SAN DIEGO -- The locally based Military Acceptance Project (MAP) will be represented today (June 26) at the Pentagon's first-ever LGBT Pride event.

MAP members said they were startled to get an email invitation to attend the event in Washington, D.C., just days after Defense Secretary Leon Panetta announced that the Pentagon would hold such a celebration.

The email, according to MAP officials, acknowledged MAP’s “critical role in making milestones like this possible” and requested official
attendance of MAP representatives at this historic event.

SAN DIEGO -- As San Diego LGBT Pride weekend approaches, the organization that produces the weekend parade and festival will produce a number of official Pride parties, the only such events that will generate revenue for Pride's philanthropy programs.

San Diego Pride has handed out more than $1.4 million to local LGBT community organizations and causes over the last several years, and says that these events will help it be able to continue giving back.

WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif. -- The rainbow, which has become the most prominent symbol of the LGBT pride movement, is displayed in all sorts of forms, such as on flags, accessories, stickers, murals and clothing. But one West Hollywood man wants to take it a step further by painting the city's crosswalks in rainbow colors during the 2012 Los Angeles Pride celebration, taking place next weekend.

Martin Duvander, an artist, wrote to the West Hollywood City Council on April 19 with his idea.

SAN DIEGO -- Those looking to get involved with San Diego Pride's year-round volunteer programs are encouraged to attend an information session on Saturday, Feb. 11.

San Diego Pride, which produces the annual San Diego LGBT Pride Parade and Festival, has a host of volunteer opportunities available year-round in a number of different areas. Not only does the organization need assistance organizing its annual signature events, but it participates in numerous civic engagement and human rights projects throughout the year.