Hey guys,

It must seem to many of you that SIN-SLC has disappeared from the face
of the earth. I can only agree that this is a correct assumption, and
that the blame lies squarely with me.

Recently, I have been consumed by an employment transition, and a
depression relapse. SIN has been on my mind constantly during this
time--the potential and effectiveness of the group, new directions for
the group to pursue, and what a powerful impact this group has had in
my own life. Unfortunately, the day-to-day operation of the group has
languished under my care as I deal with other pressures. This is
weighing on me!

I can't begin to express what an impact this group has had for me! I
have made many friends, thrived in a social network where my HIV
status wasn't a detriment, learned a lot about myself and others, and
finally accepted living with this disease. I have found friendship,
love, strength, and peace through this group, and very much want
others to share in this experience.

In the interest of this group, I can't selfishly hang on to it's
leadership, especially when I, regrettably, do not have the time or energy for it. We've been building this SIN community for over two years now, and I'm elated at the places it has gone. I also feel very optimistic about where this group will go under new leadership, with fresh ideas, energy, and talents to guide it through it's next phase of growth. I may be interested in staying around in some capacity, but the basic, day-to-day operations of the group must be passed on. It is time for me to retire my 'iron-grip' of the 'leadership' of SIN-SLC.

I have never been alone in building this group. Everyone that shows
up to an event, that posts to the message board, and who has shared in
the work and hospitality, deserves an equal share of thanks. I know
that SIN has meant a lot to many people; I think that's because we have such great people in this group!

I have been having discussions with a couple of guys who are
interested in carrying on the work of the group, but I don't want to
leave anyone out who may also by interested; please contact me if you
would like to assume a leadership role! I've come to feel that
SIN-SLC may be better served in being led by several people, instead
of just one, so I am trying to build a committee whose personalities
complement one another. The traits that would be helpful for those
interested are being genuine, sociable, creative, organized, and
having access to a computer. The rewards are very great, and the work
isn't too much of a burden!

I would also welcome any input on the direction of the group. Please
post any comments you would like to the message board, or send them on
to me. And as always, I urge some of our 'silent members' to think
about becoming active members. Many of us live our lives with this
disease being lonely and intimidated. That isn't the only option
though, especially when we band together and celebrate life, rather
than hide from it.

I would like to get new leadership organized soon, so we can be back
on track with SIN-SLC events in April (though most anything could
change, including what activities we do, when, and where). The group
we have worked to build will continue to grow, and continue to be an
important piece of our lives, hopefully to greater degrees, and to
more people!

I owe you all my love and thanks for being patient with me over the
years, and by showering me with your support.

Very Sincerely,

Jon

e-mail: jmonkey74@yahoo.com
phone: (801) 867-1496