We already reached the end of the summer “rap” sessions. There were a number of interesting things that happened, but mostly it was filled the camaraderie of those who attend the summer sessions to relax or see old friends. We did step out of the format for a bit and had one documentary presented by Mike Usher. It was “Who Killed the Electric Car,” a very informative and educational look at some odd things happening in the world of energy. It was a bit long but it proved its point.

A group of us, about eight, went to Cherokee for a picnic and to attend a performance of Unto These Hills. After the show, which was great, some of us went to the casino (I won’t tell if you don’t ask) and then stayed overnight. The next morning we went to the Convolute Village and had a really fine time.

Here are the proposed activities for September. The author makes no promise that they will be the actual events since we recently have found last minute changes can happen and, as the old saying goes, “…the best laid plans of mice and men.” If something strikes your fancy, call Allen at 828.242.6570 to find out for sure. He will have all the latest information.

September 2nd: Annual Cookout. This is one of the biggest and most fun things we do. We won’t mention the words “free food” because that is the dangerous port of entry for the cookout. But, it is really fun. C.L.O.S.E.R. will furnish the meat and everyone else should bring something to make a successful cookout (salads, desserts [but not too many], great side dishes, little snacks, soda or juice, etc.

September 9th: Jeff Marsocci: a local family friendly lawyer who has most important information about legal documents for same sex partners (wills, special requests, etc.)

September 16th: Movie Night: a special showing of a Tom Murray film A Portable Tribe. We have seen other Tom Murray films and they are really super and have great meaning for the community.

September 23rd: Cooking with Allen: learn to fix simple and easy dishes that anyone can fix. If you’ve ever eaten an Allen Murray dish you know the caliber of his cooking. Come see and, who knows, you may get to bite something of his.

September 30th:  A Night with Dr. Bruth: he is a sex therapist, author and Part-time Wal-Mart greeter. His presentations are hilarious and leave you laughing all the way and then some. The house usually gets pretty packed for this show, so come early and get to know us ahead of time.

C.L.O.S.E.R. welcomes everyone to our meetings.  If you are a long time visitor to our meetings, we encourage you to tell others about C.L.O.S.E.R. and to bring someone to the meetings with you. A new face is always a pleasure and the larger the group, the more we can do and plan.

Remember; call Allen if you want to know for sure if what we have listed is happening the night it is listed for. See you next month.

C.L.O.S.E.R. is the oldest  support, educational, and social group serving the LGBTQ community in Asheville.  C.L.O.S.E.R. meets each Tuesday evening at 7pm at All Souls Cathedral in Biltmore Village.  For more information, contact Allen at 828.242.6570 or send an email to CLOSERmail@aol.com.