but exceed it. It was no longer climbing the mountain, it was climbing it backwards in heels, or I was going to go home with egg on my face and be embarrassed. I felt like I had more to lose than anybody else walking into it simply because there were so many eyes on me.

WHAT DID YOU LEARN ABOUT YOURSELF THIS TIME?

To trust myself. It sounds so cliche or simple or reductive, but it’s completely true. I’ve spent 10 years not believing in myself, because it’s one of those things where, if people tell you something enough times, even if it’s not true, you allow yourself to start believing it. I doubted myself for 10 years because of the way that other people treated me, and this time, going back in, I made myself promise that you have nothing and everything to lose, so just finally trust yourself.

I thought if you’ve made it this far thinking you didn’t deserve it, then maybe this time you just kind of bite the bullet and say, “no, you are good and you are talented, and you are enough, and then just kind of live in that. You’ll probably surpass what you’ve done before.” And I did.

WHAT WAS IT LIKE WORKING WITH THIS CAST AND FORMAT?

This was a weird one for me, because it’s the biggest cast ever, it’s 18 girls, but I didn’t even really get to work with six of them. I’m still probably closest to the “All Stars” 6 cast, which we filmed at the height of the pandemic; we were all just so happy to be out of our houses doing drag and being creative that it felt very happy and joyful and collaborative the whole time.

This time felt a little more cutthroat, but it’s strange because it’s also my favorite format that I’ve competed in — simply because I’m an old pageant girl and in the national pageants, you’ve got to qualify at a prelim before you get to the big final pageant. That’s what this felt like for me. It felt like

the brackets were preliminary pageants where you had to qualify for the big one.

But also, as a huge super fan, it was so interesting to watch the first six weeks of the competition that I wasn’t a part of, finding out with the rest of the world what happened, because each bracket was super protective over what happened. They wouldn’t even tell us … I thought that was really exciting to watch, because there were four segments

something that I do really appreciate, because we are creating art, and art is so subjective. I’m just glad that what I do evokes such a strong reaction, and I kind of handle it the same way that I handled [“All Star” competitor] Mistress in the semifinals. Apparently, we had this huge feud, but it was one sided … as soon as the cameras cut, we were having dinner, we were on a break or whatever, we were sisters, and we were fine. It was all

WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO CELEBRATE AT SAVOY?

It was cathartic in such a way. Orlando is my family, it’s my home. I’ve been here since I started drag 25 years ago, and they’ve seen me lose this competition three times. We’ve all been together in these rooms, here in Orlando, and they’ve picked me up whenever I’ve fallen down. So to be able to finally share the success and the victory with all of these people

You can’t ever say that the ‘Drag Race’ fan base isn’t passionate, and that’s something that I do really appreciate, because we are creating art, and art is so subjective.

—

that were so vastly different from each other.

WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUR SUPPORTERS AND DETRACTORS?

Someone asked me earlier, “how do you deal with [negative feedback] and I said, “well, first of all, I’ve been dealing with it for a decade,” and not just me personally. I see that no matter who wins a challenge, a lip sync or a season, there’s always discourse with people who love it and people who hate it.

You can’t ever say that the “Drag Race” fan base isn’t passionate, and that’s

about her and how she was feeling, it really had nothing to do with me.

I kind of feel the same way about the reaction. The love is so good and it’s overwhelming, and there’s so much of it, and for every hateful comment, there’s a dozen defending me. But either way, that has nothing to do with me. It’s all what those people are experiencing in that moment, and they’re working through their own things, in their own time, in their own way. So let them. Let them.

mouth sewn shut [as “Hocus Pocus” zombie Billy Butcherson] — is just a testament to how incredibly ferocious he is as an entertainer.

Jujubee is the whole reason I was ever on “Drag Race” in the first place, so it feels incredible to share this victory lap with her, and Sapphira is so supremely talented that I’m in awe … it’s so fun to sit back and just watch her work. We’re all so different, but somehow it all blends together in such a gorgeous, hysterically funny way. Orlando is also almost sold out, so get tickets, but I will tease that we have worked in maybe possibly doing a second performance if it does. But we won’t know until the first one does.

WHAT OTHER MAGIC ARE YOU WORKING ON?

