Cleveland Pride

Ambiance - The Store for Lovers

It’s is with great honor that Cleveland Pride announces that Ambiance – The Store for Lovers returns in a much larger role as a sponsor of our 2011 Pride Parade, Rally and Festival. Ambiance has been a corner stone vendor that has returned year after year supporting our annual event.

“Jennifer Downey and I had the opportunity to meet back in 2007-08 festival season. She and her organization has shown strong support for Cleveland Pride by returning each year as a significant vendor,” explained Todd J. Saporito, Board President/CEO and Director of the 2011 Festival Logistics. “At very critical points in our recent history, Jennifer and her team have made themselves available to assist our organization. This was demonstrated through networking and advising to donating products for fundraisers. It’s clearly and exciting moment when a devoted partner to Cleveland Pride takes ownership by becoming a sponsor.”

Ambiance is the Store for all Lovers, and is proud to be a part of the LGBT community in Northeast Ohio. Just as early Ambiance customers helped turn the company’s focus to a couple-oriented business, LGBT customers in recent years have helped improve product offerings that best fit their wants, needs and desires. From these tailored selections to generous donations at local fundraising events, Ambiance is committed to ensuring that all couples, no matter their sexual orientation, have a happy and fulfilling relationship.

Since 2007, Ambiance has proudly participated in the annual Cleveland Pride Rally, Parade and Festival. 2011 marks their first year as a Bronze-level sponsor.

Additionally, Ambiance President, Jennifer Downey, is an active and founding board member of Plexus, the Chamber of Commerce for the LGBT Community and Allies serving Northeast Ohio. Plexus serves the LGBT business community and advocates workplace equality issues in Northeast Ohio. As a nonprofit organization, it also assists LGBT-owned businesses to become nationally certified as minority business suppliers. Ambiance has supported Plexus as a Bronze-level Sponsor since its founding in 2006.

On AOL.com’s City’s Best Guide, Ambiance is featured in the article “Show Your Pride with LGBT-Friendly Shopping.”

From Ambiance president Jennifer Downey: “At Ambiance, the foundation of our business (and largest contributor to our success) is empathy and compassion for all people. We hire a diverse base of employees who bring their unique experiences and perspectives to our business, and through our Think Like a Customer training program, teaches them how to respect and gain the trust of every person who walks through our doors, regardless of sexual orientation, gender, color, age or disability.”

“We are confident that our employees take the empathy and compassion learned through Ambiance training with them when they leave work everyday,” she continued. “The reason our customer service initiatives are so successful is that they are based on the universal human principles of trust, good communication, mutual respect and understanding of all people.”

Kaiser

Cleveland Pride is honored to begin a strong partnership with Kaiser Permanente as a Bronze Level sponsor of this years event. Kaiser Permanente’s website statement captures it all, “As a health care organization in the 21st century, we have a mission–to provide quality care for our members and their families, and to contribute to the well-being of our communities. See how we dedicate ourselves to this mission.”

“Our theme this year is Equality for All: Celebrating our Allies. Kaiser Permanente’s involvement in Cleveland Pride’s 23rd annual celebration demonstrates the support and care for the LGBT and straight allied community,” shared Todd J. Saporito, Board President/CEO and Director of the 2011 Festival Logistics. “I see organizations on a daily basis that are beginning -or- continuing their transformation of supporting our LGBT community on a broader basis. Kaiser Permanente embraces diversity internally within their organization as well as publicly and external to their organization.”

“Kaiser Permanente’s values are based in equity, inclusion and fairness. Our policies and procedures reflect them within the workplace and influence our engagement in partnerships throughout the community. We are proud to have received a 100% Rating on the Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index as well as a 100% Rating on the Human Rights Campaign & Gay and Lesbian Medical Association Healthcare Equality Index acknowledging the integration of issues of concern to the LGBT community into our daily operations. We applaud your work and congratulate Cleveland Pride!” stated
Merle R. Gordon, Manager, Community Benefit / Community Relations.

While researching more about Kaiser Permanente’s work in the community, we found an abundance of information on their website Diversity Information like Building on a tradition of inclusion stating “The health care profession isn’t just a job, it’s a community—a community where everyone should feel welcomed and appreciated. From the very beginning, this philosophy has guided Kaiser Permanente’s leadership in creating an organization that strives to be diverse and inclusive. Kaiser Permanente’s Patients’ Bill of Rights officially protects lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) patients and their families from discrimination. The hospital visitation policy at our 36 hospitals nationwide allows patients to designate visitors of their choosing, regardless of official marital or familial status.”

Kisha N. Avon, Regional Coordinator, Affirmative Action Plan/EEO recapped more about her company, “At Kaiser Permanente, our National Diversity agenda includes providing culturally competent medical care and culturally appropriate service to improve the health and satisfaction of our increasingly diverse membership. Kaiser Permanente also has a proud history of supporting Multicultural Staff Associations. These Associations consist of racial, ethnic, disability and sexual orientation affinity groups, which are a rich source of cultural expertise and a primary linkage to community segments. One of those associations is KP-Pride.”

