The Bears San Diego would like to invite everyone to attend BearQuake 2009 – Charting a New Course. The weekend, presented by the Southern California Bear Club Alliance and hosted by Bears San Diego will take place Oct. 15-18 in San Diego. One of the best things about bears is their ability to put the word “bear” into any situation and form a new word which makes perfect sense. It’s obvious that the ground will shake and rumble if enough bears get together so we’ll assume that’s the meaning of “BearQuake”.

The Bears San Diego have joined in an alliance with other bear organizations in the Southern California area and elsewhere. This allows them to meet with other bears outside of the area, network and share ideas, get to know each other and recruit more bears. All over the country bears have become the “in crowd”. Thank god the shaved and plucked, manscaped, metro-male has been flushed down the toilet and natural men can once again roam the earth.

Bear events don’t require you to look, dress or act a certain way. Sure, the muscle bear with the shaved-head and beard will probably be the most popular but even the twinky, chubby chaser will get some action by the end of the weekend. The only thing anyone really cares about at bear events is having a good time and eating. These events, even the ones that include contests, are designed to have the maximum amount of fun in the shortest amount of time. There’s always hugs and there’s always food.

The beneficiaries for this year’s BearQuake 2009 – Charting a New Course will be Special Delivery San Diego and Being Alive San Diego. We’re all aware that local, state and national budget cuts have dramatically impacted the philanthropic community and additional fundraising is needed if these organizations are to survive. Times are hard for all of us but times will be harder if the charities that sustain the quality of life of our friends and family are forced to close their doors. Events such as BearQuake are an exciting and social way to support these charities.

The host hotel for BearQuake 2009 – Charting a New Course will be the Lafayette Hotel & Suites San Diego located at 2223 El Cajon Blvd. When making reservations be sure to mention Bears San Diego for the special rate. The weekend will kick off on Thursday, Oct. 15 with an optional dinner at City Deli. Like I said, there’s always food to be found at a bear event. That’s followed by a Kickoff party at the San Diego Eagle. Registration begins Friday at the host hotel from 1-6 p.m. During that time there are optional tours of The Maritime Museum, Cabrillo National Monument and Light House, Embarcadero – Star of India, Midway and Harbor Cruise or shopping at Sea Port Village. The bears will meet up later that evening at Pecs for a Meet-N-Greet. Get there early since it may be packed with big, hairy, hot men.

The competition for Mr. So Cal Bear and Cub gets underway on Saturday with a VIP reception at Rich’s from 5:30-6:30 p.m. followed by the contest and dance also at Rich’s. The contestants will first appear in “bear wear.” I don’t know what that means either but it’s bound to be good. Next they appear in “bear minimum.” There’s a really good joke in “bear minimum” but let’s just move on with an evil grin. Following the intermission the contestants will deliver a speech dressed in “bear cruise wear.” Points will also be awarded for interview and raffle ticket sales. I’ve never been a fan of points for raffle ticket sales because I’ve seen too many titles and calendar spots literally “bought” by less-than-deserving contestants. I’m sure Bears San Diego will pay close attention to ensure the integrity of the contest. Once the winner is announced the hairy boys will be shaking and sweating at the L.L. Bear BearQuake dance.

Sunday the bears will replenish their calories with an optional brunch from 10 a.m. until noon followed by Bingo with The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence – Asylum of the Tortured Heart. Then head to a Victory Celebration at the Hole and replenish calories once again at the Farewell Dinner from 8 – 10 p.m. at Brians’. For more packet or contestant information check out www.Sunbearsweekend.com. Unfortunately, I’m scheduled to be in the Midwest someplace at a leather ting but I’m sure BearQuake 2009 – Charting a New Course will rock your world.