Local Organizations Take on the Issue of LGBTQ Homelessness in These Uncertain Times

Your LGBTQ Life.

April 2 - 15, 2020 • Issue 27.07

Tampa Bay LGBTQ spaces announce COVID-19 closures Local organizations take on the Tidal Wave cancels issue of LGBTQ homelessness June 2020 parties in these uncertain times

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4 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com departments Homelessness is really a symptom to a problem. It’s a symptom of a lack of inclusion in society, in the workplace and in people’s 7 // Bureau Chief’s Desk families … If we can treat the root cause, which is inclusion, then page 10 // Central Florida News we hope to see homelessness decrease. 22 – OneOrlando Alliance Executive Director Jennifer Foster 12// Tampa Bay News 15// State, Nation & World news 17// Talking Points 25// Tampa Bay Inside + Out 27// Central Fl Inside + Out 28// Tampa Bay Marketplace 30// Central Fl Marketplace 34// Community & COVID-19

On the cover

page Where can they Go?: page WHERE CAN THEY Central Florida and Tampa Bay activists GO? Organizations take discuss LGBTQ homelessness in 21 on LGBTQ homelessness. 21 uncertain times. Photo sourced public domain stock imagery. Watermark Issue 27.07 // April 2 - April 15, 2020 Extended Hibernation community champ Tough Spot CAN’s Plan

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 Tidal Wave Party cancels page Activist and realtor Robert page Postponed AIDS Walk page CAN Community Health 10 June events. 12 Barnum passes away. 15 worries Florida nonprofits. 34 CEO discusses COVID-19.

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6 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com town in my stepfather’s ’57 Chevy. for the LGBTQ community in An 11-year old car of the same Tampa Bay and beyond to the contributors make could certainly rev again drag performers who entertain us from the ashes. As the old saying goes, they support those that support us. Lora don’t make ‘em like they used to. at ourThat benefits includes and Watermark, bars, we must Korpar is It was a fact stressed to me by not which has proudly served a journalism one, not two, but three mechanics Tampa Bay and Central Florida student at the for more than 25 years, bringing that refused to even pop its hood. University of The fourth graciously offered to you LGBTQ-focused local, state Central Florida and a former charge me $100 to diagnose the and national stories. Your stories. Watermark intern. She plans to tampa bay problem, if I could pay for a tow to We fully intend to continue graduate in Spring 2020. Page 45 their shop, a potential precursor bringing that community-based, bureau chief’s to thousands more in repairs. independent journalism to you Just like that, I had rededicated via our eNewsletter, website, the Richard E. myself to a car payment-clad Carlisle existence. From behind the and of course, our print edition. became CAN’s Ryan That’sPDF flipthrough why we’ve of been our newspaperworking third president diligently to detail COVID-19’s and CEO in 2015 Williams-Jent significantly more beautiful wheel impact on our communities in and served as vice president of TB bureau chief of myMy Kiacommutes Soul, I’d had also leapt finally nearly ways only our community can. Sarasota Memorial Hospital for [email protected] adeveloped decade into that the affinity future. for I had cars. 15 years. CAN Community Health features I could’ve only dreamed is headquartered in Sarasota Desk of just days prior – CarPlay, a We must support and is the third-largest private rearview camera, functioning those that support provider of HIV services in the turn signals and speakers with nation. Page 34 f my 35 years on this planet sound – and I couldn’t have been us. happier. While I wasn’t ecstatic and love of ridiculous memes have taught me about making a monthly payment, anything, it’s that life comes at you fast. I recognized that at long last I was As sales decline in our family Sabrina Ambra, Nathan Bruemmer, making one that was worth it. A of advertisers, however, so do Scottie Campbell, Miguel Fuller, Divine Grace, Holly Kapherr Alejos, IThe last few months have new day had dawned. ours. We ask that you please Jason Leclerc, Melody Maia Monet, certainly reminded me that’s the newfound respect for showing It quickly set. Just days after support them, all of whom Jerick Mediavilla, Greg Stemm, case. “I’ve never had a particular carsfive years some withoutmuch-needed one. “I tender have a I readied my initial payment, support you, and if you would Dr. Steve yacovelli, Michael wanzie our country collectively seemed like to purchase a subscription very column Feb. 6, a lifetime ago My car died almost to begin grasping how woefully or make a one-time monetary nowaffinity that for the cars,” world I wrote is grappling in this immediatelyloving care.” afterwards. It was unprepared we were as a nation contribution to our efforts, please with COVID-19. “I’ve always been as if it had read my column, in for COVID-19. In the blink of an do so at WatermarkOnline.com. photography grateful to own the ones I have … which I declared my penchant for eye, we became the epicenter of Every bit helps. I’ve just never been one to covet expecting the unexpected, and the deadly virus. In these uncertain times Brian Becnel, Nick Cardello, the latest make or model to move decided to play daily rounds of It certainly prompted in me and before, organizations in Bruce Hardin, Jamarqus Mosley, Chris Stephenson, Lee Vandergrift roadside roulette. much more widespread fears than Tampa Bay and Central Florida All true, leading me to detail Completely at random, my making a car payment. Fears for have dedicated themselves to theabout very town.” long, bumpy road engine began slipping into low my parents in Ohio; my lifelines. addressing homelessness in the I traveled to my car payment-less power mode. Turning the ignition Fears for my family elsewhere, LGBTQ community. We examine distribution 30s. After nearly two decades yielded either the ability to go for my husband and for our their efforts at length in this wherever I wanted, sometimes as friends-turned-family in Florida, issue. In news, we continue our LVNLIF2 Distributing, Ken Carraway, understood the importance of if nothing had changed and more without whom we’d be lost. COVID-19 coverage, detailing Vanessa Maresca-Cruz regularlybehind the scheduled wheel, I finally maintenance They’re fears we’re all facing its wide-ranging impact on and thanks to YouTube learned to per hour, or to go nowhere at all. as we collectively confront LGBTQ businesses, individuals become somewhat of a makeshift Whatoften atan a adventure maximum it of was. five miles the unprecedented economic and organizations throughout CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal mechanic myself. I tried to save my not-so-trusty and social fallout of this global Tampa Bay and Central Florida. copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole “I’ve rededicated myself to steed. It was only a 2009 so I was or part without the permission of the publisher. pandemic, one we can only We strive to bring you a variety Unsolicited article submissions will not be returned convinced that I could, having triumph over if we do so together. of stories, your stories. Thank you unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped I asserted, celebrating more than grown up gallivanting across envelope. Although WATERMARK is supported for making that possible. by many fine advertisers, we cannot accept a car payment-free existence,” responsibility for claims made by advertisers. From the nonprofits that fight Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising, or listing in WATERMARK is not to be construed as watermark staff any indication of the sexual orientation of such Orlando Office persons or members of such organizations. CFL Bureau Chief: WATERMARK is published every second Senior Tampa Bay Account Manager: 1300 N. Semoran Blvd. Thursday. Subscription rate is $55 Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Sales Director: Russ Martin • Ext. 303 Ste 250 (1st class) and $26 (standard mail). Owner & Publisher: [email protected] Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Rick Claggett • Ext. 110 [email protected] Orlando, FL 32807 The official views of WATERMARK are expressed only Tampa Bay Bureau Chief: [email protected] in editorials. Opinions offered in signed columns, [email protected] Founder and Guiding Light: TEL: 407-481-2243 Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Senior Orlando Account Manager: letters and articles are those of the writers and do not Tom Dyer necessarily represent the opinions of the newspaper’s Business Manager: [email protected] Sam Callahan • Ext. 103 Kathleen Sadler • Ext. 101 [email protected] owner or management. We reserve the right to edit Creative/Photographer: [email protected] Tampa Bay Office or reject any material submitted for publication. [email protected] Dylan Todd • Ext. 102 National Ad Representative: 401 33rd Street N. WATERMARK is not responsible for damages due to [email protected] Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863 typographical errors, except for the cost of replacing St. Petersburg, FL 33713 ads created by WATERMARK that have such errors.

