President’s Message for September

WHERE DID THE SUMMER GO?

I know, you're saying "Where did the what go?" Weatherwise, this has to have been the lousiest summer I can remember. And I have been around for a long time so that says a lot.

Anyway, whatever it was, it's over! September is the harbinger of fall and you-know-what after, I can't even say the word.

September is also a very busy time for me and some other SGM members with the upcoming Harbor to The Bay AIDS bike ride and the Gay Men Together fall retreat. I am very much involved in both of these events and feel privileged to be a part of both.

H2TB raises funds that help hundreds of individuals infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. To be part of the hundreds of riders, support people and organizers who do this event each year is truly awe-inspiring and humbling. If you ever doubt that there are caring, supportive individuals, straight and gay, out there fighting this terrible epidemic, you need to be a part of this ride. If you ever want to feel you can make a difference in this world you need to be part of this event.

If you can't physically be part of the event consider contributing financially. Every donation, no matter how big or small, makes a difference. We have two dedicated men from our community doing this grueling one-day, 126-mile ride whom you can support. They are Jeremy Winnick for Team SGM and Barry Farrington for Team GMFA. Show them we appreciate what they are doing for our community.

The other important event for me is the Gay Men Together retreat. Although small compared to H2TB, we do some incredible community building and nurturing for gay men who often do not have much contact with other gay men because of where they live and/or their individual circumstances. GMT makes a difference! Ask anyone that has attended a weekend and they will tell you they were different after a weekend. We are currently full for the fall retreat but keep us in mind for the spring retreat which will happen the first weekend of May.

Until the next time, be well, be happy and be good to yourself.

Joe