sFOG returned to the San Diego Pride Festival Cool Zones this July after a few years absence.  The Cool Zones provide free water and places to relax for Seniors inside the Festival.  
Seniors over 65 can get in free in the early hours of Sunday's Festival and FOG provided brunch for them in the form of fruit, yogurt, juice, coffee and pastries.
"We felt it was extremely important to participate in the Pride activities this year given the recent attacks on the LGBTQ community by the current federal administration," said President John Keasler.
FOG wants to thank the merchants who donated food items and the volunteer members who staffed the Zones through the weekend.

​Tom Phillips passed away peacefully on May 7, 2025, in Switzerland, just shy of his 89th birthday. In keeping with his values—and Swiss law—Tom made the choice to end his life under medical supervision, following a long and courageous journey with a progressive illness.

Tom was known for his intelligence, wit, and deeply intentional way of living. His final days were spent on a Rhine River cruise in the company of loved ones—days filled with reflection, warmth, and peace. In accordance with his wishes, no memorial is planned.
He is survived by his partner of over 11 years, Wing; his younger brother, Roy; and the many friends and loved ones who were enriched by his grace, wisdom, and generosity of spirit.

The Veterans Wall of Honor was founded in 2012 by Attorney Bridget Wilson and Benjamin Dillingham to honor LGBTQ veterans for their service in U.S. military service and afterwards their contributions to the LGBTQ and local community.  Located in the auditorium of the San Diego LGBT Center, the Wall includes FOG veteran honorees: Michael Klein, Robert Bettinger, Lester Lefkowitz, Frank Stefano, John Keasler and others.
FOG member Judge Guido Casari will be, thanks to the work of his husband Larry Kam and Frank Stefano, inducted into the Wall this year.
The ceremony of induction will take place at the San Diego LGBT Center at  6 pm on November 7th.  All are welcome to attend.

​

Thank you to the over 100 guests who attended  FOG’s 31st anniversary banquet held at Bali Hai on beautiful Shelter Island. This banquet had its largest attendance ever! 
Special recognition was given to all those who contribute to make FOG a vital and thriving organization throughout the year.
An annual membership meeting is held before the dinner where business updates are presented to the membership and officers are elected.
Next year’s banquet will be on Thursday, October 9, 2025.
Please support the organizations that generously contributed prizes for our 2024 banquet raffle:
Bali Hai Restaurant            
Cygnet Theatre
Diversionary Theatre        
Japanese Friendship Garden
La Jolla Music Society        
La Jolla Playhouse
The Old Globe                         
​San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus
San Diego Symphony Orchestra

​

The early August weather was perfect for our annual picnic on Paradise Isle in the middle of Mission Bay.  About 70 FOG member turned out with offerings of food, games and friendly conversation.  Jay, Alan and Luciano did a great job of pulling it all together.