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watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com 7

governments as “essential” during is taking the time to read this and this pandemic, and are being every other story in Watermark. contributors praised on social media by some I believe in this newspaper, of the same individuals who just a in the mission we serve and the few months ago complained that service we provide, and if we all Lora look out for each other we too will Korpar is “stocking cans” doesn’t deserve get through this. a journalism someone “flipping burgers” or $15 an hour. Those same people In this issue, we take student at the an in-depth look at LGBTQ who you call on to deliver your University of medicine, food and diapers so you homelessness in Central Florida central florida Central Florida and a former can stay safe are the same people and Tampa Bay and ways that Watermark intern. She plans to bureau chief’s who last year many of you said community organizations are weren’t doing jobs that warranted trying to help. In Central Florida graduate in Spring 2020. Page 45 being paid a living wage and news, Tidal Wave Party announces Richard E. My hope after this pandemic Orlando’s Big LGBTQ weekend in Carlisle endsgetting is thathealth we benefits. remember these Juneit is the and first a pair group of Orlando’s to bow out biggest of became CAN’s Jeremy Williams festivals adjust schedules. In third president cfl bureau chief just as we did for the military after Tampa Bay news, we say goodbye and CEO in 2015 [email protected] heroes who sacrificed for us and, to a local hero who lost his battle and served as vice president of Sarasota Memorial Hospital for Desk 9/11,If this fight pandemic for them has to get taught pay us 15 years. CAN Community Health anythingraises and it benefits. is that no person is My hope after this is headquartered in Sarasota expendable, no job is more needed and is the third-largest private had been in the U.S. Air Force for than any other and in order for our pandemic ends is provider of HIV services in the communities to thrive we must nation. Page 34 seven months when the 9/11 terrorist respect and depend on everyone that we remember attacks happened. and recognize that everyone has worth and purpose. these heroes who IIt being nearly 20 years ago Sabrina Ambra, Nathan Bruemmer, I also hope that after the fear since that life-changing event of this situation fades we all sacrificed for us. Scottie Campbell, Miguel Fuller, firstNow responders here we theare wayin 2020 we treat Divine Grace, Holly Kapherr Alejos, happened, I can’t remember remember those elected leaders Jason Leclerc, Melody Maia Monet, everything that occurred in my life withcelebrities a global and pandemic influencers. that is who fought for these things even with COVID-19 and check in with Jerick Mediavilla, Greg Stemm, after Sept. 11, 2001; however, I do crippling the world’s economy and before a pandemic and continue to more closures. Dr. Steve yacovelli, Michael wanzie remember people being shocked impacting the health of hundreds Due to the economic impact of and scared. I remember my family of thousands of people and killing I also hope we remember the the coronavirus, Watermark will and friends being worried and not off tens of thousands. We have vote to keep them in office. not have any Arts & Entertainment knowing what was coming next. absorbed new words into our features or Viewpoint columns photography I also remember seeing daily lives like coronavirus, social orderelected to officials have a greatwho saideconomy certain and in this issue; however, we do celebrities and politicians on rememberlives were worth those senatorssacrificing who in check in with a local healthcare Brian Becnel, Nick Cardello, television, and hearing ordinary We’ve also started to notice new knew how bad this pandemic was professional to get an update on Bruce Hardin, Jamarqus Mosley, Chris Stephenson, Lee Vandergrift people in letters and on the street groupsdistancing of workers and flattening who, during the curve. a going to get and decided to sell the current pandemic. thanking me for my service. time of crisis, have stepped up and off stocks instead of warning the These are chaotic times we are Thanking every man and woman in become our heroes: Healthcare country, and let’s make sure that in right now so be safe, take care workers, grocery store clerks, they are never allowed to make and please stay informed. The distribution fast food workers, truck drivers, decisions for us again. hardest thing to see in a time like respondersuniform for andtheir our sacrifice. leaders stay-at-home caregivers, delivery Times are tough for nearly this is the spread of false medical LVNLIF2 Distributing, Ken Carraway, They thanked our first drivers and many, many more who everyone right now, this company information that can be dangerous Vanessa Maresca-Cruz protecting and safeguarding our continue to tend to the sick, stock included, so I also want to thank to a person’s health. Make communitiesfor acting fast in and uncertain selflessly times. shelves and deliver goods, putting every single Watermark employee Congress passed legislation to their own health in jeopardy for stepping up, I want to thank and factual. CONTENTS of WATERMARK are protected by federal to keep you safe and sound every advertiser who was able sureRemember, what you shareyou and is verified the truth copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole and songs were written praising in your homes. or part without the permission of the publisher. to stick it out with us even as our both matter so be sure to take Unsolicited article submissions will not be returned allincrease these heroes.military Rightfully pay and benefits so These are workers who have cities and counties began shutting care of both. unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped we treated servicemembers and been declared by local and federal envelope. Although WATERMARK is supported down and I want to thank you who by many fine advertisers, we cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising, or listing in WATERMARK is not to be construed as watermark staff any indication of the sexual orientation of such Orlando Office persons or members of such organizations. CFL Bureau Chief: WATERMARK is published every second Senior Tampa Bay Account Manager: 1300 N. Semoran Blvd. Thursday. Subscription rate is $55 Jeremy Williams • Ext. 106 Sales Director: Russ Martin • Ext. 303 Ste 250 (1st class) and $26 (standard mail). Owner & Publisher: [email protected] Danny Garcia • Ext. 108 Rick Claggett • Ext. 110 [email protected] Orlando, FL 32807 The official views of WATERMARK are expressed only Tampa Bay Bureau Chief: [email protected] in editorials. Opinions offered in signed columns, [email protected] Founder and Guiding Light: TEL: 407-481-2243 Ryan Williams-Jent • Ext. 302 Senior Orlando Account Manager: letters and articles are those of the writers and do not Tom Dyer necessarily represent the opinions of the newspaper’s Business Manager: [email protected] Sam Callahan • Ext. 103 Kathleen Sadler • Ext. 101 [email protected] owner or management. We reserve the right to edit Creative/Photographer: [email protected] Tampa Bay Office or reject any material submitted for publication. [email protected] Dylan Todd • Ext. 102 National Ad Representative: 401 33rd Street N. WATERMARK is not responsible for damages due to [email protected] Rivendell Media Inc. • 212-242-6863 typographical errors, except for the cost of replacing St. Petersburg, FL 33713 ads created by WATERMARK that have such errors.

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watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com 7 Reach local LGBT communities across the nation.

Start connecting with over a million loyal readers in print and online across the country. 212-242-6863 [email protected] www.nationallgbtmediaassociation.com

8 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com Barbara Leach is here to support Watermark and the LGBTQ community.