Avon wrapped up her comments by sharing that “KP-Pride is an employee and physician group whose mission is to foster acceptance, equality and support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered employees, physicians and members of Kaiser Permanente. Its primary goal is to educate Kaiser Permanente employees and physicians about the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered people in order to dispel stereotypes, diminish discrimination and enhance understanding. We are proud to support this Association and dozens of similar ones which all promote a healthy, diverse workforce.”

Cleveland Pride looks forward to our continued and growing relationship with Kaiser Permanente over the next several years.

Daniel Sparks

Cleveland Pride could not be more pleased than to announce Daniel R. Sparks as the 2011 Cleveland Pride Parade Grand Marshal. Known by his family and friends as “Danny”, this unassuming young man has left an impression on his community in Greater Cleveland and all of Ohio.

“It is important that Cleveland Pride return to it’s roots and align our selection of our Parade Grand Marshal to our mission statement,” emphasizes Todd J. Saporito, Cleveland Pride’s current Board President/CEO. “As the Director of 2011 Festival Logistics, it was my pleasure to extend an offer to Danny to represent our 23rd annual celebration in this significant role. My first encounter with Danny was in 2008 when he approached Cleveland Pride as a young boy of 15 years old asking to volunteer. My impression at that moment was that he clearly had a passion for what is good and right for our movement. Seeing how he has developed into a young man that is a role model for his peers, brings joy to us all.”

Much like any other motivation, Danny Sparks began his foray into activism because of frustration: with his school, his community, and the abstinence-only-until-marriage program that came into his classroom. At the age of thirteen, Danny embraced his sexual orientation as an openly gay young person. But as a gay student, he felt ostracized, and as a teenager, he felt deprived by the lack of accurate and honest sexual health education in his school. By his sophomore year, Danny began to advocate for all young people, and now at the age of eighteen, Danny says, “I often find myself speaking for my peers that don’t have a voice–yet.”

In 2008, Danny, then fifteen, was a founding member of the Ohio Advocates Youth Leadership Council, a project of the AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland, where he was given the tools to positively influence culture and policy to reflect young people’s needs and rights around sexuality and equality. He formed a core group of allied students and succeeded in removing the abstinence-only-until-marriage program from his school district. “We may be young, but our network of contacts proves that we have the leverage over the decisions that are being made,” Danny explains about his and his peer’s efforts.

“Sometimes, as activists, we are forced to break out of our own comfort zones, to set aside our own fears for something bigger. I’ve found myself in this type of situation plenty of times, whether it be speaking in front of hundreds, or speaking in front of one. I’m sure we’ve all been there,” states Danny.

Danny has also been an outspoken advocate for anti-bullying and anti-discrimination measures in the schools. He recently provided testimony before the Ohio House Education Committee in support of the anti-cyberbullying bill HB 155, the ‘Jessica Logan Act’. Named in honor of Jessica Logan, a high school student who committed suicide due to relentless online bullying by classmates and peers, HB 155 would allow schools to enforce anti-bullying measures off school grounds.

In his testimony, Danny described the bullying he endured in the eighth grade, saying “I do prefer to speak quietly, but I will not be silenced by intimidation.” He also urged for the inclusion of enumeration to specifically list sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes within the bill.

Danny’s mother, Ann Sparks remarks, “Since having the courage to come out at age 13, my son has never ceased to amaze me. To know that I raised a seeker of justice who devotes himself wholeheartedly to making our world a better place fills me with so much pride. Our family never batted an eyelash at Danny’s sexuality because although it defines his pursuit of justice, it is merely one aspect of my amazing son.”

On being selected as the Cleveland Pride 2011 Parade Grand Marshal, Danny replies, “Generally, I do not like being in the spotlight. To do so requires a great deal of composure and, at time, personal sacrifice. But I accept with great honor the title of Grand Marshal because I know how important young people’s voices are moving forward. This is much less about what I’ve done and more so about what young people will be doing collectively in the world from today onward. The future is ours.”

Cleveland Pride encourages all young boy and girls, young men and women to show their support for Danny Sparks by arriving at the 2011 Cleveland Pride Parade, Rally and Festival at NOON, to applaud his accomplishment as he leads off the parade as our 2011 Grand Marshal.

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On behalf of Cleveland Pride, thank you for your time, commitment and support. We are excited to hold our 23rd annual Cleveland Pride celebration with a parade, rally and festival. This year’s event coincides with the 42nd Anniversary of the Stonewall Riots in New York City. We have selected a theme of “Equality for All: Celebrating our Allies” to honor those people that have come together and support advancing the rights of all peoples. It also represent a focusing statement to Northeast Ohio for all members of our community to unite to achieve equality in all walks of life.

PARADE PARTICIPANTS:
Parade Participants will meet at W. 3rd. between Superior and St. Clair Streets. If you have a vehicle you must be there by 10:30am; if you don’t have a vehicle, you must be there by 11am.

Everyone must be in the holding queue by 11:30am. Parade participants should not throw anything into the crowds, should not taunt anyone on the sidelines and should not involve themselves with any protests occurring along the parade route.

