2709 Essential Heros.Indd

Your LGBTQ Life.

April 30 - May 13, 2020 • Issue 27.09 Essential Heroes

St Pete Pride postpones celebration

Pulse Remembrance to be virtual

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4 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com departments The designation of all gender restrooms will result in less 7 // Bureau Chief’s Desk hassle for people who don’t fit neatly into some people’s page expectations of what it looks like to be male or female. 8 // Central Florida News 12 –PALM BEACH CO. HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL BOARD MEMBER RHONDA WILLIAMS 10// Tampa Bay News 12// State, Nation & World News 13// Talking Points 15// COVID-19 & Community 25// Tampa Bay Inside + Out 29// Central Fl Inside + Out 23// Tampa Bay Marketplace 26// Central Fl Marketplace

On the cover

page From the Frontlines: page ESSENTIAL Central Florida and Tampa Bay essential HEROES: Frontline heroes discuss COVID-19. LGBTQ workers reflect 19 19 on COVID-19. Photo illustration by Dylan Todd. Watermark Issue 27.09 // April 30 - May 13, 2020 Virtual Rememberance Fall Forward Neutral Ground Community Response

scan Read qr code for It Online! WatermarkOnline.com In addition to a Web site with daily LGBTQ updates, a digital version of each issue of the publication is made available on WatermarkOnline.com page onePULSE Foundation page St Pete Pride 2020 page Boynton Beach page State Rep. Jennifer Webb postpones Rainbow Run. reschedules to the fall. City restrooms go discusses COVID-19 and 08 10 12 gender neutral. 15 Florida unemployment.

watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com 5 6 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com uncertainty went up, I started to feel the panic sliding back. outside the window or even the contributors I became obsessed with breathhum of asa ceiling you exhale fan or works. the traffic watching the news and reading up on how you get COVID, what A scented candle or an old book, Rep. the symptoms are, how your body maybe-Find the two smell smells of the around gallons you. of Jennifer reacts and what dying from a virus hand sanitizer you have been using Webb like this would be like. It all can, for weeks on end. is a micro- and did, become overwhelming. As entrepreneur who I was slowly regressing back into can taste. A piece of candy, a specializes in business strategy sip -Finally,of coffee, find better one yet thing a nice you and development. She is the first central florida former self, I reached out to some of glass of wine. thosethe anxiety-filled old lifelines madness I had back of when my By the time you reach one, openly LGBTQ woman elected to bureau chief’s the panic was getting to be too hopefully the edge has been higher office in the state of Florida. much, and I thought I’d share a few taken off. If not, at least you have She and her spouse, Cynthia, of the suggestions I received in case live with their puppy, Ringo, and you too were feeling overwhelmed. bird, Bandit, in Gulfport. She is The anxiety was a Freshman Democrat up for thing I was told to do is unplug. re-election in November. Page 15 Jeremy Williams In timesThe first like and these most it is important important that annoying kid cfl bureau chief to be informed with the facts, but at school who [email protected] you don’t need the facts on repeat Sabrina Ambra, Nathan Bruemmer, and you certainly don’t need them constantly picks at Scottie Campbell, Miguel Fuller, Desk accompanied by other’s opinions Divine Grace, Holly Kapherr Alejos, on those facts. Pick a reputable you, but the panic Jason Leclerc, Melody Maia Monet, news source, get the information Jerick Mediavilla, Greg Stemm, attack was his big Dr. Steve yacovelli, Michael wanzie ’ve always been an anxious for a limited amount of time and then occasionally check in for person. Maybe it is the copious amounts of updates. Also, take the weekends to brother who likes caffeine I have been ingesting every day for unplug completely from news and to beat the shit photography social media. Idecades or maybe it is the crippling fear of death One of my favorite techniques out of you. Brian Becnel, Nick Cardello, I have had ever since I was a kid, but for whatever when the anxiety was creeping Bruce Hardin, Jamarqus Mosley, up, which was given to me by a sanitized hands and a glass — or Chris Stephenson, Lee Vandergrift reason I have always been easy to breaking into therapist, is called grounding in the four — of a nice Merlot. sweats and shaking like a Chihuahua in a light present, and it is something easy The biggest tip I have gotten, anyone can do at anytime. though, is reach out and talk to breeze. Even when I seem calm on the outside, my someone. Find a person you can distribution insides are being inappropriately shaken around like on the ground and take slow, long dump all of your anxiety, fear and breaths.First youThen place stand your up andfeet flatdo the irritation on. Someone who will LVNLIF2 Distributing, Ken Carraway, a starlet in a 1940s, black and white talkie. listen without judgment and know Vanessa Maresca-Cruz About eight years ago, that panic and anxiety and get to a your senses to countdown. that it is not directed at them, it’s following five steps, using each of just you venting. And when you are anxiety manifested itself into much better place. The panic and CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal anxiety, which still comes and goes, in a better place, offer to be that -Look around the room you are copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole I thought the anxiety was bad. The became manageable. Then the see. It can be objects on the table, person for them. Sometimes you somethingin and count on off the five wall, things anything you just need to unload all the shit in or part without the permission of the publisher. anxietymy first wasfull-on that panic annoying attack, kid and at Unsolicited article submissions will not be returned school who constantly picks at you, that you can focus your sight on. your head and the best thing we can do for each other right now is unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped but the panic attack was his big itStay-At-Home was only going order to last happened. 14 days envelope. Although is supported listen without consequences. WATERMARK brother who likes to beat the shit andAt if firstwe all it waswould fine. social They distance said by many fine advertisers, we cannot accept Again,-Feel it aroundcan be something where you in are front In this issue, we look at some out of you. and self isolate and stay home we responsibility for claims made by advertisers. and find four things you can touch. After many panic attacks, and of you on a table or something essential heroes on the frontlines on your body — your shirt, who are helping our communities Publication of the name or photograph of any just as many visits to the E.R. week the anxiety started back up person or organization in articles, advertising, or thinking I was having a heart could flatten the curve. After a your hair, etc. to run in these scary times. Be safe and let’s make sure we listing in WATERMARK is not to be construed as attack, I started to see someone and the deaths increased and the any indication of the sexual orientation of such who helped me work through the unemploymentand then as the casesnumbers of COVID-19 and the What do you hear around you? The are all taking care of each other. -Listen for three distinct sounds. persons or members of such organizations. WATERMARK is published every second

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Orlando Office The official views of WATERMARK are expressed only CFL Bureau Chief: Senior Tampa Bay Account Manager: 1300 N. Semoran Blvd. in editorials. Opinions offered in signed columns, Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Sales Director: Russ Martin • Ext. 303 Ste 250 letters and articles are those of the writers and do not Owner & Publisher: [email protected] Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 [email protected] Orlando, FL 32807 necessarily represent the opinions of the newspaper’s Rick Claggett • Ext. 110 Tampa Bay Bureau Chief: [email protected] [email protected] Founder and Guiding Light: TEL: 407-481-2243 owner or management. We reserve the right to edit Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Senior Orlando Account Manager: Tom Dyer Business Manager: [email protected] Sam Callahan • Ext. 103 or reject any material submitted for publication. Kathleen Sadler • Ext. 101 [email protected] Creative/Photographer: [email protected] Tampa Bay Office WATERMARK is not responsible for damages due to [email protected] Dylan Todd • Ext. 102 National Ad Representative: 401 33rd Street N. typographical errors, except for the cost of replacing [email protected] Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863 St. Petersburg, FL 33713 ads created by WATERMARK that have such errors.

