Watermark's Sarasota Living With Pride Guide 2022

SARASOTA

WITH PRIDE

OVER 30 YEARS OF SPECIALIZED MEDICAL CARE

courtesy

Fabulous Arts Foundation

courtesy Pangea Alchemy Lab,

courtesy Sarasota

Art Museum

OWNER & PUBLISHER

Rick Todd

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jeremy Williams

MANAGING EDITOR

Ryan Williams-Jent CREATIVE DESIGNERS

Kyler Mills

Dylan Todd ADMIN ASSISTANT

Alina Alvarez

SALES DIRECTOR

Danny Garcia

SENIOR ORLANDO ACCOUNT MANAGER

Sam Callahan

FOUNDER AND GUIDING LIGHT

Tom Dyer

Sarasota Strong

Welcome to Watermark's latest Sarasota Living with Pride!

Watermark is proud to welcome you to the latest edition of Sarasota Living with Pride, our LGBTQ resource detailing the inclusive region we’ve proudly served for decades. Between its beautiful beaches and dedication to diversity, it’s long been clear why Sarasota’s vision is to be a world-class community and treasured destination for all.

We began detailing LGBTQ Sarasota in 1995, not long after Watermark’s 1994 founding in Central Florida. In the pages of our newspaper, at WatermarkOnline.com and in our various specialty guides – like this one, launched in 2018 – we’ve sought to chronicle the many ways in which the area has flourished over the years, thanks in no small part to its LGBTQ residents and visitors.

In these pages you’ll find that Sarasota’s LGBTQ community is more united than ever before. That begins with support from the top, which is why we feature a letter from Sarasota Mayor Erik J. Arroyo.

Like his predecessor, he showcases his commitment to equality in a number of ways. It was only in 2021 that former Mayor Hagen Brody issued a proclamation declaring Pride Month in the city. It marked the first time in Sarasota’s more than 100-year history that it formally recognized June as such, an initiative spearheaded by Project Pride.

The organization – one of many we detail doing incredible work throughout Sarasota – has worked to connect the LGBTQ community since 2019. The organization’s Board President Jordan Letschert, Marketing Chair Robby Price and their son Jordan are featured on our cover.

More members of the local LGBTQ community guide you through Sarasota next, highlighting some of their favorite things to help you find some of your own. Venice Theatre General Manager and Director of Diversity Kristofer Geddie discusses Sarasota’s dining scene, fan favorite entertainer Amanda Heisey, also known as Karma Kandlewick, guides you through the nightlife and activist and artist Robert Rogers shares his thoughts on arts and entertainment.

There’s even more to love in Sarasota, which is why we highlight LGBTQ-centric events next. From Sarasota Pride’s three decades of festivities to newer festivals like Venice Pride, we show you there’s always a place where you’re celebrated. Our Directory Listing also highlights businesses and organizations that celebrate the community year-round.

We’re so thrilled you’ve joined us for our latest guide to LGBTQ Sarasota, where there’s never been a more exciting time to live, work and play. Today and always, Watermark invites you to Live with Pride!

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT WATERMARK MANAGING EDITOR

SARASOTA LIVING WITH PRIDE IS PUBLISHED BY WATERMARK PUBLISHING GROUP

Mayor Erik Arroyo

Vice Mayor Kyle Battie

Commissioner Jen Ahearn Koch

Commissioner Hagen Brody

Commissioner Liz Alpert 1565 1st Street Sarasota, Florida 34236 941-263-6000

September 19, 2022

Marlon Brown City Manager Shayla Griggs City Auditor and Clerk

Robert Fournier City Attorney

The City of Sarasota has a long standing history of being a diverse, open minded community. Our LGBTQ residents and visitors are highly valued and appreciated by the City of Sarasota and contribute to strengthen the very fabric of our community, and we remain committed to the LGBTQ community, realizing the rights and principles espoused so many years ago by this country’s forefathers: that every human is endowed with unalienable rights, and among them are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

We are pleased that Watermark has again prepared this guide for our special day.

