"PRIDE NOT PREJUDICE"

June 16, 2006

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On Friday, June 16th, more than 400 people gathered at Modesto’s Fat Cat Music House & Lounge to help raise funds for the Stanislaus PRIDE Center and celebrate Stanislaus PRIDE Night 2006.

The Modesto area’s first ever Pride event was a true expression of diversity. Attendees transcended age, class, ethnicity, gender, race, and sexual preference. All joined together in celebration of the night’s theme of “Pride - Not Prejudice.”

As the event got underway, anticipation quickly turned into extreme joy. One guest was overheard calling a friend shortly after arriving, saying, “Come on out tonight! This is the hottest party Modesto has ever seen!”

The Modesto area’s first ever Pride event was a true expression of diversity. Attendees transcended age, class, ethnicity, gender, race, and sexual preference. All joined together in celebration of the night’s theme of “Pride - Not Prejudice.”

The event was hosted by Denair-based musician Moon Trent, who encouraged all to make Pride a 365-day-a-year celebration just “by being you.” The evening’s entertainment began with live jazz from two more local talents: pianist Kate Trompetter and saxophonist George Railey. Stand-up comics Tom Sharp and Brett Walkow then each built momentum to a surprise appearance by Jenny McNulty. The hit of the comedy show, she kept the audience in stitches. Her performance was followed by a 70s-themed disco party, with DJs Jon Boranian and Charlie West playing music that kept the dance floor packed.

PRIDE Night was hosted by the Stanislaus PRIDE Center and is planned as an annual event. A dozen local businesses served as sponsors, and several local restaurants pitched in by providing food for VIP ticketholders.

“My boyfriend and I felt more confidence than we ever have in Modesto when we [left] the event that night,” said one guest. Yet another said, beaming, “My mom hasn’t had so much fun in almost 25 years. Just seeing her outand having fun was something that I can’t even begin to thank you for!”

Press Highlights

• Gay Pride Party in Modesto, June 11, 2006 - Modesto Bee