2011 Memembership Application
Bylaws

Info


1996-2001


2001-2006


2006-2009


2009-Present

The Susquehanna Valley Bears (SVB) was formed in March 1996 to promote fellowship among Bears, Cubs and other diverse members in the Central Pennsylvania/North Central Maryland Gay Community.

From our beginning as a small group, we have grown in numbers and today we currently have over 30 members.  Our members come from Central Pennsylvania as well as the State College and Williamsport areas, Baltimore and New York City.  In the past members were located in Bethlehem, Hazelton, Altoona, Philadelphia, Virginia and Wisconsin.

From 1996 to 2004 the SVB hosted a Bear Run, Bears in the Park, in the Harrisburg metro area which included spending a day at Hershey Park.  Bear clubs from the region including the Liberty Bears of Philadelphia enjoyed a fun-filled weekend partaking in each other’s company and riding the rides at Hershey Park.

Outreach & Charity

SVB strives to make a difference in the area’s Gay Community by helping to raise funds for and support other gay organizations.   Club members have raised funds for AIDS organizations and other gay oriented charities.  In May 2009, the SVB donated funds in conjunction with the Burgh Bears (Pittsburgh, PA) to be utilized for the bear exhibits at the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium.  On November 14, 2009 the SVB coordinated a food drive with Altland's Ranch with all collected donations going to the York, PA food bank. Once again, in December 2009 SVB coordinated another charity drive with donations for Toys for Tots. The group continues to grow each year with outreach to those in the local community and other Bear groups.      

 

FAQ

Q: What is a Bear?

A: The most common definition of a "Bear" is a man who is hairy, has facial hair, and a cuddly body. However, the word "Bear" means many things to different people, even within the bear movement. Many men who do not have one or all of these characteristics define themselves as bears, making the term a very loose one. Suffice it to say, "Bear" is often defined as more of an attitude than anything else - a sense of comfort with our natural masculinity and bodies that is not slavish to the vogues of male attractiveness that is so common in gay circles and the culture at large.

(Obtained from ResourcesforBears.com)

Q:  What is a Cub? Daddy? Otter? Wolf?

A:  These are subclasses of "bear". A "cub" is a younger, perhaps smaller, less experienced bear, sometimes interpreted as a bottom sexually. Conversely, a "daddy" is an older, more mature bear, usually a top sexually. "Otters" and "wolves" are thin bears, the "wolf" being more aggressive.

(Obtained from ResourcesforBears.com)

Q:  How do I apply for membership and what are the dues?

A:  Membership applications are available online or in hardcopy upon request and the membership fee is only $10.

Q:  What kind of events does the club do and how will I be informed of upcoming events?

A: The majority of SVB communication occurs electronically via emails. If you do not have an email address a newsletter will be mailed to you via postal mail.  

Events include:

·        Potluck Dinners

·          Picnics

·          Bowling

·        Miniature Golf

·          White Elephant Sales

·         Bar Nights

·         Movie Nights

·         Gay Pride Events

·         Trips to other Bear events

·         Annual Plant Swap (May)

·         Annual Holiday Gathering (December)

 

These last two FAQs are borrowed from the Buffalo Bears website

Q:  I went to one of your club's events, but why didn't anyone come over to talk to me?

A:  Your feeling is not uncommon - ask any of the members what they felt like prior to meeting existing club members. Here are some possible reasons why:

  • No one knew you. It takes a special motivation to go introduce yourself to a stranger; it is hard for you, and it’s hard for everyone else. It's much easier to converse with familiar faces than unfamiliar ones.
  • People were busy catching up with friends and having fun. After all, that's what it’s all about, isn't it?
  • No one knew you wanted to talk to anyone; no one was aware you were too shy to say hello.
  • You may have appeared "unapproachable." Sometimes, even very handsome men spend the evening in the corner because others got the feeling that they wanted to be left alone, when the truth is; they were dying to talk to anyone.

Q:  Can you give me some pointers for helping to get acquainted?

A:  Yes, here are some that apply to any such situation:

  • Contact a member before coming and let them know you are coming, and they can introduce you to others.
  • Attend one of our general meetings, get there a few minutes before hand and introduce yourself to one of the board members.
  • Be prepared for a social situation. In other words, conversation is a two way street. If you don't have anything to say, chances are, people will lose interest quickly.
  • Remember that others have had the same difficulty getting to know strangers, and the more familiar your face, the easier it gets!
  • Bar and meeting nights can get crowded, and many of the people who come are not members of the club. Look for the faces of the executive board (their pictures can be found on the members page). These folks would be happy to help you get acquainted with other club members!