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watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com 7

contributors minute,” he shared April 23, marriage equality. “And, quite “and is there a way we can do frankly, I don’t see much of a something like that by injection distinction beyond that.” Rep. inside or almost a cleaning? Three years later, the tides Jennifer As you see, it gets in the lungs, turned and the Supreme Court Webb it does a tremendous number made marriage equality the is a micro- on the lungs, so it would be law of the land. As the LGBTQ entrepreneur who interesting to check that.” community faces its next After medical experts and even uphill battle before that same specializes in business strategy tampa bay the makers of disinfectant brands body, albeit with two Trump and development. She is the first like Lysol publicly denounced appointees, having a president openly LGBTQ woman elected to bureau chief’s the president’s words, the White on our side can make all higher office in the state of Florida. House utilized the opportunity to the difference. She and her spouse, Cynthia, attack journalists for reporting Just as important as words live with their puppy, Ringo, and them. Trump subsequently are actions. That’s why in this bird, Bandit, in Gulfport. She is Ryan claimed he was being sarcastic. issue we introduce you to four a Freshman Democrat up for Former vice president essential heroes who are making re-election in November. Page 15 Williams-Jent Joe Biden, the presumptive a difference in Tampa Bay and TB bureau chief Democratic nominee for Central Florida. As we collectively [email protected] president who will likely grapple with COVID-19, a challenge Trump in November, nurse, server, delivery driver Sabrina Ambra, Nathan Bruemmer, Scottie Campbell, Miguel Fuller, Desk chose his own words carefully in In other words, Divine Grace, Holly Kapherr Alejos, a response. “I can’t believe I have Jason Leclerc, Melody Maia Monet, to say this,” he shared, “but please Aunt Karen just Jerick Mediavilla, Greg Stemm, don’t drink bleach.” needs to Google it. Dr. Steve yacovelli, Michael wanzie hile as a journalist I hope The differences between the it’s clear that I have a particular two men couldn’t be starker, especially concerning LGBTQ photography W Americans. As transgender and entertainer share their soldiers fight for a country that stories from the front lines of negates their rights to do so and this pandemic. Brian Becnel, Nick Cardello, affinity for them, I also hope we can all Bruce Hardin, Jamarqus Mosley, agree that words matter. as this administration argues that We examine its effects in other Chris Stephenson, Lee Vandergrift Choosing them carefully and choose not to drink. In other our community should be able to ways in Tampa Bay and Central deliberately can change the words, Aunt Karen just needs be fired simply for who we are, Florida news, as area leaders world, for better or for worse. It to Google it. we must remember that. make difficult decisions about distribution can do so one person at a time Unfounded opinions cloaked Words matter, and when this year’s LGBTQ celebrations or in staggering numbers, and as facts aren’t limited to the this country holds its 2021 and ceremonies. St Pete Pride, the inauguration and this year’s state’s largest outing, announces LVNLIF2 Distributing, Ken Carraway, neither is without merit. Your internet, however, and can come Vanessa Maresca-Cruz influence just depends on the size from much larger, much more victor recites their presidential it will be held in the fall. of your platform, which thanks to public stages. Like the podium oath, it’s imperative that he Tampa Pride, which was modern technology is larger than in front of the president of the believes that. We need a president previously rescheduled to May, CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal ever for almost all of us. United States, who liked or who will preserve, protect and postpones until 2021 – and copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole It’s a part of what can make loathed is as closely scrutinized defend the U.S. Constitution not in Central Florida, the Pulse just for the few, but for the many. Remembrance Ceremony goes or part without the permission of the publisher. social media so maddening. It’s by the world at large as he is on Unsolicited article submissions will not be returned amplified each of our voices its great wide web. The same is Biden will, because he has. virtual. We also hear directly from “I am absolutely comfortable State Rep. Jennifer Webb about unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped and brought society closer true for most heads of state. envelope. Although WATERMARK is supported together than ever, particularly Referring to COVID-19, with the fact that men marrying what resources are available to men, women marrying women help our struggling communities. by many fine advertisers, we cannot accept as we socially distance from one which at the time was known responsibility for claims made by advertisers. another, all while simultaneously to have killed more than 51,000 and heterosexual men and Watermark strives to bring Publication of the name or photograph of any managing to push many of us Americans, Donald Trump women marrying, are entitled to you a variety of stories, your the same exact rights, all the civil stories. I hope you avoid digesting person or organization in articles, advertising, or further apart. suggested that sources of light listing in WATERMARK is not to be construed as I believe that’s because while or disinfectants could treat the rights, all the civil liberties,” he bleach, check your voter said as vice president in 2012, registration status and enjoy this any indication of the sexual orientation of such we’re just fingertips and a few respiratory illness. persons or members of such organizations. keystrokes away from vast wells “I see the disinfectant that three days before President latest issue. WATERMARK is published every second of knowledge, too many of us knocks it out in a minute, one Barack Obama publicly supported Thursday. Subscription rate is $55 watermark staff (1st class) and $26 (standard mail).

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watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com 7 central florida news

Suspect in Parliament House shooting arrested Jeremy Williams

RLANDO Williams, 28, on April 15 for the murder of Ricardo OMontez Filmore. | Orlando Police arrested Courtney Lamar Flimore, 38, was found shot to death at the Parliament

According to the police report, Williams was seen House Resort in Orlando April 2. Rainbow a front desk clerk heard multiple loud bangs coming from Runners: thefleeing direction the Parliament of Filmore’s House room. after One two of securitythe security guards guards and Participants approach the Pulse memorial during Aprilidentified 2 interview Williams with in the Watermark report as that “Ricky’s Filmore boyfriend.” was a the CommUNITY Parliament House owner Don Granatstein said in an Rainbow Run in 2019. Photo by part-time employee and that he and his partner had been Jeremy Williams stayingAccording at the tohotel. police, “[A thedomestic occupant dispute] of the escalated room below and Filmorehis partner reported shot him hearing and ran,” a loud Granatstein argument said.coming from details on the virtual ceremony will by loud bangs. Police discovered Filmore’s body lying on be released as plans are developed. the groundroom above inside him. his He hotel then room. heard Filmore a “body had slam” been followed shot Mourning from Williams was charged with second degree murder with respondersInformation then will firstreleased be shared through with five times and was pronounced dead on the scene. family members, survivors and first Orange County Jail. An in jail arraignment is scheduled and local media. fora firearm April 30. on April 16 and is currently being held at the a Distance onePULSE’sOrlando Mayor social mediaBuddy channelsDyer Pulse Rainbow Run postponed, Demings both released statements 3 local activists named LGBTQ and Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Remembrance Ceremony to be virtual hold a virtual ceremony during the Latinx role models in support of onePULSE’s decision to Jeremy Williams begin and end at Wadeview Park ourCOVID-19 Angels pandemic. in the same manner on Jeremy Williams in downtown Orlando on the “While we aren’t able to honor rescheduled date. The path of the creating a way for our community RLANDO run in part travels down what is toJune be 12,able we to appreciate come together onePULSE in a RLANDO Foundation announced in a known as Survivor’s Walk and passes different manner to heal and honor | The onePULSE in front of the Pulse memorial. | Honor 41 selected three Central Florida O 4th annual CommUNITY Rainbow In addition to the Rainbow Run as we face this new challenge, we OLGBTQ activists — Jose Luis Dieppa, Ashley press release April 16 that the in downtown Orlando, the event remainour 49 Angels,” a community Dyer said.and a“Even City Figueroa and Ricardo J. Negron-Almodovar — as will be rescheduled to Sept. 12 and will also include a 1K Old Town that cares deeply for each other a part of “The 41 List,” an list now in its fifth edition world who are seen as role models in their communities. thatRun, theoriginally annual scheduled Pulse Remembrance for June 6, Kissimmee Kids Fun Run and and we will continue to exhibit love celebrating 41 LGBTQ Latinx individuals around the Ceremony will be a virtual event. an option for runners outside of and kindness in everything that we Central Florida to join the event by do to honor the 49 lives taken and Honor 41’s previous lists of honorees were release these decisions lightly — we will participating in a PNC Bank 4.9K to support those who have been countriesfrom 2013-2016. and consist of professors, journalists, community always“Please prioritize know wethe dohealth not makeand Virtual Run, which can be run at any The 41 List 2019/20 honorees represent 10 different safety of the public, the Pulse location and at the runner’s pace. artists, students, entrepreneurs and more. Individuals who have already andimpacted continuity by the solutions tragedy.” adopted leaders, actors, elected officials, activists, nonprofit leaders, registered for the event will have “The public health measures Foundation,community andin the our press employees,” release. said their spot automatically transferred examples of how local organizations Dieppa, Figueroa and Negron-Almodovar are active in with a variety of organizations including Come Out With Barbara Poma, CEO of onePULSE to the new date. The press release areby onePULSE working together Foundation to break are the Pride,Central The Florida’s Contigo LGBTQ Fund, and Bliss Latinx Cares communities, and more. working honor and remember the 49 Angels, “We are exploring different ways to refund policy signed at the time of organization that celebrates community and creates registration,goes on the state runners’ that entry“as per fees the and similarbackbone to theof this months virus,” after Demings the Pulse Honor 41 is a national Latinx LGBTQ nonprofit survivors, first responders and all tragedy,said. “Working we can collaboratively, begin to heal as allthose those affected affected by bythe the Pulse Pulse tragedy.” The Remembrance Ceremony, a community while honoring our awareness about issues that impact both the LGBTQ and nightclubThe 4.9K tragedy run/walk, and is which presented honors originallydonations scheduled are non-refundable.” to be held at the ForLatinx more communities. information on the organization, visit Honor41.org. site of the Pulse Interim Memorial, with the UCF DeVos Sport Business will be done as a virtual event 49For moreAngels.” information visit onePULSEFoundation. Managementby Orlando Health Program, in partnership will still starting at 7 p.m. on June 12. More porg and CommUNITYRainbowRun.com