At the end of the parade, vehicles will be asked to turn left on Erieside Ave. in front of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Participants need to be out of the vehicle before Erieside Ave. Only cars with parking credentials are permitted to continue forward onto the campus. All participants are asked as they come into the festival to remain in the grassy knoll in front of the stage, so we are prepared for the rally speeches and photo opportunity.

PEACEKEEPERS:
We honor and celebrate our right to assemble and our right to freedom of speech. We also uphold and affirm the right of people who have opposing views.

Each parade group has two peacekeepers, one on the north side and south side of the parade route. Peacekeepers are reminded to introduce themselves to the peacekeeper in the group in front of their group and the peacekeeper behind their group. This creates a strong peacekeeper buddy system. Be watchful and prepared to assist your partner, peacekeeper and/or fellow groups. Peacekeepers should help the parade to move forward in a timely and organized fashion.

PARKING:
There is no parking for festival-goers at Voinovich Pier; however, ample city and private parking is available at the following locations:
• Standard Parking Garage at 1301 E. 9th St.
• APCOA parking across from Naval Reserve on North Marginal
• North Point Parking access from E. 9th St. near the Shoreway/Route 2 Ramp
• Willard Park Garage access from Lakeside and E. 9th Street
• Municipal Lot access from S. Marginal Rd.
• Burke Lakefront Airport access from N. Marginal Rd.
• Galleria Parking Garage and Valet Parking access from E. 12th St. or Lakeside
• Port Authority Lot access from Erieside Ave.

PARADE LINE-UP:
Parade participants may begin arriving at 10:30 AM. Please be prepared to be directed to a general area in the staging area. Groups may be required to adjust their positions as final attendees join our march. Anyone may march in our parade. Please welcome all last-minute interested parties.

Love in Pride,
Todd J. Saporito,
Board President/CEO
(Director of 2011 Festival Logistics) -
216.905.8005

Jon I. Brittain,
Board Vice-President/COO
(Director of 2011 Parade Logistics) -
216.287.9121

Cleveland Pride’s Festival has been known for a decades as a great place to hear great live entertainment, both local and national talent. Our intention so to provide an exceptional selection of talent in all genres which many festival goers will enjoy. We strive to celebrate our local and regional talent each year to help build community strength and self-awareness. We are proud, talented and activists.

The Entertainment Committee is excited to announce a diverse line-up with something that should please many music lovers. As in previous years, attendees will have choice of entertainment on multiple stages, the Triangle Stage (Main Stage) and Performance Stage (located near the Beer Garden). Both stages will go into the closing hours of the festival.

Triangle Stage (Main Stage) will host DJ Rowe, North Coast Men’s Chorus (National Anthem), Keynote Speaker/Rally, North Coast Men’s Chorus, Melissa “Cha Cha” Figueroa, Blazing River Freedom Band, Briona Brookes Show, Polina K, Zumba (on the lawn – join in!!!), Superego, 11 After, Lacey Conner (VH1′s “Rock of Love”), (the) fundamentalists, Anthony Cavotta, Soneboy, and Corissa Bragg.

Performance Stage (near Beer Garden) will host DJ Matt Garwood (Q Nation), DJ Dan Spurlock (Q Nation), Gwen Maul, The Brionna Brooks Show, Le Femme Mystique, Wasted Productions, Melissa “Cha Cha” Figueroa, Cleveland Kings and Girls, Rachel Shortt, Boylesque, The Brionna Brooks Show, Da Dollhouze, Carma DeLane, DJ Ursula, and Miko Chanel and Robert Manoloblhanik House Ball Competition.

See more detailed biographies and links to our performers websites at http://www.clevelandpride.org/home/festival/2011-entertainment-lineup/

“2008 was the first year for our Performance Stage,” noted Lois Elswick, Director of 2011 Entertainment Logistics. “Cleveland Pride’s goal is to reengage every aspect of our community, providing opportunity for our local LGBT and straight allied artists to shine. We hope that the community enjoys each of our selection and extend an offer out to the community to begin planning our 2012 entertainment program.”

Gwen Maul

Elegance. Sophistication. Fashion forward. Always flawless. Are a few phrases used to describe one of Cleveland’s own singer/songwriter Gwen Maul.

Gwen came on the scene later than most, yet right on time. She released her debut CD with Virgo Entertainment Ltd. titled, ‘Back For The Very First Time’ August 2010;

A sultry, smooth voice, that gives you glimpses of artists’ reminiscent of the stylings and sounds of the late Phyllis Hyman, and Anita Baker, yet Gwen is developing a defining sound with a vocal edge of seduction that connects you to her even more than her megawatt smile…

GWEN MAUL – definitely one to watch as her star rises & creates beautiful turns!

for more info/booking
WWW.GWENMAUL.COM

Gwen Maul, soul singer, joins Cleveland Pride’s entertainment line-up for our 23rd Annual Parade, Rally and Festival on Saturday, June 25th

Polina Kourakina brings her soulful jazz and acoustic folk rock to Cleveland Pride’s 23rd Annual Parade, Rally & Festival on Saturday, June 25th

Boylesque is a unique troupe which is proudly joining Cleveland Pride’s entertainment line-up on Saturday, June 25th

Bella Sin brings her troupe’s best Le Femme Mystique Burlesque joins Cleveland Pride’s 23rd Annual Celebration

