Dear Rip,
On behalf of the Board of Directors and general membership of the New Orleans Alliance of Pride, Inc., I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks for everything you and your staff did to make PrideFest '97 an unqualified success. You and your team have amply demonstrated your commitment to our work and we could not have done it without you.
Our final financial statement for 1997 will be published by year's end. However, I can tell you that our paid attendance (not including volunteers, performers, sponsors, vendors and children under the age of 6, etc.) was 6,414. This has resulted in a direct donation to the Lesbian and Gay Center of New Orleans in the amount of $3207. Gross revenues from all of our activities in 1997 exceeded $40,000, with expenses to date at about $32,000. We are still expecting several thousand dollars in yet-uncollected funding and will keep you informed of our progress.
1998 promises to be an even more spectacular year for Pride in New Orleans and the Gulf South. As I write this, we are sending two delegates to the annual conference of the International Association of Lesbian and Gay Pride Coordinators in New York to report on our 1997 event and begin planning immediately for the future. Once again, we salute you and your team and look forward to a brighter future for the whole community.
Very Truly Yours, -Stephen Graffeo, Co-Chair, New Orleans Alliance of Pride, Inc.
Dear Mr. and Ms. Naquin-Delain:
On behalf of President Clinton, thank you for inviting the President to join you in celebrating your 23rd Anniversary on August 17, 1997. The tremendous demands on the President's schedule did not permit the White House to honor your request. Please know that your request was given full consideration and that President Clinton appreciates your interest.
Should you need further scheduling assistance, please contact my office. Once again, thank you for contacting the White House.
Sincerely, -Stephanie S. Streett, Assistant to the President, Director of Presidential Scheduling
Hi Rip,
I'm sorry I haven't written for the exceptional job you and the rest of the Ambush did on the positive vibes created throughout the USA, and bringing so many brothers and sisters together at the past Southern Decadence.
I truly had a wonderful time seeing how our little party grew into a national (and international) gathering just to celebrate the unity [of] the Gay community in fellowship and fun without a political agenda. Thanks ever so much for persevering and thus continuing an unending event that could only happen in a city such as New Orleans.
It is hard for me to get copies of Ambush here. I was wondering if there is a way you could send it to me via US postal service? Please let me know. Again; it was great to meet you and a few other Ambush employees this past Decadence. I look forward to seeing you again.
Warmly, -Robert King
[Letters and Comments should be sent to Ambush Letters, 828-A Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA 70116-3137
or email to info@ambushpublishing.com]
