19th Pride Brunch Generates $55,000, Plans Underway for 20th Anniversary

The Pride Brunch hosted by Gary Virginia and Donna Sachet is always one of the best events of June. Held at San Francisco’s historic Hotel Whitcomb, the elegant setting has guests surrounded by Tiffany stained glass, beautiful marble and crystal chandeliers in the spacious Whitcomb Ballroom. The program includes a delicious gourmet brunch, a chance to meet the San Francisco Pride grand marshals and other honorees, entertainment, a silent auction and the always great rapport established by the popular community leader hosts. The San Francisco Bay Times is proud to have once again served as the event’s media sponsor.

Gary and Donna recently shared: “We’re thrilled to report that the 19th Annual Pride Brunch on June 24 generated $55,000 in revenue with proceeds supporting Positive Resource Center!”

Positive Resource Center remains the only place in San Francisco for people living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS to get comprehensive benefits counseling and employment services. Born out of AIDS Benefits Counselors in 1987—during the heart of the HIV/AIDS crisis—the organization has experienced extraordinary growth over the years and is going strong.

Gary and Donna report that, at this year’s Pride Brunch, “More than 300 guests enjoyed the hosted bars by Barefoot Wine & Bubbly and Tito’s Handmade Vodka, the lively music by the Dixieland Dykes +3 band, decor by Tom Taylor and Sparky’s Fun & Joy, florals by CoCo Butter and Deana Dawn, and centerpiece by IXIA. We’d also like to thank our presenting sponsor Wells Fargo, other sponsors and hosts, Meng Zhang and her amazing staff at the Hotel Whitcomb, PRC staff, media sponsor San Francisco Bay Times, graphics by Karin Jaffie, sound by Ingu Yun and Randy Pocius, our many dedicated volunteers, and donors to the raffle and auction.”

“Of course,” they added, “the highlight of this annual benefit is meeting and hearing personal remarks from the grand marshals and honorees. We were honored to salute and hear from Dr. Marcy Adelman, Brett Andrews, Bay Area American Two-Spirits, Blackberri, Chris Carnes, Cassandra Cass, El/La Para TransLatina, Alex U. Inn, National Center for Lesbian Rights, San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus and Amy Sueyoshi.”

This year’s benefit reflected SF Pride’s 2017 theme, “A Celebration of Diversity,” as well as the Summer of Love 50^th Anniversary. Speaking of anniversaries, look for the 20^th Anniversary of the Pride Brunch next year.