2024 Grand Marshal Nominees
Here are your 2024 St Pete Pride Grand Marshal nominees! Cast your vote in the form below
Alexis De La Mer
Alexis De La Mer is originally from Long Island, New York and has been living in St Petersburg for the past 17 years. She Started her Drag Journey performing in Queens, n Long Island, and Spent 2 Summers as the Sunday T Dance Hostess, n her Own Thursday night Show at the Ice Palace in Cherry Groove. She also worked with a Traveling LaCage Show called the Kenny Dash Review as Bette Midler, Traveling to Dinner Theatres thru out the N.Y. n New Jersey area. She Moved to Florida about 19 Years ago, and got her Love for Drag at Waterside Landings in Port Richey, Hosting a Stripper night, n also Won Miss Pasco Newcomer, Miss Comic Strip, n Miss Nature Coast. Alexis shares her Life with her her two Maltipoo's Coco and Chanel. By Day, she's a Caregiver to her 89 year old Mom. Alexis is a former Miss Sawmill Supreme, Miss Red Dress Fort Myers, Miss Come Out St Pete, Central Florida Showgirl at Large, and Central Glam, Royal Pride of Nations 2023. Alexis has Raised Thousands of Dollars throughout her Fundraising Bingo's, you could find Alexis Every Monday hosting Bingo at Cocktail in St Pete, every Tuesday at Quench, every Wednesday at Mad Hatter's in St Pete and One Thursday at Citywide.
Antonio Miles
For over a decade, Antonio has been a dedicated pillar of the Tampa Bay community, leaving an indelible mark as an educator and advocate for sexual health. Beyond his role in education, he is the Founder & Executive Director of EVOLVE Tampa Bay, Inc. A non-profit entity stands as a beacon of empowerment, specifically tailored to curate transformative events for black & brown same-gender loving men. With unwavering commitment, Antonio is the driving force behind EVOLVE's mission, aiming to cultivate an environment of enrichment and affirmation. His vision is clear: to weave a tapestry of local connections, stitching together a vibrant community through creative, safe, and inclusive initiatives. Through his leadership, EVOLVE Tampa Bay, Inc. has become a vital resource, providing a platform for queer people of color to thrive. Antonio's passion for advocacy & community building extends beyond the professional realm, permeating every facet of his life. Whether in the classroom, at community events, or in the boardroom, his dedication remains steadfast. Through his tireless efforts, he continues to inspire and uplift those around him, leaving a legacy of empowerment and acceptance.
Brianna Summers
"Brianna Summers is best known as the Brunch Queen of Tampa Bay, but this dynamic entertainer doesn’t confine herself to just dancing in the daytime. As the owner of Brianna Summers Drag Entertainment & Events LLC, she is creating more opportunities for drag entertainment across Tampa Bay to flourish. From local venues to private events, from galas to the FL capital, from bingo and charity events, to drag brunches under the sun, Brianna has proven she is one hard working individual and will continue breaking down barriers to provide safe spaces for drag entertainment to shine. “Drag saved me. And if my story and my journey saves just 1 other human, I feel accomplished."
Chris Gorman
Christopher Gorman is one of four show hosts of The Big Gay Radio Show on 88.5 FM, WMNF Community Radio, and was born and raised in the Tampa Bay Area. He was previously on the board of directors of a local LGBTQIA+ non-profit and was instrumental in the founding of their LGBTQIA+ collegiate scholarship with St. Petersburg College. Christopher currently attends the University of South Florida, studying Political Science.
Deandre "Yummy Reed" Brown
DeAndre "Yummy" Brown, originally from Miami, boasts a dance career spanning over 20 years, now flourishing in the Tampa Bay area. His expertise encompasses Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Lyrical, Vogue, Hip-Hop, and more, started in church & honed at Dr. Michael M. Krop High School, YCDT and prestigious institutions like The University of the Arts and other cultural-based training in various organizations. Transitioning into the Black Queer Ballroom scene, DeAndre found a new avenue for artistic expression & activism. Joining the Iconic House of Ninja in 2012, he rose as a notable figure, earning recognition as an "Up-and-Coming Legend." Beyond Ballroom, DeAndre engaged with diverse artistic communities, including Culture Shock Dance Group, Jacob’s Pillow, St Pete Pride, the All-Style scene, and LTDL family from Kaba Modern's own, Arnel Calvario. Exposure to these different communities, cultures, organizations, and art forms broadened his perspective and enriched his choreography. Driven by his passion, he continues to seek larger platforms for his art. His journey, marked by relentless training & cultural immersion, not only shaped his dance style but also his identity and worldview.
