Ryan Williams-Jent

1 week ago | watermarkonline.com | Ryan Williams-Jent

Iranian missile destroys Tel Aviv’s last gay bar An Iranian missile on June 16, 2025, destroyed Mash Bar, a gay bar in Tel Aviv, Israel. (Courtesy photo)An Iranian missile on June 16 destroyed a gay bar in Tel Aviv, Israel. The missile struck Mash Central, which is a few blocks from the U.S. Embassy on Allenby Street, and surrounding buildings.

1 week ago | watermarkonline.com | Ryan Williams-Jent

Trump administration removing 988 hotline service tailored to LGBTQ+ youth in July (Photo via Donald Trump’s Facebook)EDITOR’S NOTE: If you or someone you know needs help, the national suicide and crisis lifeline in the U.S. is available by calling or texting 988. The decision preempts the Trump administration’s 2026 budget proposal to cut funding for 988’s LGBTQ+ youth and young adult services, and is raising alarm bells among LGBTQ+ advocates.

1 week ago | watermarkonline.com | Ryan Williams-Jent

(Screenshot from Gilead video on Sunlenca)WASHINGTON (AP) | The U.S. has approved the world’s only twice-a-year shot to prevent HIV, the first step in an anticipated global rollout that could protect millions – although it’s unclear how many in the U.S. and abroad will get access to the powerful new option. While a vaccine to prevent HIV still is needed, some experts say the shot made by Gilead Sciences — a drug called lenacapavir — could be the next best thing.

1 week ago | watermarkonline.com | Ryan Williams-Jent

PHOTOS: St Pete Pride celebrates trans joy at Transtastic 2025 Transtastic 2025 attendees. (Photo by Ryan Williams-Jent)ST. PETERSBURG | St Pete Pride welcomed supporters to The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art June 18 for Transtastic. Attendees enjoyed interactive art, local vendors and performances from the 2025 St Pete Pride Royal Court, Dj Bori Boi, Hovercar and more.

1 week ago | watermarkonline.com | Ryan Williams-Jent

Silkpride elevates queer Chinese history, art and culture The Good Page features positive LGBTQ+ news in Central Florida and Tampa Bay, uplifting and inspiring stories highlighting locals in our community. In this issue we introduce Silkpride, the queer and Chinese-focused organization in Clearwater. Leo Andersen started the group, which is working to become a nonprofit, after two queer nonprofits in China were forced to close in 2023.