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By Melanie Nathan, January 07, 2014.

The San Francisco Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Pride Celebration Committee (SF Pride) announces George Ridgely as its new Executive Director. Ridgely brings 11 years of event director and executive director experience in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors to the job which he began on January 7, 2014.

Ridgely served as Executive Director of the Castro Street Fair from 2005 to 2013 and oversaw its 40th anniversary celebration last year. He also was Director of Operations from 2010-2013, and Marketing and Communications Director from 2002-2010, of San Francisco’s Bay to Breakers 12k; one of the largest, and one of the oldest, annual footraces in the world. From 2007 to present he served as co-founder/producer of Pink Collar Events, a full-service event production firm specializing in street fairs, trade shows, fundraisers, and corporate and private events.

“We’re thrilled to have George Ridgely join SF Pride as we prepare for our 44th annual celebration and parade on June 28 and 29,” said Board President Gary Virginia. “He was the unanimous choice by our board, staff and contractors, and brings with him tremendous experience, solid relationships with city stakeholders, and outstanding references.”

As executive director, Ridgely will oversee one of the largest LGBT events in the country, last year attracting 1.8 million people. “Color Our World With Pride” is the theme members chose for the June 29, 2014, parade which last year had 240 contingents and spanned four hours.

“I am humbled to be a part of this world-class iconic San Francisco event, that has such a positive impact for our LGBT community” stated Ridgely. “I am also excited to work with the newly elected Board of Directors, as well as the seasoned team of producers who work so hard on this event every year.”