Sincerely,

Erik J. Arroyo, Esq. Mayor

Community Care

Sarasota organizations showcase their support

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

Sarasota’s LGBTQ community has long understood the importance of coming together. In times of need and of celebration, we have leaned on one another to rally our resources. The region is home to wide array of organizations eager to serve, many of which are featured here.

ALSO YOUTH 1470 Blvd of the Arts., Sarsota; 501 5th St. E., Bradenton | 941-951-2576 | ALSOYouth.org

Local leaders and advocates formed ALSO Youth in 1992 to serve LGBTQ youth ages 13-24 in Sarasota County. It expanded to Manatee County in 2020, allowing the organization to provide events, programming and safe spaces for more youth than ever before.

It exists today to provide Advocacy, Leadership, Support and Outreach to LGBTQ youth

and their allies with peer support services, educational programs, advocacy and referrals for LGBTQ youth ages 13 to 24. They also launched ALSO, Jr. in 2021 to support youth ages 10-12.

CAN COMMUNITY HEALTH 4440 Fruitville Rd.; 1231 N. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota | 941-366-0134 | CANCommunityHealth.org

CAN Community Health has served the needs of the LGBTQ community in Florida and beyond since 1991. The private, not-forprofit organization owns and operates over 30

medical clinics, including two in Sarasota which also hosts CAN’s national headquarters.

CAN’s mission is to inspire and contribute to the health and well-being of those affected by HIV, Hepatitis C and other sexually transmitted diseases. They do this through outreach, integrated clinical practice, advocacy, education and research. The organization also seeks to enhance public awareness through education and prevention initiatives while hosting

annual events and more.

THE FRIENDSHIP CENTERS

1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota | 941-955-2122 | FriendshipCenters.org

The Friendship Centers is a nonprofit network in Southwest Florida that aims to meet the needs of those 50 and older. Since the 1970s, the organization has developed innovative, cost-effective approaches to address the health and wellness of older adults. They have served more than 270,000 meals, assisted in more than

Photo by Dylan Todd

16,000 doctor visits and volunteered for more than 59,000 hours.

The organization currently hosts multiple LGBTQ support groups in an effort to build community in a supportive setting. Participants determine topics based on current interests with a commitment to fostering greater understanding and fun.

G2H2 SARASOTA G2H2Sarasota.com

G2H2 Sarasota, or Gay Group Happy Hour, exists to spotlight LGBTQfriendly businesses throughout Sarasota and is presented by SarsotaOUT.com. It has traditionally met monthly at a new location throughout the city to provide locals with an inclusive atmosphere to network. With its monthly meetings, G2H2 Sarasota has donated thousands of dollars to local and national charities.

FABULOUS ARTS FOUNDATION Sarasota | FabAB.org

The Fabulous Arts Foundation has served Sarasota for more than a decade, originally as the Harvey Milk Festival. It was created to support and inspire the LGBTQ community and allies through music, art, film, theatre and dance.

The organization advocates for equality through events, outreach initiatives, diversity and

inclusivity training and an LGBTQ youth scholarship program. They do this all this and more while ensuring they uplift queer and trans BIPOC voices.

PFLAG SARASOTA P.O. Box 671, Sarasota | PFLAGSarasota.org

PFLAG is the nation’s first and largest organization dedicated to uniting families and allies with those in the LGBTQ community. Formed in 1972 to create a world where differences are celebrated, PFLAG currently has more than 400 chapter, including in Sarasota.

The chapter offers education, resources and support throughout Sarasota, Manatee and its neighboring counties. They have traditionally held meetings and participated in events throughout the area.

PROJECT PRIDE SRQ P.O. Box 48635, Sarasota | ProjectPrideSRQ.org

The nonprofit Project Pride exists to celebrate and unite Sarasota’s diverse community by providing social connection and by supporting LGBTQ individuals, businesses and organizations throughout the region.

They seek to expand awareness and understanding of the LGBTQ community by creating strategic partnerships with local organizations, businesses and governments towards

a shared goal.

