“I have a history with Watermark,” says Sales Director Danny Garcia. “There was a job opening at a time when I felt like I needed a change, so I seized the opportunity.”
Danny’s history with Watermark dates back to his mid-teens. He was attending a local teen club when the DJ made some derogatory remarks towards the LGBTQ community. Danny felt compelled to write about the experience in a letter to the editor of Watermark. The letter was printed and the radio station hosting the event made the DJ apologize to Danny personally.
“Watermark made me feel empowered,” he says. “I knew I felt something was wrong and Watermark gave me the power to express it.” This sentiment is also Danny’s favorite thing about working for Watermark. “Watermark empowers the entire community to have a voice.”
Shortly after his letter was printed, Danny walked into the Watermark office to drop off some promotional material for a friend’s band. When then-owner and publisher Tom Dyer heard Danny was in the office, he asked him to join the team of freelancers. To this day Danny is an integral part of Watermark’s social team. He can be seen at many events taking pictures and representing the news magazine.
Danny’s favorite events to cover are local Prides. “We work all these events, so as much as I enjoy them, they’re still work! But I love St. Pete Pride, Come Out with Pride and Tampa Pride.”
When in the office, Danny describes his job as “selling ad space and assisting the sales team in reaching their goals.” In reality, he is tasked with being responsible for all sales and income into Watermark. He handles this burden with drive and a good sense of humor. Danny’s passion for Watermark and his community is immeasurable. It is matched only by his willingness to get involved and make everyone around him the best they can be.
“I have many favorites when it comes to our LGBTQ community,” Danny states. “But what really stood out was how we all came together, including our LGBTQ allies, after the tragedy at Pulse. It seems like that unity has continued a year later.”
Dating, on the other hand, is something Danny thinks the LGBTQ community could improve upon. “It seems like the art of dating has been lost. Can you tell I’m single?” Danny asks. “We are too reliant on technology and don’t have conversations anymore. You connect online, you hook-up or you meet, you get married. There’s no in between.”
Danny has a good deal of advice for his younger self as well. “Get involved, don’t hold grudges, stand up for yourself, save money and keep an open mind! Oh yeah, and enjoy your 28-inch waist while it lasts!”
Watermark is the collective product of a team of incredibly hardworking individuals. Over the next series of issues, we’re using this space to introduce each member of our staff and contributors to you. When you see us out and about in the community, stop and say, “Hello.” We’d love to meet you.
You must be logged in to post a comment.