San Diego Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Pride has named 10 individuals as "volunteers of the year" for the 2006 Pride season, and bestowed special recognition to another volunteer who has worked with the organization for 14 years.

The celebration, which drew 150,000 participants and spectators to the parade in July, and more than 40,000 visitors to the two-day festival, required the assistance of 790 pre-registered volunteers.

Award plaques were presented at an appreciation picnic recently to those volunteers who "worked above and beyond their calls of duty," says Ron deHarte, executive director of SDLGBT Pride.

The individuals are:

Ericka Watson, who worked in setup and breakdown of the event.

Greg Towle, assigned to the Cantina and lent his support in post cleanup and lifting heavy equipment.

Linda Browne, an eight-year volunteer who assisted scores of visitors at the Info Booth

Demetris Washington, a shuttle driver for the entertainers who also assisted in setup

Bronwen Wade, a first-time volunteer who multitasked in the Pride office and helped crews with signage and barricades.

Craig Robertson, who worked as a supervisor in Crew Central as well as assisted in the Pride office with data entry for Pride's online application site.

Steve Poortenga, recognized for handling festival ticket sales and customer service issues throughout Pride weekend.

Outstanding volunteers who served in the capacity of managing programs and specialty areas are: Ben Cartwright, water sales coordinator; Jeff Redondo, parade coordinator; and Jon Phillips, co-ticket sales coordinator.

Additionally, Patty Zwolinski received special recognition for her many volunteer services to Pride that have spanned over 14 consecutive years.

"Collectively, these individuals represent the hundreds of volunteers who signed up to work for the 2006 event. Without their many hours of support and dedication, the Pride celebration wouldn't be the success that it was," added deHarte.

San Diego LGBT Pride fosters pride in and respect for the LGBT communities of San Diego. Since 1996 it has donated more than $1 million to various organizations within the LGBT community. For more information about San Diego Pride or to sign up for the Pride e-newsletter visit www.SanDiegoPride.org.

(end)