This is the first 2019 issue of Letters from CAMP Rehoboth and with its publication we kickoff the 29th season of both this magazine and its parent organization, CAMP Rehoboth. Already, we are exploring ways to celebrate next year’s 30th anniversary—and honor all of the members, donors, volunteers, sponsors, staff, and founders who made the last three decades possible. During this past year, the CAMP Rehoboth staff and Board have done amazing work at moving the organization into a positive future. Read the President’s View column in this issue for the latest updates on our Strategic Plan and the search for an executive director.▽
The Supreme Court’s decision on January 22 not to hear any of the cases against the Trump ban of transgender people serving in the military now makes it possible for the administration to begin implementation of that discriminatory policy—even though the cases are still working their way through the appeals process. CAMP Rehoboth promotes equality and understanding among all people, and we stand firmly with our transgender family members in denouncing this ban and its implementation. HRC estimates there are 15,000 transgender service members and their families put at risk because of this decision. A majority of people in this country do not support this ban. The Pentagon does not support this ban. Equal rights should never be a political bargaining tool. Good people will lose their jobs. The military will lose good people—and our country will lose a little more credibility as “the land of the free, and the home of the brave.” See CAMP Rehoboth Statement on Transgender Military Ban. ▽
From the vantage point of this first issue of the season, the year stretches out ahead of us—and is already busy. Highlights include the upcoming CAMP Rehoboth Chorus Concert on February 15, 16, and 17 at Epworth United Methodist Church. We are very proud of our Chorus, and their annual winter concert is always a crowd pleaser—and the tickets go fast! The 2019 concert, titled Seasons of Love, celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Chorus by reviving music from their first decade. Also on the horizon, one of our major events, CAMP Rehoboth Women’s FEST returns April 11-14. FEST Pass sales begin on February 11—and sell out quickly! Extraordinary teams of volunteers lead both the CAMP Rehoboth Chorus and CAMP Rehoboth Women’s FEST, and I marvel every time I witness their hard work.▽
One of the features now included in every issue of Letters from CAMP Rehoboth is our Health and Wellness section. With data, details, and news, we’ll cover all the ways that our health and wellness programs fulfill our mission. At the heart of CAMP Rehoboth, from recovery meetings to discussion groups to special events, these programs serve thousands of people each year. Thanks to Sal’s leadership, and Marj’s reporting, you’ll get the full picture. Check it out to find out about Tai Chi, Broga Yoga for Men, Women’s Coffee Talk, Medicine Wheel Journey, AA Groups, HIV Testing, Counseling, and Quit Smoking Classes. Plus, while the free AARP tax preparation and filing sessions beginning on February 12 may not directly be a health-related opportunity, they will bring peace of mind to those in need of assistance.▽
Some other things that you might notice starting in this issue is that we are tightening up some of the information that is presented. Some resource lists will combine and relocate. The centerfold will gain more usefulness in this digital age since most readers use technology to find their way. Our Membership Roster will now identify those in the Founders’ Circle who have been the foundation of our organization. We will keep focus on our programs and the direction that we are moving, and we hope you will come along for the ride. Comments and critiques are always welcome, so please feel free to email me and let me know how we are doing.▽
On a personal note, my thanks to all those in our community who have continued to reach out to me with words of love and support as I adjust to life without Steve. I know he would join me in saying “Happy Valentine’s Day” to all. ▼