Watermark's Sarasota Living with Pride 2018

S A R A S OTA with Pride

The Music Man The Crucible A Doll’s House, Part 2 Sweat Noises Off The Cake Sweeney Todd Around the World in 80 Days

The cast of Evita, November, 2017. Photo by Paul Miller.

asolorep.org

941.351.8000 800.361.8388

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S A R A S OTA L I V I N G W I T H P R I D E

Top Row: (Left) Photo by Dylan Todd • (Center) Photo by Dylan Todd • (Right) Photo courtesy of The Starlite Room Center Row: (Left) Photo courtesy of Sarasota Ballet • (Center) Photo Courtesy of Marina Jacks • (Right) Photo courtesy of Oasis Bottom Row: (Left) Photo courtesy of Sarasota Pride • (Center) Photo courtesy of ALSO Youth • (Right) Photo by Dylan Todd

Preview

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Letter from the City of Sarasota Introduction/ Welcome Sarasota: The perfect staycation or relocation

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Ask the Locals: Sarasota’s Arts & Entertainment Ask the Locals: Sarasota’s Dining Ask the Locals: Sarasota’s Nightlife

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Out and Proud: Sarasota’s year-long Pride celebrations Community Care: Sarasota’s support scene Business Directory

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WATERMARK’S SARASOTA LIVING WITH PRIDE 2018

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TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE THE

DIFFERENCE CAN Community Health is dedicated to the treatment, care and continual wellness of people living with HIV, hepatitis C and other STDS.

cancommunityhealth.org

Sarasota 1231 N. Tuttle Avenue Sarasota, FL 34237 941.366.0134

Palmetto 408 7th Street W. Palmetto, FL 34221 941.803.7939

Sarasota 3354 17th Street Sarasota, FL 34235 941.444.7507

North Port 14243 Tamiami Trail North Port, FL 34287 941.888.2144

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Cover photo

by Dylan Todd SARASOTA LIVING WITH PRIDE IS PUBLISHED BY WATERMARK PUBLISHING GROUP OWNER & PUBLISHER

Rick Claggett BUSINESS MANAGER

Kathleen Sadler CFL BUREAU CHIEF

Jeremy Williams TAMPA BAY BUREAU CHIEF

welcome

to the inaugural Sarasota Living with Pride—Watermark’s annual LGBTQ resource for all things Sarasota!

T

he city of Sarasota’s vision is to be a world-class community and treasured destination, rich in its natural beauty, charm and diversity.

That’s easily found in the six beaches

scene. Chris Covelli, an area executive chef,

along Sarasota’s coastline—Longboat,

guides you through Sarasota’s dynamic

CONTRIBUTOR

Lido, Siesta, Casey and Manasota Keys and

dining offerings.

Aaron Drake

Venice—but there’s so much more to love.

Ryan Williams-Jent

MULTIMEDIA ASSISTANT

Meghan Sweeney ART DIRECTOR

Jake Stevens CREATIVE ASSISTANT/ PHOTOGRAPHER

Dylan Todd SALES DIRECTOR

Danny Garcia SENIOR ORLANDO ACCOUNT MANAGER

Especially for the LGBTQ community.

Over 50,000 Floridians call Sarasota

The night doesn’t need to end there in Sarasota. The city offers an incredible nightlife, particularly for the

home. The fabulous southwestern coastal

LGBTQ community. We dish on it all with

area offers so many in our community a safe

our cover model and fan-favorite drag

place to live and love authentically. It’s why

entertainer Beneva Fruitville.

we proudly cover the area in our bi-weekly newsmagazine.

We print up to 20,000 copies of

We also highlight Sarasota’s wide variety of annual celebrations honoring our shared LGBTQ experience. Between

Watermark every other Thursday,

Manatee and Sarasota Prides, the Fabulous

distributing them in more than 500 locations

Independent Film Festival and the Harvey

throughout the Sunshine State; chief among

Milk Festival, there’s no doubt Sarasota’s

Brianna Rockmore

them Sarasota, Tampa Bay and Orlando. We

LGBTQ community has Pride.

SENIOR TAMPA BAY ACCOUNT MANAGER

donate more than $300,000 annually in free

Sam Callahan ORLANDO ACCOUNT MANAGER

Russ Martin FOUNDER AND GUIDING LIGHT

Tom Dyer

Sarasota’s LGBTQ community has

and sponsor advertising to worthy local and

an impressive network of support.

national LGBTQ nonprofits, like The Harvey

That’s why we also review many of the

Milk Festival and Sarasota Pride.

essential community and social groups

As a multi-faceted media company and

serving the area—from active adult

Contents of this Sarasota Living with Pride 2018 are protected by federal copyright law and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the permission of the publishers. Publication of the name or photograph of any person or organization in articles, advertising, or listing is not to be construed as any indication of the sexual orientation of such persons or members or organizations.

Watermark Publishing Group cannot accept responsibility for claims made by advertisers.

Florida’s distinctive LGBTQ news source,

gatherings to youth-aiding community

Watermark uses opportunity and innovation

organizations.

© Watermark Publishing Group

ABC7’s Suncoast View host Joey Panek, we’ll

Phone:

ORL: 407-481-2243 TB: 813-655-9890

Fax:

ORL: 407-481-224 TB: 813-849-2986

Publisher@WatermarkOnline.com WatermarkOnline.com

to communicate and advance LGBTQ

Last but certainly not least, we offer you

interests. It’s that drive that led to the

a directory of LGBTQ and LGBTQ-friendly

creation of Sarasota Living with Pride.

vendors in the area. Support those who

In these pages, you’ll learn what to expect if you’re planning the perfect Sarasota

support you.