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watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com 9 central florida news

Orlando festivals announce date changes, cancellations Jeremy Williams

RLANDO | The Florida Film Festival and the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival both Oannounced changes to their schedules as more and more Central Florida events are postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Enzian Theater announced March 17 that its annual Florida Film Festival , scheduled for April 17-26, would be postponed to a later date this year. “While this postponement is regretful and hard to swallow considering the thousands of hours that the staff Extended and selection committees have devoted to creating an Hybernation: amazing festival, moving it from April is clearly the safest A Tidal Wave bear pool party in 2018. Photo by thing to do. Every effort will be made to bring as much ofthing the forlineup our backaudiences as possible and filmmakers, for the reschedule and the laterright in Jake Stevens

of available rooms at the B anthe incredible year. We’re time confident a few months that Central from Floridanow,” said film Matthew lovers Resort for 2021. Curtis,and visiting Florida filmmakers Film Festival will programmingbe just as excited, director, and havein Less than a day after Tidal Wave a statement. Bear Party Cancelled made the announcement, scammers Enzian is tentatively aiming to reschedule the festival began trying to take advantage of for August; however, no exact dates have been announced. Tidal Wave cancels June events, those who had tickets and room Two days later, Orlando Fringe — scheduled for May reservations, the group said. Tidal 12-25 — announced it would be cancelling its 29th festival Wave made several posts on its outright and launch the next full festival in May 2021. scammers try to capitalize Facebook page, one with a text “This is an extremely hard decision. Please know how message and one with an event’s much conversation and thought has brought us to this Jeremy Williams Tidal Wave has been working page, both falsely stating the group point,” said Orlando Fringe Executive Director Alauna with the B Resort and Expo Pass, the was purchased and the 2020 events Frickics in a statement. “We have worked countless group’s ticket vendor, and presented were still going on as planned. RLANDO | As the number of two options to individuals who “All of the accurate and factual believe this is the most prudent course so the festival can COVID-19 cases continues to purchased tickets and hotel packages information can be found on our comefinancial back scenarios, strong next and year.” considered all stakeholders. We Ogrow in the U.S., Tidal Wave for this year’s event. website,” Tidal Wave wrote. “Please The statement goes on to encourage those who planned report this event and share to ensure to attend the festival to make a donation to the United Arts group to cancel its 2020 events for 2020 Tidal Wave ticket and B Resort no one is harmed by this person.” Party has officially become the first The first option is to move your of Central Florida’s Collaborative Campaign for the Arts, reservations to the 2021 dates. The The fake event page lists a which helps support local arts and culture. LGBTQ celebration. second option is to cancel the room website PigletWeek.ecwid.com Orlando’s first weekend of June “You love this festival. You are driven by passion and a “Tidal Wave is a labor of love and tickets for a full refund. with a Fort Lauderdale phone love for an event that brings people together in a way that for us and we did not come to “We are pleased to announce that number (area code 954). The text binds us like family. We will hold onto that feeling during this decision easily,” the group we were able to negotiate current message, which reads “We bought this unsettling time, and know we will be back better and wrote in a statement posted to its contract room pricing with the B out their cancellation at the B. Tidal stronger next year,” the statement reads. website March 28. Resort,” Tidal Wave states. “If you Wave Orlando is back on,” came The Florida Film Festival and Orlando Fringe are some Tidal Wave has hosted the bear maintain your 2020 Tidal Wave from a Central Florida number of the largest entertainment festivals in Central Florida. community’s annual celebration tickets & hotel room reservation as (321 area code) and refers back to Orlando Fringe is the oldest and largest Fringe Festival during Gay Day at the Magic is, we will transfer both ticket and the 954 number. in the U.S. The 14-day festival hosts upwards of 75,000 Kingdom weekend for the last 14 hotel room type for 2021, ensuring The website address for the patrons at theaters throughout Central Florida each year. years and planned to hold this year’s that current pricing structure fake event takes you to the Beach This year’s Florida Film Festival had received 2,845 event at the B Resort & Spa June 4-8. is honored.” Bear Weekend page. Beach Bear submissions from 101 countries. The festival intended to Tidal Wave 14 will now take place Cancellations will incur a Weekend is an LGBTQ event which June 3-7, 2021. 4.95% processing fee unless your in the past has been promoted by selected, 174 had premiere status, including 29 world “We did consider rescheduling cancellation was done before April Craig Jungwirth, a Florida man who premieres.screen 195 Thisfilms, year’s representing lineup also 41 wouldcountries. have Of featured the films 97 it for later in the year,” the group 1 and result in a forfeiture of the was arrested in 2016 in connection wrote. “But with all the uncertainty room reservation, meaning if later to social media posts threatening attended by more than 23,000 people each year. about the progression of the virus you decide to attend in 2021 you will a Pulse-style attack against the films from women directors. The Florida Film Festival is and when things will return to need to rebook the room and tickets. LGBTQ community in South Florida. For more information on the Florida Film Festival’s programming and future ‘normal’ we just aren’t comfortable Tidal Wave states that anyone The case was later dropped due to dates, visit FloridaFilmFestival.com. For information on the Orlando Fringe rescheduling the event for later who booked at the DoubleTree, “weak” evidence against him. and its future events, visit OrlandoFringe.org. this year. We want to ensure that everyone has as much time as For more information and a list of Frequently possible to adjust their plans.” the group’s overflow hotel, and Asked Questions, visit TidalWaveParty.com. do not cancel will get first choice

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watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com 11 tampa bay news