Dena Cass
I have been in the community and have Entertained for almost 40 years. I have held numerous national titles and have known nationwide. I have done countless benefits to raise thousands of dollars for HIV and AIDS and the trans community. I've lived in many states with Florida being my home now. I have continued to raise awareness for our community and stood with our community my whole life. What an honor it is to be nominated and I thank you very much. I am currently Miss heart of the nations at large which is held here in the beautiful state of Florida every year.
John Gascot
John is a dedicated resident of St. Pete, having called this vibrant city home for over a decade. Throughout his time here, he has become a prominent figure in the local arts scene and emerged as a leader in championing the rights & visibility of the LGBTQ+ community. In 2016, John founded the nonprofit organization Diversity Arts, driven by his passion for empowering underrepresented communities. Through Diversity Arts, he has spearheaded initiatives focused on LGBTQ+ youth, offering them free esteem-building art & creative workshops. These programs emphasize pride & self-expression, providing invaluable support & guidance to young individuals navigating their identities in this challenging world. Beyond his nonprofit work, John is a founding member of the Pinellas Arts Village, a dynamic hub that fosters growth & opportunities for emerging & established artists. As the co-owner of Studios @ 5663, John plays an instrumental role in organizing & hosting public events that democratize the arts, making them accessible to the wider community. A vocal & unwavering advocate for equality, John champions the rights of marginalized groups in Pinellas County & beyond.
Juno Vibranz
Juno Vibranz (Any/All) that's like Vibe and Trance together the z is for lewks! Juno Vibranz is a Drag Queen who has been performing for 15 years, starting when they were 18. A well-decorative individual with several awards & crowns in their collection (Multi-pageant winner, BOTB Best Local Event winner, ODRL All-stars Vs Rookies winner, CampOUT, Local Drag Star). Juno has learned so much from so many throughout her drag career, she is humbled to continue teaching, motivating, and encouraging others in that same manner, all while helping others every chance she can get. Raising over 20,000 dollars during her reign as Miss Rose Dynasty, becoming a Camp Counselor for CampOUT Florida (a Camp for LGBTQIA+ Queer Youth), & helping many more keeping Queens working by being a show director at Quench Lounge, Blur Nightclub, & doing various other things held in the community at special events such as Pride, Galas, & Fundraising Gatherings. Juno is a true professional & believes, "Everything in life has a purpose, Find your purpose and thrive In it. Believe you can do it so hard, that one day all the things you've worked for... will be yours, and don't forget to do good!"
Kate Flowers
Kate was born & grew up in Queens, NY. Before she could even speak, she knew with absolute certainty that she wanted to dance. Formal dance classes sparked her passion which led her to train at the Joffrey Ballet School by age 16. Despite this great accomplishment, she grappled with personal struggles that ultimately led her to quit her dream. After years of being subjected to the heteronormative expectations that a ballet environment cultivates, particularly for women, she didn’t feel comfortable coming out & presenting as her true self until she left the ballet world entirely. Kate shifted into wellness advocacy, gaining a sizable online following over 6 years as an LGBTQ+ influencer, promoting self-love, health, & recovery. The pull of dance remained strong, resulting in the founding of Azara Ballet in 2022. This felt like her true calling where she could combine 2 areas of passion by celebrating her identity as a queer ballerina, with a mission to eradicate old paradigms & create a healthy ballet culture focused on inclusivity, body positivity, queer representation, & mental health. Her journey embodies resilience & the belief that dreams, no matter how delayed, can come true.
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Love the Golden Rule, Inc
For 10 years, Love The Golden Rule has been a safe & inclusive space for the entire LGBTQIA+ community. Inspired by over 40 years practicing as an openly gay doctor, Dr. “Bob” Wallace, as he is known by his patients, & the team at LTGR have worked tirelessly to become the leading independent, non-profit, medical clinic in St. Pete & surrounding Tampa Bay. By following our motto, “Be Happy, Help Others,” & treating others how we wish to be treated, we are redefining the standard for inclusive & welcoming LGBTQIA+ medical care. Utilizing community engagement, funding initiatives, & innovative patient care-based programs, LTGR has pushed for access to care for all people within our community, regardless of their ability to pay. We are champions of caring for those living with HIV; providing PrEP for prevention, STI testing and treatment, & pioneering the eradication of Hep-C in our area. This year, we have refocused on providing greater access to gender affirming care for our Transgender community. Our mission goes beyond healthcare; we foster a vibrant sense of community through outreach programs and strive to provide a safe, welcoming medical home for all within our community.
