by Shaun Knittel - SGN Associate Editor

It's mid-February and although many people might not be thinking about 2015 Seattle Pride yet, the truth is, it's right around the corner. Before you know it the seemingly month-long Seattle LGBTQ Pride celebrations will be upon us and the parade will march valiantly through the streets of downtown Seattle and leading that parade are the grand marshals.

This week, Seattle Pride announced the Wildrose owners Martha Manning and Shelley Brothers, and The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Abbey of St. Joan, as Grand Marshals in Seattle's 41st Annual Pride Parade.

FROM THE PRESS RELEASE:
Seattle's most notable Lesbian space - The Wildrose - has been a Capitol Hill institution among the Sapphic City for over 30 years. The 'no frills' bar currently ties with San Francisco's The Wild Side West as the longest running Lesbian bar in America.

'When we began discussing options for 2015 Grand Marshals, there was no hesitation when Martha and Shelley's names came up on behalf of the establishment so many women know and love here in Seattle. Their hard work, dedication and loyalty to the Seattle Lesbian community is apparent, and we wanted to give a little something back,' said Sarah Toce, Seattle Pride Communications Director and member of the board.

Seattle Pride President Eric Bennett added, 'The Wildrose is a cherished business that has given the LGBTQ community a safe place to congregate here in Seattle. Current owners Martha and Shelley personify what Seattle Pride identifies as part of the Lifetime of Pride!'

The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Abbey of St. Joan are an order of 21st Century nuns, dedicated to the promulgation of Universal Joy and the expiation of stigmatic guilt. They work to raise money for AIDS charities, fight for queer rights and visibility, do safer sex outreach, and strive diligently to maintain their senses of humor - never taking themselves so seriously they forget to have fun.

'The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Abbey of St. Joan give themselves selflessly to the LGBTQ community by raising awareness and money for nonprofits. They demonstrate daily what 'Service above oneself' is all about,' Bennett said.

'The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, Abbey of St. Joan are incredibly humbled to be recognized in this fashion for the work we do within our community,' said Sister Ophelia Onassis. 'We love all of you, and wish all to have a happy and safe Pride!'

This year's Parade will commence on Sunday, June 28. Visit SeattlePride.org to register for the parade.

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