Since their founding in 2019, their efforts have resulted in the installation of Sarasota’s inclusive street mural, marching an LGBTQ rainbow flag across the John Ringling Bridge, lighting up the city with Pride and more. They also secured Sarasota’s first ever proclamation declaring June as Pride Month in 2021.

PRIME TIMERS SARASOTA P.O. Box 1411, Sarasota | 941-556-1344 |Chapters. ThePrimeTimersWW.com/ Sarasota

Prime Timers Sarasota, a gay, bisexual and transgender social group, is a local chapter of the worldwide organization dedicated to providing social activities for older members of the community. The group seeks to hold more than 75 events throughout the year, which are chosen to fit individual needs,

priorities and affordability. Activities include dinners, game nights, day trips to attractions and holiday parties.

SUNCOAST METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH (MCC) 3276 E. Venice Ave., Venice |941-484-7068 | SuncoastMCC.com

The Metropolitan Community Church is a worldwide denomination that was the first Christian denomination with a primary ministry to the LGBTQ community. Suncoast MCC was founded in 1995 and proudly carries on MCC’s inclusive legacy as a welcoming, diverse and active spiritual community.

It’s also home to Venice Pride, which you can read about in detail in this guide. “Our church and ministries are open to everyone,” its leadership promises. “We care about our community and our world, in all its diversity."

Photo by Ryan Williams-Jent

WATERMARK’S SARASOTA LIVING WITH PRIDE GUIDE

Dining with Pride

Ask the Locals: Kristofer Geddie RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

Before Kristofer Geddie became the general manager and director of diversity at Venice Theatre – billed as the largest community theatre in the U.S. per capita – the North Carolina native entertained in theatres and cruise ships across the world.

He’s now proud to call Venice home, working to ensure equity for all who live, work and play within the wider region. A student of history, he’s made it his goal “to make sure there is representation and a voice in as many places as possible.”

“Learning the history of the LGBTQ community in Sarasota County is remarkable to me,” Geddie explains. It helps him “see how things have changed and what we are doing to make it better for all people.”

His love for the area has also led him to discover its dining scene. Above all, he stresses Sarasota has “hidden gems all over the place with new places opening all the time.”

Geddie shares some of his favorites in this space.

FAVORITE LGBTQ-FRIENDLY

RESTAURANTS: Sage SRQ. It promises both worldly cuisine and inspired cocktails.

1216 1st St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-445-5660 | SAGESRQ.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR DINNER AND DRINKS: Made

In Italy Italian Restaurant and Martini Bar – the espresso martinis and pork osso Bucco are out of this world!

117 W. Venice Ave., Venice, FL 34285 | 941-488-8282 | MadeInItalyVenice.com

FAVORITE SWEET TOOTH SPOT: I quit that habit – but a cheesecake will make me forget.

Yoder's Restaurant & Amish Village has a delectable Strawberry Cheesecake.

3434 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota, FL 34239 | 941-955-7771 |

YodersRestaurant.com

FAVORITE DINING DATE

NIGHT: Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant – a new place east of 75 with their own wine and plenty of dining space inside and out.

3130 Fruitville Commons Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34240 | 941-263-8100 | CHWinery.com/

FAVORITE VENUE FOR FANCY

DINING: Sage SRQ – the seasonal menu is always incredible and the décor in the historic Sarasota Times building is worth a visit.

1216 1st St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-445-5660 | SAGESRQ.com

FAVORITE LOCAL JOINT: The Old Venice Pub - the upstairs balcony bar overlooking Venice Ave. is always full of locals and the most eclectic folks.

100 W. Venice Ave., Ste. L, Venice, FL 34285 | 941-484-3031 | Facebook. com/OldVenicePub

FAVORITE BRUNCH: Original Word of Mouth – The Spotted Goat Omelette is a great veggie option and of course a side of bacon!

6604 Gateway Ave., Sarasota, FL 34231 | 941-925-2400 | 1740 E. Venice Ave., Venice, Florida 34292 |941-218-6509 | OriginalWordOfMouth.com

FAVORITE DINNER WITH A VIEW: Fins at Sharky’s –overlooking the Gulf and watching the sun set is hard to beat, but the Josper-Grilled Octopus is a contender!

