NEWS 2005 Cape Pride dates announced Pride AGM puts the seal on a successful 2004 festival July 22, 2004 Scene from last year's Pride Photo - Exit CAPE TOWN — Cape Town Pride 2004 closed a successful chapter in the festival’s history on Saturday with its annual general meeting held in Woodstock. The reigning Miss Gay Pride 2004, Vendella, opened the meeting with a brief address on the issue of gay marriage. The festival dates for 2005 were finalised, with the 18th to the 27th of February being identified as the most suitable time for Pride. Board member Sheryl Ozinsky highlighted the fact that 40% of Cape Town’s annual tourism income is generated during the months of February and March, a fact which led to the selection of the February dates in 2004 initially. The dates will now be publicised internationally in response to numerous requests from local and overseas tour operators who plan to package travel products around the festival. New directors have been appointed to the board, including Pastor Marlow Valentine, formerly of the Good Hope Metropolitan Community Church, Tim Brown, general manager of a Protea hotel, and Phumlani Malinga, former managing editor of Fair Lady magazine. Two former committee members were upgraded to board level, making a total of nine executive members with four non-executive members. Additional nominations were also received for the 2005 organising committee, which promises to be substantially larger than in previous years. If you would like to assist with the organisation of the 2005 festival, or require more information, please contact Ian at 0832743579. – Issued by - Cape Town Pride Festival Related stories Pride takes Cape by storm - Gavin Hayward