Larry Dickinson founder of FurFest and the East Coast Bears (pictured on the right) presents Jo Lang of AIDS New Brunswick with a cheque in the amount of $3,600. This amount was raised by FurFest. We wish to thank those who attended Furfest from all over the world and gave so generously.
Shortly after I discovered bears in 1996, I attended Bear Bust in Florida. It was an eye-opening experience to socialize with so many men like me. I had an amazing time and felt there was a need for a similar event in this part of the world. FurFest was born. That first year, we quietly spread the word and attracted 34 people. For many years, we kept the event “in the closet” in fear of reprisal from the straight community.
Over the years we fine-tuned FurFest with suggestions from those who attended. We gained a reputation as being a small, friendly, quality event. We grew to become the largest bear party in the country, attracting folks from all over Canada, the USA, and even some from overseas.
In recent years, we have received tremendous support from the City of Fredericton, the Crowne Plaza and the local business community. FurFest has gone from the closet to a mainstream community event.
But all good things must come to an end. We feel it’s time for us to enjoy a summer vacation and travel to other bear events.
Planning and executing FurFest to make it run smoothly has been a great deal of work for three people. After the loss of our good friend James last fall, Jason and I decided this will be the final event.
FurFest was a dream, a hope, a desire to provide a social gathering which felt more like a family reunion than a convention. I think we succeeded.
We wish to thank you for attending and for your support and generosity over the years. We have made some wonderful friends from all over the world. The welcome mat is always out at our den if you are in the area and would like to visit us.
Larry & Jason
It's been some time since I posted any photos of myself. Last December, Jason and I went on a much-needed diet. In 6 months, I reached my goal and even lost a bit more, just as a buffer. The total weight loss was 77 pounds and I feel much better. I dropped from a 44 to a 36 inch waist. We're eating healthy, finally. Best of all, I am off the meds I had to take for my Type-2 Diabetes. Jason is still dieting, but losing every week. I still have a belly and lots of fur, so hopefully I won't get kicked out of the 'Daddy Bear Club". We have taken a few new pics which are in the "Photo" section of our home page.