Carma DeLane brings innovative music to Cleveland Pride’s 2011 Parade, Rally and Festival on Saturday, June 25th at Voinovich Park

Soneboy will release more energy at Cleveland Pride’s 23rd Annual Parade, Rally and Festival on Saturday, June 25th at Voinovich Park

Rachell Shortt performs at Cleveland Pride’s Parade, Rally and Festival scheduled for Saturday, June 25th at Voinovich Park

North Coast Men’s Chorus proudly joins are parade, entertainment stages and vendor area during our Cleveland Pride event on Saturday, June 25th

Superego joins the cast of entertainer’s at Cleveland Pride’s 23rd Annual Parade, Rally and Festival on Saturday, June 25th at Voinovich Park

Da Dollhouze returns to the 2011 Cleveland Pride Parade, Rally and Festival on June 25th

Corissa Bragg, singer/songwriter, will appear at Cleveland Pride’s 23rd Annual Parade, Rally and Festival on Saturday, June 25th

Formed in 2003, Cleveland Pride parade spectators will be treated to Blazing River Freedom Band

Anthony Covatta returns to Cleveland Pride’s 2011 Entertainment Line-Up for Saturday, June 25th

Cleveland Pride is proud to announce the return of the Cleveland Kings & Girls and Wasted Productions

Cleveland Pride announces (the) fundamentalists perform at Cleveland Pride’s 2011 Parade, Rally and Festival on Saturday, June 25th at Voinovich Park

Cleveland Pride announces Akron’s very own “Bad Girls of Rock n’ Roll”, 11 After performing at Cleveland Pride on Saturday, June 25th at Voinovich Park

Lacey Conner will perform live at the 2011 Cleveland Pride Parade, Rally and Festival on Saturday, June 25th

International Recording Artist Melissa “Cha~Cha” Figueroa Performs at Cleveland Pride 2011

Ritz Carlton

Cleveland Pride is excited to announce a new partnership with Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland. The Ritz-Carlton is a luxurious hotel and will be hosting a out of town entertainers and production staff. This sponsorship allows Cleveland Pride to defer spending, while offering the highest quality hospitality experience in Downtown Cleveland.

“It’s always wonderful to find organizations, like the Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland, that embrace the importance of our annual celebration’,” shared Todd J. Saporito, Board President/CEO of Cleveland Pride, Inc. “Furthermore, the Ritz-Carlton’s leadership and employees actively, develop internal and external diversity programs to show their support for both our LGBT and straight-allied communities.”

“The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland is excited to be the Hospitality sponsor for Cleveland PRIDE 2011, shares Julie Bowditch, Director of Human Resources. “As an international company we are ranked No. 14 in The Diversity Inc Top 50 Companies for Diversity. In Cleveland, The Ritz-Carlton is proud to be members of IGLTA, NGLCC, and Plexus.”

In partnership with the LGBT community, we have created a Room Package that includes a special Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland LGBT amenity. The brand new package called “Out-In-Cleveland”. This package included starts at $269 per night and includes:

• Overnight Deluxe Accommodations
• $40 Food & Beverage Credit (Exclusive of Alcohol)
• Complimentary Internet Access
• LGBT Positively Cleveland Visitor’s Guide
• The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland Exclusive Pride Amenity
• Complimentary Overnight Valet Parking

“At The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland our LGBT guests and employees are an important part of our culture,” shared Hollie M. Ksiezyk, Catering Sales Manager. “We recognize the important role the gay and lesbian community has to Northeastern Ohio business and to our diverse hotel family. As a result the ladies and gentlemen of the hotel have supported community organizations with both in kind services, sponsorship and cause related volunteering. The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland outreach to the community includes organizations such has HRC, Dare2Care, G2H2, WH2, Cleveland Pride, Plexus, Equality Ohio and the efforts to secure the 2014 Gay Games.”

Hollie continued “As a member of the LGBT community, I am very proud that The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland is a place where rich culture and diverse traditions are welcome opportunities to collaborate with our LGBT community.”

To book your LGBT Package for PRIDE, please use booking code ZJ1. To reserve your memorable experience, please contact Aneta Csikos, Executive Reservations Coordinator, at 216.623.1515, or again or book online with Code ZJ1.

To book your next LGBT meeting, social event or celebration, please contact Catering Sales Manager Hollie Ksiezyk at 216.902.5242 or Hollie.Ksiezyk@ritzcarlton.com.

Package is subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. Advance reservations are required; rates do not apply to groups. Rates listed are per room, per night, single or double occupancy, and exclusive of taxes, gratuities and other charges unless otherwise noted. Hotel and resort credits cannot be used toward room rate, tax, resort fee or gratuities. Credit cannot be reimbursed or exchanged if not used. Credit must be used during stay.