Sarasota is the perfect place to live

staycation. With so much to see and do, it

exactly as you are. We’re happy you’ve joined

might even become your next relocation.

us for Watermark’s first Sarasota Living

There’s a reason Sarasota County is known

with Pride.

as Florida’s Cultural Coast. With the help of guide you through some of the many options in local arts and entertainment.

Sarasota offers a plethora of award-winning restaurants, perfect for a meal before or after enjoying the city’s arts

RYAN WILLIAMS-JENT WATERMARK TAMPA BAY BUREAU CHIEF

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WATERMARK’S SARASOTA LIVING WITH PRIDE 2018

Live. Really live.

Bri Hays

Kris Kesling-Hays

We can show you where.

Preferred People.

Phone: (941) 951-2580

PREFERRED PROPERTIES of Sarasota, Inc.

Lic. Real Estate Broker

Preferred Places. www.PrefHomes.Net

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Sarasota The perfect staycation or relocation

W

rYAn WILLIAMS-JenT

weekends,” he says. “The Purple rhino is home to Drag Bingo and

hether you’re eyeing the staycation that’s

shows during the week and is also

all you’ve ever wanted or considering

one of the oldest LGBTQ+ venues in

the relocation of your dreams, Sarasota

room is the newest up and coming

Sarasota. opulence at the Starlite LGBTQ+ venue in Sarasota and has

can be the perfect fit for you. From its beautiful beaches

been taking the city by storm with its

to dynamic downtown, the city has it all—including a

amazing shows and drink specials.”

thriving LGBTQ community.

LGBTQ community in Sarasota may

Hyatt Place Sarasota/Lakewood

and less-commercialized sites that

George certainly sees it that way.

Sarasota has to offer,” George says,

While he’s a native of North Carolina

“so they can truly get a feel for

and ultimately relocated to Sarasota

Sarasota’s personality.” He recalls

himself, it’s his job to spell out the

his own early days in the city, when

best the city has to offer for all of

he fell in love with Marina Jack in

its visitors.

downtown Sarasota and o’leary’s Dr.“It truly gives you a feel for

given its culture of acceptance. The

Sarasota’s vibe.”

he recalls—he fell in love. “I can walk down Main Street holding my partner’s hand and have no fear of profiling or discrimination,” he says.

“We’re truly fortunate.”

Sarasota resident Ken Shelin agrees, having lived in the area with his decades-long partner full-time since 1996. Shelin has served on since

On top of that, George recommends

its 100 percent rating on the Human

the nightlife. “oasis in Gulfgate is

Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality

open seven days a week with daily

Index, noting the organization isn’t

drink specials and performers on the

shy in showing employees, customers

“we are mighty!” After he relocated,

Tiki Bar & Grill located on Bayfront

perfect place for him to do so, organization’s corporate website touts

be smaller than other Florida cities,

“I love sending them to the local

ranch Front Desk Manager John

He says that the Hyatt is the

George says that while the

1996.Shelin has served on multiple civic and governmental boards in the city, including the Sarasota Planning Board, and was elected to serve on the Sarasota City Commission.

and the globe that it supports the LGBTQ community.

“You’ll never be discriminated against when you join the Hyatt family,” George shares, something he makes evident to hotel guests when he introduces them to Sarasota.

warm welcome Hyatt Place Sarasota/Lakewood Ranch Front Desk Manager John George (C) and his teammates stress Sarasota is a welcoming community to visitors.

Photo courtesy of John GeorGe

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While there, he convinced the Commission to provide domestic partner healthcare benefits to city employees. Most recently, he completed six years on the board for Equality Florida—the state’s largest civil rights organization dedicated to securing full equality for Florida’s LGBTQ community.

During his tenure, Sarasota became the third largest fundraising city for the organization.

“The money is here,” Shelin muses, “but certainly the real reason is because this is actually a very tolerant community.” He calls Sarasota a city of inclusiveness, full of those who are both accepting of new ideas and innovative in their approach to tolerance.

“The city itself attracts very experienced, educated people,” Shelin continues, people who “have a tendency to be understanding of the needs and benefits for tolerance and inclusion. They understand that it creates an innovative community; that it creates a creative community.”

Shelin says that the city’s support of the LGBTQ community is incredible. In the early 2000s, Sarasota adopted an amendment to the city charter banning discrimination in housing, employment and public accommodations. “And then three years ago I went to the commission and asked them to add gender identity and expression,” he recalls.

“It’s so easy to do things like that here because there’s such broad and

ABOVE TOP

lido loVe: Lido Key in Sarasota, which includes North Lido, Lido Beach and South Lido, received its name when John Ringling referred to its three beaches by the Italian word "lido," which means "beach."

Photo by dylan todd

ABOVE BOTTOM

dreamers:

the kinds of fights that Miami

"Olympic Wannabees," a statue of five children at play, was placed at The Bayfront Park in Sarasota in 2003.

or Jacksonville have had, or

Photo by dylan todd

deep support for these kinds of laws.

“We don’t get into arguments here,” he says. “We don’t have

that [Tampa’s] Hillsborough County has had in the past about nondiscrimination laws.”