1600 Harbor Dr. S., Venice, FL 34285 | 941-999-3467 | FinsAtSharkys.com

FAVORITE SMALL PLATES: Shore St. Armand’s. The shrimp ceviche, calamari and the olive bread are a great afternoon delight. 465 John Ringling Blvd., Ste. 200, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-296-0301 | DineShore.com

FAVORITE UNIQUE FLORIDA MENU: Snook Haven Restaurant. The gator bites with a side of BBQ sauce will change your life.

5000 E. Venice Ave., Venice, FL 34292 | 941-485-7221 | SnookHaven.com

FAVORITE RESTAURANT: It varies between Goldrush BBQ, Star Thai and Sushi and my kitchen. The pulled pork at Goldrush almost rivals some from North Carolina. The always stunning presentation at Star Thai can’t be beat, although I love cooking and exploring new recipes and relaxing at home.

Goldrush BBQ, 661 Tamiami Trl. S., Venice, FL 34285 | 941-483-3137 | GoldRushBBQ.com

Star Thaiand Sushi: 935 N. Beneva Rd., Ste. 401, Sarasota, FL 34235 | 941-706-3848 | StarThaiAndSushi.com

Photo courtesy Kristofer Geddie

FAVORITE SEAFOOD DISH/ RESTAURANT: I love Moqueca, a Brazilian seafood stew… haven’t found my favorite yet, does anyone have suggestions? But do try Duvals’s fresh local seafood.

1435 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-312-4001 |

DuvalsFreshLocalSeafood.com

FAVORITE VEGETARIAN DISH/RESTAURANT: The Triple Berry Kale Salad at Café Venice Restaurant and Bar is incredible. While you’re there try the fried Spinach.

101 W. Venice Ave., Venice, FL 34285 | 941-484-1855 |

CafeVeniceRestaurantAndBar.com

FAVORITE FOOD TRUCK:

The Maine Line. This local food truck celebrates seafood from Maine

and can be seen around Sarasota and Venice.

Various Locations | 941-246-9090 | TheMainLine.net

FAVORITE COFFEE HOUSE: My balcony with my own cup and of French Press and “Brazilian Mambo” beans from Venetian Coffee Roasters. When I do venture out I go to Venice Wine and Coffee Company

201 W. Venice Ave., Venice, FL 34285 | 941-484-3667 | VeniceWineAndCo eeCompany.com

FAVORITE CRAFT BEER: Zote by Calusa Brewing. It isn’t available in store but their taproom is great and has local food trucks available daily.

5701 Derek Ave., Sarasota, FL 34233 | 941-922-8150 | CalusaBrewing.com

FAVORITE SPOT FOR WINE: Devine’s Wine Bar. Their menu has tastes from around the globe vy the glass and bottle.

101 W. Venice Ave., #16, Venice, FL 34285 | 941-480-0663 | DevinesWineBar.com

FAVORITE GLOBAL CUSINE: I have to go with Thai Star and Sushi again. It has an incredible staff and a winning presentation at all times. 935 N. Beneva Rd., Ste. 401, Sarasota, FL 34235 | 941-706-3848 | StarThaiAndSushi.com

DONT MISS...

BOCA SARASOTA

19 S. Lemon Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-256-3565 | BocaSarasota.com

CLASICO ITALIAN CHOPHOUSE

1341 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-957-0700 | ClasicoSRQ.com

MADE RESTAURANT

1990 Main St. #112, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-953-2900 | MADERestaurant.com

MELLOW MUSHROOM

6727 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 | 941-388-7504 | MellowMushroom.com

MICHAEL'S ON EAST

1212 S. East Ave., Sarasota, FL 34239 | 941-366-0007 | BestFood.com

OWEN'S FISH CAMP

516 Burn's Lane, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-951-6936 | OwensFishCamp. com

TANDOOR FINE INDIAN CUISINE

8453 Cooper Creek Blvd., Bradenton, FL 34201 | 941-926-3077 | TandoorSarsota.net

THE ROSEMARY

411 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-955-7600 | TheRosemarySarasota.com

TROPICAL THAI RESTAURANT

1535 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-364-5775 | Facebook.com/ TropicalThaiInSarasota

TSUNAMI SUSHI & HIBACHI

100 Central Ave Ste 1022, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-366-1033 | Tsunami-Sarasota.com

Photo courtesy Yoder's Restaurant & Amish Village

Nightlife of Pride

Ask the Locals: Amanda Heisey

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

“There’s always something to do,” Amanda Heisey says of Sarasota’s nightlife. “From drag to burlesque shows, to art shows and parties, you can definitely find something.”