LGBTQ bars, restaurants announce covid-19 closures Ryan Williams-Jent

AMPA BAY | A number of LGBTQ establishments have announced closures and suspensions in Tresponse to COVID-19, which prompted Florida to halt on-site dining and alcohol consumption in facilities March 20. Governor Ron DeSantis issued his executive order to reduce the coronavirus’ spread. It limited restaurants to takeout or delivery and followed his mandate to close nightclubs and bars beginning March 17 for 30 days. DEARLY The Asylum in New Port Richey, Pasco County’s MISSED: Robert premiere LGBTQ bar, announced its permanent closure Barnum passed just one day later. “The COVID-19 outbreak continues away March 27 at to cause more suspensions, business closures and 64. Photo courtesy community bans across the country until further notice Barnum’s Facebook and it’s these current events, unfortunately, that come at the crossroad of also wanting to move on,” its owners “COVID-19 hitting closer and shared March 18. “Effective immediately, The Asylum closer to home,” St. Petersburg Nightclub will be closed permanently.” Mayor Rick Kriseman shared March The two subsequently thanked supporters. “Your Legacy of love 28. “Bob Barnum was a great consistent patronage and constant support for our guy. He was especially kind to the community and this venue has not, and nor will it ever, go St. Petersburg Police Department unnoticed or unappreciated,” they wrote. Community champion Robert Barnum and dedicated himself to many DeSantis’ order also prompted the postponement of causes in our city. I will miss our Dining Out for Life (DOFL) Tampa Bay, originally scheduled dies from COVID-19 complications friend and forever be thankful for to take place in various restaurants and bars April 30. The his support.” Ryan Williams-Jent violence center for Pinellas County, The St. Petersburg Police (EPIC) and raised more than $47,000 last year. called him a cherished leader. Department (SPPD) subsequently 15th“As annual an organization fundraiser that benefits provides Empath comprehensive Partners in Care “We are deeply saddened by the reacted to the news, noting services to people at risk of, or living with HIV, EPIC has T. PETERSBURG | Community news of Bob Barnum’s passing due that Barnum had sponsored an obligation to protect the health and wellbeing of our champion and realtor to complications from COVID-19,” the annual Civilian of the Year community,” EPIC shared March 23. “We have taken several SRobert “Bob” Barnum died they shared March 30. “CASA is Award since 2015. It recognizes steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19 while continuing March 27 from complications of made of many dynamic volunteers civilian police employees for to provide our most essential services.” COVID-19. He was 64. – some working in the trenches their personal dedication and EPIC added that they hope to reschedule DOFL for Barnum’s death was among while others serve in a leadership professional contributions. late summer or early fall. They are currently working three coronavirus-related role. CASA’s volunteers serve as the “The St. Petersburg Police Family with national and statewide partners to choose a new 3rd leg of a stool – supporting along is heartbroken over the death of date. “Thank you for your patience and support as we Department of Health of Pinellas with the staff and community – Bob Barnum,” SPPD shared. “He was Countydeaths confirmedMarch 28. by the Florida those we serve. a thoughtful and generous friend country,” they noted. Barnum was the broker and “He lived CASA’s mission and to our department … We will miss navigateSt. Petersburg this difficult staple time Punky’s in our Barcommunities and Grill and our owner of Earnest Realty, Inc. as well vision,” they continued. “In all the Bob’s genuine sincerity and support.” subsequently suspended operations March 23, launching as its sister company. He worked as various positions held over his 9 Equality Florida CEO Nadine an “SOS: Save Our Staff” fundraiser for employees. “This is a Pinellas County realtor for more years serving on the CASA Board, an unprecedented time for all of us, especially our servers, than 25 years, where he was also he was consistently passionate, “He was a generous supporter of bartenders and cooks,” they shared. an ardent supporter of the arts and funny, candid, genuine and loving. EqualitySmith also Florida reflected in our on earlythe loss. days “We are so thankful for the 17 employees who work adjunct professor at the University of As a community leader, he opened and he was a passionate advocate for so hard every day at Punky’s,” it reads. “The reality is they South Florida. up doors for CASA, raised money survivors of domestic violence,” she are STRESSED! They don’t know how they will pay their His advocacy extended to a and enlisted individuals who shared March 28. rent, bills, and put food on the table for their families. We number of community organizations. became board members. He was “He had all the dirt on the ‘Golden are hopeful this will be short lived and we can get back to He worked closely with Community never shy about sharing why he Girls’ and he introduced me to circus normal soon but it may be awhile.” Action Stops Abuse (CASA) was passionate and was willing to art,” she continued. “My condolences As of press time, the employee fund has raised more St. Petersburg, Equality Florida and refocus conversations back to CASA’s to his family and the network of than half of its $5,000 goal. “We love you all,” organizers the Muscular Dystrophy Association. core issue – providing services to close friends his big, generous shared. “A big celebration is to come for all on the other Community leaders and those seeking safety.” personality drew into his life.” side of this!” organizations from throughout His legacy and contributions Tampa Bay responded to the news, continue, they noted, asking Barnum is survived by his brother Scott. Due For more information about EPIC, visit MyEPIC.org. For more information sharing their condolences and supporters to stand up to silence to COVID-19 restrictions, a private burial was about Punky’s or to donate to their SOS fund, visit PunkysBar.com. through advocacy, prevention, livestreamed March 30 at Chapel Hill Memorial intervention and support services Park in Largo. reflecting on Barnum’s impact. CASA, in his honor. which serves as the official domestic

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14 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com state, nation+world news Postponement of AIDS Walk puts Florida News Briefs nonprofits in tough spot Miami Party attendee dies A 40-year-old gay man from North Miami Beach died March 26 of complications from the coronavirus. Israel programming to fully fund all the essential fundraising tool for Jason Parsley of South Carrera tested positive for COVID-19 March 21. His food we give away, we’ve always the organization. “[This crisis] boyfriend Franco Conquista told his local NBC affiliate Florida Gay News depended upon donations to the interrupts our most important fundraising season – The Florida station Carrera had no major underlying issues. “Israel and thrift store sales to make our AIDS Walk,” the statement read. was just a lovable man,” he shared. He advised Carrera ort Lauderdale, Fla. systemthrift store, work.” financial donations “If you’re already registered as got sick after attending the week-long Miami celebration The AIDS Walk was originally a walker – we need you to start of beach parties and nightclub dancing March 4-10, which starting to feel the impacts serves as a fundraiser for the National LGBT Task Force. F| Local nonprofits are scheduled to take place on Fort asking your friends to support the of the coronavirus and are Lauderdale beach March 21 and Museum through your walk page.” According to organizers, the official number of attendees at the event was 5,500 people and there have been the community following The fundraising is still in full swing. “We know our staff and additional reports of other attendees also testing positive. Floridaasking for AIDS financial Walk and support Music from AHF hopes to reschedule the volunteers are looking forward Festival’s postponement. event and will continue to match to participating in the AIDS Walk The event is South Florida’s donations through April 30. when it is rescheduled, but remain DC’s Capital Pride postponed WAM also anticipates an grateful for the opportunity for largest fundraisers. Proceeds The Capital Pride Alliance, which organizes D.C.’s annual upcoming cash crunch and is supporters of Equality Florida Pride parade and festival, announced March 30 that it Foundation (AHF), Aqua worried about its long term to have their donations matched survival. “The COVID-19 crisis by AIDS Healthcare Foundation,” has postponed all of its Pride related events scheduled Foundationraised benefit for the Women, AIDS Healthcare Equality for May and June, including the parade and festival, due Florida Institute, Latinos Salud, is touching everyone’s lives, and Equality Florida Media Relations Manager Brandon Wolf shared. to the escalating impact of the coronavirus pandemic. The Poverello Center, The Pride Capital Pride announced the postponement would Center at Equality Park, SAVE challenges,” a statement to “Our community is resilient and we presents significant financial include its affiliated Pride events, including Capital Trans Foundation, SunServe, The Urban supporters after the postponement thank AHF for helping us ensure Pride, Asian Pacific Islander Pride, Youth Pride, Silver League of Broward County and read. “If we can raise the remaining Pride and DC Latinx Pride. New dates for the events the World AIDS Museum and $53,000 of our goal, the World As of press time, Equality the fight for full equality goes on.” Education Center (WAM). AIDS Museum will be able to Florida had raised 51% of will be announced in the coming weeks. In a separate “We’re certainly busier than survive this crisis. If we don’t meet their goal. Latinos Salud had announcement, the Center for Black Equity, which our goal, the future of the Museum raised 88%. organizes D.C.’s annual Black Pride events on Memorial donations,” Poverello Center Tom will have some serious challenges.” Day weekend, said it has cancelled all D.C. Black Pride For information about the Florida AIDS Pietrogalloever, and in shared.need of “We financial have According to WAM, the events for 2020 as well. Walk and donating to its beneficiaries, visit never made enough through grant Florida AIDS Walk is an FloridaAIDSWalk.org. Man convicted in killings of 2 gay men, trans woman Devon Kareem Robinson, 19, was convicted of Trans legal group releases COVID-19 guide first-degree premeditated murder, assault with intent to murder and felony firearm March 17 for the 2019 killings and health care. It also features a Michelle Siegel of the of 21-year-old Alunte Davis, and 20-year-olds Timothy national appendix of health and as “non-emergency surgeries” Blancher and Paris Cameron. Prosecutors said Davis and Washington Blade, advocacy resources. andthat businesshospitals that have courts classified and Blancher were gay men and Cameron was a transgender The guide stresses the existence government agencies has deemed Courtesy of the Na- woman and they and police believe the victims were of a pandemic does not void the “non-essential,” which may or may tional LGBT Media As- fact that trans and nonbinary not entail changing one’s legal targeted for their sexual orientation and gender identity. sociation individuals are entitled to receive name and gender marker. The three victims were slain in the living room of a care and access to services. If a trans or nonbinary Detroit home following a party attended by about 15 As TLDEF interprets federal individual feels that they are being people. Robinson could face life behind bars without the he Transgender Legal law within this guide, medical subject to discrimination; the possibility of parole when he is sentenced April 13 for the Defense and Education providers must address individuals guide advises that the individual May 2019 killings. TFund (TLDEF) has by the names and pronouns that report each incident to the prepared a free online guide, they use and provide individuals appropriate staff, take notes, Irish track champ comes out available in both English and access to facilities consistent with obtain names, save copies of any Denis Finnegan, a 10-time national track-and-field title Spanish, for transgender and their identities. winner in Ireland, came out as gay on the “Five Rings To nonbinary individuals attempting The guide encourages trans TLDEF describes itself as “a Rule Them All” podcast March 23. Finnegan said he has to navigate life during the and nonbinary individuals to documents and file a complaint. coronavirus pandemic. self-advocate by knowing their end discrimination and achieve been “drifting” toward coming out in recent years even “A Know Your Rights Guide for rights and, if feeling ill, contacting equalitynonprofit for whose transgender mission people, is to though being gay is only a small part of who he is “as a Transgender People Navigating a medical provider or a state particularly those in our most person, and an even smaller part as an athlete,” in order COVID-19,” which contains health department hotline. vulnerable communities.” to help other LGBTQ people in sports feel less alone. information that was accurate According to the guide, the As of March 30, there were Finnegan, who won his 10 championships in triple jump, as of March 22, explores both “extraordinary public health crisis” said that he eventually gravitated toward track and field may lead trans and nonbinary cases of coronavirus in the U.S., – as opposed to team sports like basketball and Gaelic concerns that disproportionately individuals to experience delays withmore more than 140,000than 2,400 confirmed deaths. football, which he played in his younger years – because trans-specific concerns and equity impact trans and non-binary in receiving transition-related he found the atmosphere more welcoming. individuals, such as issues services, including operations involving employment, housing

watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com 15 16 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com talking points

I had some gay friends in school. The reason I left my church is that they weren’t being More than accepted … I had a really hard time with that, and I had a hard time with me finding my sexuality too. 100 groups – Miley Cyrus discusses leaving her Christian church on her Instagram Live led by

Disney doubles down on LGBTQ inclusion

n anti-LGBTQ propagandist was rebuffed during Disney’s annual shareholder meeting in mid-March by Bob Chapek, a A27-year Disney veteran and the company’s new CEO. Caroline Farrow, representing the conservative group CitizenGo, attended the event to pressure the entertainment giant over its promotion of “LGBT ideology.” Farrow asserted 6 that families “no longer feel safe” engaging with Disney because of the inclusion of LGBTQ organizations LGBTQ characters in its programming. “At Disney we strongly believe we should audience,” Chapek responded. “I believe that will continue with an increased say the commitmentreflect in our ascreative we move content forward. the diversity We want that to represent we find in our our audience. fanbase andWe believeour

Chapek’s words were greeted with enthusiastic applause from the crowd of LGBTQ community attendingwe want to shareholders. tell stories that our audience wants to hear that reflects their lives.” is at a greater risk for contracting COVID-19. The illness is respiratory-related and LGBTQ people smoke at rates Buttigieg boldly David Hockney ‘The Rosie O’Donnell goes to late night paints hopeful piece Show’ returns ormer Democratic avid Hockney, 82, osie O’Donnell and presidential candidate delivered a message of her talk show returned FPete Buttigieg guest Dhope with a new painting RMarch 22 for a live, one-night hosted “Jimmy Kimmel Live” March March 19. The openly gay artist is fundraiser for the Actor’s Fund, a 12, welcoming “Star Trek: Picard” a painter, draftsman, printmaker, charitable organization that assists star Patrick Stewart and facing the stage designer and photographer entertainment industry workers. actor in a round of “Star Trek” trivia. The nearly three-and-a-half hour Buttigieg, a self-professed Trekkie, the pop art movement of the 1960s. show welcomed an impressive list was visibly excited to interview the Heknown has longas one explored of the key sexuality figures in of screen and stage stars, including legendary actor who is one of the through pieces such as “We Two Tituss Burgess, Kristin Chenoweth, 50% most popular “Star Trek” actors Boys Together Clinging,” named Darren Criss, Audra McDonald, Alan higher than others. in the franchise’s history. The after a poem by Walt Whitman. Menken, Idina Menzel, Ben Platt, Billy trivia portion, “Who Is the Captain He shared his latest piece through Porter and more. It was streamed –National LGBT Cancer Network, Now?,” also welcomed fellow “Star Denmark’s Louisiana Museum of via YouTube and Broadway.com and GLMA Health Professionals Trek” alum and former “Reading Modern Art, a response to growing raised more than $600K, $100K Advancing LGBTQ Equality, Rainbow” host LeVar Burton. While isolation amidst COVID-19. The of which came from O’Donnell, for Whitman-Walker Health, SAGE, Buttigieg lost to Stewart, he left work depicts a cluster of bright those impacted by COVID-19. “This New York Transgender Advocacy Group and with a Trek treasure. At the end of yellow daffodils blossoming in is the ultimate win-win proposition,” his interview, Stewart presented Producer Erich Bergen shared. “The National Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance, him with a signed copy of one of his grey and barren landscape in the Actors Fund needs our support, and March 2020 working scripts from an episode of distantthe midst background. of a green fieldIt is titled, with a we’re all desperate for some fabulous “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” “Do Remember They Can’t Cancel entertainment we can enjoy from the the Spring.” safety of our own homes.”

watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com 17 18 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com 19 20 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com Local organizations take on the issue of LGBTQ homelessness in these uncertain times

Lora Korpar loridians are no strangers to the issue of homelessness. If they are not Fexperiencing it themselves, they have probably seen someone who is experiencing it out on the street on a daily basis. Florida ranks third in the nation for the highest population of homeless people, a 2018 report from the National Alliance to End Homelessness says. That same report states that approximately 5.6% of the 552,830 people experiencing homelessness on any given night that year lived in Florida. The issue has also greatly impacted the LGBTQ community, especially LGBTQ youth, who are more vulnerable due to them running away from or being driven out of homes that are not accepting of their identities. Larry Biddle, who has recently retired, worked with

20 years and worked with Family Resources in St. Petersburg nonprofitsto complete at research PlanningWorks, on homeless LLC inyouth Tampa in Pinellas Bay for moreCounty. than “I think all problems with homelessness are awful, but I think they’re more acutely awful for LGBTQ kids because it’s an added opportunity for them to feel further alienated than they would otherwise,” Biddle says. Biddle says that one of the biggest issues for homeless LGBTQ youth in Pinellas County was a lack of funding for