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watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com 9 tampa bay news

Tampa Pride postponed until 2021 Ryan Williams-Jent

AMPA | Tampa Pride has been postponed until

The sixth annual event was originally TMarch 27, 2021 in response to COVID-19. scheduled for March 28. In an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus, organizers initially rescheduled the gathering to May 30.

unpredictability for the 2020 cancellation, which was Tampa Pride President Carrie West cited COVID-19’s

discussed with city leadership. “We want everyone to PROUDER be safe and healthy,” he shared. “In our meeting with DAYS: St Pete officials,The cancellation spring city eventsfollows have the postponement been cancelled of or Pride supporters neighboringrescheduled celebrationsto fall.” St Pete Pride and Polk Pride. on Bayshore Blvd. St Pete Pride announced April 20 they will hold their in 2019. PHOTO BY 2020 celebration in the fall, detailed to the right on this NICK CARDELLO cited those decisions and more in determining a new datepage, for and Tampa Polk Pride Pride. will celebrate Sept. 26-Oct. 4. West friends and family to recognize and honor the path that has led to dates, the Tampa Pride board said August is way too “With all the Pride organizations changing their Fall Forward thatour city’sthe spirit beautiful of Pride diversity,” lives here she in hot,” he shared. “September is hurricane time! October St.continued. Petersburg “We every must day remember – this is hasIt other led organizers city Prides to every postpone weekend until [and] the March November St Pete Pride 2020 and official has us close to our 2021 Pride event.” West asserted, noting that Tampa Pride’s annual events rescheduled to the fall who we are.” 27, 2021 date. “It will be a big year of celebration,” in St.“While Petersburg, we have the seen need progress to Tampa Pride also advised that all paid vendors, earliest supporters, praised the continuetowards ‘flattening social distancing the curve’ remains diversityPride-Zoo-La parade will entries return andthis sponsorsyear on Nov. will 14. be credited Ryan Williams-Jent postponement in a statement. high and mass gatherings are not for the 2021 celebration. Vendors are able to upgrade to a sponsorship level if desired. West concluded by T. PETERSBURG | The that there is simply too much District 8’s Amy Foster added. thanking Tampa Pride organizers and supporters for 18th annual St Pete Pride, uncertainty“St Pete Pride right recognizesnow to plan likely to resume any time soon,” their hard work and dedication. Soriginally scheduled for June an event that draws such large postpone this year’s St Pete Pride numbers of people from near and celebrations.“I support the I difficultand many decision residents to to hold our 2020 Tampa Pride Diversity Parade and and businesses look forward to Street“As Festivalyou’ve seen in person the news this by year now, due we to are continuing unable 26-28,Organizers has been originally postponed intended until their thinking ahead, and their Pride and it saddens me to see restrictions and uncertainty with respect to public tothe proceed fall in response with a June to COVID-19. celebration, eagernessfar,” the mayor to look said. ahead “I appreciate to a future such a unifying and uplifting but opted to move the gathering as date that is in the best interest of communities continue to deal with public health. health,” Tampa Pride’s official social media channels the coronavirus. St Pete Pride is ourevent Pride delayed.” celebration is to the subsequently shared. “But there will ALWAYS Organizers teased virtual Tampa Pride events is one of the best and biggest “We recognize how meaningful throughoutBE PRIDE!!!” the spring and summer, adding that a to secure new dates. in the“Our nation annual and parade will certainly and festival St Pete Pride President Chrys virtual global Pride will be held June 27. InterPride and actively working with city officials outlast any challenges that come LGBTQ community in Tampa Bay,” the European Pride Organizers Association (EPOA) measures imposed to slow the not be able to physically gather announced the celebration April 1. “Due to social distancing the interim, we should continue to asBundy we normally shared. “Although would this we June, may festivities scheduled for June have its way,” Kriseman continued. “In our postponement will in no way that most Prides will not take place as planned in spread of COVID-19, St Pete Pride residents and allies each and every diminish what it means to be 2020,“The but unprecedented we’re determined challenges that this of won’tCOVID-19 stop meanus shared April 20. Organizers added dayembrace for their and efforts celebrate in helping our LGBTQ the proud in St. Pete and Tampa Bay! been postponed,” St Pete Pride sun to shine so brightly on us here community to celebrate who we are and what we stand changes to the schedule (as from coming together as a united, strong LGBTQIA+ necessary)that they “will to move make forward additional with The sentiments were echoed by theWe willbeauty still and find vibrancy ways to ofraise our will show our resilience and determination that Pride in St. Pete.” community,our flags of all and colors, spotlight celebrate the for,” EPOA President Kristine Garina said. “Above all, we the postponement of our St Pete arethe estimatedcelebrations.” to have attended PrideSt. Petersburg celebration City is Council. disappointing, “While will be back bigger and stronger than ever before.” lastMore year’s than outing, 265,000 creating people an I fully support the decision to put issuesTo read more our aboutmovement this year’s still celebration, faces.” Tampa Pride concluded by specifically thanking visit StPetePride.com. For the latest Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and city officials for on the city. St. Petersburg Mayor updates about COVID-19 and its impact their continued leadership as COVID-19 impacts Rickeconomic Kriseman, impact one of of$67.2 Pride’s million health and safety first,” Vice Chair on Tampa Bay’s LGBTQ community, visit ForHillsborough more information County about andTampa beyond. Pride, visit TampaPride.org. Gina Driscoll shared. WatermarkOnline.com. “We can still stand together in other ways with our LGBTQ+

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watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com 11 state, nation+world news

