The theme this year was "One Heart, One World, One Pride," which came out in the many diverse floats representing different nationalities, professions, political campaigns and LGBT organizations. Marriage equality and "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" were issues that were once again represented in the parade.

An exciting highlight in this year's parade was the Stanley Cup accompanied by Brent Sopel. The Chicago Gay Hockey Association invited the Chicago Blackhawks and Sopel, now a former Blackhawk, accepted. Another pro sports team, the Chicago Cubs, had a float in the parade, and it featured Hall of Famer Ernie Banks. One of the primary owners of the Cubs is Laura Ricketts, who is openly gay.

PRIDEChicago announced four awards and two honorable mentions in a press release. For Best All Around Business Float, Sidetrack won with its "Coloring Our World with Pride" entry. Best Organization went to Columbia College, with its salute to the TV series GLEE. Special Judges awards were given out to Threadless.com for its self-made cat-themed float and to Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce for its elaborate storefront float. Honorable mentions were given to two very colorful entries: Roscoe's and Filipino Pride Chicago.

Because of the number of people in attendance, some people were directed to other locations on the parade route because the starting point of Halsted and Belmont was too crowded. Spectators were behind barricades on the parade route, but further south on Halsted, where floats were lined up and just starting to move, there were no barricades.

Chicago Police Department told Windy City Times that there were 15 arrests, all misdemeanors. Photos were taken by several individuals; see photos in this week's print issue and at www.WindyCityMediaGroup.com