Continued on pg. 22 | uu |

watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com 21 Low funding and a lack of services are a big issue both | uu | Where can they go? locally and nationally. Biddle from pg.21 says those were some of the shelters and other services biggest issues he found while that they need. doing his research in Pinellas “Without the services, these County, as there is “virtually kids end up sleeping at beaches no funding” from the city or and are very much targets for state to create programs to help homeless LGBTQ youth. “So this is a very big problem According to Biddle, in humanbecause traffickers,” these young he people says. Pinellas County alone there are immensely vulnerable to are approximately 800 to someone who comes along and 1,000 young people who are says ‘I know you don’t have any homeless at any point in time. food and don’t have any money, There are likely even more, he but I can help you,’ ‘Come with me,’ and all that stuff. They get from just the homeless youth into that net. It’s a huge problem notes, as those figures came that’s barely being addressed at questionnaires they were given. all by anybody.” who“The were problem willing is to that fill the out the Communities in Florida have funding is so sparse that begun to take steps to try to there are only a few beds in decrease LGBTQ homelessness Community Fighter: Larry Biddle talks about the Family Resource’s Homeless Youth Project in a promotional video comparison to the need for these and to limit the struggles in 2017. Photo from Family Resource’s YouTube kids,” Biddle says. that they experience within In the Central Florida area, community that everybody through “information, education, According to Foster, 35% homeless shelters. the OneOrlando Alliance has else can; that they feel safe advocacy and support.” of Central Florida’s homeless The OneOrlando Alliance, had a bit more luck with funding. and included.” Family Equality is dedicated youth identify as LGBTQ, so which is a coalition of Though they are still looking for The Alliance created a task to the advancement of equality the OneOrlando Alliance is LGBTQ-serving organizations more grants, they did receive a force of representatives from six for LGBTQ families, focusing especially committed to making in the Orlando area formed grant from the City of Orlando member organizations that are on both family support and sure LGBTQ youth homelessness days after the Pulse tragedy, to help fund their cultural focused on tackling the issue of family building. is being addressed. is starting an initiative to do competency training. homelessness. Each organization Rounding out the task force True Colors United found in exactly that. The cultural competency has an area of expertise to is Florida’s largest civil rights its research that while about training consists of a series of contribute to the initiative. organization, Equality Florida. 7% of young people in the U.S. formed, we really set out to lessons from representatives of In addition to these six, there identify as LGBTQ, 40% of youth look“When at reshaping the Alliance the wasfuture first of OneOrlando Alliance member Zebra Coalition, is dedicated are also a few members of the experiencing homelessness in Central Florida and making it a organizations on topics such as to helpingThe first LGBTQ organization, people ages LGBTQ community who have the U.S. are LGBTQ. more safe and inclusive place for policies and procedures, state 13-24 struggling with bullying, experienced homelessness “We’re looking at it holistically all LGBTQ people,” says Jennifer and federal regulations and homelessness, abuse and themselves who have joined because homelessness is really Foster, the organization’s LGBTQ terminology. executive director. “So we said These lessons are followed by collectively, ‘What are the top a question and answer session. issues that we could really focus Foster says that the questions on, what are the root causes, varied from very base-level to really try to make some I think all problems with homelessness are awful, but questions on LGBTQ terms I think they’re more acutely awful for LGBTQ kids because it’s to deeper questions, showing Every year since 2017, the that the shelter employees’ OneOrlandosignificant change?’” Alliance has an added opportunity for them to feel further alienated than backgrounds and knowledge published an Alliance Agenda of the LGBTQ community listing the top 10 issues the local they would otherwise. — Larry Biddle were very different from LGBTQ community is facing. person to person. Homelessness was a big issue on In May 2019, the OneOrlando isolation from their families. the task force. a symptom to a problem. It’s the agenda, so they decided to Alliance provided training for They provide housing, mental “What happened in the past not the problem itself,” Foster start with that. about 100 homeless shelter health services, community was that just one organization shares. “It’s a symptom of a employees. Unfortunately, some events and more. would be trying to do this work lack of inclusion in society, in initiatives that I dug into when of the federal protections for Next is Bliss Cares, an on their own,” Foster says. “They the workplace and in people’s I took“That this was role one [of of Executive the very first transgender people that had organization that provides wouldn’t be able to have as big families, when it comes to youth Director] because as long as been taught in the training were immediate care for anyone who of an impact as they would by usually. If we can treat the root the most vulnerable among us rolled back as soon as the next is worried they have a sexually having the alliance lead it, by cause, which is inclusion, then aren’t protected, it’s tough to day, but Foster says the training transmitted disease. being able to go in collectively we hope to see homelessness really focus on doing things like was still valuable and effective. The Legal Aid Society of the as a group. There’s power in decrease here in Central Florida making an economic impact “That was a pretty big blow to Orange County Bar Association numbers so we can kind of go in a couple years.” and other things that we’re our community in general,” she provides volunteer attorneys in [together.] The OneOrlando Alliance’s interested in doing,” Foster says. says. “But the nice thing was to take cases for people who “The Alliance has a certain initiative is centered around “We really wanted to start we were able to have all those cannot afford one. amount of respect in the getting more funding both for with, ‘Who has it the worst people in there. We were able Also part of the task force is community because they know shelters and for preventing in our community?’ and by to have those conversations and the LGBT+ Center Orlando, a that we bring in experts to really homelessness as well as holding making sure that people who really talk with them about why center for the Orlando LGBTQ look at issues,” she continues. cultural competency training are experiencing homelessness it’s important to treat everyone community whose mission is “So it’s a much more effective sessions for the employees of have access and can go to the equally, why it’s important to empower those it serves approach than anything we’ve homeless shelters. same service providers in the to have inclusive shelter done as a community before.”

22 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com environments and how to keep working with those shelters to everybody safe.” make sure that there’s a space This cultural competency for them and that they’re fully training is being done all over included when they are in the country not only to educate those spaces.” homeless shelter employees Despite the setbacks caused on the LGBTQ community, but by COVID-19, Foster is hopeful to increase acceptance and that the OneOrlando Alliance’s inclusion in these facilities. initiative will make clear and Through his work in Pinellas positive change. County, Biddle found that it can “Our shelters today are in a be harder to identify younger much better place than they LGBTQ people in homeless were one year ago in terms of shelters, which can be a positive being inclusive and being safe as it makes them less of a target. spaces for people in the LGBTQ+ community to go,” Foster says. sometimes impossible unless it’s “So I think the problem’s getting something“It is very that difficult is volunteered and worse, but fortunately our by someone to know whether shelters are more competent they’re LGBTQ or not,” Biddle and able to be inclusive of says. “As you know, today, that is our community.” less of a tag that [young people] The National Alliance to End use, so it makes it even more Homelessness reports that on any given night, there are more Transgender and other than 31,000 homeless people in difficult.gender-diverse But that’s people OK.” are Florida, with more than 8,000 of frequently not as fortunate. The them in the Central Florida and National Center for Transgender Tampa Bay areas alone. Equality found that one in Of all these people, only 56% are currently sheltered. experienced homelessness at With the current health and fivesome transgender point in their people lives. have Winning Partnership: One Orlando Alliance is represented by Heather Wilkie and Jennifer Foster (center) at the political climate, both Foster and Transgender people are Citrus Club in Orlando as the organization is recognized by the Salvation Army as the 2020 Outstanding Non-Profit Partner March Biddle agree that homelessness also much more likely to be 7. Photo courtesy Jennifer Foster in Florida is getting worse. They turned away from homeless also agree that the OneOrlando shelters or housed with the “This issue is not going to be Central Florida has been nothing and a place to sleep,” Biddle says. Alliance’s initiative is a step in incorrect gender. but helpful in their collective “The choices are so limited that the right direction. Foster says the OneOrlando didn’t happen overnight, so it’s it makes it, I think, very possible “A lot of the kids that are Alliance is also focusing its fixednot going overnight,” to be solved Foster overnight. says. “It “I think that we have to to be more vulnerable.” homeless are not local. They efforts on the inclusion of But the more we can strengthen fightmeet againstpeople homelessness.where they’re at,” The National LGBT Cancer come from other parts of the gender-diverse people the relationships with these Foster says. Network published a letter that the state where they were experiencing homelessness, as organizations that are providing “The Salvation Army in was signed by more than 100 stigmatized and not cared for,” many facilities are not set up services in our community, Central Florida is showing every national organizations stating Biddle says. “So I think it’s a with them in mind. the better it is for our LGBTQ intention and has been over that the LGBTQ community wonderful thing and maybe [the “It’s easier for a cisgender, population.” the past year that we’ve been could be more vulnerable to the OneOrlando Alliance] can come perhaps gay man or lesbian to Foster also says that working with them to be fully virus as well. up with a model that can be strengthening these inclusive,” she continues. “We They cited a higher used by the rest of the state. radar than it is for a transgender relationships can help the are delighted to work with them, population of smokers and “I think that organizations that goindividual. to a facility That’s and not fly somethingunder the community on an individual to partner with them and to people with HIV as well as could potentially serve them that we want to be happening,” level, so if someone who is help them grow and help them healthcare discrimination and are not collaborating at all,” he Foster says. “We want everybody homeless and LGBTQ reaches become a safer and inclusive barriers as reasons why. continues. “We discovered that to be able to identify as their out to the Alliance, they know environment for all people. Foster says the virus could here in Pinellas. So I think a true, authentic self when they how to connect them to an That’s what they’re committed make even more trouble for collaboration of a number of go to spaces.” organization that might be able to and that’s what they want.” homeless LGBTQ youth in organizations working together Besides cultural competency to help them. Despite all these efforts, the Central Florida because there would be a wonderful idea.” training, the OneOrlando Because the Salvation Army current COVID-19 outbreak has are only eight beds in the region Alliance is also focused has its roots in religion, it has not only slowed the OneOrlando years, the impact of the work on working with other had controversies in the past Alliance’s LGBTQ homelessness many people that will be looking that “I’m we’re sure doing that now, in the we’re next five organizations to help them regarding their treatment of battle but has created specificallyfor shelter. for LGBTQ youth and going to see it translate in big achieve their goals. LGBTQ individuals, such as a uncertainty for homeless people “Our biggest focus right now is ways,” Foster says. “Right now For their LGBTQ spokesman calling same-sex around the world. making sure that people are safe we’re seeing it in small ways and homelessness initiative, the relationships “sinful” in 2012 With multiple beds in every and that they have the services it’s good that we’re seeing it, but Alliance’s task force has or claims of several facilities room and many large communal that they need,” she says. “When I believe we’re going to see that been meeting and working turning away or mistreating areas, the vast majority of it comes to homelessness, the affect the numbers within the with organizations like the transgender people. homeless shelters are neither shelters are already overrun next few years.” Salvation Army. In recent years, the designed nor equipped and there’s a lack of space, The task force members organization has added an for a pandemic. particularly when it comes to For more information about the sit down with Salvation Army “LGBT Support” section to “I would imagine that the last LGBTQ+ youth. OneOrlando Alliance’s member leadership to discuss any their website, vowing to serve thing [homeless youth are] going “Our focus is going to be trying organizations and to donate to their efforts, problems they might be having everyone with no discrimination. to be thinking about is what they visit OneOrlandoAlliance.org. and offer guidance. Foster says that though she have to do to be careful to not if they are housed, and keep can’t speak for the rest of the get this virus when they’re so themto help safe,” people she first continues. stay housed “Then, country, the Salvation Army in desperate for something to eat if they do need to go to a shelter,