She experiences that firsthand as Karma Kandlewick, a regional performer and burlesque artist. Heisey also helps guide Sarasota’s next generation of artists as a acting teacher.

“Most of my students are LGBTQ and I love being able to show them that they have instructors that respect their pronouns and chosen names,” she says. “I love being able to have discussions where they feel safe and accepted without ever worrying about being judged. Open dialogue also teaches my other students who are not LGBTQ to be more open-minded and better advocates.”

It strengthens the area’s nightlife as well. “The LGBTQ folks in the area are proud to be out and I love that,” Heisey says. “There’s definitely a community out there for you.” Heisey shares some of her favorite ways to experience it in this space.

FAVORITE LGBTQ OR LGBTQFRIENDLY BAR: Oasis Restaurant & Bar

They usually have fun drag performances on the weekends. It's also a very cool older building with tasty food. What's not to love?

1525 4th St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-2175082 | Oasis-SRQ.com

FAVORITE LGBTQ-FRIENDLY EVENT OUTING: To the theatre! Any theatre.

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, Urbanite Theatre, The Players Centre There are so many options in this area!

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe: 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-3661505 | WestcoastBLackTheatre.org

Urbanite Theatre: 1487 2nd St., Sarasota, FL | 941-321-1397 | UrbaniteTheatre.com

The Players Centre: 1400 Blvd. of the Arts, Ste. 200, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-365-2494 | ThePlayers.org

FAVORITE PLACE TO DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY: As much as I love dancing the night away, I don't get to do it that much for just fun because usually I'm working.

Oasis Restaurant & Bar and The Gator Club are perfect places to let loose and dance though. They’re always a good time.

Oasis Restaurant & Bar: 1525 4th St., Sarasota,

FL 34236 | 941-217-5082 | Oasis-SRQ.com

The Gator Club: 1490 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-366-5969 | TheGatorClub.com

FAVORITE DATE NIGHT: MADE Restaurant, which offers locally sourced comfort food “served in an airy, colorful setting with a spacious patio.” Then to a show or to hear some music.

1990 Main St., #112, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-953-2900 | MADERestaurant.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC: The Blue Rooster! They have interesting lineups of fabulous bands and artists throughout the week – but my favorite show I've seen there is Gospel Brunch. It's amazing, you get delicious food and it almost feels like going to church.

1525 4th St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-3887539 | BlueRoosterSRQ.com

FAVORITE FANCY COCKTAIL BAR: Pangea Alchemy Lab. It's like the sweetest backroom speakeasy you ever did see.

1564 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-8705555 | PangeaLounge.com

FAVORITE DIVE BAR: Memories

Photo by Luke Arnold

SARASOTA

Lounge, it's down the street from where I live and it's everything you think of when you hear "dive bar."

One pool table, karaoke one night a week, old regulars, people smoke inside, it has all the features to make it “the best little dive bar in Florida.”

3428 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234 | 941-355-9849 | MemoriesLoungeSRQ.com

FAVORITE PLACE TO GRAB A BEER: Mandeville Beer Garden

They have an amazing selection of beers and the outside seating is super cute.

28 N. Lemon Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-954-8688 | MBGSRQ.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR A STRONG DRINK: I like the margarita selection at Circo. It’s known as “A Taco & Bourbon Joint with different salts, flavors and even a Bourbon margarita that can really get you there – if you know what I mean.

1435 2nd St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-253-0978 | CircoSRQ.com

FAVORITE PLACE FOR DINNER AND A SHOW: You can get dinner at McCurdy Comedy Theatre and Humor Institute and see a comedian or drag show! The Green Room East End has a full bar and menu where you can mingle

before and after performances.

