2011’s Out in The Park surpassed everyone’s expectations…but you ain’t seen nothing yet!
One hundred of our closest friends gathered together to start what promises to be the best year ever for Hampton Roads Pride. Amidst wine flowing, cocktail party chit-chat and laughter, the 2012 Launch Party was just the start of something great! Master of Ceremonies, Patrick Mullins kicked off the evening with a recap of last year’s efforts; a new venue brought with it a new enthusiasm and cause for celebration in the GLBT Community. Our success at Town Point Park set new standards for what we, as a community, can accomplish when we all work together.
Our plans for 2012 include an even bigger celebration, more scholarship money, more events, and engaging the community in ways we never thought possible. Leading the way in our fundraising effort were Claus Ihlemann and Robert Roman of Decorum Furniture who doubled last year’s donation, creating a new level of sponsorship; Presenting Sponsor. Following their lead, Todd Rosenlieb and Ricardo Melendez increased their support levels, as did Patrick Mullins of the Wells Theater, Sarah Munford and Laurel Quarberg of New Leaf Florist, Cheryl Scott of Deadline Printing, Michael Hamer and Barry Menser, and many other individual sponsors. Longtime friends of Pride, AltDaily and Distinctive Rentals renewed their commitment to the community and there were also brand new sponsors who stepped up and demonstrated their faith in Hampton Roads Pride and the many things we hope to accomplish in 2012.
As the evening wound down, someone asked Claus what prompted him and Robert to increase their donation this year. Claus said they believe in our community and felt very fortunate to be able to give something back. He went on to say that he was inspired by support shown at virtually every level within our community. “Whether they volunteer their time, provide support through in-kind sponsorships, or open their wallets…. There’s an opportunity for everyone to get involved.”
Thanks to everyone who helped make this event possible, including: Jack and John, for opening their home, The New Leaf in Ghent for the lovely floral arrangements, Mindy Brown for providing ASL interpretation, Wendy Maness for capturing the event on film, and the many sponsors who stepped forward in support of HR Pride.