Third COVID-19 death linked Boynton Beach makes restrooms gender neutral to Miami gay festival Jeremy Williams for parents and caregivers to assist of all gender restrooms will result Daniel Thomas Carr III, a South Florida real estate agent their opposite sex children, family in less hassle for people who and member of the Pride Center’s Founders Circle, died from COVID-19 April 15. He was 67. Carr is the third he Boynton Beach City Penserga raised the discussion expectations of what it looks like to COVID death linked to the Winter Party Festival in Miami Commission voted withmembers, the city and commission patients.” after a don’t fit neatly into some people’s Beach that took place March 4-10. To date, 38 Winter unanimously April 21 request from the Palm Beach County T be male or female.” Party attendees have tested positive for COVID-19. Carr request for gender neutral, public attended the festival with his husband J. Michael Heider, The policy will also apply to the restroomsThe PBCHRC to the has Palm also Beach sent County a who he had been with for 35 years. Heider also tested to designate single-occupancy city’sHuman Town Rights Square Council Project, (PBCHRC). which is Commission. The request will be positive for COVID-19, but has made a full recovery. Carr, makingrestrooms it only in all the city-owned fourth Florida expected to open this summer. The considered later this year. properties as “Gender Neutral” who was also diabetic, was admitted to the hospital March city to do so. Boynton Beach joins Orlando, 23. The Winter Party ended one day before the World project will include the new city hall, municipality in Palm Beach County 16-acre, $133 million redevelopment state and the cities of Austin, Chicago, Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. to have“Boynton gender Beach neutral will restrooms be the first a cultural center, amphitheater and Gainesville and Miami Beach in the hotellibrary, as police well as station, thousands a fire of station, square Philadelphia, San Francisco, Santa Iowa jail administrator on Boynton Beach City Commissioner feet in retail space. Fe,Denver, Seattle Hoboken, and D.C. New nationwide York City, in leave over biased remarks in all municipal properties,” said enacting a gender neutral restroom Dean Naylor, an administrator of Iowa’s Muscatine County policy. Vermont, New Mexico, Illinois Ty Penserga. “Designating restrooms “Boynton Beach fosters an jail, was placed on temporary leave April 23 pending an people who do not identify as male and California have all enacted oras allfemale, gender but not also only makes benefits it easier environment that values diversity,” similar statewide policies. internal investigation after complaints about anti-Muslim said PBCHRC Board Member and anti-gay remarks he made online. The Johnson County Rhonda Williams. “The designation Board of Supervisors and other groups have called for Naylor’s removal. Naylor is accused of making comments Two transgender women murdered in Puerto Rico in YouTube videos and an online statement that include calling Muslims “pawns to the devil” and describing “the Michael K. Lavers of The in Puerto Rico within the past two gay lifestyle” as an abomination. immediately and with sensitivity Washington Blade, investigate“We urge these the police vile and to adequately,atrocious York City Council Speaker Melissa Judge tosses Smollett’s Courtesy of the National murders of Serena Angelique months,” tweeted former New malicious prosecution lawsuit LGBT Media CABE spokesperson Ivana Fred. demandsMark-Viverito, that the who police was borndepartment in A federal judge dismissed actor Jussie Smollett’s malicious VelázquezVelázquez and and Layla Pelaez Pelaez,” are amongsaid seriouslyPuerto Rico. investigate “The community these prosecution lawsuit against the city of Chicago and several wo transgender women were the four trans people who have been police officers April 22. The former “Empire” actor sued in murdered in Puerto Rico murdered in Puerto Rico since the November in response to a lawsuit filed by the city in April on April 22. beginning of the year. inheinous response murders.” to Alexa’s murder 2019 seeking reimbursement of more than $130,000 paid T Alexa, a trans woman who was urgedGovernor anyone Wanda with information Vázquez in overtime to police who were involved in investigating newspaper, reported authorities homeless, was brutally murdered in to contact the Puerto Rico Police the alleged false racist and homophobic attack on Smollett foundPrimera Serena Hora, Angelique a Puerto Velázquez Rican the municipality of Toa Baja on Feb. Department. Vázquez in a tweet in January 2019. Smollett said the city couldn’t recover 24 hours after police responded to costs because it accepted $10,000 from Smollett “as the diligence and sensitivity the payment in full in connection with the dismissal of the aand municipality Layla Pelaez’s on the bodies island’s in a people in a fast food restaurant’s also said authorities “will work with charges against him.” A judge ruled that Smollett can’t southeastcar under acoast. bridge in Humacao, restroom.a report that Yampi she Méndezwas “peeping” Arocho, on Vázquez last August succeeded bring a malicious prosecution claim until all proceedings Reports indicate Velázquez and a trans man, was killed in the case merits.” against him have ended. Pelaez had been shot. El Nuevo Día, municipality of Moca on March 5. his resignation over a series of another Puerto Rican newspaper, homophobicthen-Gov. Ricardo and misogynistic Rosselló after notes the car in which Velázquez and commonplace in Puerto Rico, even messages between him and members Activists question Latin America thoughAnti-LGBTQ the U.S. commonwealth’sviolence is hate of his administration that became gender-based COVID-19 measures with their bodies inside. crimes law includes gender identity public. Vázquez, who was Puerto Transgender activists in Latin America have expressed PelaezCaptain were Teddy found Morales was set ofon the fire and sexual orientation. CABE notes Rico’s justice secretary before she concern over rules that allow people to leave their homes Puerto Rico Police Department’s during the coronavirus pandemic based on their gender. Criminal Investigation Unit in murdered over the last 15 months. A “pico y género” rule has been issued in many Latin eightPedro LGBTQ Julio Puerto Serrano, Ricans founder have of been showbecame hosted governor, by a largeappeared puppet on “La America countries, including Panamá, Peru and Colombia. detectives are trying to identify Puerto Rico Para Tod@s, another withComay,” the a same Puerto name, Rican to televisiondiscuss her A “pico y género” allows residence to leave their homes on andHumacao interview told thosePrimera who Hora may that have Puerto Rican advocacy group, and administration’s response to the designated days based on a person’s gender. A Peruvian seen Velázquez and Pelaez before coronavirus pandemic. WAPA, a Puerto Rican television LGBTQ advocacy group states that police and soldiers in they were killed. Morales also said which devastated the island in other activists say Hurricane Maria, station, in 2013 cancelled the several Peruvian cities harassed trans women who had even more vulnerable to violence program after a producer made left their homes to buy food and medicine on days when possible motive. investigators have not identified a and2017, discrimination. made LGBTQ PuertoThese same Ricans homophobic comments about a women were allowed to do so. Another group singles El Comité Amplio para la Búsqueda de la Equidad, a coalition activists also maintain the Puerto man who was murdered prompted a out Colombia, Peru, Panama, Honduras and Ecuador Rican authorities and the island’s as countries with “an increase in institutional violence groups known by the acronym CABE, government have not done enough to throughout the region” during the coronavirus pandemic. urgedof Puerto authorities Rican LGBTQ to investigate advocacy the televisionboycott. “La station. Comay” currently airs on murders as hate crimes. Mega TV, another Puerto Rico-based communityaddress anti-LGBTQ have been hate murdered crimes. “Four members of the trans

12 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com talking points

Today I regret every single second of worry back in the uninformed 80’s, wondering how the world was going to treat my brilliant little boy who loved to twirl. Little did I know that he was going to kick that old world’s ass to the curb and create a brand new one. — Screenwriter Deborah Divine tweeting about her son Dan Levy before the series finale of his show, “Schitt’s Creek” 56%

LGBTQ-focused content leads challenged books list of people he American Library Association released its annual list by parents and other community polled in the U.S. Tof books most “challenged” members April 20. The top three were Alex Gino’s “George,” Susan Kuklin’s “Beyond Magenta: Transgender Teens Speak Out” and the best-selling “Late Week Tonight with John Oliver Presents a Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo.” Five other books were listed in the Top 10 due to LGBTQ content: “Prince & Knight,” “I Am oppose Jazz,” “Drama,” “And Tango Makes Three” and “Sex Is a Funny Word.” The only non-LGBTQ books listed in the Top 10 were J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” books and Margaret Atwood’s dystopian “The Handmaid’s Tale.” The list is part of the association’s annual State of America’s Libraries report, released during National Library Week. allowing a small business owner to refuse service

‘Moana’ star Auli’I Bowen Yang to ‘Angel’ actor to Cravalho comes out star in Fire Island J. August Richards as bisexual rom-com series comes out as gay LGBTQ people. uli’I Cravalho, who aturday Night Live” ctor J. August voiced the titular cast member Bowen Richards, best known Acharacter in Walt “SYang will star opposite Afor playing Gunn in the Disney’s animated hit film comedian Joel Kim Booster in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” “Moana,” came out as bisexual on spinoff “Angel” and Deathlok TikTok April 8. The video was the which was created by Booster, is a the new series “Trip.” The series, came out as gay in an online video social media platform. In it, she lip conversationin Marvel’s “Agents with actress of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” Sarah 19-year-old’s first on the popular set“modern on Fire day Island, rom-com according inspired to by Enimem song featuring Ed Sheeran. Jane Austin’s ‘Pride and Prejudice’” syncs to “Those Kinda Nights,” an two best friends, played by Yang theWayne show, Callies, Richards his co-star plays Dr. in Oliverthe andDeadline. Booster, “Trip” who will head center out to around Post,new NBC a gay series dad who “Council acts asof aDads.” father In 37% support such “Seriously though, joke’s aside / the legendary Fire Island for a How you doin’? You straight? / She thesaid, lyrics ‘No, I’mread. bi.’ Cravalho, /… I’m checkin’ who also will be released on the new mobile notfigure portray to the this kids gay of hisman friend honestly who denials of service. playedout the Arielchick, in she ABC’s said televised / ‘So am I,’” week-long summer vacation. “Trip” withoutdied of cancer. letting “I you knew all knowthat I thatcould —Public Religion Research Institute subsequently addressed her coming video platform Quibi, launched said in the video, which he posted out“The via Little Twitter. Mermaid Responding Live” last to year,a fan on April 6. Quibi features shows toI was his aInstagram gay man myself,”account. Richards The arethat designed consist of to 10-minutes-or-less be viewed only on video has been viewed more than them to her video. episodes called “quick bites” and seeking confirmation, she directed a release date yet. Thursdays at 9 p.m. on NBC. mobile devices. “Trip” does not have 13,000 times. “Council of Dads” airs

watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com 13 20 Min Results

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14 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com viewpoint

for Florida’s families, but attention that a special check from the federal feeding folks and helping the legislature has been session garners. government. them apply for SNAP, WIC sidelined; it has been four In response to an Both the governor and other programs. Many weeks since the executive outpour of concern, and Secretary Satter restaurants are handing the governor has made indicated an important out food to those who are members of the legislature. some important changes. announcement will hungry, and neighbors officeWe hasare heldstronger a call as with These changes seem to be coming regarding are sharing groceries and a body than we are be moving us two steps retroactivity of running errands for those individually, so I have forward and one step back. unable to leave their home. called on our members As of today, no such Now is the time to either to speak with one order to waive both the job announcementunemployment hasbenefits. been give or receive assistance. voice in conversations searchHe issued requirement an executive and, made. And, when it comes There are so many ways to with the executive now, the requirement to to giving folks a date by receive (and give) help. reassert every two weeks which we can expect the If you need to be 1. that a claimant is still majority of unemployment connected to resources, Floridabranch. aWe date need that to: they can expectGive the to receivepeople oftheir Floridians are tired of promises; we need action. and make it happen. They deservefirst unemployment this simple noticecheck at least. Even if it is weeks unemployed. Rep. Jennifer Webb away, this information While this makes sense workers, neither the that everyone know that will allow families to within the state, it has governorpayments nor to reach secretary laid-off thecall county2-1-1. It is is expanding important a budget and plan. created problems for will say – and there has program to help families 2. Increase been no indication that and small businesses. This transparency and clarity additional payment from we are closer to calling a program will pay your bills Covid-19 and regarding the process for thefolks federal waiting government. on the $600 special session. for you if you or your small This payment is contingent I didn’t run for business cannot afford to and for distributing state upon individuals following pay them, up to a certain the Community andfixing federal systems/processes funds, and a state’s process to receive the sidelines when my amount of money. There 3. Do the right thing unemployment that was in constituentspublic office toneed sit meon is no income limitation by retroactively paying place before the additional most. I ran to solve every on this program at this unemployment to the date day problems. I ran to time because so many are The governor also make life just a little better ou didn’t lose your unemployed. appointed$600 became Secretary available. for everyday Floridians For a list of more job. You didn’t quit your the applicants first became Jonathan Satter to oversee year after year. My goal resourcesstruggling infinancially. our district, mentioned this weeks ago the changes needed to was to create a Florida unemployment application job. You were asked to stay andThe continues governor to firstspeak make the unemployment that works better for all assistance, or questions, Yhome. You did your part to step up, about it. Floridians are system function again. of our families and local please do not hesitate to tired of promises; we Secretary Satter oversees businesses. Many of my need action. This can be the Department of colleagues feel the same. together we did it! We are past the done by executive order. Management Services, Anyone who has reachRep. Jennifer out to Webb my is office. a stay in and flatten that curve, and Furthermore, I believe which is basically the worked with me knows micro-entrepreneur who that we legislators state’s IT and data that I work very hard specializes in business strategy Floridians collectively celebrating should reconvene for a management folks. and development. She is the first (first) peak in Florida. So why aren’t special session. Early indications show problems that affect my openly LGBTQ woman elected to this success? Not only must we work that Secretary Satter district.to solve theI focus day-to-day on the higher office in the state of Florida. to ensure that the broken seems to be making wise nitty gritty issues that She and her spouse, Cynthia, live Because our families, entrepreneurs and with their puppy, Ringo, and bird, local businesses are beyond broke and outraged unemployment system unite my constituents. I’ve The unemployment earned friends and respect Bandit, in Gulfport. because government has failed to uphold its end of work together to make systemworkflow is revvingdecisions. up from across the political Rep. Webb represents District is fixed, but we need to spectrum – not because we shelter in place and the state would then distribute certain our budgetary 69, which includes 12 cities agree on all issues – but unemploymentthe bargain. The to deal workers was simple: so they Floridians could at least would priorities are responsive to According to their throughout Gulfport, Pinellas Park, (fingers crossed). keep food on the table. this health and economic dashboard, created because I am earnest in my St. Pete Beach, St. Petersburg The state, however, has failed to keep its crisis. The budget must to provide increase endeavors and transparent and more. To contact her district transparency, the in my effort. office, located at 6798 Crosswinds have not received a cent from the state – and let’s revenue anticipated for the percentage of claimants In this way I am very Dr. N. in St. Petersburg, call now reflect the reduced bepromise clear, theto you. state As portion of April of 25, unemployment 74.6% of Floridians is NOT receiving a check is up to much a daughter of my 727-341-7385. A Freshman revenue from the government. During times of district. Where the state Democrat, she is also up for coming fiscal year. This is money from Florida employers uncertainty, transparency believed these numbers re-election Nov. 3, 2020. For more 25.4%. I would not have redistributed back to Florida workers. Employers and accuracy are especially had I not had word from community, constituents, information about her campaign, has failed and flailed, our visit ElectJenniferWebb.com. are rightly angry as well. important. Convening cities and counties have a special session would he not only received come together. I am so my first constituent that because my constituents are suffering through no ensure that decisions are proud of us. Me, I am infuriated and horrified. Infuriated made in the sunshine from the state, but also Pinellas County Schools his first $275 deposit state representative, I am part of that government. and with the added and our community fault of their own. Horrified because, as an elected that he received a $600 I remain a steadfast advocate and a fierce fighter nonprofits are busy watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com 15 SEE WHAT OUR ADVERTISERS ARE SAYING ABOUT WATERMARK...

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16 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com COVID-19 resources

