Thousands line Main Street for Pride Parade spectacular
QSanAntonio.com, July 6, 2009

Living up to its "Pride bigger than Texas" slogan, the Gay Pride San Antonio Parade drew 3,500-plus people to North Main Street on July 4 for a spectacular finale to Pride Month.

Headlining the procession was Grand Marshal Mayor Julian Castro who drew loud cheers as he and his wife walked the parade route accompanied by local gay youth. The parade drew over 50 entries, more than last year and more than any Pride parade held in the last five years.

Besides the Mayor, dignitaries included State Senator Leticia Van de Putte, Judge Ron Rangel, Judge Monica Guerrero, Judge Barbara Nellermoe, Bexar County Democrats chairwoman Carla Vela, judicial candidate Ina Castillo, former City Councilwoman Lourdes Galvan, San Antonio College President Robert Zeigler, Director of Public Health Dr. Fernando Guerra and Miss Fiesta San Antonio 2009 Jessica Nicole Ramirez.

All of the major GLBT organizations participated with floats or marching units. Some of the best entries included floats by the Metropolitan Community Church, JD and Victor’s Salon, the Diablos Flag Football team and the Bonham Exchange.

The main performing attraction was the Houston Flyboys who performed their flag dance to boisterous cheers from parade spectators. The other crowd favorite were the dancers from Samba San Antonio.

Despite grumbles from a local Christian radio station, Mayor Castro’s appearance marked a successful milestone for the GLBT community. When Castro arrived for the parade lineup, gay supporters patiently stood in line to say hello and pose for pictures with him.

The Mayor and his wife walked the parade route with the LGBT and Allied Youth, a group that consists of students from gay-straight alliances at local high schools and colleges. "It was very smart of him to march alongside of these young people," a parade spectator commented to QSanAntonio. "They represent the future of this community and they’re going to remember Castro when he runs for higher office."

At Luther’s Cafe, revelers were able to watch the parade while having dinner and drinks. Located at a curbside table, former City Councilwoman Elena Guajardo stood on a chair and cheered the parade entries. "This is the first year I’ve been able to watch the parade," she said. "It’s really grown in size and scope and that is a reflection of our community’s growing visibility in San Antonio."

Photos by Antonia Padilla -- Alamo City Men's Chorale - Luscious Lusty Latin, June 20, 2009

Photos by QSanAntonio.com -- Pridefest 2009, Hemisfair Park, June 13, 2009

Photos -- PrideFest beats the heat with enthusiasm
QSanAntonio.com, June 13, 2009

The 100-degree heat was no match for the enthusiasm the GLBT community showed by supporting the 28th annual PrideFest held on June 13 at Hemisfair Park.

During the opening ceremonies which began at noon Rob Mueller, pastor of the Divine Redeemer Presbyterian Church, prayed "God, lover of the loney and the lost and left out and fliger of the grand Fiesta we call life -- embrace us all. We know you love diversity. Together we know that we are loved."

The main stage bustled with entertainment of every sort, including Christian music stars Jason and deMarco and local celebrity Jade Esteban Estrada. The evening show included the Pride Idol Finals.

However it was the heat that many had on their minds. In a Twitter recieved by QSanAntonio, one reader wrote, "It's very, very hot here. Bring AC!"