Well, I just signed on to star in a brand-new movie musical for Universal Pictures, directed by Adam Shankman. I can’t say much more about it, but it’s going to be spectacular. I also am fielding a couple of Broadway offers right now … so we’re trying to figure out what the best step is, but that should be happening very soon. And of course, we’ve got the tour. My book is out … I’ve got new music coming up.

There’s everything. I’ve got a new Broadway album coming out called “The Broad’s Way” and we released the first single, which is “Defying Gravity,” the day after that I won. So yeah, there’s so much to talk about and so many things — it’s “Reigning Minj” this year and I’m excited. I hope everyone brought their umbrellas!

WHAT ELSE

DO

YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW?

in my community, it was just the most beautiful experience. It was almost better than the experience of the crown going on my head. It felt like we all did this together.

YOU’RE LAUNCHING “HOKUS POKUS LIVE” WITH JUJUBEE AND SAPPHIRA CRISTAL IN ORLANDO. WHAT DO YOU WANT TO TEASE ABOUT IT?

I have never laughed harder than I have in these rehearsals for this show. These girls are so incredible. Landon Cider is one of my favorite drag performers in the entire world, and the things that he is able to do to make me laugh — with his

I’m just so happy that I could bring the crown here to Orlando, because we’ve needed it for so long. Especially with all the things that we deal with in the country and in Florida, day in and day out, as minorities, as queer people. It’s nice to have a symbol that we can all celebrate together, something that’s hopeful.

For more information about Ginger Minj’s reign and what comes next, visit GingerMinj.com.

Ginger Minj

WITCHY WAYS: Ginger Minj will launch her “Hokus Pokus Live!” tour in Orlando, bringing the Sanderson Sisters to life with fellow “Drag Race” favorites Jujubee and Sapphira Cristál as well as Landon Cider. PHOTO COURTESY FRUIT WINE PRODUCTIONS

GINGER MINJ, WINNER OF “RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE ALL STARS” SEASON 10

announcements TAMPA BAY OUT+ABOUT

CONGRATULATIONS

PFLAG Tampa celebrates 14 years of serving Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ+ community this month.

The Tampa Bay LGBT History Project is officially underway. Read more on p. 10.

CAN Community Health has officially launched the Susan Terry Foundation. Read more on p. 10.

PFLAG Safety Harbor and the LGBTQ Elder Initiative of BLS Pinellas each received $5,000 July 16 as the beneficiaries of Dunedin Pride

TransNetwork announced its new board July 20 following the resignation of Andre Clarke, now the executive director of Love The Golden Rule. Callen Jones will serve as president, Andy Citino as vice president and Tristan Byrnes as secretary/treasurer. Aarin Sharpe, AJ Cuevas, Nela Lamb and Toli Gintoli will serve as members at large. Learn more at MyTransNetwork.org.

Disco Pony Tampa is now open in Ybor.

Josh Reed and Tony Pullaro were married July 26. Pride Skate Tampa will celebrate 10 years Aug. 2.

CONDOLENCES

Celebrated Tampa Bay entertainer Divinity Everlasting died this month. She will be missed.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS

Tampa Bay activist Cole Foust (July 31); Suncoast Softball League legend Ron Frank (Aug. 1); former St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman, Sarasota visual artists and AIDS activist George Box, Pinellas County educator Dwayne Shepherd, Pharmacy technician Tarrin East (Aug. 2); Tampa Bay mainstay Daniel Velasco, Bucs fan Roberta Ramasanto; Bradley’s on 7th entertainer Scott Simon (Aug. 4); Former Watermark Out News contributor Aaron Drake, JenSpa and Blush Beauty Center owner Jen Warden, Tampa scuba diver Nick Walters, Tampa Bay entertainer Autumn Vee (Aug. 5); Tampa Bay Sister and ally Carol “Mama” Steen (Aug. 6); Hillsborough County ally Russell Patterson, GaYbor District Coalition board member emeritus Rich Kerin, Tampa showgirl and laser professional Jamie Cole, Got Split Ends? stylist Mick Ferrari, Love The Golden Rule’s Dr. Bob Wallace (Aug. 7); St. Petersburg doctor Kush Patel, St. Petersburg realtor Doug Parton (Aug. 8); Sarasota actor/writer Steve Warren, Healing Village Therapy’s Abbie Aldridge (Aug. 9); St. Petersburg activist Karen Murray, St. Petersburg clothing designer Raul del Castillo, Tampa health restaurateur Trent McAree, Largo beautician Jay Berwanger, Digital creator Shawn Nikolas, Kava specialist Michael Murray (Aug. 10); Cocktail manager Kevin Johnson, GTE Financial specialist Jared Acuff, Florida Army National Guard company commander Katie Mace, Salon Swank stylist Mikey Bessette, Tombolo Books’ Alsace Walentine, Tampa Bay bartender Robbie Parks (Aug. 11); Tampa Bay leather bear Eric Siglin, Stand Up Florida’s Bryan Arnette, Tampa Bay entrepreneur Kurt King (Aug. 13)