Sarasota is physically beautiful as well, he notes, pointing toward its breathtaking waterfront. “Life here is what you dream about. When I first moved here, it matched what I had in my mind as that beautiful place that I wanted to live … and then my partner and I bought a house here. We found that the people were wonderful as well; they were engaging and open.

We’ve had a very active social life with all of our neighbors.

“We’re included,” Shelin says. “We’re not segregated; we’re not kept apart from the rest of the community.

That’s what you can be in Sarasota, an active part of the community.”

eQuality chamP: Sarasota resident Ken Shelin served six years on Equality Florida's board. He calls Sarasota a city of inclusiveness.

Photo courtesy of Ken shelin

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» FANCY NIGHT OUT:

Asolo repertory Theatre

(asolorep.org). Usually start with a cocktail either downtown Sarasota or right there at Muse at the Ringling.

» FOR A LAUGH:

Florida Studio Theatre Improv (floridastudiotheatre.org) every weekend (even when I’m not in it!). If you haven’t gone to the annual Sarasota Improv Festival, you’re missing out.

Dozens of troupes from all over the country. Some of the greatest improv artists—these mad geniuses are all here for one great weekend of comedy.

It’s one of my favorite events.

» COMMUNITY THEATRE:

That’s tough—we are

lucky to have three really unique community theaters here: Players Centre of

Arts and entertainment Ask the Locals: Joey Panek

J

AAron DrAke

oey Panek, senior producer and host for ABC7’s "Suncoast View," first came to work in Sarasota 18 years ago from Syracuse, New York. He became a permanent resident in 2006.

“We have this really sweet and quirky community

Besides working as a television host, Panek is

of artists and creatives that for one reason or

also active in the community. He works as a fitness

another decide to make this their home,” Panek, 41,

instructor at the Sarasota YMCA, an improv performer

says. “Sarasota has changed over the last decade,

at the Florida Studio Theatre, an event emcee for

and it‘s largely due to those people who have said,

numerous nonprofit and arts organizations and a

‘I know I could move to a bigger city, but I‘m not. I‘m

volunteer performer with the Suncoast AIDS Theatre

going to stay here.’ They‘ve created the energy that

Project. He gives us the rundown of must-experience

has started to evolve the city.”

spots around Sarasota to enjoy the arts.

Sarasota (theplayers.org), Manatee Players (tickets. manateeplayers.com) and Venice Theatre (venicestage.com).

I have close relationships with all three, and I admire the hard work they put into each show.

»

SATURDAY AFTERNOON CULTURE ACTIVITY: Walking the grounds of ringling Museum (ringling.org ) on a Saturday is an afternoon well spent, even if you don’t go into the galleries.

The grounds are beautiful. Plus, you can buy a glass of wine at the cafe. Selby Gardens (selby.org) is pretty great too. The grounds are beautiful and they’ve really expanded their exhibits to make it a dynamic afternoon. I’m not all that into plants and I love it.

»

OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT: American Stage in the Park (americanstage.org). I look forward to it every spring.

Go with a group of friends. Bring a picnic and wine. Nothing better.

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» SUNDAY AT THE MOVIES:

When

I’m feeling bougie, it’s CinéBistro (cinebistro.com/sarasota). But I love Burns Court Cinema, too (filmsociety.org).

» INTIMATE LIVE PERFORMANCES:

Urbanite Theatre (urbanitetheatre.com).

You’re so close to the action you could help the actors tie their ties. Also Westcoast Black Theater Troupe (westcoastblacktheatre.org).

» DINNER AND A SHOW:

Cafe Barbosso (cafebarbasso.com) in South Sarasota. Chef Joe serves amazing Italian food, and he brings in live artists to paint while you’re dining. So your taste buds are happy and you get to watch real live art while you eat.

» LIVE DANCE:

Our Sarasota Ballet

(sarasotaballet.org) is getting national attention for all their great work.

We also have some really incredible contemporary dance companies here.

Sarasota Contemporary Dance (sarasotacontemporarydance.org), formerly Fuzion Dance, just got their new home in the Rosemary District. They do great work.

»

CLASSIC MUSIC: Friday Fest at the

» HANDS-ON ART CLASS:

Makers Market (makersmarketdiy. myshopify.com) in Bradenton is a DIY studio that lets you build things.

They guide you through with power

Van Wezel (vanwezel.org), or Mattison’s

tools and woodworking. It’s really

City Grille Downtown (mattisons.com).

cool, and so butch. Also, the Craft

They always have live music that’s

Bar (thecraftbar.org) in Sarasota is

playing all your favorite rock hits.

the same. It’s like the group paint and

» FINE ART:

Of course The ringling

has an overwhelming collection of art, but there is also some unexpected stuff there too. There is a section at the Ringling that

drink wine classes, but instead you end up making three-dimensional crafts.

» GEEKIEST PLACE:

I’m not

saying books are geeky, but if you really

houses the James Turrell Skyspace. It’s

want to get your fix of books and authors,

called “Joseph’s Coat.” When you walk in, it

Bookstore1 (sarasotabooks.com)

looks like an empty marble room with a big

in Downtown Sarasota is awesome.

skylight. But if you go an hour before sunset

The people there can recommend

and lay on the floor with a yoga mat, there

any title or author depending on

are LED lights all around the perimeter of the

what you like, and they bring in

ceiling. It creates this really beautiful contrast

some pretty impressive and diverse

to the sky. You have to go experience it.

authors for talkbacks and signings.