The Out-In-Cleveland Package can be enjoyed at the Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland • 1515 West Third Street Cleveland, Ohio 44113 • 216.623.1300 • www.ritzcarlton.com

DATE OF FESTIVAL: SATURDAY, JUNE 25th
LOCATION OF FESTIVAL: VOINOVICH PARK, 800 E. 9TH STREET, CLEVELAND, OHIO 44114
TIME OF FESTIVAL: NOON UNTIL 8:00 PM

TO MAKE THINGS GO FAST AND EASY:
Before driving onto festival property, your vehicle will be checked in & you’ll be given your Vendor/Sponsor Placard to place in the window of your car/truck on the driver’s side. You will be required to list your Name and Cell Phone Number on the Vendor Placard.

Setup Time: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Vendors/Sponsors are required to have their VENDOR/SPONSOR PLACARD in the driver’s side front window at all times while vehicle is on property. Motor vehicles are permitted on festival grounds to unload and all vehicles must be removed from festival grounds no later than 10:30am. Any Vendor/Organization not setup by 11:00am WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO OPERATE. THERE WILL BE NO EXCEPTIONS.

Vendor Check-In Process: Please go directly to the Vendor/Volunteer Check-In booth. City inspectors will begin individual site inspections at 11:00 AM and completing by 11:30 AM. All vendors must have copies of certificates of insurance, fire permits, etc. on hand for review.

Vendor Parking: Vendors will only be permitted to park onsite if they are Sponsors or VIP. Non-Sponsor Vendors will be required to move vehicles off festival grounds to on-street or garage parking no later than 10:30am. There is no place to store your items other than your Vendor space location.

Sponsor Parking: Sponsors will be permitted to park onsite from 8:00am-9:00pm. Specified parking is provided for Sponsorship levels that include VIP Parking Passes ONLY.

Strike/Breakdown/Cleanup Time: 8:00pm – Motor vehicles are permitted on festival grounds to load and all vehicles must be removed from festival grounds no later than 9:00pm.

Electricity: Electricity is provided for vendors ONLY that have indicated and paid for electrical connections per their Vendor Registration Packet.

Canopies: All Vendors and Sponsors are required to have a minimum of a 10×10 canopy. You may provide your own or purchase from Cleveland Pride. All purchased canopies must be paid for and indicated on Vendor Registration Packet and removed at the end of festival. NO VENDOR WILL BE PERMITTED TO OPERATE WITHOUT CANOPY and if Vendor leaves Canopy at end of festival, Canopy becomes the property of Cleveland Pride and will not be returned to Vendor.

Festival Staff Contact Phone Numbers (Day of):
Diane Jackson, Assistant Director of 2011 Vendor Logistics – 216.255.4404
Randy Rensko, Director of 2011 Vendor Logistics – 330.704-8886
Sonja Leftwich, Board Secretary/CAO, Director of 2011 Pride Office Logistics- 216.322.5131
Todd Saporito, President/CEO, Director or 2011 Festival Logistics – 216.905.8005

Questions Email: executiveboard@clevelandpride.org

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL:

The Parade will step off at 12:00 NOON leading to Voinovich Bicentennial Park. The Rally starts at 12:30PM & the Main Gate opens up from NOON – 8:00 PM.

Just a few reminders:

• All Vendor transport vehicles must be off campus no later than 11:00 AM. There is no on-site parking available for Vendors or their volunteer crew. Please go to http://www.clevelandpride.org/home/parking/ in the menu bar double click on the link that says parking which will display parking locations available in downtown.

• The deaf and hard of hearing individuals comprise of 10% of the population in the United States. To make sure that you are reaching this large and diverse population, please provide information in a visible (written) format. When selling; food, drink, or clothing, please use posters, banners and brochures or signs to indicate prices and sizes, enabling deaf or hard of hearing individuals to easily shop at your booth. Your cooperation in creating an accessible environment for deaf and hard of hearing people at the Cleveland Pride Parade and Festival will be greatly appreciated.

• As a courtesy to other vendors and attendees, please limit amplified sound from your booth.

• Deposits will not be returned if you leave your area in disorder, damage the facilities or on-site equipment, start taking your booth down before the official festival closes, leave early, or do not check out with the Vendor Coordinator. Deposits are refunded by mail within two weeks after the event.

• Vendors are permitted to demonstrate products, solicit orders, and distribute advertising matter only from its assigned booth.

• Vendor must make provisions for the safekeeping of its goods and exhibit materials from the time they are placed in Exhibitor booth until they are removed. Cleveland Pride, Inc. will not be responsible, nor act as guarantor, for the safety of exhibit materials against, fire, accident or any loss or injury whatsoever.

• Vendor acknowledges that any image, likeness and personality may be captured on photograph, video, sound recording, live action internet transmission and other media (the “Personal Images”), and that Cleveland Pride, Inc. may wish to use these Personal Images for promotional and other affiliated business purposes.

If you have any questions please feel free to call the Pride office at (216) 226-0004. Thank you and look forward to an exciting time working with you.
Sincerely,

Todd J. Saporito, Board President/CEO, Director of 2011 Festival Logistics
Randy Rensko, Director of 2011 Director of Vendor Logistics
Diane Jackson, Assistant Director of 2011 Vendor Logistics

Deja D. Dellataro

Deja D. Dellataro – Based in Toledo, Deja D. Dellataro is Director at Bretz Bar. She has been performing for 9 years all around the Midwest. Deja is a former Miss Toledo EOY (entertainer of the year), Miss Toledo Gay Pride, Miss Ohio Int’l, and Miss Ohio Int’l @ Large. She is current reigning Miss Ohio EOY.