SUMMER SOIREE: Supporters and members of the GaYbor District Coalition strike a pose in Ybor after their Kaftan Summer Soiree bar crawl. PHOTO VIA THE GAYBOR DISTRICT COALITION’S FACEBOOK

PRIDE WITH THE POLICE: (L-R) The South Tampa Chamber’s Emily Lighthall, Tampa Police Department Sgt. Christie Shiver and the Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber’s Renee Cantu greet Pride with the Police attendees July 23. PHOTO BY LUIS SALAZAR

REMEMBERING SUSAN: Susan Terry Foundation Executive Director Ray Carson (L) and James Berthoty, son of the nonprofit’s namesake, connect at a launch party July 22. PHOTO COURTESY RAY CARSON

PINELLAS PROUD: PFLAG Safety Harbor receives a donation from Dunedin Pride after this year’s event July 16. PHOTO VIA PFLAG SAFETY HARBOR’S FACEBOOK

FUN IN THE SUN: Conundrum walks the runway to greet guests at The Wet Spot July 19. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

COMMUNITY SKATE: The Hillsborough County LGBTQ Democratic Caucus and TransMasc Tampa come together for the organization’s skating social July 26. PHOTO FROM THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY LGBTQ DEMS’ FACEBOOK

EPIC OUTING: Empath Partners in Care tables at Beth-El Mission’s Back to School event. PHOTO VIA EPIC’S FACEBOOK

EVENING EMCEE: Kathryn Nevets hosts Enigma’s Friday Night Show July 18. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

announcements CENTRAL FLORIDA OUT+ABOUT

UNITED WE STAND: Members of the Orlando Gay Chorus sing the national anthem during the 13th annual Diversity Awards July 25 at the Sheraton Orlando North Hotel. PHOTO BY BELLANEE PLAZA

COLLECTIVE GOOD: Kia Sims from American Pride Rises (L), state Rep. Anna V. Eskamani (C) and state Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith (R) attend a town hall at Englewood Neighborhood Center July 26. PHOTO VIA REP. ESKAMANI’S FACEBOOK

GIVING BACK: Workers from The Moderne Bar stand with Geroge Wallace, CEO of LGBT+ Center Orlando, after the bar raised over $2,000 for the nonprofit. PHOTO VIA THE MODERNE BAR’S INSTAGRAM

4 GOT MILK: Addison Taylor hosts “Bad Ass Bingo” July 23 at Orlando Elks Lodge in the Milk District PHOTO COURTESY OF ADDISON TAYLOR

ORLANDO UNITED: Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet (C) stands with members of Orlando 50501 at the Orlando Good Trouble protest July 17 in downtown Orlando. PHOTO VIA ORANGE COUNTY DEMOCRATS’ FACEBOOK

DYNAMIC PLANNING: Watermark Out News staff gather at the LGBT+ Center Orlando for a mid-year retreat on July 18. PHOTO BY RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

7 OPENING KICKOFF: Devon Tillman (L) and John Teixeira (R) pose for a photo July 17 during the soft opening of Outpost Neighborhood Tavern. PHOTO BY BELLANEE PLAZA

8 TEAM BUILDING: Members of Pineapple Health attend team retreat July 24 to celebrate four years of growth and service. PHOTO VIA PINEAPPLE HEALTH’S FACEBOOK

CONGRATULATIONS

Green House Realty celebrated 15 years in Orlando on July 31.

Southern Nights Orlando celebrates its 11th anniversary this month.

Outpost Neighborhood Tavern has updated its soft opening hours for Tuesday-Sunday.

