From the Bench

A note from the Publishers

Happy Pride Month, St. Pete! The road to equality may be growing longer (pg. 6), but that won’t stop Pride (pg. 22).

This is one of our least favorite "From the Bench" entries to write because we have to tell you that our good friends and longtime contributors, Tina Stewart Brakebill and Brian Brakebill, are moving back North. This month’s cover pays tribute to their work and the ways they helped shape GBM through the years. We'll miss them dearly—GBM won't be the same without them. Readers, if you have any kind words to offer Tina and Brian as a farewell, please email hello@greenbenchmonthly.com. Before we get too sentimental, we can't forget how much we're looking forward to introducing our newly hired team of contributors next month. You may even recognize a few names!

Father’s Day is June 18. Need gift ideas? Shop Thrifty Treasures (pg. 11). We’ve got yoga for everyone (pg. 10). Dog training— because we all know someone who needs it (pg. 14). The 18th Sunscreen Film Festival had St. Pete seeing stars (pg. 12) and the St. Pete Free Clinic reminds us to feed compassion (pg. 18).

And finally, Clothes To Kids really needs shorts and shoes, especially for elementary school children. Visit clothestokids.org!

Wishing you a very jazzy Juneteenth celebration (pg. 22).

Till next time, Ashley & Tony

All are welcome on this bench.

The history of the green benches is layered. For some, it is a reminder of a painful period of racism and segregation. To others, it is a symbol of welcomeness and hospitality. We carry this name to shine a light on our city’s history and in celebration of those who work tirelessly towards a more inclusive St. Pete. To read more about our story and the history of the green benches visit greenbenchmonthly.com/about.