What is GAYLA?
For gay or bisexual men, fighting to make our way in the “straight man’s world” can sometimes be a very lonely and often perilous journey. As we have discovered in our “coming out” process, there is no ready-made role model or single template for us to follow as we strive to make progress in our life-long journey toward becoming the best gay or bi man we can possibly be--spiritually, sexually, emotionally, and physically. In an effort to be successful and safe in our quest, many thoughtful gay and bisexual men have realized that we can maximize our personal, as well as collective growth, by forming a community or a brotherhood of men expressly designed to provide mutual support, nurturance, friendship, loving, and mentoring of one another.
Thirty-three years ago the GAYLA Conference was established at Ferry Beach as one of the earliest communities of gay brotherhood in the United States. During the week of July 16-23, 2011 more than 100 diverse gay and bisexual men will celebrate the spirit of 33 years of brotherhood, as they reunite in GAYLA’s intentional community. Over the years hundreds of men from Maine to Texas, Florida to Canada, and from Scotland to Hong Kong have come to the Beach to rekindle friendships, renew their gay spirituality, find love, and experience the re-creation of a community of purpose and brotherhood. For over thirty years, the spirit of GAYLA brotherhood has continued to be a very important personal touchstone in the growth of all the men who have attended. Sustaining the spirit of this far-flung brotherhood developed during GAYLA week throughout the year has also become very important to GAYLA brothers. The brothers sustain their spirit by organizing periodic winter reunions, area social events and pot-lucks; publishing a newsletter; and establishing a virtual network through email, facebook and a GAYLA brothers only Yahoo group.
Come to Ferry Beach to experience and celebrate the spirit of brotherhood with us!!! Students and others who desire confidential, needs-based "Helping Hands" financial assistance are invited to contact GAYLA Treasurer Tom Cowen at tomjcowen@yahoo.com, as soon as possible.
Coordinators: David Durkit, Michael Hargrave, Tom Lucas and Ron Willett
Treasurer: Tom Cowen
Minister of the Week:
Rev. Michael Walker
Music Director:
David Tidyman
What’s Happening?
Single and partnered gay and bisexual men ages 18 and up are invited to come to GAYLA XXXIII for an all-inclusive, affordable vacation alternative that could potentially change their lives. Help celebrate our past, present, and future. During a week at GAYLA you will be given opportunities to discover your true nature as you share your experiences, expand your horizons, have fun, and learn from your brothers. Choose from a variety of daily activities including track sessions.
As an example, previous years tracks have included:
"Alternative Sex Play: From Prude to Pro!" with Brian Gill
"Body Electric" with William McMeniman
"Making Spiritual Practice Part of Your Life" with Chris DiGiorgio
"What Does It Mean to Live an Integrated Life" with Richard Barrett;
"Sports for Sissies" with Coach Troy Liston
"Great Queer Composers and How They Touch Us" with David Tidyman
"Expressing Your Art As a Man" with Ted Green-FB Art Staff
"Nature with John" with John Ibsen--FB Ecology Staff
"The Beach Is Back" with Mark Koenig
At GAYLA you will also have opportunities during the week to share your own particular strengths with your GAYLA brothers. You will have the opportunity to participate in our conferee-initiated Open Space afternoon sessions, GAYLA Men‘s Chorus performances, Morning Chapel in the Grove (optional), Talent/No Talent show, Tuesday afternoon Tea Dance, creating and wearing fabulous outfits, and participating in festively themed evening activities. Of course, if and when you need to decompress, you will always have the option of just sitting back, relaxing, and enjoying the beach amidst the waves and scenic sand dunes or on Quillen porch with the refreshing ocean breezes and beautiful Maine scenery serving as a backdrop for fellowship.
Costs
Costs can vary depending on your choice of accommodations (Dorms vs Camping) and meal options. Last years rates were $907 for the Dorms and $747 for camping in the Grove (These costs include all meals). To see other meal/camping options please visit the Ferry Beach website.
Costs can vary depending on your choice of accommodations (Dorms vs Camping) and meal options. Last years rates were $907 for the Dorms and $747 for camping in the Grove (These costs include all meals). To see other meal/camping options please visit the Ferry Beach website.
* A limited amount of financial assistance is available. Please contact our Treasurer, Tom Cowen at tomjcowen@yahoo.com before June 1, 2011.
Directions to Ferry Beach
Via Car
Ferry Beach is easily reached from the Maine Turnpike (Route 95). Take Exit #36 (old Exit #5) labeled “Old Orchard Beach/Saco.” Follow the exit road (195) until you reach a major intersection where the road curves to the left (there is no traffic light). Go straight across, keeping the 7-11 Store on your left. This will be Temple Avenue. Speed limit is 25 mph and strictly enforced. Stay on Temple Ave. until you reach a four-way stop with an overhead blinking light.
Via Car
Ferry Beach is easily reached from the Maine Turnpike (Route 95). Take Exit #36 (old Exit #5) labeled “Old Orchard Beach/Saco.” Follow the exit road (195) until you reach a major intersection where the road curves to the left (there is no traffic light). Go straight across, keeping the 7-11 Store on your left. This will be Temple Avenue. Speed limit is 25 mph and strictly enforced. Stay on Temple Ave. until you reach a four-way stop with an overhead blinking light.
Turn right at that intersection onto Route 9. This road runs parallel to the ocean. Stay on Route 9 for 2.1 miles through Kinney Shores and Bayview. DO NOT turn right onto the road that says Ferry Beach State Park but stay left at the fork where that sign is.
The Ferry Beach sign will be on your right at the entrance to the Grove campground parking lot. Turn left onto Ferry Park Avenue and shortly you will see Quillen on your right (a large green building). The main office is located inside to the right.
Via Amtrak
Amtrak now runs from Boston to Portland and makes stops in Saco. Ferry Beach can have someone meet you at the train station if you let us know in advance.
Amtrak now runs from Boston to Portland and makes stops in Saco. Ferry Beach can have someone meet you at the train station if you let us know in advance.
Via Plane
Ferry Beach makes regular runs to pick up and deliver guests to the Portland Jetport. Please advise your arrival well in advance on your registration form.
Ferry Beach makes regular runs to pick up and deliver guests to the Portland Jetport. Please advise your arrival well in advance on your registration form.
