So guys…

We are soooo excited, we are just two days away from hitting the road, and everything is on schedule and going great!  I am so proud to be a part of the team organizing this year's events. It's more than a side hobby; it's become a true passion! Bearapalooza has started a true revolution within the gay community and getting the chance to be involved with it, has been a priceless experience!

Bearapalooza has always been totally about brotherhood and the music that the men in our community create. I know you hear me say that a lot, but I want you to know it's not just a canned convenient statement; it's totally from the heart! Yes we are "as grassroots as it gets" but we each give of our own time and money to create the best possible forum to showcase the talent of the bear community. I am so impressed with the talent, heart and professionalism of each of the artists. Each artist knows that Bearapalooza is not just about one artist; it's a collective coming together to celebrate each other's music, which is the truest form of Unity and Brotherhood!

This year we were lucky enough to raise just enough money to cover lodging and van rental to carry six artists to all of the stops on the Road Trip. In each city we will meet up with other artists, some local and some not.  So you have got to give serious props to each of these guys who are coming from all over the country. Each understand our financial limitations and have graciously taken care of their own travel. We know firsthand that being an indie artist is tough, so we are blessed that each of them know what Bearapalooza is truly about. They want to come for the exposure and the experience, not the money. And each artist this year has really pulled together to promote the shows, which has been a huge addition to the press machine Freddy has created over the years. Also many have given of their own time to go out and fundraise, they have donated sound equipment, given gas money, printed our t-shirts, given press contacts, printed and handed out posters and fliers, gave advice and knowledge of local clubs and most importantly been so supportive of what we are trying to accomplish.

I believe Bearapalooza is going to create history again this year within the GLBT community, I believe we are doing something very important and it has value beyond any amount of money or fame. And personally, in this crazy fast paced world, where it seems like everyone is just out for themselves, it has been one of the brightest spots in my 34 years on this earth.

We will see you on the road!

Musically Yours,

Michael West