1923 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-925-3869 | McCurdysComedy.com

FAVORITE LIVE SHOW

VENUE: I have so many I don't think I could pick just one. Just go see live shows, support artists! Asolo Repertory Theatre, McCurdy's Comedy Theatre and Humor Institute, The Bazaar on Apricot and Lime, The Players Centre, Urbanite Theatre, Venice Theatre, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe I feel like I could go on forever!

Asolo Repertory Theatre: 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243 | 800-361-8388 | AsoloRep.org

McCurdy’s: 1923 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-925-3869 | McCurdysComedy.com

The Bazaar on Apricot and Lime | 821 Apricot Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237 | 941-445-1938 | BazaarOnApricotAndLime.com

The Players Centre: 1400 Blvd. of the Arts, Ste. 200, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-365-2494 | ThePlayers.org

Urbanite Theatre: 1487 2nd St., Sarasota, FL | 941-321-1397 | UrbaniteTheatre.com

Venice Theatre: 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice, FL 34285 | 941-488-1115 | VeniceTheatre.org

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe: 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-366-1505 |

WestcoastBLackTheatre.org

FAVORITE BAR WITH A VIEW: The Westin Sarasota. Their rooftop is so high it almost gives me vertigo, but it's such a beautiful view.

100 Marina View Dr., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-217-4777 | Marriott. com

FAVORITE PLACE TO SIT BACK AND BE ENTERTAINED: The Mable Bar & Grill. It's a chill atmosphere and the food has no right to be that good.

2831 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234 | 941-487-7373 | TheMableBar.com

FAVORITE PLACE TO MEET LOCALS: The Bazaar on Apricot and Lime is this great location that has booths by local artists and is the place to go for gifts. There’s also usually a food truck in the courtyard with live musicians playing. The owner also been incredibly generous with her time and support of the arts by allowing Dingbat Theatre Project to perform there. It has it all. 821 Apricot Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237 | 941-445-1938 |

BazaarOnApricotAndLime.com

DONT MISS...

99 BOTTLES TAPROOM & BOTTLE SHOP

1445 2nd St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-487-7874 | 99Bottles.net

BAHI HUT TIKI COCKTAIL LOUNGE

4675 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234 | 941-355-5141 | BahiHut.com

CLASICO ITALIAN CHOPHOUSE

1341 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-957-0700 | ClasicoSRQ.com

JACK DUSTY’S AT THE RITZ-CARLTON SARASOTA

1111 Ritz Carlton Dr., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-309-2266 | RitzCarlton. com

PERSPECTIVE ROOFTOP BAR

AT ART OVATION HOTEL 1255 N. Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236 | PerspectiveRooftopBar.com

PURPLE RHINO 2920 S. Beneva Rd. Sarasota, FL 34239 | 941-735-6553 | ThePurpleRhino.org

RINGLING UNDERGROUND

5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota, FL 34243 | Ringling.org/Events/ Ringling-Underground-0

SAGE

1216 1st St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-445-5660 | SAGESRQ.com

SELVA DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

1345 Main St. f4, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-362-4427 | SelvaGrill.com

SMOKIN' JOES PUB

1448 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-366-9439 | JoesOnMain.com

Photo courtesy The Westin Sarasota

in

best

FAVORITE FANCY NIGHT OUT: There’s nothing like dusting off your John Lobbs and heading out for a night at the opera! Sarasota Opera always delivers for that fancy night out. 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-328-1300 | SarasotaOpera.org

FAVORITE PLACE FOR A LAUGH: This may sound funny in and of itself, but my default for a good laugh is all of the outdoor entertainment available through our awesome parks and recreational areas. There’s nothing better than getting together with good friends, including those with four legs and having some fun – and lots of laughs!

