I want to wish y’all a Happy New Year AND New Decade. The 2010’s were memorable for me in so many facets, including joining The Fandom in late 2013 and I haven’t looked back since. I would’ve never conceived the idea of not only having my own Grizzly Bear (which is technically ME, but covered in Fur) but having my own creation, Joe Bear’s fursuit THIS last year of the last decade!!! The Furry Fandom (despite some internal issues - just keep politics and religion out and you’ll be fine) is a welcoming and enriching hobby. I wrote an article in Dogpatch Press last month spotlighting my journey on becoming a Furry, getting my fursuit and using it for the common good by focusing on the positivity fursuiting can be in relation to supporting charities like The ALS Association. The ALS Walk in Irvine opened me to new opportunities in the future for Joe Bear. “The Fandom” can do wonderful work like supporting The ALS Association In “Dogbomb’s” legacy, alongside other charities by volunteering your time fursuiting and spreading kindness. To me, that is something I’m so looking forward to doing more this year and the New Decade ahead. Let’s make it “The Rawring 20’s” together at charity events, alongside the cons that most furries attend. Speaking of Furry Cons...it’s that time of season again. The FIRST convention on my schedule is “Further Confusion” 2020, being held in San Jose, CA this month (January 16-20). If going, please come up and say “HI” or “Howdy”. I’ll be staying at the San Jose Marriott for all four nights, and will have light snacks and beverages. Please stop by our room if attending FC. I’m rooming with Thomas “Foxyboo”, his friend “Tucker” Bear, Gus “The Incredible Crocodile” and Ken “Tigur” Murata. I hope to see ya there and if you DON’T know the way to San Jose?! Ask Dionne Warwick on Spotify. Peace - Joe G. Bear p.s. - I’ll have more information on Further Confusion 2020 in my next Journal next weekend (01-12-20)