» CRAZY FUN NIGHT OUT:

If you

» ANNUAL CULTURAL EVENT:

head to Gulf Gate on the right night, you

Sarasota Improv Festival in July is so high

can do your own little restaurant and bar

up on my list. Selby Lights in Bloom (selby.

crawl all within blocks. Plenty of great

org/events/event/lights-in-bloom-2) is

restaurants to choose from; fun German

great to take the family during the holidays.

food to vegetarian, pizza to seafood. Then

You’re literally glowing as you’re walking

you can check out one of the bands at any

through a holiday light display. I really

of the bars, and end by dancing at oasis. If

love the unofficial start of the arts season

you’re out late enough that you need to get

here through October and November.

some “last call” food, you can hit one of

There are openings of new shows every

the pizza places or Munchie’s 420 Cafe.

weekend. It buzzes throughout the city.

ABOVE TOP LEFT

ABOVE TOP RIGHT

sarasota staPle:

ballet niGht:

The Ringling's story dates back nearly a century, with a circus impresario and his wife's love for Sarasota, Italy and art.

The Sarasota Ballet is currently in its 28th season.

Photo courtesy of sarasota ballet's website

ABOVE BOTTOM

Photo by dylan todd

treasured theatre:

ABOVE CENTER

The Asolo Theatre Company was renamed Asolo Repertory Theatre in 2006.

maKers: Makers Market is a DIY studio in Bradenton.

Photo courtesy of maKers marKet's website

Photo by dylan todd

941.488.1115 | VeniceStage.com | 140 W. Tampa Ave.

A Progressive and Inclusive Expression of the Christian Faith.

NO MATTER WHO YOU ARE OR WHERE YOU ARE ON LIFE’S JOURNEY, YOU’RE WELCOME HERE.

Sunday Worship: 10:30 AM

SarasotaUCC.org | 941-922-7595

6908 Beneva Rd., Sarasota /sarasotaucc

@sarasotaucc

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»»

LGBTQ-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS: La Scarpetta, an intimate restaurant cooking up fresh, authentic Italian. Open Monday through Saturday, 5 to 10 p.m.; closed Sunday.

3809 S. Tuttle Ave., 941-927-8716, lascarpettasarasota.com

»»

Andrea’s, this restaurant

offers up contemporary North Italian cuisine. Open Monday through Saturday, 5 to 10 p.m.; closed Sunday.

2085 Siesta Dr. #1, 941-951-9200, andreasrestaurantsrq.com

»»

Mattison’s 41, this vibrant

eatery serves fine New American and Mediterranean cuisine.

Open Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 4:30 to 10 p.m.; closed Sunday.

7275 S. Tamiami Trail, 941-921-3400, mattisons.com

Dining Ask the Locals: Chef Chris Covelli

C

Aaron Drake

ulinary Creations & Entertainment Owner and Executive

»»

Louies Modern, a

cosmopolitan bistro serving up American cuisine and specialty cocktails. Open Monday through Thursday, 4 to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4 to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 4 to 10 p.m.

1289 N. Palm Ave., 941-552-9688, tableseide.com/louies-modern

Chef Chris Covelli is a gem in Sarasota’s dining scene.

»»

Chef Covelli is an award winner; he earned five Wine

restaurant for fine dining on New American cuisine. Open

Spectator Awards of Excellence.

He graduated from the French Culinary Institute

in New York City where he was trained by world-

Michael’s On East, a AAA

Four Diamond Award-winning

Monday through Thursday, in Sarasota and is the senior chef instructor at Toscana Saporita Cooking School in Lucca, Italy.

renowned chefs and has cooked as a guest chef for

As a Queens, New York native, Covelli has lived

four James Beard Foundation Dinners. He currently

in Sarasota for the last 15 years with his husband.

volunteers with Equality Florida, Florida Wine Fest,

He shares some of his favorite deliciously LGBTQ-

Auction Caring for Children, fires it up at Selva Grill

friendly establishments around Sarasota Bay.

11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 11 p.m.; closed Sunday.

1212 S. East Ave., 941-366-0007, bestfood.com

»»DINNER & DRINKS:

Mattison’s 41

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»»

Selva Grill, restaurant

serving Latin Fusion, focusing on Peruvian cuisine, with custom cocktails and an extensive wine list. Open Sunday through Thursday, 5 to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 1 a.m.

1345 Main St., 941-362-4427, selvagrill.com

»» »»DATE NIGHT: »»UNIQUE FLORIDA MENU:

DELICIOUS DESSERT: Selva Grill.

La Scarpetta.

Euphemia Haye, romantic

fine dining venue in a historic wooden cottage. Open Sunday through Friday, 6 to 10 p.m.; Saturday 5:30 to 10 p.m.

5540 Gulf of Mexico Dr., Longboat Key, 941-383-3633, euphemiahaye.com

»»FANCY DINING:

Zota

Beach Resort, trendy Viento Kitchen restaurant and wine

Above left

delicious dish: Mattisons 41 offers a wide variety of dishes that are sure to delight.

Photo courtesy of mattisons' website

bar serving Florida, Caribbean and Mediterranean dishes.

