Within the pages of this issue of What's Up are a few opportunities
to make a difference for these children and ourselves. Our participation in
the events mentioned here can help to meet some of the needs that I have
been writing about. Attending the "Melissa" concert that is going to take
place at the Mayfield Senior Center in Canton on October 3rd and 4th will
make a visible impact for our community and will help to provide much
needed funding for St. Hope AIDS Housing in Canton, Violet's Cupboard
in Akron, Stonewall Akron and other community needs. A good time will be
had by all who attend.
As most gay people are aware, October 11th is National Coming Out
Day. There is a page in What's Up telling the details as to what, when and
where things will be happening in Akron. For the first time, there are going
to be several gay pride events centered around Oct. 11th in Akron. This is
the very best opportunity that we will have to let others know that we will
hide no more, and that we will no longer accept the unjust persecutions
that we suffer daily. I urge each and every person who reads this to
Please, Please, Please participate in as many of the activities as you
possibly can. Most of the events are free, and are going to be a lot of fun.
They will make you feel better as well. I promise. As I once wrote
somewhere, some other time, possibly in What's Up, there is nothing
better than saying to others, "Here I am. If you don't like it, then you can
just bite me!" Well... O.K. so this is really the first time that I wrote that in
this little book or any other, but I still like it.
Art From The Heart II promises to be even better than last years Art
From The Heart. A great time was had by all who attended last year's
festivities. The AES building provided a great setting for the event. And the
food, provided by some of the best restaurants and caterers in Akron, was
both plentiful and delicious. Included were trays of wonderful desserts.
There were so many different types of art presented for auction that
everyone in attendance could find something that suited their tastes.
Whether you go to bid on the fine Art, or just show up to support The
Community AIDS Network and mingle with the crowd, a great time is in
store for all who attend. And I can tell you from experience that it is a
bargain night out.
These events, as well as many that are already being planned for the
future, can only continue with the support of the community. So, if you
really want to make a difference in our community, attend as many as you
can.
Also don't forget to join Stonewall Akron and support the activities
of this progressive, dynamic organization. These are best possible
choices that I see for us to make a better place for the gay community in
this area of Ohio. There is one thing that is for certain. If we continue to sit
on our butts and do nothing, then nothing will ever change for the better.