Savoy Orlando celebrates its 21st anniversary this month.

LGBT+ Center Orlando raised over $4,000 during the 13th annual Diversity Awards on July 25. View photos at WatermarkOutNews.com.

Central Florida Public Media raised nearly $200K after loss of federal and state funds on July 25.

Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet hosted his first campaign kickoff July 29 at The Abbey for his race for Florida House District 42.

The City of Orlando clebrated its 150th birthday with a week of events that started on July 29.

Rep. Anna V. Eskamani will host her first House Party in Baldwin Park supporting her mayoral campaign Aug. 5.

Prime Timers Central Florida celebrates its 30th anniversary on Aug. 9. Read more on p. 8.

CONDOLENCES

Drag queen and performer Willie H. King, also known as Von Gretchen, has died. A celebration and remembrance of life will be held Aug. 17 at The Sanford Galleon from 3-6 p.m.

Orlando Museum of Art patron and art collector Joseph Lovet has died, Orlando Museum of Art announced July 16 on Facebook. Read more at WatermarkOutNews.com.

LOCAL BIRTHDAYS

Stonewall Orlando bartender James Costello (Aug. 1); Central Florida performer Josh Roth-Fontaine, The Ritz-Carlton Residences’ Food & Beverage Operations Manager Vitor Braga Lara (Aug. 2); Dynamite derby girl Kiersten Taylor (Aug. 3); Sky 60-Niners slugger Donnie McCammon (Aug. 4); Orlando Penthouse Acupuncture owner Mike Eghbal, real estate agent and Southern Nights bartender Colleen Green, Central Florida realtor and environmental activist Eric Rollings (Aug.5), Orlando super mom Jennifer Bertrand (Aug. 6); Orlando designer and “Project Runway” alum Jesse LeNoir, Orlando-based traveler of the friendly skies Drew Sizemore (Aug. 7); Kirkpatrick Veterinary Hospital manager Victor Daza, Shih Tzu rescuer Scott Dunkle, Former Watermark Out News interns Layla Ferris and Isaiah Peters (Aug. 8); Orlando accountant Rose Gamba, Former QLatinx executive director Christopher J. Cuevas (Aug. 9); Lady Boy of the Peek-A-Boo Longue “Sorcha Mercy” Lance Austin (Aug. 11); Orlando hair stylist Bobby Kantz, Rotten S’more’s Shiala Morales (Aug. 12).

community calendar

CENTRAL FLORIDA

Morgan Jay

SATURDAY, AUG. 2, 7 P.M.

THE PLAZA LIVE, ORLANDO

With live music and laughter, Morgan Jay, the renowned comedian and musician, brings his highly anticipated This One’s for You tour to Plaza Live Orlando. In an intimate setting of theatre, audience members can connect with Jay’s comedy show. For more information, visit PlazaLiveOrlando.org

Candlelight: A Tribute to Adele

THURSDAY, AUG. 7, 6:30 P.M.

THE ABBEY, ORLANDO.

In a multi-sensory musical experience, Candlelight concerts bring magic with live renditions of Adele’s discography under the gentle glow of candlelight. Listeso String Quartet will be performing 13 of Adele’s songs. For more information, visit TheAbbeyOrlando.com

TAMPA BAY

Tampa Bay Comic Con

FRIDAY, AUG. 1-SUNDAY, AUG. 3, HOURS VARY

TAMPA CONVENTION CENTER, TAMPA

Tampa Bay’s premier comic and pop culture convention is back. Programming is 12 p.m.-10 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday, with free panel programming open to all attendees. Guests include fan favorites from film, TV, the comic industry and more. Visit TampaBayComicConvention.com for tickets and details.

Empath Partners in Care’s 18th Annual Strike Out

SATURDAY, AUG. 9, 6 P.M.

DUNEDIN LANES, DUNEDIN

Lights, Camera, Strikes! Join Empath Partners in Care for the first of two bowling fundraisers. Their 18th annual Strike Out helps EPIC meet the basic needs of their clients. Teams of five bowlers are $175, teams of 4 are $140 and individual bowlers are $35. Their Tampa event will follow Aug. 16. Learn more at MyEPIC.org.