Momma Ashley Rose
Momma Ashley Rose has been a family-friendly drag performer for over two decades. Her shows & events are safe for all ages. She occupies her time as a philanthropist, public speaker, activist, singer-songwriter, drag performer, & more! Over the years, Momma has spoken to political leaders & advocated for LGBTQ+ youth & families. She is the founder & president of Rose Dynasty Foundation Inc., a nonprofit based in Central Florida that operates nationwide. Momma has raised almost a million dollars for charities across the country. She creates safe spaces for all ages through performances, visual arts, story times, conferences, festivals, pageants, etc. Momma teaches diversity & inclusion to businesses, universities, & more. She networks with many communities, bringing people together from all walks of life. Furthermore, she created the Miss Rose Dynasty pageant, the first & only local family-friendly, charity-based drag pageant. This year, Momma & her team are partnering with Pineapple Healthcare to open the Rose Dynasty Center, the first LGBTQ+ center in Polk County, Florida. She mentors LGBTQ+ youth & families while spreading the message everyone is Loved, Accepted, and Wanted!
Nate Taylor
Nate Taylor, a fixture in St. Pete for 15+ years, is deeply involved in the LGBTQ+ community, having served on boards like St Pete Pride, Rainbow Housing Coalition, and Metropolitan Charities. As Director of Community Initiatives at Metro Inclusive Health, an organization providing health & wellness services for all in the Tampa Bay area, he leads the outreach team that provides HIV/STI testing, counseling & education, LGBTQ+ social programs & community initiatives. With an MBA from Strayer University, Nate's career spans community service & outreach, including roles at the Office of Military Community & Family Policy, and as Director of Community Activities for MWR Atsugi Japan Naval Base. Beyond work, he cherishes time with his friends and family, especially his beautiful daughter Skylar and contributes to charity as drag persona Pheyonce Montrese, notably raising funds for HIV support as the host for The Red Ribbon Cyclist team.
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Pilar Walker
Originally a country girl from the Bluegrass State, I made the leap to the Sunshine State seven years ago after graduating from graduate school. Since then, I've immersed myself in Tampa Bay's vibrant LGBTQIA+ community, combining my passion for advocacy with my expertise in real estate. As a Realtor, I'm dedicated to providing inclusive and supportive services to LGBTQIA+ individuals, guiding them through their homeownership and investment endeavors. Beyond real estate, I'm deeply committed to supporting LGBTQIA+ college students, advocating for their rights and ensuring they have a positive college experience. Partnering with CAN Community Health for several events, I also work to promote health and wellness within the LGBTQIA+ community. With a background in education and coaching, including roles as a high school teacher and women's basketball coach, I've had the privilege of mentoring LGBTQIA+ youth, fostering empowerment and a sense of belonging.
Rico Taylor
Rico is a St. Petersburg native, an Army veteran, and a proud Transman. He is a former Mister St.Pete Pride 2013, who was blessed to come back,attend, and judge for his 10 year anniversary in 2023. Rico was a former performer for 14 years, where he once held multiple titles all over the state of Florida as well as winning a National title. When Rico isn't on stage you can find him helping with community outreach and benefits. Rico is a proud pup in the leather community. He has merged his love for entertaining with being his authentic self. His favorite hash tag when he was regining was #yearofthepup. Rico truly loves everything about his home town and believes all communities should be represented and seen. DE&I is a huge part of his life and he loves learning new parts of the community to make sure he is welcoming to everyone. Thank you for the opportunity to represent multiple parts of the community I'm truely grateful for the opportunity and humbled by it as well.
Rose Horendo
Since 1994, Rose has gained both personal & professional experience in the field of HIV prevention & treatment, with a focus on community organization, public health education, public speaking, oversight of daily program operations, grant writing, developing curricula, mediation & crisis management. Throughout her career she has been a steadfast champion for equality, inclusivity, & empowerment. As a mentor, Rose exemplifies unwavering dedication & passion in her efforts to advance the rights & well-being of LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly within the realm of HIV treatment & prevention. Her understanding of the unique challenges faced by these communities has been instrumental in shaping initiatives & policies aimed at breaking down barriers & fostering a more inclusive society. Beyond her professional achievements, Rose's personal commitment to the Black & Brown LGBTQIA+ communities is unwavering. She has served as a beacon of hope & resilience, offering guidance, mentorship, & support to individuals navigating the complexities of their identity & health. Rose's legacy is not just measured by her professional accolades but by the countless lives she has touched.