Above right

4711 Gulf of Mexico Dr.,

TSUNAMI TREAT:

Longboat Key, 941-383-2451,

Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi Grill is known for its creative sushi, fresh sashimi and a new spin on asian fusion.

zotabeachresort.com

»»LOCAL JOINT:

Screaming

Goat Tacqueria, vibrant eatery serves up homemade Latin American street food-inspired fare. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; closed Sunday and Monday.

Photo courtesy of tsunami sushi's website

»»BEACH PICNIC LUNCH:

»»

Sandbar, beachfront restaurant

FAVORITE COFFEE HOUSE: Buddy Brew, cozy cafe

cooking up classic seafood. Open

downtown Sarasota with full

Monday through Thursday, noon

menu. Open Monday through

to 9 p.m.; Friday, noon to 10 p.m.;

Thursday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.;

Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.;

Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday,

Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday,

100 Spring Ave, Anna Maria,

8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

941-778-0444, sandbar.

1289 N Palm Ave., 941-374-7186,

groupersandwich.com

buddybrew.com/locations/sarasota

The

»»CRAFT BEER: »»SMALL PLATES: »»FAVORITE RESTAURANT: Selva Grill.

Darwin

Evolutionary Cuisine,

Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi

Grill, plus every place that I’ve mentioned I really enjoy.

»»SEAFOOD:

Owen’s Fish

passionately prepared blend of urban, local and global cuisine with an extensive list of artisanal craft beers, changing weekly.

Open Monday through Thursday,

Camp, a creative take on

5 to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday,

seafood classics served up in a

5 to 11 p.m.; closed Sunday.

»» »»DINNER WITH A VIEW:

casual eclectic Southern-style

4141 S. Tamiami Trail Ste. 16,

restaurant. Open Monday through

941-260-5964, chefdarwin.com

with a water view from the second

»»FOOD TRUCK:

6606 Superior Ave., 941-210-3992, screaming-goat.com

BEST BRUNCH:

Louies Modern.

Marina Jack, seafood restaurant floor dining room, outdoor raw

Thursday, 4 to 9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4 to 10:30 p.m.

516 Burns Ct., 941-951-6936, owensfishcamp.com

Chefs2U

bar, patio and piano bar. Open

Catering & Food Truck, serving

Sunday through Thursday,

up gourmet comfort food on the

11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and

go. Open Monday through Friday,

Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed weekends.

2 Marina Plaza, 941-365-4232,

6584 Superior Ave.,

marinajacks.com

941-921-9070, chefs2u.menu

»»FOR WINOS: »»FAVORITE THING ABOUT SARASOTA: »»GLOBAL CUISINE: Mattison’s,

Michael’s On East & Selva Grill

The people.

Coming soon!

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nightlife Ask the Locals: Beneva Fruitville

BOTTOM LEFT

loVe of film: Burns Court Cinema offers a wide array of film options.

The Sarasota Film Society is a nonprofit, member-supported organization.

Photo by dylan todd

BOTTOM RIGHT

T

AAron DrAke

his local celebrity knows how visitors and locals alike party it up after that blistering Florida sun goes down! Drag queen Beneva

Fruitville is a regular entertainer at Oasis, Sarasota’s premier LGBTQ venue. She—her real name is Barry Ayers, by the way—first moved to Sarasota in 2004 from Winter Haven, Florida.

Beneva, 43, will have been

performing for 10 years as of Dec. 2018.

“When I first moved to Sarasota, I

oriGinal menu:

was working as a professional actor/

Pangea Lounge was created in 2010 to bring the Gulf Coast a world of seasonal handmade craft cocktails in a relaxed European-style lounge setting.

dancer in an equity production of the

Photo courtesy of PanGea's website

of Beneva and Fruitville Roads in Sarasota. I said, ‘Beneva Fruitville, that sounds like a drag name!’ And thus she was born!”

Don’t miss Beneva Fruitville’s

musical ‘Chicago,’” Beneva shares. “I

favorite nightlife spots in Sarasota to

was given directions to our rehearsal

experience all the entire city has to

studio, which was on the corner

offer LGBTQ visitors!

21

» LGBTQ BAR:

oasis.

Daily happy hour, sexy male dancers, drag shows, live DJs and much more! Open 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., daily.

6531 Gateway Ave., 941-927-2173, facebook.com/oasissarasota

» BEST DRAG SHOW:

My drag show on Friday nights at Oasis!

»

LGBTQ-FRIENDLY EVENT NIGHT: opulence Friday nights at The Starlite room.

Weekly drag show productions featuring drag divas from around Central Florida. Food and VIP bottle service available, outdoor patio. Open 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

1001 Cocoanut Ave., 941-702-5613, starlitesrq.com

» » DATE NIGHT:

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY: Oasis.

Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi, a stylish Japanese restaurant with a menu featuring fresh sushi, hot entrees, sake and cocktails. Open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 9:30 p.m.

100 Central Ave #1022, 941-366-1033, tsunamisarasota.com

» BEST MUSIC:

Mattison’s

City Grille Downtown Sarasota, true Florida atmosphere in a tikidecorated restaurant in the heart of downtown. The signature menu features New American cuisine made with fresh, natural and local ingredients.

They have great cocktails and live music. Open Sunday and Monday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to midnight.

1 N. Lemon Ave., 941-330-0440, mattisons.com

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» FANCY COCKTAIL BAR:

Pangea Alchemy Lab, with awardwinning bartenders serving up seasonal handmade cocktails made with fresh ingredients using modern techniques in a relaxed European-style setting.