EVENT PLANNER

BARING IT ALL

ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT

CENTRAL FLORIDA

Candlelight: Queen vs. ABBA, July 31, Azalea Lodge at Mead Botanical Garden, Orlando. 407-650-9558; FeverUp.com

Magic Male Revue, July 31, Live! at the Pointe Orlando, Orlando. 407-506-0473; Axs.com/Events

Clueless Trivia, Aug. 1, Teak Neighborhood Grill, Orlando. 407-313-5111; TeakOrlando@ Live.com

Mo Amer: El Oso Palestino Tour, Aug. 1, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. 407-351-5483; HardRockLiveOrlando.com

TS Madison Live, Aug. 1, Southern Nights, Orlando. 407-412-5039; Facebook.com/ SouthernNightsOrlando

Sean Holcomb, Aug. 2-3, Judson’s Live, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

Retro Silent Disco, Aug. 2, Orlando Science Center, Orlando. 407-514-2000; OSC.org

Uncruel Summer – A Girly Pop Dance Party, Aug. 2, The Beacham, Orlando. 407-839-1847; Tkx.Live/Events

A Night at the Catskills, Aug. 6, De Vos Family Room. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

April Brown & After 5, Aug. 7, Judson’s Live, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

Harbor, Aug. 9, The Abbey, Orlando. 407-704-6103; TheAbbeyOrlando.com

Maxwell: The Serenade 2025, Aug. 9, Kia Center, Orlando. 407-440-7900; KiaCenter.com

Brian Kelley: Sunshine State of Mind Tour, Aug. 9, The Plaza Live, Orlando. 888-929-7849; PlazaLiveOrlando.org

The Smoking Jackets: A Tribute to Tom Petty, Aug. 10, Judson’s Live, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org

d4vd: Withered 2025 World Tour, Aug. 13, House of Blues, Orlando. 689-329-2583; HouseOfBlues.com

Deltona Pride Meet & Greet, Aug. 13, Boston Coffee, Deltona. VolusiaPride.org/ Deltona-Pride

“Ride the Cyclone,” Through Aug. 31, Theatre South Playhouse, Orlando. 407-601-4380; TheatreSouthPlayhouse.org

TAMPA BAY

“Puffs,” Through Aug. 3, Jobsite Theater, Tampa. 813-476-7378; JobsiteTheater.org

Disco Tits: Queer Women’s Night, Aug. 1, The Ball, St. Petersburg. 727-258-7626; TheBallStPete.com

Brittany Baldwin & The Bee Stings, Aug. 1, Salty Nun, St. Petersburg. 229-232-0011; Facebook.com/ BrittanyBaldwinMusic

Satur-Slay with Crystal Reigns, Aug. 2, Thyrst, Largo. 727-240-0150; PlurCentral.com

TS Madison Live, Aug. 2, Disco Pony Nightclub, Tampa. Instagram.com/ DiscoPonyNightclub.

Judy B. Goode, Aug. 2, Hollander Hotel, St. Petersburg. 727-873-7900; HollanderHotel.com

Drag Me Back to School, Aug. 3, Enigma, St. Petersburg. 727-235-0867; Facebook.com/ TampaSisters

Socialize & Strategize Networking Mixer, Aug. 6, The Karol Hotel, Clearwater. 727-247-8256; Facebook.com/ TheKarolHotel

Dr. Bob’s Birthday Disco Bash, Aug. 7, The Ball, St. Petersburg. 727-258-7626; TheBallStPete.com

Pride en Ritmo, Aug. 7, Dirty Laundry, St. Petersburg. 813-418-6953; RELProEvents.com

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show!” Live, Aug. 9, Green Light Cinema, St. Petersburg. Facebook.com/ HellOnHeelsRHPS

Kesha and The Scissor Sisters: “Tits Out Tour,” Aug. 10, MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa. 813-600-1000; LiveNation.com

Drag Bingo with Georgia Moore, Aug. 13, The Henley, St. Petersburg. Facebook.com/ HenleyStPete

SARASOTA

Big Gay Weekend 2025, Aug. 1-3, Multiple locations, Sarasota. BigGayWeekend.com

Kesha and The Scissor Sisters bring their “Tits Out Tour” to the MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre Aug. 10. PHOTO VIA MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPHITHEATRE/FACEBOOK

Hosted By:

Rick Todd

Jeremy Williams