The Big Gay Radio Show
The Big Gay Radio Show is proudly hosted weekly on 88.5 FM, WMNF Community Radio, Thursday Mornings from 12:00 AM – 3:00 AM. The show is a vibrant program dedicated to the LGBTQIA+ community in Tampa Bay. Led by hosts Bryan Hinkson, Rev. Esmé Russell, Joanna Grosso, and Chris Gorman, the show offers a platform for LGBTQIA+ voices to be heard and celebrated. Each week, listeners enjoy a diverse selection of music from LGBTQIA+ artists and allies, spanning various genres and showcasing the community's rich talent. Beyond entertainment, the show provides valuable insights and news tailored to the LGBTQIA+ audience, covering important topics such as rights, advocacy, and cultural events. The Big Gay Radio Show serves as more than just a radio show; it's a gathering place for the Tampa Bay LGBTQIA+ community, spotlighting local events, organizations, and personalities. Through its inclusive and empowering approach, the show fosters a sense of belonging and connection amongst its listeners.
Tommy Whitehead
Tommy Whitehead is a Licensed Contractor, Podcast host, author, and President and CEO of TomCo Solutions, Inc. — one of only 50 certified LGBTQ Business Enterprises (LGBTBE) in the construction industry nationwide. He's also the founder of TomCo Capital Partners, Inc. - the only LGBTBE private equity firm in the US. In addition, he is a passionate volunteer and fundraiser for many worthy causes, including serving as current President of the Pride Construction Coalition, Board Member of the Tampa Club, committee member for the Bay Area Bridge Builders, former President of the Tampa Bay Bears, former Treasurer of the GaYbor District Coalition, and in 2023 he was honored as one of the Tampa Bay Business Journal OUTstanding Voices, Tampa Club 40 under 40, and was a Tampa Bay Business and Wealth Magazine's Individual Philanthropist of the Year nominee. When he’s not working or volunteering, Tommy enjoys theme parks, museums and relaxing by a pool with his husband, Nathan, and their teenage son, Matthew. You can connect with Tommy at www.tommywhitehead.com.
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TransNetwork
Recognizing the critical need for a centralized hub of Trans & Gender-Expansive education, resources, & community support in St. Pete & Tampa Bay region, Andy Citino, Andre Clarke, & Tristan Byrnes came together to establish TransNetwork (TN). Their vision was bolstered by the addition of board members Stephanie Foglia & Lilith Black. TN emerged as the culmination of decades of unwavering activism, marked by a consistent presence at city, county, & school board meetings, the organization of Transgender Day of Remembrance vigils, & efforts in securing city recognition for significant days. In response to the challenging landscape of anti-LGBT legislation, founders & board members of TN recognized the imperative need for a unified platform to amplify their efforts. They are bridging gaps within the LGBTQIA+ community by fostering understanding, connection, & empowerment, actively organizing community events that promote unity, joy, & understanding. TransNetwork's multifaceted approach includes providing platforms for education, advocacy, & celebration, amplifying the voices of trans & gender-expansive people, offering vital connections to healthcare, legal aid, & community support.
Tristan Byrnes
Tristan is a proud Transgender Male & Mental Health Counselor in Tampa Bay. He has been an activist for the community for over 20 years. Tristan's activism started with speaking up for lgbtq rights at city, county & school board meetings. Over the years that grew to being on the board of TransAction a nonprofit for the Transgender community. He spent 10+ years running Transmasculine and feminine support groups at Metro Inclusive Health, & organizing Transgender Pride events. Tristan has played a vital role in organizing the Transgender Day of Remembrance Vigil, giving voice to the names of those murdered within the transgender community throughout the country, held in St Pete for over 10 years. Most recently, he owns Byrnes Counseling Group, for the LGBTQ & predominately the transgender community. He is a co-founder of TransNetwork, a nonprofit created last year in response to the Slate of Hate laws, that prides itself in creating unity, community, & education, bringing resources and people together for the Transgender community. He has been happily married for over 7 years, father to an 18yo son, a 26yo daughter he adopted at 16, 2 Doodles, & grandfather to the cutest 2yo girl.
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