Illustration by Drew Arnett According to data compiled by the Human Rights Campaign, over 650 pieces of “potentially LGBTQ-related legislation” have been introduced or are pending in 2022 with nearly 340 “anti-LGBTQ” pieces of legislation introduced this year, with more thought to come. 2022 has been in a constant state of panic. The ever-changing status on government decisions and consistent questioning of morals and ethics have not treated us kindly, especially women’s rights and LGBTQ rights. Florida, unfortunately for the large LGBTQ community here, has made some things difficult when navigating a life that our government is biased against. Of …

Grammy Award winner Tedeschi Trucks has produced renowned albums throughout the years. Applying a mix of blues and rock music, they take their music to a higher level, aiming to create a lasting experience with their listeners. Following the pandemic, the 12-piece band featuring Derek Trucks and wife Susan Tedeschi have announced the release of an album and film series they plan to release throughout 2022. The band’s four-part album and film series, I Am the Moon, is an ambitious feat for the band while also creating an intimate energy for listeners, as it follows The Story of Layla and …

Move over coffee houses, there is a new café in town. Kava, made from the ground root of a kava plant, has become a new favorite in Florida. So much so, there new kava bars and cafes opening up all over. These bars offer a pleasant place to gather with friends where you can release pent up anxiety and feel relaxed, and no, I’m not exaggerating. Kava is a Western Pacific drink featuring a robust and earthy flavor. It is said to produce a state of calm and reduce anxiety. Affecting parts of the central nervous system in the brain, …

Every year we take time to remind our fathers and/or father figures why we love and appreciate them. Whether we give them a funky gift or spend the day with them, we want to thank them for all they do, just as we do every Mother’s Day for our wonderful mothers and mother figures. In this day and age everyone has their own definition of father and father figure, but why do we celebrate it on a single day in the month of June? What is the story behind Father’s Day? The first known celebration honoring fathers was July 5, …

On Atlantic Boulevard in a small studio with a pink door is one of the most interesting tattoo artists I’ve met. Arcissa Jackson is a local tattoo artist with six years of experience. If you’re looking for colorful, unique pieces, she’s the one to see. Jackson became a tattoo artist eight years ago and came up with the idea of Harajuku Tattoo to incorporate her love for kawaii, anime, gemstones and astrology in her work. She prides herself on offering a creative and welcoming space to all and encourages everyone to express themselves to the fullest. Born in Japan, Jackson …

Back in 2016, Hurricane Matthew and Hurricane Irma wreaked havoc on Jacksonville and its beaches. The Jacksonville Beach Pier, a town staple, was especially hard hit. For six years, residents have waited to see what would become of the local landmark. After half of the pier was destroyed from the storms, construction began on its repairs. However, the work hit many delays, including difficulties gathering the money needed from the government and the arrival of the pandemic. In 2019, a  $10 million renovation plan was announced. This project was estimated to finish in 2021, but delays in getting permits from …

It’s a nice summer day, and you’re looking to grab a drink but don’t want to visit the same bar you go to every week? I get it and I’ve got the list for you! VooSwar Restaurant and Lounge Built by hand in 1963 by owner Earnest Davis, this Atlantic Beach staple was made to be a place to welcome African-American sailors who felt cast out from other places in the surrounding area during the time of segregation. It has become a lively and lit up bar welcoming all who want to visit, keeping with Davis’ original ideals. The bar …

Florida, you have disappointed me once again. As if the LGBTQ+ community did not have enough to fear already, Florida legislation is adding a new law to ensure schools can no longer be a safe space for its students. We all know certain Florida government officials to be very controversial, but this absolutely takes the cake. The new legislation, if signed into law, will restrict primary schools from teaching students about sexual orientation and gender issues. What is the Parental Rights in Education bill? The bill, commonly known as the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill, is legislation passed by the Florida …

As the LGBTQ+ community faces more and more obstacles, including the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill, a safe place for the community is needed now more than ever. JASMYN is stepping up to take on the challenge in an effort to build a community where young LGBTQ+ members can freely be themselves, despite any backlash those members may face with friends and/or family. JASMYN is an organization that aims to provide a safe place offering health and wellness services to young members of the LGBTQ+ community. They offer development opportunities and promote equality for all. They believe the young members are …

Every year around the globe people celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th as what many consider a cultural and/or religious celebration to honor the feast day of St. Patrick – the patron saint of Ireland. What was once celebrated with feasts and religious services is now considered a day full of festivities, like drinking Irish beer and wearing green, for those who immigrated from Ireland bringing the Irish holiday with them. So, this day is spent honoring saints and drinking beer, but who came up with the idea of little green men hoarding pots of gold? According to Irish …