3 1/2 Men

3 1/2 Men are a drag king troupe based out of Akron, Ohio. The group was established on December 4th, 2010. Since our creation, they have performed numerous shows in Akron and Canton, including benefit shows and the Akron We Are Family Too picnic earlier this month. Awards include the Rising Star Award from Canton, Ohio, Mr. Inferno Drag King Troupe For Life, as well as awards for our benefit contributions. Known as an Akron favorite, Poppy, EJ, Nick and DJ work hard to bring a great show to their fans each and every time!

Diamond Devine

Diamond Devine has been a female impersonator for 15 years traveling the tri-state area. She has been performing and capturing titles through the years a few including MISS LA CASA LOUNGE, MISS WARREN DIVA NEW COMER, MISS CANTON DIVA NEW COMER. Diamond’s is presently holding the title of MISS INFERNO NITECLUB 2011.

“It is an honor to be a part of the celebration of Cleveland Gay Pride!!!”, shared Diamond Devine.

Hellen Hatch

Hellen Hatch is an exuberant entertainer with a love of all things old fashioned. She brings a new twist on some old dance moves. Hailing originally from Akron, Hellen has been a resident and performer of the Cleveland area for a year now. Bringing a bit of camp, a bit of humor, and a whole lot of fun. She is excited to be a part of Cleveland Pride 2011. Wishing everyone a safe and happy Pride Season.

Nevaeh

Nevaeh is a native born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio! She has only been doing female impersonating for a short time. However, with no titles or crowns to date, Nevaeh’s passion for music and performing assures she will leave an everlasting impression on Greater Cleveland and Greater Akron festival participants.

“There is nothing that compares to being on a stage and entertaining a crowd, be it big or small,’ shared Nevaeh. “I enjoy time with my family and friends, and am thankful for them every day. It was an unexpected honor to be asked to perform at Cleveland Gay Pride 2011 and I feel very fortunate to be a part of such a wonderful celebration!!”

Lily Desmond

Lily Desmond has been an entertainer for a year and a half. She takes pride in her history and loves to study up on the past, such as the Stonewall Riots of 1969.

“I think it to be important that we all, as a community, know our roots, and what those before us went through to give us the freedoms that we have,” shares Lily. “I’m in school getting 5 degrees, and am starting my own business. I hope that in the future, I can make an impact on people in our community no matter what gender or sexual orientation they be.”

Isis Fontaine

Isis Fontaine has been performing as a female illusionist for seven years. She has a wonderful family who supports and helps her in all her aspirations in life!

“I love to sew and make my own wigs,” stated Isis. “I have held Miss Cleveland EOY, Miss Toledo and Columbus National.”

Ursula Steele

Ursula Steele has been performing drag for just over a year and have been inspired my many great people in this industry . She enjoys being creative and hope that in the future she can inspire many others.

“I am very thankful for this opportunity to be involved with Cleveland Pride.”

Sonshine La Ray

Sonshine La Ray has been a new queen starting off only 8 months ago at Bounce. Last year she was working as a event coordinator and promoter for the gay community on the east side of Cleveland. Doing drag-shows in numerous bars and clubs is what got her to start this intriguing art. This is her first year doing shows around the greater northern clubs from Sandusky to Youngstown and all those in between. This is her first year performing for Pride and is excited to be apart, “Giving back to what i have gotten from this community is the only way to fight for what is right” she says. Sonshine is looking to do pageants and further her experience in this area. We are thrilled to have her and see much more of her.

Lady Angelica

Lady Angelica comes from Medina, OH and has been in the art of female impersonation for 13 years. She has performed at various bars across the United States as well as capturing many titles as Miss Gay International, Miss Dominion International, Miss West Virginia Continental, Miss Ohio Diva, Miss Ohio Entertainer of the Year, Miss Ohio US of A, Miss Gay Galaxy, Top 10 finalist at Miss National Entertainer of the Year, Miss Ohio International. Angelica retired as an entertainer in 2009 but still performs for special occasions. She works as a Music Director and Organist for her church and she is also the owner of “Lady’s Choice” where she makes custom made costumes for entertainers and ballroom competitors. Today’s performance goes out to Robert Bailey & Ryan Karam. Thanks for the help with the concrete!

Dixi Chick

A native Clevelander, Dixie Chick has been entertaining for over 8 years. This years Pride Festival will serve as her triumphant return to the stage after a 3 year hiatus.  She is a former Miss Cleveland America, Miss Deco, and winner of Showgirls, in Provincetown, MA.  She’s described as part club, part camp, and totally entertaining!

Stevie Reese Desmond

Stevie Reese Desmond,”Ohio’s Good Time Party Girl”, has been entertaining Cleveland for 25 years and has traveled through out Ohio and other states performing in various venues.

Currently Stevie has her internet talk show called “Hot Spotz”, produced by Vision Video which can be seen on Facebook and YouTube. Further Miss Desmond appeared in the Strand Cinema film, “The Edge of Seventeen” as Ruby Rogers. Miss Desmond spends much of her time as an active community leader working with such charities as: The AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland, Dancin’ in the Streets, CLAW and Dare2Care to stop teen bullying.

