Print Version
Indianapolis, September 29, 2004-- The Damien Center will host Grande Masquerade, its premier fundraising event to raise awareness and money to fight HIV/AIDS.
This year, Grande Masquerade will host two events: a black tie dinner gala on Saturday, October 23 at The Indiana Roof Ballroom and then, as a nostalgic nod to the event's original tradition conceived in 1987, a costume and dance party on Friday, October 22 at Talbott Street.
Since its inception, the event has raised nearly $1,000,000 to support the vital work of The Damien Center and its mission to prevent the spread of HIV and lessen the incidence of hunger, unemployment and homelessness for those in our community impacted by this disease.
Tracy Elliott, Executive Director of The Damien Center, is elated about the two events. "Because of the increase in HIV transmission here in Central Indiana, we are forced to expand our reach and embrace more--not fewer--people in crisis. Honoring a seventeen-year tradition by Grande Masquerade hosting two events to raise funds in support of our mission is truly an exciting opportunity for the Center. Now there are ways for a larger part of the community to support our important work"
On October 22, beginning at 9:00 p.m., Talbott Street opens its doors as host to Grande Masquerade's costume and dance party, "Apparition." The evening will entail costumes, dancing and special appearances by artists from the Indianapolis Opera. Tickets for the event are $10 and can be purchased at Talbott Street of by calling The Damien Center.
For it's part, the Saturday black tie dinner gala at the India Roof Ballroom will again be an event of new creative heights. This year, Grande Masquerade welcomes Dance Kaleidoscope, the Indianapolis Opera and the Indianapolis Men's Chorus to its entertainment stage, making an artistic statement to this year's pan-Asian theme, "Apparition."
Additionally, The Damien Center will be presenting its Positive Voices Award to Grande Masquerade Honorary Chairman, Matthew Cusick. Having perused a lifelong career of gymnastics and dance, Matthew had earned a place, performing with Cirque de Soleil. After disclosing his HIV-positive status during a routine physical examination with the dance company's doctor, he was fired two days later. Having won a landmark legal battle and forcing Cirque to adopt a new non-discrimination policy worldwide, Mathew has become a national spokesman, urging others to stand strong in the face of HIV/AIDS and discrimination.
The dinner gala begins at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception, followed by dinner, silent auction, the headline entertainment and dancing. Tickets for the event begin at $125.
For more information about Grande Masquerade and its events on Friday and Saturday, visit www.damien.org , email [email protected] or call 317.632-0123.
Print Version
Indianapolis, August 23, 2004-- The 14th Annual AIDS Walk and Ride will take place on Sunday, October 10th, 2004, at the Indiana AIDS Memorial, Crown Hill Cemetery located at 700 West 38th Street in Indianapolis. The all-volunteer Steering Committee is finalizing plans for this exciting and vital event. It is an ideal opportunity for people "From All Walks of Life" to unify, walk/ride and symbolize the impact HIV has on all of us. Please mark your calendars!
A variety of activities are planned for this family-friendly day. Registration will begin at 11 a.m. A wide range of entertainment is scheduled to perform throughout the day including the Indianapolis Men's Chorus, Indianapolis Women's Chorus, the HIV Gospel Choir and the incredible Brenda Williams. A Health Fair with over 30 vendors will display a variety of useful information. The Names Project AIDS Memorial Quilt will be on display throughout the day at the foot of the Indiana AIDS Memorial. An ecumenical service will be conducted in the community chapel at 11 a.m. In addition, a food court, team photos and kids activities will be provided.
For the first time, a 10K bicycle component will take place in conjunction with the 5K walk. Participating in this event is a great opportunity for you to help raise awareness and funding for persons with HIV.
The AIDS Walk and Ride is sponsored by the Indiana AIDS Fund (IAF) to raise funding for HIV impacted Hoosiers throughout Indiana and the agencies that serve them. These agencies provide their clients with direct care, financial assistance, housing, prevention services, medications and more. Proceeds benefit IAF's Gregory R. Powers Direct Emergency Financial Assistance Program, which provides essential needs out of reach for persons with AIDS, such as food, medication, transportation and utilities.
To register, request team captain information or volunteer for the 2004 AIDS Walk and Ride, log on to www.indianaaidswalk.org or call (317) 630-1805 or toll-free (888) 644-4007.
Print Version
Indianapolis, October 2, 2004-- The Indianapolis Gay Business Alliance is preparing their 2nd annual Calendar. Last year the calendar featured IYG members. This year photographer Mark Lee has developed a theme of "great moments in our history" and wants to feature as many members of the Indianapolis GLBT community as possible.
The GBA and Lee are specifically seeking GLBT veterans and past participants in the Gay Games.
There will be a photo shoot on Saturday October 16 at Jesus MCC church. For more information about the upcoming calendar and photo shoot contact Mark at
