Tuesday, April 28, 2015

A Few Things Coming Up...

So, I know, I normally write about events that have already happened.  And, I know, that I'm behind by about three events.  But, I have a couple of events coming up that I want to talk about, because they're for causes that are close to my heart.

If you follow me on Facebook, you probably know that this weekend is the Southern Maine HIV/AIDS Walk, in Ogunquit.  It's an amazing event that raises money for the Frannie Peabody Center, to help with their funding.  The Frannie Peabody Center offers free HIV testing, goes to schools to talk about prevention, and also assists with care for those who are currently dealing with HIV or AIDS diagnoses.  At one point, when I was single, and stupid, a free test from the Frannie Peabody Center helped me to realize how dumb I was by not being a little more careful.

With Shaunna Rai, having been Miss AIDS Awareness for like 4 years running, it is also a cause near to her heart.  Shaunna and I, along with Miss E,on will be at the Red Party: Roundup at the Front Porch this Friday evening, with an after party and show at Mainestreet afterward.  This is always a fun event.  I'm actually excited, because this year, I actually have a red outfit to wear.  (Yes, there will be pictures later, I promise.)

The Walk itself will be on Saturday afternoon.  Shaunna, E,on, and I will be around to cheer on the walkers/runners.  I'll be snapping pictures, like crazy, just like I did last year.  The walk is followed by a cookout at Mainestreet, then a Tea Dance.  If you're not able to make it, and want to make a donation, you can do so here.  Tell Jimmy I sent you!

The only thing missing this year, is the Brunch on Sunday at Bessie's.  Well, and having Joslyn Fox around for the weekend.  That was pretty cool last year.

Dragapalooza is coming up the following weekend...There's a ton of performers this year, so it'll be a good show.  I'll be there with my parents.  You'll be able to tell that it's us, because there will be three cameras going, right in a row.

Of course there are a bunch of other events coming up, but one that I want to get some attention, is a fund raiser for Ariel Maranda Gibbs, who is a good friend of Shaunna's.  While I have yet to meet her, I am friend with her on Facebook, and have been following the heartbreaking Mouth Cancer diagnosis last year, through the treatments, to the seeming remission, and back to another round.

Cancer has been a biggie in my family, and with people around me.  So, it's another thing that is close to my heart.  July 26th, at Jacques Cabaret in Boston, Shaunna and a whole host of kings and queens will be performing for us to benefit Ariel.  ALL proceeds will go to Ariel to help pay for medical bills.

A GoFundMe has been set up for her as well.  So, if you are able, make a donation here, as well.

I enjoy the shows at Jacques, and I'm very much looking forward to this show, due to the number of performers that will be at the show.  Many of whom I have not seen before.  Their names, I recognize, but that's about it.  It will be an emotional show, I would imagine, but it will definitely be worth checking out.  So, if you can, make sure to be there.