The Paper | Calendar | |Businesses | Attractions | Nightlife | Resources | Gay Links | Home Pride of Monterey County (PriMoCo) began as one person's dream, and has become a rallying point for gay men, lesbians, bisexuals and transgenders on the Central Coast. According to Brad Harlan, PriMoCo founder, the initial reason for founding the non-profit corporation was to allow the annual Pride festival in Monterey to become accountable to the community it serves. "I was tired of the backstabbing and less-than-honorable intentions some people were instigating," Harlan said. "I felt the population here was ready to conduct business at a higher level, and to conduct it in the public eye." Starting with four people on the Board of Directors, PriMoCo was granted 501(c)3 non-profit status, and expanded its board to nine people. Meeting alternate Wednesday nights at 7:30 p.m., this Board established program committees, held fund raisers, and most importantly, established a three-year plan (see sidebar). "Our goals are lofty," Harlan said. "The only way we'll achieve them is with the help of our community. But if this year's enthusiasm is any indication, we are anything but unrealistic." Pride of Monterey County can be reached at P.O. Box 2684, Monterey, CA 93942. Their e-mail address is mr50s@mbay.net. Plans for the Future Plans for the Future 1998 In addition to the annual Festival, PriMoCo will distribute educational materials through the Monterey County Free Library system. These will include videos and publications. 1999 In addition to the annual Festival, PriMoCo will sponsor a scholarship for a student engaged in gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender studies at Hartnell College, Monterey Bay State, and/or Hartnell College. 2000 In addition to the annual Festival, PriMoCo will begin a capital campaign to establish a permanent community center in Monterey County.