Open 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., daily.

1564 Main Street, 941-870-5555, pangealounge.com

» DIVE BAR:

Shamrock Pub, a

friendly neighborhood pub offering 20 taps of Irish and craft beer staples, a rotating selection, plus 50 cans, bottles and rare beers. Open Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to midnight; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m.

2257 Ringling Blvd., 941-952-1730, shamrocksarasota.com

» SATURDAY NIGHT BEER:

Mandeville Beer Garden. A

brewhouse offering 30 taps and more than 150 bottles. Chill indoor in the “library” seating or outdoor openair, October-style picnic tables. Menu of burgers, sandwiches and sausages pair with the beers. Tuesday, 5-11 p.m. (Trivia Night); Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

428 N. Lemon Ave., 941-954-8688, mandevillebeergarden.com

» DINNER AND A SHOW:

Tsunami then Burns Court Cinema, an intimate movie theater showing first-run foreign, indie

ABOVE

» STRONG DRINKS: » BAR WITH A VIEW:

End headlining stand-up comedians.

Oasis

Food and drink menu available.

and art films (you can order beer,

The Westin Sarasota, an 18-story

wine and popcorn to upgrade

hotel capped with The Roof, a

the viewing experience!).

rooftop bar with stunning views of

506 Burns Ct., 941-955-3456,

the city skyline and Sarasota Bay.

filmsociety.org

100 Marina View Drive, 941-217-4777,

» LIVE SHOW:

The Players

Centre for Performing Arts, a community theater performing quality productions of main stage classics, along with classes and workshops.

838 N. Tamiami Trail, 941-365-2494, theplayers.org

marriott.com/hotels/travel/ srqwi-the-westin-sarasota

» CRAZY FUN NIGHT OUT: » SIT BACK & BE ENTERTAINED:

Oasis

McCurdy’s

Comedy Theatre, a 4,200-square-foot, state-of-the-art purple showroom located in downtown Sarasota’s East

1923 Ringling Blvd., 941-925-3869, mccurdyscomedy.com

» FAVORITE COCKTAIL: » GO-GO BOYS: » PLACE TO MEET LOCALS: » HOTTEST PATRONS: » FAVORITE THING ABOUT SARASOTA:

Manhattan from Pangea.

Oasis.

Oasis.

Oasis.

Myself, Beneva

Fruitville, of course!

dance niGht: Oasis features a daily happy hour, male dancers, drag shows and plenty of room to dance the night away.

Photo courtesy of oasis' facebooK PaGe

A CHURCH OF EXTRAVAGANT WELCOME Multicultural • Inclusive • Diverse

WE INVITE

you to a vibrant community that reflects the beautiful diversity of God and Where God is Still Speaking.

YOU

Are Welcome Here! “Whoever you are, wherever you are on life’s journey, You are welcome here.” Those words open every service at First Congregational United Church of Christ. Our congregation lives by that pledge.

COLLAGE

(Coalition of Laity for Lesbian and Gay Equality) meets for social events, and takes on projects to serve the church and community including: Sarasota Pride, GAIN (Gulfcoast Affirming Interfaith Network,) and Equality Florida.

First Congregational United Church of Christ 1031 S Euclid Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237 OFFICE HOURS • Mon-Thurs: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM •Friday: 9am - 1pm SUNDAY WORSHIP • Oct- Apr: 9:00 am & 11 :00 am • May-Sept: 10:30 am

Our church invites couples who are looking for a sacred space to celebrate their wedding. Our congregation has been privileged to preside at marriage rituals for our LGBT brothers and sisters.

We are excited to be part of marriage ceremonies in the coming years, including yours.

God’s grace and love.

-Pastor Wes 941-953-7044 www.uccsarasota.com admin@uccsarasota.com Facebook.com/uccsarasota

25

Out & Proud Sarasota celebrates the LGBTQ community year-round

F

rYAn WILLIAMS-JenT

rom Stonewall on, LGBTQ activists and allies have honored our community’s collective history with Pride celebrations

» HARVEY MILK FESTIVAL

T

he Harvey Milk Festival will

celebrate a decade in Sarasota May 4-11, 2019; 10 full years of

honoring the life and legacy of openly gay activist and politician Harvey Milk.

“We exist to honor Harvey. It’s

as diverse as we are nationwide. We remember our

really a community event,” founder

triumphs and tragedies; the good, the bad and the

and Harvey Milk Festival President

fabulous, and vow to continue our fight for equality.

itself in and of itself; a lot of people in

Shannon Fortner says. “It really carries our community are supportive and feel

Sarasota’s no exception. Year-round, community leaders and members gather to offer the city’s LGBTQ citizens and visitors a safe place to laugh and love— offering a wide variety of festivities celebrating our shared LGBTQ experience.

For many celebrants in Sarasota, that begins in March with Manatee Pride.

»

MANATEE PRIDE

M

anatee Pride is a program of Prism Youth Initiative, Inc., the area non-profit dedicated to empowering LGBTQ youth. An all-volunteer effort aimed at uplifting LGBTQ people who live,

love and visit Bradenton and its nearby communities, Manatee Pride exists to educate, commemorate, celebrate, liberate and empower the LGBTQ community.