Tampa Bay Central Florida FINANCIAL RESOURCES FINANCIAL RESOURCES One Tampa: St. Petersburg Central Florida LGBTQ+ Relief Fund, in Orlando and the surrounding metro that will encourage residents and visitors to patronize our Relief Now, Rise Together Fund, Fighting Chance Fund, OneOrlandoAlliance.org/donate local small businesses. If you own a small business OneTampa.org StPete.org The Central Florida LGBTQ+ Relief Fund, launched in the Greater Orlando Metro area you can register The city of Tampa is seeking to help small The city of St. Petersburg has created an emergency by Contigo Fund and led by One Orlando Alliance, is your business at the website free of charge. meant to assist Orlando area LGBTQ+ community businesses and individuals with emergency grants grant for locally-owned and independently-operated CareerSource Central Florida (CSCF), focused on rent and essential utilities. Eligible small businesses and impacted individuals. members who are most in need as a result of the individuals/families may receive up to $1,000 for Businesses may receive up to $5,000 and individuals COVID-19 crisis. Funds are distributed in two rounds, CareerSourceCentralFlorida.com/ rent or mortgage and up to $250 for utilities. Small may receive up to $500 from an allocated a one-time contribution of $100 per applicant, then Coronavirus-Support, 800-757-4598 businesses may receive up to $4,000 and $1,000. $6.8 million. a contribution of $250 per applicant, who meet the criteria. The initial rounds of funding are reserved CSCF is providing virtual reemployment assistance for LGBTQ+ people living and/or working in Orange, for those who have lost their job due to COVID-19. Osceola, Seminole and Volusia Counties. CSCF can assist you in filling out the Department of Economic Opportunity application online. T You can FOOD/HEALTH CARE/SERVICE RESOURCES Bounce Back Orlando, also take advantage of the CSCF’s virtual services BounceBackOrlando.com 321-800-3946 such as career guidance, resume review, workshops 211 Tampa Bay Cares, Love the Golden Rule, and online learning free of charge. 211TampaBay.org, 727-210-4211 LoveTheGoldenRule.com, 727-826-0700 Launching May 1, The Pride Chamber’s Bounce Back Orlando will be a directory of small businesses Call 211 from any phone or text your zip code to Primary and specialized care offering free visits on 898211 for help with housing, food, child care, Fridays for those who are unemployed, laid off, have suicide prevention, health care, disaster planning no insurance and have no COVID-19 symptoms or and much more. exposure. Call for more details. FOOD/HEALTH CARE/SERVICE RESOURCES CAN Community Health, Metro Inclusive Health, , , CANCommunityHealth.org, MetroTampaBay.org, 727-321-3854 26Health Osceola County School District OsceolaSchools.net 941-366-0134 Receive access to primary care, counseling, 26Health.org, 321-800-2922 Use computers or mobile devices to access health The district’s School Nutrition Services Department hormone replacement therapy and PrEP via 26Health is offering a number of its weekly support care services remotely and manage health care will provide FREE breakfast and lunch to children Telehealth. To schedule an appointment, dial ext. groups virtually. A full schedule is available on the needs. For detailed information about Telehealth 18 years and under during the extended school 1575. For virtual programming, information about website. Most services are being offered through closure. Meals will be available for pickup between and more, visit their website. prescriptions by mail and more, visit their website. virtual care; however they are offering emergency 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. at each location. Families can support services including behavioral health, patient Empath Partners in Care (EPIC) Pinellas County Schools Meal go to school/site nearest them to pick up food even care and HIV testing and prevention. Food Pantry, MyEPIC.org Distribution, PCSB.org, 727-588-6000 if they do not attend that school. Families will drive Hope & Help, up in the bus loops, and they will be handed meals Food and personal products for clients are provided A week of meals are available for students ages 18 through the vehicle window. Meals can be provided in Clearwater, St. Petersburg and Tampa. To and younger. Meals will be distributed Wednesdays HopeAndHelp.org, 407-645-2577 to children not of school age if they are in the group schedule pickups or donations, call 727-328-3260 through May 27 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. picking up the food. Site locations can be found on in Pinellas County or 813-237-3066 in Hillsborough Hope & Help is offering virtual medical their website. County. Call for health care and service details. St. Petersburg Free Clinic, appointments. Call the main number to schedule an StPetersburgFreeClinic.org, appointment. Seminole County Public Schools, Feeding Tampa Bay, 727-821-1200 SCPS.k12.fl.us FeedingTampaBay.org, 813-254-1190 Orange County The We Help Food Pantry drive-thru is located Public Schools, Seminole County Public Schools will be providing Offering mobile pantries, meals, a market, senior at 863 3rd Ave. N. and available Mondays and FREE Breakfast and Lunch meals for its students grocery resources, homebound help and more. Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and Thursdays, 8:30 OCPS.net (18 years old and younger) during the extended Hours, sites and locations vary. Some locations school closure period. Meals will be available for a.m.-7 p.m. Mobile locations at First Baptist Church Grab-and-Go meals are available for students in are closing without advance notice to adhere to pick-up between 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. (Pine Crest of St. Petersburg and Childs Park YMCA are open need. On both Mondays and Wednesdays, two days regulations, call for up to date information. Elementary 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.) in the car loop various Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m.-noon. of meals will be distributed; and on Fridays, three of each school site. District staff will distribute the days of meals will be distributed. Meals are available meals directly to those in their vehicle (drive-thru for pick-up between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., Mondays, service) upon arrival. In addition, district staff will Wednesdays and Fridays. Site locations can be hand-out meals directly to any walkers and/or bike found on their website. TESTING LOCATIONS riders that may lack motor-vehicle transportation. Site locations can be found on their website. BayCare Testing, Hillsborough County BayCare.org, 1-800-BayCare Government Testing, Pre-screening is necessary before accessing a HillsboroughCounty.org, 813-272-5900 TESTING locations COVID-19 testing site and is available via virtual Pre-screening and registration are required at all visit at BayCareAnywhere.org. For patients without sites. Testing will be administered to individuals Orange County Government, AdventHealth has a non-mobile testing site at insurance, tests are $85 at any BayCare facility who have registered weekdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. OCFL.net/COVID19 the Mall at Millenia by appointment only. For more but not due at testing. BayCare is working with There is no charge for the test and residents are not information, visit AdventHealth.com governmental agencies to secure funding. For required to have health insurance. Orange County is offering free mobile testing, M-F, 8 patients with insurance, the federal government has a.m.-5 p.m., by appointment only. Testing is free, for UCF, in partnership with Aventus Biolabs, has a noted all payors should cover tests. Contact your Testing sites include Raymond James Stadium, at those 18 or older and available to Orange County non-mobile testing site available by appointment insurance company for more information. 4201 N. Dale Mabry Hwy. in Tampa; Lee Davis residents only. Call 407-723-5004 to make your only at its main campus. For more information, visit Community Resource Center, at 3402 N. 22nd St. in appointment. Visit the website to find which mobile AventusBiolabs.com. There is also a non-mobile BayCare Urgent Care (Carillon) tests 8-11 a.m. on Tampa; Plant City Community Resource Center, at testing site is closest to you. testing site at UCF’s Lake Nona Cancer Center. weekdays at 900 Carillon Parkway, Ste. 106 in 307 N. Michigan Ave. in Plant City and SouthShore Testing is by appointment only and requires either St. Petersburg. Gulf High School tests weekdays Non-mobile testing sites are available at the Orange Community Resource Center, at 201 14th Ave. SE in an order for a test from your health care provider County Convention Center daily, starting at 9 a.m. from 8-11 a.m. at 5355 School Rd. in Port Richey. Ruskin. Raymond James offers drive-thru only. or requires you to be a patient at UCF Health. UCF until the daily limit is reached. No appointment employees may also be tested at this site. For more needed. This site is a drive-thru site and is open information, visit UCF.edu. only to individuals with respiratory symptoms, preexisting conditions, first responders, heath care workers and those who believe they have had close contact with someone who tested positive.

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18 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com Essential Heroes LGBTQ workers reflect on COVID-19 from the frontlines

Jeremy Williams and Ryan Williams-Jent hile the world is still

pandemic has already taught us many W grapplinglessons with about its effects, society. the It COVID-19has shown us how vulnerable the world is to a health crisis, how resilient and innovative people can be and, most importantly, that no single profession is more needed than any other in our communities.

orders,The phrasesocial distancing “essential guidelinesworkers” began and filtering into our daily lexicon as Stay-At-Home our routines. They are the people who put their self-quarantininglives on the line to measures go to work became every daya part so ofthe rest of us can stay safe and healthy in our homes. They’re also those who help lift our spirits while we’re there. They are the nurses and doctors, the food service workers, the grocery store clerks and stockers, truck drivers, factory workers, police

They not only provide the goods and services officers,needed entertainers to keep us and going, countless they risk others. their own mental and physical health for each of us in the process.

of these essential industries, a patient careWe technician,spoke to LGBTQ a server, workers a food in four delivery driver and an entertainer, to learn what it’s like for these heroes as they keep our communities moving from the frontlines.

