My sobriety began in the early '80s, before the Atlantic Alano Club was founded. At that time, most of our meetings were held at churches, we socialized at restaurants after the meetings, and we rented halls for social events. It was difficult to find spaces where LGBTQ+ people were welcome. It was also difficult for those in need to find us. When the club opened, we had created a place of our own, a visible place where others in the community could find recovery. The Atlantic Alano Club has made a big difference in my life, and in the lives of hundreds of others over the last 35-plus years. I'm thrilled that the club has been selected for this event, and happy to be participating. I'm asking my friends and family to give whatever they can to help further our goals.