The event celebrated its fifth year at the Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion in March 2018. “It’s incredible to be in our fifth year, we are just so happy to be able to do this,” Prism Youth Initiative board president and Manatee Pride committee chair Valerie Fisher shared with Watermark. “We’re so happy that we’re apparently well-received by not only the LGBTQ community, but our straight allies and just the community in general.”

The family-friendly event featured a plethora of entertainment and vendors.

Manatee County’s craft brewer Darwin Brewing Co. even concocted a Manatee Pride beer for the celebration, something Fisher advised was indicative of the loving support Manatee Pride receives from the community at large each year.

“It’s a very happy and fun event,” Fisher describes the celebration. “I think that is the sense that people get. It’s joyful … People just come and have a great time.”

Learn more about Manatee Pride’s next offering by visiting watermarkonline.com and manateepride.com.

a connection to it.”

The annual celebration features a variety of attractions, including live music, film, performance art, speakers and vendors. The nonprofit seeks to foster emerging talent in artists who reject discrimination, while promoting equality for the LGBTQ community by supporting equal rights legislation—a perfect fit for Sarasota. “We’ve always had such great support from the city,” Fortner says.

Fortner says the festival’s ninth year had a strong team and a successful outing, something she looks forward to for its 10th. She says the festival is dreaming big to accomplish its mission, adding more variety this year with events like a 5K. “We’re excited to offer something new for the community,” she says. “It’s one more way for even more people to get involved. We dream big and have a lot that we want to see happen.

“Everyone coming together for the community is so important,” Fortner continues. “We have a very

26

you choose … it just happens. You’re born that way. LGBTQ films have that wonderful thing about them. They bring a sense of acceptance and it’s essential.

It’s important to celebrate differences and diversity.”

FIFF “is for everyone,” Diouri says, “absolutely everyone.” Learn more about its next offering by visiting watermarkonline.com and fabulousiff.com.

» SARASOTA PRIDE

S

arasota Pride’s PrideFest 2018 was held Oct. 20 2018, a “Rainbow Resistance” at J.D.

Hamel Park. Following a successful move in 2014, the celebration has only grown.

Sarasota Pride exists to promote a positive image in the Sarasota area and throughout Florida. It does so by participating in community activities and services while promoting the elimination of prejudice and discrimination.

diverse crowd, and a lot of it is our

falling under the celebration’s annual

allies coming out to support. People

programming.

travel to come to the festival and the

Fortner says that FIFF is something

The nonprofit advises it also seeks to defend human and civil rights secured by law, all while advocating

feedback is always that it’s a very

the community needs, noting its

for visibility and self-esteem among

beautiful and peaceful experience.”

tremendous support. “Magida Diouri, who

the LGBTQ community. PrideFest 2018

founded and gifted it to the Harvey Milk

offered a wide array of entertainment,

Milk Festival’s next offering by

Festival, continues to do its programming

from an afternoon of live music to

visiting watermarkonline.com and

and does such a wonderful job,” she says.

celebrations at their tiki bar and beer

Learn more about the Harvey

harveymilkfestival.org.

Diouri believes merging FIFF with

garden. Furthermore, it was surrounded

»

the Harvey Milk Festival was the perfect

by a week of activities all throughout

marriage. Prior to the combination, it

Sarasota—from family-friendly LGBTQ

served as a beneficiary of funds raised

bowling to “naughty night” drag

T

from FIFF’s celebration. She’s continued

entertainment at Oasis.

FABULOUS INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL he Fabulous Independent Film Festival (FIFF) celebrated its eighth year in Sept.2018,

bringing the best in LGBTQ film to Sarasota. The festival was previously gifted to the Harvey Milk Festival,

programming the festival because of the impact it can have on audiences.

“Respecting differences that no one chooses is so important to me,” Diouri says. “Being LGBTQ is not something

Learn more about Sarasota Pride’s next offering by visiting watermarkonline.com and sarasotapride.org.

Fine Art | Portrait | Wedding | Commercial www.DylanToddPhotography.com info@DylanToddPhotography.com (727) 310-1212

28

» also youth

alsoyouth.org 1470 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236 Local leaders and advocates formed ALSO Youth in 1992 with organizations like PFLAG,

Community Care Sarasota’s support scene

S

rYAn WILLIAMS-JenT

arasota is known for its beautiful beaches, attractive art scene and nuanced nightlife, but its allure

Planned Parenthood and YMCA Youth and Family Services. It exists today to provide Advocacy, Leadership, Support and Outreach to LGBTQ+ youth and their allies.

The nonprofit provides peer support services, educational programs, advocacy and referrals for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, intersex and questioning youth ages 13 to 21, their families and friends, and the community.

ALSO Youth does so to enhance self-esteem, promote healthy dialogue and increase awareness of sexual minority youth issues.

» can community health cancommunityhealth.org/sarasota 1231 N. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237

CAN Community Health owns and operates 29 medical clinics, with two nonprofit clinics

also lies in its network of support for the

located in Sarasota. The organization has

LGBTQ community.

and southern part of the country since 1991.

“If the local community sees a problem, they come together and they work to solve it,” ALSO Youth Executive Director Nathan Bruemmer says.

“Sarasota is a very unique place. We all raise the bar together; that’s the only way we know how to do it.”

ALSO Youth, which you can read more about to the right, is one of

been serving the HIV community in Florida It frequently offers education, assistance and support to other LGBTQ community organizations.