Continued on pg. 19 | uu |

watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com 19 Delivering Hope Serving With Care Tanaine Jenkins, DoorDash food deliver Mocha Skye, Pom Pom’s server Jeremy Williams Jeremy Williams

anaine Jenkins is one of the estaurants are some of the hardest hit businesses during these trying times. has become a catchall term for those who work in millions of gig workers in the state. Gig worker Rorders people have not been going out to eat and won’t be Tnontraditional employment like freelancers, performers able to forBetween the foreseeable social distancing future. In and a booming Stay-At-Home tourism town like Orlando that has resulted in a lot of uncertainty andstate, andthose most who of them are work self-employed. several different gigs. for many people. Florida’s workforce is estimated to be about 20% gig workers, the highest of any

“I am actually a YouTuber, a freelance writer and a published author,” Jenkins says.While “I also Jenkins do food enjoys delivery the work,for DoorDash. she actually I’ve steppedbeen a Dasher away from for about doing two food and a Mocha Skye is a server at two of Orlando’s hottest LGBTQ eateries — Hamburger half years.” Mary’s and Pom Pom’s Teahouse. Pom Pom’s is down to filling takeout and delivery pandemic came to the U.S. orders. Hamburger Mary’s has closed until further notice. deliveries earlier this year to focus on some of her other gigs, and then the COVID-19 “[Hamburger Mary’s] didn’t want to put their own workers in danger with what’s would increase and I wanted to make sure everyone was still able to get their goingNow on,” her Skye sole says. job isShe working was furloughed, at Pom Pom’s, along where with theshe rest started of the working staff, on last March “When the lockdown happened, I started back up because I knew food requests 17. April 1 would have been Skye’s 3-year mark at Mary’s. Jenkins is now back to delivering fulltime. In an eight hour day she makes about orders,” she says. October,provide thatfilling service takeout to ourorders. guests and give them the complete experience but now that“People has been came eliminated. to Pom’s inThat part was because the heart of the and atmosphere,” soul for me Skyeof what says. we “We provide want to to 30Jenkins deliveries, says that a significant she is taking increase all of fromthe necessary what she precautionsand other Dashers and that were DoorDash doing is priorhelping to herStay-At-Home and all of their orders. drivers While to themake worry sure of that catching is happening. COVID-19 is always there, While she misses seeing her customers in the restaurant, Skye realizes what she andthe community.the crew at PomPom’s Pom’s isn’t justis doing a restaurant; now is still it’s an a safeessential space service. for the community.” the company would be providing all of us with gloves, masks and hand sanitizer for “[Dashers] all got an email when this started to happen from DoorDash saying In these unprecedented times, what it means to be an essential worker has “Essential workers are the ones who make sure that our community is still up and changedfree,” she for says. everyone in the country, but the importance of delivery service workers running,” she says. “Yes, it’s the nurses and the paramedics and the firemen and the hit home for Jenkins when she made a recent delivery. policeEven officers; with losing but at one the job same and time, having without the hours your cut grocery back storeon another, clerk, withoutSkye still your has server,helping without others on a cook, her mind. there are certain needs in our society that just don’t get met.” too long ago and I put the food at her door because she had requested a no contact delivery.“In some So casesI put itwe’re at her people’s door and lifeline,” I stood Jenkins back by says. my “Icar delivered to make tosure a woman that she not got she says. Skye has been sewing since she was 8 years old and was planning on the order. When she came to the door to get the order, she saw me and she told me starting“To help her keep own my business mind focused sewing andunderwear clear, I have for trans been making masks for people,” how much she appreciated us because she herself has an autoimmune disorder and women before the world came to a stop. cannot go out. She was telling me how thankful she was for services like this and She had a collection of fabrics in various colors and patterns as well as a stockpile of elastic that she Jenkins is overwhelmed by the community response to essential workers right repurposed to make masks. The masks are also helping nowthat sheand didn’t hopes know that people how she still would remember survive this right feeling now afterwithout things it.” start to get Skye to supplement some of the income she has back to normal. sells them for $10, and the same respect that they’re giving us shelost doesbecause custom of COVID-19. She “I want people to understand that we werenow, here I wantwhen them they neededto continue us most, to give and orders for $15. us that respect whenever this all goes

look at those in fast food or food back,”delivery she assays. like “Sometimes they can’t do people anything else. I do a lot of other things, but I do this because I enjoy it and everyone’s always happy

to see me.”

20 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com streaming relief healing with heart Kirk DaVinci, virtual virtuoso Angelique Padro, patient care technician Ryan Williams-Jent Ryan Williams-Jent

ith more than 10 pageant ngelique Padro entered medical titles under his belt, performer Kirk DaVinci school to make a difference. Not just for herself but knows how to captivate audiences. Afor the Tampa Bay community who had supported WWith each of the Tampa Bay and Central Florida performer’s wins, which most recently include Mr. Polk Pride 2019 and Mr. Tampa Pride 2020, he strives to exhibit She had always seen helping others as the most rewarding aspect of taking the persistence, resilience, involvement, dedication and education throughout his reign. herstage, as from the volunteering performer for fundraisers Lady Janet to helping for moreothers forget than their 10 troublesyears. one song at a time. It informed her new career in unexpected ways – and while she still industry as a whole, he says. COVID-19 has presented new challenges for that and for the LGBTQ entertainment impacted by statewide social distancing guidelines, event cancellations and venue entertains, she now finds herself in scrubs more often than she does in the spotlight. Entertainers financially dependent on booking fees and tips have been severely “I went on the journey of going to school because I wanted a better quality of life, butAfter most graduating of all because with I wantedtop honors, to inspire Padro my completed other trans her sisters,”clinical trainingPadro explains. with closures. While made in the necessary efforts to reduce COVID-19’s spread, DaVinci As Mr. Tampa Pride, it’s part of what led him to spearhead a digital Tampa Pride “To let them know that we are capable of fulfilling any job in any industry.” explains, “it’s a huge source of income that has been lost.” health care system until she was subsequently hired full time. BayCare, learning hands-on skills directly from Tampa Bay’s leading not-for-profit weekend with the organization’s support after in-person festivities were postponed. He welcomed nearly 50 of the previously scheduled performers to screens March She fully expected to love her new field, but didn’t expect to enter it at the height 27-29 to raise awareness, funds and lift socially-distant spirits. came together, we had to add more entertainers to the lineup. People had fun, they of a pandemic. “It’s very challenging,” she says. “I literally got out of school to start “We put the whole weekend together in 48 hours,” DaVinci reflects. “Once it all dealingIn part, with that’s COVID-19, because to personal something protective so major equipment – people are (PPE) really, has really been sick greatly and we The response prompted him to launch DaVinci’s Digital Days the following have a lot of testing for the coronavirus. It’s very scary.” were entertained and the performers made some money.” diminished. “Before COVID-19 you could find masks on every door in every room,” weekend.four entertainers The recurring, per day three-day who accept digital tips viaexperience Cash App, is heldPayPal Fridays and Venmo. from 10-11 They’re shePadro says of is herresponsible hospital. for“People working started directly taking with them patients and even and me,other working medical there, p.m., Saturdays from 9-10 p.m. and Sundays from 12:30-1:30 p.m. and welcomes I have to sign paperwork to get masks.” each allotted 15-minute timeslots to engage viewers. professionalsShe works onadditional numerous days tasks. when They’re able and completed longer hours in 12-hour when shiftsnecessary three – daysnoting “We have to use the means we have when we can,” DaVinci explains. “A few perthat week, rest is beginning critical to eachprotect morning herself at and 6:45 those a.m. she’s helping – but fears that rest entertainers have told me that they’ve made $100 in their 15 minutes.” DaVinci says the benefits aren’t strictly monetary, noting that the experience has been surprising from entertainers and audiences alike. “We’re all struggling right helpful just to see the amount of people who are watching. It’s nice to see that you’re could soon become a luxury. “It’s do or die and it seems like a lot of people haven’t now, we’re all going through it,” he explains, “but even if people are unable to tip, it’s entertaining people again, that you’re encouraging them and giving them something realized that yet,” she says. “People want to reopen places,” she continues, “but what happens when this gets That desire is the bedrock of the group, which currently welcomes nearly 2,000 ofworse? the pandemic. People that work in the health care field are not machines.” to enjoy during this time.” That’s evident in her empathy. Padro uses it earnestly to reflect on the front lines people to its public Facebook page. “God put me on this earth to make people laugh her“It hand, breaks I could my heart speak that to her;people families are dying can’t alone,” do and put a smile on people’s faces,” DaVinci says. always trying to make sure everybody’s having she says. “When my mother died I could hold “Whether I’m hosting, singing or performing, I’m general public considers health care workers To that end, he welcomes any and all to whenthat with making these decisions patients.” about It’s her social hope distancing. that the ajoin good the time.” group, which shares videos from each performer for public viewing in one digital locale. overrun and there will not be enough resources to Previous performances are also available, “You need to stay home. Hospitals could become dating back to Tampa Pride’s digital which person is going to live and which person’s weekend, accessible by searching goingsave people,” to die. I’m she really says. scared,“It’s going I’m to not be choosing on Facebook. Padro asserts that she and joining “DaVinci’s Digital Days” goingfully understands to lie.” and accepts the risks, however “We provide entertainment for others,that I go but by it’s– live also life, beneficial love life forand one of our patients gets us,”have DaVinci individuality. says. “I Wehave know a motto this seriousit, there theyis the become. possibility “If is a rough time for everyone, but don’t forget to love isthat what I will I signed be contaminated,” up for, sheit’s whatexplains. I love “But to do. this yourself. Don’t give up.”