Locations throughout Sarasota | SCGov.net/Parks-Recreation-AndNatural-Resources

FAVORITE COMMUNITY

THEATER: I have to go with Urbanite Theatre. I love discovering new voices in theatre and find their choices current and thought provoking. The bold storytelling and intimate space make for an awesome experience! 1487 2nd St., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-321-1397 | UrbaniteTheatre. com

FAVORITE OUTDOOR

ENTERTAINMENT: Café in the Park, for sure. This spot has great grub, local beer and live music every Friday night, everything from Spanish pop to old school country It’s family and fur-family friendly.

2010 Adams Ln., Sarasota, FL 34237 | 941-361-3032 | CafeInThePark.org

Pride in Arts & Entertainment

Ask the Locals: Robert Rogers RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

Robert Rogers has called Sarasota home since 2004. It was the only Florida city the South Carolina native ever considered a move to, thanks in large part to its arts and entertainment scene.

“We are so fortunate to have such a heavy concentration of extraordinary talent across all disciplines in our community, which makes for an incredibly vibrant arts and culture experience for us all,” Rogers explains.

“There are myriad opportunities to explore world class visual and performing arts,” he continues. “I find it especially encouraging to see our cultural institutions prioritizing comprehensive access to the arts."

It's something the visual artist has been a part of both personally and professionally. Rogers has partnered with local nonprofits throughout the area to showcase his fellow members of the LGBTQ community and more.

“In my experience, we are a community of caring, compassionate, resilient folx, who represent and share our Pride openly and lovingly – embracing one another’s differences and inviting others to participate in the conversation,” he says. “That sense of togetherness nurtures a rewarding and engaging community.” Rogers shares some of his favorite spaces and experiences.

FAVORITE VENUE FOR A MOVIE: As an indie film fan, Burns Court Cinema is my go-to. There’s also a cool little courtyard for a pre-flick beverage with friends.

506 Burns Ct., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-955-3456 | FIlmSociety.org

FAVORITE VENUE FOR A LIVE INTIMATE PERFORMANCE:

Fogartyville Community Media and Arts Center. These folx celebrate sounds across the spectrum in a super intimate setting. They host some amazing musicians who are exercising their musical muscles in every genre – and the poetry nights have their own special kind of power.

525 Kumquat Ct., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-894-6469 | WSLR.org/ Fogartyville

FAVORITE PLACE FOR DINNER AND A SHOW: When it comes to dinner and a show, I usually pair something yummy at The Ringling Grillroom with one of the extraordinary shows at the Historic Asolo Theater, especially the Art of Performance series.

Elizabeth Doud, RMA’s CurrieKohlmann Curator of Performance, is presenting us with some of the most relevant and provocative time-based art across a range of performance disciplines from around the world.

The Ringling Grillroom | 5401 Bay Shore Rd. McKay Visitor's Pavilion, Sarasota, FL 34243 | 941-360-7390 | TheRinglingGrillroom.com

Historic Asolo Theater | 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota, FL 34243 | 941-360-7399 | Ringling.org/ Historic-Asolo-Theater

Photo courtesy Robert Rogers

FAVORITE VENUE FOR LIVE

DANCE: Sarasota Contemporary Dance. I became aware of them through the evidence-based work they do with Parkinson’s patients and discovered a company of incredibly gifted dancers who possess a palpable energy and profound commitment to their craft and their community. Not only do they have an extensive catalog of choreography, they seem to find constant inspiration through their ever-evolving collaborations.

1400 Boulevard of the Arts Ste. 300, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-260-8485 | SarasotaContemporaryDance.org

FAVORITE VENUE FOR LIVE

ART: Contemporary art is my thing, so the galleries at Sarasota Art Museum are my home away from home.

1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-309-4300 | SarasotaArtMuseum.org

FAVORITE HANDS-ON ART CLASS: I really love our local art centers. Art Center Sarasota, Venice Art Center and Englewood Art Center provide a variety of opportunities for all ages to view and create art. Swing by and

see some of the cool stuff Kinsey Robb has up her sleeve as Art Center Sarasota’s executive director.