Its mission is to provide a continuum of medical, social and education services essential to the health and well-being of those living with

Sarasota’s many organizations dedicated to the empowerment of the

HIV, Hepatitis C, sexually transmitted or other

city’s growing LGBTQ community. For 25 years, it’s worked to provide

diseases and to enhance public awareness.

support for LGBTQ youth and their allies.

» the friendship centers

From Bruemmer’s vantage point, he says, Sarasota is working to define the community for 2018. “There’s a lot of connection and while traditionally Sarasota has been an older community, demographics

friendshipcenters.org 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota, Florida 34236

are changing. It’s led to inter-generational dialogue and support; to

The Friendship Centers is a nonprofit network

education happening across all generations,” he says. He believes that

partnerships and new beginnings.

Community organizations and social gatherings—some of which

in Southwest Florida that aims to meet the needs of those 50 and older. Since the 1970s,

have existed in Sarasota for decades and others that have only just

the organization has developed innovative,

begun—are reaching out to support the city’s diverse LGBTQ community

cost-effective approaches to address the

in exciting ways.

health and wellness of older adults.

“Some of the best advocacy and support work in Sarasota has happened in just the last few years,” Bruemmer says. “We’re a warm and inviting community, but we can’t get complacent.”

Learn more about some of Sarasota’s finest organizations here:

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.

»»Prime Timers Sarasota

29

primetimersww.net/sarasota P.O. Box 1411, Sarasota, FL 34230

Prime Timers Sarasota is an active gay, bisexual and transgender social group for men ages 21 and up. The worldwide group was founded in 1987 and has over 80 chapters worldwide, while its Sarasota chapter boasts over 140 members throughout Sarasota, Charlotte and Manatee counties.

Beginning over 16 years ago, Prime Timers Sarasota advises that their group is nonpartisan and noncommercial. They stress that they are committed to the care and support of all members in need while participating in over 75 events throughout the year.

»»Prism Youth Initiative prismyouth.org 501 5th St. E., Bradenton, FL 34208

The Prism Youth Initiative is dedicated to supporting, affirming, encouraging and empowering LGBTQ youth ages 13-23 in Manatee County. They’re committed to doing so in a safe, hospitable welcoming environment.

Founded in 2010, the organization provides referrals for services and education about bullying, suicide prevention and HIV prevention. Prism Youth Initiative also offers referrals for youth counseling if needed, including no cost options.

»»G2H2 Sarasota g2h2sarasota.com

G2H2 Sarasota, or Gay Group Happy Hour,

»»PFLAG Sarasota

pflagsarasota.org P.O. Box 671, Sarasota, FL 34230

celebrated seven years in Sarasota in 2018.

PFLAG, or Parents, Families and Friends

The social gathering meets monthly at a new

of Lesbians and Gays, is the nation’s first

location throughout the city to provide locals

and largest organization dedicated to

with an atmosphere to network.

uniting families and allies with those in the

The gathering exists to showcase local

LGBTQ community. Formed in 1972 to create

businesses that open their doors and

a world where differences are celebrated,

hearts to the LGBTQ community. With

PFLAG currently boasts over 400 chapters—

its monthly meetings, G2H2 Sarasota has

Sarasota included.

donated thousands of dollars to local and national charities.

PFLAG Sarasota offers education, resources and support throughout Sarasota, Manatee and its neighboring counties. The local chapter celebrated its first anniversary in 2018 and regularly participates in area events to advocate for inclusion.

Universalist »Church »Unitarian of Sarasota uusarasota.org/lgbtq 3975 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota, FL 34232 The Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota describes itself as a welcoming congregation and a safe space for LGBTQ individuals.

The group asserts that it takes position on oppression in our larger communities to work together to accomplish local outreach, which includes offering LGBTQ events.

The congregation asserts that it is a group of brave, curious and compassionate thinkers and doers. It is comprised of people of all ages, of many backgrounds and beliefs, promoting seven principles grounded in humanistic teachings of the world’s religions.

Photo by dylan todd

30

Business Directory Arts and Entertainment Asolo repertory Theatre Company 941-351-8000 AsoloRep.org Sarasota Film Festival 941-364-9514 SarasotaFilmFestival.com The Players Centre for Performing Arts 941-365-2494 ThePlayers.org Venice Theatre 941-488-1115 VeniceStage.com

Community Center: Friendship Centers 941-955-2122 FriendshipCenters.org

Financial Services: Blue Skye Lending 941-256-8420 BlueSkyeLoans.com

Food and Beverage Tropicana 800-237-7799 Tropicana.com

Health Services CAn Community Health 941-366-0134 CANCommunityHealth.org Planned Parenthood 941-953-4060 PlannedParenthood.org

Legal Services: Cole & Cole Law, PA 941-365-4055 SarasotaDebtRelief.com Marc J. Soss, esq.

941-928-0310 FL-EstatePlanning.com

Media SarasotaoUT.com 941-281-9981 SarasotaOut.com

Watermark Publishing Group, Inc. 813-655-9890 WatermarkOnline.com

Photography: Dylan Todd Photography 727-310-1212 DylanToddPhotography.com

Real Estate: Preferred Properties of Sarasota 941-321-5638 PrefHomes.net

Religious Services First Congregational United Church of Christ 941-953-7044 UCCSarasota.com St Andrew United Church of Christ 941-922-7595 UCCStAndrew.org

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