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24 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com announcements tampa bay Inside + Out Congratulations Josh Beadle and Katie McCurry launched the Sarasota-based Project Pride SRQ last month. Cole Foust and Britt Upchurch were engaged March 13. “The Miguel & Holly Show” celebrated five years on HOT 101.5 March 30. Condolences Lawrence V. McCann, husband of Kurt King, passed away March 17. Playwright Terrance McNally passed away March 24. Realtor and activist Robert Barnum passed away March 27. 1 2 Cancellations/ 3 TLC: Tampa Mayor Postponements Jane Castor delivers homemade lunch to The Sarasota Film Festival, originally scheduled from 1the Emergency Operations Center team March 21. PHOTO March 27-April 5, has been indefinitely postponed. COURTESY JANE CASTOR Equality Florida’s St. Pete Gala, originally scheduled for DIGITAL DAYS: May 9, has been indefinitely postponed. Entertainment Chair John The Tampa International Fringe Festival, originally 2 Chambrone streams scheduled for April 30-May 10, has been rescheduled for his support of Tampa Pride’s digital weekend March 28. July 23-Aug. 2. PHOTO COURTESY TAMPA PRIDE Jobsite Theater has cancelled “The Resistable Rise of LOCAL LOVE: State 4 5 Arturo UI,” originally scheduled May 15-June 7 and Rep. Jennifer Webb “Animals Out of Paper,” originally scheduled July 17-Aug. 9. 3 picks up her To Go order from Neptune Grill March 24. The North American tour of “Miss Saigon” has been PHOTO COURTESY JENNIFER WEBB cancelled and will not be rescheduled at the Straz Center. TAMPA STRONG: Ana Cruz delivers 4 food to the Tampa Police Dept. March 23. Local Birthdays PHOTO COURTESY CITY OF TAMPA Tampa Bay-based Concept Bait’s Frank Clemente, St. Pete STREAMING social media marketer Philip Gustin-Helms (April 2); St. SERVICE: Rev. Jakob Hero-Shaw prepares Pete airman Kevin Joe, Tampa Bay-based flight attendant 5 to live stream MCC Tampa’s Trenton Ferris (April 3); Sarasota actor Matt Craft, Disco Sunday service March 22. PHOTO COURTESY Donnie Presents production manager James Dinnan JAKOB HERO-SHAw (April 4); Tampa banker Jeff Baker, St. Petersburg nurse PLEASE STAY AT HOME Brian Feist, St. Petersburg entertainer Michael Jones, FOR US: St. Pete Mayor Tampa MCC activist Mac McGowan, Sage Sarasota’s 6 Rick Kriseman (C), Deputy Mayor Kanika Tomalin Jordan Rose, St. Petersburg director Eric Casaccio, (2nd from L), St. Pete Fire Paychex specialist Jacob Ahrens-Rich, Largo Vice Mayor Rescue and Police Dept. share an important message March and City Commissioner Michael Smith (April 5); C2Q’s 26. PHOTO COURTESY Donny Hill, Public accountant Joel Schmitz (April 6); CITY OF ST. PETE Sarasota real estate e-marketing director Ken Demmons, SAFETY FIRST: Metro Cristoph’s Tampa owner Jacqueline McRay, All Hallows Inclusive Health’s 6 screening team greets aficionado Nick Okeson (April 7); St. Petersburg HIV/ 7 patients at their St. Pete facility AIDS activist Joe Dobson, Avidchick Design president March 23. PHOTO COURTESY Jennifer Carter, Project Pride SRQ co-founder Katie METRO INCLUSIVE HEALTH McCurry, Sarasota entertainer Grandma Pearl (April 8); FIVE YEARS STRONG: St. Petersburg Metro employee Mike Hollis, Tampa Bay (L-R) Miguel Fuller, 8 Will Calder and Holly activist Jean Batronie (April 10); Community Cafe owner O’Connor mark five years of Mandy Keyes, freeFall Theatre’s Susan Haldeman (April “The Miguel & Holly Show” on HOT 101.5 March 30. 11); Tampa MCC’s facility manager Mac Williams (April 12); PHOTO COURTESY HOT 101.5 St. Petersburg ROTC twirler Scott Heli, Tampa Bay internet guru Jordan Butterworth, Tampa Bay entertainer Esme Russell (April 13); St. Pete Dance owner Michael Raisch 8 (April 14); Tampa Bay DJ Bill Kody (April 15).

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26 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com announcements central florida inside + out

Congratulations Michael Orsini-Collins and Joshua Orsini-Collins announce, in a gender reveal, they are having a baby girl with their kangaroo (she doesn’t like the sound of surrogate) Kaley Harris. The new baby’s name will be 2 Addilyn Orsini-Collins. Virtual Shows Ginger Minj and Gidget Galore star in “Showtunes & Shit,” a night of fun, laughs and Broadway, on StageIt. com/DigitalDragFest April 6.