Brionna Brooks

Brionna Brooks… Is a former Miss Ohio us of a, us of a @ large, Eoy, Continental , Continental Plus and Diva system, making her a six time state title holder within the Gay Community. She has Been working in the art of Female Illusion since 1998 where she began Entertaining at Cocktails Akron and then later moved though out Ohio and surrounding states sharing her art form. This past year she has had the opportunity to join the Cleveland gay Pride in putting together a wonderful day for all of you and has really enjoyed the experience and looks forward to joining the team for the 2012 pride season.

Kenyon

Cleveland Pride is excited to continue our most recent tradition of offering House Ball competitions. This year our commentators will be Mikol Chanel and Robert Manoloblhanik. Our event will be comprised of three categories of competition: Vogue Fem, Face and Runway. Competitors have the opportunity to win cash prizes for the three categories. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winners of their category: Vogue Fem ($200), Face ($100), Runway ($200).

This is a “First Come – First Compete” competition and each category is limited to ten (10) competitors. Once the category is announced on stage, the first ten individual competitors will be selected for that category. This event is limited to one hour during the end of the festival on the Performance Stage located in the Northwest section of Voinovich Park. For more details, please contact: Miko Chanel at twinchanel@yahoo.com.

Gay Ball (or Ballroom) Competitions
By Ramon Johnson, About.com Guide
SOURCE: http://gaylife.about.com/od/gayslang/g/balls.htm

Definition:
Balls (or ballrooms) are elaborate events where “walkers” compete in a series of categories emulating high fashion, style or a way of being.

Some ball participants- also described as those who walk the balls- feel the ball circuit provides an escape from the everyday perils of gay life on the “outside,” including homophobia and hate. Balls not only become a display of personal pride, but allow participants to freely express themselves through high fashion, glamour and grand presentation. The winner of a ball category can become legendary in the ball circuit, just a star becomes legendary by winning an Oscar.

HISTORY OF HOUSE BALL
SOURCE: http://balls.houseofenigma.com/what_world.html

Several times a month, predominantly Black/Latino gay social groups (called houses) get together at events where they compete in a variety of categories. The house that is hosting presents the theme and categories, circulating information months in advance, so that people can prepare. At the event, houses submit a variety of contestants to vie for recognition or defend titles earned previously. A hall is set with chairs and tables on either side of a “runway” that leads up to the judges’ table in front. The deejay is in place with all the right records, old and new, to create various moods needed throughout the show. The emcee has the wit and the control to keep the program flowing, as well as keeping the audience entertained. It all begins with a Grand March (or “Legends, Statements and Stars”), to introduce the members of the hosting house, as well as the judges and other noteworthy attendees. Sometimes a new house will make a debut, or an individual may even change membership for shock value. As the program progresses, winners are awarded trophies, and the evening finishes with a Grand Prize category, usually offering cash and a trophy. This is what it means to have a “Ball”, a tradition that has continued to flourish and mutate since the early 1900s.

Polina Kourakina

Singer/songwriter Polina Kourakina blends the sounds of soulful jazz and acoustic folk rock to create her own unique sound. She has been involved with music from a young age and is well traveled with her sound, having performed in places like Dallas, San Diego, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. Artists that have influenced Polina over the years include Joni Mitchell, Norah Jones, and Janis Joplin. Polina’s voice, in combination with the harmonies strummed from her guitar, creates a powerful yet calm sound, and presence that resonates from the stage. Polina arrived in Cleveland’s music scene last year and has played at many different venues and open mic nights around the area. She recently released a six track EP, “Wanderlust,” earlier this year. She is looking forward to playing her first PRIDE event in Cleveland this year.

Boylesque

“The Cleveland Fetish Community proudly presents the city’s first ever Boylesque troupe. The boys are currently under the direction of senior C.F.C. creative team member and musical director Joei Sterl and world renowned figure skater and choreographer Franklyn Singley.

2011 marks the inaugural year for Cleveland Boylesque. Our first ever public performance for C.L.A.W. (which can be viewed at www.ClevelandFetish.com) and was received with standing applause.

It is our most sincere desire to be able to bring Cleveland Boylesque to a level far beyond that of any other group of it’s kind. We are very proud to be a part of the Pride celebration this year. We hope you enjoy.”

Gay Games IX Cleveland + Akron 2014

Cleveland Pride is excited to announce that the Gay Games 9 will be present and supporting our 23rd Annual Cleveland Pride Parade, Rally and Festival this year. This sponsorship opportunity allows Greater Cleveland and Greater Akron natives to learn more about progress towards the planning and execution of the historic event.

“It’s critical that we engage our community to support this major event as it has the opportunity to unite the LGBT and straight allied community in Northeast, Ohio, even beyond our state and country’s borders,” stated Todd Saporito, Board President/CEO of Cleveland Lesbian Gay Bi Trans Pride, Inc. “Greater Cleveland and Greater Akron have the opportunity to be showcased across the world, setting the bar even higher for embracing diversity of all types and manners.”

