Drenched Fur 16 Wonderland Awaits in 2022

by Gary Snyder

A year ago we were unaware of the COVID-19 pandemic that would turn things upside down and inside out. As the world begins to see advances in vaccines improving public health, the safety and welfare of our event attendees continues to be the primary driver of our decision making processes. Many events have adjusted in various ways and Drenched Fur is not much different. The coming months will be critical for the future of social events.

Initially the Drenched Fur Committee made plans to host the event one year later, in April of 2021. However events of size are facing limitations along with new government guidelines to follow. Drenched Fur continues working toward our goal to host an event that attendees will not only enjoy, but can do so within safe environments. The DF Committee is working with our contract partners to host DF16 next year during the weekend of March 31 - April 3, 2022.

We understand that folks wanting to attend DF16 this year on April 8-11 2021 will have questions. The DF Committee is currently planning transition steps to to cement initial details for next year's event as we continue our new experience of hosting Drenched Fur for the Bear community in a global pandemic. Registered attendees will be sent follow-up communication with details in the coming weeks. Please continue following steps to prevent/limit the spread of COVID-19. Thank you for the continuous support and belief in our desire to create a space of fun and frolic.

About the Author

Gary Snyder Gary Snyder (He/Him), has been involved with Erie Gay News submitting articles since 2005 and coordinating the Annual Pride Picnic kitchen in 2008. He currently serves as an Advisory Board member of the NWPA Pride Alliance [since 2012]. Gary is a graduate of the Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science in HRIM. From 1999 to 2012 he was an active member and then executive officer of the non-profit Burgh Bears social club in Pittsburgh, PA. Currently Gary is employed by the Erie County Department of Health as the HIV Disease Intervention Specialist, serving as a community member of the HIV Planning Group in coordination with the Pennsylvania Department of Health. Along with advising the NWPAPA Board, he chairs the Erie County HIV Task Force, serves on the Erie Gay News Editorial Board, and is the President of the AFSCME Union Local 2666.