Local Birthdays 1 3 Former cover model Aaron Sanford-Wetherell, Orlando-based flight attendant James Sparkman (April 2); Darren Charles aka Bridgette Galore, Bowled Over Promotions’ Karyn Bell, Orlando’s Didi Panache (April 3); Orlando playwright David Lee, SOLE Orlando leader Kate Murray, burlesque performer Kissa Von Addams, Bowled Over Promotions’ Dawn Kallio (April 4); Orlando Front Runner Scott Feneck, Miss Florida Bearded Queen Anthony Chiocchi (April 5); Orlando accountant Leah James, Former PFLAG Orlando president Pat Padilla (April 6); graphic designer Jason Donnelly, Intrepid traveler Jon Taylor, Rollins College costume studio manager Seth Schrager, Appiled 4 5 6 Veterinary Solutions owner Jean-David Parlier, Ally and owner of Dictor Financial Wayne Dictor (April 7); Orange County Mayor’s LGBTQ liaison Marc Espeso (April 9); Orlando lovebird Bobby McCall (April 10); Equality Florida’s Joe Saunders, Orlando Log Cabin Work From Home: Get Some Reading City Commissioner Patty Done: Watermark Republican Patrick Howell, Orlando dentist Elena Puig 1 Sheehan grabs a selfie 5 founder Tom Dyer picks (April 12); Florida Hospital’s Stacy Pease, Former OGC from her virtual office at home up the latest issue outside his in Orlando March 28. Photo office in Orlando March 25. director Aubrey Connelly, Florida Paradise Weddings courtesy Patty Sheehan Photo by Jeremy Williams owner Steven Russell (April 13); Elizabeth “Sister At Home Baking: Keep Your Distance: Koochie Koo” of the Orlando Sisters of Perpetual Performer Blue Star BFF’s Jerick Mediavilla Indulgence, Orlando attorney Cory Beetly, Drag 2 gets down in the dough 6 (front) and Ida V. while she social distances at Eskamani exchange vegan food chanteuse Chantel Reshae (April 14); Ocala-based her home in Orlando March 28. and tequila at a safe distance horse trainer Randy Eeckhout, Southern Nights Orlando Photo courtesy Blue Star in Orlando March 20. Photo courtesy Jerick Mediavilla DJ Nela Aguirre (April 15). Keeping Busy: Performer 7 Philip Ancheta gets his Online Meetings: 3 fitness, work and gaming Brendan O’Connor gets on all at once as he multitasks 7 all dolled up in his royal during the Stay-At-Home in best for a Zoom meeting at his Orlando March 30. Photo home in Orlando March 31. photo courtesy Philip Ancheta courtesy Brendan O’Connor

Do you have an announcement? Having a birthday or Hair Ideas: State Rep. Virtual anniversary? Did you get a new job or promotion? Anna V. Eskamani Entertainment: See your news in Watermark! Send your 4 shows off her naturally 8 Central Florida drag queen Gidget Galore announcement to [email protected] or go curly hair March 29 as social reads to the distancing has kept blowouts kids remotely for Drag Queen to WatermarkOnline.com/Submit-a-Transition. from the salon on hold. Photo Story Hour at the LGBT+ Center courtesy Anna V. Eskamani Orlando March 26. Photo It’s that easy! courtesy LGBT+ Center Orlando

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28 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com tampa bay Marketplace

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30 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com Central Florida Marketplace

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32 watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com Central Florida Marketplace

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watermark Your LGBTQ life. April 2 - April 15, 2020 // Issue 27.07 watermarkonline.com 33 viewpoint

HIV and viral hepatitis testing, symptoms is screened for treatment for sexually the recommendations of initiation and continuation warning symptoms which, transmitted infections. our medical professionals of HIV treatment without if present, would prompt Staff is required to in a further effort to slow interruption of the treatment a recommendation for self-monitor temperature the spread of COVID-19. course, Pre-exposure evaluation in an emergency at least twice daily and The entire CAN family is Prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV, department. If such warning self-report any subjective indebted to the heroic initiation and continuation of symptoms are not present, but fever or respiratory hepatitis C treatment without respiratory illness with fever symptoms to an occupational responders, doctors, nurses, interruption of the treatment is, providers are encouraged health provider. Persons researchers,efforts of our and nations’ public first Richard E. Carlisle, course, laboratory monitoring strongly to evaluate these with symptoms of infection health experts. We do not yet CAN Community Health as clinically appropriate and President & CEO screening and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. If an in-person visit cannot We must come together as a community and heed be avoided, providers are the recommendations of our medical professionals in advised to strictly adhere to Covid-19 and the use of PPE. All patients a further effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. arriving for in-person clinic visits are screened patients by telephone visits are encouraged to obtain know with certainty when the Community for respiratory symptoms, and avoid in-person visits. COVID-19 testing locally fever and travel in the last In support of national and are self-quarantined at will be behind us but are 14 days upon check-in at the efforts to promote social home. Healthcare workers committedthe most significant to continuing risk front desk. If any of these are distancing, CAN has have been discouraged from in our role as dedicated present, patients are given implemented widespread use traveling domestically or community partners. a surgical face mask to wear of teleworking for clinical and internationally. Likewise, he global spread of in the waiting room. Each non-clinical staff. In-person clients are encouraged to Richard E. Carlisle became CAN’s novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) clinic is advised to maintain clinic consultations are being avoid similar travel and third president and CEO in 2015 at least six feet between limited to only once per week to avoid any gatherings of and served as vice president of is affecting all of us. At CAN patients in the waiting area, for medically necessary visits, over 10 people. Sarasota Memorial Hospital for 15 TCommunity Health, our top priority to designate only one patient such as directly observed We must come together years. CAN Community Health is room per clinic for evaluation as a community and heed the third-largest private provider of is the health and safety of our clients of patients with acute fever HIV services in the nation. and employees. or respiratory illness and to reinforce protocols for Our effort to protect the most vulnerable requires our daily terminal cleaning of communities’ compassion and all our participation. As all rooms in the clinic by existing environmental contribute to the well-being of those affected by HIV, service providers. national not-for-profit whose mission is to inspire and hepatitis C and other sexually transmitted diseases. We The consensus among do that by providing care through outreach, integrated HIV specialists is that clinical practice, advocacy, education and research. persons on antiretroviral Our mission is supported by collaborations with medications who are not local organizations that serve high-risk populations. immunosuppressed have Established in Sarasota in 1991, we now provide services similar risk from infection in Arizona, New Jersey, South Carolina and Virginia. Our as the general population. 36 sites offer treatment, education and support services. In these persons, the risk is We have been closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19 and have a team of experts to address the factors for severe infection potential threat of the virus following the guidance from suchbest definedas elderly by agetypical and risk the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). chronic medical conditions. This cross-functional task force meets daily. Conversely, persons who We have taken rigorous efforts to follow CDC guidance are immunosuppressed in crafting protocols for our clinics. We launched our Telehealth platform March 19, which clients can utilize to at elevated risk for severe access healthcare professionals by video or telephone. infectionwith T-cell in count guidance ≤ 200 to are In addition, we have implemented plans to help patients. Currently, there is shield our clients and employees, enhancing our no published literature or already comprehensive cleaning and sanitization case studies on the impact processes. We have also continued to emphasize proper of COVID-19 on persons hygiene, including more frequent handwashing and the living with HIV. appropriate use of hand sanitizer and personal protective CAN is regularly equipment, or PPE. Providers have discussed COVID-19 reviewing and updating prevention methods with patients during telephone protocols to adhere to CDC visits, including rigorous hand hygiene, appropriate guidance for our healthcare respiratory etiquette and frequent disinfection of high workers and the clinical touch surfaces. care of persons under investigation for COVID-19. preserve our ability to offer care. These services include Any patient with respiratory Furthermore, we have established workflows to

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