From the ongoing pandemic to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it’s clear that we live not just in uncertain times but in an uncertain world.
It’s tempting to say that society is worse off than it’s ever been, but the optimist in me can’t help but think the opposite. It’s just louder, the result of 24/7 access to the internet and all of the information (and misinformation) it provides.
While every generation has those who look fondly to the past while fearing the future, I’ve rarely been that guy. It can be frustrating for some and I’ve certainly looked naive at times, but “it’s always darkest before dawn” is usually my default.
Or basically, I tend to believe the sun’s going to come up and things are going to get better. I’ve been fortunate enough in my life that in most ways, they typically do.
Of course I’ve also been on anxiety medication for years, which definitely helps. My doctor and I decided that’s what prioritizing my mental health meant for me, and I encourage everyone to explore what doing so means for them.
Especially for the LGBTQ community here in Florida, which in addition to COVID-19 and Vladmir Putin’s power grabs has to deal with our governor and state legislature. The Republican Party has controlled the state for more than two decades, which shows in several horrifying ways, and seems increasingly intent on silencing LGBTQ voices however possible.
Most recently that’s taken the form of House Bill 1557, christened “Parental Rights in Education” but more widely known as Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill. Among other reasons, it was initially introduced to prohibit discussion about sexual orientation or gender identity in classrooms.
It’s evolved since then but remains just as irresponsible and dangerous. While Floridians deal with global issues and local concerns like our housing crisis, Tallahassee Republicans are targeting vulnerable LGBTQ youth.
It’s maddening, but thankfully our community has its advocates. You can read about many of them in our coverage of the bill, as well as in the results for the 2022 Watermark Awards for Variety and Excellence. We detail your WAVE winners in this issue.
Readers responded in record numbers this year, sharing their top picks in more than 50 categories. We highlight your choices throughout our coverage, including on our covers.
In Tampa Bay, we welcomed Red Mesa’s Tony Pullaro, representing the group’s four placements including 1st Place Favorite Local Restaurant; Drag Queen Bingo hostess Georgia Moore, who with Punky’s Bar and Grille won 1st Place for Favorite Local Fundraising Event; Enigma Bar and Lounge’s Kerissa Hickey, your 1st Place Favorite Local Bartender and Ace Vedo, your 1st Place for Favorite Local DJ.
The photo was captured by Watermark’s talented creative designer Dylan Todd, Tampa Bay’s 1st Place Favorite Local Photographer, at the beautiful Sunken Gardens. It won 1st Place for Favorite Local Wedding Venue. Our congratulations and thanks to them for graciously hosting our photoshoot, and to the winners for joining us.
I also want to say thank you to readers for voting me Favorite Local Journalist. It’s my honor to do what I love as Watermark’s managing editor and it wouldn’t be possible without your support, of both the newspaper and our advertisers. Having the privilege of interacting with our community is one of the things that keeps me optimistic about our future.
Despite our obstacles it still looks bright, something evident in Tampa Bay news. Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties launches their 2022 Pride Build, which had previously been delayed due to the pandemic, and we examine the return of the LGBTQ youth-serving Manatee Pride.
St Pete Pride, traditionally the state’s largest LGBTQ celebration, also welcomes new leadership ahead of its 20th outing scheduled for June. We introduce you to their new executive director and board ahead of the organization’s landmark event. In contrast, the latest updates on the “Don’t Say Gay” bill can be found in State News.
Legendary actor and playwright Harvey Fierstein steals the spotlight in our arts and entertainment section. He reflects on his new memoir “I Was Better Last Night” as only he could.
Watermark strives to bring you a variety of stories, your stories, and in addition to another congrats for our WAVE winners I want to add another for the man that makes it all possible.
Owner and publisher Rick Todd marked two decades with Watermark Feb. 28:
We couldn’t be more grateful. Thank you for 20 years of your LGBTQ life!