Art Center Sarasota | 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-3652032 | ArtsSarasota.org

Venice Art Center | 390 Nokomis Ave S., Venice, FL 34285 | 941-485-7136 | VeniceArtCenter.co

Englewood Art Center | 350 S McCall Rd., Englewood, FL 34223 | 941474-5548 | Ringling.edu/EAC

FAVORITE GEEK SPOT: Our public libraries – all of them. I’ve been to every public library in Sarasota County. They provide so many ways in which to explore the literary arts. I have attended presentations on queer literary history, poetry readings and since I’m working on my own mystery/ thriller manuscript, some writing workshops.

Locations throughout Sarasota | SCGov.net/Government/ Departments/Libraries

FAVORITE HIDDEN A&E GEM: New College New Music. It is a truly meaningful encounter with contemporary music. Words feel inadequate. It’s something to be experienced.

5313 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota, FL 34243 | 941-487-4665 | NewMusicNewCollege.org

FAVORITE ANNUAL EVENT:

There are a few, but there’s one that holds a particular resonance for me: the annual Embracing Our Differences exhibit at Bayfront Park. In my humble opinion, this exhibit exemplifies inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility. I typically make many visits to view the work and hold space with friends, neighbors and – more often than not – complete strangers to engage in conversations, contemplations or simply share some silence together, exchange a smile and rejoice in the realization that we are actively embracing our differences. It’s beautiful!

5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-263-6386 |

EmbracingOurDi erences.org

VAN WEZEL PERFORMING

HALL

VENICE THEATRE

WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPE

Pride 365

Sarasota events celebrate authenticity year-round

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT

There’s no shortage of ways to showcase your Pride in Sarasota. It’s been celebrated throughout the area by LGBTQ residents and visitors for decades.

Year-round, the community gathers to offer a safe place to laugh and love, presenting a variety of festivities in honor of our shared experience. With so many ways to celebrate, this list is far from complete. Be sure to read future issues of Watermark and visit WatermarkOnline.com for the latest details about each outing and much more.

FABULOUS ARTS FOUNDATION FESTIVALS

FABAF.org

The Fabulous Arts Foundation has presented arts events in Sarasota for 12 years. The organization supports and inspires the LGBTQ community and allies through music, art, film, theatre and dance – which it now does with the Be Fabulous Music & Arts Festival, Fabulous Independent Film Festival and Drag Culture Fest.

MANATEE PRIDE

ALSOYouth.org

Manatee Pride seeks to uplift and empower members of the LGBTQ community who live, love and visit Sarasota and Manatee counties. Its 7th celebration was held in 2022 and served as a fundraiser for ALSO Youth, allowing the organization to provide affirming services to LGBTQ youth throughout the year that include mental health care.

SARASOTA PRIDE

SarasotaPride.org

Sarasota Pride, the region’s longest-running Pride festival, returns in 2022 for its 31st outing. Its organizing nonprofit exists to encourage visibility for members of the LGBTQ community living in Sarasota and beyond. It promotes the elimination of prejudice and defends civil rights through community activities like Pride in the Park.

PROJECT PRIDE FESTIVITIES

ProjectPrideSRQ.org

Project Pride seeks to create an all-inclusive community where everyone is united, supported and celebrated. One of the ways they work to accomplish this is through year-round events, with an emphasis on Pride Month. The organization marches their 375-foot Progress Pride Flag across the Ringling Bridge, holds car parades and more, with similar events expected in 2023.

VENICE PRIDE VeniceFLPride.com

Venice Pride held its inaugural celebration in 2019 on the five-acre campus of SunCoast Cathedral Metropolitan Community Church, described as a safe spiritual home for the LGBTQ community and its allies. The celebration continues to honor the diversity, visibility and strength of the multi-generational LGBTQ community and its allies, with the latest event expected in 2022.

Photo by Dylan Todd

ARTS AND

HEALTH AND

Avita is your LGBTQ+ friendly pharmacy

At Avita, our team treats every patient the way we want to be treated. We’ll make sure you get the medications you need, when you need them. We work to get you the best price and will even deliver your meds nationwide! Avita has supported the LGBTQ+ community for nearly 20 years and wants to be your pharmacy partner for life.

Scan the QR code to learn more and transfer to Avita.