P.J. Salas was elected as Chairman of the Board, at Come OUT St Pete’s Board of Directors Elections on Thursday, November 14, 2024, succeeding longtime Chair Chris Jones. “I am honored to lead Come OUT St Pete as we continue championing acceptance, love, and equality for all LGBTQIA+ people,” said P.J. Salas. “Come OUT St Pete is a small but mighty organization with a strong voice. Our mission to host LGBTQIA+ friendly events in the heart of St. Pete’s Central Avenue remains unwavering.”
Salas acknowledged the challenges posed by the current political climate but emphasized his commitment to growth and resilience. “Our task is to strengthen and expand Come OUT St Pete’s impact while celebrating diversity and inclusion. We are fortunate to have passionate advocates on the board and an incredibly talented 2025 Royal Court to represent our community,” he added.
Salas, the owner of BulgeBoy.com, an online men’s apparel destination has become a familiar presence in St Pete as his brick & mortar location, Bulge Apparel & Gifts on Central Ave & 30th St. S. was a member of The Grand Central District Association, a sibling location to Bulge Ybor City. Changes to the economy ended Bulge operations of both brick & mortar locations and focus on their St Pete based e-commerce platform, BulgeBoy.com. While networking with local businesses, Salas partnered with GaYbor District Coalition, St Pete Pride, Tampa Pride, Metro Inclusive Health, Rainbow Sports League, SarasotaOut, Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Drag2Talle and others. Prior to his time in Tampa Bay, Salas held senior business administration and operational roles at Apple, Deloitte and CNN.
Under P.J.’s leadership, COSP will continue its mission of celebrating diversity, promoting acceptance, and hosting amazing LGBTQIA+ events in the heart of St. Pete’s Central Avenue.
Introducing Joshua Wallace, better known as Josh, a multifaceted individual making a difference in both the LGBTQ community and the tech industry. As the Treasurer of Come OUT St Pete, a non-profit LGBTQ organization, Josh brings over 15 years of experience working with various LGBTQ groups, where he has held diverse roles such as Volunteer Chair, General Member, VP, and President in St. Petersburg, FL, Mobile, AL, and Atlanta, GA.
Josh's passion for technology and innovation has been a driving force throughout his career, which spans over two decades in the IT field. Currently serving as a Senior Solution Architect, he focuses on propelling growth and catalyzing change in the tech space.
With a unique blend of skills and expertise, Josh stands as a bridge between advocacy and technology. He applies his strategic planning, problem-solving, and leadership abilities to champion the cause of LGBTQ rights while ensuring that Come OUT St Pete's financial resources are managed prudently and effectively.
An unwavering advocate for equality and inclusivity, Josh's commitment goes beyond the boardroom and extends to every facet of his life. Whether he is designing innovative tech solutions or fostering a more accepting society, Josh remains dedicated to making a lasting impact.
Through his tireless efforts and inspirational leadership, Josh continues to empower the LGBTQ community and drive positive change in the tech industry, embodying the true spirit of progress and compassion.
Vincent Bailey-Santamarina “Vinny” is co-owner of a Tampa Bay pageant production company producing Sunshine State AAG, Gulf Coast Comedy Queen and Miss Large & Lovely - providing competitive performance platforms showcasing the art form of Drag, where entertainers of all shapes and sizes earn respected industry titles.
Vinny is also known as Veronica Vixen, a Tampa Bay Drag Performer and host of SaturSlay at Thyrst in Largo. Veronica is our very own former Miss Come OUT St Pete 2024 and one of our most prolific representatives.
Vinny and his husband Aaron are entrepreneurs and as owners of V&A Productions, their contributions to drag pageantry is valued. Vinny chose to continue his advocacy work at Come OUT St Pete accepting a board nomination, elected to an officer position and continuing his charitable work through community awareness.
Bill was born and raised in West Michigan. He has one daughter that lives in Ohio and was married in 2022. From a very early age, Bill knew he had a love for music. In 1986 he decided that he wanted to play music for other people and became a DJ. In 2012 he decided that he wanted leave cooperate America and move to Saint Petersburg to DJ year round. He loves the Grand Central District and decided to join the Come OUT St Pete board in 2018, loves his community and 100% believes in equality for everyone.