That’s my duty.”

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24 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com announcements tampa bay in + out CONDOLENCES Brandon’s PJ McClelland died April 11 from COVID-19 complications. They will be missed. Lakeland’s Jesse Robbins died April 23. He will be missed. CONGRATULATIONS Daryn Bauer was named Community Engagement Director at The Florida Orchestra April 9. The Players Centre for Performing Arts officially celebrated their 90th anniversary April 18. Equality Florida raised $56,817 during its nearly 1 2 eight-hour virtual fundraiser April 26. CANCELLATIONS/ 3 HAIR CARE: Nick POSTPONEMENTS Cardello (R) cuts husband 1 Kurt’s hair from home, The Straz Center for the Performing Arts has extended the a first after 28 years. PHOTO suspension of all events through May 31. Until they can COURTESY NICK CARDELLO reopen, they and Jobsite Theater have launched a number BEDTIME BEAUTY: of virtual events on social media and their websites. Stephanie Stuart streams Polk Pride, originally scheduled for June 13-20, has been 2 Pasco Pride’s virtual storytime reading April 20. rescheduled to Sept. 26-Oct. 4. The Polk Pride System has PHOTO COURTESY VYN SUAZION cancelled its 2020 Polk Pride pageant. #STRONGERTOGETHER: 4 5 Tampa Bay LGBT Chamber President Local Birthdays 3Justice Gennari steps outside to launch a cross-chamber Tampa licensed mental health counselor Anthony “We Are Stronger Together” Quaglieri, St. Petersburg mainstay Russell Sutherland campaign April 27. PHOTO COURTESY TB LGBT CHAMBER (April 30); St. Petersburg communication pro Josh Cruz, St. Petersburg city and coffee lover Corey Malyszka, LIFESAVERS: Tombolo myXOadventures owner Daniel Milks, FedEx ground Books Founder Alsace employee Marcus Brewer (May 2); Tampa Pride president 4 Walentine reps her fundraising merch April 16. Carrie West (May 3); Tampa Crowbar owner Bonnie PHOTO COURTESY TOMBOLO BOOKS Plumbtree, St. Petersburg author Richard Randall, St Pete Pride husband Robert Brennan, St. Petersburg Officer MCGREAT: Matthew Chris Bragg (May 5); Enigma bartender Justin Palmer, McGee entertains during Equality Florida Live from Tampa Bay bartender Jon Jusino (May 6); Tampa Bay 5 freeFall Theatre April 26. PHOTO performer Tim Cain (May 7); St. Petersburg server Jason COURTESY EQUALITY FLORIDA Grawey (May 8); Mad Hatters Ethnobotanical Kava Bar manager Sarah Wilson, Travel advisor Terry Thompson FAM-TASTIC: (L-R) Andy, Koda, Reilly and (May 9); St. Petersburg gender therapist Tristan Byrnes, 6 Sasha Citino proudly former USF executive admin assistant Eric Anderson, expand their family April 25. PHOTO COURTESY ANDY CITINO Metro Inclusive Health program specialist Hannah Powell (May 10); Tampa Bay massage therapist Alexis GUITAR HERO: Vyn 6 Acevedo, Pasco County Democratic Chairwoman Alison Suazion promotes Berke Morano, Tampa nursing home director Scott J. 7 Pasco Pride’s “Music with Mr. V” April 24. PHOTO Allen, Tampa insurance executive Jeff Giles, CitySide COURTESY VYN SUAZION Lounge owner James Encke, Ybor City Barbering Co. co-owner Lauren Harmon, Florida Trans Proud founder IN THE KITCHEN: Chefs Denise Johnson (May 11); Lutz real estate agent Kenny Jim (L) and Jon Jusino 8 volunteer with Project Braverman, Tampa activist Stephanie Leaf (May 12); No Labels to help supply food Tampa Bay super volunteer Jeremy Wade Neiman, for Food Not Bombs. PHOTO COURTESY PROJECT NO LABELS Sarasota medical specialist Dr. Sporty Damon Paul Harper (May 13) 8

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28 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com announcements central florida in + out

Virtual Shows Heather Abood’s next Bathtub Cabaret Happy Hour will be on Facebook Live May 2.

April Fresh hosts an online, Mother’s Day edition of 2 Comedy Brunch May 10.

The LGBT+ Center Orlando will virtually host “Drag Queen Story Hour: After Dark” May 14.

One Orlando Alliance kicked off a virtual version of its annual “Acts of Love and Kindness” movement April 25. From now until June 12, OOA encourages individuals to safely perform simple acts of love and kindness and post about them using the hashtag 1 3 #ActLoveGive.

Orlando Fringe is hosting virtual, filmed shows from some of your favorite Fringe performers at TheLawn. OrlandoFringe.org. Check out the virtual lawn for shows, times and ways you can donate.

Enzian Theater is offering Enzian On Demand as a way to bring independent cinema to you at home. Visit Enzian.org for a list of available films. Local Birthdays UCF’s former GLBSU president Jessica Osborn 4 5 6 (April 30); Orlando DJ Brianna Lee from Parliament House, Orlando Shakes marketing director Christian Knightly (May 1); Central Florida entertainer BeeJay Aubertin Clinton (May 2); Central Florida entertainer College Park Couple: Words Matter: Equality Jamie Lee (aka Sassy Divine), Southern Nights 26Health’s Debo Ofsowitz Florida’s Gina Duncan sends (L) and wife Milena words of encouragement Orlando bartender Autumn Michelle (May 3); MBA 1 5 spend quality time together at as she is in quarantine at her Orlando leadership committee’s Katherine Bardelon their College Park home. Photo home in Central Florida. Photo courstesy Debo Ofsowitz courtesy Gina Duncan (May 4); Sierra Club senior campaign representative Susannah Randolph, Fantastic parent and man about Hair Today: Self(ie)-isolation: The town Clay Emerson (May 5); Orange County officer Parliament House’s Center’s George Wallace Lance Colford (May 6); The Pride Chamber’s Sherri 2 Darcel Stevens shows 6 grabs a selfie while he off his new bearded look from follows the Stay-At-Home order. Absher, Wet Nurse drummer Vanessa Brewster his Orlando home. Photo Photo courtesy George Wallace (May 7); Watermark cover model Al Pfeiffer (May courtesy of Darcel Stevens 7 8); DJ extraordinaire Scott Robert (May 9); Southern Masked Singers: Nights bartender Gabrielle Juliana (May 10); Pulse Pour me a Drink: Broadway Brunch Bunch’s Singer Billy Mick (L) and 7 Jimmi Rossi (L) and Justin Orlando legend Cindy Barbalock. 3 husband Brian spend Shakeri use their quarantine their time quarantining to time to make masks for people. share a few glasses of wine. Photo courtesy Justin Shakeri Photo courtesy Billy Mick Do you have an announcement? Having a birthday or Cute Companion: anniversary? Did you get a new job or promotion? Two’s Company: The Center’s Roxy Savoy owner Brandon Santiago hangs out See your news in Watermark! Send your 8 Bracale-Llewellyn (L) with her cat, “who wants me announcement to [email protected] or go 4 and Alan Bracamonte follow the out of the house,” during the to WatermarkOnline.com/Submit-a-Transition. Stay-At-Home order together Stay-At-Home order in Orlando. in Orlando. Photo courtesy Photo courtesy Roxy Santiago It’s that easy! Brandon Bracale-Llewellyn

watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com 29 30 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 30 - May 13, 2020 // Issue 27.09 watermarkonline.com 31 THE INTERNET SAYS I HAVE MOSQUITO BITES OR IT’S THE BLACK PLAGUE. You might want to get a second opinion. Rest assured — a real doctor can tell you what’s really going on. OrlandoHealth.com/RealDr

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