June 2019

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Saint Petersburg, FL: St Pete Pride announced the three individuals and a local organization recognized as Grand Marshals during this year’s festivities.  The Grand Marshal selection was made through votes from the community and a final election led by St Pete Pride’s Board of Directors. All the nominees were individuals and organizations that have impacted, and influenced the local community of St. Petersburg, FL – especially, in the area of LGBTQ+ advocacy.

“It’s rewarding to see the community involved and share the stories of these individuals doing phenomenal advocacy in our city. All the nominees were excellent choices. It reminds me how proud I am to be part of the community of St. Pete,” said Development Director, Fernando Chonqui.

The three individuals recognized this year are Amanda Patanow, Theo Thalassites, and Alexis de la Mer. The local organization is Street Warriors, founded by Steven and Robert Blansfield. Ms. Patano’s involvement in the community expands from political advocacy for marriage equality to business strategist to empowerment of local businesses. Mr. Thalassites involvement with Stand Indivisible led him to bring awareness to the Transgender Community and also create an Employee Resource Group at his job for LGBTQ+ Youth Education and Awareness. Alexis de la Mer applies her passion for the arts, fashion, and entertainment to raise funds for charities and local non-profit organizations, among other things. Street Warriors of Central Florida is a recognized 501c3 Organization bringing food and visibility to the homeless and working with LGBTQ+ groups to teach youth to give back.

To learn more about the 2019 Grand Marshals, join us at the kick-off celebration on June 19th at the renowned Sirata Beach Resort on St. Pete Beach. You’ll have the opportunity to meet and mingle with these amazing individuals impacting and changing the community of St. Petersburg. Do not miss “The Art of Fashion” show at the Stonewall Reception on June 20th at the Museum of Fine Arts. Followed by an evening of entertainment on June 21st with the annual SP2 concert at the North Straub Park. Featuring over-the-top floats, lavish costumes, unforgettable performances, and a firework spectacular, catch the Pride Parade, featuring the 2019 Grand Marshalls, on June 23rd along St. Pete’s beautiful waterfront downtown on Beach Drive. And last, check out the 240+ vendors at the Street Festival on June 23rd at the Grand Central District between 22nd and 29th Street.

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