“We are delighted to be moving forward to host the most successful Games ever and can’t think of a better place to announce ‘Game On! ’ than at the 2011 Cleveland Pride Festival,” said Tom Nobbe, executive director of the 2014 Gay Games.

Approximately 13,000 athletes, guests, and performers from around the globe are expected to come to Cleveland + Akron to participate in over 30 events at Gay Games 9. In addition to the exciting sporting events, the Games will feature cultural events like concerts, theme parties, and exhibitions, as well as a festival village where athletes, community members, families and other visitors can enjoy time together.

“So many people from the LGBT community worked to bring the Games to our area, and we’ll need thousands more to make Gay Games 9 the best yet,” said Ted Wammes, GG9 board member and one of the G2H2 hosts. Immediate volunteer opportunities include marketing and public relations, fund development, athlete recruitment, and cultural programming.

“Come to our booth at Pride or visit www.2014GayGamesCleveland.com to let us know how you’d like to help,” said Wammes. “You can also follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for the latest updates on the Games.”

Bella Sin

Bella Sin and Le Femme Mystique Burlesque is Cleveland’s premiere Burlesque troupe. Sin is known throughout northeastern Ohio for revitalizing the Burlesque movement in the area. Her astonishing credentials and achievements have been noted and praised in numerous publications including a national documentary. Besides furthering her dancing career, Sin continues to model, volunteer in the LGBT community which has helped make her famous and infamous, and inspires a whole array of aspiring performers.

He awards include, One Of Cleveland’s Most Interesting People 2011 By Cleveland Magazine, The Face of Burlesque In Cleveland. Best NE Ohio Burlesque Entertainer. Shown in publications as Cleveland Scene, Akron Beacon Journal, Cleveland Magazine and like the Denver Westword. This national performer is show casing Cleveland Ohio at its best.

Carma DeLane

innovative

Carma DeLane has given new meaning to the term “multi-demensional” The Cleveland native may have a few titles under her belt but her first love is music! Just in her early twenties she’s worked as an entertainment journalist, recieved airplay on a national radio station, and recently she published her first novel “Charlotte’s Girlz.” Carma is Radio One’s 107.9 most requested new local artist in Cleveland. This will be her second year performing at Pride.

As a child Carma dealt with the struggle of being shuffled back in forth between drug addicted and abusive households. At the age of 13 she found refuge in music. Later the quiet, troubled teen tried her luck at the lunch table and spit sixteen bars for her fellow classmates. It was evident that she had won their approval when she was voted most talented of her senior class; truly a Cinderella story.

Soon after she relocated to Atlanta, Georgia to pursue a music career without the approval of her family and with six dollars in her pocket. Since then Carma has released several mixtapes and has had the opportunity to collaborate with major industry artists.

Carma’s message may put you in the mind of an earlier Queen Latifah, but she’s always sure to find a healthy balance between edgy, sexy, and sophistication. Her heart wrenching anthems speak on her hardships, relating to girls around the world. She is currently working on her first album. Be sure to support her hit single “Tinted Windows” by requesting it on your local radio stations.

Soneboy

Updating the classic dance anthem sound for the 21st century, Soneboy’s talent combines the sound of Erasure, David Bowie and No Doubt with his own twist, makes his vocal talents stand out from the rest of the musical pack. As an openly gay recording artist his wickedly brilliant lyrics combined with a dramatic conspicuous and stunning performance come through vigorously live. His enthusiasm and showmanship breaks through every time he has performed from the club scene, Prides and other events. He is looking forward to performing at Pride this year.

Twenty-two years ago Soneboy, walked into a gymnastics facility with big dreams and aspirations. Young Soneboy (sonni boy), as his grandmother would call him, started his artistic journey in one of the toughest sports for any athlete, mentally and physically. He loved the challenge of getting his body strong and flexible enough to perform such amazing skills. As he grew up, he continued to use the skills and discipline he acquired through gymnastics to enhance his creativity and passion for dance and music. Soneboy’s unique and catchy sound is inspired by the great artists of the 80′s and 90′s, along with his parent’s 50′s, 60′s, and 70′s music which made up the soundtrack of his youth. He began singing and songwriting at a very young age and always had a knack for performing. For the past 6 years, he has been performing with a multimedia performance ensemble where he has learned various styles of rhythms and dance. Soneboy is currently in the studio finishing his debut album. Here, you will get a chance to taste his eclectic sound style.

Soneboy plans to one-day tour the world, uplift spirits, and bring people back to themselves through music and dance. He believes that there is a place at the table for everyone. Everybody is a star! He often says, “Share the sun…’cuz we are one”. Enjoy his art, it is utterly delicious. “Create your song, create your dance, you can’t do wrong, and take a chance”.

Rachell Shortt

Rachel has been involved in the production of original music since the age of nine. Her sound is a little bit funk, a little bit folk, raw emotional peek into her soul, a woman’s heart in harmony. Every one of her shows holds its own personal connection with the audience. Several years ago, Rachel scored a winning slot on the North Coast Idol Finals, held by Union Station Video Cafe and Bounce Night Club, in Cleveland, OH. She has played all over the country and is happy to be playing at Cleveland Pride this year.